any interest in a "review" of recent Connie TA?

[catmand]

luvtocook.....please, dinner was not a problem. We have done this enough so we just roll with the breadsticks. If you continue reading you'll realize it was just fine. Oh, and yes, lots of Starbucks. I figure if I drink their coffee I can use their bathrooms.....everywhere!

Kathy.....I know Elite and Select members get a booklet with several "savings coupons" in it. The laundry was one and we both get a book. They wash, dry and fold but don't press so you can't stuff lots of suits in the bag...:D

After another great nights sleep we were both up around five this morning. Last night we took advantage of the room service door hanger menu for the first time. I honestly can’t remember what time first delivery was, think maybe six? Whatever, the tray was there on time with only about two dozen creamers and sugars. If we do this again I must remember to write coffee for ONE. Room service rings your cabin when they are on their way, a very nice touch, especially if you happen to be half dressed, which is also half Undressed. Speaking of which, do you think all of those mirrors in the cabin are truly necessary? I realize the space appears larger but I don’t need to see myself looking like Jaba the Hut in so many places.

By the way, if you do take advantage of room service, be sure to write in everything you would like. Cream and sugar with coffee, butter and jam, etc. Also it’s a good idea to tell them how many people for silverware settings. I have seen trays left outside the cabin door on the passageway floor (as is the case in a hotel, except there it’s a hallway). While this does clean some cabin space it’s a hindrance for walking and especially scooter-ing. Your steward will take care of it or room service will return for it. Don’t forget; tip the tray person a few bucks, maybe more if you had a good night in the casino.

At seven this morning we arrived and docked in Cobh/Cork, Ireland. I will rely on Celebrity Today to help me explain some of the local history. The area was first settled in the seventh century. It was known as Queenstown from 1849 until 1922, after independence the name Cobh (pronounced cove) was reclaimed. Constellation is docked in what is considered one of the best natural harbors in Europe. Through the 1950’s Cobh was the final stop for many oceanliners making the way west across the Atlantic, Titanic among them.

Cork City is located in County Cork. It is Ireland’s third largest city and located about twenty-five miles outside Cobh. Just north of the city is the town of Blarney, home of the castle and it’s most famous stone. We will be going to Blarney Castle and the Blarney Woolen Mills this morning. The lunch and afternoon hour will find us in the small fishing town of Kinsale, the gourmet capitol of Ireland.

Soon after breakfast the ship was cleared and we started out on our days adventure. This was another of the many places our activities had been researched, planned, and organized by a friend. All we had to do was "pay our money" and get on the bus. This was the longest, furthest, and most involved vacation we had ever done, I can’t thank the organizers enough for all the work they did. Their efforts made us feel so much more secure, giving us more time to enjoy the surroundings.

We met our bus at 7:30am dressed for what was a cool, sometime light rainy day. This was the perfect weather (our opinion) for our adventure to and in Blarney Castle. We had a short wait as some of the group came down without rain gear or jackets. Our first stop, Blarney Castle opened at 9am so we had plenty of time. We had now been onboard several days so the cruise "chatter" kept us occupied while waiting. The map states the Castle is about twenty-five miles out, like everywhere else the traffic was very, very heavy. We were on a freeway type road and the surrounding landscapes were spacious, green and able to occupy us throughout the drive.

We arrived in the parking area just before 9 when the Castle opened. This was great timing, besides us there were just a few groups waiting. I can’t imagine what this must be like in the heart of the tourist season. A little Blarney "history." The castle originally dates before 1200, was destroyed in 1446 and rebuilt by Dermont McCarthy, the King of Munster. I think he had close ties with the cheese but was no relation to Herman. Elizabeth I coveted the property for strategic reasons and referred to McCarthy’s continued and many excuses for keeping the property as "Blarney" which literally meant pleasant talk-meant to deceive without offending. Kissing the stone (which is rumored to have been created by a witch in the Middle Ages) bestows the "gift of eloquence."

