Saw on another thread a line that resonated ...
DVC changes the way you vacation the way driving a Corvette changes your commute to work. We didn't need to anticipate too much since we bought in mid-June, the resort opened in October and we had our first stay in early November. The pictures I have of my DS5's face in that room that first year are priceless ... now its becoming old hat for him.
I couldn't believe that staying at a Deluxe property with the proximity and amenities were something we could afford, and am awed by this every time we check in though we're starting to adjust.
Beware, each trip you'll want to stay a little longer or in a larger room and addonitis will set in quickly. We've definitely become more relaxed about the way we do the parks, used to try to open and close the park, run to the various rides, and now some days we do 10-15 rides, other days we sleep in and only cover half a dozen and wander around the parks and enjoy the pool time and resort and naps!
Being able to cook has also been great, definitely reduced our dining bill. Have been adjusting our grocery order each year and now we have it perfect to where we eat all the groceries before we check out.
Enjoy your first trip as DVC members!