Royal Caribbean Cruisers -- How Are Things Where You Are? (was "Routine" ​ 😁 ​day in lockdown... how was yours?)

[George C]

Good morning from downtown Ft Myer, vacation is ending flying home this afternoon, he is a picture from our room , last year this dock was totally full of boats , some restaurants still are closed since hurricane last September 

[Ocean Boy]

10 hours ago, brillohead said:

 

I had to go back and look up this post just to quote it!

 

It just occurred to me.... BILL IS MY FATHER!  🤣 

 

(For those who don't know the characters of Mamma Mia, one of the possible three fathers 

 

[Lionesss]

This is only the second time I have been on the computer since we got home from the Bella Cruise this past Monday.

 

So much has happened on the thread since I was gone (almost 50 pages since I last read it).

 

So much is happening in my life I do not know where to begin.

 

Besides the post cruise itinerary:

Grocery shop

Wash clothes

Iron clothes

Catch up with neighbors

Still playing nursy nursy (Volunteer)

Bake cakes for fish dinner

Work fish dinner

 

I had a bonus surprise:

I few weeks back I posted a picture of our deck being removed and preparations for a concrete patio.

Well, we finally decided on the design, but that is the least of our problems.

 

Monday night when I sat down on the family room couch Lizzy (cat) was in the kitchen going to town batting stuff on the kitchen floor.  Here I thought it was just dry cat food, she bats it under the pantry door.  So I did not think anything of it.  But usually after a few minutes she settles down and does a lap dance and nestles on my legs.

Well this was going on and on and on.

 

So reluctantly, I get off the comfy couch and even without my glasses, I see moving live foreign creatures.  Yup carpenter ants.

EVERYWHERE!!

Well we knew where they came from, the rotten frame under the deck that attached to the house, and now with the rain, and their home gone, they relocated to ours.

 

So threw the cat in her bedroom and played chemical warfare.

When we first moved in the house we built, we had the attack of the ants before, and since we are best friends with the pest removal service company, he left us enough powder to sprinkle down in the basement where we found the entrance way of these pests.

So powder down, and within just days, only found one of those pesky black crawling creatures. (Lizzy does not have basement privileges).

However in the event I find anymore, then I just pick up the phone and on speed dial is the exterminator if needed.

 

So added to the post cruise work sheet of jobs, was completely clean down the kitchen, from walls to floor, and everything in between (I cannot do ceilings or ladders).  

 

Then for those that were on the Bella cruise, I found out on the second to last day that the SIL successfully interviewed and was selected to a new coaching position starting in May.  Details to follow.

But, now it is hard to hire a babysitter/nanny, since it would only be a temporary job and since it is big business now, and the kids both have to work, I will be going down to Oxford Ohio for the next 4 weeks Sunday-Thursdays to babysit Miss Zoey, who is now 14 weeks old.  

DD felt uncomfortable asking, but, I AM IN HEAVEN.  To be able to spend time and see our granddaughter grow up, I'm crying as I type this.

 

The first week will be bonding time, and getting to know her, and then the next weeks will be babysitting and helping them start to pack to move. Also included in this arrangements are the 2 dogs, Roxy and Ash, combined 200 pounds of German Shepherds.

 

So today, I slept in till 7:30am

Do laundry (again)

Mass

Pack

Tomorrow, drive down.

 

Now, people ask what do you do with all your free time now that you are retired? 

Yup, free time.

 

Take care

Be safe

[SteelCityCruiser10]

34 minutes ago, bobmacliberty said:

 

Still thinking about it.  We have a few concerns.  First, we've become suite snobs, and the suite prices on that cruise are outrageous.  I really want to try the new Wonder suite area.

 

Still, the desire to join you guys and meet people in person is strong.  I'm tempted to have Ken book a refundable group rate balcony and then see if suite rates drop.

 Agree… Those suite prices were eye popping.  I would love to experience the suite area on Wonder too.  Looks pretty awesome.  We will be doing an OVB for the first time but like you said I am keeping an eye on the suite prices too.

 

[brillohead]

Just got off the phone with Bill, my bio-father.

He's probably going to drive up to Michigan from Alabama in the next week or so with his brother to meet me.  

