August 31, 2017
One more night like this and we will have to join Gamblers Anonymous.
The ship gave each guest a $5 coupon to play the slot machines, hoping, of course, that they would put in more than the free five bucks. We went to the Casino before supper tonight and took advantage of the freebie. We each played a slot machine with a real pull down handle that was 25 cents minimum. You could play in 25 cent increments up to $2.00. We played 25 cents at a time so it would last longer. Bonnie got up to $6 twice before it all went away. I was down under $3 when I hit something, and by the time the machine stopped clicking I was $21.50 to the good. I played down to an even $21 and cashed out. Take that Royal Casino! Winners!
Oh, I lost the $1 to the claw machine, trying to grab a pack of 100 dollar bills and drop them in the chute, like the machines that harbor stuffed animals. Luke, I don’t think there is any way to beat that machine – the jaws snap back without any attempt to grab the packet.
Well our toilet isn’t working properly so we have called maintenance to check it out. Keep those sly remarks to yourselves, please.
I did the last of my pirate talks today and will conclude tomorrow, as we sail for the Chesapeake Bay and Baltimore Harbor, with “Maryland, My Maryland.” It’s about all the things that Maryland has led the nation in. A fun talk.
I don’t know how much of Bonnie’s thunder I am going to steal with this next paragraph, but here goes. Our table is by the rail on Deck 5. We can look down into Deck 4. Right below us is a table for 6 occupied by the Fat Family. I know I am overweight, but these people are really, really round – all 6 of them from Grandma and Grandpa, to Mom and Dad, to the two daughters. E-nor-mouse. Tonight was the last formal night which means it is also Prime Rib and Lobster night. We counted: the six of them had 21 plates of appetizers – that’s 3 each, plus two cheese plates, and one plate of shrimp. Then they had two entries each – both prime rib and lobster. And then they had two desserts each. Oh, and I forgot, their weighter (pun intended – waiter/weighter – get it) brought them three extra lobsters. I gained 5 pounds just watching them eat. And their plates were clean – no left overs.
The Captain’s Table was filled tonight with people, not just fancy decorations. All cruise long there have been special plates, elaborately folded napkins, and no people. Tonight it was occupied by folks having dinner with the ship’s captain. Duh! What else do you do at the Captain’s Table? I don’t know if they are selected from the Frequent Floaters or if they pay for the privilege of having two floors of their fellow diners watch their every fork full journey from plate to mouth.
Well, let’s see if this thing will post.
TTFN
We do have so much fun!! Up at 6:30 and off to walk. 2 miles this morning then, back to the room to shower and head to the talk. I am busy crocheting during the talks on a scarf and hat for the winter (haha). Maybe we will have some this year. Then, off to a bite of breakfast and then, some cards and lunch. Afterwards he headed to the room to work on his talk and I headed to deck 5 to crochet, nap and enjoy the sea air. I get to people watch too. There is a sign of deck five that says no jogging!! But evidently there are people who can’t read.
After a while he came up to join me and we sat till 4. Then, off to the room to dress for formal night. Then, off to the casino, where I lost!!, and he won. Then, we played a game of rummy and I lost again. But I did win this morning.
The food was good tonight. I had the prime rib and he had the lobster. I had baked Alaska for dessert. Our waiter is one of the best we have ever had. He is a lot of fun.
The show tonight was very good. Three guys singing songs from Frank Sinatra and the 70's and more. They were fun to listen to and nice to look at, too. I rate this show as the best of all the shows we have seen this cruise.
Well, the toilet finally did flush so we will probably be okay tonight. It is time to brush the teeth, take the meds and head to bed. One more day to get up at 6:30. I will walk in the morning. It is a good thing our cruise is almost over. I have no clean shorts or pants and no clean t-shirts. I have worn everything many times. Packing less means I have to be creative in my daily attire.
Well, Mac I hope you are doing okay!! Granny has had a scan before. Luke you will have to play something for us sometime. Miss you all. Love you all. We are scheduled to arrive back at 233 Woodland on Sept 4, Labor Day.
Love, Mom, Granny and Bonnie
Thursday, August 31, 2017
ROYAL CARIBBEAN SUPPORTS WWF
August 30, 2017
No, that’s not the old version of Mr. McMahon’s professional wrestling. It is the organization who took the name from the rasslers – the World Wildlife Foundation. In years past, they supported the Make a Wish Foundation with their t-shirts. This year it’s the wild animals. We have always bought one, but not this year.
Today was the private island stop, Coco Cay. Actually I think it is the private island for several cruise lines. I know we were here previously, and I think it was on Princess, but that is a different line altogether, so maybe not. Who cares? Anyway, we were out on island for 4 hours, including tender time. The weather was not too hot, the sun was not burning down on we bathers and the sea was very pleasant. The cook-out lunch was very tasty. All in all a good stop.
I had no talk today, so we slept in until 8 a.m., had breakfast in the Windjammer Café before heading for the tender. It was the first time this cruise we’ve eaten an early breakfast there. With my talks at 9 a.m. (Captain Kidd tomorrow) I get room service, and then after my talk, Bonnie grabs a bite at the Windjammer or the Park Café.
