Stephanie:
If you enjoy planning, you've come to the right place with other moms who share your same obsession, I mean, compulsion, I mean, hobby!
Disney will allow you to book your room as far as 499 days out. Dining reservations can be made as far as 180 days out from arrival. So at a minimum, I always suggest that folks begin planning at least six months out. I've been known to plan farther out than 18 months for a Grand Gathering for 19 and a family reunion....but as close in as two weeks.
My biggest advice is to book through a Disney-certified vacation planner (aka. travel agent who has received Disney's special training). Most will keep an eye on Disney specials that come along and will apply them to your reservation. (Otherwise, if you book directly through Disney yourself, the monkey is on your back to watch for specials and make the changes.) Just make sure that you are clear with your travel agent and spot check the Disney website
here under Special Offers periodically.
You've already gotten over the first step, choosing your dates (o.k., you've narrowed it down). Go ahead and do a little research on your resort and book your tentative vacation and relax while planning your meals, itinerary, etc. at websites like ours in anticipation of 180 days out! Oh, and come visit us again if you need some recommendations along the way!
Wishing y'all a magical vacation!
Whitney