And the adventure begins! \240Awoke at 6:30 before the alarm clock did its programmed job. After last-minute checks, received the call from my “Uber” (named Ruben) that he was ready if I was.

We went to an IHop restaurant on the feeder that I didn’t even know existed. Then the hour drive to the Hertz rental car place on Hwy 6 in / near Katy. The door was locked even though office hours were active. The sign on the door had a number to call if needed; the voice on the other end said “10 to 15 minutes”. \240I could tell a vehicle was being vacuumed.

She finally showed up and, about 15 or 20 minutes later, I was shown my new rental car (shown in picture): Nissan Altima. Thanking Ruben for the lift, little did I know the remainder of my 6-and-a-half hour driving day would test my stopping skills.

Drove up Highway 6 and took I-45N. That journey alone took 1 hour: I hit EVERY red light along that stretch!! \240(Not only that, but every light until Hope was usually red when I approached).

From the interstate, I headed east on 242 and arrived at 59/I-69 in short order. Having driven this road many times on the way home to see kin-folk in KY, I found this drive much easier this time since many towns were quickly bypassed from recently completed construction.

This Altima is both quick and gas-efficient- more than my Kia at home! I was surprised to make it to Hope by 4:30. I was a bit tired and could have made it to Little Rock, but no need to rush on this trip. I need to stay the night in Allenstown, PA the night of the 5th so that I can easily make it to the big city by the next morning.

The woman at the Hertz place said that I can turn in the car before 10 am, but to try not to be any later. So, it will be important to pace my trip carefully.

Now at hotel in Hope- more tomorrow!

Crop duster!! \240I drove under 3-4 separate ones today... watching them spray their crops.

The day began at 6:30. Left hotel at 7:00 and driving 30 minutes down the road to the Cracker Barrel. My waitress Heather and I had a delightful discussion regarding traveling. I gave her the highlights about my trip while she said she was excited to be leaving Arkansas for the first time to visit a friend in Nebraska. I told her to be on the lookout for “Chimney Rock”, a famous Nebraskan landmark.

She then gave me the wrong bill ! \240She had to be summoned to the cashier’s podium where she apologetically presented the correct tab. \240Funny!

The remainder of my driving day consisted of me gassing the car & stretching my legs every chance I could get. Without cruise control, I would be lost.

Found a place to hunker down for the night before day 3’s exciting driving day! \240(this is, by far, the most boring part of the entire trip - trust me!). \240More tomorrow.

You gotta love Bob Evans Restaurant! \240If you’ve not had the privilege of their “biscuits & gravy”, then you haven’t lived!

So, up at 7:00 to walk across the road to Cracker Barrel (you can tell it’s a favorite). The restaurant, upon entry, was designed very differently than all the others: the cashier’s “center” was, well, in the center of the merchandise inventory. They said that only 1 or 2 other restaurants had that design. Apparently, they tried this configuration in lots of others but, in this location, did not get changed back.

[ the middle, boring, driving part of today’s journey will be skipped]

Then, around 2:00 pm, I saw the sign: “Dixie Caverns”. \240A show cave I have not previously explored... had to stop. For $14.00, not much to write about:

The bright light you see in the picture above is the original, natural entrance. The cave was discovered in the early 1920’s by 2 boys and their dog, Dixie (thus, the name of the cave). \240Not huge rooms. I was not expecting about 100 stairs (steps). \240Huge bell canopy in the biggest room, along with a shield formation that the guide didn’t even mention. \240Had about 20 in my group.

Just to note: I try never to reveal my identity before or during a cave tour (Geology Professor and was Park Ranger at Carlsbad Caverns). \240I don’t mention that I’ve now visited almost every show cave in America (where you pay $$ for entry & have a guide). I was hoping I would be only one on tour (its happened twice!) but no such luck. After the hour tour, asked slyly to a nice older couple if they had visited CC (Carlsbad). They said no, but our early-twenty-something fire-fighting tour guide happened to overhear and say “ my boss has!”.

I said goodbye and left, without anyone knowing about me. I revealed such things on an early tour once and I found the young tour guide started to rely on me to confirm the correctness of her speleothem terms. In other words, I found that it creates a bias that I do not like or want, so I usually play dumb (“that’s called what?”) and all ends well.

According to my map app, I have 2 days to drive 7 hours into NYC, so will drive 2 hours to Harrisburg PA tomorrow and hope for something fruitful to do before the hotel.

Skyline Caverns entrance sign.

I’m so happy to be driving to NY through “cave world”. It’s also perfectly timed since I was wondering what to do for 2 days.

Woke up and headed to “Perkins” for breakfast. Perkins is another one of those chain restaurants that exists outside of Texas (like “Shoney’s”). My waitress wore a huge pink flower in her hair.

I found a brochure for the cave in the lobby and discovered it was just south of my present location, so I drove a back road for about 45 minutes to get there. I was the first visitor of the day. When it comes to me and caves, I have yet to visit one twice. I had no recollection of visiting this cave, so that was good.

Shortly, a dad and two small girls joined the tour and away we went. This was a very wet cave (not only dripping but ponding along trail). Discovered in 1934 by a geologist. Tours were suspended during WWII to “keep people from traveling “.

A rare formation in part of the cave- not made of calcite or aragonite but a hexagonal-polymorph (it has name but cannot remember). Picture:

Apparently formed in a near-vacuum, according to our guide. Longer than most helictites and simply incredible. I could have studied them all day but “the girls” were whiny and restless. \240A very nice cave.

I didn’t make a great deal of eye contact during the tour with our female guide because I was too busy looking around and taking pictures. I believe she perceived me as a weirdo or something. At the end of the tour, the sign at the exit said “tips welcome”. I saw the dad give her a few bucks... so after washing my hands, gave her a few dollars as well (she was talking to her colleague). I then let her know that I was a Geology professor & was a ranger at Carlsbad. She seemed totally shocked. \240I guess looks aren’t everything (I did look like a bum).

I have just 2 hours to get to Allenstown tomorrow- and I will have the chance to visit 4 more caves in the area: Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks, Penn’s Cave (which are close to one another), Crystal Cave, and Lost River Caverns (if time permits). There’s a fifth cave but I won’t have time on this trip.

Final, funny note: stopped at another Bob Evans for more biscuits & gravy (go ahead & judge...gotta get it while you can). \240Told my lady waitress about my big trip and she was shocked I would be going alone without my “significant other “. I told her if she found someone like that, let me know!

Three caves today. This is the natural entrance to #1- Penn’s Caverns. \240Took hour-and-a-half to just get there. \240It’s a boat tour.

When I arrived, tons of Asian folks from tour busses packed into the gift shop/ticket purchasing room. This place is in the middle of nowhere & busses of folks going to Toronto where being quickly escorted to the boats for 30-minute “abbreviated tours”.

Yet, I was the sole member of my boat with my tour guide...how did that happen? On the way out, boats of school kids asked “where are the rest of your people?”. I told them we threw them overboard.

After I left, backtracked 2 hours to get back to interstate to take me to Crystal Cave:

A structurally-controlled cave that formed along the NE/SW axis of the Appalachians, Lovely formations, such as the cave bacon shown.

Cave 3: Lost River Cave (should be renamed “Lost Money Cave” or even “NothingBurger Cave”). \240Picture:

My guide, Andrew, is standing fairly upright. You can tell the thick Ordovician limestone formation is dipping about 70 degrees towards him.

Some nice formations and some interesting cave history but that’s all.

Whew! And I was worried I couldn’t find anything to do for two days!!!!!

Nervous about the big day tomorrow- NYC is only about an hour away but will likely get an early start since it was suggested that I allocate 2 hours for the trek. Will drop off car and say “good riddance” (maybe “good job” would be better) and then walk to hotel. Visiting 9/11 museum before checking in. A good update to come!

Going through the Holland Tunnel this morning.

So - I was advised to allow for two hours to get into the city (an hour drive). So, up at 6:00 am and on the road at 6:30. I would say that it was slow-going but not intolerable. The only hiccup: once out of the tunnel, could not take a critical left-turn and had to drive a loop to get back on 6th Avenue, but no biggie.

Arrived at rental car return place (Hertz) approximately 9:10 am. Then I walked to hotel. I was expecting that I would need to surrender my luggage to the concierge but the room was already ready already! \240Nice room - took some pics.

Then, had my first-ever Uber with driver Maria. I’m not sure how much a cab would cost but this ride to lower Manhattan was pricey: almost $35.00. The Uber back was more because I think the guy wanted to give me the scenic tour.

9/11 museum: no problem getting in. Hardly any line. Reflecting pool picture:

An awesome presentation of the events and aftermath of that day (inside the museum). I felt on the verge of tears at times but found that I could maintain emotional integrity. Not overwhelming. \240Took lots of pictures and saw famous things: the last column, the crushed fire truck, the survivor’s tree. \240All professionally done.

Decided not to go into Tower One (cost was a factor- $40.00). Ate some chicken on rice and returned to room to rest.

Tomorrow: maybe the Today Show (within walking distance), then (after 10:00 am), the Museum of Natural Science on 77th Ave. These are the only 2 items on my plan, so will probably walk to the museum!!! \240

Lastly, happy not to be driving anywhere!

Rockefeller Center.

Quick note: after taking the picture above, peeked through the Today Show window and saw Al Roker sitting at the end of the news desk, Craig Melvin sitting at the other end, and Hoda Kotb in motion walking off set. They must have been in commercial break at that point.

I was so exhausted last night that I went to bed at 8 pm and was asleep by 9. Up this morning at 6 am (New York time, of course). Like I typed in yesterday’s entry, I didn’t want to Uber anymore so I decided to walk: 30+ blocks to the Museum of Natural Science. \240I was ready to return to bed after that walk!

The New York pass that I bought had already come in handy greatly- yesterday with the 9/11 museum and with today’s tour. Museum opened at 10:00 and immediately took the elevator to the 4th floor for the dinosaur exhibits:

Apatosaurus, I think. I’m not really a dino expert (sorry Sharon). The displays were very detailed and well-organized. I wound my way down to the first floor where I encountered lots of interesting rock displays and about half the school kids from the Upper East side. I had to make my way to the meteorite hall before exiting:

Walked back but west of my hotel because I wanted to see Times Square. Made it back to hotel around 1:00 pm and rested a bit before returning to Times Square. I was looking for a grocery store when I happened upon Madame Tussauds- knew that the New York pass would cover the admission, so said “why not”.

The Duke, John Wayne! \240Was he really that tall?

I could fill this page with pics but won’t. Interestingly, didn’t know about a third of the figures (one reason: not a sports fan). Spent about an hour through there before stopping for a Subway sandwich and returning to room.

Bicycle ride through Central Park tomorrow. I also found a huge rock/mineral store/shop but not sure if I will visit.

