March 12, 2024

Yesterday we learned all about the “Spice Islands” and their part in the world we now live in.  We never really gave it much thought, but what a fascinating story they tell.  The spice Islands are really about spices. 

Two days ago, we spent a day at Banda Island.  Banda is the only place in the world that Nutmeg and Mace grow naturally.  Ternate is the Clove island and Sri Lanka was the only place to find pepper and Cinnamon. 

Battles were fought and wars were waged over the right to take these spices back to their country.  Spices are responsible for creating Capitalism and corporations to mention a few.   Who knew, we didn’t.

Yesterday was wonderful, the humidity and temperature dropped down to be pleasant outside.  Today it’s back to too hot and humid to enjoy the outdoors.  Kim is out playing Indiana Jones on a jungle hike, I worry that she is too hot and not enjoying herself.  Hopefully she will come home not too tired with a great memory of her outing and some great pictures to share.

Our cabin steward, Arnol, drew her a nice ice bath to relax in when she returns.  I think she will want to add some hot water and then enjoy it.  

I go to the pool about noon and eat lunch, I’m usually there until about 4 before returning to our room.  My reputation as a keeper of the pool just keeps getting stronger every day.  Yesterday, 3 people asked me when the pool would open again.  You see, they had the crossing of the equator ceremony yesterday morning and that really messes up the pool water and they must drain it, scrub it, and refill it.  My answer to their questions was that last time we crossed the equator; it was closed all day.   On my way back to our suite, I rode the elevator with a guy that said he was sleeping in every morning and taking naps every afternoon.  He’s never done that before in his entire adult life.  I told him that I too was sleeping in more than ever.  When talking with Kim about that, we decided that it’s a state of mind thing.  We have no worries, our kids are well and safe, there is absolutely no stressors out there for us to dwell upon. 

There was a custom jewelry show yesterday and Kim was one of the models.  She wore a $187,000 diamond ring and this necklace, WOW. 

More another day.  Thanks for checking in.