All of the lectures now are being directed to South Africa. This morning, The South African
Ambassador to Argentina who was part of the Parliament when Nelson Mandela became
their president, spoke on the topic, "From Apartheid to Democracy and Beyond". Gave us
an on the spot description of those momentous times.
We have been busy looking at lists of places to see when we reach Cape Town. There are
so many that we'll have to select the best as well as those that are physically possible to
reach.
I'll say farewell to all of you for now (cancel this). It's Sunday and quite hectic at the
computer stations. Many Brits and other Europeans who had planned to depart Cape Town
and go home through Cairo are trying to change flights because of the chaos in Egypt.
Fortunately, I decided to go back from Johannesburg to London rather than break up the
journey by visiting North Africa. The topic of conversation by our speakers has now
included the political situation in the Middle East. Their concern is the possible move
of the radical Islamists to positions of power in this region and how the US will respond,
especially if it is a popular movement.
We also heard an interesting presentation by a South African Game Manager about his
work and how they control wild life in many of the areas. Since many of the people are
now encroaching on sections formerly occupied by herds of grazers as well as predators,
the wild life managers have been pressed to keep a reasoable balance among all.
Incidently, to all those who are interested in such a career, there is ample opportunity
here in Africa.
If you're still with me, we listned to Roy Leon the South African Ambassador speak about
the events that took place when Nelson Mandela was freed from Robben Island. He
was involved in some of the intrigue that brought le Klerk and Mandela together. It
was at that time both men helped launch S.Africa on its course to toward a democratic
gov't. However, S.Africa is still suffering from high unemployment(25%) as well as a
considerable crime wave.
We are going to view the film, Invictus, on Thursday. We saw it while at home but now
we can see it with more information than before. Both men, Mandela and le Klerk
took tremendous risks to get the ball rolling against Apartheid.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Bienvenidos A Montevideo
We arrived here early in the morning and the weather was good. Capt. Wright had to maneuver
the QM2 through a small opening to the dockside. I remember the trouble they had last time
we docked, however, we made it with a few feet to spare. After breakfast, we walked the deck and watched our ship load supplies for the next leg of the journey, crossing the South Atlantic
almost directly opposite The Cape of Good Hope, about 6 sailing days to the East.
Last night we heard a very fine musician, Suzanne Godfrey, an Irish flutist or some say,
flautist ( From the Italian, flauto, for flute). She played a number of Henri Mancini's pieces.
He was a flutist, something I didn't know. The "Pink Panther Theme" and from Breakfast at
Tiffany's, "Moon River", his favorite and mine as well. Audrey Hepburn starred in that film.
The ship is deserted at the present time since most passengers are on tours. We decided to take
a pass from the usual guided tours and go out on our own this afternoon. This is a good time to
work on the computers which get crowded when all are on board.
I'm not sure that you are getting this blog so if you are, let me know on E-Mail. I hope Aubrey
and Walter are following us. Walter, they have an excellent jazz group on the QM2 and
I think of you everytime the trumpeter goes to work.
While having lunch at the Lotus our former waiters on the World Cruise 2009, Chris and
Dario, stopped by to see us and chat about their work and families.
the QM2 through a small opening to the dockside. I remember the trouble they had last time
we docked, however, we made it with a few feet to spare. After breakfast, we walked the deck and watched our ship load supplies for the next leg of the journey, crossing the South Atlantic
almost directly opposite The Cape of Good Hope, about 6 sailing days to the East.
Last night we heard a very fine musician, Suzanne Godfrey, an Irish flutist or some say,
flautist ( From the Italian, flauto, for flute). She played a number of Henri Mancini's pieces.
He was a flutist, something I didn't know. The "Pink Panther Theme" and from Breakfast at
Tiffany's, "Moon River", his favorite and mine as well. Audrey Hepburn starred in that film.
The ship is deserted at the present time since most passengers are on tours. We decided to take
a pass from the usual guided tours and go out on our own this afternoon. This is a good time to
work on the computers which get crowded when all are on board.
I'm not sure that you are getting this blog so if you are, let me know on E-Mail. I hope Aubrey
and Walter are following us. Walter, they have an excellent jazz group on the QM2 and
I think of you everytime the trumpeter goes to work.
