Sunday, October 22 – The Van Winkles meet the Veendam

It was a smooth night with very little to let us know that we were on a ship instead of dry land.  We stayed in bed late but still got to the MDR in plenty of time.  MA decided to try for the egg-white, goat cheese and basil omelet this morning.  We were not able to get a table in Roy’s section and our waiter was a little flustered with the order.  MA even spelled basil for him.  Soon enough, Roy came over to assure us that it would be done right and then delivered it himself once it was ready.  It must have contained an entire basil plant [or two].  This was a far cry from the days on the Amsterdam when it would appear with spinach or parsley and cream cheese.  Score one for the kitchen and Roy.

This was such a stressful event that we went back to the room, worked on the Sunday crossword puzzle and then took a long nap.  We arose in more than enough time for 1:30 trivia but should have stayed in bed for all the success we had.  Anyway, from the Crow’s Nest, we walked down one flight of stairs to the Lido where we got burgers and fries for lunch and MA finished the puzzle; D had completed it earlier.  While we were there, another passenger stopped by to check his answers and we were happy to happy to help him.

Once again, we ended up taking the SCAN.  We don’t know if it is the salt air or the strenuous life we are leading, but naps are good.  If were in West Palm, we would probably ball asleep in our recliners, so we don’t feel guilty.  Maybe we’ll do better tomorrow.

Tonight was the first of 10 formal nights, so we got duded up which is more than a lot of people did.  There was a time when most men wore tuxedos; now we are lucky if the wear ties and jackets.  And no woman wears a cocktail dress.  Part of the reason is the new attitude of cruisers and part has to do with airline baggage rules and charges.  Regardless, it is not as festive and formal as it used to be.

One last thing – our itinerary has changed slightly.  Due to a medical emergency, we are making an unscheduled stop at Bermuda to evacuate someone; the captain did not say whether it was a passenger or crewman.  We will be at anchor, so only the “guest of honor” and possibly a medical staffer will be getting off the ship.  The captain thinks we will still make port in Horta on time on the 27th.


TOMORROW – Maybe we will stay awake.

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