Aloha Everyone,
Another end of a cruise. Our two medium sized suitcases are much lighter due to us getting rid of some items. The heaviest was J.J.’s purple and black Alaskan jacket. Ariel was super happy when J.J. told him that we are leaving it behind. Ariel said, “I think I can wear it.”I must mention three couples we met who left strong impressions on us.
1) From Australia. They have been traveling for about 12 years. They sold their home and travel around the world via cruise ship or land tours. Australia requires that one owns a home in order to get a government pension. Solution was to purchase a house that is subdivided into 3 residences. Their home will remain vacant, but they will financially come ahead with tax, universal medical, etc.
2) From Utah. JD is a Bishop in his congregation. His life is devoted to his service to his church. He has served in Argentina and learned to speak Spanish. Very proud of his two older daughters who are pursuing careers. His youngest daughter is a student and will be going to Argentina this summer on a mission. His son works at home to serve his community. JD spent nearly an hour while we were sitting down for lunch trying to convert us to the Mormon religion.
3) From Essex, England. They live just outside of London. Elderly couple who long for the easy, peaceful time of their youth. J.J. told them about the 3 stages of retirements. They are realistic that being in the cusps of stage 3, their travel now is limited to doing cruises around UK, Northern Ireland and Scotland. They have yet to ventured out to Ireland and Wales. As we parted their company, the wife squeezed my arm and mumbled, “Enjoy your travels.”
Went to have our Chinese Dim Sum lunch inside the old city. Enjoyed the food which is similar in quality to Hong Kong.
Hot day. Family Fun Fair at Highland Park has attracted young children & their parents to enjoy a beach outing. Our corner room on the 2nd level has a view of the harbor. Tomorrow we might be able to see MSC Virtuosa’s arrival.
Aloha -- Cathi