Jackie Kennedy Onassis Reservoir- Central Park

For those reading this blog...Looking for a quick way to lose weight? \240Move to New York!

Decided to eat breakfast at a place down the road this morning at 6:30. Then I walked some distance to the bike rental place. Got my bike, chain, and key. There’s a huge one-way loop around the perimeter of the park and was advised to stay on it.

There’s Manhattan schist everywhere!! I think some of it is glacially-abraded but not all. It’s very rich in both muscovite & biotite mica with some veins of quartz and pegmatitic granite. Some of it looks like it could have some gabbro in it too.

But “fatty me” had trouble with the steeper hills. To someone in better shape, it’s a quick downshift and up they go. To me, it’s a monster. But I made it all the way around (Ruben - are you proud?) and then returned the bike within two hours.

Then I made the dumbest move of the trip so far. I walked 30 blocks just to visit a rock and gem store that looked good on the Internet... but in real life, does not exist. And, yes, I went to the correct address.

Had to then walk about 20 blocks back in the opposite direction and made it to Times Square. \240My legs and feet were like jelly at that point but stopped for a sandwich & mustered the strength to see the M & M store and the new Hershey store before coming back to hotel.

I’m pooped! \240I have my broadway show tomorrow at 2 pm, but I might go early to do the “Hop on/Hop off” bus before returning to change for “Waitress”.

This was a cool parking lot where cars get stacked. It saves space, I guess! \240

Tower One, World Trade Center. Downtown Manhattan.

A couple of days ago, I was praising my New York Pass (which was active for three days). \240I was cursing it this morning since today is the fourth day.

Decided to ride one loop of the “Hop-Off/Hop On” bus this morning. I went up to the ticket counter and she told me it had expired. If I had done this yesterday, it would have been “free”. In total, the card wasn’t worth the money I paid for it.

I went ahead and bought a ticket and did the loop. Our guide David had lived in the city all of his life and often would compare certain parts of the city today with what he remembered as a boy. It was a great experience and took some really good pictures.

Returned to hotel and changed for the off-broadway play:

I was there early and walked around some before getting in line. I was one of the first ones in the theater and had to buy the favored treat (flavor: salted caramel):

It was rich! Of course, kept the small glass jar and washed it out to store future geologic goodies (sand or rocks). The performance was amazing. What is interesting: my sister went to see the same play in Nashville and our performance times were one hour apart.

Final note: an annual Vietnamese parade was happening on the street where my hotel is located and it stopped traffic for awhile:

The man who was near the bus terminal said that New Yorkers hate the parade because it’s just a pain. Another guy said that the bigger parade is tomorrow. I have to walk 3 blocks with suitcase after I check out just to get a cab / Uber to carry me to cruise terminal to board the Queen Mary 2.

Last full day in New York - gotta pack & get ready for the transfer tomorrow.

The morning started at a different restaurant for breakfast at 7:00 am. The particular meal I ordered included the apple juice (pictured). \240Of course, the Puerto Rico parade preparations were in full gear:

Geez! \240Two percussion lines were “having it out” and seeing who was better. The main line was a full line with snares, bass drums, and quads (quince?). The other line started as just a single snare and quad but were shortly joined by others. If you’re wondering how I might know such things, I played the bass drum for two years in high school and four years in college.

The challenge today: checkout was before noon and could take cab / Uber to Brooklyn cruise terminal and arrive by 2:30. So, I didn’t really know what to do with my time. So how it played: checked out at 11:00 then walked to Times Square and caught a cab ride with driver David (world traveler). I told him to drop me (and my luggage bag) at the end of Brooklyn bridge so I could walk across.

I walked for 2 hours (I had the time) and finally came upon small deli where I ate a huge (and fantastic) turkey sandwich and drink. That gave me energy to finally make it to cruise terminal where I didn’t really wait that long to board.

Settled into stateroom and met Maria, my cabin stewardess. Then, had muster drill with life jacket.

Plan: informal dress on board tonight with tie & jacket but just not in mood. Will go eat at very informal King’s Court then go to theater to watch tonight’s movie: “All the money in the World”. \240Then, bed.

My stateroom bed is so uncomfortable! \240Not only is it firm (I like it soft), but it’s two twins pushed together to make a queen. I tried for an hour to sleep “on the crack” but had to eventually pick a side.

Ate a modest breakfast in the King’s Court (as they call it). I’m trying not to go overboard (no pun intended) on my meal choices. Afterward, I really wanted to find the gym but happened into the spa first.

Yes - I signed up for a few treatments. That’s all I’ll say!

Had lunch at same place before writing some questions for Chapter 1. I’ve decided to provide completely different questions to this Fall’s online Earth Science class, so I’m going to increase quiz questions from 5 to 10 every Friday and make more “non-multiple-choice” formats (fill in the blank, short answer). Not too hard for me to grade but just to provide a different experience.

Went to afternoon tea where I sat with a nice British couple who now live near Fort Myers. \240Tea was held in the Queen’s room:

Formal night tonight: putting on the coat and tie shortly and head to main ballroom for first time (first seating: 6:00 pm) to meet the folks at my assigned table. At 8:00, they are showing “Black Panther” at the theater. Bed around 10:30 but sleep will probably come later depending on which side of the Grand Canyon I choose!

There’s a great deal of beautiful artwork all over the ship, such as the nice display pictured above. I find it interesting that much of it shows ships of the Cunard line along with interesting stories and narratives. I have yet to take pictures of much of it, and this will become my mission for the remainder of this voyage.

So last night was “formal night” -

So I reported to the dining hall and found my table. I was the only one there, for awhile. I was then joined by a nice lady named Joyce and we literally talked nonstop for almost 2 hours. Her husband of 40 years has health issues and was unable to come. We were the only 2 at a table of seven. I asked her about the attendance the previous night and she said that she was one of four. Apparently, one of the female members did not like how a male was talking, according to Joyce, and vowed never to return.

I left the table to see “Black Panther” at the theater. It was good! \240Then, bed.

This morning, after breakfast, did chapter 2 questions then met with a personal trainer on board who “put me to the test”. \240I did not do well. He and I are meeting again tomorrow to map out a strategy for healthy living.

Tonight’s movie is “Moving out” or something like that. It will probably be terrible but will give me something to do.

I did not rejoin Joyce in main dining hall this evening but will go back tomorrow night. There’s also supposed to be a “solo traveler” lunch or something tomorrow at noon. Maybe.

This type of info graphic dot the ship. I started on deck 13 and made my way down to deck 4 (where my room is located). The lower 3 decks probably have the most information to photograph and will allocate some time tomorrow exploring.

I also joined the “solo traveler luncheon” today. Mind you - these are not all single folks and most are older than I. \240I sat next to a writer from Sacramento who will be staying in Ireland for a time researching cars (he is a contributing writer for “Car and Driver” magazine). I did initially meet some of the solo travelers on day 1 but met many more this time that were not present initially.

I worked out today at the ship’s gymnasium:

Most of the equipment is situated perpendicular to the forward motion of the ship...so you move forwards and backwards as the ship lists.

Finished chapter 3 questions today: rocks. A huge chapter.

After the formal dinner in the main dining hall, I went to see the movie “Wonder” starring Julia Roberts. Cute little movie. \240Bed time now - another day at sea tomorrow!

There are an amazing variety and quantity of paintings on board, such as pictured above. Most of them are found along stairwell landings. There’s an equal number of paintings that depict other ships of the Cunard line as well as various works featuring this ship.

There’s just a few paintings of the Queen herself. According to some of the information graphics, some members of the Royal family were on hand for ceremonial “rollouts” of Cunard ships. I saw Prince Charles in one of them.

Lunch today featured ice and chocolate- lots of chocolate! \240I did not eat any. Instead, I had both mashed and cut-up potatoes as well as potato and leek soup. I ate some beef and turkey too.

Only 3 more days until we reach Southampton and I get transferred to London for my week-long tour.

Last night’s movie was “The Greatest Showman” starring Hugh Jackman. It focused on the early career of P.T. Barnum. I liked the movie (which was a bit like a musical) but the fellow next to me (drinking wine) would grunt and snort every time someone would start singing.

The time changes hour by hour earlier each day as we approach our port. We have a final time change tomorrow and we will finally be on London time.

Did one more massage this morning with Carmen. I wasn’t really hurting but I can say that I do feel good. I wrote her a little thank you note and will give it to her tomorrow.

Laundry day today. Had a nice conversation with “Ruth the pediatric nurse”. She was probably in her 70’s or 80’s. Her and her retired Chemistry professor husband were sailing to visit family in Ireland and then go on a Baltic cruise on the Queen Victoria.

Received instructions for disembarkation today - I’m in the “Silver 1” group. Will leave room before 8 am Sunday and will leave ship one hour later. I’m ready for my London tour and ready for something different.

“Proud Mary” was last night’s movie. It starred one of the women who played in the movie “Hidden Figures”. I thought it was good but a bit confusing for awhile...until some plot pieces were filled in at the end.

Nothing special today. I had a little meeting with one of the personal trainers and I delivered my thank you note to Carmen, the masseuse that helped calm my muscles.

The last movie tonight is Johnny Depp’s “Murder on the Orient Express”. \240I’m packed and ready to put my bag out in the hallway for collection. Once I return from dinner and movie, will brush my teeth and put bag out into the hallway.

I just had some kid ask me “how do I get to deck one?” \240I told him. Then he said that there is supposed to be “cool stuff down there”. \240He then asked me two more times how to get to deck one before walking up the stairs in the opposite direction.

On a separate note, I was playing some solitaire when the captain strolled by. I knew it was him from his picture. He asked “are you winning?” \240I told him that the “other guy” is.

Last night’s movie was strange. I believe it was presented in the same fashion as a murder mystery on the Orient Express would, but (spoiler alert!) to think that everyone on board the train knew each other and all helped to kill off the main character...a bit much!

So, reported to the main “show room” (where they performed late-night shows) and waited for an hour before my category was called:

Disembarked the ship and went through “nothing to declare” after picking up my suitcase. I was expecting customs agents but there were none. \240Boarded the coach and, after a bit of delay, off we went to London.

Arrived Victoria Coach Station 2 hours later and really had to pee (too much information). Then took my first cab ride in a huge cab (they accept credit cards!). The guy’s machine was broken and hoped I had cash, which I did. He forgot to turn on his meter but told me “it’s about 10 quid” (dollars / pounds). He accepted my money and I was once again at the Cumberland Hotel.

Lots of changes! The Trafalgar tours now are situated in a building right next door to the main hotel. I checked in and received key to room. Then came over to Trafalgar building and met Pete, our Australian guide. Nice fellow.

