January 31, 2016
We’ve been at sea for almost a week now, and were on land yesterday for the first time since last Sunday, when we left San Francisco. Being in the Pacific Ocean has been a great time for reflection, as we cruise along with no land in sight, no birds, and only the noise of the waves. But a busy time, too – there are things happening all day and night on board. We have met many nice folks from all over, and there are about 350 people who will be onboard for the entire 100+ days (others join us for specific segments of the trip).
Lectures abound, many focused on the conflicts in the Middle East as do classes on a wide range of topics (photography, bridge, computer, piano, Spanish, knitting, health and wellness, history, geology, etc.). Fortunately, many of the lectures are taped so you can watch them on TV if you are busy when the original lecture takes place. Agonizing decisions every for us: Joe – whether to take a photography class or a lecture; MA – whether to take Spanish or pilates. Tons of sports classes and clinics too (golf, paddleball, etc), as well as an onboard Olympic Games challenge. Happily, clergy of various faiths are on board, and Mass is celebrated every day.
Yesterday we saw Honolulu during a brief visit. Enjoyed the Lyon Arboretum and a great party at the USS Missouri (where the papers ending WWII were signed on the Surrender Deck).
Tuesday we reach Fanning Island in the Republic of Kiribati, but we won’t yet be at the Equator. This Pacific is one big ocean!
Best,
MA
Love hearing from you…glad all the is well… Keep the reports coming!
Joy and Jim
We are very happy to hear of the opportunities that the ship offers, maybe, someday; we will be able to sail that long and experience first hand all that there is to see, touch, feel, taste, and smell on this amazing journey. Enjoy! I vote for Spanish, that other thing causes some pain….all our love
Big day tomorrow (Monday) in Iowa…. What is Joey going to do without current news.
It sounds better than a great trip.
we are actively monitoring national news and it seems that almost everyone on this ship is mystified by the Trump phenom.
Mary Anne: Tell us a bit about Fanning Island. I read that as late as 2003 there was no electricity and running water on the island. Cruise ship employees (particularly the Norwegian Lines) donated $$$ and built a school. Did you get to see much there. I know it was a brief stay. Love getting these reports and pictures. Jim
Hi Jim – Fanning Island still has no running water or electricity, and the government is actively trying to relocate the residents due to concerns that the Island will disappear in 20 years due to climate change/global warming/rising seas (not sure which politically correct term is used most often). Although the residents seemed happy enough, and there is a local school for children, the future will probably have to change for this group. I guess it is one of the places in the world where people need to find a way to “get ahead” by getting out of a bad situation. Kind of makes me think about other areas of poverty, no matter where they are located. How fortunate we are in the more developed world, having more options and freedom to make decisions! MA xo
Sounds like you guys are having a wonderful time. Please post pictures. Love the one with the two of you.
Miss you
B
If you need any updates from the primary front we’re being even further inundated. After Iowa it will be even worse. Going to see the queen herself on Tuesday.
oh yea, I love that picture of the two of you too – what a great trip!
Glad to see that everything is cruising along well. Thinking of you!
Love,
Kath
Glad to hear that so many others are doing the entire cruise along with you and Joe. I have a feeling that before long, you both will be invited to become some of the guest speakers ! Keep the photos and commentary coming. Love you guys.
El
It sounds so incredible – can’t wait to hear more! Miss you
Mary Rose
Wow…that about sums up my reaction to your trip so far !! I knew you would both be busy and it is nice to hear comments about a cruise other than about the food ! The seas must be calm as you did not mention any queasiness ! We miss you and look forward to the pictures you post.
Loved the picture of you both sailing out of San Fran. Hope to see some more great pictures and looking forward to reading more. Thinking of you both and hoping you are having a great time.
It sounds wonderful. I keep tabs on your by periodically checking the live camera views from the ship’s bridge, port and starboard. Am trying to imagine what it’s like for you both. Hope you’re having a blast!