Stars of the Galaxy, Constellation, Explorer and Enchantment!!

[deeva211]

I guess this is our new home! Pull up a chair and sit a while!!

[LDeBord]

I' ve pulled up a chair and it is definitely a beach chair Thank you!;)

[dizliz]

My chair is here too! Where is this thread? I clicked Laura's link and went to some cruise line I'd never heard of before. Glad you got us on the right page Dee! Thanks!!! And....only appropriate since you started the Connie one.:D

[deeva211]

Lucy, Glad it's a beach chair!! That's perfect!

Liz, Laura screwed up the link so I emailed her and she said, "oops!" Before I got her reply, I found our new forum. If you go to the main Cruise Critic board and scroll to the bottom, you will see "Friends of Cruise Critic." The Stars is listed there.

[ecslady]

Laura must have gotten lots of emails about the link not working! I emailed her also!!

So, helloooooo!:)

[CaroleSP]

Oh no, we have to start over. Where are our 22000 posts? BooHoo.

Anyway, thanks for the heads-up, Dee.

[MaryJean56]

So we now have a new home. Thanks Dee for sending the link. Let me reserve a beach chair with all of you too. Too bad the old thread got closed so close to the 22,000 mark. It would have been nice to hit that, but if starting new makes access to our thread faster, then it is a good thing.

[LDeBord]

I took note that Dee started "the old thread" on 8/30/2004 we almost made it to our anniversary date!:( Thanks Dee for finding our new home!

Bringing an umbrella to sit in my beach chair today. Raining non-stop here. Anyone for drinks?

[deeva211]

Send some of that rain down here. It's rained twice in 4 months!!! We need it sooooo badly!

[LDeBord]

OMG Dee it has rained every day for so many days that I forget what the sun feels like and I mean buckets and buckets of rain. We have had several storms and two tornado watches. I will be more then happy to send the rain your way

I am here in my beach chair with umbrella and rain boots!!

[CaroleSP]

Bringing an umbrella to sit in my beach chair today. Raining non-stop here. Anyone for drinks?Guess I'll have one with a little umbrella.;)

I'm going to miss all our pictures. :(

[ecslady]

Some not so good news....my mom is in the hospital after falling when she was trying to get up off her chair in the living room. She fractured her pelvis. She also has a UTI, her BP is up and is anemic. Since they can't do anything for a fx pelvis, she will go to a rehab facility a couple of miles from my house. She was going to be transferred today, but since her iron is so low, she is on an IV iron drip for a few days. She has been getting more frail over the past year and losing weight. What lies ahead, I don't know. I question whether she has the strength to do well in rehab to be able to walk well enough with the walker to go back to her senior apt. but time will tell.

[LDeBord]

Nancy...I will keep you and your family in my prayers!

[marc and jan]

Bringing an umbrella to sit in my beach chair today. Raining non-stop here. Anyone for drinks?

Besides my beach chair and umbrella I've also got a BBC and my Kindle! What a great image to think about!

Some not so good news....my mom is in the hospital after falling when she was trying to get up off her chair in the living room. She fractured her pelvis. She also has a UTI, her BP is up and is anemic. Since they can't do anything for a fx pelvis, she will go to a rehab facility a couple of miles from my house. She was going to be transferred today, but since her iron is so low, she is on an IV iron drip for a few days. She has been getting more frail over the past year and losing weight. What lies ahead, I don't know. I question whether she has the strength to do well in rehab to be able to walk well enough with the walker to go back to her senior apt. but time will tell.

Nancy we will surely keep her in our prayers.

Please also keep my mom in your prayers. I don't want to go into all the reasons why out here, but she could sure use some prayer for her health and well-being.

[Jerryw]

Dee..... Thanks for giving me the info for this thread.

Nancy & Jan..... We were be keeping your mom's in our thoughts and prayers.

[CaroleSP]

Some not so good news....my mom is in the hospital after falling when she was trying to get up off her chair in the living room. She fractured her pelvis. She also has a UTI, her BP is up and is anemic. Since they can't do anything for a fx pelvis, she will go to a rehab facility a couple of miles from my house. She was going to be transferred today, but since her iron is so low, she is on an IV iron drip for a few days. She has been getting more frail over the past year and losing weight. What lies ahead, I don't know. I question whether she has the strength to do well in rehab to be able to walk well enough with the walker to go back to her senior apt. but time will tell.Oh, Nancy. I am so sorry to hear about your mom. It sounds like she was knocked for a loop.

HOw is her attitude; good spirits go a long way in healing.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

[dizliz]

Nancy and Jan....so sorry to hear that your Moms are not doing well right now. I do hope that they will feel better soon. We will be thinking of them and you.

[dizliz]

I will take one of those umbrella drinks too. A yummy drink, a beach chair and good friends. Who could ask for more! Oh, ok, a bit of sunshine and warm weather!:D

[CaroleSP]

Please also keep my mom in your prayers. I don't want to go into all the reasons why out here, but she could sure use some prayer for her health and well-being.Jan, I do hope she starts doing better. I know you wanted to take a cruise with her; I'll certainly include her along with Nancy's mom. I think I better give my mom a call and just check in. Haven't spoken to her since Saturday morning and I usually call about every day. This will be a tough week for her, next Saturday, she and my dad would have had their 68th anniversary and that is when she gets angry with him for leaving her.

[CaroleSP]

Jan, I just started (more than halfway through since yesterday) my first Stephen Hopkins, father of 10 detective book. I am really enjoying it. I didn't realize it was in my house. I'll be reading the rest of them soon! Thanks for the heads-up.

[marc and jan]

Jan, I just started (more than halfway through since yesterday) my first Stephen Hopkins, father of 10 detective book. I am really enjoying it. I didn't realize it was in my house. I'll be reading the rest of them soon! Thanks for the heads-up.

Carole - you must have me confused with someone else. I've never read Stephen Hopkins. I thought I told you about Lee Childs???

Yes, Mom is going with us on the Explorer in Sept on a Canada New England cruise. Thanks everyone for the prayers, I'm sure they are doing a world of good! Especially Star prayers.

[CaroleSP]

Carole - you must have me confused with someone else. I've never read Stephen Hopkins. I thought I told you about Lee Childs??? Stephen Hopkins is the main character in one of the James Patterson books. I thought we talked about The Alex Cross series written by Patterson, in addition to Jack Reacher. If it wasn't you, who was it? I knew I was losing it, but didn't know I was this far gone.

Yes, Mom is going with us on the Explorer in Sept on a Canada New England cruise. Thanks everyone for the prayers, I'm sure they are doing a world of good! Especially Star prayers. At least I got the Mom cruise right. :confused: Star prayers are amazing; you will have them as long as they are needed.

[marc and jan]

Carole - I thought you meant he was an author I told you about. Now I'm the one that's losing it because I don't remember the character. You must have told me something about the book if I remembered him on the ship. Thank God the kindle tells me when I already have a book when I try to buy it a second time. :(:confused::eek: Most times I can't tell if I read it just by reading the little synopsis.

[bwolfe8140]

Dee - I'm sending you my rain, too. We are really thankful when we have sunny and dry days.

Jan and Nancy - you are receiving Star prayers from us, too.

Carole - I thought you meant he was an author I told you about. Now I'm the one that's losing it because I don't remember the character. You must have told me something about the book if I remembered him on the ship. Thank God the kindle tells me when I already have a book when I try to buy it a second time. :(:confused::eek: Most times I can't tell if I read it just by reading the little synopsis.

I have a Word doc with a list of my favorite authors and the books available from my library. When I finish a book, I highlight the title. I put "Holds" on the ones I haven't read so I don't have to take the list to the library. The library emails when they are available and I just have to go pick them up.

[dizliz]

Hi Betty!!!:D

Carole.....We've read the James Patterson/Michael Ledwidge series about Detective Michael Bennett who has 10 kids. I'll have to look up what you are reading.

Nancy and Jan....hope your Moms are doing better. Please keep us updated.

[CaroleSP]

Carole - I thought you meant he was an author I told you about. Now I'm the one that's losing it because I don't remember the character. You must have told me something about the book if I remembered him on the ship. Thank God the kindle tells me when I already have a book when I try to buy it a second time. :(:confused::eek: Most times I can't tell if I read it just by reading the little synopsis.LOL I was trying to remember if I read a book that was stashed in my "already read" spot. I looked at half a dozen pages and can't remember. I gave up and picked up a magazine. I have a few books left to read before I am fully Kindled. I know they will move quickly, as they are authors I like. I can't wait to jump back into it; I keep buying stuff, but promised I wouldn't read another e-book until I finish the others I have at home.

[CaroleSP]

Dee - I'm sending you my rain, too. We are really thankful when we have sunny and dry days.

Jan and Nancy - you are receiving Star prayers from us, too.



I have a Word doc with a list of my favorite authors and the books available from my library. When I finish a book, I highlight the title. I put "Holds" on the ones I haven't read so I don't have to take the list to the library. The library emails when they are available and I just have to go pick them up.Hi Betty, long time no see.

That sounds way too organized for me. Although, I opened a Patterson book and saw that it was a continuation, or book II. I checked the "box" and saw that I didn't have the earlier book stashed anywhere. I went to the library and they didn't have it either. Their information stated that there was 1 copy in each of 2 other libraries. At some point, it becomes less expensive to download the book, than use my gas and time to chase it around. It just bugs me to buy the first book and have the other in hardcover.

[CaroleSP]

Hi Betty!!!:D

Carole.....We've read the James Patterson/Michael Ledwidge series about Detective Michael Bennett who has 10 kids. I'll have to look up what you are reading. Lucky for me, the book we have happens to be the first book in the series. I think it is step on a crack, but I'm not sure. I already finished it and will have to find the next one.

Nancy and Jan....hope your Moms are doing better. Please keep us updated.Yes, Nancy & Jan, please let us know how everything and everyone is doing.

[CaroleSP]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMTnwCX_r7c


Hey Silhouetters....

Derf just posted this link. This was always my first choice of specialty restaurant, now it's definite.

[CaroleSP]

http://inlinethumb39.webshots.com/46502/2025649590083315880S600x600Q85.jpg (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2025649590083315880nCLgFM)

[marc and jan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMTnwCX_r7c


Hey Silhouetters....

Derf just posted this link. This was always my first choice of specialty restaurant, now it's definite.

Carole - this Qsine is just awesome. When I was on the Eclipse we were invited to a private demonstration by Chef Jacques Van Staden, we got to play with the "menu's" and we got to sample the food. I can't wait to eat there. I just want to know why I don't get a Blue Moon when I shake my Kindle? hee hee heeeeeeee

We are off to Texas to visit with the grandkids in about 7 hours, so I better get to bed. 4:30 is going to come really fast when that alarm clock goes off. Then next weekend I get to go to New York to visit Rach. Here's wishing all the Stars a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend.

As for my Mom, there will be nothing physical to report and the story is much to long to go into out here on a public forum. She is just in a bad way and a bad situation right now and needs prayer very badly. I can't wait to whisk her away on the Explorer where she will be waited on, she will just love it! But we have to get her there first.

[ecslady]

Hi STARS - I have some sad news to report. My mom passed away peacefully in her sleep early Thursday morning. When I went to see her on Wednesday evening, we had a real nice chat - about it being her time, about her getting worse rather than better, how she did not want to end up in a nursing home, etc. etc. Sometimes you just need to say it is OK and give them permission. While it is sad, it is also a relief, as I know she is without pain and in a better place. Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers along the way. It's been a rough couple of weeks.

Jan - Your mom is in my thoughts as well.

[marc and jan]

Hi STARS - I have some sad news to report. My mom passed away peacefully in her sleep early Thursday morning. When I went to see her on Wednesday evening, we had a real nice chat - about it being her time, about her getting worse rather than better, how she did not want to end up in a nursing home, etc. etc. Sometimes you just need to say it is OK and give them permission. While it is sad, it is also a relief, as I know she is without pain and in a better place. Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers along the way. It's been a rough couple of weeks.

Jan - Your mom is in my thoughts as well.


Nancy I am so sorry to hear this. You will be in our prayers all weekend as well as your family.

[dizliz]

Oh Nancy, so very sorry for the loss of your Mom. Your post is very touching and I am so glad you had the chance to talk and to know this is what she preferred. We are thinking of you.

[bwolfe8140]

Nancy - I am so sorry to hear about your Mom. Know that we are thinking of you.

[LDeBord]

Nancy....as the tears are flowing now my heart goes out to you. I am still having a difficult time since the passing of my Dad. I am so glad that you had the time to spend with her before her passing. I think this is partly the reason I am having a difficult in moving on. I still cry almost daily, I will see something or remember something. I miss my Dad so much it hurts. Our prayers are with you and your family.

[LDeBord]

Jan...I know September can't get here fast enough for you. This will be such an awesome memory for you and your Mom. I am keeping your Mom in our prayers and I will add her to our Church Prayer.

[LDeBord]

A smile moment....Guy's favorite meal of the day is breakfast. I asked my boss to go into work late yesterday so Little Taylor I surprised him by taking him out to breakfast for his birthday. Then the kids took him out to dinner. It turned out that we had a little excitement at the end of our dinner. We ate at Rockwells which has an outside beach style restaurant. We were just finishing up when it got pitch black and the winds came fast and furious blowing everything off the tables. Tables, chairs and umbrellas also went flying. The kids were scared. Everyone went running inside the restaurant. What a way to end his birthday.

[LDeBord]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMTnwCX_r7c

Hey Silhouetters....

Derf just posted this link. This was always my first choice of specialty restaurant, now it's definite.


I found another one that goes into a little more detail with explanation

http://www.youtube.com/*********************&NR=1

[CaroleSP]

Hi STARS - I have some sad news to report. My mom passed away peacefully in her sleep early Thursday morning. When I went to see her on Wednesday evening, we had a real nice chat - about it being her time, about her getting worse rather than better, how she did not want to end up in a nursing home, etc. etc. Sometimes you just need to say it is OK and give them permission. While it is sad, it is also a relief, as I know she is without pain and in a better place. Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers along the way. It's been a rough couple of weeks.

