Cruising 101!

Costa Concordia...such a shame!

2012-01-26T09:29:00.002-05:00

I'm such a bad blogger. Life gets in the way and then another few months go by.

I was so stricken by the sinking of the Concordia. I hadn't heard good things about Costa to begin with, but the actions of the Captain...yes the CAPTAIN who should know better...is absolutely outrageous!

I see many mistakes here:

1. No muster drill. Whoever came up with the idea that international cruises can wait up to 24 hours to hold is insane. While no one particularly likes this part of the cruise, it is one of the most essentials learning lessons! I love that they scan cards to know who is there. The fact that most people didn't know where to go is unforgivable.

2. "Go back to your staterooms". What? Go back to your staterooms? The ship is sinking and you want me to go down to deck 3 or 4...etc. Unbelievable. It seems to me they were more concerned with the perception that nothing was wrong, than the people who probably lost their lives going back to their staterooms.

3. The Obvious. What in the heck was the Captain doing so close to shore? I mean really? Was he drinking? Did he have a woman on the bridge? Was there no one looking at all their high tech gadgets to show a giant rock formation/reef in the water? A Bridge Officer is required to be a navigation and ship operations expert who has to make decisions which affect the safety of the ship, its passengers and crew. How about the Captain? Oh and he's under house arrest? Why is he not in jail???? Why was he off the boat while others never made it off.

4. One of the reasons I've heard negative complaints with Costa is the fact that many of their crew do not speak multiple languages. (Especially English) A huge hindrance in an emergency.

5. My prayers and thoughts go out to those who survived this horrible (and AVOIDABLE!!!) cruise and for those who lost loved ones; my heart breaks for you. No one should have to go through this, especially due to negligence.

Not a happy cruiser today...
Mary

Things to do when you can't cruise.........

2011-10-13T13:20:00.002-04:00

It's so hard right now without a trip in sight. I'm having real honest to goodness cruise withdrawals. So I tried to figure out what I could do instead of daydreaming of a cruise.
Hmmmm.....I could,

update my facebook
paint my nails
take a nap
floss
unload the dishwasher...

Well this isn't working. I want a cruise!!!! There are such amazing deals on transatlantic cruises (as low as $499!! 12 nights!) and last minute cruises that it's making me crazy. Why couldn't I have been in Oprah's audience when she passed out a week-long cruise on Allure of the Seas.

Double darn. Well that's enough rambling for now. (rambling= whining)

Happy cruising! Mary

Carnival goes Muted!

2011-08-24T16:20:00.002-04:00

The new Carnival Breeze that will debut in 2012 is a beauty. No more the days of old neon, giant sculptures, crazy carpet and mind boggling color combo's. This gem is really understated in a good way with color thrown in but not 'in your face'. Perhaps there will be a new class of Carnival lovers after they sail this ship. I may just have to check it out!

2011-08-16T16:20:00.002-04:00

Talking about new ships - here's the one's being built. Disney has the new Fantasy that will be out in March 2012, Carnival Breeze will be out June 2012, Celebrity Reflection will be out Oct. 2012, Royal Princess debuts in early 2013. Looks like the cruise industry is going swimmingly!

Where has the time gone...

2011-08-16T15:48:00.003-04:00

Ok, I really have to make more time for this.

Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.
-Ferris Bueller

Well said, Ferris. So here I am with my first blog in 8 months. What's new in the cruise industry? Big, big ships and more on the way. Celebrity Silhouette, Norwegian Epic, and the of course the big mama of them all, Allure of the Seas.

I've helped a bunch of friends book cruises but I am still going through cruise withdrawals and it's not pretty. I miss it sooo much!!! I need a better paying job. *sigh*

What is it about winter that turns our minds to cruising?

2011-01-14T09:15:00.002-05:00

Seriously though, as soon as January comes the first thing on my mind is cruising. I suppose it should be a New Years resolution but I've given up on those. My mind works in a circle...family, cruising, work, cruising, friends, cruising. It's so sad really. The worst part is that I don't have a cruise booked.

Building a house and buying a camper have put a serious dent into the finances. I'm going through serious withdrawals and it's not pretty. I have a lustful need to cruise. For me planning a trip is like foreplay. Getting on the plane and spending the night in the port city is orgasmic, the sailaway is that post coital cigarette. (and I don't even smoke!)

Not to sound R-rated, but that's what cruising is like for me. Don't get me wrong, my God and family are number 1 and 2. Cruising is definitely number 3.

Am I the only one that feels like this?
Happy Cruising, Mary

Carnival Splendor, what a media blitz!

2010-11-12T15:13:00.004-05:00

It's really too bad for the people on board Splendor, to be looking forward to a vacation and have this happen. However, after what I've seen and read on the cruise boards, it looks like they did absolutely everything possible with what they had.

I feel the worst for the elderly, the sick, those who fell and needed crutches with no elevators. For the parents of young children - you deserve a medal as well! This was a serious problem and I'm not making light of it.

For the 'have fun cruising no matter what" I commend you. I would have had fun as well. Green beans or beets, just let me at the pool deck.

Anyone not wanting their free cruise, keep me in mind!

Happy Cruising, Mary

Ok, so I've been busy.......

2009-11-06T09:26:00.002-05:00

Wow, it's been awhile.

Life post cruise is always tough, no one is waiting on me hand and foot and I actually have to go to work. It's cold albeit sunny which is nice, but I sure miss those balmy Caribbean breezes. Worst yet, I know we can't afford to take a cruise in 2010 since our new home really needs to be finished inside. Sigh. However, life is good so I'll quit my complaining.

What's new in the cruising world? Oasis of the Seas. This innovative and stunningly HUGE ship is on it's way from the shipyard in Turku, Finland and on it's way to it's home port of Port Canaveral, Florida. There are daily video's on www.oasisoftheseas.com and they are incredibly interesting. I'm addicted of course!

