The Daily for Friday 04/15/2022

[Quartzsite Cruiser]

In 2014 on the Veendam, our tour took us to a local school and a banana plantation.  There was an unscheduled stop at the local church.  The church ladies had prepared a lunch for us which was quite good with local foods.  There was a discrete donation box, which we all gladly added too.

 

These are just a few of the imagines from the school.  The fathers greeted us with a marimba concert. 

 

This is a typical classroom.

 

The students performed their local dances for us.  Before we arrived at the school, our guide gave each of us a packet of school supplies (cost included in the tour cost).  We figured we'd give the packets to one student each.  Instead, we were told to open them and talk to the kids before giving them one item from the packet.  The way the kids converged on us, reminded me of sea gulls when you throw breadcrumbs at them.

 

This is the inside of the church.  Unfortunately, I don't seem to have a picture of the lunch.

 

After lunch, we headed to the banana plantation which is close to the border with Guatemala.  At that time, most of the workers at the plantation and packing facility were Guatemalans, as they could make more money working in Mexico.  We thought that was rather ironic.

 

Of course, the first stop was the banana plants where our guide explained a lot about them.

 

The banana stalks are first washed before being packed.  The ones that do not meet the standard for export, are loaded loose in a truck for local use.  You can see the truck in the background.

 

Those little stickers on the bananas when they get to the store are put on by hand, with at least one sticker per bunch.  They pack the bananas for several different brands.  That day they were packing for Chiquita.

 

Lenda

[57redbird]

3 hours ago, StLouisCruisers said:

Good morning friends!  It's a chilly morning here but should be mid 70's today and sunny.  We took an extra long walk this morning.  Halfway through we made a turn onto the golf course cart path which winds around behind our house so we get to look at it from a new perspective back there.  It ended up a 3.6 mile walk and normally we only do 2.5 to 3.0.  Extra weary after that.  The moon was out when we left and was huge!  By the end it was daylight.  Here is a photo taken along the cart path.

 

I just got word from DD a short time ago she is taking a day off teaching because her doggie Gracie started having seizures at 5:30 am today, 4 in a row.  They took her to the vet to get help as it opened up.  They are going to give her valium intravanously and monitor her today.  DD is crying a lot as you can imagine because she's afraid of what may come.  Gracie's only 6 and a sweet dog.  I'm praying she can recover and live a normal life with her vet's help.

 

Happy Good Friday and Passover to all who celebrate them.  The Titanic Remembrance Day is a somber one.  ASL is such a great skill to learn and I applaud all who do.  Art helps make our lives more beautiful.  No thanks on the Bacalhau.  Puerto Chiapas was port of the day on April 10.  We have stopped there once and I posted photos last year.  Will probably go back and copy them for you.  In the meantime thanks for the Daily Rich and the lists Roy.  Where would we be without the Daily and our CC friends?  Prayers said for the lists, my family, Gracie, and of course the Ukrainians.  Bless them and all who come to their aid.  @kazuJacqui, it made my heart ache to read of all the problems you had to face yesterday.  I am so thankful you found the ring!  Of course insurance can't replace the memories of your engagement ring and I wouldn't blame you for being devastated if it had gone missing forever.  

 

We have to go get groceries after DH's coffee hour so I have to finish up here.  Everyone have a wonderful day!

 

We stopped at Puerto Chiapas on our Panama Canal (FLL to San Diego) in March 2016 on the Westerdam.  To be honest, that stop is basically a cruise ship built dock with nothing there but a building where the local dancers can welcome you and a few trinkets sold there.  If you don't take a tour here, and I don't know what those tours were because we didn't take one, you have to stay on the ship or buy a ride on a van to the next town, Tapachula.  There wasn't a lot there to see or interest us so basically we rode over there, got out to walk around a bit and high-tailed it back to the ship.  

 

View of the dock

 

dancers showing their skills

 

Buses for the tours getting ready to fill up

 

Vans for shuttling to town

 

As you can tell there was nowhere to go here by the ship, so we took the van to Tapachula.  Photos of the city below. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Riders in the back of a pick up truck.

 

Heading to the air conditioning on the ship.   AAAHHH!

