Being retired now, our cash flow is a totally different animal. If we didn't have DVC, I doubt we would keep Disney in our top destination list. With DVC we 'feel' that we have some cost control and can justify the other cost increases. Since we go frequently, we are very aware and sensitive to costs, and as such, tend to put more emphasis than is necessary on that one aspect, and as a result, sometimes threaten the overall vacation experience.
And in the meantime, as we realize our retirement funds are just fine and growing, we are starting to do overseas river cruises, Alaskan Land/Sea Cruises. downtown Atlanta show/hotel stays, etc., etc. So in a way, WDW has become our cheapest travel costs! Who would have thought that 10 years ago? At our age (62), we are valuing the experiences and time together more than the cost of the trip.
Mind you, I'm still a penny pincher, but I no longer feel guilty getting 2 Micky Bars!