New Blog!!!

ok - you guys win

Here is the link to my new blog: www.feelinfroggy810.blogspot.com

And yes, I called it "Sasha and the City" :)
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Do you really want a new blog??

I am getting many complaints because this blog has come to an end ..

Many of you would like me to continue .. about my life in NY, working in 'The Big Apple' etc

If you want it - let me know .. I will blog if someone is willing to read :)

The END

17 Nov 08

Well everyone .. this will be the last post. I have decided to quit ships and stay at home. There were a lot of factors involved; my company wasn't playing fair with my next contract, I missed being home, etc

I am going to be staying at my Mom's on Long Island and I was able to get a job (quick no less!) in NYC at my old firm, just in a new office and new brokers. So that is a good thing

I know how much some of you have enjoyed my blog and I am sorry to let you down; I just dont think my "adventures of working in NYC" are going to be as exciting. :)

xoxoxoxox

S
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My busy week!

SORRY SOMEHOW THIS DIDNT GET POSTED


10 Nov 08



I have been home for just under 10 days and this is what I have been up to:



Sun Nov 2nd

Church's 50th Anniversary Dinner:

http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=bf232dhz.7774krlf&x=0&y=pabddi&localeid=en_US





Wed Nov 5th

Darin (my youngest brother) Last Football Game:

http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=bf232dhz.4z0d91yr&x=0&y=l3ttrl&localeid=en_US





Fri Nov 7th

Rehearsal and Dinner - Mark & Camille's Wedding Weekend

http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=bf232dhz.bkjg4sjv&x=0&y=vkbwl1&localeid=en_US





Sat Nov 8th

The Wedding - Edited, Retouched, Etc - The 'Best of"

Ceremony:

http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=bf232dhz.52qpyinf&x=0&y=-iiqxrc&localeid=en_US



Reception:

http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=bf232dhz.a13xot3f&x=0&y=kmyovf&localeid=en_US

I'm Home!

1 Nov 08
Long Island, NY

YAY - I am home again .. the more I come home, the more I like being here. Sigh. I really think this next contract will be it for me. But I said that before too :) We'll just have to see!

A few nights before I left, the Wardie held its Halloween Party as well; it was also basically my leaving party too since it was going to be the last major get together before I left. It was a crazy night; Becks and I ended up in the bakery stealing food! LOL Here are the pics:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=bf232dhz.37qqyfhf&x=0&y=-doyd55&localeid=en_US

I was hanging big time the next day .. oh well LOL I can dry out on leave. Oh, except for my brothers wedding next weekend! :) I cant wait for that; I am so excited!

Between now and then I need to clean up my room; its in a state! As well as put any clothes I am not going to need for the next contract away. Plus help Mom get the house in order for guests. Will probably need to help my brother do some last minute errands, but I dont mind at all.

I will check in again
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The Last of Mexico .. for now

29 Oct 08

at sea; returning to San Francisco .. and I will be returning home!

Backing up - so I didnt go ashore in Zihuantanejo but that was ok .. I had a great day to myself. I sat up on deck, laying in the sun and reading. There was going to be a football game on MUTS and that was great! It was Giants vs Steelers and it turned out to be a good game. I sat in the low part of the pool (just a few inches deep) , sunning myself and watching the game. Cant say many of you did the same watching football last Sunday! :)

Andrea and I went to Paradise Beach in Acapulco - but of course, the sun wasnt really out. So we had some lunch and a few drinks and met up with Meg, Keenan and Brei while we were there. We had an early sail, so we couldnt stay all day anyway.

Monday night there was a Halloween Disco in the crew bar. Any of you who know me well, know I hate Halloween. So there was no way I was dressing up! I ended up wearing my bright orange tee and black pants .. I looked the part LOL But I felt down that night .. I am not sure why really. So I just said I was a "Plump Pumpkin" instead. I left before 1am and went to bed. Here are some pics I took of the disco:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLanding.action?c=bf232dhz.4rdeybir&x=0&y=fy7kqk&localeid=en_US

Yesterday and today are sea days .. as is tomorrow. I have been packing in between working and I will be finished tomorrow. Well I have to be as I need to turn in my luggage tomorrow night sometime supposedly (not sure how that works tho) Anyway, I will have a short handover to Emily on Friday morning and my flight is at 3pm on Friday afternoon, direct to JFK.

If there are no other events between now and when I leave .. this will be my last post from the Star. Of course I will post once I get home, as well as pics from my brothers wedding next weekend (the 8th). Then onto the Coral Princess on Nov 19th.
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Seeing Cabo .. From the Ship

25 October 08
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Sigh. I didnt make it to Cabo *again* yesterday .. the tenders took a long time again and we didnt get crew shore leave till 12 noon. So we wouldnt have gotten to Cabo till about 12.30 and we had to be back in line for a tender for 1pm or so. SUCKS

Anyway .. se la vie I will just have to have a proper vacation there! (Suz - divorce party in Cabo?!?! LOL)

I ended up having a good day though anyway .. all the crew were still onboard, so a bunch of the girls went up on deck, got some burgers from the grill and watched MUTS (Movies Under The Stars (or Sun)) while we laid in the sun. We had a nice day swimming, lounging, etc and the weather was beautiful!!

Here are some pics of the view to Cabo .. as well as what MUTS actually is (so my Mom knows what I keep talking about LOL)
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.77b1azur&x=0&y=-b5arv&localeid=en_US

Today we were in Puerto Vallarta; the weather was not as nice as last week, but it was still warm of course! We went to a crew hangout; Kristal Hotel .. where they have a pool, beach, swim up bar (yeah we utilized that!) It was fun and we had a good day and even managed to get some sun as well. I dont have any pics other than with my underwater camera; I took the SD card out of my good camera to put the Cabo pics online, and I forgot to put it back.

Zihuantanejo is tomorrow - but I wont go ashore. All the crew has to do safety training (I dont) but why go alone? That's no fun and the locals will just bug the hell out of me more to buy their crap.. so I will just sit up on deck again and work on my tan :)
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Pit Stop: San Diego

23 Oct 08

So yesterday the Captain comes on around 3.15 and tells us that we are going to have to stop just outside San Diego to medically disembark a passenger. I had already heard the rumors, but no one would (or could) confirm anything; we even heard that the pax might be getting helivac'd off. That would have been cool (for me)! Anyway I knew something was up early that morning when I got up as the seas were almost like glass; so I knew we were more inland to the coast than we normally are.

We stopped right outside the breakwater (so we didnt have to pay to dock) and a US Coast Guard vessel came out to get the passenger and his wife. Turns out this guy was a bit of an idiot! Had been in ICU for the last week; checked himself out on Monday and got on the ship on Tuesday. Sorry - but seriously!?!? Who does that?!?

I went up on the porch at 4 when I was on my break to take a look around, get some air, etc. Nothing really to see with the passenger disembarking, so I just chatted with a bunch of crew who were outside as well and then took some pics of the battleships that were sailing around:

http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.c5yr7tr7&x=0&y=a2fqn1&localeid=en_US


After that, I went for my nap :)

Last night was formal night, as well as an hour forward, so there was no way I was going out. I am tired as hell today as I didnt sleep really well. Had wierd dreams about the ship crashing into a forest, breaking the bow off, then it became a Duck Tour and was driving all over the city. I know - freaking strange. And I didnt even have any booze last night!! (oh wait - maybe that was the problem LOL)
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Some people are just so rude

22 Oct 08

heading to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Well even after the internet came up, I still didnt get a full amount of relief. Since it was the end of the cruise, pax were getting their folio statements and then complaining to me that the internet was down/out and wanted FULL refunds. Now normally we dont credit for unused minutes; but since I didnt know the sat was going to be out (and it was planned) I couldnt tell them; so I decided I would credit unused mins for anyone who asked. (oi - money out the window!!) I had a few who just threw their toys out of the pram and were really ridiculous. I only had to do about 3 full refunds in the end. I had one guy who wanted to argue with me; even had me paged via the Purser's Desk b/c he wanted more than the $30 I credited him. Had he been nicer, maybe; but he was such a dickhead. Not to mention - he sounded so much like my exhusband both in voice and manner - that I was holding strong! But boy, I was pissed off after that conversation. I was all fired up it was like I was arguing with Scott all over again .. grrrrrrrrrr! I stomped around my room ranting at my roommate LOL

Any- hoo :)

So yesterday we had our turnaround in San Fran. I had plans to meet some of my fellow WOCS (Work On Cruise Ships) friends; I am still an active member of the group as they helped me so much in getting a job, that I just want to be able to give back to someone else. I met up with Susie, her friend Lynn and Micha Berman. Micha was the one who wrote the book “Permanent Passenger: My Life on a Cruise Ship” that I bought as soon as he had published it. Great book for anyone – whether you want to work on a ship, you have or currently worked on a ship or even for just a good, easy read.

Here is the group of us after we had lunch: (me, Micha, Lynn and Susan)



Susie and Lynn dropped me back off at the ship and then I got back onboard amist a ridiculous amount of passengers trying to get on as well. Lucky for me, I have my crew ID and I was able to skip that huge-ass line. Why there wasn’t a separate crew entrance (as there ALWAYS is) I don’t know.

Anyway, around 4pm I made my normal phone calls to the parents and we set sail about 5pm. I stayed out on deck for the sail away, since it would be my last out of San Francisco. Got some pretty cool shots (in my opinion LOL):

http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.4osn0mf7&x=0&y=-mo59s0&localeid=en_US

Library has been crazy again and I am soooo glad I am getting off this ship (for the library reason anyway). I have been super stressed trying to do a good job at MY JOB, while trying to do BOTH of these jobs. Apparently I did well as I got 5 (yes FIVE) blue C.R.U.I.S.E cards! So even if everyone else hated me, 5 pax liked me :) LOL
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The Net is Back!

