Wednesday, 11/16/11: Roatan, Fun Day at Sea
We woke up around 7:45am, Rob woke me up before the alarm went off. I was not happy about this at all!!! We got dressed and then went to the Lido deck for breakfast. We enjoyed breakfast and decided to head to the excursion desk b/c we had received a letter last night that our time had changed and we just wanted to know what the reasoning was. On our way to the excursion desk, Jaime, our cruise director, came over the loud speaker and told the guests that due to high winds in the channel we would not be able to dock. Our captain had tried to go in several times but he was unsuccessful. Out excursion fee would be reimbursed to us and today would be a Fun Day at Sea! Well we already had our bathing suits on so we jumped in the hot tub for a bit. We watched the coastline disappear as we headed back out to sea. After about an hour in the hot tub we got out and laid on the deck chairs for a siesta. It was so peaceful.
I enjoyed my little nap on the deck but then I was a little hungry so we headed to the room. We decided to order room service, after all its free!!! We order some sandwiches, salads, and of course some cookies and milk :O).
The entertainment crew on board came up with some activities since the itinerary changed and one was a show at 2:30pm. It was the best show we went to b/c it was spur of the moment. There was singing, a comedian, and then the entertainment staff sang a song called "Upon the Sea". HILARIOUS!!!! They each dressed as what they would be if they were not on the cruise ship, some of there were too funny like the Chippendale dancer, ballerina, etc.
After the show we went up to the Fun Shops. I saw a mob of women at an area so of course I had to go see what the fuss was all about. We walked over and it was jewelry--Pandora like bracelets were the hot ticket!!! I politely asked a sales lady for a pink one and she handed two to me--i didn't have to fight anyone :O). It reminded me of black Friday.
It was time for a nap so we headed back to the room. I took a nice nap and then was ready to go for the evening. We had a good supper tonight. I had potato soup and pork steak--YUM! Rob had shark and longuistino rolls. For dessert I had chocolate bread pudding and chocolate melting cake--I didn't finish either one!
For the evening we went to Family Face-off. It was funny and we enjoyed the laughs. We ended our evening with a Kiss on the Lips--the cold, refreshing kind :O).
Night!
J-Tru
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
An un-BELIZE-able Day!!!!
Wow, today was an LONG day. We got up at 6am and our room service arrived then too. Cinnamon toast crunch, danishes, toast, OJ, coffee, and bananas. We got ready and headed to the Emcore theater to meet for our excursion that began at 7:45am!!!! We boarded our tender around 9am and headed to Belize City. Once we were at the dock we med with our guides, Jake and Denise. We had a brief potty break and then boarded a bus.
The bus ride was two hours long but it was great. We drove through the city of Belize and then some other small towns as well. Denise gave us a wonderful history of the city and the areas as we passed them. She pointed out the Zoo, a mountain range that looked like a man lying down, and a hand that holds the golden leaf. We learned that English is the main language and then Spanish and creole. Belize is a British Colony and they use British currency. The Belize dollar is two to one of ours. That means there gas is 7.00!!!!! Most people live in the city b/c its too expensive to drive into the city from the outer areas. Some other facts we learned and that I can remember from the long day are:
The bus ride was two hours long but it was great. We drove through the city of Belize and then some other small towns as well. Denise gave us a wonderful history of the city and the areas as we passed them. She pointed out the Zoo, a mountain range that looked like a man lying down, and a hand that holds the golden leaf. We learned that English is the main language and then Spanish and creole. Belize is a British Colony and they use British currency. The Belize dollar is two to one of ours. That means there gas is 7.00!!!!! Most people live in the city b/c its too expensive to drive into the city from the outer areas. Some other facts we learned and that I can remember from the long day are:
- Education is super important. You must attend school in Belize. Uniforms are worn and are color coded according the school levels. The schooling does not end at 12 grade, they require you get an associates degree. With the education system there, even if you are expelled from school you will go at night. They also SPANK!!!
- There is one bottling company in Belize. They bottle all coke products, crystal water, and Belikin beer. Coke is made with pure can sugar. Belikin is the ONLY beer in Belize.
- The average temperature is 84 degrees.
- Two political parties--one is red and white and the other is blue and white.
- Prime Minister, instead of a president and if his party loses the election then he is also not elected. Its an all for one type of system.
- No highway patrol. The speed limit in the city is 25mph and then everywhere else its your choice!!!
- Belize is like a melting pot--there is African, Chinese, Amish, and English influence.
- Toucan is the national bird.
- Low crime rate. The majority of prisoners are refugees.
So we arrived at the Xunantunich Ruin site and were told that we would be crossing a river on a hand crank ferry. In the river there are piranha and crocodile!!!! We boarded and it was really beautiful to see the rapids in the distance but thankfully no unwelcome guests. There were military police at the site to protect it and to guard due to the close proximity of the Guatemalan border. We rode up a road in a van for about a mile to the ruins site. Jake was our guide during this part of the tour. He took us to each temple and told us the history of them and what each would have been used for by the Maya people.
