Days 21 and 22. continued…Pictures from my cabin.

I am very surprised and extremely pleased that I have been assigned an outside cabin on Deck 8. For the next seven weeks, I can enjoy an eclectic mix of views ranging from the scenic landscapes of western Canada, Alaska and Iceland, as well as arrivals and departures from Vancouver, New York, Halifax, Reykjavik and Dublin. I am at a table for eight. I forget all their names at the moment. Let’s try! Denise, Glenys, Colin, Carol, Lynne, Joan and me. (I think that’s correct). All appear to be seasoned cruisers, and I believe, apart from Carol and Lynne who live fairly locally, we are all in this for the “the long haul.”Our departure from Vancouver was blessed with bright sunshine and clear skies, making the lovely surrounding countryside as lovely as it could possibly be. Until almost 9am the following day, we would sail well in sight of land and picturesque islands on both sides. But today, sea fog and grey skies detracted from the loveliness of where we were, heading towards the open seas. But now, in late afternoon of the second “cruise” day, blue skies,are manifesting themselves as the sun pours through the glass roofing of Queen Elizabeth’s Garden Lounge. This area is very much like an oversized conservatory on the back of a suburban house, but nonetheless, very pleasant.I chose to do very little today. For whatever reason, I did not enjoy a good sleep last night. Sunlight was spilling through my curtains well before 6am. The balcony, however, more than makes up for a modicum of sleep deprivation!This morning, I completed my unpacking; all is in place now for a week or two. I enjoyed what turned out to be a prolonged lunch. Apart from writing my blog, and now a journal, I have done little else. The fact that it is cold on deck is not a disappointment, soon enough, I will be diving into air conditioned areas to escape a scorching sun. I have signed up for at least three shore excursions in Alaska which should provide opportunities to photograph the wild life which we are assured is in great abundance.To be continued. Enjoy my efforts below. David.