amberg@eastlink.ca
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congrats! your pics are stunning! i esp love the ones where mark is carrying you shoes! too cute!!! oh and our dd will be 4 next month and also wears glasses!
Kim & Mark's 6/15/09 Escape PJ & TR - UPDATED 9/9/09 - Reception!
- Thread starter Luvmyfam3
- Start date
Luvmyfam3
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I'm so sorry it's taken me so long to get this trip report started! I have been wanting to start this for a long time, but I also wanted to include some pictures that I didn't have yet
. So, I'm really excited to finally begin my tale of one of the absolute best days of my life! (btw, my 4 year old dd said yesterday, "I wish we could have the wedding day again! That was fun!" I couldn't agree more, Mia
Day 1 - DO WE HAVE TO TAKE 2 HOURS TO EAT LUNCH???
My girls and I were so excited to get started! I swear, they would have left at 4:00am if I'd agreed. And I would have done that, especially since I decided to be brave and drive straight through from Houston to Orlando. But, my parents were sweet enough to take the drive with us. It was awesome because they could help with all the stuff we had to bring and the girls could split up and spread out a bit. But, my parents aren't quite the commandos my girls and I tend to be . They thought we were meeting "super early" by agreeing to meet at 6:30! As you'll see, there were many pros and cons to this situation . Here's me looking frazzled already at about 6:00
Too much stuff!
Let's go to Disney!!
Btw, Mark traded in his sports car for a family mobile, the Ford Flex, which he calls the "Cutie Mover". We love it! Mark let us take this car to Florida and, let me tell you, it was awesome. Leg-room galore!!!
Anyway we had planned to meet at a donut place, but we were unfamiliar with the area we were meeting at so we couldn't find the donut place. We met at a Walmart instead, but then my parents wanted to stop for breakfast. I would have been completely happy throwing the kids a couple of granola bars and bottled waters I had brought and been on our merry way. But my parents wanted to stop. So, two short hours after beginning our journey we find ourselves at a packed Waffle House. I have to admit I was a little antsy and kept texting Mark my frustrations (he and Mia were planning to fly in the next morning . As a little aside, I'll explain why Mark and Mia were flying out later.... Long ago, when we first started planning this trip, we weren't even engaged yet. Well, my girls saw the writing on the wall with Mark and I so they requested that the four of us go to Disney by ourselves. My compromise was to suggest that we drive out earlier and spend a few days to ourselves and then have Mark and Mia join us later. Well, all hell broke loose when we got engaged and decided to make this regular family vacation into a "Supercalifragilisticexpialadocious Vacation" complete with a wedding. Unfortunately, Mark's flights were non-refundable so they just bumped up their flight and met us out there. It's probably all for the best. So, we finally get back on the road again here's the girls helping me out with the driving .
Notice Caitie singing? The Flex came with satellite radio. We've never had that before! It was great! We switched between Sirius Top Hits and Radio Disney. AnnaGrace and I counted that we heard "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus NINE times that one day! I wish I had taken a picture of Caitie singing that song. She added arm movements and everything! I love that song, but seriously!! LOL!!!
Here's AnnaGrace trying to sleep through yet another rendition of "The Climb"!!
By 12:30, by parents were hungry again. So, of course, we couldn't just go through a drive-thru. I felt relieved that I talked them into a Quizno's. But, we still took about 2 hours between gas, drug store stop and eating in the restaurant. You know, regardless of all the stops along the way, we actually made better time than I thought we would. I can't imagine how much faster it will be when we drive by ourselves. We arrived at a Holiday Inn on International about 11:30pm. Not as bad as I thought it would be tomorrow -- Royal Pacific Resort (at Universal) and Universal Studios!!! Woohoo!!!
I promise the next day will be much better!
Day 1 - DO WE HAVE TO TAKE 2 HOURS TO EAT LUNCH???
My girls and I were so excited to get started! I swear, they would have left at 4:00am if I'd agreed. And I would have done that, especially since I decided to be brave and drive straight through from Houston to Orlando. But, my parents were sweet enough to take the drive with us. It was awesome because they could help with all the stuff we had to bring and the girls could split up and spread out a bit. But, my parents aren't quite the commandos my girls and I tend to be . They thought we were meeting "super early" by agreeing to meet at 6:30! As you'll see, there were many pros and cons to this situation . Here's me looking frazzled already at about 6:00
Too much stuff!
Let's go to Disney!!
Btw, Mark traded in his sports car for a family mobile, the Ford Flex, which he calls the "Cutie Mover". We love it! Mark let us take this car to Florida and, let me tell you, it was awesome. Leg-room galore!!!
Anyway we had planned to meet at a donut place, but we were unfamiliar with the area we were meeting at so we couldn't find the donut place. We met at a Walmart instead, but then my parents wanted to stop for breakfast. I would have been completely happy throwing the kids a couple of granola bars and bottled waters I had brought and been on our merry way. But my parents wanted to stop. So, two short hours after beginning our journey we find ourselves at a packed Waffle House. I have to admit I was a little antsy and kept texting Mark my frustrations (he and Mia were planning to fly in the next morning . As a little aside, I'll explain why Mark and Mia were flying out later.... Long ago, when we first started planning this trip, we weren't even engaged yet. Well, my girls saw the writing on the wall with Mark and I so they requested that the four of us go to Disney by ourselves. My compromise was to suggest that we drive out earlier and spend a few days to ourselves and then have Mark and Mia join us later. Well, all hell broke loose when we got engaged and decided to make this regular family vacation into a "Supercalifragilisticexpialadocious Vacation" complete with a wedding. Unfortunately, Mark's flights were non-refundable so they just bumped up their flight and met us out there. It's probably all for the best. So, we finally get back on the road again here's the girls helping me out with the driving .
Notice Caitie singing? The Flex came with satellite radio. We've never had that before! It was great! We switched between Sirius Top Hits and Radio Disney. AnnaGrace and I counted that we heard "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus NINE times that one day! I wish I had taken a picture of Caitie singing that song. She added arm movements and everything! I love that song, but seriously!! LOL!!!
Here's AnnaGrace trying to sleep through yet another rendition of "The Climb"!!
By 12:30, by parents were hungry again. So, of course, we couldn't just go through a drive-thru. I felt relieved that I talked them into a Quizno's. But, we still took about 2 hours between gas, drug store stop and eating in the restaurant. You know, regardless of all the stops along the way, we actually made better time than I thought we would. I can't imagine how much faster it will be when we drive by ourselves. We arrived at a Holiday Inn on International about 11:30pm. Not as bad as I thought it would be tomorrow -- Royal Pacific Resort (at Universal) and Universal Studios!!! Woohoo!!!
I promise the next day will be much better!
figment fan21
Can't wait to be a Disney Bride!
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YAY!!! An update!!!!
