Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Back to reality

 We drove south as a freak winter storm was bearing down on St. Louis. It dumped up to 13 inches of snow in some neighborhoods. We boarded the Carnival Conquest in New Orleans and headed out to sea. That cold front/jet stream dipped so far south that Miami had record-breaking cold...in the 30's. We figured it would warm up as we got out to sea. NOT! The first two days the ocean was rocky and the weather very nippy. And of course not many on board packed jackets. The pools were open but only kids were brave enough to jump in. By the time we arrived in Jamaica, the tropical weather felt wonderful, but it rained all day. We took a tour of the town and shopping district, then headed back on board ship. I can't say that I am fond of Jamaica. Perhaps an all inclusive resort would be better.
 
 
 
Once we arrived in the Grand Cayman, we were in tropical paradise. We went to Tiki Beach Club on the Seven Mile Beach where we lounged on recliners. I got a sunburn on my arms and chest. I lollygagged in the ocean and collected unique small shells. I love-love-love it here and could live in this place, except everyone drives on the wrong side of the road and owns a yacht. I'd be out of place.
 
 
We were so sunburned we were unable to snorkle in Cozumel as we usually do. We took a taxi into town and walked around the shops. There were seven cruise ships in port that day. The sea was such a gorgeous, breath-taking turquoise. So much to see and observe. I am a people watcher, and did we see the sights!
 
We observed some awesome natural sights too, but this cloud formation made us gasp. Was this a water spout backlit by the sun? No one could tell us, but everyone was in awe.
Well, it's good to be back home again and back to the routine I wanted to escape from. Funny thing how that works.

I gained two pounds and the mister lost 1.7 Things are going to change!

11 comments:

Claudia Moser said...

You look happy and this is what counts!

Bookie said...

Glad you got a break, but glad you are back safe and sound. Getting away gives us all a fresh start in various ways...on with spring! However, it is still nippy here!

Susan said...

Welcome back,Linda! I'm sure the two pound gain was worth it! Susan

Pat Wahler said...

Lucky you to have missed the big blizzard! We got to drive home from Nashville in it...delightful.
Sounds like you had a wonderful time.

Pat
Critter Alley

Sioux Roslawski said...

I am a bit green (turquoise green, if you want to stay with the ocean theme) with envy. It sounds like you had a marvelous time.

But, as a writing friend, I'm glad you're back in the land-locked Midwest...

Merlesworld said...

A good time had by all but don't envy the boat trip in rocky seas not a fun thing to do.
Merle....

Chatty Crone said...

Sounds like and looks like you had a wonderful time - looked like fun. sandie

Connie said...

Vacations are great, but so is coming back home again. Nice that you got to get away for a little while.

Lynn said...

Beautiful photos, and glad you had a good time. I know you love the beach!

Val said...

Those pastel photos look all Eastery. I'm glad your ocean liner wasn't becalmed like some of late.

Janet said...

My husband was on a ship for 2 years in the Navy and he is always saying he wants us to go on a cruise. Maybe someday. My son and his wife are fixing to go on their second cruise in as many years. I guess the cruise bug bit them. Looks like you had a wonderful time.