Saturday on our way to Ft Lauderdale

Greetings,
    My visit to NYC was great.  Three of the staff met me at  pier 88.  We went to Gallagher's for lunch.  We got a comfortable round table in a corner and we talked, ate, I signed checks, talked and ate.  By the way they dropped off another suitcase for me, which I appreciated.  Now I have enough clothes to go around the world more than once.

The departure from the City was spectacular.  It was great to be a part of Cunard history with the Queen Mary2 leading followed by Victoria and then Elizabeth.  the fire works were typical NY - grand and glorious.  It was cold, but enjoyable.  Everyone was on deck somewhere watching and snapping pictures. There was music in the background that added to the triumph of the moment.  When the fireworks ended everyone burst into applause.  We then headed out to sea.  The QM2 is much faster than Victoria and Elizabeth, as a matter of fact QM2 is in Florida now, we do not arrive till tomorrow.

The QM2 is a true ocean liner.  It has a "V" hull that enables her to cut through the seas much quicker and she has greater power as well.  The Queens Victoria and Elizabeth are cruise ships.  They have a flat bottom hull.  They are really designed to travel calm seas such as the Med and Caribbean.  The QM2 is the only ocean liner around.  Most of the others ships are " cruisers".

I became aware that there are guest who crossed the Atlantic on Victoria came on Elizabeth in NYC and will get on the QM2 in Sydney.  They will go around the world on the three Queens in one voyage.  Rather spectacular trip.

Sr. Thomas had lunch yesterday with Mary Kenny.  Mary sends her best.  I believe she is on till Los Angeles.  Small world - talked about a number of people both she and I know. Try to schedule something like that.

Today and yesterday are relaxing moments.  The temperature is rising.  I have been up and around deck this morning.  A little brisk, but the sun is aglow, suggesting it ma warm up as the day goes on.

I am meeting a fraternity brother in Florida.  He will sail with me till Hawaii