Sounds like a really sweet man... he said he didn't have any regrets in his life, other than not knowing about me.  Awwwwww......

Honestly, this is better than I could have possibly hoped for.  I went into this with no real expectations other than hopefully just finding some answers.  Being welcomed into the family with open arms is basically a fairy tale ending that very few people get to experience.  

[brillohead]

5 minutes ago, Lionesss said:

I will be going down to Oxford Ohio for the next 4 weeks Sunday-Thursdays to babysit Miss Zoey, who is now 14 weeks old.  

DD felt uncomfortable asking, but, I AM IN HEAVEN.  To be able to spend time and see our granddaughter grow up, I'm crying as I type this.

My MIL was my son's primary daycare provider from age 6 weeks to 2yo.  The bond that they had, even when she moved out of state when he was 2yo, was something I'll always treasure.  

I'd tell you to enjoy the heck outta your babysitting time, but I know you will!!!

[SteelCityCruiser10]

5 minutes ago, brillohead said:

Just got off the phone with Bill, my bio-father.

He's probably going to drive up to Michigan from Alabama in the next week or so with his brother to meet me.  

Sounds like a really sweet man... he said he didn't have any regrets in his life, other than not knowing about me.  Awwwwww......

Honestly, this is better than I could have possibly hoped for.  I went into this with no real expectations other than hopefully just finding some answers.  Being welcomed into the family with open arms is basically a fairy tale ending that very few people get to experience.  

Hearing things like this restore my faith in humanity.  

[Momof3gurlz]

13 minutes ago, brillohead said:

Just got off the phone with Bill, my bio-father.

He's probably going to drive up to Michigan from Alabama in the next week or so with his brother to meet me.  

Sounds like a really sweet man... he said he didn't have any regrets in his life, other than not knowing about me.  Awwwwww......

Honestly, this is better than I could have possibly hoped for.  I went into this with no real expectations other than hopefully just finding some answers.  Being welcomed into the family with open arms is basically a fairy tale ending that very few people get to experience.  

This is such a heartwarming story. Thank you for sharing it with all of us. 

[Lionesss]

So now it is time to prepare for our favorite ship, The ALLURE!

Sailing in a tad under 70 days.

 

Now we were Leary sailing out of Galveston, having only ever sailed out of Florida and Seattle,but the  price was very right when we booked it over a year ago.

It was a casino comped cruise and back then they let us upgrade from a JS to a CLS, and the price was soooooo tolerable.  Now, LOL, boy did the price of cabins soar to great heights, well those cabins that are left. 

 

I am so glad we got to sail the Oasis, as we usually do the Allure and we were able to note some differences between the sisters. And I realize one sister is older than the other, but still, some changes we noted. And yes our suite is and always was except for two times (1748)

 

Oasis                                                                                                            Allure

 

Old chairs in CK and WJ                                                                              Newer comfy chairs CK WJ

Few electric outlets in CLS                                                                           Outlets by TV and Table

Room curtains old                                                                                         Were fresh and new (1748)

Did not sign for drinks                                                                                   signed (even in pool)

No salad in Sorentos (sp) in eve,                                                                  salad present (unless-

                                                                                                                       another cutback)

 

Still on the fence if i will post live from Allure, or just sit back and smell (the yellow rose of Texas).

But if I do, I will include the differences, not that anyone would care.

There have only been a handful of updates about the Allure out of Galveston, so we shall see.

 

 

However:

After being invited to share in the awesome thread of the Bella Cruise, by John, Andrew and Greg, I do not know how I can ever in my wildest dreams attain the caliber of talents they shared.

 

But, one never knows.

 

 

 

[BonTexasNY]

11 hours ago, Jimbo said:

Animals are pretty darn close at the Virginia Safari Park in Natural Bridge,Va.

 

 

 

 

 

Your pictures reminded me of a long ago trip to Great Adventure Safari Park in NJ.  Our great adventure was a moose walking right up to our car wiping his nose on the car's side view mirror.  Fortunately, the car windows were closed.

1 hour ago, brillohead said:

Just got off the phone with Bill, my bio-father.

He's probably going to drive up to Michigan from Alabama in the next week or so with his brother to meet me.  