Love the pics! And how sweet of your little one to ask for another wedding day.
Can't wait to read your next installment!
Love the pics! And how sweet of your little one to ask for another wedding day.
Can't wait to read your next installment!
Luvmyfam3
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Day 2 - SCREAMING 4 YEAR OLD ON "The Simpsons Ride"
As I stated before, this trip was originally a regular family vacation with my girls and me spending a few days just the four of us. We had agreed that we would spend those couple of days at Universal since my girls are true thrill-seekers. As my special treat for them, I got us a one-night stay that night at the Royal Pacific. Although the room was awesome, our true motivation was the fact that you get "Express Passes" for all the rides if you stay at their resort (I realize you can pay for this, but the expense is cheaper for me for the hotel room since I have 4 people). The cool thing is that even for one night, you get this Express Pass for the day you check in AND the day you check out. So, we checked in and checked out our room .
See this counter? That's where I leave the tickets...
The view from our room...
And went on to the park!
Eventually, my parents met us
We were very disappointed that the new Rip and Rock-It ride wasn't opened yet, but we rode the Mummy, MIB and the Simpsons ride before my parents and my cousin and her husband even get there. Did I mention that I love the Express Pass?
Now comes the not-so-great-part . During the course of this day, Mark has been texting and phoning about his adventures of flying with baggage and a 4-year old by himself. He also took a Mears cab to get to our resort. He wasn't very thrilled with me when I told him I was in line to ride the Mummy with my family and that I'd just meet him at the front gate when he arrived (he was hoping I'd meet him at the resort). Thankfully, Caitie decides to come with me to meet him at the front gate while the rest of my family went to Finnegan's Bar & Grill to get a table and we agreed to meet them there. So, I'm standing at the entrance looking for Mark and Mia's tickets and I can't find them anywhere. Then, I realize that I must have left them at the resort. So, I tell Caitie to wait for them there while I literally run the whole way to the resort and back. Let me tell you, it's no short jog! Thankfully, they were on the counter in our hotel room. I'm still mad at myself for doing that, but it's so difficult to remember everything for everybody!!
So, we walk to Finnegan's and, incredibly, the waitress let my whole family sit at the table and wait for us to arrive. What an angel!! Mia was in rare form and hating everyone and everything at this point Mark is completely frazzled and we're barely speaking to each other. The food here was really very good. I highly recommend it (sorry. No food porn pics) Mark was really ready to relax and enjoy himself, so we went on the Mummy, Shrek 4D, Twister (Mia was fine no problems!), Jimmy Neutron, (Mia loved it until the giant chicken came out), and then the dreaded Simpsons Ride . As you know, this the Back to the Future Ride revamped. Once the huge snowman (or something like that) came to life, Mia lost it! She's screaming to let her off and we keep trying to distract her with other things, like the silly carnival rides. But, after that fiasco, she refused to ride any more rides. The funny thing is, at the end of the day, Mia states that that the Simpsons was her favorite ride! Go figure! Anyway, so while everyone else went on the Mummy (again), I took Mia to the Woody Woodpecker play land. She had a great time!
Our first family picture on this trip!!!
We were all tired and decided to go eat at the Hard Rock Café at City Walk. We joked about how our waiter couldn't be bothered with us he just sets our drinks on the table and asked us to pass them down (it wasn't a situation where he had no room to move around us). Actually, he did that with our food as well. But, we did get a great picture from there (we thought it was kind of silly that they made us all stand by the wall to take our picture when they called our name to be seated...then we ended up buying it! So, I guess I know why they do that! lol)
Anyway, we were all exhausted and ready to head to bed .except for Allie and Caitie. I swear those girls are super-troopers. They went back to Universal Studios and rode just about every ride they could until closing. Me? I'm exhausted and fall into bed and crash ready for Islands of Adventure tomorrow!!
As I stated before, this trip was originally a regular family vacation with my girls and me spending a few days just the four of us. We had agreed that we would spend those couple of days at Universal since my girls are true thrill-seekers. As my special treat for them, I got us a one-night stay that night at the Royal Pacific. Although the room was awesome, our true motivation was the fact that you get "Express Passes" for all the rides if you stay at their resort (I realize you can pay for this, but the expense is cheaper for me for the hotel room since I have 4 people). The cool thing is that even for one night, you get this Express Pass for the day you check in AND the day you check out. So, we checked in and checked out our room .
See this counter? That's where I leave the tickets...
The view from our room...
And went on to the park!
Eventually, my parents met us
We were very disappointed that the new Rip and Rock-It ride wasn't opened yet, but we rode the Mummy, MIB and the Simpsons ride before my parents and my cousin and her husband even get there. Did I mention that I love the Express Pass?
Now comes the not-so-great-part . During the course of this day, Mark has been texting and phoning about his adventures of flying with baggage and a 4-year old by himself. He also took a Mears cab to get to our resort. He wasn't very thrilled with me when I told him I was in line to ride the Mummy with my family and that I'd just meet him at the front gate when he arrived (he was hoping I'd meet him at the resort). Thankfully, Caitie decides to come with me to meet him at the front gate while the rest of my family went to Finnegan's Bar & Grill to get a table and we agreed to meet them there. So, I'm standing at the entrance looking for Mark and Mia's tickets and I can't find them anywhere. Then, I realize that I must have left them at the resort. So, I tell Caitie to wait for them there while I literally run the whole way to the resort and back. Let me tell you, it's no short jog! Thankfully, they were on the counter in our hotel room. I'm still mad at myself for doing that, but it's so difficult to remember everything for everybody!!
So, we walk to Finnegan's and, incredibly, the waitress let my whole family sit at the table and wait for us to arrive. What an angel!! Mia was in rare form and hating everyone and everything at this point Mark is completely frazzled and we're barely speaking to each other. The food here was really very good. I highly recommend it (sorry. No food porn pics) Mark was really ready to relax and enjoy himself, so we went on the Mummy, Shrek 4D, Twister (Mia was fine no problems!), Jimmy Neutron, (Mia loved it until the giant chicken came out), and then the dreaded Simpsons Ride . As you know, this the Back to the Future Ride revamped. Once the huge snowman (or something like that) came to life, Mia lost it! She's screaming to let her off and we keep trying to distract her with other things, like the silly carnival rides. But, after that fiasco, she refused to ride any more rides. The funny thing is, at the end of the day, Mia states that that the Simpsons was her favorite ride! Go figure! Anyway, so while everyone else went on the Mummy (again), I took Mia to the Woody Woodpecker play land. She had a great time!
Our first family picture on this trip!!!
