Guadalcanal, in The Flesh...

Sunday, February 1. Boiling hot. 29 C.

Well today was one of the things that I/we have been looking forward to for several months. To get out and see what it was like in the epic battles that took place in this great big ocean called the Pacific. I have read about it in books since I was a kid, I have likely seen every Hollywood Movie ever made about it and other movies on the War in the Pacific.

Well it regrets me to tell you that the books and movies were better than what we experienced today. Us and many many mini busses full of ageing expectant and interested North Americans were sadly let down by our guides. Ours was  a native Solomon Islander, so soft spoken it seemed as if he was whispering. I gave up trying to hear him.

I wouldn't say that they are looking after the specific sites with the attention they deserve, but I recognize that this is a second or third world country, or is in my opinion. It was only by the fact that there was a very knowledgeable gentleman on our bus that picked up the slack and was able to point out some significant facts that our native guide was so silent on. He happened to be a Canadian!

Having now just humiliated the Guide, I will now apologize for the lousy photos I took today. This location is not the best for good lighting in photos, too much directly overhead lighting. It is what it is.

All In All, It Was a Good day!

A Local bunch of Natives gave us a hearty welcome and send off later. Compliments of Holland America.

This our little 10 or 12 passenger bus, quite adequate.

A gun, slowly rusting away at a site.

In the famous Henderson Field Airport where the wall is plastered with plaques.

In the field by the Airport, rows of trees with plaques with names of fallen  allied forces names, not all American.

A plaque at the beach where the Americans first landed. Not a vocal presentation the whole tour.

Use your imagination, you had to.

Wander around and look, and think.

Like what could this be?

This is the most up to date and impressive Monument on the Island.

This sums it up.

A nice send off!

Busy, Busy Days Ahead...

Saturday January 31. Some cloud, some light rain. 29 C.

We are flying along like a rocket at 20 knots heading for the Solomon Islands. Our destination is Guadalcanal tomorrow morning, Sunday, February 1 where we will be docked. We booked an excursion that visits and explores the WW II aspects of this island. I have a keen interest in Military History. I know it was an American battle but it was such a horrific situation nationalities do not matter.

Our day was again, very relaxing. It was quite invigorating to be outside early this morning and the ship going a zillion miles and hour. That is a horrendous amount of energy being expended just to get us somewhere on time for a bunch of tourists going on shore excursions.

This is the fastest that we have been going on a ship since 1999 when we went on our first World Cruise on a P & O Ship Oriana, when it was on a quick Medical Emergency run back to Cape Town, South Africa where we had just departed. It was quite invigorating out on deck there. this morning, just like Das Boot! [The story of the German U-Boat in WW II.]

Fellette went for a dip in the pool before breakfast today, I found that encouraging, It was a bit rocky and wishy washy but she says it felt good and was in no way painful. Good news.

In this neck of the woods there does not seem to be much difference in the temperature, day or night, rain or shine, it is always the same, very warm/hot!

A Good Day.

The pool is amazing, in spite of lots of movement in the pool one does not easily get bumped into the pool sides. Something to do with Design methinks. 

It is a relatively dinky pool and people can become very territorial about sharing. Just keep smiling! These three were in there paddling a wee bit when Fellette got in. I think they likely go early every day they can. God Bless them for that, they are old!

We were kindly invited to a table at the Food and Beverage  Officer's Table tonight with two other other couples. A delightful evening all round.

       

The Road to Hell is Paved With Good Intentions...

Friday, January 30. Not a breath of wind. 29 C.

We were up, bright eyed and bushy tailed and had coffee on the deck while we slowly sailed in and stopped, hovering for the day several hundred yards off of the town of Port Vila in Vanuatu. Vanuatu is an Independent Melanesian Archipelago Nation in the South Pacific consisting of 83 islands with a population of approximately 300,000 people. Now you know: Melanesia! [Formerly New Hebrides.]

We were determined to go ashore even though we did not want a shore excursion just for the sake of going on one. After breakfast we went up top to survey the situation prepared to go through the process of getting a Tender Ticket. The heat  was  like being in a oven, we headed for shade, sat down, looked at each other and said: WHY?

So, after we got back to our Air Conditioned Suite we appraised the scene and agreed, this is a good place to spend the day!

At home, we have lived our entire lives with Four Seasons every year. Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Here they have one Season: Summer. That is why they are Black Skinned. This weather is all they know! Today, at home, this would be amongst the hottest day of the year. We just don't go for a walk on a day like this at home, why would we today? 

A Relaxing Day, Exactly Why We Are Here!

Early am and the Pilot is dropped off on the ship and we 'hover' for the day.