We received a “Special Offer Just For You” with our Cruise Compass last night. We can claim $5 free play at the casino’s slot machines. So tomorrow we will do so. If we hit it big, yippee. If not, it’s their $5. Also, if we insert a $1 bill into our favorite slot machine we will automatically be entered in a drawing for $500 ($400 if we don’t stay up until 10:45 p.m. tomorrow night). We are as yet undecided about that one. Of course the odds are better than winning the $700 million lottery. Maybe we’ll give it a try.
Well, I’m going to turn the keyboard over to She Who Must Be Obeyed and take another look at Captain Kidd before bedtime.
TTFN
HELLO!! I did not arise at 8. I woke at 7:15 to the sound of the anchor being dropped. It was right under us. He did not hear it. Well, I was ready to get up anyways.
Well, I enjoyed the beach very much. As he said it was very pleasant out and the water was nice. I found some shells (some with creatures inside which I put back) and some which were empty and I could bring home to add to my collection. I saw two white crabs skittering in the water. One up near the sand and one back under the rocks where I sat for a while. He was funny. He hid himself under a rock and all you could see were his eyes up on top of his antennae. Strange sight. David couldn’t see him so I threw sand on the crab till he moved and David was able to see him.
After walking in the water for a while and gathering some shells, I went up to put my sandals back on and rinse off my feet. Then, we sat at the tables where lunch would be served. We sat and watched people and relaxed until it was time for lunch. It would sprinkle rain off and on but it was not bad. We filled our plates and I enjoyed a watermelon, tomato and feta cheese salad, some cantaloupe (it was very sweet), a spare rib and chocolate chip cookies for dessert. We then proceeded to gather up our stuff, walk through the souvenir stands and board the tender back to the ship. Of course we had to go through the metal detectors and I set them off. I have set them off every time I have boarded the ship. Oh, Joy!!
We went to our room and each had a warm shower to rid ourselves of the suntan lotion. I went upstairs to return our $75 towels ($25 each if not returned).Then, I started napping while he worked for a while. Then, he joined me. We dressed for supper and ventured up to deck 5 to play a game of cards before supper. I lost again!
Supper was good. I enjoy giving our waiter Dexter a hard time. He now will not recommend fish entrees to me because I make a face at him if he does. He is a very good waiter and lots of fun. His assistant had to leave in Bermuda to go home to have carpal tunnel surgery done. So Dexter has been having a variety of helpers to try and find one to be regularly with him. Your Dad like the young lady that has been working the last two nights.
The show tonight was their “rhythm and rhyme” show which features songs from Broadway. Some were good and others just okay. This group of singers is not the best we have heard. The one girl tries to ad-lib a style into the songs the way some people do the national anthem sometimes and it just isn’t good. But we enjoy the show in general. They have the typical singers one black girl, one white girl, one white guy and one black guy, though I think the black guy is Latin not black. One unusual thing about the dancers is that one of the girls has a very short haircut, even shaved on one side of her head. They all wear a lot of wigs during most of the acts but sometimes they just have their own hair.
Well, I need to take my pills and head to bed. We are getting up at 6:30 tomorrow so I will get to do my walk in the morning.
Goodnight to all.
Love Mom, Granny and Bonnie
No, that’s not the old version of Mr. McMahon’s professional wrestling. It is the organization who took the name from the rasslers – the World Wildlife Foundation. In years past, they supported the Make a Wish Foundation with their t-shirts. This year it’s the wild animals. We have always bought one, but not this year.
Today was the private island stop, Coco Cay. Actually I think it is the private island for several cruise lines. I know we were here previously, and I think it was on Princess, but that is a different line altogether, so maybe not. Who cares? Anyway, we were out on island for 4 hours, including tender time. The weather was not too hot, the sun was not burning down on we bathers and the sea was very pleasant. The cook-out lunch was very tasty. All in all a good stop.
I had no talk today, so we slept in until 8 a.m., had breakfast in the Windjammer Café before heading for the tender. It was the first time this cruise we’ve eaten an early breakfast there. With my talks at 9 a.m. (Captain Kidd tomorrow) I get room service, and then after my talk, Bonnie grabs a bite at the Windjammer or the Park Café.
We received a “Special Offer Just For You” with our Cruise Compass last night. We can claim $5 free play at the casino’s slot machines. So tomorrow we will do so. If we hit it big, yippee. If not, it’s their $5. Also, if we insert a $1 bill into our favorite slot machine we will automatically be entered in a drawing for $500 ($400 if we don’t stay up until 10:45 p.m. tomorrow night). We are as yet undecided about that one. Of course the odds are better than winning the $700 million lottery. Maybe we’ll give it a try.
Well, I’m going to turn the keyboard over to She Who Must Be Obeyed and take another look at Captain Kidd before bedtime.
TTFN
HELLO!! I did not arise at 8. I woke at 7:15 to the sound of the anchor being dropped. It was right under us. He did not hear it. Well, I was ready to get up anyways.
Well, I enjoyed the beach very much. As he said it was very pleasant out and the water was nice. I found some shells (some with creatures inside which I put back) and some which were empty and I could bring home to add to my collection. I saw two white crabs skittering in the water. One up near the sand and one back under the rocks where I sat for a while. He was funny. He hid himself under a rock and all you could see were his eyes up on top of his antennae. Strange sight. David couldn’t see him so I threw sand on the crab till he moved and David was able to see him.