Jan - Your mom is in my thoughts as well.Nancy, I was so sorry to read of your mom's passing. But, I understand what you mean. I've heard over and over that sometimes people wait to be sure that everyone who will be left behind is ok and then they pass quickly and quietly. She was able to avoid what she didn't want and that must have given her some consolation at the end. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Nancy. May she rest in peace.

[CaroleSP]

Carole - this Qsine is just awesome. When I was on the Eclipse we were invited to a private demonstration by Chef Jacques Van Staden, we got to play with the "menu's" and we got to sample the food. I can't wait to eat there. I just want to know why I don't get a Blue Moon when I shake my Kindle? hee hee heeeeeeee Honey, I've seen you shake your Kindle...enough said!! :eek:

We are off to Texas to visit with the grandkids in about 7 hours, so I better get to bed. 4:30 is going to come really fast when that alarm clock goes off. Then next weekend I get to go to New York to visit Rach. Here's wishing all the Stars a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend. You are just a traveling fool, Jan. What a great way to spend the weekend. I can't get enough of the grands; happily, they live close by. Enjoy all your hugs and kisses, YaYa.

As for my Mom, there will be nothing physical to report and the story is much to long to go into out here on a public forum. She is just in a bad way and a bad situation right now and needs prayer very badly. I can't wait to whisk her away on the Explorer where she will be waited on, she will just love it! But we have to get her there first.You will have to be strong for both of you!! Just keep that watery goal in mind and try to step back a little. We're pulling for you and mom!

[CaroleSP]

A smile moment....Guy's favorite meal of the day is breakfast. I asked my boss to go into work late yesterday so Little Taylor I surprised him by taking him out to breakfast for his birthday. Then the kids took him out to dinner. It turned out that we had a little excitement at the end of our dinner. We ate at Rockwells which has an outside beach style restaurant. We were just finishing up when it got pitch black and the winds came fast and furious blowing everything off the tables. Tables, chairs and umbrellas also went flying. The kids were scared. Everyone went running inside the restaurant. What a way to end his birthday.I had no idea that Guy's wind was that powerful. It will probably make the local news. :eek::D:rolleyes:

Please wish Guy a happy birthday for us. Sounds like you had a really interesting day.;)

[CaroleSP]

I found another one that goes into a little more detail with explanation

http://www.youtube.com/*********************&NR=1Hi Luci, looks like they blocked the link. Can you email the link to us?

[CaroleSP]

Wishing all of you a safe and happy holiday weekend.

[LDeBord]

hi luci, looks like they blocked the link. Can you email the link to us?


yes they did and that wasn't nice. The other one went through. I tried but they continued to block it so i will email to you. Anyone else interested in seeing it let me know.

[LDeBord]

I had no idea that Guy's wind was that powerful. It will probably make the local news. :eek::D:rolleyes:

Please wish Guy a happy birthday for us. Sounds like you had a really interesting day.;)

It was actually scary. It came so quickly that we didn't have much of a chance to finish our meal. The dishes, glasses basically everything went flying off. People were grabbing their meals, etc.

I will pass on your birthday wishes to Guy.

[LDeBord]

TGIF - ready for three days off!!

[Jerryw]

Nancy..... Sorry to hear that your mother passed. I am glad that you got to talk to her. I still wish I would of had a chance to talk to my dad before he died. This is probably why I try to see my mom more often.
Our thoughts are with you.

[marc and jan]

I had no idea that Guy's wind was that powerful. It will probably make the local news. :eek::D:rolleyes:

Please wish Guy a happy birthday for us. Sounds like you had a really interesting day.;). Hahahahaha. I love it Carole. I did know guy's wind was that powerful, I've heard it blowing!!!!!

yes they did and that wasn't nice. The other one went through. I tried but they continued to block it so i will email to you. Anyone else interested in seeing it let me know.

I would love to see it please.

[ecslady]

. Hahahahaha. I love it Carole. I did know guy's wind was that powerful, I've heard it blowing!!!!!.

So, I guess it was Guy who is responsible for the Tornado Outbreaks in the midwest???:D

OK, I needed a little humor.


Thanks everyone for your prayers and thoughts.

[MaryJean56]

Nancy, I was so sorry to hear about your Mom. It does sound like you had a special time right before and that was a blessing. You are in my prayers.

Jan, your mom will be in my prayers also.

[CaroleSP]

. Hahahahaha. I love it Carole. I did know guy's wind was that powerful, I've heard it blowing!!!!!



I remember you saying you were just blown away. :D:eek::p;):D

[CaroleSP]

Nancy & Dee,

More sad news. I jsut happened to peek over on the Connie Repo thread and found that Sharon just posted from her ship. You probably remember that she was heading to St Petersburg.

Anyway, they boarded yesterday and late last night (their time) Joe's dad passed away unexpectedly. Today is a sea day; they are getting off tomorrow to fly home. That's all she posted for now.

Luci, I know you met Joe & Sharon one time when the "Pirates" went to Lancaster. We all went out to dinner for burgers and you joined us.

[MaryJean56]

Was Guy visiting MA last night? :D We were really lucky because all we had was rain and hail, but some areas of the state really are a mess from a few tornados and nasty wind storms. Our ride home from work was a bit concerning because it was longer than usual because lots of folks left early and all the way home we kept hearing that we should not be in a car that we should be taking shelter someplace safe. When I got home we watched the TV all night so we could see what storms were heading our way. The only thing on was the weather reporters plotting out the storms and advising when they were going to hit different areas. We sure got a taste of what it must be like to live in the mid-west.

[marc and jan]

Mary jean I'm so glad u posted. We were just listening to the news and I thought of you immediately when I heard the news about MA. I'm so glad you are all right!

[ecslady]

MaryJean - I was thinking about you as I was watching the tornadoes in MA. Glad to hear you only got some rain and hail.

[dizliz]

Mary Jean....so glad you posted We had a map out trying to see how close you are to Springfield. Don't picture tornados being a problem in your area. So very glad you are OK.

Our sirens have gone off a couple of times recently and I REALLY don't like it at all. I have a "take to the basement pile of stuff" by the basement steps. It has things like our passports and cookies and pet food in it. I hope to NEVER see a tornado up close and personal. My heart just aches for all those who have been hit this year.

Again....thanks foe posting!!!

[CaroleSP]

Please add my name to the list of worriers. Nancy, my mother was giving me the blow by blow NY/NJ news while I was driving home that day. It was strange, her weather was awful, while I was driving in the sun. We are between 35 and 40 miles apart. She kept telling me that the MA weather was not near MJ, but in the other direction. The water being pulled up from the Connecticut river and over the bridge was horrifying.

We are very happy to hear that our STARS are safe.

Liz, have you heard anything from Cindy or Chris? I keep hoping that we will hear some happy news. How about Sharon (& David); it's been a long time since there was an update.

[ecslady]

Please add my name to the list of worriers. Nancy, my mother was giving me the blow by blow NY/NJ news while I was driving home that day. It was strange, her weather was awful, while I was driving in the sun. We are between 35 and 40 miles apart. She kept telling me that the MA weather was not near MJ, but in the other direction. The water being pulled up from the Connecticut river and over the bridge was horrifying.

Carole - We had a storm come through, but it didn't last long that day. Nothing like MA. 35 or 40 miles is a long way when we talk about storms.

[deeva211]

Check you prices on the March cruise! Nancy and I just went down over $400!!!

[MaryJean56]

Check you prices on the March cruise! Nancy and I just went down over $400!!!

Yep, it sure was a nice price drop. We got the same.

[MaryJean56]

I leave on another trip to FL this Thursday and won't be back home until June 22nd. I suspect I will not have access to a computer again and the autotrain doesn't have WiFi, so I doubt you will hear from me for a while. Although there are times when I miss being connected with the world, one of the things I enjoy about these trips to FL is that I am away from a keyboard for 2 weeks. :D We aren't planning a lot for this trip except relaxing days at the beach. We have reservations to do a turtle walk one evening to hopefully see nesting sea turtles. It is a 3 mile walk in the sand from approx 9pm to midnight or later. The park rangers lead a group of about 20 and they are the only ones with a flashlight. We have heard that it can be kind of buggy out there, so I'm not sure how much fun this will be, but we are giving it a try.

[ecslady]

MaryJean - Have a great trip to Florida! Hope you see lots of turtles and it is not too buggy!:)

[dizliz]

Check you prices on the March cruise! Nancy and I just went down over $400!!!

Was that a great price drop or what!!! A couple more like that and I will feel like we really can afford to go. Did the Nov. one go down too?

Mary Jean....Have a great trip to Florida. Your evening with the turtles sounds like fun. I would HAVE to go to Epcot while I was there and maybe a 4 day cruise just for kicks.

Speaking of short cruises....we leave Sunday for NY to sail to Canada on the Carnival Glory. Our first Carnival cruise and we are sooooo excited! I can't believe I've been reading the Carnival boards, but, did you know that you can buy Carnival beds?! I'm thinking they must be good! (Did I say this before?) Awful to get old!!!! The pictures of the food are beautiful and they have Mac and Cheese....grown up style that you can order every night. Oh my!!!!

[deeva211]

I'm thinking they must be good! (Did I say this before?) Awful to get old!!!!

And how old would that be, Liz???:D:D

[deeva211]

MaryJean, Have a great trip to Florida! Be prepared for hot!

Liz, Hope you have a great cruise! I don't know if the Nov. cruise dropped because we paid a fraction of the current price. Our 1a only buys an inside now!!

[MaryJean56]

Liz, hope you have a great cruise. Hope you have great weather too! Can't wait to hear your review of the Glory since it will be sailing out of Boston in 2012.

[CaroleSP]

Check you prices on the March cruise! Nancy and I just went down over $400!!!

Yep, it sure was a nice price drop. We got the same.What category are you guys in? Are you all humping people in 1A or something like that?

We are 2C (or 2B - can't remember right now) and I don't think our reduction was that much. I have to figure out what the deal is. I spent most of my lunch time yesterday calling them and getting transferred to wrong people and getting disconnected from the right people. Don't ask. :mad::mad:

Anyway, the third call and 8th person I spoke to put the adjustment through. I didn't check my email until this morning; I'll do the calculations later.

We just got tickets to see Scott next Friday (6/17) so we will be off to Arkansas for about 4 days. Hopefully all the tornado and flood problems are over.

[CaroleSP]

I leave on another trip to FL this Thursday and won't be back home until June 22nd. I suspect I will not have access to a computer again and the autotrain doesn't have WiFi, so I doubt you will hear from me for a while. Although there are times when I miss being connected with the world, one of the things I enjoy about these trips to FL is that I am away from a keyboard for 2 weeks. :D We aren't planning a lot for this trip except relaxing days at the beach. We have reservations to do a turtle walk one evening to hopefully see nesting sea turtles. It is a 3 mile walk in the sand from approx 9pm to midnight or later. The park rangers lead a group of about 20 and they are the only ones with a flashlight. We have heard that it can be kind of buggy out there, so I'm not sure how much fun this will be, but we are giving it a try.Although it is a long walk, is sounds like a lot of fun. Better find yourself some DEET.
Will they allow you to take pictures of the turtles, if you see them?

[ecslady]

Carole - We are in the 1A on the slant of the hump - aka BIG Balcony!!!:D

Liz - Have a great short cruise to New England!:)

[CaroleSP]

Was that a great price drop or what!!! A couple more like that and I will feel like we really can afford to go. Did the Nov. one go down too?

Mary Jean....Have a great trip to Florida. Your evening with the turtles sounds like fun. I would HAVE to go to Epcot while I was there and maybe a 4 day cruise just for kicks.

Speaking of short cruises....we leave Sunday for NY to sail to Canada on the Carnival Glory. Our first Carnival cruise and we are sooooo excited! I can't believe I've been reading the Carnival boards, but, did you know that you can buy Carnival beds?! I'm thinking they must be good! (Did I say this before?) Awful to get old!!!! The pictures of the food are beautiful and they have Mac and Cheese....grown up style that you can order every night. Oh my!!!!Hi Liz, was this sudden? How many nights? We only did one Carnival on the Paradise. It was better than I expected, but definitely, not up to Celebrity standards. Of course, that was 10 years ago and I understand lots of things have changed. I do remember having a wonderful rack of lamb dinner on the first night. Also, back in the day, they had a machine at the breakfast buffet where you dropped in oranges and got the freshest juice. Yum!

[CaroleSP]

Carole - We are in the 1A on the slant of the hump - aka BIG Balcony!!!:D

I thought that was what you had for November, wasn't sure if you had the same in March. Your price drop may have been bigger than ours. But, I'll take it!!! :D:D

[dizliz]

And how old would that be, Liz???:D:D

Cute, Dee! (My mathamatical genius friend!) :p

[dizliz]

Hi Liz, was this sudden? How many nights? We only did one Carnival on the Paradise. It was better than I expected, but definitely, not up to Celebrity standards. Of course, that was 10 years ago and I understand lots of things have changed. I do remember having a wonderful rack of lamb dinner on the first night. Also, back in the day, they had a machine at the breakfast buffet where you dropped in oranges and got the freshest juice. Yum!


Yep, kinda sudden. Was aiming for an Explorer Bermuda 5 day and the price went up overnight pricing us right off that one, so, started hunting for an alternative out of the NE and found Carnival Glory. Going with 2 daughters, 2 grandkinds, and one faux daughter with 2 kids...oh, and Herb, of course. That's nine of us. It's a graduation present for our grandson Nate.

Have fun on your trip to Scott's!

[CaroleSP]

Yep, kinda sudden. Was aiming for an Explorer Bermuda 5 day and the price went up overnight pricing us right off that one, so, started hunting for an alternative out of the NE and found Carnival Glory. Going with 2 daughters, 2 grandkinds, and one faux daughter with 2 kids...oh, and Herb, of course. That's nine of us. It's a graduation present for our grandson Nate.

Have fun on your trip to Scott's!Wow, that's quite a mob; you're the best grandparents around. May I be a faux daughter, too?

