A Real Day of Leisure...

Saturday, June 9. [Our 56th Anniversary], cloudy.

It is hard to believe that we can need a day absent from touring. We were all pleasantly surprised when the programme today was void of any group activity with the exception of going our for dinner at an ancient Monastery tonight. 

The only functions were a pastry-making demonstration in the lounge and an Ice Cream Party after lunch. So, we had the morning and afternoon free and only around 5:00 PM did we get cleaned up in preparation for going out for dinner. How appropriate for our anniversary.

**  **  **

It is amazing how life evolves. 56 years ago today, and it was on a Saturday, what was going through our mind? Certainly not that we would, 56 years from that day, be on a ship on the Douro River in Portugal. 

To me, our wedding day was a day that I was not looking forward to. Being married to Fellette, certainly yes, by all means, but not the actual reception ceremony. To me, it was a major inconvenience to all our relatives and friends to sacrifice a lovely June Saturday just to witness our marriage. I can still see people in my mind on that day. They are 'stuck in time' forever.

My niece Barbara was about three, in a purple dress and looked Angelic, brother Graham was a young handsome teenager. My pretty young bride looked so fragile in her white Prom Dress, refigured for the occasion.

The last 56 years have been quite a ride for us, one day at a time. We have been very fortunate to still be here, in reasonable health, and getting old together. Blessed Indeed!

**  **  **

The dinner out was a grand way to top off the day, near the end of the time on the ship, and, the last 56 years.

Hoisting the gangway, simpler than on an Ocean Liner for sure.

Two River Boats, 'rafted' together. Note how similar they are in construction 

to fit the locks and low bridges on the river.

The Sandeman Sherry Silhouette on the hill, visible for some distance.

Three Canadians watching life go by.

Another ship waiting to get in the lock as we come out.

Passing scenery.

We rarely see other ships, that is why I photograph them, it could be us.

Old and new bridges, perhaps hundreds of years apart in construction.

This is a rather sinister-looking cruise ship. I wonder what is behind 

the Battleship Grey colour selection?

In rolls the ice cream.

Simple deck-walking aboard.

Alongside, waiting for the sun and patrons.

Also alongside.

Two departing friends and cyclists arriving back on the ship after a morning run. There are 39 of us passengers and also a group of 46 mixed hikers and cyclists with an a company called 'Backroads'.

Still managing to smile after 56 years of togetherness.

[Plus: Three kids, five grandkids, five moves, The Militia, The Fire Department, farming and founding a company along the way. Thank heaven for the kids!]