While having lunch at the Lotus our former waiters on the World Cruise 2009, Chris and
Dario, stopped by to see us and chat about their work and families.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Montevideo......Tomorrow
You probably don't know this but Uruguay was created by the British as a buffer between
Brazil and Argentina.
Our day was filled with culture. First, a talk by a former Ballet Director and close friend of
Princess Diana, who provided some insights about this famous gal and her life that hadn't
been revealed till now. Particularly how she raised her children, trying to make sure that
they were treated like ordinary kids, something that didn't fly well with the royal crowd.
Photo journalist, Phil Beye gave an exciting firsthand account of the 1991-2003 Gulf wars
from the viewpoint of a foreign correspondent in Baghdad. He showed a remarkable film
of the Shock and Awe campaign as well as on the ground meetings with American troops
as they entered the City in the 2nd Gulf war. He managed to get into areas that were
devastated by the bombing from Cruise missiles early in the war and was able to film
on the spot interviews with the local people immediately afterwards.
We also listened to a talk by former Ambassador Howard Walker who discussed the Rise
of China, India and regional powers in South America, Africa and Middle East. I was
particularly interested in his comments about the economic rivalry between the US and
China which he felt will come to a head in the next decade.
While strolling on the deck after lunch this noon, I thought of all the things I wanted to
say to some people but let the moment pass by so I am dedicating this verse
to all our children and grandchildren:
Begin Anew
Think not of where you've been
Of sights you've seen or haven't,
The deeds you did or failed to do,
And words expressed or shouldn't.
Tomorrow begins another day
When one's life can start anew,
To do the things you wanted to,
But somehow thought you couldn't.
Brazil and Argentina.
Our day was filled with culture. First, a talk by a former Ballet Director and close friend of
Princess Diana, who provided some insights about this famous gal and her life that hadn't
been revealed till now. Particularly how she raised her children, trying to make sure that
they were treated like ordinary kids, something that didn't fly well with the royal crowd.
Photo journalist, Phil Beye gave an exciting firsthand account of the 1991-2003 Gulf wars
from the viewpoint of a foreign correspondent in Baghdad. He showed a remarkable film
of the Shock and Awe campaign as well as on the ground meetings with American troops
as they entered the City in the 2nd Gulf war. He managed to get into areas that were
devastated by the bombing from Cruise missiles early in the war and was able to film
on the spot interviews with the local people immediately afterwards.
We also listened to a talk by former Ambassador Howard Walker who discussed the Rise
of China, India and regional powers in South America, Africa and Middle East. I was
particularly interested in his comments about the economic rivalry between the US and
China which he felt will come to a head in the next decade.
While strolling on the deck after lunch this noon, I thought of all the things I wanted to
say to some people but let the moment pass by so I am dedicating this verse
to all our children and grandchildren:
Begin Anew
Think not of where you've been
Of sights you've seen or haven't,
The deeds you did or failed to do,
And words expressed or shouldn't.
Tomorrow begins another day
When one's life can start anew,
To do the things you wanted to,
But somehow thought you couldn't.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Rio......and a' that
Last night we attended a special tribute party honoring that great Scotsman, Robert Burns.
It was the 200th anniversary of his birth. All the Scoons take notice, especially Jenny.
About 200 Scots laddies and lassies were in attendance. There was an array of kilts displaying
every tartan you can think of. Scotch whiskey was flowing like the sea around us. We had
a joyous time listening to the brogues filling the atmosphere. There was a full ceremony,
a piping in the Haggis, an address to the Haggis, Toast to the Lassies by Ed Cambell and
reply to the Toast by a real Scotch Lassie who was also the medical officer on the ship. Finally,
a number of Robert Burns's poems were recited including a song: A Man's a Man For A' That.
Is there for honest Poverty
That hings his head an' a' that;
The coward slave-we pass him by,
We dare be poor for a' that!
For a' that, an a' that.
Our toils obscure an' a' that,
The rank is but the guinea's stamp'
The Man's the gowd for a' that.
If you want to go on, you'll have to do your own research. He is considered Scotland's
favorite son as well as it's most prolific lover, having fathered 14 children that we are
aware of, by a cadre of adoring lassies.
It was bright and clear this morning as we docked in Rio de Janeiro. Last visit we had
low lying clouds but this time we could see the Christ of the Andes and the large bay
surrounded by the white city structures. Our tour this morning left early. The temperature
had already reached 90 so we were glad to take the Guarnabara Bay Tour which gave us
a perfect view of the city. Hannah was our guide and spoke excellent English, no Scot's
accent she.