Sounds like a really sweet man... he said he didn't have any regrets in his life, other than not knowing about me.  Awwwwww......

Honestly, this is better than I could have possibly hoped for.  I went into this with no real expectations other than hopefully just finding some answers.  Being welcomed into the family with open arms is basically a fairy tale ending that very few people get to experience.  

I'm smiling. 😃

[Jimbo]

Asking about Diamond Plus perks.

 

For the internet we get 2 free days? So do people just but the package for the remaining days onboard once the 2 free days is over?

 

Or will buying onboard price be much higher then?

 

Right now it is $17.99 a day............this is for a 14 day cruise?

 

One device $251.86

 

Two device $391.86

 

So how do people handle this?

[Jimbo]

Just now, BonTexasNY said:

Your pictures reminded me of a long ago trip to Great Adventure Safari Park in NJ.  Our great adventure was a moose walking right up to our car wiping his nose on the car's side view mirror.  Fortunately, the car windows were closed.

I'm smiling. 😃

Been there many times when we lived in NJ. This  drive thru safari in Virginia is so much better though,  so many  more animals it isn't even close.

 

If you ever in Southwest Virginia, do stop in. 🙂

[A&L_Ont]

14 hours ago, helen haywood said:

When I first met DH his garage floor was carpeted because he didn’t want concrete dust to get on his Lamborghini.  That was the first time I’d ever seen a carpeted garage!

I’m sure the cats loved to lay on it. 😁

[Luckynana]

1 hour ago, brillohead said:

Sounds like a really sweet man... he said he didn't have any regrets in his life, other than not knowing about me.  Awwwwww......

Honestly, this is better than I could have possibly hoped for.  I went into this with no real expectations other than hopefully just finding some answers.  Being welcomed into the family with open arms is basically a fairy tale ending that very few people get to experience.  

And dreams do sometimes come true.  I am so happy for your heartwarming fairy tale ending to a lifetime search, Debbie.

Congratulations on finding your Dad and his loving family.

Debbie, you and your son have come home!!! 

AWESOME!     

[Luckynana]

@Lionesssawful news about your home invasion of mote carpenter ants, Sue!

 

On the other hand, enjoy your time and happy bonding with baby Zoey!  🥰

[Sea Dog]

2 hours ago, brillohead said:

Just got off the phone with Bill, my bio-father.

He's probably going to drive up to Michigan from Alabama in the next week or so with his brother to meet me.  

Sounds like a really sweet man... he said he didn't have any regrets in his life, other than not knowing about me.  Awwwwww......

Honestly, this is better than I could have possibly hoped for.  I went into this with no real expectations other than hopefully just finding some answers.  Being welcomed into the family with open arms is basically a fairy tale ending that very few people get to experience.  

 

 I’m so happy for you. Thank you for sharing your story.

[helen haywood]

1 hour ago, A&L_Ont said:

I’m sure the cats loved to lay on it. 😁

He made the mistake once of leaving a window down on the Miura.  Our cat at that time, Tidbit, jumped in, curled up and was sleeping quite happily when a horrified DH found her…

[NHProud]

21 hours ago, reallyitsmema said:

 

Could you tell me the brand of the essential oils you bought on Amazon?  I have looked at essential oils locally but many are a blend of scents.  I have read the articles you are referring to and many others, and have considered trying retraining my sense of smell but had never heard of anyone who has actually tried doing it.  I didn't want to waste money and time if it is just a farce.  I lost both my sense of smell and taste from Covid in May 2022.

 

@Luckynana @derorim I hope you are both feeling better soon and don't have long term issues.

 

 

Sorry that I didn’t get back to you sooner . Our houseguests just left and I didn’t want to be on-line while they were here . I remember you mentioning that you had been experiencing this problem for quite some time . I’m very sorry about that . Is there a possibility of consulting a ENT doc or maybe you’ve done that already? 
 

These are the very strong essential oils I ordered on Amazon. The minute I took the caps off I could tell what they were. 
 

1. Good Essential Clove Premium Fragrance Oil 1oz $9.99

2. RA Rainbow Abby Rose .33 oz $7.95

3. Premium Lemon 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oil .33 oz $6.99 

4. Gya Labs Eucalyptus Oil  .34 oz $6.99 

 

The Flonase helped a great deal but consult your doc before using .  
 

