FEB 28 TUESDAY
Since today was another sea day we were able to sleep as late as we wanted but 7:45 we were both
awake. Went to the buffet for breakfast and Lorraine had called and told us there was gong to be a very
good movie in the cinema at noon today so we met them there. It's a good thing we got there early as
the place was filled and lots of people had to leave. The movie was an Aussie one based on a true story.
It was called Red Dog and Lorraine said the end was sad. Well of course the middle was sad too so the
crying started earlier than expected. Even some men were crying and aside from Enid's cough all you
heard were sniffles. By the end of the movie there weren't many dry eyes at all.
We started to go for lunch but noticed lots of folks outside and realized we were approachig the Great
Barrier Reef and the water was a light green and it was just gorgeous. We all ran outside but the sun
was so bright we just aimed our cameras and shot pictures but had no idea of what we were getting.
When we finally went back in we were able to examine the shots and we got some good ones but
I'm sure we could've done better.
Tonight in the theater is the great singer we enjoyed the other evening and after that is the Liar's Club
so we should have another enjoyable time. Ann and John and Lorraine and Ed are the lovliest people
we have met in a long time and for sure we will always treasure them as new found friends.
SUE---The widest part of my cast which of over the thumb and the palm of my hand measures 9 1/2
inches. I really appreciate your gettig a new covering for me as the one I have now is looking pretty
raunchy. Counting the days till you get onboard. The personnel might have changed but the service
is still top notch and the cruise director Ian will oly be on till Hawaii so we'll have to break a new one in.
We've got the assistant maitre de just where we want him so no worries there. The captains circle
hostess is getting off in Sydney so there is another one we'll get to know very fast.
JULES--We were going to get Hugo for our waiter for the next two cruises but he is beng promoted to
manager of the crew mess hall and the officers also. Everytime we see him he throws us kisses and he
knew we were going to sit with hm in select dning so he told us about the promotion. Have a great
time in Galapagos and make sure you bring the photos when we go to Iceland in August.
We just got back to the cabin after a wonderful performance by the guitarist/singer and once again he
got a standing ovation. Then we went to thenLiar's Club where they had words like dik-dik, spermophile,
pisona and tittup. We, as a group only got 2 right and there were 10 of us. That was a pretty poor result.
Tomorrow is another sea day so we hope to sleep a little later than today.
I'm still waitig for an update on Sandy. Please ket me know how she is doing and tell her Sweet Dreams
from the both of us.
I've also forgotten to ask how La Cage Au Follies was. Please fill me in on that since I wanted to see it
so badly.
HELENE--I emailed Laura saying I did want the insurance. Glad you got the airfare r/t LAX. Keep me informed about your tests. You fit right in with me and Enid.
The shows tonight were both good. At the Liar's Club the words they gave us were
dik-dik, spermophile, tittup and pisonia. Did any of you ever here those words before?
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
FEB 27
FEB 27 MONDAY
It is 10:00 AM on Monday and here we are in a nightclb on the ship watching the red carpet before the
Oscars and it's live. I am so excited that they have it on the ship. I hope Billy Crystal is as great as
his previous They are handing out ballots for us to fill out and the person that has the most right will win a
good prize including a dinner at Murano. Last night I won a raffle in the casino that included a key chain,
3 match play coupons at the table, a free casino drink, and 20 off a spa treatment. Now they have put
out an ice carving of the golden globe and they are serving cookies. They ave also put out ketchup and
mustard but we'll have to wait and see what is going with that. They brought out assorted wraps,
different cheeses and quiche lorraine. It was a very classy act and lots of people were there to watch.
Ann and Lorraine joined us for part of it and then went up to lunch.
After dinner I had a migraine and could not go to the show but Enid did say it was an illusionist and he
was very good.
It is 10:00 AM on Monday and here we are in a nightclb on the ship watching the red carpet before the
Oscars and it's live. I am so excited that they have it on the ship. I hope Billy Crystal is as great as
his previous They are handing out ballots for us to fill out and the person that has the most right will win a
good prize including a dinner at Murano. Last night I won a raffle in the casino that included a key chain,
3 match play coupons at the table, a free casino drink, and 20 off a spa treatment. Now they have put
out an ice carving of the golden globe and they are serving cookies. They ave also put out ketchup and
mustard but we'll have to wait and see what is going with that. They brought out assorted wraps,
different cheeses and quiche lorraine. It was a very classy act and lots of people were there to watch.
Ann and Lorraine joined us for part of it and then went up to lunch.
After dinner I had a migraine and could not go to the show but Enid did say it was an illusionist and he
was very good.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Feb 26
FEB 26 SATURDAY
We got up at 6 AM (that was very hard), went for breakfast and got ready to meet our group of weary
travelers. Unfortunately our bus didn't show up until 8 so we didn't have a good start to the day. We went
to Litchfield Park and went to see a waterfall where some people were going to swim bit we were there
1/2 hour so it was kinda fast. We walked forever to see this waterfall and when we got there it was about
2 feet high. That migt be what Aussies call a waterfall but it was a total waste of time. We left there and
went to Wangi Falls and that's what we call falls. It was beautiful and worth the walk in the scorching heat.