We were all tired and decided to go eat at the Hard Rock Café at City Walk. We joked about how our waiter couldn't be bothered with us he just sets our drinks on the table and asked us to pass them down (it wasn't a situation where he had no room to move around us). Actually, he did that with our food as well. But, we did get a great picture from there (we thought it was kind of silly that they made us all stand by the wall to take our picture when they called our name to be seated...then we ended up buying it! So, I guess I know why they do that! lol)
Anyway, we were all exhausted and ready to head to bed .except for Allie and Caitie. I swear those girls are super-troopers. They went back to Universal Studios and rode just about every ride they could until closing. Me? I'm exhausted and fall into bed and crash ready for Islands of Adventure tomorrow!!
Boardwalk_bride
Married in WDW :)
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It sounds like you had a hectic first day!! It looks like everything worked out alright though 
Your girls are so beautiful, and the six of you together look so adorable! I really like how you are adding in the studios to your TR as well...we keep debating about going there, so it's nice to read another persons view. Can't wait for more
Your girls are so beautiful, and the six of you together look so adorable! I really like how you are adding in the studios to your TR as well...we keep debating about going there, so it's nice to read another persons view. Can't wait for more
figment fan21
Can't wait to be a Disney Bride!
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Awe poor Mia!!! I started laughing when i read that she later said the simpsons ride was her favorite! Kids!
Even though is sounded like a crazy first day it still looked like everyone was having a good time. I love the pic of your girls with the sponge bob hats on! DF yelled at me on our last trip because i kept making him take pics of me with crazy disney hats on! I love doing that!
I can't believe you had such a stinky waiter at Hard rock! We were there three years ago and i remember eating there but i dont really remember how the service was but as a retired waitress you should never tell a group of people to pass down their drinks and food! TERRIBLE!
Well i can't wait to read more!!
Even though is sounded like a crazy first day it still looked like everyone was having a good time. I love the pic of your girls with the sponge bob hats on! DF yelled at me on our last trip because i kept making him take pics of me with crazy disney hats on! I love doing that!
I can't believe you had such a stinky waiter at Hard rock! We were there three years ago and i remember eating there but i dont really remember how the service was but as a retired waitress you should never tell a group of people to pass down their drinks and food! TERRIBLE!
Well i can't wait to read more!!
LittleStinkerbelle
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Great updates! Your girls are so cute. My parents are just like you described when we travel together--we barely get started and they want to take a break.
Luvmyfam3
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Not that y'all were just DYING to see the Hard Rock picture, but I was finally able to get that one posted... (the key is to scan the picture on your home scanner instead of at work where they like pdf... 
That's what I get for doing my personal stuff at work! 
That's what I get for doing my personal stuff at work!
Luvmyfam3
I love DVC!
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Day 3: "JUST THINK -- WE'RE HAVING THIS WONDERFUL DAY BECAUSE YOU ASKED ME TO BE YOUR WIFE"
My girls and I are the types that really strive to be at the park right when it opens this trip, it just was NOT meant to be. Take this morning for instance we get there when it opens, but family members are calling saying that they're close and to wait .and wait .and wait. Oh well! We gathered a few family members and headed over to Seussland. Aawww look another family picture on this trip!
Mia was still on her "No Rides" phase at this point. I don't have any pictures of her on these rides, but I wish I had. Her scowl on each ride was great lol. But, eventually, she warmed up to all these rides and truly loved them.
I LOVE THIS PICTURE
My parents, my brother, his wife, and my other brother met up with us eventually. I can't tell you what a joy it was to spend this day with all of them. Even though we all live in the same city, we tend to do our own thing except when we have gatherings at my parents' house. So, to do something like this with them was truly a day I'll cherish! And at one point while I was feeling like everything was right in my world, I told Mark the quote that's the title for this day. Warm fuzzies all around!!
I wish I had a picture of this, but when we decided to go on the Hulk my 71 year old father said he wanted to go. Wow! I have to admit that I insisted that I sit by him. My protective instincts came percolating. Isn't that amazing when that happens for your parents? Like the tables have turned Anyway, he handled it smashingly! But, he bowed out of Dueling Dragons. I think the Hulk took a lot out of him. Oh, and my mom rode Dr. Doom's Fearfall, so I think I know where my girls and I get our thrill-seeking side from
Anyway, I love my youngest brother, Jeremy, but he can be a bit of a whiner. So, when we discussed riding Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls, he was going to bow out at first. We talked him into it and I told him he would probably get a "little" wet. Well . All I can say is, let the whining begin!! ("my shoes are wet", "my feet are wet", "my hair looks bad" you get the picture). My cousin bought the pictures. See the middle guy in blue waving his hands? No wonder Jeremy got so wet!! Silly boy!
I love this picture of the 5 of us...Look at Allie hair in the back!
I'm actually waving at my parents and Mia watching us. Little did I know that I would be kidded incessantly about how I was waving to my fans....whatever.
Okay, I saw this sign while waiting in line for Dueling Dragons Rollercoaster .really?? Is this such a problem they have to post a sign for this???
AnnaGrace and I are really big fans of Harry Potter so, of course, we're super-psyched about the Harry Potter World coming to Islands of Adventure!!!
Cool Cats
At some point, I started getting antsy to check into Old Key West. So, while Mark went to go pick up his tux, AnnaGrace, Mia and I went to check in. AnnaGrace and I spent so much time lugging stuff up to the room from the car, but I was thrilled with our room..
Full laundry ROOM -- I fell in love with OKW all over again...
Let me explain our dining reservations at Disney they sucked. Well, not really, but since everything in Disney terms were "last minute" especially for such a large party, there really wasn't anything available that we usually eat at. For instance, this night I didn't make reservations because I couldn't find anything available. So, we finally found Portobello's, which turned out good, but we were there for literally 2 1/2 hours for dinner. Thankfully, we are such great company for each other
Bed time!! Yea!!! Magic Kingdom Tomorrow!!! Btw, I know you guys are all in this for the wedding. I promise, I'm getting to it! Let me know if I'm giving you too much detail on the trip, but, for me, it all ties in together to make my wedding day so much more special....
My girls and I are the types that really strive to be at the park right when it opens this trip, it just was NOT meant to be. Take this morning for instance we get there when it opens, but family members are calling saying that they're close and to wait .and wait .and wait. Oh well! We gathered a few family members and headed over to Seussland. Aawww look another family picture on this trip!
Mia was still on her "No Rides" phase at this point. I don't have any pictures of her on these rides, but I wish I had. Her scowl on each ride was great lol. But, eventually, she warmed up to all these rides and truly loved them.
I LOVE THIS PICTURE
My parents, my brother, his wife, and my other brother met up with us eventually. I can't tell you what a joy it was to spend this day with all of them. Even though we all live in the same city, we tend to do our own thing except when we have gatherings at my parents' house. So, to do something like this with them was truly a day I'll cherish! And at one point while I was feeling like everything was right in my world, I told Mark the quote that's the title for this day. Warm fuzzies all around!!