After walking in the water for a while and gathering some shells, I went up to put my sandals back on and rinse off my feet. Then, we sat at the tables where lunch would be served. We sat and watched people and relaxed until it was time for lunch. It would sprinkle rain off and on but it was not bad. We filled our plates and I enjoyed a watermelon, tomato and feta cheese salad, some cantaloupe (it was very sweet), a spare rib and chocolate chip cookies for dessert. We then proceeded to gather up our stuff, walk through the souvenir stands and board the tender back to the ship. Of course we had to go through the metal detectors and I set them off. I have set them off every time I have boarded the ship. Oh, Joy!!
We went to our room and each had a warm shower to rid ourselves of the suntan lotion. I went upstairs to return our $75 towels ($25 each if not returned).Then, I started napping while he worked for a while. Then, he joined me. We dressed for supper and ventured up to deck 5 to play a game of cards before supper. I lost again!
Supper was good. I enjoy giving our waiter Dexter a hard time. He now will not recommend fish entrees to me because I make a face at him if he does. He is a very good waiter and lots of fun. His assistant had to leave in Bermuda to go home to have carpal tunnel surgery done. So Dexter has been having a variety of helpers to try and find one to be regularly with him. Your Dad like the young lady that has been working the last two nights.
The show tonight was their “rhythm and rhyme” show which features songs from Broadway. Some were good and others just okay. This group of singers is not the best we have heard. The one girl tries to ad-lib a style into the songs the way some people do the national anthem sometimes and it just isn’t good. But we enjoy the show in general. They have the typical singers one black girl, one white girl, one white guy and one black guy, though I think the black guy is Latin not black. One unusual thing about the dancers is that one of the girls has a very short haircut, even shaved on one side of her head. They all wear a lot of wigs during most of the acts but sometimes they just have their own hair.
Well, I need to take my pills and head to bed. We are getting up at 6:30 tomorrow so I will get to do my walk in the morning.
Goodnight to all.
Love Mom, Granny and Bonnie
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
NASSAU: BEEN THERE
August 29, 2017
Done that.
Again.
Bought no t-shirt.
The Grandeur of the Seas docked at 1300 hours, beside of the Carnival Liberty and a big Mickey Mouse ship whose name we did not see. Once our Captain announced that we had cleared customs Bonnie and I waited until the thundering herd had disembarked and took a leisurely stroll off, walked through the security area, crossed Woodes Rogers Way, and strolled around for a couple of hours, purchasing small souvenirs, and came back on board. Total time ashore in Nassau: two hours. And the ship sails at midnight.
For entertainment this evening, a movie is being shown in the Palladium Theater – Kong: Skull Island. One of us is looking forward with eager anticipation, and the other one of us is pretending to be looking forward with eager anticipation (but she has a Hershey bar to entice me). But we will have fun. I hope they will have popcorn.
Tomorrow is the private island experience, and our first morning to sleep in since our Cruise Vacation began. We actually brought swimming clothes – and suntan lotion – so we can play on the beach and in the water. There will be a bar-b-que on shore for lunch.
And now we are going to supper so we can get great seats for Kong.
TTFN.
It is now 10 pm. We are still 2 hours till we will be gone from Nassau. All aboard is 11:30. I would not like to be out after dark here, unless maybe we were at Atlantis.
I walked over 6 miles today including 1 and half miles before breakfast. After which I showered, dressed and we went to his talk. Then, upstairs for some hot chocolate and a muffin and to take the rest of my pills. We played some cards and watched as we came into port at 1pm. There were two large ships already there. But we parked closest to the town. Yeah. There were a huge number of people who exited our ship to join the throng of people already ashore from the other ships. Our ship was really almost empty. We disembarked and walked around for about 2 hours and bought a couple of doodads before going back on board. There were a lot of stores that were open the last time we were here but were boarded up now. Most of the stuff for sale is “made in China” and I generally try not to buy that.
We got back on board, napped and then, I showered. I felt icky from the sun tan lotion we had put on and my hair was in need of a good wash. I took a long, hot shower and it felt great. It is really an acrobatic trick to try and dry your hair with the hair dryer. The only place to plug it in is at the desk where all the computer stuff is located. Then, the cord is short and it is tricky. Oh well, I managed.
It was off to supper and we were one of the few that showed up. I had a cold mango soup, a goat cheese polenta with white beans(they tasted like bake beans) and Thai. noodles and stir fried vegetables (that was mainly carrots and snow peas) with peanut sauce served on the side. The sauce tasted like Jif peanut butter that had been melted and a hot spice put into it. Interesting. I ate it. It was interesting! To say the least. Then, I had chocolate and vanilla ice cream for dessert.
My favorite part of the evening came after supper. They were showing the new King Kong movie on the big screen. Cool. I enjoyed every minute of it. It was annoying when about 10 minutes before the movie ended these people came into the balcony where we were, walked in front of us then, sat down. Really!! Weird. Some lady exiting behind us said it was a dumb movie. I said I loved it. What did she know.
