Bringing home the "Magic" from the Med with pics- Completed

[faireygod mother]

Someone pass this woman some Sangria!

Loving it...can't wait for more.

Looks to me like Linda is looking rather FABULOUS too! Will I recognize you gals in December?

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You will me, I am just as fat and sassy as you remember.

 

[faireygod mother]

Day 9 At Sea

Today is day 2 at sea and we were once again entertained Disney style. DGD and DH had a date day. It started with a family breakfast, where DGD ate her weight in food, specifically bacon and maple syrup. She does not eat much lunch and dinner, but she sure pigs out for breakfast.

DH and DGD went to a craft session while DN and I went to a cooking show , part of the “Art of Entertaining” series (that was fabulous). DN and I did a little shopping while DH and DGD played ping pong. We met up for lunch in Luminere’s because I just had to have a burger. Not just any burger. I wanted a thick juicy burger made fresh. Dn and I order burger and fries. I get mine loaded with bacon and cheese. After all there is no Wendy’s in the middle of the ocean. It arrives and I had to force a bite. I have eaten so much lately that I had to choke down a few bites. What a waste.

We then went back to the shop to pick up a charm for my bracelet. DH and DGD went to watch Ratatouille and DN and I went to deck 9 Cove area. DN found a lounger and napped and I fought with the internet that still did not work right and is slower than dial up.

DN and I went to beer tasting. I must say that I was able to stomach some of them, of course they were all imports. We tried a Stella Artois (which I enjoyed the most), Peroni (from Italy), New Castle Brown and Guinness. We also made our own black and tan from the last two, which I did enjoy. DN on the other hand still does not enjoy beer.

We went to dinner and then DH and DGD went to see Underdog. DN and I just hung out and then went and played a trivia game (like jeopardy) with Ellen and Kenny. Then we went to Rockin Bar D to watch Michael James. He juggles, comedy and a uni cycle. Definitely a WOW factor. DH stayed out late as he went to deck 9 to get a bite to eat and watched POC3 on the aerial screen.

I went to bed to enjoy another extra hour of sleep. We set the clocks back another hour

 

[Hannosmom]

Someone pass this woman some Sangria!

Loving it...can't wait for more.

Looks to me like Linda is looking rather FABULOUS too! Will I recognize you gals in December?

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Thank you, Jackie, but I think I was leaning back in the picture so all the fluffy stuff was behind me.

Dee, I'll fix you a pitcher of sangria anytime you want.

Did you notice that Grayfal only ordered Martini's that matched her ensemble?

 

[Thistle]

OMG, you have me in stitches here!

Love the photos, black sand, how cool! And wasn't our little flamenco boy just the cutest thing! And the new drink of the day around our house is sangria, I coudln't get enough of it. So much different with 'real' spanish wine!

 

[GrayFal]

Okay, here are my Tenerife pictures to compliment Dee's.....
The black sand is cool - we visited the Volcano but obviously didn't take the same route.


Sunrise and docking in Tenerife

Free Bird Jeeps picking us up at the dock..Thanks Robin Marie!

We stopped at Casa de Los Balcones

Back on the road to the volcano....and we are above the clouds!

Heading into the volcanic area......

And we finally reach the Rocks of Garcia and Mt Tiede

Inactive volcano....

Heading back down....thru the clouds

....and later on deck to Party Paridiso....I think!
Sandra, Me and a young man who WANTED to be in the picture!
Tom and Kenny...he is just EVERYWHERE (reminds me of Pikey)

....after a little time at Sessions (waiter John from India) with Ed and Tom

 

[TiggersPal]

Love it, Dee! I'm glad one of us remembered what happened on this cruise. Love your style, I can hear you laughing.

Lol about your neice and GD spending the time in your cabin. Debbie and Sarah spent lots of time in mine, too.

And yes, folks, I did get pickpocketed in Barcelona. Hope they enjoyed the packet of toilet paper they took. Thats all I had in my backpack, LOL.