Went to room and got ready for welcome dinner at 5:30. There are 45 on tour!!! \240Boarded coach and went to restaurant on Thames River:

Fish and chips with pie and ice cream. Starting meeting some nice folks. Tomorrow we watch changing of guard at Buckingham Palace then I go to first of three extra excursions: Tower Of London and something else (can’t remember).

The picture I wasn’t supposed to take! \240More later...

woke up before 6:30 and headed for breakfast. Bowl of cereal with some special tea from the spa folks of the Queen Mary 2. \240Afterwards, loaded onto the bus and away we went...

Almost - we were waiting on a new passenger: a black lady who cannot walk well. Since I was the last to board the bus, I sat in the front seat...next to our new guest. She’d lived in London most of her life and was taking this London tour...strange! \240And she mumbled to herself quite a bit.

First place to go: Buckingham Palace for the changing of the guard. \240Not bad. Two ladies in our group got lost in the crowd for a few minutes but caught up.

Then, went to a place for a “quick bite” (only gave us 45 minutes). \240I found the following pub to chow down a sandwich and fries:

In the afternoon, it was an optional excursion but most came along: St. Paul’s Cathedral followed by the Tower of London. The naughty picture I took (first picture shown on today’s blog entry) was forbidden but did it anyway. Some lady saw me and others snapping pictures and spoke to our local guide Anna about it. I bought a book in the gift shop to show the pictures I could not take.

Tower of London: amazing! Saw the Crown Jewels, including the two pieces that included gems cut from the Cullinan diamond- the largest ever found (3,105 carats). No pictures allowed so bought another book:

In the royal scepter is “Cullinan I”, weighing over 500 carats.

At the bottom of this crown is the Cullinan II. The book says that each can fit together to make a single fitted jewel for a pendant.

Was shocked to see Dr. Emmet Oz there rehearsing some kind of promo, I’m guessing:

Had to really look but it was him.

Tonight, ate at this place:

One of Gordon Ramsey’s restaurants. Had the cod (so good!) and chocolate mousse. Tomorrow: Windsor Castle and Stonehenge.

I met Harry today! \240Oops - only his picture with Meghan.

Breakfast early at 6:30. On the coach by 8:30. Lots of coach traveling today. First went to Windsor Castle, the real home of the Queen:

It’s a pretty amazing place! Lots to see. The queue was extraordinarily long since the castle was closed for 2 days previous...took almost 2 hours to reach entrance. Received wrist band and through the security station before receiving audio guides. \240There was a small band marching around the castle that held us up for about 15 minutes.

On the castle grounds is St. George Cathedral (I think is the name). It wasn’t bombed during WWII and is extremely old. In fact, it beautifully displays its gothic architecture with the small “flying buttresses” on the outside. This allows the church to be much bigger on the inside than the outside. I was not allowed to take a picture of the interior (it is an active place of worship) but here is the exterior:

We grabbed a small sandwich and left at 1:30. It was then a one-and-a-half hour drive to Stonehenge:

Really neat place. The outside stones are sandstone but the interior stones (called blue stones) are a volcanic rock from southern Wales called dolerite or something like that. Hard as nails. Spent about an hour there before coming back to London hotel.

Had to fin for ourselves for dinner tonight. Picked out a place but they were packed. Walked across the street to a pub called the “Boxcar” and had a yummy burger with bacon and barbecue sauce.

Tomorrow: Oxford University and possibly the tomb of Winston Churchill.

William Shakespeare!

Up at 6:00 for breakfast after 6:30. I was getting up from my little table after eating and my butt completely flung the porcelain coffee creamer vessel straight from the neighboring table onto the floor. What a way to start the morning! I was apologetic and waited for my mess to be moped before leaving.

On coach by 8:30...another long coach day. Went two hours before reaching the birthplace of Shakespeare:

Had one hour for lunch and shopping before entry into his house. Very cool experience. There was a rock shop next to entrance and bought some amber from Poland. Left there around 1:00 pm.

Next stop: the grave site of Winston Churchill. \240Definitely not on any tourist map!

Buried with his wife, I think. Left there and arrived at Oxford University in two hours. Were broken into two groups and each lead on guided tour by local folks. The campus dates back to the early 1200’s but first lectures recorded as early as 1000’s.

The campus was not bombed during WWII because Hitler wanted to make it his capital but never got the chance. Picture above taken inside Gothic-style building that serves as meeting room. \240There are tons of pics but just no room in this log.

Bought sandwich at store on campus and waited two hours (return to hotel) to consume. Elevator was out so had to climb up 6 floors just to reach room.

Staying in city tomorrow - Westminster Abby tomorrow, then afternoon tea then back to hotel by 3:30. Optional show tomorrow night that I’m signed up to see.

Kensington Palace, home of William and Kate

The day began with a guided tour of Westminster Abby:

The Abby is much larger than you think. There are three people of note (at least to me) that are buried there: Sir Issac Newton (I walked over his grave), Charles Dickens, and physicist Steven Hawking.

We made the move to Kensington Palace. The self-guided tour included a tribute to Princess Diana:

They even had some of her dresses on display.

It was a late “tea and crumpets” time that started at 2:00 -

We returned to the hotel by 3:00 to rest up for the late-night show some of us attended: 42nd Street:

Lots of tap dancing and set changes. It was really good. 11:00 return and bed.

The Borough Market was our destination this morning. \240You have never seen such a variety of food!

Fresh fish of all kinds!

Cakes and pastries!

We had 2 hours here - more than enough time to fully explore this market. I bought some different types of salt and a small jar of honey.

Made it back to hotel at 1:00 pm and have the rest of the day as free time. After walking down Oxford Street, returned to room and laid down to rest while watching “Cinderella Man” on the tele (as the Brits call it). I had a question about my transfer at Victoria Coach Station on Sunday, so made a local call and got a British chap to help me understand some things.

Walked across the street to the “Spaghetti House” to eat some minestrone soup and lasagna! \240Will return to room when finished and rest for the remainder of the evening.

The entire morning was a free day, so I decided to change up breakfast. Instead of eating at the hotel, I had a double-sausage McMuffin at McDonalds. I should have eaten at the hotel.

I also did a bit of shopping...for clothes. This is something I almost never do. Bought 5 pairs of colorful socks and 5 pairs of Pac-Man socks. Also a vest and some new dress shoes. I guess I was in a mood.

Boarded the coach at 1:00 pm and headed to the boat to take us to Greenwich. We were running 45 minutes late due to Brexit protests. The boat ride down the Thames was great but once we arrived at Greenwich, no time to see the official marker for GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). Was bummed.

Did get to see the underside of this rail bridge, which was thrilling for me since I show an Internet picture of the same bridge in Environmental class.

We then went to the Mayflower pub to eat our “farewell dinner”. Saw the plaque regarding the original Mayflower:

Had a great meal. Then returned to the hotel by coach and said goodbyes. Took about 20 minutes to pack everything for tomorrow’s journey via cab back to Victoria Coach Station and then onto Southampton in order to board the Queen Elizabeth for a month-and-a-half of cruising. Big day tomorrow!

Up at 5:30 pm this morning. I had already packed the night before and gone to bed at 9:00 pm. I walked over to the breakfast hall at 6:30 but on Saturdays and Sundays, they open at 7. I waited the 30 minutes and was joined by friends from the London trip. We ate breakfast together.

Returned to room and watched some tele until 9:00. Headed to front desk to check out and ran into Katy from Oklahoma. We chatted for a bit before I hailed a cab and headed to Victoria Coach Station.

I was really early. After being confused for a bit, finally checked in with the guy at Gate 3 who marked my name off his list and gave me a bus pass. Talked with some interesting locals for a few hours before loading onto my coach at noon.

We had a time leaving the city, and once again I had to “go” but just had to deal. Luckily the driver pulled over and gave everyone a 15-minute break required by law. I was thrilled - bought 2 granola bars and a drink to settle my stomach.

Finally made it to the ship. Since we were so late, it literally only took 10-15 minutes for embarkation. This ship is smaller than the Queen Mary 2 and there is less to do.The thing that will save me and keep me going are shore excursions.

But the room is nice:

I hope this bed is a single queen and not 2 twins pushed together. I’m dying to get on treadmill and did eat something at buffet before touring the gym. Had no chance to workout today since we had mandatory muster drill at 4:00 and I’m right in the middle of laundry duty. \240Will not join my table mates at the formal dining hall tonight but will go tomorrow.

So I have over a month on board...I’ve decided to take a picture a day.

I was the first to breakfast this morning. Pretty simple cereal with tea. I worked on Chapter 7 notes before attending the Solo travelers meeting. \240A nice group of people. A few of the dance hosts came over from the Queen Mary 2 and I recognized them immediately.

At 2:00, went to the movie hall for “The Post” with Tom Hanks. Good movie - a bit boring at the start until the main plot theme kicked in.

At sea today - tomorrow we stop at town in France: La Rochelle. \240I haven’t decided if I will get off the ship.- there’s a 30-minute coach ride to the center of town and we need to carry our passports. I might just workout and sit this one out.

Final note: attended the scheduled early dinner and met some nice people. Had turkey and dressing with a piece of chocolate cake.

Up at 6:30, then a nice breakfast (sausage, omelet). I rarely choose bread. I then worked on my Chapter 8 questions before doing 30 minutes of cardio on the treadmill.

I’ve pretty much seen the ship but did explore new areas today. It’s a smaller vessel than the Queen Mary 2 but it’s ok.

After lunch, went to see “Darkest Hour” by Gary Odam (whom I didn’t even recognize). He was absolutely brilliant and I was riveted for the entire 2 hours.

Preparing to meet a few new friends for a late dinner in the main dining hall this evening. We go to Spain tomorrow where I might explore the town of Balboa, depending on conditions. I did not go out today since there were a few logistics to navigate: bring passport, ride 30 minutes on coach to reach the city, etc. \240It all seemed a bit much.

A beautiful lion fountain in the city centre of Bilbao.

Up at 7:00. The ship docked at the port around 8:00 and we were allowed to disembark around 8:30. \240I was fifth off the ship. We loaded onto the shuttle bus and were taken to the center of shopping 30 minutes later.

Marble marble marble! \240I’ve never seen such variety or colors. I walked for 2 hours just snapping pictures of buildings. I’m sure folks thought I was mad. Did some souvenir shopping too. A nice lady named Ana sold me some soap. \240Her English was broken and I tried to follow with Spanish the best I could.

Returned to ship for workout. Then lunch. Did my earthquake questions, then played some solitaire. I cannot return to the late dinner (it’s too late) and I ran into waiter this morning and told him not to expect me tonight. So going to normal table then bed.

Had a difficult time going to sleep last night. Went to bed early but fell asleep around 1:00 am I think. Another port city today but this one was not as impressive as yesterday’s town.

Took coach into the city center and started walking. Most of the shops were not open yet, and that included the small rock shop (which I had to wait for to open). I know that these journo entries have not been uploading regularly but all the WiFi connections were password-protected in the city since data capabilities won’t work on board the ship.

