Monday December 18th, 2023 -- The Fleet Report and Daily

[smitty34877]

1 hour ago, summer slope said:

Drink of the day will be late tomorrow as I have an MRI at 7:30 AM.

I hope all goes well tomorrow.

[RedneckBob]

2 hours ago, JazzyV said:

Good afternoon. Thanks for the Fleet Report/Daily.

Sadly I think I'll have to buy some cookies rather than bake them. A salute to all twins! Snowflakes are great, except when I have to drive in them. Interesting quote. Maybe on the meal. Pass on the drink and yes to the wine although a bit pricey. I haven't been to Brest. A good day in history.

 

The weather is not nice here. Windy, dropping temps, rain turning to snow later, snow squall warnings. We're only supposed to get 1-2". My trek tomorrow to the Neurosurgery appointment is on main roads, so I should be ok. I slept about 3.5 hours again. I did get in a 2 hour nap yesterday in the recliner, once my leg settled down. I'm going to try to get BFF's gifts wrapped today, otherwise just chill. He still wants to come and spend a few days, so he will be doing the cooking such as it is, along with getting takeout some days. 

 

@ottahand7 Happy BIrthday, Nancy!

@Cruzin Terri I hope Jim's MRI goes well. 

@aliaschief Safe travels home.

@grapau27 Thanks for the explanation of Flake appreciation day.

@StLouisCruisers Happy Twin Day! 

@seagarsmoker Wow on your difficulties with no account, and all the hassles. And sorry about all the changes that don't seem for the better.

@RedneckBob Welcome back. Thanks for the start of your review.

@smitty34877 Hopefully no flooding near you and that you don't need to go out.

@kazu Stay safe!  Great photos.

@Lady Hudson Happy Twin Day!

@57redbird I'm sorry you're still having so much pain, and I hope it eases up soon.

@Nickelpenny I hope the injection went well!

@0106 Thanks for the photos from your excursion to Quimper.

@Quartzsite Cruiser Lovely photos. 

@Ichiban Nekko Thanks for sharing your observations about your cruise. 

@RMLincoln I'm glad you made it home safely, what with all the weather issues. And that the wedding was great, as was seeing family. The driving part sounds like a white-knuckled affair; I've done that and kissed the ground when I made it home! Oh my on the power outage, but the community sounds well equipped to handle it. Stay safe!

@sailingdutchy Wonderful photos, Tony.

@Vict0riann Thanks for the photos.

 

Prayers for the Care List and Cheers for those Celebrating.

Thanks. 

[aliaschief]

41 minutes ago, dfish said:

Good afternoon!

 

@RMLincoln Maureen, the description of your trip home was white knuckle reading, let alone actually driving.  I'm glad you made it safely.

 

I have achieved my goal today and the top of the quilt is ready for borders.  I have to go to the fabric store and pick out material for them.  That should be fun.  

 

 

There were a couple triangle points that were cut off, but nothing bad enough to rip out and redo.  IF I was entering this for competition, I would redo them.  But, I'm not and I doubt anyone will notice them.  

Beautiful job. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[seagarsmoker]

We had an ok dinner, food was fine, but everything was cool or cold.

Ship is full, mucho kids everywhere.  I estimate hundreds. 

Many changes to ship since March. No more tea or lemonade selve service,  just coffee and water now. They have ice machines, but no ice (at least when we tried).

Casino is rearranged to the better and I won last night, highlight of the day. 😀

Children are now allowed in what has been the adults only section of the lido deck.

Strange to see kids sitting in the bar and smoking section, probably just me, just seems like an odd decision. 

Will check-in later as we are staying on the ship when we are at Half Moon Cay.  

I hope everyone has a wonderful day.  

 

[seagarsmoker]

Relaxing day today. We had dine in burgers and fries for lunch. 

Sun came out and it warmed up quickly this afternoon. 

We are supposed to arrive in Grand Turk at 11am, however the captain said tomorrow's forecast is for thunderstorms,  so we shall see.

I hope everyone is having a good day.

[kazu]

1 hour ago, summer slope said:

Drink of the day will be late tomorrow as I have an MRI at 7:30 AM.

 

Best wishes for your MRI tomorrow, Dixie.  

 

 

55 minutes ago, dfish said:

I have achieved my goal today and the top of the quilt is ready for borders.  I have to go to the fabric store and pick out material for them.  That should be fun.  

 

 

There were a couple triangle points that were cut off, but nothing bad enough to rip out and redo.  IF I was entering this for competition, I would redo them.  But, I'm not and I doubt anyone will notice them.  

 

That is absolutely gorgeous, Debbie ♥️ 

[marshhawk]

@dfish Your quilt is beautiful!  

 

Well I went out and finished as much as I can do wrapping the porch up for the stray cats.  I need another clear shower curtain.  Yup. that's what the porch is wrapped in.  I get them at dollar tree, so I can wrap the whole screened porch (on the outside) for around 6 bucks (since their new dollar is now 1.25)  Since I am short, and the ladder wasn't working when I started, and DH paid no attention to me when I told him I was outside on the ladder, I started at the level I could reach. 