 

But first a photo of Flat Stanley at the welcome sign to show he was here.  He was traveling with us as part of our grandson Austin's class project.

 

 

I just got word from DD a short time ago she is taking a day off teaching because her doggie Gracie started having seizures at 5:30 am today, 4 in a row.  They took her to the vet to get help as it opened up.  They are going to give her valium intravanously and monitor her today.  DD is crying a lot as you can imagine because she's afraid of what may come.  Gracie's only 6 and a sweet dog.  I'm praying she can recover and live a normal life with her vet's help.

 

I know I mentioned this before --- did the vet start her on Zonisamide?  & what kind of dog is she?  Our Eskipoo is seizure-free on Zonisamide.  🙏

[Quartzsite Cruiser]

Yesterday, DSIL sent us a link to an article on CNN about people retiring on cruise ships.  It was interesting, and it mentioned "Mama" Lou in the article.  For those that knew her or knew of her, like us, I thought you might be interested in reading it.  This is the link, and I hope it works.  https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/living-on-a-cruise-ship-cost-benefits/index.html

[cruzn single]

A Blessed Good Friday to those who commemorate and Blessed Passover to those who celebrate! Interesting group of days.  When I have been at presentations/meetings with ASL, I am amazed at the speed that the signers work!  

 

@kazu sorry for such a horrible day!  Thank goodness your ring was found.  I am having a part replaced on my car next Wednesday.  I have only been waiting for 5 months for the part, and finally the dealership was able to secure ONE of the less than 50 parts in the U.S.  Since I am being worked into the schedule, there is no loaner available, so I have to rely on their shuttle to get home and family will take me back when the work is done!

 

My visit to the pulmonologist didn't work out as well as I had anticipated.  CT scan found a new nodule.  Another CT scan in August to see if any change.  I choose to not get upset, as it will be handled as appropriate when the time comes.  

 

@StLouisCruisers, my continued prayers for your family, and now will add adorable Gracie to that list.  Hopefully the vet will get things under control.

 

@smitty34877you know that my prayers are with you, Tana, and the entire family.  IPF throws so many curveballs and it is a constant roller coaster in dealing with each new obstacle that disease can present.

 

So far today, very little wind and it is clear.  The report on freeze damage to our peach groves and other fruits hasn't been reported.  And, of course, also want the vineyards to be successful for our local wine industry.

 

Have a great rest of the day!  Continued prayers for those on the Care list and special prayers for the devoted caregivers, who have a very demanding job to do the best for their loved ones.  Glad to see such a nice, long Celebrations list!

 

[marshhawk]

@StLouisCruisers Your grand fur baby Gracie is in my prayers today.  I hope they can figure out what is causing the seizures.

[Gail & Marty sailing away]

Thanks for the info.

[sailingdutchy]

1 hour ago, Vict0riann said:

Good Friday, all.  We have been isolating all week, just in case, as, last Saturday, we were with someone who tested positive for  covid on Monday.  We all seem to be okay, and I think we will now come out of hibernation.  It is such a relief to have a lot of tests in the house so we can check on ourselves.  

 

Hopefully, @sailingdutchy and Martha will test negative today, so they can travel tomorrow.  And good wishes for little Gracie puppy, hope the vet can figure things out.  

 

Jacqui, I hope your day today is better than yesterday!  

We visited Puerto Chiapas on a very fun Panama Canal cruise with Jacqui and Jose and a really good roll call!  Most of what I remember from that day is HEAT!  We had a tour booked, but I was wiped out from the heat and did not go.  Pat went to Izapa and enjoyed it, but said I would not have!  Eventually, I did go ashore and took the shuttle to Tapachula took a few pictures and then went back to the ship.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Martha and I are very happy that you and Pat are doing great Ann @VictOriann with this 6th wave taking off there are so many people effected again , the new variant spreads very easily but it seems with lesser severe symptoms .

 

We just jumped another hurdle , there are two negative very happy people who should be able to fly tomorrow to Ft Lauderdale . I was very pleased to find a pharmacist willing to open his door for us on Good Friday so we could get tested , than fly and also are within the Holland America rules to get on board on Easter Sunday . 

