Paris Day 3

Paris day #3
Oh my aching feet. We walked quite a bit today. Some of the metro stations are lager than airport terminals. We hoped the metro in the morning and headed to the land of the dead at the Paris catacombs. We walked down a very narrow spiral stair case made of stone. 186 steps down. We walked in dimly lit under ground passage ways until we encountered the land to the dead. Millions of bones pilled high. It was very interesting. We then had to climb only 86 steps out of the crypt. At the top of the winding stairs was the only defibulator I say in Europe.
Next we had a 17€ lunch at chez McDonalds. Then we took a very long metro ride to the Arc De Triomph, Then we waked down the entire Champ-Elysees. We stopped in a few shops along the way. We had some chocolate and banana crepes. Once at the bottom we crossed the river and Headed to Les Invalides. This complex is still a working veterans hospital as well as any army museum and holds Napoleon’s Tomb. The tomb was actually very interesting and best of all it was cool inside. The weather has continued to be in the mid 80s and sunny.
Right down the street was the Rodin museum. We toured only the garden area which was in full bloom, and saw the major sculptures like the thinker and the gates of hell.
It was no about 4pm, so we hoped on metro for the last time and Hit the Orsay Museum. We concentrated on, Van Gogh, Monet and Whistler. We then walked back to the apartment. Rested for about 45 and headed out to see where we needed to go in the AM to catch the bus to the airport. We also need toilet paper, we had been surging for, for quite a while.
Found the bus stop in 10 min. no stores with TP though. Madonna was in town and we ran into the crowds out side where she was performing. Finally found the TP but they did not give us a bag. So we had to go back to the apartment to but it away. Chris had to use it right away only to find out that it was paper towels and not TP.
We headed out and found a store that had the real deal. They were open late so we went to eat first. I was tired and my feet hurt so we picked the first place that looked good. Believe it or not we had one of out best and cheapest meals directly across from the louvre.
We had Vine, and amazing French onion soup. We split an order of escargots( in the shell), quiche lorrain, club sand which, a side of fries. For dessert Chris had some chocolate lady finger thingy. All this was only 41€!!!!
We picked up our TP and headed home. We packed and of to bed.

WED AM
Up at 5am Paris time.
Roissey bus to Charles deGaul Airport.
Flight to Newark. And here I sit waiting for my fight to Buffalo.
I consider this trip Over :(

second day in Paris

PARIS DAY#2
What a fast day. Paris is a beautiful city, and from what we have seen so far very clean. In the Metro there is not a scrape of garbage. At least at this time of year there is no smell either.
The Day started with us catching the metro to the Picasso museum. We were there for a little over an hour. It was very interesting, I did not know that he worked in many different mediums. We then walked back toward the river and crossed on to the Isle St Luis.
We found the cheapest café we could find. We had 2 “chez beregers” and a glass of wine a piece. Only 31€. We then crossed onto another island and the went through Notre Dame. It was a very interesting church put was over shadowed by the Vatican.
Next we traveled via metro to the Luvre. We managed to hit most of the major Items I wanted to see. We spent a little over 2 hours and we really only covered one wing. After trying to find the exit for some time we headed home. We rested for about an hour and a half.
We then headed to the efiel tower. We took the metro again to help save on some of the walking. The line for tickets was not too long and moved quickly. We then traveled up the tower by elevator.
After coming down we sat in the park in front of the tower. We waited for the light show to start at 9pm. I guess it was not dark enough yet because nothing happened. The first show must be a 10.
We left and took the metro toward the flat.
We had vine, chips and ham and cheese baguette.

PARIS

Well me have made it to Paris safely. However at a great cost. To make a long story short. I paid to have an extra suit case when I booked my tickets on line. What I did not understand, because it is writen poorly is that, you can have and extra suit case(for a fee) But it does not allow you to bring extra weight????? Then why did I pay this? So our third suit case cost about 283 US Dollars to bring with us. 1oo.oo more than our tickets. In hind sight I should have rearranged my luggage and throw clothes out. I would have been cheaper.

Once in Pais we some how bypassed customs. Dont know how but we just walked and claimed out luggage. We took the Roisey bus to the Opera and then a cab to the apartment. The hallway was SCARY. like hotel carter Scary. But the flat is self is nice and clean.

We walked around the Garden du tuileries, chris had ice cream. Stopped at a market to buy an eclair and some breakfast/lunch supplies.

Dinner was at a nice little cafe. Food is VERY expensive here a coke is 4.50€ so 7.50 US dollars. Water is about 50 cents less. WE will be eating in a lot here.

Ok it is Monday morning and we need to get moving to head out.

Oh yeah and the first 2 days of picture took like 40 sec to updload on the web site. you can now enlarge them if you like

THE FRENCH RIVIERA

DAY#15:Villefranche France.
We woke up this morning to the picture perfect seaside town of Villefranche. This is a small suburb of Nice. The village starts at the sea and stretches up the cliffs. There are many brightly colored buildings. As well as Miles of Stairs.
We tendered in and walked the village checking out the many stores and cafes. We looked in a grocery store and I was able to buy some bottled water in French. Finally getting a hang of this Euro thing too. We thought about hopping the train for the 10 min ride to Monaco but decided against it.
We walked to a local beach where we sat for a while. Then it was time to get our feet into the Mediterranean Sea. What better place than on the French Riviera.
Then we headed back to the ship for Lunch. We spent most of the after noon at the pool with the village as a back drop.
We had dinner at Le Bistro: escargots (double orders) I had the bouillabaisse again and Chris had the braised beef. After dinner we met our group for cocktails. About 9 pm it was time to start packing. Yikes!!!!! I REALLY DON’T WANT TO GET OFF THIS SHIP. A few people are doing the week Med circuit on the ship.
It is about 1030 now. We are supposed to meet at the bar for farewell drinks tonight but I am so tired. Tomorrow we must be off the ship by 730 to catch the transport to Barcalona Airport for out Flight to Paris. This is the part of the trip I have been dreading.
Well me ended up going for drinks and staying out until midnight. We laughed our asses off and said our good buys.

