2011 Vacation

Wow! I finally did it! What is IT you ask. I finally retired!
While I was at it, I fulfilled a 25 year dream (goal) of taking a cruise to Alaska.
Thanks to Vickie and much planning on her part, nine of us traveled by car to Vancouver, B.C. and embarked on what was for me a once in a lifetime dream.
The dream team consisted of Lenny, Vickie, Heidi, Rachel, Lee, Jill, Linda (Vickie's mom) Jasmine and myself.

We had some rough sea and rainy weather but it sure didn't damper our spirits or mar the beautiful scenery. There were day trips to Juneau, Skagway and Ketchican. Mendenhall glacier is magnificent. We visited a Salmon hatchery, rode a train through the White Pass & Yukon Route. Learning of the early pioneers to that vast country was truly mind boggling. We learning the history of the totem pole and their historical significance. I wanted to bring one home, but it wouldn't fit in my luggage. (I truly think I will need to design one and have it made for my newly landscaped front yard.) We visited with some huskies in training for dog sledding. The girls really wanted to smuggle some of them home. Some of the group did some kiaking (sp), I was not brave enough. UGH!

I sincerely felt like I was ready to come home after being gone for 9 days. However after being home for 2 days, I was ready to return and experience more of that glorious adventure. We sailed on a Holland America Cruise line the ms Volendam. I cannot say enough about the royal hospitality that was extended to us. The only way to travel! Ah, yes! Lenny treated me to a massage and facial. I was so pampered!

I would like to thank not only Vickie for all of her hard work in the planning and arranging but to my two cabin mates, Jazzie and Rachel. I would not have survived without Miss Jaz. I do hope she knows how much I love and appreciate her! I only have 2 regrets: 1) that the entire family (all 41 of us) were not enjoying it together and 2) that it took 25 years to do IT.

Until next time....L & H's