We returned to the ship ready for an afternoon meal and rest. We sail tonight at 11:pm
and head for Montevideo.
It was the 200th anniversary of his birth. All the Scoons take notice, especially Jenny.
About 200 Scots laddies and lassies were in attendance. There was an array of kilts displaying
every tartan you can think of. Scotch whiskey was flowing like the sea around us. We had
a joyous time listening to the brogues filling the atmosphere. There was a full ceremony,
a piping in the Haggis, an address to the Haggis, Toast to the Lassies by Ed Cambell and
reply to the Toast by a real Scotch Lassie who was also the medical officer on the ship. Finally,
a number of Robert Burns's poems were recited including a song: A Man's a Man For A' That.
Is there for honest Poverty
That hings his head an' a' that;
The coward slave-we pass him by,
We dare be poor for a' that!
For a' that, an a' that.
Our toils obscure an' a' that,
The rank is but the guinea's stamp'
The Man's the gowd for a' that.
If you want to go on, you'll have to do your own research. He is considered Scotland's
favorite son as well as it's most prolific lover, having fathered 14 children that we are
aware of, by a cadre of adoring lassies.
It was bright and clear this morning as we docked in Rio de Janeiro. Last visit we had
low lying clouds but this time we could see the Christ of the Andes and the large bay
surrounded by the white city structures. Our tour this morning left early. The temperature
had already reached 90 so we were glad to take the Guarnabara Bay Tour which gave us
a perfect view of the city. Hannah was our guide and spoke excellent English, no Scot's
accent she.
We returned to the ship ready for an afternoon meal and rest. We sail tonight at 11:pm
and head for Montevideo.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Salvador......Rich and Poor
Last night we left the Britannia restaurant early to attend the first show at the Royal Court
Theater. Saw a Las Vegas type performance of a male vocalist, Paul Emanuel, who sang some of the oldies. He started out by asking the audience, "Who remembers Al Jolson?" A few of us raised our hands. I was the only one who actually saw Jolson perform live at the Palace in NYC in the late 30's when my dad took us there. Jolson acted in the first talking picture, The Jazz Singer. He sang, Sonny Boy when I saw him....."Climb upon my knee, Sonny Boy". My mother, Fannie, began to call me, sonny boy from then on, even when I started high school in 1938.
He also sang," Be sure it's true , when you say I love you, it's a sin to tell a lie", a big Jolson hit.
Toured Salvador this morning. Our guide was, Bodo, a tall German fellow, who used quite
good English. He married a Brazilian girl and was trying to earn a living here despite the high
cost of everything. He claimed that the taxes were too steep especially since most people
were poor and items you buy were highly taxed to make up the shortfall in revenues collected
on incomes. Somewhat like a VAT in Europe.
We walked up and down the hills. The streets in the Old Town area were cobbled and
walking was difficult but Annabelle was game, so off we trod with Bodo in the lead only
stopping to take us to the usual tourist traps along the route. The city is grubby and
large piles of trash were scattered on both sides of the road. For those who think that
Brazil is a developed country, you are mistaken. Even Bodo had to admit that the streets are
much too dangerous at night and advised the group to avoid most of the city after dark.
Of course, that could be said about many places in the US as well. We asked Bodo about
the schools and he said that his daughter attended a private school where the teaching
staff was excellent and had to perform well while the public schools lacked accountability.
Theater. Saw a Las Vegas type performance of a male vocalist, Paul Emanuel, who sang some of the oldies. He started out by asking the audience, "Who remembers Al Jolson?" A few of us raised our hands. I was the only one who actually saw Jolson perform live at the Palace in NYC in the late 30's when my dad took us there. Jolson acted in the first talking picture, The Jazz Singer. He sang, Sonny Boy when I saw him....."Climb upon my knee, Sonny Boy". My mother, Fannie, began to call me, sonny boy from then on, even when I started high school in 1938.
He also sang," Be sure it's true , when you say I love you, it's a sin to tell a lie", a big Jolson hit.
Toured Salvador this morning. Our guide was, Bodo, a tall German fellow, who used quite
good English. He married a Brazilian girl and was trying to earn a living here despite the high
cost of everything. He claimed that the taxes were too steep especially since most people
were poor and items you buy were highly taxed to make up the shortfall in revenues collected
on incomes. Somewhat like a VAT in Europe.
