When we left the room this morning to trek off to breakfast, we noticed we had an invite in our mailslot. It was one of our Mariner perks of a complimentary wine tasting. But we had to go at 11am this morning. Kind of last minute we think. However, if we were true wine connoisseurs, it would not matter what time or day the invite was, we would attend. Those that know us well, know that is not the case. So we passed on the opportunity today. There will be other invitations during the course of this cruise, just in case we change our minds.
The day began with heavy clouds blocking the sun. There had to be a drop of 10 degrees from yesterday's temperatures. We still went to the aft pool, because we knew some sun may come out by noon. And it did. Perfect for reading and relaxing, although we have yet to try out the pool. Actually, few folks have gone swimming. Gone are the crowds and lounge savers from the shorter cruises. Being that we are shy of about 400 passengers, this trip is beginning to feel more like we have a private yacht. Lots of space, and short lines, if any at all.
We did hear there was a long line for the first Mongolian Cookout at the Lido pool at 11:30am. While we were out back, we could smell the aroma of sizzling garlic in the woks. Too lazy to check it out, we know they always offer an array of fresh, raw vegetables, meats, and seafoods. You create your own meal, then take it to the cooks for frying. We heard that some folks made a foot high mountain of the ingredients, like they were starving. It does cook down to at least half of the original amount. One of us has a serious seafood allergy, and even if something shellfishy was previously cooked in the same wok, it the result would be the same. Sick as a dog. So we don't usually partake in this cookout.
Another letter was delivered to us regarding the internet. Another complication has arisen. We are now in an area where we are in between two different satellite feeds. So, we are not receiving the signal for CNN, TCM, HLN, and ESPN. It is always like this here, and is not due to malfunctioning equipment. The letter indicated that the feed should be continuous by January 21st. That sounds about right to us, although, we sure hope it will not affect the two football games tomorrow on TV. Reception permitting, they plan on broadcasting both playoffs starting at 3pm in the Wajang Theater and the Sports Bar. Go 49ers!
Dinner was good again tonight. We sure are noticing many new entrees, or should we say, entrees that are looking different in a good way. We both ordered the entree salad of shredded iceberg lettuce and crispy fried chicken pieces. It was mixed with crunchy croutons, then drizzled with ranch dressing. Then we split an herb crusted pork chop topped with a pear and raisin sauce. Sounds like a lot, but we did not have lunch today. Maybe that's why the food tasted so good.
The 7:30pm show was on again tonight, featuring a game show. It must run only a half hour, because the next performance, violinist Michael Bacala, came on at 8:15pm. Instead of going to the lounge, we went outside for a stroll. We found the moon rising, almost full, but a peculiar color of burnt orange. At home, we have seen this, but never while so far out at sea. Wonder what this phenomenon is? There must be a scientific explanation.
