QM2 review...My Affair To Remember

[pepperrn]

Penny

 

Once again I am almost speechless with admiration. Your writing and descriptions are beyond praise. I cannot tell you how much I am enjoying this, I wanted my time on board the world's greatest Liner to never end and now I want the same for you (purely selfish, I want the joy of reading your posts to continue forever).

 

On the edge of my seat awaiting the next part of this wonderful affair.

[patwell]

Malcolm....quote..."your obvious delight when experiencing something new"...now there's an understatement!! You noticed? And a penthouse lifeboat? You would do that for me?

 

David..."enthused..is that a word"? See my review...it is very much a word! And yes, I am planning...scheming is close to the truth. But just like planning that elusive onboard wardrobe I am VERY indecisive.

 

Joy....be patient...yoou will soon enjoy this yourself

 

Steven (Scotsman)...watch out, I"m not done yet...I may get you booked by the end! And thanks for the compliment. I'd LOVE to do Qm2's brochure...at least I've been onboard!;)

 

Finch...I hope you get back on this summer too. Can I come? I don't take up much room...well except for all that luggage and my evil twin who travels light :rolleyes:

 

Karie...you are always my favorite interruption!!:D

 

Delilah...If you love this "music" you should hear what I used for the DVD I made of our photos! Now THAT will bring tears to your eyes if you're the silly romantic that I am!

 

Pepper...again with the flattery...this is getting as additive as the QM2!! Would that this affair never ended...I'd love to just keep writing.

 

So thank you all again for encouraging me to continue. I was really ready to spare you if no one liked my voyage to fantasyland.

 

Cheers, Penny...posting part 5 now...if the white screen of death will allow me!

[patwell]

DOuble post!!!***&%%^$$$!!! Sorry...P

[patwell]

Time is passing all too fast. Of course it had to happen. A week is only so long, but I thought if I got up earlier and stayed up later I’d have more time. There is so much still left to do...so much I haven’t thoroughly savored. There is no better place to think than standing at the rail watching this mighty ship slice through the ocean. I do this in stolen moments away from the others. Maybe it’s my way of absorbing all the wonders we’ve shared...all the excitement...all the laughter. My best friend told me this was the most wonderful quality time the four of us have shared together in a very long time. I have very perceptive friends! We have never laughed with such abandon. We have certainly never been this pampered.

 

I think about our dinner at the Captain’s table, again in one of those amazingly slinky gowns that actually fit and still manage to look ladylike. My, what an honor. From the moment we entered Britannia and were escorted to the table, to seats of honor no less, the feeling was almost surreal. Part of me wanted to yell..”.look at me and I’m nobody!” Another part of me cautioned to be on my best behavior. I chose the second alternative. Decorum does have its place you know. My evil twin was told NOT to leave the cabin tonight!

 

And this was truly the place of honor surrounded by the most elegant of elegants. When told about this incredible moment, a friend said that were he so honored, at the end of the meal he’d surely get up and say “take me Lord, it doesn’t get any better than this”. Another perceptive friend! From the first toast to the final flourish, by 10 waiters in unison delivering a dessert specially prepared for the Captain’s table, it felt surreal. I haven’t a clue what I ordered!! I don’t honestly remember eating! My memories are of the aura of the room, the marvelous conversation between strangers and the feeling of being so honored to have this opportunity once in my life. A little voice in me kept reminding me that this was “the high cotton kid”...a euphemism where I come from in the south meaning, this is as good as it can possibly be. I am spoiled for all time. The view from this table of tables is a memory never to be forgotten. I actually darted back in here one afternoon between meals so I could photograph the view from my seat at the table....I’m a ridiculously silly wuss sometimes! But my,what an incredibly elegant place this is.

 

Much later...after continuing our good fortune with a turn in the casino...after a relaxing drink in the intriguing Chart Room with some mellow music...after a stroll out on deck in the balmy evening, we danced on deck. There was no music, at least not the kind one could actually hear, but the moon was full and the ocean our orchestra and if you don’t think that’s magic, you’re not having the right fantasies. My word, how does one absorb such an enchanted evening. When I am a really old lady this evening is a memory I will pull out and play again and again and it no doubt will still bring a tear of remembrance to my eyes.

