We went on this trip by the grace of God and Phil Waldrip Ministries. The folks at PWM have been a tremendous blessing to us New England pastors for several years. But this was definitely "over the top".
Josey and I just finished up a 5-day Caribbean cruise that was HEAVENLY. Its the second time we have 'cruised', the first being for our 20th anniversary (12 years ago) when we went for three days to the Bahamas. The weather couldn't have been better this time - as the summer humidity has not yet settled in near the equator. Other than some rough seas and upset stomachs, it was nearly perfect!
We laid around the ship's pool most days, interrupted only by scrumptious meals where we probably ate too much. For the most part, we made healthy dietary choices. But its SO easy to eat more often when you don't have to prepare anything. You just have to show-up when they say its ready! And now I am afraid to step on the scale.
There are some real 'artists' that work on these cruise ships. I really is AMAZING what they do with food. I find the food does not always taste exceptional, but the presentation is outstanding. We saw some beautiful ice sculptures and food prepared every way conceivable.
Then there is the decadence of it all. This giant "Leaning Tower of Chocolate" was more than I could stand. I began to take a big bite when Josey stopped me from causing a scene. But you have to admit, it made a pretty good picture. I could have made myself sick right then & there.
Shore excursions were fun too. We disembarked on Jamaica and Grand Cayman. The flowers and plants were really pretty. We saw many native plants, flowers, and animals. They cause me to think of God's diversity and awesome creative power.
We mixed it up as far as island visits were concerned. We climbed Dunns River Falls while in Jamaica. Our guide was a "wild man" whom seemed to be entertained by making the tourists fall into water over their head. We were soaked to the bone and a little cold. But I must admit, we laughed a lot! And he taught me some Jamaican slang; When asked how I was doing, he said I should say, "Me irey mon" ... it means I'm doing fine or really good!
Maybe the most interesting was a swim with stingrays offshore in Grand Cayman. They take you out about two miles from shore in a smaller boat, then chum the water up with fresh squid. The rays come in from everywhere ... and some quite large! At first, I was a bit uncomfortable handling them - as these are the same variety that killed the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Erwin a few years ago.
So now its "back to the real world". Its gonna take some time - I know. But we are SO THANKFUL to have had this opportunity It was a "God-thing" no doubt. "THANK YOU, LORD"!
No comments:
Post a Comment