Jake took us to the main temple, El Castillo. This is the temple where he told us we could climb to the top. We were game so we started up. The steps were HUGE and for my little legs it was a definite workout. We made it halfway point and the view was very pretty. It was neat to think of what the Mayans did years ago at that point. Rob told me he wasn't sure he was going to go to the top and I told him that I had come this far and he was going the rest of the way with me!!! We kept going, inch by inch, step by step to get to the peak. Each step was very carefully completed as the area was very narrow and rocky. At the top the view was FANTASTIC. You could see for miles. It was like we were in the heavens. I of course didn't venture near the edge and neither did Rob. We took lots of pictures so we could remember this feat!
After a few minutes Jake told us it was time to make our way back down. Oh boy! I admit, I sat on my booty on the first few steps and scooted down b/c there was no rail to help me and I sure didnt want to fall 160 feet down!! We made it down very slowly and carefully just was we did on the way up. We walked back to the vans, rode back to the hand crank ferry, boarded the ferry, and then back on the bus.
We went to a Belize resturant and had some awesome food. We had rice and beans made with coconut milk, chicken--aka bamboo chicken-iguana, just kidding--slaw, and a plantain. There was also some hot sauce at this restaurant and we tried the sweet pepper sauce. It was so good we bought some to bring back to the states. We also were able to find our Belize magnet at this same stop.
After eating we headed two hours back to Belize City. The drive back was bumpy and fast. Just an FYI: done use the bathroom on a bus while traveling in Belize. You will be bounced around like crazy.
So much happened on this tour but its hard to write about it all. We arrived back at the port and it was almost time for the last tender. We boarded the tender that was there and headed back to the ship.
Supper was good tonight too but I cant remember what I ate. We went to the show tonight as well in the Encore Theater. Of course enjoyed it too. After the show we went to the Lido deck, walked around and then got some pizza!!! Back the room after our late night snack--oh wait cookies and milk were the best way to end the night!!
Tomorrow we will be in Roatan---beach resort here we come!!
J-Tru
Monday, November 14, 2011
"Salsa"rific Day in Cozumel!!
Monday, 11/14/11:
Today is a fantastic fun filled day. We got up again around 7:45am--aren't we supposed to be on vacation???!!?? We went out onto our balcony and watched as we came closer and closer to Cozumel. It was really neat to see the buildings go from small blocks to the hotels, businesses, etc.
We went upstairs and ate breakfast on the Lido deck. It was super busty up there this morning. Everyone must have gotten the same idea to get up early and to get onto the island as soon as possible. We had a good meal and then it was time to venture off the boat and into Cozumel.
We walked down and along the pier, Rob was taking lots of pictures of the boat and of me. As you walk into Cozumel you have to walk through a building which is full of items that are Tax and Duty Free. This shopping mall is packed to the gills with cigarettes, liquors, and souvenirs. I had been to Cozumel before so I gave Rob a heads up that it was going to be there and he was in awe of the craziness!!! After walking through the mall, we went to a few other shops to get some souvenirs. We walked to one place called the Mayan Flea Market. Rob was in heaven b/c they had lucha libre masks. Rob picked out two and they were super cheap too!!! We also picked out our magnet from Cozumel in the same shop.
We had booked an excursion in Cozumel called "Salsa & Salsa". Our excursion was to start at 12:00pm so we met up with our guide. His name is Juan Pablo, aka JP. He took us to out taxi cab in Puerta Maya. There was seven of us total on this trip so we all road in one taxi van. One of the couples learned that my name was Jill and they asked me what my middle name was b/c there daughter was named Jill. I told them my middle name as Marie and there daughters middle name is Marie. Also her husband is named Robert and they call him Rob---how crazy is that?!?!?!!? We arrived at Hotel Cozumel, the location of where our excursion would be taking place. We walked through the Hotel and were showed the pool we could utilize if we wanted after the cooking and dancing class ended. We were told by Rosi, another tour guide, that the dolphins are transported to the pool if a large storm comes up. They of course change the water from chlorinated to sea water. We walked under ground to a beach side deck where out instructors met us. Our instructors were Alexis and Leoni. Alexis was the main instructor and was very knowledgeable in the types of salsas we would be preparing and also the margaritas we would be making.
So we had a run down of everything we would be doing today and then started to make our salsas. We made a fiery red salsa. Rob was called to the front and he made a five fire hot salsa. Mine was just one pepper and i scrapped out all the seeds and stuff. We used a molcajete to prepare the salsa. We had to grind the ingredients together into almost a paste consistency. It was good!! We then made a tangy salsa verde. It was spicy but also delicious. To make our Oaxacan guacamole we needed to use some of the salsa verde we made and then added in some avocado. Now, I usually don't eat guacamole but I tried this one. It was yummmmmmy!! We then made a pico de gallo which we then incorporated into mango/melon salsa mix and a tropical salsa. I enjoyed the tropical one but I am not a melon fan so i tried to eat around it. The final one we made was an dessert salsa. First, the ladies had us prepare the Rompope Dessert Salsa. It was apples, melon, pineapple, vanilla liquer, and coconut---ohhhhh this was delicious BUT then they brought out PURE VANILLA ICE CREAM!!!! The ice cream was fantastic. We added the salsa in to the ice cream and BAM it was taken to a new level of fantasticness!!!! We had more items as well with the salsas such as quesadillas, taquitos, chips and forever flowing margaritas, Jamaica Tea, and watermelon water.