We were among the first group to enter the castle. The now low gray sky was filled with large "puffy" clouds that made a shroud like canopy for the highest parts of the castle. . The climb up the narrow, spiral stone staircase of the castle tower gave me the illusion we would soon be up and into those clouds. The "steps" were carved out of what looked like solid rock. There was a thick rope affixed to the right side wall that helped me pull myself up. On the way up I was thinking I hoped the way down would be easier. We were very, very careful as the stairs were slightly wet, eventually we made it to the top and were amazed at the glorious view. This was truly a beautiful country. It’s no wonder the name the Emerald Isle, as the green rolling are so lush they resemble a down comforter. The grazing dairy cows here must eat what’s considered the finest grass in the world. Wanda and our friends Dennis and Sheryl all kissed the stone. I passed as I was having a hard enough time due to the height without getting on my back with my head over the edge.

The castle is but one of the attractions of the area. The grounds have a large lake and garden a Rock Close and even a five bedroom, three bath house you can rent for five thousand euros a month. If you aren’t ready for the month the eight-euro admission will serve you well.

We planned on three hours in this area, would have loved more but that’s the nature of cruising as well as group excursions. The plans are always trying to find something for everyone within the allotted time and we understand that. I think the fun and camaraderie of being with many friends overshadows any shortcomings. It was around 11am, we were a short walk to the large beautiful brick building that housed the Woolen Mills, a restaurant, and what looked like a great hotel. This was another of the several hotels Wanda and I both fantasized about spending a week or so visiting.

I’m not much of a shopper but I don’t mind browsing, touching things, looking at price tags and waiting for Wanda. She is what I would call a determined shopper, she knows who she is buying for, what they would like, and is reasonable about time and prices. We don’t play the lottery so I guess this will be our pattern for a long time. The "Mill" was two floors and very large. I remember seeing one small area that had the "typical tourist type souvenirs." The majority of the two floors were filled with jewelry, men and women’s clothing. Silver crystal, sports wear as well as various food packages. Blankets sheets, and scarves. It was so nice to pick up items, read the tags and actually see goods made in Ireland. The selections were many, the quality super, and the prices reasonable. I purchased something for myself, a retro rugby jersey.

After our visit kissing and shopping we took off for Kinsale. This was another of the very charming places we visited. It’s a good thing it was a weekday as it’s one way in, one out. Our driver Ian told us a weekend day can take an hour or more to find a place to park. They say a picture is like a thousand words so I think I should shut up, give you all a break and refer to the various pictures we have of this area, and I will, soon.

We split up; several headed over to Fishey-Fishey, a seafood place. Wanda and I got some "take-away" coffee walked the streets and did a lot of looking and window-shopping. Eventually we found a small place and had tomato soup with brown bread and a BLT. The bread was heavy and very filling. We were due back at the bus at 2pm for the ride back. It was starting to rain some so we made our way back about thirty minutes early, the bus was locked, no Ian in sight. We walked back down the street to a local hotel, took refuge under their awning. Eventually everyone in the group discovered our "shelter" and joined us. We were all ready to go but still no Ian. While waiting, one of the guys had to use a washroom (as they are called there) he went into the hotel thinking there would be a public room in the lobby. He didn’t find one but did find the unoccupied rooms open. Can you believe that? A nice lobby in a good size hotel, room doors open as if to say, come on in, take a look. Ireland, what a country.

We made it back to Connie around 3:30 or so. The ship was scheduled to sail at 5. There was a large Heritage Center right near the terminal. I needed my afternoon nap so went back to the ship; Wanda went over to the center for a short visit. Cobh is a small really cute area that you will see when you check the pictures. A beautiful church is located here and I should mention a train runs from the cruise dock into Cork, a short twenty five-minute ride.

