Sea Days - Leaving Amazon

 January 17,18,19, 2024


Well, we had several relaxing days at sea.  On Wednesday, we crossed the equator returning to the Northern Hemisphere. We also said goodbye to Brazil and the Amazon River.   As we returned to the ocean we passed an island at the mouth of the river.  On the map of Brazil, it  doesn't look that big.  It is the size of Belgium!  Hundreds of miles from the end of the River, the water is still brown because of the immense amount of river water entering the Atlantic Ocean. That night, Arlene participated in the show of Santiago Michel, the mentalist.

On Thursday, I attended Bible Study with the rabbi.  That evening was a formal night.  The theme was Casino Royale.  Billboard (Dueling Pianos) and the casino were in full swing.  "Free" money for gambling, gaming lessons, a digital poker table, drawings, decorations - HAL went all out.  I was escorted by my own Bond (Surety) man - James. The entertainment - Flyrights- were a very talented Motown trio.

Friday was the King Neptune ceremony for all the polywogs aboard. Those who had never crossed the equator before must pay homage to the King and his Queen.  The employee shellbacks must be initiated into the order of the shellbacks - those who have crossed.  It is quite a hilarious ceremony,  The Captain and his staff pass judgement on the poor polywogs.  The entertainment were the HAL singers and dancers.

Are you wondering where we are going?  So are we?  The Red Sea does not seem to be improving.  It seems to be a true SNAFU - situation normal all * up.  HAL has released a statement about keeping us safe.  Rumors are rampant.  Some say we are headed directly to the Red Sea to catch the fabulous night light show.  I saw an interesting article (below) about a new country opening up for tourists.  Is North Korea a possibility.  HAL is always looking for unique destinations.


            
                                               
                                            Hundreds of miles from the Amazon - waters still haven't
                                           completely mixed.  You can still see the Rio Negro water.

    

Dinner with Karen and Arlene - always a hoot!






                                                         Santiago Michel and Arlene.



    
                                                        Biblical history with the Rabbi.







    
                                                            Captain Fred

        
                                                        Casino decorated in red and black.                                    

    
                                                  My pink grapefruit cosmos was sex in the city good.


    
                                                        Elizabeth and Doug trying electronic poker.



    
                                                           Jim's at the table with Dick.



    
                                                             Alexandra and Captain Fred.
 



    
                                                            King Neptune Ceremony - Kimberly.













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