"Carpe Diem" Denise

A Little Sunshine For Me and My Guy

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 23:41:00 +0000

So the weather in January in my neck of the woods is mostly cold, snowy, windy, and without much sunshine. A perfect time to get away for warmer weather and blue skies. And so, as timing would have it with schedules, I set out for a little sunshine for me and my guy :).

Even though this getaway was only for an extended weekend, I felt blessed to find myself in Miami, the Florida Keys, and the Bahamas.

So for now it is only pictures to remember the sunshine and hoping the health issues find you okay.

Rainbow greeting at the Port of Miami

Miami Beach leaving port

Miami Beach shore view

A stop at a Key West local favorite - information link: sloppyjoes

View of USCGC Ingham Coast Guard ship at Key West

USCGC Ingham - information link: uscgcingham.org/history

A view of Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas - link for more information: great-stirrup-cay

I found a hidden gem of a beach along the Gulf Shores

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 00:50:00 +0000

Needing a little sunshine, and spring break time, I was ready for beach time. And so began a long road trip to sunny Florida. But it was so worth the trip as you can see by the photos shared below. Navarre Beach, what a beautiful place to visit for white sand beach time. So glad I found this hidden gem among the Gulf Shores. If you want to check it out, here is a link: Navarre Beach.

A view of the bridge to Navarre Beach from a park.

Gulf shores waters = happy place

Artist working on a sand project

Sunset at Navarre Beach

Yes, I was on the NCL Epic that week in February

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 23:10:00 +0000

On board the NCL Epic with engine failure

As a frequent cruiser with NCL, I enjoy the opportunity to sail on different ships. And the Epic was on my list to experience the once largest of the NCL fleet. With a guest capacity of 4100 built in 2010, I wonder why I waited so long. But I ended up with a longer than anticipated cruise, as it turned out. However, not all was lost - sunshine and open sea saved the day(s).

What started out as a great experience with two bright and sunny days at sea came to an abrupt change on day two. While cruising on day two, the ship came to a complete stop for around 5 hours. Everyone on board were in good spirits with the whole experience. The captain announced our emergency stop at San Juan for engine repairs overnight, and that our ports of call were cancelled. Even though disheartened, we made the best of the situation. It was a long journey at half-speed or less from our point at sea to the port of San Juan. Docking at the port provided another obstacle as the Epic crashed into the port. Reported on national media sites, here is a link to view the damage
article/video-norwegian-epic-strikes-pier-at-port-of-san-juan.

As it turned out, Puerto Rico was a great alternative port of call. Even though still recovering from hurricane damage, a visit to the forts were within walking distance of the port.

A great link for information on the forts of Puerto Rico: https://www.nps.gov/saju/index.htm

NCL Epic Mini Suite 9252

The fort coming in to San Juan Bay

A view of San Juan Bay

A rainbow as we enter the port.

A view of the port

A cliff side view with fort in distance

A beautiful shore

A view from the fort

A window view from the fort

Viewing cruise ships in port

Cantina time

Sailing back - a night view of San Juan

There is a little magic at Cocoa Beach

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 17:56:00 +0000

If you have a need for a sunrise that warms your soul, you may find that at Cocoa Beach as I did. Okay, so Florida does provide the sunshine to warm your soul, but the "magic" comes from your presence at a place and time. And you feel the "magic" once you are there. Just revisiting through these photo memories can warm the soul. Is there anything as relaxing as a sunrise or sunset image? You can almost feel the warmth through the photos.

Cocoa Beach, a magical place for me, and one I hope to see again soon.

Sunrise at Cocoa Beach

A great view of a cruise ship passing

A little palm tree, a little pool, a little ocean view

A "little" Bahama time at the first of the year

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 23:16:00 +0000

Well, this is a little bit late to post but the weather outside makes it feel relevant as it seems still like winter outside. Somehow spring is not showing up for duty yet and making all of us in the East North Central of the U.S. anxiously awaiting its arrival.

Although this short trip to the Bahamas began with the arrival of one of the Nor'easter storms along the Atlantic coast, we did make it. As I listened to the travel stories from fellow cruise passengers trying to get to the port, I must say I was fortunate with only a few hours delay in flight travel. It was not fun, however, to travel to South Carolina and board a plane outside in the snow and sleet (see photos below).