Tilted

DAY #14: Florence Italy…Pisa too
We started the day early, 530AM. We were supposed to be in port by 7am but we were late due to congestion in the port. Finally off the ship about 815. Taxi ride to the train station, then we whisked out way though the Tuscan country side to Firenzi (Florence). We were a group of 6. We hit a few of the major sites like the Dumo.
We then had lunch at a small outdoor café. We had proscuito mozzarella and tomato panini. Very yummy. Followed by a traditional Italian espresso. STRONG!!!! We used the bathroom there which was on the second floor. You had to climb a stone circular stair case with such low ceilings that even I had to duck. When coming down, I missed the last stair and fell directly into the center of the café. I was laying on my stomach but spread eagle. Luckily I did not get hurt. We then split up and went on out separate ways.
We walked a bit more on the crowed streets of Florence and decided that we would go to Pisa. We hopped on a train and off we went.
We walked the streets of Pisa which were beautiful and much less crowded. The architecture of the area was wonderful. We walked to the Piazza del Duomo and there it was the leaning tower!!!! It actually was more dramatic than I expected. I think it was one of my favorite sites. Taxi back to the train station and then the train back to the port.
Chris managed to find the most expensive gelato in Florence at €12,00 a cup. He also found a cannoli.
Once back on the ship we went to the pool and swam under the Tuscan sun. Then a quick tip to the spa therapy pool. We then met our usual group for cocktails. 12 of us went to dinner at the Grand pacific dinning room. In short we had a sea food salad, nicosse?(ahi tuna) salad, and we split lamb chops, sirloin steak and lobster stuffed ravioli. No dessert tonight as we were off to the CHOCOHOLICS BUFFET!!! The sculptures of ice and chocolate were great. Unfortunately after words we had to say good bye to our new friends Pat and Paul since they are sneaking off the ship a day early and driving to Germany before flying home to Vancouver.
As of now 1150 pm we have sailed 4700 from NYC

ROMA

DAY 13 Rome.
What a day!!!! Good? Bad? I just cant say. Did I throw a coin into Trevi fountain to guarantee a return? NO!
We caught an 8 am train from the port city of Civitavecchi Italy to Rome. We traveled the entire day with Brian and Renee, which made the day more fun. We exited the train at St Peters station and walked to St Peters’ square. We only had a very short wait to entire the basilica it self. Totally amazing!!!!! We walked around inside for about an hour. Next we went to the grottos to the tombs of the Popes. Of Course, Pope John Paul’s was the most crowded. St Peters tomb is there as well.
After leaving the Vatican walked to the Metro, stopping for gelato on the way. The metro was easy to figure out. Once the train arrived that was a different story. NYC sub ways are like a Disney ride compared to the pushing and shoving that went on here. Plus the dirty arm pit smell did not help.
We exited at the Coliseum. We walked directly into a large labor demonstration and parade. You do not want to be in the middle of flag wearing, and waving group of pissed off Italians. We did the out side visit of the coliseum since it was closed for the labor day holiday. Next we walked the outside of the forum since it to was closed.
We then took a taxi to the Pantheon. Also closed but it was the cab ride of death. NYC can not hold a candle to this ride. We have some video to add to the web page latter. Next we walked to what I really wanted to see. The piazza Novana. AH the four rivers fountain…. Covered in scaffolding and not running.
We found this amazing restaurant on the square for lunch. Chris and I had a glass of bottled water. 2 canned iced teas. An Parma ham appetizer. Pasta carbonara, lasangna and 2 chocolate truffle gelatos for desert. The bill was a whopping €71.00. That’s a little over $100.00 US. I guess we paid for wonderful food in a great location and an unforgettable experience.
We then walked to the Trevi Fountain. Beautiful every one should see it. I think every on did today. There were literally thousands of people there. The crowd leaving the fountain was suffocating. I really thought I might just have a panic attack. The pushing shoving and slapping. Yes 2 German men slapped Chris in the face repeatedly while he was trying to protect me on the stairs. Renee was getting ready to hit then with her water bottle.
We then hiked over to the Spanish steps. Covered with people and more scaffolding on the top. We found the metro, which was bursting at the seams. We squeezed into the train and headed for termini station. Once there we caught the express Euro star and got the hell out of dodge. The 45 min ride took us to the solitude of our floating palace…… Paradise.
It was an experience to say the least. I am glad we got to do it and we laughed on the train about all the funny things that happened. We had great company with us and that made the day wonderful.
So it was a fun day in its own way.
It is about 745pm now. We have just set sail. The next port is only about a 125 miles away. I think we are just going to do the buffet tonight and skip getting dressed up, and relax. We will meet the gang for drinks first

corsica FRANCE

DAY 12: Ajaccio Corsica France.
Corsica is a beautiful island, where sea and mountains meet. This mountainous Island as snow capped peaks. It is were Napolean was born.
We tendered to shore about 10 am and just walked around the town. It as very interesting a bit scary because no one speaks English. After seeing some of the sights, we found a café and had a nice lunch.
Corsican cheese panini and French fries with a glass of the vin de masion blanc. We then tendered back to the ship.
After some rest we had an early dinner at Le Bistro. I had double escargots, Chris had lobster/scallop martini and escargots. We both had a frog leg soup. This soup was like green pond slime with cut up frog legs. Very tasty. But ugly. Then for the main course I had duck a’la rounge, Chris had brased beef shank and tender loin. Dessert was an apple tart and the chocolate fondue.
We then started to figure out what the hell is happening tomorrow. Due to a holiday many things are closed. We are not able to stay the night in Rome as planned. We tried to buy train tickets on line but the credit cards keep getting declined. Some one else also tried and they were declined as well.
We have now sailed 4401 miles from NYC. We are now passing the lights of sardinia

DAY 11 CHRIS' 40th Birthday

DAY 11: Sailing the Med. Chris’ 40th birthday
Sailing the day away we got to sleep in until about 9 am. We went for breakfast and then hit the pool. Laying in the sun watching the Mediterranean sea go by, We cruised past the Balearic Islands today and will pass Sardinia and Corsica later.
We had to use the pool today it was just so inviting. The out door hot tubs were great too. We had a light lunched listened to live vocal guitar music poolside. Then we headed to the spa to enjoy time in the hydro therapy pool. By then it was time for an hour nap and get ready to meet for cocktails.
To celebrate Chris and Pats birthdays 18 of us went to teppanyaki. They came out with 2 cakes and 40 people sang to them. Then the next table some ladies did a striptease act for the entire table. Chris was up to 5 long island iced teas by now. I had about the same in gin and tonics.
We all went to see the second city adult comedy improv and more drinking and more laughing. At this point the room was spinning for john from one to many gin/tonic. So we headed back to the room for Chris to have more sinful chocolate obsession. While john tried not to get sick from to many cocktails. Chris’s drinks caught up with him later.
What a wonderful day at sea. We could do 15 day’s of just floating around in the med. Pool, Sun, Friends, and drinks