 

We will have a huge celebration when we sail away out of Port Everglades , I have packed and will wave the Canadian flag !  

 

Take care everybody , have a wonderful Easter !

 

Tony 😍

 

 

[irishjim]

15 minutes ago, sailingdutchy said:

 

Martha and I are very happy that you and Pat are doing great Ann @VictOriann with this 6th wave taking off there are so many people effected again , the new variant spreads very easily but it seems with lesser severe symptoms .

 

We just jumped another hurdle , there are two negative very happy people who should be able to fly tomorrow to Ft Lauderdale . I was very pleased to find a pharmacist willing to open his door for us on Good Friday so we could get tested , than fly and also are within the Holland America rules to get on board on Easter Sunday . 

 

We will have a huge celebration when we sail away out of Port Everglades , I have packed and will wave the Canadian flag !  

 

Take care everybody , have a wonderful Easter !

 

Tony 😍

 

 

Have  a wonderful  time  on  your  cruise I will  be  looking for  the  flag

                                                                                                                          Jim.

[StLouisCruisers]

Thanks again for those who sent good health wishes for Gracie.  @JazzyV, @Vict0riann, @rafinmd, @Quartzsite Cruiser, @57redbird, and@cruzn single.  @57redbirdI have no knowledge of her medication and would probably not want to bother DD with another question today.  She did update me right after noon that the vet is concerned since Gracie is still twitching.  He is going to continue to monitor and reevaluate this evening.  Not the best news.  And Gracie is a cavapoo.  

 

@sailingdutchygreat news you two are negative.  Hope the cruise is wonderful!

 

@cruzn singleI'm sorry to hear the pulmonologst found another nodule.  I hope that it doesn't continue to grow and admire your positive attitude on the wait and watch plan.

 

I feel bad about the timing of Gracie's illness.  Tomorrow is DSIL and DGS's baptism and DD won't want to leave Gracie alone.  Perhaps she'll be at the Vet's hospital still.  Or one of her adult children can come watch over her.  Bad timing!

[Rowsby]

@kazu

 

Jacqui....please know how much I appreciated your kind thoughts....and taking the time to post...after your truly horrible day yesterday....I am so sorry.....

 

[ottahand7]

@kazuSo thankful you found your ring!   @StLouisCruisers I hope that they can find what is wrong with Gracie and a medication to treat it.    An interesting group of days today with the Titanic always in our thoughts this time of year.   Happy Easter to everyone who celebrates and a Happy Passover celebration for those who honor Passover.   The meal is not something that I would crave but the recipes @dfishposted made it look inviting.  The cocktail seems a bit too bitter for me.  The wine looks good.  I have never been to Chiapas and I appreciate everyone's port photos.   

 

I went to the grocery to buy some asparagus but it was so thin I passed and bought a 4 pack of sweet corn.  Probably won't be sweet but there are few vegetables we both enjoy.  I also came out with a rib roast since they were on sale for $7.99.   They had eggs and the price hadn't seemed to change too much.  The bird flu is becoming very problematic with birds in zoos showing up positive for the disease too.   Let's hope it doesn't jump to humans, we have enough problems in this world right now/   Prayers for all on Roy's care list and for the people of Ukraine.   

 

We are having a quiet weekend here.  Another cold weekend in store but the long term is supposed to be better.   Tax day here since it takes so long to get my paperwork from my late husband's trust.  It was a morning of scurrying after my expected refunds turned into owing the state and Feds and then doing estimated tax for the first quarter of 2022.   We used to have a financial guy on TV in Baltimore who was a bit of a legend.   He said if you pay taxes you made money......    

 

We had a nice dinner at the local casino.  It was a Duckhorn winery focused dinner.  The wines were great and the food was tasty too.    Appetizers of Ahi Tuna, Beef Tartare on toast and various meats and cheeses.  Seafood salad on red endive and merlot braised short rib with lobster tail.  Too full to remember to take pictures of the Risotto and and desserts.    The meal was gratis for high rollers - we paid full freight.   

[kazu]

59 minutes ago, Rowsby said:

@kazu

 

Jacqui....please know how much I appreciated your kind thoughts....and taking the time to post...after your truly horrible day yesterday....I am so sorry.....

 

 

How very kind of you ♥️ What I am dealing with is nothing compared to what you have.  I have mostly lost my husband but he still knows who I am if I take my goggles or shield off.  You have lost yours 😢 

I am so very sorry for your loss,  And will pray for you.  You had great love between you and that is wonderful ♥️ 

[dfish]

4 hours ago, Cruising-along said:

 

Will pass on the wine, drink, and meal.  Debbie @dfishI would choose the fritters.  What did you choose?  Tonight I'll be having the Italian Soup from a couple days ago.  DH won't be home for dinner, he'll be working Opening Day for the Mariners so it's a good day to have soup, as he isn't fond of it.

 

 

That's what I chose as well.   There were a couple that looked good to me, but the fritters really appealed.

 

 

4 hours ago, JAM37 said:

 

Interesting quote. The meal sounds good, but I would take the olives out. (The only olives I like are kalamatas.)

I cannot get this quote to separate from the next one, so have to answer in the quote.  I would use kalamata olives to begin with.  Olives in Portugal and Spain are usually not brine cured and would be closer to the kalamata olive.  So, using them would be more authentic.

3 hours ago, smitty34877 said:

 

We really like all of the recipes but the executive Chef requested the one from Porto.We will make it tomorrow  night as I need to soak the salt cod.We are fortunate to have several Italian markets here where I can find the ingredients. I made enough of the vegetable soup yesterday to have leftovers  tonight.It was really good!

The situation  remains rather tense around here and we are trying to cope  as best we can.School has been out all week for our teen ager but at least he has been busy with friends.

Take care everyone. 

Terry

 The one from Porto came in second to the fritters for me.  I am sorry to hear things are tense and hope some calm and peace can reign supreme soon.

 

[Sharon in AZ]

7 hours ago, kazu said:

 

 @Sharon in AZ I saw your question on CCL stock and I agree with the answers - I USED to get a reply very quickly but that was B.C. (Before Covid).  I sent my request in and never got an email back.  When I called World Cruise he confirmed it had been applied, however they have a lot of new people that now require training.  He told me to take my updated confirmation & my stock statement with me “in case”.  It is taking them up to 4 weeks currently to apply the credit.  Mine took around 3 weeks based on the date he told me it was applied.

Jacqui, thank you for your reply.  I still don't have an updated payment schedule to check if it has been applied and my "44 Day" window is on Sunday.  I'll do what you suggest and take the confirmation and stock statement "in case".  And I'll wait a good 2 - 3 weeks to recheck.  Thank you!

 

Also, I'm so sorry you had a rougher than rough day yesterday, goodness!  I did lose my beloved wedding ring (actually I think it was stolen by an "ex" family member but that's another story) and searched for months around the house for it.  Part of my problem is that I stopped wearing rings due to my arthritis and thought I had it in safe place, guess not.

 

 

 

Edited April 15, 2022 by Sharon in AZ
typo

[1ANGELCAT]

Zaandam is now confirmed for 4:15 pm

[ger_77]

Okay, the gremlins are back - this time when I did an afternoon check-in and opened the "reply" window, my entire post from this morning popped up.  Oh well, onward and upward.

 

I told DH about today's menu suggestion and he said if I wanted to, I could make it - for myself.  LOL  That's not about to happen, and besides, the only olives I like are those on other people's plates, not mine.

 

A number of you asked for the super easy pie recipe, so here it is:

 

Easy Peaches & Cream Pie

Preheat oven to 350°

1 9" frozen pie crust (I think a deep dish would work better than the regular ones)

5 - 6 fresh peaches, peeled and sliced OR

1 large can of peach slices, drained and patted dry on paper towels

2/3 cup white sugar

1/4 cup flour

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1 cup whipping cream

Place the pie plate on a cookie sheet for stability.

Place peach slices in the bottom of the frozen pie crust, leaving a little space between them so the ooey gooey goodness gets down through all the slices.  

In a shaker, combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon and whipping cream and shake the daylights out of it.  If you don't have a shaker, you can whisk everything together in a big bowl, making sure to combine everything well, as you don't want lumps of flour left. 

