Our first retirement trip

Just got back from a wonderful week in Bemidji, Minnesota, where we enjoyed crisp, clean air, cooler temperatures, the most gorgeous scenery (lots of lakes and forests), and best of all, spending time with Mark, Courtney, and Colby.

We helped them move into their new place, which is like a mini resort, with scenic views from all of these great windows.

What fun it was to go for a canoe ride right in their backyard. This very large pond has beautiful water lilies, catfish, and a very large beaver damn.

We spent an afternoon in Itasca State Park where we enjoyed canoeing on Lake Itasca, right where the Mississippi River starts. Here we are sitting on a log over the mouth of that mighty river.

We had lunch at a historic pine lodge that was built in 1910. Besides enjoying the waterfront view, and the hummingbirds, we had fun watching Colby sample french fries, a pickle, and whatever else he could get his hands on.

Colby's getting to be such a big boy at 9 months, going canoeing with his parents, almost walking, and climbing up on the sofa. We loved being with him and his mom and dad so much.

34th anniversary cruise

Such a fantastic getaway! Carl and I celebrated our 34th wedding anniversary with a 7 day cruise stopping at Jamaica (in photo), Grand Caymen, and Cozumel.

Such a lot of wind! Here I am at the top and front of the ship pretending to be Kate Winslet minus Leonardo. The winds were gale force, and the captain closed off this part of the ship shortly after we entered, and we got locked out! The crew had to get a key to let us back in. Now that's my idea of an adventure.

Such a nice view while eating breakfast and such a challenge limiting forbidden foods (sweet rolls and bacon) for Dad! By the happy smile on his face, you can tell he sneaked in some (1 piece) bacon and a sweet roll.

Such great shows everynight! Here I am telling Merril Osmund how great his show was.

Such interesting decor on board the Voyager of the Seas!

Such nice new friends! We had fun dining together every night, and sharing our adventures for the day.