This ship is so different from anything out there. It has neighborhoods on the ship with greenery and lush trees. Central Park is one and Boardwalk is another. It gives a nice twist from the standard inside stateroom, oceanview, balcony and suite. You can overlook Central Park and the levitating (3 decks!) bar, shops and eateries. In Boardwalk, you can overlook the full size carousel and other shops, bars and eateries. You can have an Aquatheatre stateroom that overlooks the aft of the ship where thrilling water shows will happen. You can get a loft stateroom - yes, a two story stateroom with huge glass windows. Another first!

There's so many different and new items about this ship that I could type all day. However, look for yourself. Oasis of the Seas - what an amazing ship. I wish I was booked on her. Guess I'll have to live vicarously through those that are taking her maiden voyage on December 5th and read about it at the cruise boards.

Happy Sailing!
Mary

We're back and rested but...

2009-09-14T09:38:00.002-04:00

Liberty of the Seas was an amazing ship. I mean amazing. We had such a wonderful time, from the moment we touched down in Miami, stayed at the Epic Hotel (which was FAB), and of course the cruise.

Our forward balcony stateroom was fantastic. A little tight with the three of us but not bad. Jake had so much to do with the teen group that we hardly ever saw him, except at dinner. After about 3-4 nights he didn't even want to have dinner with us but with his friends. Michael and I really enjoyed ourselves. The shows were fantastic, the food delicious, the solarium (adult only) pool was our haven.

The sad part is, we can't afford to cruise next year as we have to do the finish work on our new home. Oh bugger! In the meantime I think I'll start a website with cruise info just for fun. Give me something to do other than work!!

Happy cruising,
Mary

2 more days! Liberty of the Seas here we come!!

2009-08-26T06:37:00.003-04:00

YESSSSS! Today is my last day of work! I can remember when my coundown was about 8 months and some odd days, and now we're down to 2!!

I've gotten my hair cut, getting my nails done today, getting Jake new clothes (and thanks MOM for taking him on a shopping trip!!) and got the suitcases down last night.

Tomorrow I'm off work, so I can do all the last minute things I need to do including PACKING! I hate packing but I will have to do it tonight or tomorrow. I just received our air reminder to log in tomorrow and print off our boarding passes.

I tried to get an upgrade with RCCL since this is Jake's first cruise and I want it to be perfect for him, but that was a no go. I received a very polite brush off letter. Bummer. The thing is, there are suites still available onboard, even a Jr. Suite would be great for cabin size with the 3 of us. Oh well. Apparently the word is out that NCL does a better job of upgrading and since we've had one (as new clients to NCL) I guess that's true!! However, I still love RCCL ships more than any other.

I have to pack, must pack but before I do it's nice to take a minute and just breathe and think about the open ocean. Ahhhh..I love cruising!

PS: HUGE thanks to Rich for taking on the responsibility of the farm and staying at our house while we're gone. YAY!

Liberty - here we come

2009-08-24T12:47:00.001-04:00

Shortly we'll be cruising on our gorgeous ship. We have a wonderful guy staying at our home and maintaining the farm. I feel better having someone there 24/7. Not to mention everyone else on the farm will be there.

We are in the single digits and wow, I'm getting so excited!!! Can't wait to see you Miss Liberty!!

2 weeks!!

2009-08-14T11:57:00.001-04:00

Two weeks today we'll be bleary-eyed as we fly from Pellston at 6:30am on our way to Miami. I can't wait to go to Bayside, walk around and eat at Bubba Gump or Hard Rock. ( Unless we eat at our hotel, The Epic.)

Then two weeks from tomorrow we'll be boarding Liberty of the Seas. Can't wait!!

17 days!

2009-08-11T13:18:00.001-04:00

OH MY GOSH. I'm freaking out. 17 days until our cruise and I have nothing done. So much to do and not much time to accomplish it since I'm at the Cheboygan County Fair all week. ugh.
Today Jake is at the Fair and he's having a BLAST. I'm sure he's riding all the rides as I type.

17 days til blissful cruising. Can't wait!

3 weeks!!!

2009-08-07T13:28:00.001-04:00

We're down to 3 weeks and now I'm actually starting to panic about getting things done! I can't do a thing until the 16th of August since we have the ^%$#! fair. Sorry - long day.
Oh that cruise is going to be THAT much sweeter. I cannot wait. I have to make some things for the meet & mingle, but other than that I can't WAIT.

I'll miss my babies at home, our cats and horses of course. Not enough to stay home though!!!

23 Days...and counting

2009-08-05T10:31:00.001-04:00

Our meet & mingle is now at 111 people! I'm so amazed at how many will be on our cruise. I'm very excited about it as there are a lot of teens so Jake will have plenty of new friends to hang out with!

Because the fair is imminent, it will make at least 10 days fly by quickly. That's a good thing because I'm so excited!

Happy Sailing!
Mary

Fees for checked luggage...grrr.

2009-08-04T11:57:00.001-04:00

We have our flights coming up for our cruise and it just makes me mad to pay to check our bags. I mean, isn't that part of our flight fee? Raise the flights then but don't charge me to check my bags.

Chris Elliott says: Airlines earned $566 million from checked baggage fees in the first quarter, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. That?s more than four times as much as it collected for the same period a year before.
http://www.elliott.org/blog/5-outrageous-luggage-fee-myths-the-airlines-want-you-to-believe/

Isn't that ridiculous??? And the money comes from us - hard working people trying to pay our bills. Trying to afford vacations...I am so ticked at this.

What do y'all think?

25 Days!

2009-08-03T14:57:00.001-04:00

Twenty five days until our cruise. I'm looking forward to it like you can't believe. This is our busy, busy time of year. The Fair takes up 90% of our time the 3 weeks preceding it and all of our time once we're at the fair.

However, 2 weeks post fair I'll be on the ship, and that makes me able to put up with all the rest. Jake is getting so psyched and already has two emails of teens his age so he can get to know them. I am extremely excited for HIM. He has no idea how much fun he's going to have and I want this to be extra-special for him. Mike and I will have fun no matter what.

25 days...go by quickly!!

I'm doing the DOC dance!

