New York City Boys in the World: Day Three Part III Hey Prince Charming! FLASH!

[RickinNYC]

As we ambled back to our room to get changed, we found another great surprise waiting for us. Sitting on the table was a room service tray laden with tuxedo chocolate covered strawberries and a bottle of champagne! It was from friends in New York wishing us well. We both immediately popped one strawberry each into our greedy little mouths and munched contentedly away.

I was manhandling the bottle of bubbly like a sailor on shore leave when Joe announced, “I’m not going to have any so if you open the bottle, you’ll have to drink the whole thing yourself.” Seeing that this did not act as much the effective deterrent as he had hoped (the bottle was now wedged firmly between my legs as I tugged fruitlessly at the cork), he added, “And if you finish it now, do you really want to wander drunkenly around the Magic Kingdom? You’ll scare the kids.” Yet again, his words fell on deaf ears as I wandered the room, looking for something to hold the slippery bottle of loveliness. “Put the stupid thing down. You’re not getting drunk!”

With a huge sigh of discontent, I gingerly placed my treasure back into the ice bucket and sat with a huff on the edge of the bed. “You’re not the boss of me,” I pouted, arms crossed belligerently. Joe simply padded about the room, getting his costume ready. As he entered the bathroom, he simply looked back, waggled his ring, and replied, “Yes I am!” before he slammed and locked the door behind him. See what a ring does? It’s doom in the form of a little gold hoop thing.

I used this time to get my own costume together, which was a task unto itself since I still wanted it to remain a big secret. I pulled it out of the garment bag to give it one final inspection when I heard the shower turn off. Great googily moogily, I thought, the jig is up! So I threw the entire thing back into the bag, zipped it all back up and tucked the entire thing into the closet. In the short time, however, I did see that the gloves were there, as were the epaulets, jacket, slacks, socks and shiny shoes.

Joe came into the bedroom area followed by a cloud of steam, “Next!” he bellowed. To which I ordered him, under no circumstances, was he to look in the suitcase next to the bed, under the Disney bags. Penalty punishable by death, I decreed. He gave me his word, fat lot that’s worth. Whenever I’ve hidden something from him, he always seems to “accidentally” find it. Hence, the misdirection.

After I climbed out of the shower and stepped back into the bedroom, I found Joe trying to act as nonchalantly as possible. The big mook was even whistling for crying out loud! I knew he’d rummage through the suitcase once I forbade him to do so, but I didn’t want him to know I knew he knew I knew there wasn’t anything to be found in the place I fingered. Get it?

So I calmly watched as Joe pulled on his pirate costume. Once everything was in place, he paraded himself around in front of the mirror and announced that the baggy, shredded, cut off, drawstring canvas shorts were so comfortable and hip that he was going to wear them for the rest of the week. “Good luck with that. I’m sure all your friends will enjoy it,” I responded with a shrug. “Hope your vacation is as great as mine will be.” Reverse psychology at its best.

“Aren’t you getting dressed?” he asked when noticing that I was still standing in a towel and not much else (calm down ladies). I responded, “Yep, but you need to get out of the room. Go out on the balcony.” To which he gamely did so with an apathetic grunt and a shrug. When I locked him out there, however, it was a different story. Banging on the sill, “Hey! What’s up? Why’d you lock the door? I won’t peek! Lemme in! Open up! Why’d you lock the door? Quit it!”

My response? I peeked outside with an evil grin, “See? You’re not the boss of me!” and I flipped the curtains closed with a dramatic flourish. “Mwahahahahaaaaaa!!!!!” And locked outside he stayed until I was good and ready! Actually, I just wanted to get into costume, no biggie. But he didn’t know that. He just pounded, knocked, tapped, rapped and more on the door, his inquisitive voice still demanding to know why I had chosen to lock him out.

Get dressed I did, however. I slapped what seemed like an obscene amount of hair gel into my ‘do, combing it over to the side with a razor sharp part, patting everything into place with a satisfied grunt. That done, it was costume time, baby! I pulled on my black socks, red slacks and white jacket. I firmly placed the gold epaulets in the right spot, yanked on my shiny black shoes, tugged on my white gloves and viola! Prince Charming was born!