As you might have suspected, this storm affected the weather at the port of Jacksonville, Florida. Boarding the cruise ship with 40 degree weather (and I am being optimistic with the temp) was not what I expected.

Once you are onboard a ship, however, you forget about the travel worries and begin to enjoy the opportunity to sail away to a warmer location. Well, hopefully warmer. This Nor'easter did make its' presence known in the Bahamas, where the temperature was cooler than normal. It felt nice to me, though, given the subzero temps at home.

One great way to relax, in my opinion, is the view as you are sailing away from port. Having a view of the sun setting is, of course, a plus!

A day at Nassau began with a shuttle by boat to arrive at Atlantis Paradise Resort. It is just a short walk from the pier to enter the "pink" resort. Looking for a short excursion and some beach time, we chose to see the Marine exhibit. According to the Atlantis website, atlantisbahamas.com, the exhibit has "eight million gallons of ocean water and more than 50,000 aquatic animals representing over 250 marine species." It is an impressive and awesome display. We truly enjoyed the opportunity to view the aquatic marine exhibit, and I managed to include my hubby in a photo.

This link https://www.atlantisbahamas.com/ will give you more information for a stay at Atlantis.

The view as our ship left Nassau was spectacular and relaxing.

This short cruise was to celebrate my birthday milestone and so it required a special treat. Arranging to take part in the chef's table was a great way to celebrate. Hors de'hourves and champagne to start out along with a tour of the galley was fun! As we began the full-service dinner, we were in for a treat. The meal of amazing appetizers, entrees and desserts not found on the regular dining menus was a unique and delightful experience. The following photos give a glimpse of the event. I would recommend this for anyone who enjoys specially prepared dining.

And then, too soon was this short cruise over but I will always have this photo to add to my "happy place" collection. So glad to sail to the Bahamas, if only for a day.

Alaska in Summer - Memories from a visit to the last frontier - with a stop in Vancouver

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Tue, 10 Oct 2017 23:13:00 +0000

A summer adventure to Alaska is worthy of a bucklist or must do check off. Now, I must say that I am not usually spending summer weather in a cooler environment. After this summer's Alaskan journey, I am thankful for the opportunity to view what is considered the last frontier. (My husband has a shirt that states this, so it must be true) 😊.

Anchorage
Landing in Anchorage to a beautiful view and sunny 80 degrees was a great start and not what I imagined at all, especially the landscapes with large blooming plants. Almost 12 hours of daylight in Anchorage gives the landscape extra hours of sunshine, as well as me and the other tourists taking in the sites.

Anchorage Visitor Center

Strolling down town and on a trolly tour gives you a full day of sights, including a drive along Northern Lights Blvd., and a look at Earthquake park.

Anchorage to where?

Downtown Anchorage

Once in a Blue Moon - Downtown Anchorage

Alaskan Railroad Monument

Trolly Tour on Northern Lights Blvd

Earthquake Park - 1964 quake sunk the ground several feet.
Link to more information: Anchorage Earthquake Park

Scenic Train from Anchorage to Port of Seward, Alaska

Want a wonderful way to travel from Anchorage to the Port of Seward? The Alaskan Railroad scenic train is a must. It is also the easiest way for embarkation as NCL handles this prior to boarding the train. The glass dome cars give you a full view of the scenery. I offer a few photo memories to give you a small glimpse of this excursion. Link to more information: Scenic Train from Anchorage to Seward.

View from between rail cars

The railroad tracks are parallel to a paved pathway called the Coastal Trail.

Glacier vew

A view of the glass dome car

Waterfalls cascading down the mountain

traveling through the Chugach National Forest

Stop along the train route

Placer River Canyon

Forget-me-nots - State Flower

Glacier Bay

A remarkable day spent viewing and witnessing the loud crashing sound of the glacier calving at Hubbard Glacier. It is breathtaking to see in person. It is also amazing to realize this is happening every day and I have barely given this activity much thought. What a difference a day can make in your perspective. I am grateful for the opportunity to spend a day in Glacier Bay. Some photo highlights are shared below.

Approaching Hubbard Glacier onboard the NCL Sun

Serene view on an overcast day

Hubby posing for a photo memory of Hubbard Glacier

Closer view highlights the blue tones within the glacier

Hubbard Glacier is more than six miles wide where it meets the ocean.
More information: Hubbard Glacier

View leaving the glacier

Icy Strait Point

Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native owned-and-operated, with all profits directly supporting the community of Hoonah, Alaska’s largest Native Tlingit village. Photo memories of a day at Icy Strait Point.