After the meal and drinks, it was time to dance. Alexis led us step by step on how to simple salsa. Rob and I did our best but we both have two left feet. It was lots of fun though. To the ship, to the trees, to the bar, to the sea, uno, dos, tres, cuatro, cinco, seis. That is about all I can remember from the dancing :O)
After dancing, we headed back to the taxi and back to the port. We looked at a few more shops and then back to the ship we went. We walked back through the mall again b/c you have to to get back to the ship.
Supper was again at 6pm and so we freshened up and headed to the dining room. Tonight I have french onion soup--it was ok, jerk pork loin--delicious, and strawberry cheesecake :O). Our table-mates were present again tonight. We had good conversation, talked about out days and Kelly told us about there shopping trip. She got a new ring from Columbia Jewelers that she has been wanting. It was gorgeous. They had gone into the city for some shopping and Kelly speaks Spanish so it made it so much easier for getting around. After supper, I had a HUGE headache so I went to get some meds and lay down. After about thirty minutes Rob and I went and walked around and looked at the pictures we took the night before for formal night.
I went back to the room and went to bed but Rob stayed out a bit later. He went and watched some of the game in the sports bar, enjoyed the comedy club again, and then came to bed. I had left him a note with what I wanted to breakfast in the morning and he completed his part so that we could get room service in the morning. We have a busy day tomorrow and an EARLY morning as well.....
Today is a fantastic fun filled day. We got up again around 7:45am--aren't we supposed to be on vacation???!!?? We went out onto our balcony and watched as we came closer and closer to Cozumel. It was really neat to see the buildings go from small blocks to the hotels, businesses, etc.
We went upstairs and ate breakfast on the Lido deck. It was super busty up there this morning. Everyone must have gotten the same idea to get up early and to get onto the island as soon as possible. We had a good meal and then it was time to venture off the boat and into Cozumel.
We walked down and along the pier, Rob was taking lots of pictures of the boat and of me. As you walk into Cozumel you have to walk through a building which is full of items that are Tax and Duty Free. This shopping mall is packed to the gills with cigarettes, liquors, and souvenirs. I had been to Cozumel before so I gave Rob a heads up that it was going to be there and he was in awe of the craziness!!! After walking through the mall, we went to a few other shops to get some souvenirs. We walked to one place called the Mayan Flea Market. Rob was in heaven b/c they had lucha libre masks. Rob picked out two and they were super cheap too!!! We also picked out our magnet from Cozumel in the same shop.
We had booked an excursion in Cozumel called "Salsa & Salsa". Our excursion was to start at 12:00pm so we met up with our guide. His name is Juan Pablo, aka JP. He took us to out taxi cab in Puerta Maya. There was seven of us total on this trip so we all road in one taxi van. One of the couples learned that my name was Jill and they asked me what my middle name was b/c there daughter was named Jill. I told them my middle name as Marie and there daughters middle name is Marie. Also her husband is named Robert and they call him Rob---how crazy is that?!?!?!!? We arrived at Hotel Cozumel, the location of where our excursion would be taking place. We walked through the Hotel and were showed the pool we could utilize if we wanted after the cooking and dancing class ended. We were told by Rosi, another tour guide, that the dolphins are transported to the pool if a large storm comes up. They of course change the water from chlorinated to sea water. We walked under ground to a beach side deck where out instructors met us. Our instructors were Alexis and Leoni. Alexis was the main instructor and was very knowledgeable in the types of salsas we would be preparing and also the margaritas we would be making.
So we had a run down of everything we would be doing today and then started to make our salsas. We made a fiery red salsa. Rob was called to the front and he made a five fire hot salsa. Mine was just one pepper and i scrapped out all the seeds and stuff. We used a molcajete to prepare the salsa. We had to grind the ingredients together into almost a paste consistency. It was good!! We then made a tangy salsa verde. It was spicy but also delicious. To make our Oaxacan guacamole we needed to use some of the salsa verde we made and then added in some avocado. Now, I usually don't eat guacamole but I tried this one. It was yummmmmmy!! We then made a pico de gallo which we then incorporated into mango/melon salsa mix and a tropical salsa. I enjoyed the tropical one but I am not a melon fan so i tried to eat around it. The final one we made was an dessert salsa. First, the ladies had us prepare the Rompope Dessert Salsa. It was apples, melon, pineapple, vanilla liquer, and coconut---ohhhhh this was delicious BUT then they brought out PURE VANILLA ICE CREAM!!!! The ice cream was fantastic. We added the salsa in to the ice cream and BAM it was taken to a new level of fantasticness!!!! We had more items as well with the salsas such as quesadillas, taquitos, chips and forever flowing margaritas, Jamaica Tea, and watermelon water.