I wish I had a picture of this, but when we decided to go on the Hulk my 71 year old father said he wanted to go. Wow! I have to admit that I insisted that I sit by him. My protective instincts came percolating. Isn't that amazing when that happens for your parents? Like the tables have turned Anyway, he handled it smashingly! But, he bowed out of Dueling Dragons. I think the Hulk took a lot out of him. Oh, and my mom rode Dr. Doom's Fearfall, so I think I know where my girls and I get our thrill-seeking side from
Anyway, I love my youngest brother, Jeremy, but he can be a bit of a whiner. So, when we discussed riding Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls, he was going to bow out at first. We talked him into it and I told him he would probably get a "little" wet. Well . All I can say is, let the whining begin!! ("my shoes are wet", "my feet are wet", "my hair looks bad" you get the picture). My cousin bought the pictures. See the middle guy in blue waving his hands? No wonder Jeremy got so wet!! Silly boy!
I love this picture of the 5 of us...Look at Allie hair in the back!
I'm actually waving at my parents and Mia watching us. Little did I know that I would be kidded incessantly about how I was waving to my fans....whatever.Okay, I saw this sign while waiting in line for Dueling Dragons Rollercoaster .really?? Is this such a problem they have to post a sign for this???
AnnaGrace and I are really big fans of Harry Potter so, of course, we're super-psyched about the Harry Potter World coming to Islands of Adventure!!!
Cool Cats
At some point, I started getting antsy to check into Old Key West. So, while Mark went to go pick up his tux, AnnaGrace, Mia and I went to check in. AnnaGrace and I spent so much time lugging stuff up to the room from the car, but I was thrilled with our room..
Full laundry ROOM -- I fell in love with OKW all over again...
Let me explain our dining reservations at Disney they sucked. Well, not really, but since everything in Disney terms were "last minute" especially for such a large party, there really wasn't anything available that we usually eat at. For instance, this night I didn't make reservations because I couldn't find anything available. So, we finally found Portobello's, which turned out good, but we were there for literally 2 1/2 hours for dinner. Thankfully, we are such great company for each other
Bed time!! Yea!!! Magic Kingdom Tomorrow!!! Btw, I know you guys are all in this for the wedding. I promise, I'm getting to it! Let me know if I'm giving you too much detail on the trip, but, for me, it all ties in together to make my wedding day so much more special....
pezaddict231
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- Jan 25, 2009
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Sounds like you had a great trip! Your wedding pics were great! =)
Great tip about staying at Universal, we're definitely going to plan a day there since Harry Potter World should be open when we're there for our wedding! I'm so excited!
Great tip about staying at Universal, we're definitely going to plan a day there since Harry Potter World should be open when we're there for our wedding! I'm so excited!
MainStMandy
DIS Veteran
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- Sep 29, 2006
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Oh great update!!! You guys look like you had so much fun. And good for your father for riding!! Lol That was great!
Luvmyfam3
I love DVC!
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Thanks! It was hard to know for sure whether I should include that part or not...
Thanks! Actually, we took the same picture the last time we went to US, and when the girls saw the hats they insisted I take their picture because it's "tradition".
Yeah, I know it was especially frustrating for my kids, but I was just so glad to have them there I was more than happy to slow it down for them. Plus, they were sweet to watch Mia for a lot of the big rides which made it fun for Mark and me!
We are DEFINITELY planning to go back when Harry Potter World opens up! I'm really curious to see how they do everything....
I know! But, honestly, he would say that even scarier than riding the Hulk was our first dance... I'll explain further when we get there....
figment fan21
Can't wait to be a Disney Bride!
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Don't be silly!!! I love reading your TR! Its awesome!!!
I love that your mom and dad go on rides with you guys! Super cool!
I really like OKW too... i've stayed there a couple times and even though its not one of the more popular resorts i really really liked it! Its very calming!
Its good to read that you all had such a good time.... i'm hoping that the family members we invite to our wedding will be able to let loose and have fun with us... but we'll see
I can't wait to read more!!!
I love that your mom and dad go on rides with you guys! Super cool!
I really like OKW too... i've stayed there a couple times and even though its not one of the more popular resorts i really really liked it!
Its very calming!Its good to read that you all had such a good time.... i'm hoping that the family members we invite to our wedding will be able to let loose and have fun with us... but we'll see
I can't wait to read more!!!
Luvmyfam3
I love DVC!
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Day 4: TABLE OF 15
..AND 2
We finally made it to Disney World! I usually like to save Magic Kingdom for our 3rd day or so since it's my girls' favorite, but I had some family members that were planning to leave the day after my wedding, so I wanted to make sure that they experienced this park if nothing else! So, my first order of business was to introduce my family to the wonderful world of Photopass and Fastpass! And let me just say that I LOVE Photopass!! Unfortunately, I think they're getting pretty popular because many times we had to wait in line to get our picture taken. I've never experienced that before! But, as I'll show you later, many photographers were awesome about taking a lot of pictures at one time with different groups, etc.
I won't bore you with all the details, but we had such a great time! And, I have to admit that I'm not a huge fan of being the tour guide for such a large group with so many diverse interests, ages, energy levels, etc. But, we had an awesome time! Since we didn't get there at park opening (shocker). The lines were pretty long. Fastpasses all around!! We used Fastpasses for Splash Mountain and Thunder Mountain Railroad that day. And with Child Swap passes with Mia, it was super-sweet! I was really disappointed when I found out months before about Space Mountain and TTR were going to be closed. They're two of my favorite rides there! But, we did Dumbo, Carousel, PoC, HM, Goofy Rollercoaster, etc.
I just had to throw this one in there... Mark looks all excited to be "chained" to me for life...and I'm just happy and oblivious! LOL
My one regret is that we didn't get to do Philharmagic. I think that's their best 3-D show and I really wanted them to experience it. Oh well!! Everyone really seemed to enjoy themselves. Although my SIL's favorite ride so far on the trip was Cat in the Hat, she was impressed with all the ones we went on. I was glad because she's never been to WDW. I didn't make reservations for lunch, so we all went to the Harbour House for lunch that day. It was great! While every place else was SUPER crowded, Harbour House had hardly anyone especially upstairs. I strongly suggest this place!
Btw, Mark, me and the kids were on the Dining Plan, which I love. My kids love it too! It just helps all of us to relax and order whatever we want without trying to encourage everyone to order cups of water and share entrees. Plus, my kids LOVE dessert so this makes it seem even more like a vacation to them to have dessert with every meal! But, since none of my other family decided to stay on Disney property, they just paid cash for every meal. Well, let me tell you, we were handing them over our leftovers every meal because we always ended up with way too much food! While at the park, I got A LOT of questions about the Dining Plan and Fastpasses. It made me feel good that everyone stated how glad they were to be with someone "in the know" about all this stuff.