Pilot Boat escort to the dock

View of the NCL Sun along a trail at Hoonah

Zipline adventure - Icy Strait Point features the world's largest ZipRider, with six 5,330’ ziplines dropping 1330’. After launching, you will quickly accelerate to speeds exceeding 60 mph as you soar 300 feet above the rainforest below.

Huna Totem Corporation is owned by approximately 1,350 Alaskan Natives with aboriginal ties to Hoonah and the Glacier Bay area

Tribal Dance and Cultural Legends at the Heritage Center Native Theater

Whale watching as they feed

Juneau

Juneau is situated between Mount Juneau, Mount Roberts and Gastineau Channel. Viewing Mendenhall Glacier gives a sense of the majesty of the area. Mendenhall Glacier is located within the Tongass National Forest – the largest national forest in the United States. A few photo highlights follow.

A view at the port

Downtown shopping

Panning for Gold

Hubby at Mendenhall Glacier National Park. View of the glacier.

Waterfall photo op at the National Park

Can you see the pink salmon?

Sea Lions sunning on the shore

Skagway

On the Alaskan Panhandle, Skagway is Klondike country. One of the highlights is to take a train ride on the White Pass Railray. The White Pass and Yukon Route narrow gauge railroad are part of the mining past in Skagway.

Arriving at the Port of Skagway

Port of Skagway

A steam-powered, rotary snow-plow originally purchased by the railroad in 1898 is used to clear the line in early spring

Part of the Best of Skagway tour includes a visit to Liarsville, a saloon style theater, grilled salmon meal, and gold panning are part of the visit.

Liarsville salmon grill area complete with entertainment

Markers for snow plows - yes snowfall accumulates at this height

White Pass Trail marker as seen from the White Pass train

A view of the gold rush trail on Yukon Pass

Can you see the hardship of navigating this trail?

Ketchikan

Arriving in Ketchikan, chances are good it will rain at least once. The average annual rainfall is 162 inches, but it has been known top 200 inches. Local residents call it ”liquid sunshine.” Mid-day is when the rain started during the day in port. However, shopping is still fun and plentiful shops help out. Below are a few photos of the highlights.

Entrance to Ketchikan

A view of the NCL Sun while docked in Ketchikan

Skilled worker replacing part of the totem poles

View of some of the many totem poles in front of the Totem Heritage Center

Needing repaired

Lumberjacks!

Log rolling competition

Showmanship with a lumber saw

World's deadliest catch excursion photo op

Vancouver

A beautiful place to see and considered one of the top cities for quality of life. Vancouver has it all with a natural seaport to the Ocean, mountain forest ranges, and Canda Place cultural center at the heart of it all. A walk along the seawall from Stanley Park, a trip over English Bay to Granville Island that is now a cultural district, heading over to North Shore to Grouse Mountation and the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, or a SkyRide gondola to the peak, and downtown Vancouver to visit historic neighbourhoods such as Gastown. You need at least a month to see it all. A few photo memories are shared below.

Canada Place

English Bay

Famous steam powered clock

The Giants - Granville Island

Chinatown

Harbour Air tour over Vancouver and surounding mountains

Harbour View

Beautiful mountain lake

Glacier view from plane

A view from atop a temple

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Wed, 12 Jul 2017 14:01:00 +0000

My husband has wanted to see the Mayan temple ruins for as long as I can remember and his goal finally came to fruition this past March. Cruising out of Port Canaveral for the first time was an interesting adventure in itself. It is not as easy as cruising from say, the Port of Miami, due to the location of the port there is quite a bit of travel time involved to get to Port Canveral. But I must say that staying overnight in Coco Beach was worth the effort. Walking around the area and the beach gives you a sense of the community and this would be a nice place to retire.

Our cruise aboard the Carnival Magic was a pleasant experience, overall. There was an incident in Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatan, that left us at port till around 11:00 p.m. instead of the departing at 6:00 p.m. A lot of rumors as to why, but this did not prevent us from making our next destination port. However, it may have affected the Carnival Breeze that was blocked in by the Magic and had to wait as well.