We walked up and down the hills. The streets in the Old Town area were cobbled and
walking was difficult but Annabelle was game, so off we trod with Bodo in the lead only
stopping to take us to the usual tourist traps along the route. The city is grubby and
large piles of trash were scattered on both sides of the road. For those who think that
Brazil is a developed country, you are mistaken. Even Bodo had to admit that the streets are
much too dangerous at night and advised the group to avoid most of the city after dark.
Of course, that could be said about many places in the US as well. We asked Bodo about
the schools and he said that his daughter attended a private school where the teaching
staff was excellent and had to perform well while the public schools lacked accountability.
Friday, January 21, 2011
A View From the Chart Room
The Chart Room is a small intimate place not far from the Britannia Restaurant where you can enjoy a before dinner drink or listen to a harpist, pianist or string quartet. The music is always soft and gentle.
This evening while watching the ocean roll by, a lady harpist was playing Green Sleeves, and as the sun was setting on our port side, the rays of light seemed to dart from the wave tops to the window in the front almost
jolting me out of my reverie. I could almost see some visions of my life gone by. When I said goodbye to my
parents before I left for the Navy almost 68 years ago and when I returned in 1946 an old veteran of 22,
ready to take on the world. When I married Norma Domnitz in 1947. We were two young people who
thought we knew everything about life. How innocent and wrong we were. However, as in a John Denver
song, "Its been a good life all along and I'm gonna hate to see it end." There are so many memories that
cross your mind on a ship, with a drink in your hand while in the presence of good music.
Today, we cross the Equator. For the non-geographers, this is 0 degree lattitude and is about
the 10th time I crossed including my stint in the Navy. The Capt. conducted his usual
ceremony for novices who crossed for the first time. I guess old age is creeping up because
I almost welcome bedtime much earlier than our World Cruise venture in 2009.
This trip we have been sharing our table with two gals from England, Hazel and Frieda who
are middle age and very inquisitive, with an insatiable desire to find out what our lives are
like in New Mexico. Of course, very few people seem to know where New Mexico is in
the US so I now tell all who listen that we come from Texas which always registers a long
Ahh, the home of Dallas and GW.
Tomorrow, Sunday January 23, we're due in Salvador. An auspicious date since my youngest
was born on that date. Happy birthday Barri! Enjoy the day. Annabelle and I will lift a toast
to you at dinner this evening.
Some trivia....Amerigo Vespucci named Baia de Todos os Santos,(Bayof All Saints)when he
sailed into it on All Saint's Day, November 1, 1501. So much for today's history lesson.
This evening while watching the ocean roll by, a lady harpist was playing Green Sleeves, and as the sun was setting on our port side, the rays of light seemed to dart from the wave tops to the window in the front almost
jolting me out of my reverie. I could almost see some visions of my life gone by. When I said goodbye to my
parents before I left for the Navy almost 68 years ago and when I returned in 1946 an old veteran of 22,
ready to take on the world. When I married Norma Domnitz in 1947. We were two young people who
thought we knew everything about life. How innocent and wrong we were. However, as in a John Denver
song, "Its been a good life all along and I'm gonna hate to see it end." There are so many memories that
cross your mind on a ship, with a drink in your hand while in the presence of good music.
Today, we cross the Equator. For the non-geographers, this is 0 degree lattitude and is about
the 10th time I crossed including my stint in the Navy. The Capt. conducted his usual
ceremony for novices who crossed for the first time. I guess old age is creeping up because
I almost welcome bedtime much earlier than our World Cruise venture in 2009.
This trip we have been sharing our table with two gals from England, Hazel and Frieda who
are middle age and very inquisitive, with an insatiable desire to find out what our lives are
like in New Mexico. Of course, very few people seem to know where New Mexico is in
the US so I now tell all who listen that we come from Texas which always registers a long
Ahh, the home of Dallas and GW.
Tomorrow, Sunday January 23, we're due in Salvador. An auspicious date since my youngest
was born on that date. Happy birthday Barri! Enjoy the day. Annabelle and I will lift a toast
to you at dinner this evening.
