Trip Report... 12/29/05 wedding

[UnderTheMistletoe]

No photos developed yet. I will go back through and edit these to include them once we get our photos developed... could be a very long time The first part of our trip was spent with my Mom at her house in Florida; after the holiday, we headed to Disney for the celebrations.

 

[UnderTheMistletoe]

December 23, 2005

The Plan:
Drive, drive, drive, and drive some more!

The Cast:
The Bride- Me
Dear Fiancé- Brye
The Cats- Pippin and Tinkerbell
The Dog- Casey
The High Roller- The…..ahem… mini van we borrowed from a friend for the trip


The 6:00AM alarm came and went. We were both far too tired to get up, let alone start making the drive. We had been up much later than we’d expected. We had some photos taken at Picture People on the evening on the 22nd. It took much longer to get them picked up than expected. The ones we’d had done a week prior were terrible… we refused to give them to parents. We had to squeeze the photos in before the airbrush tans, run to get them and return to pick them up.

Before we ever got out of the development, Pippin had puked once, peed, and pooped in the litter box we set up for them. It’s fairly typical for him. He gets himself so worked up about traveling. So, after a stop at the grocery store on the way out to dump the used litter into a dumpster, we were ready to roll. Casey settled into the back seat and Tinkerbell perched herself on the highest mound on the back. Pippin stayed in my lap. He was fairly distressed (foaming at the mouth) until around Richmond. After that, he finally settled in and slept the whole way. We’ve come to realize he foams at the mouth when his stomach is upset but hasn’t puked. Once he got that sorted out, he was an angel.

We set out for the long road ahead around 9:00AM. We were a bit concerned about getting through the metro DC traffic. We were so relieved to arrive at the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and find the usual 5 mile back-up was no existent! We knew we were smooth sailing from there as long as we didn’t hit any accidents, construction, or gaper delays. We hit two gaper delays on the way down- just nuisances, really. Having lived in southern Virginia before moving to DC, we knew to take the jug handle around Richmond to avoid the never ending construction.

We arrived to my Mom’s house in Florida around 11:00PM. My grandparents had arrived a day earlier than expected, so we were supposed to be sleeping on a couch. When we started to look around, the idea of sharing a bathroom with 9 people, sleeping on a couch, and dealing with the zoo (after we added ours- 4 cats, 5 dogs, and 2 birds), we got a hotel room. We checked into the hotel around 12:30AM on the 24th.

One of the best things we did for the drive was purchase a book on tape while at the mall waiting for our photos. “The Da Vinci Code” is one of my favorite books and Brye has never read it. We knew with the intensive GMAT prep he started in January, he wasn’t going to get to it. The $60.00 was well worth it. We finished listening just as we pulled into the driveway on the return trip home. It kept us both occupied and the voice on the tape seemed to soothe the animals and lull them to sleep. Given all the driving Brye does on a daily basis, (between 150-200 miles) we’re going to start purchasing them off E-Bay for him. Just be sure to check the abridged vs. unabridged options!

 

[UnderTheMistletoe]

December 24, 2005
Christmas Eve!

The Plan:
Wrap the rehearsal gifts and get to work on some of the wedding projects

The Cast:
The Bride- Me
Dear Fiancé- Brye
Mother of the Bride- Diane
My Stepfather- Chuck
Grandparents- Lonnie and Pop-Pop
My brother- Alex
Bridesmaid and Alex’s girlfriend- Lindsay
Best Man and Brye’s Brother- Evan


We woke up around 8:30 AM on the 24th. We quickly got cleaned up and headed downstairs to get breakfast. And then we set in on the hours of wrapping we had to do. We didn’t want to wrap the gifts for the rehearsal until we arrived in Florida, fearing they would be ruined or torn.

We got everything we had in our possession wrapped that morning. Brye was leaving to spend the Christmas holiday with his family mid-day on the 25th, so we needed to send everything with him as he had the big van. First up were the gift bags from the golf outing. Brye had gotten everyone involved a towel, tees, a ball with the LBV logo, and golf balls to suit their needs. We put them in plain green gift bags with white tissue paper. We also wrapped the prizes for the closest to the pin challenge (Pro V-1 balls) and the longest drive challenge (a golf shirt).

Next up were the gifts for parents. We got them Lenox frames that matched our china pattern. We placed the photo from the Picture People in them and got the three of them wrapped. Everything else fell into place after that… the largest gift being wrapped first. We had hankies, necklaces, photo frames, personalized golf balls, money clips, etc. to wrap! It really did look like Santa’s workshop.

We headed to my Mom’s house around 1:00AM with aching backs. Apparently, wrapping gifts on the bed isn’t the best of ideas as you’re slouched over the whole time! Once there, Brye took the cats over to Orlando to stay with his brother. One of my Mom’s cats was ill and no vet was open on the holiday weekend in rural Florida. Instead of risk ours getting sick (who were due to go to the vet on January 7th), he took them there. Evan moved into an apartment in Winter Park just two days prior to our arrival.

While Brye was gone for the day, I got to work on a number of wedding related projects. First to be checked off the list were the rehearsal dinner favors. I packed 5 Jordan Almonds into layered black and white tulle. They were tied off with personalized ribbon with our names and wedding date, and included a small tag. I had gotten the tags ready to go before we ever left home- hole punch and all! They read:

Five sugared almonds for each guest to eat
To remind us that life is both bitter and sweet
Five wishes for the new husband and wife
Health, wealth, happiness, children and a long life!

