Happily Ever After... Angela and BG..12/21/06 - WP/Citrico's DISNEY PHOTO LINK ADDED

[Cinderella Fan]

I realized the other night that I was posting this in the TR section - so I am posting it here too. Hope you don't mind....

 

[Cinderella Fan]

A little bit of background information:

BG (Df, now DH) and I met 7 years ago - I was 18 and working at the town municipality and he was coming in to pay his taxes. One day, he asked me out to lunch. I, of course being swept off my feet, said NO!!! I was working 2 jobs to pay my way through school and didn't have time for a date. He kept hounding me... until I finally went to lunch, which consisted of curly fries and a strawberry milkshake... The rest, they say, is history.

We LOVE Disney!! In fact, our first vacation together, we went to the World. His parents started taking him when he was 2, and he has been MANY times since then. Most of our vacations, they don't turn out so great. Don't get me wrong, I plan until my little head can't hold any more plans . Then, when it is time to go, I print out my complete color-coded itinerary and we head off on our way.... But, our plans never go as planned.... Either or room is wrong, or I get sick and have to come home to have emergency surgery , or his parents decide to join us .... But we make the most of it.

This trip, I was determined to make perfect. After all, this is THE most important trip of our lives... we are going to get married!!!

But again, things don't always work out as planned. I began planning everything one year ago. You can call Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings exactly one year out from your wedding date to schedule... which being the good DISer that I am, I was ready and waiting by the phone. I get my date - December 21, 2006!! Let the planning begin!!

I booked our room, as you have to do before you can actually book your wedding - a honeymoon suite at the Grand Floridian. I also stared planning out our ADR's. Then, I waited....

The week before Christmas last year, BG's dad woke up with swollen hands. We went to doctors and was told it was just the onset of arthritis (he was 69 at the time). Weeks went by, and his feet and face started swelling too. All the information I had said it was his heart. So, I took the day off from work to take him to the ER (the best one is almost 2 hours away). A couple of days later, we heard the word - Scleroderma.

By this time, it was May. We were given an appt. at Duke University Medical Center - they have a Scleroderma Research Center. They were great and we were given lots of hope. The dr said most patients with his type of Scleroderma live 5-10 years with the disease. So, BG and I went on with our plans as usual. We planned our wedding - maybe I should say I planned our wedding. I was the one stressing and second-guessing every decision I made.

By September - BG's dad was not well. He had some paralysis in his intestines, and in October we had to have a TPN feeding line placed in his neck. This wasn't looking good, so BG and I moved his parents into our home to take care of his dad. BG and I agonized over what to do... But his dad said he was going to get better. He WAS coming to our wedding!!! If nothing else, he was looking forward to eating in Epcot, one of his favorite things to do.

Unfortunately, it didn't happen. BG's father passed away the Saturday after Thanksgiving. We didn't know what to do..... Should we go on with this wedding, should we postpone? Our wedding was in 4 weeks... I left the decision up to BG. He wanted to keep everything the same. He thought getting his mom out of the house during the holidays would be a good idea.

Then, his best friend (the Best Man) moved in with us. Daniel lived in Florida, but his lease was up and he wanted to come back to VA. So, he did. He moved in Tuesday and we were set to leave for the wedding on Saturday. I wasn't too upset, Daniel is a great guy. And, he is loads of fun. Besides, he would be able to help us with BG's mother. Needless to say, the honeymoon suite was now out of the question. So, I called CRO to change over to a deluxe room (I needed the extra room for my wedding dress) but nothing else was available. I called every day!! It was Friday night at 11:30 before I was able to get something other than a honeymoon suite!! We were given a standard sized room in the Royal Palm Club. I couldn't complain - we were still in the main building....

 

[Cinderella Fan]

Our plane from Tri-Cities TN was to take off at 6 am, so we had to be up and out of the house no later than 3:30. I tried to make sure we had everything, but I didn't think much more could have fit. BG and I had 5 suitcases!! But, we had to have so much stuff!

So, we packed the car and started out for the airport. It was half way there that I realized that I had left my planning info at home!! I couldn't believe that I had done something so silly!! My itinerary, my ADR info, everything. The only thing I could hope was that the concierge at the GF had all of our information.

We arrived at the airport at 5:30 and BG went to park the car while Daniel, DMIL, and I took all 8 suitcases inside! We were able to get all of the luggage checked, minus my wedding dress, and we made our way to the security lane. Now, this airport is not large at all. In fact, I think they only have 4 gates. So, I have no idea why secrity was backed up the way that it was. We were still about 15 minutes from the front of the line when they started calling the final boarding call for our flight. I panicked, and called the airport front desk on my cellphone to explain the situation. When I got off the phone, I heard one of the security guards calling for the "Lady with a wedding dress" to put our party in the front of the security line. The four of us went through the line and ran the 50 feet to the gate entrance. We JUST made it on to the plane before they shut the door....

