The Fleet Report and Daily for Thursday August 17th, 2023

[smitty34877]

48 minutes ago, dfish said:

Good morning from the Zaandam!

 

 I am a bit better today than yesterday, but still have a ways to go.  Our excursion today is to find a pharmacy.  I’m hoping to be better tomorrow to do some hiking.  
 

Glad to hear Baby Murphy is doing better and that Lou is home.  Also good news that Ivan is feeling better.  Lots to celebrate today.

Tana is worried about your sinus troubles. She said " they usually require antibiotics " and tend not to go away on their own.Hope you feel better soon.

 

[Quartzsite Cruiser]

Good morning from a sunny central Texas.  It is 73F and feels like 73F with 54% humidity and a dew point of 55F.  This will be the last pleasant morning for a while as our heat will be back this afternoon with a high of 107F.  I will get my walk in as soon as I finish here.  On the agenda this morning is to take the convertible to our local station for an oil change and a couple of quick errands.  After that, I plan to stay inside and keep cool.

 

Yesterday's smoked babyback ribs turned out to be very good.  I was relieved since this was my first solo venture with the smoker.  Usually I season the meat, and DH handles the smoker.  It was also a relief that I did not add too much wood so the smoke was just right.

 

We donate to our local thrift shop and a couple of others, plus a couple in Quartzsite.  We'll celebrate our neighbors, but with this heat, we don't see too much of them.  The closest we came to having a black cat was our younger DD's Friskie who was a tuxedo cat.  She was 18 when she crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

 

Another good quote from Albert Einstein, and I like the second option.

 

It is too hot here to think about soup.  We'll pass on the drink, but the wine sounds like one I'd like to try.

 

We were in Curacao twice in 2020 on b2b Panama Canal cruises on the Rotterdam VI.  I post my pictures in another post.

 

Joseph Pulitzer did a lot to help journalism, and the Columbia School of Journalism is one of the best.

 

@StLouisCruisers Sandi, don't worry about the links to the port of the day tomorrow.  I'll take care of them.  That will give you plenty of time to get ready, have breakfast and enjoy your tour of St. John's.  

@Denise T Denise, I'm glad your preparations for the oral defense on Monday is going well.  You will ace the defense. 

@smitty34877 Terry, I'm glad your DH is better, and hope the nurse recommends PT for him.  

@puppycanducruise  Melanie, thanks for the sunflower picture.  The really are tall.

@kazu  Jacqui, it always seems to be the case that our fur babies don't cooperate when we really need them to do so.

@dfish  Debbie, I'm glad you are a bit better than yesterday, and I hope you find something in town to help speed the healing process up.

@cruising sister  Lorraine, thanks for the update on Murphy, and I'll take cautiously optimistic as a good sign.  Safe travels to Tucson.  It will still be hot, but a dry heat is more like an oven than a steam bath.

@ottahand7  Nancy, I'm glad you got some rain.  Our only chance for any rain is the tropical wave in the Gulf of Mexico that is headed toward Texas.

 

 

 

 

 

Lenda

[Mr. Boston]

Good morning everyone. Thanks for the daily report, recipes and lists. It’s nice to be back at home.  A nice collection of days today.  I think we’ll have our neighbor over this evening and ask her if she would water our plants while we’re away next month. We’ve never been away for five weeks before, so much to do.  The meal and drink suggestions sound good, anything with ginger is a winner in my book.  We’ve been to today’s port and really enjoy it.  Sadly I’m not the best picture taker so I don’t have any pictures to share.  Prayers for everyone on our prayer list. Cheers to those of you celebrating happy events today!

[Quartzsite Cruiser]

@Lady Hudson  Katherine, wishing you and your DH a wonderful time on your cruise.

 

 

Lenda

 

[Quartzsite Cruiser]

Our first visit to Curacao on January 20, 2020, we rented a car and drove around the island.  First we headed north to Westpoint on the northwest corner of the island.  Later, we drove out to the resort area on the south end of the island.

 

I'll begin with a couple of pictures taken from the Rotterdam early that morning.

 

From our drive to the north end of the island

 

The church in Westpoint, and the parking lot overlooks a nice beach.

 

A sample of the beaches that dot the north end of the island

 

The buildings are refurbished former slave quarters and the monument is commigrating the freeing of the slaves.  I like the simplicity of the monument which still manages to say a lot.

 

A few pictures from the south end.  The first is a resort from across the water.