Back to the hightlights and the ruins at Belize. To get to the Mayan ruins from Belize requires an hour bus trip as well as a half-hour boat ride. The Belize Lamanai Mayan Ruins is a large site but worth the effort to reach the tropcial forest where the Mayan ruins are located. Be prepared for rain and bugs, as this is a tropical forest. Walking the trails to the Temples and monuments is a unique experience as you will see howler monkeys, toucans, and other tropical birds along the way. The guided tour takes around 2 hours and you will see the Ball Court, the Jaguar Temple, and the Lag Temple - known as Temple High. Most of the photos are near the Temple High site.

Carnival Magic

View from bottom of Temple High

Climbing to the top

Mounds carvings

View from atop

Looking down from atop

Me in front of the Temple High

A view from the mountain top in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Fri, 29 Jan 2016 01:07:00 +0000

There is a beautiful view to behold at a mountain top in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands and definitely worth the cruise down from Miami. I can say that it is worth visiting more than one time to take in the pristine waters and beach areas, as well as views from the top. So, I want to share with you a few photos on my way to and at this destination and hope that you may get a sense of the beauty...

A view from the Port of Miami as the NCL Escape leaves for the Virgin Islands...
It is fun to hear the ships call out as we leave the port - a way to say bon voyage! How friendly :)

Beautiful Miami skyline as the NCL Escape begins its journey to St. Thomas.
A nice way to see the sun setting and take in the sea air as well.

Calm seas are such a pleasant and inviting mood setter... I just can't seem to get enough of this view :)

Morning view as the NCL Escape approaches the port in St. Thomas...capturing the pilot boat coming to great us and steer the ship into the port at St. Thomas.

What a welcome to see a rainbow in the sky at St. Thomas... always a good sign :)

Entering St. Thomas, a view of old structures.

A closer look at the old structures at the entrance to St. Thomas.

Hubby taking in the view of the harbor as we prepare to dock.

Side view of Fort Christian is located in central Charlotte Amalie... more information about Fort Christian can be found at http://www.visitusvi.com/stthomas/culture_history

Our tour excursion driver who was quite knowledgeable about the history of St. Thomas.

A unique building in the tourist area of the Island.

Just a beautiful walkway in the shopping area.

A view from above the port where the NCL Escape was docked along with other cruise ships.

Mountain top view - what a beautiful place to see...

Zip line location on St. Thomas high up in the mountain top. Yes, I could hear some of the zip liners as they journeyed through the air :)

Mountain top view of Magens Bay... St. Thomas's most popular beach, this beautiful one-mile stretch is a public park and was donated to the people of the Virgin Islands by Arthur Fairchild. The water is usually very calm in this heart-shaped protected bay.

Taking in the mountain top view - such beauty to behold

Can you find me in this photo taken at Coki Beach... a great location for snorkeling and diving...

Yes, I did... one bucket list checked off!

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 15:30:00 +0000

So, okay, I was not expecting to attempt the ropes course and zip lines on the NCL Escape, but when you have a passing thought of life passing you by, something inside you takes over and you accept the challenge. I must say that at the moment you are being "suited up" in your harness, there is excitement and dread at the same time. It was like being part of the movie, Inside Out, which, is a great animated film you should consider seeing. All types of emotions all at once and those little head characters all fighting within me to get the leading role.

And, with a 7 year old standing in front of me telling me she has been on the ropes and zip line course several times and how fun it is, well, could you back out? So, staring at me first was a two by four that went on for a mile, well, okay, about 12 feet... but it felt like a mile. At the end of the course when I crossed another one, it felt like a piece of cake to me... perspective can change in a few minutes of time :).

After crossing the two by four and feeling like I had already accomplished something medal worthy, I faced the first zip line experience. Okay, by the time I got there my 7 year old expert in the course was already at a distance from me... how did she get so far ahead of me?? This is when the horror of what you are about to do sets in... and the line behind you grows and begins to be in a hurry... so with some nudging and encouragement, I stare out as I take a small running start into space and hold on for dear life as I pass the camera taking what turns out to be my face showing every emotion it could express in one second of time.

By then, I must admit I began to feel a little wobbly, but looking at the 7 year old from a distance, I accepted my fate and went on through the course of ropes, walking on two lines of rope, walking on a square mesh of ropes and reaching the next zip line that takes you over the sea...yes, I said over the sea. Now that I was a seasoned zip liner (in my head, at least), I was surprised to feel those same emotions rising up inside me. At this spot in the course, there was a crew member to help me calm down enough to let me know I could begin in a sitting position - much easier to do - (so where was this advice at the first zip line?) and then I was off zipping over the sea at Deck 20 on the NCL Escape... so you can imagine that the camera shot of me this time was actually worth purchasing :).