I have to say that we drove 120 miles to get to the park so I was abe to get some more sleep. From there
we went to a crocodile jumping cruise and it was exactly that. The crocs were huge and I got great photos
of them jumping and trying to grab the food that they were being teased with. Then on the way back to
the ship our driver took us on a tour of Darwin which is a beautiful city. The homes reminded us of Florida.
We got back to the ship at 5:30 so we had a very long day. Everytime we got out of the van we thought
we might melt so were greatful to get back to total air conditioning. The show last night was one of the
singers from the production shows and he was very good. By 10:30 we were in bed.
We got up at 6 AM (that was very hard), went for breakfast and got ready to meet our group of weary
travelers. Unfortunately our bus didn't show up until 8 so we didn't have a good start to the day. We went
to Litchfield Park and went to see a waterfall where some people were going to swim bit we were there
1/2 hour so it was kinda fast. We walked forever to see this waterfall and when we got there it was about
2 feet high. That migt be what Aussies call a waterfall but it was a total waste of time. We left there and
went to Wangi Falls and that's what we call falls. It was beautiful and worth the walk in the scorching heat.
I have to say that we drove 120 miles to get to the park so I was abe to get some more sleep. From there
we went to a crocodile jumping cruise and it was exactly that. The crocs were huge and I got great photos
of them jumping and trying to grab the food that they were being teased with. Then on the way back to
the ship our driver took us on a tour of Darwin which is a beautiful city. The homes reminded us of Florida.
We got back to the ship at 5:30 so we had a very long day. Everytime we got out of the van we thought
we might melt so were greatful to get back to total air conditioning. The show last night was one of the
singers from the production shows and he was very good. By 10:30 we were in bed.
feb 25
FEB 25 SATURDAY
It's another sea day and altough it's hot (again) it is overcast and it did rain for about 15 minutes, We spent
the morning playing Phase 10 with Lorraine and Ann from Sydney. They are also our tablemates and I'm
so happy that we've met them and their husbands Ed and John. The men are brothers and are also very
nice. They are the people that now sit in the front with us. By the way, we are not sittng in the fron row
as usual because the stage is so high we would have stiff necks if we sat there. We now sit in the third
or fourth and it feels strange.
Before I forget would someone please update me on Sandy's medical problems. Helene, how are you
doing?
This afternoon we played with Ann and Lorraine in a Aussie trivia (like Enid and I could answer any of
the questions) and of course we didn't win. No surprise there but we did have fun. Then we stayed
around for a cooking demonstration and they gave us samples so it made it worthwhile.
For dinner tonight I had baby lamb chops again (3 times in 9 nights-someone might think I enjoy them).
Since the beginning of the cruise we had 8 people at our table for 10 until tonight. Tonight a new couple
came to our table and when they told us her name we all laughed. Would you believe her name was Enid?
They're probably the only 2 Enid's on the ship. We had a birthday cake for Lorraine and Ed and you would've
thought we gave her a million dollars; she was thrilled and told half the ship what we did. As she says, we'll
be friends for life.
The show was a production called Liverpool Knights about the sixties and it was bad. I couldn't wait to get
out of there. The music was loud and drowning out the singers, it seemed disjointed with no rhyme or
reason and most of our group didn't enjoy it all all.
Enough for now--tomorrow we're in Darwin and getting off the ship at 7:15 in the morning which means
we'll be up at 6 AM.
It's another sea day and altough it's hot (again) it is overcast and it did rain for about 15 minutes, We spent
the morning playing Phase 10 with Lorraine and Ann from Sydney. They are also our tablemates and I'm
so happy that we've met them and their husbands Ed and John. The men are brothers and are also very
nice. They are the people that now sit in the front with us. By the way, we are not sittng in the fron row
as usual because the stage is so high we would have stiff necks if we sat there. We now sit in the third
or fourth and it feels strange.
Before I forget would someone please update me on Sandy's medical problems. Helene, how are you
doing?
This afternoon we played with Ann and Lorraine in a Aussie trivia (like Enid and I could answer any of
the questions) and of course we didn't win. No surprise there but we did have fun. Then we stayed
around for a cooking demonstration and they gave us samples so it made it worthwhile.
For dinner tonight I had baby lamb chops again (3 times in 9 nights-someone might think I enjoy them).
Since the beginning of the cruise we had 8 people at our table for 10 until tonight. Tonight a new couple
came to our table and when they told us her name we all laughed. Would you believe her name was Enid?
They're probably the only 2 Enid's on the ship. We had a birthday cake for Lorraine and Ed and you would've
thought we gave her a million dollars; she was thrilled and told half the ship what we did. As she says, we'll
be friends for life.
The show was a production called Liverpool Knights about the sixties and it was bad. I couldn't wait to get
out of there. The music was loud and drowning out the singers, it seemed disjointed with no rhyme or
reason and most of our group didn't enjoy it all all.
Enough for now--tomorrow we're in Darwin and getting off the ship at 7:15 in the morning which means
we'll be up at 6 AM.
Friday, February 24, 2012
feb 24
FEB 24 FRIDAY
Today was another sea day so really nothing to report. Tonight's show was another great one. It was
a guitarist singer from Las Vegas named Mario D'Angelo and he was fantastic. He got a standing ovation
and he'll be on 1 more time before he gets off. That is a show we definitely won't miss. Our tablemates
sat in the front behind us for the last 2 nights and we told them they can't go to the back again, as we've
been lucky since they moved forward. You can call me "stupidicious", yes that is the correct spelling just
in case you've never heard the word before. It's probably a new word to all of you since I made it up.