 

Fort Beekenburg

 

A couple of ships docked near the fort.  The first is part of the British Royal Fleet Auxiliary and is used in amphibious operations.  The other is an older ship and may even be a Russian ship from the looks of the name on the stern.

 

Town with the Rotterdam in the background and a residential street.

 

Lenda

 

[Quartzsite Cruiser]

On January 26, 2020, the Rotterdam returned to Curacao on the way back to San Diego.  This day, we walked from the ship, which was docked in the channel to Queen Emma bridge and into town.  It was Sunday, so many stores were closed, but it was a pleasant day to wander.

 

The view across the channel from the bridge.

 

The main street leading from the bridge.

 

On of the unusual lift bridges

 

Interesting street art

 

We found this nice little open shaded area with cafes, bars, and decided it was time for a rest and a cool drink.

 

We past the clock and bells just about the time they rang at noon.  Notice the clock needs a slight adjustment.

 

A more open area on the edge of the shopping district.

 

We just thought this was cute.

 

Once back across the Queen Emma bridge, DH headed back to the ship, and I headed to the old fort that marked the entrance to the mega cruise dock.  The fort was a surprise, since it was basically a shell with modern buildings housing the typical port shops.  Only when I turned around to leave, could you see the inside of the fort wall.

 

A nice building and a side street on the walk back to the ship.

 

The final picture from Curacao

 

Lenda

[marshhawk]

Good Thursday Morning Dailyites!  Yesterday we took Bobagingee aka Bob to the vets.  He weighed in at 14.9 pounds!  Vet says he needs to go on a diet.  He might get diabetes from being over weight.  Well then I rushed over to PT and during a down time, I checked my blood sugar, and it was very high.  Ashley said it was so high (anything over 250, and she stops therapy)  and gave me one more exercise to do, checked it again, and she sent me home 10 minutes early.

 

@dfishI hope you can get that head ache under control!

 

@Denise T like you, my blood sugars have been very high since I had Covid.  My endocrinologist has been out on maternity leave, but I meet with her next Friday. Hoping Sidney doesnt send me home early tomorrow, but they do work as a team.

 

I have not been to Curacao, but will be there next October.  DH says we can cruise, as long as it is not to places we have been.  So the next four cruises are all places we have not been to.

 

Yesterday I was trying to figure out a day walk in Rome with two museums and Piazza Navona, so far on my map, I am trying to figure out that while the tour is finished  I need to figure out how to get back to the hotel.  LOL

 

I love the quote today!  I'm not in charge, so everything, is a gift!  or a miracle.  I have no problem visiting ports a second time, or third or etc, because each time I go someplace, I see something new, try something new,  my plant dies, but one flower blooms, the earth speeds around the sun, and doesn't fling itself out of orbit and send us to another galaxy...

 

@smitty34877I am sending you and Lou a ton of prayers.  DH is having a hard time right now, and I know from the past that attitude is everything.  This week we have not had any adventures, his eye surgery is next week, and the infection is still not cleared up. I invited myself over to Penny's on Friday afternoon for a dip in the pool.  Just to get a new view of our world.  Just a suggestion, if he is feeling up to a short trip, take a ride in the car, in an area you dont visit often, or if it's cool enough, stop at a park and sit and watch nature.  Hugs.

 

Tazi, has researched Black Cat day, she says she qualifies-

 

 

This picture has nothing to do with today, it's just a place I want to be again.

 

[MrSnuffleupagus]

Thank you for the fleet report.

[Gail & Marty sailing away]

Thanks for the info 

[travelingbums]

Thank you everyone for sharing.

Have a great day.

[ger_77]

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily!  I love going into thrift shops, you never know what you'll find there.  We rarely throw things out, they always go to thrift shops, mainly the Salvation Army.  We are blessed with great neighbours and at one time we had a lovely black cat called Princess.  We've been to the port of the day several times, as we've been to the Caribbean on many BHB's over the years.  

 

It's a cool day out there this morning (only +9C 48F), but that should change shortly, as we're expecting a high of +33 (91F).  We'll keep the windows open as long as possible before closing them up and turning on the A/C.  

 

@Lady HudsonBon Voyage - enjoy your cruise!

@Heartgrove thank you for the photos of your dear Lily; she's gorgeous!!

@Denise T good luck as you prepare to defend your thesis - you've got this!

@smitty34877 glad DH is home, hopefully he'll get the PT he requires to regain his strength.