Back onboard from 4 to 4:30 the Cork Irish Dance Company performed in the Celebrity Theater. Wanda went (I slept), said they were all school kids, very cute, and very good. Eight years ago today we saw "Spirit of the Dance" in the Eldorado Hotel, Reno. I enjoy the style and should have kicked myself, gotten up and gone. A bad habit is sleeping too much on the cruise.

We pushed out at 5pm and began our journey across the Atlantic. Tonight was casual night. After four days of ports and a couple in London we were all ready for casual AND a day, make that three, at sea.

The entertainment this evening, Elliot Finkel, a piano entertainer performed at 7 and 9, we didn’t make it. On night five of the dinner merry-go-round we had six at our table for eight. It was a fun evening and we finished dinner late, around 10:45 which was the starting time for the Newlywed etc. game up in the bar at the edge of the Earth. I guess we might sound like dull people? Neither of us care for the type of humor generated from this kind of entertainment but we wanted to get some pictures of the Chocolate Lovers’ Buffet, scheduled 11:30 to 12:30am. This was the third one of these we’ve seen and we have never eaten. They were running late that night and even if we hadn’t had dinner an hour ago I don’t think we would have stayed. These are usually very crowded with the set up in a small area of the bar.

This night, we set the clock back an hour and hit the sack around twelve. Tonight we would fall asleep while Constellation continued her journey to St. John’s, Newfoundland, one thousand fifty five nautical miles away.

 

The pictures of this day are up on Webshots. Thanks, Chuck

[akawanda]

Great review, I feel as though I was there with you!

[wvufan]

Hi Chuck and Wanda,

 

Just reading about your experiences makes it seem like we have cruised with you. Wait, we have! Wish we could have been with you two on this one also. Great travelogue:) .

 

We have heard Finkel several times-he is Fyvush's son.

 

Keep em coming.

 

OOOEEE:D :D Bob and Phyl

[gkm]

Great review, I feel as though I was there with you!

 

Wanda, Hmmm. I seem to remember seeing you with him.:D :D :D

 

Garry

[luvtocook]

While waiting, one of the guys had to use a washroom (as they are called there) he went into the hotel thinking there would be a public room in the lobby. He didn’t find one but did find the unoccupied rooms open. Can you believe that? A nice lobby in a good size hotel, room doors open as if to say, come on in, take a look. Ireland, what a country.

WOW! Chuck, you identified us!!!!!:eek:

[negc]

Wanda, Hmmm. I seem to remember seeing you with him.:D :D :D

 

Garry

 

It better have been her, Garry.:D:D;)

[shawilson]

Chuck, you have to stop making me spit out beverages on my monitor. The Munster reference, cheese and Herman, had me howling. Best laugh I have had in quite a while.

 

Off in search of your pictures. Hugs to Wanda.

 

Sha

[CatServants]

I'm going to HATE it when this cruise ends! I'm having such a great time cruising with you! I could almost be there with you...ahhhhh.:) I guess we now know why your review is so eloquent...the Blarney Stone!;)

 

Next installment, please!;):)

 

Happy cruising!

 

Denise

[Ttowntreasures]

What a wonderful travel log. I can't wait for the next installment.

 

As for the Captain's Club - we are now "select" members so I will look for the wonderful coupons. Less in hubby's case - MORE SHOES IN!!!

 

Kathy

[catmand]

Denise.....actually I was too scared to kiss the stone. Last night Wanda said she couldn't believe I didn't get a picture of her doing it. I honestly don't remember seeing her and I was right next to the thing. I am not terribly comfortable with heights, and we were pretty damn high.

The "staircase" stairs look like solid rock and the spiral so tight you really can't see much two feet over head. There was no way to determine how high we were until we came out on top. I am so glad we did that, would have kicked myself if I hadn't at least climbed up.

Thanks again for your participation.

I probably won't have anything posted today, if so it'll be much later. I've been working on the pictures and now have London, Dover, Le Havre, Falmouth, and Dublin posted.