Linda - so sorry to hear this, but so funny! When I first read that you got ripped off I got worried, but then started laughing so hard I pee'd (JUST KIDDING!). Too funny.

Thanks Jackie and Michele - I appreciate it

Here's a YUMMY Expresso Martini Toast to YOU


...will post more pictures later to compliment Dee's report.

and i agree you could easily spend 5-7 days just touring (and eating Tapas) in Barcelona

I second the "you look marvelous" commet. I love the color coordination as well. Can't wait to see you ALL in December!

Day 6 At Sea

We were at sea today and it was definitely a lazy day. However, there were no naps or laundry done today. There was some swimming, movie going and of course eating.

Dn, DGD and I did manage to go to Latin dance lessons. Lets just say we will not be giving up our day job. Of course I was smart enough not to take any incriminating photos either. LOL

DH and I also went and watched “Match you Mate.” We really enjoyed it and it was a good ending to a relaxing day.

Dee - love the trip report and photos -but where are YOU???? I want to see some photos of you and your cutie pie DH together!

I'm glad you enjoyed your trip - hope all is well with the family - sorry to hear about the death...

 

[Thistle]

Those pictures are just stunning, it's like being on another world. What a terrific excursion that was. Wish we had some of that black sand for our scrapbook page!

 

[GrayFal]

Those pictures are just stunning, it's like being on another world. What a terrific excursion that was. Wish we had some of that black sand for our scrapbook page!

I am putting the different denominations of coins on mine.....

 

[Thistle]

Be sure to post a picture of it! Would love to see how everyone's turned out.

 

[faireygod mother]

Day 10 Our 3rd day at Sea

It is hard to believe that we are almost done. The ocean looked like glass it was so calm.

The weather has been wonderful thus far. Today was day 3 at sea and a busy one. It started with the usual breakfast at Topsiders. We actually ate outside and had to move because the sun was so bright. Then we all went to the ”Who done it mystery” to get another clue.

DGD went to the kids club for the first time. I almost needed CPR. I am not sure what really prompted this, but I will bet there will be some other DS Diva’s there as well.

Then we all met for lunch (I could not eat, still full from breakfast). We took in another trivia game and won! DH retired to the cabin and Chris and I went to scrapbooking at the Oceaneers Lab. This great event was organized by another cruiser (Thistle). Unfortunately for us the time had been changed to an hour earlier. We had no one to blame but ourselves. This great group of cruiser had a message board posted on each deck. We never even bothered to find the cabin with the board or check. Oops! Thistle was gracious enough to meet up with us and give us all the supplied we needed to complete it later. She would have instructed us then, but we had another tasting to go to. On this cruise you have to have your priorities.

Next adventure, tequila tasting. Now DN likes Tequila and I on the other hand am a Tequila virgin, if that is possible. Remember we are not drinkers. We are getting to the point where I am no longer able to say that. Heck we may already be there. We did large shots of a mystery tequila, Jose Cuervo Reposado (never again), Patron Silver (my mouth is still on fire), 1800 Margarita (which has 1800 Tequilla, grand marnier and margarita mix) and my favorite, Strawberry Margarita. One of the other cruisers provided us with a bag of Doritos. They were called “Sweet Chiley Pepper Doritos”. They were good and we had never had them before. They sure helped with the taste in our mouths after the samplings.

I am not sure whose master plan this was, but I sure did not plan very well for what was to happen next. Months ago we signed up for a ladies tea. We also signed up for all the group tastings at the same time, just with two different people. Now we are in Diversions, which is deck 3 forward. I do mean forward. It is as far forward as you can get. The tea is in Palo, which is deck 10 aft. As far aft as you got get. Are starting to see a potential problem here? Thank goodness there are a few other ladies at this tasting that are going. Grayfal leads the way. DN and I then staggered off behind her along with Hannosmom. She takes us straight to deck 10. Now remember we are out to sea. The boat is rocking, the wind is blowing and we are staggering. See the potential for a famous America’s Funniest Videos? Thanks goodness we did not notice anyone videotaping us. We did have to bob and weave through a sea of sunbathers.
We arrive at Palo, unscathed. It was nice to meet and chat with some other ladies from the boards. The tea, scones, sandwiches and desserts were good, but I am tired of eating and in less than 2 hours we were at dinner. OMG.
It was international night. I managed to eat an appetizer (quesadia), a couple scallops and apple pie with butter pecan ice cream. Tomorrow I want to fast so I can remember what it is like to be hungry. The food has been wonderful, but I think I stay full 24 hours a day.