@dfishI hope the pharmacist can give you something to ease your sinus headache!

@kazu I'm happy to hear Ivan is feeling so much better - and will look like a new man after he's finished at the groomers (assuming he cooperates so you can get him there!)

 

I'm sending prayers to all the people of the NorthWest Territories; as of last night the entire city of Yellowknife (the capital city of 20,000) has been told to evacuate by Friday noon.  I can't imagine.  I have a cousin living in Hay River, NWT who left on Monday to stay with his daughter in Edmonton (a 10 hour drive).  Scary.

 

We went for groceries yesterday and DH picked up his favourite peach crumble pie, so we've invited friends over for pie and ice cream this afternoon - a nice treat for a warm August day.  I'd like today's menu suggestion, but will save the recipe for a cooler day in fall or winter.  With our friends coming over for treats this afternoon, the visit will likely continue on for a good while, so I've got some pork chops thawing that DH can toss on the grill and we can enjoy them with potato salad as the conversation flows on the deck.  And wine.

 

Prayers for everyone who is in need, cheers to all with celebrations.

 

Smooth Sailing!  ☺️☺️☺️

Gerry

[rafinmd]

Today's  sunrise is from August 2018 Crystal Symphony Panama Canal cruise.  On August 17 we visited Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala. 

 

Roy

[Lady Hudson]

Thank you for the good wishes everyone.  Whew!! Getting everything in the car is getting to be more and more of a task.  But now ready to enjoy.  Next stop — Bermuda!

 

Prayers for all in need.  So glad to hear

more positive news about Baby Murphy. Katherine 

[Nickelpenny]

Good Morning to All!  Thanks for the daily and fleet reports (and the beautiful pictures!)  I love buying things at thrift stores; I bought many things there when I first came back to the States.  I donate some but usually give away to friends/acquantances the things I no longer want or need.  I don't know my neighbors but most are quiet and keep to themselves.  I do like black cats but don't tell Martina.

 

Interesting quote by Albert.  While I am not a fan of Olive Garden, I do like their Minestrone (and breadsticks and salad).  But no soup today; drink sounds interesting, wine - Meh - and I will be going to Curacao this December.  Interesting history.

 

Still warm here; I don't turn on the AC until the afternoon and yesterday it just was blowing air - nothing cool.  So sleeping last night was a little challenging.  I woke up this morning to a temp inside of 88F.  Let the mgmt company know last night it wasn't working and this morning got a message they were working on it.  It is not bad right now and with the door open the temp has gotten down to 85F.  I am comfortable right now (I have ceiling fans and floor fans going all the time).  Oh, well.

 

I have been accepted into a study as a healthy subject for a remote study out of Chicago.  Won't start for a while though.  I was thinking as I was driving to the gym this morning - I am in 5 studies right now and still waiting on the decision on the knee osteoarthritis one.  I am just a human guinea pig!

 

Thoughts for those on the care list and cheers to those celebrating.  Keep the pics coming!!  Have a great Thursday everyone!

[St Pete Cruiser]

,Good morning from St Petersburg where it is still mid summer, i.e., hot and humid with a high percentage of rain.  The usual thunderstorms have been fewer so far and they are the only natural cooling effect we get this time of year.  

Willemstad, Curacao, is a favorite Caribbean port of mine.  There have been plenty of great pics already, so I'll just add my first experience:

As Sophia Petrello (Golden Girls) would have said: Picture it. 1992.  A young man from Florida wanted to try a cruise to a more distant island than he could get to in 7 days from a Florida port.  He scans the Sunday newspaper for a deal, yes newspaper!, and finds one.  A 7 day cruise with a flight from Tampa to Montego Bay, Jamaica, where  he embarked the SS Oceanbreeze, of the Dauphin Cruise Line.  An inside room for $699 with air included!  The itinerary included Willemstad.  The good ship Oceanbreeze, all 23,000 tons of her, entered the channel and sailed under the high bridge at Curacao into the inner harbour where she turned and then sailed back under the bridge and docked just short of the Queen Emma swinging bridge.  

The Oceanbreeze had open decks and deck chairs.  When I moved on to Holland America 10 years later, I found those deck chairs that I loved.  Our Pinnacle class ships are so superior in so many ways to that little Oceanbreeze, but with the exception of those wooden deck chairs.  I intend to cherish those deck chairs on the R, Vista and Signature class ships when i can.

