It was our first cruise.
We were to travel from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas and back. And while I was looking forward to it, I wasn’t sure cruising would be my forte. To think I might be confined to a boat for six days felt a little stifling. I am more of a wanderer, a free spirit, and there would be others/strangers in my space.
Sometimes.
But it was our idea to gather the family for a Disney Cruise to bring in the New Year. We ranged in age from 3 – 85, and I must say, The Disney Wonder set the bar for future cruises. Not only, was it a great way to gather family, there was something for everyone, any time of day.
Including me.
I was up everyday with the sun while the rest of the boat seemed to be sleeping off the previous evenings fireworks. Mine were in the morning.
And up at dawn means I didn’t miss a thing.
Every port called for a sail-a-wave party.
Everyday was a day for fun and/or sun. The kids loved the pools and splash pads, and the cloudy days brought opportunities for juggling instruction, trivia competitions, and drawing classes. And there was no shortage of great company.
Excursions took us to both Cabo and Ensenada, Mexico. The picturesque beach cities along the Baja Peninsula offered shopping, local cuisine, adventure, and beach fun.
And we come away with cherished memories and surprises…for the grandchildren. Pirate night was their favorite.
“Yo Ho, Yo Ho. a pirate’s life for me…..“
“The best portion of your life will be those moments you spend smiling with those who matter to you. “
Wind Kisses, Donna
Wind Kisses 
Your grandchildren will never forget this wonderful time you provided for them.
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Neither will we. It was so fun to just ALL be together. Thank you Judy.
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What a fun adventure and love that quote
those moments you spend smiling with those who matter to you
So true
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That’s what matters at the end of the day, moments.
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This may possibly be my favorite post of yours! We took one cruise in the Carribean many years back. We had a wonderful time, but I didn’t get to explore enough 😊 Yours, however, makes me want to consider another one someday! Happy New Year, Donna!
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You should. San Diego is so close, with cruises leaving often, even for weekends.
We don’t think we are “cruisers” per say. For example I would rather fly to Hawaii, then spend 5 days at sea getting there. But it really was a fantastic time. So great for family, but we did see couples traveling without kids. There are 18 and above areas.(my husband needed those. Lol).
It was all inclusive aside from alcohol and fancy coffees, of course. The two oldest grandkids were in heaven as THEIR pool had an ice cream machine, and a pizza stand.
I think an excursion to Alaska would be fun.
Thank you. Looking forward to’23.
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I think I would need a kid free cruise! 😊
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Cheers to grown up time! I love both!
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Memories, that’s what it’s all about. Love it!
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Always. Thank you.
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This sounds like the perfect way to celebrate as a family when the age range is so wide 🙂
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It really was. My in-laws found a central place to sit each day. They could watch the kids, and we could visit throughout the day. Plus they were both great at the trivia competitions. It really was fun.
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I knew you would have fun! And your family has treasured memories!
We love cruising and we also made very good friends from Nova Scotia and plan to go visit them this summer.
As you know… we have taken two Trans Atlantic cruises… we have never been bored on a cruise. There is always something to do. People watching is another fun time for us on a cruise. Lol!
The cruise to Alaska was another wonderful memory for us. A cruise ship in a fjord is the most beautiful memory I have from that cruise.
We are “cruisers” and we enjoy it and all the excursions. We have also planned our own excursions at many ports.
Loved this post!
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Thank you so much Nancy. I definitely see it being a part of our life. We ARE booked in the autumn for a Mediterranean cruise, starting in Venice. Should be fun as we will also revisit some places we lived in Spain. Your trips have looked amazing. Excursions are a must for us too.
Alaska is truly on our list.
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Oooooooo what fun! A Mediterranean Cruise! Fabulous!
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Yes. Should be fun.
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LOL you need to send this one to Disney as their new promotional advert! Sounds like great fun for all – and what could be better than memories at all ages!! Fun, colorful images – loved the closing pirates 😊
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We really did have a great time.
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Congratulations to you for a fantastic family outing! The sunrises were spectacular!
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They were, And it was also the quietest time on the ship. Great fun! Thank you Stella.
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You and your family will cherish these memories forever!
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I think so. Would love to gather my family too. It was great.
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Gosh, what fun. I do think cruises are so convenient especially for the family,
XOOX
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
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This was not only fun for your family, but vicariously fun for us, too. I loved the pirate outfits! The cruise looks like more fun for the whole family than a trip to Disney Land or Disney World. Your next cruise sounds even more fun, if that’s possible. Thanks for sharing and linking with WQ. 🙂
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We are asked into the new year with challenges, and my heart is happy with the strength of family…AND fun.
Thank YOU, MArsha.
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How fun! I have been to Cabo and San Diego but never on a cruise. Might have to try it. 😊
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It was different. Would have enjoyed more time to explore Cabo. Fun for sure.
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I hope you get a chance to go back. 😊
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That is an amazing adventure with your family. Anita
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Thank you, Anita. It was a fun way to walk into the New Year too.
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Wow, a family adventures with ages ranging 3-85! You do not see that very often.
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It was pretty special. Between the pandemic, family schedules, and dynamics, I can’t believe we could all get there. Never know what tomorrow will bring so we work hard, to make it work. Thanks Geoff.
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