It will be great to see Scott on his turf; when he is up our way, he spends lots of time with his girlfriend and some with his local friends. Fortunately, he gives us an hour or two. :D

Hope your gang enjoys the Glory; it's always nice to have an alternative.

[Jerryw]

Hi Everyone,

I believe I am having trouble with this site. When I looked in the other day it was showing page 4. Today it is only showing page 2.
We will see what this post does.

[ecslady]

Hi Everyone,

I believe I am having trouble with this site. When I looked in the other day it was showing page 4. Today it is only showing page 2.
We will see what this post does.

It is page 4 Jerry. Hard to believe we had to start all over.

[deeva211]

I'm only on page 2 because my default is 40 posts per page.

[marc and jan]

I'm only on page 2 because my default is 40 posts per page.

I'm the same as you Dee, I always have mine set at 40 too.

Happy Father's Day to all you Dad's out there!!!

[ecslady]

Stopped by the main RCI board today, and found this thread. I think you all will find it interesting as it is a discussion on the replacement for Explorer in Bayonne.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1431985

[dizliz]

We are back from our Carnival cruise.

LOVED IT!!!!

Could not believe all the perks....wonderful plush bathrobes, fun goodies in the bathroom (shavers, shampoo, etc) HUGE beach towels in the room (just like Celebrity's only dark blue) and the food was YUMMY!!!!

Dee and Nancy....they had BIGELOW tea!!!

Mary Jean....there were 9 of us in 4 rooms and we were all assigned to the same dining table at the same time!!! We did NOT have to go to the dining room on boarding! Holy cow! It is possible for a cruise line to get it right!

Will post more with pictures soon.

[ecslady]

We are back from our Carnival cruise.

LOVED IT!!!!



Uh-Oh! Can't wait to hear more! Did you book another Carnival cruise? I must admit, I have heard that the NE Carnival cruises are pretty nice. A number of people from work have taken them.

[dizliz]

We will book another one. Need to spend some time looking at the Carnival site.

Could not believe how well run and well kept the ship was. Even the glass on the balconys was clean and the railings varnished and beautiful.

The rooms had THREE closets....two for hanging clothes and one was all shelves. Lots of storage.

The food was amazing. Only thing missing was "savory bites!". The buffet had really great food, but, needed to be laid out like the Windjammer. However, they had a 24 hour pizza station that had the world's best calzone's and ceasar salad. And a Mongolian Wok with fresh veggies and meat and noodles that you choose and then they cook it for you. A deli with amazing ruben sandwiches and a grill with HOT hot dogs and chicken fingers and hamburgers and tacos with all the toppings for you to choose from, a burritto bar with choose your own fillings and they make it for you. All the food was YUMMY! The BEST key lime pie north of Key West! Banana cream pie to die for. Macaroni and cheese in the dining room!!! And warm chocolate melting cake with vanilla ice cream. And the alternative steak selection was a sirloin 2" thick! Cooked to your order and delicious.

The ship design was a bit chopped up, but, if you thought of deck 5 as the main "highway", getting around was easy. The decor of the intieror public areas was quirky but fun. The casino was BEAUTIFUL.

Each Carnival ship has a "theme" and this one was "colors". Each venue was a differnet color...the Bar Blue, the Ebony Lounge, White Heat dance club, etc.

They had the huge movie screen on the pool deck and the most awesome rocking chairs. The pools were small, but, there were LOTS and LOTS of chairs. The Serenity deck for adults with padded wicker chairs and hammocks was beautiful.

Can you tell we loved it?

More later with pictures......

[Jerryw]

The food was amazing. Only thing missing was "savory bites!". The buffet had really great food, but, needed to be laid out like the Windjammer. However, they had a 24 hour pizza station that had the world's best calzone's and ceasar salad. And a Mongolian Wok with fresh veggies and meat and noodles that you choose and then they cook it for you. A deli with amazing ruben sandwiches and a grill with HOT hot dogs and chicken fingers and hamburgers and tacos with all the toppings for you to choose from, a burritto bar with choose your own fillings and they make it for you. All the food was YUMMY! The BEST key lime pie north of Key West! Banana cream pie to die for. Macaroni and cheese in the dining room!!! And warm chocolate melting cake with vanilla ice cream. And the alternative steak selection was a sirloin 2" thick! Cooked to your order and delicious..

I gained a couple pounds just reading this part.:D:D:D

Liz..... Glad you had a good time of the Carnival.

I also have my settings for 40 posts but for some reason it showed 4 pages and then when I rebooted it went back to 2.

[marc and jan]

Man oh man, you are making me want to hop on one of their ships right now! I'm so glad you had such a great time. Maybe I will look a little closer at the Carnival itineraries for maybe a second cruise next year! I was on the Liberty as part of my training and they sure have come a long way from the Fantasy that we took our first cruise on. Good to hear that the food is so good too! We only ate in the buffet that day so we only got a small taste. Welcome back Liz!

BTW I am listening to Finger Lickin' Fifteen in my car right now Liz, and I don't think I've ever laughed so much while driving. Thanks again so much for introducing me to these books. I have Sixteen waiting for when I finish Fifteen. I got tired of waiting for Half Price Books to get them in, so I broke down and ordered them from Amazon.

[dizliz]

Here are some pics from the trip.....

The first two are a couple of shots of the adults only Serenity deck.

The next is the alternative steak selection in the dining room.

Then the cool blue rockers. I would book again just for these!

And Erin and I holding one of the beach towels. They really were Celebrity towels, only dark blue.

Over all we loved the experience and would definitly book again. However, I would have to say that the dining room lacked the graciousness of Royal or Celebrity. The service was fine and the food was fun cause it was different....did I mention they had MAC and CHEESE!!!??!! AWESOME!!! I must admit to a "happy tear" or two when the servers sang on the last night....."Leaving on a Fun Ship, don't know when I'll be back again....."

[dizliz]

Jan....I got a note from Audible today saying that "Smokin Seventeen" was out. My montly Audible credit should be there tomorrow and guess what I'm going to buy!?!:) Do you have an Audible account...I understand you can now download to your Kindle...I think. I have the "gold" membership that is $14.95 a month. They have lots of sales too. Love Audible.

They need to put warning lables on her books...."warning..laughing while driving could be dangerous to your well being if you hit something!":D

[CaroleSP]

I also have my settings for 40 posts but for some reason it showed 4 pages and then when I rebooted it went back to 2.

I'm reading this on page 3 right now. I am always set for 40 also.

[CaroleSP]

BTW I am listening to Finger Lickin' Fifteen in my car right now Liz, and I don't think I've ever laughed so much while driving. Thanks again so much for introducing me to these books. I have Sixteen waiting for when I finish Fifteen. I got tired of waiting for Half Price Books to get them in, so I broke down and ordered them from Amazon.
Is that a Janet Evanovich? I started reading them last fall and blew through about the first 6 and thought I needed a break. It is more fun to start again.

[CaroleSP]

Here are some pics from the trip.....

The first two are a couple of shots of the adults only Serenity deck.

The next is the alternative steak selection in the dining room.

Then the cool blue rockers. I would book again just for these!

And Erin and I holding one of the beach towels. They really were Celebrity towels, only dark blue.

Over all we loved the experience and would definitly book again. However, I would have to say that the dining room lacked the graciousness of Royal or Celebrity. The service was fine and the food was fun cause it was different....did I mention they had MAC and CHEESE!!!??!! AWESOME!!! I must admit to a "happy tear" or two when the servers sang on the last night....."Leaving on a Fun Ship, don't know when I'll be back again....."Sold! I will definitely check this out, but I don't know how I will feel after the Silhouette....

[CaroleSP]

Hope everyone is well and all you guys had a great Father's Day. We celebrated in Arkansas with Scott. We went to see his new house and help with unpacking. What a job!! More at another time; just want to say, when we got there we couldn't find a place to sit and stood up to eat a bagel, as there was no clear counter space, either.'

When we left, he had a beautiful working kitchen and we all sat down to dinner the night before...his first meal at home.

I will say we had the flights from hell. Our luggage was smart, took a different plane and came in a day later....:confused:

[MaryJean56]

Liz, so glad you had a great time with the gang on your cruise. Maybe we will have to try the Glory out when it leaves from Boston next year. Your review sure makes it seem like something we should look into.

Carole, glad you had a nice visit with Scott.

Nancy, thanks for posting the link to the thread on Bayonne speculation. Sure would be nice if they put another ship up there in 2013.

We had a fantastic time in FL. The weather cooperated. It was beautiful beach weather and it only rained when we were shopping. Who could ask for more? The water temp was in the low 80's so you could walk right in. I think even Jerry would think it was warm enough. We went on the turtle walk, but didn't see any turtles so we will have to try it again some time. One turtle left tracks after we had passed the area and we saw them when we were going back, but she never laid any eggs, just came out and went back in. At least the conditions were good. There was a breeze, so there were no bugs and we were walking in the packed down sand, so it was an easy stroll, just disappointing because we didn't see any turtles. It was still interesting because there was a slide show before the walk.
It was a very nice vacation, it is just hard to come back to reality afterwards.

[Jerryw]

We had a fantastic time in FL. The weather cooperated. It was beautiful beach weather and it only rained when we were shopping. Who could ask for more? The water temp was in the low 80's so you could walk right in. I think even Jerry would think it was warm enough. We went on the turtle walk, but didn't see any turtles so we will have to try it again some time.

MaryJean..... I sure do like warm water. The warmer the better. Sorry you didn't get to see any turtles. Last May when we were at Topsail Island, NC with the grandkids there was a plot that was marked right next to our porch. We weren't allowed to turn the porch light on at night. We were hoping that they hatch but they didn't. The grandkids were a little disappointed. I don't know if we will have another opportunity when we return the Jarett & family the week of Aug. 20th.

[CaroleSP]

Liz, so glad you had a great time with the gang on your cruise. Maybe we will have to try the Glory out when it leaves from Boston next year. Your review sure makes it seem like something we should look into.

Carole, glad you had a nice visit with Scott.

Nancy, thanks for posting the link to the thread on Bayonne speculation. Sure would be nice if they put another ship up there in 2013.

We had a fantastic time in FL. The weather cooperated. It was beautiful beach weather and it only rained when we were shopping. Who could ask for more? The water temp was in the low 80's so you could walk right in. I think even Jerry would think it was warm enough. We went on the turtle walk, but didn't see any turtles so we will have to try it again some time. One turtle left tracks after we had passed the area and we saw them when we were going back, but she never laid any eggs, just came out and went back in. At least the conditions were good. There was a breeze, so there were no bugs and we were walking in the packed down sand, so it was an easy stroll, just disappointing because we didn't see any turtles. It was still interesting because there was a slide show before the walk.
It was a very nice vacation, it is just hard to come back to reality afterwards.Sounds like a lovely, relaxing time; just what we all need!
Al is having major hip/femur issues again. Will follow-up with the gang via email.
I am so looking forward to the upcoming 3 day weekend. Anyone doing anything interesting?

[deeva211]

Happy Birthday Carole!!!! Hope you have a great day!

[CaroleSP]

Happy Birthday Carole!!!! Hope you have a great day!Thanks, Dee. I'm sure trying! I will milk this right through the weekend. :D

[ecslady]

Happy Birthday Carole!!!! Enjoy!

[CaroleSP]

Happy Birthday Carole!!!! Enjoy!Thanks, Nancy.

[marc and jan]

Happy Birthday Carole!!!! Hope you have a great day!

I hope you HAD a great day anyhow. Happy Birthday!!!

[CaroleSP]

I hope you HAD a great day anyhow. Happy Birthday!!!
Thanks; I tried. It wasn't a bad day, but I was on land, at work...you do the math. ;)

[dizliz]

Carole....sorry I missed your B-day. Happy Late Wishes!!!:D

Mary Jean....glad you had a good Florida trip. Sounds like Camelot! Sorry the turtles didn't cooperate. I picked a rock out of the pond the other day and tossed it up on land and it got up and ran back into the pond! I thought about you!!! LOL

Another couple of Carnival pluses....they had full laudries complete with an ironing board and iron on every stateroom floor! And, you could take one bottle of 750mg of wine (per person) onboard in your carry on.

I saw the Silhouette was floating now. We're making progress!:D

[CaroleSP]

Carole....sorry I missed your B-day. Happy Late Wishes!!!:D

Mary Jean....glad you had a good Florida trip. Sounds like Camelot! Sorry the turtles didn't cooperate. I picked a rock out of the pond the other day and tossed it up on land and it got up and ran back into the pond! I thought about you!!! LOL

Another couple of Carnival pluses....they had full laudries complete with an ironing board and iron on every stateroom floor! And, you could take one bottle of 750mg of wine (per person) onboard in your carry on.

I saw the Silhouette was floating now. We're making progress!:D

Thanks, Liz. It got a bit better when the kids gave my my gift...a brand spanking new iPod2 in white. Now, I just have to figure out what to do with the little bugger. :D

Your rock is really a funny story. Glad you didn't hurt the poor thing.

I will definitely look into the Glory and see if there is anything for us. I booked the Explorer for next year, but it was really just to have something for the fall. I'm hoping by then, something new comes along. :rolleyes:

[dizliz]

Thanks, Liz. It got a bit better when the kids gave my my gift...a brand spanking new iPod2 in white. Now, I just have to figure out what to do with the little bugger. :D

Your rock is really a funny story. Glad you didn't hurt the poor thing.

I will definitely look into the Glory and see if there is anything for us. I booked the Explorer for next year, but it was really just to have something for the fall. I'm hoping by then, something new comes along. :rolleyes:

Is your b-day gift an iPad or an iPod? Either way it's a great gift!!! I visit the apple store now and then to commune with the iMacs. Just got a MacBook pro for Nate. Gotta wait on a new toy for me.

If Royal, Celebrity and Carnival all had a great ship going to the same place for the same amount of time, I would consider them all and go with the best price. Over all, tho, in most cases I would go with Royal first. This may change after our trip on Silhouette. But, Carnival has a much better product than we thought.

Funny they have the laundry and ironing boards as they are waaaaaay more casual than the other two lines where an iron would be more utilized.

