Luv4mylittleone's Wedding/Honeymoon trip report! Updated! 7/10~Dessert Party! [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

luv4mylittleones

01-08-2008, 08:04 PM

Oh boy….what a whirlwind!! It seems like we were been gone for a month and at the same time, it feels like it all went by in a blur!! For the most part, everything was absolutely perfect! We had a few snafus, but nothing on the part of Disney Weddings….they were amazing!!!! So let’s begin!

Friday, December 14th….DAY ONE

We woke up bright and early (though not as early as we planned) in order to prepare for our upcoming trip. I was a nervous wreck! I just knew I was going to forget something important, though from the looks of our van, it didn’t appear we left anything in the house at all!!

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We had to remove the two middle seats to make room for everything and then my three sweethearts graciously shared the back seat.

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I really expected them to drive each other nuts, but they were really quite well behaved. Here’s a picture of them engrossed in a movie….the silence was almost eerie! :P

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Unfortunately, as soon as we left the house, Joe and I began to fight the biggest fight of our lives! I was crying and begging him to take me home…it was insane! This lasted about three hours…yes…three hours…It was just awful!! The stress of planning and traveling had really gotten to us. It all seems so silly now. We actually fought on and off for the first two days, but once everyone arrived and we realized how ridiculous we were acting (over nothing!!!) we both came around…at least for a while! ;)

The trip was long and we made as few stops as possible. I got bored and started getting silly…

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My poor sleepy honey was really a pretty good sport…especially considering he drove the whole 10 hours!

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FINALLY….we saw this…

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WOOOOOOHOOOO!!!! We made it!!! We checked into the hotel and before we even got to our room, I lost our keys!! SOOO typical of me, hahaha! We brought everything up to my dad’s room (and it took forever!!!). The kids were staying with him that night so we got them settled in. Needless to say, they were excited to be there. We stayed in the ‘Love Bug’ area of All-Star Movies (Awww….how appropriate). The kids loved the Herbie motif.

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After the kids were all settled, we ordered them (and my dad) a pizza and Joe and I headed back to the lobby to pick up our second set of keys…how embarrassing, lol! On the way, we stopped for a few pictures…

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We then had some dinner at the food court and bought a bottle of champagne at the gift store and went up to our room. Upon checking in we found our first Mickey surprise…

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Then we popped the cork to our champagne and made a toast to our future in our very classy plastic cups! HAHAHA!

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We finished unpacking and then tucked in!!

Next up….DAY TWO…our first guests arrive and we do Downtown Disney!

luv4mylittleones

01-08-2008, 08:05 PM

DAY TWO

Okay…so I’m looking back at the pictures and I now realize that day two was really quite boring, lol! The morning started out with Joe running to After Hours to get his Tux fixed. The sleeves were crazy short and his pants were way too long. He was gone for most of the morning and we were bored so I gave the kids their welcome bags….Bethany really liked her Lilo doll!

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Then we roamed the resort and took some pictures…

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Later that afternoon my two Aunts arrived, followed by my maid of honor and her boyfriend. We hugged, and cried, and did all the normal it’s good to see you jazz and then my aunt gave me the most wonderful gift….a medallion engraved with my mother’s image!!!!! It was the most special gift she could have given me and I’ve worn it every day since (with the exception of the wedding). After that we had some lunch in the food court and played in the arcade. Finally Joe made it back and my Aunts offered to watch my daughter so we could go downtown. We walked around a bit and then decided to have dinner at Portobello Yacht Club (they had the shortest wait).

My MOH and her BF:

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Joe had some sort of chocolate martini and I had my favorite beer….moretti….yumm! The calamari was olut of this world but the rest of dinner was only okay and overpriced…we were all still hungry when we left, lol!!

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After dinner we took the boys to visit santa:

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And then we got silly at the World of Disney Store:

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After that, we pretty much just went back to the hotel and rested up for the next day (Which was much more exciting, lol).

Coming up…DAY THREE….MK and Ohana…WEEEEEE!

luv4mylittleones

01-08-2008, 08:06 PM

DAY THREE (part one, the Magic Kingdom)

Yay…we finally get to go to the Magic Kingdom!! We woke up bright and early today with the intent of getting to the park before it opened. Unfortunately, Joe and I woke up arguing again, his best man and his family were running late, and my dad was sick in bed at the hotel…not a good start! I decided to send the kids with my aunts for breakfast so Joe and I could cool our jets and talk. About the same time, his BM and his family arrived. It’s funny but when they got there, they were all sooo excited and all the anger that was circulating just seemed to melt away. Everyone was now there and it finally felt real! Suddenly the excitement was mounting!! We gave them their welcome gift and the girls got changed into their mickey shirts and then we went down to the lobby to catch the bus.

Here’s me with my kids (Bethany was still cranky):

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And the guys on the bus:

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When we got to the MK, it was still relatively early…the weather was nice, much nicer than the extremely hot day the day before. I was grateful it had cooled down some…though I was hardly prepared for the temperatures that were to come! Anyway, with 15 of us there, we spent more time discussing what we were going to do rather than actually doing anything, lol!! We did however manage to make it on a few attractions. First we headed to tomorrowland to ride Buzz Lightyear! This has always been a family favorite so we were particularly stoked when we exited the ride to find Buzz Lightyear posing for pictures….woohoo!!!!

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The Kids trying to escape from Zurg….

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After a few “slower” attractions we managed to talk over half of the group into riding Space Mountain! Joe and I are thrill ride junkies and while SM is tame in comparison to some of our favorite coasters, it’s definitely intense by Disney standards and still waaaaay fun!!

By this time decided to eat luch and spent another 45 minutes figuring out where…lol! We decided on a quick counter service meal and headed off for more fun! The younger kids were getting bored so we took in some fantasyland rides.

My tough kids:

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Our favorite attraction…..Mickey’s Philharmagic!

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Didn’t he look cute in his cool glasses??!

Oh and those lanyards I gave the kids….well…they were a HUGE hit!!! I can’t thank those of you who sent me pins enough…the kids loved them!! I couldn’t believe how much they got into the pin trading! Everywhere we went, the kids found someone to trade with and they ended up with some really cool pins.

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This is where we split again…half of the group really wanted to ride Splash Mountain. We sensible folks did not! The temps were really dropping so we let the crazies go get wet while the rest of us stayed behind to ride Peter Pan (my favorite FL ride). While in line for the ride, however, my daughter began to act funny. She wouldn’t tell us what was wrong and began to cry so I picked her up. Then….she started to pee on me! Apparently she had to go to the bathroom but didn’t want to leave the line…poor thing! Joe took her to the bathroom and got her cleaned and changed while I rode the ride with the other kids. (Did I mention that I love this man???). The joke for the rest of the day was that while the rest of us were riding Peter Pan, Bethany was riding Peed Her Pants…hahaha! It’s a good thing that my baby girl has a sense of humor!

Anyway…it was getting time to get ready for dinner and the kids were dropping like flies:

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So we decided on one last ride…Pirates!!! I love the additions, what a great ride! Oh and here’s my favorite picture from the ride (how appropriate, so many jokes there…hahahahahah)

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By this time we are actually a bit rushed so we ran back to the bus and headed back to the hotel to get ready for our welcome dinner.

Coming up next….Day Three, part two…Ohana!!

luv4mylittleones

01-08-2008, 08:07 PM

DAY THREE, Part Two….OHANA!!!