I walked over to the balcony door where Joe was still tapping away, although somewhat listlessly at this point. He’d occasionally groan, “Open uuuuuuuuppppppp!!!! Let-me-iiiiiiiiiiinnnnn!!!” I was tempted to let him stay out there a little longer, I was pretty curious to know just how long he’d keep it up. But there was no time for such an experiment this evening, perhaps tomorrow. I flipped the lock open and pulled back the curtain in one swooping gesture, scaring the bejesus out of Joe apparently, given how high he jumped at the sudden movement.

He stared in at me as I stared out at him. And his face went from startled, to puzzled, to an absolutely enormous grin. And I stood there feeling kind of stupid and for some strange reason, incredibly nervous. Opening the door, he immediately said, “Where did you get that? It’s absolutely beautiful! And you look so handsome! Wow! Wow! (toss in a whole ton of ‘Wow’s’ here)” And his best comment of all? “You look exactly like the real Prince Charming at the park!”

I explained how I had been in touch with a DIS board member who was a costume designer and maker, how she and I had exchanged emails, and the rest was history! I had also explained how I had wanted to wear it when I gave him the ring and how things got all messed up with room service. And I also blabbered about how the costume was as much for him as it was for me. And I went on and on and on, almost like I was proposing all over again. And through it all, realizing that a Pirate of the Caribbean and Prince Charming were standing in a hotel room and staring at each other, we did what any other sane, Disney loving adults would do, we laughed and pointed. Thank you so much Disney_1derland ! You helped make the night and the trip a truly amazing one!

It was time to go. “You ready?” “No, you ready?” “No. I don’t wanna walk through the lobby looking like this.” “Well, I don’t wanna ride on the shuttle.” “You go first, it was your idea to go in costume.” “YOU go first. You got a ring out of the deal.” “If we’re the only adults in costume, I’m going to kill you.” “If we’re the only adults in costume, I have an entire bulletin board of people to kill so don’t worry about it.” “So, you ready?” “No, you?” “No. You go first.” “No. You.” And on it went. Until we sucked in huge breaths, stepped into the hallway and closed and locked the door behind us.

So far, so good. No one in the halls, no one in the elevator and no one in the lobby. Weird. Where was everyone? Well, apparently everyone was lined up along the walkway that we had to walk down to get to the shuttle! It was a two-man freak show with tons of stares, lots of laughter and quite a bit of finger pointing. People threw rocks and garbage! I got pelted with a rotten tomato. Joe got knocked down and small children stole his shoes. There wasn’t a Helpful Cast Member in sight to help us! There were jeers and uttered epithets (always wanted to use that word in a sentence). It was horrible, just horrible.

Ok, so I’m lying… through my teeth. We walked through the lobby and down the walkway to the bus stop without incident. I will admit, however, that we did feel as thoroughly stupid. In fact, I know exactly what a sore thumb feels like when it’s sticking out. Poor thing. What’s worse is that so far, we were in fact the only adults in costume. There were plenty of Woody’s (I won’t touch that one with a stick), tons of beautiful little princesses, hoards of Disney characters galore. It was a plethora, a veritable cornucopia, a vast array, a dazzling buffet, a throng, a multitude, a host, a swarm and on. ALL children. And mind you, Joe noticed. Oh, he noticed.

Hissing through his teeth, yet never losing his smile, he poked me and said, “You told me that there would be tons of adults in costume for this thing!”

Wincing at his poke, I whispered back, “That’s what the DIS board folks said, I promise!”

“I feel stupid.”

“You look cool though,” trying to mollify him

“Nope. I look stupid. All the other adults are not wearing costumes. Look at him. No costume. And her. She’s wearing shorts and a t-shirt. And look at them. And them.”

Getting frustrated, “I can see. Prince Charming isn’t blind.”

