MARCH 30 SEA DAY 1 OF 6
Today I had my free acupuncture session (that's the least she could do) and told her about my cold and my aversion to heat and how it's giving me panic attacks. She gave me 28 needles and told me it will definitely help my cold and my panic attacks. Now only time will tell. We spent the rest of the day sitting by the pool with glorious sunshine and a nice breeze so you didn't feel the heat so much. I am getting great color but for some reason my face got to a certain point and it's not getting any darker. Such is life.
We didn't go to the show as we've already seen it so we went to the casino and here I am finally doing the blog. Tomorrow we're taking up lei making.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
MARCH 29
MARCH 29 HILO, HAWAII
After breakfast I packed up my 29 inch suitcase with stuff I have bought and some clothes I won't be needing anymore as we only have 6 sea days left before we reach Ensenada and I have read that when we get to the border we all have to get off the bus and carry all our hand luggage across the border where we will get back on the bus. We'd like to catch an earlier flight so we can fly into West Palm Beach instead of landing in Miami at 12:30 AM. I have a 10AM doctor appointment for my wrist and it would make life so much easier for both of us. We have requested to get off as soon as people are allowed and they say the disembarkation will begin at 5:45AM so it will be a very early wakeup but hopefully means we'll sleep on the plane.
So we go to get off the ship (thankfully it was docked so no tender) andthey stop us thinking we were not getting back on and to place a call to see if it was okay. When they said we could get off we found an information booth and asked where we could find a place that would pac and ship. She tried calling UPS (an 800 number) and they said they had boxes we could buy but souldn't giv her the local store phone number. I thought that was ridiculousand wanted somewhere else so she gave us a place in town and we got in a taxi and off we went. We asked if she would take us on a tour around the island and she said 75 and hour so we told her no since we know that is way too much. She finally found the store we wanted and the man inside was very nice and he found a box for Enid and she shipped 14 lbs. home. I, on the other hand, had a very big box and mine weighed 40 lbs. I am so thankful I did that as it will make my life much easier when I have to pack in 5 days. I was very close to the allowed weight on the way to Sydney so now I am worry free. It was very hot so we grabbed another cab and went back to the ship. Forgot to say that when we got back to the cabin after breakfast there was a call from guest services asking us to call them. They were doing some repair work to the cables on (of course) the liefboat under our floor and had repair people on the balconies on either side of us and one man was hanging off our balcony so for the inconvenience they were sending a bottle of wine to our cabin. By the time we got back from shipping our stuff we had it in our cabin. We finally went to a show tonight and watched an illusionist do card tricks. He kept on repeating the same thing over and over and was putting us to sleep. He was good but after a while we had enough. Had a good night in the casino afterward and am still playing wit the money I started with when I got on in Perth so I can't complain. Tomorrow we start our 1st sea day for the trip acros the Pacific.
After breakfast I packed up my 29 inch suitcase with stuff I have bought and some clothes I won't be needing anymore as we only have 6 sea days left before we reach Ensenada and I have read that when we get to the border we all have to get off the bus and carry all our hand luggage across the border where we will get back on the bus. We'd like to catch an earlier flight so we can fly into West Palm Beach instead of landing in Miami at 12:30 AM. I have a 10AM doctor appointment for my wrist and it would make life so much easier for both of us. We have requested to get off as soon as people are allowed and they say the disembarkation will begin at 5:45AM so it will be a very early wakeup but hopefully means we'll sleep on the plane.
So we go to get off the ship (thankfully it was docked so no tender) andthey stop us thinking we were not getting back on and to place a call to see if it was okay. When they said we could get off we found an information booth and asked where we could find a place that would pac and ship. She tried calling UPS (an 800 number) and they said they had boxes we could buy but souldn't giv her the local store phone number. I thought that was ridiculousand wanted somewhere else so she gave us a place in town and we got in a taxi and off we went. We asked if she would take us on a tour around the island and she said 75 and hour so we told her no since we know that is way too much. She finally found the store we wanted and the man inside was very nice and he found a box for Enid and she shipped 14 lbs. home. I, on the other hand, had a very big box and mine weighed 40 lbs. I am so thankful I did that as it will make my life much easier when I have to pack in 5 days. I was very close to the allowed weight on the way to Sydney so now I am worry free. It was very hot so we grabbed another cab and went back to the ship. Forgot to say that when we got back to the cabin after breakfast there was a call from guest services asking us to call them. They were doing some repair work to the cables on (of course) the liefboat under our floor and had repair people on the balconies on either side of us and one man was hanging off our balcony so for the inconvenience they were sending a bottle of wine to our cabin. By the time we got back from shipping our stuff we had it in our cabin. We finally went to a show tonight and watched an illusionist do card tricks. He kept on repeating the same thing over and over and was putting us to sleep. He was good but after a while we had enough. Had a good night in the casino afterward and am still playing wit the money I started with when I got on in Perth so I can't complain. Tomorrow we start our 1st sea day for the trip acros the Pacific.
MARCH 28
KONA, HAWAII MARCH 28
Today we were awakened about 7 AM when they lowered the lifeboat which is located on the floor below us. We went out on the balcony to watch and after it got in the water they pulled away from the ship to line up so they could start tendering passengers to shore.
As it got about 30 yards from the ship one of the crew that was standing outside of the tender on a little ledge he fell into the water. He was wearing a life vest but he started to holler at the driver as he was trying to swim fully clothed and with shoes so he really wasn't getting to far. The driver finally noticed and started to turn around but in the meantime someone on the tender platform threw him a life ring which really didn't help as we were watching him flounder around. They finally threw him a rope and 4 men pulled him in very fast. To hIm it must have seemed like an eternity.
That is another story no one on the ship is talking about. They only want people to know the good things and are very secretive when something goes wrong. After breakfast we took the tender into town and grabbed a free shutte to Walmart. It was wonderful because they had a huge Hawaii epartment where you could pick up anything you wanted there. We needed to replace some drugs we were running low on and the prices onboard are astronomical and the touristy places were also outrageous. Then we grabbed a shuttle back to the tender, had lnch and sat in the sun for a while but I had to go in as it got way too hot for me. My cold isn't getting any better and we were tired so we decided to have room service for dinner and of course some chicken soup to make me feel better. It was a very early night for us.
Tomorrow we'll be in Hilo but as of now the only thing we have planned is to find a pack and ship place so we can lighten our load going home. It's either pay overweight charges to the airlines or pay it tomorrow.
Today we were awakened about 7 AM when they lowered the lifeboat which is located on the floor below us. We went out on the balcony to watch and after it got in the water they pulled away from the ship to line up so they could start tendering passengers to shore.
As it got about 30 yards from the ship one of the crew that was standing outside of the tender on a little ledge he fell into the water. He was wearing a life vest but he started to holler at the driver as he was trying to swim fully clothed and with shoes so he really wasn't getting to far. The driver finally noticed and started to turn around but in the meantime someone on the tender platform threw him a life ring which really didn't help as we were watching him flounder around. They finally threw him a rope and 4 men pulled him in very fast. To hIm it must have seemed like an eternity.
That is another story no one on the ship is talking about. They only want people to know the good things and are very secretive when something goes wrong. After breakfast we took the tender into town and grabbed a free shutte to Walmart. It was wonderful because they had a huge Hawaii epartment where you could pick up anything you wanted there. We needed to replace some drugs we were running low on and the prices onboard are astronomical and the touristy places were also outrageous. Then we grabbed a shuttle back to the tender, had lnch and sat in the sun for a while but I had to go in as it got way too hot for me. My cold isn't getting any better and we were tired so we decided to have room service for dinner and of course some chicken soup to make me feel better. It was a very early night for us.
Tomorrow we'll be in Hilo but as of now the only thing we have planned is to find a pack and ship place so we can lighten our load going home. It's either pay overweight charges to the airlines or pay it tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
DAY 2 MAUI
MARCH 27 MAUI DAY 2
Today we went whale watching where they guarantee whale sightings so we kidded each other it would either be a stuffed whale or a human wearing a whale costume. When we boarded the boat we decided to sit upstairs in the sun where we thought we would also get a better view. After about 20 minutes I said I wasn't feeling good (I think it was the heat-not the rocking) and went downstairs to be in the shade.