Anyway, the guy running the rock shop: he finished his doctorate on the dinosaurs in Argentina. He actually named 2 new species!! \240I asked why he was running a rock shop and, through broken English, said that funding ran out or something.

Of course, everything is in Spanish.

Stayed there for only 2 hours before returning to the ship. Ate, did questions for the mountain-building chapter (structure), then did some upper body and leg work at gym (with 20 minutes of bike for something different), then rested a bit before coming here on deck 9 to watch the World Cup.

Think I’ll dine informally tonight before bed. I’m already sick of dressing up.

The staircase on Deck 2, forward.

Let me elaborate a bit about the “common stuff” and/or observations that one makes on a cruise.

1). The folks who are responsible for daily ship operations (i.e. the crew) are some really hard-working people. They are trained (or at minimum instructed) to be cordial at worst and gracious at best. I’ve started to learn a few of their names so far:

Wilson is my stateroom steward. He cleans the room and makes the bed along with toilet duty. A nice chap who is always polite and willing to engage in small talk.

Sarah, from Italy, works in the beauty salon and offers facials (at a nice price, I’m sure). Cute girl.

Shirley, from Johannesburg South Africa, is / will be my masseuse while on board. A nice lady who is quite knowledgeable about muscles and things.

Egan and “D” work in the gym. Fitness trainers. D has a complex name that apparently nobody can pronounce correctly, so most just say the first letter and she responds.

Cheryl makes my egg omelette to order each and every morning. She was telling me an interesting tale about her shoes this morning. She’s an Indian.

Colin works at the midships bar, Deck 3 starboard. Don’t ask me how I know this. Very attentive fellow.

I cannot forget Edgar and David, serving dinner and wine in the evenings at the Britannia restaurant.

2). Another thing one discovers on just a week’s cruise is “new people “. I always see new folks even up to the day of departure. 2,000 people is a lot to cycle through after all.

3). I guess another thing I contemplate while cruising at sea: what does everyone do all day? \240I’ve witnessed old people sound asleep in chairs on deck 9 during broad daylight; others just lounging next to the mid-ship pool; still small bands having drinks at the mid-ship bar on deck 3 at 3:00 pm. \240This place is a cess pool for those wanting to study human behavior.

4). A few more “wheels” than expected:

This chap just pulled up in this motorized gizmo...others are in wheelchairs. I’m sure others come installed with oxygen tanks attached to nasal cannulas. Most of the ship must be retrofit to accommodate these types of folks, to say nothing about the thought of mobility on shore excursions. It might seem strange but I think about stuff like that.

We visited the island of Guernsey today. Got to shore by tender, which is an adventure in itself. Lots of granite with xenoliths of gabbro contained within:

I won’t go into the geology bit, but I’ll just say it’s really cool. Walked around a bit and just bought one little thing to remember the name of the town. Met some friends and headed to a place for a mid-day snack then a bit of shopping before heading back to the ship to do cardio in the gym.

Got “called on the carpet” twice already today! \240First, brought tea in a white glass mug into an area where white mugs don’t usually make an appearance, and I asked a waiter for more hot water. Upon returning, stated that the room charges for their own tea and coffee. In other words, I shouldn’t have brought the tea. I went immediately and poured it out.

Second incident: \240Came to see friends before they left the ship. \240Didn’t feel like putting on the jacket tonight. A fellow that works at the bar told me that I should be wearing a jacket.

Going to room early tonight for TV movie before bed.

It’s quite interesting what happens during a transition from one cruise to another. You are certainly aware that the ship empties, and it becomes peaceful.

Ate breakfast with my disembarking friends. I thought I had an appointment with Egan, the personal trainer on board, but when I arrived at the gym, he rescheduled to tomorrow at 10:00 am (a sea day).

An empty ship also is the best time to do laundry. A Japanese couple were also doing their laundry and were staying on board too.

After 10:00 am, I followed procedure and changed my silver card for a gold one. Apparently, coming over on the Queen Mary 2, that was my first cruise with Cunard. The France/Spain cruise was #2 - silver. I’m now at gold for Norway. The British Isles will be platinum then the Baltic cruise is supposed to be diamond. Really not sure what any of it means but will inquire.

This paragraph typed on July 5: received “Cunard World Club membership benefits” book from Purser’s desk.. I will have to either complete 7 voyages or 70 nights on board to jump to the Platinum level and I don’t think it will happen even with the remaining 2 voyages. So, looks like I’m stuck at gold! Additionally, diamond level: 15 voyages or 150 nights on board. Nope!

Anyway, after changing over my card, I left the ship and went into the “embarkation building” (I’m sure it’s called something) to see if I could log into WiFi- I was unsuccessful. So, will have to wait and upload this data at the next possible opportunity.

Now I get to watch the “newbies” to the ship look around in wonder and awe of everything. I’m sitting in the Garden Terrace room (deck 9, midship) and there are small tours being conducted by guides. It’s interesting watching how people react to this room with its skylight...some seem uninterested whereas others are frantically snapping pictures.

I’ll have to muster again. I guess it’s a good thing I know what I’m doing this time. I’m in muster station D (you can see the letter on my life jacket). I had to help this little lady put on her vest. It’s awful to say, but hate to see how it goes for her in a real crisis.

Informal dining tonight- I’m actually sitting at a new table with new folks. Some seem completely bizarre whereas others are more normal. \240I waved to Edgar on the way in (my old waiter). The couple seated on my right are Brits who lived in Orlando and who love visiting Nashville for the “honky tonks”.

We move our clocks ahead one hour tomorrow- goodie!

Apple juice!! \240They serve a variety of juices on board.

I’m looking at this entry 3 days after I typed the apple juice bit, and completely forgot to type anything else! \240I worked out with the personal trainer Egan today (as I remember). It wasn’t too bad: 10 minute warmup, then lower body, then upper, finally core. \240I felt worked but not sore - that happened days later (my abs).

The only other thing I recall about this day is telling a few of the folks at the restaurant about me working out with Egan. I’m sure it’s quite unusual for anyone to actually want to lose weight on a cruise, yet here I am!

Walking to breakfast, noticed that there was interesting scenery outside:

Docked in Bergen around 9:00 am. There were 3 other cruise ships also in port with us. A 15-20 minute walk to the city center. A very nice town with a sizable fresh fish market:

They were selling fish, of course. But many vendors had moose, reindeer, and whale dried meat (sausage). \240I tried them all: whale definitely. Other common sights: clothing made of wool, magnets, and miscellaneous souvenirs. They did have a small rock and mineral shop at the end of a small alley but was disappointed: just the usual quartz and some jewelry.

Returned to ship after 2 hours of shopping and did some cardio before watching “the Isle of dogs” at the theater. I’m really beat today and have been resting for an hour before heading to dinner.

Drama in the Britannia restaurant! \240We have 10 seated at table 597, including me. One of those people is named Charlie. Charlie is roughly in his upper 60’s/early 70’s and, respectively, looked like he lives in the Catacombs of London. That’s, at least, how I perceived him his first seating with us.

He’s been coming faithfully to table 597 ever since the voyage began. I’m usually the first one to reach the table every night and the others have been “switching it up” with regards to seating (to get the chance to speak to others at the table).

Last night, after I was seated, this new lady showed up...then everyone else...then Charlie last. There was nowhere for him to sit and he wasn’t happy. Neither were we: many started to champion to Charlie’s cause. Eventually, they took the new lady away and Charlie was allowed to re-join us.

Happy 4th of July everyone! \240(Will probably be 2 months until you can read this!).

The early morning, were crawling through one of the most beautiful fiords in Norway:

Arrived at Geiranger around 8:30. Tender landing. Worked well since water was calm.

Town is small but very nice. Bought more stuff here than yesterday. Finally got a handle on Norwegian currency values and withdrew an appropriate amount from ATM.

The rocks of the fiord and the town built on chlorite schist, but most of the buildings and retaining walls are either biotite gneiss or augen gneiss:

Also walked to the top of the big waterfall for a look:

First had homemade cinnamon roll, then later stopped at cafe for “Cafe Mocha” and piece of almond cake/pie (it was cake-like but cut like pie). Returned to ship to watch “Independence Day” playing in the Royal Theatre at 2:00 pm.

On my door was special invitation to attend some reception with the captain (since I’m American- few others had same papers on their doors) but will likely not attend. It’s tonight and I might go to the informal dining hall for a change and then just relax.

I found a new room I hadn’t seen before: the Commodore Club, deck 10.

The morning began with a visit to Shirley, the masseuse. I should say, she is one of many on board. I thought my haircut with Jennifer from Spain was happening one hour after I saw Shirley but she was ready for me immediately.

Nice haircut?? \240She spotted some redness on my face and gave me a moisturing cream to apply twice a day. I’m thrilled that she was trained in skin (she told me that I clearly was not taking care of myself).

Rested until 3:00 pm when I, once again, met with Egan the personal trainer. He’s intense!! \240His mantra is to “do the same things we did last time but one level up”. He also reported that he could tell that I’m adapting to his regimen quite well. \240He also likes to add new stuff, which is good. \240Our next appointment will be during our next day at sea.

I have my first shore excursion tomorrow: to see the Saltstraumen Maelstrom. Only a 3-hour tour but should be good! Stay tuned!

My first shore excursion: the maelstrom!

I dare not upload a video because it would take forever to put on the server. To backtrack a tad, half of the morning was spent waiting & listening to music. At 9:30, went into the Queen’s room to wait some more. Finally we loaded onto a bus. Our guide was filling in for someone who was sick. At the end of the tour, I told her I was glad she came to lead us.

Anyway, I think the rocks around the maelstrom was all sandstone (graywacke?) with huge stringers of quartz intruding discordantly throughout:

A maelstrom occurs when tidally-influenced water flows naturally through a narrow, straight inlet, thus creating a strong current. Because there are four tides a day (two high and two low), the current direction changes according. \240When we arrived, it was approaching low tide (the current was flowing into the larger bay). \240This is a good place to install a “tidal barrage” to generate electricity. \240It’s unlikely that it will ever happen at this particular place since the locals depend too much on the fresh fish that is caught here.

Returned to town and wandered around for an hour before coming back on board for cardio. I did eat a hamburger with fries in town after the tour was over.

Creepy baby!!

Today’s town is Narvik, about as far north as I think we’re going. Just like yesterday’s town, we were the first big cruise ship to ever arrive here.

The town is definitely not designed around tourism. When departing the ship this morning, was excited when I learned there was a geyser in town. Excited, that is, until I also learned that it’s artificial. It’s a spray of water they blast into the air at 1:00 and 9:00 pm daily. \240I guess this passes for entertainment??

How far is Houston?