Ok….so we get back to the hotel and really rush to get ready. I wanted to shower but I barely had time to change my clothes and squirt my stinky self with some perfume, lol….but we did manage to get ready and pose for a quick picture right before we headed out the door (To arrive at the Poly just in time!!!)

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When we pulled up at the Poly we discovered that the rest of Joe’s family had finally made it into town. I was worried because they had a 10 hour drive and they never make it anywhere on time! They were here now though and I was relived….the last of guests were there and the party could officially begin! They took us to our table which had a lovely view of the MK….but before we sat down Joe and I were given special red lays which were to signify love and we were asked to kiss. It was so sweet!! We took our seats and before we knew it the food started coming….

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OMG….there was soooo much food! Everything was delicious and I totally ate too much!! I remember praying that I could zip my wedding dress the next day, haha! Anyway, to those of you who have never been to Ohana….it is so much fun! I am so glad we chose this location for our welcome dinner. They really went out of their way to make us all comfortable, my family felt welcome, and the whole restaurant joined in on celebrating Joe and me! First they announced our wedding and asked Joseph and my self to lead in the dance of ‘love’.

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Everyone else joined in and it was so lovely! Then the performer called us to lead this parade thing. She got us all dressed up and Joseph had to dance and tap a stick on the ground as I shook the maracas….hahahaha….it was hilarious but everyone really got into it!

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And then we held the limbo stick…

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After that they did a little coconut contest thing. I’m not sure what it was all about but my son, William really enjoyed it!

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By this time we were all getting quite full and a bit tipsy so I decided it was “surprise” time. I got up and gave a speech and then with perfect timing, our server walked out with Joe’s cake!

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There were 4 numbered footballs covering a seating chart. Joe had to take them off in order revealing his surprise (Which btw he was blown away by just the cake alone!) So it went like this….gate D…section 134…row 5…YOU ARE HERE! Then he turned around a little confused and I opened a Seahawks box containing two tickets to the Atlanta/Seattle game….the whole restaurant erupted it cheers….it was amazing!!!! Needless to say, Joe was over the moon! Then I decided to pass out the other gifts…apparently I’m pretty sappy and I make people cry:

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But At least she smiled (My very awesome MOH!!)

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After that we cut the cake and it was absolutely delicious! Then, believe it or not, more food was served. It was a crème brulee type of dessert and it was to die for!! So now we’re all feeling like we are going to explode and decide it’s to get back to the hotels since we have to get up at 6am. We stop for one more picture on the way out:

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And then we head back to our rooms…Joe stays separately from me of course and we start preparing for the big day…I don’t know if it was the food or the nerves but my tummy was upset for the rest of the night…time for some sleep!

Up next….OUR BIG DAY!!!!!!

lov2b@disney

01-08-2008, 08:18 PM

So Exciting!!! Cant wait for more!!! Your kids are adorable!

cseca

01-08-2008, 08:20 PM

Wow.. you guys had busy days...
Can't wait to hear about your big day! :)

cappygirl

01-08-2008, 08:56 PM

It looks like you guys had a great time so far! Can't wait to see more!
Congrats!!

stitchlet

01-08-2008, 08:56 PM

I'm sooo glad you decided to write a trip report Diane!

Your pictures are all great - you're making me want to go to Disney RIGHT NOW!:rotfl:

Can't wait to read more . . . popcorn::

Lindsay22

01-08-2008, 09:03 PM

I saw you on the bus on Sat night!!! DBF and I were at All Star Sports going to Epcot and I saw you as I got on the bus and I told DBF that you were a Disbride and I thought I should say hello. But then I thought what if you weren't a disbride and you would just look at me like I was nutso. But I saw you and I was thinking of you the whole weekend!!! Everything looks beautiful, your kids are such cuties!!

Iluffyou

01-08-2008, 09:23 PM

I love the TR so far! I can't wait to see the wedding day :D

BaBeeCee14

01-08-2008, 09:32 PM

Yay Diane! I'm so happy you started a TR! Everything sounds great so far, can't wait to hear about the big day!!

yearbook50

01-08-2008, 10:08 PM

Great report so far!

tlhbdm

01-08-2008, 10:24 PM

Love your TR so far. I was there in December too. I was there December 9-16th the weather was so nice when we were there. I can't wait to read about your wedding day.

DisneyDeeFL

01-08-2008, 11:09 PM

congrats!! i got married at WP the day before you...aren't you glad that the weather was so nice? I mean, it was cold, but beautiful!!!

A lot of our guests stayed at All-star movies in the lovebug section, i bet you ran into each other a lot!

Congrats again :goodvibes

angel*lady

01-09-2008, 12:02 AM

What a great TR!!! :thumbsup2 I can't wait to read the next installment! :cool1:

helloirishkitty

01-09-2008, 12:05 AM

Yay! I've been waiting for your TR!

Great start! You guys look so happy and like you're having sooo much fun :goodvibes

Can't wait to hear about the big day :)

Vayleen

01-09-2008, 02:00 AM

I am so excited you did a TR! I think I saw you in the lobby at the Grand Flo the day after your wedding?! I can't wait to read about your day.

M&M126

01-09-2008, 09:55 AM

I'm so glad to see you've started a TR! I love the pictures. Sounds great so far :) Congrats on your marriage!

poohface

01-09-2008, 01:01 PM

Yeah you started your TR, it will be a miracle if I ever get mine started lol. Your trip pretty much started like mine, huge arguments with the other half lol, hey but it all came out all right in the end. I can't wait to see your wedding day seeing as we didn't get to see you but I am so glad you came along to see us on our wedding day, I have a pic of us together that Randy took and I will treasure it for ever :love:. Keep the TR coming, I am way to impatient to wait lol.

Lisella

01-09-2008, 05:55 PM

Oh thank you so much for sharing, I've been looking forward to your report. I can't wait to read more popcorn::

Congratulations :)

luv4mylittleones

01-09-2008, 08:21 PM

So Exciting!!! Cant wait for more!!! Your kids are adorable!

Aww...thanks. I can't wait to take them back to disney...this was the first trip they were all old enough to enjoy and it was pretty short for them. We plan on going back for a week with the kids next Dec. *Fingers Crossed*

Wow.. you guys had busy days...
Can't wait to hear about your big day!

Oh my...we were running from one thing to the next trying to fit it all in. It was very exhausting but so worth it!!

It looks like you guys had a great time so far! Can't wait to see more!
Congrats!!

Every day was amazing...honestly, we had the time of our lives!

I'm sooo glad you decided to write a trip report Diane!

Your pictures are all great - you're making me want to go to Disney RIGHT NOW!

Can't wait to read more . .

Thanks! More to come soon....:goodvibes

I saw you on the bus on Sat night!!! DBF and I were at All Star Sports going to Epcot and I saw you as I got on the bus and I told DBF that you were a Disbride and I thought I should say hello. But then I thought what if you weren't a disbride and you would just look at me like I was nutso. But I saw you and I was thinking of you the whole weekend!!! Everything looks beautiful, your kids are such cuties!!

OMG....you should've said something!! We were heading to Epcot that evening to pick up our DDE cards and AP's...I wish I would've known! I kept looking for people I might recognize from here all week...lol!!!

luv4mylittleones

01-09-2008, 08:32 PM

Love your TR so far. I was there in December too. I was there December 9-16th the weather was so nice when we were there. I can't wait to read about your wedding day.