 

He did fix the ladder, and I finished the top portion where the wind blows in, and I have a little space heater out there, and I checked, it is warmer than the outside world.  Very safe heater, if a creature knocks it over, it stops running.  But I need one more clear curtain, and right now, they dont have any.  I could do a print, but that seems a little over the top.  I did buy one at Krogers for 7 bucks, and used that when i started, but I guess I will have to go back and find them again.  And then Im done.  If the critters want warmth, they will have to get on the porch.  Right now, Bubbles sleeps in a box, and Uggles is out on the streets.  He had a safe place that he used last winter, but he really has no interest in it since I added a blanket for his comfort.

[kazu]

49 minutes ago, seagarsmoker said:

We had an ok dinner, food was fine, but everything was cool or cold.

Ship is full, mucho kids everywhere.  I estimate hundreds. 

Many changes to ship since March. No more tea or lemonade selve service,  just coffee and water now. They have ice machines, but no ice (at least when we tried).

Casino is rearranged to the better and I won last night, highlight of the day. 😀

Children are now allowed in what has been the adults only section of the lido deck.

Strange to see kids sitting in the bar and smoking section, probably just me, just seems like an odd decision. 

Will check-in later as we are staying on the ship when we are at Half Moon Cay.  

I hope everyone has a wonderful day.  

 

 

On my holiday sailing last year, we had 500-600 children aboard on the first 2 segments. (They announced the numbers at sail away).  And yes, I ate crow on my LIVE thread as I thought the aft pool was adults only.  On the Pinnacle Class ships at least, that was no longer the case.  As long as those under age are accompanied by an adult, they can be there.  There were no children in the smoking section though.  That seems a bit “off” to me.

 

We did have lemonade available then and on my most recent sailing.  they were on the tables the servers use though.

 

It seems there was always one ice machine that was either not working or out (Rotterdam & Koningsdam).    A server in the Lido showed me the “good” ones.  LOL.

 

Hopefully things improve for you.  Congrats on the casino win - that’s a big plus 🙂 

[ottahand7]

Well I just spent 15 minutes on the phone with Medicare to find out that their system is down for an hour or so.  It isn't a problem of lack of payment but three payments to a doctor in Grand Prairie Texas of $2050 per month that I have never heard from.   I am sure this group reviews their monthly summary but I wonder how many people don't even notice it.   I don't have time to call back so I will send it in by snail mail to the dispute department to report this fraud.    The snow has stopped but I-94 has been closed since before lunch because of a multi car pileup caused by whit out conditions.  Ready to go get a wonderful dinner.   

[Haljo1935]

1 hour ago, grapau27 said:

Good luck at the neurosurgery tomorrow Vanessa.

+1 @JazzyV

[Haljo1935]

@summer slope hope all goes well w/the MRI.

Beautiful quilt  @dfish

[durangoscots]

Ventured out this afternoon.... it is warmish and a bit cloudy. The dogs had to go in for a couple of vaccinations needed before they start boarding. Found that water lines had broken a couple of places under Main Avenue and traffic was a mess but we made our appointment. Pups were good, no cowering, no yelping even when stuck with needles. Their weights have held .... Bandit is 12 lbs.... Monty is a whopping 5 lbs. Now back to work... this time cleaning and scrubbing out the frig.

 

Susan

 

 

[57redbird]

@dfish - beautiful quilt!

 

Good luck to those of you with medical appointments/procedures tomorrow - hope they provide some answers & ideas as to how to proceed & treat to give you some modicum of relief!

 

[Quartzsite Cruiser]

Good afternoon from a cloudy and cool Quartzsite.  It was nice late this morning when I was making a new cover for the window a/c.  When I went out later to deliver Christmas cookies and candy, the clouds had moved in and it was getting chilly.  I did have a nice visit with two neighbors, but the other one was not home.  Tomorrow is supposed to be 73, and I hope I can find time to just sit outside and read.  I think I've got everything done except cleaning the motorhome, the house and washing the car and UTV's.  It's taken awhile, but I now feel settled in here.

 

Tomorrow morning, we'll be heading to the big (?) town of Parker to the shopping for Christmas and to get a few other things.  We'll try to leave as early as possible since we will be stopping at Carol's Closet to drop off the donations.

 

6 hours ago, RMLincoln said:

We made it home midnight!  Amazed we made it!  The wedding was grand, wonderful visits with family and extended family. 
Several family had their returning flights cancelled. Some had their alternative flights canceled too. 
DH and I flew yesterday into Philadelphia, arrived about 9pm, just a tad late. The storm was rough but we were in the beginnings of it so flooding wasn’t the issue yet. Our 2 hr drive became almost 3 but we were on secondary roads. It was intense, hard to find lanes, many cars running slow with 4-way flashers, others too fast!  Heavy rain and wind, low visibility, but little traffic. We managed ok with both of us watching intensely. It’s worse today especially northern NJ. So glad we made it last night!  We’re out of power this morning. Our community is warning residents not to go out. Roads are flooded, impassable. The backside of the storm is increasing now, more wind and rain.  So glad we are home!  We have good backup systems here in our seniors complex including elevators, good hallway lighting and some hallway outlets on generators. The dining room kitchens are working!  Water is working!  (Well pump was always the biggest issue for our mountain home until we got a 220v generator. We melted snow on the wood stove!  Those days are behind us!)

