I awoke early. Is it my internal alarm clock, somehow sensing the near end of marvelous trip? Getting itself back on schedule for the inevitable? Or is it the anticipation of this day that wakes me? I wanted to witness our arrival in this port- actually I had wanted to see all our arrivals but never made any of them! I was not going to miss this one! Up top for a look. Off in the distance, there were a number of small island specks in the sea. Which one was our scheduled delight this day?
A nice man with binoculars pointed Castaway out, barely visible, and then let me look through the binoculars. He was grinning, asked if I had ever been. "No" I replied and he informed me I was in for a treat. Said it was almost his favorite place on the planet, only his home was better. What a nice thing to say. He had travelled extensively, informed me that he was "a salty, old man" who had travelled in the service and then just couldn't stop. Smiling still, he said "just wait to you see it!"
Slowly the island became more detailed, the water got more blue. The beach showed itself. White sand, pastel umbrellas and palm trees. As we sailed closer we could see a few people hurrying about, trams pulling out.
My new friend said "follow me." and took me to a spot on deck ten, above the Captain's perch where he would stand to guide the ship in. The Captain and his assistant were already present. Looking relaxed. Not at all concerned about directing this huge vessel into it's dock. I was sort of underwhelmed- they make it look so easy. The whole week I had never given a thought to the job this man had done. The man with the binoculars shouted down" Thanks for the great sail all week Captain!" For the first time I stopped and appreciated this man's inviable skill.
As we approached, folks lined up along the shoreline. It would be their job to secure this boat called "Magic". POP-what was that?!! small lines had been shot out of the sides of the ship, these were used to haul in the heavy, thick ropes that would tether us for the day. The people scrambled to wind the heavy ropes around the black posts. We had arrived!
Yikes! More then an hour and a half had passed- I hurried back to the cabin. We grabbed a quick breakfast up top, then back to the room for the obligatory lathering and slathering. Is this really the last time I will have to put on Sea Safe?
The kids were registered for the Wild Side activity scheduled for the day. They left for the Promenade meeting. We'd catch up with them later.
Sis and I grabbed our towels and headed off the boat. Waited moments for a tram to transport us to the adult beach area. Riding the tram over was interesting. A rough sort of landscape, scrub brush and saw grass. I remember reading about the history of Castaway Cay- originally called Gorda Cay. It's colorful history as a drug runners haven. Is this the reason for the airstrips we now drove on? I remember the first person account of a man, who spoke of coming to this island as a young boy, with his grandfather. They came to harvest some food on a regular basis. It must have been a challenge- this place would be unforgiving. Hot, direct sun, no fresh water and gnarly brush everywhere. The now grown man who had written the story had visited after Disney owned it. And he loved it! While he spoke wistfully of his childhood, he appreciated the way that Disney had developed and tamed this wild spot. He loved the clean beaches. Loved the idea that so many would be able to enjoy the beauty here so easily. He had returned to "his" island expecting to resent Disney but instead, left respecting and appreciating the way that Disney had so carefully developed the island. He said in the report that the island was only more beautiful- Disney had not taken away a bit of the island's natural beauty.
First impressions of Castaway Cay- WOW! How much of the spot was Disney created and how much was natural beauty? It certainly was beautiful. Lots of flowers in bloom- had Disney timed their budding just for us? The water was so blue and calm- not a wave in sight. Had Disney somehow controlled the sea? The skies were clear and endless and sweet. I saw not a single cloud. Now how did Disney do that? It was perfect. Honestly, like a Disney movie. Technicolor by God. Scented air by mother nature.
After arriving at the entrance to the adult beach we were given instructions on getting off the tram. This was the only time the whole trip that I was reminded that this was a Disney orchestrated place- "keep you heads and feet inside the tram", "do not step off the tram until it comes to a complete stop" said the recorded message. I was transported back to Disney World! It made me smile!