18 October 08
At sea - enroute back to San Francisco, CA


Well holy hell on a stick - the net has been out for 2 days due to an upgrade we had; that then we couldnt get connected back to the satellite. But the pax are going freaking beserk - like I cut off their communications forever - not just for a few days!!! I have been bitched out, yelled at, sneered at and I have been as sweet as pie. "Kill 'em with kindness" It was bad this afternoon; I was already pissed off because the connection wouldn't work and then I couldnt go ashore (In Cabo no less!) and then when I went to my desk at 4 I was yelled at by 2 pax right in a row. After that, I closed up shop and went back to my cabin. There was no way I was going to put up with that. Tonight seems to be a little better; people have calmed down a bit. I am not sure the calm will stay though if we dont get the connection back. (its now Sat night as I type this)
Anyway - back to the fun parts of my job :) Yesterday we were in Puerto Vallarta and Andrea and I just wanted to go to the beach. We told a taxi to take us to Niki Beach as we had heard it was nice. He ended up bringing us to the Westin and said we could use their beach. We asked when we got there and they didnt have a problem with it. Cool! The hotel and grounds were gorgeous - it was like we were on vacation. We ended up going to the pool instead, as it just looked so inviting. We had a light lunch and some fruity cocktails. Then lounged in the pool and on the chairs - it was divine. It reminded me of the Grand Wailea in Maui with the beautifully sculpted grounds. Here are some pics:

http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.6yz7ej8z&x=0&y=23xkpr&localeid=en_US

We stayed until about 3pm and then I was due to work at 4. I came back to my cabin, but instead of going down to the cafe, I called the Computer Office to see if it was up. (the upgrade started at 10am and could take up to 10 hrs) Turns out the connection was still not up, so I took a nap instead :) I went to work for 7.30 hoping the cafe would be up, or up shortly. It didnt actually come up as they techs were having some trouble. So here I am 24 hrs later and I still dont have a connection.

As I mentioned above, I was trying to help the guys with the connection problem, so I never got a chance to go ashore. I was NOT happy that I missed Cabo; but figured if the cafe came up it would be worth it. Well it never did and I might as well have gone ashore. Sigh Well at least I have one more shot at going to Cabo on the next run down here. I already plan on going ashore the minute I finish work that morning; even if it means going alone!

The net finally came back up this morning - Sun Oct 19th at 10.43am .. 48 hrs and 22 mins after it went out. Was probably 2 of the hardest days I have had! At least some of my pax were great about it - one of my new friends, Michelle (a pax) had come to defend me several times when pax were ranting at me :) And Michael (another pax) gave me $20 this morning and told me I have been wonderful and had such "grace under pressure" and told me to have some margaritas on him next port :) How sweet is that!!!
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Ahhh, I have missed the sunshine

16 Oct 08
leaving Ixtapa, Mexico

Man, I tell ya - this is the reason I do this job. I have been to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world; the caribbean, the meditteranean, Mexico and I love them all.

Yesterday we were in Acapulco; I was excited!! Andrea and I headed off the ship around 1pm and as we were getting off, we ran into a bunch of the spa girls who were also planning to head to the beach. So we joined up with them and all 9 of us went - we didnt care where we went, as long as it was the beach and had a bar, food and an ocean! Ahhh, it was great. We sat under the cabanas and had lunch and then we could move out into the sun whenever we wanted. And the margaritas .. OH MY GAWD .. were soo freaking good (and cheap as hell - only $5 for a large frozen one!) It could have been trouble if we had more than a few of them.

Here are the pics:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.6mbf4g2r&x=0&y=-1ue53z&localeid=en_US


Today we were in Zihuatanejo (Ixtapa) but it was a half day (only in port 7-3) and I have to work 8-10 and 4-6. Besides it was a tender port and that means crew usually cant get off the ship till around 11am. So it was almost useless. I went up to the Spa at 11.30 for a fill-in and then out to the crew deck to lay in the sun and dunk in the pool. I got some more color today - just a little pink, but I cant help it - the sun is sooo glorious!

I took some pics from the crew deck back onto land - it looked nice but very resort-esque (so I am not sure we would have been able to get to those beaches anyway)
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.5aa7e7c3&x=0&y=-ae39z2&localeid=en_US

Puerto Vallarta is tomorrow .. and we are going to the beach again .. YAY
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I'm Doing It Again!

16 October 08
Ixtapa, Mexico

So .. I thought maybe I wouldn't do another contract .. but I just love this! So I was offered another contract with a Princess ship; this time the Coral Princess, starting Nov 19th.

I will only be home for 2 weeks, but that is ok. I will be home for my brothers wedding and a week after, so its all good.

Coral Princess will be doing Panama and the Caribbean all winter long .. sweet! I will look up the full itinerary later and post it in my next blog.

Anyone want to come on a cruise?? :)
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Here It All Is

13 October 08
At sea - enroute to Acapulco, Mexico

Whew - what a hell of a few days!! I am wiped out :(

Ok, backing up to catch everyone up to the last week or so. I got back on the ship on Tuesday evening .. went and signed back on, unpacked, showered and off to the Wardie I went :) It felt good to be back and a lot of people were glad to see me (which is always a nice feeling no matter what) Had a fun night out as usual .. turns out I didnt have to work on Wednesday as the cafe wasn't going to be ready. Wooo hooo! So got up late and was able to have one last day of doing nothing before the craziness began again.

Andrea and I wanted to go into town for dinner .. so I grabbed Juan (the MTN tech onboard to help me set up the cafe) and he grabbed Miles (from PCL Corporate) and we went to the Cheesecake Factory. Yum yum and not the stupid-heads like they are in Seattle :) After dinner, we headed back to the ship and .. where else? The Wardie! Had a blast there .. everyone drank a little too much and we all decided to check out the status of the ship at 2am .. it was hilarious! I had to have a good night .. I had been told by the cruise staff that they were told by PCL that *I* was going to be running the library, as well as the internet cafe. I was effing fuming! Of course I sent an email off to my shoreside manager right away - but still .. it was getting towards the weekend and the first cruise left on Sat at 4pm!

Back to the night in the wardie - here are pics from Tues and Wed night:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.9p6rbfrn&x=0&y=3h14h5&localeid=en_US


Thursday we had to get up and get moving on the set up of the pax i-cafe. Lucky for me it wasn't ready till 11am .. so Juan called me then and I got to have a little of a lie in that day too. We grabbed lunch and off we went to get things rolling. However just before we went to the pax cafe area, we noticed that we were going to be sailing under the Golden Gate again (we were heading out for a day of sea trials) And the coolest thing happened - we got to see the Blue Angels practicing for the air show on Saturday! It was soo cool - I have goosebumps just writing about it now. Of course my camera battery died, but its ok; they were so close to the ship, they kept buzzing right over us. Once we got out to sea it was soo rocky! There was a really strong wind or something; after a few hours of rocking and rolling all over in 22ft swells, the Capt came on and said he cancelled the trials because 'if the ship can handle these seas this well, she will pass the trials anyway' He then turned us around and headed back to San Fran. I think we got to the dock around 8.30pm but we were still in the cafe. We got most of it done by 9pm that night . 18 pc's all wired and setup. Some of the network connections weren't working, so we would have to come back the next day to finish. I fell into bed that night at 10pm! No wardie for me ..!

Here are a few pics of the new cafe:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.aeel2nbn&x=0&y=-b716tn&localeid=en_US


The next day we had to setup the crew i-cafe. Luckily that is only 8pc's. We had that one done in 2 hours! We broke for lunch, then went back and finished the pax cafe. We were all done by about 3pm or so. We were now at Pier 35 (near Fishermans Wharf) and a handful of us wanted to go ashore and out for the evening. I went back and took a nap; the plan was to meet in the Wardie at 7pm or so and then go from there. Everyone made their way there eventually .. we never leave when we want to! Jake convinced us that we needed to go to In And Out Burger for dinner LOL. At least it was cheap :) It was actually good .. better than McDonalds but I still think Burger King is the best. (Oh and actually - I didnt have to pay for dinner at the CCF or In and Out - Juan was using the expense account!! YAY!)

Here is Jake, very happy to have his 4x4 burger (4 burgers and 4 pieces of cheese)
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.5ccbg0jn&x=0&y=ot7gud&localeid=en_US
(dont ask me what is up with the pink sparkly pig - it is in the crew walkway of the SF terminal!!)

Saturday was the big day .. finish it ALL up and then hang on! The pax were coming :) Embarks started at noon, so I got all my signs and stuff reaady and as the first pax came onboard .. I ran for the hills :) LOL but my desk is right next to the gangway .. so people would think I was the information desk .. so it was better to just not be there at all. I came in to work around 2, but I was dying to go top-side to see some of the Air Show. Luckily, I could hear when the Blue Angels started performing .. :) So I got up there around 3 something when it was a little quiet in the cafe (all the pax were watching the show on the top decks too!) I got some great pics and it was soooo cool for them to be buzzing the ship and Alcatraz:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.6v6tgk7n&x=0&y=-e0mlkv&localeid=en_US


The sailing out was good .. but we hit some high seas again and I thought 'oh boy, its going to be a long 3 days to Acapulco!' Luckily by the next morning it was all nice and calm .. and has been ever since WHEW! It has been crazy freaking busy in the cafe/library .. since MTN didnt get an answer about the library deal by Sat, so I had no choice. Oy freakin Vey! It has been an actual mad house until this afternoon. I have been constantly interrupted by pax wanting to ask library questions (do you have such-and-such book? I cant find .. OMG I was going to jump overboard) I have barely spent any time with my own pax. Luckily I have sent several emails to my manager shoreside over the weekend and she was beside herself angry today. She promised she will get me a resolution soon and to just hang in there. I told her I didnt mind helping, but I was going crazy with the amount of pax. I mean shit, I am only ONE freaking person!
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Yes I am alive!