Have fun with your new toy. They are very addicting!!!

[ecslady]

Funny they have the laundry and ironing boards as they are waaaaaay more casual than the other two lines where an iron would be more utilized.


Probably because Celebrity's philosophy is you are on vacation and should not iron.

[marc and jan]

Funny they have the laundry and ironing boards as they are waaaaaay more casual than the other two lines where an iron would be more utilized.


Princess had laundry rooms also, one on every floor. Washers, dryers and ironing boards. I have to admit that since I'm not used to using them I didn't use it at all. But it was nice to know they were there and I made sure I knew where it was located "just in case" I needed a touch up. ;)

[CaroleSP]

Is your b-day gift an iPad or an iPod? Either way it's a great gift!!! I visit the apple store now and then to commune with the iMacs. Just got a MacBook pro for Nate. Gotta wait on a new toy for me. This is actually my first "not pre-owned" Apple toy. My Mac Mini, our Macbook Pro & our iPod are all from the Apple refurbished section. It was recommended by somone I trust totally and we have been happy with all our purchases. In fact, we orderded the MacBook thru the Discover Card website and got an additional 5% rebate, plus $100 off a printer of $100 or more. Of course, we bought a printer for $100, so that was a great deal.

If Royal, Celebrity and Carnival all had a great ship going to the same place for the same amount of time, I would consider them all and go with the best price. Over all, tho, in most cases I would go with Royal first. This may change after our trip on Silhouette. But, Carnival has a much better product than we thought. I agree, price might be the deciding factor. The only thing that would prevent booking the Glory would be the number of days; we do like our longer cruises.

Funny they have the laundry and ironing boards as they are waaaaaay more casual than the other two lines where an iron would be more utilized. I would agree, Carnival is certainly more casual than our faves.

Have fun with your new toy. They are very addicting!!!Duh, I saw the typo; it is the iPad2. There may be some angry birds in my future. :) Scott sent me yahtzee and scrabble the other night. I downloaded to my mac and now I can't find it. I wanted to sync to my iPad, but I need more time to figure this out. Weekends just seem way too short to squeeze computer time in.

Oh, just wanted to mention, I got a shoulder case (if the strap is let out fully) for my iPad. It is a little bigger than the device and has a second compartment for my kindle. It is perfect for travel. It is from Wal*Mart and might be made by Targus. I can't remember; after all I bought it almost 3 days ago.:confused:

[MaryJean56]

MaryJean..... I sure do like warm water. The warmer the better. Sorry you didn't get to see any turtles. Last May when we were at Topsail Island, NC with the grandkids there was a plot that was marked right next to our porch. We weren't allowed to turn the porch light on at night. We were hoping that they hatch but they didn't. The grandkids were a little disappointed. I don't know if we will have another opportunity when we return the Jarett & family the week of Aug. 20th.

I guess actually seeing them hatch is pretty rare because the park ranger who was with us the night we tried to view them laying the eggs told us that she has been doing the job for 17 years and has never seen them hatch. She said that it is done and over with in 30 minutes, so you have to be really lucky to catch it.

[MaryJean56]

Carole, sorry I missed your birthday. Congrats on your new Ipad. These gadgets are a bit challenging until you figure them out, but then they are the best.

Liz, really glad to hear you think that Carnival is an alternative worth looking into. We haven't been on Celebrity in a long time now, but it was always our favorite. It will be interesting to see if we still feel the same after the Silhouette. By the way, I loved your turtle story. You should have seen the tracks left behind by the sea turtle we missed. No one would have tossed that big mama.

I have been going crazy at work. When I got back from vacation I had to learn how to use a new system and then had to train my staff. The new system has been a total disaster so far so I haven't had much time to check in here.

[CaroleSP]

I am so glad someone posted here. I checked many times and all I needed to see what that the last post was mine. This time it was MJ!! Hooray!
'
I would love to see the turtles doing anything; I'm a big fan.

HOpe you get to master your new system quickly, then you can sail away again!!

I agree, Liz did a good job convincing me not to disregard CCL in my future browsing.

Hi Everyone!

[deeva211]

Got an email from Sharon today and thought I would post it!

yesterday during therapy at jfk i startrted to feel sick. i vomited and my blood pressure and oxygen level were very low. david took me to the emergency room at jfk and we stayed there till the wee hours of the morning-over nine hours. at times i felt like i was in a snake pit--what a crazy place. they ran many tests and determined that i had a stomach flu and a bacterial infection. they gave me intravenus medication and i started to feel better. on the way home david stopped at walgreens and picked up my medication.

we will stay home for a few days and i will see the doctor at jfk on friday.

i just wanted to let you know why you will not be hearing from me.

[CaroleSP]

Got an email from Sharon today and thought I would post it!

yesterday during therapy at jfk i startrted to feel sick. i vomited and my blood pressure and oxygen level were very low. david took me to the emergency room at jfk and we stayed there till the wee hours of the morning-over nine hours. at times i felt like i was in a snake pit--what a crazy place. they ran many tests and determined that i had a stomach flu and a bacterial infection. they gave me intravenus medication and i started to feel better. on the way home david stopped at walgreens and picked up my medication.

we will stay home for a few days and i will see the doctor at jfk on friday.

i just wanted to let you know why you will not be hearing from me.Thanks, Dee. It has been so long since we heard anything from either Sharon or Cindy. Poor Sharon, she certainly hasn't had it easy.

[MaryJean56]

Happy Birthday Liz! Hope it's a great one.

[ecslady]

Happy Birthday Liz!! Enjoy!!!:):):)

[deeva211]

Happy Birthday Liz!!!

[marc and jan]

All you Stars on the east coast BE SAFE! Our prayers are with all of you! Irene go away!!!

[MaryJean56]

Good luck with Irene everyone. I am enjoying the calm before the storm today. Hope everyone stays safe.

[ecslady]

We now have a steady hard rain. Most concerned about losing power and flooding since the sump pump won't work. Have lots of candles, flashlights, water stocked up and thanks to cruising, a whole stock pile of emergency glow sticks. Will check in later tonight and tomorrow as long as we have power. :)

[marc and jan]

We are especially watching NYC right now since both kids live right across the Hudson in Hoboken which is considered low ground, and yesterday they were told to evacuate by today. Keep safe Nancy and Carole.

Then we are really watching you Mary Jean since we will be going that way next Thurs. Keep safe to you also.

What a terrible storm, I never thought I'd see NYC shut down like it is. I'm trying to pack today but can't keep away from the front of the TV. Scary times. You are all in our prayers.

[ecslady]

We are especially watching NYC right now since both kids live right across the Hudson in Hoboken which is considered low ground, and yesterday they were told to evacuate by today.

I understand from the local news , first floor apartments are to be evacuated. Hope the kids are up above.

[marc and jan]

I understand from the local news , first floor apartments are to be evacuated. Hope the kids are up above.

They are in The Heights???? She said it's a town up on a huge hill overlooking Hoboken and NYC. She is with a friend that lives on the 8th floor of the apartment building she is in, and supposedly the apartment building has a generator that is supposed to be able to run for two days. Nick is also in an apartment building up there, and he is on the 4th floor.

How far away from NYC do you live Nancy? Are you going to be right in the middle of all this too?

[ecslady]

They are in The Heights???? She said it's a town up on a huge hill overlooking Hoboken and NYC. She is with a friend that lives on the 8th floor of the apartment building she is in, and supposedly the apartment building has a generator that is supposed to be able to run for two days. Nick is also in an apartment building up there, and he is on the 4th floor.

How far away from NYC do you live Nancy? Are you going to be right in the middle of all this too?

I'm basically between NYC and Phila. Yes, I'm in the middle of all of this. I've been watching the Weather channel but also the local NJ News Channel which is the one giving the real local info. 8th & 4th floor in Hobo should be OK from what I can see. They are up high enough. If I can keep power, then I should be OK too, as long as the sewer system doesn't overload, then my basement will not flood from back-up sewer water. It's going to be a long night as the worst is supposed to be between 12 midnight and 8 AM.

[marc and jan]

8th & 4th floor in Hobo should be OK from what I can see. They are up high enough.

They are not on the 8th and 4th floor in Hoboken, they are in The Heights, which Rachel said overlooks Hoboken up on something like a big cliff.

[dizliz]

Nancy....been thinking about you all day....hope that power holds in there for you. Check in when you can.

Jan....hope your kids are ok too. Should be something to see up close, hopefully in a dry and well lit environment!

[ecslady]

They are not on the 8th and 4th floor in Hoboken, they are in The Heights, which Rachel said overlooks Hoboken up on something like a big cliff.

Well, that's good then.

[marc and jan]

Nancy....been thinking about you all day....hope that power holds in there for you. Check in when you can.

Jan....hope your kids are ok too. Should be something to see up close, hopefully in a dry and well lit environment!

Kids are fine. Talked to Rach around 10AM and she said many wires down in Hoboken so no one is allowed on the streets because of electrocution. She said they were going to turn all power off to help prevent that, so she will be staying at her friends house for awhile yet. Nick is also fine. He helped several shelters get set up yesterday so we are very proud of him for that. Thanks so much for thinking of them! xoxo

[deeva211]

I'm checking in for Nancy. She did not fare well. She lost her power last night and may not have it back until Sept. 4th!!!! Because of this, her sump pump went down. She and Brian spent the night bailing out her basement by running buckets of water up the stairs and out of the house. In the morning, her friend brought her RV over and they connected extension power cords from the RV to the sump pump. While she was eating dinner tonight (gas stove), the tree in her front yard split and fell on her house! She doesn't know the extent of the damage yet. She's been in contact with the insurance company, a roof guy and a tree guy who will take off the tree and another tree that she's afraid will fall down. The blessing in disguise is that just this week, she was getting quotes on a new roof and gutters. Now it looks like insurance will pay for some of the roof and gutters! She is totally exhausted but has already been told that there will be no work tomorrow. Since she hasn't slept since Sat. morning, hopefully, she can get some sleep tonight before tackling the house tomorrow.

[marc and jan]

We are so sorry to hear about this Dee, thanks so much for letting us know and tell Nancy she will be in our prayers. It's amazing what these storms will do and how quickly things can happen. :(

How about you Mary Jean and Carole - are you both OK?

[dizliz]

Oh My!!! Dee, thank you so much for posting. I can seriously sympathise with Nancy on the sump pump and the buckets up the stairs. Been there, done that!!! It's AWFUL!!! What a great idea about the RV. Would never have thought of that. And then the roof damage! Holy Cow!!! Please let her know we're thinking about her and hope things start going better. Does she have a lot of food in a freezer? Good thing she has a gas stove at least. Keep us posted.

I'm going to call MJ today if I haven't heard from her online. I hope her Mom and Sister are OK.

And is Al still in re-hab? I wonder how Carole and her Mom are?

Hopefully, everyone will check in here.

[dizliz]

Jan...is it the Explorer you are sailing on to Canada? How many days and where are you stopping? Sure glad you didn't leave this weekend!

Glad your kids are OK. What an experience!!!

[deeva211]

Does she have a lot of food in a freezer? Good thing she has a gas stove at least. Keep us posted.

I'm going to call MJ today if I haven't heard from her online. I hope her Mom and Sister are OK.

And is Al still in re-hab? I wonder how Carole and her Mom are?

Hopefully, everyone will check in here.

Yes, lots of food in the refridgerator and freezer. She made extra ice beforehand so hopefully it's keeping it cold. I told her to move the food out to the fridge in the RV but she was too tired!

Hope are the rest are okay. MJ's sister and mom may be without power.

Haven't gotten an update on Al. Maybe today is Carole went to work. Hope he is improving!

[marc and jan]

Jan...is it the Explorer you are sailing on to Canada? How many days and where are you stopping? Sure glad you didn't leave this weekend!

Glad your kids are OK. What an experience!!!

Yes, we will once again be on the Explorer with precious cargo - my Mom. Hopefully Irene left us something to see, I'm still worried that we haven't heard from Mary Jean.

It is a 9 day cruise, and we are sailing to Portland Maine, Bar Harbor Maine, St. John (Bay of Fundy), Halifax, Novia Scotia, and Boston, MA.

Because of Mom going I am so excited I can hardly think of anything else. I know I get excited on all our cruises, but I can't remember being this excited for a long long long time. Thanks for asking!

By the way ....... LOVE LOVE LOVE MY IPAD! Thanks for answering all my questions. I got this really neat case for it, it's called a rooCase and I got it on Amazon for $29. It is really sturdy, holds it up to read or type on, and puts it to sleep when I close it, and wakes it up when I open it. Also made of real leather - RED. Now I have to invest in one of the keyboards and I'll be set. I didn't have time to get one before we leave, but it's going to be one of the first things I look at when I get back....unless there's an Apple store onboard Explorer now. Thanks again Liz!

[MaryJean56]

Dee, please let Nancy know she is in our prayers. It is miserable having all that happen.

Liz contacted me yesterday and updated me. My gang is all fine. I took off from work last Thurs & Fri because Bill went up to visit his family in ME. He totally missed the fun. Laci and I weathered the storm just fine. I pulled in everything from the deck and we only had some branches come down. No damage. It was a little scary being by myself, but we have great neighbors who had let me know I only needed to call if I needed anything. We had a generator installed after that terrible ice storm a couple of years ago, so I wasn't too concerned about loosing electricity. I was more worried about the large trees coming down. We were all very blessed. Cindy lost electricity for a few hours and had a neighbor's large tree come down into their yard, but no damage to anything. Mom had no problems at all. My sister in law in NJ who isn't that far from the shore also did fine. We are all counting our blessings.

Jan, hope you have a great cruise. The weather up here is supposed to be beautiful thru Friday at the very least. Seems like when the storm left it left behind beautiful clear weather for us.

Hope we hear from Carole soon.

[ecslady]

It is Tues afternoon and I'm at work for a few hours, so this will be short. Still no power at home. Our whole area is a mess. Major highways are parking lots as lights are not working and you can't get around. I have to plan my route home since the usual way is not going to work, and my secondary route won't work either. The tree guy came at 7:30 this morning and took the one tree down. The other one will be down in about a week or so since it is not an emergency. I'm trying to post a picture - hope it works.

