Today was our “sea day”. We are on our way to Malaga, Spain, and will make port there tomorrow morning and sail away at 6:00 p.m. to begin our transatlantic. After tomorrow, the next stop will be Port Canaveral, Florida. That will be time for the sea days.
Everyone was enjoying the inside of the ship today. It was a bit chilly outside and very windy. The temps never got up to where they were supposed to and the ship is cruising along at a good clip, generating even more of a wind. We’re getting a bit of motion as well, having started rocking last night. The seas are not really rough but, with the wind and the chop, it’s enough to make the ship do a gentle back and forth.
I went to Mass this morning. I cannot tell you how good it feels to attend Mass. Don’t get me wrong, I love celebrating Mass; but, once in a while, it is nice to be a Mass-goer rather than a Mass-sayer. 🙂 There were, by the way, many people there today. We will be in one of the lounges each day at 9:00 a.m. except for November 1st, the Holy Day, and Sunday. On those days, we will have Mass at 9:00 a.m. but be in the theatre because we expect more crowds.
The celebrant knew that I was a priest so he called me up at Communion to be a Eucharistic Minister. I was happy to help but will be just as happy if he involves others as well.
Tonight was our first “formal” night, though many people do not dress formally any more. On the transatlantic cruise, we generally have three formal nights. In case you’re wondering, here is what I look like all dressed up. The first photo is in the Royal Promenade, Deck 5, and the second photo was taken by my waiter, Fathur, next to my dining room table, 563. Yes, Father’s waiter is named Fathur. 🙂 He’s from the Philippines, has a wife and child and another child on the way. He’s looking forward to the end of his contract so he can be home for the birth of his second child. His wife is in the second month of her pregnancy.
Dinner was out-of-this-world-good. I had the beef tenderloin, very rare, and it was delightful!
Finally, I share with you one minute of ocean bliss. Turn your volume down as it was very windy. Enjoy the water going by. More tomorrow.