Enjoy your Thursday wherever you may be.

[dfish]

3 hours ago, smitty34877 said:

Tana is worried about your sinus troubles. She said " they usually require antibiotics " and tend not to go away on their own.Hope you feel better soon.

 

I do have antibiotics and I think they are helping.  Everything is draining from my head, which makes me miserable, but that is a good sign.  The headache is gone right now, so it is a matter of patience.  I’m not good at that.

[JazzyV]

Good morning. Thanks for the FR/Daily.

I donate some to thrift shops, and occasionally will shop for a hidden treasure there. No neighbor night here, and people tend to keep to themselves. I only know my neighbors on either side of my house. I like black cats, but have never had a cat. Interesting quote. I've had Olive Garden minestrone soup and it's good. Pass on the drink and yes to the wine. I'll salute Joe Pulitzer. I have been to Willemstad, on my 2019 Panama Canal cruise on the NCL Bliss.

 

It's 70F and sunny this AM. I got 8 hours of sleep last night! It was injection day yesterday, but due to having to go to PT I didn't want to take the Benadryl in the morning and be so sleepy in the afternoon. Then I forgot to take it in the afternoon and took it at 9PM. I couldn't stay awake past 10:30. I'd like to do some shrub trimming maybe. I'm sore from PT, but maybe the yard work would help.

 

Sadly the death toll in the house explosion here is up to 6. The hospitalized man has died. He was the homeowner. He, along with 4 others, were in the basement where there was a gas water heater with issues. His wife was upstairs. It's unknown if something with the water heater was the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire. The gas company has been out there daily, digging in some neighboring yards and testing gas lines. 

 

@StLouisCruisers Enjoy St. Anthony. Lovely photos. 

@cat shepard Thank you for your kind comments! ♥️

@smitty34877 I hope the home care nurse feels DH needs PT. And I hope his appetite improves and that he can regain some energy. Prayers for Tana also. I'm glad DS is able to help out this weekend.

@kazu Of course we'll need a picture after Ivan is beautified.

@dfish I'm glad you're feeling somewhat better and hope you're fully recovered soon. Do you need an antibiotic?

@cruising sister Great news on Baby Murphy. I pray the vent wean is successful and that she continues to improve.

@Quartzsite Cruiser Great photos.

@marshhawk I hope you can get the blood sugar down. 

@St Pete Cruiser Thanks for sharing your memory of that cruise.

 

Prayers for the Care List and Cheers to those Celebrating.

 

Rainbow as we were approaching Willemstad

 

The color of the water was stunning

 

Pastel color of buildings, seen from a boat as we went to the Aquarium

 

Some pictures from the Aquarium

 

 

 

Beach resort 

 

Old fortress wall

 

NCL Bliss and Mein Schiff2 in port

 

Gorgeous sunset. Ship patrolling between Curacao and Venezuela

 

The sun was down but there was this great lightshow.

 

[kochleffel]

I save many things for our rummage sale, but donate clothing to thrift shops. DaVinci is a black cat and Mona Lisa is almost entirely black, too.

 

Maybe on the soup and on the drink. I can't think of a Finger Lakes alternative to the wine.

 

I have been to Willemstad, although not on a cruise. However, here's the view from my hotel room. Larger ships would dock at the Megaport, past the Riffort. The red building is a very good restaurant.

 

The bridge at night.

 

Mikve Israel, the historic synagogue.

There happened to be a wedding while I was there. For weddings they light candles in all the chandeliers.

 

The former Temple Emanuel, which was the first and maybe only Sefardi Reform temple. It split off from Mikve Israel and eventually merged back in; the building now houses government offices.

 

I have a booking in 2024 that includes a call at Willemstad.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[luvteaching]

Good morning, 

It's the last day of high heat forecast for our area (85+) so have windows open and fans going now to keep the house cooled down. I'm shaded enough that it doesn't really heat up until late afternoon and we've had a nice breeze the last few days which has helped. 

 

Today is "Senior Day in the Park" in Burlington. It runs from 10:00 - 1:30, includes an antique tractor show, live music, free sack lunch, and lots of vendors geared towards seniors. I'll make the drive into town to check it out. Right now that will be the highlight of the day. 

 

Our local corn has been 2/$1.00 so have been eating a lot of corn! Perfect dinner - corn and a nice salad and I'm set. 