Then the trek began. We needed to find a couple of chairs and available ones were a way off down the beach. No problem- we were fit to walk that far! Then we began- set off- sinking deep into the fine, white sand. This was going to be harder then we thought! The quarter mile or so walk was challenging! Some people were already laying with closed eyes- soaking up the sun and fresh air. Others were already floating blissfully on clear tubes. Others were attempting to get onto their floats! This can be quite a challenge for many adults- I suppose that's the why the floats had directions for loading on them! It can be a comical sight! Full grown adults wrestling with inflated donuts! Flailing arms and legs! Bottoms up! We could see snorkelers, their heads invisible, looking at what? I could hardly wait. We were still huffing and puffing! There's two free chairs and an umbrella! They're ours! Plop! Whew- I could use a drink- yikes- that would mean a trudge back since we hadn't thought to bring our own! I just figured that refreshments would be close at hand here. Oh well. I think Disney should put in board walks here. Perhaps behind the back wall of hedge, out of sight but available for walking and maybe even tram beverage delivery!
We relaxed a few minutes but overhearing swimmers close by exclaiming that they were finding sand dollars I couldn't wait any longer to snorkel! Masks in place we headed in. This water is so salty that floating is no effort at all. The water was shallow a long way out. Was this low tide? Hard to tell since there was not a wave in sight. Does the tide even go in and out here? It seemed more a lake then the ocean. There were not a lot of fish to look at though. Some sort of crooked, little, cream colored fish floating near the bottom quietly. A few swarms of those little silver fish and that was it. We did see a very large red orange star fish. Not at all like the spindly, small, tan creatures I remember from childhood. This was plump, rounded star fish. I floated above it for a few minutes. I love just floating- even with nothing special to look at. I enjoy the sensation of being part of a different world. The weightlessness. Too cool! We saw another golden starfish- more traditional type but pretty big. There were also a lot of sand dollars- it was too tempting- I wanted to bring one home. I did resist- I don't break ALL the rules! I left them there out of respect for the place and the sea. After all, if each Dis passenger took just one, it would mean an awful lot of the unique, white beauties would be gone. I did pick up a few, admire this creation- and then put them down. I pause to appreciate the diversity and wonder of all that surrounds us. All for us. We have all we need to survive and then plenty left over to delight us! A wonder! I am thankful.
We floated for long time. Hoping to see some fish but they were a no show! That would have been fun but it was still wonderful! It was so relaxing. Quiet.
The I heard it!! Yikes!! "Help! Help! Help me!" I looked around- this had to be someone playing right? I see a man frantically swimming in on his back. "Help! Help!" Oh my goodness. I'm thinking shark attack or jellyfish sting. Oh my goodness. A man from the beach jumps in and runs out to the man, an older gentleman. His family states he is a fire fighter- so the swimmer is in good hands. I see him set the man upon his feet- the water was very shallow and they converse. Turns out the man had fallen off his float which was quickly floating away. The poor guy didn't know how to swim, didn't realize that he was in a mere two feet of water and panicked! "I can't swim I can't swim!!" "Um excuse me sir- stand up please." Now I know it must have been awful for him, his heart must have been racing- I can't imagine the fright! But it still gives me a chuckle! The fire fighter was now left to rescue the floatie and listen to the razzings of his family! I am sure it caused him to chuckle too! He was a hero in that man's eyes though- I am sure!
Enough excitement for a while! We sat down under the umbrellas and rested. We had spent maybe two hours in the water. It was so beautiful out. The smallest of breezes, a mirror where the sea should be, just too perfect. I kept thinking "only Disney could create a day this perfect!" " Thanks Walt!"