[MaryJean56]

Nancy, I'm so sorry you are going through all of this. What a mess. The picture of your house is my worst nightmare.

[dizliz]

Wow Nancy!!!! So glad you posted. Hope things get back to "normal" soon. Please post aegain soon and let us hear how you're doing.

[ecslady]

Thanks for all your thoughts.

Power came back on about 4 AM this morning!!!:):):):):):) I'm going to take a picture of the house today without the tree and try and post tonight. Looks a lot different. Now I've got to get ready for work.

[MaryJean56]

That is great news. At least you can start getting back to normal. Please continue to let us know how you are doing.

[bwolfe8140]

Nancy - so sorry to hear about your house and power loss. Hopefully it is looks worse than it really is.

Jan - have lots of fun on your cruise. You sound extra happy about this one.

MaryJean - glad that you and Lacy got through ok.

What kind of generator did you get?

Pat and I are looking. Our power was out for 36 hours. Some of our food "may" have been OK but we threw it out to be safe. We were trying to use what we could for days before the storm. We got all of our patio furniture put away.

Later,
Betty

[ecslady]

After the tree removal....

[deeva211]

Got an email from Sharon. Here it is:

here is what i am up to. take what you want for the forum.

stars-i am still in therapy. this is taking a lot longer than david and i thought. i got some botox injections in my wrist and shoulder to relax my muscles.

this year they did not allow people in the theatre awards rehersal mainly because it was held in a small theatre.
i watched the awards on tv. i know i am biased, but the best thing about the awards was when hugh jackman and neal patrick harris performed a duet.

by the way, hugh had concerts in san francisco in the spring
and toronto in the fall.

my theatre producer friend invited us to stay at her house this summer on long beach island. so far, we spent a week in june there and plan to spend another week in september.

i hate not being able to go and see shows in nyc, but we hope this will change in a matter of time.

i miss you all and hope to sail with you some time in the future.

[dizliz]

Nancy...woohoo!!!! So glad your power is back on. The house looks great without the tree in it!

Betty....surprised you were without power and then I remembered it took us 8 hours to get there, which would put you pretty near the coast! Glad you're ok!!

Dee.....thanks for posting the Sharon update. Miss her!!!

[dizliz]

JAN.....BON VOYAGE!!!

I think I probably missed you, but, sure thinking of you and wishing you the best of cruises!!!! ENJOY!!!!

[MaryJean56]

Nancy, your home looks so much nicer without the tree. How are all the repairs going?

Betty, glad you found our new thread. I will have to look when I get home to see what kind of generator we have, but I can't say that we did any research on them. We bought it after being without electricity for 36 hours in the winter after that ice storm we had a couple of years ago. After being without heat for that long and not knowing when we were going to get it back we went to Home Depot and were just lucky enough to get there when a tractor trailor full of them arrived. They got folks in line and counted to make sure that they didn't have more people than generators and when I got to the counter they had 2 types and I just bought the largest one they had, no questions asked. Gave them my credit card and counted my blessings. We later had it hard wired to the electric box in our house and luckily we haven't had to use it since. I will say they are definitely much more useful if you have it wired in otherwise you can only run a couple of things on extension cords. Once wired to the electric box, you can keep switching whichever things in the house you want working at the time. It won't come close to running the whole house, but we could run the heat for a while and then the stove and freezer, etc. At least we could survive nicely compared to having no electricity. It does cost more to have it wired in than the generator itself costs, but worth looking into if you get one.

[MaryJean56]

Dee, thanks for posting the info from Sharon. I'm glad she keeps in touch with you.

[dizliz]

Jan....are you back yet? Can't wait to hear about your trip!

[marc and jan]

Jan....are you back yet? Can't wait to hear about your trip!

We are back. Still getting caught up in the office, but thought I'd pop out here before I get started tonight.

Trip was fine, Mom had a wonderful time. We are so glad we took her, thanks to all of you that prayed for her. We didn't do much except eat, go on our excursions (kept them all under 2 hours for Mom) and sleep. She was too tired at the end of the day to even see the shows, so we only saw the first night's show and the ice skating show. Bad bad windy rainey weather. Rained just about every day. Sure didn't get any good pics of Boston at all, camera wouldn't focus around all the rain on the trolley windows so I will have to search and pull some off the internet for Mom's book so she has some memories of Boston. She wasn't doing well while in Nova Scotia so we weren't able to get off the ship there. I would love to go again and see more, the parts of the ports we were able to see and visit were beautiful. I got some great shots in Portland and Bar Harbor, but we would definitely go again. Once Marc retires we might try it again and do the 14 day cruise that stays overnight in Quebec and also goes to Prince Edward Island.

Liz I have to tell you thanks for giving me the heads up on that GPS program! I had downloaded it onto my iphone just to play with about a week before the cruise. I know you have yours on your ipad, but I put it on my iphone instead since I always have that with me. On our way to the Comfort Inn and Suites I happened to think to call ahead to make sure the hotel didn't get any damage from Irene, and found out they had no hot water or A/C, and that they were running on generators. So I called the website I had booked the hotel from and they had us in a Sheraton in no time. Twice the cost to stay overnight, but we only paid the original price. We have a GPS in the car, and it just kept us going in circles and we couldn't get to the hotel. We could see it in the distance, but it wouldn't take us to it. I turned on the GPS program on my phone and it took us right there! We used it the rest of the trip. We went to visit Rach, it took us there and then back to the motel, and we saw Nick after the cruise, and it took us there and then back home. I love it! I love that it just doesn't say make a right, it actually tells you what street you make a right onto. Well worth the 99 cents I paid for it, and when the 30 day free voice direction days are up I plan on seeing how much it costs to continue the service. Marc says thanks too! :D

[MaryJean56]

Jan, so sorry you had bad weather. I was afraid of that because we had so many days of rain too. I'm glad to hear you still enjoyed the cruise with your mom. I haven't been there in a long time, but I love Bar Harbor. Guess it wouldn't be as nice if it was raining there too. If you want any special shots of Boston, let me know. I can always take the camera out at lunch time and act like a tourist. :)

I am now a proud owner of an Ipad2. Bill surprised me for my birthday, but he says it is part anniversary gift too. I love it. All of you Ipad owners, please share all your helpful hints. I know I have a lot to learn.

[dizliz]

Jan....so glad that app worked for you! I really love it too. Especially when there are 3 or so "next" rights and it tells you what the sign will say! I'd say your phone was a better choice for it as the iPad is really too large and I have no where to put it where it's safe while it tells me where to go. However, it's the only device I can get 3G on, so, iPad it is for us.

Bummer it was rainy the whole trip. Did you have a balcony? Glad you had a nice relaxing trip tho.

Why did the ship turn around when it left Bayonne? Saw someone post on the main Royal boards that they had seen it turn around and go back and then turn around and head out again. Haven't been back to see if anyone knew why, but, thought maybe you would know.

Welcome Home!!!

[dizliz]

Mary Jean....Happy Birthday!!! and Congrats on your new iPad! What fun! I know you will enjoy it. It sure is fun to play with and discover all the apps you can get.

[dizliz]

BTW...so many of us have apple products. We should do the FaceTime thing. Let me know when tho so I can put on makeup and comb my hair!!!!

[ecslady]

Here's some pics from the christening this past Sunday. It was a very quick trip up to MA. Basically spent most of the weekend in the car. First pic is Scott, Bethany and baby Kirsten. Then, my son and me. Then, my daughter, Stefanie, and Scott.

Waiting to find out when the roof/gutters are going to get scheduled. I have a couple of landscapers coming out since I have these 2 big "wood chipped holes" in the front yard where the 2 big oak trees used to be. Have to have that stuff removed, put top soil down, seed, and who knows what else to make it look good again. I'm still cleaning out my shed that was flooded and still trying to work in the basement. Just don't have too much energy left after working all day, and last weekend I spent in the car.

[marc and jan]

Cute pics Nancy, the baby is adorable! I'm glad things are getting back to normal at your home. We are still fixing up from the bad hail storm and 65 MPH winds that damaged our home in March while we were all on the cruise. They will finally be starting our roof soon, and since 3 sides of our aluminum siding had damage we are getting those done and paying to have the 4th side done too. Mother Nature has not been kind this year.

Jan....so glad that app worked for you! I really love it too. Especially when there are 3 or so "next" rights and it tells you what the sign will say! I'd say your phone was a better choice for it as the iPad is really too large and I have no where to put it where it's safe while it tells me where to go. However, it's the only device I can get 3G on, so, iPad it is for us. I just love the ipad2, I use it constantly. I didn't think I had any need for it since I had the iphone but I was wrong. Only had it since a week before we left and don't know what I did without it.

Bummer it was rainy the whole trip. Did you have a balcony? Glad you had a nice relaxing trip tho. I was afraid to have a balcony with Mom, she's unsteady sometimes. So we got a family oceanview room, which are the ones right in the front of the ship overlooking the helipad. There are two on the 8th floor that are really large, and we were blessed enough to get one. It was longways across the front of the ship, 8500, and we had 4 huge windows, one in each room! I was shocked when we went in, but when you walked into the cabin you were in a livingroom with a TV, sofa that opened up into a queensize bed, two chairs and a table. To your left of the livingroom was a room with two bunkbeds with another window and closet space, and to your right was a little playroom/area for kids with another window and more closet space, then the next room again going to your right was a regular bedroom with a second TV and more closet space. It slept 6 and we had so much closet space that we couldn't begin to fill it up. (If Luci and Guy were with us I'm sure we could have filled it up. :D:D:D) Good thing we had so much room to spread out since we spent so much time in the cabin this trip.

Why did the ship turn around when it left Bayonne? Saw someone post on the main Royal boards that they had seen it turn around and go back and then turn around and head out again. Haven't been back to see if anyone knew why, but, thought maybe you would know. There was a medical emergency, and we turned right back so they could take the emergency off the ship. I didn't hear what was wrong, but we no sooner went under the bridge, rushed down to dinner, and all of a sudden we were going back under the bridge again and the Captain made an announcement about the emergency. Then before dinner was over we were back under the bridge again. If we weren't at dinner I could have gotten some really cool pics from three different angles!

Welcome Home!!! Thanks, it's good to be home in my own bed. I miss the gentle rocking motion though.

[marc and jan]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARY JEAN!!!!!
http://www.theoriginalballoonshoppe.com/assets/birthday/birthday6.jpg

[ecslady]

Cute pics Nancy, the baby is adorable! I'm glad things are getting back to normal at your home. We are still fixing up from the bad hail storm and 65 MPH winds that damaged our home in March while we were all on the cruise. They will finally be starting our roof soon, and since 3 sides of our aluminum siding had damage we are getting those done and paying to have the 4th side done too. Mother Nature has not been kind this year.

Yes, I feel the same. It will be months, maybe a year, before things get back to normal. Home insurance just doesn't cover it all, and it just takes time.

Glad you had a nice trip.

[ecslady]

OK - Did somebody say it was MaryJean's Birthday?????

Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday Dear MaryJeeeaaaannnn....
Happy Birthday to you!!!!:):):):)

[deeva211]

Mary Jean, I'm so sorry I missed your birthday way back on the 8th!!!

Happy Belated Birthday!!!! I hope you had a great day!!

[dizliz]

Nancy.....the baby is BEAUTIFUL!!!! What a great family!

Hope all the flood stuff is well behind you soon!

[dizliz]

Jan....sounds like an awesome room. How was the motion up there? I bet it was fun looking out over the front of the ship. A captain's eye view! Thanks for the info on the reason the ship turned around. Pretty cool to go under the bridge 3 times at sail away!

[dizliz]

Found a new app I like for the iPad....Freebies. From the same company that is behind AppMiner. Both are essentials cause I'm all for getting apps on sale or better yet, free!

[marc and jan]

Jan....sounds like an awesome room. How was the motion up there? I bet it was fun looking out over the front of the ship. A captain's eye view! Thanks for the info on the reason the ship turned around. Pretty cool to go under the bridge 3 times at sail away!
we had 2 rough days and I was surprised that we didn't think the motion was that bad. Perfect for rocking me to sleep. I was really concerned about the motion up there and we all took Bonine every day


Found a new app I like for the iPad....Freebies. From the same company that is behind AppMiner. Both are essentials cause I'm all for getting apps on sale or better yet, free! Thanks for the tip. I will download as soon as I'm done posting!

[marc and jan]

Jan, so sorry you had bad weather. I was afraid of that because we had so many days of rain too. I'm glad to hear you still enjoyed the cruise with your mom. I haven't been there in a long time, but I love Bar Harbor. Guess it wouldn't be as nice if it was raining there too. If you want any special shots of Boston, let me know. I can always take the camera out at lunch time and act like a tourist. :)


You are too sweet to offer. I got out our tour description and I think I found everything out on the Internet and downloaded pictures. Everything was so much nicer without the raindrops. It wouldn't have been so bad but the sides of the trolley has plastic sheets Down to keep out the rain so everything was distorted. But thanks so much for offering. Xoxo

[dizliz]

Mary Jean and Bill......


HAPPY SILVER ANNIVERSARY!!!

:):):):):)

[deeva211]

Happy Anniversary Mary Jean and Bill!!!

[deeva211]

Here's another email from Sharon! She's keeping us up to date!

david and i will be at long beach island next monday to friday. the following week i will be having surgery done to my vocal cords to help me speak and swallow. for three days after the surgery i can not talk, so don't expect to hear from me. that friday i will have botox injected into my arm, wrist and shoulder to make them more flexable.

thanks to those who have visited me. it keeps me from being lonely.

xxx
me

janis-ellen was kind enough to offer to drive me to hugh's concert in ny, however, with everything that is going on, i will not be able to attend

bernice-once i have the botox done, we will begin looking for a cat

dee-write what you want on the cruise forum

robin-because i will not be able to talk i will niot be able to attend the friends' meeting in october

[MaryJean56]

Thank you for the birthday wishes and the anniversary wishes. I have really been having a fun time with the new ipad. How did we exist without these gadgets? Liz, you know all the fun apps. I will find Freebies when I get home. I would love to try out Face Time sometime. Just let me know. I agree, you need to make an appointment for that. :D Don't want you catching me without makeup. It would be scary.