Tomorrow is another sea day and a formal night before we reach Darwin.
Today was another sea day so really nothing to report. Tonight's show was another great one. It was
a guitarist singer from Las Vegas named Mario D'Angelo and he was fantastic. He got a standing ovation
and he'll be on 1 more time before he gets off. That is a show we definitely won't miss. Our tablemates
sat in the front behind us for the last 2 nights and we told them they can't go to the back again, as we've
been lucky since they moved forward. You can call me "stupidicious", yes that is the correct spelling just
in case you've never heard the word before. It's probably a new word to all of you since I made it up.
Tomorrow is another sea day and a formal night before we reach Darwin.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
FEB 23
FEB. 23 THURSDAY
Where do I begin (sounds like a song to me) to tell you about our fantastic day. We docked a little late
due to a lot of ship traffic in the port of Benoa, Bali. We got off almost as soon as we docked to find our
private taxi driver that Elaine had arranged for to show us around. Wen we found him we had to go through
a gate that had at least 200 cab drivers and people wanting us to go with them or buy something from them
even though they said it was for free. Right, nothing in Bali is free. Elaine asked how mch he was charging
us before we got in the minivan. He gave some outrageous number in rupees and she asked how much in
U.S. dollars and he said 48.00. He was planning on drivng us around for 7 hours and that 48 was for all of
us, not per person. How amazing is that!!!! He had to pay for parking where ever we went so that had to be
about 10.00 for the day. I don't know how they make a living with those prices.
We went to a batik factory, a wood carving place,a monkey park (which was great), a silver factory,
2 temples (one where we had to put sarongs around our waist with a sash), a big city called Ubud where
we were going to stay for an hour but Elaine was finished looking at the stores so it was cut short (for
which we were thankful) and also the terraced rice patties before heading back to the ship.
Let me tell you there are millions of motorcycles (everyone has at least one) and they run around cars
like crazy. You couldn't pay me to drive here. What I'm not saying is it was brutally hot here today. I was
sweating so much the water ran down my forehead right onto my glasses. No matter where we got out
of the van, it was HOT!!! The driver was really good, spoke English okay and when we got back to the ship
we each gave him 15.00. Believe me when I tell you it was worth 48 per person as the cruise line was
charging 99.00 for much less sightseeing.
We got back to the ship just in time to go for dinner which was a very good veal chop. Did I mention
that the assistant waiter cuts our food for us since we can't do it. The show tonight was excellent--the best
one yet. It was a singer from Australia named Janine Reed and she could really belt out those songs.
It's time for bed as it's already past 11 and we have to turn the clocks ahead (are you ready for this)
90 minutes tonight. Isn't that odd?
Tomorrow is a sea day so at least we can sleep as late as we want. If we make it to 8:30 it will be
a miracle.
Hope this finds everyone well as we are finding more ailments every day.
Where do I begin (sounds like a song to me) to tell you about our fantastic day. We docked a little late
due to a lot of ship traffic in the port of Benoa, Bali. We got off almost as soon as we docked to find our
private taxi driver that Elaine had arranged for to show us around. Wen we found him we had to go through
a gate that had at least 200 cab drivers and people wanting us to go with them or buy something from them
even though they said it was for free. Right, nothing in Bali is free. Elaine asked how mch he was charging
us before we got in the minivan. He gave some outrageous number in rupees and she asked how much in
U.S. dollars and he said 48.00. He was planning on drivng us around for 7 hours and that 48 was for all of
us, not per person. How amazing is that!!!! He had to pay for parking where ever we went so that had to be
about 10.00 for the day. I don't know how they make a living with those prices.
We went to a batik factory, a wood carving place,a monkey park (which was great), a silver factory,
2 temples (one where we had to put sarongs around our waist with a sash), a big city called Ubud where
we were going to stay for an hour but Elaine was finished looking at the stores so it was cut short (for
which we were thankful) and also the terraced rice patties before heading back to the ship.
Let me tell you there are millions of motorcycles (everyone has at least one) and they run around cars
like crazy. You couldn't pay me to drive here. What I'm not saying is it was brutally hot here today. I was
sweating so much the water ran down my forehead right onto my glasses. No matter where we got out
of the van, it was HOT!!! The driver was really good, spoke English okay and when we got back to the ship
we each gave him 15.00. Believe me when I tell you it was worth 48 per person as the cruise line was
charging 99.00 for much less sightseeing.
We got back to the ship just in time to go for dinner which was a very good veal chop. Did I mention
that the assistant waiter cuts our food for us since we can't do it. The show tonight was excellent--the best
one yet. It was a singer from Australia named Janine Reed and she could really belt out those songs.
It's time for bed as it's already past 11 and we have to turn the clocks ahead (are you ready for this)
90 minutes tonight. Isn't that odd?
Tomorrow is a sea day so at least we can sleep as late as we want. If we make it to 8:30 it will be
a miracle.
Hope this finds everyone well as we are finding more ailments every day.