Stomachs grumbling we began the walk back- sheesh- it wasn't any easier after the snorkeling and now that the sun was in full flare. But Konk Koolers and barbecue called to us! We made it to the eating area. Oh yum- a barbecue. Steak sandwiches, chicken, hot dogs and hamburgers. Fresh fruit, cold beverages and even ice cream. The cooks looked hot and a little surly. Smoke in their faces, you could tell these guys would rather be in the ships galley, then out here sweltering. Everything was delicious! The hot dogs were fun after a week of rich food. The steak sandwiches were great and on the best bread I had had all trip. Dear sister and I were reminded of steak sandwiches we used to get from a small local eatery in our childhood. We had more then one! The potato salad was cold and tasty. An abundance of fresh fruit- chilled and refreshing. Frozen strawberry yogurt was a perfect way to end the meal! I am amazed that Disney can feed so many so well in such a place. Being in food service I sometimes obsess (okay I ALWAYS obsess!) about food safety issues. It's just something I notice. Hot food was hot and cold food was perfectly cold. Another hats off to you Dis!
Hey I wonder where the kids are? Wonder if they are having fun? Maybe we should check on them? How do you find the? Figured we would get back on the tram and head over to the family areas. At any rate I don't think we could have walked through that sand back to a chair if we had wanted to! I think this is the ONLY problem on Castaway- there should be a boardwalk behind the beach. I know we would have been back on that adult beach if it hadn't had meant such a struggle!
While waiting for the tram we spotted a group of teens- and there were ours! They waved, shouted they were having fun and off they went on bicycles. They were on the last leg of the adventure having already snorkeled and kayaked on the other side of the island. I envy them their energy!
Walking into the family area was jarring. A lot more people, a lot more noise and a lot more activity. I had not realized just how serene Serenity Beach was till now! It was crowded and hustling! We wandered around for it, spent some time talking to one of the Dis staff at an information booth. He was pretty funny!
Oh yeah- what about those Konk Koolers ? Where would we find one of these? I also had a hankering (certainly not a hunger!) for some ribs. So we were directed to a bar. The bartender was so nice- a non stop smile and quickly blended us two of this mysterious beverage that we had heard so much about. "want a little dark rum poured on top?" he asked with a grin. Well yeah, sure, why not! The drink was good. Strong and sweet and tropical. We grabbed a couple of ribs- they were okay. I like my ribs crusty on the outside, charred but moist. These were a little soggy, maybe steamed and then not finished on a hot enough fire. They were tasty just a little disappointing.
Sipping our Konk we decided to head back to the ship to meet up with the kids. Back on the tram with other salty but happy cruisers. A quick stop in the shack posing as a post office to mail post cards back home. Which by the way we have yet to receive two full weeks later! I hated to leave this place- I walked slowly and lingered. Will I ever visit again? I can only hope. It was a most beautiful place, developed yet unspoiled. Fragrant and calming (the adult beach at least!) . I loved it. This was, by far, my favorite stop on this adventure. Saint Martin was exciting, Saint Thomas was lovely, but Serenity Beach on Castaway Cay was enchanting. God's country. Just writing about it I find myself more relaxed, breathing deeper, more serene. I will treasure the memory of this place and certainly call upon this memory to calm me in the future. A perfect spot to begin guided imagery for my relaxation. Ahhhhh But we did have to leave- so back on the boat. A shower, a nap. Even in my napping I was on Castaway still!
We took a trip to shutters, to sort through the dozens of pictures we had taken this week. Wow- there was a lot of them. It would be hard to pick favorites! We took our pile and parked ourselves on the floor in a corner. Shutters should have tables set up for this somehow. We narrowed our choices down and spent what we could. I had sacrificed excursions to free up money for these pictures and today was the pay off! Head shots of the kids on tropical night- DD13's braiding captured perfectly captured forever! Formal shots- wow my son in so handsome in a tux! He looks like his Dad. So handsome and gentleness in his eyes.DD17 in her gown looking like a woman- no longer my little girl. I see myself looking back a young lady on the brink of independence and her future set all in front of her. I pray I have prepared her well. These photos are a treasure. They captured not only our vacation but our personalities.