Next on the list was to help clean the house. My Mom is no Martha Stewart. Unfortunately, I am a neat freak. I was having a really hard time functioning and staying sane amid the clutter. They also have a huge problem with their three male dogs… they mark inside the house and then all mark over top of the next. I couldn’t stand the mess from having so many people in the house and the smell from their three dogs being territorial.

I got drafted to wrap Christmas gifts for everyone just about the time I sat down to take a breather. Not a problem… I had been used to doing a lot of my family’s wrapping at the holidays. Just wasn’t such a good idea with an aching back from wrapping all morning.

Around 5:00PM, Brye returned home after dropping the cats off At Evan’s new place in Winter Park. With him, he brought some terrible news. His Dad had become very, very ill in the past 24 hours. We immediately got him on the phone with my Mom (a physician). She concluded that he’d picked up the flu… the real influenza, and not a common cold people have a tendency to call “the flu.” Both of Brye’s parents are high school teachers and are therefore exposed to everything. It became apparent that if Brye was to stay in the room with them (as he had originally planned), he was going to be coming into the worst of it the day of the wedding.

So, we sat down and started figuring out where he would have to stay. We did the shuffling and found we were OK on nights and rooms. The biggest changes were that he would stay with his brother in Winter Park on the 25th instead of the All-Star with his parents; and that we would be spending the nights leading up to the wedding together instead of separated. At this point, I cannot imagine not having that time with him. We both needed the time together before the wedding and cuddling together and night was just what the doctor ordered. I would high recommend forgoing the traditional stay separately stuff and have that time with each other.

It was right around that time that Brye and I wanted to start work on the welcome baskets. We asked my mom where she’d put all the bulk purchased items. Her answer: “I didn’t get to it.” I stood there stunned and reeling. Here it was 5:40PM on Christmas Eve in a small town. I didn’t even have time to say something to her. Brye and I looked at each other. He said, “Ill get the keys. Go get your shoes and purse.” We flew to Wal*Mart.

We got there and a young man standing at the door said, “I’m sorry. We’re closed until Monday morning.” Not fighting with him, but trying to figure out why we couldn’t get in despite the fact the store closed in 10 minutes, I said, “But you’re still open for 10 minutes, we will only need that much time to gather what we need… we’ll even run.” He shrugged his shoulders and said, “Do you see all these people around you? If I let you in, I’ll have to let them in, too. I’m really sorry. We’re trying to get home to our families, as well.” “Ok,” I said, “that’s more than reasonable… but do you know any place I might be able to get snack food items?” He went inside and asked another associate. He said that K-Mart had just closed, as well, but that CVS or Walgreen’s might be our best bet. We thanked him, jumped in the car and headed to the main strip with the pharmacies.

We found that CVS was open- 24 hours at that. We wandered around inside and found food items we were looking for. We were able to gather chips, water, dried fruit, candies, and other snack foods. We tried went to Walgreen’s as well and were able to pad out the things we’d found at CVS. We got home around 7:30PM and started work on the baskets.

We got help once everyone else had finished dinner. We were both too upset and disappointed to eat. This was only the beginning of projects that weren’t done or we hadn’t gotten the help or supplies as promised so many times. We set up a production line and got the baskets together.

We ran out of shrink wrap with about 6 baskets left. We knew we were getting close, so had arranged the baskets in order of the dates our guests were checking in. We left only those checking in on the 28th or 29th to be finished and brought to Disney later. Brye was responsible for transporting and dropping off the rest of them.

It was just before midnight when we finished the baskets. We each opened one gift from under the tree. Brye and I headed back to the hotel around 1:00AM. I still had a few hours of gift wrapping. I had to get the girl’s gifts wrapped as they were in storage at my Mom’s house. I finally turned out the light at 4:30AM on Christmas. I had a feeling then that this was not going to be an easy few days.

 

[UnderTheMistletoe]

December 25, 2005
Christmas!

The Plan:
Celebrate Christmas, of course!

The Cast:
The Bride- Me
Dear Fiancé- Brye
Mother of the Bride- Diane (Mom)
My Stepfather- Chuck
Grandparents- Lonnie and Pop-Pop
My brother- Alex
Bridesmaid and Alex’s girlfriend- Lindsay
Best Man and Brye’s Brother- Evan
Mother of the Groom- Marge (Mutti)
Father of the Groom- Mario (Vati)


My cell phone rang around 8:30AM. It was my brother. As usual, he couldn’t possibly wait another second to open Christmas gifts and we had to get there two minutes ago. We gave him and the rest of the family to go ahead and start without us. Functioning on four hours of sleep, I had to get a shower, and a bite to eat. Not to mention wanting some time alone with Brye as he was leaving later in the day.

Brye and I had decided not to exchange Christmas gifts this year. We had a HUGE Christmas between the two of us last year- to make up for 2003 when he was on military deployment. Trying to live up to this expectations this year weren’t realistic. He got me a beautiful card. Inside were two silver tokens (like coins). One is for a pedicure, the other for a manicure. It was very sweet and thoughtful of him. He got a redeemable ticket in his Christmas card for a romantic dinner for two. I plan on using our new china for a candlelight dinner. It should be fun and romantic.