AHHH.MALAGA

DAY 10: Malaga Spain
One thing I keep forgetting to mention is that for the past 3 days it has been 85-90F.
What can I say about Malaga…..Other than I will be back!!! We awoke early to have breakfast and catch our 8am tour to the caves of Nerja. Before going to the caves we stopped in the town of Nerja. This was a picture perfect Mediterranean town.
We wondered the streets and admired the pastries. I was able to order then in Spanish, as well a ask a question to a pharmacist about a product we needed. We enjoyed the views as we ate our treats.
Then we were off to the caves. They caves were very cool. However we were a bit rushed. Also, they were hitlers about no allowing flash photography. Even, the auto focus light was to much for them. Buy our pictures please.
We arrived back in Malaga and started to explore this most wonderful town. Horse drawn carriages abound.
We went to the main square and wondered down the numerous side streets. We were lured into this tapas bar by a friendly waiter. He helped us thought the menu. We settled on a large picture of sangria. Then we had an anchovy with bread and tomato tapa. Then we went for the 6 tapas combo. Let’s try and remember what we ate. 1)ox tail with rice. 2) some type of sausage, 3) garlic glazed rabbit, 4) Moroccan style pork, 5) Eggplant 6)green olives with sardines.
We were looking at what to order next. The waiter asked if we liked seafood. Of course, we said SI. He then suggested a mixed plate of local fish. He said you must eat like a Malaga person. He said he would do a half order for us. We could not even finish the half order, it was HUGE Rochester HUGE. Loaded with calamari (ink included) pieces of Cod fish, clams, shrimp and sardines. All fried to perfection in a light breading.
Then he insisted that we have a shot of some sort of liquor, free. It went down smooth.
We then waddled in a semi drunken way though the town. We stopped and explored the inside of the beautiful Cathedral of Malaga. Strolled the avenues and local botanical garden. Then with some regret we returned to the ship.
We had plans with our friends Pat and Paul from Vancouver to meet at the steak house for dinner. (Pre birthday celebration for Chris and Pat) Another great meal and company. Chris and I had, Shrimp cocktail, oysters Rockefeller (for me), lobster bisque, 16 ounce T-bone streaks and multiple desserts. Chris and I also had a half of a large bottle of wine.
Then we met are other friends in the bar. Finally getting back to the cabin about 10pm. So as a write this now I am laying on the bed with the deck door open, feeling the sea breeze and listening to the waves as we sail the Mediterranean sea.
AS OF NOW WE HAVE SAILED 3695 MILES, OY VAHY
Tomorrow is at sea day. It is also Chris Birthday. The big 40!!!!
There is a big Celebration planned for Chris and Pat’s birthdays.

Day 9 Cadiz Spain

DAY 9: Cadiz Spain
We arrived into port on time, but it took a while for the Spanish authorities to clear the ship.
We boarded out tour bus and did a tour of the ancient and modern city. The city it very beautiful. I wish we had days to explore it.
We then headed to the cliff side city of Arcos. We walked the city but everything was closed since it was a Sunday.
Next we were on our way to a Spanish bodaga and Andalusian horse fare. We were educated on the process of making sherry. We were in the town of Jerez, where Jerez grapes are grown and sherry was developed.
Next Came the Sherry tasting. It was done very differently than U.S. wind tasting. We were seated at tables of 8-10 and given 5 different bottles of sherry. We got to it. I ended up buying a bottle to share with the travel buddies back home.
We arrived back in Cadiz about 400. We then walked along the coastline promenade and through an incredible sculptured park. We watched people catching squid from the pier. We then walked a maze of narrow cobble stone streets to get back to the pier. For me this was Spain. Everything I have imagined since High School.
Once back on the ship we had a light snack, since we had no lunch.
Chris went to the spa, I napped for 45 min. Chris went up to let people know we were skipping cocktails tonight but he never returned. So I went to the spa for about 50 min and soaked in the therapy pool.
As I was leaving Chris found me, we changed and headed to up to the bar for drinks. We were there until 10 pm. I was laughing so hard that I spit my drink all over the place.
Finally at 1005 4 of us headed to Magenta for dinner. We had leak and fennel soup, and roast leg of lamb.
After closing the place at 11pm we tried to head to the store to buy soon screen. It took us almost an hour to get there because we kept running into people we know and chatting. It is amazing how many friends we have made on this ship.
Bed about 1245. We will wake up in the Mediterranean as we are passing through the straight of Gibraltar about 3 am. We can see some lights from Tangiers now. (Africa)
I am writing this at 7 am as we pull into the next port. We have now sailed 3628.1 miles from NYC.

Lisbon Portugal day 8

DAY 8: Lisbon Portugal
We sailed up the Tygus river and under the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge and directly into the port of Lisbon. The ship was greeted by a giant statue of Jesus erected in thanks when Portugal was spared from entering WWII. We were then quickly shuttled to the city center via bus.
830 AM. Not a soul on the square other than our bus load of people. No shops, no info, nada. We were traveling with our friends Pat and Paul. So we wondered around the main square and the Baxia area. We viewed the famous elevador de Santa Justa. We then headed up the back way to castelo sao Jorge. I don’t know how many hundreds of steps we had to climb to get to the hill top neighborhood but we made it. Legs burning and huffing all the way.
We explored the castle and its spectacular views. We then headed down to the oldest part of Lisbon called the Alfama area. It was one of the few areas to survive the 1725 earthquake. We walked very narrow winding streets dodging cars and street cars. We stopped and visited the Cathedral of St Vincent. It is from the early 1700’s. He is the patron saint of Portugal. More walking and we ended up back at the spot we started at. Not by choice.
It was a good thing because now the square was filled with people and tourist info. We bought a ticket for the hop on hop of bus. We took the blue line tour which took us through a large potion of Lisbon, and hit most of the highlights. One thing that really stood out was the amazing tile work on the buildings. We passed the Torre de Belem: which is a defensive tower built in 1520. The Mosteiro dos Jeronimos (16th century) and many of the main monuments.
One thing we could not find is a Hat store and a place to buy sun screen. I am burned to a crisp and in pain. I will have to see if the ship has some outrageously priced sun screen or a goofy hat.
We took the shuttle bus back to the pier. We strolled the boardwalk and found a restaurant called Don Pomodoro. We were given a plate of thinly sliced parma ham and bead. We indulged in the Portugues tradition of port wine. We had past with shrimp and pasta with muscles. It was amazing. Later when we returned to the ship we saw that the place was certified by the Accademia Italian Della Cucina, and represents authentic and the finest Italian food.
It is now about 6pm and we have just left the river for the open sea. Chris is at the spa but I can not bear the thought of anything hot on my skin.
At 730 we meet friends in the star bar for cocktails. Tanquery is becoming my friend. Later 4 of us went to dinner in the Grand Pacific dining room. We had escargots, seafood combo, seafood with thai noodles (chris had ribs too) and some strange dessert. We decided to no go to the show, but go to bed early. Well that did no happen. Chris wanted more ice cream so we went up to the buffet.
We ran into some other friends and chatted for about an hour.
Now it is 1110 and we need to change the clock ahead for the final time. As of now we have sailed 33185 miles from NY. Our Crossing is officially over.