Anyway, we all go back to our rooms and prepare for the "Rehearsal Dinner". Since ours was an Escape wedding, we didn't have a rehearsal. But, of course, I still considered this as our "Rehearsal Dinner". I had made reservations at the Grand Floridian Café. When I checked in, I explained that we were only a party of 17 instead of 24 (my original reservation) They said, "That won't be a problem." So, imagine my dismay when they led us to our "tables". Incredibly, they had made one long table to accommodate 15 people, but then expected 2 people to sit separately at a different table. It's difficult to explain the configuration, but there was no way to put this extra table on either end. Also, they had crammed all 15 chairs so much that there was no way to add 2 chairs either. I was creeping scarily close towards the edge of a Bridezilla moment, while calmly trying to offer solutions that they wouldn't accept. It also really got to me that while we're discussing this issue, another party of 15 was seated right next to our crappy situation. Their table could have easily accomodated another 2, but the CM's refused to ask them to switch. So, we all traipsed out of the restaurant and they gave us another buzzer promising to let us know when another party had left. So, we all went and hung out in the gardens .
Except for the fact that we were starving, everyone seemed to have a really nice time talking. We had been joined by another sister of mine (sort of adopted by my parents) and her husband and Mark's dad and step-mom. I was so glad to finally get to this point!
The food was wonderful! Everyone raved on and on for days about how much they enjoyed the food there!
The Dessert Sampler is awesome!!
Except for my commando twin daughters, my brothers and my sister-in-law who insisted on going back to the parks, we all went back out to the gardens of the Grand Floridian (everyone was VERY impressed with this resort!) and noticed that Wishes was just starting! So, we made our way to the dock and watched the rest of it. It was great!
Then, we made our way back to our resort. Patricia would be arriving about 5:30 so I needed my beauty sleep! I was excited and exhausted at the same time! It was a good way to be because I actually slept! Finally, we get to the good stuff!!
We finally made it to Disney World! I usually like to save Magic Kingdom for our 3rd day or so since it's my girls' favorite, but I had some family members that were planning to leave the day after my wedding, so I wanted to make sure that they experienced this park if nothing else! So, my first order of business was to introduce my family to the wonderful world of Photopass and Fastpass! And let me just say that I LOVE Photopass!! Unfortunately, I think they're getting pretty popular because many times we had to wait in line to get our picture taken. I've never experienced that before! But, as I'll show you later, many photographers were awesome about taking a lot of pictures at one time with different groups, etc.
I won't bore you with all the details, but we had such a great time! And, I have to admit that I'm not a huge fan of being the tour guide for such a large group with so many diverse interests, ages, energy levels, etc. But, we had an awesome time! Since we didn't get there at park opening (shocker). The lines were pretty long. Fastpasses all around!! We used Fastpasses for Splash Mountain and Thunder Mountain Railroad that day. And with Child Swap passes with Mia, it was super-sweet! I was really disappointed when I found out months before about Space Mountain and TTR were going to be closed. They're two of my favorite rides there! But, we did Dumbo, Carousel, PoC, HM, Goofy Rollercoaster, etc.
I just had to throw this one in there... Mark looks all excited to be "chained" to me for life...and I'm just happy and oblivious! LOL
My one regret is that we didn't get to do Philharmagic. I think that's their best 3-D show and I really wanted them to experience it. Oh well!! Everyone really seemed to enjoy themselves. Although my SIL's favorite ride so far on the trip was Cat in the Hat, she was impressed with all the ones we went on. I was glad because she's never been to WDW. I didn't make reservations for lunch, so we all went to the Harbour House for lunch that day. It was great! While every place else was SUPER crowded, Harbour House had hardly anyone especially upstairs. I strongly suggest this place!
Btw, Mark, me and the kids were on the Dining Plan, which I love. My kids love it too! It just helps all of us to relax and order whatever we want without trying to encourage everyone to order cups of water and share entrees. Plus, my kids LOVE dessert so this makes it seem even more like a vacation to them to have dessert with every meal! But, since none of my other family decided to stay on Disney property, they just paid cash for every meal. Well, let me tell you, we were handing them over our leftovers every meal because we always ended up with way too much food! While at the park, I got A LOT of questions about the Dining Plan and Fastpasses. It made me feel good that everyone stated how glad they were to be with someone "in the know" about all this stuff.
Anyway, we all go back to our rooms and prepare for the "Rehearsal Dinner". Since ours was an Escape wedding, we didn't have a rehearsal. But, of course, I still considered this as our "Rehearsal Dinner". I had made reservations at the Grand Floridian Café. When I checked in, I explained that we were only a party of 17 instead of 24 (my original reservation) They said, "That won't be a problem." So, imagine my dismay when they led us to our "tables". Incredibly, they had made one long table to accommodate 15 people, but then expected 2 people to sit separately at a different table. It's difficult to explain the configuration, but there was no way to put this extra table on either end. Also, they had crammed all 15 chairs so much that there was no way to add 2 chairs either. I was creeping scarily close towards the edge of a Bridezilla moment, while calmly trying to offer solutions that they wouldn't accept. It also really got to me that while we're discussing this issue, another party of 15 was seated right next to our crappy situation. Their table could have easily accomodated another 2, but the CM's refused to ask them to switch. So, we all traipsed out of the restaurant and they gave us another buzzer promising to let us know when another party had left. So, we all went and hung out in the gardens .
Except for the fact that we were starving, everyone seemed to have a really nice time talking. We had been joined by another sister of mine (sort of adopted by my parents) and her husband and Mark's dad and step-mom. I was so glad to finally get to this point!
The food was wonderful! Everyone raved on and on for days about how much they enjoyed the food there!
The Dessert Sampler is awesome!!
Except for my commando twin daughters, my brothers and my sister-in-law who insisted on going back to the parks, we all went back out to the gardens of the Grand Floridian (everyone was VERY impressed with this resort!) and noticed that Wishes was just starting! So, we made our way to the dock and watched the rest of it. It was great!
Then, we made our way back to our resort. Patricia would be arriving about 5:30 so I needed my beauty sleep! I was excited and exhausted at the same time! It was a good way to be because I actually slept! Finally, we get to the good stuff!!
figment fan21
Can't wait to be a Disney Bride!
- Joined
- Oct 17, 2007
- Messages
- 2,123
Wow you are fast missy!!!
Another great installment! I'm glad you were able to keep your bridezilla moment to a minimum because lord knows i wouldn't have been able to. That was such a terrible set up! But i'm glad it all worked out for you in the end!
Cant wait to read about the wedding day!! yay!!!!!
Another great installment! I'm glad you were able to keep your bridezilla moment to a minimum because lord knows i wouldn't have been able to. That was such a terrible set up! But i'm glad it all worked out for you in the end!
Cant wait to read about the wedding day!! yay!!!!!