Next, three days at sea, Chuck

[akawanda]

Hey Chuck, Dennis and Sheryl gave me a couple of pics today, one is me kissing the stone. Of course I am kind of upside down and you cannot see my face, but I am sure my yellow fleece and my chin will be recognized.

Aka

[CatServants]

Denise.....actually I was too scared to kiss the stone. Last night Wanda said she couldn't believe I didn't get a picture of her doing it. I honestly don't remember seeing her and I was right next to the thing. I am not terribly comfortable with heights, and we were pretty damn high.

 

The "staircase" stairs look like solid rock and the spiral so tight you really can't see much two feet over head. There was no way to determine how high we were until we came out on top. I am so glad we did that, would have kicked myself if I hadn't at least climbed up.

 

Thanks again for your participation.

 

I probably won't have anything posted today, if so it'll be much later. I've been working on the pictures and now have London, Dover, Le Havre, Falmouth, and Dublin posted.

 

Next, three days at sea, Chuck

 

 

Chuck - It does sound a bit precarious.:o I guess your charm and wonderful writing style are God given rather than 'witch stone' given!;)

 

As for Wanda's picture? Sorry, I'm on her side! If you're going to insist on using the camera you have to take a picture every time she's doing something 'once in a lifetime', or looks particularly lovely...other than that you have to read her mind about necessary pictures!;)

 

I'm REALLY enjoying your review. You are a terrific writer with very visual prose, great timing, and a fantastically irreverent humor. I can only imagine you're a hoot in person too!:D Of course, if we're ever on an excursion together I won't trust you as to weather or directions!;):D

 

Happy cruising!

 

Denise

[catmand]

Hey Chuck, Dennis and Sheryl gave me a couple of pics today, one is me kissing the stone. Of course I am kind of upside down and you cannot see my face, but I am sure my yellow fleece and my chin will be recognized.

 

Aka

 

.....and for this I was being chastised?

[catmand]

Hey folks, look what i was given about 5 minutes ago.

Please check back tomorrow for the continuation.............thanks.

Wanda kissing stone!

[mii]

Hey folks, look what i was given about 5 minutes ago.

 

Please check back tomorrow for the continuation.............thanks.

 

Wanda kissing stone!

 

Good lord Wanda, boy now that is a weird way to kiss a stone. I do not know if I would do that but hey you are gutsy so you go girl.

 

marilyn

[catmand]

Isn't that kissing thing strange? Not sure if we ever really thought about it but I know we never figured you were on your back with your head hanging way, way, way high up.

Hope you all enjoy the next chapter, those of you still here.

For those of you still with me I sure do appreciate the company. Much of the following will be pretty well know to you.

Last night I guess we hit open sea, the Atlantic Ocean to be exact. I do not use or own a GPS, nor am I a ship navigator, or do I play one on TV. I am pretty sure we are in open ocean due to several things. The first hint was a Celebrity Today left on our bed, along with two pillow chocolates, an ad for fourteen dollar watches and a partridge on a cold, hard, unripe pear. Bringing up the age-old question: why put whole fruit out in a public area? Don’t you want to pick up and squeeze an apple, orange, and especially a pear before taking it? I do, and I know a great secret for finding ripe pears, however, I leave them alone for fear of grabbing one that’s not yet ripe. I don’t want to get "stuck" and maybe waste something, so I leave it be.

I would like to see nothing but ripe, ready to eat fruit left out in public areas. Also, one morning I watched a man’s blood pressure go up almost to stroke mode. Please, put out the frozen berries after they have thawed. It is truly amazing what bothers and annoys some people; a frozen berry can ruin an entire morning.

I love walking in our cabin before bedtime. We have been at dinner and whatever else has caught our fancy and now it’s time to retire. Isn’t it just great seeing the place all straightened up, something to read on the bed, and the toilet paper in that little point?