10 Oct 08
San Francisco, CA

I am back on the ship .. but I am finishing setting up the cafes, so I am not on the net much yet. When I get back to my normal routine tomorrow, I will catch everyone up on the last few days and what I have been doing!
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Back Home In NY (for the week)

29 Sept 08
New York

Flew home today - seems like it took me 3 days to get here, but I am finally here. Mum is doing well and I am pleased to see that for myself. So I have some things to do this week and have to help Mum with some errands, but other than that - not much going on out here! I am missing the ship BIG TIME!! It is amazing how sickly addicted to ship life we can be ...

Anyway, so back tracking to Sat - took some pics around the ship during the day .. mostly of Deck 14 which is our Lido (pool) deck. What a mess!!!
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.bkx1r7h7&x=0&y=mtcq5n&localeid=en_US


Later that night we headed off the ship and into the city to Fishermans Wharf - I was soo excited .. I love it down there! But before we left the dockyard, I took a bunch of pics of the ship propped up in the dry dock. Take notice of the last pic in this set; that is how high we need to climb *every* time we want to go back onto the ship!! 5 stories up and there is no lift!! Ugh! (luckily it does get a little easier every time)
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.a39pyisb&x=0&y=a4gl2v&localeid=en_US


When we got out of the dockyard, we took the crew shuttle to Union Square and then got on the Powell-Hyde Cable Car down to Fisherman's Wharf. It took a little time, but it was a good experience for everyone since they had never been to San Fran (I had been 2 summers ago with Kim on vacation) We got down there, walked around a bit and then went to Boudin's Bistro for dinner (they are the company that has the BEST sourdough in San Fran!) Was a FABulous dinner ... soooooo damn good. (especially considering how bad the food is during dry dock on the ship - if you want to eat something that is supposed to be hot, too bad - its not!) Ick. Anyway once we were ready to head back to the ship, while we were waiting for a cab, a stretch limo pulled up and I asked how much to take the 5 of us back .. it was $50 .. so $10 a piece - CHEAP! (a cab would have been more like $70 with the meter running) So we jumped in the stretch and back to the ghetto dry dock yard we went LOL. Here are the pics from that night:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.3oqv70rf&x=0&y=6oza8f&localeid=en_US


On Sunday, Andrea Ina and I went to the San Fran Zoo - I was all proud of myself for figuring out how to get there the cheapest - shuttle to Union Square, walk 3 blocks to Market and get on the L Metro to the zoo - all for $3 per person round trip :) The zoo was really good even if it was cold (damn SF fog!) We all enjoyed ourselves and I got sooo excited b/c I found out they had Meerkat's!! Kim and I wanted to go see them in some other CA zoo 2 yrs ago .. but it was too far away .. so I was sooo freaking excited they had them there now! YAY! So sorry for so many pics of them, but they are just to darn cute!!
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.3asfq6qj&x=0&y=romxtm&localeid=en_US

When I got back from the zoo the crew office said I needed to go clear immigration since I was disembarking the ship - so someone from the port had to drive me all the way to SF airport. Turns out it was for nothing as when I got there, no one seemed to know why I would need to be there since I am a US citizen. What a mess and a waste of time! It was very frustrating!!

Went up to the Wardie at about 9pm - it was packed!! Lots of people were out .. and a lot stayed out since they said it was my last night with them for the next week .. so needless to say I drank too much, stayed up too late and then Andrea and I were being funny and causing trouble on Deck 10 on the way home .. uh oh :) hee hee

Got up at 5am this morning and had to get off the ship (and lug my suitcase down the 5 stories - thank goodness it was small and light - not sure what I am going to do about the way back when I have more stuff with me!! Yikes!) Got into Philly with only 40 mins to make my connection which of course was 3 terminals away .. but made it in time and landed in NY a bit early. Got picked up by my stepmom, Aunt and youngest brother. Went to get some dinner as I was starved, then they dropped me off at my Mom's house. Been hanging with Mum all evening till she went to bed and now with the time difference, I dont want to go to sleep. But I am going to finish this post, and I am sure when I get into the bed, I will be out like a light in minutes :)
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If you're going, to San Francisco ..

27 Sept 08
Dry Dock - San Francisco

So we are finally here .. it had been a rough 2 days at sea (as I mentioned before)

Anyway we got in yesterday morning but didnt get into the dock till later in the am .. gangways werent even ready till 6pm last night. And I use the term "gangway" lightly - more like a freaking plank of wood!

So here are a few pics from the party in the wardie during the sea days, as well as the one night we played Uno (I had to teach the brits LOL)
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.6nl2189n&x=0&y=fnc52m&localeid=en_US


Friday morning we planned to get up early to watch us sail under the Golden Gate Bridge, so we didnt make it a late night on Thursday .. the normal 1am I guess. There was a bunch of us who got up and then went to the observation deck above the bridge. It was chilly out, but very cool to sail under it. I have been there before, but never coming in like that on a ship! My pics are a bit blurry as evn though I was steady, the ship still moved. But you can still tell what it is for sure!

Golden Gate Bridge:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.7n5luumz&x=0&y=opfwwj&localeid=en_US


Yesterday we just hung out and sat on deck for a little sunshine - it was actually quite hot yesterday .. it was glorious! Just needed a margarita and it would have been perfect :) Watched them crane off a few crew members who were leaving and had to get off before the gangways were ready (they are employed by Princess and were being signed off - unlike me who was going home voluntarily) It was funny to watch! Last night we headed into the city - we had to wait like 30 min to get off the ship as they wouldnt let anyone off the ship without a hard hat and goggles. It was such a pain in the ass and they only had like 100 hats or something. We did get some funny pics though. We just went to get something to eat .. I hadnt had a chance to do my research of where we were being dropped off. The clubs were expensive and we werent close enough to the Wharf to walk there. We made it back to the last shuttle back to the ship .. they really packed us all on - I ended up sitting on top of the little cubby hole for the toilet! LOL The walk back to the ship and then climbing back up onto it was a pain in the ass - especially in heels! F*** that - never again! I will take pics tonight or tomorrow of the ridiculous gangway and how we have to climb down from the ship. (tho seeing the ship in a real dry dock is cool as hell)

Pics from yesterday:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.4yigznrv&x=0&y=-9j83p5&localeid=en_US

We are planning to go to the Wharf for dinner tonight - I was able to do my research so I know we can take the cable car from Union Square where the shuttle drops us off, down to the Wharf. Tomorrow Andrea and I are going to go to the Zoo. I am excited about that! Then Monday morning I am heading home for a week. Better get packing up the stuff I am taking home!!
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Talk About "Batten Down the Hatches"

25 Sept 08


Well holy crap!!! (said Peanut style of course)

We left Seattle yesterday and everything was fine .. about dinner time tho the winds started to pick up and the ship started to really sway. I was laying down and Andrea called me for dinner (we are always together now - its like WE are dating .. LOL) and when I got up I was like "whoa!!!" the ship was sooo un-steady. We were bouncing all over the place .. it was bad up where my cabin is on Deck 10 Fwd (basically right on the bow) By the time I got down to her cabin I was really feeling it and it wasnt pleasant! :(

Captain made an annoucement that we were in a very heavy head wind and that we needed to stay off all the upper and outdoor decks because we have so much stuff on the decks. (construction stuff, etc) It didnt sound like they knew about this since they would have secured it much sooner.

At dinner we noticed that we had stopped and were no longer rocking as bad. Turns out we had to stop and then change direction to get the ship to stop rocking as much .. because there was so much crap sliding around, and the 'movies under the stars' screen was looking like it was going to fall!!! Holy crap - could you imagine?!?! It was only put in the day before .. 5 million dollars for the tv, screen and sound system .. OMG!!!

It was a little better after we had stopped - but I still went and laid down. I took a dramamine just in case .. (only the 2nd time I have ever needed to) I felt much better after I snoozed for a bit.

Kay called me around 7.30 to see when I was going to go up to the wardie - so I picked her up on my way around 9pm. It was a normal wardie night ... the usual suspects (ok well, minus a LOT of them since they all went home .. booo hooo)

I was up there till about 1am then came home and passed out! I was up a lot b/c the ship was doing some serious rocking in the wee hours of the morning and I had a headache. Ugh. So needless to say, I spent the day in bed .. in and out of napping .. watched tv, would nap, then went to lunch, then back in bed to watch some more tv and then nap. That went on until dinner .. it was kind of nice actually. I really need to do laundry .. but I couldnt be assed today.

Tomorrow Andrea, Val and I are getting up at 5am to watch us sail under the Golden Gate for the first sail under it .. then of course we will go back to bed LOL!! Of course I will take pics :)
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We're On Our Way

24 Sept 08
leaving Seattle WA


So we are finally on our way .. heading to San Fran for dry dock. Had to make a change to my plans to come home as we were not expected to get into the dry dock till late on Friday .. so I would have never made my 1pm flight on that day. It was too expensive to fly on the weekend, so I am staying till Monday. I will be back a week later - so its all good.

Today is pretty quiet - had a lie in and then watched The Notebook (for the 75th time!) and then finally got out of bed at noon, showered and went for some lunch. I am not sure why I was hungry, considering Andrea and I got up at 5.30am this morning to go for a McDonalds run before the ship pulled the gangways!! LMAO We figured it was the last "land food" we would have for a few days .. and the ship food SUCKS right now. Ugh. So I went for a sandwich at the mess and then headed up to the back of Horizon Court to get on the net, both for work and for play. So that is where I am now

Yesterday was quiet - just chilled out after we came back from town. Went up to the Wardie at around 8.30pm, but got side tracked to Vicky's cabin for a little goodbye wine and cheese for Jane .. she was leaving this morning :( Went up to the Wardie around 9.30 finally.