DAY 7 feel free to what ever......

DAY 7: At SEA
Time is flying by way to fast!!!! Today is another relaxing day at sea. We did not wake up until Julie the cruise director, yes Julie, just like the Love boat made the 11am announcement for BABABA Bingo.
We had some coffee on the balcony and watched the sea go by. About 1200 we went up to have lunch. Just as we finished we had some people join us and we chatted until after too on the AFT deck.
Back to the room for a quick change and headed for the pool deck. Sat in the sun for about an hour. Chris had to try out the water slide.
We then went to the spa and relaxed for almost 2 hours.
From the spa we were able to see a few pods of dolphins coming up to the ship and then riding in its wake.
It is about 6:45 here 1:45 in NY. We have now sailed 2926 and 258 miles until we reach Lisbon. Seas have been very calm today.
I am off now to our nightly cocktail with friends then dinner.
Dinner was at Tapas restauant nothing special tonight. Service was kind of slow but we had good company and conversation.
We then went to the 70’s review show. It was kind of fun. The best part was the dramatization of the popular 70’s tv show themes. Like the Brady bunch all in the family etc The 4 of us sat in one of the opera boxes on the side the theater.
Then of course off for ice cream. We made a stop at Bliss night club. And then off to bed. We are now sailing into Lisbon this am.

DAY 6

Day 6: Ponta Delgada
Today we enjoyed the island Sao Miguel which is an Island in the Azores chain. The town is Ponta Delgada. I was really taken aback by the lush beauty of this island. Flowers every where.
We took a tour to the fumaroles and hot springs. It was very interesting. First we stopped in a little town and walked around its square for a bathroom break. Here we found a bank and withdrew some Euros.
We then headed to an area with boiling mud pots and steam vents. It was like mini Yellowstone. The people however will dig these large holes and fill them with a concrete ring to stop the sides from falling in. Then they will use these to cook meals.
We then headed to Terre Nostra botanical gardens. They have a thermal hot spring that you can swim in. I wish we had the time to do that it looked great.
Next we were off to a tea plantation. We watched and learned about the production of tea. We then got to taste the finished product and it was very good. As it turns out, The Azores are the only place in Europe to produce tea. There are 2 plantations and both are on the Island.
Back on board ship we had a light lunch with friends, an we set sail for continental Europe. Our crossing is almost complete.
The bridge report is that we have sailed 2445 miles and have 743 miles to the next port of Lisbon.
Chris just called from the spa to have me look out the window for a whale but I did not see It.
Need to get dressed for dinner at Cagney’s steak house. Will update more later.
Once again the steak house was out of this world.
Oysters Rockerfeller.
Clam chowder
We split: lamb chops, fillet mignon and a rather large piece of prime rib.
Dessert: chocolate obsession.
Then we met our buds for cocktails and headed to the Second city comedy show. Chris needed ice cream before going back to the state room. So it is now 1115 pm, and we need to move the clocks ahead again!!!!!!!
Tomorrow is a at sea day. I hope we have some sun to use the pool. The seas have been calm all day.

Oh yea and to piss me off. We don’t need our passports to get off the ship. They are no stamping them. All these countries and a blank passpot

DAY 5 for real

DAY 5 : at sea
I am updating this about 1030 pm our time. I am sad that our sea days are coming to an end. We have now sailed 2108.5 miles from NYC. Now the rushing around will start.
Today we had breakfast, and chatted on the decks with new friends for a while. Before you knew it, time for lunch. Again we ended up running into people and just chatting and sitting watching the waves go by.
Afternoon I took an hour nap then went to the spa for a while. Chris had been there for and extra hour.
We had an early dinner at La Cucina. The Italian restaurant. Yummy yummy. We had antipasto, Caesar salad, veal Marcella, oil and garlic penne, and finally terimasu. Oh yea and a bottle of wine.
Then we met friends for cocktails. We were then going to go to the 930 show but ended up in the buffet because we had 2 ice cream fiends with us.
So we ended up just chatting and having a great time.
This tip, the balcony room has been great. We are able to sail with the doors open. The air temps have been in the high 50 or 60. 66 right now.
Tomorrow we will see land for the first time since Saturday night. We have an early shore excursion scheduled. So I will sign off for now.
Have to advance the clock another hour. Almost midnight!!

DAY 5

DAY #5 At sea
Not a whole lot to report today. It was a fairly quite day. It started out very sunny and warm for breakfast. Shortly after that however the wind picked and the clouds moved in.
We did not have lunch today because we were having an early dinner. We headed up to the spa where we spent about 3 hours. The hot stone chairs are wonderful. Relaxing to the max. As the afternoon wore on the SWELLS picked up. The relaxation pool started to rock and spill over the sides. That did me in.
Chris stayed up there for a while. The spa is at the very front of the ship. I headed back to the room which is mid ship and much more stable. I took a compazine a precaution.
Dinner time rolled around and we were of to Le Bistro….. ½ price to boot. We had the same meals. Lobster and scallop martini, escargots, French onion soup, and a wonderful bouillabaisse with large amounts of seafood.
At dinner we started having waves that reached to the 6th floor windows. Of course, we had a window seat. Chris keep saying don’t look now here come a big one, the ship would roll.
Ahh dessert. Chocolate fondue and creame boulle . Chris was covered in chocolate.
The rest of the night we rolled and rolled and rolled. Chris went to watch the sunset of the back of the ship. Plates were crashing all over the place. People were tipping all over. In our room the sky would disappear and we would only see water. Then we would roll and only see sky. Chris managed to hit the buffet 2 times and eat a least a half gallon of ice cream.
Move the clock ahead and off to bed. Chris is thankful for sleeping pills on nights of the rocky seas and a belly full of ice cream. We traveled 1500 miles at this point in the middle of

DAY 3

DAYDAY #3 At sea

WE have sailed about 1100 miles. The ocean is 14500 feet deep. We are in an area call the sargousa sea. This is named for the sea weed that grows here. It has been said once you enter this area you never get out!!!!!! Great with me as long as the food holds out.

Seas were ruff most of the morning and early afternoon then calmed down. The hydrotherapy pool was closed all day today because of the seas. People were getting pushed out of the pool.

It has been nice enough that we have sat out every morning in the sun for breakfast. Today went by very fast. These days at sea are wonderful.

After lunch we went for a mile and a quarter walk around the deck. Then off the spa using the various amenities and an hour and a half went by like nothing.

We met a few friends for cocktails at the star bar.
Then off to dinner at Magenta, one of the main dining rooms. While waiting for our table we listened to the string quartette in the atrium.

Diner was quick and delicious. We started with lamb sausage wrapped in grape leaves with hummus and chi chi beans. Then a fatoush salad. It as a pita with lettuce grilled peppers and a few other items. Chris had soup in addition to this, a puree of black bean. For the main dish we had the grilled NY strip steak with green beans and potato au gratin. We shared a bowl of pasta carbonara.

