Our cruise experiences and adventures
Our guide today was entertaining and informative, known around Hoonah as “Rainbow.” I wonder why? The “kitchen” is part of a recently-constructed theater building that’s in an alcove at the “far” end of the main attraction area. We were able to enjoy a wine spritzer, taste smoked salmon dip, and eat salmon burgers and halibut breakfast sausage. You honestly can’t tell the meat in the sausage is fish.
The day in Juneau began with a raw chill, the thermometer hovering between 57-60 degrees. After a massage to ease my tight neck, we decided to brave the weather and go ashore. With rain briefly paused, we headed to Tracy’s Crab Shack, right on the dock. I opted for the crab bowl, a satisfying mix of crab, rice, and coleslaw. Though the cashier seemed unsure about the season's success, her comment about the weather resonated with the locals' perspective...
As we navigated the choppy seas with winds shifting to the southeast, the day was filled with vibrant meet-and-greet events. With over 90 signed up, the Cruise Critic and Facebook group gathering brought together laughter and stories, though I foolishly forgot to capture the moments in pictures. Following the cocktail party at Q Texas Smokehouse, we ventured on a bar crawl, sampling unique shots and specialty drinks, all while trying to...
The check-in process dazzled me, taking just over 25 minutes from door opening to boarding lounge. It was a stunning day in Seattle, the smoke from last night diminished, and as we settled in, I couldn't help but notice how smoothly everything flowed. The new safety adaptations in muster drill training felt like positive changes. We kicked off our journey at The Local with celebratory drinks, soaking in the atmosphere...
As we flew over the breathtaking landscapes of Wyoming and Idaho, I was once again reminded of the beauty our country holds. Upon arriving in Seattle, we checked into the Hampton Inn, eager for some well-deserved rest after our uneventful flight. But first, we indulged in a delicious lunch at Sharp's RoastHouse, where I savored a four-cheese patty melt that was nothing short of heavenly.
Roxan couldn’t resist the playful banter, joining me in my sarcastic commentary as we kicked off our vacation. It was a perfect blend of humor and irony that set the tone for our trip. With each passing moment, our laughter echoed through the air as we embraced the absurdities of travel. Little did we know, this vacation would be filled with unexpected twists and delightful surprises that would keep us on our toes.
It offends the “handle it one” freak inside of me, but packing at home was a smart move. We’ve cleverly separated our clothing into each checked bag, ensuring that if one gets lost, it won’t derail our trip. Half of our T-shirts, jackets, and shorts are in each bag. Like a game of Jenga, we balanced everything to achieve the right weights. Now, at 4:45 AM, we’re all set to take off to Seattle!
We’re about 1/3 the way to Kansas City, where we board the plane early tomorrow. Tonight we will dine at 54th Street Bar & Grill and do some final shopping at Walmart before we check into the hotel. Gotta love this, 6 hours before check-in…. So yeah, the system accepted a reservation in a closed hotel, and the property didn’t get around to telling us until the day of check in.
As the vacation countdown ticks down to just 32 hours, life feels like it's zooming by. Between helping my daughter with a new car and managing the logistics for our fur kids, every minute is packed with tasks. Our cats, Tippy and Charlie, are sensing the changes all around them. Charlie's clinginess and Tippy's newfound affection are signs they're aware of the upcoming trip, adding a layer of emotional complexity to our preparations.
Photography has been a passion of mine since high school, where I spent hours developing black and white images in the darkroom. Now, as a storm chaser, I capture extreme weather events with my phone, ensuring each shot is rich with context. The goal is not just to document the beauty of these phenomena but to provide valuable information for forecasters. This trip, I’m excited to explore new techniques and equipment to enhance my skills and pay tribute to my late friend Steve, who inspired me.
The 155-square-foot balcony of room 8112 offers a unique intimacy with the ocean, perfect for capturing stunning photos as we navigate the Panama Canal. Located on the ship's lowest deck with balconies, this room is ideal for minimizing seasickness while providing a serene environment, shielded from public areas. However, being at the front means a longer walk to amenities and potential operational noise from below that could disrupt our peace.
Transitioning out of my role has been a journey, especially handing over responsibilities to Luke, my capable replacement at church. Today marks a significant milestone—full turnover day. I finally let go and immersed myself in worship, a refreshing escape from the daily grind. The experience has reinforced my belief in...