Not bothering to hiss or whisper anymore, Joe simply stood there, hands on hips (his, not mine) and announced, “If we end up the only adults in costume tonight, I’m buying new clothes and you’re paying for it.”

To which I responded, “Tough. Prince Charming ain’t bitin’ Jack. Hey! The bus is here!”

“Quit talking about yourself in the third person.”

“I’m not. Prince Charming is. Let’s get on line.”

And so it went. Standing on line for the shuttle. Standing in the aisle of the bus. Walking towards the main entrance to the Magic Kingdom. “He’s not in costume. She isn’t either. They’re wearing normal clothes. I feel stupid.”

But as we finally got up to the turnstiles, I saw an entire fleet of grown ups, all sporting their Halloween finery! Ta da! We weren’t the only ones! “Look! Adults in costume! And there! And there too! And there’s even more… HEY! There’s another Prince Charming!” Now I know what it’s like to pick a fabulous outfit for a great party and someone else shows up in the same frock. Not a pleasant feeling.

Joe, relieved to see so many big folks in full masquerade, was ready to have a good time. Seeing that I was now the one to get miffed, “What? What’s the matter? He’s short. And he’s blonde. You look more like the real thing than he does. Let’s go.”

“Prince Charming is NOT amused.”

But we still entered into the kingdom, taking in the party decorations and music. It was fantastic! Grim Grinning Ghosts was being played absolutely everywhere. Main Street had fog rolling through the area. Spooky noises could be heard. It was a pretty neat experience, especially since we hadn’t even been to the Magic Kingdom yet during our trip. I was taking it all in when I heard, “Hey! Prince Charming! HEY! YOU! Prince Charming! Excuse me. Prince Charming! Prince Charming! Prince Charming! Hey! Hey! Hey! Over here!”

“That lady is screaming for you, you know,” Joe said as he very sneakily walked away from me.

Still slightly confused, I turned around to find a young mother, desperately trying to get my attention, waving her arms, calling out “Prince Charming” like a mantra, while jumping up and down. Before I could say a word, she shoved a startled, somewhat shy, but grinning little girl at me. Not sure what to do, I simply kneeled down, “Well hello! What’s your name?” But without answering, the little blonde princess simply turned around, faced her mother and assumed her picture-taking pose. Cameras flashed, thanks were called out and another girl was placed in front of me.

I was totally and completely taken aback! I kid you not. I thought my costume was pretty authentic looking, but I had truly no idea how bona fide it looked! I kept thinking I should tell these folks that it was just a costume, that I wasn’t the real guy. I felt so uncomfortable, especially when one little girl in particular started walked towards me ever so slowly, her pen in hand, autograph book at the ready. There was no way I could do that. I’d get so busted by the Disney police!

So I stood up, smiled at the kids and their parents and did a quick but friendly exit, pronouncing in a “princely” voice that I had business to tend to at the castle. Actually, I just smiled a lot and mumbled about having to boogie. I really didn’t want to get in any trouble and felt strange about possibly misrepresenting a character. So I scooted.

I found Joe, standing at the corner, right outside the watch shop, grinning ear to ear. “You looked great doing that. You were a natural and the kids loved it!”

Still a bit embarrassed, I admitted, “It was fun but it was uncomfortable. I probably should have admitted that I was a fake, huh?”

“Heck no! You look exactly like Prince Charming and those little girls had no idea. Why spoil it? You made their day and besides, I know you. You told me years ago that you always fantasized about being a character at Disney World. And now is your chance. Enjoy it. Besides, you’d never in a million years misrepresent Disney, you love it too much.”

Turning all shades of red, I had to admit he was right. I had always wanted to be a character in a parade. Or to be in a show, waving to the crowd. It’s a dorky fantasy, but it’s true. “Ok, you’re right. Busted. I liked it.”

With a quick smile, Joe said, “I know!” and he turned and started walking down Main Street.

Kids were running to and fro, already trick or treating. Trick or treating? Joe was a candy and chocolate freak! I caught up and said, “Hey! Look! You can trick or treat… where are you going?”