I had a good time, but I was really missing Lee. I know we were only together for like a minute, but since he was such a good mate already - we didnt need that 'get-to-know-you' time. We had already had lots of talks about stuff before we even got to where we were last week; he was everything I wanted in a 'ship relationship'. I know ending things early with me was too protect his heart, but what about mine???!!!!???

:sigh:
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Dry Dock - the first 36 hrs

23 Sept 08
Tully's Coffee (free wi-fi!!) Seattle, WA



It has been a crazy and chaotic first few days of dry dock!! I worked my ass off on Sat and Sun getting the cafes packed up and moved into storage .. whew!!! Thank goodness I was all done by dinner time on Sunday; so now it is just chill out and do whatever I want, when I want. And the cool thing is .. I am getting paid!! woo woo So it makes the 2 days on Sat and Sun worth it

Here are some pics of the ship - the first 3 are of the internet cafe before I finished packing up all the equipment on Sat night (before moving it all on Sun) and then the rest is of the cafe on Monday morning .. then the other pics are of all the construction and craziness going on everywhere in the main atrium areas on deck 7

Dry Dock Pics:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.2a0ynx6z&x=0&y=qc1ox2&localeid=en_US


The first night we didnt go ashore - everyone worked hard on Sunday so a bunch of us went to the Wardie and just chilled out there. Andrea and I drank until about 12am and then she had the brilliant idea to order pizza - hey, why not?? So the last pic in the album is of Jamie carrying our pizza through security at the terminal :)


Last night everyone seemed to be off from work (of those who are still working) so we all met in the wardie at 8, had a few drinks and then headed off into town. We went to Belltown first, but it was dead, so we headed to Pioneer Square. It wasn' t all that busy either - we had a drink in a place called J&M's and then decided where to head next. There was an Irish bar called Fado (my US friends will know it - it is a chain) and we went there. It was much more busy than the other bars. We hung out there a while and had some good drinks and food. We tried to steal a table from a couple who was finishing up, but they ended up letting us sit with them and they stayed and hung out; they were David and Emily from Sacremento, CA. We left a little later to meet up with some more crew who were at another irish bar called Kells - we had a hard time finding it, but finally we did. And the funny thing was - David and Emily came with us LOL (we are a cool group of peeps!!) I have a bunch of silly pics from the night - we got back around 1am - Andrea and I brought Christian home as he was out of his tree!!!

Night Out in Seattle:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.5p0w5bd7&x=0&y=3z0p53&localeid=en_US


So right now Andrea and I are just pounding the *free* internet for a while and people watching. We will head back to the ship in a bit and then I am not sure what I am going to do later on tonight. We sail to San Fran tomorrow morning - so this is our last night in Seattle.
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My Wacked Out Night

20 Sept 08

Ok so my day started with some of the normal pax bullshit .. yippee! Then it got worse when I got into an argument with my friend Marcus (over IM no less!) and then to top it all off, the guy I was seeing for about a min, broke things off early. Yeah yeah I know I didnt write about it .. sorry I dont know why I have been so anti-blogging this week.

Long story short - one of my good mates, Lee (medical team) and I got together. We knew it probably wasn't the best idea since he is leaving tomorrow - but we have liked each other a while and just couldnt help it. We said we would just let it happen naturally and when he left, we would just stay friends. Apparently it was too much (ship life man is crazy .. a week with someone is like a month .. you are with each other all the time. its like CAMP!!!) and he said we were getting too attached and wanted to end it now, since it would be too hard on him come Sunday. Well I was just gutted. I didnt see it coming and was in a right state afterwards.

So I ran into Sheryl on my way home (it was only 9pm) and she dragged me to her cabin to talk .. I am so lucky I have a cool roommate - even if she doesnt live with me LOL I chatted with her for a bit then went back to my cabin. I still was quite upset, so .. what do you do when you need to relax? Open the wine!!! :) So I sat in my cabin, having a good cry and a glass of wine! (ok a few) Not good really - so I paged Jemma and she came up so I could talk. We talked for a bit then I started to feel better - so she left and went to go get dressed for the Wardie party. I did the same and continued to have some wine to relax me. I went down to her cabin to get her and we had a few glasses of wine there. She ended up bailing out on me - so I went to the Wardie myself. I was already flyin' by the time I got up there LOL

Here are the few pics I have: (I look good for being plastered, eh?? LMAO!)
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.bmojsviz&x=0&y=-6fd1sk&localeid=en_US

Needless to say I am not sure how I got home or when .. but when I woke up this morning all the lights were on in my cabin, as was the tv. LOL But the good thing is, I somehow managed to bring home the unopened bottle of wine!!! (Liz - you would be proud!!)
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Catching up

18 Sept 08

Wow, sorry - I didnt realize I hadnt posted in almost a week!

Nothing much going on - working a lot to get things ready for dry dock next week. Packing up computers and making arrangements and plans to do the rest of it, etc

Haven't even been off the ship this week - couldn't be assed. Was going to do some souvenier shopping, but figured there isnt anything I want that I dont already have from somewhere else. So I talked myself out of it :)

Big, big party tonight - leavers blowout party in the Wardie .. I am all ready to go (and its only 7.45pm - I have lots of time to wait!!)

Last Victoria night tomorrow - so everyone is going out for a big party there as well. I am going to be hurting on Sunday .. and I have to work!! (once the pax leave, the refurb starts!!)

I am sure there will be pics to follow from tonight :)
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Rated X

13 Sept 08
Approaching Victoria BC


I am not sure where to start - my head hurts, I am tired and I probably need a drink to straighten me out; does that give you a clue about how the RLD party went? :) I didnt leave there till almost 4am - and I am never there that late LOL

The party was a hoot - not as many people dressed up as I thought there would have been. Of course my girls dissed me once again for getting into fancy dress - the buggers!! I was pretty proud of my outfit - I mean I wasn't dressed like the Cruise Staff girls, but I don't have the body for that anyway. So I will warn you - there are some pretty provacative pics - give people alchohol and a stripper pole and who knows what craziness will happen!!! :)

Red Light District Party:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.96c3mb23&x=0&y=-wxr1dg&localeid=en_US
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Toga! Toga!

11 Sept 08
(can you believe it has been 7 yrs???)

As I am sure many of you will discuss today, I will never forget where I was when I found out about the WTC. Never forget the feeling I had that day when I stood at my desk and watched the towers fall like match sticks in the wind. Never forget the emptiness I feel *every* time I go to NYC and don't see those towers standing high and proud above the rest of the city.

:sigh:

On a happier, more fun note we had a Toga Party in the wardie last night. Normally, I don't do toga. But the girls convinced me and promised they would help me. Of course after Steph dressed me all up - it seems Jane and Vicky bailed out and Steph couldn't be bothered to get dressed up!! :( Effers! LOL

My outfit wasn't too bad and not all that "Omar the Tentmaker" looking .. but my hair piece was the hit. I got it in Fred Meyers and it is a candle wreath LOL!!! Just pulled my hair through the middle and Steph pinned some of the leaves down. Check out the pics.

Toga Party:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.2z5onfcr&x=0&y=-b77i15&localeid=en_US


Ok, so one more party to go - Red Light District - tomorrow night. I have a kick butt outfit, I am pumped up! I can't wait for it .. should be a hoot .. and its being run by the cruise staff and they are always so creative, so I will keep you posted!!
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Nothing Better Than Friends When You Are Down

9 Sept 08

Last night was the masquerade party; I still planned to go to the disco but had to do some washing first. Well I put the wash in, came back to my cabin and flopped on my bed. Had been stressed all day about my Mum being in the hospital (for those of you who don't know already, sorry - but I promised her I wouldnt post her personal life here) so needless to say my emotions ran deep last night and I had myself a good cry. I hated being away from her when she was there and I was here. It sucks!!!! I was so blue, I couldn't bring myself out of it to get dressed so I never made it to the crew bar. Oh well

I was still quite down this morning, so after I finished work I called Sheryl (who was asleep) and Terry (who had to work) and the nurses (Vicky and Jane) to see if anyone would take me off this damn ship! I knew I wouldnt go alone as I didnt have the energy; Vicky said her and Steph were going ashore for a wander, a few errands and lunch; so I begged them to let me come with them. (not like I needed to really beg LOL) I am sooo pleased I went with them; I feel so much better! (though I did have a nice cry when I saw them but they have me a big hug and told me everything would be alright)

So we did a few errands, wandered through the shops on Creek Street (Steph hadn't been there yet) after we had lunch and then went to the Lumberjack show :) But before we went to the show, we stumbled across a Salvation Army .. perfect for looking for costumes!! I found out the 80's party was going to be a Toga Party .. hmmm, well if I do dress up for that - I only need a sheet LOL. So as I was looking through the racks of things, Steph found a plastic-fake leather jacket (in my size!!) which was perfect. Then I found a pair of pants I could cut off at the crotch and make into a skirt .. and then I found a flimsy, cheesy red top with sequins and furry pieces on it .. and ready for this??? All of it for $4.16!!! I spent more for my lunch at Halibut Hole!! :) (and it is cheap there!)

So costumes in hand, we headed over to the Lumberjack Show - and here's another perk - crew get in for free! Yippee .. it was a cool little show and the one guy was OMG HOT!!! Take a look at the pics: ( I wanted to bring him back to the ship as my souvenier!! )

Lumberjack Show:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.2p7bb4gr&x=0&y=-1w6pao&localeid=en_US

After the show, we did a few more errands (I was looking for black stockings) and then headed back to the ship. I spoke to my brother a short while after and he had just been to see Mum and he said she was recovering well and looked and sounded a LOT better than the previous day. If all stays well with her, she should be discharged tomorrow and can go home - fingers crossed!
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Oh What A Night!