By the time we got to my Mom’s house, the Christmas tree had only our gifts left under it. I was a little disappointed they (my brother and step father who still shake presents) decided they couldn’t wait. I would have liked to have opened gifts with everybody… and seen Casey’s (the dog) first Christmas. I guess I should have known when I told Alex they could go ahead that he wouldn’t delay at all.

Mom made us breakfast when we got in. French toast is Brye’s favorite, so it was a special treat. Everyone started taking turns to get through the shower. We went out and got the van cleaned out and rearranged for Brye’s trip over later in the day. At noon, we looked at the clock and knew he only had an hour before he had to leave. So, we sat and opened our gifts alone. Everyone else was too busy getting showered and cleaned up, had settled in for a nap, or was in another part of the house. Another huge disappointment. We pulled Casey up on the couch with us (she’s never allowed on furniture) and had a family hug and a few tears. Nothing seemed like it was going right. I’ve never felt so pushed to one side in my life. We composed ourselves and let my grandparents know Brye had a leave in a little while. They joined us, so at least we got to open gift from them with their company. Something did strike me while we opened the things from them- they were all keepsakes and “remember me” things. The last time that happened, my biological grandmother died within 3 months. My pseudo-grandmother is fighting breast cancer. Needless to say, it has me a bit edgy.

Brye left at 1:00PM to spend the rest of the holiday with his family. His Dad was still very ill, so he went to dinner at the Yachtsman with his brother and mom.

I got put to work boxing up favors before dinner. Mom did a wonderful job for dinner. After that, Alex and Lindsay headed out for a movie. I sat and watched TV with my grandparents and asked to be taken back to the hotel around 8:00PM.

I was shocked when got back to the hotel room. Housekeeping had obviously been in the room because they took the dirty towels. But, they didn’t leave any clean ones, make the bed, vacuum, or take out the trash (which was overflowing because of all the wrapping). I knew they’d been in and cleaning other rooms because we saw them. It was then that I realized what had happened. Brye had told her it was OK not to do the room on the 24th because we didn’t want anyone in there with over $1500 of gifts on the floor. She had him sign off the date. Well, it turns out someone forged his signature onto the 25th as well. It certainly wasn’t his writing.

I had a hard time getting to sleep (despite the exhaustion and no nap). I ended up sleeping 4 broken hours. At 4:30, I finally got up and read until daylight broke through. I should have guessed it was an omen for the worst day to come.

 

[Tinkerbelle14]

I'm so sorry that the beginning of your wedding trip did not go as planned. I hope it got better for you!

 

[Codie]

Jill--I felt the same stress you demonstrate in your log--I'm so sorry that you had so much stress. The loneliness that you feel right before getting married is so amazing and strange!!! I hope the rest of your days logs turn more sunshiney and magical Looking forward to reading them...

 

[Cinderella Fan]

I just hope that the rest of your wedding turns out much better! Sorry to hear about all of your stress at this time....

Can't wait to read more of your TR!

 

[WDWbride2007]

Wow, Jill....sounds like quite an adventure. I can't wait to hear about the happy ending! =)

 

[UnderTheMistletoe]

December 26, 2005
Bridezilla for sixteen hours

The Plan:
Finish with the loose ends and last-minute projects

The Cast:
Me- The Bride
Diane- Mother-of-the Bride
Lindsay- Bridesmaid and brother’s girlfriend
Lonnie- My grandmother
Alex- My brother and “Bridesman”
Chuck- My step-father


After reading in bed for a few hours, I finally got up to get a shower and go downstairs for breakfast. Of course, I am naked, about to step in the shower when I realize (again) I have no clean towels. I called down to the desk and asked her to send some up. Twenty minutes later, I call back and she says, “Oh! I forgot… let me call housekeeping.” Argh.

I called my mom to come pick me up while I was eating breakfast. I knew she’d need a little bit of a warning. I finished breakfast and went back up to the room to finish packing. Mom called and said the breakfast quiche was taking much longer than expected and that she would call me when she was on her way. I flipped through the channels and found, “Looks Whose Talking Now.” I was in stitches with the clothes they were wearing! It doesn’t get anymore 80s! If you need a good laugh, definitely check that one out now!

Mom and Lonnie picked me up and we headed to the house. Most everyone was still asleep. Fine and well, but I knew getting 4 people through a single guest bathroom was going to take forever. Not to mention my mom was going to be the last one ready because she would be the one getting breakfast served, ready, and the kitchen cleaned. And that’s just how it happened. Despite the fact I kept telling her that I would get the kitchen cleaned up and the bed linens from the couches cleaned up (why Alex and Lindsay couldn’t do this on their own, I don’t know).

We got out of the house around 11:30. It’s a half hour to the nearest small city that has amenities. I knew shopping on the 26th was bad…. But not this bad! First stop was Michaels. We picked up a number of things we needed there. Next stop was Wal-Mart. When we realized no one could park within a mile of the place, we went to get lunch. We stopped at the mall next- I needed a shrug sweater for my rehearsal dress, Mom needed a halter-top bra and earrings for her dress. Chuck gave her the most beautiful necklace for Christmas to go with her dress- circles of white and black diamonds. We stopped at Target on the way out. We headed home to drop my grandmother off. She had a surgery related to the breast cancer that ended up with complication and really drains her.