FEB 22
FEB 22 WEDNESDAY
Actually today was quiet as it was a sea day so we relaxed in a shady spot by the pool. The heat is brutal
but today there was a little breeze. Before I forget the comedian last night was really bad. We couldn't
walk out because we were in the front but today we heard a lot of people in the back did leave.
Tonight's show is a combo of the crap from last night and the good pianist but we skipped it entirely.
Oh, I forgot, last night we went to the Crystal Room where they were playing the Liar's Club. For those
of you that never heard of it, it's like Balderdash where they find extremely hard words (or should I say
uncommon words) and give the right answer and two wrong answers and we have to guess which one is
correct. It was standing room only. Glad we were able to get seats. It was hilarious. One of the guest
speakers was playng and his name for the show was Dr. Ayam Pisstof. He ws so funny. They brought
him a drink with a straw in it and they always leave some of the paper on the top part of the straw so he
said his straw has protection. He sad it was for "safe sucks".
Tomorrow we will be in Bali and the forecast is for 99 degrees. By the time we get back to the ship I'll be
able to win any wet t-shirt contest in the world. Tonight they played Jeopardy which we enjoyed although
we were just spectators.
Actually today was quiet as it was a sea day so we relaxed in a shady spot by the pool. The heat is brutal
but today there was a little breeze. Before I forget the comedian last night was really bad. We couldn't
walk out because we were in the front but today we heard a lot of people in the back did leave.
Tonight's show is a combo of the crap from last night and the good pianist but we skipped it entirely.
Oh, I forgot, last night we went to the Crystal Room where they were playing the Liar's Club. For those
of you that never heard of it, it's like Balderdash where they find extremely hard words (or should I say
uncommon words) and give the right answer and two wrong answers and we have to guess which one is
correct. It was standing room only. Glad we were able to get seats. It was hilarious. One of the guest
speakers was playng and his name for the show was Dr. Ayam Pisstof. He ws so funny. They brought
him a drink with a straw in it and they always leave some of the paper on the top part of the straw so he
said his straw has protection. He sad it was for "safe sucks".
Tomorrow we will be in Bali and the forecast is for 99 degrees. By the time we get back to the ship I'll be
able to win any wet t-shirt contest in the world. Tonight they played Jeopardy which we enjoyed although
we were just spectators.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
FEB 21
FEB 21 TUESDAY
I've decided to write the day as we have no concept of days wen onboard. Today we will be in Broome
and I have a private tour and Enid has a ship tour. We woke up this morning to thunder and lightening and
then heavy rain. We went up to the buffet for breakfast and the starboard side looked much worse than
the port side which we are on. When we left the buffet you couldn't see much out the windows but when
we got to our cabin it was clear and calm. I can only hope it stays that way. They are predicting a high
of 93 today so I'm hoping we have a lot of clouds. Tonight's entertainment is a gravitional comedian but
no one knows what that means so maybe we'll sit in the back even though we've met really nice folks down
in the 4th row. More when I get back from my tour.
We stood on our balcony as the ship was docking and the pier is smaller than the ship. We docked 3
hours late because of the tides and are staying later so the tides can rise again. From where we docked
to land was an unbelievable long stretch and Enid and I just looked at one another and couldn't believe
the trek we were going to have. When we walked off the ship there was our small little van waiting for us.
Back from 4 1/2 hours touring in extremely hot and humid Broome. It was interesting as we went around
and got the history of the town, the pearl luggers, cable beach where they have camel rides (believe it
when I say we missed the opportunity), dinosaur footprints (hard to believe), and even a Japanese
cemetary. It felt fantastic to get back to a cool ship.
I've decided to write the day as we have no concept of days wen onboard. Today we will be in Broome
and I have a private tour and Enid has a ship tour. We woke up this morning to thunder and lightening and
then heavy rain. We went up to the buffet for breakfast and the starboard side looked much worse than
the port side which we are on. When we left the buffet you couldn't see much out the windows but when
we got to our cabin it was clear and calm. I can only hope it stays that way. They are predicting a high
of 93 today so I'm hoping we have a lot of clouds. Tonight's entertainment is a gravitional comedian but
no one knows what that means so maybe we'll sit in the back even though we've met really nice folks down
in the 4th row. More when I get back from my tour.
We stood on our balcony as the ship was docking and the pier is smaller than the ship. We docked 3
hours late because of the tides and are staying later so the tides can rise again. From where we docked
to land was an unbelievable long stretch and Enid and I just looked at one another and couldn't believe
the trek we were going to have. When we walked off the ship there was our small little van waiting for us.
Back from 4 1/2 hours touring in extremely hot and humid Broome. It was interesting as we went around
and got the history of the town, the pearl luggers, cable beach where they have camel rides (believe it
when I say we missed the opportunity), dinosaur footprints (hard to believe), and even a Japanese
cemetary. It felt fantastic to get back to a cool ship.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
FEB 20
FEB 20, 2012
For those of us that live in Florida, believe me when I say it is nothing compared to the heat in Australia.
Today is the second sea day and after sitting in the sun for 15 minutes, we were done. We moved our
chairs in the shade and it was still hot. They came around with ice cold wash cloths which made us very
happy. We were told the further we go the hotter it will be. It feels like we are sitting in an oven.
