Hi, Nance! Welcome to planDisney!
I live about an hour away from the Walt Disney World Resort, and I can confirm that the summer heat is definitely here! I don't blame you for wanting to give your mom a break from walking longer distances when it's so hot outside. In fact, I wonder if I could convince my family to do the same for me the next time we visit!
As I'm writing to you, we haven't yet heard when the courtesy trams will begin operating in the
theme park parking lots once again. There is a Guest drop-off area, so my best advice is to explain to the Cast Member at the entrance plaza that you'd like to drop your mother off there and then park your car and join her. They're a wealth of information about all kinds of things, so I'm sure they'd be happy to guide you to the proper spot.
Nance, since the parking trams could start back up at any time, I'd also ask at the entrance plaza if they're running that day. You never know when Disney might just say "Today's the day!"
One more thing to think about that could make your mom's day a little easier. The last time we took my mom to Walt Disney World, we
rented a wheelchair for her for the day. She didn't think she wanted it at first, but by the end of the day, she was happy to take a load off and let us push her around the theme park. It really does make things easier, especially in the sweltering heat of Florida. It's something to consider that might help your mom enjoy herself and not worry about all that walking.
I'm so excited for you to have a magical vacation with your mother, Nance! Enjoy, stay cool, and please come see us again if you have any more questions!
Keep Disney Dreaming,
Kathy K.