Hi there, Carol!
Congratulations on your upcoming first visit to your incredible neighbor, the Walt Disney World Resort! When you check in, make sure to ask the Cast Member who assists you for complimentary "First Visit" buttons for each member of your traveling party.
Since you are a Florida resident with proof of residency, your best ticket option right now is likely the Wild for 3 Pass: three days for just $99.00 plus tax. This promotion allows you to purchase and use the tickets through May 12, 2012 (blockout dates are February 18-20, 2012 and April 1-13, 2012).
Considering that a Florida resident
single day ticket is $81.48 (10+) and $75.73 (3-9), the savings are staggering.
Dining, too, can be mitigated, I'm not sure if you are staying at Fort Wilderness or at the Wilderness Lodge, so I'm not entirely sure how much freedom you have to prepare any of your own meals (if you'd clarify that for me, I'm happy to figure out some alternatives).
I would encourage you to look at the
Disney Dining Plans as well. If you are willing to forgo character dining and table-service you might have good luck with the basic counter service plan. There are enough options and snack entitlements on that plan to please a large eater, and it is certainly a good value.
As for souvenirs? I love pin trading. It's a great way to constantly rotate rather inexpensive souvenirs that you don't want anymore, all while interacting with Guests and Cast Members. Pins range anywhere from $6.95 and up; a lanyard might run you $8.95, if that. Pins are accessible and can be worn, displayed, traded, etc.
Please let me know how else I can help you plan your vacation so that it's just as incredible as you imagine!
See you later, celebrator,
-Deborah B.