Oh, we were on the ocean, sorry. The other couple of reasons I knew we were in open water? The little map ship thing on the TV was pointed at Newfoundland and we had been rocking, rolling, and bumping around since dinner. I loved it.

There are always a number of people concerned about getting seasick A few minutes ago I read a question about waters between San Francisco and Mexico for October of next year. There may be some areas that have a better chance of being rough but there is really no way to tell. I think it’s a pretty good bet if someone is susceptible to motion sickness they may have a problem. If you think you do have an issue, talk to your doctor and get some medication. Or try sea bands or something over the counter. Don’t pass on a cruise because of something that MAY happen. Go, have fun, just be prepared like the boy scouts say.

Some people like sea days and others, days exploring ports. I have no preference. The cruise lines and Celebrity have many interesting activities all day. There is a nice comfortable library, a card room, a casino, and lots of shops on the ship. I love to read but rarely pick up a book, as I am afraid I may miss something. I love looking out on the water; it is so hypnotic it’s no wonder I fall asleep so easily. I know most of you readers have sailed many times but for the benefit of those that haven’t, there is no right or wrong, you can do whatever you like.

I will never understand the husband who tells his wife, "I’ve gone on one cruise, why would I go again?" Well, the fact that his wife might like to go should be enough. I will admit though, I am not a therapist, nor do I play on one on TV. The thing about a cruise, any cruise? There is always something, or nothing, to do.

At 10am Thursday, our first day at sea we went to our Cruise Critic get together. Other reviews mention the issue with several things scheduled at the same time. This was one thing that would be a shame to miss. Over the past year many of the folks on this cruise got to know one another on web sites. There is something that immediately clicks with people that love to cruise; can you guess what that is? Wanda and I have cruised with many friends who were part of this meeting. There was no way we could expect to remember and know the majority of the two hundred fifty plus people who received invitations. The cruise director told us this was the largest group he had yet seen, or for that matter heard about. It’s so nice to see familiar friendly faces around the ship. Many close relationships have developed because of the Internet, an added plus for something we love.

Everyone has different reasons for going on their first cruise. Ours was the death of a friend. Wanda and I talked about sailing to Alaska many times and never went further than that. When Penny passed away at 54 we decided to do, not just talk, about these things we wanted. We realize how lucky we are and wake up each day thankful.

One of the late mornings of a sea day we had the TV on the bow web cam. Wanda noticed a couple of figures taking down the railings around the helicopter pad. She wondered out loud if a craft would be landing. Sometime later it became obvious an evacuation was going to take place. First a large airplane flew over the ship followed by a Coast Guard helicopter. The craft did not land but repelled two men down onto the deck, then a stretcher. By this time we were at a large gathering in a friends cabin. As that stretcher was lowered the cabin became very still, very quiet. I was thinking about some one I didn’t know, how I hoped they would be OK. To be honest, I was also thinking about us, how lucky we were.

Over the course of the next three days we followed my advice above. Wanda did many different things and I examined the insides of my eyelids regularly. Each day, actually each hour up to at least 6pm there were things one could participate in. Wanda went to many of the trivia games held. A very popular one is the ongoing "Battle of the Sexes" which continues throughout the cruise. The game is played with a team of men against the ladies. The daily point total is compounded with each session, crowning a group "Winner of the Cruise." The game is played with each team getting a question that is deemed more slanted to the other side. If the question is answered correctly that team gets a point, if missed, the question then goes to the other team, theoretically the ones that should know the answer. I’ve never played but have observed and these folks are much too good for me!

Yes, there is still Bingo, and napkin folding, and flower demonstrations. For the active person there are sports activities, dance lessons, and fitness seminars. Celebrity has a good "Enrichment Series" with many different topics. On this cruise we had a maritime historian who spoke to standing room only in the Celebrity Theater. You can spend time (and money) in the casino or play in different tournaments. There are slots and blackjack, the very popular Texas Hold ‘Em had a fifty and a one hundred-dollar tourney each sea day. There are also art auctions, wine tasting, drink mixology and movies every day. Bridge is popular and there are always games going. The ship has a very nice bright game room with monopoly; scrabble, chess, checkers or backgammon and almost all the pieces are intact.