Mom, Lindsay, and I went to Wal-Mart to get our nails done. They do the best job around and are readily available. The three of us sat down in the chairs for our pedicures. Lindsay asked me something wedding-related. The girl doing her feet looks up and says, “You’re getting married!?! You’re so young.” I say, “I’m 21.” She responds, “Oh. I thought you were like 14.” This coming from someone who didn’t look a day over 16. It was her tone more than anything. Like that supreme I’m above you and can cast judgment tone. She continued to ask how old he was and if he had gone to school, etc. All my answers were succinct. I answered the questions she asked but gave nothing further. A few minute or so later she says, “How long have you been together?” I replied, “Five years on the day we get married.” She set herself up with this next one: “Wow… that’s a long time.” Me: “Yes… that’s the reason we’re getting married.” She didn’t say another word from there. The man I had was so sweet… an absolute doll! We all ended up talking with him instead!

Nails ended up taking a lot longer than expected. We all came in one car, so we had to get home so she could fix dinner. I was bewildered why Chuck was unable to make dinner. He lives there, too. Here it is 8:30 PM and I know I have to go home with my mom just to come back to Wal-Mart alone… and that’s before I get any of the projects done. All this is on 8 hours of sleep in two days. I was just beyond it and wanted to break down and cry.

I headed back to Wal-Mart and got the things I needed. It took about 2 hours. Thankfully, I was able to find candles for the pre-reception centerpieces and mini trees. They were actually attached to stocking holders, but they screwed off. We just had to paint the pots silver (from gold). I left Wal-Mart tired and hungry but satisfied it was all going to be OK.

When I walked through the door (with easily 40 lbs in bags), the stunner hit. I had no sooner gotten in the door than my mom said, “There’s no money left until after the wedding.” I just looked at her and said, “What?” She said, “There xyz in the account and Disney is holding a check for xyz + 500.” This is just exactly what I needed to hear as I walk in the door. Of course, the whole slew of questions ensued as to how that had happened, etc. She started yelling and me and I just turned and walked away.

Then I go to the guest bedroom to find that Alex and Lindsay have moved into it. I am expected to sleep on the couch. This is after the fact that I have been essentially fed painkillers all day because my back was so strained it was spasaming. I was angry… but said nothing. And what’s worse? They have my bag thrown in a back corner (not where I left it) that I couldn’t get to it unless they moved the bed.

I sat down to the table and started painting the pots to the mini trees, finished up shrink wrapping the gift baskets, tied bows on some favors, etc. I had help from Mom and Lindsay through most of it, thankfully. Around 1:30AM, it was all finished. It was then that I found out I really was being expected to sleep on the couch. I already told you about how cluttered and filthy the house was. Alex and Lindsay’s argument was that they had slept on the couch for 4 days and that they should be allowed to have the bed. My biggest problem was that I was actually on painkillers for back pain (I *hate* pills and rarely take them… not even Advil or Tylenol) and was the one expected to stand up straight in a wedding dress in just over 2 days.

They went through my bags for me (!!!) and got me my toiletries and bed clothes so that I wouldn’t have to come into the bedroom. That takes balls. I was so furious I slammed the bathroom door. It woke my grandfather up, unfortunately. He sat down with me and just let me cry. The stress had finally gotten to me. He also confided that at dinner everyone else in the house except my mom thought it was ludicrous that they get the privacy and comfort of a bedroom. I called Brye and just bawled. At that point, all I wanted was to come home. I didn’t even want to deal with the wedding. I was just beyond it.

I finally drifted off to sleep around 4:00AM. Mom and Chuck locked the cat out of the bedroom and kept their dogs in there. She mewed at the door for an hour and a half before finally giving over. At 6:00AM, at first light, the birds started chirping. Of course, it’s winter, an open floor plan, and tiles throughout that room and the room I was sleeping in that joined. So there it was… my 2 hours of sleep. Things can only get better from here.

 

[UnderTheMistletoe]

December 27, 2005
Bridezilla for sixteen hours continues

The Plan:
Get to Disney as fast as possible

The Cast:
Me- The Bride
Brye- The Groom
Diane- Mother-of-the Bride
Lindsay- Bridesmaid and brother’s girlfriend
Lonnie- My grandmother
Alex- My brother and “Bridesman”
Chuck- My step-father
Lillian- Hairdresser
Mutti, Vati, Evan- Brye’s family
Kawaleks- Close family friends
Nicole- Maid of Honor
Mark- Nicole’s significant other

After the birds starting chirping, I just gave up. I knew that was the end of it. With the tiled floor, everything echoes. I let Casey (our dog) out around 6:15AM. Of course, the other three heard me open the door and insisted they be let out as well. Took care of them fed the cats, cleaned the birds water and tried giving them a toy to quiet them down. Lonnie appeared around 6:30AM. She made a cup of coffee and me a cup of tea. We just sat in silence. She knew what was going on… no words needed.