Luvmyfam3
I love DVC!
- Joined
- Feb 20, 2000
- Messages
- 700
Day 5: LET'S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!
Yea! We finally made it! Although, when the alarm went off I seriously felt like I had just gone to sleep. But, no fear! The shower helped my body and my brain kick into gear! I was quickly stressing about timing, not forgetting things, etc.
I rounded up the girls and they slowly started moving about… Mia was sleeping with her dad so that we could wait until the last possible moment to wake her up.
Patricia and her assistant (I wish I could remember her name) showed up a few minutes late, but they quickly kicked into gear. Patricia wanted to do mine last so that I would still look fresh (I need all the help I can get!). As I stated before, each of the girls wanted to have different "looks".
Caitie wanted a Jasmine look:
Allie wanted a Cinderella look:
AnnaGrace wanted a "vintage" look (not really into the princesses):
And, well, Mia just wanted to look cute (not hard!):
Surprisingly, Mia, when asked, stated she wanted her hair straight and not curly. I wish I had encouraged her to have it curly. Plus, she's growing her bangs out and I felt that they didn't really "anchor" back her growing bangs very well, so we were constantly repinning her hair. But, all in all, all the girls loved their hair! They were very specific on how they wanted it, and Patricia and her assistant created that look to a "T"!! They also chatted a lot with my girls and made them feel really comfortable. While the girls got their hair done, I ironed their dresses (note to self: should have done this earlier…but when??)
Patricia personally did both my hair and my makeup. I showed her a picture of what I wanted, and she ran with it! She asked me if my hair held a curl very well. I told her that it didn't at all! Living in Houston, I'm very familiar with flat hair in the humidity! So, I knew what she was up against. Well, later she said, "I took every possible precaution to make sure you hair wouldn't fall, and I can tell you right now your hair DOES hold a curl!" Haha! They even discussed "pulling it down" a bit because the curl was so tight! But, in the end, it seriously could not have been more perfect. WORTH EVERY PENNY!!!
Also, my makeup turned out really well too. She really knows how to make your eyes "pop"! If I thought it would do any good, I would even consider buying Mac. But, I have come to realize that in some cases how you apply it is just as important as what you apply…and I fall short on the application.
Anyway, during this time, Mark is stuck in his bedroom. I had the girls offer him a Poptart or granola bar. Just as Patricia was finishing up, Derek, the photographer, and Stan, the videographer showed up. As soon as Derek arrived, I gave him the cuff links I had ordered for Mark and asked that he give them to him (I wanted to get it on film).
While that was going on, the girls and I started to get dressed.
Soon thereafter, the flowers arrived! Seriously, after that, it was pandemonium in our rooms! Then, and it was time for Mark and some family to go to the Boardwalk. After he left, Derek took a few more pictures.
After a while, Derek suggested that he go ahead and go to the Boardwalk to get pictures when I arrive. So, we waited for the limo and chatted. Btw, WHY-OH-WHY did the Boardwalk decide to paint the railings right outside my room early that morning?? We had to take detours coming and going to ensure that we didn't end up with blue paint on our bums. While we're waiting for the limo, Derek takes pictures at the Boardwalk. I thought these were kinda cute of my brothers "beating" up Mark.
Then Mark takes a few by himself...
Anyway, the limo arrives and we all pile in the car. For some strange reason, at the last possible minute, my dad decides that he wants to drive his own car. WHY??? Who knows…control issues? I don’t know. It worked out okay, but I just felt that my dad should have been with us in the limo. Oh well.
This picture was taken in the lobby and I just love it!
Karen (my Disney coordinator) and Amy (Disney photographer) were in the lobby when I arrived. Karen immediately started rattling off how everything was going to go and asking where my dad was… "uh, he's parking the car". In the meantime, people are staring, yelling congratulations and generally making me feel like a true princess. I instantly tuned Karen out except for the next step coming up. I seriously didn't want to know step #5, #6, & #7. At that point, I could only handle step #1 and possibly #2 if it was super-easy. Anyway, Mark and I had told Karen that we would like to arrange a "First Look". None of us had any idea how Mia would handle the ceremony and I didn't want to add the stress of wanting to make sure Mark was totally focusing on me for that first look and not on Mia. Selfish? Probably, but, hey, this is the day to be that way, right? So, Karen told me that Mark was upstairs waiting for me and showed me where to go. I was kind of surprised that they didn't have Mark turned around. He was facing me as I walked up. I wish that there were words or even the pictures could capture that moment. The pictures are good (Amy's are better), but no picture can truly capture that moment. I felt this wave of goodness, "home" kinda feeling, and assurance that this was exactly where I wanted to be.
I just thought of this moment during our "First Look" this morning and I had to share because it was so poignant (to me)... After that first hug, I pulled back and looked and Mark and said, "Can you believe we're finally here?" And Mark looks back at me with his warm brown eyes and says, "Yes, I can, baby....yes I can."
So, after the hugs and a few little tears, I turned to everyone else and said, "Let's get this party started!"
Yea! We finally made it! Although, when the alarm went off I seriously felt like I had just gone to sleep. But, no fear! The shower helped my body and my brain kick into gear! I was quickly stressing about timing, not forgetting things, etc.
I rounded up the girls and they slowly started moving about… Mia was sleeping with her dad so that we could wait until the last possible moment to wake her up.
Patricia and her assistant (I wish I could remember her name) showed up a few minutes late, but they quickly kicked into gear. Patricia wanted to do mine last so that I would still look fresh (I need all the help I can get!). As I stated before, each of the girls wanted to have different "looks".
Caitie wanted a Jasmine look:
Allie wanted a Cinderella look:
AnnaGrace wanted a "vintage" look (not really into the princesses):
And, well, Mia just wanted to look cute (not hard!):
Surprisingly, Mia, when asked, stated she wanted her hair straight and not curly. I wish I had encouraged her to have it curly. Plus, she's growing her bangs out and I felt that they didn't really "anchor" back her growing bangs very well, so we were constantly repinning her hair. But, all in all, all the girls loved their hair! They were very specific on how they wanted it, and Patricia and her assistant created that look to a "T"!! They also chatted a lot with my girls and made them feel really comfortable. While the girls got their hair done, I ironed their dresses (note to self: should have done this earlier…but when??)
Patricia personally did both my hair and my makeup. I showed her a picture of what I wanted, and she ran with it! She asked me if my hair held a curl very well. I told her that it didn't at all! Living in Houston, I'm very familiar with flat hair in the humidity! So, I knew what she was up against. Well, later she said, "I took every possible precaution to make sure you hair wouldn't fall, and I can tell you right now your hair DOES hold a curl!" Haha! They even discussed "pulling it down" a bit because the curl was so tight! But, in the end, it seriously could not have been more perfect. WORTH EVERY PENNY!!!