The early morning is kind of neat as we go through a bunch of papers and dates etc, to get ourselves organized for the day and days ahead. There is no similarity to being at home at all. I think I am getting it all in order, not sure on that.

Three Tenders waiting for the ship to be cleared around 7:30 am.

Our view for the day. You can see a Tender heading for a jetty on the far shore.

See that neat little clean white linen cloth? That is laid out each night for our little tootsies while getting in and out of bed. Cool eh? 

Like Watching Paint Dry...

Thursday, January 29. Cloudy. 28 C. 

At sea, somewhere in this immense ocean. Creeping along at seven knots an hour.  I am not going to try and describe where in the world we are except to say that we are approaching Papua New Guinea and will be in Australia in 11 days.      

There is really nothing to write about. Life is really great if you like doing nothing. One needs to keep ones body in shape so that takes some doing. It is also a good chance to catch up on reading but I can have too much of that in a hurry, Fellette is quite content to quietly read for hours on end. 

I dislike to keep referring to our age as a reason for not being interested in activities aboard the ship but that is God's Honest Truth. Over the years I /we have done almost everything possible onboard ships from Dancing Lessons, Tai Chi, Trivia, Horse Racing, Knocking Golf Balls into the Ocean, even shooting Clay Pigeons off the deck but declined on that, and Lectures galore. We are not interested in Wine Tasting or Cooking Lessons and Spa Sessions are of no interest. I think that everyone undergoes many moments and hours of boredom [relaxation] but unlike me they do not write about it, daily. I see the same people/couples on sea days playing crib or other games together, endlessly. Watching their iPhones seems to be big time time waster! Some just read, some sleep on deck chairs. Some just bake in the sun, believe it or not! There is never ever everybody doing the same thing all at the same time. There is a heck of a lot on napping going on I will tell you! 

Felette and I had another appointment with the Ship's Doctor this afternoon. It was at my request. Fellette still has a very swollen bosom from the car incident 29 days ago. The bruises have gone away and she can sleep normally I would say but her entire chest is still swollen to the point of restriction. We had a deep and thorough examination and talk with the doctor today. Believe it or not there is still more time to go before things should be getting back to normal. There is always the possibility of us pursuing further tests in Australia which they would be happy to arrange. Right now we think the plan may be to look for a larger brasserie whilst in Cairns in 11 days. How about that being the highlight of the day and Too Much Information!

An Easy Day, Somewhere in This Massive Pacifice Ocean

Docked in Downtown Chicago...

 Wednesday, January 28. Clear. 28 C.

Well, not really in Chicago but it might have been. After a lovely predawn sail-in we were astounded to see just Another Big City at our balcony this morning. It was a shock, we were not expecting, and a disappointment. Fellette and I are Country Folk, we left the city stuff in 1974 when we moved our three children from the suburbs to a Five Acre Hobby Farm and we never looked back. Our daughter and husband are now living in that home, two of their four daughters were born there.

So, you might imagine our disappointment in having a Sidewalk Jungle at our doorstep all day long. We went ashore briefly, took a short walk and confirmed our first thought to head back to the comfort of the ship, SAP.

I mentioned to Fellette today that maybe we are no longer the 'Fun People' that we used to be! or, maybe, we never were 'Fun People',  but just thought that we were! Regardless, we will just carry on doing what we do, we are who we are!

Predawn, it was a picturesque sail-in.

From the Bow Camera it became more intimidating.

Behold, in all its French Starkness.

Our mind was made up by now, back to the ship!

How about a fun day scootering around a City in the tropics?

La View!

Thar she sits. 

Pretty view on one side.

I suppose those are the Flags of the Islands and France.

Fellette and I went out to a special dinner tonight, just because.

Anchored off of Easo, New Caledonia...

Tuesday, January 27. Light cloud. 28 C.

All good here, only another week before we get to Cairns in Australia. We have some very interesting places to visit before that happens though. Including Guadalcanal, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu. The later is an independent country with a very pleasant and happy lifestyle, for residents and visitors alike apparently.

Today we are actually anchored off of Easo in New Caledonia. We stayed aboard today. This side of this island is rather far away from anything and unless one went snorkeling, the only alternative was an relatively expensive Shore Excursion. I ventured into the gym a couple of times today to try and get my legs back into shape. Too much rest and relax time lately!

There is an interesting 'Shore Excursion' coming up in Australia a few weeks from now. When we sail over the top of Australia, then sail down, we dock at Perth or really Fremantle on the extreme left, [West]. That area is a lovely part of Australia, gorgeous. Regardless, on this ship, right now you can book a shore excursion that takes you from Fremantle, off the ship for five days and puts you on the Indian-Pacific, the Cross-Australian Train and transports you to Adelaide on the underbelly of Australia, taking three nights on the train, [I think], staying in luxury hotels for a couple of nights in Adelaide and meeting up with the ship there. The price is U$7000, per person. Of course there will be lots of good quality Western Australian wine along the way!

