*Sept 10th 2011 WB Transatlantic* - From Spain to Space Mountain - Part 6

[auntlynne]

We too would like to participate if an event is planned. In law enforcement I have had the experience of attending many 9/11 memorials. I have seen the idea done before. I think many people liked it. I was not a huge fan as it to me, purely my own flawed opinion, it was not as meaningful as a time of reflection and a few people moved to make statements. Everyone talking to me was somewhat of a distaction and I found it hard to focus on the reality this country endured on 9/11. I felt disrespectful to all the names as it felt hectic. Just my opinion....I am open to whatever.

Glad to see others have interest as well. If something is planned please let us know. We have a GTY room with no assignment yet so I cannot give you a room number, etc. My name is TC Clements and my wife is Jamie. I hope a CM could locate us should this come together at the last minute.

Can't wait to meet everyone soon!

I can imagine too many voices talking at once could just be cacophony. By spreading out around the ship on the top deck, there will still be noise (from ship activities), but you probably won't even hear the others reading names, as we would be spread out.

The beauty of this is that you could participate by being present - you could select one of the more quiet places on the upper deck and just be with us. What I'm trying to say is that if you want to join us, you don't have to go with this exact game plan; it's a flexible plan of events.

As I was collecting the names (they are not easy to get a list that is in an easily copied form), I watched a video of the 1st tower while on fire and was so saddened by it all. But thinking about it, one of the ways I feel I can honor those who died and show those who would continue to perpetuate crimes against others is to celebrate the lives we still have and not live in a state of terror. This cruise is an example of our overcoming oppression.

And as always, if DCL comes up with something better or that pre-empts our activity, we can all show up en masse, wearing our lanyards to show our group support.

 

[GatorMomInNC]

I think I would prefer meeting and watching the events on TV. For one thing, I do want to see the official ceremonies from NYC and DC and PA (I assume) on the TV. I feel like that will connect me to all the Americans back home, as they will probably be watching those ceremonies also.

But how long I can stay... well, I think I am going to have to play it by ear. I very well may get emotional even just watching the stuff on TV and I don't want to have my kids there - I think they are too young to understand and would be frightened to see their mother upset like that. So my time will be limited to how long the kids will be occupied in the clubs, and given it is only the 2nd day of the cruise, they may not want to stay very long.

So, I plan on watching the ceremonies on TV wherever people gather to watch, and probably participating in whatever official event DCL does (if any), but I don't think I will do the deck thing, although I think it is a lovely idea.

Right now it seems to be a toss-up as to whether we meet in one of the lounges/clubs that has a TV so we can watch what is going on in NYC at the WTC or whether we want to gather up on deck for some reflective time.

We'd called DCL and all they would tell us is that they had the day designated as "Patriot Day" and that there would be some sort of coverage on board (TV).

I'd asked for thoughts from the group that originally answered up- Josh had said that probably meeting in a lounge with a TV would be good so that we could watch the coverage. Anyone else have a suggestion??

 

[GatorMomInNC]

As a group 2er I am all for that. It would be nice to know that if I have a conflicting engagement at Palo that I could switch groups/days. How many are signed up all together?

How about splitting the two groups equally, so there are still some openings in each. That way, if one of the days/times interferes with anything (such as Palo or a children's activity), there is flexibility to move to the other group. Just an idea....

 

[auntlynne]

Lynne, this is exactly what I was looking for!! We would love to do this- and hope that there will a nice size group participating. ...

Now all we have to do is decide where on deck 10 to meet. I also found a logo for a shirt, but don't know if anyone else would want to use it. If you'd like to, let me know and I can send it to you. DH has already enhanced the file size to make a good quality logo. The file size is just under 700k.

Thanks again Lynne, and thank you all! I had fears that this memorial wouldn't get too far- but now I know that it will.

I was working on my door magnets - I was considering put up the names on my door. Couldn't decide if that was right/proper/respectful. That's what started the thinking.

I think that port side, aft, would be a lovely place to gather. There should be an area with a few wooden benches surrounded by a wall. 2:30pm

On the starboard side is the entrance to Palo, so people can take the elevator to the top floor and come around the back side of Palo's or in front of the smoke stack (or up the stairs from the drink station/MM pool).

 

[auntlynne]

Like all group activities, this is an opportunity for people to gather with others - be that fun, food, or fellowship. I certainly recognize that each person decides what events to join in (or not). Some people are so busy in regular life that cruise time is time needed to connect with family. I look forward to seeing my new DIS friends whenever they chose to join in activities in which I am interested.

