"ENCHANTED TALES with ROB" - A Birthday/Christmas DISer Celebration! **NEW TR LINK**

[amberg93]

Glad they took the oh so subtle hint Marie still hasn't forgiven me for missing that show and the fireworks.

She is a pretty Ariel, so of course you had to meet her. No blame.

My heart hearing about your goodbyes. Poor Rob I can understand how that would be hard.

But I'm glad that you had a last day that was suited for it. Though I can't believe we're that close to the end already.

 

[thornton0511]

Oh Rob I really enjoyed your new post! Life can be so funny sometimes and you can build incredible relationships in the most unexpected ways. I think you made some lifetime friendships on this trip and that is so wonderful. The fact that you got so emotional when you least expected it shows just how great those friendships are to you! I totally get the "ready to go home" vibe towards the end of all of our Disney trips too. But then after being home for a week and regrouping I miss being there so much and I just want to go back ASAP!! So glad that you got to see the Christmas Castle show! And its a good thing to that those people sat back down lol! That was one thing that I liked about the Fantasmic! show in DL is how they have the sit down areas and the stand areas, and the CM's are really good about making sure that people sit if they are to sit and stand if they are supposed to stand....and that the sit down people have to fold up those stupid strollers lol! Sorry that you did not have such luck with the parade however. I have never understood why if you are in front and have a great sitting view why in the world would you want to stand?
Oh and I have to agree with you on Ariel.....she was beautiful! It's always my favorite when you meet a character who has a friend that is so spot on! Really enjoyed your update!!

 

[IheartDDuck]

I'm glad that the people got the subtle hint with the NO'S and SIT DOWN's! Some people need something more obvious than that.

Wow, that Ariel really is beautiful! Good looking out man deciding to have a picture taken.

 

[DreamEagle]

Rob,

Been a big fan and follower of your TR's for years now. You should know that I saw you dodging the crowd in the Hub as people shouted how great your shirt was at the Dec. 10 MVMCP and then I saw you on Main Street at closing, trying to figure out if it was really you or not so that I could express my appreciation for your online magic, but I wasn't sure.

You might recall I was standing near the flagpole as you were headed out and you made eye contact with me. I was wearing a green Elf shirt, so I definitely stood out. But, worried about looking like a fool, I didn't introduce myself or praise your TR's just in case it wasn't you--even though I knew from your PTR you'd be in town.

Now seeing you wearing the scarf shirt, it confirms it. Dang it!!!
Next time, sir. Next time. #ShameOnMe.

Loving this trip report though

 

[JDUB]

Can't believe your TR is already on your last full day. Booooo!!!! Thanks for sharing all this Christmas magic as it's getting me really excited for our Christmas trip!!! Now I gotta find a snowman shirt. That's awesome Riley had that for you.

 

[RDawn]

Hi Rob, we just got back from 3 days at Niagara Falls & LOVED it! Now, there was no pixie dust there, but it was still awesome. We were on the American side & were told that we could easily spend 1 day there. We added a visit to Old Fort Niagara, & a few hours of outlet shopping one day & never had a boring minute. As MEK said, Cave of the Winds is "the bomb". If possible, cross over & check it out. My 8 & 10 year olds cannot get enough of it. You will have a wonderful visit & I look forward to your trip report.

 

[angelicamy12]

Hi Rob,

All caught up on your TR - I have enjoyed it so much thus far - when it is complete I will definitely be taking a look at all your older reports.

Reading your TR really does brighten up my day - I sneak on it whilst at work when I have a few minutes 'down time' as my job is super-stressful and it makes me feel down but reading this instantly lifts my mood and reminds me I have to work hard to PAY FOR MORE TRIPS TO DISNEY!

 

[junie18]

I have mostly been a lurker because I only have time here and there to read trip reports, but I just wanted to tell you that this trip report has been so enjoyable. I really love seeing all your pictures and your outlook is very refreshing. Please keep sharing. Can't wait to read about your last day!

 

[Pluto0809]

The Christmas show looks interesting. Why oh why does Disney have to pack so much stuff into the parties? Oh, I know, so that we have to come back again!

Awwww, so sweet that you were sad when everyone left.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

You have inspired me to take a solo trip. My kids will not be happy with me but I think momma needs some alone time with the mouse

OMG YAY!!!! That's so exciting. Honestly, it is so great to be able to go at your pace and not have to worry about anyone else. Sometimes you just need the Mouse!

missed this update yesterday but saw the hint in my tr lol!!