If all else fails, if nothing appeals to you, there’s food, glorious food. If you have done many cruises you may still be on a diet from the last one. Go ahead, you have my permission to skip this entire section. From the time most reasonable people wake until they go to bed the ship has food, glorious food. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner and snacks in between. You can go to the buffet, go to the restaurant, or stay in your cabin. You can find pizza, salads, pasta and ice cream. Among many cruisers there is the nagging debate, is the food good and has it gone downhill? Wanda and I have never walked away from a table unhappy or disappointed. If you don’t care for something all you need to do is ask for something else. The staff is there to help you enjoy your cruise; all you need do is remember that.

I mentioned the cruise lines all have some sort of lecture series’. Ours had the maritime expert; an artist who gave classes and a vocal coach who did the same. Also on the lecture circuit was a "Space Expert" who had, among other things, photographs from every space shot and moon landing. I have seen computer classes, digital photography, and all sorts of health and fitness lectures. Heck, you can have you finger, and toenails clipped and polished. How about a hair cut or shave (just the guys, please) various types of message and body manipulations. You can make an appointment for acupuncture treatments and get your teeth whitened. If you can think of it, you can probably watch it, listen to it, do it, or have it done to you while on a cruise ship.

For us, days at sea are a chance to relax, the evenings a chance to see the entertainment. The first evening, Thursday, Wanda and I went to the theater after dinner. Usually sea days have a late show at 10:45, port days you need to go before dinner, at 7. This evening we saw Scott Record, a singer, comedian, impressionist. He was terrific! We both thought Scott was THE most talanted guy of this style we had seen on a ship (and just about everywhere else). Really, let’s face it, some of the acts are schmaltzy. It was very easy to picture Scott on a big stage in ‘Vegas.

Over the evenings the many choices included: The Celebrity Singers and Dancers with the production show "Rhythm of the Night" I have to give a lot of credit to these kids just being out on stage. The ship was moving lots by this time. It may have been the motion; however, we didn’t care for this show. The costumes were scary, the arrangements stale. Honestly, please, no more "Man of La Mancha."

The theater also presented Michael James a comic we didn’t see. The smaller bars, clubs, and public areas showcased performers Perry Grant, a piano singer and all around Liberace type guy. "The Tonics." A very good acapela group, as well as various singers and bands. For the young and young at heart the Disco was a pit stop. For the brave, Karakoe.

 

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday were well spent and a perfect bridge between two worlds. We left Europe behind, each hour moving us closer to Newfoundland. Each evening we discovered our "turned down bed" chocolates on the pillows and toilet paper points. Each night we turned our clocks back, one hour both Thursday and Friday and thirty minutes Saturday. All of these "extra" hours were very nice indeed. We went to bed Saturday night, rocked to sleep, not with thoughts of sugarplums but St. John’s in our heads.

 

[Cruiser Susie]

Thanks again for a wonderful, personable, funny and great to read review. I loved your description of sea days, which I happen to love. And the fact that there is ALWAYS something or nothing to do... Larry and I never have any problems with a lack of something to do; usually it is too many things to do and not enough time.

 

Now if Celebrity wanted to make me ecstatic, they would leave one chocolate and one caramel for those who can't have chocolate (me!). That would be really great. :rolleyes: But I just give mine to Larry and that makes him smile, so I guess that is worth it!

 

Thanks again... looking forward to the next installment. :)

[CatServants]

Ahhhhhhhhh....sea days....:):):). For Cabin Rats like Randy and I they're dreamy. Loved this installment as usual. Thanks for taking us all on the cruise with you;). Cruising vicariously is better than not cruising at all!:D

 

Happy cruising!