It was just Amazing to be in our own bed last night!  
 

We haven’t heard from our newlyweds… we gave them a honeymoon cruise which left Galveston the day after the wedding!  Hope they made it!  
 

Will catch up now. Blessings to each and all of you, and thank you for your continued support! 
Maureen

 

 

Maureen, I'm glad you made it home, but wow on the conditions.  I'm happy your new place has backups for power outages.

 

5 hours ago, JazzyV said:

Good afternoon. Thanks for the Fleet Report/Daily.

Sadly I think I'll have to buy some cookies rather than bake them. A salute to all twins! Snowflakes are great, except when I have to drive in them. Interesting quote. Maybe on the meal. Pass on the drink and yes to the wine although a bit pricey. I haven't been to Brest. A good day in history.

 

The weather is not nice here. Windy, dropping temps, rain turning to snow later, snow squall warnings. We're only supposed to get 1-2". My trek tomorrow to the Neurosurgery appointment is on main roads, so I should be ok. I slept about 3.5 hours again. I did get in a 2 hour nap yesterday in the recliner, once my leg settled down. I'm going to try to get BFF's gifts wrapped today, otherwise just chill. He still wants to come and spend a few days, so he will be doing the cooking such as it is, along with getting takeout some days. 

 

@ottahand7 Happy BIrthday, Nancy!

@Cruzin Terri I hope Jim's MRI goes well. 

@aliaschief Safe travels home.

@grapau27 Thanks for the explanation of Flake appreciation day.

@StLouisCruisers Happy Twin Day! 

@seagarsmoker Wow on your difficulties with no account, and all the hassles. And sorry about all the changes that don't seem for the better.

@RedneckBob Welcome back. Thanks for the start of your review.

@smitty34877 Hopefully no flooding near you and that you don't need to go out.

@kazu Stay safe!  Great photos.

@Lady Hudson Happy Twin Day!

@57redbird I'm sorry you're still having so much pain, and I hope it eases up soon.

@Nickelpenny I hope the injection went well!

@0106 Thanks for the photos from your excursion to Quimper.

@Quartzsite Cruiser Lovely photos. 

@Ichiban Nekko Thanks for sharing your observations about your cruise. 

@RMLincoln I'm glad you made it home safely, what with all the weather issues. And that the wedding was great, as was seeing family. The driving part sounds like a white-knuckled affair; I've done that and kissed the ground when I made it home! Oh my on the power outage, but the community sounds well equipped to handle it. Stay safe!

@sailingdutchy Wonderful photos, Tony.

@Vict0riann Thanks for the photos.

 

Prayers for the Care List and Cheers for those Celebrating.

 

Vanessa, I hope all goes well tomorrow and that you get some answers to what can be done to relieve your pain and numbness.  I'm glad your BFF will be with you for Christmas.

 

3 hours ago, aliaschief said:

We drove straight through for five hours and got home around noon. When we entered our car this morning there was a ding chip and about a two foot crack on the front windshield right in front of driver. It was like driving a car with bi focals. There was no window crack when we used the car Saturday so maybe it was caused by gust of wind blowing an object onto windshield over night. Who knows but car insurance covers it and waivers deductible so in process of getting it repaired.

@ottahand7Do hope you are enjoying your special day. Happy Birthday!🎂

Time for some unpacking then recliner and Happy Hour. B.

 

Bruce, very glad you made it home safely.  Sorry about the broken windshield.

 

3 hours ago, dfish said:

Good afternoon!

 

@RMLincoln Maureen, the description of your trip home was white knuckle reading, let alone actually driving.  I'm glad you made it safely.

 

I have achieved my goal today and the top of the quilt is ready for borders.  I have to go to the fabric store and pick out material for them.  That should be fun.  

 

 

There were a couple triangle points that were cut off, but nothing bad enough to rip out and redo.  IF I was entering this for competition, I would redo them.  But, I'm not and I doubt anyone will notice them.  

 

Wow, Debbie.  The quilt looks even better than the preview.  You put in a lot of work and created a wonderful work of art.

 

3 hours ago, smitty34877 said:

@kochleffel,Paul, I hope the wireless thermostat works to fix the problem. Today with the wind it feels colder than the stated temperature. Oy.

@RMLincolnI worried about the two of you when I saw the severe wind warnings for our areas. I am sorry it was such a challenging drive but am glad you are home.

@dfish,Debbie!What a lovely quilt!

 

@JazzyV, I hope you get some pain relief tomorrow. I was glad to read that BFF will be with you for Christmas. 

 

The rain has stopped but there is still a little wind up to 40 mph. My SE Mass family had 70 mph at times. Yikes.

 

 

Terry, I hope your family in Mass. did not have any damage from the storm.  

 

7 hours ago, Ichiban Nekko said:

Good Morning Daily-it’s from the Rotterdam!

