The Next Chapter: Day 182

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Day 182 - Aruba

Posted by Jill Marie

Just another sunny day in paradise! Today we were in Aruba. I've been to Aruba several times before, although it has been several years since! In fact, I think about 5 years to be exact! Where does the time go?!?

Valentina was allowed ashore today, so WHOOPEE!! We were off to the beach! Today would be just her & I, as Jaco had to work & the other Doctor might want to get ashore too! We found a good potty stop & then asked at Information for a good beach.

I remember the beaches in Aruba being FANTASTIC, so I knew we would be able to find a nice one. The gentleman recommended Machebo Resort. It was fairly close by & had a nice quiet beach. I didn't want a really busy one, as Valentina tends to attract a fair bit of attention! Go figure!

I bartered with the taxi driver to drop us off & pick us up in 1.5 hrs. Not long, I know, but you forget, I am the pasty white Canadian girl who burns like a marshmallow being roasted by a 4 year old for the first time!

The beach was stunning! The water was wonderful! Valentina, of course, hated it. We stayed in the water for a bit & she was visited by a couple from Rhode Island, as well as a lady from Boston. I took her out of the water shortly after that & left her in her carrier in the shade. I went in the water again for about 10 minutes & then decided to read my book. I tied Valentina to the lounger & watched her chase ants in the sand. Pretty soon her snout was covered in sand. She was having fun! Eventually she played out & came to rest under the lounger.

Soon enough our time was up. We headed back to Oranjestad & strolled around the waterfront. I suddenly felt a wave of nausea wash over me & it was to the point that I was hunting around for a back alley! I had been looking for wine gums for Jaco, but after 6 stops I was still empty handed. When the nausea hit, I knew he'd be going without for another day or so!

I went back to the ship, ate a bit of fruit & laid down. And who said being a beach bum was easy?!? Luckily the nausea passed over without any major dramas.

I showed Jaco the photos from the beach & he was impressed! As we have one more Aruba next cruise, he would come ashore with me. I will look very forward to that day! I love to go ashore with him, but I understand he is busy & can't always go ashore whenever he pleases.

Anyhow, feeling fulfilled with my Vitamin D dosage for the day, I'm off to bed... Sweet dreams!

Maria, Valentina & Papa
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo