The word "planning" is music to the ears for some... while it brings absolute panic to others. No matter how you feel about planning, I am here to help! Because, whether you love planning or not, a vacation to Walt Disney World in Florida takes a good bit of planning.

Breathe, my go-with-the flow readers... I've got you. Don't stress.

Ideally, you should reach out to me 7-9 months before you would like to travel. So that means if you want to visit in September, we should start talking in January. Seriously. 

Here are 5 reasons why we should start planning sooner rather than later. 

As if Disney World isn't magical enough, Santa has arrived at Disney World to add some extra Holiday magic this year! Here's where you can find Jolly Old St. Nick at Disney World through December 24th. 

Disney Springs
In my opinion, the BEST place to meet Santa is at at his chalet  in Disney Springs. Just check in with one of his helpers and they will text you when it's your turn! While you wait, you can enjoy the Christmas Tree Trail, shop, or have a yummy snack. Your photos with Santa will be added to your photopass account if you scan your MagicBand (and are part of Memory Maker, too!). 

Magic Kingdom
You'll find Santa near City Hall during the day, but he has to get ready to the Christmas Parade some nights, so is not always available in the evenings. 

Epcot
Santa usually greets guests in the American Adventure pavilion here as part of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. 

Hollywood Studios
As you are strolling down Sunset Boulevard, keep an eye out for Santa! He can sometimes be found greeting guests there. 

Disney Resort Hotels
You'll find him from 5pm to 9pm in the lobby of most resort hotels on Christmas Eve to get in last minute wish lists from young guests before bedtime. 

No matter where you find him this year, may the spirit of joy follow you throughout this magical season!

What do you get for dessert when you don't eat wheat, eggs, dairy, or sugar? 

Nothing. 99.9% of the time you get nothing. Lol. 

But there are times when you just NEED a treat. And for those times, I give you my super amazing dark chocolate cake (that's so good even my family that can eat everything loves it). 

The cake itself is moist but not super dense and the frosting is light and silky. 

Oh, and it's also free of soy and nuts AND vegan. 

Special diet friends of the world, rejoice!!