Starting to get into cruising mode. I've got lists started. It will be strange to be packing for 1 and a lot less to pack without DH's meds, etc. I'm looking forward to it. It's on the Westerdam in the same cabin we had last year and two very familiar ports so I can get off and wonder - or not - depending on how I'm doing. I booked the Pinnacle Grill for Juneau so I don't have to rush back as I'd like to get to the Alaska State Museum and do some downtown looking. 

 

Have a good day! 

 

Karen

[bennybear]

Good morning and thanks all! 
prayers for Yellowknife as they evacuate 20,000 people, airlifts to our city today.  

I am grouchy today as our neighbours left the country and workmen came to paint their house, using our plants as a place to put the paint and compressors, leaving them trampled!  Grr!  
 

Curaçao is a beautiful place,  wonderful photos @JazzyV

 

Curaçao with a side of iguana stew! 

 

[aliaschief]

Lot’s of planning going on for this 156 day adventure. C’mon January.

 

[grapau27]

3 hours ago, Quartzsite Cruiser said:

On January 26, 2020, the Rotterdam returned to Curacao on the way back to San Diego.  This day, we walked from the ship, which was docked in the channel to Queen Emma bridge and into town.  It was Sunday, so many stores were closed, but it was a pleasant day to wander.

 

The view across the channel from the bridge.

 

The main street leading from the bridge.

 

On of the unusual lift bridges

 

Interesting street art

 

We found this nice little open shaded area with cafes, bars, and decided it was time for a rest and a cool drink.

 

We past the clock and bells just about the time they rang at noon.  Notice the clock needs a slight adjustment.

 

A more open area on the edge of the shopping district.

 

We just thought this was cute.

 

Once back across the Queen Emma bridge, DH headed back to the ship, and I headed to the old fort that marked the entrance to the mega cruise dock.  The fort was a surprise, since it was basically a shell with modern buildings housing the typical port shops.  Only when I turned around to leave, could you see the inside of the fort wall.

 

A nice building and a side street on the walk back to the ship.

 

The final picture from Curacao

 

Lenda

Great collection of photos Lenda.

[grapau27]

1 hour ago, JazzyV said:

Good morning. Thanks for the FR/Daily.

I donate some to thrift shops, and occasionally will shop for a hidden treasure there. No neighbor night here, and people tend to keep to themselves. I only know my neighbors on either side of my house. I like black cats, but have never had a cat. Interesting quote. I've had Olive Garden minestrone soup and it's good. Pass on the drink and yes to the wine. I'll salute Joe Pulitzer. I have been to Willemstad, on my 2019 Panama Canal cruise on the NCL Bliss.

 

It's 70F and sunny this AM. I got 8 hours of sleep last night! It was injection day yesterday, but due to having to go to PT I didn't want to take the Benadryl in the morning and be so sleepy in the afternoon. Then I forgot to take it in the afternoon and took it at 9PM. I couldn't stay awake past 10:30. I'd like to do some shrub trimming maybe. I'm sore from PT, but maybe the yard work would help.

 

Sadly the death toll in the house explosion here is up to 6. The hospitalized man has died. He was the homeowner. He, along with 4 others, were in the basement where there was a gas water heater with issues. His wife was upstairs. It's unknown if something with the water heater was the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire. The gas company has been out there daily, digging in some neighboring yards and testing gas lines. 

 

@StLouisCruisers Enjoy St. Anthony. Lovely photos. 

@cat shepard Thank you for your kind comments! ♥️

@smitty34877 I hope the home care nurse feels DH needs PT. And I hope his appetite improves and that he can regain some energy. Prayers for Tana also. I'm glad DS is able to help out this weekend.

@kazu Of course we'll need a picture after Ivan is beautified.

@dfish I'm glad you're feeling somewhat better and hope you're fully recovered soon. Do you need an antibiotic?

@cruising sister Great news on Baby Murphy. I pray the vent wean is successful and that she continues to improve.

@Quartzsite Cruiser Great photos.

@marshhawk I hope you can get the blood sugar down. 

@St Pete Cruiser Thanks for sharing your memory of that cruise.

 

Prayers for the Care List and Cheers to those Celebrating.

 

Rainbow as we were approaching Willemstad

 

The color of the water was stunning

 

Pastel color of buildings, seen from a boat as we went to the Aquarium

 

Some pictures from the Aquarium

 

 

 

Beach resort 

 

Old fortress wall

 

NCL Bliss and Mein Schiff2 in port

 

Gorgeous sunset. Ship patrolling between Curacao and Venezuela

 

The sun was down but there was this great lightshow.