After diner we went to see the Gem production of World beat, which featured music from around the world.

Then it was time to change the clock ahead and go to bed.

Because of up load problems I will have to enter the blog this way and up date pictures at a later time. The band width here is just to low to upload decent pictures.

One week to go!!

Only a week left to go before the next adventure. I can't wait but time is going by fast.
I think that every thing that needed to be pre arranged is done. Now all I have left to do is print all the info and organize it some how.

This week was a great week weather wise. Warm and sunny. That all ended today, but It did give us the opportunity to get quite a bit of yard work done. I nice start since it will well into may by the time we return.

Blog updates not transfering

Not sure if there is problem or not. The last update did not post to the web site. I may be problem on the server. It was a weekend. So this is more or less a test post.

Allie can no longer get out of the yard. I lowered the front gate yesterday so she is trapped.

FIRST FLOWERS OF SPRING

OFF TO WORK

IT'S OFFICIAL !!!!
CHRIS IS OFF TO
HALLO BAY BEAR CAMP
TO WORK

WWW.hallobay.com

bastard!!!!!

Me and MY GIRLS

Me and the girls in front of the fire on my birthday. Waiting for some Pizza for diner. You can see a few more pictures under the pets section

Ground hog day

Driving home from work today I saw a ground hog on the side of the road eating away. Does this mean it is spring if they are out of their dens? I hope it does. This was the first one I have seen this year.

I see that the pictures of the emerging plants did not transfer over on the last post. Don't know why that happens. For the last few months they have all been showing up.

Signs of Spring

Happy Easter

Happy Easter to everyone. Right now I am having my own little Easter celebration. Even though it is only about 30 out the sun is warm with little or no wind. I am sitting on the back deck, with the dogs having coffee and listening to the birds sing.

I can see a few of the day lilys are starting to peak their heads out. Things are starting to wake up for spring. The Pusey willow bush is stating to open. I little late for dingus day, but getting there.

So even though it is cold it is a beautiful Easter Sunday morning. Enjoy it

IT's A BOY!!!

My niece Michelle had a baby boy today. Only 16 years after her last son.
no news on size etc yet.

All is well

Allie is home and doing well. She is acting like nothing has happened. She is all over the place.
The min she got home she ran and jumped on the couch to lick Emma

THINK SPRING!!!!

On the calender today is the first day of spring. As I look out the window it is snowing pretty good. I know, around here spring starts about Memorial day. It is just nice to think that winter is behind us.

Will be picking up Allie later this afternoon.

Allie's sugery Day

Allie had her surgery this am. She is doing well. She will be staying over night and I will pick her up tomorrow after work. It if funny no having her here now. I am able to sit and type this with out her trying to get on my lap.

I think Emma misses her a bit. She keeps looking around at any little noise to see if it is her. Tequila is happy, he is laying in the middle of the living room floor purring away. He is not being attacked.

YET ANOTHER BIRTHDAY

Happy Birthday Karen L..... Some say she is 49 other say 50...HMMM

Pictures from the Spring 2001 Tennessee trip are no online. I have also added a few pictures to the pets page 2. Emma and Allie took a trip to Buffalo so Allie could meet her cousins. This was her first long car trip and she behaved very well.

BIRTHDAY

Happy birthday to

Kathy G!!!!!!!

ALLIE THE MOUSER

Well not that kind of mouser. I stepped away from the laptop for a minute and she grabbed my brand new (less than a week) wireless mouse. She chewed it up pretty good. It still works, but this is a replacement for the first one I had. She chewed the part that goes into the usb port on the first one. Puppy power!!!!

Snow update. We did get about 20 inches of snow. It fell over such a long period of time that it was not really too bad. Didn't feel like a real storm

Will we get it this time?

The ice storm the other day was kind of a bust. Not much ice, not much of a storm. Now there are calling for a snow storm this weekend. The way the snow is coming down now it looks promising. I have had enough of winter, but if they are predicting a storm lets at least get one!!!

The Fall Tn bear pictures are back up. (2001 fall), Even if you looked at them before you may want to check them out again. The original scans that are posted now are much better.

I am working on a TN spring 2001 trip now. I hope to have that posted by the end of the weekend.

Still sick and a storm is a com'in

I am still home sick. I am sure people at work will be giving me a hard time. Fever was 1o1 last night. I think it has finally broke today. Still coughing a lot but feel much better. I should go tan so people will really think I was away instead of feeling like Sh*t,

I hope to add some pictures today to the friends and family page of us at Allegany state park a few years ago. May be even doing a little scanning if I feel up to it.

We are supposed to get an ice storm tonight. I should take a quick ride and get some gas tonight in case the pumps go down to no electricity.

Warming by the fire

Emma and Allie in front of the fire keeping warm on a cold winters night. I been sick all weekend. really coughing up a storm today. Chris is also still sick but doing a little bit better.

Monday night on the TV show: Anthony Bourdine no reservations will be highlighting the foods of Hawaii. It is on at 1000 pm not sure of the channel. either the travel channel of food network

Leap day

well it is leap day, an extra day....and I am sick. Think it is the flu. I was hoping to go home this week end but looks like I cant now. I would not mind being sick except for the dizziness.

TN 2005 update complete

Check out the added pics.......

Tenessee 2005 update

I am in the process of updating the spring 2005 trip to tn pictures. I am hoping to have them up and running by Tuesday night. I have found and scanned all the remaining pictures from that trip.

MAJOR EVENT!!!!!

Allie went out side by herself!!!!!!! She started to let me know that she wanted to go out. I opened the door and down the hall stairs she went. I opened the out side door to very blustery conditions. I didnt expect the snow and only had socks on. I opend the door out she went. She did #1 and then #2 AND ran right back in!!!!!!!!

New Light Switch

This is a light switch that we got for xmas. As you can see from the moose rack below it fits our decor well.

Well it is back to work in about 15 min. Presidents say weekend is over. Now we are in it for the long haul. No more long weekends until vacation.

WHO IS THAT MASKED WOMEN?

I was busy scanning away when I came across this picture. It is not in the right place, but I figured it was good for a laugh. I am working on scanning some glacier pictures from 2003. I want to at least scan them all. I may not post until on the cruise. How relaxing to work on the web page in the middle of the atlantic.

Happy Belated Valentines day!

I totally missed putting any valentine's day pictures on the site. So happy Belated Valentines day to all.

I have added a few new pictures under the pets section. See the nice meal Emma had.

Taxes are done...... Will have some cash for the next trip....

It is a long week end due to presidents day. I hope to maybe get some scanning done to add a new trip to the website. Will have to see what happens.