[MaryJean56]

Happy Anniversary to Herb and Liz too! Hope you are enjoying your special day.

[ecslady]

Happy Silver Anniversary MaryJean and Bill :):):)

[ecslady]

And Happy Anniversary to Liz & Herb. :):):) So, many celebrations!

[MaryJean56]

Nancy, the christening pictures are beautiful.

Dee, glad to hear from Sharon again.

Has anyone heard from Carole lately?

Jan, sounds like you had a fantastic cabin. Would love to see pictures of that.

[CaroleSP]

Happy Birthday Liz! Hope it's a great one.


I am now a proud owner of an Ipad2. Bill surprised me for my birthday, but he says it is part anniversary gift too. I love it. All of you Ipad owners, please share all your helpful hints. I know I have a lot to learn.

BTW...so many of us have apple products. We should do the FaceTime thing. Let me know when tho so I can put on makeup and comb my hair!!!!

Remember me?

Today, I took my first lunch break since July...just had to share it with my dear Stars!

Happy birthday Liz & MJ. I'm sorry it's late, but at least it did show up here. :)

Happy anniversary to the 4 of you. I am being green, saving the space it would take to wish you all separately. LOL

Nancy,
Thanks again for calling me and forcing me to catch up with you. Al & I were so shocked when we saw the pictures of the tree.

Al is having a very slow recovery; the 2 surgeries were extensive and he's not at young as he used to be. Don't tell him I said that.

His PT comes to the house 3 times a week to work him out; he is always exhausted, so this finished him off. He called me an hour ago to say that she made him a lot more comfortable today and he is resting with ice on his leg. I'll give you more details in a different forum.

We have made final payment for our Silhouette cruise and need it desperately. I'm sure you all understand. Wish you were all coming with us.

We did not have flood or tree damage at our homes (including mom in this), but the creek at the end of our development jumped it's banks, big time with Irene and the terrible storms we had a week later. We thought we were out of the water (pun intended) but we were wrong. My area is now dealing with field mice; apparently, they became homeless with the floods in the area. We had lots of trees down and road closures. for the first time in the 30+ years that we lived here, we are dealing with Mickey and his buddies. Needless to say, we are freaked out about this. The first one left an obvious trail in my pantry while Al was still in the hospital. It took about 10 days until he discovered the trap and moved in to get the peanut butter. I put the single use trap in 2 ziplock bags and scoured Franklin Mills until I found a drive in trash can. Don't ask....

Oops, I'm glad I was able to stop in, lunch is over. I will try to get back on a more regular schedule; depends on how Al's med appointments fall.

Love my iPad and am reading all your hints.

MIssed all of you...............

[ecslady]

Carole - Great to see you post. If it makes you feel any better, I had a family of mice in the garage about 5 years back. I'm very familiar with mousetraps. I can even handle them now.:eek: Of course, I have gloves on.:D Hang in there!

More rain is on the way.:eek: And they are supposed to start working on my new roof tomorrow...a bit nervous about that with the rainy forecast.

[marc and jan]

Mary Jean and Bill......


HAPPY SILVER ANNIVERSARY!!!

:):):):):)

Happy Anniversary to Herb and Liz too! Hope you are enjoying your special day.


Hope you both had a wonderful day! Xoxoxo

[deeva211]

Happy Anniversary Liz & Herb!!!

[CaroleSP]

Carole - Great to see you post. If it makes you feel any better, I had a family of mice in the garage about 5 years back. I'm very familiar with mousetraps. I can even handle them now.:eek: Of course, I have gloves on.:D Hang in there! The one that we got on Monday was very small; just hoping it wasn't a female!!! I am totally grossed out; but with Albert's situation, it's in my hands now.

More rain is on the way.:eek: And they are supposed to start working on my new roof tomorrow...a bit nervous about that with the rainy forecast.Good luck with the new roof; hope insurance was good to you. I am concerned with the rain, too. In the past, we used to have water come up from underneath the house, it isn't getting a real chance to dry out and I hate pushing our luck.

BTW, how did I miss you becoming a grandparent? Congratulations!!

[deeva211]

Did any of you on the hump do the AQ upgrade? Nancy and I decided to keep our big balcony and so that we could be near you! Would have loved to try Blu but then we couldn't have eaten with all of you!! Please don't tell me that you all upgraded to the AQ!!!

[marc and jan]

Did any of you on the hump do the AQ upgrade? Nancy and I decided to keep our big balcony and so that we could be near you! Would have loved to try Blu but then we couldn't have eaten with all of you!! Please don't tell me that you all upgraded to the AQ!!!

I didn't. I wouldn't give my balcony up for anything.

[dizliz]

Dee....didn't know anything about an upgrade being available, but, would have kept the balcony we have anyway. So, we're still in the same balcony and have been hoping to eat with you and Nancy. I wonder how we get to be at the same table? Probably will have to arrange that once on board?

[deeva211]

Dee....didn't know anything about an upgrade being available, but, would have kept the balcony we have anyway. So, we're still in the same balcony and have been hoping to eat with you and Nancy. I wonder how we get to be at the same table? Probably will have to arrange that once on board?

Great! We just need to link our reservation numbers. Jan can do it or Lori can do it.

[CaroleSP]

Did any of you on the hump do the AQ upgrade? Nancy and I decided to keep our big balcony and so that we could be near you! Would have loved to try Blu but then we couldn't have eaten with all of you!! Please don't tell me that you all upgraded to the AQ!!!We decided to remove the AQ class from our consideration because of BLU. We were told that by choosing select, we could eat with our friends. I did like the idea of free bottled water, but not enough to miss everyone.

[dizliz]

Carole....I am so impressed at how brave you are as a "small game hunter"! The visual in my mind of you driving around with a body in zip lock bags looking for a drive up trash can is PRICELESS!!!

Bummer Al is not bouncing back quickly, but a cruise will do wonders! Very medicinal. Give him a hug from us....you get one too!!!!

[dizliz]

Have you guys seen the web site about autocorrect fails? You know....when you type something and the computer decides what you were trying to type. In the above post I wrote "small game hunter" and the computer typed "small game hooter"! I will try and find the site....I had a link from someone. I started reading it and could not stop laughing, to the point of not breathing. Here it is: d...youautocorrect dot com. We'll see if it lets me post it.

[CaroleSP]

Carole....I am so impressed at how brave you are as a "small game hunter"! The visual in my mind of you driving around with a body in zip lock bags looking for a drive up trash can is PRICELESS!!! I can laugh about it now, but at the time, it really sucked! I was soooo grossed out, I can't begin to describe it.

Bummer Al is not bouncing back quickly, but a cruise will do wonders! Very medicinal. Give him a hug from us....you get one too!!!!Thanks, Liz, we really need both the cruise and the hugs! We see the surgeon again on Monday; we are hoping that Al will be allowed to put his full weight on the bad leg/hip. It will be so much easier with the walker if he can take some of the pressure off his shoulder and wrist.

Off to read some more; it certainly appears that I have missed a ton of stuff. I'm really bummed about the increase in the specialty restaurants; we were going to try a few of them in November. If I had known about it, we would have pre-booked.

[CaroleSP]

Have you guys seen the web site about autocorrect fails? You know....when you type something and the computer decides what you were trying to type. In the above post I wrote "small game hunter" and the computer typed "small game hooter"! I will try and find the site....I had a link from someone. I started reading it and could not stop laughing, to the point of not breathing. Here it is: d...youautocorrect dot com. We'll see if it lets me post it.guess not! Now, what's with the small hooters?

[marc and jan]

Just heard from Cindy. She said to tell all of you she said hi, and that she is crawling out from under the woodwork and getting on with life. Christopher sold his business and is living down in Florida with her right now. She also said the catering business is doing well. I told her how much we missed her in March and hoped she would consider the Silhouette next year. It was wonderful to hear from her and she sounded really good. Oh what memories talking with her brought. I told her she was still in our thoughts and prayers and she said she could feel that.

Have a good weekend Stars. The high here will be 48 :eek: and rainy.

[MaryJean56]

Seems funny to be posting after Jan who reported expected highs in the 40's and we are having a summer- like weekend in the 80's only about a week later. We are thoroughly enjoying a very unusually warm Columbus Day weekend. We got to spend most of the day out on the deck and hope to get out there for a few hours tomorrow. Probably will be our last till next spring.

Jan, it was really nice to get word from Cindy. Hope she starts to check in once in a while.

Carole, hope Al's recovery is going well. He has the Silhouette to look forward to. That is a good reason to get better.

Liz, your cruise isn't far off now. Getting packed?

Hope everyone is enjoying the same weather we are.

[ecslady]

Jan - Thanks for posting about Cindy.

And it is a beautiful sunny Columbus Day weekend here in NJ also.:)

[vettecindy]

Dear Stars, it's been a bleak 9 months for Chris and me. It seems as if I have been ensconced in a very black, dense fog. I am slowly coming around, good days, bad days, and some very bad days. I am gratefull for all of you. In the nites, that seem so very long, I see all of your shining faces, hear your laughter, and your giggles. Most importantly, I feel your spirits and love surrounding me. I will talk soon, tears are in my way, cant see the keyboard.
love, cindy

[marc and jan]

Cindy you have been in our prayers and will continue to be. I can't even begin to imagine what you've been through but we are so glad that you are in contact with us again. Hopefully we will see your shining face soon onboard one of our future cruises - the sooner the better. We love you!

[deeva211]

Cindy!! I'm so glad you followed my link and found your way here!! We have really missed you!! While on the Enchantment, we had a memorial for Rob and Lucy's dad. We shed a lot of tears. I hope you can join us next March because you, Nancy and I need another cry session!!

Dumb question here. Any chance that I saw you at Michael's in The Villages a couple of months ago??? If not, you have a doppleganger here!

[deeva211]

Nancy,

http://toons.artie.com/alphabet/words/20001121/arg-happy-birthday-url.gif
Hope you have a great day!!!

[MaryJean56]

Cindy, it made me so happy to see you post here again. You have been in my thoughts and prayers and it is just so good to see a few words from you. Hope you always know that you have a lot of folks here who love you and Chris and we want to see you again so we can laugh and cry or whatever together.

[MaryJean56]

Nancy, Hope you had a very Happy Birthday!

[ecslady]

Cindy - It was so good to see you post. Please keep posting now and don't fade into the sunset. We miss you and need you on a cruise with all of us again.:)

Thanks to everyone for all the Birthday wishes. :):)

[marc and jan]

Nancy,

http://toons.artie.com/alphabet/words/20001121/arg-happy-birthday-url.gif
Hope you have a great day!!!


I loved Dee's letters so I'm borrowing them to wish u a happy birthday Nancy!

[dizliz]

Cindy.....oh how wonderful to see your post here. We so missed you and worried about you. I can't begin to tell you what you mean to us all. Please come hang out here with us. Lots of hugs are here for you.

[dizliz]

Nancy....HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! Hope it was an extra special day!!!

[dizliz]

Well we're supposed to be in Bermuda today, but, we're not, we're here. Had to cancel last minute cause Herb was/is not feeling well. I think he feels worse about it than I do. At least I didn't have to iron and pack! Not all bad!;)

[dizliz]

Cindy....I sent you an email and once again got an "auto response" back linking me to a site for man goodies. Since I'm thinking you and Chris haven't opened a new busness adventure, there must be a virus taking over your email.

It was great to hear from you!!! I wish my response had gotten back to you....let me know if it did.

Miss ya!!!!!

[ecslady]

Oh Liz...sorry to hear you didn't make your cruise to Bermuda. Hope Herb is felling better!

[CaroleSP]

Cindy, see how special you are? YOu got all of these people out and posting here again. We're falling all over each other to send you and Chris warm and fuzzy thoughts and wishes. I know you are near your best friend and she must be a comfort to you, but we all need to hug you and let you feel the warmth and love. Please don't go hiding again, we love and miss you!

[CaroleSP]

Happy Birthday, Nancy. So, did you get a newly finished roof for your gift?

Hope you enjoyed your special day. We'll toast you once we get on board (and find the free drinks). :D

Liz, lots of STAR hugs and kisses to you and Herb. I hope Herb is just a little bit under the weather and it is nothing serious. Do you think Herb did this on purpose so you guys would miss the current hurricane?

Al's PT showed him how to get in his car, in the driver's seat. He hasn't sat there since July!! We have fingers crossed that his surgeon will clear him to drive when we see him on Monday evening. He wants to drive us to Bayonne; we'll see....

[ecslady]

Happy Birthday, Nancy. So, did you get a newly finished roof for your gift?

Hope you enjoyed your special day. We'll toast you once we get on board (and find the free drinks). :D

Al's PT showed him how to get in his car, in the driver's seat. He hasn't sat there since July!! We have fingers crossed that his surgeon will clear him to drive when we see him on Monday evening. He wants to drive us to Bayonne; we'll see....

The roof was complete a couple of weeks ago. They are working on the landscaping now.

Great - You are going to buy me a free drink! Can't wait!

Al drive to the port - I thought you always take Dave's limo or whatever it is called?

[CaroleSP]

The roof was complete a couple of weeks ago. They are working on the landscaping now. Looks like Irene may have done you some favors, eh?

Great - You are going to buy me a free drink! Can't wait! Don't forget that I said in the Elite Lounge!!! ;)

Al drive to the port - I thought you always take Dave's limo or whatever it is called?Al is afraid that if we get a small van, or a full van, he may wind up with his walker in his lap. that would hurt him a lot.... It's really a shame; his brother likes to be able to jump in his car and leave early, we have to take the car for comfort and that leaves Holly taking her car, too. That comes out to almost $700 for parking!?!?!?

[ecslady]

Al is afraid that if we get a small van, or a full van, he may wind up with his walker in his lap. that would hurt him a lot.... It's really a shame; his brother likes to be able to jump in his car and leave early, we have to take the car for comfort and that leaves Holly taking her car, too. That comes out to almost $700 for parking!?!?!?