2009-07-31T15:35:00.001-04:00

I just got my cruise documents via email. While I'm as excited as all get out, I loved the old documents you got in the mail. It made it better somehow...but I'm still very happy!

28 days until we fly to Miami and 28 days of lots to do at work, home, and everything. But now we have our docs and I'm psyched!!!

Happy dancing and happy sailing,
Mary

29 Days!

2009-07-30T10:15:00.001-04:00

Well, we're in the 20's countdown now. Wow, i'ts really getting closer! Now i'm down to, "what jewelry am I going to wear" and "I need a pair of white shorts" blah blah trivial stuff.

I just watched the sea trials for Oasis of the Seas. It's so cool. You can watch it here: http://www.cruisemates.com/articles/news/#story64

Happy Sailing,
Mary

2009-07-29T09:08:00.003-04:00

2009-07-29T09:08:00.001-04:00

ONE MONTH FROM TODAY!!

2009-07-29T09:02:00.001-04:00

Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh. We are really almost there. Today is a monumental day on my countdown. I just wish my headache would go away and I wasn't at work...but other than that I am so HAPPY!!!

We have 105 people signed up for our meet & mingle. I'm amazed, that's a record for me. And since I started the whole thing I kind of feel like the hostess.

Sooo excited. Bring it on Royal Caribbean. I am ready!

Happy Sailing,
Mary

31 days...One month and we're in Miami!

2009-07-28T14:39:00.001-04:00

Wow, one month from today we'll be in one of my favorite cities - Miami. We'll be staying at the posh and new Epic Hotel (got a great deal) and getting ready for the cruise. We have two flights to get there and I just pray to God they go ok. They've changed our flights twice so I hope they don't do it again!

Liberty of the Seas you are one hot mama and I can't wait to see you from the Hotel!!

Happy Sailing,
Mary

32 Days...Liberty of the Seas you're becoming real!

2009-07-27T12:56:00.001-04:00

Yep, we have 32 days. 31 until we reach Miami. (God willing!) Our meet & mingle is now over 100 people strong.

I'm working on t-shirts for my hubby and son and I. Should be cute. Also was going to make nametags but since RCCL gives them out at our M&M...what's the point?

We really need this vacation. All of us NEED it. It can't come soon enough!

Happy sailing,
Mary

35 Days to go and wow...it's going by fast now!

2009-07-24T13:22:00.001-04:00

We booked this cruise back in January so the time has really seemed to go by slow...until now. It's flying by! Could be because it's my busy time at work, or that it's summer, but I'm realizing I have to get some things done!

My son has grown out of almost all his clothes, so I'm slowly gathering some shorts and shirts. His suit still fits (Thank God!) but that's about it.

We have someone to come and help with the horses while we're gone which puts us at ease. I'll sure miss my Luna Balloona though when we're gone.

I have two dresses out getting shortened (damn shortness) and so that's cool. Now I just need a pair of silver heels and a pair of white shorts....loan anyone?

Our exchange student called today from Poland. Gosh we miss him. But I'm thrilled for his family, they really missed him.

Well, that's it for now,
Mary

38 days on the good side, our exchange student leaves tomorrow on the bad side.

2009-07-21T12:43:00.001-04:00

We've made the under 40 days list, woohoo! RCCL here we come. Liberty of the Seas is going to be so wonderful, and at the perfect time for me with lots of work stress.
On a sad note, Matt is leaving us and going back to Poland. He has really become a member of the family and I'm going to miss him SO much.

Such is life.

Happy sailing,
Mary

43 days!

2009-07-16T14:39:00.001-04:00

I decided to go back to rccl.com and look at shore trips. We've decided to kind of take it easy on this trip and not book ourselves up. Truthfully, there are some really cool adventures you can book. No dolphin experience though which is a bummer. My son really wanted to try that.

However, the great thing about not booking shore trips is having the ship almost to yourself. I don't have to be in a hurry to get on the tender or to get off the boat. We can have a leisurely breakfast and just chill. LOVE this part of cruising. I love everything about cruising but what I don't like is being scheduled too much.

43 days...can't get here soon enough!!

Happy Sailing,

Mary

Samantha Brown

2009-07-15T15:26:00.001-04:00

44 days...

2009-07-15T15:07:00.001-04:00

Oh I'm loving how quick the countdown is going. Summer is my busy time at work and so I'm not paying as much attention.

Jake and I watched our travel channel show of Great Cruises - Freedom of the Seas. (our sister ship) I recorded it with our dvr. Our dvr also records anything with cruises or cruising in the title so I love seeing what was recorded. Plus I absolutely adore Samantha Brown. She's so fun and she has my dream job!

RCCL we are just so excited!!!

Happy Sailing,
Mary

46 Days and it can't get here soon enough...

2009-07-13T12:52:00.001-04:00

Oh I need to get out of HERE! It's Monday in every sense of the word. Northwest Airlines has changed my flights twice and they keep getting closer and closer to the point where I'll be running to try and catch the plane. GRRRR!

Oh 46 days, please go fast. I need my Royal Caribbean FIX!

Mary

Miami - the perfect pre-cruise destination

2009-07-09T09:02:00.001-04:00

In 50 days I'll be in Miami. It makes the craziness of work, the endless paperwork getting ready for our county Fair and hot summer nights nothing in comparison to the feeling I'll have when I get off the plane at Miami International.
Our pre-cruise hotel is the new Epic hotel. It's part of the Kimpton line and it looks FAB! I really can't wait. It's very chic and boutiquey. (not a word I know but I can use it if I want!) We booked a water view and I really hope we can see a glimpse of the cruise ships in port. Hope, Hope! Their customer service is so flawless it should have a fancier name....Personal Attach? perhaps? Can't WAIT!

Of course, the cr?me de la cr?me would be stepping on the beautiful Liberty of the Seas itself. I really do want to kiss the floor when I step off the gangway onto the ship. Don't know if my hubby would like that though.

Ah dreaming makes me so happy and takes the dreary bookkeeping down a notch.

Happy Cruising,
Mary

Passport in hand, Online documents done!