Finally feels a bit like winter

Today feels like winter. The winds are blowing and the snow is falling. Not a lot of snow but just enough to feel like winter. With Feb well under way the days are already getting longer. The Flower and seed catalogs are arriving in the mail, and thoughts of spring.

Allie got a new condo yesterday. She out grew the one she was in. I guess we could have just kept squizing her in, but what the heck. May as well give her some room. Emma was out playing in the snow this am. Seams like the colder the better for her.

Ready to go

Passports are in hand. we are set. Less than 3 weeks to get both of them.

Passport update

One passport has arrived. I guess the other is still in limbo some where!!!!

Allie and Emma update

Allie and Emma both went to the vet last week. They are doing fine. Allie is up to 8lbs and Emma is down to 99lbs. Allie had to get 2 shots and Emma had a chem drawn( which came back fine).

At the top of the page you can see I have added an additional Hallo Bay bear video.

Emma and Allie are also playing a lot more now. Driving us crazy with all the growling and yapping on both their part. I will have to try and get some video of them soon.

MLK DAY

Well at least there was no work today!!! It is very cold out though, but no snow.

Update posted on Friends and family page. 50th wedding aniv album

Other than that did not get much done today. Not even cleaning. Yikes.

Mean Girls

GRRRR Were going to get you

Slow week

This week is passing so slow, at lease tomorrow is Friday. I have been working on scanning and posting my parents 50th wedding aniv album. It should be up and running soon. It has pics of them in their younger years, as well us the kids and grand kids. Hard to believe that I made that book over 10 years ago now. Some of the pics are fading so I want to convert them to digital.

I also think that I am going to start learning some French on line. We will be in France a total of 5 days on the trip so it may come in handy to know some. Esp in Paris since I plan on using as much public transportation as possible to save money.

Glacier 2004 pictures posted

Working on these pictures made me remember how much I love this place, and how beautiful it really is. Wildlife aside, I think that this part of Montana is more beautiful than Alaska. You are just surrounded by mountains. In Alaska the mountains are always distant.

Glacier National park

Not really much to report. I am working on some pictures of glacier national park to add to the web page. they should be up and running by Monday eve or Tuesday at the latest.

Awaiting passports.

WINDY...............

The winds are howling today. Gusts up to 70mph. Lots of tree limbs down around the city. Some places are still with out power. I am Glad that it was so warm yesterday, I was able to secure the screen house in the yard all the way.

Allie made it all the way around the block with little protest. I had her follow Emma. Is she sat or slowed down to much, I was able to get her moving by saying lets get Emma.

Updates: Under the previous travel section pictures from the FL/Bahamas tip 2003 have been posted.

January Sweat

Wow hard to believe that I was out side this afternoon taking in the Christmas decorations from the front lawn, and sweating. The polar bear and the 2 blow ups are in hibernation until next year.
Emma and Allie took a walk around the block. This was the first time Allie went on the leash. She was not too happy about it. She will learn with time. She really got scared when this little Westie barked at her.

The Epiphany Here

It is three kings day. The last official day of Christmas, the twelfth day. This will be the last night for the outdoor christmas lights. Officially the inside light should be done to, the try taken down ect. But putting up all this stuff takes so long so it will be left up a while longer. It is kinda sad to see the season go. It really went fast this year.

Well let hope that the new year is good for all of us.

One more day of Christmas

Saturday evening here. Just sitting and having a cup of Kona cinnamon crumble. Pretty good actually. I am not nuts about cinnamon in my coffee. Check out the picture by clicking on it the bag for these holiday coffees are pretty cute.

I plugged in the out door lights. The third remote has stopped working. So now we have to head out front and crawl through the snow to get to the pug. Well one more day to the official end of Christmas 2007.

I found some digital pictures on my hard drive from a trip. They will be easy to add to the web site. Hope to get them soon.

Weekend Appraoching

Well it is Fr1day. Cant wait for the day to be over. This cold is really dragging me down. I hope to add some new pictures to the travel site soon.
THE MOST CURRENT UPDATES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Some video posted under the Videos section
A few pictures on the pets page. Also on the pets page Emma has her own Link (bio)
Smoky Mountains spring 2005 trip pictures are posted

Elf are officially gone

The elfs will be removed from home page tonight. Office makes says they are done. Bummer :(

ELF?

Well I tried to view the elf sites this am with no luck. They will not fully load. I don't know if it was a problem with the web site or if the elfing has ended.

As you can see the sight has been updated. Will try and keep you informed on what parts have new items. Currently, there are new items under MOVIES, PETS,Whats next and Previous travels. Under the pets portion Emma has a new bio page.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Happy new year ever one. If you want to see the elfing videos You will have to check it out today. I think the site closes down Jan 2. I dont know if the videos will be removed, or if you just wont be able to add more.

Diner last night :
lots of blue agave cobo wabo tequila margaritas
Kalua roast pork
Lomi Lomi salmon
pineapple glazed yams
Hawaiian style short ribs
Thai peanut noddles
shrimp fried rice.
Cheese cake
Snickers pie

We had a nice time good food, and great company.

Hopefully the new website will be premiering later tonight!!!!!

New Years Eve Approaching

Woke up this am with a bit of a cold. Just what I need now. I am planning on finishing scanning some the negatives today from the TN trip. Should have them online in a few days.

Need to get the rest of the New years eve stuff done today. Bit of a scalled down version this year.

Look for a newly designed web Page Soon.

Scanning pictures

Tonight I tried to start scanning some old 35 mm negatives. Boy is the digital age much better. Scanner is having some mechanical problems as well as some windows compatibility issues.
Once I finally got it working, it was disappointing to see how the negatives have started to deteriorate. Color is fading, and there are scratches etc on them. Some have never been out of the sleeve and there are still defects. I got about 3 rolls scanned before the scanner stopped. I think I will give up for tonight on it.
I had to listen to dominic the donkey before I signed off however. That will pick any one up

Christmas Day Animal pics

Under the favorite pics link (on the left side of the page) There are some new pictures of Allie and Emma. Some may enjoy the link above to Dominic the Italian Christmas Donkey.

Christmas Eve Dinner

The Christmas eve dinner was delicious!!!! All the prep time was worth the work and wait. Our travel buddie could not make it because she is sick. Do to some fast action of someones part our Jewish friends could not make it.

OH WELL OUR TRAVEL BUDDIE JUST WALKED IN.
SO I will have to cut this short.

Starters:
roassted red pepper humus
Crab dip


Menu:
citrus crusted skewered Mahi Mahi
stuffed clams casino
salmon with light cream dill sauce.
Mussels fria diabalo
Stuffed calamari with red sauce
seafood scampi (lobster scallops shrimp)

chocolate bunt cake

Christmas eve preperations

Well the prep for Xmas eve started on Sunday. It was time to start making the stuffed calamari. They are yummy but a pain in the butt to make. Dad made the sauce so that is a big help. Here are a few pics of the calamari process.