And he was off. He speed walked up to the first giant pumpkin he could find, holding out a bag he’d found, bellowing “Trick or treat!” And on it went, as we walked down Main Street to Tomorrowland. Joe half trotting up to a bewildered Helpful Cast Member, announcing “Trick or treat!” at the top of his lungs, and walking away satisfied, chewing on one of many, many, many treats. Ever see a 37-year-old man dressed as a pirate, trick or treating amongst dozens of little ones? It’s pretty amusing and kinda cute. What’s not so cute is when he gets a treat he didn’t care for, usually of the non-chocolate variety, he’d hand it out to me and say, “I got this for you.” Hmmph. Prince Charming was getting stiffed on the good stuff.

Anyway, we’d made our way through Tomorrowland and still had plenty of time to kill. It was only about 6pm and the party had yet to officially begin. Plus, we didn’t have to meet anyone for another hour. So we just wandered, admiring all the costumes, enjoying the excitement. Occasionally, we’d hear “Hey! Prince Charming!” and FLASH! But I quickly got used to my celebrity status, enjoying every minute, basking in the warm glow of my adoring public, faithful pirate companion at my side as he munched on one of many Snickers Bars.

Strolling towards Fantasyland, we decided to walk over to Mickey’s Toontown Fair in hopes of Joe finding more junk for his trick or treat bag. We did, in spades. Joe was enthralled, loving every minute of his trick or treat adventures. And I had to admit that it was fun watching him. I, however, chose not to join in on the fun. When Joe asked why I wasn’t trick or treating with him, I simply shrugged, “Prince Charming doesn’t beg for hand outs. They should be offered as a token of appreciation. So gimme your Twizzlers.”

While I was waiting for Joe to add more booty to his bounty, I saw Cinderella and Belle chatting away with a Helpful Cast Member. Did you know that Cinderella and Belle carried big handbags? I didn’t either. Anyway, they apparently were asking him to take their photo when I was spotted and immediately beckoned over. Belle wanted a photo op with her good pal Cindy and the Prince. So I stood behind my betrothed, assumed the best prom pose ever while Cindy just giggled and smiled. FLASH! And the moment was over. Belle dragged my beloved Cinderella off with a quick wave and an all too curt “Thanks!” That chick Belle was sure pushy. No wonder she got stuck with a big hairy guy.

With that, Joe and I walked back and headed towards Fantasyland. I had recalled a DIS board member saying something about a glass coach behind my castle and I wanted to check it out. Passing a Men’s room, I slowed and tapped Joe on the shoulder, “Prince Charming has to make a pit stop. His pants are falling down (no belt).”

With a sigh, Joe rolled his eyes and said, “Would you stop talking in the third person please?”

“Prince Charming will be right back,” and I was off to make some costume adjustments.

Now, before we continue and you all get the wrong idea, I wanted to express how amazingly well made my costume truly was. But because all the measurements were given through email and I’m not good with a tape measure, one size was significantly off and that was the waist size. To my DIS pal, Disney_1derland’s credit, she did make sure that I was able to pull the waist in myself. Nevertheless, since I’m pretty bad with things like that, my pants either fell down too low, or I ended up pulling them up WAY too high to over compensate. That being said, Prince Charming had to make quite a few stops through the night, much to the surprise of many a male guest who came across me making said adjustments in the afore mentioned men’s room.

Back to the story. Of course, I found Joe standing in line in with a gaggle of kids, waiting his turn to get some candy or another in front of the carousel. When it was his turn, I heard him clear as day “Twizzlers? Can I have extra? They’re Prince Charming’s favorite,” he said while pointing like a lunatic in my direction.

The Helpful Cast Member, wanting to have a bit of fun, said, “If Prince Charming wants Twizzlers, then Prince Charming has to come and get them himself.” And in order to entice me, she waggled a handful of red twisted treats at me.

I waved her off. She waggled some more. I waved. She waggled. Waved, waggled. “Hey! Prince Charming!” FLASH! The moment was lost.