 

Nice photos.

[durangoscots]

Good morning. Coolish this morning even at this hour but will be into the low 80's by afternoon. Dogs have had two walks and are snoozing away. I am waiting for allergy medicine to kick in as I have a very drippy nose. Then back to sorting. I certainly can celebrate Thrift Stores as I am hauling a lot out to ours at the shelter. Unfortunately there are many people who are sending out clothes in really bad shape (torn and stained). Since we have trouble hiring dock workers these days we don't catch much of it until sorting.

 

I like minestrone soup and would probably like that at Olive Garden - don't think I have had it there. And I have not been to Wilemstad. Actually have just passed through the ABC islands on my way south with stops only in Aruba. Need to think about a visit.

 

Sad to hear about the added death in the explosion and also the fires in Canada. People just can't catch a break this year.

 

My TA sent out more itinerary changes for the Grand Australia and then sent out a notice for the need for a Brazilian visa. We are not going to Brazil.... I think he is getting a bit rattled with all the changes that are being made to future cruises and from reading the boards... to current ones as well.  The one I am expecting has not come yet.

 

Take care all. Stay upright... don't overdo and try not to stress. All things that seem to get harder these days.

 

Susan

[Quartzsite Cruiser]

Good afternoon from a very warm and getting hotter central Texas.  The oil has been changed in the convertible, but it took longer than expected.  He was working on a boat trailer which took awhile, but the car was inspected by another worker.  Oil changes on newer cars are not as fast and easy as on older cars.  There is a lot more stuff that has to be removed and put back on just to drain the oil and change the filter.  I guess I was there about 1 1/2 hours, but didn't want to have to leave and come back later to find  another wait.  The car is running a lot better now, but there is still a very slight miss in the engine.  The four coils arrived today, but since the miss isn't a problem now, I'm going to wait until it is cooler to replace them unless it's necessary to do so sooner.

 

4 hours ago, marshhawk said:

Good Thursday Morning Dailyites!  Yesterday we took Bobagingee aka Bob to the vets.  He weighed in at 14.9 pounds!  Vet says he needs to go on a diet.  He might get diabetes from being over weight.  Well then I rushed over to PT and during a down time, I checked my blood sugar, and it was very high.  Ashley said it was so high (anything over 250, and she stops therapy)  and gave me one more exercise to do, checked it again, and she sent me home 10 minutes early.

 

@dfishI hope you can get that head ache under control!

 

@Denise T like you, my blood sugars have been very high since I had Covid.  My endocrinologist has been out on maternity leave, but I meet with her next Friday. Hoping Sidney doesnt send me home early tomorrow, but they do work as a team.

 

I have not been to Curacao, but will be there next October.  DH says we can cruise, as long as it is not to places we have been.  So the next four cruises are all places we have not been to.

 

Yesterday I was trying to figure out a day walk in Rome with two museums and Piazza Navona, so far on my map, I am trying to figure out that while the tour is finished  I need to figure out how to get back to the hotel.  LOL

 

I love the quote today!  I'm not in charge, so everything, is a gift!  or a miracle.  I have no problem visiting ports a second time, or third or etc, because each time I go someplace, I see something new, try something new,  my plant dies, but one flower blooms, the earth speeds around the sun, and doesn't fling itself out of orbit and send us to another galaxy...

 

@smitty34877I am sending you and Lou a ton of prayers.  DH is having a hard time right now, and I know from the past that attitude is everything.  This week we have not had any adventures, his eye surgery is next week, and the infection is still not cleared up. I invited myself over to Penny's on Friday afternoon for a dip in the pool.  Just to get a new view of our world.  Just a suggestion, if he is feeling up to a short trip, take a ride in the car, in an area you dont visit often, or if it's cool enough, stop at a park and sit and watch nature.  Hugs.

 

Tazi, has researched Black Cat day, she says she qualifies-

 

 

This picture has nothing to do with today, it's just a place I want to be again.

 

 

Annie, I hope you can get the blood sugar down, and that Bob will put up with a diet.  I hope the eye infection does not delay your DH's eye surgery.  We have taken the Metro many times in Rome.  You just have to be sure to get on the train going in the right direction.  I don't want to scare you, but Rome is a haven for pick pockets, so a money belt or pouch to wear under your clothes is a good idea.  There are so many places to see and visit, I bet you'll want to go back on another trip.

