Then looking at the picture of our cruise ship on my desk brought back memories of warmer times in more pleasant places. While there is no question that God is present in this Iowa deep freeze, it certainly is much easier to acknowledge his presence in the tropical beauties of the Caribbean.
Cruising for 2 1/2 days brought us to the beautiful isle of Jamaica. We took the opportunity to catch a taxi to a local beach where we spent a couple of hours swimming and basking in the glorious sunshine. We thought of everyone back home in Iowa.
On board again for a lovely evening meal, we proceeded to Grand Cayman island. After catching a small tender (boat from the ship to shore), we joined a group traveling to another beach. Here the water was a bright green, with white sands. How refreshing to just soak in the sun and the surf.
Another overnight sail brought us to the highlight of the trip for us: Cozumel. Here we joined a beach party which included all the food (wonderful international buffet) and drinks (how about a Kahlua colada!) on the blue water beach with a chaise lounge and beach umbrella. It was truly a slice of heaven!
After the seven night excursion, we returned refreshed and relaxed. The wonderful company of good friends, accompanied by the scrumptious food and relaxed fun, made this a break worth repeating. God's presence was so evident in the vastness of the ocean, the beauty of the tropical paradises, and the warmth of the sun. In fact, we purchased a certificate indicating our choice of another cruise sometime in the next 24 months in order to appreciate those beauties even more.
The warmth of the memories from our trip have truly softened the harshness of this wintry blast we are now enduring. I believe that we will make it till spring.