Yeah, the weather got chilly once or twice but it was absolutely perfect for the most part!

congrats!! i got married at WP the day before you...aren't you glad that the weather was so nice? I mean, it was cold, but beautiful!!!

A lot of our guests stayed at All-star movies in the lovebug section, i bet you ran into each other a lot!

Congrats again

What a small world...it seems like there was a lot of us there at the same time. And now that I think about it I'm pretty sure that I saw several people dressed up that Sunday....they must've belonged to you!! ;) Congrats!!

Yay! I've been waiting for your TR!

Great start! You guys look so happy and like you're having sooo much fun

Can't wait to hear about the big day

Oh my gosh...we were! I never imagined it would be so lovely!!

I am so excited you did a TR! I think I saw you in the lobby at the Grand Flo the day after your wedding?! I can't wait to read about your day.
You probably did...we were there stalking Sharon! :rotfl: You should've said something! :goodvibes

Yeah you started your TR, it will be a miracle if I ever get mine started lol. Your trip pretty much started like mine, huge arguments with the other half lol, hey but it all came out all right in the end. I can't wait to see your wedding day seeing as we didn't get to see you but I am so glad you came along to see us on our wedding day, I have a pic of us together that Randy took and I will treasure it for ever . Keep the TR coming, I am way to impatient to wait lol.

OH sharon!!! I am so happy I got to see you and I love the pic of us...how cool is it that Randy snapped that? He took one of me and Michelle on my wedding day too, he's such a great guy. You looked truly amazing and I can't wait to hear more about your day...at least I con honestly say that it all looked very lovely!! Congratualtions!!

KQAN

01-09-2008, 09:59 PM

Congratulations! What a great TR. Your kids are so cute!

luv4mylittleones

01-09-2008, 10:01 PM

Congratulations! What a great TR. Your kids are so cute!

Thank you so much!!! :goodvibes

luv4mylittleones

01-09-2008, 10:02 PM

OUR BIG DAY...PART ONE....getting ready!

So here’s our details:

Bride: Diane
Groom: Joe
Flower girl: My daughter, Bethany
Ushers/Presenters: My sons, Brendan & William
Maid of Honor: My girlfriend, Brittany
Bridesmaid: My Aunt Linda
Mother of the Bride: Represented by My Aunt Sharon (my mother passed away in March)
Best Man: Joe’s Best friend, Jason
Groomsman: Joe’s brother, Mark
Officiant: Rev Jack Day

Hair & Makeup: Ana from Beaute Speciale
Photography: Randy Chapman
Videography: George from Apex Media
Coordinator: Amy Riendeau
Florist: Rosie from Disney Floral

First I’d like to preface by saying that all of my vendors were fabulous! Ana was very easy to work with and upon meeting her, I actually felt like I had known her all my life....like she was a life long girlfriend! Randy was more amazing. He not only took great photos, he also alleviated a lot of nerves by knowing everything that was going to happen before we did...he gave us as much direction as our coordinator! Speaking of coordinators, Amy was spectacular! I was nervous because she took over for Juliana half way though our planning and I was afraid that everything I had worked on would be lost...but no...she was perfect and I certainly consider Amy the glue that held our wedding together!! Rosie from Disney Floral was a lot of fun! I didn’t know anything about flowers and had no idea what to do other than the fact that I wanted burgundy mini callas! Let me say...I was blown away when I got my bouquet! All of my floral was more beautiful than I could’ve ever imagined and I made sure to email Rosie and tell her so!! George from Apex Media was very nice. I never got to meet him properly since he was already busy filming when I got to the WP but DH met him and said he was very friendly. I look forward to seeing his finished product....hopefully soon!!! Oh....and last but not leasy...Rev Jack!! I can not say enough about this man! He was so sweet and sincere and made us feel incredibly comfortable! He cracked jokes and really fit us perfectly. I had written and very customized ceremony and he did it perfectly. Even my VERY Christian FIL was pleased with the ceremony eventhough he was skeptical beforehand! So that’s it...on with the wedding day...

My alarm went of at 6am and I was so tired from the night before but my excitement encouragement to get out of bed. My MOH and her BF were still sleeping so I tip-toed around and starting getting things together while they started to wake. An hour later...7:00 on the dot...Carolyn Allens showed up to start steaming.

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We were staying in quite a small room and I could tell at this point that things were definitely going to get crowded, lol. I also realized that looking at the other dresses, mine was the only one that really needed steaming but I let her go ahead and steam them all anyway...I wish I hadn’t when I saw the bill...hahaha! Anyway, shortly after that Ana showed up. I loved her immediately. She was totally cool but very professional. I was surprised that she was alone but she managed to get 5 hairs and a make-up done by 10:30! Oh...and check this out...Bethany found some extra studded bobby pins in my bag. She decided she no longer wanted to wear her tiara (that she begged for) and asked Ana to fix her hair. And Ana did!!! Rollers and all...at no charge. It was very sweet of her and Bethany felt so special, like one of the big girls! So...Ana did an amazing job on everyone...I think we were all very happy!

My MOH:

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Me getting my hair done (no make-up...eek!!!)

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And now the makeup:

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Bethany decides she needs some too:

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The finished product!!!

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and the kids:

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My MOH helps me with my garter (Which we forgot to take off later...hahaha):

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And me with my girls:

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Speaking of my girls....they saved the day for me!!! First of all it was ridiculous around the room...at any given time there were 5-15 people in there...it was insane! We were all trying to get ready and at the same time I was trying to pack and get my stuff downstairs because we were checking out that day an into the GF. It could’ve been utter chaos but Brittany’s boyfriend was an absolute doll! While the girls were all getting pretty, he took it upon himself to pack the car and make sure we got everything out of the room. My two aunts chased my kids around and made sure they were all dressed and ready to go and my wonderful MOH kept me from falling apart when the worst happened. Yes the worst...I was getting my hair done by Ana when I looked up to see panic on the faces of everyone around me. They were all whispering and running around like mad. I knew something was going on and started to get angry that they were hiding something from me. Finally my MOH whispers...the maids just called 911, they’re taking your dad to the hospital. WHAT!!???!!! Apparently the maids walked in and my dad was lying in his own vomit (sorry for the visual). Now you might think I was worried at this point, but I wasn’t. I was steaming....downright pissed off! I know it probably seems heartless but I’m really not...this is so typical of my father and some of you know what I’m talking about. My father has problems...ones that can be helped...I was surprised he even made it to Orlando so I wasn’t entirely shocked he wasn’t going to attend the wedding....but I was angry anyway! Brittany calmed me down and helped me realize that the wedding was still happening with or without him and that it was all going to be fine. I swallowed hard and called Amy to let her know my boys would be walking me down the aisle.... the show must go on!!

to be cont....

MariaLovesJon<3

01-09-2008, 10:08 PM

Sorry to hear about your dad :(...I hope later on in the TR he gets better!

You looked STUNNING! Absolutely princess-like! princess:

:)

cseca

01-09-2008, 10:12 PM

Yikes!!!!
Talk about last minute drama... I hope your dad is ok now?

