Taking Winnie on a Wonder Cruise - A February Mexican Riviera Trip - All wrapped up 6/14

[franandaj]

I was so sorry to hear the news of Fran's passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for your condolences.

Glad you were able to finish the report although as you said it was bittersweet.

I'm glad I finished, and looking forward to the new memories.

Sorry you got sick on the last night

Yeah it was a bummer.

Looking forward to your new adventures

Me too! There will be a lot!

 

[GirlieGirl]

Yet another lurker coming out to say how very sorry I am to hear of Fran's passing. As many have said, it feels like we have all lost a friend - even though we hadn't met in person. We were in DL in mid-April and I thought how exciting it would be to see you in person. I would be able to thank you for the many hours of enjoyment and escapes to Disney you have shared with us all. Sending you peaceful thoughts during this time and so glad you are continuing your adventures with Fran watching from above.

 

[pkondz]

I'm selling things as quick as I can!

How does that feel??

Yikes! Feed a family of four!

At least!

I try to limit the brown sugar.....but.....

Not when it comes to oatmeal!

 

[pkondz]

We were still late and all the decent seats that she could get in and out of were already taken, so they just put a chair for me at the end of the room and let her stay in her scooter.

How did she feel about that?

Our 1st drink was Prosecco and lime with muddled Basil, this was pretty good. This was an example of a “wine cocktail”.

Hmmm... so basically just wine with a weed in it.

Our 2nd drink was made with hendricks gin infused with cucumber, st. Germain liqueur, green apple liqueur, cranberry juice, but first muddled with cucumber and lime before adding the alcohols. I believe that this one was version of a Martini

I think I'd like that.

Our 3rd drink was bourbon based. It also had grand Marnier, luxardo cherry liqueur, fresh lime and agave. Garnished with a dried orange

This one's more doubtful.

Here are our 4th & 5th drinks. The one in the Martini glass contains Zacappa 23 Rum, fresh Strawberry puree, fresh lime.

Nope!

The shot is obviously and example of a shooter, it contained Frangelico, Chambord, half and half, chocolate liquor. It was super tasty!

I'm not a shot person, so... maybe?

We went back to the room feeling rather "happy".

I bet you did!

Jill had ordered a Gibson for me,

Nice of her. I was gonna say she knows you well, but...

I took one sip, and the expression on my face must have been priceless. It was clear to everyone that something was wrong. "What. Is. In THAT????" I asked.

"Gin. Tanqueray" said our server. That's when Jill learned that Gibsons are normally made with Gin, but I get mine with Vodka.

Whoops!

They gave us beads and we didn’t even have to do anything to get them!

I was looking forward to having beignets for dessert!

How could you not!


(and then you didn't!)

I started with the sausage fritters. These were OK.

At least they served them as a Mickey head.

Next course I had the iceberg wedge. I really liked this. I hadn't eaten a lot of salads on this cruise (like I expected) and this one hit the spot.

It's funny... such a simple concept, but often sooooo good.

I was looking forward to the Prime Rib, but unfortunately since I can cook a mean Prime Rib, it's hard to impress me.

I haven't cooked a Prime rib in ages

However I never got that taste. All of a sudden I got a feeling in my stomach, it was subtle at first. I felt like I was going to burp. I held my napkin to my mouth, but nothing happened. Except that the feeling of bloating in my stomach got even worse. It must have shown on my face because the next thing I knew Jill was escorting me back to my room. I was dizzy, felt overall icky, and was unable to deal with the suitcases at all.

Oh dear. Was it from the drinks earlier? Or you never found out?

Somewhere in the middle of the night Fran woke me up seated on the side of the bed. She had managed to get out of bed, get to the potty, and back without my assistance. So sweet she didn't want to bother me since I didn't feel good.

Awww

I watched us sail into port, sad that we were all done, but happy to see the kitties in just a few hours.

Knew that feeling.

I ordered a V8, but I’m not sure what I was served, it wasn’t V8, perhaps the mixture in their dispenser must have been off.

Maybe just straight tomato juice?

For periods of time the line didn't move at all. Evidently customs was holding everything up.

What do they think? That you all went on a cruise, just to bring stuff back that you're not supposed to?

They only had about eight customs desks for roughly 2800 passengers.

I suggested In-N-Out Burger and it just so happened that there was one just off the freeway about 20 minutes ahead in Laguna Niguel.

Those look really good!

for dinner we had Orange Chicken over white Rice, with Tempura Green Beans dipped in Ranch, and Fried Wontons with a Soy, Sesame Oil, Vinegar, and Sambal Olek sauce.

Did you make all that?!?!?!

The trip turned out to be a nice getaway for me. I’m not sure how much Fran enjoyed it, but she put up with things. All in all I should have potentially seen it coming, she was way more tired than she had ever been on a cruise. Plus once we got back she was having a lot of cognitive problems, getting lost while she was driving to familiar places, forgetting the simplest things. But we always want to hope for the best and never expect the worst.

There was the issue of me getting ill in the middle of my Prime Rib dinner. So I put it on the menu for the following week (I have multiple Prime Ribs in my freezer at home.) And finally got my tasty Prime Rib.