Happy you guys caught the castle show & parade, always some fun stuff to do!!

Again, I love so much that you are one of the dis-ers that really embraces the fun, accepting half of the disbaord experience. There are those who just use the boards for advice/tips, or to read, there are those who make half friends, and those who go all in for the meets, the gifts, the awesome and amazing experiences and that is the part that makes me so happy. There is never a doubt in my mind that my internet group of friends is far more amazing and supportive than my real life friends bahaha! And I thank every time I read your stories that you're part of that group!!

Glad you managed to see Brenda one last time too!!

Excited for the last couple updates!!

Haha, yeah it was just so comical all the December TR's posting parade pics at the same time. Then of couse I look at all the others and think... CRAP... I have to follow that.

Totally. I had seen the other stuff at the first party so it worked out really well.

Oh my goodness Katt. You literally just made my day. When I joined this community (and I truly believe it is just that, a real community), I had hoped that maybe, just maybe, I'd be fortunate enough to actually meet one person in Disney. The people on here are so ridiculously supportive. It ended up WAY beyond any expectations I had. To be honest, I even look at my facebook now, and the vast majority of interactions I have on there is with DISers. Sincerely Katt, reading this gave me chills. Believe me, I feel the exact same way. I remember way back reading your first TR, well before joining up, and then reading the many that followed and seeing your love of Disney just blossom from the ground up. And now you're preparing to fulfill a dream (maybe not THE dream just yet), but a dream, and I honestly feel really proud. Someone I know is going to be working at Disney, and I cannot wait to see it in person.

Oh me too. She did so much for me this trip that I will never be able to repay.

Trust me... even though there's only a few left for the last day (due to a ridiculous lack of pictures), these are some pretty epic editions coming up.

WOW! Miss a couple of weeks of this report and there is some serious catching up to do!! You are so right about Ariel!!!

Haha, and here I was thinking I was dragging. Hopefully the catch up will be worth it. And oh yes, THAT was an Ariel I needed to meet.

sounds like a lovely evening that was clearly full of emotion! You obviously got attached and a bit emotionally involved - it's wonderful to read such an honest account of your experience (even if with all the tears it seems like it should be on Lifetime not the DISboards )

Very thoughtful to get the ornaments for Brenda and Carrie - I am sure they will think of you and the time they spend with you every year when they hang it on their Christmas tree

I can understand feeling like you wanted to head home at that point - end on a high note and also you were probably a bit emotionally spent. Glad that your next day turned out so well and you were glad you stayed

It really was Phil. I just did not expect to get so attached, I really didn't. With everyone I met starting way back on day 2. I figured the only right way to explain it was to tell it like it was. Bahahaha, yes, the movie will definitely be a Lifetime original. But for the record, the tears aren't over...

To be honest, I wish I had done more. But I had to do something, and I figured something Christmas themed that would be brought out each year did make sense. Now they'll never get rid of me.

At that point in time, I wanted to go to the airport. Which is so unlike me. But yes, it was a purely case of emotional exhaustion.
But... if I was leaving then I would have missed out on some of the most amazing moments of all. Stay tuned.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Fabulous updates, you really have had a wonderful time

THANK YOU SO MUCH Kellea!!! It really was such an amazing time.

Celebrate the Season!!! I love that show so much.

Haha so glad you got to see Emily again! CANADIA!

You and Ariel look great together, as always.

YAAAAY last-minute meet with Brenda! Glad you got to catch each other at the end of the party.

Well, you've definitely created some suspense with that conclusion!!! I'm very very excited to hear what comes next.

I think this was my first time seeing it all the way through too. Given its length, I was pretty happy to be sitting, but it was really worth it. So much Christmas-ness.

It was so funny too. Watching her face go from confusion to a big smile in milliseconds was priceless.

Aww Thanks Courtney. Can you believe I was going to opt out on a photo???? Shameful.

I was SO glad they hadn't left yet. I had hoped to spend more time with them that night, but my stupid phone betrayed me. As sad as I was feeling, it would have been doubly worse if they had already left.

That was the goal of course. I hope the payoff will live up to the hype. There aren't a lot of updates for the last day, but I think each one contains something pretty special.

Well, there's another chapter that choked me up! And I suspect that I probably shouldn't move the tissues too far away during the updates of your final day.

That is really annoying when people who are in front of the stage or the first row of the parade try to stand. If people would just be considerate, everyone would be able to see without issue.

That was a fun extra interaction you had with your new CM friend Emily.

Pretty, Pretty Main Street Pictures!

