The three of us enjoyed, albeit feeling rushed, a bus trip on Maui starting with the IAO valley, then visions of whales breaching as we continued the bus ride to Lahaina for exactly two hours of shopping. We wanted Frida’s Mexican which we adore and fabulous exotic margaritas knowing Mexican food would not be in the food repertoire on our boat! Checked it off after an uber took us there and the Debbie Woehler came to say howdy. She graciously drove us back to the Banyon Tree and the museum so Larkin and I could pick up pairs of homemade feather earrings we had found last July during our visit. Check! Plenty of time for a leisurely walk back to the Outlet Mall, Exercise, check! We felt hurried but complete with time for a nap on the boat!
Larkin and I had a great trip with 24 other folks up to the Kilauea crater. Bear who was our guide was infectious with his knowledge of flora, fauna and history of the crater. He bought a DVD to share with us all on our drive down the mountain to the macadamia nut farm. The volcano has not been in active since the 1980’s and of course the last few years were amazing and wiped out homes on the island. Michael stayed ship side awaiting the Superbowl. Needless to say, the 49’ers played great for three quarters but forgot the fourth quarter. Our Cruise Director and Social Hostess, Andy and Tammy are married and from Kansas City, Missouri…they were so happy as the Chief’s 50 year drought is over – but the Captain said he couldn’t promise any ship would ever make a port of call in Kansas! They’ll have to wait millions of years for that to happen!
We hit French Polynesia tomorrow after four days at sea. Folks who had not crossed the equator kissed the fish and were dunked with a salt water bath yesterday to celebrate. We are now into summer – Larkin’s least favorite season – oh well! I’m loving it!
Michael and I continue our Italian lessons and are now on lesson 6 – its fun to be put on the spot with everyone muddling our way through trying to learn time, numbers, body parts – that was fun and of course restaurant items.
Buon Giorno! Ciao until a few more stops. E Mezzagiorno now so off to pranzo!
THE TRAVELING MARTINI'S 
Great update! It all sounds delightful. I leave tomorrow for Santa Fe, Taos, and SUNSHINE. We’re having a pineapple express…..flooding and no ability to ride. So…….no sense owing a suitcase that has cooled off! Hasta la pasta! Janie L.
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Enjoy New Mexico and the lack of rain!
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Hi, Jacque! Loved this blog! Great photos! The last comment I sent was not accepted???? You sure are having a fabulous trip . . . and learning Italian along the way is a bonus! We will be heading for Napa Valley on Feb. 16 and will be there for the week of Premiere Napa Valley. Guess we won’t be able to get together with you this time!!! Keep up the wonderful blogging. Love, Judy B.
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I never know why something does or doesn’t work with Word Press…but it works enough for now! thanks for enjoying it! hugs, jacque
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Has your cruise been impacted at all by the Coronavirus? National news has many cruise ships in quarantine around the globe. Here’s hoping you’re all fine….and will be going forward.
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We spent two days unable to serve ourselves as I think the cruise line checked where all passengers had been. We are now back to normal but are instructed everywhere to wash our hands. We pray by the time we hit Australia there will be no problems there! Not doing Hong Kong only Singapore!
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Hi Jacque and Mike! Sounds like your trip is SO special! Keep having fun and keep on eating!
Hi to Larkin please! Love, David
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So happy you have been able to post, Jacque. We look forward to your updates.
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