I would say that the kind gentleman who was at first behind me in the ropes section and then way in front of me should be given a medal of honor for his sticking it out with me after my pleas of "this is my first time, so please don't leave me" - what kindness there is in the world of ropes course.

After completing the rest of the ropes in this course, this kind gentleman went on to the higher level and well, I finished at the lower level, as you were probably expecting. At the end of the course you can start over again, and to the surprise of the crew member, I turned down the offer to start again...
I imagine he has done this course every day since the NCL Escape began its maiden voyage, so I did not let his puzzled look drag me back in.

However, after finishing and sharing my experience with Larry, my hubby, I found myself wanting to harness up and start the course again... okay, it may have something to do with endorphins and an adrenaline rush inside me that had taken over, but I did experience an exhilaration and feeling of accomplishment that must be considered a "natural high". So yes, I still want to try the ropes course and zip line 20 decks aboard the NCL Escape... maybe next year or so :). Want to join me? I can help you plan your bucket list checked off in zip lining! http://www.cruiseshipcenters.com/en-US/DeniseHile/home

Here are some photos of the course... one with me zipping over the sea.

A visit to Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Island...

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 14:25:00 +0000

A visit to the Virgin Islands is a unique experience that came with a challenging but rewarding time at The Baths on Virgin Gorda. To see the beauty and sheer volume of these volcanic caves is in itself breathtaking. Taking on the challenge of walking through the small and narrow passages to see this wonder of nature is another thing...

A brief description from the tourism site at http://www.bvitourism.com/activity/baths-national-park says it all...

National Parks Trust's Description:
Encompassing the beaches and rocky shoreline at the southwestern tip of Virgin Gorda, The Baths is a collection of massive granite boulders as large as 40 feet in diameter, with white sand beaches and secret rock pools.

The cavernous surroundings are a result of the molten rock seeping up into the existing volcanic rock layers; because the molten rock did not reach the surface it cooled slowly and formed the hard crystalline granite layer. Further shrinkage and cracking formed blocks, which were exposed when the softer volcanic rock above eroded away. Weathering rounded the corners of the boulders to what they are today. These massive boulders are also found at Fallen and Broken Jerusalem.

This is where you start your journey through the caves... yes, it is very tight, but worth it at the end.

A view of the beach (photo provided)

Approaching Virgin Gorda from a catamaran - a great way to travel from Tortola to Virgin Gorda....

Hubby and a good friend getting ready to explore the caves that lead to the beach

A view of the beach at the Baths (photo provided)

Worth the challenge of getting to... beautiful!
(photo provided)

A great way to get here is aboard the NCL Escape - the newest ship in the Norwegian fleet... that in itself is a great experience, too.

Let me know if you want to explore this destination to The Baths... I welcome the opportunity to help you plan your journey... http://www.cruiseshipcenters.com/en-US/DeniseHile/home

A look at the Norwegian Escape...

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Tue, 29 Dec 2015 00:25:00 +0000

If you want to get in on a great cruise deal on a the newest NCL ship, take a chance with the NCL Escape. Promotions are going on through January 3, 2016 to receive two amenities and some on board credit. There is still time to book for January cruises...

NCL Escape - a look...

Getting Certified - NCL Freestyle Specialist - my newest acheivement...

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Tue, 09 Jun 2015 13:57:00 +0000

I am so excited to have received my NCL Freestyle Specialist Certification! This is the highest level of certification that NCL currently offers.

Denise Hile, Freestyle Certified

An insert from the press release:

Norwegian Cruise Line is proud to announce that Denise Hile has earned the necessary credits to graduate from its online travel agent university, NCL University. This progressive, state-of-the art online school is geared to deliver an enhanced level of knowledge and insight into Norwegian Cruise Line’s unique Freestyle Cruising philosophy, cruising destinations, ship programs and operations, and many other “behind-the-scenes” elements not available anywhere else. Each graduate is required, within one year, to earn a minimum number of credits through a choice of accredited courses and electives. The rigorous curriculum includes testing at every level in order to move forward.

Carnival's New Brand - Impact Travel

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 21:00:00 +0000

Carnival's New Brand - Impact Travel....