Hooray for seeing Brenda again. BTW- I plan on meeting up with Brenda two weeks from tomorrow.



No lie, I am expecting that to be one of the highlights of my trip to Disneyland. I am seriously stoked about meeting up with her, and maybe Michael.

It sounds like your next update is going to be memorable as well.

Awww Dee, well that was the intention. But I think you're safe for last day... mostly.

And I never understood the thought process either. Most of us are much similar in height when sitting than standing, so allowing more people to see while not hurting your own sight-line would seem logical. However, logic and courtesy sadly often vacation at the same time, just somewhere else.

It really was. She even said to me after, "At first I was just trying to figure out, how does anybody know about that?", lol.

Thank you. It's always beautiful, but just off the charts when Christmased up.

Woohoo!!! It was!! and DOUBLE WOOHOO for your upcoming meet on her turf. You are going to LOVE HER!!!!

It will be, I assure you. She is even more fabulous than I could describe. I feel so fortunate to have been able to spend as much time with her as I did.

Surprisingly, and given that I thought the day would be a bit of a downer, I think they are.

As always following along and loving every word and photo, especially the photo of you and Ariel!

just wanted to add, I read this on my iPad and the green type or any other for that matter, is fine. Must be a setting?

Thank you Rob!

YAY, so glad to hear that Linda and THANK YOU!!!! I kinda liked Ariel.

I appreciate you saying that because I imagine others also use iPads, so I was a bit concerned. It may well be a setting.

Thank YOU Linda!!!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

It's always a great night watching fireworks at the MK!

Haha I love that you walked by the CM Emily and whispered to her about the spit. It's good to know that no one did that to her that night! CANADIA!

Leaving Disney World is never any fun... sorry that everyone left before you did and you had to do more than one goodbye

Oh so true. Honestly, there's not much I'd rather be doing at any time than that Lauren.

Haha, when I saw her I just couldn't resist. I knew after talking with her than she wouldn't be offended by it. And yup, it appeared to be a dry night.

Brutal always. I hate goodbyes so much, and this ended up being so much tougher than I expected. But have no fear, the last day was still magical.

I guess you never expected to be crying down Main Street and it wasn't even your final day. Oh, what Disney can do to you. You three had a lovely evening, no doubt about it! I love your photos too. Not to mention, I love how at ease you are with them. It brings for great memories. Sounds like your final full day has a lot of surprises! I cannot wait to hear it.

Nope, I never ever saw that coming. Just hit me all at once. It was a wonderful day Amanda, and one I would never trade. I really did feel so comfortable with everyone I met on this trip. Like I'd known them my entire life. Disney really does have a way of bringing people together.
Oh yes, the final day was not what I expected going in, that's for sure.

Aww, Rob It really does seem that you became close with all these friends in such a short amount of time, so I completely understand why it would be emotional for you! I'm glad the rest of your 2nd MVMCP was a success. Nice pic with Ariel

Oh my goodness Alexis, I did not see it coming. I knew I'd be sad, but nothing like that. It's hard to imagine doing Disney without everyone now. But the night was fantastic and one I will always cherish. And yup, Ariel of course was there to help ease the pain.

Look at this I think only one update to read today.

I don't blame everyone for telling them to sit down. There was no real reason to stand. If everyone stays sitting its more comfortable. Yay you ran into that cast member again I bet it made her night to see someone so friendly again. I hope at least the people on the curb were kind enough to stay seated. That and I would not say all the pictures were horrible I really like the one with the toy soldiers. You and Landon are going to have a fight one day over Ariel . Glad to see you had such a great end to the party.

Thank you very much. I will be Its my pleasure to do what I can. As far as I know though I will have internet so you wont be rid of me just a little bit more sparse when I can make it on the boards.... I could be completely wrong and be able to get on just as much.

Well I'll be. I gotta say, I'm impressed.

There really was no reason to stand at all. Granted, the angle is a little awkward, but small price to have more people able to enjoy the show. OMG it was so cool to see Emily again. She has such a great attitude. For the parade, nope, almost all stood, so my view was pretty much gone. Haha, thanks. I just recently saw so many great parade pics that these paled in comparison. The toy soldiers did come out ok though. Yes, Alicia has already warned me. I'll have to get the glasses off though. Not a fair fight otherwise. Way too cute. It was a great night. I couldn't ask for any more.

Believe me, it's my pleasure Alex. I hope you do have internet and you're able to keep in touch.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Glad they took the oh so subtle hint Marie still hasn't forgiven me for missing that show and the fireworks.