 

[tojam]

Like all group activities, this is an opportunity for people to gather with others - be that fun, food, or fellowship. I certainly recognize that each person decides what events to join in (or not). Some people are so busy in regular life that cruise time is time needed to connect with family. I look forward to seeing my new DIS friends whenever they chose to join in activities in which I am interested.

Your consideration of others and for those affected by 9/11 truly shows in your posts. I appreciate the tone and tenor of your comments and REALLY appreciate that this day holds very dear meaning for you.

I know getting ready for this trip I have spent many hours reflecting on being on vacation on the 10 year anniversary of 9/11. My current partner was an NYPD Sgt. on 9/11 and lost many close friends durng the incident. Through his memories and all those that have lost their lives in law enforcement defending our nation that I have worked with, I come back to same place.

9/11 is a reminder for all of us. Life is fragile, valuable and should be cherished. The moment....any moment....we loose sight of that we should stop and reflect on all those that have come before and with us to defend our liberty and freedom.

I can think of no better way than to honor all those impacted by 9/11 than remembering them with friends, counting our own respective blessings, and remaining thankful that we can be on vacation safely as a result of those that defend each of us daily.

 

[squitty]

How about splitting the two groups equally, so there are still some openings in each. That way, if one of the days/times interferes with anything (such as Palo or a children's activity), there is flexibility to move to the other group. Just an idea....

I thought of that, too. That way we could still have two groups. Our rooms are being charged whether we show up or not. I like your idea.

Judi

Well I agree with Jessicamom how about dividing the two groups. We wouldn't mind doing that.


Jeremy that is what we paid at Wells Fargo.

As a group 2er I am all for that. It would be nice to know that if I have a conflicting engagement at Palo that I could switch groups/days. How many are signed up all together?

Thanks for all the suggestions

I have emailed the lady who is helping me organise the tastings with that suggestion, but she has not got back to me.

I also said that we would have to check with everyone when the dates are offered if it's ok with their plans. So nothing is set in concrete yet. The dates might not suit everyone so we would have to move people around once we get the dates.

It will work out not stressing out.

 

[LindaBabe]

Good Morning, Happy Cruisers!

All of you in harms way this weekend - PLEASE err on the side of SAFETY! We need you with us in just 14 days!

I have just finished a moving book some of you may find of interest Project Rebirth: Survival and the Strength of the Human Spirit from 9/11 Survivors

Working today at the local rubber stamp & scrapbook show. DH will be busy battening down the hatches. My roommates over in New England will be doing the same.

HAVE A SAFE DAY!

 

[karentan]

the hair dryer left something to be desired. But packing my own would mean one less pair of shoes I can take. So I'll make do with what they have.

getting your priorities straight eh pat!

I think I would prefer meeting and watching the events on TV. For one thing, I do want to see the official ceremonies from NYC and DC and PA (I assume) on the TV.

So, I plan on watching the ceremonies on TV wherever people gather to watch, and probably participating in whatever official event DCL does (if any), but I don't think I will do the deck thing, although I think it is a lovely idea.

this is what i plan on doing too. all the best for the people who will be on deck ten but i would just like to watch the coverage, and be there for whatever DCL plans on doing.

All of you in harms way this weekend - PLEASE err on the side of SAFETY!

hope everyone stays safe over the next few days and doesn't sustain too much damage

 

[squitty]

hope everyone stays safe over the next few days and doesn't sustain too much damage

Ditto what Karen said.

 

[Pinky166]

Clarification, please. "Converter" means one of those gadgets that changes 110 to 220 (or whatever - I can never remember who has what), and "adapter" means the thing that makes the prongs fit the outlet, and I'll need both to plug in any of my US-made gear in Barca, right?

I have a converter and an adapter for European outlets, b/c I know I'll have to charge something, even though we're only in Barca for 2 days.

Sorry Pat - Yes I mean an adaptor....my bad.

this is what i plan on doing too. all the best for the people who will be on deck ten but i would just like to watch the coverage, and be there for whatever DCL plans on doing.

Same here, I would like to see the coverage on tv....although I think the deck 10 gathering is a wonderful idea.

 

[KrisannB]

My husband's family owned the Chesterfield House in Kanawha City and my family is from South Charleston. I grew up in Manassas, VA but James and I have landed in Morgantown. At least you're family isn't in McDowell county j/k Too bad we didn't get get a chance to meet up while you were in Mannington. James works in Fairmont.:

Oh how I would love some pepporoni rolls - we will definately have to meet up and meet each other on the ship - I miss West Virginia alot.