Enid had given me a ziplock bag (just in case) and Sue followed me down. I sat down for about 1 minute before giving up everything I had eaten for dinner last night and breakfast this morning. One of the girls working on the boat brought over a small pail (just in case) and a cup of ice cold water to rinse my mouth. After I was finished I felt better but not great. While all this was going on everyone else was busy watching whales breaching, chin slapping and tail slapping. There was a baby whale (it was less than a week old)and mommy was teaching it how to breach and the baby was doing it after momma. When I finally was able to focus again I saw a whale (I think the mom) jump higher than I ever saw. The people on the ship were oohing and aahing and it was a great experience. When we got off I said I'd like to have some ice cream and then go back to the ship and lie down. I'm finally getting the cold that has been going around the ship for the last 3 cruises and am stuffy and headachey (how do you like that word) so we had room service for dinner and stayed in the room for the rest of the evening. You have to know I'm sick if I didn't
go to the casino.
Tomorrow we'll be in Lailua, Kona and have no tours planned so we will probably try to get a taxi and have them take us to a few interesting places to see.
By the way I know this computer is not getting all the letter as I type so please excuse the errors. I really do know how to spell.
Today we went whale watching where they guarantee whale sightings so we kidded each other it would either be a stuffed whale or a human wearing a whale costume. When we boarded the boat we decided to sit upstairs in the sun where we thought we would also get a better view. After about 20 minutes I said I wasn't feeling good (I think it was the heat-not the rocking) and went downstairs to be in the shade.
Enid had given me a ziplock bag (just in case) and Sue followed me down. I sat down for about 1 minute before giving up everything I had eaten for dinner last night and breakfast this morning. One of the girls working on the boat brought over a small pail (just in case) and a cup of ice cold water to rinse my mouth. After I was finished I felt better but not great. While all this was going on everyone else was busy watching whales breaching, chin slapping and tail slapping. There was a baby whale (it was less than a week old)and mommy was teaching it how to breach and the baby was doing it after momma. When I finally was able to focus again I saw a whale (I think the mom) jump higher than I ever saw. The people on the ship were oohing and aahing and it was a great experience. When we got off I said I'd like to have some ice cream and then go back to the ship and lie down. I'm finally getting the cold that has been going around the ship for the last 3 cruises and am stuffy and headachey (how do you like that word) so we had room service for dinner and stayed in the room for the rest of the evening. You have to know I'm sick if I didn't
go to the casino.
Tomorrow we'll be in Lailua, Kona and have no tours planned so we will probably try to get a taxi and have them take us to a few interesting places to see.
By the way I know this computer is not getting all the letter as I type so please excuse the errors. I really do know how to spell.
MARCH 26
MARCH 26 LAHAINA, MAUI---DAY 1
Got up 6:20 (once again not sure you can call this vacation) to be ready for 7:45 where we have to meet the other 45 people that are taking 4 vans "To the Road to Hana" which we heard was a magnificent tour to take as long as you can take lots of twists and turns along high roads with only guardrails on very narrow roadways. It turned out to be wonderful and we all enjoyed it tremendously. We had been looking forward to swimming under waterfalls for about 1 year but when we got to where we were supposed to swim we couldn't go in the water because the rangers closed the pool. The area (which is in a rainforest) had 27 inches of rain in 1 day and the waters were raging and it would not be safe. We had put on bathing suits
before we left the ship so we essentially wore them for nothing until 9 PM when we got back to the ship. The ride was a little under 200 miles but about 15 of those miles were on totally unpaved roads that were broken into 3 different sections. The driver warned us that it was like baby bear, mama bear and papa bear and believe me when I tell you we were bouncing around like Spaulding balls. We had lunch at a flower farm that sends the most beautiful arrangements around the world. They also gave each of us a beautiful flower. Forgot to mention when we got to the waterfall park one of the rangers gave Enid and I roses that he had made out of some kind of leaf and we asked him for one for Sue (she went walking one of the trails)
and he gave us one that he said was a bird. I thought it looked like a grasshopper, Sue thought something else and when she thanked the ranger he said it was a teradactyl so we all laughed. When we got off the van at the end we decided to walk around town and find a place for dinner which we did and the food was okay, not great but edible. At least this time we had a good tender ride with no surprises.
I was so exhausted I fell asleep before Enid even got out of the shower.
Got up 6:20 (once again not sure you can call this vacation) to be ready for 7:45 where we have to meet the other 45 people that are taking 4 vans "To the Road to Hana" which we heard was a magnificent tour to take as long as you can take lots of twists and turns along high roads with only guardrails on very narrow roadways. It turned out to be wonderful and we all enjoyed it tremendously. We had been looking forward to swimming under waterfalls for about 1 year but when we got to where we were supposed to swim we couldn't go in the water because the rangers closed the pool. The area (which is in a rainforest) had 27 inches of rain in 1 day and the waters were raging and it would not be safe. We had put on bathing suits
before we left the ship so we essentially wore them for nothing until 9 PM when we got back to the ship. The ride was a little under 200 miles but about 15 of those miles were on totally unpaved roads that were broken into 3 different sections. The driver warned us that it was like baby bear, mama bear and papa bear and believe me when I tell you we were bouncing around like Spaulding balls. We had lunch at a flower farm that sends the most beautiful arrangements around the world. They also gave each of us a beautiful flower. Forgot to mention when we got to the waterfall park one of the rangers gave Enid and I roses that he had made out of some kind of leaf and we asked him for one for Sue (she went walking one of the trails)
and he gave us one that he said was a bird. I thought it looked like a grasshopper, Sue thought something else and when she thanked the ranger he said it was a teradactyl so we all laughed. When we got off the van at the end we decided to walk around town and find a place for dinner which we did and the food was okay, not great but edible. At least this time we had a good tender ride with no surprises.
I was so exhausted I fell asleep before Enid even got out of the shower.
Monday, March 26, 2012
MARCH 25
MARCH 25 KAUAI, HAWAII
This morning we didn't rush around as we had no planned tours so after a leisurely breakfast we got off the ship and took a free shuttle to a small shopping center which had the same crap as every other store we've gone into. I finally got a shaved ice which I've wanted since Maui and it wasn't worth the anticipation. While I was eating that Enid walked across the street and down a ways to another shopping
center and said they also had the same stuff. Took the shuttle back to the ship and finally found some time to sit by the pool hoping to get some color. It was too hot for me so I lasted less than 1/2 hour and went back to the cabin to get ready for our first formal night of this cruise. Tonight they had rack of lamb which
I love but the service was so slow that we had to rush eating in order to make the show.
Tomrrow we are to arrive in Maui for an overnight and we have a tour taking the road to Hana which is going to be a very long day and we've decided to have dinner in one of the restaurants in town when we get back.
This morning we didn't rush around as we had no planned tours so after a leisurely breakfast we got off the ship and took a free shuttle to a small shopping center which had the same crap as every other store we've gone into. I finally got a shaved ice which I've wanted since Maui and it wasn't worth the anticipation. While I was eating that Enid walked across the street and down a ways to another shopping
center and said they also had the same stuff. Took the shuttle back to the ship and finally found some time to sit by the pool hoping to get some color. It was too hot for me so I lasted less than 1/2 hour and went back to the cabin to get ready for our first formal night of this cruise. Tonight they had rack of lamb which
I love but the service was so slow that we had to rush eating in order to make the show.
Tomrrow we are to arrive in Maui for an overnight and we have a tour taking the road to Hana which is going to be a very long day and we've decided to have dinner in one of the restaurants in town when we get back.
MARCH 24
MARCH 24 SATURDAY
Today we were still in Honolulu and we had a 7:45 tour so we got off the boat at 7:30 and started looking for our pick-up location. We got different answers from everyone we asked so Enid called the tour company to find out the exact location and then I saw her jaw drop so I knew we had a problem. It seems they claim they notified us yesterday that they changed the pickup tme to 8:45 because they didn't want us to be on the van when they picked up the rest of the people. We told Enid to call back and say we were not going to wait around another hour and if the couldn't pick us up sooner the should give us back our money. She had Enid on hold and came back and said the driver would be there in 5 minutes. He was (we found throughout the day) a fantastic guide. Some of the people were very nice but there was one lady that was the most miserable person one could ever run into (and I'd love to in a car). She complained about everything and everyone. The tour was wonderful but we didn't get back to the ship until 6:30 so it was a very full day. We were given boxed lunches and were supposed to go to a little island with an
open boat with no backs on the bench seats and eat in a covered tent. Enid and I decided to eat ours in the van so the rest of the people went without us but they got caught in very heavy rains and got back on like drowned rats. They all told us how smart we were for staying behind. The miserable lady got off the van but ate by herself in the covered boat waiting area. We went around the entire island and made
a lo of stops but it was a beautiful day except for th 10 minutes of heavy rain. To make a long story short we were the last to be dropped off after the tour and we found out she is on our cruise ship. This should be an interesting cruise. We can't wait to see how many more enemies she can collect.