Also, my makeup turned out really well too. She really knows how to make your eyes "pop"! If I thought it would do any good, I would even consider buying Mac. But, I have come to realize that in some cases how you apply it is just as important as what you apply…and I fall short on the application.
Anyway, during this time, Mark is stuck in his bedroom. I had the girls offer him a Poptart or granola bar. Just as Patricia was finishing up, Derek, the photographer, and Stan, the videographer showed up. As soon as Derek arrived, I gave him the cuff links I had ordered for Mark and asked that he give them to him (I wanted to get it on film).
While that was going on, the girls and I started to get dressed.
Soon thereafter, the flowers arrived! Seriously, after that, it was pandemonium in our rooms! Then, and it was time for Mark and some family to go to the Boardwalk. After he left, Derek took a few more pictures.
After a while, Derek suggested that he go ahead and go to the Boardwalk to get pictures when I arrive. So, we waited for the limo and chatted. Btw, WHY-OH-WHY did the Boardwalk decide to paint the railings right outside my room early that morning?? We had to take detours coming and going to ensure that we didn't end up with blue paint on our bums. While we're waiting for the limo, Derek takes pictures at the Boardwalk. I thought these were kinda cute of my brothers "beating" up Mark.
Then Mark takes a few by himself...
Anyway, the limo arrives and we all pile in the car. For some strange reason, at the last possible minute, my dad decides that he wants to drive his own car. WHY??? Who knows…control issues? I don’t know. It worked out okay, but I just felt that my dad should have been with us in the limo. Oh well.
This picture was taken in the lobby and I just love it!
Karen (my Disney coordinator) and Amy (Disney photographer) were in the lobby when I arrived. Karen immediately started rattling off how everything was going to go and asking where my dad was… "uh, he's parking the car". In the meantime, people are staring, yelling congratulations and generally making me feel like a true princess. I instantly tuned Karen out except for the next step coming up. I seriously didn't want to know step #5, #6, & #7. At that point, I could only handle step #1 and possibly #2 if it was super-easy. Anyway, Mark and I had told Karen that we would like to arrange a "First Look". None of us had any idea how Mia would handle the ceremony and I didn't want to add the stress of wanting to make sure Mark was totally focusing on me for that first look and not on Mia. Selfish? Probably, but, hey, this is the day to be that way, right? So, Karen told me that Mark was upstairs waiting for me and showed me where to go. I was kind of surprised that they didn't have Mark turned around. He was facing me as I walked up. I wish that there were words or even the pictures could capture that moment. The pictures are good (Amy's are better), but no picture can truly capture that moment. I felt this wave of goodness, "home" kinda feeling, and assurance that this was exactly where I wanted to be.
I just thought of this moment during our "First Look" this morning and I had to share because it was so poignant (to me)... After that first hug, I pulled back and looked and Mark and said, "Can you believe we're finally here?" And Mark looks back at me with his warm brown eyes and says, "Yes, I can, baby....yes I can."
So, after the hugs and a few little tears, I turned to everyone else and said, "Let's get this party started!"
Boardwalk_bride
Married in WDW :)
- Joined
- May 26, 2009
- Messages
- 2,383
I was just wondering about whether or not you have updated.....and as soon as I opened my email, your thread came up!!!LOL
I LOVE LOVE LOVE everything. All of you looked so beautiful! I really love your flowers! I hope you don't mind, but I copied the pictures of the wands and bouquet (I really want the same ones, but with red and blue!!!)
Your first look made me tear up!! Can't wait for more
I LOVE LOVE LOVE everything. All of you looked so beautiful! I really love your flowers! I hope you don't mind, but I copied the pictures of the wands and bouquet (I really want the same ones, but with red and blue!!!)
Your first look made me tear up!! Can't wait for more
figment fan21
Can't wait to be a Disney Bride!
- Joined
- Oct 17, 2007
- Messages
- 2,123
Awe i just got alittle teary seeing you with your girls getting ready and then the first look!
I think we're going to do a first look because i get really emotional and i'd rather get that out of the way in a special moment between us as opposed to being infront of everyone.
I can't wait to hear about the cerermony!
I think we're going to do a first look because i get really emotional and i'd rather get that out of the way in a special moment between us as opposed to being infront of everyone.
I can't wait to hear about the cerermony!
Luvmyfam3
I love DVC!
- Joined
- Feb 20, 2000
- Messages
- 700
Thanks! Copy away! I LOVED, LOVED my flowers!! I even emailed Rosie pictures of them the other day to let her know what a great job they did!
I actually just added a little blurb at the end of our First Look because I just thought of that moment this morning. And it probably explains why I'm giving him that look in that last picture!
I am REALLY glad we did the first look. Mia was great during the ceremony, but that moment was really special with just us. I can definitely understand your concern about being emotional! I don't consider myself an emotional person, but that day really puts that to the test!!!
Luvmyfam3
I love DVC!
- Joined
- Feb 20, 2000
- Messages
- 700
Day 5 - I DO
Everything is in place and it's time to get down to business!
I emailed Rev. Day a few weeks before the ceremony and asked that he just wear a suit instead of robes to officiate. It wasn't that big of a deal, but our church doesn't have officials wear robes, so I just felt that it would make things more comfortable for us. Heck, he could have worn khaki's and a short-sleeved button-down shirt! But, Rev. Day never responded to my email and he showed up in robes. No biggie! I didn't even really think about it at the time!
Rev. Jack Day did a wonderful job of discussing everything with not just Mark and me before the ceremony, but he also talked to all the girls and let them know what to expect. I highly recommend him.
Honey, pay attention! I'm sure what Rev. Day is telling you is very important!
After Mark and Rev. Day walked to the front, but before the girls started their "performance" my mom stood up and gave Mark a hug. It still brings a lump to my throat when I see this. My family are all conservative Christians, and my divorce was the first and only one anywhere in my family. So, it was very difficult on them and on my relationship with my family. This action was one of many things that make me so thankful for their constant outpouring of love and support...since it hasn't really always been that way.
Caitie asked Mark and me every few months while we were dating if she could be the flower girl. So, after we were engaged, I told them they could be whatever they wanted! LOL! Allie, Caitie and Mia chose to be flower girls. AnnaGrace chose to be the maid of honor! Haha!! It's so fitting! Anyway, my girls begged me to let them dance and twirl down the aisle. I said, "of course!" We decided they would dance to Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo. When I told Rosie their plan, she suggested that I give them all little pouches of orange rose petals to throw while they're doing their thing. They loved it! I was thinking that this may not really work out in the end Mia may decide to be shy or something. So, I told Caitie a couple of times during our trip to talk to Mia about it (she offered to go with Mia) and to even practice with her so that she would be prepared. That seemed to really work because when the time came, there was no hesitation .
Look at us in the background watching...love it!