:eek::eek::eek:
Yikes!!!!

[deeva211]

Liz, So sorry to hear that you didn't get to cruise!! There's still time to jump on our ship!!!! Think about it.

[ecslady]

Liz, So sorry to hear that you didn't get to cruise!! There's still time to jump on our ship!!!! Think about it.

OH that would be fantastic Liz! There's room for you and Herb! :)

[MaryJean56]

Happy Halloween.

Fun weekend in MA. NOT! We got over a foot of heavy wet snow starting Saturday afternoon into Sunday. Lots of major tree limbs down and we lost electricity Saturday afternoon and still don't have it back. We are just very thankful for our generator. We have heat, hot water and lights in the kitchen and one bathroom and a couple of outlets work in the kitchen. Both our refridgerator and freezer are working. No TV, no stove, no computers, but we can make coffee and cook some things in an electric skillet, unlike more than 500,000 others in MA, who don't even have what we do. We are counting our blessings, but are a bit tired of it. At least I could take a hot shower this morning and dry my hair and go to work.

I hope all of you leaving on the Silhouette have a great cruise. Can't wait to hear about it and see pictures.

We leave for 10 days in FL this weekend. Can't wait to get away from the cold. I just hope we have electricity before we leave. Our next door neighbor is taking care of Laci, but sure hope they don't have to deal with a generator too.

[marc and jan]

Mary Jean - I am just hearing about this from people and rumor has it that some people by u got up to 30 inches!!! Glad u r ok and have some power from the generator. It would get really old very quick. We had some 20,000 without power here and barely got any snow. Take care.

[ecslady]

My power is finally back on, but I have the day off as schools in South Brunswick are closed today.

It certainly was a wild weekend in NJ, and it was only 2 months after Hurricane Irene wreaked a lot of damage in my neighborhood. Mother Nature is certainly angry at NJ or somebody.

At least I didn't have to wait 5 days for power like Hurricane Irene. We had so many out in our township, I heard they put us on a priorty list. Perhaps that helped.

Now time for a much needed shower and then I get to do all those errands I was going to do over the weekend before the storm hit.

[ecslady]

Fun weekend in MA. NOT! ...We are just very thankful for our generator.

I hope all of you leaving on the Silhouette have a great cruise. Can't wait to hear about it and see pictures.

We leave for 10 days in FL this weekend.

I had the same "fun" weekend here in NJ as well. WE got about 6 inches of that white stuff.Thankfully I bought a generator after Hurricane Irene. Never ever did I think I would be using it and so quickly. It certainly helped to keep the sump pump running, the space heater on, the refrig going. Loosing power for days is not something I have ever experienced in NJ for my entire life. Thank God I don't have any more trees in my front yard thanks to Hurricane Irene.

Now that the power is back on, I can think clearly again. I was so stressed out knowing that I had laundry and errands to do in order to get ready for the Silhouette cruise. I had visions of not being able to go on the cruise if the power didn't come on because of having to monitor and keep the generator going. And I have visions of having to bring my dirty underwear on the cruise because I couldn't do laundry at home before leaving. Thankfully I can proceed with all that now. And the forecast looks pretty good for our Silhouette sailaway. I want to go out and get a new card for the camera for all the Silhouette pictures as I think I'll be taking a lot.

MaryJean - Have a good time in Florida. When I talked to my son yesterday, they had lost power for only about 5 hours, and their street in Groton, MA is the only one with power. Everything else around him is dark as well.

[dizliz]

So glad you guys posted after the snow storm. We were wondering how all of you were doing. What a crazy weather year!!!

Dee and Nancy....thanks for the invite, but, not looking forward to putting Herb on a ship any time soon.

Jealous of all the trips the Stars are taking. Hope you all have GREAT times!!!!

[bwolfe8140]

Liz - our prayers go out to you and Herb.

Carole - prayers to you and Al, too. Have a wonderful cruise.

Bon voyage to all those cruising soon.

Mary Jean - have a great time in Florida.

We got all prepared for the storm. Pat put the snowblower on the tractor and filled the tank. We bought a generator about a month ago and Pat spent the day wiring and getting that ready. I went to Tractor supply and bought a new shovel and gas can and then we went to the gas station and got them filled.

Fortunately, we did NOT get that much snow OR lose power. What snow we got melted off the driveway and sidewalk by the next day and off the yard by the day after.

[CaroleSP]

Happy Halloween.

Fun weekend in MA. NOT! We got over a foot of heavy wet snow starting Saturday afternoon into Sunday. Lots of major tree limbs down and we lost electricity Saturday afternoon and still don't have it back. We are just very thankful for our generator. We have heat, hot water and lights in the kitchen and one bathroom and a couple of outlets work in the kitchen. Both our refridgerator and freezer are working. No TV, no stove, no computers, but we can make coffee and cook some things in an electric skillet, unlike more than 500,000 others in MA, who don't even have what we do. We are counting our blessings, but are a bit tired of it. At least I could take a hot shower this morning and dry my hair and go to work.

I hope all of you leaving on the Silhouette have a great cruise. Can't wait to hear about it and see pictures.

We leave for 10 days in FL this weekend. Can't wait to get away from the cold. I just hope we have electricity before we leave. Our next door neighbor is taking care of Laci, but sure hope they don't have to deal with a generator too.OMG, what a mess. Lucky for you that you have that generator. I remember they were hard to get, down here, for a while. No wi-fi, how did you manage?:eek:

You must be so happy that you bought your FL place. Guess there's nothing like having a spare home in a warm climate.:)

HOpe your power is back on, by now.

[CaroleSP]

Mary Jean - I am just hearing about this from people and rumor has it that some people by u got up to 30 inches!!! Glad u r ok and have some power from the generator. It would get really old very quick. We had some 20,000 without power here and barely got any snow. Take care.
Why are so many out with hardly any snow? I would think you would something measurable to knock down trees.

How's your mom doing? Did she love the trip?

[CaroleSP]

My power is finally back on, but I have the day off as schools in South Brunswick are closed today.

It certainly was a wild weekend in NJ, and it was only 2 months after Hurricane Irene wreaked a lot of damage in my neighborhood. Mother Nature is certainly angry at NJ or somebody.

At least I didn't have to wait 5 days for power like Hurricane Irene. We had so many out in our township, I heard they put us on a priorty list. Perhaps that helped.

Now time for a much needed shower and then I get to do all those errands I was going to do over the weekend before the storm hit.I'm glad to hear that you didn't have too much to worry about...and got a day off, to boot. A lot of districts around here were either closed or on a 2 hour delay. Did you hear about the 35 car accident on I-95? That was between my exit (for Parx Casino) and the next exit north of us. From the timing, is seems like it was less than an hour after last call at the Philly clubs...duh?

[CaroleSP]

Liz - our prayers go out to you and Herb.

Carole - prayers to you and Al, too. Have a wonderful cruise.

Bon voyage to all those cruising soon.

Mary Jean - have a great time in Florida.

We got all prepared for the storm. Pat put the snowblower on the tractor and filled the tank. We bought a generator about a month ago and Pat spent the day wiring and getting that ready. I went to Tractor supply and bought a new shovel and gas can and then we went to the gas station and got them filled.

Fortunately, we did NOT get that much snow OR lose power. What snow we got melted off the driveway and sidewalk by the next day and off the yard by the day after.Hi Stranger, thanks for the kind wishes; we sure need the Silhouette.

Sounds like you are ready for just about anything mother nature sends your way. Hope you never have to use any of that stuff!!

[ecslady]

I'm glad to hear that you didn't have too much to worry about...and got a day off, to boot. A lot of districts around here were either closed or on a 2 hour delay. Did you hear about the 35 car accident on I-95? That was between my exit (for Parx Casino) and the next exit north of us. From the timing, is seems like it was less than an hour after last call at the Philly clubs...duh?

Not worry - huh! I'm was so stressed out.

I didn't hear anything about the 35 car pile up, but that was probably old news by the time I got my power back on and was able to catch up on TV.

[MaryJean56]

Nancy, so glad to hear you got your electric in time to get ready for the cruise. We finally got our electricity back today. I have never been so happy to do laundry. My back up plan was just to take it to my mom,s house and do laundry before we left. I know you must be relieved to be able to get ready to travel.

The way these storms keep causing extended loss of electricity, I am really glad we got the generator. We were very happy to have heat and hot water this week. There are still so many without it.
Betty even though you didn't have to use yours this storm, I am sure you felt better just knowing you had it.

[dizliz]

Liz - our prayers go out to you and Herb.

Carole - prayers to you and Al, too. Have a wonderful cruise.

Bon voyage to all those cruising soon.

Mary Jean - have a great time in Florida.

We got all prepared for the storm. Pat put the snowblower on the tractor and filled the tank. We bought a generator about a month ago and Pat spent the day wiring and getting that ready. I went to Tractor supply and bought a new shovel and gas can and then we went to the gas station and got them filled.

Fortunately, we did NOT get that much snow OR lose power. What snow we got melted off the driveway and sidewalk by the next day and off the yard by the day after.

Hi Betty! So good to hear from you guys and glad you didn't need any of the prep work....this time. I'm betting there will be opportunities to use it soon!

Mary Jean....wow...that was a long "outage"! Sure glad you had that generator. Makes me think a trip to the generator store is in our near future. Have a fun trip to Florida!

[vettecindy]

Well friens, another sleepness nite awaits me, that's ok, i'm used to it. Thank you for all your well wishes We appreciate a of them. The good news is now I am wireless, have my cable hooked up and can begin chatting again. Thiis week has had many ups and downs. Chris had emergency gall bladder surgery. Good news is that he is healthy and recovering very well. Bad news is that the hospital brought back toooo many lousy memories. I am finally realizing that I can't change yesterday, and am slowly moving forward. My friend and I catered a party for 25 on Saturday afternoon, then that evening provided dessetrs for 25 guests. Am catering a house party for 40 guests next week, another party for 30 in December, a luncheon in December, and a party for 120 in March. So, I am keeping busy, but not out of trouble. There are too many single guys who are willing to spend time with me, but there will never be another Rob. Anyhow, if I dared to go out the guy would never get past Chris LOL Chris and I will be spending xmas in Conn. with my brother and we are very excited about that. It's too darn warm here for me. Am still wearing shorts and tees. I don't miss the snow though. Am going on a mini cruise for 5 days on the Jewel on Nov.12. Will be with my friends, but I know it will be ackward, but it's something I need to face head on. Why don't you all plan a Star reunion in Florida this coming year We have golf courses, saunas , pools , hot tubs, gyms, the whole nine yards here. I neeed to see you al once again. I miss you al desperately.

Be well. i WILL TRY TO KEEP IN TOUCH AND ALWAYS, ALWAYS, KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYERS AND CLOSE TO MY HEART.

Love, Cindy

[deeva211]

Good to hear from you Cindy!! Enjoy your cruise! I will be on the Jewel Dec. 5th!! Perhaps you missed my earlier post. I asked if you were in Michaels in The Villages a couple of months ago because I saw someone that looked just like you. Let me know if it was you!

[dizliz]

Cindy!!!!

I LOVE seeing you post on here. I miss you so much and I'm having such a hard time getting hold of you!

I am soooo sorry that Christopher had to have surgery! Not fair!!! Hope he is feeling much better by now and that you have been able to put hospital memories behind you.

I don't know if you have seen my posts to you here, but, I have tried to email you several times including responding to the last one you sent me and I'm still getting auto responses from your computer trying to sell me "enhancements". Is there another email account or something that will let my emails get thru to you....I keep writing, but, I'm thinking you are not receiving them.

Awesome news that you are going on a cruise. I know it will be hard, but, it will be good to try it. Is it the Royal Jewel or the NCL Jewel? I wish these cruise ship companies would not use names others have already used! Either way....both Jewels are great ships and a great way to spend 5 days.

Come back here often. We all love to know how you are doing and miss you big time!!!! Lots of hugs go out to you!!!

[vettecindy]

Hi everyone! Sorry about me e mail Liz, don't know what's wrong with my stupid pc or maybe it's just me who doens't know how to use it. I am not user friendlylol. POOR ATTEMPT AT A JOKE, BUT AT LEAST i'M TRYING. Chris is doing better. He's very proud of his four incisions although it was his goal to mget through life without any surgeries. He's young and a good healer. I am so over the moon that he is with me. I am grateful for today. Am sitting in my kitchen, windows wide open, a beautiful cooling breeze is swaying the trees, am watching squirrels frolicking, but most importantly, I am talking to all of you. Today shall bring me joy. My new mantra.LOL At least for the moment.Better yet, I will try to create my own joy. Hope you and Herb are well. My love to all our Stars.

Dee, I have only been in the Villages nonce, and that was last December. It's really beautiful there, that town square is something. We went there when Rob was alive to see a car show. I think I might be about an hour away from you, still trying to find my way around. Enjoy your cruise in December. Miss you.

Love, Cindy

[deeva211]

Liz, The Jewel is Royal Caribbean. It's a beautiful ship. Nancy and I were on the Radiance which is the sister ship. The Jewel is docked in Tampa.

Cindy, Yep, Clermont is about 30-45 minutes from The Villages depending on where you are in Clermont! It's so good to hear from you!

[marc and jan]

Why are so many out with hardly any snow? I would think you would something measurable to knock down trees.

How's your mom doing? Did she love the trip?

We had people without power because the little snow that did fall was so wet it pulled branches of trees down on wires.

Mom LOVED the cruise and keeps talking about when she could go on another.

Li is Herb any better? He is in our prayers.