 

3 hours ago, ger_77 said:

Good morning, thanks for the Fleet Report and Daily!  I love going into thrift shops, you never know what you'll find there.  We rarely throw things out, they always go to thrift shops, mainly the Salvation Army.  We are blessed with great neighbours and at one time we had a lovely black cat called Princess.  We've been to the port of the day several times, as we've been to the Caribbean on many BHB's over the years.  

 

It's a cool day out there this morning (only +9C 48F), but that should change shortly, as we're expecting a high of +33 (91F).  We'll keep the windows open as long as possible before closing them up and turning on the A/C.  

 

@Lady HudsonBon Voyage - enjoy your cruise!

@Heartgrove thank you for the photos of your dear Lily; she's gorgeous!!

@Denise T good luck as you prepare to defend your thesis - you've got this!

@smitty34877 glad DH is home, hopefully he'll get the PT he requires to regain his strength.

@dfishI hope the pharmacist can give you something to ease your sinus headache!

@kazu I'm happy to hear Ivan is feeling so much better - and will look like a new man after he's finished at the groomers (assuming he cooperates so you can get him there!)

 

I'm sending prayers to all the people of the NorthWest Territories; as of last night the entire city of Yellowknife (the capital city of 20,000) has been told to evacuate by Friday noon.  I can't imagine.  I have a cousin living in Hay River, NWT who left on Monday to stay with his daughter in Edmonton (a 10 hour drive).  Scary.

 

We went for groceries yesterday and DH picked up his favourite peach crumble pie, so we've invited friends over for pie and ice cream this afternoon - a nice treat for a warm August day.  I'd like today's menu suggestion, but will save the recipe for a cooler day in fall or winter.  With our friends coming over for treats this afternoon, the visit will likely continue on for a good while, so I've got some pork chops thawing that DH can toss on the grill and we can enjoy them with potato salad as the conversation flows on the deck.  And wine.

 

Prayers for everyone who is in need, cheers to all with celebrations.

 

Smooth Sailing!  ☺️☺️☺️

Gerry

 

Gerry, I read about the evacuation of Yellowknife this morning.  I'm glad they are arranging air travel for those that don't drive or can't tolerate a long drive.  The article said they would have wreckers and gas trucks along the road south just in case.  This sounds like a well thought out plan, and I hope the fires will stop before they can devastate the town.  We've talked about driving to Yellowknife when we've driven to Alaska, but never did.

 

1 hour ago, dfish said:

I do have antibiotics and I think they are helping.  Everything is draining from my head, which makes me miserable, but that is a good sign.  The headache is gone right now, so it is a matter of patience.  I’m not good at that.

 

Debbie, I'm glad the antibiotics are helping and the infection is getting better.  I doubt anyone has much patience when they are trying to get better.

 

1 hour ago, JazzyV said:

Good morning. Thanks for the FR/Daily.

I donate some to thrift shops, and occasionally will shop for a hidden treasure there. No neighbor night here, and people tend to keep to themselves. I only know my neighbors on either side of my house. I like black cats, but have never had a cat. Interesting quote. I've had Olive Garden minestrone soup and it's good. Pass on the drink and yes to the wine. I'll salute Joe Pulitzer. I have been to Willemstad, on my 2019 Panama Canal cruise on the NCL Bliss.

 

It's 70F and sunny this AM. I got 8 hours of sleep last night! It was injection day yesterday, but due to having to go to PT I didn't want to take the Benadryl in the morning and be so sleepy in the afternoon. Then I forgot to take it in the afternoon and took it at 9PM. I couldn't stay awake past 10:30. I'd like to do some shrub trimming maybe. I'm sore from PT, but maybe the yard work would help.

 

Sadly the death toll in the house explosion here is up to 6. The hospitalized man has died. He was the homeowner. He, along with 4 others, were in the basement where there was a gas water heater with issues. His wife was upstairs. It's unknown if something with the water heater was the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire. The gas company has been out there daily, digging in some neighboring yards and testing gas lines. 

 

@StLouisCruisers Enjoy St. Anthony. Lovely photos. 

@cat shepard Thank you for your kind comments! ♥️

@smitty34877 I hope the home care nurse feels DH needs PT. And I hope his appetite improves and that he can regain some energy. Prayers for Tana also. I'm glad DS is able to help out this weekend.

