Southampton, England

Happy Holy Week,

Arrived in Southampton this morning and all but 8 people disembarked. That would be about 1800 people. I left the ship early to avoid the chaos of baggage and good byes. During the day another 1800 + people got on board. I spent the day wandering around Southampton. There is not a lot to see in town. There are just attractive streets and comfortable outside cafes. I found one on Oxford Street and settled in, enjoyed the scenery, food and liquid refreshment. I grabbed a taxi and went back to the ship around 3pm.

I sat in the grand lobby and watched guest stream on board. I made an observation that the average age of this cruise has decreased by at least 14.2 years. But there still are wheel chairs and lots of canes. There are a number of children on board this time. In all do respects for the world cruisers they are up there in age. I should talk ! ! !

Next port is Lisbon, seems I have been there before. this time I will work on seeing the city. We arrive in Lisbon on Good Friday. I may get involved with the local Church. I have a feeling the people really get into this day. I'll see. I have services on board at 5pm Friday, once everyone is back onboard. I have met the minister who just got an board from Boston and we are meeting tomorrow for lunch to explore an ecumenical service for Friday. Let's see what happens.

Take care one and all. Make the most of Holy Week.

Joyfully,

Bill