8 Sept 08
at sea

Ok, well there were 2 nights that were just great! Starting off with Friday night, we had a Back To School Party in the wardie .. what a blast!! I can't even tell you what time I left .. no clue! The bar stayed open till 2, which was good; yet very bad!! LOL There was the normal craziness and it probably was the best turnout for people in costume. I am not going to give a lot of details; The pics say it all :)

Back to School party:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.askdhs7f&x=0&y=b9dnb5&localeid=en_US


This ship is nuts for its fancy dress parties!! Its great, don't get me wrong - but holy moly:)

Tonight we have a Masquerade party in the crew bar; Wed night is an 80's party in the Wardie and Fri night is the "red light district" party in the wardie. Yikes! I need a whole wardrobe just for the parties!! I am not sure I can do a mask for tonight as I can't seem to locate my contact lenses. I never wear them, so there is a chance I didn't bring them. (I only wear them at the beach) I will have to do some more digging later today. If I cant find them - I will not be wearing a mask as it would look stupid over my glasses. I am think I can figure something out for the 80's party; but I am at a loss for the RLD one. What could *I* possibly wear??


ANYWAY :)

Saturday night out in Victoria was a lot of fun. I was going to bail out, but Vicki basically told me she would never talk to me again LOL So with our friendship on the line, I ended up going out with them. Turned out to be over 10 of us and we went to Irish Times in town; what a hoot! They had a fabulous celtic band and we had good food, good drink (I had a wonderful cider - I liked it so much I had 4 of them!!) and of course good laughs! I didnt bring my camera, but Lee did so I need to get the pics off of him. We made Woody get up and dance with some girls to some irish jig; it was absolutely hilarious!! I tell ya, if it wasn't for the great times I had on this ship, it wouldn't be worth the BS I have to put up with on the work side of things. So thank the high heavens we have a great crew and a fabulous Wardie!!
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Catching up

5 Sept 08
at sea

So I had a shitty day at work on Wednesday morning; basically I sent an email to my shoreside manager about the pax that called me a bitch. She replied and CC'd in the director, who then emailed me and bitched me out on all the things I must have done wrong. So needless to say I was pissed off, upset and ready to pack it in and go home.

Of course I knew I was over-reacting so I didnt say anything to anyone; I drafted an email back but I didnt send it as I know better to wait it out and sleep on it. Then I talked to Mom who calmed me down (as she always does) and then I stayed in that day. Wasn't in the mood to go out in Juneau as it was cold and drizzling so I stayed in and watched about 5 episodes of House, then took a nap. I was more relaxed later that day and wrote a nice, cordial email back to my director. (I still didnt send it till Thursday morning)

I went up to the Wardie that night and it felt better to talk it over with my friends. It seems it is very common for shoreside to say things like that; Jemma told me that even though she doesnt cover my dept for Personnel and Training, I could come and chat with her anytime - which made me feel better. Also, a few of them told me they would refuse to let me quit .. which made me feel good and loved :)

So after too many drinks in the wardie and waking up with my normal hangover headache (right between the eyes) I got up on Thursday and went to work .. of course 5 mins after I got there I was searching for my coffee :) Met up with my friend Jelena, who is my counter part on the Island Princess, for breakfast in Skagway at 10.30. Was done and back on the ship by about 12.30 or so and then I took a nap. Had a bad tummy ache (I think I drink too much coffee and eat too much salad) I felt better when I got up.

Today was a sea day and it wasnt too busy - I am just finishing up my shift now and then I am going to go get ready for tonights party. Back to School night at the Wardie! I have most of my outfit but I need a tie!! I was supposed to get one from Keenan, but I haven't seen him today. So when I finish now I will go and see if I can find him; if not, I will have to make a few calls to the guys for someone to lend me one. I will have my camera with me of course :)
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Ketchikan Day with the Ladies

3 September 08
leaving Juneau, AK

So the other night when we were out in Victoria, Sally (the captain's wife) asks a bunch of us to go to lunch in Ketchikan at the top of the mountain (not as high as Juneau's Mt Roberts) but you still take a tram. I thought it would be cool and I hadnt been up there yet so I said sure

Well after a night of dancing at the disco - the next morning Sally pops by to confirm the meeting place, but mentions the tram isnt working :( That means we have to hike it up there! Eeeek! Ok - it really isnt all that high, but still!! It had to be over 5 stories high - so it is quite an incline.

Anyway .. I dragged myself, huffing and puffing - yes it was worth it as it was very pretty up there and it wasnt raining (I wouldnt have done it in the rain or if the ground was wet - everyone knows I can be a klutz and I have a bad habit of falling - so you can bet I would have been on the ground!) Needless to say, I was sore yesterday afternoon!

Here are some pics I took from up top as well as heading back down - make sure to check out the salmon jumping *UP* the falls. Pretty cool eh?
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.48fz0for&x=0&y=ct2085&localeid=en_US
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Mugsy Update

2 Sept

Spoke to Mom today and Mugsy came home yesterday and is doing much better. The pressure in his eye is down to 10 (I think Mom said 15 is the breakpoint for being too high) He is on a lot of medication; Drops, gels, pills - not to mention doggy Tylenol for the pain. My poor baby!

At least 'Grandma' is taking very good care of him. She has a good schedule of his meds and is giving him lots of attention. (she adores him - how can you not?! He is such a good dog) He is eating and drinking well again and seems happy to be home and in less pain. The vet said he could have permanent damage in his vision in that eye, but they just need to monitor him to see how he does. Most dogs can get around just fine using their other senses, so even if he is blind in the one eye, we wouldn't really notice. (as long as he remembers his 'Mommy' I dont care)

It is very likely the same thing will happen in his other eye. It could be next week, next month or next year. But the vet told Mom what to look for now, so they might be able to catch it earlier. I am thinking good thoughts and staying positive! Thanks to everyone who sent their good wishes for him ((hugs))
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I am fuming!

1 Sept 08

Oooh, I am just soo pissed off right now - these effing pax! The cheaper the cruise - the dumber they are. But the cheaper they get too. And the freakin ruder!!!

This is what just happened in the cafe: ( I am copying and pasting from my email to the Staff Purser so I don't have to retype it)

Hello Billy

I wanted to let you know of a particularly rude and inconsiderate passenger who was in my café this evening.

Ms. Hessling-Kraus came into the café and asked a few questions about getting online with her Platinum status. I told her the option she had for maximizing her credit; she then complained that it used to be more mins for that money. I apologized and said I was unsure of the previous way, but as of June, this was the set up for Platinum CC Members.

When she went to log in on the computer – she did her thing but after a few minutes told me she was stuck on the verifying account screen (she said it to me from the desk she was at) I replied that she was stuck in a loop on the satellite and to just click on logout and then log back in – then I apologized for the inconvenience. (it is a satellite issue that happens every so often – nothing we can do about it – but it doesn’t take up and minutes or money as they haven’t even logged in fully yet)

She then must have had another problem – but didn’t say anything to me, or even ask for my help. She just said loudly “ well if this little bitch working here would get out of her seat, I could get something done” I then got up and went over to her and said “ma’am, if you need my help all you need to do is ask; I heard what you said and I didn’t appreciate it” And she then said “I said it so you could hear me” and I said “there was no need for you to say anything to that nature” and she replied “you better walk away as you do not want to continue this conversation with me!” So I walked away as to not disrupt the rest of the café or cause a scene. But that was 100% uncalled for.

This kind of behavior is unacceptable – I don’t care that she is a passenger; everyone still deserves respect. I want this documented asap in Focus File please.

(Focus File is where we get to put info in on particularly out of the ordinary circumstances for the shore side dept of PCL to see)

Whew - I am still steaming!!! Absolute bitch she was! And she wasn't even a paying pax!! She gets a $75 credit in the Internet Cafe ..!! Grrrrrrrrr!!!
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My "Weekend"

31 August 08
departing Seattle

Last night was Victoria BC - there was a group of us going out for dinner for Sheryl's birthday which was the day before. We met at the terminal taxi stand and about 6 of us went to this greek restuarant called Pereklis. Awesome food!! I wasn't all that excited but it was for Sheryl's birthday (and she did what I wanted on mine LOL) but I was more than pleasantly surprised at how good everything was. (of course I had heartburn all night from the hummus, but eh - whatever!) Several more peoplWe had a nice long dinner; good food, good laughs - I love that kind of thing!

When we came back to the ship - the usual thing to do is all go back to the Wardie. Everyone does there own thing in ports, then regroup in the Wardie after 10.30 (when crew is due back onboard) I always have to go and shut down the cafe, so I go up after 11. However, I got stuck helping some last min pax print boarding passes and I was there till midnight. I left and got halfway there then changed my mind and went to bed. I should have gone as I heard it was a ball - but I wasn't feeling the best (heartburn) so I scrapped the idea. Got paged twice wondering where I was - but I didnt reply (at least I now have friends who want me around! LOL)

Seattle Sunday was cool - the week before there had been talk of going on the "Ride The Ducks" tour and so I met up with Jane, Vicki and Steph from the Medical Team and Sam (one of the dancers) at Jane's cabin at 10am. We went into town and went to the Space Needle which is where you get the 'duck duck tour' as Jane calls it. It was really cool - and quite the laugh!! Poor Vicki was sick as a dog (her birthday was the day before and was out way to much and was hurting badly) but we had a laugh about how she was able to pull off being sick in a crisps bag and no one (but us) knew the better!!! You all know how I hate when someone pukes near me, so I was crawled up in Jane's lap practically to get as far from Vicki as possible (sorry Vic!!!) Jane took some hilarious photos - I didn't; I stuck to nice 'scenic ones'

On the tour we saw the Real World Seattle house (you cant see much - just a building with hanging plants) and we also saw the Sleepless in Seattle house - you can definitely tell which one that is if you have seen the movie.

