18 December 2022, At Sea
Today is a Sea Day Sunday, so we get a 9am Interdenominational Service.
First I went to the Lido for orange juice and coffee. I started handing out last days tips to especially helpful crew members. And back in the room I am into serious packing.
This morning’s “Pre Christmas-Eve Service” was in the smaller Wajang Theater. The Rev. Keith Hackett led the service, wearing the colorful Across Africa Tours welcome scarf from Takoradi, Ghana. He lit the Advent Wreath candles, which had been shared by the Catholic priest onboard. This time good singers lead the Christmas hymns and sang solos. Their choir also sang one verse of Silent Night.
Waiting in my room with the Quote of the Day and another clock change back one hour tonight was a gift from the Captain, etc.: collapsed luggage “Africa Grand Voyage.” This has been rumored for many days. Stuffed it into the larger Wal Mart one that is now full.
My Sunday Brunch was 11am. I enjoyed the Cold platter and the Hot Sampler with orange juice and coffee. Too full to even look at the Sweet Ending course.
The Captain’s noon report said that the USCG and everyone wanted to inspect us yesterday after coming from Africa. Everything went “very well.”
The Zaandam Crew Talent Show was 2pm. (On the way there I picked up two more photos from the Photo Gallery.) Jeremy introduced 12 solo, duet, or group acts. Florin, Ron, & Erika judged. Florin always gave 10 or more out of 10. My breakfast server Prand did a graceful Thai dance. She was the graceful winner. The show lasted 1 hour 50 minutes.
My packing is making progress.
Dinner was extra good tonight: Baby Beet, Frisée, Orange Salad; Rib Eye Steak; Baked Alaska; the Zinfandel Rose wine, and decaf coffee.
“On World Stage: B B King’s All Star Band. Direct from Beale Street in Memphis, B B King’s All-Star Band cooks up a rich southern heritage of classic soul and rock & roll to get you dancing.” And a dance floor was cleared for the dancers.
I have given out all my tips to very grateful crew who were most helpful.
Set my clock back an hour. Now back to packing.
Photo gallery by Barbara Cummings
Cummings Family Adventures 
Dear Barbara,
Thank you for a great cruise. Have a safe trip home.
Merry Christmas to you, Jack and your family who will be
so happy to welcome you home.
Sue
Barbara,
Thank you so much for all your effort put into sharing this incredible voyage! You are major inspiration! And, for this currently homebound mariner, you kept my heart at-sea for two months!
Wishing You, Jack and the entire Cummings Family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Nick