2009-07-07T12:34:00.002-04:00

We have 52 days until our cruise on Liberty of the Seas and our online documents at Royal Caribbean are now complete! I am getting so excited! Our meet & mingle roster boasts 77 people so far! That's huge!!

Oh the countdown is one and now that our son's passport and passcard are in my hands, I'm feeling so much BETTER!

Now it's time to save money for onboard expenses....ebay here I come. A great way to get rid of junk laying around the house and make money!!

Happy sailing,

Mary

The times they are a changin'

2009-07-02T08:20:00.001-04:00

My sons passport has been mailed. Thank God! I've been getting nothing but the run around from the passport agency but now it's official. Of course I'll feel better once it's in my hands!

I've started thinking about what the wear each day and I do still have to get one dress shortened. The guys have tried on their suits and all is good there, although I will buy my son one new dress shirt.

What's all this got to do with a cruise? LOTS! Especially if you're a cruise geek like me. I calm down a lot once I'm on the ship, but I like to plan everything before we sail.

We're winging it this year with shore trips. Decided we didn't want to spend upwards of $500 and up for organized shore trips and just plan on checking out the ports and relaxing. Can't wait.

I still have to lose about 20 lbs before we sail and now it's less than 2 months so that means I have to hit the gym. Starting TONITE! Wish we luck and happy sailing,
Mary

67 Days, 67 days!

2009-06-22T14:48:00.001-04:00

Holy Wa! We are getting closer to our family cruise onboard RCCL's Liberty of the Seas!

I bought this fab reversible dress, just perfect for those resort casual nights. I also bought some tees and a pair of shorts...and have one more formal dress to shorten and then I'm ready!

Oh cruise fairy, please get us to Miami soon!

Happy Sailing, Mary

We are paid and ready to go!

2009-06-18T15:42:00.001-04:00

It was crunch time, so we paid our cruise off and that means it's official!!

I like to wait until it's close to the deadline in case the price of the cruise goes down, it did awhile ago but now it was time to pay.

We are so excited, I am just psyched! Now it's getting clothes ready time. I have to shop! I need shorts, tshirts, etc.

Happy Sailing all,

mary

Horrid Allergies...what to do?

2009-06-12T08:56:00.007-04:00

You know that horrible feeling when you lay down to bed and your nose is all stuffy? I do. It's so hard to fall asleep when you can't breathe and because of our cold weather here in Michigan it's getting to be full allergy season. ARGH!

I'm thinking a mattress and pillow protector might help. Of course the greatest will be when we cruise because the most ocean breezed are wonderful for your sinuses.

OH I can't wait. Really hoping for an upsell to a Jr. Suite...keeping my fingers crossed!!!

Happy Sailing,

Mary

Cruising and You Tube

2009-06-02T11:37:00.001-04:00

I absolutely love You Tube. Not only because you can find a video of almost anything but because you can find thousands of cruising video's. Not sure what your ship looks like? Just put your ships name in the search box and go for it. I've seen some really informational video's and some that are just silly. Thing is, they're all FUN.

You can hear the ocean, experience the honking of the ships horn at the sail away, see a full dining room on formal night, watch as people dance under the stars or watch a movie under the starts. It's all cruising and it's all wonderful!! What a great way to research an upcoming cruise. Thanks You Tube!

Happy Sailing,
Mary

Jimmys cruising right now!

2009-06-01T12:01:00.001-04:00

My friend Jimmy is cruising as I type with his two kids. One thing that is common amongst cruising addicts is we get so excited for friends of ours that cruise as well. I have to wait 89 days until I'm in Miami but I've sure lived vicariously through him while he was getting ready.

Have fun Jimmy. I expect a full report when you return!

90 days to go

2009-05-29T14:14:00.001-04:00

Wow..tomorrow I can choose our seats for the flights. Making it all the more real!

We applied for our son's passport and passport card so another job done with.

Then mom's seamstress was over so I stood on a chair and got my beautiful red formal sized for shortening.

With all these activities going on, you know we're going on a cruise!!

Dreaming of Alaska

2009-05-22T15:22:00.001-04:00

Yes I have a cruise in 98 days but I'm already dreaming of an Alaskan cruise. I'm a caribbean girl through and through but the pictures I've seen from friends who have gone to Alaska are BREATHTAKING.

Mike really wants to go to Alaska but it would take a miracle to book another cruise in this economy. *sigh* I need to make more money!

Have a happy Memorial Day and thank you to all the troops throughout the years,

Mary

Double Digits...

2009-05-21T12:09:00.001-04:00

We're finally at double digits. 99 days until we board Liberty of the Seas, our beautiful home for one week. (wish it was more!)

My good friend Jimmy from 'Nawlins is cruising at the end of next week and so he's pressing his clothes, dry cleaning his suite, getting everything together. He's cruising with his 2 kids and I know that's going to be a very special time for all three of them.

See, cruises bring families together! I helped some friends book a cruise and they said it really brought them closer together!

So - the family that cruises together, stays together. Of course any excuse for a cruise is a GREAT excuse.

Happy Sailing,

Mary

Welcome Shiloh !

2009-05-20T14:27:00.002-04:00

Our newest addition to the ranch, Shiloh was born this morning at 12:45am. She's a beautiful quarter horse filly and so now we have a another baby - what fun!

Here she is!

Cruise Pub Crawl

2009-05-20T14:10:00.003-04:00

There was a post on www.cruisecritic.com about funny things to put on t-shirts for a group. I wasn't in a group but made a cute sign that my best friend and I wore around our necks on Explorer of the Seas which we cruised on two years in a row.

Nowadays we don't drink as much in fact I hardly drink at all. I do love the frozen drinks and so I get them virgin, but may have a few Kahlua's. (I can't change my ways overnight!)

Our meet & mingle group is getting quite large and I'm really excited about that. I'm always checking you tube for pics of the ship and just thinking cruise in general.
This time we have our son on the cruise so I don't think we'll be getting too crazy.

