Today is packing day while carp is at work. Everything is being done except for what I'm wearing tomorrow and Saturday. Friday is my last full day to take in all the beauty of the island. No big adventures are planned. I want a simple day to let my senses feast on all the greenery, the sound of the birds and ocean waves and smell of the tropics and salt air. I have many pictures and movies to look at but nothing beats the real thing. Those who have traveled understand what I mean. <br><br>I dread going back to the cold ice and snow, dead looking trees and a condo filled with dry, stagnant air. Steve has been concerned whether I had a good vacation. Good grief, how could I not have? I've had a vacation of a lifetime, maybe 2 lifetimes. I've over used the word "wow" way too much yet at times I couldn't think of anything else to say. I've done things I've only dreamt of doing. As for my host, tour guide and the greatest friend, Steve, "mahalo" is too simple to express my feelings. Perhaps "aloha" would be more appropriate. <br><br>Looks like that 1st class ticket is gonna pay off. I'd half joking said I'd be returning with 3 checked bags. HA!!!!! Try that and 2 carry-on bags as well. You'd wonder how a single person could have so much stuff yet I've used everything I came with plus now I have all the shopping and treats to take back as well. Wish I had that MBA. <br><br><br><br><br>

Thank you and Steve for sharing all of it with us. Have a good flight home.<br><br><br><br><br><br>

The weather forcasters are calling for 6 inches of snow tonight. Please bring back some sun and heat!<br><br>So, compared to Costa Rica...which was better?<br><br>my photos

Your time went so quickly! It's hard to believe you are leaving and going home already. Carp, gave you a memory for a lifetime! There is no way I could take a 3 week vacation to the islands and reap as much as you have in the way of sweet times.<br><br>Carp! Rest assured you not only gave Marg something extra special, you managed to bring all of us in on the sweet smelling food experiences [well it seemed like I could almost smell those shrimp] and the beauty of the islands.<br><br>I hate to travel! But the 'armchair' 'computer' 'Internet' experience you two shared with me was something I too will cherish. We always knew you two had a special relationship, but now you are just about blood companions. [prick thumbs; press together] <br><br>Safe jouney home, Marg.<br><br>

Kate, I can't tell you how often I was expecting their "honeymoon" pics. <br><br><br><br><br><br><br>

I refuse to say which is better, CR or Hawaii. If anything I'll say both. No, I'm not playing politician. They are each unique places and experiences. I love Cuba too. I'd go back to any of those places in a heartbeat. My experiences living in Hawaii are a very special circumstance. Would I say Hawaii is better if I didn't have Steve as my guide and companion?<br><br>Travel to as many different countries as you are able. There is something to be gained everywhere. <br><br>

Honeymoon pics?<br><br>Oh my gosh.... ROTFL!!!!!!! <br><br>

It's been quite a learning experience for both of us. I had no idea about the underlying culture in Hawaii. Steve has learned what being a Canadian means to me. In some respects we are from different worlds but we respect each other's opinions and ideals. That's not to say we haven't butted heads at times about some issues. I'm right, even when I'm wrong. <br><br>

Well... time sure flew by, eh?<br><br>- alec -

"I was expecting their "honeymoon" pics. "<br><br>Yeah I kept waiting for invitations announcing the ceremony to come in the mail !! <br><br>I thought I was getting snubbed !! <br><br>David (OFI)