After stuffing them the ends have to be sewed together. They are then lightly fried and placed in the sauce to cook. I will post more on the complete menue later

Winter wonder land

Just in case the last test post did not work here it is again in another format. Dec 16 2007 snow storm, Added a bit of christmas spirit to the Front of the house.

Ho...Ho.....Ho

Some winter weather posts

www.flickr.com

More of thetravelbuddies' photos

Winter weather update

Sunday Night we did get some snow. The winds picked up in the evening and the lake snows off of Ontario started up. I guess all totaled we got about 20 inches in my area.

I did add a few new pics of Allie and Emma under the my favorite pics links.

Big snow storm?

Well the roads may not be great because of the snow, but where the hell is this big storm or blizzard? Very disappointing. the snow did not even interfere with opening the gate. I guess we will see what the evening will bring.
Hope to get some new picture updates posted soon.

Time goes By

Well Christmas is fast approaching. We don't even have all the decorating done yet. It is going very slow. There is a slight problem with the Allie and Josie relationship. It started a few days ago, Josie started stalking and attaching Allie. She will attack for no reason. She beats the hell out of the puppy. So we can not leave Allie alone for a second. I think we are going to have to get a water spray bottle to spray the cat when she is after Allie. I hope to get some Christmas pictures of the girls once the house is done.

new picture

New picture of emma and allie under the favorite picture section. Pardon the mess from all the fake snow on the ground, finally getting the Christmas tree up.

Allie and Emma

Allie has been with us now for 3 weeks. She is turning out to be a smart and pretty well behaved puppy. Emma and she are getting along very well. Allie can almost do any thing she want to Emma with little protest. It is kinda comical to see then laying in front of the fire together. Yesterday Allie was between Emma's paws. Her head was as big as each paw.
House breaking is going slow. I think she knows that is bad to go in the house, because she is hiding when and where she poops. I think that because she hates it out side so much it will be a real challenge. Both dogs were kind of happy to see the snow the other day. Emma has always like to play in the snow.
Tequila and Allie love to wrestle and swat each other. Josie on the hand still hates her, but is becoming more tolerant

bearfoots

For those of you who dont know, Bearfoots are bear figurines created by montana artist Jeff Fleming. He has ben dong this for a number of years now. http://www.jeffflemingbears.com/ to see some of his work. We Started collecting them in 1999. Just when you think you have about all of them he comes out with a ton more. Here are a few of the christmas collection.

Speaking of christmas, the decorating is not going well at all.

Christmas Spirit.

Tomorrow is Dec 1st and I still do not have one single Xmas decoration up. I hope to get some done this weekend. There is so much stuff to put up and set up. It seems a waste it you get it up too late. The last few years have been warm so the outside decorations were easy. It is supposed to snow tomorrow

I can not get to much done alone either. I need Chris to be home to help move the TV and furniture ect. Some of the first things to go out are the Christmas bearfoots, so all the furniture needs to be in place. All the regular bearfoots need to hibernate for the holidays. For any one who does not know what a bearfoot is I will post a few pics.

interactions

NAP TIME

But not for long

First Christmas stuff

Ok check this out. Is this a drunk Santa?
I feel sick

http://www.travellogonline.net/zzsanta.html

Not such a nice day for a swim

Yesterday was a bit sunny, but I would not say that it was a great day for a swim. Allie thought other wise I guess. While I was cleaning out some of the pond filters, she decided to go into the larger pond. She swam to the edge, looked a little shocked and got out. Then in her confusion of what the heck was that, she wandered and fell into the smaller pond.

She got out ok but was shaking a bit. So in the house we went for a nice warm bath and a towel dry. Hopefully she will know what to water looks like the next time. She still may need another bath since she still has somewhat of a pond smell.

Later Emma and her hiked it around the block

Hope everyone has a great thanksgiving. Allie followed Emma around the block all the way the other day. A nice long walk for her. It has been raining like crazy here since yesterday, in fact, we broke a record. Now it has turned to Snow flurries. I guess it was a good thing that it was not all snow.

Today's menu.
1 pumpkin-peanut soup
2 Turkey with gravy
3. mashed potatoes
4. fried corn with sour cream and beacon bits (southern favorite)
5. stuffing
6 rolls
7. Pumpkin and pecan pie

DOGS

Allie has been in the house for almost a week now. I am very happy that Emma is adjusting better than thought she would. Allie is even starting to right over her back with little reaction.

She is also in the biting stage, in fact my ear was a bit bloody last night. Good thing there were some left over spider man bandages in the medicine chest. She is also not as scared to go outside, although she still does not like it much. I do have her taking a "pee" ever time she hits the grass the first time. She likes to follow Emma around outside, and I think Emma ever likes it. Tequila has adjusted well and will play with and swat her. Josie on the other hand, will come into the same room but is not to thrilled to have Allie around.

First Snow

Saw the first snow flakes of the season today :( Just a few flakes but that was enough. Winter is on the way!!!!!!

Kauai OCT 2007 up and Running

What do you know, the page is online earlier than planned!!!! I also have a new bear video about ready to go, that link should be up tomorrow. I also will be working hard over the next few days to introduce the newest member of the family...... A NEW TRAVEL BUDDY I HOPE.....

I am trying to decide if I should just make a new page for all the stuff other than travel or just have different links. I need to consider how much space every thing will eventually take up on the computer.

Emma Dog

There are some new pics of emma from oct on the some favorite picutures link.
About 75% of the kauai site is ready to go. I hope to have it on line by sat at the latest. Keep checking back.

Trying to hold on

The last few blooms in the garden. They may be weak but they are still trying to hold on. Nov 11,2007

Missing Summer Already

It is only Nov 5th and already we are missing the warm weather. Now that we are on standard time it is already getting dark at 440pm. It is cold and damp out with light rain. So Hear I sit in front of the fire place with a hot cup of coffee. Boy is it going to be a long winter. They are calling for some snow this week. Will keep you posted and see what happens.

I hope to get some energy to work on the hawaii web page this week some time.

End of October

Happy Hall0ween!!!!!

I hope to start working on getting the Kauai Oct 2007 pictures posted soon. So please check back.
It is also really hard to believe the Oct is just about over. Where did this month go.

Kaui update 3

Wed..... Up early for conference. We then drove to the north shore. We got as far as princeville but it rained most of the way. So we ended up just heading back to Poipu. Diner that night was some fresh opah fish grilled in butter sauce.