If you are looking for a way to give back or pay it forward, then you will be excited about the news from Carnival on the Fathom Travel program. The inaugural destination is the Dominican Republic.

Here is an insert from the news release...

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, N.Y. (June 4, 2015) – Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world’s largest travel and leisure company, today launched a new brand called fathom™, defining a new travel category it is calling “social impact travel,” that will offer consumers authentic, meaningful impact travel experiences to work alongside locals as they tackle community needs. What sets fathom apart is the long-term, systematic partnership approach with its partner countries paired with the unique business model that allows for sustained impact and lasting development. fathom’s scale and global vision reach beyond what the world has ever seen. The company’s first destination will be the Dominican Republic, a country known for its spectacular beauty but also a country where the average household income is approximately $6,000 USD a year and more than two million Dominicans do not have access to piped water.

To read more, click on this link: CCL - Fathom Travel

A glimpse of San Juan...

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 16:41:00 +0000

A day well spent in San Juan, learning a little about the history and viewing the beautiful landscape. This day trip involved mostly a visit to El Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th century citadel, part of the San Juan Historic Site. There is more to see than time permitted, so if you have the opportunity to explore San Juan, you may want to have a few days. It would be well spent and provide you with lots of cultural knowledge of this beautiful place.

A view of San Juan Harbor from the deck of a cruise ship... beautiful to see

Hubby at the entrance to tour San Juan National Historic Site. This was a worthwhile visit to recommend for a half-day to full day tour. The Historic Site includes the forts of San Cristóbal, San Felipe del Morro, San Juan de la Cruz (El Cañuelo) and the city walls.

A view of the port from inside the Historic Site. The Carnival Breeze cruise ship is docked at the pier.

A glimpse of the soldier quarters. Notice the small, narrow stairway in the background of the photo... used by the soldiers.

The shore line view from the top of the Historic Site.

A section of the San Juan Bay and business district.

Antiqua... how I miss thee

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 16:37:00 +0000

If you get a chance to travel to the Caribbean, be sure to include Antigua and Barbuda on your itinerary. Especially of interest to history buffs, you can take a tour of Nelson's Dockyard and hear the tales of the then dockworkers. A tour guide explained that it would take 5 months for the cleaning of the ships that wintered in the Dockyards. The Dockyard was named for Admiral Horatio Nelson who resided there from 1784-1787.

As you can see from the photo, yatching is a popular event in Antigua and the Dockyards. Annual events include Antigua Sailing Week and a meeting of the Antigua Charter Yacht.

So, with all the history and beauty of this area in Antigua, this is one place to visit and include on your bucket list. It is well worth it.

English Harbour - You can see Nelson's Dockyard in the foreground

Map describing Nelson's Dockyard's history

A view of some yachts at the Dockyard. If you look closely at the hill, there is an estate where Princess Grace of Monaco stayed.

A beautiful wood yacht at the Dockyard.

The Lookout station Guard House for the Royal Artillery.

Munitions building at the lookout station. Hubby checking it out.

In the distant cliff is the estate of Eric Clapton. What a view!

A day in the Virgin Islands...

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Sun, 22 Mar 2015 03:03:00 +0000

St. Thomas, Virgin Islands...

St. Thomas - a tranquil moment. It was a unique experience to visit this serene location that included a few hours at Magens Bay. Considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches, this public park sure captured my heart. I found it peaceful and enjoyable to walk along the nearly a mile long shore. You can enjoy a stretch of the beach that is lively with activities or a quite stretch that allows you to capture a few happy memories and peaceful moments.

A view from the beach shows how calm the bay is and how inviting... it is a place to return to again when I have the opportunity.

Cruising has the advantage of giving you a glimpse of a variety of destinations... some that may be on your bucket list. I can help you plan your journey to the Virgin Islands!
Carpe Diem moments await you! Take a look at my site and give me a call.

Denise Hile - Expedia Cruise Ship Centers

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Thu, 05 Feb 2015 21:29:00 +0000

Hawaii Memories...

I was blessed to be able to travel to Hawaii and cruise the Islands on the NCL Pride of America over a year ago now. But today is a day to recall warm, tropical places, and this is one of the best memories I have. Traveling to Hawaii and seeing the beauty that surrounds you is just overpowering. Even today as I think back to a beach on Maui, I am enveloped in the awe of the moment... it was a Carpe Diem experience and definitely my "happy place" for quite some time.