I bought a few things, I guess partially because I felt a bit sorry for the excited townsfolk. Returned to ship as a light mist was falling.

Did only 20 minutes on the elliptical at 2:00 pm. Only a handful in the gym with me. I have worked out every day since boarding the Queen Mary 2 but had to take a week break when I did the London Explorer. Returned to the daily routine once on board this ship and I plan on keeping it up.

Dined casually in the Lido before heading to deck 9, midship to try a hazelnut coffee. Will head back to my cabin soon for bed.

Next-day entry: \240fire! \240At approximately 8:00 pm, the captain comes over the intercom and tells support crews to report [somewhere] for fire. A few minutes later, he announces that smoke was seen in one of the rooms and that the fire announcement was just standard procedure. Everything is cool.

30 minutes later, at 8:30 pm - ship wide power blackout!!! \240Lasted one minute. Again, the captain assured everyone that all is well. Have no idea if the two incidents were related or not.

Pretty flowers in the Garden Lounge, deck 9

Sea days are now becoming hard...and quite boring, frankly. I love going to the Card Room to play solitaire, but during sea days, they play two rounds of bridge. \240Sure, there’s plenty to do on board- but I don’t really plug into much of it. The “solo travelers” deal was cool during the last cruise since I met the two cool friends, but when I attended the first meeting of this cruise, it was all people 70 and older. So, I have not attended any future meetings of the solo travelers.

I lost one of my earphones today, so I’m listening to music with one ear. I have to find my old earphones in my bag and hope they work.

The ship has really been rocking back and forth today - it affected my 20 minutes of cardio this morning (had to use one hand to hold onto treadmill). Returned at 3 pm to work with Egan. It seems to get easier every time we workout.

Had dinner tonight with my group in the Britannia and finally got to speak with Charlie, the old guy. His wife and son have recently died and he decided to go on this cruise. He’s pretty cool and I will say that I think we “bonded” or something- strange.

I’ll be rocked to sleep tonight. Next 3 days are port stops with shore excursions on the last 2 stops.

Arrived in Trondheim this morning. I just didn’t pay attention to the daily activity sheet when it said that it costs money to ride the shuttle bus. I figured it out when the cute Norwegian girl scanned my Cunard stateroom card. I don’t even want to say how much I have already spent on this trip, and there’s another month to go.

Was wandering around the town and entered this German guy’s shop. He was cussing like a sailor with the F-bomb every other sentence after I told him I came in on the cruise ship. \240“You must come back and drive through Norway- it’s the only bleeping way to see country “. \240Blah blah blah. I did not dare tell him I had another month.

Came back to ship to try the “Golden Lion pub” for the first time, I figured it was a good day to try it since most people were off the ship. I ordered the cottage pie:

It was pretty good but not filling. Started getting hungry around 4:00 but dinner doesn’t begin until 6:00. Just finished a huge plate and the rest of the day will likely be low-key until bed.

A shore excursion today to the “Atlantic Ocean Road”. \240I’m still debating whether it was worth the time and/or money.

Two-hour coach trip to a ferry crossing (lasting 10 minutes). Then another hour to a restaurant in the town of Bud. \240Found some unique rocks and took some good snaps before lunch. [I picked up a specimen - gneissic I think, even though it’s not strongly foliated]. \240Fresh fish soup as a starter before salmon with veggies and a nice dessert.

Then, we got on the Atlantic Ocean Road:

It’s pretty and all, but I was itching to see (up close) some really neat stuff but that’s impossible. We did stop for 15 minutes and I walked around the scenic pedestrian loop circumventing this small hill. Then, re-boarded and made the long trek back to the ship. All aboard by 4 pm and we arrived at 3:30.

Our guide (Annette) was the most annoying. I know it’s the job of our guide to provide interesting information, but not on every pasture of sheep and cows we pass (she called them “sheeps” and her English was incredibly disjointed). I actually recorded her voice to give others a taste of what all of us had to endure for 7 hours.

Headed to our last port of call tomorrow- I have a waterfall tour from 9:30 until 4:30. I guess lunch is included on this tour as well.

Aakrafjord and Langfoss Waterfall tour today. Another day on the coach!

At least our guide today spoke better English and actually did not fill most of our coach time with meaningless information.

We drove through the back roads of Norway and finally reached the waterfall where we took a little boat ride to get near the falls:

This particular waterfall is ranked by National Geographic as one of the worlds top 10 most beautiful or something. Because Norway is in a bit of a drought, there is not that much water that cascades down. It was still nice though.

Lunch was with a family who had lived on their farm on the fiord for 12 generations. Fresh salmon with bread and cheese and sausage. It was all good.

Made a few more stops before getting back. The fog has rolled in and is much colder out now. Going to eat at the big restaurant tonight then bed. Tomorrow is the last full day (sea day) before the next cruise starts in Southampton. I’m ready to move on. No treadmill today so will do tomorrow morning before working out with Egan.

Forgot to add my entry yesterday! \240Oops!

Saw Shirley in the spa before doing 30 minutes on the elliptical. Ran into Egan and he wanted to change our time from 3:00 pm to 2:30. So, he changed some routines on me and it was an intense workout. I fear that tomorrow, a sea day, our workout time might overlap with the new “solo traveler” group. We’ll see.

The congressional oversight committee was interviewing the guy who sent the “anti-Trump” emails and texts to the female FBI agent. Those emails became public and the meetings were madness. Democrats were apologetic to him for how the Republicans were behaving, whereas all the Republicans wanted to discuss were his texts and Hillary Clinton’s emails.

Today I’m going to Winchester to see the cathedral:

Only a 30-minute ride (by coach) with 30 souls on board. Our leader provided a 40-minute tour of the cathedral. Afterwards, we had almost 2 hours to shop or do other things. I bought a lovely peppermint mocha with a lemon cake. I then bought 2 books and a piece of apple strudel. Met the bus then we returned to the ship.

Transition day, which means I get to watch camera snapping and exploration of the ship. We muster at 4:30 - and it looks like I’ll be at the same table with Jay and Michael, our servers. Will meet the new folks at my table tonight.

Picture hanging over my bed.

If anyone would recommend another month-and-a-half on a cruise ship, I might have to poke them in the eye!

Things have become quite routine now on board. In fact, I generally don’t follow anything that is in the daily schedule and become somewhat bored. That happened this morning, so I decided to do laundry. After putting stuff into the washing machine, I attended the solo traveler meeting. I think I was the only one under 70.

Clothes in the dryer afterwards before doing 25 minutes on the treadmill. Because I did that and ate a huge late lunch, when Egan worked me - it was exhausting. I literally collapsed on my bed after getting back to my stateroom and fitting on some dry clothes. He just loves to change up our routine and he put me through the grinder.

In fact, the meal in the Britannia was an exercise in staying awake. I ate and had delightful conversations with all (including Don asking again for the second night in a row about fracking) before returning to the room. Even though I was really tired and went to bed at 9:00, I could not fall asleep until 1 am. Not sure why. Did not want to get up in the morning.

Rotterdam! \240My frustration continues into this major seaport due to lack of reliable WiFi connection for uploading this journal. I will probably never use this app again!

I knew that most of the shops would only open after noon but went into town around 9:00 anyway. Scoured the city for a free connection and did find some, but nothing worked. I’m just hoping that Edinburgh (Scotland) will save me. It probably won’t.

This is cubical housing near downtown.

Finally, this building opened and it was tons of shopping inside:

Tons of doughnuts too:

Bought a few things and did stop to eat whole-grain penne pasta with chicken. Great fun! Tons more to type but will report if asked later.

I was in this shop and this older, fat guy kept looking at me intensely. He approached me and asked if I was on the Queen Elizabeth- after saying yes, said he was too. Then he said “your wallet - you’re gonna lose it if you keep it in your back pocket”. I said thanks and moved both my wallet and my jacketed passport to my front pocket. Was definitely an odd encounter.

Back on ship now and did my daily cardio and email check. Hopefully a calm, routine night before a long sea day tomorrow.

I want to type something completely random today. I’m sitting at the deck 2 bar looking at the table menu, and this is the list of categories available:

Cocktails / spirits / liqueurs / lager, ales, bitters and ciders / champagne and wines / aperitifs / soft drinks / hot drinks / and finally liqueur coffees and hot chocolates.

Under spirits: gin, vodka, tequila, whiskey (of all imaginable flavors and origins), rum, cognac, brandy.

Now who in their right mind needs such choices??? \240The very last item of the entire menu is “hazelnut chocolate” (with Frangelico) - it has become my new favorite. \240I’ve only had two...so far. The cost is $12.00. Now if I had one a day, it would not only become a problem of finance but one of addiction.

I see folks enjoying a wide variety of treats at all times of the day. I think they also serve a limited selection of food goods at the bars (pretzels and peanuts) but these items do not appear on the main menu.

Another related tidbit: some of the ship’s bars have different cover designs for their menus:

This cover is found on deck 9, midship bar (outside only). Same choices inside as the other bars on ship. The deck 3, midship bar (port side) runs specials on gin & tonics during the evening hours (don’t ask how I know).

Some were treated to a double-bow this morning.

A long tender ride to the shore this morning (20 minutes). Loaded onto a coach and our guide was wearing a kilt. About 15 minutes later, made it to the main street of Edinburgh and were told to make it back by 3:30.

Off the coach, asked the kilt-guide about the grave of James Hutton - he had no clue. Started walking towards where I thought his grave was and found a local to give me specific information. Once at the graveyard, found an information placard with his name and went off to locate the grave’s placement when I encountered this barrier:

This is as close as I could get - my hero buried behind a locked gate. So disappointed!

Went to nearby fossil shop but nothing of interest found there. Then initiated general souvenir-shopping and bought some stuff. Had fish and chips for lunch; later had latte with a big brownie:

Reunited with the coach for the ride back to the dock, then onto the tender back to the ship. Now ready to eat with no workout scheduled for today.

Visiting this very small town today- but we are in the North Sea and there’s an oil rig right in town:

There is a “main drag” (shopping) and bought only 2 items from 2 difficult vendors in the same store: item 1 was a handmade notebook from Pam, a local lady (accompanied by husband Andrew) who used to live in Florida and who’s daughter lives in Amarillo and is an elementary school teacher. Item 2 was a piece of slate that had a scenic picture impregnated into it by a special heat method.

Ate a chicken sandwich and fries (with cappuccino) at local place before returning to the ship by noon. Did some treadmill for 30 minutes and then spoke to some spa folks. Will complete my usual routine of dinner at the Britannia before bed. Tomorrow is a sea day with a visit with Shirley in the morning and Egan at 2:00 pm.

Versus...

Shirley this morning- followed by a salad lunch then a 2:00 workout with Egan. Due to upcoming scheduling issues, we’re working out tomorrow too then off for the next two days.