Krisann, did you go to Rothenburg Ob der Tauber, this besides Vienna, is my most favorite place in the whole wide world. I just love it there, I have been there many times. Did you find any Ice?

No we have not gone there. not sure what the next 2 weeks holds for sure.

Krisann - WHY DON'T YOU TAKE PHOTO'S OF THE PAGES OF WORK WITH YOUR DIGITAL CAMERA BEFORE YOU DESTROY THEM....

YOU COULD TRANSFER THEM TO YOUR LAPTOP

HOPE THIS SUGGESTION IS NOT TOO LATE

Oh this is a great idea!!! Thank you so much - that is what I will do!

Those travelling by Easy Jet please check their baggage rules carefully.

If you buy additional hold luggage this does not increase your weight allowance, it just means you can spread your 20kg across another bag.

"Each passenger who pays for a hold bag can take up to 20kg of luggage. This weight allowance applies to the passenger rather than to the bag so purchasing extra bags is possible but will not increase the weight allowance. If you think you’ll need to take a little bit more with you, you can buy some extra weight – it’s best to do this online before you fly as the online charges are considerably cheaper than at the airport."

Additional fees are £10 per additional kilo

this is what got me is the TOTAL of all bags - I had to send 70 lbs of stuff home from maryland because of this on Aerlingus - I decided I would rather pay the post office $60 than Aerlingus $405 for the extra baggage fees!

krisann - did you like the daisy magnet lynne designed for you? if so i'll try and print it out for you this weekend.

I will have to go and find it - I guess I missed it

Photos Onboard Question:

This concerns those nice white background professional photos taken on the ship: is there an extra fee or are they just considered another 8x10 photo (requiring 2 credits or $19.95)?

Do you just walk up and get in line when they are working or do you make an appointment?

great pics - no extra cost - they seem to do the white backgrounds multiple times during the 14 night cruises.

We have done so many DCL ones this time we will get the embarktation picture, and then after that take our camera around everywhere getting family shots in places we have not before!

I am sure I read somewhere that there is both an American and Uk socket in the room. :

The Dream has both - but not the Magic and Wonder - there is where the confusion comes in!

The hairdryers are fine if you just want to dry your hair. It may not be adequate, if you use it to style.

Sockets are normal 3 pin US sockets and there are only 2 of them, on the desk. The wave phones will be plugged in to one of them. I suggest taking an extension cord with multiplugs or a power strip with multiple plugs if you have many things that need charging.

I do fine with the hair dryers - actually love them as I hate ones that get too hot - but I have medium fine fine hair.

As for plugs - there is one behind the tv and we plug the wave phone doc up to it so they are out of the way behind the tv (the tv pulls out so it is easy to get to when you do need it.

Can I just add that the wave phones work on castaway cay too

Down side $250 fine if you lose one. They supply 2 in every room, along with your standard telephone

Also if you damage it they charge it - feel sorry for the kids who take them into the water!!!

I don't know if I will bother with the phone ... I will probably lose it and I also like to be away from technology on vacation .... spend too much time on phones at work.

We have 2 kids - each get a phone so we can find them, but we do not have one so they cannot find us!! But if anyone needs us - still call and the kids will go and put a note on our door for us!

I can imagine lots of wave phone numbers being needed

It is just your room number and we have a list of that!!


Krisann

 

[Brookspayne]

Done my first suitcase run, and ...... yes you guess it, either have to change the size of the suitcase, cull the clothes or bring another case. Thought I was doing well as I halved what I took last year. Need a packing fairy sent over please.

Hope the rest of you are faring better at doing your packing then I am at the moment.

9/11 is a reminder for all of us. Life is fragile, valuable and should be cherished. The moment....any moment....we loose sight of that we should stop and reflect on all those that have come before and with us to defend our liberty and freedom.

I can think of no better way than to honor all those impacted by 9/11 than remembering them with friends, counting our own respective blessings, and remaining thankful that we can be on vacation safely as a result of those that defend each of us daily.

I agree, I will be reflecting on both 9/11 and the Bali bombings and pray that this never happens again.

Think I will leave the re-packing until tomorrow, time for a glass of wine and, some cheese and biscuits.

Burnice

 

[Pinky166]

Ok folks i've got an update for the Champagne Girls!!!!