Here are the pics:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.7ybfhvrv&x=0&y=s91n4i&localeid=en_US


After the tour, we took the monorail from the Space Needle back to Westlake Center and then put Vicki in a cab to go back to the ship and sleep :) The rest of us went to Cheesecake Factory to get some lunch. We sat in the bar and the stupids there wouldnt even let us eat lunch b/c they wanted ID from everyone. I had my license, but I am the only american! So we showed them our ship ID - it has everything on it; picture, name, DOB, (height weight, citizenship) and the waitress wouldnt take it. So I asked for the manager. She said she couldn't take it either; the kicker was that Steph had been there the week before and sat AT the bar and wasn't even carded. Whatever!!! I have to tell you - one of my BIGGEST pet peeves about this country .. INCONSISTENCY. Nothing is ever the same answer. It is such crap!!! So I told her " sorry to hear you dont serve crew members when there are 3 ships in every Sunday" She said 'we do serve crew' I said "you cant possibly as 98% of the crew on my ship is non-Us and no one has any other ID than this ship ID; damn shame too - lots of business you just lost from my ship!" And I turned and walked out :) God I can be a bitch sometimes!!! LMAO!

So we went around the corner to the Pacific Mall and went to a mexican place there. Wow that food was yum!! We were getting very close to the time we needed to be back on the ship (crew has a 2.30pm curfew) so we hurried it along, finished up and went out to get a cab. It took several mins to hail one (the city was packed with people yesterday!!) and we got back with just a few mins to spare. As we walked to the ship, Seco was standing on the gangway holding up his watch!! Uh oh ... so we started to hussle it along! I clocked in (we have to swipe our ID's everytime we go off and then come back on the ship) at 14.29.21!! HOLY CRAP! If we are late - they take our ID's off of us, we get yelled at and they usually keep them for a whole cruise :( So whew - we were lucky!!

Once I got onboard - I went to change then came to the cafe to set up the new cruise. Then once boat drills started I left and did my normal phone call routine (call both sets of parents) When I spoke to my Mom, I could tell something was wrong. Turns out they had to take Mugsy (my dog) to the emergency vet; he was having some trouble seeing and looked like he was having a hard time keeping his eyes open. The vet sent them to another specialist who said he has glaucoma :( He had a lot of pressure on the one eye, which was basically giving him pain which is like a migraine to us; my poor baby. They had to keep him overnight as the pressure still wasnt low enough to send him home. Will keep you all updated on that. :sigh:
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My Love Boat Triangle Has Become A Square

28 Aug 08

Apparently I was bored .. so I needed to add another guy to my Pot o' Men! LOL So it was me, Richard and Boogie .. a triangle. Now add in Keenan. And if you want, throw in Angela to the mix and a hexagon it is! :) Ok, I am cracking myself up on that .. LOL

Keenan works on the cruise staff is well; he is hilarious. And I am such a sucker for a guy who is cute and can make me laugh! Had me in hysterics last night as he ran down the M1 draped in the Australian flag yelling "I am a superhero, I am ... Ozzie Man!" I had to stop walking b/c I was laughing so hard, I needed to pee .. and to do all that at the same time wasn't good. I was afraid I would pee my pants! Then when we took the lift up, he sat down in it b/c he was tired from running. I nearly died with laughter.

Anyway .. we all drank too much at the Aussie Beach Party in the wardie, then we went back to Keenan's cabin to drink more and watch Flight Of The Concords (HBO show - which is absolutely brilliant!!) and I didnt crawl back to my cabin (from one deck up thank god) till 4.30am. (and had to be at work at 8)

Needless to say I was looking a little worse for the wear today. Worked on crew computers till noon, went for lunch upstairs, called Mom and then went for a long nap. I am still quite pooped out - so I am happy that it is "hour forward" night and no one goes out. I will be in bed ... maybe I will watch a little "House"; I am already several episodes in .. had to take a break from CSI Miami .. didnt want to tire of it - but have watched most of the season already :)

Here are some pics from last night at the party: (the first pic is me with Boogie - since you guys said you wanted to see a pic of him)
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.5ukcqh17&x=0&y=-vefcaj&localeid=en_US

Tonight I got to watch most the South Carolina game - I was thrilled!! I have been bummed out that college football season is starting and I wont have the same Saturday rituals that I had at home! :( But I looked at the schedule and there are some good games on ESPN - which we get most of the time. And Monday night the Tenneessee game is on ESPN - and it will be on when i am on break - sooooo excited woooo!!!
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It's Like Summer Camp

25 Aug 08
At Sea - heading for Ketchikan

Saturday night in Victoria was a lot of fun. A bunch of us went into Victoria for dinner - Richard didn't invite Angela - which was smart of him LOL. Anyway, we ended up having a really great night out - the weather was good, we had dinner at a pretty place that over looked the marina and we got to sit outside and listen to live music. I really liked Victoria - much different area than I had stayed in when I signed on. This was of course touristy, but I like that most of the time.

After dinner we walked around the town - it was a Sat night so of course it was pretty lively. There were also 3 cruise ships in as well. We found a cool Irish/Scottish bar with live music and went in for a few more drinks. The band was really good (it was all cover music) and we were there for a while. About 10.15 or so we decided to head back to the ship; I was glad we did. When we got to the pier, there were all these people standing around and Jemma remembered there was going to be a fireworks display to celebrate the opening of a new pier they are building for the cruise ships. Just as we started to walk towards the terminal - the music started! So we were just in time (we thought we missed it) We walked quickly over to where they were to get a better view. There was a great soundtrack to them; and I am such a sucker for fireworks too. Its like in Disney, I always wanted to go to see them no matter if I saw them the night before or not.

When the show was over, there was a small fair set up so we wandered through the local vendors selling hand made arts and crafts and food. Some of the booths had these amazing masks - I would never buy one to wear, but they are really cool to hang on the wall in your house or something (I have liked them since I met Kir - who has one on her wall in her house) Anyway, I am trying to be better about spending money this contract, so I decided against even asking how much they were. (b/c then if they were cheap - I wouldnt say no to buying one LOL)

When we got back on the ship, everyone headed to the Wardie - but I needed to go and close the cafe (we close it at 11pm so there is no more charges on the last night after 11pm) so I worked for about a half hour and then went to the Wardie as well. It ended up being a fun night up there - lots of people came back from town and went right up there. Went and stayed with Richard but just wasn't "feeling it" as much, so that might be my last time. I still think something is going on with Angela; even though he denies it and said he wouldn't do that to me behind my back.

AND ... I am still having a major crush on Boogie - but I dont understand him. He used to come in and visit me often; now I have only seen him twice in passing since 'the incident' :) He hasn't been out at all either - which is wierd for him. Tonight is disco night and everyone goes to that - so hopefully he will be there. Though I am not going to chase him. A few of the girls think he felt rejected when I told him to leave (though I said it nicely) the night he was over; silly men! If I can just hang out with him as usual, I can still play it cool and yet let him know I am interested. I hate to do it, but I certainly know how to "play the game"
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My Very Own Love Boat

23 Aug 08
approaching Victoria BC

Here is a little update on my social life on the ship:

Ok, so Wed night there was that party given by the Cruise Staff backstage - I mentioned all that 2 posts ago (Touring Juneau) What I didn't mention then was - when Boogie and I were talking, he had kissed me. :) So yeah .. a little shocked on that. He is a cutie too. I wasn't sure if I should just forget about it or what. He had kissed me again before he left - and I think I liked it LOL Obviously Richard wasn't around; he had gone off in another group.

So after that I didn't see Boogie all day Thursday or Friday; damn big ship! It is possible to avoid someone you dont work with for quite some time. Last night was a repeat of the Cruise Staff party, only it was in the Wardroom this time so no one could complain about the noise. :P I was on my way there and just as I got to the steps, Richard was leaving. And who was on his tail? Angela (the girl who seems to be everywhere with him) I asked if he was coming back and he said he wasn't sure. I raised an eyebrow at him LOL I was not impressed!!

I went in to the Wardie and since it was still early - a few people (Terri, Woody, Alan, Victor) were playing Taboo and asked me to join. That was fun! Then the party got underway at about midnight. I noticed the Cruise Staff starting to trickle in around 12.30 or so - but no sign of Boogie. Hmmmm

Since I told Terri about the kiss from Boogie - she has taken it upon herself to try to get us together. So after several more drinks, and still a no-show from him, she dialed his cabin and made me talk to him. Yeah - drunk dialing .. not good LOL I asked him why he wasn't at the party and he said he was tired. I asked if he normally kisses girls and then hides from them for 2 days, then blows them off LMAO!!! He said "no baby - not at all"

Needless to say I am a little confused by both of these guys and their actions. MEN!!!

I think I am going to tell Richard to bugger off; he may be telling me nothing is going on with Angela, but unless I am with him every night (and I am not) then one never actually knows - do they? And I still don't know him well enough to trust him that much. A group of us are supposed to go out tonight in Victoria for dinner - Richard being among them. If Angela shows up, I am done! (its an open invite - whoever wants to go - but still!)

In the meantime - I did see Boogie at lunch and as I was walking out of the mess, said Hi and (quietly) apologized for last night. He just smiled and said no worries. We will see what happens there. Wish me luck!! :)
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Ahoy Mateys

22 Aug 08

Hold on to your hats - we seem to have hit a storm my friends! We have strong winds from the south and are unfortunately sailing right into it. The pax are cranky, the weather is crap - its a hell of a day at sea!

(yes I am fine - it is not bothering me; other than my bathroom door slamming once, I slept great for my nap LOL)
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Touring Juneau

21 Aug 08
Skagway, Alaska

So yesterday was a GORGEOUS day! Woke up to lots of sunshine in Tracy Arm, so it looked like a good chance we would get the same in Juneau later on. We pull into Juneau about 1pm, but slowly go up the harbor and then come back because we need to wait for another ship (the NCL Sun) to leave so we can take the berth. So I had gone out on the porch and called Mom while we were tying up. It was so wonderful to feel the sun on my face and the warm breeze - it was like a June day - just perfect!!