After dinner we checked out a bizillion (is that a real word?) photos at shutters. DGD has been very busy or at least overactive with all the characters. I was afraid we were going to have to mortgage the house to pay for the photos. We gathered the photos like a squirrel gathers his nut. We trashed the definite no’s and stacked the others together for a second screening on another night. Then we went by to rebook another cruise for DH and I and DN. Mine was a dummy one to be transferred to 09 when they are released. DN is booked on cruising and booked a cruise to join us in December and hopefully surprise her mother.

We made our way to the “When Mickey Dreams” show. We made a wish on a star before we entered the theatre and they collected them inside. It was a spin off of Cirque du soleil. I was very impressed with the acrobats and such.

This guy was awesome!

This woman is actually juggling candelabras with real candels that are lit.

These guys are hanging on with their foot.

Here is the end of the show.

They let us know at the end of the show that we were the last group to see this show. I hope that they will bring it back for the PC cruises or have it on the new ships. It was really worth seeing.

Tonight was pajama party in the Oceaneers lab and DGD attended. Of course so did some of the other DS Divas. DH made it an early night as we have our character breakfast tomorrow. DGD stayed out till about 11pm> Good thing becasue tomorrow is going to be an overstimulating day. DGD also has the Princess tea in ther afternoon. I can only imagine how wound up she will be after the character breakfast and then the tea. I see a nap or time out in her future tomorrow.

 

[scottishwee35]

Beautiful photo and my kids love it.

Scottishwee35

 

[TiggersPal]

Loved the photos of the show, seeing those guys hanging with one foot really makes my knees hurt! So, where is the photo of you two together???? Hmmmm?

 

[ejw]

hey Dee and Pat, just got caught up on your reports and pictures. they are all great. we were at disneyworld the last few days. kenny will enjoy seeing pictures of himself and being mentioned in the reports. as soon as i can, i'll post a few pictures also.

hope everyone is doing well. miss you guys. ellen

 

[cmash95]

i think it's time to subscribe to this thread, I have enjoyed living vicariously through your pictures and comentary. am getting excited for my may trip!!

 

[ibouncetoo]

patiently awaiting the next installment..........

 

[faireygod mother]

patiently awaiting the next installment..........

Maybe tonight. The next day was a BUSY one and a lot of photos. Hope you will enjoy and be entertained.

 

[faireygod mother]

Day 11 4th day at sea

It has become clear to me that I am not a land hugger. I really have not missed seeing or being on land. It has been wonderful sitting on the balcony and watching the ocean go by and having the clear understanding of the meaning “In the middle of no where.”

Today was to be a very stimulating day. It was an early morning for us. We had our character breakfast, which is very different from what we are used to on previous cruises. It is called “Mickey’s Island Jam.”

It was clear to me that the staff and characters must have visited Cove Café for some latte or espresso prior to coming to Parrot Cay. The breakfast was very invigorating, especially for so early in the morning. The new costumes for the characters were wonderful as well. The characters do not come to your table, instead everyone meets in the middle for dancing and then they dance around the restaurant as well.

After breakfast DH, DN and I went to another “Art of Entertaining” series. However, after we got there Dh and DN opted out and went and saw Ratotouille. This session was also done by Michael Jordan,

who is the General Manager and Sommelier of Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel. He demonstrated how to prepare Braciole Pomodoro Avellino with Penne. It was delicious and I will be trying this at home. His sessions have become very popular which is why we needed to arrive 30 minutes early for this session. The cast members told us that there were 250 guests at the last one he did which was on Italian appetizers. They were easy to prepare and very tasty as well.