Fellette and I did the train trip years ago, from Adelaide to Perth. My memory is getting fuzzy but I will get part of the journey right! Fellette and I stayed with my 1960-Motor-Scooter-friend Keith and his wife Jenny in Melbourne for a bit, they then drove us to Adelaide via The Great Ocean Road, Keith and Jenny staying in their small tow-behind trailer while Fellette and I stayed in small shacks at the same campsites. Those were the days when we never thought about ageing and thought it would go on forever. I remember saying goodbye to Keith and Jenny in the Adelaide Railway Station after too many beers with Keith. We thought that we would never see each other again.  Next thing we knew the Train was whisking us across the great nothingness of the Nullabor, which means 'No trees' We then rejoined the ship in Perth/Fremantle and sailed home and lived happily ever after!

Please forgive me for story telling, we have very good and fond memories of people and good times in regard to Australia, even writing about it makes me feel good!

A Great Day.

After the anchor was placed, the tenders were set down to transfer people to shore for snorkeling or transported about. This side of this island is rather remote.

I am aware that is a pretty darn bad photo, but it looked good and like a possible nice trek up there, for younger folk.

A lady from Denver took this photo today and left her finger there to prove it!

This photo was taken by son Wally in Maui at sunset today. Timed just as the sun slips below the horizon, waiting for that elusive Green Flash! Left is Katrina, Wally's wife and their son, Nathan and of course, the one and only Miles: Our Great grandson. Nice to see them all!

Where in the Heck is New Caledonia...

 Monday, January 26. Rolly Polly. 28 C.

I believe Captain Cook named this island country New Caledonia because it reminded him of Scotland. The collection of Islands located north of New Zealand, east of Australia and above the Tasman Sea. Which probably tells you absolutely nothing! It is a French semi-autonomous territory. It was Annexed by France, under Napoleon in 1853. At present there is some concern about minor civil unrest with the local natives. I know not what all this means except that it is a tender port tomorrow and if anybody is collecting countries or is keen on diving, this is likely the place to be. Just watch out for the Natives!

Our day today was right on course: Rest and Relax. The pitching and bobbing on today's waves made it rather important to remain in one spot, sitting or lying. A good book was almost essential.

The basic purpose of this trip we are on was to circumnavigate Australia and see my '1960 Europe-Trip friend  Keith Stafford'. We  have only seen each other maybe six or seven times in the 66 years since we met buzzing around Europe on Motor Scooters. All this Fluff and Feathers of sailing to Australia and taking five weeks or so to get there is just a way for us to relax along the way.

A touch of boredom is hitting us I think. This was expected and predicted as we do lead a somewhat active life at home for two old Fogies, and this life is completely out of character. As I said before, Fellette deserves it!

A Wonderful Restful Day!

Pain Pills at bedtime only now.

A grand tour of my Office in the dressing room. All smoke and mirrors!

I just love being forced to read and nap, what a pleasure!

My Chart Wall. Map, route, schedule, excursions other important stuff.

Did I tell You How Hot It Is?

Sunday, January 25. Lautoka, Viti Levu, Fiji. Clear, docked. 28 C.

We are not ones for the heat at the best of times, but this is pretty wicked. After a lazy early morning coffee on the deck, before sunrise, we had a bite to eat and then sauntered off the ship and took a wee stroll down the dock. They had vendors set up and most approached us, nicely, mainly offering tours around the Island, etc. The last thing we wanted was to get seated in a car for an hour or more and buzz around the island, or, sit on a beach and fry.

No, I am not being a grump, but one's expectations of a decent day change when you get older. We have seen some of the best beaches in the world, and at one time we have enjoyed them. [By the way, the best beaches in the whole world are in Maui, Hawaii in my opinion.]

It was nice to get onto solid land today after a few tough days for me, but strolling around a South Pacific Island Town is not as great as it was to us 40 years ago. The tranquility of the ship will do very nicely thank you until we hit civilization in two weeks. I am not being condescending, but developing and such countries do have some rough edges to them, that we, at this time, are not looking for. It was enjoyable chatting with the pleasant Fijians, I must confess that. No, I am not being a grump, just a little weary from 90 years of life experiences. Fellette is in heaven here, what woman wouldn't be?

Son Wally, and Katrina met Nathan, Haley and great grandson Miles at the Maui airport this afternoon where they are spending some time at the same Resort, Maui Hill. 