We dressed for dinner- our final with Sylvester and Joel. Our tips were prepared and some packing was done. By the adults anyways- packing the children is a whole nother story! That would be done after dinner. We helped the children prepare their tips, I wanted them involved in the whole process. I wanted them to stop for a moment and appreciate the hard workers who had strived to make our trip perfect. An extra bonus from DS for Orlando his room steward. This man had become a friend and ally to my son. He oft scolded me about apologizing for the conditions in the kids room. "They are on vacation- you leave them alone!" and "Don't worry about it- that's what I'm here for!" "let them be and have fun- they shouldn't be cleaning". I think he sensed that it was a challenge for the DS to be travelling with four females. He invited Matt to some basketball games with other crew. My son had a great time playing with them. He also took time to talk to my son about his family back in the Philippines- how much he missed them- how hard he was working to send money back to them. It made quite an impression on this 15 year old boy. Each day he would tell us a tale of Orlando! He amused them all with his towel animals and amazed me with his good nature in the face of the sometimes knee deep, teen rubble in the room! He was humble and kind and appreciated.
Dear DD 13 was scheduled to appear in the Talent Show tonight! What a treat! Everyone did well- it was fun to watch but DD, of course, was a shining star in my eyes! It takes guts to get up in front of people and even in the most friendliest of crowds risk embarrassment. I respect her gutsiness and marvel at her talent! Where did she get this from? I can't carry a tune, have two left feet. Yet this child can sing and dance at the same time! She did great! This exciting, vibrant, talented young woman is mine! I am proud. She is a challenging child to rear- her energy and passion often need firm direction or they whirl out of control! But I wouldn't change a thing about her. I love her beyond words and I know she will go far in life.
Dinner was fun tonight. The waiters paraded with the flags of their homelands. A standing ovation for all their efforts. Their smiles seem sincere. I hope they do know how appreciated they are. I hope everyone tipped them well and gave them a word of thanks. We gave them hugs! They had done so much all week to make each nights dining a joy. They had tips and the recommendations for the food not to miss were always on the mark. They sometimes put in 19 hour days-they have duties onboard beyond the dining rooms. Between meals we would see Joel cleaning this or setting up that on top. I know I wouldn't be smiling! They earn every cent they get. If I could have tipped even more I would have. They deserve it. Each time DD would ask for an off menu item they went in search of it. They never flinched when a family of five ordered 12 appetizers! Great job guys!
We had to go back to the room to pack- YIKES! What a mess! The kids stuff was out of control and the clock was ticking towards the 11 PM deadline for putting luggage out! Things were flying and heads were ducking! Somehow we got it done at exactly 11 PM! Whew! It wasn't easy!
We all headed out for a few last trips around the ship. They had a dessert buffet set up. I was stuffed so I passed. Carried an extra plate for DD13- she had to try one of everything! Where does she put it? A week later at home when she complained of her jeans not fitting I reminded her of this evening! She smiled and said "yup- that's it- that explains it Mom!" She remembers each dessert she tried that night- from the chocolate fudgy petit fours to the cheese cake and cookies.
The kids were exhausted- the Wild Side was physically demanding on them! They reported it was a "blast", they also warmed my heart when they told me how they had stuck together. DD told of giving up a kayak spot with a new friend so that her brother would feel more comfortable. He had not really made friends with kids on the ship- he spent more time with Orlando and ordering room service then socializing with the teens. Before the trip he had said that he just wanted to relax- his dream came true for his perfect vacation. He had freedom and no schedules, save the mandatory family dinner each night and the Wild Side activity. He felt competent and in control- something often lacking in this teens world.
The kids were left to their dreams, dear sis and I went off. The clubs were busy- everyone wanting to wring one more magical memory out of this trip. Dancing and hugging and hand holding.
I was a little sad- I didn't want to get off. I am meant for a life of leisure and observation!
I went to bed with mixed emotions and not till the last minute. I was savoring and recalling all the wonders of the week. It was such a special vacation. Beyond words, although I have certainly used more then a few trying to recapture it here! A week of beauty, luxury, grace and restoration. My heart and soul are refreshed, renewed.