We came across the glass carriage right where it was supposed to be, immediately behind the castle. It was a pretty neat sight to behold, and indeed, a perfect photo op for yours truly. There wasn’t a soul to be found, I had the area to myself so I stood as princely as possible, faced Joe and smiled. And there was Cinderella once again, being shoved forward by Belle. Man, that Belle is one pushy broad. But Cindy was once again in my arms, smiling to the world or at least at the camera, and FLASH! She was gone. I felt so used. No wonder I left her for a pirate.

 

[FANTASMIC]

another great one. i am really enjoying these
thanks

 

[Sinderella]

Wonderful as usual. I was having terrible withdrawal. I'm good now, but don't keep me waiting too long. I would LOVE to see a picture of you two in custume!

 

[Valentine]

Okay.. now you are going to cost me lots of money!!! Now I want to book a Halloween trip too!!! Thanks for all of your GREAT trip reports.. I so look forward to reading them!!! Nice to see a fellow New Yorker/Family enjoy Disney as much as I!! I am glad you guys had so much fun... and Wow.. love all the "engagement" stuff... soooooo romantic!! I wish you both years and years of happines!!!

Kathy

 

[Tink03477]

I love your trip reports!!! Thank you for taking the time to write them. You two sound like a lot of fun to hang around with!

 

[corky805]

Another fabulous report.....thanks so much for writing!

 

[Disney_1derland]

PICTURES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHERE ARE MY PICTURES?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

And, to the too big waist thing, I have this to say.......I think you probably lost 10 pounds and 5 inches from the inception of the evil costuming plan because you were so nervous about pulling off this huge feat. And, pull it off you did!

I'm so glad that everything went so well and that Joe and others were so stunned by the costume, it truly is the pinnacle of our costuming careers thus far, and having sewn for
Queen Elizabeth I, that's saying something


Now, get up, get pics developed and scanned and get on it before you have two angry costumers on your doorstep. I know how to find you and I want to see this costume on you! Not to mention, I love roadtrips, so, don't make me fill my gas tank!

Now, I know the holidays are a bad time to make demands of Prince Charming. I know Prince Charming is a big muckety-muck in the world of providing for the less fortunate, I also know that Prince Charming's day job is much more important than my need to satisfy my seamstress' ego. BUT, after the New Year, I *will* hunt you down if I have to.

 

[lynn71092]

Thanks Rick!
Another great report.
Well worth the wait.

 

[chell]

You just don't know how much you make me laugh!

Hope it will not be so long before the next one!

 

[DouglasF]

Ok, not only do you need to listen to Disney_1derland, but you need to post pictures of the entire trip, not just the ones from the Halloween party. This is an absolute must. It's only fair. You get to see pictures from my trip. And I even posted pics that were UNFLATTERING TO ME!!! I can't stand that one picture of me with Tigger trying to cover my eyes. Or what about the one where I'm on Rock 'n' Roller coaster and all the flies are being caught in my gaping mouth? Besides what did Joe do all those poses for if not for my own personal enjoyment!?! As you well know it's all about ME!

Please continue on with trip reporting as well. Prince Charming couldn't you forget about feeding the Kingdom for one day and shopping for one day and the pomade for one day? What am I saying!?! Nevermind, shopping and pomade are much too important. Send more stories when you can

 

[KarenMick]

This is the best one yet! I'm dying to see pictures too. A tall, dark, and handsome prince and a pirate to boot, does Joe look anything like Johnny Depp as Captain Jack?!!!! Post those pictures Rick!

 

[tmq2766]

WHERE ARE THE PICTURES???????

 

[RickinNYC]

Psssst, the next installment is going to be posted in a little bit!

 

[MAGICinMYHEART]

Great job Rick, (sniff,sniff)

I'm sorry I just got a little emotional, remembering way back to when you so politely asked us here on the DIS for our opinions for this special trip.

I also would love to see the photos...A Prince, (in or out of costume) and a Pirate.