Some trivia....Amerigo Vespucci named Baia de Todos os Santos,(Bayof All Saints)when he
sailed into it on All Saint's Day, November 1, 1501. So much for today's history lesson.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Bridgetown......Barbados
Took shuttle to the tour bus and met tour guide, Linette with a high pitched voice. Drove
though Bridgetown past the Parliament. Lots of banks here no doubt where some foreigners
stash their cash. Most locals live in one story worn out structures, painted in a variety of
pastel colors. English style traffic pattern with left side driving and the usual roundabouts.
Many structures with roof solar hot water units. Sugar cane to rum is the island cash crop.
Stopped at a church on the Atlantic side of the island. Good for surfers here but dangerous
for swimmers. The Caribbean side is much calmer.
Drove through, Bethsheba, a small village on the west side of the island. Average price of a
house here is $10000 Barbados dollars. (equivalent to $5,ooo US). Stopped for a complimentary
rum punch. While there, we had an interesting conversation with Linette, who is a native of
Puerto Rico and married to a Barbadian. Her main goal is to move to Orlando and put her
young daughter in a good school. If you remember the motto of Despicable Tours. "We take
you to places you don't want to go" well Linette fits in to the Despicable scheme of things,
The Despicable Tour Guide, "We tell you the things you don't want to hear". By the time
we returned to the QM2, we were famished and headed straight for the Lotus Restaurant
I forgot to mention that we attended a classical music concert yesterday. Two Polish young
ladies, a pianist and a chellist playing a Chopin program. Both quite good, however, as
we both agreed, not as skillful as Darrell.
Tonight we leave for Salvador, Brazil.
The QM2 rounded the coast of Venezuela this morning, although the wind across the deck
was about 20knts, we took a brief walk topside.
though Bridgetown past the Parliament. Lots of banks here no doubt where some foreigners
stash their cash. Most locals live in one story worn out structures, painted in a variety of
pastel colors. English style traffic pattern with left side driving and the usual roundabouts.
Many structures with roof solar hot water units. Sugar cane to rum is the island cash crop.
Stopped at a church on the Atlantic side of the island. Good for surfers here but dangerous
for swimmers. The Caribbean side is much calmer.
Drove through, Bethsheba, a small village on the west side of the island. Average price of a
house here is $10000 Barbados dollars. (equivalent to $5,ooo US). Stopped for a complimentary
rum punch. While there, we had an interesting conversation with Linette, who is a native of
Puerto Rico and married to a Barbadian. Her main goal is to move to Orlando and put her
young daughter in a good school. If you remember the motto of Despicable Tours. "We take
you to places you don't want to go" well Linette fits in to the Despicable scheme of things,
The Despicable Tour Guide, "We tell you the things you don't want to hear". By the time
we returned to the QM2, we were famished and headed straight for the Lotus Restaurant
I forgot to mention that we attended a classical music concert yesterday. Two Polish young
ladies, a pianist and a chellist playing a Chopin program. Both quite good, however, as
we both agreed, not as skillful as Darrell.
Tonight we leave for Salvador, Brazil.
The QM2 rounded the coast of Venezuela this morning, although the wind across the deck
was about 20knts, we took a brief walk topside.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
On the High Seas
It was great getting back on the QM2. It seemed like we never left the ship and it was only
a momentary stop on our World Cruise of 2009. Boarding at Ft. Lauderdale was the usual
bottleneck of security etc. however we are used to these delays and have learned to game
the system where possible. We're located in 8049, our old stateroom mid-ship but with a new
steward, Albert, who is on his first voyage and is eager to please. We saw Dario, our former
waiter, last night and he was so overjoyed to see us, he almost dropped his gear. He burst out
with a grinning," Como Esta Henrique" and ran over to give us a big hug. It was good to see
his smiling face. This morning we got a TV presentation of Barbado's tours. We will be
docking early tomorrow and are scheduled to take the Coast to Coast tour with moderate
walking. We did take a few turns around the ship this morning. Tomorrow, I'll give you the
real scoop about Barbados, (former English colony but now an independent state) that is,
if I can get back to a computer.
Attended 2 lectures this afternoon. Writers for British TV and film, Dick Clement and Ian Le Frenais spoke about their 40 year collaberation doing comedy writing also Criminal lawyer
and politician, Sir Ivan Lawrence, whose topic was My Life of Crime as a Defence Barrister
.Both funny in a British sort of way.