Mom joined us around 6:45AM. She told me that because of the money issues, she wasn’t going to get a spa treatment she’d arranged for that morning and Lindsay wasn’t going to get her hair done. Of course last night before I talked to Brye, I had just resigned myself to the fact that I wasn’t going to get my hair highlighted either. I have only my own credit card and the joint-debit account we share. The money in the debit was for our Disney expenses and we had already spent $250 on a hotel room that we weren’t expecting. I figured there was no way. Brye was so hell bent that I get my hair done and, “By the perfect, pampered bride.” He arranged for it somehow. It was already paid for (tip included) by the time I got to the hairdressers. I still am not sure how.

The three of us sat in silence and drank our respective caffeine kicks. Mom told me that she and Chuck had rearranged a few things to relieve some of the money stress. None of it affected me, so I wasn’t too concerned. We got breakfast ready for the troops. I knew Alex and Lindsay would sleep in. I had a hair appointment at noon and need half an hour to get there. We had to leave from there to get to Disney, so I had to have everything packed and loaded into the car. Not so easy when you don’t have a place to put everything that it yours. I figured I would let them sleep until 9:30AM (8 hours) until someone would have to wake them up and get them out of there so I could get to my stuff.

It was around 10:15AM, after breakfast and playing the TIVOed Jeopardy, that I first started trying to get into that bedroom. I got the door slammed in my face and was yelled at with expletive after expletive to leave them alone- that they hadn’t gotten to sleep in a bed in 4 days and now they were being rushed out of it. When my Mom tried, it was, “We’ll be up in 10 minutes.” Being a push-over, she fell for it. Finally, at 10:45AM I got really impatient. I now had 45 minutes to get ready, packed, and pack the car. The finally got out of bed and a shouting match followed. It was all my fault. Of course it was. And then I got locked out of the bathroom. I was livid. I must have been purple. I got my bags into my grandparents’ room, packed, and waited to get into the bathroom. Finally, at 11:15AM, I brushed my teeth and washed my face in the kitchen sink. That left me 15 minutes to get everything packed into the car… no easy feat but I did it. Of course, because I didn’t have more time, it didn’t leave Alex and Lindsay much room. The most heart-wrenching was saying good-bye to Casey.

I got to the hairdressers just barely on time. It was cutting it close since the appointment had been moved from 10:30 to noon… and we had to be on the road by 2 to get to Disney. She took one look at me and just put her arms around me. It amazed me that the support I was getting wasn’t from my own nuclear family. Lillian got my hair colored, cut, and looking fabulous in no time. One of the other girls ran out to the ABC store and brought back a bottle of champagne. The three of us popped it open and did some cooling down. Another client came in a bit early, and she joined the party. Seemed we all needed to vent about family, the holidays, men, work, etc. Much needed… and I think necessary to sanity!

I fell asleep on the car ride over to Orlando. Finally, my mom sided with me and insisted that they turn the rap music off. Between the lack of sleep and champagne, I was exhausted and headachy from it. I woke up on one of the back roads in through the Windermere area just as the Contemporary comes into view. I called Brye and let him know to meet us at the All-Star in a few minutes. They way we come in, we go through the back lots of Disney and see all the receiving buildings, etc. When we pulled up to the light with DTD and SSR on the right, I huge wave of relief came over me. I was home. My wonderful fiancé ws just a few minutes away, and I didn’t have to deal with family if I didn’t want to. My day had just done a 180.

We arrived at the All-Star and noticed our welcome baskets behind the desk. Brye had delivered them on the 26th with his mom and brother. Apparently, they all had a good time doing it. I got checked into my room for the one night and off-loaded all my stuff into the mini-van. Brye and I were running late… we had as date for the Candlelight Processional! I apologized to Lindsay for being a bridezilla and she replied, “You should be.” Well, honey, you just messed with fire because Brye heard you.

We drove over to the Yacht Club and parked as guests of his parents. We sprinted around the boardwalk to get into the park. Brye had asked what had happened and what was going on with Linday. I told him the full story- and, yes, included that I had been nasty. He picked up the phone, called her and told her that if anyone should be sorry, it was her and Alex. He reminded her that she may have helped with some of the projects last minute, but that it equated to maybe 1/15th of everything that had been done up to that point—and that it had all been my responsibility. He reminded her that she was a bridesmaid and was supposed to be making sure I was comfortable and offering help and support. I’m not sure what happened, but he retrieved a voicemail many hours later of my mom yelling at him because she was in tears and upset. We had let it drop before we got the voicemail, so didn’t even really pay attention to it. I called her once while she was on the road home and nothing came up about it either. Let a dead dog lie.

When we got to the American Pavilion, Mutti was waiting for us. We headed in and found the rest of our large group just as the choir started their processional. Present were me, Brye, his parents, his brother, Mrs. Kawalek, and her two sons (our age). And then it happened……

JOHN SATAMOS CAME ON STAGE!!​

I have had a crush on him since I was about knee-high. I think he is more handsome and dashing in person than on screen! He was so cute and so genuine. It was his last night and you could tell he had really enjoyed himself while doing the Candlelight Processional. I’d never seen the show before, so it was a special treat. One of the most moving parts of the performance was the very end for the “Halleluiah Chorus.” A woman was signing back to the signer on stage… there were tears streaming down the signer’s (onstage) face. It was so moving and so touching. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house for those that had seen what was going on. It was so powerful.