Tomorrow we will be in Kauai from 8-6 and we don't have a scheduled tour so we might grab a taxi and have them take us around. There is a 50% chance of rain but that's the way these cruises have been for us so we're used to it.
Today we were still in Honolulu and we had a 7:45 tour so we got off the boat at 7:30 and started looking for our pick-up location. We got different answers from everyone we asked so Enid called the tour company to find out the exact location and then I saw her jaw drop so I knew we had a problem. It seems they claim they notified us yesterday that they changed the pickup tme to 8:45 because they didn't want us to be on the van when they picked up the rest of the people. We told Enid to call back and say we were not going to wait around another hour and if the couldn't pick us up sooner the should give us back our money. She had Enid on hold and came back and said the driver would be there in 5 minutes. He was (we found throughout the day) a fantastic guide. Some of the people were very nice but there was one lady that was the most miserable person one could ever run into (and I'd love to in a car). She complained about everything and everyone. The tour was wonderful but we didn't get back to the ship until 6:30 so it was a very full day. We were given boxed lunches and were supposed to go to a little island with an
open boat with no backs on the bench seats and eat in a covered tent. Enid and I decided to eat ours in the van so the rest of the people went without us but they got caught in very heavy rains and got back on like drowned rats. They all told us how smart we were for staying behind. The miserable lady got off the van but ate by herself in the covered boat waiting area. We went around the entire island and made
a lo of stops but it was a beautiful day except for th 10 minutes of heavy rain. To make a long story short we were the last to be dropped off after the tour and we found out she is on our cruise ship. This should be an interesting cruise. We can't wait to see how many more enemies she can collect.
Tomorrow we will be in Kauai from 8-6 and we don't have a scheduled tour so we might grab a taxi and have them take us around. There is a 50% chance of rain but that's the way these cruises have been for us so we're used to it.
MARCH 23
March 23 DAY 3
Today we were in Honolulu and most of the passengers got off to return to their homes but not Enid and I--the intrepid travelers. We got off fairly early and caght a cab to the Queens Medical Center and went to the emergency room so they could xray my hand. It felt great to go to a U.S. hospital even if tHey aren't as up to date as the mainland. They told me I really shattered two bones together and there
are fragments floating in the hand. When they removed the cast you could see there is a nice size bump on the side that was broken and there is still some swelling. They said with the damage I did there would be arthritis (what else is new) ad I think something else but my short term memory didn't remember. Enid remembered to ask for a copy of the xrays on a disk so I could bring it to my doctor back home.
Took a cab back near the ship where there was a few stores (more like huts) that we meandered through. All we bought was soda to bring back on the ship. Then we had to go through security with all the new passengers getting on so that took a while and we missed saying goodbye to the alternate hotel director Tom Brady as he got off today to go home to Chicago and the 85 degree weather. By the time we put or sodas away and went for lunch it was time shower and get ready for this evening. Sue went
shopping all day and when she got back to the ship and went to wear a blouse that she purchased they had never taken the security tag off so on the way to the hotel we had the taxi driver make a quick stop to have it removed. The alarm didn't beep when they left the store but it did beep on the way back in.
Sue has been talking forever about going to the pink palace (real name of Royal Hawaiian) and having Mai Tai's on their terrace which is right on the beach overlooking Diamond Head and lots of surfers which was an absolutely wonderful place for drinks. Grabbed another taxi to take us to a mall for shopping (what else does Sue do) but it was out of our league so we decided to go to the food court
for dinner but everyone else in Hawaii had the same idea and we couldn't find a table. It was about 7:30 so we decided to go back to the ship and have dinner in the dining room. Now it is 10:49 and we are getting ready for bed as we have to get up 6:25 for our 7:30 AM full day tour that we booked a long tme ago.
Today we were in Honolulu and most of the passengers got off to return to their homes but not Enid and I--the intrepid travelers. We got off fairly early and caght a cab to the Queens Medical Center and went to the emergency room so they could xray my hand. It felt great to go to a U.S. hospital even if tHey aren't as up to date as the mainland. They told me I really shattered two bones together and there
are fragments floating in the hand. When they removed the cast you could see there is a nice size bump on the side that was broken and there is still some swelling. They said with the damage I did there would be arthritis (what else is new) ad I think something else but my short term memory didn't remember. Enid remembered to ask for a copy of the xrays on a disk so I could bring it to my doctor back home.
Took a cab back near the ship where there was a few stores (more like huts) that we meandered through. All we bought was soda to bring back on the ship. Then we had to go through security with all the new passengers getting on so that took a while and we missed saying goodbye to the alternate hotel director Tom Brady as he got off today to go home to Chicago and the 85 degree weather. By the time we put or sodas away and went for lunch it was time shower and get ready for this evening. Sue went
shopping all day and when she got back to the ship and went to wear a blouse that she purchased they had never taken the security tag off so on the way to the hotel we had the taxi driver make a quick stop to have it removed. The alarm didn't beep when they left the store but it did beep on the way back in.
Sue has been talking forever about going to the pink palace (real name of Royal Hawaiian) and having Mai Tai's on their terrace which is right on the beach overlooking Diamond Head and lots of surfers which was an absolutely wonderful place for drinks. Grabbed another taxi to take us to a mall for shopping (what else does Sue do) but it was out of our league so we decided to go to the food court
for dinner but everyone else in Hawaii had the same idea and we couldn't find a table. It was about 7:30 so we decided to go back to the ship and have dinner in the dining room. Now it is 10:49 and we are getting ready for bed as we have to get up 6:25 for our 7:30 AM full day tour that we booked a long tme ago.
Friday, March 23, 2012
MAUI, HAWAII
MARCH 22 MAUI, HAWAII
No one can tell us we lead a boring life--what a day this has been; what a rare mood I'm in. As you already know we were awakened this morning extremely early so we weren't happy people. We got off the ship and on the tender about 10:15 as we had to go through customs and immigration since this was the first time the ship hit the U.S. in about 6 months. As usual they were running about 1/2 our late and the line was more than 1/2 the length of the ship. We survived that but when the tender got
semi-close to the dock there was a backlog of tenders (Golden Princess was also here) so we rocked on the tender about 15 minutes before we could pull in. They said 80% chance of rain and it was sunny, hot and humid all day. They also have wonderful weather forecasters here like everywhere else. It was the first time we have been able to shop since we got on the ship 34 days ago. We were looking for
something to wear that looked Hawaiian as we were going to a Luau tonight and thought it would be nice. Since it was very hot we lasted a little more than 2 hours before we went back to the ship. Dropped our bags off in the cabin and went for lunch and sat around the table talking until we realized we had to rush to shower and change as we were leaving for the Luau at 3:45 knowing the tenders would be backed up again and we had to get a cab. It was Enid, me, Sue and Steve, Terry and Wally that were going. Sue and Steve left before us to get us tickets to go whale watching next week and were going to meet us at the dock. We get off the elevator at the tender access floor and they tell us to go to the port side. We get there and they tell us to go starboard and when we go there they said the tender just left and go back to the port side. Would you believe I was first on line and we stood there about 15 minutes before they said go back to the other side. So now we're at the end of a long line and we're having fits because we weren't even sure they would have room for us but thankfully we got on. Now it's 4:10 and we again get near the pier and there are 5 tenders waiting to dock. They had to let 3 Princess tenders go in before us as the ship was going to leave shortly. When we knew we were going to pull in Wally called a van taxi driver he had met in the morning and she said she'd be there in 10 minutes. 25 later when she never showed up we got in another van and she wasn't excited when we told her where
we were going and she said it was only a mile away but when we gave her $10 dollars for a $7 ride she said she would pick us up after the Luau was over. We waited a while for her but she finally showed up and drove us back to the port.