Tonight's entertainment is going to be a comedian so we have to decide if we will sit up close or in the
back in case he stinks. We made the wrong decision and sat in the front and culdn't leave. He was an
Aussie comedian and spoke so fast with that accent we didn't understand most of what he was saying.
We had Aussies behind us and they were hysterical laughing. We got flowers and wine from the hotel
director when we got to our cabin as we had spoken to him earlier and I mentioned that the previous hotel
director had spoiled us. I guess he's trying to make it a competion.
HELENE--Will you please call someone to tell them I can't go to Kravis on the 17th. Please keep me up
to date on your everything snce so much is hurting. How is Barbara doing?
For those of us that live in Florida, believe me when I say it is nothing compared to the heat in Australia.
Today is the second sea day and after sitting in the sun for 15 minutes, we were done. We moved our
chairs in the shade and it was still hot. They came around with ice cold wash cloths which made us very
happy. We were told the further we go the hotter it will be. It feels like we are sitting in an oven.
Tonight's entertainment is going to be a comedian so we have to decide if we will sit up close or in the
back in case he stinks. We made the wrong decision and sat in the front and culdn't leave. He was an
Aussie comedian and spoke so fast with that accent we didn't understand most of what he was saying.
We had Aussies behind us and they were hysterical laughing. We got flowers and wine from the hotel
director when we got to our cabin as we had spoken to him earlier and I mentioned that the previous hotel
director had spoiled us. I guess he's trying to make it a competion.
HELENE--Will you please call someone to tell them I can't go to Kravis on the 17th. Please keep me up
to date on your everything snce so much is hurting. How is Barbara doing?
Sunday, February 19, 2012
FEB 19
FEB 19, 2012
I am so relieved that I can finally work on my computer and do emails and post on my blog. Last night
we went to the theater after dinner and a short stint in the casino. The show was a pianist from Sydney
and he ws excellent which came as a total surprise. We are such live wires that we were in bed before 11.
Not only did we go to sleep early but we got up at 8:40 this morning. Those of you that know me,
know that is very late for me. We even went to the computer room before we went to breakfast so I
could check my emails and finally post previous days on the blog. Hopefully now I will post everyday.
This morning we also had the Cruise Critic meet and mingle and it was pretty much as disorganized as
usual. They had a gift exchange and although 100 people signed up for it, there were less than 10.
We did get to meet some of the people we are doing private tours with so that was fun.
After dinner with 2 lovely couples from Sydney we went to the theater and saw a production show called
"dancing around the world" and I can't believe it was a first time for me. Spent some time making donations
in the casino but we are still enjoying ourselves.
BARBARA--Thank you for answering Donna but it's not the Donna you thought it was. Please keep me
updated on Sandy. How is your eye doing?
HELENE--I don't know if you booked New Zealand yet but after the long flight to Sydney, I'm
not sure I want to do it again. Keep me up to date with your foot. At this rate I won't have a healthy
friend. We're going downhill like crazy.
SUE--I can't wait to see you and get your impression of the ship. The CD isn't bad but definitely not
Sue Denning.
JULES--Where are you when I need my computer guru to help me. The knee is okay most of the time
so I can tolerate it well.
JOY--What's happening on the baby front?
I have tried to answer most of the emails here so if I've missed any let me know. I'm sure the people
that don't know us too well are thinking what a motley crew we are.
I am so relieved that I can finally work on my computer and do emails and post on my blog. Last night
we went to the theater after dinner and a short stint in the casino. The show was a pianist from Sydney
and he ws excellent which came as a total surprise. We are such live wires that we were in bed before 11.
Not only did we go to sleep early but we got up at 8:40 this morning. Those of you that know me,
know that is very late for me. We even went to the computer room before we went to breakfast so I
could check my emails and finally post previous days on the blog. Hopefully now I will post everyday.
This morning we also had the Cruise Critic meet and mingle and it was pretty much as disorganized as
usual. They had a gift exchange and although 100 people signed up for it, there were less than 10.
We did get to meet some of the people we are doing private tours with so that was fun.
After dinner with 2 lovely couples from Sydney we went to the theater and saw a production show called
"dancing around the world" and I can't believe it was a first time for me. Spent some time making donations
in the casino but we are still enjoying ourselves.
BARBARA--Thank you for answering Donna but it's not the Donna you thought it was. Please keep me
updated on Sandy. How is your eye doing?
HELENE--I don't know if you booked New Zealand yet but after the long flight to Sydney, I'm
not sure I want to do it again. Keep me up to date with your foot. At this rate I won't have a healthy
friend. We're going downhill like crazy.
SUE--I can't wait to see you and get your impression of the ship. The CD isn't bad but definitely not
Sue Denning.
JULES--Where are you when I need my computer guru to help me. The knee is okay most of the time
so I can tolerate it well.
JOY--What's happening on the baby front?
I have tried to answer most of the emails here so if I've missed any let me know. I'm sure the people
that don't know us too well are thinking what a motley crew we are.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Feb 17&18
FEB 17and 18, 2012
Got a danish from the bakery and got coffee in the place next to the hotel where they were very nice
and let us eat the danish there and even gave us plates and knives. The hotel called a taxi for us and off
to the port we went. Got there at 10:50 and as you well traveled cruisers know that is very early. We
walked into the terminal and without exageration there were a minimum of 1000 people that were already
there. It took us a while to get on and of course we sneaked into or cabin to drop our carry on stuff.