Thursday....Conference then some local beach time. Chris went to see Lealani Revirea Bond preform at the Hyatt. I still had my head ache so I stayed back. Later that night we went to burgers in paradise for diner

Friday... Last day of conference. Beach for the day. Chris went to see Lealani again. Fresh ahi for diner again.

Saturday....... Today was kinda of a nice lazy day over all. Chris had to steam in the morning, then we drove over the north shore. This time it did not rain but the waves were crazy. We went all the way to the end of the road. It looks like Kee beach may be washed way. It was kind of hard to tell since there was not place to park. We had a great sweat and sour pork for lunch . After getting back to the condo, we napped for a little while. That evening we went to see Leilani Reviera bond. Tonight was a special night because she had here Keiki hula show with here. She runs a non profit organization to preserve native hawaiian song and dance. They really put on a great show. After words Chris introduced me to her and her husband. She was very proud to show off her new 2 month old grandson. Cocktails were 11.00 a piece here. Good thing the show was free. Later we walked around the hyatt a bit before going to walmart for last min things to take home.

Sunday..... Well this is the last day of the trip. I am sitting at the airport waiting for my flight to Portland OG. Chris has already boarded his flight to La. I Am still waiting for a gate agent so I can check in. I guess that this will be as good of time as any to try and update the blog a bit.Today we slept in a little bit until about 830. We were allowed to check out out late, so we did not have to leave the condo until about 430 pm The flight from lihue to Honolulu was at 640 pm We had beagles for breakfast then packed for little while and headed for the beach. We went back to PoiPu. It was a wonderful day at the beach sunny and a light wind. There were already 2 seals there when we arrived. A little later another seal made an appearance in the water however there were too many people around for it to come a shore. At about 100 we stopped at the store and picked up some sushi and fresh Hawaiian style ahi poke.We had lunch at the condo, did some laundry and finished backing.

KAUAI Hawaii Update 2

Monday night...Diner we made a great pork stir fry with this garlic sauce we found in the asian food area at walmart. It was called Sugoi garlic dipping sauce and glaze. http://www.sugoihawaii.com/. We added some rice, salad and lomi lomi salmon....ONO!

Tuesday.... UP early for the conference. Katsu Chicken from L&L for lunch. Later that afternoon off to PoiPu beach for a little sun and to watch the sunset. This time there were two Hawaiian monk seals on the beach. Chris found a health club and steamed. I am still trying to get over a head ache that started Sat am.

Tonight we plan to cook up some steak on the grill with some salad and sushi

Kauai Hawaii Update

Well we arrived on Kauai safe and sound. We awoke early On Sat in Honolulu. We spent a few hours on Waikiki beach. The weather was perfect. Not many people on the beach either. We checked out of our hotel about noon. Of course we had to make a run to Costco. Chris could not wait a day to get his discounted antihistamines.

Before heading to the airport we stopped at Zippys for some lunch we had the katsu chicken and the terri beef, both were as good as ever. All served with 2 scoops of rice and macaroni salad. We also tried something different the fresh tripe stew. It was actually very good not having to smell it being made was a bonus.

We then headed to the airport and caught our 22 min flight to Lihue Kauai. Picked up the rental car and were on our way very quickly. Stop at walmart and on to our condo. When we arrived at the condo, the lock box which was to contain the key was not there. It was getting dark and I was getting cranky. The on Island manager responded very quickly and we were into the condo. The condo itself is very nice. Much larger than expected as well. The only down side, The air conditioning no work so good. It is pretty warm in the condo most of the time. The grounds are beautiful. Could not find a great place for diner since it was getting late and a Saturday eve, so we found this little mexical place. The food was good and the prices were ok

Sunday.... was a lazy day. Hit the beach in the am. Joined by our buddy the monk seal on the beach. Did some grocery shopping, napped and cooked some fresh Ahi tuna for diner.

Monday.... Up early to attend the conference that started at 7am. After word some beach time, with the monk seal again at Poi Pu Beach. Right now the air is so clear with little humidity so you are actually able to see the island of Ni ihau off in the distance. So that about catches things up right now. Kauai being the garden island is holding true to its name this time. Flowers and trees in bloom every where. Hope to start shooting some photos soon.

Aloha again

WE have arrived safe and sound, The flight was filled with people who stayed awake on the whole flight. So needless to say we are a bit tired right now. It is 600pm here in Hawaii. We arrive a few min late about 300. The temp was about 88 and it was sunny.

We are all checked in at the queen kapiolani hotel, our favorite here. We have reservations for 730 at the Sheraton Waikiki. Crab legs here we come. It was a bit late when we finally got to the hotel so there was no beach time. We will make up for that tomorrow. Remember you can always get us by cell phone or now email.

Aloha

Well we are off on our next big adventure. It is about 415 AM and we are getting ready to head to the airport in a few minutes. Of course the weather in Rochester is cold and rainy today. But in about 15 hours it will be hot muggy and Aloha Friday!!!!! Hopefully a mai tai on the beach and all you can eat crab legs listening to the surf roll in.
I will try and keep this updated on a regular basis along the way.
Aloha

test picture upload

Let try some words before,

and after the pic of a Fall Flower

Some Fall flowers

Happy Columbus Day weekend

Hard to believe that it is Columbus day weekend already. Time is just flying bye.

The link to Katmai by air in the Alaska site is not working correctly. I have tried to modify, delete it and is always is there with the wrong link, It shows the pictures alright, but it is through an external site. I may have to just move that link under another section. The Hawaii portion is under construction but I have not work on it much.

It is incredible that it is Oct 6th and the weather is sunny and it will be in the high 80's. I am out in the yard having coffee and looking at the garden that still has blooms. There are yellow hibiscuses, dahlias, clematis, geranium(wild) black eyed Susan's, day lily's and a few other flowers in bloom. Soon the leaves will fall and the plants will still be full size. This will make for a real mess of a clean up. the ponds still have all the tropical water lettuce and hyacinths growing. The pool is still open too. I may even try and take a dip today. That may be a first!!!! Swiming in Oct in Rochester NY.

DONE!!!!!!!!!!!

THE ALASKA SITE IS DONE!!!!!!
Thank god. it took a lot longer than I thought it would. I am happy with the results though. I Hope that I don't find anything that needs to be changed or updated. Upload should be between 430-530 today
I am now starting to work on the Hawaii trip from the summer of 2006. The cruise aboard the Pride of Aloha. I know there are a few people waiting to see those pictures. I hope they are all up and running soon. This is Columbus day weekend. Hard to believe that time is going by so fast. The weather has been great. It is still very warm. I most likely will be away for most, or at least part of the weekend. I should have some time to work on the site however.
It will be interesting to see how I can update the site while away on the next trip. I am thinking I may just use this space as a general journal entry, since it is so easy to update. Then Later do a summary page with all the photography. I will have to just play it by ear and see how things progress.