You guys look so purty... :)

luv4mylittleones

01-09-2008, 10:20 PM

Keira1387

01-09-2008, 11:03 PM

Ana did an awesome job on your hair and makeup! Your skin looked flawless.

angel*lady

01-09-2008, 11:16 PM

Well...That depends on what you mean by alright. He's out of the hospital now...in fact I have a weird story later where we run into him on our honeymoon....but anyway....he has problems and I doubt he'll every be "alright" but that's neither here nor there...sigh...But thank you guys for your compliments!! :goodvibes

I am so sorry to hear about your dad. :sad2: I think I know what kind of problems you are referring to - I have the same situation with my mother. No matter how we would like for it to be different - we can't do it for them. Some people are able to move beyond it but, in my case, that isn't going to happen unless there is a MAJOR miracle! I just have had to learn to not let it affect my life - what else can you do?

I am so glad that you let your dad's situation ruin your special day! Like you said ... the show must go on!

oneyodafan

01-09-2008, 11:38 PM

What a wonderful start. You look amazing!

I'm sorry to hear about your dad, and that you had to think about that on your big day.

Looking forward to more!!

tlhbdm

01-10-2008, 12:45 AM

I'm sorry to hear about your dad. 15 people in ASMu? Holy crap. When my mom, sister, DH, and I stayed in a Pop Century room in 2006 (we ended up getting two separate rooms) we were crowded if the four of us were in the same room at a time. Can't wait to read your next installment.

toocherie

01-10-2008, 01:27 AM

I am loving your trip report (although the part about your Dad--all I can say is that for some people it's "all about them"--I really admire how you picked up and moved on -- fyi, I would have been extremely ticked off too under the circumstances)

Can't wait to see pics of the actual wedding!

poohface

01-10-2008, 06:27 AM

Oh Diane you looked amazing :lovestruc , I only wish I could have seen you in person.

I am so sorry about your Dad situation, I know where you are coming from, my Aunt is exactly the same and you could just kick them but you love them just the same.

orangetiggs

01-10-2008, 07:18 AM

How were apex media?? We ar elooking at them

Also in the pic of your bridesmaid putting your garter on what do you have on your legs?? they look like leggings? oh if you dont mind me asking

lov2b@disney

01-10-2008, 08:06 AM

You look amazing! :lovestruc Your kids are darling!!! Did you get the tux's from CA? I have 3 boys and haven't decided on where to get tux's.

Sorry to here about your dad!:sad1: If you could reserve a bed in the ED I would for my sister, probably the night before our wedding-thats more her style!! For her - its all about the attention!

Enjoying for TR!! Cant wait for the next installment! :goodvibes:

Gillian

01-10-2008, 09:42 AM

You all look wonderful! I love the colors on the guys, and your DD. Great choice for December. The party the night before looks like you all had fun. :)

We were at Epcot on the 17th. It was a beautiful day, if a bit chilly. We did the 6:45 candlelight processional and you could feel the wind coming off the lake.

Can't wait to hear the rest! I am a sucker for wedding trip reports.

BaBeeCee14

01-10-2008, 10:11 AM

Wow Diane, you look absolutely amazing! Ana did a great job on your hair and make up! I can't wait to meet her. I'm sorry to hear about what happened to your Dad, but I'm glad you didn't let it ruin your day. Can't wait to hear more!

Desnik

01-10-2008, 11:36 AM

Thanks for posting! You look so beautiful! I love the color of the dresses and your kids look adorable!! I'm sorry to hear about your dad.

luv4mylittleones

01-10-2008, 12:09 PM

I am so sorry to hear about your dad. :sad2: I think I know what kind of problems you are referring to - I have the same situation with my mother. No matter how we would like for it to be different - we can't do it for them. Some people are able to move beyond it but, in my case, that isn't going to happen unless there is a MAJOR miracle! I just have had to learn to not let it affect my life - what else can you do?

I am so glad that you let your dad's situation ruin your special day! Like you said ... the show must go on!

Thank you for sharing your story. I didn't let my dad ruin my wedding and I'm not going to let him ruin my life either. My mom passed away in March and he's been living with me since. It's been pure h$ll. He dosen't want to get better (no matter how many times he's managed to manipulate me and convinve me otherwise) and I'm now being faced with kicking him out. He has nowhere else to go but I have children who are being affected by this and no daughter should have to raise her father. It's a sickening situation and I've very torn up about it but enough is enough!! GRRRR...can you tell this is all so fresh?? SO for the vent! :guilty:

Ana did an awesome job on your hair and makeup! Your skin looked flawless.

yeah, she's pretty amazing...I felt like I was glowing!

What a wonderful start. You look amazing!

I'm sorry to hear about your dad, and that you had to think about that on your big day.

Looking forward to more!!

Thanks...you know...I was pretty mad but it all went away as soon as I stepped in the limo. I didn't give him a second thought after that!

I'm sorry to hear about your dad. 15 people in ASMu? Holy crap. When my mom, sister, DH, and I stayed in a Pop Century room in 2006 (we ended up getting two separate rooms) we were crowded if the four of us were in the same room at a time. Can't wait to read your next installment.

OMG...it was ridiculous I tell ya! My aunts tried to keep the kids away as much as possible (Joe and I did have two rooms but the men were getting ready over there) and it got much better after the dress steamer and her assistant left but wowza....good think no one was claustrophobic!

I am loving your trip report (although the part about your Dad--all I can say is that for some people it's "all about them"--I really admire how you picked up and moved on -- fyi, I would have been extremely ticked off too under the circumstances)

Can't wait to see pics of the actual wedding!

Awwww....thank you so much, it really helped to hear that and you are sooooo right!!

Oh Diane you looked amazing , I only wish I could have seen you in person.

I am so sorry about your Dad situation, I know where you are coming from, my Aunt is exactly the same and you could just kick them but you love them just the same.

You are too sweet Sharon...thank you!!! :hug:

How were apex media?? We ar elooking at them

Also in the pic of your bridesmaid putting your garter on what do you have on your legs?? they look like leggings? oh if you dont mind me asking

You know...I'm not really sure about Apex yet since we haven't received the finished product but I can tell you that George was very easy to work with prior to the wedding, he arrived on time and actually stayed later that quoted...the price was right, and Joe said he was very nice. I never met him properly because he was already filming when I got there and he was very professional. I would probably use him again and he's running an internet sale right now (we got $100 off our package when we booked last year)...you can't beat that! ;)

As for the stockings...they are actually the Marry Me footless tights from Spanx....LOVED them!!!!

You look amazing! Your kids are darling!!! Did you get the tux's from CA? I have 3 boys and haven't decided on where to get tux's.

Sorry to here about your dad! If you could reserve a bed in the ED I would for my sister, probably the night before our wedding-thats more her style!! For her - its all about the attention!

Enjoying for TR!! Cant wait for the next installment! :

We got the tuxes from After Hours (now owned by Mens Warehouse). I DO NOT recommend them at all. They caused us way more stress than it was worth and nothing even fit right in the end...not good at all!

As for my dad and ER's...the running (not so funny) joke is that it's a new town, new ER...he's gotta check it out. Kind of like kids and store bathrooms...ugh!

You all look wonderful! I love the colors on the guys, and your DD. Great choice for December. The party the night before looks like you all had fun.

We were at Epcot on the 17th. It was a beautiful day, if a bit chilly. We did the 6:45 candlelight processional and you could feel the wind coming off the lake.

Can't wait to hear the rest! I am a sucker for wedding trip reports.