Now comes the best and most unbelievable part of our day. We got on the tender at 8:45 and the seas were a little rough and got 1/2 way to the ship and all of a sudden we stopped dead in the water. We were rockin and rollin and going nowhere and they couldn't restart the motor. So there we sat not knowing how long we'd be there. We had a good time while we were waiting, laughing and kidding around but we were nervous thinking we would have to make a transfer to another tender in the dark
and we were rocking. Sue said she wouldn't do it, Enid wasn't too happy either and sure enough another tender pulled along side of us and they tied the two together and we had to make the switch. I do have to say we probably sat there for quite a whie because we got back to the ship about about 9:30ish. We can now say we've been rescued at sea. The workers on both tenders made the transition easy for us
so it wasn't badbut it was a scary experience. We found out the problem was rope somehow got wrapped around the motor.
Now for the good part of our day. The Luau was absolutely wonderful. When you enter they give everyone Mai Tai's and Kukui nut leis and take you to your table and explain where the bar is and give you a list of available drinks, beers, juices and sodas and tell you to drink your way down the list. All the drinks, etc. were included in the cost so it was a no brainer. I did a pretty good job getting (I think) to drink number 6. After all I am my father's daughter. We really all enjoyed it very much and I would do it again in a heartbeat.
How's that for a day in Maui? I forgot to say that we did get something to wear and
flowers for our hair.
No one can tell us we lead a boring life--what a day this has been; what a rare mood I'm in. As you already know we were awakened this morning extremely early so we weren't happy people. We got off the ship and on the tender about 10:15 as we had to go through customs and immigration since this was the first time the ship hit the U.S. in about 6 months. As usual they were running about 1/2 our late and the line was more than 1/2 the length of the ship. We survived that but when the tender got
semi-close to the dock there was a backlog of tenders (Golden Princess was also here) so we rocked on the tender about 15 minutes before we could pull in. They said 80% chance of rain and it was sunny, hot and humid all day. They also have wonderful weather forecasters here like everywhere else. It was the first time we have been able to shop since we got on the ship 34 days ago. We were looking for
something to wear that looked Hawaiian as we were going to a Luau tonight and thought it would be nice. Since it was very hot we lasted a little more than 2 hours before we went back to the ship. Dropped our bags off in the cabin and went for lunch and sat around the table talking until we realized we had to rush to shower and change as we were leaving for the Luau at 3:45 knowing the tenders would be backed up again and we had to get a cab. It was Enid, me, Sue and Steve, Terry and Wally that were going. Sue and Steve left before us to get us tickets to go whale watching next week and were going to meet us at the dock. We get off the elevator at the tender access floor and they tell us to go to the port side. We get there and they tell us to go starboard and when we go there they said the tender just left and go back to the port side. Would you believe I was first on line and we stood there about 15 minutes before they said go back to the other side. So now we're at the end of a long line and we're having fits because we weren't even sure they would have room for us but thankfully we got on. Now it's 4:10 and we again get near the pier and there are 5 tenders waiting to dock. They had to let 3 Princess tenders go in before us as the ship was going to leave shortly. When we knew we were going to pull in Wally called a van taxi driver he had met in the morning and she said she'd be there in 10 minutes. 25 later when she never showed up we got in another van and she wasn't excited when we told her where
we were going and she said it was only a mile away but when we gave her $10 dollars for a $7 ride she said she would pick us up after the Luau was over. We waited a while for her but she finally showed up and drove us back to the port.
Now comes the best and most unbelievable part of our day. We got on the tender at 8:45 and the seas were a little rough and got 1/2 way to the ship and all of a sudden we stopped dead in the water. We were rockin and rollin and going nowhere and they couldn't restart the motor. So there we sat not knowing how long we'd be there. We had a good time while we were waiting, laughing and kidding around but we were nervous thinking we would have to make a transfer to another tender in the dark
and we were rocking. Sue said she wouldn't do it, Enid wasn't too happy either and sure enough another tender pulled along side of us and they tied the two together and we had to make the switch. I do have to say we probably sat there for quite a whie because we got back to the ship about about 9:30ish. We can now say we've been rescued at sea. The workers on both tenders made the transition easy for us
so it wasn't badbut it was a scary experience. We found out the problem was rope somehow got wrapped around the motor.
Now for the good part of our day. The Luau was absolutely wonderful. When you enter they give everyone Mai Tai's and Kukui nut leis and take you to your table and explain where the bar is and give you a list of available drinks, beers, juices and sodas and tell you to drink your way down the list. All the drinks, etc. were included in the cost so it was a no brainer. I did a pretty good job getting (I think) to drink number 6. After all I am my father's daughter. We really all enjoyed it very much and I would do it again in a heartbeat.
How's that for a day in Maui? I forgot to say that we did get something to wear and
flowers for our hair.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
March 22
MARCH 22 PART 1
HELENE--Just read your comment and I'd like to go see Jay Black on 2/8. I wasn't
impressed with their list.
We were wakened this morning at 5:45 as the coast guard was doing an inspection of the ship as it is the first time we're in US waters in 6 months. They had to lower
the lifeboats and there was such a racket it was impossible to sleep.
HELENE--Just read your comment and I'd like to go see Jay Black on 2/8. I wasn't
impressed with their list.
We were wakened this morning at 5:45 as the coast guard was doing an inspection of the ship as it is the first time we're in US waters in 6 months. They had to lower
the lifeboats and there was such a racket it was impossible to sleep.
March 21
MARCH 21
Today was the last sea day of this cruise and tomorrow we will be in Lahaina which is Maui and the predicted forecast is high of 75 with an 80% chance of rain. At the crew talent show this morning the captain was thanking everyone for coming on his ship and asking if they all enjoyed the cruise. Then he said everyone shoud thank him and he asked if we know why we should. Then he said "because I found all
the islands" and everyone laughed. He said as for the sun, corportate office told him it was too expensive and there wasn't money in the budget for us to have it. It looks like we won't have too much sun tomorrow if the forecast is correct. It's a tender port and I don't have fond memories of the tender ride last time I was here.
On the happier side with only 15 more days before we come home, my clothes still fit and nothing is tight so I guess I'm doing well with my eating. When we dock tomorrow since we will be in the states I will be able to make some calls and I know how happy I'll be to hear my friends voices again. Yesterday while I was on AOL I caught Helene online and it was fantastic to instant message with her and it was
almost as good as being on the telephone.
We went down to medical to find out if the doctor has made an appointment for me in Honolulu to see a doctor for my wrist but if he hasn't gotten one we'll just go to the emergency room for an xray to see if the wrist is doing okay and hopefully they'll put a splint on to keep me from using it until I get home.
JULES---I'm going to pass on the cruise as I'm going to New Zealand in January with Helene and Barbara and Mike and then we have the 2 cruises in April/May. I still have the TA with you in August and another cruise for Thanksgiving with Helene and her family. I'm also going to try and get a cruise around my birthday since it's a biggie. We spoke to the hotel director on this ship about Sue wanting to see movies and he arranged to show quite a few newer ones with subtitles and she is in pig heaven. It's gotten to the point where she doesn't even care what the movie is, as long as it has subtitles.
Today was the last sea day of this cruise and tomorrow we will be in Lahaina which is Maui and the predicted forecast is high of 75 with an 80% chance of rain. At the crew talent show this morning the captain was thanking everyone for coming on his ship and asking if they all enjoyed the cruise. Then he said everyone shoud thank him and he asked if we know why we should. Then he said "because I found all
the islands" and everyone laughed. He said as for the sun, corportate office told him it was too expensive and there wasn't money in the budget for us to have it. It looks like we won't have too much sun tomorrow if the forecast is correct. It's a tender port and I don't have fond memories of the tender ride last time I was here.
On the happier side with only 15 more days before we come home, my clothes still fit and nothing is tight so I guess I'm doing well with my eating. When we dock tomorrow since we will be in the states I will be able to make some calls and I know how happy I'll be to hear my friends voices again. Yesterday while I was on AOL I caught Helene online and it was fantastic to instant message with her and it was
almost as good as being on the telephone.
