Thanks Heather-sometimes I am not as organized as I should be, but I always find time when it comes to planning a Disney vacation. Yes, planning a WDW vacation can be intimidating but it is really not bad if you take your time. There are many amazing guides and websites available with great tips. You have taken one of the best steps by stopping here and asking others who have been down that planning road before.
Start by visiting
www.waltdisneyworld.com to get an idea of all the things Disney World offers. Stop by your local bookstore for a copy of a planning guide. There are many out there but some great choices are Birnbaum's Official Handbook or the Passporter's Guide to Walt Disney World. Visit planning websites, some of my favorite are
www.allears.net and
www.passporters.com. Then start making lists...where you want to eat, shows you would like to see, rides you want to experience and resorts you would love to stay at.
Another important thing to decide is when you want to come. WDW offers numerous special events and activites at different times of the year, for example Star Wars weekends. Are you a Star Wars fan? If so, consider traveling to WDW in late May or early June during this event for a great opportunity to meet some of the Star Wars stars and experience the special happenings.
Most importantly, enjoy the experience. Planning a WDW vacation should be fun. Disney World is an amazing place with the ability to make you forget the outside world and be a kid again. No matter how many lists you make or how much planning you do, when you arrive slow down and enjoy every moment. I am convinced it will be a magical trip no matter what...just remember to keep a pen and paper handy to make a list of all the things you missed that you want to do on your next trip.
Happy planning!