After the meal and drinks, it was time to dance. Alexis led us step by step on how to simple salsa. Rob and I did our best but we both have two left feet. It was lots of fun though. To the ship, to the trees, to the bar, to the sea, uno, dos, tres, cuatro, cinco, seis. That is about all I can remember from the dancing :O)
After dancing, we headed back to the taxi and back to the port. We looked at a few more shops and then back to the ship we went. We walked back through the mall again b/c you have to to get back to the ship.
Supper was again at 6pm and so we freshened up and headed to the dining room. Tonight I have french onion soup--it was ok, jerk pork loin--delicious, and strawberry cheesecake :O). Our table-mates were present again tonight. We had good conversation, talked about out days and Kelly told us about there shopping trip. She got a new ring from Columbia Jewelers that she has been wanting. It was gorgeous. They had gone into the city for some shopping and Kelly speaks Spanish so it made it so much easier for getting around. After supper, I had a HUGE headache so I went to get some meds and lay down. After about thirty minutes Rob and I went and walked around and looked at the pictures we took the night before for formal night.
I went back to the room and went to bed but Rob stayed out a bit later. He went and watched some of the game in the sports bar, enjoyed the comedy club again, and then came to bed. I had left him a note with what I wanted to breakfast in the morning and he completed his part so that we could get room service in the morning. We have a busy day tomorrow and an EARLY morning as well.....
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Sunday Fun Day at Sea!!!!
Sunday, 11/13/11:
We woke up around 7:30am, why??!?! I am not sure but we did. We were very well rested though. Rob called for our steward, Leo as he is now referring to him, to come get our laundry so that it could be pressed for the Elegant Night tonight in the dining room. He came by to get our laundry and then it was time for us to get ready for the fun day at sea.
We went out for breakfast to the Scarlet Restaurant and we were seated at table 411. We had three other couples at the table with us ranging in all ages. There was lots of conversation beside me about real estate and also car salesman--craziness to talk about at breakfast. I had an omelet with turkey bacon. The bacon was a bit like jerky but it was good.
After breakfast, we went to find the pictures that the staff had taken of us from yesterday. Its really like the paparazzi are following you. I love it though b/c I love pictures! We found one of the photos but decided not to get it b/c its was 10 bucks plus we had taken a few of our own as well.
We went for a walk around the boat on Deck 5, Promenade. We ended up walking up to an over sized chess board. We decided to play--bear in mind I have never played chess in my life!! Rob decided he would teach me. He told me what each piece did and what the object of the game was. By this time we had an audience. A Guatemalan couple and their two boy were part of the audience. The older boy, I will call him Pedro, spoke pretty good English and He stood by me so I asked him if he wanted to help me play. He obliged and set the board back up so that we could play. He told me where to place my pieces and I tried to rationalize why he had me place them in certain spots. He was very good and we WON!!!! His little brother was hysterical. He would laugh and speak in Spanish to Rob but obviously Rob had no clue what he was saying. We decided to walk the rest of the way around the boat after my victory...
We went for some ice cream as my victory celebration and then had a piece of our cake from last night. It was yummy!!! Then it was nap time...
I enjoyed about an hour long nap and then it was time to get dressed for the Elegant Dining/Captains Celebration. We of course got all gussied up and went out to have a few pictures taken. We bought a few of these b/c we don't have professional pictures taken often!
It was time for supper after the picture session so we headed to our dining room. Our table-mates were there tonight. Kelly and Kevin Gaines from Orlando were our table-mates. They were not there last night b/c they oped to go to the steakhouse b/c it was complimentary wine with your reservation. Tonight's meal, we tried alligator fritters, salad and lobster with tiger shrimp!!! YUM-O!!! For dessert I tried caramelized apples with puff pastry. We had a great meal and enjoyed our conversation with Kevin and Kelly.
Rob and I went to the Motown Show in the Encore! Lounge after dinner at 8:30pm. The singers and dancers were great. How they can stand on one leg, dance around, and sing on a boat it craziness to me!! After the show we went to the Punchliner Comedy Club at 9:45pm. The show as hilarious. Our comedian use to be a writer on the show Who's Line is it Anyway?? I laughed and laughed til I could laugh no more!!!!
I was ready to call it a night and so was Rob so we headed back to the room and got some much needed rest b/c tomorrow we would be in Cozumel.....
We woke up around 7:30am, why??!?! I am not sure but we did. We were very well rested though. Rob called for our steward, Leo as he is now referring to him, to come get our laundry so that it could be pressed for the Elegant Night tonight in the dining room. He came by to get our laundry and then it was time for us to get ready for the fun day at sea.
We went out for breakfast to the Scarlet Restaurant and we were seated at table 411. We had three other couples at the table with us ranging in all ages. There was lots of conversation beside me about real estate and also car salesman--craziness to talk about at breakfast. I had an omelet with turkey bacon. The bacon was a bit like jerky but it was good.