Dinner this evening included Peking duck, Oh so tasty. Tomorrow we begin tapering off our
food intake or we'll never outrun the lions. Before dinner we attended the Capt's welcome aboard cocktail party, the initial gala event for passengers boarding at Ft. Lauderdale.
Entertainment Director, Ray Rouse, no relation to Annabelle introduced key staff members
while the passengers got tipsy on champaign etc.. Dress was formal and Annabelle wore
her Chinese silk jacket that evoked OOS & AHS from the multitude.
As you entered the Queen's Room you shook Capt. Wright's hand while an aide repeated your name.
As he shook my hand he said, "Mr. Henry Rosenbluth, ah yes, you were with us a couple of year's back. From Wales, aren't you?" Without hesitation, I replied, " no skipper, from Chichester, twas my brother, Midley, from Wales." He countered as quickly, "right so, old man". So much for the Rosenbluth fame. How soon they forget!
a momentary stop on our World Cruise of 2009. Boarding at Ft. Lauderdale was the usual
bottleneck of security etc. however we are used to these delays and have learned to game
the system where possible. We're located in 8049, our old stateroom mid-ship but with a new
steward, Albert, who is on his first voyage and is eager to please. We saw Dario, our former
waiter, last night and he was so overjoyed to see us, he almost dropped his gear. He burst out
with a grinning," Como Esta Henrique" and ran over to give us a big hug. It was good to see
his smiling face. This morning we got a TV presentation of Barbado's tours. We will be
docking early tomorrow and are scheduled to take the Coast to Coast tour with moderate
walking. We did take a few turns around the ship this morning. Tomorrow, I'll give you the
real scoop about Barbados, (former English colony but now an independent state) that is,
if I can get back to a computer.
Attended 2 lectures this afternoon. Writers for British TV and film, Dick Clement and Ian Le Frenais spoke about their 40 year collaberation doing comedy writing also Criminal lawyer
and politician, Sir Ivan Lawrence, whose topic was My Life of Crime as a Defence Barrister
.Both funny in a British sort of way.
Dinner this evening included Peking duck, Oh so tasty. Tomorrow we begin tapering off our
food intake or we'll never outrun the lions. Before dinner we attended the Capt's welcome aboard cocktail party, the initial gala event for passengers boarding at Ft. Lauderdale.
Entertainment Director, Ray Rouse, no relation to Annabelle introduced key staff members
while the passengers got tipsy on champaign etc.. Dress was formal and Annabelle wore
her Chinese silk jacket that evoked OOS & AHS from the multitude.
As you entered the Queen's Room you shook Capt. Wright's hand while an aide repeated your name.
As he shook my hand he said, "Mr. Henry Rosenbluth, ah yes, you were with us a couple of year's back. From Wales, aren't you?" Without hesitation, I replied, " no skipper, from Chichester, twas my brother, Midley, from Wales." He countered as quickly, "right so, old man". So much for the Rosenbluth fame. How soon they forget!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Ft. Lauderdale.... We Are Here!
We arrived at our destination, The Ramada Cruise Port Hotel and nothing has changed since
we stayed here for our World Cruise in 2009. It's a tired looking place, somewhat moldy
but convenient enough for our needs. Debbie called this morning that they are near Ft. Pierce
and should arrive before noon. I'm using the out of date computer in the hotel since I left my
Mac at the Condo. I didn't want to risk losing it in the bush. Sorry I did because this old Dell
is struggling to stay alive. All the letters on the keyboard are worn off and I am trying to hit the
correct keys.
I received a message from Cunard that the QM2 will dock in the afternoon due to the blizzard
on the East coast. People have been delayed in New York where the QM2 starts its journey
and it is getting a late start. We will board here after 12 Noon on the 15th. So far our trip
has been going as planned. Annabelle just spoke with the Bickley's in Georgia and they
reported a few days of wild, wintry weather in their neck of the woods. Although it is in
the 40's here in Florida, the sun is out and it should warm up in a few hours, we hope.
We've been enjoying our time with Pete and Deb, seeing the sights of the city and walking
near the waterfront. Didn't realize how large this place has grown, even in the two years
since we started our Round the World cruise. The QM2 staff just called us a few minutes
ago to let us know that the ship will be delayed another hour because of its late start
from New York. Apologies, apologies. Why don't they just knock off a few dollars from the
cost of the trip? In the meantime, we are relaxing at the Ramada, not plagued by bad weather
or mixed up flight schedules.