 

And the ports we have visited...enjoyable all but I truly felt like I was cheating on my new paramour by leaving even if just for a brief time. Never does the Queen Mary 2 look more majestic, more regal, than when seen from the approach by tender. To watch her grow ever larger as your tender bobs in the water and she suddenly towers over you, that rich black hull...that flaring bow....more magic. The Mother Ship....she truly tugs at your heartstrings and you promise never to leave her again. It feels good to be home.

 

We actually skipped a port day. One by one the tenders left filled with passengers bound for exotic excursions and we stayed behind. What fun to have her all to myself and wander at will not sharing her with anyone else. OK, maybe a few die hards stayed on board but they had the decency to leave me to my fantasies. I took the tender into St Kitts then turned right around and came back. I love that return ride and there was so much more to do onboard.

 

Through the corridors I wandered...the Cunard Maritime Quest...the photos of the famous with whom I now can say I proudly share the Cunard mystique....a chance to admire the wonderful art work and floral displays and because we sail close to Christmas, all the gorgeous decorations. Like a lovely lady adding that last perfect piece of jewelry they only enhance QM2’s beauty. Christmas trees all around, garlands strung on railings, bows and other fancies, and last evening a string quartet playing at the base of the elegant tree in the lobby. Is there no end to these delights that QM2 continues to dangle before me? Does she not know that she has hooked me for all time?

 

I peek into the theater, quiet now but what grand performances it hosts and what comfy seats. And a chance to check out the Atlantic Room. I make a note to improve my bridge skills so next time I can play in this wonderful space. How can they concentrate on their bidding with that view I wonder. And the Library...what a handsome place. I love a library yet I’ve spent no time in this one, the largest at sea. Just too many other distractions and I feel guilty that I succombed when I look all around this amazing place. My, what a place to hang out in on the World Cruise I think. The world cruise is probably out....we do like to eat occasionally...but I make another memo to self...take a transatlantic and have the time to get lost in a book. So I wander into that delightful bookstore next door...more goodies to stuff into that extra QM2 rolling bag I bought. Now this is a fun place to find that perfect gift.

 

Next time I’ll buy some cigars and join my husband in Churchill's as he enjoys them. I’ll see more than one show in Illusions...what an incredibly unique experience. Technology of this sort is a marvel and to see it at sea a phenomenen. How DO they do that?? I’ll take time to sit in Sir Samuels...in the Champagne bar. One needn’t drink to enjoy the ambiance in these elegant little places. And surely there is no more grand and glorious venue than the elegant Queens Room. How could anyone not feel like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers on that dance floor. I don’t go to movies at home so I felt no need to here but it was thoughtful to be offered them in case I was bored. A very unlikely possibility! But I still don’t think I’ll be up for an art auction!

 

Kings Court...I was prepared not to like it. Buffet type foods do that to me. I was surprised...that didn’t happen. Yes it can be confusing at first but it’s easy enough to figure out if you’re willing to try. Just remember the carpet colors! Of course at night it’s a bit difficult to know if you’re going forward or aft with no passing sea to check outside the windows, but who cares? On embarkation day it was chaos. I made my husband hold a table while the rest of us hunted down food. I couldn’t find him again for the longest time and I got really worried. I’d looked so forward to sharing this trip together and now I’d gone and lost him in King’s Court! Yes, folks, it is that big. I confess we never did a dinner in there although after inhaling the great Italian aromas one night we will go the next time. We found tables when we wanted them and found the staff efficient. Look at it as a treasure trove of goodies to be discovered. A little of this, a little of that...hot, cold....we actually found frog’s legs there, imagine that! Are they gourmet goodies? No, but who eats gourmet all the time. Sometimes you just have to have a cookie! And it probably doesn’t hurt my opinion that I learned how to find the cookies fast and coming from any direction. I have a cookie homing device and King’s Court was the perfect place to use it.

 

You probably have noticed no comment on the gym...and a very nice gym I’m sure it is. Not being much of a jock I guess I missed it...probably too busy finding the cookies in Kings Court.