We did the dinner package and had about an hour and fifteen minutes before or seating. We decided to go to the Mitsukoshi Steakhouse and stake out a seat there. It was so nice to catch up with everyone for that time. Brye’s dad was still ill and was so funny. I kissed him on the forehead and he said, “Go away.” He kept no less than 8 feet between us at all times… he didn’t want me to get sick! But, he wasn’t willing to miss out on the traditional dinner at Japan. Poor guy!

Dinner was wonderful. The company was even better. We took up a whole table and had the best time. We were presented with our “Best Wishes” pins from Guest Relations by Brye’s mom. We sported them proudly! By the end of dinner, my fears and stress had melted away.

While the rest of the group stayed in Epcot for the Extra Magic Hours, Brye and I headed back to the ASMo. We dropped Vati off at the YC on the way back, as well. He needed the rest. We had to get our stuff into the room and tie up some loose ends. In the parking lot, Nicole called and said she was royally lost. She said they were at a Hess station. I told her to stay put, as we were about 6 minutes away. We caught up with Cole and Mark at the gas station. It was a reunion if reunions. As best friends, we’ve been to hell and back a few times. She knew what had been going on the past few days. She’s fiercely protective, as well…just like Brye.

We got them checked into the ASMo. As we were hauling our stuff up, we found out our wedding guests were all around us. We ran into the party in the room next to us and they informed us we went right down the line. We said hello to everyone. It was real. It was all coming together!

We dashed out to get the rest of the welcome baskets delivered. When we got back to the room, we both crashed hard. He had his big golf outing at the Lake Buena Vista course tomorrow. I had a spa appointment and the rehearsal dinner, to the best of my knowledge. I really had no ides what was in store for me… and it was months in the making!

 

[happylalagirl]

Jill - I loved reading your story... I can't wait to hear more... it seems like it's turning around at this point for you... what happened next?? The suspense is killing me...

I feel for you and your family situation... I am a person who gets easily stressed, so I am going to do my best to have as much as possible finished and planned ahead of time so I don't have many reasons to get stressed... I want to be happy on my wedding day, and quite honestly, the entire trip... so we will not be staying with my fiance's parents, even though they live 2 1/2 miles outside the Disney Maingate West...

Keep the stories coming....

 

[Chrissie-riel]

Jill - just wondering....are you gonna tell all your family about this little trip report? It might be interesting to find out what they think about your stressful Christmas when they read it from your point of view?!? From your pics, all turned out well, but dishing a little guilt sometimes does a body good!

 

[UnderTheMistletoe]

December 28, 2005

The Plan: Get spoiled... rotten! All things we didn't know about, too!

The Cast:
Me- The Bride
Brye- The Groom
Diane- Mother-of-the Bride (usually “mom”)
Diane- Our event manager
Lindsay- Bridesmaid and brother’s girlfriend
Lonnie- My grandmother
Alex- My brother and “Bridesman”
Chuck- My step-father
Mutti, Vati, Evan- Brye’s family
The Boys- Brye’s attendants and close friends
Aunt Kathleen- The officiant and my aunt (from the UK)
Maryann- Mother-of-the-Groom’s best friend; we have a close relationship with her, too

We woke up around 6:30AM on Wednesday. We were exhausted from being up late the night before and all the excitement of seeing people. I don’t think I’ve ever been less thrilled to hear a Disney character’s voice than the one that was on the wake-up call! Brye hopped in the shower and I flipped the TV on to the “Top 7 Must-See Disney Attractions.” The new girl totally sucks. Totally.

While he got cleaned up, I packed myself a “day bag” with everything I needed to go to the spa and get cleaned up. Everyone was mysteriously asking me what I was going to wear that day. I figured something was up, so I packed nice clothes and good shoes. I knew I had to get cleaned up at the spa because we were checking out of the room at the All-Star that morning.

We got the car loaded in the chilly morning dew. Brye looked quite handsome in his golf clothes. His big golf outing was today. He had been so excited and looking so forward to it. I was hoping it would warm up a bit for them. We had decided many years ago that the idea of a bachelor and/or bachelorette party before the wedding didn’t fit our needs or desires. His golf outing was his “bachelor” party. I thought I just had the wedding to worry about! Boy was I wrong!

We got a quick bite to eat at the cafeteria. How he can eat so much at breakfast is beyond me! I am the type that eggs or any type of meat gross me out in the mornings… he had pancakes, eggs, bacon, and milk. I think being overtired got to me as I was a little queasy. I munched on my banana I the gift shop… he figured it out and realized I wasn’t feeling well.

We drove over to the Grand Floridian spa. We were a little surprised when we walked in and the desk wasn’t where it normally is! Even things at Disney change apparently! We took care of the massage payment and tip before he ever left. Again, it was on the mysterious credit card I didn’t know about. I’ve come to figure out when things got tight, he started using the corporate card. I couldn’t believe he’d called his boss, explained the situation, and had been given permission to use it… all so that I could be the princess he always treats me like. Actions speak louder than words and I am still totally taken aback.