I had planned to go up to the top of Mt Roberts if the weather was good; so since it was I wasn't missing a clear day to take some pics. I tried to recruit some friends - but most people had already done it. (it is the popular thing to do) So I went myself, no big deal. Ran into a few people I met on the ship, but no one I am friendly with so I went up and wandered around. Sometimes I like that anyway (no one to want to go here or there and have to compromise with!)

It was soo lovely up there - the views were spectacular!! I tried to get some good shots, but I had a hard time adjusting the exposure - so some of the pics are a little over exposed. It was so quiet and peaceful too. I walked around some of the trails, but I didn't go far. There was a trail that was 2 miles down to the city center. I would have loved to do it, but I didn't trust myself (and my aching feet) nor did I want to do it alone. But I have been losing some weight and doing the stairs, so maybe I will see if I can try it before we leave Alaska. It will also depend on the weather (rain doesn't make for good downhill hiking - lots of mud!)

They had a cool nature center which had a bald eagle! She is in captivity as she was injured and she can't fly more than 5 ft high and she is blind in one eye. (she was shot) I got some good pics of her too. Then I watched a short movie on the native americans who had occupied the land; very interesting culture up here! I wish I would see more totem poles, I think they are so cool!

Here are the pics:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.1v4520rn&x=0&y=qjj9gd&localeid=en_US

When I came back down the mountain, I tried to go on another tour (there are lots) but most of them were booked up for the day. Good thing as it was starting to get overcast and it looked like the weather was certainly changing. I walked around town and then headed back to the ship about 5.30. Went up to Horizon Court for an early dinner then went back to my cabin to relax; I had to be back at work at 9.30pm. Plus there was a Scavenger Hunt in the crew bar and a "Rave party" somewhere (you have to call between certain hours to find out the location - I didn't call; I knew Terri would tell me LOL) so I needed my nap!!

I went down to the Scavenger Hunt about 11.45 but it was cancelled as Sheryl (who was running it) was sick with a bad migraine. So I hung out there for a bit with Terri, Jemma, Richard and a handful of others before we headed down to the rave party (which was on deck 6 - backstage of the princess theater) It was a really cool setup and just like a small nightclub. Only problem was that at about 1.15 they shut it down since pax could hear it and were complaining. Sigh. Damn pax .. can't they just let us have some fun! We headed back to the crew bar, but the bar had already closed. Then my neighbor Alex, invited a few of us back to his cabin to hang out. (he is the Sr 1st Engineer, so he has a big cabin!!) Me, Jemma, Woody and Boogie went up; we just sat around and talked. Turns out Woody was on Artemis and got off ONE week before I got on it!! How wild! So we talked a lot about who we knew from there.

We left Alex's about 2.30 - but then Boogie and I started talking in the hall and ended up talking in my cabin till after 4am! Holy moly .. so needless to say I am tired!! I had to be up at 7.30 for work at 8 .. so this morning it is coffee, coffee, coffee! :)
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Finally made it into Ketchikan!

19 August 08
Approaching Fjords

Today, after being here two times before, I finally got off the ship in Ketchikan! I was almost tempted to stay onboard - I have figured out the reason for my laziness; it is all this gloomy, wet weather!

Anyway I paged Jemma and asked if she wanted to at least pop ashore for lunch; we met at 12.30 at the gangway and then walked into town. We dock right along side the town, so we don't have to actually walk to it. It was raining lightly and cool out - same weather as the last 2 weeks :(

She has been on ships for years - so she knows most ports like the back of her hand. She took me to Creek Street. It literally is a creek as the street and there is a little boardwalk you walk down. All the houses are actually shops. It is so adorable! We stopped at a Fish and Chips place and I had the best popcorn shrimp. I splurged and had some french fries and they were sooo good - like McDonalds! Not the thick, potatoey ones - I dont like those anymore; I am just sick of them from the Artemis

After lunch we walked down Creek Street and popped in and out of some of the shops. Lots of interesting jewelry with little nuggets from the gold mining they still do. The "Gold Rush" was a very big thing up here .. and there are lots of places that still mine for it. That and for Opal (I learned today) as well.

Here are the pics I took today:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.4yo4ntc3&x=0&y=aw4ish&localeid=en_US


We headed back to the ship around 2 as Jemma needed to go back to work around 3 - I napped for a short time but it wasn't enough :( I am not going out tonight, if anything I will just go over to Richard's (if he isn't asleep already LOL) to watch a movie or something. If not, then I will head right to bed. Only 20 more mins of work.
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White and Write Party Pics

19 Aug 08
Ketchikan Alaska


Here are the pictures from the White and Write party:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.7zvf237n&x=0&y=-wkq38o&localeid=en_US

First pic is of me and Richard :)
Terri
Richard writing on Jemma
Me and Lee (nurse)
Me and Adriano (SETO)
Terri writing on people
Richard and Jemma
The DJ's
the bar (but notice my Artemis lighter!! LOL)
Jemma writing on ____ (I forget his name)
Me and my cabin neighbor
Vicki and Marina
Val writing a book on that guy
Me and Marina
Richard and Marina
Terri getting more use out of her shirt
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Pictures - Space Needle

19 Aug 08

Here are the Space Needle Pics:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.6gtviqqb&x=0&y=u5o9lx&localeid=en_US

Pics are:
Me on the monorail, Terri and Dave, scenic stuff blah blah, Terri and Me at the Sky City restaurant, Sheryl and Dave, more scenic stuff, etc

These took forever to load last night - so I didnt get the White and Write party ones done yet; hopefully today

Seattle Sunday

17 Aug 08

What a nice day today! The weather was lovely; warm, sunny .. nice change from rainy, cold Alaska this week.

Last week we made a plan to go to lunch for my birthday (since we didnt do much last week) and I thought it would be cool to have lunch at the restaurant at the top of the Space Needle. Yes I know I am afraid of heights, but doing this type of thing (and getting through it) is liberating!! (Btw, I actually did great - must be all those drugs I am taking!! LOL just kidding)

So Terri and I went into town - I need to do *another* toner run (what a pain in the ass!) before we met up with Sheryl and Dave. We met them at 11am (they had errands to run as well) and then we took the Monorail (think Disney, but smaller) to the Space Needle. It was really cool. Because I made a reservation (they only take ressies) we didn't have to wait in any lines, just walked right up to the restaurant check-in desk and up we went! Our table wasn't ready right away, so they took us up one level to the Observation Deck first. It was pretty awesome to see our very large ship, looking so tiny from up there :)

Our table was ready and back down one level we went to the restaurant. VERY COOL!!! Almost every table was near the window and those that weren't were up higher than the ones that were; so everyone got a great view. And of course - the restaurant turned 360 degrees, so from start to finish, you got to see it from every angle possible.

Yes I took pics - but the net is running really really slow tonight, so I will upload them tomorrow when it gets a little better once we are out in the open seas.

Oh and did I mention the food was FABULOUS. I figured it would be overpriced so-so food. It was $45 per person for brunch and it was a scrummy meal. I had New England Clam Chowder to start, Pancakes that were to die for and a delish NY style cheesecake; and a Mimosa to top it off. YUM YUM YUM

After that, everyone had a few things to do before we headed back to the ship - so we went our seperate ways. I got back on the Monorail and went over to Ross (the monorail is across the street from where the shuttle drops us off - Ross, Rite Aid and Office Depot are one block over) I was looking for a pair of dressier shoes than my fancy crocs heels. I found a really cute pair, but the queue for the cashiers was ridiculous. I wasn't in the mood - so I put them back and headed back for the shuttle. I will go over next week when I have more time. Just as I got to the shuttle stop, I ran into Terri and then we ran into Gemma (good friend of Richard's from another ship they were on) and we shared a cab back.

I got back to my cabin - made my phone calls to the parents and then went for my nap :) That's all for now; hopefully I will get all the pics posted from the party the other night as well as the Space Needle tomorrow. Stay Tuned :)
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Saturday At Sea

16 Aug 08
Approaching Victoria BC

Well last night was a "White and Write" party in the Wardie (Wardroom – officers bar) – I wasn’t sure what that was going to be like, but it ended up a lot of fun! (the wardie here is so much better than Artemis!!) Basically, you wear a white tee shirt to get in and then anyone can write on it. The later it got, the more people had to drink, so you were just walking up to people you barely know and writing on them. I took some pics, but I left my camera in Richard’s cabin and I haven’t seen him yet today to get it.

Yes – I know.. most of you are asking ‘who the hell is Richard??’ Richard is one of the first guys I met onboard. 43, British (can’t get away from them! Ha ha) 3 stripe engineer (ie: Sr Officer). He introduced himself like the 2nd day I was here; We became buddies really quickly as he had only gotten on the week before me and was also a “newbie” to this ship. Well, since then we hang out often and we kind of have a ‘thing’ going. No definition really. We have been honest with each other and it will only be for while we are onboard – nothing more. Onboard companions, friends, lovers (sorry Mom I know you don’t want to read that LOL) Everyone gets lonely out at sea – so there is no reason not to have someone to talk to, have a drink or dinner with and even have a nice cuddle from. We sign off on the same week in November, so it works out really well.

ANYWAY :)

So today was really busy for me; Saturdays always are. We are still at sea until 5pm, so the natives are getting restless and cranky since they are bored. They are packing their stuff, then coming down here and printing boarding passes for their flights; of course they have no patience and there are swarms of them doing it all at once, so I run ragged all day.