Thank you and we did have a blast!!!! And Epcot on the 17th was colder than we would have liked...they had to move our DP indoors to prevent the fondue from stiffening (more on that later)...I froze during illuminations because I gave my jacket to my daughter...I'll probably be blue in my photos with icicles hanging from my nose...hahaha...ok, so maybe it wasn't THAT cold! :rotfl:

Wow Diane, you look absolutely amazing! Ana did a great job on your hair and make up! I can't wait to meet her. I'm sorry to hear about what happened to your Dad, but I'm glad you didn't let it ruin your day. Can't wait to hear more!

Thank you so much! Ana is completely awesome. She's really easy to work with and funny too...you'll love her!

Thanks for posting! You look so beautiful! I love the color of the dresses and your kids look adorable!! I'm sorry to hear about your dad.

Thank you!!! :goodvibes I was worried that some of the colors wouldn't flow since we ordered some stuff in "wine" and some in "burgundy"...a really small difference, I know...but I feel like it all looked nice in the end.

lpizzuro123

01-10-2008, 12:13 PM

luv4mylittleones

01-10-2008, 12:30 PM

First off, sorry to hear about your dad.

I must say that you look amazing and I love your dress (I remember your dress drama from earlier and this one is just perfect). I contacted Ana yesterday about getting my hair and make up done by her this November. We will be down in WDW in July and I am going to do a trial. I might take your photo along as inspiration.

I also love your tiara, necklace and earings. Your necklace is just perfect - just the right amount of sparkle but not too much. I have been checking out ebay all morning looking for something to wear. My dress will be white with claret accents and my girls will be in claret. I love the way your boys look also with the redish accent and your daughter is just adorable in her dress. Unfortunately I have no little girl for a flower girl but we are hoping DF's nieces son (4) will be the ringbearer.

Looking forward to reading more.

Linda

Thank you!! And yeah....you know everywhere I turn around I see woman in my original dress...in fact, we saw one on the beach at the GF when we were taking our pics. Ultimately, I'm very pleased with the second gown and it all turned out so much better than I thought! And sure....take my photo...I feel very flattered. Ana was wonderful and I loved my hair!! As for the jewlery, I ordered it on sale from theknot.com...it was very inexpensive and and i loved it! The tiara was my something borrowed from my best friend...I felt very honored to wear it! Oh...and check this out...the boys suits I rented from gagas.com. I got both of their 5 piece suits including shipping to and from for $37 total!!! What a deal! I bought the burgundy ties on ebay for less than $10...I'm a bargain shopper baby! ;) I can't wait to hear all about your wedding whe your big day comes!! :goodvibes

lpizzuro123

01-10-2008, 12:45 PM

Gread idea about the tuxes for your boys. I spoke with Carolyn Allen yesterday and it costs the same amount to rent children tuxes as for the adults so it would start at 115.00.

I am actually now thinking of having him dress up as Prince Charming. I found some cute costumes on line and as my wedding is in November Halloween costumes should start coming out in the early summer. I am hoping he could carry a pillow with a crystal slipper on it with the rings in the slipper (somehow) - we will have to work that all out. He will be 4 by next November and he has a younger brother that will be 2. I might just dress them both up (hopefully they will like that) and see if they both want to walk down the aisle. I am sure he would rather dress up as one of the Cars characters but not for the wedding.

Linda

tamijoy514

01-10-2008, 12:55 PM

More! More! :surfweb:

lpizzuro123

01-10-2008, 04:41 PM

I went back and read some of your planning journal. Was your original dress an Alfred Angelo? I tried that one on last week. As of now I am going with an Alfred Angelo - almost like your original but mine has more of the color in the back - not just the sash. I tried it on in ivory with claret but I think I am going to go with the white and claret. I am a little concerned about two things. First, did you order it from a bridal shop or from someone online. I am nervous as yours never showed up. And second, I don't want to see everyone coming and going in the same dress. I want something that will stand out and I love the idea of color.

I am glad you went with using your friends tiara and it looked great. I checked out theknot.com for the necklace and earing set and they still have it available. I am seriously considering ordering it. I do want to get my tiara with some clear crystals, pearls and red crystals in it and I am not sure if I should also have color in my necklace. I don't think so but I am still deciding.

Anyway, looking forward to reading more.

Linda

Gillian

01-10-2008, 06:03 PM

Thank you and we did have a blast!!!! And Epcot on the 17th was colder than we would have liked...they had to move our DP indoors to prevent the fondue from stiffening (more on that later)...I froze during illuminations because I gave my jacket to my daughter...I'll probably be blue in my photos with icicles hanging from my nose...hahaha...ok, so maybe it wasn't THAT cold! :rotfl: We're from New Jersey, and I think it was actually that cold! THe weather was weird that week.

Can't wait to hear the rest!

angel*lady

01-10-2008, 11:36 PM

Thank you for sharing your story. I didn't let my dad ruin my wedding and I'm not going to let him ruin my life either. My mom passed away in March and he's been living with me since. It's been pure h$ll. He dosen't want to get better (no matter how many times he's managed to manipulate me and convinve me otherwise) and I'm now being faced with kicking him out. He has nowhere else to go but I have children who are being affected by this and no daughter should have to raise her father. It's a sickening situation and I've very torn up about it but enough is enough!! GRRRR...can you tell this is all so fresh?? SO for the vent! :guilty:

I know exactly how you feel! People like your dad and my mother are great manipulators. :sad2: My mother does not want to get well either. I am older than you and my kids are much older. I remember the defining moment when I said "enough is enough"! It was when my kids were being exposed to things that no child deserves. Up until then I made excuses for her and just put up with it. But once my children were involved I realized that it was my responsibility to protect them and make sure that they understood that it was not acceptable behavior. It was the wisest decision I ever made. If you ever need to vent or just chat please feel free to PM me. :hug:

On a lighter note - I can't wait until the next installment of your TR! :banana:

luv4mylittleones

05-26-2008, 03:18 PM

WOW...you all must have thought I'd dissapeared never to be seen again! The last few months have been...well...difficult. I won't elaborate too much but I will say that things finally came to a head with my father and while it was a difficult decision, he no longer lives with us. I have also been very sick. It all started with a blessed event gone sour. I became pregnant in March only to find that around week 8 the baby stopped growing. It was my fourth miscarriage and I was devastated. I opted to have a D&C and was beginning to heal when out of the blue my right lung collapsed. 1 week and 2 chest tubes later I was released from the hospital. I have been battling pluerisy and pneumonia ever since....sigh. I'm finally starting to feel a little better and I know with time I'll be back to my crazy energetic self!! So Anyway.....

Can you believe it's been almost 6 months since the wedding??? Things are great with Joe and I and we're taking another trip to the world in June/July...yay!! I guess I should finish this TR now, hahaha!

Let's see, we left off with the morning of the wedding...

Joe and his BM left to go pick up his brother and we waited for the limo to come get us. The weather was beautiful and while it was sunny the day of the wedding it was absolutely freezing!!!! Of course that was the only cold day the whole trip...but at least it wasn't raining! Then the phone rang...it was Joe telling me that his brother wasn't at the hotel. OMG...Where was he??? I was totally freaked out and called my MIL to see if she knew where Mark was. She did...he was in the limo with them. He wasn't supposed to be in the limo. I was livid. It dosen't seem like such a big deal but by Mark getting in the limo there was no longer room for one of the other guests...grrr!!!! Fortunately, my MOH's boyfriend was a complete gem and quickly volunteered to drive his car over solving our transportation problem. Before we knew it, the driver was calling to let us know he had arrived. This was it....I was going to get married!!!!! The limo ride seemed so long and way too quick all at the same time. I was petrified and ecstatic! And then we were there!