Went to the buffet for lunch and then went to medical because my doctor in the states wanted an x-ray
after 1 week and wanted my splint to be changed into a cast. The doctor said they had a portable x-ray
machine and it might miss a fracture so he said they wouldn't charge me for the visit and they'd arrange
for someone to pick me up at the port (Geraldton) and take me to a hospital where they are much better
prepared to treat me. He said they would let me know the particulars once it was set up. We had to cancel
our tour but he gave me a note so we'd get our money back. As we're getting ready to go for breakfast
the phone rings and it was a nurse saying they had gotten in touch with port agent and we were to take the
first tender in and someone would meet us. Enid said that they should have contacted us sooner so we could
have been ready and we would catch a tender around 8:30. Five minutes later they call back to tell us
even though we were anchored, the port agent said the winds were going to pick up early afternoon and it
would be too dangerous for tenders do they were going to make an announcement shortly that all tours were
going to be cancelled, so we went for breakfast. While having breakfast they made an announcement that
the winds were going to strong so we were shortening the visit to the port and we would leave at 3 PM.
That meant I was going to get off and go to another hospital. Aren't vacations fun? NOT YET.
We went down to the tender and they were expecting me so we were handled with kid gloves. When
we got off there was an officer from the ship waiting and he escorted us to the driver that was taking us
to the hospital. She was a lovely lady named Jean. She went into the hospital with us and explained I
was on the cruise ship and that we were in a hurry to get back as the ship was gong to leave early.
They took off the splint and I got a look at my arm which is black, blue and yellow from the palm of my
hand almost to the elbow. They put a fiberglass cast on which is below my elbow and I have much more
movement than I had before with the splint. You cannot imagine how Aussies go to hositals; they go in
pajamas, diapers and nothing else and most importantly no one wears shoes. A family came in with 3
young kids (who all looked under nourished) and none of them were wearing shoes and 1 was
just in a diaper. When we were leaving the hospital the kids were walking around outside still (at least
one hour later) with shoes or more clothing and now they were with grandma. When we got into
Jean's car she said she was going to take us to the most important thing to see in Geraldton. We went to
the Sydney Memorial which is a beautiful memorial dedicated to 645 men who were killed when the
Germans blew up their ship on Nov. 9, 1941. They have volunteers that tak you on a tour but
Jean made sure they started one early so we could see it. As we were there Jean noticed that our ship
had moved from it's anchor and was heading closer to the shore and had actually berthed at a dock where
it was protected from the waves. We were very happy about that as it was tricky gettng into the tender.
As we were tendering back to the ship we got word because it was docked they were going to leave port
now at 6 PM. Since we were already on the back we decided we would just stay on the ship after lunch.
Tonight we are meeting a couple from cruise critic for drinks before dinner. More later.
Got a danish from the bakery and got coffee in the place next to the hotel where they were very nice
and let us eat the danish there and even gave us plates and knives. The hotel called a taxi for us and off
to the port we went. Got there at 10:50 and as you well traveled cruisers know that is very early. We
walked into the terminal and without exageration there were a minimum of 1000 people that were already
there. It took us a while to get on and of course we sneaked into or cabin to drop our carry on stuff.
Went to the buffet for lunch and then went to medical because my doctor in the states wanted an x-ray
after 1 week and wanted my splint to be changed into a cast. The doctor said they had a portable x-ray
machine and it might miss a fracture so he said they wouldn't charge me for the visit and they'd arrange
for someone to pick me up at the port (Geraldton) and take me to a hospital where they are much better
prepared to treat me. He said they would let me know the particulars once it was set up. We had to cancel
our tour but he gave me a note so we'd get our money back. As we're getting ready to go for breakfast
the phone rings and it was a nurse saying they had gotten in touch with port agent and we were to take the
first tender in and someone would meet us. Enid said that they should have contacted us sooner so we could
have been ready and we would catch a tender around 8:30. Five minutes later they call back to tell us
even though we were anchored, the port agent said the winds were going to pick up early afternoon and it
would be too dangerous for tenders do they were going to make an announcement shortly that all tours were
going to be cancelled, so we went for breakfast. While having breakfast they made an announcement that
the winds were going to strong so we were shortening the visit to the port and we would leave at 3 PM.
That meant I was going to get off and go to another hospital. Aren't vacations fun? NOT YET.
We went down to the tender and they were expecting me so we were handled with kid gloves. When
we got off there was an officer from the ship waiting and he escorted us to the driver that was taking us
to the hospital. She was a lovely lady named Jean. She went into the hospital with us and explained I
was on the cruise ship and that we were in a hurry to get back as the ship was gong to leave early.
