Happy Birthday Cary!!

I am looking out our balcony to land--Tahiti to be exact. The first thing I remembered is that 42 years ago I was sooo happy to have a little guy in my arms. Today I am ever so proud of that man. Even on the other side of the world I am thanking God for him today and all that he means to our family. I am cherishing the memories of him and smiling. Happy Birthday Cary!

We are having a great time, but it seems like we are a long way from home. We have met so many interesting people on board. Last night we dined with the man with the Jewish "yamukah" (sp? little Jewish headpiece). We had a delightful conversation with them. He explained that they were not really practicing Jews, but he wore it to remind himself of who he was and the kind of man he wanted to be. Hmm. I liked that.

We are coming into the port of Papeete, Tahiti. We will go ashore and explore this French Polynesian paradise. There are so many interesting stories about Tahiti. Tonight we have a Polynesian party on deck. The last port was a tiny little island--Nuku Hiva--where we were greeted by the natives with flower leis and treated to a party put on by the natives, including the roasted pig in the ground and drums and dancing. I found it fascinating. The whole town gathered for the party, the arrival of a cruise ship being one of the most exciting events of the year. I will try to post pictures later--more than you will want to see.

Right now we are looking at a city scene rather than natives and tropical island, complete with traffic jams and sirens. We will go on a tour this afternoon to the interior where the beauty is. We just watched the ship backed into its parking spot at the dock. It is always interesting to see them maneuver this huge thing with such ease.

I am sorry we missed the Bush party. I am so glad that there was one place on earth--Midland--where he could come home with love and dignity. I heard the Obama supporters booed him at the inauguration. Thank you for the pictures. They were great!l

Dad and I are trying to work out. We have learned how to use most of the machinery in the gym and are having fun with the challenge. One lady however pointed out that she exercised for two hours and the amount of calories the machine showed that she burned was only enough for her to have an extra piece of lettuce. :) I'm afraid the exercise is not going to offset the wonderful food.

We love you all and are thinking and praying for all of you. We will stay in touch. Love, mom, Grandma, Rita