First Stop, San Diego

Beautiful San Diego!

This is not my first time in San Diego, but it was the first time in downtown San Diego. We arrived on Friday afternoon, peak rush hour, so where was the traffic? That remains a mystery to me. The streets were virtually empty! I was really impressed with the cleanliness, architecture, absence of homeless persons, and friendliness of its people. We were lodged Friday night in the beautiful old U S Grant Hotel, dined at the Grant Grill both at dinner and breakfast (I highly recommend the French Toast! delicious!), so I didn't really see much of downtown. Note to self: when my world travels are at an end, make San Diego a destination, not a stopover. While awaiting our transportation to the pier, I noted these signs prominently posted in the lobby just outside the hotel bar: "MEN ONLY UNTIL 3:00 P.M." Seems three ladies decided to challenge this policy in 1971, ultimately winning a blow for equality, at least at The Grant Grill!

Up to my arrival at the pier Sunday morning, my trip had equaled if not exceeded the Oceania standards I have come to expect, nay taken for granted. Thus, I was totally unprepared for the complete and inexplicable debacle that ensued for the next three plus hours before I and hundreds of others were allowed to board the ship. Finally, two days later I have come to realize that on Sunday, at least, I was one of those "entitled" people that expect the world to cater only to them. I will, henceforward, endeavor to eradicate that person from my being. For this opportunity, one can certainly be inconvenienced for a bit. Get over yourself, Ruth.

My "digs" for the next four months!

It has not yet been determined whether we will keep to our published agenda or divert. Either route is chocked full of beautiful sights, people, and experiences. Bring it on!

All Aboard!

Our first "at sea" day was spent reuniting with old seafaring friends, knitting, eating, trying to find my way around a new to me ship, trivia, taking two laps around the track against a very brisk wind, a second cocktail party, partaken of my first lobster of the trip, and generally having a grand ole time! Wish you were all here!

Today, our second sea day, the sea has calmed, I have visited the ever helpful computer guru, availed myself of the concierge lounge where there IS coffee before 6:30 am, thank you! Seems our 50th State does not adhere to the other 49's need to move their clocks around for no good reason other than conformity. Good on them! But it has caused problems with the clocks on board. The first of many time changes to which my body must adjust. It's a tough life, but I'll take it with all the pleasures it offers.

Today Is Someday! Go See The World!