That looks delicious. Whoa.

I still have to get those pesky Beignets!

Yes you do!

 

[acndis]

Allie, also a long time lurker. I was also so sorry to hear of Fran's passing. Your trip reports brought so many smiles and I loved Fran's sense of humor (and yours, too!). She will be greatly missed. I love your strength in moving on and getting support from your friends. It's definitely what Fran would have wanted. Excited to hear about latest adventure. Hugs and good wishes!

 

[justafigment27]

Alison, I’m so sorry to hear about Fran’s passing. I had been checking on this TR periodically and wondered if your absence had to to with Fran’s health, but was still surprised and saddened to see this update.

You’ve taken us on a lot of your journeys over the years and I, like many of your TR followers, felt like I knew Fran. Truly, you have no idea how many of us “internet strangers” will fondly remember Fran and your adventures together.

Again, I’m so sorry for your loss.

 

[franandaj]

All subbed for your next adventure.

Glad to have you join along!

Would you mind sharing how you prepare your prime rib?

Here is a link to that recipe on my recipe website.

http://www.longproperties.biz/RibRoast.html

 

[franandaj]

I'm sorry to hear you were feeling ill on the last night, not the greatest ending. Glad it didn't continue on debarkation morning at least.

Yeah, I'm glad that it just took a few tums and some sleep to feel better.

We sailed on the Wonder over NYE and getting off the ship in San Diego on Jan 2nd was pure chaos. 6 customs agents and the ship was at full capacity. It was after 11am before we cleared customs. Luckily our flight home wasn't until 8pm (which ended up being delayed another hour anyway).

That sounds crazy! I will consider myself lucky for only experiencing light mayhem.

I've seen the 21 Royal photos but looking forward to reading ALL about it

Su-Lynn had some great pictures, I've stolen quite a few of them for my report!

 

[franandaj]

I am so sorry to read of your loss-

Thank you very much for your condolences.

I have enjoyed reading of all your adventures and look forward to future ones—

It's bittersweet moving on with new adventures, but I'm sure that's what she would have wanted.

 

[franandaj]

That's what I meant and I think you are right about whatever it's called. I just call it, "My Disneyland timeshare."

OK, I get that. I own a ton of DVC points, but I read something about the new DLH DVC that makes me not want to buy in there. Something about limitations like Riviera but even more stringent. I'll have to look into it further if I come into some extra money!

 

[franandaj]

Oh my, I have followed your adventures for years! I remember your river boat trip and Alaska trip and both were added to my to do list.

Those were both super fun trips, even though she ended up being somewhat ill on both trips.

I remember your band concerts and rehearsals. I know how important her music was to her.

Music was super important. Both of dedicated a good portion of our lives to the band.

I also remember when your friend sweet Polly from Great Britain wrote trip reports and how sad it was when she also passed all too soon, just like Fran.

Yes, both of them passed way too soon. But they both suffered quite a bit. I'm sure they are both happier being in less pain. I teared up a bit remembering all these memories.

I am thankful that you and Fran got thus last trip together. What a strong person she was. I think if I had experienced just a fraction of what Fran did, I would have given up long ago. That is testimony to her character and her love for you.

It was a blessing for us to take one last trip. When I think about all the things that she went through, not just in the last 18 months, but all the other medical issues that she suffered from venal ulcers in her legs, the RA alone would have done in any normal person. Thanks for your kind words.

 

[franandaj]

Just trying to catch up where I last left off...

I know, I've been updating like a crazed fool!

There are no words adequate for a time like this. I'm sorry she's gone, and sorry for your pain and loss. I hope you are and continue to be blessed by many, many fond memories of her and continue to have wonderful adventures in the years ahead.

Yeah, it's sad. I'm trying to keep going cause I know she wouldn't want me just sitting around wallowing in my grief, but it's also hard. Just replying to everyone's kind words here have caused me to tear up quite a bit and I'm going through a whole bunch of kleenex.

I remember when Julie's parents passed away how much work there was to do to get things in order. So much you never think of!

Yeah, and I bet they weren't even hoarders with seven garages and four rented storage units! Not to mention a 3600 square foot house full of stuff!

So glad they are there for you! That Egypt trip is going to be amazing!

It is! I can't even believe all the stuff we are going to see! I'm still researching so I understand the History, plus there is so much more to learn! And I've got even more amazing trips on the horizon now!

Looks like a deconstructed shawarma.

You call it "cruise casual", I call it "every day I can get away with it".

You should put that on your resume!

I'm done with resumes!

I'm shocked they have a convenient way for you to spend more money.

Hope he gave you some good tips for the ride.

Sadly no, did you see my score on the other TR?

I wish someone had a picture!

It would have been a pretty funny one!

Oh no! Not on the last night! You're not allowed to get sick on vacation!

Luckily it didn't last long.

Good grief. I'm amazed anyone ever got off.

We should consider ourselves lucky after I heard about bcwife's experience!

It's always easier to see things in hindsight. In the moment, we're all still trying to hope for the best.

Yes. I definitely is.