The last time Michael and I cruised it was our pre-wedding honeymoon and that was a wonderful time in a Penthouse suite on the NCL Jewel. It was absolutely lovely, and we were spoiled for sure.

I sure have fond memories of our old days on RCCL with pub crawls, devil horn & angel headbands, karaoke and dancing til dawn. Not to mention the giant carrot we took back from the dining room (laughing the whole way) to surprise our room steward.

Here bunny bunny,

Mary

The Meet & Mingle

2009-05-14T11:52:00.001-04:00

We now have almost 50 people signed up for our Meet & Mingle. What's that you're wondering?

It's something that Royal Caribbean offers and it's just wonderful. What happens is this: Someone starts a thread on a cruise site, like www.cruisecritic.com and www.cruisemates.com.

As I'm the cruise addict I usually end up starting this thread with a title like the one I have going right now: Liberty of the Seas Aug. 29-Sept. 5, End of the Summer BASH! Then others that are sailing on your ship on the same week you're sailing joins the group. You get to chat ahead of time and once you're on the ship, usually the second day, you all meet up. Some of the ship dignitaries willI join us like the cruise director, hotel director and such. It's a fun party. I've made some wonderful friends this way. Friends I've had for 5 or more years and still communicate with regularly.

I highly recommend dong this if you have an upcoming cruise. You won't regret it!!

Happy sailing,

Mary

Oh the weather outside!

2009-05-11T09:08:00.003-04:00

It was 20 degrees this morning. The frost was on the grass and it was f-r-r-reeeeezing in the house. I looked past the window to the horse pasture and my little filly was just running around like nothing was wrong.

I'm looking so forward to stepping out our stateroom balcony and feeling the balmy, romantic caribbean breezes. There is nothing like it to soothe the soul and dissolve all those "damn cold Michigan morning" ramblings.

I do love where we live. I love that we share the most amazing farm with my in-laws. I love the views out my window day and night. But on these really cold May mornings it makes me yearn for that cruise ship. How many days now? 109!!! Not that I'm keeping track or anything. :)

Happy sailing,

Mary

No longer an Aft hog...

2009-05-08T15:20:00.002-04:00

My new hubby and newly adopted son and I are cruising Aug. 29th. I had upgraded to an aft stateroom (D1) but my gut said you better not surprise him, just show him the difference between the aft balconies and the side.

Darn good thing that I showed my hubby our aft stateroom 1404. He didn't like it! Always go with your gut. He prefers being on the side. Well the hump balconies were sold out and with the 3 of us I need something with a sofa sleeper. Soooooo...we booked the first stateroom on deck 7 on the port side, 7514. I had hoped to get an upsell to a jr. suite but I doubt that's going to happen. You know what...no big deal. We are cruising soon and that's just fine with me!

To take my son on his first cruise at 16 years old is priceless!!

Happy Sailing,

Mary

112 days and counting...

2009-05-08T14:58:00.008-04:00

Aft hog? Is there such a thing?

2009-04-22T09:45:00.002-04:00

On my last cruise we had an aft junior suite stateroom but were able to take an upsell to a forward Penthouse which was amazing. This cruise I booked an aft again and am thrilled when I saw our large balcony, which is typical of most ships but not all.

I have to be truthful and hope to get an upsell again, but being that the cruise is booking up I'm not sure. Having a superior aft balcony would probably be one of the first thought to go up to a Jr. Suite. That would be great.

I'm dreaming today, cannot wait until we go down to Miami. We're spending a pre-cruise night at the Epic hotel and I can't wait to check out that amazing hotel as well.

Oh summer go by quickly so we can sail!!

Mary

Time is slooowly passing...

2009-04-21T12:36:00.001-04:00

We have 4 months, one week and one day til our cruise. Wonderful thing is our Meet & Mingle is now at 37 people and we still have a lot of time for people to join in!

I love meeting new people and the Meet & Mingle's are great for that. In fact one friend I've had for 4 years because of meeting her on the ship.

We still have to look at shore trips and because our son is coming I know that wondering through the shops may bore him a bit, so better to be prepared!!

The price hasn't dropped further but I'm waiting to pay it in full in case it does, otherwise I'm out of luck.

Happy sailing,

Mary

Saving money and getting closer!

2009-04-06T15:37:00.000-04:00

Royal Caribbean gave all Michiganders a break on our cruise prices. Ours went down $340 which is awesome! Go RCCL!!! Now instead of owing just over $ 2k it's $ 1700! Now that's what I like to see!

Jake is starting to get excited. It's his first cruise and so he doesn't know the delights that await him. Michael and keep saying it can't get here soon enough.

My wonderful TA from America's Vacation Center -Tonya- called the cruiseline to get the discounted rate. Love her! She's the best.

Anyway, just a happy rant going on here. We still have to get Jake's passport but my new one came and Mike still has his.

Ah bliss. Now if only it would warm up here in Michigan!!

Less than 6 months now!

2009-03-04T15:07:00.002-05:00

Liberty of the Seas is calling us but it's so hard keeping this as a secret! On the 23rd we'll be able to share this with our son as it will be his birthday.

I've downloaded all kind of LOTS (Liberty of the Seas) pics and of course have one on my desktop at work, not to mention my pic screen saver.

It's so excited knowing that I'll be stepping foot on a cruise ship in under 6 months. If you've never cruised I imagine that you would look at me like a fruit cake!! But fellow cruisers know exactly how I feel.

Happy Sailing,
mary

2009-02-17T15:49:00.003-05:00

It's official! The cruise is booked, we started a Liberty of the Seas roll call and we joined our Meet & Mingle. That means.....drum roll please.........we've book on Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas. My gosh she's a beauty!

We've got lots to celebrate with this cruise. Our son's official adoption and his 16th birthday. We couldn't go this time of year, he's in school and it's too hard for my DH to be gone. After school won't work because we have two new foals to play with. Summer is tough for my work schedule so it's August 29-Sept. 5 End of Summer Bash! Suh-weet!

Now this is a hush-hush adventure and he doesn't know a thing. But I will post pics or video of his surprise when his bday rolls around. Teehee.

