HAL Sailer

Graham, I appreciate your sentiments and I admire how you two were able to accommodate Pauline's late mam's travels. With DH's significant decline in physical and cognitive health, it wouldn't be wise of me (nor fair to him) to risk medical evacuation in a farflung corner of our world. For now, I will armchair travel and add to what will now be my bucket list… Thanks, though, for your heartfelt ideas, -Melisa

@Seasick Sailor, @bennybear @puppycanducruise, and ALL other: Thank you, but anything I can muster in our situation I owe to the example of my DM who cared for my DF through nine years of increasingly debilitating Parkinson's during what should have been their best years of retirement. And, after being widowed at age 72, she resumed their love of travel for her next twenty+ years eventually touring six continents before her own passing at age 97. I consider their life lesson my blessing, -Melisa

@marshhawk I absolutely agree! See as much of Madeira as time allows.

Yesterday, my DH's specialist opined that a couple of routine tests that would usually be recommended following DH's recent hospitalization have a risk level for him that outweighs any possible reward. Sigh. It doesn't make me sad. It just confirms the truth of our new phase of life. Or, as one Crystal cruiser posted when asked which line he/she would select above the others during Crystal's shutdown, "Our cruising days are behind us is in first place." So, everyone that still can, please get out there and travel as you can! And, know that I will travel vicariously enjoying your photos and stories and suggestions till the day comes that I can resume my journeys. It doesn't make me sad. It is actually a comfort as the specialist's advice helps me focus on enjoying 'the now' making different types of memories with my DH. Bon Voyage, -Melisa

@marshhawk On Madeira you must do the wicker toboggan street ride. DH and I did on our honeymoon and, all these years later, I'd do it again! Not my video but take a peek at the fun! -Melisa

@StLouisCruisers What difficult news! May our prayers surround Buddy and Amy with comfort and add to the love their community is bringing to their doorstep.

Absolutely. Agreed. Perhaps, on this day -- the day after our Independence Day -- our country can begin to find a better direction, a more lasting solution. That would be a true tribute to the founding of our country. -Melisa