We went down to medical to find out if the doctor has made an appointment for me in Honolulu to see a doctor for my wrist but if he hasn't gotten one we'll just go to the emergency room for an xray to see if the wrist is doing okay and hopefully they'll put a splint on to keep me from using it until I get home.
JULES---I'm going to pass on the cruise as I'm going to New Zealand in January with Helene and Barbara and Mike and then we have the 2 cruises in April/May. I still have the TA with you in August and another cruise for Thanksgiving with Helene and her family. I'm also going to try and get a cruise around my birthday since it's a biggie. We spoke to the hotel director on this ship about Sue wanting to see movies and he arranged to show quite a few newer ones with subtitles and she is in pig heaven. It's gotten to the point where she doesn't even care what the movie is, as long as it has subtitles.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
MARCH 18, 19 AND 20
MARCH 18,19 and 20
Sorry I haven't been keeping up to date with the blog but time keeps running away from me. We are still
having sea days and I've started acupuncture for my migraines and the pain in my knee and for the pain in
my wrist. I my fingers are swelling and staring to push together but I'm goingto go to the hospital once we
get to Hawaii to have everything checked out. This cruise the seas have been very rough, lots of rain and
lots of wind. We've been trying to get some sun any time it comes out. Today in the theater they showed
a rescue that the century made last October where the ship was hit by a huge wave and it threw the
captain across the galley where he broke 5 vertabrae and was bleeding internally and had an infection so
he called the coast guard for a rescue and they callled the century which was the closest ship to the yacht.
It as the only ship within 1000 miles of the yacht. The yacht was a 50 footer and he was delivering the yacht
from San Diego to Maui. The Century took movies of the tender being lowered into rough seas at
midnight with a medical team to help and bring them onboard. It took the tender 16 hours to get there
for the rescue. The Century had to miss going to Maui because of the time it took for the rescue and
of course the are always the ignorant people that get infuriated because of a deviation. I always say I
wonder how they would feel if it was happening to them.
After lunch today we're going to make leis with ribbon.
Hope all is well with everyone and I promise to try harder with the blog.
.
Sorry I haven't been keeping up to date with the blog but time keeps running away from me. We are still
having sea days and I've started acupuncture for my migraines and the pain in my knee and for the pain in
my wrist. I my fingers are swelling and staring to push together but I'm goingto go to the hospital once we
get to Hawaii to have everything checked out. This cruise the seas have been very rough, lots of rain and
lots of wind. We've been trying to get some sun any time it comes out. Today in the theater they showed
a rescue that the century made last October where the ship was hit by a huge wave and it threw the
captain across the galley where he broke 5 vertabrae and was bleeding internally and had an infection so
he called the coast guard for a rescue and they callled the century which was the closest ship to the yacht.
It as the only ship within 1000 miles of the yacht. The yacht was a 50 footer and he was delivering the yacht
from San Diego to Maui. The Century took movies of the tender being lowered into rough seas at
midnight with a medical team to help and bring them onboard. It took the tender 16 hours to get there
for the rescue. The Century had to miss going to Maui because of the time it took for the rescue and
of course the are always the ignorant people that get infuriated because of a deviation. I always say I
wonder how they would feel if it was happening to them.
After lunch today we're going to make leis with ribbon.
Hope all is well with everyone and I promise to try harder with the blog.
.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
March 16
MARCH 16 FRIDAY
Where has the time gone. If I'm not mistaken today is the 29th day we've been onboard. Where has a month gone? The time goes by so quickly thart it's hard to imagine we've been on that long and more than half of our adventure is over.
Today we were in Raiatea and to be perfectly honest this day can't end fast enough. We had a tour today which turned out to be a disaster. We were supposed to have 2 boats as there was 27 of us originally and when we went to the docks for our boats they weren't there and our boat (notice the singular) showed up 1/2 hour late and said there was problem with one of the boats so we had to squeeze into 1 boat. There were 2 very smart people that said there wasn't enough room and they didn't want to be squeezed in like a sardine. We were supposed to go to an island where some people could swim and some could snorkel but it took us 1 1/2 hours to get there because they were also having problems with the engine. Isn't that a great start to a wonderful day? I forgot to mention on the way to the island we passed lots of dolphins playing in the water. We didn't know it at the time but that turned out to be the only good part of or day. We get to the island and first they say only the swimmers get off here and they'll take the snorkelers elsewhere. We (not easily) climb down the ladder into the water and walk onto the island and
the first thing we see are bags of dirty garbage. Since it was 10 AM it could not possibly be from today.
There was basically no place for us to sit so Enid and I decided to get back on the boat and when we turned around we noticed that the snorkelers had gotten off and were walking toward their destination. I went to get on first and Enid had 1 hand on one side of my backside and one of the workers had a hand on my other cheek while Wally was pulling me on from inside the boat. When it was Enid's turn the worker was all that was left in the water so he had the pleasure of having both hands on her tush. We all know what kind of smile he had on his face! To make a long story short we sat there waiting for the snorkelers (who by the way got very cut up from the coral reef) that came back bloody. It then took us 1 hour 40 minutes to
get to the next destination of seeing turtles except that we were all getting nervous we wouldn't get back to the ship before it left for 5 sea days to Maui. We told the owner we had to be back by 1 and he originally said no problem. On the way to the turtle place he said we would have to switch boats at the turtle
place if we wanted to make our boat. We never saw the turtles because everyone had to run to the bathroom (lucky for us the men went to the back of the building) and we got back to the ship at 1:30 with 15 minutes to spare. We all complained to the head of the operation that we want some money back (which fell on deaf ears) so we're all going on the computer to advise people coming to this island not to
use his company. We're also going to tell the ship in case they want to hire them for one of their shore excursions.
Tomorrow is St. Patty's day and the first of 5 more sea days.
I forgot to mention that when we were in the cocktail lounge tonight a couple walked
over to us when they heard us discussing our poor tour today and they were to 2
intelligent people that asked for their money back.
Where has the time gone. If I'm not mistaken today is the 29th day we've been onboard. Where has a month gone? The time goes by so quickly thart it's hard to imagine we've been on that long and more than half of our adventure is over.
Today we were in Raiatea and to be perfectly honest this day can't end fast enough. We had a tour today which turned out to be a disaster. We were supposed to have 2 boats as there was 27 of us originally and when we went to the docks for our boats they weren't there and our boat (notice the singular) showed up 1/2 hour late and said there was problem with one of the boats so we had to squeeze into 1 boat. There were 2 very smart people that said there wasn't enough room and they didn't want to be squeezed in like a sardine. We were supposed to go to an island where some people could swim and some could snorkel but it took us 1 1/2 hours to get there because they were also having problems with the engine. Isn't that a great start to a wonderful day? I forgot to mention on the way to the island we passed lots of dolphins playing in the water. We didn't know it at the time but that turned out to be the only good part of or day. We get to the island and first they say only the swimmers get off here and they'll take the snorkelers elsewhere. We (not easily) climb down the ladder into the water and walk onto the island and
the first thing we see are bags of dirty garbage. Since it was 10 AM it could not possibly be from today.
There was basically no place for us to sit so Enid and I decided to get back on the boat and when we turned around we noticed that the snorkelers had gotten off and were walking toward their destination. I went to get on first and Enid had 1 hand on one side of my backside and one of the workers had a hand on my other cheek while Wally was pulling me on from inside the boat. When it was Enid's turn the worker was all that was left in the water so he had the pleasure of having both hands on her tush. We all know what kind of smile he had on his face! To make a long story short we sat there waiting for the snorkelers (who by the way got very cut up from the coral reef) that came back bloody. It then took us 1 hour 40 minutes to
get to the next destination of seeing turtles except that we were all getting nervous we wouldn't get back to the ship before it left for 5 sea days to Maui. We told the owner we had to be back by 1 and he originally said no problem. On the way to the turtle place he said we would have to switch boats at the turtle
place if we wanted to make our boat. We never saw the turtles because everyone had to run to the bathroom (lucky for us the men went to the back of the building) and we got back to the ship at 1:30 with 15 minutes to spare. We all complained to the head of the operation that we want some money back (which fell on deaf ears) so we're all going on the computer to advise people coming to this island not to
use his company. We're also going to tell the ship in case they want to hire them for one of their shore excursions.