The plane we were flying on was a small plane, which will come into play later on in the TR. There was a row of single seats on one side, and a row of 2 seats on the other. The flight attendant made a comment on how beautiful my dress was and asked if she could place it into the Captain's closet for me. That was extremely helpful, as that dress weighed about 20 lbs. A nice person on the plane switched seats with me so that I could sit beside Daniel on the flight to Atlanta. The flight itself was uneventful, Daniel and I talked the whole way. He and BG had been best friends since college. And since he and his partner split up, he really needed his friends to lean on.

We landed in Atlanta around 7:15 and we were herded to another gate from there. The gates were about a 15 minute tram ride from each other, and we only had a 45 minute layover. So, we had to move pretty quickly to get there in time. I was in charge of everyone's tickets, so I handed them out and once we made it to the departure gate, I made my way to the restroom. I, of course was not letting that dress out of my sight. So, it went with me. When I got back to the gate, I didn't see BG, his mom, or Daniel anywhere. So, I just assumed they already boarded the plane. I put my dress down on the seat to get my boarding pass out of my carry on. I turned around, and my DRESS WAS GONE!!! I panicked, and asked the Delta employee behind the counter if she had seen my dress. She replied with "Some guy just came up and took it". WHAT??? What do you mean someone came up and took it????!!!!

It was about that time, with tears running down my face, that BG came out of the airplane loading thingy (I don't know what it is called, and at the moment I didn't care ) HOLDING MY DRESS!! He told me he thought I saw him take it and we needed to board the plane, as they were all waiting for me!!!

 

[Cinderella Fan]

The flight to Orlando from Atlanta was also uneventful. The 4 of us made our way to the ME desk... Our passes were stamped and we were loaded onto the bus by 9:45 am...

BG on the ME

Daniel checking his voicemail

The first stop was the Poly, then on to the GF. The Christmas decorations were just beautiful. I have always loved WDW during the holidays. This year was no exception. We have stayed on the concierge level at the GF before, and every other time we were met at the front door by one of the concierge. This time, no one was there. I asked one of the bellman at the bell stand outside, and he said someone would meet us shortly. When a concierge finally did arrive, our name was not on the list. He walked us over to the front desk and asked one of the cast members to check for our reservation. She couldn't find it either. I couldn't believe it! After all of the planning and excitement, we get to The World and don't have a reservation!

Finally, the concierge realized he was looking at the list for the Sugar Loaf check-ins, not the Royal Palm Club. We were escorted upstairs to Diane, the cast member checking us in. Daniel and FMIL walked over to a coach to wait for BG and I to check in. We were greeted with a plain, unimpressive "hello" and were handed our keys. She told us our room wouldn't be ready until 3 or 4 - as they weren't sure when the other family would be checking out . I was a little upset about this conversation, as we weren't told "Congratulations" or "Welcome" or any mention of our wedding. I remember when we stayed in the RPC over the summer and a couple who was honeymooning were checking in at the same time. The concierge made such a fuss over them.

While, I wasn't expecting a party or balloons or anything, I was at least hoping to get a congratulations... But, to me, the CM was rather .

The GF Lobby

The Gingerbread house

To help pass the time, we hopped on the monorail over to the Contemporary to do a little shopping and to look at the Christmas decorations. The CR had the huge tree outside, as usual. But this year, the pastry team had created a Pinocchio ensemble made out of white chocolate. It was great! I took pictures, but they turned out too dark... We returned to the GF around 1 and asked a CM if our room was ready. Mejay was a lot of help, she was so nice to us the whole time we were there. Unfortunately, it was not. So, we grabbed a light snack from the lounge and waited.... and waited.... and waited.....

FINALLY, around 4 headache: ) Mejay come us to the lounge to tell us our room STILL wasn't ready!! But, she had switched our room with another guest who was not arriving until later in the evening so that we could have a place to rest. We had been up since 2:30 am, and by now, we were all pretty tired. We were put into room 4413, which had a nice pool view. Apparently, the room we were supposed to be in had a MK view, but I didn't care what we saw from the balcony. I just wanted to see the back of my eyelids for a little while.....

 

[Cinderella Fan]

After a nice nap, we all decided to walk around outside and reflect in the wonder that is the GF. Did I mention how much I love the GF at Christmas???? It is always so beautiful, but so much more so during the holidays....