It’s a cold day at sea. In a counterclockwise manner, we’ve rounded the top of Scotland and we’re now headed toward Ireland. The notice on the bed last night asked all non-European passengers surrender their passports at the front desk. I think Irish immigration will stamp them then return when we’re gone.

I’m seeing a few folks swimming in the open-deck’s pools. I think they’re nuts, personally. A few others are using the hot tubs which is better but still nuts.

A mild storm has enveloped the ship this afternoon/evening and there are people “walking their rounds” on deck. Now I know these people are nuts. At least they are wearing jackets.

As you’ve heard the expression, this town is a “nothingburger”. It’s a fifteen-twenty minute walk to the town center. Along the “main drag”, found that the hotel was having a craft sale on the first floor. Bought some hand-made soap and a painted piece of slate before returning to the ship. (It only takes an additional 10 minutes to see the rest of the town center).

Ate a big lunch before again working out with Egan. I’ll have the next 2 days off before more workouts with him. He ratchets the difficulty each and every session but I am definitely seeing results...and others are starting to notice as well.

Laundry day - I was down to my last pair of clean socks. The launderette on deck 8 (the same deck as my stateroom) has only 2 washers & 2 dryers, and I was in one of them. Washing takes one hour & drying takes 70 minutes.

Started washing at 7:30 then went to deck 9 (Garden Lounge) to listen to music. There was a lady that also started her laundry at the same time as I in the other washer.

Upon my return, I initially thought that someone had changed the setting from “regular” to “permanent press”, so I changed it back to regular. I also saw that my washing machine’s contents seemed real soapy....and there was also contents in one of the dryers.

I looked and looked at the washing machine to try and determine if the clothes were mine but I could not. I left the room and consulted with two female room stewards that basically told me the same thing...that someone had reset the cycle and I would now have to wait another 45 minutes before the cycle was complete.

Just one thing...once a washing cycle begins, the door cannot be forced opened...the entire cycle must be completed first. Upon my return to the wash room, I looked more carefully at the contents of the dryer and they were my clothes. I had changed the setting on someone else’s clothes! \240(I quickly changed it back).

One hour later, my clothes were neatly folded in a laundry basket. I was grateful but perplexed. [this typed days later: it appeared in the daily schedule that people need to leave other people’s clothes alone and not put them from washer to dryer to folded]

Anyway!! \240Explored today’s town and bought a few things before returning to the ship. Did some cardio and watched the movie “Unstoppable” with Denzel Washington before dinner.

The Giants Causeway!!!

Coach ride took hour-and-a-half, only because this German 20-something had to really go to the bathroom.

This is the outside of the Visitor’s Center. You can either take a 20-minute walk down to where the columns are (which is what I did) or take the 5-minute bus ride. Catch: the bus takes 30 minutes to cycle...I had just arrived back at the VC when the bus pulled up.

Bought a sandwich and drink at the cafe, then some souvenirs before getting back on the coach. We stopped to see a rope bridge before driving the long way back.

Once on board, went to room and put on my gym clothes for cardio but Egan caught me in the hallway- saying that he was calling me and wondering where I was. Told him we didn’t have a workout planned but he didn’t care - he worked me anyway. It made me mad but what can I do really?

Bringing iPad tonight to the table for a little Geology lesson before bed.

Liverpool- a nice city. I walked for most of the morning to find the local rock shop. Bought a few chunks for some friends, then walked towards the main shopping area. Bought a few things before getting tired of walking and returned to the ship.

Spoke briefly to a guy named Jerry, a guy playing the trumpet on the street. Seemed like a sensible fellow. Said he had a nice boat but had not taken it out for awhile since he was taking care of his elderly father.

Lots of homeless people laying around in different places, but usually found near ATM’s. One guy seemed asleep but he had a pillow written on by sharpie saying his name and that he was homeless and that any help would be appreciated.

The remainder of my day uneventful.

These cities are starting to run together! \240It was a 25 minute bus ride to the city center. I was initially confused upon which way to walk until I asked some locals for their help. Lots of Irish souvenir shops today. I found a few stores selling some Irish marble quarried in the west- an unusual green marble variety.

On the way back, was given a demonstration by a guy named Paul as to how he shaped a 9-carat gold ring by hand. There was a girl named Ashley who worked at the store who was learning and helping Paul to explain the trade.

Back on the ship, I stopped at Purser’s desk to re-acquire my passport. I then went up to the gym at 2:35 for my usual 3 pm appointment with Egan but he said he had already scheduled someone else in my slot. He said the appointment was for only 30 minutes...so told him I would return in 30 minutes to start the workout at 3:30.

[it should be noted that Egan is just not 100% reliable...he scheduled a bonus training for me 2 days ago when none was planned- even though he was adamant that it was planned]

Well, he soon caught up with me and wanted to see if 4:30 would work. I told him it was too late for me, so we agreed to cancel and just do it tomorrow. I said that I would at least do some cardio today, but I’ve been walking all morning so decided not to go.

I’m not dressing up tonight either for the Britannia. Will head to the more informal Lido instead. I’m just so sick of dressing up every single night just to eat soup and a main meal. Besides...the Lido restaurant is buffet and I get to choose what I want to eat.

This picture is a holdover from the day before- power plant for Dublin, located on the periphery of the city.

This morning: saw Shirley...she was running a bit late because her previous client was late. As Shirley came to get me, there was Egan reminding me of our 3:00 appointment. I know that he was just standing there to remind me, but it’s like I’ve become his star pupil and it creeps me out.

I then saw Laura (the spa manager) and told her the troubles I was having with Egan. I told her that I was not trying to get Egan in trouble but he needs to have firmer commitments to his client’s appointments. She seemed understanding. I’ll see if Egan brings it up during our session today.

Written later in the afternoon: Egan called me in my stateroom at approximately 1:30 pm, again confirming our 3:00 pm appointment. He added that he heard that I had been complaining to the girls at the spa about his “unreliability”. Needless to say, he was not happy. He told the girls that I would never complain like that and that they were mistaken. He just wouldn’t accept that he could actually be wrong. He really worked me at session today and I could feel him fuming about it.

I signed up to see Windsor Castle while in Southampton. It cost $133.00 for a single ticket and I may have already seen it while on my London trip, but it’s good to get off the ship for some time. Also, I don’t have to workout with Egan on that day.

Tonight is dress up formal - I’m wearing my Scottish vest I bought the other day with my suit. Need to take a picture:

I look like I ate a bad prune!

We have returned to Guernsey. Took the tender into port and did not expect to buy as much as I did. Lots of paper products (postcards and greeting cards) along with a new white shirt. On the tender ride back, had a \240nice conversation with a lady who had just lots her husband but had explored many parts of the U.S. including hiking along the Appalachian trail.

Ate small salad at 1:00 before another workout with Egan at 3. He was totally understanding that yesterday’s workout was very intense so today’s workout was actually a bit chilled and nice. My heart was not racing like usual.

I just checked email and was so good to hear from my Geology colleagues! \240Ronda is having a grand adventure out west and Karen’s just having a great time!

Tonight is the last night in the Britannia for the folks on this cruise. I have my notepad ready to provide important information to them (email, blurb book address, etc.). \240I probably won’t go tomorrow night but will see.

Windsor Castle (2nd visit). I wanted to get off the ship, so this is what I chose to do. The coach is almost three-fourths full. Our guide today is Jake and he’s pretty good. I zipped through the castle and actually saw the state apartments this time before my exit was stalled by the band and changing of the guard. Ate lunch at the Gourmet Burger Kitchen before shopping and heading back to the coach at 1:00 pm.

My fourth Muster drill at 4:30 pm! \240I told Wilson (my stateroom steward) that I’ve almost memorized the Captain’s announcement by now. \240During the drill, there seems to be a bigger portion of young and middle-aged folks on board this time.

I dined in the Lido tonight (deck 9, midship). The other day, the head dining guy (he must have a better title than that) asked if I wanted to stay at my current table (#597) or relocate. I asked to stay but found this afternoon that I have been relocated. This also happened during the last cruise but in reverse: I asked to move but I was kept where I was. So, just ate at the Lido...10 minutes and I’m done with dinner.

I need to do laundry tomorrow. Since it’s a sea day, I also need to endeavor to provide a deck-by-deck overview, starting with deck A. This has been one of my goals on one of the \240boring sea days.

Laundry is underway!

Time for a deck-by-deck survey!

Deck A - two things of note: Medical Centre (spelled that way; only accessible via Stairway A, forward) and Tender Embarkation (also gangway embarkation), located midship.

Deck 1 - Royal Court Theatre (can also access from Deck 2, with “Box Seating” available on Deck 3). Grand Lobby also on Deck 1, midship- includes Purser’s Office, Tour Office, Voyage Sales Office, and ConneXions I (computer lab with Internet connectivity).

Deck 2 - Golden Lion Pub (I’ve only eaten there once). Casino / Queens Arcade - slot machines and craps/roulette tables. These games are only available on sea days, never in port. Also on this deck: lower floor of the Library (upper portion on Deck 3). The Verandah Restaurant is also here (French). It costs extra for this experience but they do have different food. Aft of the ship is the main dining hall: The Britannia Restaurant. Also extends into Deck 3 (where my table is located). The Queens Room is also here, for dancing lessons and seminars.

Deck 3 - see Deck 2 description for repeat items. The Art Gallery is on this deck, where you can purchase expensive art pieces (paintings and sculpture). ConneXIons 2 & 3 are small, special purpose rooms near the Queens Room. The Book Store is here on this deck, along with a separate room called the Card Room (games). I have spent some time here. Outside of this room is “The Alcove”, a place to put together jigsaw puzzles.

Decks 4 - 8 are all staterooms with launderettes located on each deck. It should be noted that Decks 1 - 3 also have staterooms.

Deck 9 - Spa & Fitness Centre, forward. There is also a hair salon and thermal suites. There are two pools on this deck: Lido Pool & Bar is only for adults (located aft), whereas the Pavilion Pool & Bar (near the Garden Lounge) is for everyone. Midship on this deck is the Lido Restaurant, a more casual dining experience.

I have only been above Deck 9 once, but will at least name what is there:

Deck 10 - Commodore Club. Admirals Lounge. Churchill’s Cigar Lounge. Yacht Club. The Play Zone. The Kids Zone. The Teen Zone.

Deck 11 - Games Deck (outdoor games like shuffleboard). The Terrace. Grills Lounge. The Courtyard. Princess Grill. Queens Grill.

—————————————————————-

I completed my laundry in time to join the Solo Traveler group at 10:30 am at the midship bar, deck 3 starboard. Met some nice folks; debating whether to continue with them or not.

Good workout with Egan today.

Dinner at Lido again. Time changed forward today, so to bed early tonight.

