Help me decide which dates...please!!!

[MissionWDW]

I have a pin for FD and it expires TOMORROW! I have had the hardest time trying to figure out exactly when to go. It will be in November, but there are three options.

Here's a quick run down of our situation... Family of 7 (kids will be 12,8,7,5,23 months at time of travel). My oldest is from a previous relationship and she does have visitation with her father on most weekends. He can be a rather difficult person to deal with, and when he doesn't get his way, tends to be very uncooperative. I have given him unscheduled time for vacations in the years past, but when it comes to me needing time, it's harder to get. So that needs to be kept in mind with this planning.....although, I'm certain I could get him to work with me (just a PITB...kwim)

Here are the options for a November 2012 vacation....

Option 1
11/1 to 11/11

Pros -
*My kids have off of school on the 2,5,6. Combine that with the weekend, we could have a slightly longer vacation and miss less school.
*Can see both Halloween and Christmas decorations.

Cons -
*I'd still have to get the ex to agree to allowing me to trade up one weekend with him.
*May miss out on Christmas party.
*Jersey week (still debating if this is a big deal).

Option 2
11/5 to 11/13

Pros -
*Kids are off of school the 5th and 6th.
*Would NOT have to plan anything around the ex's visitation schedule.

Cons -
*Jersey week
*May not be able to do Christmas party (I'm still unsure of when the dates are...anyone??)

Option 3 (this was what I had originally planned for)
11/24 - 12/2

Pros -
*Very low crowds
*Would only have to negotiate one weekend visitation with the ex.
*Definitely could do the Christmas party.
*Could celebrate my son's birthday here. He has had an extremely difficult last few years, so this would be a nice surprise for him.

Cons -
*Would still have to negotiate at least one weekend with the ex.

 

[jennyjinx3]

I say go for Option 3!!