After breakfast, we went to find the pictures that the staff had taken of us from yesterday. Its really like the paparazzi are following you. I love it though b/c I love pictures! We found one of the photos but decided not to get it b/c its was 10 bucks plus we had taken a few of our own as well.
We went for a walk around the boat on Deck 5, Promenade. We ended up walking up to an over sized chess board. We decided to play--bear in mind I have never played chess in my life!! Rob decided he would teach me. He told me what each piece did and what the object of the game was. By this time we had an audience. A Guatemalan couple and their two boy were part of the audience. The older boy, I will call him Pedro, spoke pretty good English and He stood by me so I asked him if he wanted to help me play. He obliged and set the board back up so that we could play. He told me where to place my pieces and I tried to rationalize why he had me place them in certain spots. He was very good and we WON!!!! His little brother was hysterical. He would laugh and speak in Spanish to Rob but obviously Rob had no clue what he was saying. We decided to walk the rest of the way around the boat after my victory...
We went for some ice cream as my victory celebration and then had a piece of our cake from last night. It was yummy!!! Then it was nap time...
I enjoyed about an hour long nap and then it was time to get dressed for the Elegant Dining/Captains Celebration. We of course got all gussied up and went out to have a few pictures taken. We bought a few of these b/c we don't have professional pictures taken often!
It was time for supper after the picture session so we headed to our dining room. Our table-mates were there tonight. Kelly and Kevin Gaines from Orlando were our table-mates. They were not there last night b/c they oped to go to the steakhouse b/c it was complimentary wine with your reservation. Tonight's meal, we tried alligator fritters, salad and lobster with tiger shrimp!!! YUM-O!!! For dessert I tried caramelized apples with puff pastry. We had a great meal and enjoyed our conversation with Kevin and Kelly.
Rob and I went to the Motown Show in the Encore! Lounge after dinner at 8:30pm. The singers and dancers were great. How they can stand on one leg, dance around, and sing on a boat it craziness to me!! After the show we went to the Punchliner Comedy Club at 9:45pm. The show as hilarious. Our comedian use to be a writer on the show Who's Line is it Anyway?? I laughed and laughed til I could laugh no more!!!!
I was ready to call it a night and so was Rob so we headed back to the room and got some much needed rest b/c tomorrow we would be in Cozumel.....
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Is this a Dream?? No Silly, Its the Carnival Dream!!!
Saturday, 11/12/11:
The alarm went off at 6:30am but in actuality it was 5:30am!!!!!! Somehow during the night something went wrong with the alarm clock---needless to say I was not a happy wifey this morning!!!! Since we were awake we decided to get up and get ready. We went to the breakfast area of the hotel and decided that cereal was not going to cut it this morning. Luckily there was a Shoneys within in walking distance, so we headed on over. The hostess greeted us with a huge smile and Rob asked how she was doing this morning. Her response was perfect-- I am blessed by the best!!! LOVED IT!!! All of the ladies were so upbeat and cheerful, helped me to get over being awakened at 5:30am!!! We had the breakfast buffet...so good!!! After a fantastic meal, it was back to the room to pack up and head on down the road.
Off to Port Canaveral we went. We stopped at the Florida Welcome Center--a whole three miles from where we stayed the night :O). We had some grapefruit juice, orange juice and a conversation with another couple who was heading out on their first cruise on Monday. Then it was time to get back on the road. We stopped once more at a rest area for a potty break and caffeine--5:30am was catching up with me!!!
We arrived at the port around 11:30am. We gave the porters our bags, tipped them 5 bucks b/c I am the one who got my bags out, not them!!! We went through security, got our sail and sign cards--GOLD this year for ROB!!!!--me too but he was excited to not be a newbie anymore!! Then it was time to go get some lunch! Trying to get 4,000 people into 7 elevators is INSANITY!!!! We made it to the Lido deck, which is deck 10--we entered the boat on Deck 3, by walking up the STAIRS!!! Yes this was with our carry-on bags in tow. Once on the Lido deck we had to locate and empty table, which we did and then grab some food. I got mine first--a burrito---awesome!!! and Rob then got his lunch. Our room was ready after we ate so we headed on down to check it out. Our room was awesome!!! We have a cove balcony which means our balcony is built into the hull of the ship. No only do we have a balcony, but a huge King size bed, couch with table, vanity and large bathroom. It was awesome!!!! We decided to hand out in our room until the muster drill plus the game was on for Rob to enjoy. Our luggage had not arrived yet but we were hoping it would be there soon so we could unpack. We met out steward, Leonardo, and Rob was super excited b/c he had the name of a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle!!!! The Muster Drill was around 3:30pm and our station was in the Crimson Dining room. Very pretty. After the drill it was time to depart from Port Canaveral. We left out around 4:30pm. I love watching as the coastline disappears. Its breathtaking to see Gods beautiful handiwork. We watched and waved at people on the shore line. After waving and taking in the beautiful scenery, I wanted some ice cream. I had some vanilla yogurt in a cone. We then watched some dancing on the Lido deck. By this time it was getting to be around 5pm so we went back to our room to check on our luggage and freshen up for supper. Still no luggage but no worries.
