A Mermaid Finds Her Prince

Mandi, 24, Lake Elsinore, CA

 

One day after work, my boyfriend said we should go to Disneyland to take pictures of the both of us at Ariel's Grotto (now Pixie Hollow). "The Little Mermaid" is my favorite movie, probably to the point of being an unhealthy obsession. I figured he was up to something, since a.) Mikey's not the photographic type and b.) I had just thrown what could be best classified as a hissy fit earlier that week about where our relationship was going.

It was already dark when we arrived at the Park. We had just enough time to ride the teacups, have his brother take our picture, and grab seats to watch the "Remember ... Dreams Come True" fireworks – my favorite fireworks display of all time. When we got to the roped-off seashell where Ariel greets Guests during the day, we slipped in and he pretended to fix his shoe lace. (His laces didn't even tie!)

While down on one knee, he pulled out a black velvet box. At first I thought he was presenting me with another promise ring, but when I looked at it, it was the exact setting I told him I wanted before our fight! I did what I always do when feeling such strong emotions (elated and feeling like a heel for starting a fight with this wonderful man) – I bawled like a baby while his brother took pictures of the whole thing.

Mikey finally said, "You haven't given me an answer." Through my blubbering I finally managed to blurt out a "Yes!" We took some more pictures and then squeezed into the crowd to watch the fireworks in front of the castle. We've been married about seven months now. Ariel's Grotto and that wonderful seashell are gone, but the fireworks still make me giddy when remembering how I felt that night. And how do I know this mermaid has found her prince? He had already bought the ring before I made a fool of myself by starting that silly fight!

Special Treatment

Jolene, 63, Taylorsville, UT

 

While on a recent trip to Disneyland, our grandsons wanted to learn how to become Jedi at the Jedi Training Academy. There we ran into some friends whose eight-year-old son is blind. He was just as excited as all the other children to start his Jedi training.

When he was selected, I was delighted to see one of the Cast Members stay by his side to help him follow the instructions and move around the stage. What a thrill for that little boy and his family! We were all touched by the special attention given to our friend, and knowing how it made his vacation at the Magic Kingdom truly magical! Thanks to all the Jedi Training Cast Members for letting this little guy feel so special!

I've Come All This Way ...

Nancy, 61, Annapolis, MD

 

Disney World has always been one of my "laughing places" since my children were little. The first time we went, our oldest daughter, Tammie, was seven and our middle daughter, Lisa, was four. Of course, we had the big build-up of what we were going to do and who we were going to see and their excitement just grew and grew.

The day finally arrived. We walked into the Magic Kingdom for the very first time. There stood Main Street and Cinderella's Castle right in front of us. Mickey Mouse himself was walking in from a side entrance. My four-year-old let go of my hand and ran straight to him, hugging his legs as far as her little arms could reach, and said, "I've come all this way just to see you!"

This was a moment my husband and I (and probably Mickey himself) will never forget and it was the beginning of many beautiful memories of Disney World to come!

Family Ties to Winnie the Pooh

Peter, 54, Naples, FL

 

My grandmother, Jesse Milne, was a cousin of the author A.A. Milne. She came to the United States from Great Britain early in the last century and settled on the Northern plains. I am proud of this heritage, and glad that the story of Winnie the Pooh continues to bring joy and happiness to countless others. I want to thank the Disney Company for making this iconic character come alive and not fade as so many others have done.

Surprise Ride Saving our Day

Jim, 43, Acton, MA

 

 

Our story took place in Disney World two years ago when me, my wife, and our two daughters (along with friends and their son) were trying to get to Disney's Hollywood Studios on time to see the late showing of Fantasmic.

Our schedule was very tight, and we arrived at the transportation center just as our bus was leaving. As we stood there fully deflated, one of the employees approached us and asked what was wrong. As we explained our plight, he listened but then walked off, seemingly indifferent. To our amazement, a luxury motor coach pulled up two minutes later and the same employee told us to board the coach and that the driver would take us to the Studio! We were all stunned and grateful for his help. What an awesome Disney representative – we made the show with time to spare!

Making a Mom's Day not so Lonely

BethAline, Daytona Beach, FL

 

I bought my first Disney pass when I turned 40 and my son was still in a stroller. We traveled from Daytona Beach to Walt Disney World at least once a month by ourselves to enjoy a day away from all duties and obligations.

One day I sat down in the Magic Kingdom to relax and enjoy an Itzakadoozy and watch the passing crowds. As my son could not yet talk, I was a little lonely that day. Of course, I dropped my ice cream wrapper and tried to catch it as quickly as possible, but a passing Disney Cast Member stopped and got it for me, making a friendly remark that perked up my day. That helpful contact made me realize that I was not truly alone and I felt a warm fuzzy feeling that I associate with Disney World to this day.

That friendly encounter gave me a reference point. Now I make it a point to wish button-wearing people a "Happy Birthday" and enjoy talking to park Guests about the best parts of Disney – where to eat, great rides, where to make sure you get a Fast Pass, and other important information that makes a Disney day the most magical. Walt Disney World is home to me and my son and we always have "happy hands" when we drive through the entrance! A little kindness has gone a long way.

First Disneyland Visit

Carol, 53, Ronkonkoma, NY

 

As a long-time fan and a more than 20-time visitor to Walt Disney World, I finally got to visit the "original" Disneyland last month. My husband and I loved the intimate feeling of the Park.

We took the Walk in Walt's Footsteps Tour. Our tour guide was wonderful and explained so many little-known facts about how Disneyland came to be and Walt's thoughts during the process. The jungle cruise is different but so much fun, and I have a new appreciation for the Tiki Birds as well! California Adventure Park was wonderful too.

I can't wait till the next time I can say, "California Here I Come!"