Today at lunch I got to see Orca whales! Supposedly the straights we come into the Victoria area in is known for spotting the orca’s, so a few of the guys in the mess kept looking out the windows and Phil, the SECO (Security Officer) spotted them! It was sooo cool. Of course I wish I had my camera with me – but how was I to know. Sigh – oh well. My pics wouldn’t have been that good anyway, since they were not that close (its not like they came up to the side of the ship to say hi! Ha ha).

I didn’t get off tonight – I like my Saturday nights onboard. I get finish around 5, then I can chill out and do anything I want till about 9.30 or 10pm. I have to work since I need to shut down the café at 11pm, and I always have last minute stragglers to print boarding passes or to complain (Oi!). I watched a little Jeff Dunham (needed the laughs) then did some laundry (it is so nice b/c it is only up one floor so it is very close!) and took a short nap. Had a late dinner and now I am in the café for the next 45 mins or so.

Whoa! For a nice change of pace to my shitty work week, I just had a passenger come in to get my last name so she could submit a COMPLIMENT form for me. I had helped her out and did her a small favor by letting her use my laptop to access a University site that she couldn’t get to using our workstations. She had been so nice but so stressed, that I felt bad for her. So I had her come back on my evening shift when it was less busy (and less pax would see what I am doing (b/c they would want me to do it for them too!)) and I logged in and let her use my laptop in the café. She was so delighted that she was able to post her homework and enjoy the rest of her cruise without worry. So that, my friends, makes up for the crappy attitude I have been getting from the officers on board. The purser can take the complaints from last cruise and SHOVE THEM :)
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I Love Drugs

14 Aug 08

Hee hee

Well, in a way .. I do! I knew I was feeling way too sad, and I know how I get; sometimes the sadness just gets worse and snowballs; so I needed to kick that in the butt before it got to that point! So I popped a Happy Pill (Wellbutrin) and off I went.

Ahhhhh, I do feel a lot better now. I am still not 100%, but it is a far cry (ha ha CRY! ok, no pun intended) from where I was last night. Plus I think going ashore with my friends helped too; sometimes just getting off the ship (I hadn't been off since Seattle) helps to put things in perspective.

Funny thing happened today - and this is why karma is a bitch! The 1st Purser (who yelled at me on Mon about the 2 bad comments) paged me today and told me that the Computer Officer might have to go home and would I be able to help them on turnaround day?? Ha ha ha ha!! I said I would. And you know what? I will smile and do a disgustingly good job :)
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Eh

13 Aug 08
Tracy Arm Fjord

Well this week doesn't seem to be going any better than last!! I think I have the billing problem sorted out enough that I can at least balance my numbers with the ship; I have met some more people and feel a bit more comfortable in the crew bar and wardroom (and Sheryl doesn’t have to babysit me as much LOL) and I am getting settled in the job itself. (not that it is any different than last time, but the pax are different and you have to adapt your “spiels” accordingly) So yes, those things are good things.

I did get 2 bad comments from pax last week and the 1st purser gave me a bollocking about it. I knew who they were from before he even told me. (one was a drunk woman who wanted all her money refunded as well as anything in the future credited back as well – just b/c it was slow; the other was a “telecomm engineer” and wanted to just argue about the satellites) It is a shame that the cruise lines take the pax word as the law, when we are all VERY well aware that pax will lie, cheat and steal to get a refund on something. (and sometimes they will bitch and moan about $2!!) So I was really upset about that on Monday. However, I felt better after talking to some of my other counterparts on other ships, as well as Sheryl and Susie onboard. I did tell my shoreside manager so she was aware of it. She re-confirmed that she knows I do a good job and to take it in stride.

Anyway … time for my lunch break so I will be back later on

Jeesh – no one is cutting me any slack on this ship!! WTF!?!? So today I am just in my cabin chilling out and watching some CSI:Miami; I decided to go call my Mom and stepped out on the “porch” for a little while to call her. When I came back to my cabin, my pager had gone off. I returned the call and it was the Sr Communications Officer who yelled at me for not returning his page quick enough. Now mind you, it is a port day and it is not during my working hours – so I could have very well been OFF THE SHIP (durr, like everyone else who isn't working!!) Anyway, so supposedly there was a MTN tech onboard (though when I emailed the office – no one seemed to know about it) and he needed me. Turns out he really didn’t and told me he could have easily emailed me when he got back to the office. But whatever .. I am so tired of being yelled at. Give me a fucking break! These Italian officers are such ego-maniacs .. grrrrrrrrr.

At least the internet is working tonight.

Oh and for those of you who keep asking – technically I have a roommate, Sheryl. But she lives with her longtime boyfriend, Dave, on deck 4. So I have the cabin to myself until Sheryl signs off in Sept. Then I will get her replacement as my roommate; if I last that long!
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My Hours In The Cafe

12 Aug 08
Ketchikan, Alaska

Many of you have asked me when I work - so that way you know when I am online. So I will give you the timetable (and it is the same every week) I know I gave you my itinerary, but not my hours, so here they are:

Sunday - Seattle - 7pm to 10pm (3 hrs behind East Coast)
Monday - At Sea - 9am to 12n, 1 to 4pm, 7.30 to 10.30pm (3 hrs behind East Coast)
Tuesday - Ketchikan - 8 to 10am, 4 to 6pm, 7.30 to 10.30pm (4 hrs behind East Coast)
Wednesday - Juneau - 10am to 1pm, 9.30 to 11.30pm (4 hrs behind East Coast)
Thursday - Skagway - 8 to 10am, 4 to 6pm, 7.30 to 10.30pm (4 hrs behind East Coast)
Friday - At Sea - 9am to 12n, 1 to 4pm, 7.30 to 10.30pm (3 hrs behind East Coast)
Saturday - Victoria - 9am to 12n, 1pm to 4pm (3 hrs behind East Coast)
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Ship Webcam

10 Aug 08

For those of you who asked and who liked watching last time :)

Here is the webcam link from the bridge of the ship:

www.princess.com/bridgecams/tp/star_bridgecam.html
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Happy Birthday To ME

10 Aug 08
Seattle

Thanks to you all for sending me e-cards and texts and for the phone calls .. this is the first time I have been away from home for my birthday I think ever. So it was nice to hear from so many people and feel so loved!

Friday night the Medical team threw a party in their ward (officers only). What a blast I had!! Oh my .. I ended up being out way to late, drank way to much, etc. HOWEVER ~ it proved to be good because I bonded with those I had already met, got to meet many more people and bonded with them (you know how everyone becomes BFF's when you are drunk) We were out till way past my bedtime and into the wee hours of the morning - I do believe I saw morning and some of you know how much I hate that!! :) Needless to say, yesterday was a struggle to get in the shower, nevermind come to work. I hadn't even remembered that there were Kahlua shots in plastic syringes, punch in the IV bag, etc. And that was on top of the drinks I had - holy! I had a mother of a headache and if it wasn't for Jacques on the Ventura keeping me awake in the morning by chatting with me on IM, I might have not made it! I felt a little better after lunch and then went for coffee to get those blood vessels in my head opening .. whew! I have to remember how well it worked for me yesterday .. and get it in my system sooner.

Anyway so after I finally finished work at 5 - I dragged my bum up to my cabin and into bed. Watched a little bit of 13 Going on 30 and then went to sleep. Got woken up by the Comp Officer who called the wrong cabin (shakes fist at Rich!) but by then I had slept for almost 2 hrs and was awake. Was hungry so I got dressed and went up to Horizons Court for something to eat. Had a little more bread than normal - pasta - but figured I needed it :) Back to work at 10 to finish help printing boarding passes (pax printer was down) and then back to bed at midnight.

Woke up today forgetting all about my birthday - it was only when I turned on my phone and got a whole bunch of texts did I remember. I guess that means I am getting old?? And it is a double number .. 33 .. maybe that will be good luck for me. Went and did my morning reports and then went back to get showered and ready to go out for 10.30. We (Sheryl, Dave (her bf) and Terri) were planning to go to the Space Needle - but it looked too overcast - so we changed our minds and just went into town. It worked out since I needed to get toner for the printer and pick up a prescription at Rite Aid. We decided since it got nice out right after we left, that we will do the Space Needle next week and I am going to try to make a reservation for lunch at the top. That will be cool!

That's all for now - I am at work this evening getting the new pax set up and answering questions. Supposed to be going to the Wardie for Quiz Night when I am done with work at 10.

Oh and here are some more pics:

Juneau evening:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.4ppmfhrn&x=0&y=-54r6bo&localeid=en_US

Skagway:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.3ahgumpf&x=0&y=gcop06&localeid=en_US

The itinerary is the same every week - so I am not sure you will be getting as many pics as you are used to on the Artemis, when we had different ports every cruise. Sorry!! :( Just so you have it, here is my itinerary:

Sunday - Seattle (turnaround)
Monday - At Sea
Tuesday - Ketchikan
Wednesday - Tracy Arm Fjord (am), then Juneau (afternoon and evening)
Thursday - Skagway
Friday - At Sea
Saturday - At Sea (am), then Victoria Canada (evening)
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What You've All Been Waiting For

PICTURES!!!

Here are what I have taken so far - up till Wednesday afternoon:

Seattle Sailaway:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.bkj81vk3&x=0&y=5b37tr&localeid=en_US


Cabin:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.bznnrq4j&x=0&y=50fqoz&localeid=en_US


Ketchikan and Ship Pics:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.1ek37lhf&x=0&y=36wlzr&localeid=en_US


Tracy Arm:
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=bf232dhz.85rk97ur&x=0&y=yivc3r&localeid=en_US

Didnt take many pics of Juneau - mostly of Sheryl and the ridiculous amounts of movie popcorn she got (when she told them we can't go to the movies because their showings are too late (we sail at 10, but crew has to be onboard by 9) they felt bad and gave her extra popcorn. So I will get those and the pics from Skagway from yesterday done soon.
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