Welcome Home!

When we boarded on the 12th there was a huge white banner in blue letters  on the bulkhead forward of the pool deck proclaiming – WELCOME  HOME. I just assumed that it was there for us, however Barbara felt it was for Captain Gundersen as he had just returned to take  command for this grand voyage.  I think we were both right as so many of the passengers we have already met in the first twenty-fours onboard, have sailed on her before. As we settled in I remarked to Barbara “It’s like we never left”. She felt that comfortable.

It’s interesting as to how quickly one forms opinions of one’s fellow passengers.  Some you instantly hope you never cross their paths again and some you hope you get to spend hours with before disembarking. Two such individuals just happened to be assigned to our evening dining table, which I must say is a primo location.  Could it be that they live in Port Ludlow or because they have led such interesting lives? Both have had their trials in life and both have fascinating attitudes toward life.  Robin continues her long battle with health issues and her husband, Bill, spent his formative teen years as prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp.  Both realize that each day is a gift and life should be lived to the fullest.  How fortunate Barbara and I feel that they have come  into our lives.

How blessed Barbara and I are to be continuing our “Life’s Voyage” loving each other and what we are able to do.  As I think about our “Voyage” I would like to share the lyrics to a song I happened across a few days ago, which is entitled “The Voyage”  performed by Celtic Thunder:

“I am a sailor, you’re my first mate

We signed on together, we coupled our fate

We hauled up our anchor, determined not to fail

For the heart’s treasure, together we set sail

With no maps to guide us, we steered our own course

We rode out the storms when the winds were gale force

We sat out the doldrums in patience and hope

Working together, we learned how to cope

Life is an ocean, love is a boat, In troubled waters, it keeps us afloat

When we started the voyage, there was just me and you

Now, gathered ’round us, we have our own crew

Together we’re in this relationship

We built it with care to last the whole trip

Our crew destination’s not marked on any charts

We’re navigating for the shores of the heart

Life is an ocean, love is a boat, In troubled waters, it keeps us afloat

When we started the voyage, there was just me and you

Now, gathered ’round us, we have our own crew”

It is my wish that all marrieds who follow this blog would download a copy of that beautiful song and see if you don’t feel the same as I do.

And the sea rolls on…..