Life is good.
mary

2009-02-09T09:34:00.003-05:00

OK.....I'm probably too excited to type without typo's...but here's my proclamation:

We booked a cruise!!! Yes - the moons aligned, God smiled down on us and our karma was happy.

We're going on Aug. 29th on Liberty of the Seas. My hubby, 16 year old son and I. Can't wait. Will talk more later - gotta work to pay for this thing!

The happy sailor,
Mary

Happy Monday...

2009-01-26T14:50:00.001-05:00

Well it's Monday. Not good but almost over.

My college roomie is taking a cruise with her family - her first cruise. I feel
almost as excited for her as if I was going.

I found them a great deal and so they're off towards the end of Feb.
It's wonderful to be able to get other people as addicted to cruising as I am.
A little naughty but fun. Can't wait to hear what they have to say!!

There are some wonderful prices to Alaska right now which is my prime target.
I think I'll wear my ruby slippers and click them together.....
"There's no place like a cruise.....there's no place like a cruise..."

Happy Sailing,
Mary

Why you should give me a cruise for free....

2009-01-22T12:41:00.003-05:00

1. Because I talk endlessly about the wonderful cruises I've taken and have and roughly 15 friends booked cruises because of it.

2. Because I know a LOT about cruising and give excellent advice.

3. Because I'm cute and cuddly and fun as well. I've missed my calling as a Cruise Director.

4. I'm very persuasive.

5. I can give a gazillion reasons why people should choose YOUR cruise line.

6. I know my way around the Caribbean and can be an impromptu guide.

7. I know how to make a monkey towel animal.

8. I can fill in for the captain when need be...as long as we're securely tied-up in port. (c'mon you didn't really think I can drive the boat did ya??)

9. I could totally entertain the bored with exciting tales of former cruises.

10. Did I mention I'm cute and cuddly?

Happy Sailing - and apparently dreaming,
Mary

Well it's been too long...

2009-01-21T11:02:00.002-05:00

Wow, I didn't realize how busy I've been until I looked at my last blog. Holy Wa.

I've been helping all my friends with low cruise prices (but i'm not a travel agent) and bumming because I can't take one myself right now.

But lo' and behold - I'm escaping the snow and frigid temps to spend 5 days with my sis and my parents in Alabama - gold coast. I cannot wait.

My VERY sweet husband said I should go even though it's a hardship for him to be gone. I mean, what a MAN!!! So I can't wait for March!

And I thought I'd win for sure...

2008-11-21T09:48:00.001-05:00

MSC Cruises had a contest for a free cruise plus up to 16 people on their new ship, the Orchestra. I thought for sure I'd at least be in the top 5. I did my poem which I thought was quite good!! DANG IT!

Oh well, will have to keep saving my money for a cruise I guess.

Obama vs. McCain...the big showdown!

2008-11-04T10:09:00.001-05:00

I am excited. And nervous. I'm a democrat. Have been all my life. I'm our union president and have been interested in politics since I worked on Nixon's campaign as a teen. (yeah, i know. BIG blunder)

This nation is almost at it's worst. Obviously Bush has done nothing but run this country screaming right into the toilet. Dumb bastard.

Now anyone that reads this, and prolly not many, know I don't swear on blogger. But I have been waiting for 2008 since he came into office.

Go Obama...win this election and change the world PLEASE!

The deals!!!

2008-10-30T15:51:00.003-04:00

OMG...oh my gosh. The cruise deals.

$99 for a 3 to 4 night bahama cruise. Why am I not taking advantage of this????

a) have I just plain lost my mind?

b) I'm an idiot?

or

c) is it that I have no moolah to spend on my favorite past time?

Yeah...it's C. And that just sucks.

Cruise prices...

2008-10-22T12:39:00.001-04:00

I just got an amazing email from Cruises Only. I've booked through them before and they
do a great job. Good prices, good selection etc.

Anyway, there are shorter cruises out there right now for $99 to roughly $169. Yeah...that's amazing!! Apparently the economy being in the toilet is good for the consumer regarding travel prices.

I think we should jump on the bandwagon and book a cruise. Who's with me????

Happy sailing,

Mary

Coming down from a cruise.

2008-10-20T12:54:00.002-04:00

I have a good friend who is like a brother. His name is Jimmy and he lives in 'Nawlins.

I just talked him into a 3 day cruise because he really needed to get away from his life for a few days. He is a Carnival cruise line devotee and he took the Imagination out of Miami. The Imagination is an older ship that got a bit of a makeover.

He booked an inside stateroom because why waste the money when it's a short cruise! He said it was very clean and there were lots of new additions. (He phoned me while the ship was still at port in Miami.)

This morning I sent him a text message that went something like this: "hey, did u have fun?"
and "Are u awake?" I didn't hear anything. Then about an hour later I got the reply that I knew, without hesitation that I would get in return.

"Cruise was great, just don't want to leave the ship."

This is something that all of us cruise addicts will say. The last evening of the cruise you get this feeling of doom. You still have a good time but you just feel icky. You have to put your luggage out the door by midnight, so packing up all the fun things you bought is also tough. (bring bigger luggage...) It's just knowing that your excellent time onboard is coming to a close, and that's hard. REALLY hard.

When you leave the port...oh my gosh I could just cry. I can't explain how rotten I feel after leaving the ship...but knowing I'll be back helps a little. Not much...but a little.

Happy sailing,

Mary

What? What's that? A cruise possibility??

2008-10-09T13:49:00.003-04:00

YES!! Our good friends Tim and Mary were over for dinner last night. (mahi mahi, chicken and steak)

We started talking about cruises and I got them all excited about it. Next thing I know, we're planning an eastern Caribbean cruise for Jan. 2010. Plenty of time to plan, save money and oh...save money!

I am so psyched! On the downside, I really should go to travel school so I could book them and make money, but not right now anyway.

OH HAPPY DAY!