What they say about second visits are true: not as good the second time around. I knew that the shops that I wanted to browse would not be open until noon but went 2 hours early anyway and just sat around waiting. I guess I was doing too much of that on board.

Once open, again visited the pasta place (Lots 70 - 72) and ate noodles with pesto basil with chicken & Parmesan cheese. Bought 6 coconut cookies for all 30-something of the spa & gym staff (which, upon presentation, was told that I wasn’t supposed to do it) and then changed into my gym clothes for 25-minutes of cardio.

Once at the gym, saw that Egan was there and he tested my gait architecture (I’m sure it has a more proper name) and discovered that all of my weight is focused on the front and rear of my feet with no weight in the middle. Got fitted with Level 3, size 9 orthotics (they slip into my shoes) and not only did my walking improve but my shoes stopped squeaking.

Quick funny: immediately on board, the head dinner guy with the hair was next to the elevator. He noted that he had not seen me during the last 2 nights (since this cruise began and my table got changed). I made up some excuse about being sore from Egan’s gym workouts and told him that I would try to make it tonight. I didn’t- it’s just so much less stress to gobble food quickly in the Lido and be done with it.

Tomorrow: Sea day, then Copenhagen the next day. It’s gonna be good!!

Late-night bonus: stayed on the upper deck last night after dinner and saw this:

The white thing is a slow-moving tidal gate that would work in concert with the opposing gate (not shown) - closing in the event of an extreme flooding episode in order to protect the city of Rotterdam and surrounding communities. Can you imagine the millions of dollars that thing cost? This is the type of preventative measure the city planners of New Orleans have been checking out.

This picture was taken around 7:30 am.

Shanoy Campbell (lady in spa) just badgered me (for an entire month) for a pedicure, so I finally got one this morning. She wanted me to sign up for 30 minutes of teeth whitening along with selling me tons of other junk I didn’t want...had to repeatedly tell her “no”. \240It’s all about selling stuff and money, even though they will tell you it’s not about that at all.

Ironically, just left a seminar in the Royal Court theatre and, outside of the bar on deck 2, there are Shirley and Sarah from the spa trying to peddle more stuff. There is also (and usually) a wine table here as well. I guess people just love their wine.

After that, the sun was out and so were the people at the deck 9 midship pool, so went outside to deck 10 (away from the pool and a new place for me) to listen to music on my iPhone. Two women (friends who both share the same name of Ruth and whom I met at the introductory Solo Traveler meeting) walked by with their family (at least for one of the Ruth’s). They were headed to play a card game called “Blob” (trumps). At first, I didn’t join them but returned to my original nearby seat to keep listening to my music but, after a few minutes, I pulled up a chair and said that I would just watch.

One of the Ruth’s was to my immediate left (the friend). \240Starting on my immediate right was dad, mom, their “Ruth” (daughter), her sister and finally the sister’s husband. They all found it interesting that I was bringing the “American perspective”, especially on political matters. They played until the end, then went off for lunch.

I had a great workout with Egan today- it’s getting much easier I have to say. He sold me a new pair of orthotics for my dress shoes, which I’m wearing tonight for the first time. I just finished my dinner in the Lido and am just relaxing near the Garden Lounge on Deck 9 before bed.

Tomorrow: Copenhagen!!!

Copenhagen rocks!!! \240Just a 10-15 minute shuttle bus ride to the city center (town square). I walked the long way around the square since I didn’t follow the crowd, but I eventually made it. At least I found one of the many stores selling amber:

Practically any color you desire, including green (young, heat-treated), which is the piece I bought. It’s pretty expensive however...the green piece I purchased was about $250.00 U.S...well worth it!

Just a typical parking lot. A great number of people get around on bicycle. In fact, there are bicycle-only lanes and bicycle-rental places. I saw a guy on a bike get mad and start yelling at an older Asian couple because they were just standing in his bicycle lane and simply in the way.

Ship leaves at 3:30 today, so left the ship around 8:30 even though the shops didn’t open until 10:00. We’ll have another sea day before Stockholm. We all received information regarding our stay in St. Petersburg and it looks like immigration might be intense. Good thing I’m only doing a 4-hour tour. Days to live through before we arrive at that port city.

Remainder of this day was uneventful.

Peppermint tea anyone?

No Sunshine today - very foggy outside the ship’s windows. Last appointment this morning with Shirley as she tried to sell me more crap I will never use or need. When I told her there was no more room in my luggage, she went to prepare a mail form. Geez!

I immediately went to the Royal Court theatre to get debriefed regarding our stay in St. Petersburg, but when I arrived, they were done! I thought it started at 10:30 (when I got there) but it began one hour earlier. I guess I’ll have to watch the same presentation on my stateroom channel.

From what Shirley and others have told me, immigration into St. Petersburg is very strict. I started to question canceling my 4-hour walking tour...so decided to speak to Rona at the Purser’s desk about it. Both she & Shirley told me the same thing: don’t give them attitude, answer their questions, and you’ll get through it. They both said that the reward for seeing the city outweighs any discomfort endured by a difficult customs agent.

Follow-up to Shirley drama: went at 2:30 for workout with Egan (which was fantastic, by the way) and Shirley was there at the top of the stairs. She wanted my address and that’s when I told her that I was canceling the order. She seemed disappointed but understanding. I told Egan what happened and he agreed that the spa has become more aggressive in their selling of product.

I’m currently brainstorming ideas governing how I want to give my presentation in the Fall. If it actually works, it will be really cool.

Stockholm tomorrow!

I was a bit disappointed in Stockholm...at least with the shopping. Again, I went too early before any of the shops were open. On a side note, it irritates me when the daily schedule tells you one thing but the reality is quite different. Two examples: A) says that the ship leaves at 5:30 even though the Deputy Captain announces on the intercom that we leave at 4:30. B) says we will need our passports for immigration clearance even though there is no customs agents anywhere. That bothers me since I don’t like carrying around my passport in my back pocket all day.

Anyway- two distinctive shopping areas that were 15-minute walk apart. One was a narrow alleyway with local vendors selling hats, clothes, and other knickknacks. Little to no souvenir shops. The other shopping venue was more “high end” with art stores and shopping malls. I did purchase some fairly expensive pictures (price will not be divulged) but just really wanted a flag and magnets.

Met a girl named Sarah who lived in Houston during Harvey. She now works at the “General Store” in the mall. We had a nice conversation for about 20 minutes. She and some other locals said that it’s the hottest day on record so far. I tested one lady at the picture/art store named Monique and asked if she believed in this “climate change rubbish” and she said she did. I then told her that I actually teach about it in my class.

This is the “narrow-alley” shopping area.

Returned to the ship for lunch. Ran into Cheryl and asked her about gluten. She gave me three packages of cookies and crackers that were “gluten-free”. I tried all in my room and liked the brownie-type.

I’m gearing up for some cardio in the gym. \240There were only a few guys in there and no gym personnel (Egan). The elliptical has become the machine of choice since it is more difficult and burns more calories.

During the sail away from Stockholm, the Captain announced that there would be nice views:

All of this portion of Sweden is underlain by what appears to be some type of schist, a medium-grade metamorphic rock. It’s pretty durable stuff.

Yes, this doll was actually for sale...and many others like it.

Want to insert something here about the “having your passport” comment I posted yesterday. To be sure I needed to take my passport into town today (as it said again that we needed to in the daily schedule), I purposely asked Carmen at the Purser’s desk about it. Her response: “sometimes they conduct random security checks”. There was no passport anything anywhere- another day spent needlessly packing around my passport in my back pocket.

Tallinn was 10x more interesting that Stockholm and it’s really not that big of a place. Tons of shopping, even though 90% of it consisted of stores selling Baltic Amber, wool products of all kinds, and wooden items like spoons and bowls. It started to get a bit old after a couple of hours but I certainly purchased what I wanted.

And it was really hot - between 85 and 90 degrees. I did manage to stop at a restaurant to have a fish sandwich with a big bowl of fish soup before coming back to the ship:

I couldn’t eat it all, and the fish sandwich (on left of picture, out of frame) was made on sourdough bread with Gouda cheese. Oh yeah - the fish was completely raw. I did not finish either the sandwich or the bowl of soup...they were good though.

Did cardio then ran into Egan on a deck I normally don’t see him (he was helping his girl Sarah who was offering massages to passengers at a massage chair). He indicated that he did not go out today but they will be attending the opera tomorrow night in St. Petersburg.

I can formally announce that I am done with cruising!! \240Now I’m counting down the days until I get to leave the ship. (It’s seven). One week left!

One of the churches in St. Petersburg.

I’m so glad I was talked into going into the city! \240Since my tour didn’t start until 1:30 pm, the morning can be summed up this way: laundry and boredom (sitting and waiting). I went to eat lunch at 11:30 where Cheryl asked me if I was going outside - I told her yes.

We made it to the port around 7:00 am but were strictly warned not to take any pictures of the port or terminal. I left pretty quick after sitting and waiting for my tour to be called from the Queens Room. I was so freaked out about passport control but it wasn’t any big deal at all - both guys (going into and coming out) took one glance at me and never spoke...just stamped my passport and I went on through the turnstile. I do admit, however, that my heart was racing!

Our walking tour consisted of about 30 minute intervals of walking sandwiched between coach rides to arrive at the next destination.

This was the second place we went and I saw this lady (and a dressed-up gentleman) and asked the lady to get my picture taken with her. She said it wasn’t free but cost 300 rubles (I’m guessing about $5 or $10 since I roughly know how much I exchanged my Euros for yesterday). I agreed and the guy took some pics and I paid up.

Plenty of history here and barely scratched the surface of learning any of it. There are many that are attending the opera tonight and (Egan being one) and I’m eager to get a report. I will have to say that just being here in Russia is one of the big highlights of this cruise.

It’s raining here this morning. This is the first substantial rainfall that I’ve seen this entire trip. There are many going on shore excursions and I’m happy that I’m not one of them.

I spoke to a few folks heading out for excursions: they seem really excited. For me, once I’ve seen a place, I’ve seen it. I just hope they’re prepared for the rain.

Did 30 minutes of elliptical this morning with Egan talking to me during half the time. It’s just a pet peeve of mine to be “in my zone” (listening to my music with headphones) and to have someone who wants to yak your head off. Oh well, at least I got the cardio done.

Egan did give me a ballet report and he said it was amazing. I saw his girl Sarah out in the hallway and she confirmed. Of course, Egan noted how “in shape” the participants were (their “core”) and how much practice they must endure to be so well “in step” with one another. I asked Egan if they were allowed to take pictures and he said yes, but Sarah had a different accounting: they had to sneak those pictures. I guess Egan plays a bit loose with the truth.