So I will wake in the morn with a multitude of fond memories, a reluctance to disembark and reenter the real world, an eagerness to see my dear husband and home once again. And the anticipation of a special surprise yet to come! Stay tuned!
A nice man with binoculars pointed Castaway out, barely visible, and then let me look through the binoculars. He was grinning, asked if I had ever been. "No" I replied and he informed me I was in for a treat. Said it was almost his favorite place on the planet, only his home was better. What a nice thing to say. He had travelled extensively, informed me that he was "a salty, old man" who had travelled in the service and then just couldn't stop. Smiling still, he said "just wait to you see it!"
Slowly the island became more detailed, the water got more blue. The beach showed itself. White sand, pastel umbrellas and palm trees. As we sailed closer we could see a few people hurrying about, trams pulling out.
My new friend said "follow me." and took me to a spot on deck ten, above the Captain's perch where he would stand to guide the ship in. The Captain and his assistant were already present. Looking relaxed. Not at all concerned about directing this huge vessel into it's dock. I was sort of underwhelmed- they make it look so easy. The whole week I had never given a thought to the job this man had done. The man with the binoculars shouted down" Thanks for the great sail all week Captain!" For the first time I stopped and appreciated this man's inviable skill.
As we approached, folks lined up along the shoreline. It would be their job to secure this boat called "Magic". POP-what was that?!! small lines had been shot out of the sides of the ship, these were used to haul in the heavy, thick ropes that would tether us for the day. The people scrambled to wind the heavy ropes around the black posts. We had arrived!
Yikes! More then an hour and a half had passed- I hurried back to the cabin. We grabbed a quick breakfast up top, then back to the room for the obligatory lathering and slathering. Is this really the last time I will have to put on Sea Safe?
The kids were registered for the Wild Side activity scheduled for the day. They left for the Promenade meeting. We'd catch up with them later.
Sis and I grabbed our towels and headed off the boat. Waited moments for a tram to transport us to the adult beach area. Riding the tram over was interesting. A rough sort of landscape, scrub brush and saw grass. I remember reading about the history of Castaway Cay- originally called Gorda Cay. It's colorful history as a drug runners haven. Is this the reason for the airstrips we now drove on? I remember the first person account of a man, who spoke of coming to this island as a young boy, with his grandfather. They came to harvest some food on a regular basis. It must have been a challenge- this place would be unforgiving. Hot, direct sun, no fresh water and gnarly brush everywhere. The now grown man who had written the story had visited after Disney owned it. And he loved it! While he spoke wistfully of his childhood, he appreciated the way that Disney had developed and tamed this wild spot. He loved the clean beaches. Loved the idea that so many would be able to enjoy the beauty here so easily. He had returned to "his" island expecting to resent Disney but instead, left respecting and appreciating the way that Disney had so carefully developed the island. He said in the report that the island was only more beautiful- Disney had not taken away a bit of the island's natural beauty.
First impressions of Castaway Cay- WOW! How much of the spot was Disney created and how much was natural beauty? It certainly was beautiful. Lots of flowers in bloom- had Disney timed their budding just for us? The water was so blue and calm- not a wave in sight. Had Disney somehow controlled the sea? The skies were clear and endless and sweet. I saw not a single cloud. Now how did Disney do that? It was perfect. Honestly, like a Disney movie. Technicolor by God. Scented air by mother nature.
After arriving at the entrance to the adult beach we were given instructions on getting off the tram. This was the only time the whole trip that I was reminded that this was a Disney orchestrated place- "keep you heads and feet inside the tram", "do not step off the tram until it comes to a complete stop" said the recorded message. I was transported back to Disney World! It made me smile!