 

We should dock in San Juan in less than 2 hours. Thanks to HIA, we will take the Yunque Rain Forest excursion. Skies are clear and although there is still some movement, the seas are much more gentle today.

 

A few random and very personal observations:

- The new wifi is a vast improvement. We have Surf and have been able to access our email most of the time.

- Last night’s MDR dinner was amazing! Yes, it’s not what it used to be but there were varied selections. Hot food arrived hot. Both DH & I enjoyed our meals immensely. Terrific service.

- Dinner at Tamarind previous night was a bit of a letdown. Ordering a drink no longer available (old menu) was not a great start. My selections were meh. The lamb chops were ‘chewy’ and my knife had difficulty cutting through. The crispy eggplant was not crispy— more braised. The staff were fabulous— of course. We will return but hope to make better choices.

-Breakfast and lunch in the MDR yesterday were very nice. The MDR itself is a stunner.

- I think whoever updated the website also worked on the shipboard technology. The day we boarded, staff were handwriting tickets because the computers were down. Using the app to order from Dive In and New York Deli & Pizza is not available. New bar prices result in ludicrous extra charges of $0.30 (or something equally absurd) for HIA passengers that in turn have to be posted to accounts . How can this be efficient? In the Crow’s Nest, the big screens that used to show ship position, etc., say ‘Not Programmed.’ Goodness knows what staff have to cope with that we aren’t aware of. @seagarsmoker went through quite a dance when boarding the NS and beyond. Hopefully, that is all in his rearview mirror.

- This is a gorgeous ship. The artworks are amazing. Thanks to @QuattroRomeo, posting so many terrific photos, you have the idea.

- The Thermal Spa is terrific. Even more  so during the holidays when the pools and hot tubs are overtaken by children.

- The Library is great. Quiet. Comfy chairs (not many). Great selection of reading material.

- Entertainment: We are not fans of the dance company HAL is so enamored with. Took in a ‘standards’ set at Billboard one evening. We enjoyed the playlist. The performers are not the strongest we’ve heard. We heard a set from Rolling Stone. Again, the Playlist was great; the lead vocalist, not so much. We are among many of you who miss the Lincoln Center  offerings. Will check out the comedian tonight.

- the Half Moon Bar looks great!

- Club Orange DR is very well attended. Much more attractive than the previous iterations we have seen.

 

having a wonderful time on the beautiful ship.

 

love reading all your posts. You continue to inspire with your humor and goodwill.

-Cat

 

Cat, thanks for your observations about the cruise and the ship.

 

2 hours ago, seagarsmoker said:

Relaxing day today. We had dine in burgers and fries for lunch. 

Sun came out and it warmed up quickly this afternoon. 

We are supposed to arrive in Grand Turk at 11am, however the captain said tomorrow's forecast is for thunderstorms,  so we shall see.

I hope everyone is having a good day.

 

I hope the weather is not what is forecast for tomorrow.  BTW, congratulations on the casino win.

 

2 hours ago, marshhawk said:

@dfish Your quilt is beautiful!  

 

Well I went out and finished as much as I can do wrapping the porch up for the stray cats.  I need another clear shower curtain.  Yup. that's what the porch is wrapped in.  I get them at dollar tree, so I can wrap the whole screened porch (on the outside) for around 6 bucks (since their new dollar is now 1.25)  Since I am short, and the ladder wasn't working when I started, and DH paid no attention to me when I told him I was outside on the ladder, I started at the level I could reach. 

 

He did fix the ladder, and I finished the top portion where the wind blows in, and I have a little space heater out there, and I checked, it is warmer than the outside world.  Very safe heater, if a creature knocks it over, it stops running.  But I need one more clear curtain, and right now, they dont have any.  I could do a print, but that seems a little over the top.  I did buy one at Krogers for 7 bucks, and used that when i started, but I guess I will have to go back and find them again.  And then Im done.  If the critters want warmth, they will have to get on the porch.  Right now, Bubbles sleeps in a box, and Uggles is out on the streets.  He had a safe place that he used last winter, but he really has no interest in it since I added a blanket for his comfort.

 

Annie, I hope the outside cats appreciate how good they have things, with blankets in boxes and a warm, not windy porch.

 

1 hour ago, ottahand7 said:

Well I just spent 15 minutes on the phone with Medicare to find out that their system is down for an hour or so.  It isn't a problem of lack of payment but three payments to a doctor in Grand Prairie Texas of $2050 per month that I have never heard from.   I am sure this group reviews their monthly summary but I wonder how many people don't even notice it.   I don't have time to call back so I will send it in by snail mail to the dispute department to report this fraud.    The snow has stopped but I-94 has been closed since before lunch because of a multi car pileup caused by whit out conditions.  Ready to go get a wonderful dinner.   

 

Nancy, I hope you can get things straightened out with Medicare.  I hope there were no serious injuries in that multi car pileup.

 

@kochleffel  Paul, I hope the wireless thermostat works.