@kazu Of course we'll need a picture after Ivan is beautified.

@dfish I'm glad you're feeling somewhat better and hope you're fully recovered soon. Do you need an antibiotic?

@cruising sister Great news on Baby Murphy. I pray the vent wean is successful and that she continues to improve.

@Quartzsite Cruiser Great photos.

@marshhawk I hope you can get the blood sugar down. 

@St Pete Cruiser Thanks for sharing your memory of that cruise.

 

Prayers for the Care List and Cheers to those Celebrating.

 

Rainbow as we were approaching Willemstad

 

The color of the water was stunning

 

Pastel color of buildings, seen from a boat as we went to the Aquarium

 

Some pictures from the Aquarium

 

 

 

Beach resort 

 

Old fortress wall

 

NCL Bliss and Mein Schiff2 in port

 

Gorgeous sunset. Ship patrolling between Curacao and Venezuela

 

The sun was down but there was this great lightshow.

 

 

Vanessa, thanks for the pictures.  I was sad to read another person had died from the injuries received in the house explosion.  I hope they find the cause, and that others in the area will have their gas lines and appliances checked.

 

1 hour ago, luvteaching said:

Good morning, 

It's the last day of high heat forecast for our area (85+) so have windows open and fans going now to keep the house cooled down. I'm shaded enough that it doesn't really heat up until late afternoon and we've had a nice breeze the last few days which has helped. 

 

Today is "Senior Day in the Park" in Burlington. It runs from 10:00 - 1:30, includes an antique tractor show, live music, free sack lunch, and lots of vendors geared towards seniors. I'll make the drive into town to check it out. Right now that will be the highlight of the day. 

 

Our local corn has been 2/$1.00 so have been eating a lot of corn! Perfect dinner - corn and a nice salad and I'm set. 

Starting to get into cruising mode. I've got lists started. It will be strange to be packing for 1 and a lot less to pack without DH's meds, etc. I'm looking forward to it. It's on the Westerdam in the same cabin we had last year and two very familiar ports so I can get off and wonder - or not - depending on how I'm doing. I booked the Pinnacle Grill for Juneau so I don't have to rush back as I'd like to get to the Alaska State Museum and do some downtown looking. 

 

Have a good day! 

 

Karen

 

Karen, Senior Day in the Park sounds like fun.  I know you'll enjoy your cruise even if it is a different experience than you expected when you booked.

 

1 hour ago, bennybear said:

Good morning and thanks all! 
prayers for Yellowknife as they evacuate 20,000 people, airlifts to our city today.  

I am grouchy today as our neighbours left the country and workmen came to paint their house, using our plants as a place to put the paint and compressors, leaving them trampled!  Grr!  
 

Curaçao is a beautiful place,  wonderful photos @JazzyV

 

Curaçao with a side of iguana stew! 

 

 

Brenda, I'd be grouchy too if workmen  put heavy things on my few plants.  It's all right when I do it, but not for someone who's working on a neighbor's house.

 

41 minutes ago, grapau27 said:

Great collection of photos Lenda.

 

Thank you, Graham.

 

20 minutes ago, durangoscots said:

Good morning. Coolish this morning even at this hour but will be into the low 80's by afternoon. Dogs have had two walks and are snoozing away. I am waiting for allergy medicine to kick in as I have a very drippy nose. Then back to sorting. I certainly can celebrate Thrift Stores as I am hauling a lot out to ours at the shelter. Unfortunately there are many people who are sending out clothes in really bad shape (torn and stained). Since we have trouble hiring dock workers these days we don't catch much of it until sorting.

 

I like minestrone soup and would probably like that at Olive Garden - don't think I have had it there. And I have not been to Wilemstad. Actually have just passed through the ABC islands on my way south with stops only in Aruba. Need to think about a visit.

 

Sad to hear about the added death in the explosion and also the fires in Canada. People just can't catch a break this year.

 

My TA sent out more itinerary changes for the Grand Australia and then sent out a notice for the need for a Brazilian visa. We are not going to Brazil.... I think he is getting a bit rattled with all the changes that are being made to future cruises and from reading the boards... to current ones as well.  The one I am expecting has not come yet.

 

Take care all. Stay upright... don't overdo and try not to stress. All things that seem to get harder these days.

 

Susan

 

Susan, it does sound like your TA is stressed by all the port changes to many cruises.  I hope there are no other changes.

 

Lenda