First and foremost...I want to wish a

VERY HAPPY 5th BIRTHDAY TO MY

MUNCHKIN, ELI!!!!!

Unfortunately since I am relying on internet and phone service out in the middle of the Mediterranean, I don't always get communication when I want!  Hopefully it was filled with laughter, fun, family and cake!  Sending hugs and kisses to you from Adventure of the Seas!

The past couple of days have been filled with fun and adventure here in Europe.  Yesterday we ported in Tenerife, Canary Islands.  It was a beautiful city with lots of art and fountains on the street.  We had lunch at a great little spot; where I had Tortilla Espana (translation: a Spanish Omelette-egg, chorizo, potato, onion! yum!) and, OF COURSE a (surprise!) Cafe con Leche! MMMMmmmmMMM!  We mainly just walked around and saw what there was to see.

Today we ported in Madeira, Portugal.  First impression was how old the buildings were.  I was told the town was old and tired, but that didn't quite do it justice! Most of the buildings were crumbling in some form...but still managing to stand.  One of the things that I love about Europe are the age of the cities.  For instance, a church we passed today was chartered to be built in 1486!  And not only are the buildings that old, but they are still in workable condition.  I guess that is what craftsmanship gets you!  And of course the architecture in every port I have been in has been gorogeous---I will take Spanish tile and metal work on buildings ANY DAY!  It amazes me how, in most of the ports, there are STEEP mountains SO close to the shoreline.  And you better believe that that houses go right up with the mountain.  Very gorgeous! Madeira had some great local shops with local crafts: lace work, leather work, ceramic work and of course, WINE! They are known for their port...so a couple of bottles MAY have followed me home.  :-/!

We had a performance tonight of Can't Stop the Rock, and honestly, it has been probably the first time on this ship that I have felt I have given a credible performance.  :-/ Not that the other times have been BAD, but tonight I felt energized and ready to dance.  Because of rehearsal and install, my body (and brain) has been absolutely demolished....I guess that is what 3 months of sloth will get you, huh?! :) I finally feel that I have caught up on all of my sleep, and have managed to make it to the gym a few times.  After the performances tonight, I remembered why I took this job.  Like I have said before CSTR is typically not performed in Europe because a lot gets lost in the translation.  However, both audiences tonight were EXTREMELY receptive...and there has been a teenage cruiser who has been in the front row of EVERY SHOW--apparently he is a dancer, he has been seen in the gym giving himself a FULL dance class; and after the Invitation performance he added some ballroom moves to his repertoire!  Being on stage is like no other feeling; giving everything you have to people that MAY or MAY NOT give it back but still loving every minute of it.  I hope that more performances follow this trend! It will definitely help the remaining 5 months pass a little quicker...and yes, one month down! (yeah, maybe there are a couple of days left, but it's close enough for gvmt work :))

Well, it is probably about that time; I don't need to rack up my "bar bill" any more :) I hope everyone is doing well...I will leave you with a little image...no meaning behind it OF COURSE :)

:)

New pictures are up on Picasa!!!

Love and miss you all!
xoxoK