Mary

The daily grind....and I'm not talking coffee

2008-10-07T13:59:00.002-04:00

Hey there,

Well, it's Tuesday. Not even hump day. Tuesday has nothing going for it except it's not Monday. This day is "let's dump all the work on the secretaries" day. I'd alert Hallmark for this one but I think other secretaries might stone me and I bruise easily.

I actually got out my calculator and figured out how much I have to save each month for an alaskan cruise. Curses...that beautiful new house is eating up all our money. I know, I have no complaints really. I have a wonderful husband, great kids and family. But I want a cruise and the goblins are after me. (cruise goblins) They put it in your head that you can afford one.

I refuse to put it on credit. I did that once and it sucked plain and simple. I had to pay on it long after the vaca. No good.

Ok, now I'm rambling so I'm not going to subject you to any more of this...for now...

Happy sailing,

Mary

Why I love cruising day 2... aka... grab that deck chair early!

2008-10-06T10:48:00.003-04:00

I love the first full day at sea. It's relaxing, beautiful and there are endless possibilities.

Wake up around 8am. Throw on work-out clothes and bring your towel. Either walk on the jogging path or go to the gym. Throw your towel on a lounge chair by the pool or forget it. You'll never get one. (yes, they say not to do that. I go with the other 2000 folks who do it)
Go to the buffet, sit on your balcony or go to the dining room and enjoy a wonderful breakfast. I can honestly say that Royal Caribbean has the best bran muffins in the world. You cannot beat fresh fruit on any cruise ship...yummy.
Hit the shops and check out that day's deal. Maybe play bingo and win a free cruise.
Throw on your bathing suit and lay on your lounge chair. There are a multitude of waiters who are happy to hand you a frozen daiquiri, bucket of beer, etc. Or belly up to the poolside bar and chat with others.
Add more sunscreen. That hot Caribbean sun and being in the middle of the ocean will bake you fast. Take a dip in the saltwater pool but don't forget to shower off - there are many fresh water showers next to the pool.
Go eat lunch! Get out of the sun and enjoy lunch at any of the dining venues.
Back to the sun until 3 or 4pm.
Take a nap.
Now primp! It's the first formal night and you want to look your best. I suggest an updo in the hair salon and perhaps a pedicure for the ladies. (or the men...this is 2008 after all.) There are two formal nights so i save my best for the second one. IF you are on a NCL cruise, you can forgo formal attire IF you wish. I recommend it..it's fun and you can get awesome pictures!
Take your obligatory pic on the way to the dining room. If you like it you can buy it.
Enjoy a wonderful, wonderful dinner. Make a grand entrance all dressed up.
Cruise ships have awesome entertainment. See the show after dinner.
Go back to your room and change. (i recommend this)
Go to the Casino, Disco or just hang out under the stars and have a drink.
The next day you'll be in port, so enjoy this day!!

Happy sailing,
Mary

WHY I LOVE CRUISING...

2008-10-03T11:47:00.005-04:00

These are the reasons I love cruising-in no particular order:

Planning the cruise, searching for pictures, living/breathing everything about the ship
Reading ship reviews, signing up for the meet and mingle and talk with others cruising on MY ship at that time. Meeting new friends in advance of the cruise.
Leaving on a jet plane to fly into whatever port and relax the night before we sail away.
Ah..taking the shuttle to the port and seeing the large ships in the distance and the excitement mounting.
Get the paperwork out of the way, make our way to the gangplank and step onto the ship. Trying all the time to NOT stoop down and kiss the floor.
Checking out our stateroom and giggling in delight. Checking our table in the dining room and deciding if you want to change it.
Heading to the buffet for a quick bite before changing into our bathing suits.
Lying by the pool, frozen drink in hand and realizing that our vacation has started!
Taking a shower, get dressed and decide where to eat for that first evening.
Checking out the ship for awhile, then hitting the disco or karaoke lounge. Dancing til dawn.

That's just day ONE...more to follow!

TGIF , Zycam and new ships!

2008-10-03T10:26:00.006-04:00

Thanks GOD it's Friday. This has been the loooongest week ever.

On a good note, I bought some Zycam nasal swabs to try and get rid of my cold. Lo and behold, I woke up this morning feeling amazing. I am sold on these for sure! woohoo!

New ships are coming soon: Ruby Princess, MSC Ochestra, and Celebrity Solstice. I believe that Ruby Princess will be here next month and the Orchestra and Solstice in December. There are a lot of new ships being builts or in the works although I wonder what the economy will do to them.
Let's keep our fingers crossed. By the way, you can see these new ships at: Ruby Orchestra and the Solstice .

Now if Princess, MSC or Celebrity want to send me to see this new ships...please by all means email me!!!

Happy sailing and TGIF!!!

Mary

Royal Caribbean, a cold and Me

2008-10-02T15:10:00.003-04:00

Hi there.

Today Royal Caribbean aka RCCL has a great sale going on. They are offering onboard credit and half the usual deposit amound if you book between now and the 12th.

I went to the site and did some chopping, (cruiseshopping as my friend coined it) finding some great deals. Now, we're really wanting to go to Alaska. Don't get me wrong, the caribbean is a fave of mine, but Mike's ultimate destination is Alaska. So I'm sitting here sniffling with a cold coming on, popping meds and zycam and decide to take a peek at the deals.

I looked at different cruise ships, southbound and northbound and there are some real good deals. To quote Stewie Griffin on the Family Guy "Oh, this is so good it just HAS to be fattening." But then I remember. Oh yeah. New house, mortgage, huge tax bill. Dammit, no money!

Another dream bites the dust...for now. Let's give it 3 months and see where our economy is. (and hopefully not in the toilet.)

That's it for now,

Mary

Cruising 101!

2008-10-01T12:22:00.001-04:00

You're never too old for Halloween

2008-10-01T11:18:00.004-04:00

Good morning!

I'm getting ready to send a package out to my daughter and it's
somewhat nostalgic. I did that when she was in college, but now that
she's teaching in Connecticut, well that's further away from home and
she's on her own now. You're never too old to receive some Halloween
goodies right?? We both LOVE Halloween.