 

G-32....memories of our other incredible invitation to the cocktail party given by the Captain and his Senior Officers....again we were honored, again I wonder why. But what an enjoyable evening, once more in full formal attire so the magic climbed to a higher level. Our Captain is a most engaging host, a very approachable man. I tell him what an extraordinary ship he has...he smiles knowingly...does he recognize my infatuation? Does he share it?

 

Whatever you do make time every sea day to stand at the stern and admire that wake...that incredible wake. It reminds me of a ribbon of beautiful old lace stretched to the horizon, dainty and intricate swirls of sea lace gracefully winding out behind us as if it had just dropped off the table and skittered across the room. It’s hard to believe that something so delicate and fragile looking has been generated by the raw power of this ship. It mesmerizes.

 

So do yourself a favor. Take time to reflect by the side of the rail and commune with the ocean. I believe it can keep a secret well. And you won’t regret it. But now I really must find my husband...another perfect opportunity to stroll the promenade again. He’s at the terrace pool. I think I’ll take the long route, past all those lovely wood deck loungers, around the bow, with a quick pass through Kings Court for one of those yummy and probably fattening cookies that QM2 has discovered I love so much.

 

Cheers, Penny...tomorrow, time grows short:(

[travel-to-go]

Penny,

When we dined with Commodore Warwick and they brought out the dessert, he remarked, "Do you know that every night it is different? They have never brought me the same thing twice" referring to the marvelous presentations and the "pictures" they draw with chocolate sauce, icing and raspberry coulis.

 

You dreamed:

There was no music, at least not the kind one could actually hear, but the moon was full and the ocean our orchestra and if you don’t think that’s magic, you’re not having the right fantasies. My word, how does one absorb such an enchanted evening.

 

Penny, have I got the music to accompany this memory.

You can listen to a small snippet of it here. (Go to music, select Grand Bar Schemes)

http://www.scottkirby.com/

It is from Scott's CD, Grand Bar Schemes (which are what you dream up after one or two too many- The barkeep knows these are just Grand Bar Schemes) The Song is Lucky Man.

Here are some of the words:

 

The Moon is the Spotlight

The Surf is the Band

the Stars are my audience

on a Stage made of Sand

Sometimes the lonliness is too hard to stand

But Darling tonight I'm a lucky man

 

Scott moved to Key West and made a living there singing in the bars. He did pretty good. But he and his wife decided a few years ago to move back to New Hampshire (I'll bet they'll regret that tonight when it will be cold and windy and snowy!) where he works as PR to the town of Nashua, I thinkit is . But Scott has the islands, the ocean, sails, and the wind in his soul. I think you'd like his music. Maybe I'll get an extra CD of Grand Bar Schemes for you next time I see him. (And for the folks out there with a "fixer-upper" "This Old House" is great- "This Old House sucks!" Marc and I will probably be listening to Scott most of the way to Maine tomorrow. I also love just about everything on Walking on Thin Ice- Flowers of Cuba- some here might get a kick out of the Doreyman- about the rich bored heiresses on private yachts making off in the night with the Doreymen, and getting back to their nice white crisp sheets before anyone wakes up.

 

Well, enough of my tangent.

 

I have to go rejoin "the Real World" thanks for my interlude, Penny

 

P.S. I wonder what we will hear from Mary and Randy? After all, these captains seem to take a liking to us Cruise Critics at their dinner table! It's as if They know! <G>

[Vic The Parrot]

Great stuff Penny!

 

Keep it coming!

 

 

(I'll get off my duff soon, and finish mine eventually ... )

 

 

 

:)

[Toffeegirl68]

How lovely to read of such joy.

 

I am already dreaming of my second voyage on the QM2 - not even booked yet - but (in my head at least) scheduled for the big Four 0 in May 2008.

[pepperrn]

Penny

 

What can I say? Your words are pure magic. I am spellbound. Lost in amazement. Dazzled. The poetry you write is overwhelming and breathtaking. Astounding.

 

"Thank you" does not convey the depth of gratitude I feel.