After the show, we went to the centrum area that is 3 decks high (4-5-6) and watched the singers and dancers do a program called “Seasons”.It was good but not as dramatic as the last time we saw it. That time they used aerialist suspended from the ceiling for some of the action. But it was good anyway.
We are now back in our cabin and are planning to sleep in tomorrow and then have breakfast and go to the beach. There we may get wet and will have lunch. It is the first day so far we have not had to get up at 6:30 am. Last night we went to bed at 9 and slept 9 + hours. Wow! That was great.
Well, I have written war and peace again.
Mac do that math homework!! It is good for you. Hope the geometry is going well for Luke and Rachel. How is that saxophone coming Maggie? Well, Emma how does it feel to be 9? Hey Tate, keep wearing those braces.
Love you all. See you soon.
Granny, Mom, Bonnie
Done that.
Again.
Bought no t-shirt.
The Grandeur of the Seas docked at 1300 hours, beside of the Carnival Liberty and a big Mickey Mouse ship whose name we did not see. Once our Captain announced that we had cleared customs Bonnie and I waited until the thundering herd had disembarked and took a leisurely stroll off, walked through the security area, crossed Woodes Rogers Way, and strolled around for a couple of hours, purchasing small souvenirs, and came back on board. Total time ashore in Nassau: two hours. And the ship sails at midnight.
For entertainment this evening, a movie is being shown in the Palladium Theater – Kong: Skull Island. One of us is looking forward with eager anticipation, and the other one of us is pretending to be looking forward with eager anticipation (but she has a Hershey bar to entice me). But we will have fun. I hope they will have popcorn.
Tomorrow is the private island experience, and our first morning to sleep in since our Cruise Vacation began. We actually brought swimming clothes – and suntan lotion – so we can play on the beach and in the water. There will be a bar-b-que on shore for lunch.
And now we are going to supper so we can get great seats for Kong.
TTFN.
It is now 10 pm. We are still 2 hours till we will be gone from Nassau. All aboard is 11:30. I would not like to be out after dark here, unless maybe we were at Atlantis.
I walked over 6 miles today including 1 and half miles before breakfast. After which I showered, dressed and we went to his talk. Then, upstairs for some hot chocolate and a muffin and to take the rest of my pills. We played some cards and watched as we came into port at 1pm. There were two large ships already there. But we parked closest to the town. Yeah. There were a huge number of people who exited our ship to join the throng of people already ashore from the other ships. Our ship was really almost empty. We disembarked and walked around for about 2 hours and bought a couple of doodads before going back on board. There were a lot of stores that were open the last time we were here but were boarded up now. Most of the stuff for sale is “made in China” and I generally try not to buy that.
We got back on board, napped and then, I showered. I felt icky from the sun tan lotion we had put on and my hair was in need of a good wash. I took a long, hot shower and it felt great. It is really an acrobatic trick to try and dry your hair with the hair dryer. The only place to plug it in is at the desk where all the computer stuff is located. Then, the cord is short and it is tricky. Oh well, I managed.
It was off to supper and we were one of the few that showed up. I had a cold mango soup, a goat cheese polenta with white beans(they tasted like bake beans) and Thai. noodles and stir fried vegetables (that was mainly carrots and snow peas) with peanut sauce served on the side. The sauce tasted like Jif peanut butter that had been melted and a hot spice put into it. Interesting. I ate it. It was interesting! To say the least. Then, I had chocolate and vanilla ice cream for dessert.
My favorite part of the evening came after supper. They were showing the new King Kong movie on the big screen. Cool. I enjoyed every minute of it. It was annoying when about 10 minutes before the movie ended these people came into the balcony where we were, walked in front of us then, sat down. Really!! Weird. Some lady exiting behind us said it was a dumb movie. I said I loved it. What did she know.
After the show, we went to the centrum area that is 3 decks high (4-5-6) and watched the singers and dancers do a program called “Seasons”.It was good but not as dramatic as the last time we saw it. That time they used aerialist suspended from the ceiling for some of the action. But it was good anyway.
We are now back in our cabin and are planning to sleep in tomorrow and then have breakfast and go to the beach. There we may get wet and will have lunch. It is the first day so far we have not had to get up at 6:30 am. Last night we went to bed at 9 and slept 9 + hours. Wow! That was great.
Well, I have written war and peace again.
Mac do that math homework!! It is good for you. Hope the geometry is going well for Luke and Rachel. How is that saxophone coming Maggie? Well, Emma how does it feel to be 9? Hey Tate, keep wearing those braces.
Love you all. See you soon.
Granny, Mom, Bonnie
Sunday, August 27, 2017
DODGING RAIN DROPS
August 27, 2017
No, that’s not thunder you hear, that’s Bonnie snoring. We have gotten up at 6:30 every morning so far so that I could rehearse my talks and this morning, get ready for the church service. And it has caught up with her.
We did not know if we were going to get to go off this morning because of a rain storm which came up while we were eating breakfast, but by the time we were ready to head to the gangway, the rain had stopped. Actually, it stopped about 5 minutes after we bought rain ponchos – probably should have done it sooner.