One of the best ways to see the Islands is on a cruise, and the NCL Pride was a good option. You are in a port everyday or even overnight in Maui and Kauai. Sailing past the Napali Coast and its remarkable shoreline is a must. One of the other memories that I keep close is driving up the coastline at Kona, on the North west coast of the Big Island, ending at the northern most point and breathtaking views.

So if you would like to take a journey to a land of beauty, I can help you plan your own Hawaii Memories. Let me know... http://www.cruiseshipcenters.com/en-US/DeniseHile/home

Maui...a view of my "happy place"

Black Sand Beach on the road to Hana - Maui

A sunset view from the top of Haleakala - 10,023 ft above sea level.

Maui shore - my "happy place" memory

At the crater edge of Kilauea - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Akaka Falls State Park - near Hilo, Hawaii (The Big Island)

Kona shores and a view of the NCL Pride of America

NCL Pride of America at Kona, Hawaii

Hubby looking at lava rock on Kona Island

Kona, Hawaii

Journey through the Panama Canal

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Thu, 05 Feb 2015 08:06:00 +0000

Traveling through the Panama is a bucket list must, especially for anyone interested in historical achievements that has benefited many ships and their cargo. On a cruise ship, this is a day long transit that began for us in the Pacific Ocean traveling through the first set of locks that raise the ship to the level of the lake (a man-made reservoir) in the center of the canal, then traveling through the second set of locks that lower the ship to the level of the Atlantic Ocean. (Our cruise ship makes the journey from the Pacific to the Atlantic and then returns from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The ship for our journey was the NCL Star).

Here is a link to a map by Thomas Römer/OpenStreetMap data [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons that displays the canal as a whole.

During the day long transit, a narrative guide was brought on board the ship to share the history and details of the canal. Also, a professional photographer stood on the land and hills to take photos of the ship and passengers as we progressed through the canal. This was later made available on a DVD.

What a memorable trip that was worth experiencing! And I have a few photo memories to share...

A photo of the set of locks as we entered on our ship, the NCL Star. You can see a pilot boat and another vessel in the distance.

Inside the first set of locks. The vessel and pilot boat are already in the second lock.

Looking to the side, you can see the rail cars that help navigate the ship through the canal locks.

Water being flushed out of the lock - all of the movement of the water to fill and empty the locks is by gravity

A look back as the lake portion of the canal is shown.

A passing vessel in the lake of the canal.

Wanting to help make cruise memories for others...a carpe diem happy thought :)

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Thu, 27 Mar 2014 16:30:00 +0000

I have been working through training for my new position as a cruise consultant and am filled with thoughts of helpfulness... at least I want to help in making cruise memories for others! So this is a new carpe diem happy thought for me.

There are several cruise promotions - check my website to locate one and give me a call. http://www.cruiseshipcenters.com/en-US/DeniseHile/home.

Nice time to plan for summer break.

New Position, New Journey, New Memories to be made = Carpe Diem!

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Mon, 10 Mar 2014 22:18:00 +0000

Well, it has been awhile since I last blogged, but I must say that this is a great way to share my excitement on a new position as a Cruise Consultant. It is a great feeling to be able to help others to learn the joys of cruising.

Cruising gives you the chance to arrive at a destination without having to worry about getting there, a place to stay, food to eat, and the added benefit of entertainment along the way. I love to feel the ocean breeze in the evening as the ship sails to a destination and watch the stars and moon glide across the night sky. What a great way to relax and await the next port destination!

So, if you have arrived at a time in your life where you want to explore the world of cruising, check out my site, http://tiny.cc/i2zicx. I welcome the opportunity to help you on your next journey and new memories!

Cabo Cruise with Larry... great memories!

Another Day, Another Dollar?

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Thu, 30 May 2013 02:15:00 +0000

Hello out there... I cannot recall who first said this phrase, Another Day, Another Dollar, but it seems to be stuck in my head at the moment. Probably because I have not been as productive as I could have, or maybe because it just popped into my head from my memory.

So, does this mean I should have paid more attention to time going by today? I don't know, but I do feel that sometimes you need to slow down and forget about the hours of the day... it is hard to do, but it is also a means of taking a look around you... a carpe diem moment can happen that way.