 

Lenda

[Nickelpenny]

A tad late today as I was a tad bit occupied doing other things.  I occasionally bake cookies though not this year but the problem is I eat them all!! No twins in my family and I do love snowflakes.  I moved to South Dakota so I could live where they had snowflakes a lot.  I began to enjoy them.  Three cheers for Hendrix's quote, the soup sounds divine (recipes saved), drink enticing, wine for sure and never been to Brest (thanks for the pics). It must have been exciting to see the Maori.

 

Happy Birthday @ottahand7!

@seagarsmoker That sounds like a total cluster.  So barring any other mixups, enjoy the cruise!

@57redbird I hope you feel better each day.  The first couple of days are the pits!!

 

I couldn't sleep last night; got up at 0400 and had to be at the pain center at 0630.  I stomach was in knots.  I don't like being awake for procedures; I guess that is why I like surgery so much - you are asleep and don't know what is going on.  They didn't tell me what to wear but I figure sweatpants and a sweatshirt should suffice, socks and my slip-on Birkenstocks.  My BP was high pre-procedure.  They didn't have anything from the spinal surgeon so we only did one injection.  Using a C-arm (a sort of immediate x-ray), it seemed much better than the last time (though I don't remember exactly how they did it 25 years ago).  The doc said he was using x2 dosage for the steroid but no lidocaine.  I did feel some pressure several times but no real pain during the procedure.  I think it went pretty well.  We will see if it helps but the L side pain is no where near the R so I am hoping to get them to do it on the R.  Numbness on L, pain on R.  I am glad it is over and I can go on my cruise with this behind me.

 

 

My Brazilian visa emailed this morning at 1:11 am requesting me to re-upload 2 documents within 12 HOURS.  Seems a little window to do so.  Anyway, I did do that before I left for the pain clinic.  It was interesting that I only did the application Thursday evening and I received something that quickly.

 

Thanks for all the wonderful best wishes from everyone.  Thoughts for those who need a hug and cheers to those celebrating.

 

Have a great evening everyone!

[Mr. Boston]

4 hours ago, dfish said:

Good afternoon!

 

@RMLincoln Maureen, the description of your trip home was white knuckle reading, let alone actually driving.  I'm glad you made it safely.

 

I have achieved my goal today and the top of the quilt is ready for borders.  I have to go to the fabric store and pick out material for them.  That should be fun.  

 

 

There were a couple triangle points that were cut off, but nothing bad enough to rip out and redo.  IF I was entering this for competition, I would redo them.  But, I'm not and I doubt anyone will notice them.  

Awesome work @dfish.  You are so talented!  

[Quartzsite Cruiser]

18 minutes ago, Nickelpenny said:

A tad late today as I was a tad bit occupied doing other things.  I occasionally bake cookies though not this year but the problem is I eat them all!! No twins in my family and I do love snowflakes.  I moved to South Dakota so I could live where they had snowflakes a lot.  I began to enjoy them.  Three cheers for Hendrix's quote, the soup sounds divine (recipes saved), drink enticing, wine for sure and never been to Brest (thanks for the pics). It must have been exciting to see the Maori.

 

Happy Birthday @ottahand7!

@seagarsmoker That sounds like a total cluster.  So barring any other mixups, enjoy the cruise!

@57redbird I hope you feel better each day.  The first couple of days are the pits!!

 

I couldn't sleep last night; got up at 0400 and had to be at the pain center at 0630.  I stomach was in knots.  I don't like being awake for procedures; I guess that is why I like surgery so much - you are asleep and don't know what is going on.  They didn't tell me what to wear but I figure sweatpants and a sweatshirt should suffice, socks and my slip-on Birkenstocks.  My BP was high pre-procedure.  They didn't have anything from the spinal surgeon so we only did one injection.  Using a C-arm (a sort of immediate x-ray), it seemed much better than the last time (though I don't remember exactly how they did it 25 years ago).  The doc said he was using x2 dosage for the steroid but no lidocaine.  I did feel some pressure several times but no real pain during the procedure.  I think it went pretty well.  We will see if it helps but the L side pain is no where near the R so I am hoping to get them to do it on the R.  Numbness on L, pain on R.  I am glad it is over and I can go on my cruise with this behind me.

 

 

My Brazilian visa emailed this morning at 1:11 am requesting me to re-upload 2 documents within 12 HOURS.  Seems a little window to do so.  Anyway, I did do that before I left for the pain clinic.  It was interesting that I only did the application Thursday evening and I received something that quickly.

 

Thanks for all the wonderful best wishes from everyone.  Thoughts for those who need a hug and cheers to those celebrating.

 

Have a great evening everyone!

 

Pennie, I'm glad the injection went well, and I hope it helps with the pain and numbness.  I also hope you get the second injection for the other side.

 

Lenda

[quilty964]

Good evening, it's been a busy day here, and a busy weekend.  We had #1 DGD's college graduation on Saturday, so were gone all day. Sunday,  DGD's # 2 and # 3 performed in their dance studios production of the Nutcracker.  They were each in 2 performances, we saw them yesterday!  They were awesome!  

I thought I was done with cookies, but may make 1 more batch tomorrow.  Haven't been to the port, the chicken soup looks good today!  

@dfishyour quilt is beautiful.  I quilt, but my motto is to "keep it simple."  My quilts are all easy ones, lap quilts and baby quilts for our church and the community.  