We headed to our dining room, Scarlet Restaurant for supper. Our dining time is 6pm and our table number is 515. Our table was a booth. We arrived first to our table and so we sat together on one side--normally I dont do this but since we were unsure of who or if we would have table-mates we decided to share the one side. We met our waiters, Big D and Budi (pronounced like booty!!!)Budi was a little on the creepy side but he was funny. We waited for our table-mates but no one arrived so we were thinking it was just going to be our own private table. We ordered and I had my all time favorite salad--caesar! and I tried a chilled soup--not my best choice!! My entree though was fantastic. It was sweet and tangy shrip with rice noodles. It melted like butter in your mouth. Rob was jealous of my selection so I did let him have a bite. Dessert is my favorite part. We had a surprise come to the table--an anniversary cake!!! I had ordered it but hadnt told Rob. Our waiters sang to use and had us Kissy Kissy several times. We took the cake back to the room with us to enjoy later. I ordered dessert as well and I had the warm chocolate melting cake---this is the best dessert and I will have it every night!!!!Back to the room after supper and guess what, our luggage had arrived!!!! We unpacked and then set up our clothes to be ironed for the evening meals. It was an ordeal b/c I was irritated due to being tired but Rob got me through it--he always does!
After my mini-meltdown, I walked out onto our balcony and was just in awe of the beauty. The moon was shining so brightly and was dancing off the water....breathtaking. It helped me to refocus as to how small thing are sometimes that I get worked up over. I just need to step back and take a look around at the amazing gifts God has given. As I sit on the balcony typing(ok i really wrote it and then typed it later) I am just overwhelmed at the greatness of God and his abundance throughout the earth. He is the creator and His creation is great.
So after relaxing for a few moments and getting things in order, we decided to venture our for a while. We went and browsed the Fun Shops, bought our first magnet of the trip and then went to the Encore! Lounge. We watched the 80's trivia game then sat through Bingo. We rounded out our night was the Welcome Aboard Show at 10:15pm. Great Show and cant wait to see the others this week. Now I am beat and read to hit the sack....Oh we had a towel animal tonight that was a walrus....TOO CUTE!! Not only did we have him but also our Fun Times with the next days itinerary, our bedtime mints, and our bed had been folded down for the evening. I love being treated like a princess!!!! Today was a great day but now its off to bed to rest up for another great day on the dream.....
The alarm went off at 6:30am but in actuality it was 5:30am!!!!!! Somehow during the night something went wrong with the alarm clock---needless to say I was not a happy wifey this morning!!!! Since we were awake we decided to get up and get ready. We went to the breakfast area of the hotel and decided that cereal was not going to cut it this morning. Luckily there was a Shoneys within in walking distance, so we headed on over. The hostess greeted us with a huge smile and Rob asked how she was doing this morning. Her response was perfect-- I am blessed by the best!!! LOVED IT!!! All of the ladies were so upbeat and cheerful, helped me to get over being awakened at 5:30am!!! We had the breakfast buffet...so good!!! After a fantastic meal, it was back to the room to pack up and head on down the road.
Off to Port Canaveral we went. We stopped at the Florida Welcome Center--a whole three miles from where we stayed the night :O). We had some grapefruit juice, orange juice and a conversation with another couple who was heading out on their first cruise on Monday. Then it was time to get back on the road. We stopped once more at a rest area for a potty break and caffeine--5:30am was catching up with me!!!
We arrived at the port around 11:30am. We gave the porters our bags, tipped them 5 bucks b/c I am the one who got my bags out, not them!!! We went through security, got our sail and sign cards--GOLD this year for ROB!!!!--me too but he was excited to not be a newbie anymore!! Then it was time to go get some lunch! Trying to get 4,000 people into 7 elevators is INSANITY!!!! We made it to the Lido deck, which is deck 10--we entered the boat on Deck 3, by walking up the STAIRS!!! Yes this was with our carry-on bags in tow. Once on the Lido deck we had to locate and empty table, which we did and then grab some food. I got mine first--a burrito---awesome!!! and Rob then got his lunch. Our room was ready after we ate so we headed on down to check it out. Our room was awesome!!! We have a cove balcony which means our balcony is built into the hull of the ship. No only do we have a balcony, but a huge King size bed, couch with table, vanity and large bathroom. It was awesome!!!! We decided to hand out in our room until the muster drill plus the game was on for Rob to enjoy. Our luggage had not arrived yet but we were hoping it would be there soon so we could unpack. We met out steward, Leonardo, and Rob was super excited b/c he had the name of a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle!!!! The Muster Drill was around 3:30pm and our station was in the Crimson Dining room. Very pretty. After the drill it was time to depart from Port Canaveral. We left out around 4:30pm. I love watching as the coastline disappears. Its breathtaking to see Gods beautiful handiwork. We watched and waved at people on the shore line. After waving and taking in the beautiful scenery, I wanted some ice cream. I had some vanilla yogurt in a cone. We then watched some dancing on the Lido deck. By this time it was getting to be around 5pm so we went back to our room to check on our luggage and freshen up for supper. Still no luggage but no worries.