I happened to sit outside on Deck 10, aft and found “The Seafarer” -

Here’s what the plaque says: “This 225-litre oak barrel holds some very special cargo- our unique whiskey “The Seafarer”. Created in a partnership between Cunard and the award-winning Australian whisky distillery STARWARD, this modern single malt whisky has already aged for more than two years in its Australian shiraz barrel. Loaded in Sydney on February 27, 2018, the whisky will spend 12 months travelling the world on Queen Elizabeth’s decks, its maturation aided by the motion of the ocean, the salt of the sea air and the changing climates it will encounter. The barrel will be opened, and the whisky enjoyed, once Queen Elizabeth begins her history-making season of cruises from Australia in February 2019.”

[ Would like to note that most people in close proximity to the barrel don’t even notice it...they just walk right on by it ]

Left St. Petersburg around 8:00 pm and took pictures of the flood-control gates finished by President Putin in 2011 to protect the city from catastrophic events:

It’s hard to see but these are similar to the ones protecting Rotterdam.

Russian bazaar!! \240There’s an enormous crowd in the Queen’s Room looking at all the Russian stuff and I think half the ship turned out at once. I just completed a sweep through the crowd and I had to come back out.

I went to the tour desk and they confirmed that my Cunard transfer to Heathrow on Friday takes place at 9:00 am. That should get me to the airport with time to spare to make my flight.

So, knew there was no good time to hit the bazaar, so I went back in. It will not be revealed how much I spent but I got loads of good things:

No, I didn’t buy this...hand-painted on Mother-of-Pearl for months. The blue gemstones are aquamarine with various other gems. Let’s just say this one cost almost a full paycheck.

And then I saw Shirley! \240She was busy selling spa stuff (of course) along with Ivana and Sarah (took selfies with them too but did not include here). So, I came back to my stateroom and wrapped my treasures with toilet paper (for extra travel padding) and came to eat lunch.

Around 2:10, Egan called. He had a cancellation and wanted to know if I could come in early...I did. It was one of the hardest workouts yet; I came back to the stateroom exhausted. I remembered that the Lido Grill (Deck 9, aft) would feed you until 5:00, so I ordered a chicken patty burger with pickles and mayonnaise. It perked my energy up but didn’t fill me up.

The Captain just announced that we will be arriving at our next port 2 hours late due to having technical difficulties (engine trouble). Some tours will be canceled but others are good. He said that there will still be plenty of time to explore the city. We will depart at 5:30 for our last port city.

We didn’t arrive at this seaside town until noon...and we leave by 5:30 pm. The morning consisted of eating, sitting, and waiting. Then, as soon as the Captain announced that everyone could get off the ship, over 1,000 people left in 30 minutes. I waited until [what I thought] the mad rush was over, then waited in the queue.

Definitely over 90 degrees here today and probably even hotter. The town is cute with one main shopping street, filled mainly of shops for women’s clothes and shoes, as well as chocolate pastry places and shops to stock up on amber.

Bought some chocolate for Egan since I told him that I would bring him a truffle but that tour was canceled. I bought another similar candy but gave it to his girl Sarah. I then went back to my room, changed, did 30 minutes on the elliptical, then came to the outdoor game area on deck 11 (forward). It’s nice and quiet here since I’m assuming most people are still in town or doing other things.

So, it was a big send off from this town. Lots of people out to wave and cheer our departure on. There was loud music playing at the Lido pool (aft) and lots of our folks were carrying and waving British flags...not sure where they acquired them. From the beach near the town, there was even a 2-second fireworks show. Great fun!

We made port around 10:00 am, with another mad scramble to get off the ship. It was a 25-minute bus ride into the city, which is the second largest in Sweden.

Tons of shopping, with a surprising quantity of homeware shops - dishes and liquid containers, that sort of thing. I bought some souvenirs, including a real flag of Sweden that I couldn’t get the first time (I had to settle for napkins with a picture of the flag on them). Returned to the ship around 2 pm I think.

Had to type this story: went into the mall and only bought stuff from one store. In the back, I saw these magnets...and I thought “why not”. Well, when reaching for one of the magnets, I made a similar one (nearby) fall and break the corner off when it hit the magnet stand. I couldn’t find the pieces that had broken off...so I took the fallen, broken magnet (along with the original magnet I was reaching for) up to the counter to pay for both (I did actually want it).

Once I arrived, two ladies were at the front of the line and were buying three gifts. Apparently, this particular store (at the register) includes gift wrapping. I stood in line for literally 20 minutes and waited until the three gifts were neatly wrapped by the one girl on duty. She was doing her best and saw there were now 4 of us in the queue, so she hurried along.

The kicker: after the one lady’s three gifts were wrapped and she paid by credit card, the other one plopped down a fourth gift and wanted it wrapped too! I could have slapped her, to be honest! Well, that took another five minutes for her gift that she paid for with her own card. They finally left...then the lady ahead of me put down her stuff.

She asked the girl behind the counter to get her some ribbon...and I thought “here we go again”. But she just wanted the ribbon to carry home and then it was my turn when she finished. I told the girl at the counter what I did and she said I did not have to pay for the broken magnet. I told her that I wanted at least one good magnet, but when I looked at the other one, it was also broken!! \240I went ahead and bought both magnets and left the store.

Came up to my usual place on the ship (Garden Lounge, Deck 9 midship) for some peace and quiet before dinner and found the Royal Band playing “sail away tunes” on the stage. They are actually pretty good and I recorded a 10-second sound bite with the iPhone’s memo app.

The storm we were approaching last night.

Today is the last full “resting vacation day” before tomorrow’s travel day. I’ve already surrendered the following items to the Purser’s desk this morning: \2401 black bow tie, 1 cummerbund, 2 dinner jackets, and 1 black Oceania Marina winter coat. I bought the first 4 items at the League City Goodwill store for $16.00 and they were to be used only for my cruising aboard the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth. I added the coat since I only wore it 4 times (aboard the Marina as I sailed around South America 2 years ago) and knew that I would probably never wear it again (I have other winter coats at home).

Then I went to the spa for what I call “goodbye selfies”. This is “Jennifer de Espana”. \240I took others as well. Jen said that they will be talking about me for a long time to come, which is sweet.

Final workout with Egan at 1 pm. It was a good one. We’re meeting again at 5:30 to recap my workout routine. I had the chance to get a few more “goodbye selfies” done, as with Laura Zurick, the spa manager:

I had just finished with Egan and told her that I was a bit sweaty... but she seemed fine with it. I took a selfie with “Ga-ga” too...she said that my smiling personality breathed life into the ladies of the spa. I didn’t realize it was such a depressing place. She’s been on board for 9 months and will also be leaving tomorrow...vacation first then home.

The necessary, last day indulgence: one final hazelnut chocolate with whipped cream & chocolate shavings on top! \240(Egan will never know!). I waited until 5:10 to meet him in the gym; he was with 2 ladies giving them a lesson. He kept referring to me as if I was his prize pupil. He gave me a list of the exercises that we’ve been doing. I gave him a hug and that was it.

It’s been raining steadily since 4:00 pm. The ship looks like its in “grey mode” or something. I finished packing and placed my luggage outside in the hallway. It’s jammed packed of souvenirs. I had to leave one shirt and one pair of shorts behind, along with the bottle of wine the Captain gave all of us. It’s a shame because I would have liked to carry it home.

Cheryl was nearly in tears as she made my last omelette:

She said after 17 years in the food business, I was one of her favorite guests. In a bittersweet way, I’m glad that my morning diet will consist of food other than a ham-and-cheese omelette!

Waited until the designated time to meet in the Queen’s Room, but had to wait an entire hour after our designated departure time because they were slow off-loading the luggage from the ship. “Red 2” (my group) was the first called out to the coach. 20 minutes later, away we went towards Heathrow airport.

I had to check-in to Terminal 2 but the coach driver (“for logistics purposes”) had to drop terminals 5 and 4 off first. We actually stopped at the Queen Mary 2 port to pick up 2 passengers after we left our own ship, and when they were dropped at Terminal 4, they weren’t supposed to be there.

Noon is when we arrived at Terminal 2, and one hour I had until my flight.

...And then my world stopped.

No record of my reservation. No confirmation record. Nothing. I had to contact LuAnn in Houston (travel agent) but it was 5 in the morning and she was on vacation. Had no choice but to check into an airport hotel and contact home.

Reservation was made through Cunard and they have no idea what happened. I was given the choice of getting connecting flights today or direct flight tomorrow morning. I chose the latter since I was already in the hotel. CruiseCenter is reimbursing me the cost of this hotel + meals and Cunard is paying for a business class seat (over $1000) for a direct flight home.

Good thing I’m not in any hurry to get home.

This day (in this journal) was not supposed to exist.

The Park Inn’s two double beds were terrible...I have no memory of sleep...just endless hours of tossing and turning.

Went to eat breakfast at 6:00 am and had scrambled eggs and other stuff. The eggs were not Cheryl’s. I then went to check out and boarded the 5 pound (cost) bus for Terminal 2. Of course, they had to drop folks off at Terminal 3 first.

Once there, made a beeline to the gentleman that helped me yesterday. He didn’t remember me at first (“I see so many people...”) but he then not only remembered helping me but recalled my last name. I asked him (a bit “tongue and cheek”) if my name was in his computer today; he confirmed. I told him what happened and he commented that he doesn’t understand how Cunard could have such power over last-minute changes to seat arrangements. Frankly, I could care less. He then asked me to look for the “fast track” entry point into security.

Being business class is totally amazing!! \240There were literally 3 people in front of me and made it through the checkpoint in 5 minutes. Yes - 5 minutes!!! \240The guy who helped me at the counter also directed me to the business class lounge but I’m happy at the gate listening to my music. Now I wait. Now 7:30 am. Flight leaves at 11:30. Joy.

10 hour flight, Sat next to a 71-year old “oil and gas” man. He tells me that, when he checked the other day, there were 2 seats left and he got one. I guess Cunard bought the other one. I watched “The Avengers: Infinity War” and absolutely hated it because I stayed confused. I didn’t see “Dr. Strange” or “Guardians of the Galaxy”, both of which were major players.

I then tried to sleep but could not, even in a business class seat that reclined totally horizontal. I then watched “The Shape of Water” and found the same actress who played in the movie “Maudie” (watched on the Queen Mary 2). I then watched most of “Tomb Raider” (the new one) until, towards the end, I got to talking to the oil and gas man.

Filled out an immigration card but nobody took it through customs. I guess because it’s a Saturday, they were understaffed. My Uber ride was really weird. He took me around the long way to get back to my apartment...and he would not stop talking. He was so happy that someone wanted to speak to him. Anyway, we pulled up and Beth from the apartment was heading home and I spoke to her for a few minutes before heading to the apartment.

Found something I ordered at my front door when I arrived, which was a surprise.

With that, this journal ends! I hope you’ve enjoyed all 71 days of my trip of a lifetime!