You can see the fear on my face:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ072412-17-07.jpg

The guys outside:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ0024.jpg

I was taken to the brides room and quickly swept in the world of photography. Randy was snapping away, Rev Jack asked some questions, and Amy briefed me on the ceremony.

My honey getting ready (Isn't he handsome?)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/12-24-2007-56.jpg

Me in photography land:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ076112-17-07.jpg

The nerves are growing, it was hard to smile...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ0089.jpg

I didn't hear a word anyone said. It felt so surreal...I just couldn't believe what was going on and that it was happening to me. It passed in a blur and before I knew it, I was standing behind the double doors listening to the music I had so carefully picked out and I started to cry...

luv4mylittleones

05-26-2008, 03:18 PM

So there I was, standing at the door when the bell began to chime...I was so nervous and I couldn't stand still but at least I had stopped crying. All of sudden I felt this wave of excitement come over me and the doors swung open. With each of my sons on my arms, we began to walk down the aisle. I was grinning from ear to ear and all eyes were on me (in fact, the song I was walking to was actually called "Eyes On Me"). It was a wonderful feeling...I felt so beautiful and happier at that moment than I had ever felt before.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ081412.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ082412.jpg

My Mom's mickey ears and memorial Rose:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ009912.jpg

I joined my hubby to be at the alter and the ceremony began. It was really lovely. I tried to listen to every word intently but will admit that I was at one point gazing out the window at Cinderella's Castle thinking to myself how I couldn't believe I was getting married, that our day had finally come.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ0850.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ0871.jpg

The ceremony went off without a hitch...well, mostly. The ring ceremony was amazing and Joseph gave the kids rings of their own with the words inscribed "A Family United". We put them on chains with magnetic clasps but for some reason Brendan's wouldn't open. It was so funny and awkward. I finally grabbed the chain from Joe and shoved it in Brendan's coat pocket! hahaha! They also began our unity candle music too early and had to play the song twice. No one noticed and it actually fit in quite nicely. I was petrified I was going to set the WP on fire when we were lighting our candles...we had no idea what we were doing as Rev Jack tried to talk us through. It was pretty comical but at least we were entertaining! Next thing I know we had exchanged vows, kissed, and Rev Jack announced us as husband and wife! It was truly the most amazing moment ever! "When You Wish Upon A Star" began to play, we held hands and walked down the aisle together as Mr and Mrs DellaVentura!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ0872.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/47b8df20b3127cceb2a48bb1e9ef0000008.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/0900.jpg

After the ceremony we went back inside to take some photos. Here are a few of my favorites.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/0928.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ0982.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/0958.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ0968.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ1071.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/1103.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/110712-17-07.jpg

I had a lot of favorites...lol....

Up next...Cake Cutting and our favorite Mouse!

PrincessBride010103

05-26-2008, 04:32 PM

Diane! Glad you're back!:hug:
I'm sorry to hear about your loss :( I hope you & your family are doing well.
Now keep writing...we wanna see the cake cutting!

luv4mylittleones

05-26-2008, 06:19 PM

Diane! Glad you're back!:hug:
I'm sorry to hear about your loss :( I hope you & your family are doing well.
Now keep writing...we wanna see the cake cutting!

Awwww...thanks! Cake cutting coming up soon! ;) And congrats on your bump! Little boys are the best!!!

luv4mylittleones

05-26-2008, 06:36 PM

We finished our photos and headed over to the commanders terrace. I'l admit that I felt very rushed and didn't get all the photos I wanted. I should've spoken up but I was too timid and I knew that the "entertainment" was on a schedule and we were a little behind. In hindsight, it was my day and now I'm kicking myself for not being more agressive. Anyway...we entered the GF and everyone stopped and stared...I loved it!! People were congratulating us and telling me how beautiful I looked...I totally ate it up! We went up to the second floor and everyone was already there waiting for us. It was so fun walking in and hearing them cheer!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/021112-17-07.jpg

The cake was beautiful...just how I pictured it and everything was set up so nicely. We barely had a moment to catch our breath when our entertainment arrived...Mickey Mouse!!! He was a huge hit! The kids and adults alike loved Mickey and poured over him!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/0229.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/032712-17-07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/033712-17-07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/038412-17-07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/040812-17-07.jpg

We took lots of pictures with Mickey and then he helped us cut our cake. I had previously warned my hubby that if he smashed the cake in my face then he would live to regret it. He heeded my warning and loving exchange bites with me. It was so yummy, I wanted to eat more but Mickey wanted to dance, lol.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/025412-17-07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/026312-17-07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/026812-17-07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/031112-17-07.jpg

After Joe and I had our first dance, it was time for Mickey to go. He presented us with our gift and bid us farewell...it was time to break out the bubbly! Joe's BM gave a very touching toast and the whole room was in tears. Then we drank up...the champagne was better than I expected it to be and we went though several bottles. Then I turned around to discover that my 7 year old son was throwing the corks over the railing to unsuspecting targets below. UGH!! I kept my cool and sent my Aunt over to take care of the matter. We all mingled for a bit while our cake was boxed up and brought downstairs to the Gardenview Tea Lounge. Then Randy informed us that it was time to go to the beach for more pics...the guests headed down for tea and cake.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/048212-17-07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/047712-17-07.jpg

pink_tink8i8

05-26-2008, 07:31 PM

your pictures are so beautiful!

jennifaerie

05-26-2008, 08:52 PM

I'm very sorry you've had so many issues, especially with your own health. We have a friend who is susceptible to collapsed lungs, and he spent quite a bit of time in the hospital in September. I've also had two myself. I know it's not the most pleasurable thing. You don't realize how much your breathing affects the rest of your body until you go through that pain.

I *am* glad, however, that you decided to post, because I had the chance to look at your pictures, and they're beautiful! I love your color scheme (I'm a bit partial to burgundy myself!).

So thank you for coming back and sharing. Despite all the trouble in your life, it's obvious you had a wonderful time!

BaBeeCee14

05-26-2008, 09:56 PM

Welcome back Diane! I'm glad you are feeling better. I can't believe you've been married for almost 6 months already. I love your pictures, they came out great!

accountingbabe08

05-27-2008, 12:15 AM

I Hope You And Your New Husband All The Happiness In The World. Glad To Hear Your Feeling Better Now.

Tabetha

05-27-2008, 01:00 AM

Welcome back, and congratulations! I'm sorry to hear about the trouble you've been having - but I'm so happy to see that your wedding day was so beautiful!

newyearsbride

05-27-2008, 01:31 AM

Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad and your health. I'm glad you are feeling better, and sorry you had such a rough few months. You were beautiful on your wedding day. I actually got engaged the day before you got married :goodvibes Can't wait to read more!

Lisacope

05-27-2008, 02:17 AM

Your pictures are beautiful Diane!

luv4mylittleones

05-27-2008, 08:43 AM

your pictures are so beautiful!

Thank you so much!!! :goodvibes

I'm very sorry you've had so many issues, especially with your own health. We have a friend who is susceptible to collapsed lungs, and he spent quite a bit of time in the hospital in September. I've also had two myself. I know it's not the most pleasurable thing. You don't realize how much your breathing affects the rest of your body until you go through that pain.

I *am* glad, however, that you decided to post, because I had the chance to look at your pictures, and they're beautiful! I love your color scheme (I'm a bit partial to burgundy myself!).

