Going, going, gone !!

The adventure begins. The ship’s ready, I’m ready … let’s shove off!

Michael, my nephew, “chauffeur” and a bartender par excellence drove me to the ship:

I have to say the embarkation systems went seamlessly. I went from car to ship in under 10 minutes. No lines, no confusion, just “Welcome aboard, we’re glad you’re here!” It got a little more confusing once I was on board. No escort to the cabin? No white glove service? No champagne or orange juice? Hmmmm, they must be cutting back.

Wandered around until I did find my cabin. Bummer – an interior. But beggars can’t be choosers, and my cabin steward is a star. Giving him a nice tip at the beginning of the cruise helps to ensure outstanding service – something I learned at my father’s knee.

There’s so much to do onboard that I need my Blackberry just to figure out what’s going on and when. There’s a “Princess Patter” newsletter under the door each day with the days activities. Great comedy show last night, with a comedian who has been featured on Jay Leno’s show, today there are Photoshop editing seminars, Astronomy lectures, lessons on using a potter’s wheel, ship tours, treasure hunts, trivia contests, karaoke, casino, bingo, ice carving demo, fruit & vegetable carving, health & fitness seminars, and even a champagne waterfall! Here’s my contribution to that:

I have at least five goals on this sailing (so far).

1. Do not gain weight (at least 45 min. per day in the gym).
2. Write all the Christmas Cards I brought with me, about 130 of them (if you get a very early Christmas Card from me you will know why!!!
3. Read one “classic” novel.
4. Write a blog.
5. See and do everything that I can!

So far I’m on track … stay tuned …

BTW, the things I forgot: 1) my HP12C (calculator), 2) to put an “out of the office” message on my phone. I have to see if I can arrange that from Aruba.

Sea you later!