Hi Jessica,
We are honored that you brought this question to us. First, let me send your son the biggest virtual hug from all of us. I will not pretend to know how he feels, but like you, I want to find a way to bring him some joy!
There are a number of ways to create happier space for your son to live in the moment at the Walt Disney World® Resort. The
Crystal Palace is one of my family's favorite dining locations. The characters are adorably gentle and kind. You could
add a birthday cake to the meal. If you are staying at a
Disney Resorts Collection or other select hotel, you could also create some magic in your hotel room with
In-Room Floral & Gifts.
I also believe there are special experiences that might bring a smile. Consider your dinner reservation time for The Crystal Palace and, if possible, watch the
Happily Ever After fireworks afterwards. The music is inspiring and the animation shared on Cinderella Castle uses the power of Disney storytelling to take us through sadness and joy. My family always picks a viewing spot near the front of the castle, on the left-hand side facing the castle, just behind the tape that cast members put on the ground to mark off the viewing areas. This spot is right before a bridge to the castle. When our girls were younger, they loved this spot because we could get right behind the tape so that no one else was was blocking their view.
If you are visiting EPCOT during this visit, I also suggest the fireworks show,
Luminous The Symphony of Us. This show mentions loss yet it also uses music to capture hope after loss. I saw this show after losing my dad. Though I was an adult, I still struggled with grief and this show reminded me that I was not alone in that sadness. It also helped me remember that it was perfectly ok to be sad.
I will also say this, 10 is as beautiful as it is hard. In the last few years, we just learned that one of our girls is a poet. She has learned that writing empowers her to translate her feelings. Perhaps your son could have a Disney journal where he writes a letter to his dad or in honor of his dad each day of your trip. He could share his day along with a photo. I would encourage you to take a daily photo with
Disney PhotoPass® Service photographers and use
Memory Maker to access the digital downloads of those photos.
Jessica, I also hope you find some joy in this visit. With the spirit of Princess Tiana, I see the Evening Star shining brightly for both of you -
never ever lose sight of what's really important!
Magic and memories,
Donyell