We stayed in the Dock Yard area, shopping and sightseeing, finally returning to the ship an hour before all aboard. We had no sooner gotten through security and up the gang way when it started raining again. We appreciated staying dry.
I stopped Derek Floyd this evening and asked him if I could test his memory, back 25 years (he was our entertainer night before last, you remember). Bonnie and I think Cesar Brooks brought him to Maranatha while Derek was performing at PTL. He said he honestly did not remember it because of performing in so many churches during that 7 or 8 year stretch, but he graciously allowed, if we remembered it, he was there.
Tonight’s entertainer was Brad Cummings, a ventriloquist we have seen before. He works with a puppet who is a gangster and another who is Rex, a baby dinosaur recently hatched from his egg. The dinosaur, excuse me, Rex (who says he appeared in Jurassic Park) flirted with some women, and picked on one man, named Matt. For the close of the show, Matt was brought up on stage and became the ventriloquist’s dummy. It was hilarious. A good show indeed.
There were a lot of “suits” in the dining room tonight. The wait staff must be undergoing evaluations. One of them stopped at our table and asked how we were enjoying our cruise and the dining experience. We told him that our waiter (another Derek – they are not relation) was the best waiter we’ve had in all of our cruising. Here’s hoping that those points help him move up. He is good, indeed. You would all like the way he interacts with Bonnie – one tidbit: two nights ago she asked for ketchup and he grabbed his chest feigning distress. Big fun. She got even last night when she told the French Onion soup was not good and made a face. More big fun (yes, we are easily amused).
Well time to punch up “send” and see if I can claim my spot in the bed.
TTFN
No, that’s not thunder you hear, that’s Bonnie snoring. We have gotten up at 6:30 every morning so far so that I could rehearse my talks and this morning, get ready for the church service. And it has caught up with her.
We did not know if we were going to get to go off this morning because of a rain storm which came up while we were eating breakfast, but by the time we were ready to head to the gangway, the rain had stopped. Actually, it stopped about 5 minutes after we bought rain ponchos – probably should have done it sooner.
We stayed in the Dock Yard area, shopping and sightseeing, finally returning to the ship an hour before all aboard. We had no sooner gotten through security and up the gang way when it started raining again. We appreciated staying dry.
I stopped Derek Floyd this evening and asked him if I could test his memory, back 25 years (he was our entertainer night before last, you remember). Bonnie and I think Cesar Brooks brought him to Maranatha while Derek was performing at PTL. He said he honestly did not remember it because of performing in so many churches during that 7 or 8 year stretch, but he graciously allowed, if we remembered it, he was there.
Tonight’s entertainer was Brad Cummings, a ventriloquist we have seen before. He works with a puppet who is a gangster and another who is Rex, a baby dinosaur recently hatched from his egg. The dinosaur, excuse me, Rex (who says he appeared in Jurassic Park) flirted with some women, and picked on one man, named Matt. For the close of the show, Matt was brought up on stage and became the ventriloquist’s dummy. It was hilarious. A good show indeed.
There were a lot of “suits” in the dining room tonight. The wait staff must be undergoing evaluations. One of them stopped at our table and asked how we were enjoying our cruise and the dining experience. We told him that our waiter (another Derek – they are not relation) was the best waiter we’ve had in all of our cruising. Here’s hoping that those points help him move up. He is good, indeed. You would all like the way he interacts with Bonnie – one tidbit: two nights ago she asked for ketchup and he grabbed his chest feigning distress. Big fun. She got even last night when she told the French Onion soup was not good and made a face. More big fun (yes, we are easily amused).
Well time to punch up “send” and see if I can claim my spot in the bed.
TTFN
Saturday, August 26, 2017
A COUPLE OF BOTTLES OF DEW
August 26, 2017
We docked at Heritage Wharf in Bermuda and were tied up about 1:30. Bonnie and I waited for the throng to disburse before we headed off. We stopped and bought round trip tokens for the Ferry to Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital.
Our first purchase were a bottle of Mountain Dew for me and a bottle of Diet Coke for her and we consumed them walking down the street. I know the Dew is caffinated and caffine makes my nose run, but sometimes, you just gotta.
We went to the Art Museum, one of our favorite stops – they change the art work frequently, featuring Bermudian artists. We did not know that it closed today at 2 p.m., and since we weren’t even on the Ferry by 2, we didn’t have a chance to see it. There was a herd of little girls dressed in dance costume, very similar to Augusta School of Dance that Rachel and Maggie frequent. There was evidently a performance, but since no one was selling tickets, we walked up the street to a beautiful old Anglican church. We went inside and just sat for a while and then I took a couple of pictures – I tried to post pix last night, but the internet connection is too slow to do it, so I’ll save them all for when we get home.
On our way back to the dock to catch the Ferry back to the ship, we watched a Hydroflight Competition. Let’s see if I can describe it. The athletes have their feet strapped into something that looks like a skate board, but there is a long hose about 4 inches in diameter attached to the bottom and dropping down to a jet ski that is controlled by remote control from the flyer, and jets of water come out under the contestants feet. They use the water to propel themselves 20 or so feet into the air and then do loops and twists and turns and dives while being judged. I took a video of one of the performers. A most interesting competition.