We headed to our dining room, Scarlet Restaurant for supper. Our dining time is 6pm and our table number is 515. Our table was a booth. We arrived first to our table and so we sat together on one side--normally I dont do this but since we were unsure of who or if we would have table-mates we decided to share the one side. We met our waiters, Big D and Budi (pronounced like booty!!!)Budi was a little on the creepy side but he was funny. We waited for our table-mates but no one arrived so we were thinking it was just going to be our own private table. We ordered and I had my all time favorite salad--caesar! and I tried a chilled soup--not my best choice!! My entree though was fantastic. It was sweet and tangy shrip with rice noodles. It melted like butter in your mouth. Rob was jealous of my selection so I did let him have a bite. Dessert is my favorite part. We had a surprise come to the table--an anniversary cake!!! I had ordered it but hadnt told Rob. Our waiters sang to use and had us Kissy Kissy several times. We took the cake back to the room with us to enjoy later. I ordered dessert as well and I had the warm chocolate melting cake---this is the best dessert and I will have it every night!!!!Back to the room after supper and guess what, our luggage had arrived!!!! We unpacked and then set up our clothes to be ironed for the evening meals. It was an ordeal b/c I was irritated due to being tired but Rob got me through it--he always does!
After my mini-meltdown, I walked out onto our balcony and was just in awe of the beauty. The moon was shining so brightly and was dancing off the water....breathtaking. It helped me to refocus as to how small thing are sometimes that I get worked up over. I just need to step back and take a look around at the amazing gifts God has given. As I sit on the balcony typing(ok i really wrote it and then typed it later) I am just overwhelmed at the greatness of God and his abundance throughout the earth. He is the creator and His creation is great.
So after relaxing for a few moments and getting things in order, we decided to venture our for a while. We went and browsed the Fun Shops, bought our first magnet of the trip and then went to the Encore! Lounge. We watched the 80's trivia game then sat through Bingo. We rounded out our night was the Welcome Aboard Show at 10:15pm. Great Show and cant wait to see the others this week. Now I am beat and read to hit the sack....Oh we had a towel animal tonight that was a walrus....TOO CUTE!! Not only did we have him but also our Fun Times with the next days itinerary, our bedtime mints, and our bed had been folded down for the evening. I love being treated like a princess!!!! Today was a great day but now its off to bed to rest up for another great day on the dream.....
Friday, November 11, 2011
And the Adventure Begins....
Friday, 11/11/11:
We left Orangeburg around 10:30 am and headed down the road. I drove this leg of the trip b/c I don't do well with Florida traffic. Wed rove Hwy 21 through Branchville, Rowesville, Smoaks, Bells, etc. taking in the sights of the countryside--we were in no hurry. For about an hour we drive this and the it was time to get onto I-95 and make our way further south. We stopped at the Georgia Welcome Center for our first potty break and to stretch our legs. We also tried a sample of their fruit cake and it was NASTY!!!! I didnt enjoy it at all and neither did hubby. We got back on the road and went for about 10 miles to Cracker Barrel., my favorite place and where we first met--AWWWW!!! :O) Rob played the game that is on the table with the golf tees and he completed it to GENIUS level. Now I knew he was a genius all along but this just proved it even more. After we ate, we looked around in the store for few minutes and then got back on the road.
We drove for about 70 miles or so to Kingsland, Georgia. This is the same area we stayed at the night of our wedding--OHHHH LA LA!! We stayed this time at the Days Inn though in Room 107. We checked in, got our keys, and were taken back by our awesome room. We had a little sitting area with a couch and coffee table, an actual table and tv. It was great. We watched tv for a bit, tried to take a nap but that wasnt going to happen.
We decided to go on a date night and headed out on the town. We decided on a place called Bonzai Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar. Now, when we drove up the whole place was dark, looked almost abandoned. I was thinking no way am I going in there. We saw a steakhouse across the parking lot and thought about going there but decided to ride around a bit more and see what else we could find. We decided on Longhorn--safety in knowing that is a chain :O). We got there and there was a ton of cars sooooooooo I asked Rob what he wanted to do. He wanted to go back to the local steakhouse we saw and eat there. So off we went. When we got over there we saw people going in the Japanese place so we had to make a choice---steakhouse or Japanese. Japanese won! We were seated at the grill and I was the only female at our table. Our chef came to the table and he was talking to himself the whole time he was cooking, HILARIOUS!!!! He only had a few teeth as well but he was a good cook. The food was good, my belly was happy. We went to CVS and picked up a pack of Dramamine--We had some but we wanted to make sure we had enough. After CVS we headed back to our hotel room and enjoyed each other company.......