They took off the splint and I got a look at my arm which is black, blue and yellow from the palm of my
hand almost to the elbow. They put a fiberglass cast on which is below my elbow and I have much more
movement than I had before with the splint. You cannot imagine how Aussies go to hositals; they go in
pajamas, diapers and nothing else and most importantly no one wears shoes. A family came in with 3
young kids (who all looked under nourished) and none of them were wearing shoes and 1 was
just in a diaper. When we were leaving the hospital the kids were walking around outside still (at least
one hour later) with shoes or more clothing and now they were with grandma. When we got into
Jean's car she said she was going to take us to the most important thing to see in Geraldton. We went to
the Sydney Memorial which is a beautiful memorial dedicated to 645 men who were killed when the
Germans blew up their ship on Nov. 9, 1941. They have volunteers that tak you on a tour but
Jean made sure they started one early so we could see it. As we were there Jean noticed that our ship
had moved from it's anchor and was heading closer to the shore and had actually berthed at a dock where
it was protected from the waves. We were very happy about that as it was tricky gettng into the tender.
As we were tendering back to the ship we got word because it was docked they were going to leave port
now at 6 PM. Since we were already on the back we decided we would just stay on the ship after lunch.
Tonight we are meeting a couple from cruise critic for drinks before dinner. More later.
Feb 16
FEB 16, 2012
We did get up at 5:30 and threw as much as possible into our suitcases as we were allowed up to 70 lbs.
per suitcase. It just meant less for us to schlep (that's for you Char) but we'll have problems when we fly
home from San Diego. We were in what they called Business Class but there was no First Class on the plane.
When we landed they once again took our luggage (although it took 4 people) and got us into a station
wagon cab as there was no way it would fit into anything smaller.
As we're driving along we came to a street we'd call the red light district and imagine our surprise when
the cab piulled.over right in frnt of our hotel. Here we are in a lovely 4 star hotel in the middle of massage
parlors and sex shops. You know anything is possible when we travel and nothing should surprise us
anymore. Went for a fast walk to the next block where there was a big mall but you could tell from the
clientele there we were in a poor neighborhood. We found a bakery there that looked good so we decided
to go back there tomorrow and pick up something for breakfast. Then we went back to the hotel and
crashed from exhaustion. Got up in time for dinner and went to a little restaurant right next to our hotel.
You can bet we weren't going too far. Went to sleep early as we were still tired.
We did get up at 5:30 and threw as much as possible into our suitcases as we were allowed up to 70 lbs.
per suitcase. It just meant less for us to schlep (that's for you Char) but we'll have problems when we fly
home from San Diego. We were in what they called Business Class but there was no First Class on the plane.
When we landed they once again took our luggage (although it took 4 people) and got us into a station
wagon cab as there was no way it would fit into anything smaller.
As we're driving along we came to a street we'd call the red light district and imagine our surprise when
the cab piulled.over right in frnt of our hotel. Here we are in a lovely 4 star hotel in the middle of massage
parlors and sex shops. You know anything is possible when we travel and nothing should surprise us
anymore. Went for a fast walk to the next block where there was a big mall but you could tell from the
clientele there we were in a poor neighborhood. We found a bakery there that looked good so we decided
to go back there tomorrow and pick up something for breakfast. Then we went back to the hotel and
crashed from exhaustion. Got up in time for dinner and went to a little restaurant right next to our hotel.
You can bet we weren't going too far. Went to sleep early as we were still tired.
Feb 15
FEB 15, 2012
Today was another magnificent day with sun and cool brezes. We had a morning tour, a 2 hour break for
lunch and then an afternoon tour. All I can say is 'The hills are alive (not with the sound of music) but with
groans and grunts from all the hills. San Francisco is nothing compared to this. It's a good thing they don't
get snow. We really enjoyed both tours. Came back to the hotel expecting a message from guest services
as we had complained about the service at breakfast. Nothing!!! So before dinner we went back to guest
services and I asked for the corporate office email and the assistant manager came out and we explained
again what we incurred at the buffet for all 3 visits. Now I know it's not easy to have bad service at buffets
but we all know if it can happen, it will happen to us. To make a long story short we had dinner comped
and it was a much better experience.
By the way, you'd never know we are on vacation as we got up at 6 AM and tomorrow we have a 5:30
wake-up call. Vacation, my eye. Tomorrow we have an 8 AM flight to Perth where we'll spend the day
before embarking on the Century.
To put everyone's mind at ease, I am having no problems with my cast on and refuse to let it interfere
with any of our plans.
Today was another magnificent day with sun and cool brezes. We had a morning tour, a 2 hour break for
lunch and then an afternoon tour. All I can say is 'The hills are alive (not with the sound of music) but with
groans and grunts from all the hills. San Francisco is nothing compared to this. It's a good thing they don't
get snow. We really enjoyed both tours. Came back to the hotel expecting a message from guest services
as we had complained about the service at breakfast. Nothing!!! So before dinner we went back to guest
services and I asked for the corporate office email and the assistant manager came out and we explained
again what we incurred at the buffet for all 3 visits. Now I know it's not easy to have bad service at buffets
but we all know if it can happen, it will happen to us. To make a long story short we had dinner comped
and it was a much better experience.
By the way, you'd never know we are on vacation as we got up at 6 AM and tomorrow we have a 5:30
wake-up call. Vacation, my eye. Tomorrow we have an 8 AM flight to Perth where we'll spend the day
before embarking on the Century.
