2025 was a year we’ll always remember at ASaluteToTraveling—a year of big Disney energy, practical travel planning wins, and a running journey that turned into something bigger than finish lines.
If there’s one theme that ties it all together, it’s this: we chased experiences that brought our family closer and helped our community along the way.
The story of our year (in a few themes)
1) Disney travel—made simpler for real families
This year, we leaned hard into the kind of Disney content families actually need: the stuff that reduces stress, protects budgets, and helps you feel confident before you ever step into the parks.
Some of the biggest Disney planning topics we covered:
- Budgeting and payment-plan strategies to make Disney feel possible (without financial whiplash)
- Disney World vs. Universal comparisons for families trying to pick the best fit
- Disney® Visa® Card tips for families who want to stack perks and savings
And once you’re there, we shared ways to make the moments hit even harder:
- Happily Ever After fireworks viewing tips (and where to stand for the best experience)
- Hollywood Studios “splurges worth it”—because not every upgrade is created equal
- Romantic anniversary ideas at Walt Disney World (because grown-up Disney magic matters too)
2) Running milestones: miles with meaning
2025 wasn’t just a travel year—it was a running year.
And not in the “check a box” way. In the purpose-driven way.
Summer: the runDisney Happily Ever After Virtual Challenge
We tackled the runDisney Happily Ever After Virtual Challenge (three 5Ks), and it became a reminder that the magic isn’t only in the parks—it’s in the commitment, the memories, and the story you build one mile at a time.
Fall: the build-up to Wine & Dine
As Wine & Dine got closer, we shared the behind-the-scenes of training and fundraising:
- The “why” behind the miles
- The community support that kept us moving
- A Sponsor-a-Mile push that let friends and supporters be part of the journey in a tangible way
3) The highlight: runDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend (Oct 23–26, 2025)
Wine & Dine weekend was the heart of our 2025 recap.
We published an Essential Guide to Wine & Dine Half Marathon 2025 to help runners plan the weekend—expo, races, fueling, recovery, and how to still enjoy EPCOT after a very early wake-up.
Then came race day.
On Sunday, October 26, we were up before the sun—leaving Disney’s Pop Century Resort on one of the first buses to EPCOT at 2:45am. That early-morning energy is hard to describe unless you’ve lived it: equal parts nerves, excitement, and “we’re really doing this.”
The moments that made it bigger than a race
This weekend carried a lot of meaning:
- I had the honor of running with a charity bib for the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, joining #TEAMGSSEF as one of about 80 runners.
- Together, the team helped raise around $50,000 for an incredible cause.
- I also served as an AWD Guide (Athlete With Disability) for Travis from the Ear to Ear Running Crew—an experience I’ll never forget. We finished well ahead of the Balloon Ladies with time to spare, and I couldn’t be more proud.
YouTube: capturing 2025 in real time
One of my favorite parts of 2025 was sharing it live.
On our YouTube channel, we brought you along for:
- Live coverage across runDisney Wine & Dine weekend (5K / 10K / Half + EPCOT night)
- A full live stream for Girls on the Run 2025 Memories in Motion 5K
- Other family/event highlights, including Hersheypark Opening Day (2025-04-05)
If you’re not subscribed yet, you can find us here: https://www.youtube.com/@ASaluteToTraveling
What’s next (and what we’re carrying into 2026)
2025 reminded us that the best trips aren’t just about where you go—they’re about how you feel while you’re there.
In 2026, we’re bringing more:
- Family-first Disney planning (simple, honest, and budget-aware)
- Race-cation strategy for runners who want to enjoy Disney and feel strong on race morning
- Community-driven adventures that turn memories into impact
Let’s plan your next magical trip
If you’re dreaming about a Disney vacation (or a runDisney weekend) and want help making it smooth, fun, and realistic for your family—reach out and let’s build something magical.
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