Thrifty kid: He's going to Disney World!

By Theresa O'Hagan, Fort Jackson FMWRSeptember 6, 2013

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FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- Many kids dream about going to Disney World. Some beg their parents to take them -- not Jaden Holmes, 4.

Jaden wanted to go to Disney World so badly he started saving when he was two years old. Recently, he purchased his ticket, using his hard-earned money, at Victory Travel.

"When he came into the office with his mom and dad, they purchased two tickets for themselves and then he bought a ticket with money from his piggy bank, " said Don Jackson, manager, Victory Travel. "He was so excited that he got to purchase his own ticket. It was a very proud moment for everyone."

Jackson was so impressed he inquired about the child's favorite Disney character, which is Mickey Mouse, and contacted Disney. Mickey Mouse was also impressed and sent Jaden an autographed photo, which Victory Travel presented to Jaden Friday morning.

"In 13 years at Victory Travel, I have never seen a child so excited about going to Disney," Jackson said.

Jaden saved his $1-a-week allowance he earned from doing chores such as laundry and feeding the family dog, Linus. He also saved his birthday money.

"We made it a family project," said mother, Renee Holmes. "We gave him our extra change and created a Mickey Mouse fund."

Jaden's father, Jason Holmes, Directorate of Emergency Services, also helped by checking his pockets for change every evening.

The family is scheduled to leave for Disney World next week.

"We are very proud that he followed through on the idea ... and (loved) seeing his excitement when he purchased the ticket," Renee said.