It really did seem like a good idea! You read about the beginning now for the rest of the story:
Once we did get out the following day for our first annual family holiday vacation, the seas were calm and we enjoyed our first night out on the seas. My parents were excited this was their first cruise.
The 2nd day at sea was formal night, meet the Captain and such. We all looked great dressed up. Earlier that day we were on deck, it was cold and gloomy all day. Not to worry we thought!
The third day we made our port in Cozmel. It was your typical cruising port town with all the trappings. We did manage to have a fabulous lunch downtown. One of our cabin stewards told us where they go and we took a cab down to the local hang out. In back was an open cafe and they even have turtles under foot. That was real Mexican food and such great memories. Our Waiter translated the name of the place to mean “The Grandfather”, and he was one of the descendants. What wonderful conversation.
On the way back to the boat…….this is when we should have started getting worried. A huge, and I mean huge black ugly cloud (ok, it took up the entire sky) came up quickly and by the time we reached half through the peer it came a down pour. My husband was pushing my Dad, who was in a wheelchair, like a crazy person — they made it without getting very wet. My Mom and me were not so fortunate. We knew we would get wet and well we just didn’t mind…..it was hot and the rain felt so good. What laughs we had.
On the way home, back out to sea — and the rocking started. Slowly at first; apparently we were heading into the storm that caused so much havoc on the East Coast. They got snow - we got wind (45 MPH) and waves of 12 feet. If you have ever been on a cruise ship; usually little winds and waves make it pleasant…..but not 12 foot seas. The winds hit us from one side and the waves had us rocking front to back; we were rocking and rolling all over the place.
Everybody — even the crew — was sick!! What a way to spend the last night.
As morning arrived, we were thrilled — then the announcement — we were delayed yet again. The storm had moved all the channel markers and we would have to wait until they were placed back in order.
Four hours past our docking time we finally docked and were allowed to get off! I was never so glad to see land again! It took the rest of the week to get over that feeling.
While at the civic center waiting to know if we would ever be able to leave that first day my brother said a old Muddholler (where we grew up) forecast, “Soggy bottom cornbread means Fog”; well if that is true then “Soggy soaked people means a huge storm is coming”!
We wanted to make memories — boy did we ever.
It also proves what I always teach — be very very specific about your goals — you see I just wanted memories but I forgot to say what kind. Next year you can bet I’m already writing down how I want that to turn out.
Oh, we’re staying on land for next years big outing!
Enjoy your Holidays.
Tags: Cruising Carnival
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