Panama Canal

 

 

We went through the Panama Canal today. A bunch of different locks raise and lower the water so that ships can go through. It is a slow process, but definitely neat to see.

 

San Blas Islands, Panama

The San Blas Islands were unlike anything I’ve ever seen. They are straight out of National Geographic. All of the Kuna people sell their art and jewelry outside of the little huts they live in. They also demand $1 if you want to take pictures of them. We joked that I would do well living there and demanding money from people to take my picture. One really cool part of the day was the visit we paid to the Kuna museum. A man told us all about their culture which is based on spirituality. We learned that the hammock is to them what something like the flag is to Americans. They are born in hammocks, married in hammocks and buried in hammocks. I really hoped to canoe around the islands, but we had a limited amount of time. I am having fun and becoming more settled into my new life. I am living inside a postcard.

Goodbye America!

I saw my family the other day. It wasn’t enough time at all, but at least we were able to catch up. I also watched TV for the first time in a long time. I miss my morning talk shows. I really know my values from this experience. I used to be the girl who couldn’t wait to move away to chase her dreams. Now that I’m the farther I’ve ever been all I want to be is closer. Don’t get me wrong, I really do like my job. I just know that family and a somewhat normal life are important to me in addition to performing. Right now, I feel so far removed from the real world. Too bad they all can’t cruise with me! My aunt, uncle and parents gave me cards for each holiday I will be missing with them and some extras for fun. It’s the perfect present, especially since no one can send me anything while I’m away. One thing I really like right now is that I have time to experience so many new things. I love going to the shows at night (usually comedians or musicians). I’ve also been able to read and write more and interact with people from all over the world. In a way, I am putting that communications degree to good use. Tomorrow we will be at our first stop in South America. I’m hoping to start taking some amazing pictures. It is so hot outside! I said I didn’t want to spend another winter freezing in OH. Looks like I got my wish.

I miss my Pipparoni

Florida

We started teaching ballroom classes this week. So far we have done the Cha Cha, waltz, salsa and tango. It is such a learning experience for me as well. The other night we had our crew Halloween party and I went as a sailor. However, everyone thought I was a nurse or Barbie. Too funny. There was awesome live music and the ship was rocking so much that alcohol was hardly necessary. There was a hilarious Halloween costumed rehearsal that night too...the pictures from that are pretty great. So today we are finally in Florida after 2 days at sea. I get to see my family tomorrow before leaving the country!

State House in Boston

Boston

Today my aunt picked me up for lunch in Boston. We ate at Union Oyster House. So good! I had another lobster roll and some amazing corn bread. We also went to Faneiul Hall and shopped a bit. It was a fun time. We have a show tonight and then our crew Halloween party. Woohoo!

Lobsta

Just had the most amazing lobster roll in Bar Harbor!