[gardenbunny]

Oh my - I never thought I would read something from inside my own mind - You have so eloquently expressed how I feel about both the QE2 and QM2 - I have been so fortunate to experience the magic 3 times and am wait listed for the QE2 40th in Sept. 2007 - (please pray I make it on board) If anyone needs a female to make a single slot a double, I'll gladly pay the price to guarantee I'm on board. But enough of that - back to your beautiful review - I took a break from a boring project at work just to click on and see what the boards were saying when you transported me back to every sight, sound, smell from my times on board. Thank you for making my Friday afternoon. Anxiously waiting for the final installments.

[patwell]

More thanks again for those of you with enough fortitude to keep reading to see if I ever get off this great ship...

 

Karie...love those lyrics...I'm a mellower type of music lover but those lyrics really grabbed me...yes, I'm a lucky WOMAN

 

Vic....It's hard to finish these reviews...that means it's really over and finally you have to stop raving about them! But do persevere please so we can continue to live vicariously through each other.

 

Toffeegirl...absolutely celebrate a milestone birthday onboard...and don't forget to not it on your voyage personalizer so you too can be a cake recipient at dinner like my husband. It was a treasured moment

 

gardenbunny....thank you . I'm glad I cheered up your day and hope you enjoy the ending!

 

And Pepper...remember what I said earlier about bottling up my masseur? Can I do that with you too? You are really great for my ego you know!!!

 

Well read on...here's a bit more...sooner or later they're going to make me leave so I'm storing up all these greaat memories!

Cheers, Penny

[patwell]

For almost a week I have been wrapped in an elegant cocoon. The mundane and the ordinary were not allowed to intrude on my reverie. I have been pampered by a staff who make me feel as if I were their only care in the world. I don’t know how they do this. So far from home and family for long periods of time, surrounded by a luxury they can only dream of as they cater endlessly to those of us who indulge in all manner of delights. And they do it with good cheer and kindness. I never passed a face that didn’t smile at me and wish me a good morning, or evening. Our cabin steward Arnel had a smile that would light up a dark room. There was nothing he wouldn’t happily do for us from getting a button sewed on a shirt to keeping fresh ice in our room literally round the clock when I needed it to ice down a problem. He was so solicitous of my problem and no matter the late hour we returned, the ice was as fresh as if it had just been delivered. Did the man not take any time for himself I wondered? Someone has been doing something really right here.

 

For almost a week I have been surrounded by the epitome of luxury. Elegantly curved staircases to navigate, occasionally holding tight to the railings, soft lighting, mellow woods...all new of course but with hints of the past that taunt you with elusive memories. Here and there are suggestions of great ships of the past...the elegant Normandie perhaps...the original Mary and other notables of that era. As a whole it creates an ambiance that makes it easy to become enamored of her. Certainly she’s new, everyone knows that but how can anyone miss these subtleties and fail to appreciate them for what they are?

 

She is beautiful...that’s the obvious. She’s a lady...nothing floozyish about her. She is refined and classy with an elegance that sneaks up on you not a glitz that slaps you in the face saying “look at me...look at me”. She is way too subtle for that brashness. It is almost a feeling of understatement I thought, the way her designers managed to seamlessly integrate the requirements of the new with the allure of the old. She was meant to be a ship for the 21st century no doubt about it, but one that somehow manages to convey an aura of tradition. She has definitely snared my heartstrings.

 

It’s hard not to wander her decks and think of the thousands of people who made her a reality...from the everyday laborer to the skilled artisans to the designers who conceived her, all have left their mark and all should be acknowledged for their success. She will wear her pedigree proudly thanks to these talented people of vision.

 

But it was the Commodore Club that cemented my passion for the QM2 . Hands down, no questions asked! But then you’ve probably guessed that by now. By day it is an oasis of serenity offering 180 degree, million dollar views and a place for quiet reverie. It’s easy to lose yourself while gazing out the window across the bow, imagining all the adventures ahead. It’s impossible not to visualize that bow slicing through the biggest of waves, dipping into them then rising to forge ahead again, and I secretly wish for some really nasty weather. Selfish I know, but then my evil twin has influenced me at times. By night it offers an intimacy that manages to be both deliciously private and almost decadently hedonistic. Maybe it’s the lighting. It’s almost hypnotic. Maybe it’s the drinks altho I don’t drink so there goes that theory. It projects an aura of sophisticated seduction that keeps you coming back for more. Oh yes, I am easily seduced. Sitting in here at night it’s hard not to feel like a glamorous vignette from one of those gorgeous brochures Cunard puts out. I don’t remember anyplace else that made me feel as glamorous.

 

It was here that I most felt the memories of the liners of old. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it at first and then it dawned on me. It reminds me of an old bridge, or wheel house as I was gently corrected. Certainly not in the amount of space which is expansive, but more for a feeling I’m convinced her designers intended as they used those smaller rectangular windows instead of the flashy large expanse of glass found on so many of the newer ships. And then they wrapped them in wood reminiscent of the bridges of old. I was reminded of an old bridge I was privileged to visit long ago with its dark wood, polished brass and those square small windows overlooking the bow. It was one of those “ah ha” moments when suddenly all is clear...at least to me. It’s easier to find the essence of that wheel house of old in this room than on her real bridge. What fun it is to be able to overlook that new bridge. And no doubt it s a marvel of modern technology...but where the heck is the big wooden wheel? How on earth does she know where to go without that big wheel to steer her? Oh yes, I do love this ship.

 

So then, for almost a week QM2 has wined and dined me most sumptuously, pampered, coddled and seduced me into the most relaxed state of mind I can remember. I believe I am addicted.....

 

Cheers, Penny....tomorrow, parting...truly a sweet sorrow

[patwell]

just a bump...screen won't advance for part 6!! Sorry...penny

[patwell]

just a bump...screen won't advance for part 7!! Sorry...penny

[Joyfredsblondecruiser]

Dear Penny: I have enjoyed reading your review so much. Your writing flair in writing is fantastic. I think you really should send a copy of this to Cunard. I have a feeling they would publish it as advertisement. I think your Book and this review has been the most enjoyable thing I have ever read on cruise critic. Thank you so much for sharing it with all of us. Happy Sailing, Joy

[Joyfredsblondecruiser]

I meant to say your flair in writing is fabulous. Thank you so much for taking the time to write this wonderful review. I am waiting to hear the rest. Happy Sailing, Joy

[travel-to-go]

Penny,

Your darling Maine was marvelous, and even though our reason for going up this time was a sadness, it brought me peace from this madding crazed new world I am living in. We went down to the beach, like you said, in Ogunquit. It was marvelous (cold, bitter cold, but bearable as long as you covered your hands and face- almost like a cocoon) We drove slowly back down the coast- not yet ready to rejoin the rat race by hitting the highway and returning to reality.

 

Tomorrow it is back to cold, harsh cruel life. But tonight, you have extended my reverie once again, by transporting me away from today, and here, and taking me there. Heck, I think I could even feel the warmth and the soothing, lulling motion of the waves.

 

Thanks.

I needed that!

 

Can't wait to hear part the last- CLAWS! (Cue rapid bowing of cello bass notesin half step up and down-Do I hear soaring French Horns? No, it's not the Shark from Jaws! It's Penny from CLAWS! Hiide your fine carpets! Bolster the door sills, as Cunard drags her kicking and screaming from the ship "NO! I WON'T GO!" she sobs. "You can't!"

 

OH THE HUMANITY!!! (purple prose <G>)

 

(Coming soon to a Cruise Critic Forum near you!)

[pepperrn]

Penny

 

You know that I share your opinion of the Commodore Club. I don't want your voyage and this thread to stop. Wherever you're thinking of hiding, find somewhere better. Whatever carpets you're planning to grab hold of, get a real good grip, get those claws in now!

[patwell]

Well then, it seems that our boards are back and running reliably again so I'll post this last part. Thanks again to those of you with enough fortitude to read it all, and to those of you who enjoyed it.

 

Joy...your turn will come...be patient. We all had to wait.;)

 

Karie...here's a bit more reverie for you on what I've heard is a cold New England day. And no, I didn't sob...at least not so you could hear me...but the claw marks are there and i hear they are leaving them as an example.

 

Pepper...I don't, and didn't want it to end, so we'll just have to keep it alive elsewhere. ;) I searched for that elusive hiding place...I truly did...but they knew the ship better than I. Won't happen the next time!