@JazzyV I hope you get some answers soon.

@RMLincolnyour journey home sounds treacherous, just saw some news clips from the east coast...yikes!

@Nickelpennyhoping you get some relief from your shot today.  

@marshhawksounds like your kitties are lucky to have you around to help them! 

Thanks for all of the sharing and caring here.

We're watching a Christmas now, have a good evening.  Karen

[dfish]

Thank you for all the nice comments about my quilt.  I was hesitant to do this one because it looked so complicated, but it is really an easy one to do, and, as you noticed, goes together rather quickly.  @quilty964 It is just a bunch of 4 patches and half square triangles.  Nothing really complicated.  Now, the Storm at Sea quilt that I did for my parents was complicated.  It had diamonds and triangles and you needed to use templates.   That is a never again quilt.

[SusieKIslandGirl]

@JazzyVI just received an email from Denny's that you can order a complete turkey dinner. It comes with directions for reheating, ready to go. Our local grocery store also has 2 or 3 options for a holiday dinner that is already cooked.

@dfishVery nice job on the quilt. Now I feel guilty that I haven't finished DD's quilt. Borders are on 2 sides so getting close-after fixing the 2 squares that I had in the wrong place. Luckily, I had sent her a photo and she noticed the good.

[StLouisCruisers]

I think I've finally caught up today.  I spent the day relaxing and watching Christmas movies instead of hanging out on CC.  I told dear twin it was our day and we jokingly congratulated each other.  Thanks to Lenda @Quartzsite Cruiser, Nancy @ottahand7 and Vanessa @JazzyV for your warm wishes!

 

Also thanks to all our photo providers today either of Brest or Quimper.  That would be Tina @0106. Lenda @Quartzsite Cruiser, Tony @sailingdutchy, Jacqui @kazu, and Ann @Vict0riann  who showed us their nice photographs.  It was beautiful!

 

 

11 hours ago, 57redbird said:

Update on my pain/recovery....pain is maybe a very strong 8 when I try to get up or down from a chair, still having spasms in both upper legs - getting better at logrolling.  Once I'm on my feet walking, using a walker, pain is 4-5 which I think is acceptable for having had surgery 7 days ago.  Again, thanks for your prayers & well wishes...now if somebody would do my Christmas cards...

 

I'm very sorry to hear you still have that much pain.  I really hope the progress goes a lot faster now that a week has passed.  Good luck to you!

 

 

 

10 hours ago, travelnap said:

This is off topic a little, but I have a riddle for all of you.

A group of cattle is called a herd.

A group of sheep is called a flock.

A group of lions is called a pride.

What do you call a group of baboons?

 

After you google the question, please stop laughing when you see the answer, and enjoy your day.

 

I thought I saw someone on CC mention this yesterday, but when I "Ducked" it they said a group of baboons is called a troop.  The rumor was they were called a congress but that is not true.  A troop isn't as funny as a congress though!!

 

 

 

9 hours ago, Ichiban Nekko said:

Good Morning Daily-it’s from the Rotterdam!

 

We should dock in San Juan in less than 2 hours. Thanks to HIA, we will take the Yunque Rain Forest excursion. Skies are clear and although there is still some movement, the seas are much more gentle today.

 

A few random and very personal observations:

- The new wifi is a vast improvement. We have Surf and have been able to access our email most of the time.

- Last night’s MDR dinner was amazing! Yes, it’s not what it used to be but there were varied selections. Hot food arrived hot. Both DH & I enjoyed our meals immensely. Terrific service.

- Dinner at Tamarind previous night was a bit of a letdown. Ordering a drink no longer available (old menu) was not a great start. My selections were meh. The lamb chops were ‘chewy’ and my knife had difficulty cutting through. The crispy eggplant was not crispy— more braised. The staff were fabulous— of course. We will return but hope to make better choices.

-Breakfast and lunch in the MDR yesterday were very nice. The MDR itself is a stunner.

- I think whoever updated the website also worked on the shipboard technology. The day we boarded, staff were handwriting tickets because the computers were down. Using the app to order from Dive In and New York Deli & Pizza is not available. New bar prices result in ludicrous extra charges of $0.30 (or something equally absurd) for HIA passengers that in turn have to be posted to accounts . How can this be efficient? In the Crow’s Nest, the big screens that used to show ship position, etc., say ‘Not Programmed.’ Goodness knows what staff have to cope with that we aren’t aware of. @seagarsmoker went through quite a dance when boarding the NS and beyond. Hopefully, that is all in his rearview mirror.

- This is a gorgeous ship. The artworks are amazing. Thanks to @QuattroRomeo, posting so many terrific photos, you have the idea.

- The Thermal Spa is terrific. Even more  so during the holidays when the pools and hot tubs are overtaken by children.

- The Library is great. Quiet. Comfy chairs (not many). Great selection of reading material.

- Entertainment: We are not fans of the dance company HAL is so enamored with. Took in a ‘standards’ set at Billboard one evening. We enjoyed the playlist. The performers are not the strongest we’ve heard. We heard a set from Rolling Stone. Again, the Playlist was great; the lead vocalist, not so much. We are among many of you who miss the Lincoln Center  offerings. Will check out the comedian tonight.

