It certainly did lighten up for you chrissa and proved a success after all your doubts. I don't know about your theory of it being the thickened cream which caused it to be 'gluggy' but it pays to keep an eye on it. I think this is one of those desserts that, once you've made it for the first time, you know what to expect next time. I only use thickened cream in anything, never pouring cream.
Glad DH enjoyed it too.