Tomorrow is St. Patty's day and the first of 5 more sea days.
I forgot to mention that when we were in the cocktail lounge tonight a couple walked
over to us when they heard us discussing our poor tour today and they were to 2
intelligent people that asked for their money back.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Joanie
Just read your comment and Joanie's number is 914-235-7856. Send Sandy my love. Remember her birthday is 3/18.
march 15
MARCH 15 THURSDAY
Where do I begin to tell you about one of the best days of my life. Today we were in Bora Bora and it was everything I ever expected of the Polynesian Islands. We had to take a tender to shore which was fine but when we got off the tender the skies opened up and we ran to a big open sided hut so we were protected. It poured for about 20 minutes but while we were there, thre was a gorgeous Polynesian baby
so of course I went over to ask if I could hold him and I did. The boy was 3 months old but was he ever heavy. I had a smile from ear to ear. Then we each paid for the tour and got on a small 12 passenger boat with 2 Polynesian young men (they were real easy on the eyes) who weren't wearing much (wait for the pictures) and took off to a spot where we got out and played with the sting rays (they were easy to
touch) had sharks swimming around us but they don't ike to eat people) and stayed in the water for quite a while. We also saw lots of different fish as the water so so clear you could see your feet. That was a lot of fun. I had my cast in 2 umbrella bags closed tightly around my upper arm with duct tape. I kept my arm out of the water as much as I could. After climbing back in the boat (not an easy feat) we then moved to another spot for swmming and snorkeling but some of us stayed in the boat. Sue and Terry got out with another woman and our driver (he said his name was Ralph Lauren) took out a life preserver and he dragged the three girls all around while they held on to the preserver. They had a great time doing
that. We then went to a 3rd spot where the ukeelea player (his name was Rocky Balboa) wet into the water ad went down to the bottom and picked up sand and rubbed it all over his body and said it makes your skin so soft. That's a plug for Sandy, the Avon lady. At that point we all decided to go in and use it as an exfoliant and put it all over our upper bodies and faces. That felt very good until we went to take it off and discovered it was much easier to put on. I had to dunk several times and my two bags got a little water in them but didn't do much damage. When we got back to the cabin and went to take off our suits and water shoes we left a lot of that sand on the floor in the bathroom and the carpet.
Okay, back to our day. The last stop was a lagoon with tables with benches and umbrellas in the shallow water where we were going to have lunch. They served us lobster, fresh tuna, a cooked pig, chicken with spinach, all kinds of fresh fruit and some kinds of root stuff. They also had sodas, water, beer and champagne. What an absolutely fantastic day. The tour started at 9:30 and we got back to the
ship about 4 PM. We were invited by the captain to a special sail-a-way party on the crew deck at the very front of the ship (by invitation only) where they served champagne, mimosas, orange juice and I have no idea what else. From there we went to the Elite lounge for our drinks and hor devoures before dinner. We all agreed that this was a very special day and one we'll never forget. I can only
hope that my pictres do it justice. It's something that has to be seen to appreciate what this place is all about.
Where do I begin to tell you about one of the best days of my life. Today we were in Bora Bora and it was everything I ever expected of the Polynesian Islands. We had to take a tender to shore which was fine but when we got off the tender the skies opened up and we ran to a big open sided hut so we were protected. It poured for about 20 minutes but while we were there, thre was a gorgeous Polynesian baby
so of course I went over to ask if I could hold him and I did. The boy was 3 months old but was he ever heavy. I had a smile from ear to ear. Then we each paid for the tour and got on a small 12 passenger boat with 2 Polynesian young men (they were real easy on the eyes) who weren't wearing much (wait for the pictures) and took off to a spot where we got out and played with the sting rays (they were easy to
touch) had sharks swimming around us but they don't ike to eat people) and stayed in the water for quite a while. We also saw lots of different fish as the water so so clear you could see your feet. That was a lot of fun. I had my cast in 2 umbrella bags closed tightly around my upper arm with duct tape. I kept my arm out of the water as much as I could. After climbing back in the boat (not an easy feat) we then moved to another spot for swmming and snorkeling but some of us stayed in the boat. Sue and Terry got out with another woman and our driver (he said his name was Ralph Lauren) took out a life preserver and he dragged the three girls all around while they held on to the preserver. They had a great time doing
that. We then went to a 3rd spot where the ukeelea player (his name was Rocky Balboa) wet into the water ad went down to the bottom and picked up sand and rubbed it all over his body and said it makes your skin so soft. That's a plug for Sandy, the Avon lady. At that point we all decided to go in and use it as an exfoliant and put it all over our upper bodies and faces. That felt very good until we went to take it off and discovered it was much easier to put on. I had to dunk several times and my two bags got a little water in them but didn't do much damage. When we got back to the cabin and went to take off our suits and water shoes we left a lot of that sand on the floor in the bathroom and the carpet.
Okay, back to our day. The last stop was a lagoon with tables with benches and umbrellas in the shallow water where we were going to have lunch. They served us lobster, fresh tuna, a cooked pig, chicken with spinach, all kinds of fresh fruit and some kinds of root stuff. They also had sodas, water, beer and champagne. What an absolutely fantastic day. The tour started at 9:30 and we got back to the
ship about 4 PM. We were invited by the captain to a special sail-a-way party on the crew deck at the very front of the ship (by invitation only) where they served champagne, mimosas, orange juice and I have no idea what else. From there we went to the Elite lounge for our drinks and hor devoures before dinner. We all agreed that this was a very special day and one we'll never forget. I can only
hope that my pictres do it justice. It's something that has to be seen to appreciate what this place is all about.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
March 13 and 14
MARCH 13 AND 14
First I have to thank Barbara for keeping me up to date with Sandy and thank her for keeping in touch
with her.
On the 13th we were in Tahiti and it was raining when we started our tour and continued for 3 of the 5
hours we were touring. I wasn't feeling to well and couldn't appreciate some of the stops we made. We
were all saying this isn't the weather we were thinking about in the Polynesian Islands. We think of
swaying palm trees, sun and beautiful sights. We did see some nice homes but on the whole, I'd say it
was disappointing seeing homes made of metal sheets, some without glass in the windows. I felt sorry
for these people but when I asked our guide he said the people are very happy because they don't know
any better.
Today we are in Moorea and I decided since it was going to rain for most of the day I'd stay onboard.
Enid is on tour and will let you know her opinion when she gets back. Enid absolutely loved the tour even
though the 3 of them (Sue, Steve and Enid) looked like drowned rats. They fed the stingrays, had black
fin sharks swimming around them, had lunch and really enjoyed the day even with the bad weather.
HELENE--Enid said yes for Peter Pan.
First I have to thank Barbara for keeping me up to date with Sandy and thank her for keeping in touch
with her.
On the 13th we were in Tahiti and it was raining when we started our tour and continued for 3 of the 5
hours we were touring. I wasn't feeling to well and couldn't appreciate some of the stops we made. We
were all saying this isn't the weather we were thinking about in the Polynesian Islands. We think of
swaying palm trees, sun and beautiful sights. We did see some nice homes but on the whole, I'd say it
was disappointing seeing homes made of metal sheets, some without glass in the windows. I felt sorry
for these people but when I asked our guide he said the people are very happy because they don't know
any better.
Today we are in Moorea and I decided since it was going to rain for most of the day I'd stay onboard.
Enid is on tour and will let you know her opinion when she gets back. Enid absolutely loved the tour even
though the 3 of them (Sue, Steve and Enid) looked like drowned rats. They fed the stingrays, had black
fin sharks swimming around them, had lunch and really enjoyed the day even with the bad weather.
HELENE--Enid said yes for Peter Pan.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
SUNDAY
MARCH 11, 2012
Another sea day and really nothing exciting to report. After breakfast this morning we went to the cinema
and saw Mr. Poppers Penguins". I thought it was very cute. Jules, you should really see it; it might bring
back fond memories.
After lunch we went to a cooking demonstration but it was the same one we went to last cruise and we couldn't understand the chef last time and it was no different this time.
Tonight is the guitarist/singer that we love and the magician (who we missed last night) but heard he's just okay. I'm sure they'll have the guitarist on second so we'll be forced to see the magician. Maybe we'll be pleasantly surprised.