She is a pretty Ariel, so of course you had to meet her. No blame.

My heart hearing about your goodbyes. Poor Rob I can understand how that would be hard.

But I'm glad that you had a last day that was suited for it. Though I can't believe we're that close to the end already.

It was actually pretty funny. I never saw people pop back down that quickly ever. Ahhh, the show and fireworks aren't that great...

Oh my goodness she was. I really had no choice.

It was way harder than I ever expected Amber. I mean, I knew it wouldn't be exactly pleasant, but I really didn't expect that.

Yup, I think the final day was pretty good, all things considered. Certainly good enough to write about, lol. Yeah, close, but I'm not done yet.

Oh Rob I really enjoyed your new post! Life can be so funny sometimes and you can build incredible relationships in the most unexpected ways. I think you made some lifetime friendships on this trip and that is so wonderful. The fact that you got so emotional when you least expected it shows just how great those friendships are to you! I totally get the "ready to go home" vibe towards the end of all of our Disney trips too. But then after being home for a week and regrouping I miss being there so much and I just want to go back ASAP!! So glad that you got to see the Christmas Castle show! And its a good thing to that those people sat back down lol! That was one thing that I liked about the Fantasmic! show in DL is how they have the sit down areas and the stand areas, and the CM's are really good about making sure that people sit if they are to sit and stand if they are supposed to stand....and that the sit down people have to fold up those stupid strollers lol! Sorry that you did not have such luck with the parade however. I have never understood why if you are in front and have a great sitting view why in the world would you want to stand?
Oh and I have to agree with you on Ariel.....she was beautiful! It's always my favorite when you meet a character who has a friend that is so spot on! Really enjoyed your update!!

Thanks Jenn. You are so right. Without any doubt, every single person I met will absolutely be lifelong friends. And I guess the fact that I was so sad to say goodbye does indeed illustrate that. It still surprised me at the time though. I think the fact that I genuinely wanted to leave right then and there proved that. Because I NEVER want to leave. That really was a first for me. The Castle Show was really good. Long, but good. But then with Mickey as a Toy Soldier, how could it not be? Haha, I swear I have never seen people so obedient as when they were told to sit, lol.
Yup, I remember the Fantastic there. The first time I saw it was dead center on the grass, and nobody even thought about standing. But yeah, not so fortunate with the parade.
Oh my was she ever. Most Ariel's are very cute, but she was just beautiful. Yeah, ok, I'll get a picture...

I'm glad that the people got the subtle hint with the NO'S and SIT DOWN's! Some people need something more obvious than that.

Wow, that Ariel really is beautiful! Good looking out man deciding to have a picture taken.

Haha, OMG it was actually really funny Danielle. Everyone pretty much had an "OH CRAP!!" look their face as they plummeted back to the ground post haste. I think they may have been expected objects to be thrown if they didn't.

Just absolutely stunning. So yeah, I guess maybe I will get a photo, seeing as though I'm here...

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Rob,

Been a big fan and follower of your TR's for years now. You should know that I saw you dodging the crowd in the Hub as people shouted how great your shirt was at the Dec. 10 MVMCP and then I saw you on Main Street at closing, trying to figure out if it was really you or not so that I could express my appreciation for your online magic, but I wasn't sure.

You might recall I was standing near the flagpole as you were headed out and you made eye contact with me. I was wearing a green Elf shirt, so I definitely stood out. But, worried about looking like a fool, I didn't introduce myself or praise your TR's just in case it wasn't you--even though I knew from your PTR you'd be in town.

Now seeing you wearing the scarf shirt, it confirms it. Dang it!!!
Next time, sir. Next time. #ShameOnMe.

Loving this trip report though

THANK YOU SO MUCH and WELCOME!!!!!! OMG really???? That is so cool.

Aww I really wish you did introduce yourself. I would have loved that. I so enjoy meeting people, especially those from DISboards. Well, you'll know better next time.

Yes Yes Yes. Next time for sure!!!!

Seriously, thank you so much for posting that. That was so lovely to read.

Can't believe your TR is already on your last full day. Booooo!!!! Thanks for sharing all this Christmas magic as it's getting me really excited for our Christmas trip!!! Now I gotta find a snowman shirt. That's awesome Riley had that for you.

Haha, it seems funny to hear "already" when it's been 6 months, but it really did seem to fly by. Believe me Jeremy, it's been my honour to share and I am delighted it helps get you excited for this year. It was sweet that she wanted me to wear the shirt.