Then the trek began. We needed to find a couple of chairs and available ones were a way off down the beach. No problem- we were fit to walk that far! Then we began- set off- sinking deep into the fine, white sand. This was going to be harder then we thought! The quarter mile or so walk was challenging! Some people were already laying with closed eyes- soaking up the sun and fresh air. Others were already floating blissfully on clear tubes. Others were attempting to get onto their floats! This can be quite a challenge for many adults- I suppose that's the why the floats had directions for loading on them! It can be a comical sight! Full grown adults wrestling with inflated donuts! Flailing arms and legs! Bottoms up! We could see snorkelers, their heads invisible, looking at what? I could hardly wait. We were still huffing and puffing! There's two free chairs and an umbrella! They're ours! Plop! Whew- I could use a drink- yikes- that would mean a trudge back since we hadn't thought to bring our own! I just figured that refreshments would be close at hand here. Oh well. I think Disney should put in board walks here. Perhaps behind the back wall of hedge, out of sight but available for walking and maybe even tram beverage delivery!
We relaxed a few minutes but overhearing swimmers close by exclaiming that they were finding sand dollars I couldn't wait any longer to snorkel! Masks in place we headed in. This water is so salty that floating is no effort at all. The water was shallow a long way out. Was this low tide? Hard to tell since there was not a wave in sight. Does the tide even go in and out here? It seemed more a lake then the ocean. There were not a lot of fish to look at though. Some sort of crooked, little, cream colored fish floating near the bottom quietly. A few swarms of those little silver fish and that was it. We did see a very large red orange star fish. Not at all like the spindly, small, tan creatures I remember from childhood. This was plump, rounded star fish. I floated above it for a few minutes. I love just floating- even with nothing special to look at. I enjoy the sensation of being part of a different world. The weightlessness. Too cool! We saw another golden starfish- more traditional type but pretty big. There were also a lot of sand dollars- it was too tempting- I wanted to bring one home. I did resist- I don't break ALL the rules! I left them there out of respect for the place and the sea. After all, if each Dis passenger took just one, it would mean an awful lot of the unique, white beauties would be gone. I did pick up a few, admire this creation- and then put them down. I pause to appreciate the diversity and wonder of all that surrounds us. All for us. We have all we need to survive and then plenty left over to delight us! A wonder! I am thankful.
We floated for long time. Hoping to see some fish but they were a no show! That would have been fun but it was still wonderful! It was so relaxing. Quiet.
The I heard it!! Yikes!! "Help! Help! Help me!" I looked around- this had to be someone playing right? I see a man frantically swimming in on his back. "Help! Help!" Oh my goodness. I'm thinking shark attack or jellyfish sting. Oh my goodness. A man from the beach jumps in and runs out to the man, an older gentleman. His family states he is a fire fighter- so the swimmer is in good hands. I see him set the man upon his feet- the water was very shallow and they converse. Turns out the man had fallen off his float which was quickly floating away. The poor guy didn't know how to swim, didn't realize that he was in a mere two feet of water and panicked! "I can't swim I can't swim!!" "Um excuse me sir- stand up please." Now I know it must have been awful for him, his heart must have been racing- I can't imagine the fright! But it still gives me a chuckle! The fire fighter was now left to rescue the floatie and listen to the razzings of his family! I am sure it caused him to chuckle too! He was a hero in that man's eyes though- I am sure!
Enough excitement for a while! We sat down under the umbrellas and rested. We had spent maybe two hours in the water. It was so beautiful out. The smallest of breezes, a mirror where the sea should be, just too perfect. I kept thinking "only Disney could create a day this perfect!" " Thanks Walt!"
Stomachs grumbling we began the walk back- sheesh- it wasn't any easier after the snorkeling and now that the sun was in full flare. But Konk Koolers and barbecue called to us! We made it to the eating area. Oh yum- a barbecue. Steak sandwiches, chicken, hot dogs and hamburgers. Fresh fruit, cold beverages and even ice cream. The cooks looked hot and a little surly. Smoke in their faces, you could tell these guys would rather be in the ships galley, then out here sweltering. Everything was delicious! The hot dogs were fun after a week of rich food. The steak sandwiches were great and on the best bread I had had all trip. Dear sister and I were reminded of steak sandwiches we used to get from a small local eatery in our childhood. We had more then one! The potato salad was cold and tasty. An abundance of fresh fruit- chilled and refreshing. Frozen strawberry yogurt was a perfect way to end the meal! I am amazed that Disney can feed so many so well in such a place. Being in food service I sometimes obsess (okay I ALWAYS obsess!) about food safety issues. It's just something I notice. Hot food was hot and cold food was perfectly cold. Another hats off to you Dis!