Meds helping me out more today, but a ways off from feeling okay. Mostly, I am feeling a little bit trapped inside and not able to enjoy outdoors weather. Thankful for the day none the less. It is always a good thing to be thankful for the day, even when it may not have been what you set out for, planned, etc. Another phrase comes to mind... life can spin on a dime. So what helps is to be flexible, let things go, and hope for a good ending.

With that in mind, I should say goodnight.

Hope you had a carpe diem moment today. If not, seek it tomorrow.

Why voting matters to me...

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Tue, 28 May 2013 23:13:00 +0000

I grew up in a labor union family with both parents in different unions but both clearly thankful for what that meant in the 60s and 70s for a family of 8. It was because of the wages that were, at that time, decent and in line with the cost of living that it was easy to be part of the the middle class - at least the lower end of it.

I remember my father's health, which was in poor condition, and his work offering him a supervision position. My father would not think of leaving a good union position that held a sense of security and fairness. During this era in time, the CEOs were more aware of the need to keep a good relationship with employees that lead to employer loyalty which meant less turnaround time. Funny how the costs associated with turnaround hiring and training have little meaning these days. Not so funny how it is considered okay for the massive wage gap between CEO and workers, which stands at an obscene ratio.

So what has changed? Enter Capitalism and greed. Loss of Compassion and thoughts of helping the other guy as you have been helped along the way. Paying it forward - is this still true?

Random thoughts for today

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Tue, 28 May 2013 23:09:00 +0000

Hello out there. It is mostly a sunny day here on the farm...

In pursuit of living out my life in the spirit of Carpe Diem, I have a few things to share about today.

Sunshine is good for the soul and also for crops starting to grow in the ground. So today is a day to acknowledge the sun the Good Lord has provided and to enjoy the feel of warmth on my skin. It has been a day of dr appointments. and prescription getting, and hopefully getting over this illness that is seriously hurting my ear, noise, and throat canals...ugh.

So what can I say that also sums up a Carpe Diem day....
A walk around the yard to take in the spring season blooming all around, with birds and all creatures busy at their tasks. Our dog, Sassy, seems to be enjoying her day today, part of which involved a few naps at her usual locations next to the house. I have learned to leave room for her and not plant in her "spots" as it is a waste of my time and money.

Assisting a student that is completing a course from spring semester - yes, I am helping for a hopeful success instead of failure so that to me is the spirit of Carpe Diem.

Carpe Diem... It really is about thinking of others, too. Maybe it is mostly about that.

Thank you for a day of sunshine, Lord.

Wishing you a Carpe Diem moment each day.

Life changes...

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 14:23:00 +0000

Okay, I have started in a new direction, well, actually, I was started in a new direction for a few years. But, the transition has begun. A new direction, a life change... hope for a more rewarding and fulfilling career. It is truly Carpe Diem - in progress.

Memories of my mother

noreply@blogger.com (dehile24) — Fri, 25 May 2012 00:52:00 +0000

A reflection on the passing of my mother on May 15, 2012.

Mother and Me memories…

Mother in the garden behind our house and the strawberry patch.

Mother fixing pies and the leftover crust becoming cinnamon and sugar crisps

As children, when Mother would try to keep all six of us together during outings she would call us by reciting all of our names –even if it just speaking to one of us. Lynn, Randy, Denise, Steve, Tim, Shari… and if necessary she would include our middle names!

Mother, me, Mary, and Loralie spent many weekends having lunch at Applebee’s and walking through the Mall. Mother loved stopping and chatting with anyone we met while out and she enjoyed introducing us. She always introduced me as her daughter that worked at Ball State and married a farmer.

Mother loved to come over and visit the farm and the boys. Part of her childhood, she lived on a farm and her grandparents owned a farm in Wells County.

When Mother was over for parties, she would show the grandchildren how to play the piano.

Mother would call and remind me when she needed more salt water taffy or crème savers, her favorites.

Mother and me had annual Memorial day drives to the cemeteries to place flowers on all of the Bright, Brookshire, Scott, Harrold, Bowen, and Miller graves, which always included a stop by James Dean’s grave. Mother was very proud of being in plays with James Dean at Fairmount High School.

Mother once told me that she worked so much during our childhood so that spending time with the grandchildren helped her feel better about time lost.

Mother was very private about her emotions and feelings but I knew she missed Daddy and I am thankful she is now with him again.