Back on board we changed and went to dinner where we learned that our assistant waiter, Panwar, is going home to India tomorrow on medical leave. He has carpal tunnel syndrome and has to have surgery. Bonnie told him she had it and that the surgery was very successful. He seemed encouraged by that. We gave him money to help his travel home. A great young man. We pray all goes well.
Tonight’s show was a production show featuring the Royal Caribbean Singers and Dancers in “All Access.” We’ve seen it several times before, but the choreography and costuming were very differnt this time. I have missed my nap 2 days in a row, and I caught up a little during the performance.
Well, I’m going to turn the keyboard over to my cruise partner and go over my sermon for the morning’s service. The title is “Where Do You Go When Troubles Come?”
TTFN
Well, 6:30 am is early when you have set your clocks ahead one hour. Nevertheless, up we got and as soon as his breakfast arrived I was off to walk. I was successful this morning in using the audiobook I had put on my kindle. It was breezy outside but very nice walking weather. I walked a mile this morning and another half this afternoon before we went off the ship. After walking, I returned to the room, showered, dressed and headed upstairs for a piece of toast and hot chocolate so I could take my pills and then head to his talk. Smaller crowd but a lot of people forgot to set their clocks and some didn’t realize it was a different talk. Can we say dense!
After the talk we went to the solarium for some card playing and then some lunch. I had a tuna fish sandwich and he had a panini. Then he went to the room to study his sermon for tomorrow and I went for a second session of walking. (A total of 1 ½ miles before we got off the ship.)
Then it was off we went to Bermuda. Oh course the first thing I buy is a , wait for it, a newspaper!! I got it at the pharmacy before we ever went to Hamilton. Put it in my pirate bag to carry back on ship to savour before going to bed. (I have finished 3 sections and have 2 to go, including the comics which are in full color!!) Quite a good paper. Very interesting, it even had a story about the hydroflight competition we saw, and even had some great pictures. In Hamilton we visited the yarn store (no I didn’t buy any) and a book store (surprise?). I got a note card and a small picture. No books. But it was a nice store to look into and the young clerk was very friendly and we had an enjoyable conversation. We then headed to the dock to catch the last ferry which left at 6 and we were treated to the hydroflight competition. The dock was a perfect place to watch. It was very interesting. Time passed quickly and when the ferry came in, it went to the adjoining dock and not at the one where we were standing and it was supposed to come into. So instead of being first in line we wound up in the middle. The gentleman in charge did leave those of us who had been first go on but when we turned around to go in the other direction we were at the back of the crowd. Oh well, there was still a few handicapped seats and we got two. After the ride which was very nice, we waited till almost everyone was off before we disembarked. I am slow.
Back on board after a quick wardrobe change we were off to supper. Good meal and we got to set in the window and had a great view. Finishing supper we headed to the show. We arrived about 15 minutes after it started but hadn’t missed much. I went in , in the dark, and found seats in the general area where we usually sit. Not as good as our usual seats but okay. Besides the people behind us who were talking during the show, who your father finally turned around and glared at, there were 2 teenage girls directly in front of us who kept using their cellphones to tape the performance, (which you are not supposed to do) and blocked my view. Oh well what can you do?
Well, we are back in the room and the old guy is asking if I am writing War and Peace , again. So I will say a hasty goodnight to all.
Love you, Mom, Granny and Bonnie
We docked at Heritage Wharf in Bermuda and were tied up about 1:30. Bonnie and I waited for the throng to disburse before we headed off. We stopped and bought round trip tokens for the Ferry to Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital.
Our first purchase were a bottle of Mountain Dew for me and a bottle of Diet Coke for her and we consumed them walking down the street. I know the Dew is caffinated and caffine makes my nose run, but sometimes, you just gotta.
We went to the Art Museum, one of our favorite stops – they change the art work frequently, featuring Bermudian artists. We did not know that it closed today at 2 p.m., and since we weren’t even on the Ferry by 2, we didn’t have a chance to see it. There was a herd of little girls dressed in dance costume, very similar to Augusta School of Dance that Rachel and Maggie frequent. There was evidently a performance, but since no one was selling tickets, we walked up the street to a beautiful old Anglican church. We went inside and just sat for a while and then I took a couple of pictures – I tried to post pix last night, but the internet connection is too slow to do it, so I’ll save them all for when we get home.
On our way back to the dock to catch the Ferry back to the ship, we watched a Hydroflight Competition. Let’s see if I can describe it. The athletes have their feet strapped into something that looks like a skate board, but there is a long hose about 4 inches in diameter attached to the bottom and dropping down to a jet ski that is controlled by remote control from the flyer, and jets of water come out under the contestants feet. They use the water to propel themselves 20 or so feet into the air and then do loops and twists and turns and dives while being judged. I took a video of one of the performers. A most interesting competition.
Back on board we changed and went to dinner where we learned that our assistant waiter, Panwar, is going home to India tomorrow on medical leave. He has carpal tunnel syndrome and has to have surgery. Bonnie told him she had it and that the surgery was very successful. He seemed encouraged by that. We gave him money to help his travel home. A great young man. We pray all goes well.