If anyone is interested the 18th is Sandy's birthday. I think it woud be nice if she got a few phone calls. Please tell her I ask about her a lot and wish her well.
Another sea day and really nothing exciting to report. After breakfast this morning we went to the cinema
and saw Mr. Poppers Penguins". I thought it was very cute. Jules, you should really see it; it might bring
back fond memories.
After lunch we went to a cooking demonstration but it was the same one we went to last cruise and we couldn't understand the chef last time and it was no different this time.
Tonight is the guitarist/singer that we love and the magician (who we missed last night) but heard he's just okay. I'm sure they'll have the guitarist on second so we'll be forced to see the magician. Maybe we'll be pleasantly surprised.
If anyone is interested the 18th is Sandy's birthday. I think it woud be nice if she got a few phone calls. Please tell her I ask about her a lot and wish her well.
MARCH 10
MARCH 10, 2012 SATURDAY
Today is another sea day and for a change Enid and I slept most of the afternoon away. She still has
her cough, taking different meds and 8 nebulizer treatments has cost her about $900 so far. I forgot to
say that for the last 3 days I've actually sat on the balcony and gotten some color. On the pool deck
the wind is fierce but since the balcony is protected on 3 sides it's not that bad.
The other night in the theater I sat down front with Terry and Wally (Enid was in the back in case her
coughing was too bad) and a man comes over and asked if anyone was sitting in the seat next to me.
I said no and for $5.00 he could have it. So he sat down (without paying--the nerve) and started a long
conversation with me until the show started. I said to Terry I'm not sure if he's trying to pick me up or
just being nice. After all it's been a long time between pick-ups.
This morning I was sitting upstairs by the pool (I know it was windy) and Steve (that's the pick-up man)
came and sat at the table next to us and said, "good morning Gladys". Being the nice person that I am,
I invited him to sit with us. He said he was going to a dance class but he did sit with us for about 10
minutes.
We had our normal afternoon and rested and napped. Dinner was fine but instead of going to the
theater to see a pianist we went to the Crystal Room and waited for the Newleywed-Not So Newleywed
game to start which was very funny and worth the wait.
BARBARA---I can't thank you enough for keeping me updated on all the goings on. It is greatly appreciated.
Today is another sea day and for a change Enid and I slept most of the afternoon away. She still has
her cough, taking different meds and 8 nebulizer treatments has cost her about $900 so far. I forgot to
say that for the last 3 days I've actually sat on the balcony and gotten some color. On the pool deck
the wind is fierce but since the balcony is protected on 3 sides it's not that bad.
The other night in the theater I sat down front with Terry and Wally (Enid was in the back in case her
coughing was too bad) and a man comes over and asked if anyone was sitting in the seat next to me.
I said no and for $5.00 he could have it. So he sat down (without paying--the nerve) and started a long
conversation with me until the show started. I said to Terry I'm not sure if he's trying to pick me up or
just being nice. After all it's been a long time between pick-ups.
This morning I was sitting upstairs by the pool (I know it was windy) and Steve (that's the pick-up man)
came and sat at the table next to us and said, "good morning Gladys". Being the nice person that I am,
I invited him to sit with us. He said he was going to a dance class but he did sit with us for about 10
minutes.
We had our normal afternoon and rested and napped. Dinner was fine but instead of going to the
theater to see a pianist we went to the Crystal Room and waited for the Newleywed-Not So Newleywed
game to start which was very funny and worth the wait.
BARBARA---I can't thank you enough for keeping me updated on all the goings on. It is greatly appreciated.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
March 9 (2)
FRIDAY MARCH 9 PART 2
Here it is--March 9th again. They are even having Friday night Sabbath Services again. I forgot to
mention that this cruise is exactly the opposite of the last one. It is very windy which makes it next to
impossible to sit on deck and it is in the high 60's and we have now had 4 days of rough seas.
I hate to say this but the sea days havee been pretty boring and I've gotten to sleep a few extra times daily. We had an Aussie comedian/singer who was very funny. She came on stage and the first thing I thought of was Totie Fields..
Last night went to Murano for dinner with Sue, Steve, Terry and Wally and we had a
lovely time except they changed the goat cheese souffle and it doesn't come with the
cage on top anymore. We were there for 3 1/4 hours and never got to the show. I had a terrible nights sleep because I was so full it was uncomfortable.
Here it is--March 9th again. They are even having Friday night Sabbath Services again. I forgot to
mention that this cruise is exactly the opposite of the last one. It is very windy which makes it next to
impossible to sit on deck and it is in the high 60's and we have now had 4 days of rough seas.
I hate to say this but the sea days havee been pretty boring and I've gotten to sleep a few extra times daily. We had an Aussie comedian/singer who was very funny. She came on stage and the first thing I thought of was Totie Fields..
Last night went to Murano for dinner with Sue, Steve, Terry and Wally and we had a
lovely time except they changed the goat cheese souffle and it doesn't come with the
cage on top anymore. We were there for 3 1/4 hours and never got to the show. I had a terrible nights sleep because I was so full it was uncomfortable.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
MARCH 9 DAY 1
FRIDAY MAR 9, 2012
Sorry I haven't keep everyone up to date but I had no internet service until today. This is our second
sea day on our way to French Polynesia. Cruise 1 is over and it was very sad to say goodbye to Lorraine
and Ed and Ann and John. We all got up at 4:45 to watch as we sailed into Sydney harbor. We stood
outside in cold and windy conditions with towels wrapped over our shoulders but it was definitely worth
it. Of course it was pitch black outside but we managed to get a few good pictures of the opera house
anyway. Enid is still hacking away and has gone to the doctor after finishing her Z pack and 4 bottles
of cough medicine. Today was her 4th nebulizer treatment and I don't think she is any better for it.
Tomorrow they are planning on taking a chest xray.
The turn over for cruise 2 went well. Changing cabins wasn't as bad as I expected and our new cabin
steward is wonderful. After all of the other passengers got off the ship we went outside to wait for
Sue and Steve and it was bedlam out there. They didn't let the new passengers into the terminal until 11:15.
They were able to check their luggage but had to get in a line and wait to be let in. The process took a long time.
Since I haven't been on in a while I'm sure this entry wll be disjointed as I'll just write as it comes to me
so forgive me for rambling.
It was wonderful to see Sue and Steve as we thoroughly enjoy spending time with them. Bruno arranged
for a great table for the 4 of us and we have the waiter that used to be next to us in the dining room and he
is a dynamo. The sea days have been very restful and the only tme Enid doesn't cough is when she is
sleeping so the rest is the only time it's peaceful.
We missed the welcome aboard party but the 2nd night they had Mario D'Andrea again and the theater
went wild from his performance. Last nigt show was a production show that we had seen on the first leg.
Today is March 9, day 1 and tomorrow will be like groundhog day. Tomorrow will be march 9, day 2.
We are crossing the international date line so we have 2 of the same date.
I'm sure I've left a lot of stuff out so I'll just stick it in as the mind gets sharper.
Sorry I haven't keep everyone up to date but I had no internet service until today. This is our second
sea day on our way to French Polynesia. Cruise 1 is over and it was very sad to say goodbye to Lorraine
and Ed and Ann and John. We all got up at 4:45 to watch as we sailed into Sydney harbor. We stood
outside in cold and windy conditions with towels wrapped over our shoulders but it was definitely worth
it. Of course it was pitch black outside but we managed to get a few good pictures of the opera house
anyway. Enid is still hacking away and has gone to the doctor after finishing her Z pack and 4 bottles
of cough medicine. Today was her 4th nebulizer treatment and I don't think she is any better for it.
Tomorrow they are planning on taking a chest xray.
The turn over for cruise 2 went well. Changing cabins wasn't as bad as I expected and our new cabin
steward is wonderful. After all of the other passengers got off the ship we went outside to wait for
Sue and Steve and it was bedlam out there. They didn't let the new passengers into the terminal until 11:15.
They were able to check their luggage but had to get in a line and wait to be let in. The process took a long time.
Since I haven't been on in a while I'm sure this entry wll be disjointed as I'll just write as it comes to me
so forgive me for rambling.
It was wonderful to see Sue and Steve as we thoroughly enjoy spending time with them. Bruno arranged
for a great table for the 4 of us and we have the waiter that used to be next to us in the dining room and he
is a dynamo. The sea days have been very restful and the only tme Enid doesn't cough is when she is
sleeping so the rest is the only time it's peaceful.