 

Denise

[hugger]

Chuck - you are so FUNNY love your sense of humor!

Being we are going on our first X cruise I'm wondering is it normal that they have so many people doing lectures and classes. Or, does this just happen on T.A.'s

Would enjoy attending these -

[luvtocook]

Chuck!

 

SOOOOO enjoying your reviews!!!:D We got some great pix of the helicoptor from our suite, did you???

 

I also have some great pix of John kissing the Blarney Stone! That staircase was WAY too steep & dark for me, I got claustrophobic when I started up and had to go back down.:eek: Thank goodness for the "professional camera!:p

[luvtocook]

Chuck - you are so FUNNY love your sense of humor!

Being we are going on our first X cruise I'm wondering is it normal that they have so many people doing lectures and classes. Or, does this just happen on T.A.'s

Would enjoy attending these -

 

I can't answer as to each cruise, but John Maxtone-Graham was INCREDIBLY interesting! He did 1 hour on each of the 5 sea days. We blew off the roll call Cruise Critic Connections party because it was scheduled during his first lecture!!! :( How rude of Celebrity to do that!

 

We commented on our card that they needed better event scheduling!:D

[catmand]

Hi folks,

I'm going to try and get the next chapter up today, it will be later afternoon, or if not, tomorrow. Wanda has an appointment for Lasik Eye Surgery at 9:15 this morning and I am the designated driver. While we have been waiting for this appointment we have met and talked with so many people who have had this procedure and all but one were very, very happy.

hugger.....I went back and checked some old Celebrity Todays from last year Hawaii and the year before, Alaska. Both of these cruises had speakers who were part of the "Enrichment" series. It appears they pick at least a few people who are "expert" about some part of the cruising location.

In no specific order (it was really late) these are some of what I found:

A Cultural Anthropologist and a "Hawaiian Ambassador" both spoke on various aspects of island living. An ex Madison Ave. advertising executive and also a health and wellness expert. Looks like there are at least two on each cruise.

Just thought of something, these were 13 and 14 day cruises, don't know about the shorter ones?

have a great day all, c. u. later, chuck

PS: cook.....actually it was your next door neighbors, just kidding. I can't remember which one. Hey Everyone, the cook here and another friend each had one of those very cool Celebrity Suites next door to each other. These are the ones mid ship with the floor to ceiling bow windows. This one afternoon they opened the connecting doors and had a big bash!. It was fun to see how the "big people" live.

[Ttowntreasures]

Chuck - what another great epilog........We say Perry Grant last year on the Connie - he was truly enjoyable.

 

I had lasik done recently (after cataract surgery) - had it done about 6 years ago and found out I had to have the cataracts removed, front and back of the eye.

 

I have worn "coke bottles" since I was nine and when my present doctor said "I'll have you 20/20 when this is all done", I was thinking sure thing, but not believing.

 

Well, after the cataract surgery, yag laser touch up, and final lasik - I can see 20/20 and see far away (there are leaves on the trees), in the middle, and even read the fine print on the sugar packets.

 

Best of luck and wishes for a speedy recovery.

 

Kathy

[hugger]

with Wanda's surgery this morning. Won't it be Fabulous if she can see 20/20.

 

Thanks for checking back on the lecture series - I'd really enjoy that - we are going on an 11 day repositioning hope they have someone on there too.

[catmand]

Thanks for thinking of Wanda. Yesterday was a very busy day with the procedure and all the first days eye drops etc. We have a follow up at 9:15 this morning. When we get back I plan on working on and posting the next chapter. Again, thanks for thinking of Wanda AND for your participation here.................Chuck

hugger.....If I would have turned the page in my note book I could have added this yesterday!

Just thought these would also be of interest:

A couple more on the "lecture" circuit. A journalist/TV producer who had worked on among other programs, 60 Minutes. A chef who had appeared on the Food Network. The chef also had big crowds as you could smell his demonstrations over half the ship.