 

OK...part 8 and the end of the story..for now

Cheers, Penny

[patwell]

Perhaps you’ve noted that, for me this trip elicited a lot of nostalgia and I hope these occasional lapses haven’t bored you. Sometimes I actually don’t mind not being really young anymore. Heck, if I were I’d never have these marvelous memories that surfaced at various times throughout the week. ,I feel sorry for the younger crowd who weren’t fortunate enough to be around to experience the real classics, before stabilizers and SOLAS came along and spoiled all the fun!

 

All week I’ve marveled how this ship could be so big and yet so intimate at the same time. Where is everyone?. Well,all except for that one night in the casino when I think every soul onboard wanted a slot machine. Were they giving away money that night I wondered? I never got close enough to find out. Then again I figured that this is probably just as well...what better time to start saving for that next voyage I rationalize!

 

I started to realize that back in the real world there is a large group of people waiting for me to return and get off “their ship”. People who want to take away my glass slipper, my prince charming and my golden carriage and return me once again to the status of mere mortal. In anticipation of that parting I find myself touching surfaces...soaking up images....harvesting all the little details like a frenzied squirrel as fall slips away from him. True love is like that. All the little things matter.

 

Long ago my parents arrived in this country in steerage...the REAL steerage...the one where you got to bring only one small suitcase of your worldly possessions, your own cutlery, a tin cup and a desire for a new life so strong you are willing to sleep in conditions we’d never accept. Steerage...an interesting concept , bearing little relationship and very far removed from shipboard travel of today despite what some people like to say. I think of my parents as I wander this grand ship and wonder what they are thinking as they look down and see me surrounded by such magnificence. I’m guessing they’re proud. 25 years after she arrived here as a young woman, my Mother took me, her 3 year old little girl, on what would be the 2nd of several crossings for me. And she took me on the ship she arrived on here because she loved it, and she trusted it. After a week on this ship I feel the same. QM2 has been said to have an anticipated life of 40 years. I don’t expect to still be around when she departs.I think I”m happy about that.

 

I boarded the QM2 with high anticipation and like everyone else, great expectations. For the service, the food, the excitement and all those intangibles that make an experience memorable. ...and I wasn’t disappointed. For us, being able to experience all that QM2 had to offer was the adventure, not just how perfect the bernaise sauce was...or wasn’t. And just like our immigrant ancestors in search of freedom and adventure, so too did this trip herald a new chapter in our lives, the freedom and adventure of early retirement. We chose well. I discover I am not the only one in my family who has felt that flutter of a new romance.

 

And now the time has come to say good by. I have dreaded this inevitability probably since the moment I boarded. The packing is done, the suitcases put out and we are dressed for that last bittersweet evening. I drag us here and there on the ship revisiting favorite spots but also secretly listening for the laughter of that little blond girl that this trip has reawakened in me. I can almost hear it around every corner, or is that just my mind playing tricks on me. It was fun to find her again...I’ve missed her spontaneity, but when did that blond hair turn to silver? There is so much of this ship that is evocative of the past... sometimes the lines of old and new blur a bit and I’m determined to take all of the essence with me. If I could only find that elusive little blond girl and take her with me too. I guess the only thing to do is return and chase her down again.

 

This has been a week of superlatives. I would be hard pressed to find fault with anything. OK, boarding, a trial of endurance, but then all good things are truly worth waiting for. I had waited a long time for QM2....what’s a few moments spent on the pier? And maybe those scrambled eggs in King’s Court. I actually told the Captain about them at his cocktail party. Imagine the cheekiness of that! He invites me to this special party and I have the nerve to complain about the eggs! Really...another evil twin sighting I guess!

 

Jokingly I have threatened to leave claw marks in the carpet as they drag me off. In those last moments before our color is called I’m thinking this might not have been a joke.I’ve had mad thoughts of dressing all in black and hiding by the funnel but my silver hair would no doubt give me away. I had an offer to sleep in someone’s lifeboat and use their shower....I gave that one serious thought. Oh yes, I’ve become a bit possessive about her I think. As the week progressed and others commented on how much they were enjoying the ship I found myself thanking them.... how delusional is that!!