- the Half Moon Bar looks great!

- Club Orange DR is very well attended. Much more attractive than the previous iterations we have seen.

 

having a wonderful time on the beautiful ship.

 

love reading all your posts. You continue to inspire with your humor and goodwill.

-Cat

 

Thanks for reporting in.  I hope the problems and kinks are all worked out soon.  At least some of the cruise has worked out well and you must be happy about that.  Keep in touch!

 

 

 

8 hours ago, RMLincoln said:

We made it home midnight!  Amazed we made it!  The wedding was grand, wonderful visits with family and extended family. 
Several family had their returning flights cancelled. Some had their alternative flights canceled too. 
DH and I flew yesterday into Philadelphia, arrived about 9pm, just a tad late. The storm was rough but we were in the beginnings of it so flooding wasn’t the issue yet. Our 2 hr drive became almost 3 but we were on secondary roads. It was intense, hard to find lanes, many cars running slow with 4-way flashers, others too fast!  Heavy rain and wind, low visibility, but little traffic. We managed ok with both of us watching intensely. It’s worse today especially northern NJ. So glad we made it last night!  We’re out of power this morning. Our community is warning residents not to go out. Roads are flooded, impassable. The backside of the storm is increasing now, more wind and rain.  So glad we are home!  We have good backup systems here in our seniors complex including elevators, good hallway lighting and some hallway outlets on generators. The dining room kitchens are working!  Water is working!  (Well pump was always the biggest issue for our mountain home until we got a 220v generator. We melted snow on the wood stove!  Those days are behind us!)

It was just Amazing to be in our own bed last night!  
 

We haven’t heard from our newlyweds… we gave them a honeymoon cruise which left Galveston the day after the wedding!  Hope they made it!  
 

Will catch up now. Blessings to each and all of you, and thank you for your continued support! 
Maureen

 

 

I'm so glad you two made it home safely after the struggle you had last night.  We've been on the road in times like that and it's so scary.  Your mention of the honeymoon cruise for the granddaughter reminded me of a cruise our DD took with her DH.  Their 7 day cruise was extended when the ship couldn't get back to Galveston on time due to heavy fog in Galveston Bay.  She changed their flights 3 times I think.  It was a big worry for them both as they were supposed to be back at work.  We gave them a honeymoon cruise, too but it wasn't the Galveston one.  It was probably another Caribbean one or Mexican Riviera.  

 

 

 

7 hours ago, JazzyV said:

Good afternoon. Thanks for the Fleet Report/Daily.

Sadly I think I'll have to buy some cookies rather than bake them. A salute to all twins! Snowflakes are great, except when I have to drive in them. Interesting quote. Maybe on the meal. Pass on the drink and yes to the wine although a bit pricey. I haven't been to Brest. A good day in history.

 

The weather is not nice here. Windy, dropping temps, rain turning to snow later, snow squall warnings. We're only supposed to get 1-2". My trek tomorrow to the Neurosurgery appointment is on main roads, so I should be ok. I slept about 3.5 hours again. I did get in a 2 hour nap yesterday in the recliner, once my leg settled down. I'm going to try to get BFF's gifts wrapped today, otherwise just chill. He still wants to come and spend a few days, so he will be doing the cooking such as it is, along with getting takeout some days. 

 

@ottahand7 Happy BIrthday, Nancy!

@Cruzin Terri I hope Jim's MRI goes well. 

@aliaschief Safe travels home.

@grapau27 Thanks for the explanation of Flake appreciation day.

@StLouisCruisers Happy Twin Day! 

@seagarsmoker Wow on your difficulties with no account, and all the hassles. And sorry about all the changes that don't seem for the better.

@RedneckBob Welcome back. Thanks for the start of your review.

@smitty34877 Hopefully no flooding near you and that you don't need to go out.

@kazu Stay safe!  Great photos.

@Lady Hudson Happy Twin Day!

@57redbird I'm sorry you're still having so much pain, and I hope it eases up soon.

@Nickelpenny I hope the injection went well!

@0106 Thanks for the photos from your excursion to Quimper.

@Quartzsite Cruiser Lovely photos. 

@Ichiban Nekko Thanks for sharing your observations about your cruise. 

@RMLincoln I'm glad you made it home safely, what with all the weather issues. And that the wedding was great, as was seeing family. The driving part sounds like a white-knuckled affair; I've done that and kissed the ground when I made it home! Oh my on the power outage, but the community sounds well equipped to handle it. Stay safe!

@sailingdutchy Wonderful photos, Tony.

@Vict0riann Thanks for the photos.

 

Prayers for the Care List and Cheers for those Celebrating.

 

I'm glad to hear you got a little more sleep again last night.  Better than 2 hours or less.  I'm happy to hear your BFF will be coming for a Christmas visit with you and plans to do the cooking.  You could use someone there to help keep your spirits up.  Good luck with your doctor visits.