Hey I wonder where the kids are? Wonder if they are having fun? Maybe we should check on them? How do you find the? Figured we would get back on the tram and head over to the family areas. At any rate I don't think we could have walked through that sand back to a chair if we had wanted to! I think this is the ONLY problem on Castaway- there should be a boardwalk behind the beach. I know we would have been back on that adult beach if it hadn't had meant such a struggle!
While waiting for the tram we spotted a group of teens- and there were ours! They waved, shouted they were having fun and off they went on bicycles. They were on the last leg of the adventure having already snorkeled and kayaked on the other side of the island. I envy them their energy!
Walking into the family area was jarring. A lot more people, a lot more noise and a lot more activity. I had not realized just how serene Serenity Beach was till now! It was crowded and hustling! We wandered around for it, spent some time talking to one of the Dis staff at an information booth. He was pretty funny!
Oh yeah- what about those Konk Koolers ? Where would we find one of these? I also had a hankering (certainly not a hunger!) for some ribs. So we were directed to a bar. The bartender was so nice- a non stop smile and quickly blended us two of this mysterious beverage that we had heard so much about. "want a little dark rum poured on top?" he asked with a grin. Well yeah, sure, why not! The drink was good. Strong and sweet and tropical. We grabbed a couple of ribs- they were okay. I like my ribs crusty on the outside, charred but moist. These were a little soggy, maybe steamed and then not finished on a hot enough fire. They were tasty just a little disappointing.
Sipping our Konk we decided to head back to the ship to meet up with the kids. Back on the tram with other salty but happy cruisers. A quick stop in the shack posing as a post office to mail post cards back home. Which by the way we have yet to receive two full weeks later! I hated to leave this place- I walked slowly and lingered. Will I ever visit again? I can only hope. It was a most beautiful place, developed yet unspoiled. Fragrant and calming (the adult beach at least!) . I loved it. This was, by far, my favorite stop on this adventure. Saint Martin was exciting, Saint Thomas was lovely, but Serenity Beach on Castaway Cay was enchanting. God's country. Just writing about it I find myself more relaxed, breathing deeper, more serene. I will treasure the memory of this place and certainly call upon this memory to calm me in the future. A perfect spot to begin guided imagery for my relaxation. Ahhhhh But we did have to leave- so back on the boat. A shower, a nap. Even in my napping I was on Castaway still!
We took a trip to shutters, to sort through the dozens of pictures we had taken this week. Wow- there was a lot of them. It would be hard to pick favorites! We took our pile and parked ourselves on the floor in a corner. Shutters should have tables set up for this somehow. We narrowed our choices down and spent what we could. I had sacrificed excursions to free up money for these pictures and today was the pay off! Head shots of the kids on tropical night- DD13's braiding captured perfectly captured forever! Formal shots- wow my son in so handsome in a tux! He looks like his Dad. So handsome and gentleness in his eyes.DD17 in her gown looking like a woman- no longer my little girl. I see myself looking back a young lady on the brink of independence and her future set all in front of her. I pray I have prepared her well. These photos are a treasure. They captured not only our vacation but our personalities.