Gotta say, that looks a lot better than the one on the ship!

Thanks! If you guys had plans to come out here, I'd invite you over for one of my dinners that I'm planning! I've got lots a large meats in the freezer that I need help to eat!

 

[franandaj]

Yet another lurker coming out to say how very sorry I am to hear of Fran's passing. As many have said, it feels like we have all lost a friend - even though we hadn't met in person.

And thank you for your condolences.

We were in DL in mid-April and I thought how exciting it would be to see you in person. I would be able to thank you for the many hours of enjoyment and escapes to Disney you have shared with us all. Sending you peaceful thoughts during this time and so glad you are continuing your adventures with Fran watching from above.

I wish that we would have been at Disney instead of what was going on. I'll continue reporting on adventures with many of the same culprits that readers have met in the past.

 

[franandaj]

How does that feel??

Overwhelming.

How did she feel about that?

I think she was happy not to have to get out of her scooter.

Hmmm... so basically just wine with a weed in it.

When you describe it that way, pretty much yes.

This one's more doubtful.

Yeah, it was my least favorite.

Nope!

You could have given it to me. I would have drank it for you!

I'm not a shot person, so... maybe?

You could sip it. Tasted more like a chocolate dessert.

Nice of her. I was gonna say she knows you well, but...
Whoops!

She was close!

How could you not!


(and then you didn't!)

I know.

At least they served them as a Mickey head.

It's funny... such a simple concept, but often sooooo good.

I've been having a lot of them lately. Trying to use up a huge chunk of blue cheese.

I haven't cooked a Prime rib in ages

I haven't since then.

Oh dear. Was it from the drinks earlier? Or you never found out?

Never figured it out.

Maybe just straight tomato juice?

No, it had a fizz to it, like tonic water was added.

What do they think? That you all went on a cruise, just to bring stuff back that you're not supposed to?

They just had to speak to every person or party and evidently they wanted to chit chat. They couldn't just look at the passport and say, "next."

Did you make all that?!?!?!

The only thing I actually "made" was the sauce with the soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar and sambal olek. Everything else came from the freezer. I made sure that I had stuff so I wouldn't have to deal with the grocery store upon coming home.

That looks delicious. Whoa.

Thanks! I do make a mean Prime Rib!

Yes you do!

Maybe soon. I'll get the Mickey head ones, but that shop might be closed down while they are doing construction for Tiana's place.

 

[franandaj]

Allie, also a long time lurker.

I was also so sorry to hear of Fran's passing. Your trip reports brought so many smiles and I loved Fran's sense of humor (and yours, too!). She will be greatly missed.

Thank you for your condolences.

I love your strength in moving on and getting support from your friends. It's definitely what Fran would have wanted. Excited to hear about latest adventure. Hugs and good wishes!

It's tough, but sitting around wallowing in my grief is not my style. Responding to these comments today has required quite a few tissues. I've got a lot of exciting plans for the future. And actually all of them (besides the time with my family) involve visiting and shenanigans with folks that I met here on the DIS!

 

[pooh'smate]

Glad to have you join along!


Here is a link to that recipe on my recipe website.

http://www.longproperties.biz/RibRoast.html

I hope you don't mind I bookmarked your recipe website. You have a lot of yummy looking recipes there

 

[franandaj]

Alison, I’m so sorry to hear about Fran’s passing.

Thank you very much for your condolences.

I had been checking on this TR periodically and wondered if your absence had to to with Fran’s health, but was still surprised and saddened to see this update.

It was difficult to come back here, but after our experience with 21 Royal, I really wanted to share that here. I was able to find some time in all the cleaning out to come back, respond to replies and post the updates that I had already written before she passed.

You’ve taken us on a lot of your journeys over the years and I, like many of your TR followers, felt like I knew Fran. Truly, you have no idea how many of us “internet strangers” will fondly remember Fran and your adventures together.

I'm actually overwhelmed with how many lurkers there have been out there. Many have commented over the years, but some have only come out to comment on this sad occasion. I wish more people would respond! I've met so many great friends here on the DIS, many of which I will be visiting in their own territories in the coming year. I'd love to make more new friends!

Again, I’m so sorry for your loss.

Thank you very much.

 

[franandaj]

I hope you don't mind I bookmarked your recipe website. You have a lot of yummy looking recipes there

I hope you enjoy trying them. There are some that are incomplete and I need to go through and update them. I believe that I was trying to follow the Canneloni recipe from the website back in April and it cuts off halfway through the instructions! I need to go back and update several. If you ever have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. You can DM me if you need to!

 

[pkondz]

Overwhelming.

Know how that feels.

When you describe it that way, pretty much yes.

You could have given it to me. I would have drank it for you!

Wouldn’t be the first time!

You could sip it. Tasted more like a chocolate dessert.

Might like it.

No, it had a fizz to it, like tonic water was added.

Weird!

They just had to speak to every person or party and evidently they wanted to chit chat. They couldn't just look at the passport and say, "next."

 

[cruisehopeful]

Are you going to the DIS/DREAMS event in August? The party was just moved to Avenger's Campus.