[vettecindy]

Hi Stars. Have just returned and have found out that I could have fun being on my own. It was different, but I met great people, yes, even gentlemen who were happy to ask this old broad to dance, witch I did till 2am one nite. Rob would have been pleased even though I know Chris wouldn't LOL. Am still missing u all, I hope Herb is alright, and Al is recovering rapidly. Jan, I never thanked you properly for our seet talk, consider yourself thanked properly now. Weather here nis beautiful, but can't wait to get back to my roots in Connecticut in December. I'm sure I'll freeze my petunias off am am looking forward to it

Be well all I think of you daily. Love, Cindy

[ecslady]

Hi all -

Back from the Silhouette! Enjoyed the cruise....and it was good to see some of the STARS. Not even unpacked yet. We had a great waiter and asst. waiter but the chairs in the dining room are so large and uncomfortable. Storage in the cabins is so tight, as it lacks drawer space. Captain and his staff were very friendly and we had numerous conversations with many of the officers. Q-sine dining was a blast - we all ate from 6 to 10 pm. There was so much food.... A rough day at sea on the way down and also one rough day on the way back, but the ship handled it well. Balcony on the angle was great! Took lots and lots of photos.

That's it for now...gotta go unpack!:)

[MaryJean56]

Cindy, so glad to hear that you had a good time on your cruise. Rob certainly would want you to enjoy life so this was a good start for you. Sure hope it means that you will be on a cruise with us some day soon.

[MaryJean56]

Nancy, thanks for stopping by to give us the first info on the Silhouette. Really looking forward to hearing more and hopefully seeing some pictures.

We just returned from FL on Saturday and on Sunday our water heater sprung a leak. Luckily it is still under warranty, but that didn't change the fact that I couldn't finish laundry or do dishes or have a hot shower for 2 days. We actually were thankful that it didn't happen while we were gone because Bill would probably have had to cut his vacation short and return if it had. FL was great and we really hated coming back to winter in New England. Bill kept reminding me that I am actually retirement eligible and I really didn't have to return, so that made it even harder. :D Next time we will be in warm weather will be the March cruise.

[ecslady]

Good to hear from you MaryJean. Glad your trip to FL was great!

If anybody has any specific questions about the Silhouette, just fire away. I will try to download and post some pics this weekend. I caught a nasty cold, so haven't done much since I got back. At least it is only a 3 day work week, so I can crash when I get home from work. Also, can't believe it's dark when I drive home from work...like, when did that happen??

And, so everyone knows and can send STAR prayers, Dee's dad has been in and out of the hospital, once while we were on the cruise. I'll let her fill everyone in when she has the time, but they are looking into assisted living for him at the moment.

[vettecindy]

Maryjean and Bill, join us permanently in Florida! No snow, hail cold weather, ships leave out of Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, pORT cANERAL, ANF mIAMI. aS YOU CAN TELL, i'M TRYING TO DRAG EVERYONE DOWN HERE WITH dEE AND me.

Nancy, thx for the info on Dee's Dad. It's got to be such a lousy and rough decision to have to make. Been there. Let her know that my Star prayers are with her please. Miss you, we do need to have a little cry fest together soon.

Be well alll, and lets be thankful tommorow, just because.

Love, Cindy

[marc and jan]

Nancy - welcome back. Glad you had a good time and I sure hope you are feeling better for Thanksgiving. I watched a video of your cruise critic group posted by derf and I saw you in it. I didn't see Dee though. Looked like a HUGE group.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!!

[MaryJean56]

Nancy, hope you are feeling better.

Dee, you and your family are in our prayers.

Cindy, Bill says he is with you on making FL a permanent residence. For now I just want to retire soon and use the vacation home for the winters. Bill will be down again in January, and my mom and sister and I have already booked the train for a trip in June. Maybe we can get together then.

Hope everyone has a nice Thanksgiving.

[vettecindy]

Maryjean, sounds good to mne. where can I pick you up, my gps works, and I would love, love, love to see you. Hope you had a great turkey day. It was kind od wierd for Chris abnd I, but it's inly 24 hours and anyone can get trough that!

love to you all, Cindy

[vettecindy]

Hi Guys! Thanksgiving made a strange turn for Chris and I yesterday. Around 8:00pm, we were bored and started reading all the local ads for black friday sales. We've never been to one, so off we went to the local Walmart. Parking lot jammed, Chris found his own parking space, he's so creative,lol, I expected to get towed!Wall to wall people, kids crying, men looking for their partners, it had a carnival atmosphere to it. We had as ball! Long story short, we got back home at about 2:am with a new 51 in. screen.The old one was on its way out anyway.TV that is. Then we tried to hook it up and stayed up most the nite on the floor, with Betsy the Beagle, giggling. Yes, there was someone special watching over us, with a huge grin on his face thinking we were nuts, but happy. A great end to a stinky day.

We hope your yesterday brought all of you joy and many tummy aches from too much dessert. HAHA

Be well my friends, I love you all, Cindy

[ecslady]

Hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving!

Yesterday I actually went out shopping. It was the first day I finally felt a little better, and I felt like getting out. I don't ever remember going shopping on Black Friday but the locals stores and malls were not too bad at all. I thought it would have been a lot worse. Maybe everyone went at midnight! Picked up a few gifts and got me a new watch (my other one died) and some new warm slippers.

Cindy - Sounds like you and Chris had fun shopping too.

[vettecindy]

Dear Stars, I do believe that I have lost my mind(no big deal) and am slowly sliding through the gates of Hades. I have tried to no avail to find the CD that was madw of our 30th vow renewal on the Explorer with the Stars. I have TORN everything apart, and the crazy thing is I don't care what the house looks like. This CD has the last vestages of Rob's voice, his image and his heart on it and I ann"t find it. My heart is BROKEN. Please help me. If anyone has a copy , please, please forward it to me. I will gratefully incur any cost. My address is 3697 Doune Way, Clermont, Fl. 34711. I know I have asked for many nfavors before, but this is life changin for me.

I know you'll do all you can, I am desperate to hear his voice.

Love and thankfullness, Cindy Clark

[dizliz]

Cindy....I should have a copy of your vow renewal and I will get it to you ASAP. That was such a special time for ALL of us! I think I have a copy on disc, but, I'm sure it's on the computer....I will definitely get it to you.

Dee...so sorry to hear your Dad is not doing well. Prayers go out to you and hugs too. Hard times.

Nancy...glad to hear you are feeling better. Got a kick out of Jan's post about Derf....Fred :) We sailed with him and his wife on the Jewel to Canada.

Cindy....what fun you got out and did the Black Friday thing. We have always enjoyed it and all the mayhem that goes along with it. For the most part, everyone always seems in good spirits. I would have loved to see you and Chris toting that huge TV around!

Haven't been online much....we are putting down hardwood floors in our family room and living room....got the one room done...it looks great, but, I have muscles hurting that I didn't know I owned!!!

[ecslady]

Nancy...glad to hear you are feeling better. Got a kick out of Jan's post about Derf....Fred :) We sailed with him and his wife on the Jewel to Canada.

Haven't been online much....we are putting down hardwood floors in our family room and living room....got the one room done...it looks great, but, I have muscles hurting that I didn't know I owned!!!

Derf and his wife are a pair...aren't they???

Sounds like you & Herb are doing the hardwood floors yourself...can that be???
I just supervised the workers doing it. Much easier!

[ecslady]

Attaching a pic of Dee & I from the Celebrity Silhouette cruise.. Guess where this was taken and I might give you a chocolate...:D:D:D:D

[deeva211]

Attaching a pic of Dee & I from the Celebrity Silhouette cruise.. Guess where this was taken and I might give you a chocolate...:D:D:D:D

I know where we were!!!

[CaroleSP]

Attaching a pic of Dee & I from the Celebrity Silhouette cruise.. Guess where this was taken and I might give you a chocolate...:D:D:D:D
I just popped in for 2 seconds and saw this post. I bet you were having dinner with one of Paula's neighbors. Do I win?????? Since Al helped facilitate that evening, we should get 2 chocolates.

MIss everyone. will post soon and maybe add a couple of pix.

[ecslady]

I just popped in for 2 seconds and saw this post. I bet you were having dinner with one of Paula's neighbors. Do I win?????? Since Al helped facilitate that evening, we should get 2 chocolates.


Sorry, but since your were there, it wouldn't be fair for you to win.

[deeva211]

I just popped in for 2 seconds and saw this post. I bet you were having dinner with one of Paula's neighbors. Do I win?????? Since Al helped facilitate that evening, we should get 2 chocolates.

MIss everyone. will post soon and maybe add a couple of pix.

Wait a minute!! How did Albert facilitate????? Miss you guys too!!

[dizliz]

I know, I know! But, only cause Nancy told me, so, I guess I miss out on the chocolates too. That's OK....I can't wait to hear all about it!

You guys look AMAZING!!! It is so good to "see" you again! Herb and I sure do miss you two. He is still talking about the times we all spent in the Diamond Lounge on the Enchantment.

CINDY.....disc of the Vow Renewal went in the mail yesterday. The guy said he thought it would be to you on Saturday. Sure hope so. I loved watching it again. What a special time. Thank you so much for sharing it with all of us.

[vettecindy]

LIZ, Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Yesterday was a low day for me, fell off a ladder, wrecked my ankle, blew out my back. Thanks to Chris's quick thinking, he got me up from the cement floor, andt to the doctors. Got some meds, and watched my Rob, my Christopher, and my Stars all day long. P
Physical and pain tears were intertwined. You and Hewrb sent me the best gift, with the best timing ever! Words mean so little sometimes, but mine are true. I love you.

Hope the flooring is going well. It seems that I just wind up on the floor these days!LOL Hope u r both well.

Dee, sorry about Dad, it's a long hard road to walk for you, but remember that we find stregnth from somewhere and never question your decisions.

Allmy other Buddies, I keep u all close tome and think wonderful thoughts of u all daily. I have truly been gifted to have all of u in my life!

Much gratefulness and loads of love, Cindy

[CaroleSP]

Wait a minute!! How did Albert facilitate????? Miss you guys too!!Albert spoke to the hotel manager and the CC manager. He explained how everyone would have a lot less grief, if you guys got to chow down with the biggies. We often ran into Susan R and chatted her up; she was lovely and sent me a 6-pack of my hard to find soda as well as an =X= cup to use for drinking the stuff. I'm not saying he arranged it, but he helped you in your quest for fame and fortune. well, fame, anyway!

[CaroleSP]

It seems that we are all so busy with "stuff" that we are hard-pressed to find the time to chat with one another.

Cindy, I was so happy to see you back on the boards. I fell last Thursday, so I'm with you on that one. Dum dum that I am, I continued on my way to work and ONLY worked 6 hours before leaving. The 1st of the month is awful and with most of the work from my vacation time still waiting to be done, I couldn't head back into the house. Al took me to the ER after I got home. Luckily, no breaks, but I did sprain the usual stull that old ladies damage when they fall. I did the left wrist and the left foot/ankle, along with the right knee. Fortunately for me, my ladylike voluptous hips saved me from any mid-body damage. It is wonderful that your business is keeping you from being idle and gives you time with your BFF. I'm sure seeing Chris's handsome face goes a long way, too. It's so hard to believe all that you have been through in the last year. We all think of you often and look forward to the day you will be able to join us on board some lovely vessel.

Liz, it sounds like you have taken over Betty's job of constant working at home. More power to you. I try to limit my home projects to things like turning on the faucet or opening the blinds. You know, the hard stuff! I guess Herb has recovered enough to be put to hard labor. I know what a slave driver you are. Any snow yet? How's the iPad doing; do you know everything yet? We ought to set up iPad classes for our group in March. I'm sure you know that everything on the Silhouette is Apple; we realized too late that we should have signed up for their classes last month. the classes were $20 each, or unlimited for $60. I am going to look into this in March. First, I want to see what we can get for free at the Apple Stores in our area. Unfortunately, the stores are all at least 20 miles away and I am lazy. Al & I both need them...badly!!

M J, sounds like retirement may not be too far off for you. I am so jealous!! Is your southern homestead all done now? Or, do you still have things you want to modernize or spiff up to make your like easier? You did get Internet service there, didn't you? I seem to remember that you did it after you were down there a while.

J & M, how are you guys; we don't get to hear much lately. Hope all is well with you two, and extended families. Hasn't it been a while since you have had the pitter patter of little feet? Shouldn't someone be having a baby by now? :D I figure that you are probably the iPad leader; want to lead a class for the STAR dummies? Are you planning something else to do with your mom?

Luci, where are you? You are definitely was past due with baby stories and pictures. How are you doing? Are you still working a zillion + hours with the ambulance folks? How is your mom doing? I hope both you and she are starting to heal and remember the great times you had with Pappy!

Nancy, how did your house hold up while you were away? Hope everything stayed where it was supposed to be, and nothing blew away or flooded!!!

Dee, how is dad? Are you on your cruise? I thought it was around the 5th, but I can't see your signature and I don't remember. I hope he is well enough to enjoy a few days in the sun and the gentle roll of the Southern Atlantic.

Hey Stars, one night while Al and I were sitting at the counter in the back of the theater, in walked Nicole & Lee. She looks exactly the same, right down to the designer jeans. They seemed very happy and were enjoying the cruise. We didn't see them any other time during our 12 nights. Nicole said she saw Dee or Nancy; I think it was Nancy. We never got to compare notes. ;) She said it is really hard for them to get away, as Lee owns his own security business and it is hard when he is not there; although, it is a family business.

I am just about at the end of my lunch....lucky I got to take one, at all!!!:mad:

Catch up soon...will try to do this at home so I can post a picture or two.

I was just wondering, are you folks hanging out on the Silhouette thread? I haven't been looking at that one for quite some time.

[ecslady]

Carole - Dee somehow missed the whole conversation when Al told me. I had a conversation prior to his with the CC hostess, Donette, so, I'm sure when Al put in his 2 cents, they knew we really wanted to go. We also ran into Susan R quite a few times. It was nice that the senior staff was so visible.

Dee is on her cruise starting today. Her dad was moved to an assistant living facility and was not going on the cruise, last I heard. I know she has been very busy getting him situated in the facility the past week.

Dee & I saw Nicole a few times on the cruise. Too bad, we never got to sit and chat or share a meal with them.

Cindy - Take care of yourself!!! We need to cruise again so we can have another good cry.

[Jerryw]

Hi Everyone,

Just in case someone checks the board before the Holidays.

"WISHING EVERYONE A MERRY CHRISTMAS"

Jerry