Now, it was time for me and my dad. We were both just chatting about stuff and laughing the whole way. Just the way I had envisioned.
Look at that smile.....
Dad giving me away
Yuck, I need to fix that shiny face!!
We wrote our own vows. Rev. Day kept warning us that at some point he's just going to turn it over to us. During the ceremony, he asks who wants to go first. Knowing Mark and how poetic he can be, I hurriedly volunteer to go first! I have to warn you that my face looked horrible in all the pictures especially when I was reading mine. Ugh. I wish my face wasn't quite so telling when I was getting emotional.
Mark, you are the most generous, loving, unselfish person I know. You are my constant friend, my rock and my faithful partner in life. My respect and admiration for you knows no bounds. Because of all this and more, I feel so blessed that you have chosen to share your love with me, and I'm excited about the home we'll create together for each other and our children. I know there's nothing we can't work through together.
It's a miracle to find the kind of peace and happiness you've given me. In honor of that miracle, I pledge here before our family to honor you, care for you, and be faithful to you, from this day forward and for the rest of our lives. Today, it is with happiness and without reservation that I choose you for my husband, Mark. I love you truly, fiercely and completely.
My darling, this wonderful day has finally come. I have so awaited this moment, this opportunity to tell the whole world about the two souls standing RIGHT here, face to face, professing their love for each other. SO, what CAN I say about them?
Well, I will start with what I see about him.
I see that he will never fully know how much he cares for the woman standing in front of him, for each day he realizes he is more in love with her than the day before.
I see that he has discovered the long elusive proof of everlasting happiness, undeniably displayed right before him in her beautiful smile.
I ALSO see so much about her and what she means to him.
I see that she is his song, the rhythm that paces his heartbeat, the melody he hears in his thoughts every day, and the lullaby that plays softly for him as he falls asleep.
I see that she is his muse, inspiring him to be a better man and to always search for ways to further express his love for her.
I see that she is his strength, whose essence has so fully entered his heart that he knows not where his soul ends and hers begins.
I see that she is his meaning, and will be the very last thought that will go through his mind when his old tired eyes close for the final time. (I almost lose it here....)
I can also see the battles each of them have fought individually trying to find their way through life, and how they will never have to face those struggles EVER again on their own, for they have found a partner standing right beside them.
You know, I see SO much here today, that it is an impossible task to capture it all.
So I guess that all I can say is what I REALLY see, is ME, with my heart bursting with love as I say these words:
Kimberly, my sweet and wonderful soul-mate, I DO.
Everything is in place and it's time to get down to business!
I emailed Rev. Day a few weeks before the ceremony and asked that he just wear a suit instead of robes to officiate. It wasn't that big of a deal, but our church doesn't have officials wear robes, so I just felt that it would make things more comfortable for us. Heck, he could have worn khaki's and a short-sleeved button-down shirt! But, Rev. Day never responded to my email and he showed up in robes. No biggie! I didn't even really think about it at the time!
Rev. Jack Day did a wonderful job of discussing everything with not just Mark and me before the ceremony, but he also talked to all the girls and let them know what to expect. I highly recommend him.
Honey, pay attention! I'm sure what Rev. Day is telling you is very important!
After Mark and Rev. Day walked to the front, but before the girls started their "performance" my mom stood up and gave Mark a hug. It still brings a lump to my throat when I see this. My family are all conservative Christians, and my divorce was the first and only one anywhere in my family. So, it was very difficult on them and on my relationship with my family. This action was one of many things that make me so thankful for their constant outpouring of love and support...since it hasn't really always been that way.
Caitie asked Mark and me every few months while we were dating if she could be the flower girl. So, after we were engaged, I told them they could be whatever they wanted! LOL! Allie, Caitie and Mia chose to be flower girls. AnnaGrace chose to be the maid of honor! Haha!! It's so fitting! Anyway, my girls begged me to let them dance and twirl down the aisle. I said, "of course!" We decided they would dance to Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo. When I told Rosie their plan, she suggested that I give them all little pouches of orange rose petals to throw while they're doing their thing. They loved it! I was thinking that this may not really work out in the end Mia may decide to be shy or something. So, I told Caitie a couple of times during our trip to talk to Mia about it (she offered to go with Mia) and to even practice with her so that she would be prepared. That seemed to really work because when the time came, there was no hesitation .
Look at us in the background watching...love it!
Now, it was time for me and my dad. We were both just chatting about stuff and laughing the whole way. Just the way I had envisioned.
Look at that smile.....
Dad giving me away
Yuck, I need to fix that shiny face!!
We wrote our own vows. Rev. Day kept warning us that at some point he's just going to turn it over to us. During the ceremony, he asks who wants to go first. Knowing Mark and how poetic he can be, I hurriedly volunteer to go first! I have to warn you that my face looked horrible in all the pictures especially when I was reading mine. Ugh. I wish my face wasn't quite so telling when I was getting emotional.
Mark, you are the most generous, loving, unselfish person I know. You are my constant friend, my rock and my faithful partner in life. My respect and admiration for you knows no bounds. Because of all this and more, I feel so blessed that you have chosen to share your love with me, and I'm excited about the home we'll create together for each other and our children. I know there's nothing we can't work through together.
It's a miracle to find the kind of peace and happiness you've given me. In honor of that miracle, I pledge here before our family to honor you, care for you, and be faithful to you, from this day forward and for the rest of our lives. Today, it is with happiness and without reservation that I choose you for my husband, Mark. I love you truly, fiercely and completely.
My darling, this wonderful day has finally come. I have so awaited this moment, this opportunity to tell the whole world about the two souls standing RIGHT here, face to face, professing their love for each other. SO, what CAN I say about them?
Well, I will start with what I see about him.
I see that he will never fully know how much he cares for the woman standing in front of him, for each day he realizes he is more in love with her than the day before.
I see that he has discovered the long elusive proof of everlasting happiness, undeniably displayed right before him in her beautiful smile.
I ALSO see so much about her and what she means to him.
I see that she is his song, the rhythm that paces his heartbeat, the melody he hears in his thoughts every day, and the lullaby that plays softly for him as he falls asleep.
I see that she is his muse, inspiring him to be a better man and to always search for ways to further express his love for her.
I see that she is his strength, whose essence has so fully entered his heart that he knows not where his soul ends and hers begins.
I see that she is his meaning, and will be the very last thought that will go through his mind when his old tired eyes close for the final time. (I almost lose it here....)
I can also see the battles each of them have fought individually trying to find their way through life, and how they will never have to face those struggles EVER again on their own, for they have found a partner standing right beside them.
You know, I see SO much here today, that it is an impossible task to capture it all.
So I guess that all I can say is what I REALLY see, is ME, with my heart bursting with love as I say these words:
Kimberly, my sweet and wonderful soul-mate, I DO.
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