So thank you for coming back and sharing. Despite all the trouble in your life, it's obvious you had a wonderful time!

You are so right and it's weird because it was so unexpected...I don't smoke and I'm overall healthy otherwise...it was so strange. I live every day in fear of another collapse, it's scary. And ugh...getting that second chest tube removed was excruciating...I have NEVER felt pain like that and I've given birth to 4 children so that's saying a lot!! Anyway, I just pray I never have to do that again, lol! Thank you for your kind words and sharing your experience.

Welcome back Diane! I'm glad you are feeling better. I can't believe you've been married for almost 6 months already. I love your pictures, they came out great!

Thanks...I know 6 months!!! Time has flown by! I still get weepy though when I look at the pictures and I can't so much as hear one of our wedding songs without bursting into tears! :lmao:

I Hope You And Your New Husband All The Happiness In The World. Glad To Hear Your Feeling Better Now.

That is very sweet of you...thank you!!

Welcome back, and congratulations! I'm sorry to hear about the trouble you've been having - but I'm so happy to see that your wedding day was so beautiful!

Thanks...you know sometimes bad things happen and really open your eyes to all the wonderful things overlooked in your life. It's funny how you tend to reevaluate things after an incident like this...so it wasn't all bad!

Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad and your health. I'm glad you are feeling better, and sorry you had such a rough few months. You were beautiful on your wedding day. I actually got engaged the day before you got married Can't wait to read more!

Thanks so much and a HUGE congratulations to you on your engagement!!

Your pictures are beautiful Diane!

Thanks Lisa!!!! :grouphug:

luv4mylittleones

05-27-2008, 09:02 AM

So at this point Randy took us downstairs to start shooting on the beach. It was hilarious. Joe and I are definitely not models and we didn't take direction too well. Randy would tell us what to do and we were absolutely clueless...but we did our best and managed to get a phew good shots. :P We saw lots of brides getting their pictures done too and one was wearing my first dress...I was so glad at that point that it never came in! We had so much fun on the beach posing as onlookers gawked. Randy is really awesome to work with and he made us feel so comfortable all day. Here's a few of my favorite beach pics.

My kiddos:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/114912-17-07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/124212-17-07.jpg

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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/130112-17-07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/1225BW.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/131412-17-07.jpg

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Then we went back in to meet everyone at the tea lounge. Let me say...the tea was a surprise hit! I was a little apprehensive about the stufiness of it but it wasn't stuffy at all. It was beautiful and elegant but very comfortable! My guests loved the tea selection and really appreciated the oppurtunity to sit down and relax! We served our cake along with a few cheese and fruit platters and tea and wine/champagne. Funny story though...I hadn't really explained what type of place the lounge was and when my bill came I notice their was a few orders of strawberries and cream. When I asked about it, it turned out that my MIL thought it was a buffet setting and helped herself while we were out taking pictures...hahahaha!! She was so embarassed. In the end though, the tea was a huge hit and wonderful time for all of us!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/065012-17-07.jpg

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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/00445.jpg

Up Next...Dinner at 1900 Park Fare followed by DP...

jennifaerie

05-27-2008, 09:34 AM

lov2b@disney

05-27-2008, 10:30 AM

Diane - Welcome back! Everything looks wonderful! the kids are so cute! two of my boys (11&7)are walking me down the aisle too! I can see my 7yo aiming for those poor unsuspecting people too!:scared1:

The picures are beautiful!

More!!

luv4mylittleones

05-27-2008, 10:41 AM

I'll cross my fingers for you! :hug:

The new pictures gorgeous! My favorite is the black and white photo of you holding each other. That one made me immediately smile (as if the ones of the kids playing on the beach didn't do that too!!).

Thanks...that's our favorite too. We had that made into wallets and DH shows everybody, lol!!

Diane - Welcome back! Everything looks wonderful! the kids are so cute! two of my boys (11&7)are walking me down the aisle too! I can see my 7yo aiming for those poor unsuspecting people too!

The picures are beautiful!

More!!

Thanks...having the boys walking me down the aisle was amazing...I was so glad to have my guys there with me! You gotta love those boys! ;)

luv4mylittleones

05-27-2008, 11:05 AM

Oh....I can't believe I forgot to mention above how deliciously yummy our cake was!! They served the top layer first which was yellow cake with tropical mousse filling. It was to die for!! The second layer of chocolate cake with Raspberry mousse filling seemed to be the favorite though! There was plenty left over so they boxed it up and kept it fresh for us until we went up to our room. Sadly, the huge box didn't fit in our fridge and we ended up throwing the cake away the next day after sharing some with a few friends. We didn't save the top layer for our anniversary (BTDT...so gross! lol) but instead we saved a bottle of the Fairy Tale Cuvee which is sitting on our counter waiting to get cracked open on our 1 year!! :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/049412-17-07.jpg

So now we were done with tea and a little time to look around the GF before our dinner ressie. The Christmas decorations were just beautiful! Unfortunately though I didn;t get to spend much time with my guests at this point becuase I had to take a trip to the little girl's room after all that champagne! What an ordeal!! I never thought I'd be so open about peeing in front of other people...hahaha!! I really had no choice though since it took three of us to hold my gown and all my stuff!!! I did find, however, that the more I drank, the less I cared who was in the room!! :P

Here are the gingerbread house and tree from the GF.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/20.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/00453.jpg

DH is a hidden mickey hunter (he's so cute!) He took this pic of the GB house and was so proud...haha.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/00451.jpg

About 45 minutes later we all gathered at 1900 Park Fare and was told that our table was ready!!

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The Buffet was great and GH was sucha doll. He got my food for me so I wouldn't have to drag my dress all over the place (My bustle kept getting ripped out). I didn't get to eat too much though because I was so busy chatting and snapping pictures. The characters were amazing!! We didn't get to see Cindy too much but that's okay since I was the princess that evening! :P She did come out once though and really took a shining to my FIL!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/12.jpg

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Prince Charming Came out next and swept me off my feet...literally! He snatched me up, kissed my hand, and took me out to the middle of the restaurant for a dance. The other guests were cheering and strangers were snapping pics and offering many congrats...it was amazing and so much fun!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/00477.jpg

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Drizella, Anastasia, and the step-mother were by far the most fun though. The spent almost the entire time at our table! Anastasia and my BIL exchanged playfully snide remarkes (Which was clearly flirting) and my youngest son fell hopelessly in love with Drizella...really! It turned out too, that the step-mother was in one of my MOH's acting classes at UCF that semester. And, as for my son...he cried when we left. He told me his heart was broken and was sad that he would never see Drizella again. He asked if we could see her one more time and take a picture that he could keep forever. We went back inside where William gave Drizella a toy of his and she happily took another photo and gave him something to remember her by....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/00498.jpg

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Mark and Anastasia...a match made in heaven!

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Me being silly...I was framed! (The frame was later signed by all our guests and now holds our first kiss as husband and wife)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/14.jpg

We left 1900PF and were once again greeted by numerous CM's and guests of the GF with congrats and compliments. It felt so good and one little girl even asked which princess I was...awwwww!!!! Later that night a little boy asked if he could take a picture with me...it was the sweetest thing ever! I remember thinking that I never wanted to take that dress off...the shoes on the other hand were a different story! We had about and hour and half before we had to meet our coach for the DP so the limo took some of the guests back to their hotels and Joe and I checked in to our room at the GF for a short rest...

jennifaerie

05-27-2008, 11:08 AM

Tropical mousse?! That sounds divine! (I'm salivating!)