 

 

 

6 hours ago, summer slope said:

Drink of the day will be late tomorrow as I have an MRI at 7:30 AM.

 

I hope the MRI goes well Dixie.  Don't worry about the drink of the day because none of us need to be drinking that early in the morning anyway.  We can wait!  LOL😜

 

 

 

5 hours ago, aliaschief said:

We drove straight through for five hours and got home around noon. When we entered our car this morning there was a ding chip and about a two foot crack on the front windshield right in front of driver. It was like driving a car with bi focals. There was no window crack when we used the car Saturday so maybe it was caused by gust of wind blowing an object onto windshield over night. Who knows but car insurance covers it and waivers deductible so in process of getting it repaired.

@ottahand7Do hope you are enjoying your special day. Happy Birthday!🎂

Time for some unpacking then recliner and Happy Hour. B.

 

Sorry to hear about the windshield crack.  Those glass companies can really get the job done fast, can't they?  

 

 

 

5 hours ago, dfish said:

Good afternoon!

 

@RMLincoln Maureen, the description of your trip home was white knuckle reading, let alone actually driving.  I'm glad you made it safely.

 

I have achieved my goal today and the top of the quilt is ready for borders.  I have to go to the fabric store and pick out material for them.  That should be fun.  

 

 

There were a couple triangle points that were cut off, but nothing bad enough to rip out and redo.  IF I was entering this for competition, I would redo them.  But, I'm not and I doubt anyone will notice them.  

 

It's a beautiful quilt Debbie!  Anyone would be proud to have that quilt to show off on their bed.  

 

 

 

4 hours ago, marshhawk said:

@dfish Your quilt is beautiful!  

 

Well I went out and finished as much as I can do wrapping the porch up for the stray cats.  I need another clear shower curtain.  Yup. that's what the porch is wrapped in.  I get them at dollar tree, so I can wrap the whole screened porch (on the outside) for around 6 bucks (since their new dollar is now 1.25)  Since I am short, and the ladder wasn't working when I started, and DH paid no attention to me when I told him I was outside on the ladder, I started at the level I could reach. 

 

He did fix the ladder, and I finished the top portion where the wind blows in, and I have a little space heater out there, and I checked, it is warmer than the outside world.  Very safe heater, if a creature knocks it over, it stops running.  But I need one more clear curtain, and right now, they dont have any.  I could do a print, but that seems a little over the top.  I did buy one at Krogers for 7 bucks, and used that when i started, but I guess I will have to go back and find them again.  And then Im done.  If the critters want warmth, they will have to get on the porch.  Right now, Bubbles sleeps in a box, and Uggles is out on the streets.  He had a safe place that he used last winter, but he really has no interest in it since I added a blanket for his comfort.

 

Your lucky neighborhood cats will be happy to have that porch this winter.  Tonight it's very windy down this way so anything you've done to keep the cold and wind out will be a big help.  If there's another dollar store nearby try them instead.  We have Dollar Tree, Dollar General and Family Dollar stores all over the place.  Dollar Tree is my favorite.  Don't know why! 🤷‍♀️

 

 

 

Edited December 19, 2023 by StLouisCruisers

[Nickelpenny]

@dfish I forgot to tell you what a masterpiece you created!!  I even your talent!  Bravo!!

[SusieKIslandGirl]

@StLouisCruisersI thought I saw someone on CC mention this yesterday, but when I "Ducked" it they said a group of baboons is called a troop.  The rumor was they were called a congress but that is not true.  A troop isn't as funny as a congress though!!

That was me, reporting on a bumper sticker I saw. Did a search and found out a congress is a group of salamanders, crows or ravens. It did sound good though.

[marshhawk]

When I worked at the garden nursery I remember my boss telling me that if it's windy you wont get the frost.  And it is windy tonight.  Bubbles is back in his box, and I havent seen Uggles since his dinner.  We are supposed to get frost the rest of the week.  Heck, we start winter this week!  I have nothing planned for solstice night, except to work, and I am off until next Tuesday! 

 

 

@JazzyV I hope you get some sleep tonight, and some answers and hope tomorrow.

[kazu]

10 hours ago, Nickelpenny said:

I couldn't sleep last night; got up at 0400 and had to be at the pain center at 0630.  I stomach was in knots.  I don't like being awake for procedures; I guess that is why I like surgery so much - you are asleep and don't know what is going on.  They didn't tell me what to wear but I figure sweatpants and a sweatshirt should suffice, socks and my slip-on Birkenstocks.  My BP was high pre-procedure.  They didn't have anything from the spinal surgeon so we only did one injection.  Using a C-arm (a sort of immediate x-ray), it seemed much better than the last time (though I don't remember exactly how they did it 25 years ago).  The doc said he was using x2 dosage for the steroid but no lidocaine.  I did feel some pressure several times but no real pain during the procedure.  I think it went pretty well.  We will see if it helps but the L side pain is no where near the R so I am hoping to get them to do it on the R.  Numbness on L, pain on R.  I am glad it is over and I can go on my cruise with this behind me.

 

So glad to hear that the procedure went ok without too much pain 👍. I hope the procedure helps the pain and that your right can be done as well 🤞