Judy

 

Edited March 25, 2023 by NHProud

[A&L_Ont]

49 minutes ago, helen haywood said:

He made the mistake once of leaving a window down on the Miura.  Our cat at that time, Tidbit, jumped in, curled up and was sleeping quite happily when a horrified DH found her…

If I was a cat, I couldn’t think of a better place. 😁
 

[sgmn]

4 hours ago, Lionesss said:

 

Then for those that were on the Bella cruise, I found out on the second to last day that the SIL successfully interviewed and was selected to a new coaching position starting in May.  Details to follow.

But, now it is hard to hire a babysitter/nanny, since it would only be a temporary job and since it is big business now, and the kids both have to work, I will be going down to Oxford Ohio for the next 4 weeks Sunday-Thursdays to babysit Miss Zoey, who is now 14 weeks old.  

DD felt uncomfortable asking, but, I AM IN HEAVEN.  To be able to spend time and see our granddaughter grow up, I'm crying as I type this.

 

The first week will be bonding time, and getting to know her, and then the next weeks will be babysitting and helping them start to pack to move. Also included in this arrangements are the 2 dogs, Roxy and Ash, combined 200 pounds of German Shepherds.

 

So today, I slept in till 7:30am

Do laundry (again)

Mass

Pack

Tomorrow, drive down.

 

Now, people ask what do you do with all your free time now that you are retired? 

Yup, free time.

 

Take care

Be safe

Congrats to your SIL and great news you'll get to spend serious time with your new granddaughter.

 

We do a regular day a week with our 2 year old g/son and often do another day to help out. Our six month g/son's mum is still on maternity leave but we babysit occasionally and have offered to do a regular day when she goes back to work in September. Love ❤️ watching them grow up, it's a true privilege

Edited March 25, 2023 by sgmn

[sgmn]

4 hours ago, brillohead said:

Just got off the phone with Bill, my bio-father.

He's probably going to drive up to Michigan from Alabama in the next week or so with his brother to meet me.  

Sounds like a really sweet man... he said he didn't have any regrets in his life, other than not knowing about me.  Awwwwww......

Honestly, this is better than I could have possibly hoped for.  I went into this with no real expectations other than hopefully just finding some answers.  Being welcomed into the family with open arms is basically a fairy tale ending that very few people get to experience.  

So glad you've had such a happy positive outcome. Enjoy finding out all about your new family 

[reallyitsmema]

13 minutes ago, NHProud said:

Sorry that I didn’t get back to you sooner . Our houseguests just left and I didn’t want to be on-line while they were here . I remember you mentioning that you had been experiencing this problem for quite some time . I’m very sorry about that . Is there a possibility of consulting a ENT doc or maybe you’ve done that already? 
 

These are the very strong essential oils I ordered on Amazon. The minute I took the caps off I could tell what they were. 
 

1. Good Essential Clove Premium Fragrance Oil 1oz $9.99

2. RA Rainbow Abby Rose .33 oz $7.95

3. Premium Lemon 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oil .33 oz $6.99 

4. Gya Labs Eucalyptus Oil $6.99 

 

The Flonase helped a great deal but consult your doc before using .  
 

Judy

 

 

Thank you!  PCP didn't want me using Flonase as I was on a long course of steroids and I should "give it time".  ENT is definitely my next step.  I had looked locally at essential oils but most were blends, like Rose Verbena or Eucalyptus Spearmint.  I looked on Amazon last night and they had lots of choices.  I have never used essential oils before so kind of overwhelming!  I appreciate the list you posted. 🙂 

[Sunshine3601]

Petey will not let me finish packing.   He's been ontop of my suitcase for over 2 hrs.

[helen haywood]

41 minutes ago, A&L_Ont said:

If I was a cat, I couldn’t think of a better place. 😁

Well, the Miura in question was fire engine red…even better!

[voyager70]

4 minutes ago, Sunshine3601 said:

Petey will not let me finish packing.   He's been ontop of my suitcase for over 2 hrs.

My little guy does the same thing. I try to be discreet when getting the suitcase out but he somehow always hears it. Toughest part about traveling is leaving the fur babies behind.