Bahama Mamas!

I have recently entered my 42nd season as I like to call it. My birthday was on October 10th. This year I received a very special gift from a very special lady. My Mom who is an avid cruiser (approximately 4 cruises per year) decided to take me along for my birthday. Of course I was looking forward to some Caribbean weather and swimming in that "blue water" But most of all I was looking forward to some one on one time with my very busy Mom. Yes this lady can run circles around most 20 year olds I know!

Our trip began at 5:30 in the morning as we were chauffeured via van to New York City. The driver made it in record time and all I can say is I am glad I don't have to drive in that city!

We boarded the BEAUTIFUL Norwegian Cruise Line Ship named the Jewel, and what a Jewel she was. Absolutely stunning. Of course the moment we boarded the ship I couldn't help but go into vacation mode with the Island music playing, fruity drinks, and festive atmosphere. Of course New York City in the back ground was a bonus.


Our journey would take us to Florida, Norwegian's private island, and the beautiful Bahamas.
The first two days were "sea days' I especially love those as it is all relaxation, enjoying the pools,
food, and of course doing one of my favorite past times reading.
One could get used to this. The private island was absolutely beautiful and my Mom was soooo
excited that she decided to rent this HUGE floating tube approximately 6 foot in diameter. I was
a little unsure about this thing as I knew it would not be that easy to steer and it did not come with a
paddle. My mom assured me that all would be well. Well quickly enough the current took us past
the buoys that for obvious reasons we were not supposed to go beyond. I casually say to my Mom
as she is obliviously soaking up the sun "Mom we have gone past the buoys" I was not prepared for
reaction of "all out panic" I truly have never seen my Mom so frightened. She then proceeds to say
"Rhonda get out! Get out! You have to swim us back to shore" I try to assure her we will be ok.
"No Rhonda Please Please You have to get out and swim us back!" So out I go into the Caribbean
water that I am not 100% convinced does not have a few sharks swimming around" And I proceed
to swim with one arm and pull the raft with the other one back to shore. By this time on-lookers
are observing this and much to my embarrassment my Mom says "Look at my daughter; look
how strong she is! She's a triathlete!" Now I know what my daughter means when she says "Mom!
you're embarrassing me" Anyhow we left the island with a killer tan and for me a pretty good
work-out!


The Bahamas

Four Cruise Ships in Port







Atlantis in the Bahamas

Another beautiful view of Atlantis

And what would a cruise vacation be without meeting new friends!

I truly treasure the time I spent with my Mother. She is one of my greatest blessings and I love and
admire her more than she knows! Thanks Mom for the trip of a lifetime!