Pour mixture over the peach slices and bake at 350 for 1 hour.  At the 40 minute mark, cover the edges so they don't get too dark. 

Let cool, then enjoy!

 

 

[kazu]

6 hours ago, cat shepard said:

Typing with foil on my fingers, so this will be quick.

 

Hope your dealership sends out surveys. They need your feedback.

 

They always call to see how the service was and do send surveys out randomly.  In any case, I know how to send an email to them if need be.

 

Years ago, I went once and refused to go again because of the chauvinism aka women treated less.  I complained and Jose took over and he was treated like gold.  This was their chance.  One way or the other, they are going to be told that Jose will not be choosing the next car, I will.  And I will not give business to people who treat me like crap.  I know I’m overly sensitive right now but I made it clear when I made the appointment that time was of the essence.  I have a lot of demands on my time and I am very weary, honestly.

 

6 hours ago, Sea Viewer said:

When I got home and took my clothes of to shower I found it was in my bra!!!. Such a relief

 

Thank heavens you found it 🙂. 

I know mine wouldn’t be there 😂 

 

6 hours ago, ger_77 said:

@kazuoh my gosh, you did have the day from H!!!  I'd have been totally annoyed at having to wait 5 hours to get my vehicle serviced - perhaps next time you can take it to another place? 

 

 

The SUV is under warranty so certain things have to be done there but there is no way in H they will be changing my tires ever again.

By the time I am done with them, they will either treat me well or have nothing to do with me. I am a principled person and I hate being put low on the totem pole because I am a woman.  That’s how I felt - just like my first visit there.  I gave top notch service when I worked so I guess I am crazy to expect it back.

They are going to get the “measured”, objective kazu wrath just as our premier is for not giving out antigen tests to people who have to go to the hospital unless you lie and say you have symptoms.  I am beyond fed up with stupidity.

 

3 hours ago, cruzn single said:

Since I am being worked into the schedule, there is no loaner available, so I have to rely on their shuttle to get home and family will take me back when the work is done!

 

There is no shuttle at our dealership now due to covid.  Even if there was, I wouldn’t want to get in one when I am trying to be careful to protect the hospital workers and Jose.

 

2 hours ago, sailingdutchy said:

We just jumped another hurdle , there are two negative very happy people who should be able to fly tomorrow to Ft Lauderdale . I was very pleased to find a pharmacist willing to open his door for us on Good Friday so we could get tested , than fly and also are within the Holland America rules to get on board on Easter Sunday . 

 

That is great news, Tony 👍. Have a fabulous cruise and time on board 🙂 

 

24 minutes ago, Sharon in AZ said:

Jacqui, thank you for your reply.  I still don't have an updated payment schedule to check if it has been applied and my "44 Day" window is on Sunday.  I'll do what you suggest and take the confirmation and stock statement "in case".  And I'll wait a good 2 - 3 weeks to recheck.  Thank you!

 

Happy to help Sharon.  BTW if you don’t get an email, call World Cruise and check (that’s what I did).  If the same nincompoop does yours as mine (unless they have been retrained) you might not get an email.

 

Here is the number to call - 1-800-522-3399

 

You do want to know it has been done 😉 

 

Have a great cruise 🙂 

 

6 hours ago, StLouisCruisers said:

just got word from DD a short time ago she is taking a day off teaching because her doggie Gracie started having seizures at 5:30 am today, 4 in a row.  They took her to the vet to get help as it opened up.  They are going to give her valium intravanously and monitor her today.  DD is crying a lot as you can imagine because she's afraid of what may come.  Gracie's only 6 and a sweet dog.  I'm praying she can recover and live a normal life with her vet's help.

 

 

So sorry to hear about Gracie.  I know all too well of losing a dog at a young age.  Sweet dogs should never have to endure this but as I have discovered, life does not always work that way.

I pray that the vets can resolve the problem giving Gracie not only good quality of life but a long one 🙏🏻 

 

[bennybear]

Happy Good Friday and thank you all!  thanks for the photos!  DGD is learning ASL. 
@kazu I’m sorry you had such a tough day,  but am truly glad you found your ring.  @StLouisCruisers hope they can find a treatment  for Gracie! 