Just as he was on his way out the door (and I was heading to go get changed and settled), he said, “Wait! You have to meet with Diane (the wedding planner) for lunch.” At this point, I raised an eyebrow and said… “And how did you know about that? And what do you mean I *have* to?” He coyly replied, “Don’t ask questions. Just meet her in the lobby at the Grand Floridian for noon.” He winked, turned on one heel and left. The spa employee and I were both bamboozled by the whole encounter. Something was definitely up.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the spa. I had a personalized massage and made sure they concentrated on my aching back. When she turned me over, she worked on the shoulders and collarbones. It felt so good it ached! She explained later, it was a sure-fire way to loosen everything so that I would stand up straight the next day. Afterwards, I enjoyed the hot tub and steam room. I took loads of time in the shower there. I am such a stickler on wasting water, too. Something felt so god about being in the shower there. I took a lavender tablet with me, which worked wonderfully on calming me down and mellowing me out. I carefully washed and rewashed my hair and shaved, not knowing if it might be the last shower I get before walking down the aisle.

My best friend and Maid-of-Honor called and asked me where I was. I told her I was on my way over to the Grand Floridian main lobby. She said she and Mark were near there and that she’d like to stop by. So, we caught up in the lobby. We wandered through Sandy Cove, admired the gingerbread house, and took photos by the tree. I headed to the bathroom and Nicole mysteriously disappeared. I called her on her cell phone to make sure she was OK and she said, “Yeah, I’m fine… just working on something for you. Stay there.” Something was definitely up…….without a shadow of a doubt.

Diane and I caught up around 12:15 in the lobby. It was the first time I’d seen her since getting to Disney. It was very odd seeing her, because I knew this was it… in 36 hours it would all be over. I promised myself again that I would soak up as much of it as I possibly could!

Diane told me that she wanted to show me the Salon we were supposed to be in for the dessert party that we moved. Of course, the Salon room was our inclement weather plan. Because of it, I backed out and moved us to the California Grill. And, on this day, there was absolutely no chance of rain per the National Weather Service. Figures, right? I don’t regret the move as everything at the California Grill was fabulous.

So, we made our way to the convention center and she led me to what I thought was Salon VI. And much to my surprise…. There’s everyone I know and a Mad Tea Party set up on the Whitehall Terrace. THIS was what was definitely going on! I was shocked. Everything was so beautiful. It was so nice catching up with everyone and spending some time outside the wedding with the guests.

After my second serving (I was starving; and the food was divine!), Diane asked me to sit in my seat. My mother-in-law had planned the party and made sure that I had a red chair, just like Alice in the movie. I raised a quizzical eyebrow. Diane replied, “C’mon. I asked you nicely! Please sit down.” I said, “Yes, you did ask nicely,” and sat my toush on my throne of sorts.

Through the double doors came the Mad Hatter! I was in hysterics! I had no idea what was going on… things were getting madder and madder! He was great fun. It turned into a beautiful warm Florida day. I kept placing him in my way so that I didn’t have to squint because of the sun.

The Mad Hatter invited everyone to join us as we cut my cake. The cake was awesome. I have come to find out that when my mother-in-law saw the Mad Hatter cakes, she fell in love with them. She also loves Alice in Wonderland. She knew we would never use that type of cake for a black-tie optional wedding, and took matters into her own hands. Everything that transpired revolved around this stunning cake!

The Mad Hatter placed a Mad Hatter hat on my head… my face in some of the photos is priceless…and we took photos. I happened to catch the slightest thing that went on between the Mad Hatter and the character wrangler. The character wrangler shook his head. Peculiar…very peculiar indeed. The Mad Hatter asked if he could be excused for a moment. Apparently, he needed to go check on his tea. When he walked back in, Alice came with him! I was pleasantly surprised. At this point, I thought nothing could shock me!

Having auditioned for a character role a few years ago, I had been told I’d be auditioning for the part of Alice. Well, let’s just say I can’t dance. I blew the dancing part of the audition and nailed the other three aspects. A few people knew what had happened and noticed me eyeing her. When someone said, “You were too tall…” I took my shoes off and everyone saw we were the same height. I could see the realization Alice’s eyes. She knew exactly what had happened. Same color skin, same color eyes, same height. Apparently, this Alice could dance, whereas I couldn’t learn the choreography fast enough.

We had a nice time with Alice. The Mad Hatter left a little bit after the cake cutting. I think she wanted a piece of the cake. I even sent Diane on a mission to get rid of her wrangler so that she could enjoy a piece. No luck! The wranglers never lost sight of them! And Diane tried…. boy did she!

Alice left and next came the opening of gifts. I couldn’t believe all the lovely things we got. The first were my Mouse Ears. When we were in the park the night before, I saw a little girl with the bride’s ears on and thought those are MINE! I was wondering why we weren’t allowed to buy them!
The event ended and I gathered up as many of the items from the Whitehall room and patio that I could. I am going to make a scrapbook for Mutti as a thank you gift. It was a quick turn on the room. I knew from watching the monitors in the Grand Floridian lobby there were three cocktail and pre-receptions there that day! The decorating staff was very nice and let us gather our belongings and arrange the bags, etc.

Mrs. Kawalek, Mutti and I went over to the Grand Floridian to check me in. The snippy girl at the front desk had put us in Building 7- as far away from the lobby as possible. I said, “No. I want to be in buildings 8 or 9. I even requested that. I know your booked solid, but I refuse to have a dirty wedding gown because I had to walk all the way over from there.” She was nasty and got on the phone. After ten minutes of rollin her eyes and huffing and puffing, she said, “I’m sorry. You’re in Building 7.” I said, “Get me your front desk manager. Now.”