Tonight’s show was a production show featuring the Royal Caribbean Singers and Dancers in “All Access.” We’ve seen it several times before, but the choreography and costuming were very differnt this time. I have missed my nap 2 days in a row, and I caught up a little during the performance.
Well, I’m going to turn the keyboard over to my cruise partner and go over my sermon for the morning’s service. The title is “Where Do You Go When Troubles Come?”
TTFN
Well, 6:30 am is early when you have set your clocks ahead one hour. Nevertheless, up we got and as soon as his breakfast arrived I was off to walk. I was successful this morning in using the audiobook I had put on my kindle. It was breezy outside but very nice walking weather. I walked a mile this morning and another half this afternoon before we went off the ship. After walking, I returned to the room, showered, dressed and headed upstairs for a piece of toast and hot chocolate so I could take my pills and then head to his talk. Smaller crowd but a lot of people forgot to set their clocks and some didn’t realize it was a different talk. Can we say dense!
After the talk we went to the solarium for some card playing and then some lunch. I had a tuna fish sandwich and he had a panini. Then he went to the room to study his sermon for tomorrow and I went for a second session of walking. (A total of 1 ½ miles before we got off the ship.)
Then it was off we went to Bermuda. Oh course the first thing I buy is a , wait for it, a newspaper!! I got it at the pharmacy before we ever went to Hamilton. Put it in my pirate bag to carry back on ship to savour before going to bed. (I have finished 3 sections and have 2 to go, including the comics which are in full color!!) Quite a good paper. Very interesting, it even had a story about the hydroflight competition we saw, and even had some great pictures. In Hamilton we visited the yarn store (no I didn’t buy any) and a book store (surprise?). I got a note card and a small picture. No books. But it was a nice store to look into and the young clerk was very friendly and we had an enjoyable conversation. We then headed to the dock to catch the last ferry which left at 6 and we were treated to the hydroflight competition. The dock was a perfect place to watch. It was very interesting. Time passed quickly and when the ferry came in, it went to the adjoining dock and not at the one where we were standing and it was supposed to come into. So instead of being first in line we wound up in the middle. The gentleman in charge did leave those of us who had been first go on but when we turned around to go in the other direction we were at the back of the crowd. Oh well, there was still a few handicapped seats and we got two. After the ride which was very nice, we waited till almost everyone was off before we disembarked. I am slow.
Back on board after a quick wardrobe change we were off to supper. Good meal and we got to set in the window and had a great view. Finishing supper we headed to the show. We arrived about 15 minutes after it started but hadn’t missed much. I went in , in the dark, and found seats in the general area where we usually sit. Not as good as our usual seats but okay. Besides the people behind us who were talking during the show, who your father finally turned around and glared at, there were 2 teenage girls directly in front of us who kept using their cellphones to tape the performance, (which you are not supposed to do) and blocked my view. Oh well what can you do?
Well, we are back in the room and the old guy is asking if I am writing War and Peace , again. So I will say a hasty goodnight to all.
Love you, Mom, Granny and Bonnie
Friday, August 25, 2017
WHO IS CYNTHIA BARNETT?
August 25, 2017
Imagine my surprise when we returned to our stateroom tonight, picked up the Cruise Compass, the daily activities and news sheet for guests, and found that at 9 a.m., the talk, “Bermuda: Close to Heaven” is being presented by Cynthia Barnett!
Well, it turns out that may be my alias for this cruise. I had a message from Nikki – the cruise program administrator – on my voice mail apologizing. Cynthia was last cruise’s guest lecturer. In fact, I had two separate messages from Nikki apologizing. I was amused!
The South Pacific Lounge was full this morning for my first talk on the Bermuda Triangle (you will recognize most of the titles since I’ve been able to do them before – it makes preparation before and during the cruise easier). It is one of my strongest talks, always gets good reviews, and so since we are heading into the Triangle, I decided to start with it.
After the talk, my cabin buddy and I went to the Bottomless Galley Brunch, a $25 tour and eat affair. As you might guess we toured the galley and saw the various food preparations stations. One of the most interesting was the bakery which is the size of our dining room at 233. The bakery works non-stop with two shifts of bakers doing all of the breads and rolls for the entire ship. We smelled it before we went inside – smelled just like a bakery should.
Then we were treated to champagne, mimosas, orange juice, and coffee, plus a menu of foods selected just for the tour. Bonnie got Lemon Pepper Chicken and I got a Seafood Pasta. Very tasty.
We had skipped breakfast because of my 9 o’clock talk, so that was our meal until supper which was Linguini Marinara for her and Beef Tenderloin for him. She had chocolate cake. He had creme brulee.
The seas have been smooth. No ill-effects from the storm that came through the Gulf of Mexico and clobbered those good folks. So far, smooth sailing is predicted for the whole nine day cruise.
We have set our clocks ahead one hour so we arrive tomorrow on Bermuda time, so I will end this blog and catch some shut-eye. 6:30 comes early. But first, here’s Blogging Bonnie.
TTFN
Well, he didn’t tell you about the 2 plates of appetizers that were sitting on our table at the brunch. One was a delicious selection of cheeses and grapes. The other, had green and black olives, salami slices, procuttio and what looked to me like slivers of a snake or some kind of eel. UUGH!!! We offered it to our waiter and he said, a No. We did not eat that. Everything else was good.