We left Orangeburg around 10:30 am and headed down the road. I drove this leg of the trip b/c I don't do well with Florida traffic. Wed rove Hwy 21 through Branchville, Rowesville, Smoaks, Bells, etc. taking in the sights of the countryside--we were in no hurry. For about an hour we drive this and the it was time to get onto I-95 and make our way further south. We stopped at the Georgia Welcome Center for our first potty break and to stretch our legs. We also tried a sample of their fruit cake and it was NASTY!!!! I didnt enjoy it at all and neither did hubby. We got back on the road and went for about 10 miles to Cracker Barrel., my favorite place and where we first met--AWWWW!!! :O) Rob played the game that is on the table with the golf tees and he completed it to GENIUS level. Now I knew he was a genius all along but this just proved it even more. After we ate, we looked around in the store for few minutes and then got back on the road.
We drove for about 70 miles or so to Kingsland, Georgia. This is the same area we stayed at the night of our wedding--OHHHH LA LA!! We stayed this time at the Days Inn though in Room 107. We checked in, got our keys, and were taken back by our awesome room. We had a little sitting area with a couch and coffee table, an actual table and tv. It was great. We watched tv for a bit, tried to take a nap but that wasnt going to happen.
We decided to go on a date night and headed out on the town. We decided on a place called Bonzai Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar. Now, when we drove up the whole place was dark, looked almost abandoned. I was thinking no way am I going in there. We saw a steakhouse across the parking lot and thought about going there but decided to ride around a bit more and see what else we could find. We decided on Longhorn--safety in knowing that is a chain :O). We got there and there was a ton of cars sooooooooo I asked Rob what he wanted to do. He wanted to go back to the local steakhouse we saw and eat there. So off we went. When we got over there we saw people going in the Japanese place so we had to make a choice---steakhouse or Japanese. Japanese won! We were seated at the grill and I was the only female at our table. Our chef came to the table and he was talking to himself the whole time he was cooking, HILARIOUS!!!! He only had a few teeth as well but he was a good cook. The food was good, my belly was happy. We went to CVS and picked up a pack of Dramamine--We had some but we wanted to make sure we had enough. After CVS we headed back to our hotel room and enjoyed each other company.......
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
SOLD!!!! :O)
I have some clothes that no longer fit me, great condition, and good material. So I have numbered them all, asking $5 for each but if you offer me something I more than likely will not refuse.(I need to buy new clothes so that is why I am selling them :O)) If you want more than one time we can cut a deal of course. The sizes range from 18 to 22/24. The majority are Size 20. I have them numbered so tell me which ones you want.
Thanks!!
J-Tru
(1) Size 20 Jacket, Lant Bryant, Black, White & Yellow, ruffled sleeve
(2) Size 20, Mauve/Purple Jacket, Lane Bryant, Thick and Warm
(3)Three shirts- black, brown, red, Lane Bryant, 22/24 ($5 for all three)
(4) Size 22 Jacket, Lane Bryant, Black and White
(5) Size 18-20, Venezia from Lane Bryant, Khaki/Green
(6) Size 18/20W, Cato, Black and White
(7) Size 3x, Duck Head, Khaki
(8) Size 18/20 Cato, Black w/white dots
(9) Size 2x, from Belk, NEVER WORN!!!!
(10)Size 2x, Madison, Pink, Black and Gray
(11) Size 22, Belk, Brown, Black, Khaki
(12) Size 18/20, Cato, Gray Sweater
(13) Size 22W, Cato, Green, White and Black
(14) Size 22/24, Cato, Mauve/Purple
(15) Size 22/24, Cato, Yellow, Khaki & Black
(16) Size 22/24, Lane Bryant, Black and White, Bubble Hem
(17) Size 22/24, Lane Bryant, White ($2)
Thanks!!
J-Tru
(1) Size 20 Jacket, Lant Bryant, Black, White & Yellow, ruffled sleeve
(2) Size 20, Mauve/Purple Jacket, Lane Bryant, Thick and Warm
(3)Three shirts- black, brown, red, Lane Bryant, 22/24 ($5 for all three)
(4) Size 22 Jacket, Lane Bryant, Black and White
(5) Size 18-20, Venezia from Lane Bryant, Khaki/Green
(6) Size 18/20W, Cato, Black and White
(7) Size 3x, Duck Head, Khaki
(8) Size 18/20 Cato, Black w/white dots
(9) Size 2x, from Belk, NEVER WORN!!!!
(10)Size 2x, Madison, Pink, Black and Gray
(11) Size 22, Belk, Brown, Black, Khaki
(12) Size 18/20, Cato, Gray Sweater
(13) Size 22W, Cato, Green, White and Black
(14) Size 22/24, Cato, Mauve/Purple
(15) Size 22/24, Cato, Yellow, Khaki & Black
(16) Size 22/24, Lane Bryant, Black and White, Bubble Hem
(17) Size 22/24, Lane Bryant, White ($2)
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