We had a light snack in the lounge before making the trek outside....

Christmas tree in the lounge

Snacks (Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Santa Fe Chicken Salad, and Lam Meatballs)

We walked over to the Wedding Pavilion, as FMIL had never seen it before. I must say, this is one of the most beautiful buildings on property, but then again, I may be a bit biased. I knew from the moment I saw it that I wanted to marry BG in that building. It is so romantic, yet simple at the same time. My mother had always wanted me to have a church wedding here at home. But BG and I both work in the school system, so a wedding at home in our small town looked to have at least 300 invited. I wanted to spend my day with the people I cared about most, a small wedding where I can have a conversation with ALL of my guests, not just a polite hello as I am passing by a table of 12. So, that is just what BG and I did. We were only have 12 at the wedding, and that is what we wanted. If you ever get the chance to go inside the WP, please do so. It is just so lovely....

Unfortunately, we were not able to go inside, as there was a wedding getting ready to take place. We did get to step inside Frank's, however. I love it in there, too. It is just filled with so many happy things. We were returning to the GF when we saw the Cinderella Coach coming our way. (If you were the bride inside, you looked beautiful. I hope you don't mind me posting this pic )

Daniel, FMIL, and BG outside the GF

FMIL, BG, and me outside the GF

Deer at the GF

When we returned to our room, we had a package that had been delivered by the concierge. Months ago, I had signed up on the Tree Swap thread. We had received the tree from the Frost Family (Frosty466). It was decorated for us by their children, and was beautiful. I was so impressed at the wonderful job the children did with decorating the tree, such great onaments. They are such a great family, and I will always hold this gesture in my heart. And the dove, a special gift with a beautiful meaning from Bob and Maureen, will ALWAYS adorn my Christmas tree....

We decided to call it a night, and started getting ready for bed. FMIL had a queen bed, BG and I had a queen bed, and poor Daniel was sleeping on a rollaway.... I was a little nervous about how all of this would play out. After all, we were all 4 going to be in the room, even on our wedding night... . But, I was determined to make it all work....

Coming up: Our day at Epcot.... and HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DANIEL!!!

 

[Maggimus]

I haven't had the opportunity to read all of this yet... but I will be a sure follower of this TR. By the way- Howdy Neighbor.. im in TN- not too far..

Congrats!

Okay i read it. Sounds like you are off to a good start with your TR... although I am very sorry that things didnt always go your way. Sounds like a couple people had a bad day or something.. I really hope the rest of your trip is filled with pure magic. Cant wait to read...

BTW- Love the dove on that tree.. and you and your DH look great together.

 

[Gradar1]

I like your TR so far, and am looking forward to reading more! I'm so sorry to hear about your FIL passing away so soon before the wedding, but it seems like things are turning out ok in the end.

 

[JJClemson]

I love your TR so far! I am sorry about your FIL, I cannot imagine how difficult that must be. I cannot believe your room troubles at the GF. How annoying! Sounds like everything is working out better now. I know what you mean about the GF at Christmas, it is so beautiful! Can't wait to hear more

 

[Cinderella Fan]

I haven't had the opportunity to read all of this yet... but I will be a sure follower of this TR. By the way- Howdy Neighbor.. im in TN- not too far..

Congrats!

Okay i read it. Sounds like you are off to a good start with your TR... although I am very sorry that things didnt always go your way. Sounds like a couple people had a bad day or something.. I really hope the rest of your trip is filled with pure magic. Cant wait to read...

BTW- Love the dove on that tree.. and you and your DH look great together.

Wow, Maggie! You are really close!! BG has some aunts and uncles that live in Blountville and Bluff City. We come to TN all the time, my Mom lives in Kingsport... we have no shopping in this area, so we have to travel to get anything. We go to Pigeon Forge quite often too....

 

[CottontailCurl]

Unfortunately, we were not able to go inside, as there was a wedding getting ready to take place. We did get to step inside Frank's, however. I love it in there, too. It is just filled with so many happy things. We were returning to the GF when we saw the Cinderella Coach coming our way. (If you were the bride inside, you looked beautiful. I hope you don't mind me posting this pic )

I wonder if you should start a seperate thread with this picture and call it "Are you the Princess Bride in this picture?" She and her husband might like the picture with the hidden mickey to the left of the horse's head and the footman. I think it's a beautiful picture. A magical beginning to their life together?

 

[Maggimus]

Cottontailcurl- I keep trying to PM you and it doesnt seem like its working. Are you receiving duplicate PMs from me, or nothing at all?? Hmm.. I dont know why this isnt working.

 

[Cinderella Fan]

Day 2 - Epcot and HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANIEL!!