After brunch, we went to a shopping talk on Bermuda. Didn’t win any of the door prizes. Sad. Then, he returned to the cabin to work and I went onto deck 5, found a deck lounger and crocheted for 2 hours. I had been on deck five earlier in the morning to walk. $ times around is a mile, and I did a mile. The weather was absolutely fantastic both times. The wind was blowing and it was a very cool day. Probably the 70's.
At 2:30 we went to a talk on arthritis and acupuncture. The doctor didn’t really talk about what I wanted to hear but she offers a free consultation to discuss your personal issues and problems. I am thinking about it but I am not sure yet.
After the “seminar” we went to the cabin and he took a nap and I snoozed a little. Tonight was formal night so we had to dress for supper. We have a very nice table for 2 in Anytime dining. Dexter is our waiter and Panwar his assistant. They are both a lot of fun. Dexter said he had drank several double espressos because he had a very long day and it was to keep him sharp.
The show tonight was a gentleman who was doing a Lionell Richie tribute. His name was Derek Floyd and he was on the PTL show for 8 years and Cesar had him at Maranatha when we were there. He was a very good singer. Great show.
Well, the old man is ready to go to bed (EEWH! I just threw up in my mouth, is probable what Amy said!!) And I still need to floss, brush and take my pills. So I will say goodbye for now.
Way to go Mac, tell your brother his shoes look great, Granny likes them,too.
Love you all,
Mom,Granny, and Bonnie (hi Karen!)
Imagine my surprise when we returned to our stateroom tonight, picked up the Cruise Compass, the daily activities and news sheet for guests, and found that at 9 a.m., the talk, “Bermuda: Close to Heaven” is being presented by Cynthia Barnett!
Well, it turns out that may be my alias for this cruise. I had a message from Nikki – the cruise program administrator – on my voice mail apologizing. Cynthia was last cruise’s guest lecturer. In fact, I had two separate messages from Nikki apologizing. I was amused!
The South Pacific Lounge was full this morning for my first talk on the Bermuda Triangle (you will recognize most of the titles since I’ve been able to do them before – it makes preparation before and during the cruise easier). It is one of my strongest talks, always gets good reviews, and so since we are heading into the Triangle, I decided to start with it.
After the talk, my cabin buddy and I went to the Bottomless Galley Brunch, a $25 tour and eat affair. As you might guess we toured the galley and saw the various food preparations stations. One of the most interesting was the bakery which is the size of our dining room at 233. The bakery works non-stop with two shifts of bakers doing all of the breads and rolls for the entire ship. We smelled it before we went inside – smelled just like a bakery should.
Then we were treated to champagne, mimosas, orange juice, and coffee, plus a menu of foods selected just for the tour. Bonnie got Lemon Pepper Chicken and I got a Seafood Pasta. Very tasty.
We had skipped breakfast because of my 9 o’clock talk, so that was our meal until supper which was Linguini Marinara for her and Beef Tenderloin for him. She had chocolate cake. He had creme brulee.
The seas have been smooth. No ill-effects from the storm that came through the Gulf of Mexico and clobbered those good folks. So far, smooth sailing is predicted for the whole nine day cruise.
We have set our clocks ahead one hour so we arrive tomorrow on Bermuda time, so I will end this blog and catch some shut-eye. 6:30 comes early. But first, here’s Blogging Bonnie.
TTFN
Well, he didn’t tell you about the 2 plates of appetizers that were sitting on our table at the brunch. One was a delicious selection of cheeses and grapes. The other, had green and black olives, salami slices, procuttio and what looked to me like slivers of a snake or some kind of eel. UUGH!!! We offered it to our waiter and he said, a No. We did not eat that. Everything else was good.
After brunch, we went to a shopping talk on Bermuda. Didn’t win any of the door prizes. Sad. Then, he returned to the cabin to work and I went onto deck 5, found a deck lounger and crocheted for 2 hours. I had been on deck five earlier in the morning to walk. $ times around is a mile, and I did a mile. The weather was absolutely fantastic both times. The wind was blowing and it was a very cool day. Probably the 70's.
At 2:30 we went to a talk on arthritis and acupuncture. The doctor didn’t really talk about what I wanted to hear but she offers a free consultation to discuss your personal issues and problems. I am thinking about it but I am not sure yet.
After the “seminar” we went to the cabin and he took a nap and I snoozed a little. Tonight was formal night so we had to dress for supper. We have a very nice table for 2 in Anytime dining. Dexter is our waiter and Panwar his assistant. They are both a lot of fun. Dexter said he had drank several double espressos because he had a very long day and it was to keep him sharp.
The show tonight was a gentleman who was doing a Lionell Richie tribute. His name was Derek Floyd and he was on the PTL show for 8 years and Cesar had him at Maranatha when we were there. He was a very good singer. Great show.
Well, the old man is ready to go to bed (EEWH! I just threw up in my mouth, is probable what Amy said!!) And I still need to floss, brush and take my pills. So I will say goodbye for now.
Way to go Mac, tell your brother his shoes look great, Granny likes them,too.
Love you all,
Mom,Granny, and Bonnie (hi Karen!)
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