DCL have finally been in contact with me & offered the 13th September, 3pm - 4.30pm at Sessions.

The cost will be $20 per person - I am still waiting for confirmation how much Champagne we will get per person for that price. I will also need more information from you guys, such as room numbers etc but i'll update again as soon as I hear from DCL.

Now the issue we have is the 15th September is the new date the Pub Crawl was moved to & quite a few people are signed up for both the Champagne Girls & also the Pub Crawl. What are your opinions please? Is it possible to move the Pub Crawl again without causing too many issues with child care? We also need to bare in mind that Michelle is still awaiting the dates for the Mojito & Mixology tastings so they could clash with the pub crawl? Although she will hopefully have two groups for each so we can switch people around if need be to avoid any further clashes.

What a headache! Still just think in two weeks time we will all be getting on the ship about now so all this hassle will be a distant memory.....

 

[TotallyAngelic]

Ok folks i've got an update for the Champagne Girls!!!!


DCL have finally been in contact with me & offered the 13th September, 3pm - 4.30pm at Sessions.

The cost will be $20 per person - I am still waiting for confirmation how much Champagne we will get per person for that price. I will also need more information from you guys, such as room numbers etc but i'll update again as soon as I hear from DCL.

Now the issue we have is the 13th September is the new date the Pub Crawl was moved to & quite a few people are signed up for both the Champagne Girls & also the Pub Crawl. What are your opinions please? Is it possible to move the Pub Crawl again without causing too many issues with child care? We also need to bare in mind that Michelle is still awaiting the dates for the Mojito & Mixology tastings so they could clash with the pub crawl? Although she will hopefully have two groups for each so we can switch people around if need be to avoid any further clashes.

What a headache! Still just think in two weeks time we will all be getting on the ship about now so all this hassle will be a distant memory.....

I suppose the two options would be to either go with the DCL Champagne tasting and change the day of the pub crawl if that can be done or to just do our own thing with the champagne girls event and have it on a different day. Is that the only day DCL can do it ?

 

[Pinky166]

I suppose the two options would be to either go with the DCL Champagne tasting and change the day of the pub crawl if that can be done or to just do our own thing with the champagne girls event and have it on a different day. Is that the only day DCL can do it ?

I'm fairly sure that is the only day they will offer us, I have asked but not had a response yet but to be honest it has taken a lot of effort to get one date from them so I doubt they will give me anything else.

 

[squitty]

Ok folks i've got an update for the Champagne Girls!!!!


DCL have finally been in contact with me & offered the 13th September, 3pm - 4.30pm at Sessions.

The cost will be $20 per person - I am still waiting for confirmation how much Champagne we will get per person for that price. I will also need more information from you guys, such as room numbers etc but i'll update again as soon as I hear from DCL.

Now the issue we have is the 13th September is the new date the Pub Crawl was moved to & quite a few people are signed up for both the Champagne Girls & also the Pub Crawl. What are your opinions please? Is it possible to move the Pub Crawl again without causing too many issues with child care? We also need to bare in mind that Michelle is still awaiting the dates for the Mojito & Mixology tastings so they could clash with the pub crawl? Although she will hopefully have two groups for each so we can switch people around if need be to avoid any further clashes.

What a headache! Still just think in two weeks time we will all be getting on the ship about now so all this hassle will be a distant memory.....

Claire I am ok with either - the 13th or do as Sarah suggests and do our own thing on whichever day is ok with everyone else. Whichever is going to cause the least hassle and

 

[squitty]

I'm fairly sure that is the only day they will offer us, I have asked but not had a response yet but to be honest it has taken a lot of effort to get one date from them so I doubt they will give me anything else.

I know what you mean Claire...

 

[Grumpy1234]

Re Champagne Girls and Pub Crawl.

I thought the pub crawl was on the 15th. So this would not conflict with the Champagne Girls. Although I am up for the Boozing Guys at the same time.

Norman

 

[TotallyAngelic]

I'm fairly sure that is the only day they will offer us, I have asked but not had a response yet but to be honest it has taken a lot of effort to get one date from them so I doubt they will give me anything else.

Believe me I appreciate the amount of effort this takes ... and how frustrating it can be. We just need to go for whatever is the least hassle for sure

Claire I am ok with either - the 13th or do as Sarah suggests and do our own thing on whichever day is ok with everyone else. Whichever is going to cause the least hassle and

I agree .... none of us need an extra hassle at this late stage ... deciding what to take and packing is enough to be contending with