This morning we got up around 7:00 to make it to Epcot by 9. I love Daniel, I really do - he has been BG's best friend since college and I have known him for 7 years.... But for some reason that man can't take a shower in less than 30 minutes. We learned early on in this trip to make sure he is up and getting ready first.

Epcot was not crowded that morning, so while BG and Daniel headed to TT to get FP - FMIL and I went to Guest Relations to get "Just Married" buttons for me and BG and a "Happy Birthday" button for Daniel (his birthday was on the 18th). This birthday button would prove to be our demise during the week.... We met back with them at the fountain and made our way over to Soarin'. Daniel had not had the chance to ride Soarin', so I thought I would have a little fun with him, as he is afraid of heights. So, I told him that when we went into the wind tunnel to make sure he tightened his harness on really tight and NOT to let go of the handlebars. It was like pulling teeth to get him on the ride. At the point of the line when the CM puts the guests into the designated areas, BG and I asked for our party to be placed in B1. The CM told us that he would try, but he couldn't guarantee it. Then he saw Daniel and said "Happy Birthday Daniel! Which section would you like to sit in today?" Daniel, having not rode before, looked at me for an answer. I whispered B1... needless to say, that is where we were placed...

After we had a light breakfast at Sunshine Seasons and Daniel was given a Birthday brownie from the pastry section.... , we headed onto Living with The Land. I heard on the DIS that the guides were no more, being replaced an automated voice. I liked it. Though it lacked the human interaction that we were used to, it was nice.... I thought the herb garden section was really cute, Disney put Christmas ornaments on the herbs....

Mickey pumpkins

We also went over to the new "The Seas with Nemo and Friends" This was also a cute addition to TLS. We wanted to go into Turtle Talk, but the crowd was large and I didn't want to take space away from a family that had children so that we could go in to talk to the totally awsome turtle! Maybe next time...

Test Track was next, and FMIL went on this ride with us. She went on TT a couple of years ago when we went to The World with BG's parents. She swore that she would never go on it again. Boy, was she wrong. We were making our way through Mouse Gears to move on over to the World Showcase. The lights were spectacular, and it was day time.

The 4 of us in front of the tree at Epcot

 

[Maggimus]

I would have thought that the Just Married buttons would have taken you further than the Birthday-- but... who knows?

Great TR... loving the photos..

 

[happylalagirl]

Angela, I love your TR. Keep it coming!! Congratulations. Sorry things were a little rocky for you in the beginning, but they seem to be going well now... can't wait to read more.

Diane

 

[zalansky]

Subscribing, enjoying your TR. Congrats to you both. I

ETA: I went back and re-read your beginning, and I am so sorry about your FIL. How wonderful of you and your DH to move in with them and help take care of him. My father is losing a battle with cancer right now so I understand and my heart goes out to you both. I am glad you went on with the wedding.

 

[Cinderella Fan]

Subscribing, enjoying your TR. Congrats to you both. I

ETA: I went back and re-read your beginning, and I am so sorry about your FIL. How wonderful of you and your DH to move in with them and help take care of him. My father is losing a battle with cancer right now so I understand and my heart goes out to you both. I am glad you went on with the wedding.

I am so sorry to hear about your father. It is so hard to see a loved one going through so much in their lives, and not be able to help them or take the pain away.

Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers....

Angela

 

[allisonswonderland]

Keep it coming - I love reading so far-

 

[Cinderella Fan]

The 4 of us were continuing our way around the WS. This is my favorite park - and I LOVE the WS. I love the great food and the shopping. You can always find something neat there that you HAVE to have - though you really don't need it.

We stopped to take BG and Daniel's picture in Canada...

The setting for the Canadian Santa

The setting for the French Santa

Pierre Noel

We stopped for fish and chip in the UK. I learned years ago that in order to have enough room to eat lots of yummy things around the WS, BG and I have to share everything. That way, I don't gain 10 lbs. a day and we don't spend TOO much on the food and we can eat more of the things we like...

Christmas Tree at the American Adventure

After making our way around the WS, we decided to head back to the GF for the afternoon tea in the lounge. First, we stopped in Innoventions to have our Disney Visa picture taken...

Afternon Tea at the GF

Scones with devonshire cream

Berry Trifle (the cake was soaked in a liquer, it was very yummy )

 

[Maggimus]

everything looks great- keep it coming.

 

[Aquagirl]

Congrats Cinderella Fan!!!

I saw a pic of the cake that you ordered this summer on the cake thread, it was beautiful!!! Would you mind telling us how much it was and what to ask for to order a cake like it? Thank you!!!