We dressed for dinner- our final with Sylvester and Joel. Our tips were prepared and some packing was done. By the adults anyways- packing the children is a whole nother story! That would be done after dinner. We helped the children prepare their tips, I wanted them involved in the whole process. I wanted them to stop for a moment and appreciate the hard workers who had strived to make our trip perfect. An extra bonus from DS for Orlando his room steward. This man had become a friend and ally to my son. He oft scolded me about apologizing for the conditions in the kids room. "They are on vacation- you leave them alone!" and "Don't worry about it- that's what I'm here for!" "let them be and have fun- they shouldn't be cleaning". I think he sensed that it was a challenge for the DS to be travelling with four females. He invited Matt to some basketball games with other crew. My son had a great time playing with them. He also took time to talk to my son about his family back in the Philippines- how much he missed them- how hard he was working to send money back to them. It made quite an impression on this 15 year old boy. Each day he would tell us a tale of Orlando! He amused them all with his towel animals and amazed me with his good nature in the face of the sometimes knee deep, teen rubble in the room! He was humble and kind and appreciated.
Dear DD 13 was scheduled to appear in the Talent Show tonight! What a treat! Everyone did well- it was fun to watch but DD, of course, was a shining star in my eyes! It takes guts to get up in front of people and even in the most friendliest of crowds risk embarrassment. I respect her gutsiness and marvel at her talent! Where did she get this from? I can't carry a tune, have two left feet. Yet this child can sing and dance at the same time! She did great! This exciting, vibrant, talented young woman is mine! I am proud. She is a challenging child to rear- her energy and passion often need firm direction or they whirl out of control! But I wouldn't change a thing about her. I love her beyond words and I know she will go far in life.
Dinner was fun tonight. The waiters paraded with the flags of their homelands. A standing ovation for all their efforts. Their smiles seem sincere. I hope they do know how appreciated they are. I hope everyone tipped them well and gave them a word of thanks. We gave them hugs! They had done so much all week to make each nights dining a joy. They had tips and the recommendations for the food not to miss were always on the mark. They sometimes put in 19 hour days-they have duties onboard beyond the dining rooms. Between meals we would see Joel cleaning this or setting up that on top. I know I wouldn't be smiling! They earn every cent they get. If I could have tipped even more I would have. They deserve it. Each time DD would ask for an off menu item they went in search of it. They never flinched when a family of five ordered 12 appetizers! Great job guys!
We had to go back to the room to pack- YIKES! What a mess! The kids stuff was out of control and the clock was ticking towards the 11 PM deadline for putting luggage out! Things were flying and heads were ducking! Somehow we got it done at exactly 11 PM! Whew! It wasn't easy!
We all headed out for a few last trips around the ship. They had a dessert buffet set up. I was stuffed so I passed. Carried an extra plate for DD13- she had to try one of everything! Where does she put it? A week later at home when she complained of her jeans not fitting I reminded her of this evening! She smiled and said "yup- that's it- that explains it Mom!" She remembers each dessert she tried that night- from the chocolate fudgy petit fours to the cheese cake and cookies.
The kids were exhausted- the Wild Side was physically demanding on them! They reported it was a "blast", they also warmed my heart when they told me how they had stuck together. DD told of giving up a kayak spot with a new friend so that her brother would feel more comfortable. He had not really made friends with kids on the ship- he spent more time with Orlando and ordering room service then socializing with the teens. Before the trip he had said that he just wanted to relax- his dream came true for his perfect vacation. He had freedom and no schedules, save the mandatory family dinner each night and the Wild Side activity. He felt competent and in control- something often lacking in this teens world.
The kids were left to their dreams, dear sis and I went off. The clubs were busy- everyone wanting to wring one more magical memory out of this trip. Dancing and hugging and hand holding.
I was a little sad- I didn't want to get off. I am meant for a life of leisure and observation!
I went to bed with mixed emotions and not till the last minute. I was savoring and recalling all the wonders of the week. It was such a special vacation. Beyond words, although I have certainly used more then a few trying to recapture it here! A week of beauty, luxury, grace and restoration. My heart and soul are refreshed, renewed.
So I will wake in the morn with a multitude of fond memories, a reluctance to disembark and reenter the real world, an eagerness to see my dear husband and home once again. And the anticipation of a special surprise yet to come! Stay tuned!