 

And there...the dreaded announcement. They’re calling “purple”...I’m holding purple tags. We have been waiting in the Winter Garden and now i wonder why I missed this place completely. Too late now. As we take one last look around, my eyes well up...I didn’t expect that to happen. I slip into my QM2 backpack ( had to carry that huge teddy bear off somehow), grab my QM2 rolling carry-on (all those new logo goodies and some bookshop finds of course) and slip my QM2 tote bag over my shoulder( OK, where else was I going to carry that wonderful bathrobe and beach towel I bought). I’m wearing my QM2 cap and a nifty QM2 hooded short sleeved sweatshirt. I am a walking, talking, living, breathing advertisement for the QM2. I wouldn’t have it any other way!

 

The moment of crossing the gangway in the wrong direction has come and I know that the Queen Mary 2 is now an addiction I will have to live with. A quick glance back is all I’m allowed as the line once again pushes me forward. Maybe it’s a good thing....I’d hate to make a scene. Long good-bys can get so emotional. This truly is “sweet sorrow”. There is no doubt we must return. I fumble in the tote bag for my Cunard brochure, necessary reading, and planning, for the ride home. The QM2 has stolen my heart. I don’t think I was expecting that.

 

Though the trip may have ended, the passage of our life continues...as does the romance. I have left my heart on the QM2. Is it proper, I wonder, to thank a lover for an affair to remember?

[pnhmrk]

I know that the Queen Mary 2 is now an addiction I will have to live with

 

Penny - How quickly you've learnt:) I don't think it's QM2 though, it's Cunard. When I first went on QE2 it was for a four night trip to Lisbon; I thought I'd never go on the ship again. There have been a lot of "I'm not going back again"s but I'm still going.

[Saga Ruby]

Nah. We all know that the lovers meet again a year later at the top of the Empire State Building. Uh, strike that - the Cunard pier. Great loves never die which Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr so ably demonstrated.

 

Such a loverly diary of a memorable voyage. Good on you, Penny, for making everyone want to rush to their TA and make arrangements for their own "affair.":)

 

Happy sails!

Ruby

[cusyl]

Thanks for your wonderful writings about your voyage on the Queen Mary 2.

You have put into words exactly how I feel about the ship. I've never been good with words, but I must say that you have a book in you.

You are a very very talented writer and I would certainly buy your book.:cool: I hope that you will soon be able to sail again on her.

[happy cruzer]

Thank you.

[pepperrn]

Penny

 

Your "Affair To Remember" has touched the hearts of all of us, with your words, your prose, your poetry, you have, better than any review I've read, allowed us to enjoy a voyage as you explored and experienced the great Queen Mary 2. Those of us who've crossed or cruised on this Liner have boarded and set sail again by simply reading your fantastic descriptions of the time you spent on board this true queen of the oceans.

 

I was going to say how sorry I was that it had to end. However, I know that this is not the end. You're already planning your next voyage on the QM2. And I, for one, cannot wait for the next time you "cross the gangway" (This time in the right direction) so that I can read another part (of many future episodes) of an affair that, like your review, will be remembered.

 

Thank you, a million times, thank you.

[travel-to-go]

Penny,

I know you well enough to know that that little girl never left. She has been there all along.

And to know that her sisters, her mother, and father... are all there too. Maybe your Da was standing by the funnel, your bestemor hovering over your table at dinner, tsk, tsking. They are there. and the little blodnd girl a lso.

 

As for the Teddy, I am very jealous.

 

As you may know, I agreed to buy the teddy for Babette (Ocngpzy) for her client's child, who left his on board. Well, I finally got her address from her after not hearing from her for a bit.(turns out she had had a bad injury- I forget, torn ACL?) and was moving at the same time. So I had that little guy in my bedroom and wanted him so bad. I did not allow myself to handle him, but knew from buying him how VERY soft and cuddly. Well, she never sent me the money for him, even after I sent him over with quick delivery. Not so much as a thank you or a picture of the happy child. So I am diabolically thinking of asking for him back! (You think YOU have an evil twin!) That bear is so so soft!

I have to get one(Silly I know) for myself on my next cruise.

 

So Give yours a hug for me, til I get one from me!

 

Sorry your trip had to end. You could become the Bea of the Qm2!

 

Karie,

Who would still offer to be your maidservant, ironing your clothes, for the chance to be onboard!