Tomorrow, we leave at 12:30 pm. Hopefully, the QM2 will be waiting or we'll be left at the
pier, waiting. The next posting should be from the ship. Finger's crossed.
This note is for daughter Lauren who is recovering from a broken foot while looking for the
Panama Canal. If you feel so inclined send her a word of encouragement and let her know
that the Canal has already been found. Chuck, her devoted husband, had slashed his way
through the jungle to carry her to safety and first rate medical care at the native village of
Buna Buna near the Pacific Ocean. We are thinking of you and will send you a bowl of fish
and poi courtesy of Queen Kerry Ramm of Maui. Our best wishes for a speedy recovery!
Pete and Deb departed this morning. We will check out soon and board the shuttle to
Port Everglades where the QM2 is waiting, I HOPE. Some people who planned to
embark in NYC had to fly to Florida from different parts of the country when the weather
closed some airports in the northeast. There are some Brits in the lobby as well as a few
Chinese nationals waiting for the shuttle.
we stayed here for our World Cruise in 2009. It's a tired looking place, somewhat moldy
but convenient enough for our needs. Debbie called this morning that they are near Ft. Pierce
and should arrive before noon. I'm using the out of date computer in the hotel since I left my
Mac at the Condo. I didn't want to risk losing it in the bush. Sorry I did because this old Dell
is struggling to stay alive. All the letters on the keyboard are worn off and I am trying to hit the
correct keys.
I received a message from Cunard that the QM2 will dock in the afternoon due to the blizzard
on the East coast. People have been delayed in New York where the QM2 starts its journey
and it is getting a late start. We will board here after 12 Noon on the 15th. So far our trip
has been going as planned. Annabelle just spoke with the Bickley's in Georgia and they
reported a few days of wild, wintry weather in their neck of the woods. Although it is in
the 40's here in Florida, the sun is out and it should warm up in a few hours, we hope.
We've been enjoying our time with Pete and Deb, seeing the sights of the city and walking
near the waterfront. Didn't realize how large this place has grown, even in the two years
since we started our Round the World cruise. The QM2 staff just called us a few minutes
ago to let us know that the ship will be delayed another hour because of its late start
from New York. Apologies, apologies. Why don't they just knock off a few dollars from the
cost of the trip? In the meantime, we are relaxing at the Ramada, not plagued by bad weather
or mixed up flight schedules.
Tomorrow, we leave at 12:30 pm. Hopefully, the QM2 will be waiting or we'll be left at the
pier, waiting. The next posting should be from the ship. Finger's crossed.
This note is for daughter Lauren who is recovering from a broken foot while looking for the
Panama Canal. If you feel so inclined send her a word of encouragement and let her know
that the Canal has already been found. Chuck, her devoted husband, had slashed his way
through the jungle to carry her to safety and first rate medical care at the native village of
Buna Buna near the Pacific Ocean. We are thinking of you and will send you a bowl of fish
and poi courtesy of Queen Kerry Ramm of Maui. Our best wishes for a speedy recovery!
Pete and Deb departed this morning. We will check out soon and board the shuttle to
Port Everglades where the QM2 is waiting, I HOPE. Some people who planned to
embark in NYC had to fly to Florida from different parts of the country when the weather
closed some airports in the northeast. There are some Brits in the lobby as well as a few
Chinese nationals waiting for the shuttle.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Austin is Great
Why, you may ask, I write that Austin is Great. I'll tell you why. First of all, It's a well cared
for city. I like that. People here seem to take pride in the way Austin looks. There's a
minimum of trash thrown around and when people see it they take the trouble of picking
it up. The city has a large grounds staff that is always available to do the necessary repair
and maintenance that a busy city usually requires. Secondly, the people are very friendly,
always greeting you with smiles and " good morning" when we're out taking our early walk.
Thirdly, Austin has so many things to offer; music venues from jazz to ballet, abundant
museums and historical structures, a veritable cultural feast. They certainly like animals.
Our condominium has a wide selection of designer dogs who even have their own special
building entrance. The dogs, of course, are as well behaved as their masters, so it seems.
It's three days to D Day when we leave for Ft.Lauderdale then on to the Queen Mary.
I'm just getting used to our Condo with its superb views of the city surrounding us.
Also, our proximity to so many family members who we rarely see when we're at our
permanent home in Sandia Park.
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