5 hours ago, AncientWanderer said:

Good morning All.

OMG @kazuJacqui, if that ring hadn't turned up at the end of your awful day...

I'm so very sorry you are having to slog through so many challenges.  Not to sound morbid, but last night we felt a pretty good earthquake here in San Diego.  It was the first time ever that this Southern California girl didn't immediately move toward a safer place.  I just stayed there in bed and thought, "Lord, if you think it's time, you know best." 

 

Clearly this pandemic and all the events of the past few years have taken their toll.  That some here have had really tough challenges on top of it all...well, very hard times.

 

@rafinmdRoy, thank you for putting me on the care list, but you can take me off now.  Both arms are moving again okay and things are fine.

I met my friend from high school for lunch yesterday and we had a nice visit.  We've always met every month or so, and it's nice to be getting back into our routine.

 

I wish success for those juggling their travel plans.  Frustrating, but hopefully things will fall into place okay.  We will honor both Passover and Good Friday tonight, which we feel comfortable to do with some minor adjustments.

 

Wishing all a peaceful and safe day.  Thanks Rich and Team for the Daily.

I nearly laughed out loud, I do think we are all getting worn down and thinking what now? 

3 hours ago, cruzn single said:

A Blessed Good Friday to those who commemorate and Blessed Passover to those who celebrate! Interesting group of days.  When I have been at presentations/meetings with ASL, I am amazed at the speed that the signers work!  

 

@kazu sorry for such a horrible day!  Thank goodness your ring was found.  I am having a part replaced on my car next Wednesday.  I have only been waiting for 5 months for the part, and finally the dealership was able to secure ONE of the less than 50 parts in the U.S.  Since I am being worked into the schedule, there is no loaner available, so I have to rely on their shuttle to get home and family will take me back when the work is done!

 

My visit to the pulmonologist didn't work out as well as I had anticipated.  CT scan found a new nodule.  Another CT scan in August to see if any change.  I choose to not get upset, as it will be handled as appropriate when the time comes.  

 

@StLouisCruisers, my continued prayers for your family, and now will add adorable Gracie to that list.  Hopefully the vet will get things under control.

 

@smitty34877you know that my prayers are with you, Tana, and the entire family.  IPF throws so many curveballs and it is a constant roller coaster in dealing with each new obstacle that disease can present.

 

So far today, very little wind and it is clear.  The report on freeze damage to our peach groves and other fruits hasn't been reported.  And, of course, also want the vineyards to be successful for our local wine industry.

 

Have a great rest of the day!  Continued prayers for those on the Care list and special prayers for the devoted caregivers, who have a very demanding job to do the best for their loved ones.  Glad to see such a nice, long Celebrations list!

 

praying it stays stable,  I know how difficult it is to roll with these findings, so I appreciate your attitude! 

[4966and556]

Is there a sailaway thread for this afternoon for Port Everglades departures?  

[ger_77]

3 minutes ago, 4966and556 said:

Is there a sailaway thread for this afternoon for Port Everglades departures?  

I was looking for one as well, but it doesn't seem to be.  I see the Zaandam is scheduled for a 4:15 departure.

[Vict0riann]

Does Zaandam have passengers?

[ger_77]

Just now, Vict0riann said:

Does Zaandam have passengers?

I don't believe so.

[rafinmd]

10 minutes ago, Vict0riann said:

Does Zaandam have passengers?

Looks like the first time with passengers is May 22.  @Scrapnana does not normally do threads for sailaways without passengers.

 

Roy

[cruzn single]

30 minutes ago, kazu said:

 

 

 

There is no shuttle at our dealership now due to covid.  Even if there was, I wouldn’t want to get in one when I am trying to be careful to protect the hospital workers and Jose

 

I totally understand you not using a shuttle.  If I were in your same position, trust me that would be my position also.  With this dealership, I have been fortunate, as they respect me as a customer, and I don't get "the woman" treatment.  I have had that elsewhere, but now that I am on my own, I am thankful that is one situation that I don't have to battle!

[Crazy For Cats]

Zaandam on the move and looks nice.  That is our next ship.  Hoping for a toot or two.