I have never stayed at a value although I am hearing some good things about the Pop Century which is due to open in December, I believe. I think if you search back through the threads under resorts you will find some info by someone who got to tour the Pop Century a couple weeks ago. He sounded very excited about it. We have stayed at the CBR, Poly, BWI, AKL, Disney Institute Treehouses, and the old Disney Inn (now Shades of Green). Our all time favorite is the CBR. Sounds like you have a husband like I do who is more inclined to want to wait til a week before and then get exactly what he wants at a greatly reduced price. We, on the other hand, know it doesn't work that way. You have nothing to lose by making some reservations (except you have to pay for the first night's stay on each room) but you can always cancel or transfer that deposit if something better comes your way. Once you have made your reservation you can just keep your eye open for discounts. I know there is an archive that gives historical information about when most discounts were offered. Things seem to have changed a bit though so don't count on the discounts coming down like they used to. The discounts go quick so take a minute each day to quickly look over the day's postings and any updates mousesavers may have. Mousesavers.com also will note that "rumors have it" that a discount is about to come down. It is actually great fun to follow the boards and it gets you excited for the upcoming trip. Just book what you can actually afford just in case something doesn't come your way in the form of a discount. That way you won't be disappointed. Lots of folks book what is affordable and if a great deal happens to work out for them they either save a bunch of money or they upgrade to a nicer resort. Don't get caught up in the griping that goes on about discounts not coming soon enough as it really does take away from the fun, at least for me it does. Enjoy your planning and get that family of yours to give you some dates you can work with.