The concierge manager, who I’d met while I was waiting earlier, was behind us at that moment. She asked for his help. I explained the situation to him. More than anything I stressed I was not paying Disney xyz amount of money for a single day to have a dirty dress by the time I got to the lobby for photos. I reminded him that I had requested buildings 8 or 9 and was willing to wait until they were cleaned to move in there.

DJ was very kind and let me know about using the bell services golf carts for transportation to get to the lobby. He still couldn’t fix the wind messing up the hair issue. He asked for us take a seat and offered us beverages. He warned us it could be awhile. We sat and chatted about the bridal tea and how wonderful it was… and how you know what the cast member at the desk was.

DJ returned and said, “I am so sorry. We are sold out for Buildings 8 and 9. I will not be able to put you there.” At this point, we looked at each other and I could feel the tears welling in my eyes. "But," he continued...that was just a dramatic pause…”I have a room on the forth floor here in the main building available. I have every reason to believe you will love it.” I looked at him and said, “Here? (pointing at the floor)In this building?!” I knew there were guest rooms in the main building, I just had no idea they were concierge, etc.

He escorted us upstairs and took the heavy baggage cart with the flowers, cake, and gifts up for us. I should preface this by saying my dream has to always been to stay in one of the turret rooms. From the time I was a little girl, I had called them princess rooms. Brye and I had always promised each other that, one day, we would make enough money to stay there. When we custom buid a house, we want to unclude a turret and a reading bench. Again, it all goes back to my childhood and princess rooms.

When DJ opened to room to the door, I wasn’t sure if I should laugh, cry, or jump up and down. I did all three. And let out and excited scream of a yelp. I was shocked! And yes, even after everything that had already happened that day! I could not believe what I was seeing. Neither could Mutti or Mrs. Kawalek! We all stood there in stunned silence and took it in. DJ went over to the window, opened the lace, and said, “I give you the best view in all of Disney.” Just then, the castle came into view. It was directly across from the bed. That night we went to bed with the windows open, looking at the castle. We had 180 degree panoramic views of the Polynesian, Wedding Pavilion, Beach, resort grounds, Contemporary, and the Seven Seas Lagoon. It was mind boggling. And we had a soaking tub and bar! There was a basket of cheese and wine on the table.

I asked DJ to call whoever was responsible for this switch so that we could thank them. He got her on the line and I just gushed. It had been a bad day- a lot of unhappy guests- and she said our call made a world of difference. DJ left us to enjoy the room. We called everyone we knew… and had a bunch of people traipse in and out of the room just to admire it. Brye’s reaction was to die for. Of course, I had to go get him because he had no key. When I opened the door, he looked at me, raised his eyebrows, and said, “Is this the right room, Jill?”

Our room was the one of the 4th floor!​

Photo courtesy of DIS webpage, GF resort page​

I found some photos similar to our room online! We were in 4421- the Ponce De Leon. We were oriented to the other side of the resort, so our room was set up the opposite way. Additionally, our colors were heavily in the blues and yellows... little pink.

Note: The site is locked up tight. You will have to run a Google search for "S u i t e D i s n e y" without the spaces. Click on "Disney Suites" on the left hand. Click "Grand Floridian" and then the "Honeymoon Turret."

 

[JonetteA]

K now I want to see pictures of the room!

 

[UnderTheMistletoe]

K now I want to see pictures of the room!

Would you hit me if I told you we didn't get any?
:::ducks:::​

We filmed it when we were leaving. Brye had the camera and the camcorder. By the time he got to the room, we had 20 minutes until we had to leave for the rehearsal... apparently, they are much worse goflers than expected becuase it took so long ... we got back to the room that night, crashed, and he left in the morning with the camera and camcorder again. We didn't get them until the person brough the car back to us!

You can see it in the getting ready photos... the bar, the windows, etc.

 

[Laurafoster]

Sounds great! cnt wait to see your actual room!

 

[happylalagirl]

That room is BEAUTIFUL!!! I hope you enjoyed it... my goodness!!! We are still worrying about whether or not we're going to be able to afford our wedding, never mind our honeymoon at Disney...

Those pics are beautiful. Thank you for sharing the website.

 

[WDWNicole]

I'm waiting eagerly for your next post!

 

[JonetteA]

Would you hit me if I told you we didn't get any?
:::ducks:::​

We filmed it when we were leaving. Brye had the camera and the camcorder. By the time he got to the room, we had 20 minutes until we had to leave for the rehearsal... apparently, they are much worse goflers than expected becuase it took so long ... we got back to the room that night, crashed, and he left in the morning with the camera and camcorder again. We didn't get them until the person brough the car back to us!

You can see it in the getting ready photos... the bar, the windows, etc.

You are killing me!!! I am going to have to throw those little floatie bath ducks at you now!!! =) Am I the only one that thinks that Disney should provide those in ALL of its bathrooms? I sometimes just need a good bath toy!

 

[princessblueeyzes]

I'm so glad that things started to turn around for you and you were able to at least have a great bridal party. I can't wait to read more about your trip and see the pictures.