Report # 2 Getting Close Now December 31, 2015 Thursday Very cold, in the 40's

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Subject: FW: Report # 2   Getting Close Now   December 31, 2015   Thursday  Very cold, in the 40's

Report # 2   Getting Close Now   December 31, 2015   Thursday   Very cold, in the 40's

Well, we weren't going to write quite so soon, but after waiting daily for our very first President's Club Holiday gift, we had to report about it.  Do you remember the saying, "A watched pot never boils"?  That is how we felt every day this month, expecting this holiday remembrance from HAL.  It couldn't be designated a Christmas present, because not everyone celebrates that famous holiday.  New Year's Day seemed appropriate, but getting it that late, would mean some folks might not be home to receive it, in particular, those who may be joining the Grand World Voyages out of Florida.  So today, being New Year's Eve, turned out to be the day.

A large box was left on our doorstep around noontime.  There were two nicely wrapped boxes inside.  Much to our surprise, we found two beautiful Waterford crystal-cut vases.  Embossed on them was the HAL logo ships and dated for 2015.  Enclosed was a personalized holiday card signed by the new President of HAL and the Mariner Society Director.  Yes, we are impressed, and it was worth the wait.

Wrapping up the final details is always stressful, as we don't want to forget anything.  We have learned to keep a detailed list of the last things to do before leaving, marking them off as we go.  Since we have recently replaced many of the major items that break in a home, we think all will be fine while we are gone.  Nothing worse than a broken water line, or a failed freezer, both of which has happened in the past.  Now we understand why so many people choose to down-size, and move to a condo in order to travel often.  Much less to worry about.  One day, we may do the same thing, but not just yet.  We would miss the gardening and the birds, fun hobbies for both of us.

We are very fortunate that our weather has been OK for flying.  No floods, winds, or fog to report in the recent news in this area.  Hope it holds good through Saturday.

All that is left to do, is keep our 2 pieces of luggage under 50 pounds (not easy), but who wants to pay over-weight charges?  Not us.

Will write from Ft. Lauderdale after Saturday.  Can almost feel the warm, humid breezes from there already……………..

Bill & Mary Ann

Pair of Waterford Crystal vases

The designer