The decorations for Christmas are amazing! I hope I get to see it sometime. We always seem to opt for Halloween instead. :)

luv4mylittleones

05-27-2008, 08:02 PM

Tropical mousse?! That sounds divine! (I'm salivating!)

The decorations for Christmas are amazing! I hope I get to see it sometime. We always seem to opt for Halloween instead. :)

I've never been at Halloween but Christmastime is my absolute favorite at Disney...we stayed through Christmas last year and it was magical!

keenercam

05-27-2008, 08:44 PM

Oh, Diane, your pictures are so romantic! What a gorgeous bride you were! Your family is just gorgeous. I am glad things went so perfectly for you. I'm so sorry for your loss and all you've been through recently. Sending you truckloads of good wishes and pixiedust: Truly wishing you a lifetime of happiness! :hug:

newyearsbride

05-27-2008, 09:09 PM

I can not say enough how beautiful of a bride you were! Gorgeous. Your pictures are amazing! The tea stuff looks amazing. Your group looks like they had so much fun, and are a fun group to hang out with. Your boy is so cute with his kiss on the cheek. And your daughter is simply adorable! How old is she?

jennifaerie

05-27-2008, 09:20 PM

I've never been at Halloween but Christmastime is my absolute favorite at Disney...we stayed through Christmas last year and it was magical!

They definitely don't go all out at Halloween, but they do do it Disney style. :)

angel*lady

05-28-2008, 01:12 AM

Welcome back, Diane!! :yay: I am so sorry that you have had such difficulties in the past few months! I hope that you are feeling back to normal very soon! Your photos are just gorgeous and I am thoroughy enjoying your TR! :surfweb:

lov2b@disney

05-28-2008, 08:00 AM

1900 park fare looked like alot of fun! the step sisters are awesome, they made a big scene for my sons 10th bday it was hilarious! your son is so cute with the kiss on his cheek! His 1st love has now come and gone! I doubt he'll have trouble finding a new love!

Enjoying!!!

IndyBride

05-28-2008, 05:27 PM

What a beautiful bride you were! Such fabulous pictures. It looks like you had a wonderful time.

snow_white725

06-08-2008, 01:08 PM

Thank you for sharing - I can't wait to hear more! :goodvibes

lpizzuro123

07-01-2008, 04:05 PM

Wow - I can't believe you're back and i missed this. We were down in WDW the end of May for our planning session and I guess I never got fully caught up. Anyway, sorry to hear about all your sicknesses but hope you are back on the right track. Looking forward to reading more. By the way, I love your necklace. I thing you said you got it off The Knot - way back when - did you use the same one?

Linda

MyMelody

07-01-2008, 04:28 PM

:lovestruc :lovestruc :lovestruc Your story was amazing, your pictures are beautiful, I do not know you cause I am pretty new here but what I can say is glad you are doing better and your kids are beautiful!! Wonderful pictures love the fact your kids walked you in it looked really pretty.. Congrats:cheer2:

luv4mylittleones

07-10-2008, 07:56 PM

Awww....you guys are so sweet!! Thank you so much! Linda...yes, I did wear the necklace from the knot...what a great deal! :thumbsup2

luv4mylittleones

07-10-2008, 08:07 PM

So let's see....I left off heading up to our room. We had some extra time before the dessert party so the motorcoach picked up the family and took them back to their hotels to change and Joe and I headed up to check out our room...he carried me across the threshold of course...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DSC00503.jpg

And when we opened the door we found this...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DSC00506.jpg

YAY!!! A gift from Mickey! There was another surprise in the room too...this one was for my new hubby! Joe was originally bummed that we couldn't invite more friends to the wedding so I talked to my planner and she arranged for two more spots for our dessert party so I called up our friends and two of our closest drove up from Ft lauderdale for the festivities...they were waiting in the room! Joe was soooo surprised!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DSC00513.jpg

Before we knew it the motorcoach was on the way to get us, but before it arrived I got a phone call from my planner telling me that it was less than 40 degrees outside (did I mentioned that the ONLY cold day during our two week stay was this one!?! ) She wanted to let me know that our fondue would harden under these conditions and that if it were all right with me they wanted to move our party inside of the American Adventure Parlor and go out to Italy for the fireworks. I was actually really excited about this!!! We wanted Italy to begin with but due to our party size and price we decided on Morocco. This was good news for us! We headed outside to wait for our ride...it was indeed very cold!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/l_89421990c5d7731dd3e0e6a9b266fd42.jpg

I regret that we did not get any good pictures of the motor coach itself, but here are a few of the inside...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DSC00519.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DSC00520.jpg

My guests felt so special. The motorcoach was amazing and the driver kept teasing/joking with us that we had this big bus for 21 people...lol! It was such a nice touch and I'm so glad we went with it. At this point no one but me, Joe, and our two friends had any idea where we are going...we decided to keep it a surprise. It was so fun listening to them take guesses. Some were pretty close deducting that it had to be a firework show or something but no one had any idea what it was really all about. As a bonus, none of them had even ever been to Disney before...I was so excited!! we pulled into the backstage of Epcot as I announced that as a grande finale I was taking my new Italian family to Italy! The confused excitement mounted as I elaborated. I told them that they were being given the honor that few receive...they would be entering Epcot from backstage for a surprise party and firework show...cheers erupted with joy!! What an amazing feeling!! Jody, our CM met us with lightsabers abalze and guided us to our location. On the way, I ran into fellow disneymooner Glorydaz and her new hubby...It was such a surprise!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ157912-17-07.jpg]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ158912-17-07.jpg

Then I turned around to realize that no one remembered to bring my baby girl's jacket, so I gave her mine...poor thing, she was freezing!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DSC00545.jpg

But don't worry, I took Joe's, lol!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DSC00547.jpg

It was so amazing...everywhere I looked people were pointing and congratulating...I loved it! :P I don't think I could have ever felt more special that day...and I ate it up! :D Anyway...The AA Parlor was fabulous and everything was so yummy!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ169612-17-07.jpg

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My only complaint was that we really didn't get enough time in the room before illuminations started. By the time I had made my rounds, I barely had time to take a bite of my brownie or a sip of my coffee. My guests felt it was a bit quick too although they were invited to take whatever they liked over to the Isola. So much wasted food....sigh. So anyway...the show was starting and we weren't there yet....good thing I changed into my flip flops because I ran like the wind! It was priceless to see people's stares as I flew by! Finally we all made it and it was perfect! Again my guests felt like VIPs and loved every minute of it (minus the flying debris and shrapnel in our direction...Joe actually got some in his eye that bothered him for days!) Oh, and did I mention (again) that it was freezing cold??? I was sure that there would be icicles hanging from nose in all the pictures! Illuminations was truly beautiful though...we relished every minute of it and I held my hubby tight...I never wanted to forget that moment!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/luv4mylittleones/DJ177112-17-07.jpg

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After the fireworks, we returned to the motorcoach and made our way back to our hotels. As one last gift, my new brother-in-law (a theatre major at the New World School for the Performing Arts in Miami) serenaded us as we pulled into the GF. I don't think I've ever cried so ahrd in my life! A perfect ending to the most perfect day ever!!

Up next (When I actually get around to it, lol)...Part 1 of our honeymoon...o