A Sea Day tomorrow, then on to New Caledonia! A french Island group.

Our clocks go BACK another hour tonight, we are now four [?] hours behind West Coast time. And, a day ahead. I seem to have lost track of the darn time but who cares? 

A Good Day.

Be Happy in your work!

The Fijian Flag is a gorgeous one!

'Ship Day' is a working opportunity for the locals.

Tour and Shuttle buses lined up at 8:00 am this morning, it was even hot at 5:30 am!

Like a toaster-oven on the pier.

Be Careful What You Say...

Saturday, January 24. Docked in Suva, Vita Levu, Fiji. 

29 C.

I remember months ago when we booked this cruise, Fellette and I said that "Even if we never got off the ship it would be fine, we could just relax and rest."  Be careful for what you say or even think! It may happen. But now, who would have thought that that may actually be the case. Fellette is now recovering very nicely and this dude's body is slowly coming back to normal.

I saw a view of Fiji when I was having my troubles yesterday. I saw a High Rise or two. I suppose that even the south sea islands change and build new buildings just like at home. Of course they do, but you have to see it to believe it. However it sort of takes the Bloom off The Rose to see it in person. We did not go on our Long Boat Ride down a river in the bush today. I was too weak to go through all the stuff to get there and back and it is still a hassle with Fellette.

A Great Day Working on Our Relaxing Technique!

Where did the sunny skies go?

There sure ain't no more Cannibals here!

Drippy today in the local market.

Kind of lonely on the sun beds too!

A Bummer Today...

Friday, January 23. Lovely day. 28 C.

It must have been the food that caused me a day of wretched nausea and dead tired. I had a bite to eat in the morning lay on the bed for hours feeling just plain sick. I told Fellette that I could not eat lunch so she grabbed a bite and came back to the room to be with me, now I am the sicko!

I don't know how to describe what happened next without being a bit crude, I will attempt to be gentle with you. I have not had session with vomiting for years and years. I felt bilious and went to the bathroom grabbed the sink and some spontaneous self projectile vomiting just came out. Five times, each, just bang, there it was ! In the sink.

I have no idea at all what happened to cause it. I did have a small piece of German Meatloaf as they had an Oktoberfest-Themed dinner up there last night. Even at that, I left more than I ate.

We are docked tomorrow at another island in Fiji and are scheduled to go on tour in the morning, we will see how things are in the morning. There is not much worse a situation than being sick on a bus or a tour boat I can tell you!

Do you think that we are perhaps cursed for 2026? First the truck write off and Fellette's injury, then today's episode...

A Very Interesting Day.

That's it folks, another exciting day in the South Pacific!

Fiji Tomorrow...

Thursday, January 22. Hot of course. 29 C.

Once again, we had the sleep of the exhausted. Today is a sea day so we just dragged our bodies around until the caffeine kicked in, along with the food, and we got organized.

We also think that we have finally gotten the Shore Excursion business sorted out and in a form that it is on a piece of paper instead of it being on a bloody App. on my iPhone, the way the Ship seems to think is best. They are plain and simple wrong! Until they can get the internet working reliably on the ship they are causing multiple issues with their most important people, their Passengers! There, got that off my chest!

Tomorrow is a Tender Port which Fellette has never been to. Daughter Jeanette and I were here once for a day or two on a layover to Melbourne, Australia. We were exploring a business venture with another gent whom we knew. The venture did come to fruition and it was a small part of Canada Ticket, for some, until we realized it was a good try but would never be successful. In Fiji at that time, 1988, Fiji was in turmoil with a feud between two rival coups. We were hardly aware of it.

I started to do something about getting some exercise regime going. This learning to relax thing, combined with Fellette's chest issue put a damper on anything at all exerting and we became sluggish and have to do something about it. I checked out the gym today and spotted the exact machine I need to use. After lunch I went to the gym and did what I wanted to do. It was trying but I did what I wanted to do and the next time will be easier!

I found out today that I am not the oldest person on the ship, there is a 94 year old aboard. That made me feel better, the same as an 88 year old man celebrating his birthday today, he was so happy that there was somebody older than him aboard!

A Good Day.

Last night's dessert for me. Italian Gelato Ice Cream! Fellette assisted me on this job.

Sunrise this morning, we are now two hours off of Melbourne, Australia time.

This is the machine I used for some shoulder strengthening.

Presto Magico, we searched for and found this collapsible tripod today, missing since we came aboard. It was in a suitcase under the bed, where we put it when we came on board. We were obviously more stressed than we thought. Fellette was also delighted to find that suitcase full of clothes to wear. It was like Christmas to her.

This is a tile mosaic in a walkway by the Buffet Dining Area. Just something pleasant to fill the space.