To put everyone's mind at ease, I am having no problems with my cast on and refuse to let it interfere
with any of our plans.
feb 18
FEB 14, 2012
We finally arrived in Sydney after a 14 hour flight which was never ending The flight was made a little
easier because we were in Premium Economy so the leg room was better, the seats were wider and
the service was better but no matter how good it was, it was still 14 hours. No matter how you look at it,
it as 31 hours of traveling
Getting off the plane was wonderful; we had something called "meet and assist". They took our carry
ons off the plane, wheeled us to customs, got our suitcases, took us to immigration, (where we thought
we'd have a problem with food stuff and drugs) and we basically went right through. They even took us
outside where they got us a cab and off we went. The cab ride was 63.00 Aus. which will convert to
more. Got to the Sheraton 4 points in Darling Harbour and since it was so early they didn't have a room
for us. We went to the hotel buffet and breakfast was 35.00 Aus per person so we are finding out how
expensive Sydney really is.
Took a cab to the hospital because the Dr. at home wanted me to follow up in 2 days. I have had my
first taste of socialized medicine and it stinks big time. I was there 2 hours before they even took me for
an xray and then I waited for another hour before we finally walked out. Since I was the only paying
patient I couldn't believe how this process works. They told me I would have to pay and before they
even took them they told me it would be 105.00. Then when I went to pay they said it was 115 so I
questioned it and was told that 105 was for the x-ray and the 115 was to see the doctor. I think waiting
an other hour after they said 'he'd be right out" was more than enough. Took another cab back to the
hotel and here I am relating our exciting day. So far this isn't a vacation.
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY to all of you.
We finally arrived in Sydney after a 14 hour flight which was never ending The flight was made a little
easier because we were in Premium Economy so the leg room was better, the seats were wider and
the service was better but no matter how good it was, it was still 14 hours. No matter how you look at it,
it as 31 hours of traveling
Getting off the plane was wonderful; we had something called "meet and assist". They took our carry
ons off the plane, wheeled us to customs, got our suitcases, took us to immigration, (where we thought
we'd have a problem with food stuff and drugs) and we basically went right through. They even took us
outside where they got us a cab and off we went. The cab ride was 63.00 Aus. which will convert to
more. Got to the Sheraton 4 points in Darling Harbour and since it was so early they didn't have a room
for us. We went to the hotel buffet and breakfast was 35.00 Aus per person so we are finding out how
expensive Sydney really is.
Took a cab to the hospital because the Dr. at home wanted me to follow up in 2 days. I have had my
first taste of socialized medicine and it stinks big time. I was there 2 hours before they even took me for
an xray and then I waited for another hour before we finally walked out. Since I was the only paying
patient I couldn't believe how this process works. They told me I would have to pay and before they
even took them they told me it would be 105.00. Then when I went to pay they said it was 115 so I
questioned it and was told that 105 was for the x-ray and the 115 was to see the doctor. I think waiting
an other hour after they said 'he'd be right out" was more than enough. Took another cab back to the
hotel and here I am relating our exciting day. So far this isn't a vacation.
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY to all of you.
Feb 12
Feb. 12, 202
Let me start this blog by apologizing for the long delay in posting. Firstly and most important the adapter
in the hotel did not fit my computer and we were afraid to take any chances.
We finally started our long adventure with excitment as usual. I was a klutz and fell Thursday night and
fractured my wrist so I am traveling wth a cast on my arm over the elbow. I have my arm bent in front
of me. Going through security has been a hassle and I've been patted down in Miami and again in
Los Angeles. Now we are sitting here in the airport waitng 4 hours for our flight to Sydney. We flew
first class here on American Airlines and had a great flight crew. The lunch menu didn't look appetizing
so I chose a roast beef sandwich which was outrageous. It was roast beef on bruschetta with melted
harvarti cheese and grilled asparagus. Yummy, and cookies and cream ice cream for dessert.
Tommy Lasorda was on our flight and I told him I was on the DL list. Enid had to follow me to the
bathroom on the plane and the stewardess held the curtin so no one could see Enid pull my pants up.
We had pre-ordered wheel chairs for all the airports and it made traveling much easier except for the fact
that we have so much damn luggage that it made today a little hard.
Will try to write more on the plane since we hae a 15 hour flight ahead of us.
Let me start this blog by apologizing for the long delay in posting. Firstly and most important the adapter
in the hotel did not fit my computer and we were afraid to take any chances.
We finally started our long adventure with excitment as usual. I was a klutz and fell Thursday night and
fractured my wrist so I am traveling wth a cast on my arm over the elbow. I have my arm bent in front
of me. Going through security has been a hassle and I've been patted down in Miami and again in
Los Angeles. Now we are sitting here in the airport waitng 4 hours for our flight to Sydney. We flew
first class here on American Airlines and had a great flight crew. The lunch menu didn't look appetizing
so I chose a roast beef sandwich which was outrageous. It was roast beef on bruschetta with melted
harvarti cheese and grilled asparagus. Yummy, and cookies and cream ice cream for dessert.
Tommy Lasorda was on our flight and I told him I was on the DL list. Enid had to follow me to the
bathroom on the plane and the stewardess held the curtin so no one could see Enid pull my pants up.
We had pre-ordered wheel chairs for all the airports and it made traveling much easier except for the fact
that we have so much damn luggage that it made today a little hard.
Will try to write more on the plane since we hae a 15 hour flight ahead of us.
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