We missed the welcome aboard party but the 2nd night they had Mario D'Andrea again and the theater
went wild from his performance. Last nigt show was a production show that we had seen on the first leg.
Today is March 9, day 1 and tomorrow will be like groundhog day. Tomorrow will be march 9, day 2.
We are crossing the international date line so we have 2 of the same date.
I'm sure I've left a lot of stuff out so I'll just stick it in as the mind gets sharper.
Saturday, March 3, 2012
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY
MAR 2 AND 3 FRIDAY & SATURDAY
Actually I have nothing to write about. Were just finishing the 2nd sea day in a row and Enid and I are both
sick with colds and a cough. We basically left the cabin only to eat and then back to the cabin to sleep.
I have never slept so much in my life. Tonight was a formal night and we had dinner delivered to our cabin.
Tomorrow we'll be in Brisbane and then 1 more sea day and this 18 night cruise will be over. Where did the days go? I'm sad that this portion is almost over.
Actually I have nothing to write about. Were just finishing the 2nd sea day in a row and Enid and I are both
sick with colds and a cough. We basically left the cabin only to eat and then back to the cabin to sleep.
I have never slept so much in my life. Tonight was a formal night and we had dinner delivered to our cabin.
Tomorrow we'll be in Brisbane and then 1 more sea day and this 18 night cruise will be over. Where did the days go? I'm sad that this portion is almost over.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Mar 1
MARCH 1 THURSDAY
Today we were up again at 6AM so we could be ready for our tour at 7:15. We were in Cairns but couldn't
dock so we had to tender. My record of tenders is not the best as sometime I do get sick but today
was fine ntil we had to get off. It took so long to get off I thought I might faint as it was very stuffy.
We met our driver who happened to be an Aborigine (don't think I spelled that right) and he was fantastic.
We went to Mossman Gorge where we walked on metal platforms and George (our driver) told us what
kind of trees we were looking at, the different kinds of fruits that are native to Australia, and lots of stories
about his family background. From there we went to the Daintree River where we took a crocodile cruise.
What a waste of time that was as we saw 1 baby croc hidden in the tree and 2 snakes in trees. Now isn't
that exciting? Then we went to lunch which we had pre-ordered before the cruise and went to this restaurant
called the Daintree Tea House. We had a choice of fish, chicken, a veggie platter or steak ad those of you that
know how fussy I am ordered just chips (french fries in Oz). It was a lovely spot for lunch. We ate outside on
a covered patio and there was a nice breeze. Enid got chicken and it came with all these strange fruits
but the owner came out with a big plate with different fruits and explained everyone of them so people
would now what they were eating. I'm so glad I ordered chips because there is no way I would've
tried those fruits. On the way back to the ship we passed through Port Douglas which is a very upscale
city and it looked beautiful. I'm sorry we couldn't spend more time there.
Enid's cough is really bad and the people on the tour were looking at each other everytime she coughed.
I decided not to go to the dining room for dinner so Enid and I went to the buffet and met Glenn and Glenda
there so we sat there for 2 hours talking. While we were there people from the 7 PM show came up and
said not to waste our time by going. It was an Aussie comedian but we had already decided that we were
going to sleep early and were going to miss the show.
Now we have 2 more sea days and then we'll be in Brisbane where we have another private tour.
Today we were up again at 6AM so we could be ready for our tour at 7:15. We were in Cairns but couldn't
dock so we had to tender. My record of tenders is not the best as sometime I do get sick but today
was fine ntil we had to get off. It took so long to get off I thought I might faint as it was very stuffy.
We met our driver who happened to be an Aborigine (don't think I spelled that right) and he was fantastic.
We went to Mossman Gorge where we walked on metal platforms and George (our driver) told us what
kind of trees we were looking at, the different kinds of fruits that are native to Australia, and lots of stories
about his family background. From there we went to the Daintree River where we took a crocodile cruise.
What a waste of time that was as we saw 1 baby croc hidden in the tree and 2 snakes in trees. Now isn't
that exciting? Then we went to lunch which we had pre-ordered before the cruise and went to this restaurant
called the Daintree Tea House. We had a choice of fish, chicken, a veggie platter or steak ad those of you that
know how fussy I am ordered just chips (french fries in Oz). It was a lovely spot for lunch. We ate outside on
a covered patio and there was a nice breeze. Enid got chicken and it came with all these strange fruits
but the owner came out with a big plate with different fruits and explained everyone of them so people
would now what they were eating. I'm so glad I ordered chips because there is no way I would've
tried those fruits. On the way back to the ship we passed through Port Douglas which is a very upscale
city and it looked beautiful. I'm sorry we couldn't spend more time there.
Enid's cough is really bad and the people on the tour were looking at each other everytime she coughed.
I decided not to go to the dining room for dinner so Enid and I went to the buffet and met Glenn and Glenda
there so we sat there for 2 hours talking. While we were there people from the 7 PM show came up and
said not to waste our time by going. It was an Aussie comedian but we had already decided that we were
going to sleep early and were going to miss the show.
Now we have 2 more sea days and then we'll be in Brisbane where we have another private tour.
FEB 29
FEB 29 WEDNESDAY
Today was another sea dayso there really isn't much to report. This afternoon we went to an Aussie Expo
where they taught us Aussie slang. Ian was the one who emcee'd it and he is very funny so it was cute.
From there we went to an early show in the main theater (3:30) to see the illusionist/comedian that I
missed the other night and he was very funny and taught us some magic tricks. If I remember them
when I get home I'll show them to you. Tonight the six of us have decided to go to dinner at 6:10 to show
Stephanie and James that they're not the only ones who can come in late. It will be even funnier if we still
get there before them. The show tonight is the pianist from Michael's Club who was on the TV show
Beauty and the Geek. Need I say more. The illusionist will also be sharing the stage with him but I'm sure
not together. At least I hope so.
To answer Helene's question they didn't announce who won but said they will mark the papers and send
a note to the winner, so I guess we'll never know. I do't remember (see how my memory hasn't gotten
any better) which gwn I liked the best but there were a few I really liked. I do remember liking Penelope
Cruz, hating Meryl Streep's dress and also laughed at Angelina Jolie's stanch to show off her leg.
I loved the guy who made fun of her when she gave them the Oscar. Wold you please check with
Laura to make sure she added the insurance.
I am very upset about Sandy. How long has she been out of work and has anyone seen her since this
infection started?
SUE---I heard a rumor that you have canceled China. Is it a truism?
Last night the show was okay. The comedian/illusionist only did comedy and he was funny.
BARBARA---Yes I do read the comments and I read that you talk to her every other day.
But you had written that a while ago and I got upset that she has not gone to work.
Today was another sea dayso there really isn't much to report. This afternoon we went to an Aussie Expo
where they taught us Aussie slang. Ian was the one who emcee'd it and he is very funny so it was cute.
From there we went to an early show in the main theater (3:30) to see the illusionist/comedian that I
missed the other night and he was very funny and taught us some magic tricks. If I remember them
when I get home I'll show them to you. Tonight the six of us have decided to go to dinner at 6:10 to show
Stephanie and James that they're not the only ones who can come in late. It will be even funnier if we still
get there before them. The show tonight is the pianist from Michael's Club who was on the TV show
Beauty and the Geek. Need I say more. The illusionist will also be sharing the stage with him but I'm sure
not together. At least I hope so.
To answer Helene's question they didn't announce who won but said they will mark the papers and send
a note to the winner, so I guess we'll never know. I do't remember (see how my memory hasn't gotten
any better) which gwn I liked the best but there were a few I really liked. I do remember liking Penelope
Cruz, hating Meryl Streep's dress and also laughed at Angelina Jolie's stanch to show off her leg.
I loved the guy who made fun of her when she gave them the Oscar. Wold you please check with
Laura to make sure she added the insurance.
I am very upset about Sandy. How long has she been out of work and has anyone seen her since this
infection started?
SUE---I heard a rumor that you have canceled China. Is it a truism?
Last night the show was okay. The comedian/illusionist only did comedy and he was funny.
BARBARA---Yes I do read the comments and I read that you talk to her every other day.
But you had written that a while ago and I got upset that she has not gone to work.
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