Hi Rob, we just got back from 3 days at Niagara Falls & LOVED it! Now, there was no pixie dust there, but it was still awesome. We were on the American side & were told that we could easily spend 1 day there. We added a visit to Old Fort Niagara, & a few hours of outlet shopping one day & never had a boring minute. As MEK said, Cave of the Winds is "the bomb". If possible, cross over & check it out. My 8 & 10 year olds cannot get enough of it. You will have a wonderful visit & I look forward to your trip report.

Sweet!!! I am so looking forward to this upcoming trip in just a few weeks. I still expect a little pixie dust just by seeing Carrie and Riley again. That's enough for me. Thank you SO MUCH!!! I'll looking forward to sharing the details other than the fact that when I do, it'll be over.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Hi Rob,

All caught up on your TR - I have enjoyed it so much thus far - when it is complete I will definitely be taking a look at all your older reports.

Reading your TR really does brighten up my day - I sneak on it whilst at work when I have a few minutes 'down time' as my job is super-stressful and it makes me feel down but reading this instantly lifts my mood and reminds me I have to work hard to PAY FOR MORE TRIPS TO DISNEY!

Yay, so great. I am so happy to hear you've been enjoying it. It is getting close to end, so I sure do hope the older ones provide enjoyment as well.

Awww THANK YOU!!! That is so sweet to hear. I really appreciate that. I'm the exact same way. The job is a means to an end... namely, to pay for Disney trips!!!

I have mostly been a lurker because I only have time here and there to read trip reports, but I just wanted to tell you that this trip report has been so enjoyable. I really love seeing all your pictures and your outlook is very refreshing. Please keep sharing. Can't wait to read about your last day!

THANK YOU EVER SO MUCH!! I'm so glad you took a moment to post so I can WELCOME you officially. Thank you for your lovely words. I appreciate it so very much! The final day was a pretty good one, and has what I believe to be a perfect wrap up for this trip. Thank you again for reading.

The Christmas show looks interesting. Why oh why does Disney have to pack so much stuff into the parties? Oh, I know, so that we have to come back again!

Awwww, so sweet that you were sad when everyone left.

It really is a good show, but quite long. And yup, that would be the reason. I did two parties and still didn't do everything.

It was really hard Arianna. Like WAY more than I would have expected. Hopefully one more Disney day will help ease the pain.

 

[JulieODC]

Wow, I had some fun catching up to do on your last few posts!!

That spitting story is just....UGH. What the heck is wrong with some people?!

What a fabulous evening overall --- even with the standers up front (UGH, again!) --- sounds like you had a seriously magical trip, and really connected with so many fun, like-minded Disney fanatics The extra magical feeling that Christmas brings was the cherry on top!

 

[peachmermaid]

What a sweet post!! I'm just so happy you got to experience so much magic with some of the great big beautiful disney family! You are so sweet for giving ornaments too. A lovely memory to give someone not just once, but every year!

Can't wait to hear about your last full day, but sad it's coming to a close!

 

[WDWaddictt]

I have mostly been a lurker, only commenting once in a while because I only have time here and there to read trip reports, but I just wanted to tell you that this trip report has been so enjoyable, funny and emotional. I really love seeing all your pictures and your outlook is very refreshing. It's really great you have made relationships that will last a life time, even without Disney World. Please keep sharing. Can't wait to read about your last day and your trip to Niagara Falls! While in Niagara Falls try to go on the Maid of the Mist and do the Journey behind the Falls.

 

[emmysmommy]

Awwwww Rob!!!! What a sweet, wonderful, touching, sentimental, awesome, truly amazing update!!! THANK YOU once again for your generosity and kindness. I'll remember that special night when I look at my Christmas tree each year. I really feel as if I made a wonderful CANADIA friend! Now that you are famous I can say, yeah, I know Rob. We've hung out at the park together!!

Ha ha! You KNOW I'll get to that TR eventually. You called it for 2016 so I figure I have some time.

What a sweet photo of Ariel with Riley. I love that.

Your trip is coming up right? Sorry, I'm not keeping up. I've got a lot of travel for work and ahem, another trip coming up to WDW AND a Disney Grand Californian week so .... that's my excuse!

 

[themommy]

I just wanted to let you know that I am lurking here trying to catch up! I started to read this thread and at the beginning I saw that you had a TR before this one...so I read it first. It was awesome! I love your sense of humor! I can't wait to see how this trip goes! Off to read and try to catch up!