This am in my in-box were many cruise deals in time for Halloween.
Funny how they market it that way and as soon as Oct. 1 rolls around, here
they come! Some have actual Halloween cruises with costumes and all, some just
use Halloween as an excuse to discount an older ship and lure people in.

NCL right now has some very good deals, as does RCCL. Sorry for the acronyms.
RCCL has $100 off staterooms, half off deposit or $125, and pre-paid gratuities.
Not so bad huh? NCL has $300 off which is a good score too.
Now if I could only get them to send me FREE cruise certificates...hmmm...better work on that.

If you're looking for any deals, feel free to contact me. I'm not a travel agent at all, but I like to keep up on what's discounted.

Happy Sailing.

Mary

And fall comes to Michigan...

2008-09-30T08:23:00.002-04:00

Well, it's officially fall. It's about 58 degrees this morning and I had to wear a COAT. sheesh.
The leaves have been turning for awhile and they are about 50% there. Beautiful.

I've been getting tons of emails from the cruise industry. Is it because
our economy is in the toilet?

Is it because Congress rejected a $700 billion financial system bailout package and sent the Dow into a tailspin?

Is it because we just built our dream home and have absolutely no money for cruising?

Well yes...a little bit of all three. Not to mention that fall is prime time for saving on cruises.

I think the cruise industry is going to be struggling for awhile. Between the gas surcharge, holiday season approaching and the very little disposable income people have right now, vacationing may not be a possibility. I know, this sounds hideous for those of us who live to cruise, or ski, or whatever. Life is gonna be about the must haves and not the "i just wanna" have right now. And that makes me sad.

We work and work, raise our kids, pay taxes, (ugh don't get me started) shop smart, buy on sale and pay our bills. I think we deserve a little time off fun. It's a fact that vacations are health smart. See this link from CBS News.

For now, I'm still dreaming of our next cruise. Since Michael and I are newlyweds, so I'd love to surprise him with an Alaskan cruise for a late honeymoon. (His dream destination.)

Hmmm...better keep dreaming, huh?

Happy sailing,
Mary

Monday Moaning...

2008-09-29T11:16:00.000-04:00

Hey bloggers,

Can I feel sorry for myself for just 10 seconds?

Co-workers are gone, phone is ringing off the hook, other employees piling work on my desk.

ARGH! I need a break!

Ok, that's it. I'll mellow out as soon as I catch up,

mary

2008-09-23T10:08:00.002-04:00

I am just thirsty for a cruise right now... and no i don't mean those delicious frozen drinks like my favorite Mango Tango. This is the first time in a long time that I don't have a cruise booked.

We just built our dream home and that has taken all our fun money for right now. It's bugging me so much.

I know the economy has made friends of mine give up their yearly or twice yearly cruise. Are there others having this problem? My friend Jimmy is dying to take his kids on one. He is also someone addicted to cruising. No money as we all have eat, pay bills and the such.

Who else is in the same boat?

Not a happy sailor at the moment,

Mary

Why cruising is a perfect vacation

2008-09-18T14:28:00.001-04:00

Greetings. I am a cruise addict. I've taken 14 cruises and can tell you that there is no vacation on earth that really gets you away...I mean really away. No cell phone calls, no one to tell you what to do or not to do, and you can cruise with someone or just get away on your own. It's your nirvana and you can mold it to what you want.

Think cruising is not for you? All you see are huge lines and being stuck at sea? That is the furthest thing from the truth. This is not your fathers cruise! You can gamble, rock climb, have a massage, mini-golf, box (!) and do just about anything a thrill seeker would do. Looking for a little tamer vaca? Shipboard shopping is wonderful as is their top notch spa's. Check out the onboard internet or library. Definitely a frozen drink and a comfy deck chair overlooking the ocean is an onboard must.

Afraid you'll get seasick? Nah! You have to remember these are floating cities! As a precaution you can take one Bonine tablet in the am and you'll never feel a thing. The motion of the ocean does one thing right. You'll never sleep better than on a cruise ship. It lulls you sleep better than a hot toddy.

I am probably the most enthusiastic person alive when it comes to cruising. If you want any info, let me know. I am NOT a travel agent. I am just someone who has a passion for cruising.

Happy Sailing,
Mary

Friday's Rambling...

2008-09-18T11:28:00.004-04:00

I LOVE fall. Living in northern Michigan in the fall is wonderful. The canopy of orange, yellow and red leaves on M-119 to Harbor Springs is amazing. Hot apple cider on a frosty evening and a hay wagon ride is wonderful. Don't forget to get those pumpkins too!

What does that have to do with cruising? Nada. However, the fall season is a great time to get a cruise bargain. (and an upgrade/upsell!) I know...some of you are worried about hurricanes. Not to worry! Cruise ships can sail anywhere they want to. A hurricane may change your ports of call a bit but hey, it's an adventure right???

I'm sure you know what an upgrade is, but do you know what an upsell is? That is where they have the upper end rooms available and offer you an upgrade for a nominal fee. In January we "upselled" from a mini-suite to a penthouse suite for $300 total. Was it worth it, hell yes!!!!

Well, life is calling me. More on this later!

Keep that margarita frozen until next time,

Mary

2008-09-18T11:28:00.002-04:00

Any cruise fans out there? I'd love to hear from you!

So far I've been on Carnival, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Amadeus Euro River Cruise. I can't say I have a favorite except that I'm not a big fan of Carnival. It was my first cruise (1987) and thought it was great then. But then I tried Celebrity and RCCL and well.....MUCH better!

I get asked a lot by friends to help them book a cruise. I do all my online research and then book thru a third party site or right with the cruise line. I actually think I "out research" the travel agents. At least a local travel agent called me a few times to find a cheaper price!

This year we tried NCL and I was pleasantly pleased. Of course the $300 upsell from a mini-suite to a penthouse was quite nice! Needless to say I was so happy when we walked into that stateroom that I actually bounced on the bed in sheer joy! Hey, at least I didn't kiss the ground or anything that dorky. (this time...ahem...)

Later all,
Mary