Then it was onto lunch. We met us at Parrot Cay. DH was ravished as usual. I can not even look at food anymore. When I get home, I will no doubt not be looking at the scale. It is not that we have over indulged, but that food is plenty and delicious. That bite here and bite there has kept me feeling FULL. I sat there why DH, DN and DGD filled their plates and ate. I am not sure if it was the power of suggestion or that the dessert bar was screaming my name but, I did manage to try a couple bites of coconut cream pie and tropical cream fruit pie (actually I might have finished them). Please somebody rescue me.

DN and I then went to Vista Spa to see if DGD could get her hair done for the big Princess tea. They do not do children’s hair, except at Castaway Cay. Now maybe it is me, but why would you want to get their hair done then? I did find that the staff was not as friendly as I had experienced before. Maybe all these days at sea were too much for them. I will give them some kudos because they gave me some bobbi pins so I could do her hair myself and I was much appreciative.

It is now time for the tea party and DGD is so excited. This is party is definitely a keeper in my opinion. Earlier in the week they sent a personal invitation that you had to RSVP and they limited the number of adults to 2 per child. We arrive at Lumiere’s and line up so that they can check our names off.

This is DGD and asst cruise director, Clayton

We had invited our friend chichihoney to join us.

They had us enter through the main entrance where they announced the child’s name as Princess or Prince and then the child’s name. As you proceed down the stairs to be seated there is a reception line of servers all dressed up in tuxes. They gave a sash to each little princess that said “Princess at Sea.” For the little princes they were given a crown., and some Dads too. Here you can see EJW’s DH who was announced as a prince. Wonder if EJW would agree.

After we were seated at the table we were served a special “Princess Tea” which looked like pink lemonade. A plate of small desserts and finger sandwiches (holy cow more food) and a plate of sugar and chocolate chip cookies.

The tea was hosted by Belle. She demonstrated the proper way to drink tea, wipe your mouth and curtsey and bow (depending on whether you are a prince or princess). She then had us practice. The characters then came in and went around to each table for autographs and a picture opt. The list of characters

• Cinderella

• Snow White

• Daisy Duck

• Minnie

• Mulan

• Alice in Wonderland

• Dopey

• Pocahontas

• Suzie and Perla

I am uncertain if they do the Princess Tea for all sailings, but I hope they do. It was a huge success and definitely a lot of fun for both boys and girls.

DN and I attended another episode of “Desperate ship mates” and then on to dinner. After dinner DN, DH and I handed out all our fish extender gifts. This is a neat game and I do recommend it to further cruisers. It is a nice way to see the ship. It allowed us to explore areas of the ship that we did not know existed. DGD went to the club to make a mouse pad for her dad and then to a pizza party.

After handing out the gifts DN and I went to see Rich Purpura’s adult show in Rockin Bar D. We both enjoyed it very much. He is a magician and very talented. He did some juggling while riding a unicycle. He had a girl from the audience on his shoulders while riding a unicycle. Climbed an 8ft ladder, now that was really impressive. I can only hope that grayfal has some photos of him.
It was a great day!

 

[Hannosmom]

Awwww, what sweet pictures. Thank-you so much for inviting Sarah, she had a wonderful time. Tell my "buddy" I miss her!

 

[DizzneyDAnn]

Great pictures! Our coach didn't go past the black sand beach, so I'll be sure to show my kids a picture of it! We ate at a different restaurant which was right next to that beach on the EB, so I was a little sad the kids didn't get to see the beach. It was beautiful. The restaurant with the chickens was MUCH better, though! I wish we had at least driven past it, as you did. Lucky you!

Thanks also for the sea of glass pictures. We hadn't taken those. Hurray for DIS, where you can even complete your set of vacation pictures!

 

[Thistle]

The Tea looks so sweet! What a great idea. Now I just need to comandeer some young child so I can go too!