LADY DI: Closing Cruise Connection!

“Six degrees of separation is the theory that everyone and everything is six or fewer steps away, by way of introduction, from any other person in the world, so that a chain of “a friend of a friend” statements can be made to connect any two people in a maximum of six steps, so states the free encyclopedia - Wikipedia”.    

So what does this have to do with Diana's cruise connection introduction? Well, we currently have approximately 36 folks for our cruise and if I were to describe all of my family and friends on this cruise, I could place them into six groups and with enough thought I could probably connect at least six or less relationship through either my life or our past renewal ceremonies. But I’m not going to do that...what I am going to do in my introduction cruise connection is share with you how I am connected with each of our cruiser.

Here we go...No.# 1, ”Family”, ROGER need I say more? Yeah he’s the love of my life and the reason we are “ALL”  going on this cruise

to Hawaii. You might want to thank him because I would not be planning any of this if ROGER wasn’t insistent on renewing our vows, “again” and for the final time! FUMI, my Mom and of course REAGAN, my older of two Brothers who have made it to our wedding as well as to all of our renewals! 

No. #2, “Sonoma Friends”, childhood schoolmates since 3rd Grade. I moved and claimed Sonoma, California as my home town at age 8 where I became friends with SEAN, ANDRE, PEGGY & SARA.

Then some 5 years later, in the 8th grade, ROCKY & GARY entered my life. Knowing these long time friends brings more friends, HOLLY, Sara’s hubby & ANDREA, who is Sean’s girlfriend. Our frequent visits to family up in Nor Cal always includes our Sonoma friends and though some have branched away from our hometown our friendship ties often reunites us in other areas...staying close even to this very day.

Through some fun and crazy Halloween parties in Burbank as well as Roger’s best friend Jim who has since passed away, Group No. #3 brings RUSSEL and DUANE into my life as we shared years of fun gatherings, celebrations, getaways, motorcycle rides and camaraderie...I also met LINDA who became Duane’s devoted wife through these two best friends. If you wanna laugh, get to know these guys. You’ll understand why your side aches the next day! 

Through some coaxing of promises to support him, I told Roger he should get involved with his Glendale High School Reunion Committee. So he got involved, and we haven’t stop having fun, which brings on No.#4, GHS Friends... we got to know and became close friends with his classmates WENDY and LEE. You know when it’s an instant right connection? Well the welcome I received from these two special ladies was amazing. The numerous meetings and coordinating tasks and duties to put on a high school reunion brought about not only classmates but their spouses...again instant connection with two wonderful guys, NORM, Wendy’s husband and BOB, Lee’s husband. The reunion committee meetings aren’t frequent anymore until the next reunion of course. But our friendship has flourished through the years as we continue to connect over dinners, travel getaways, parties, celebrations and continuous promises to stay in touch till we meet again at our next reunion, whenever it may be. And thanks to my connection with Wendy she brought about CAROLE & ELLIOT as we cruised the Mediterranean on one of my biggest group of 90+ cruisers in 2008.  

No.#5,  City of Irvine, the reason I moved to Southern California to pursue a career and

where I should probably be concerned with shared stories meshing my various friends on this cruise, especially if it involves umbrella cocktails, yikes!  I met KAREN my BFF, who by the way worked for Roger and of course through the years of friendship with Karen, the foursome was born when Karen married BUZZ.  The fun & laughter keeps coming! Then PAT who hired me as an intern when I finished up my education before climbing a career ladder that kept me in So Cal & over 25 years with the City of Irvine. Then here comes fun-loving STELLA who we both found as each other’s Soul

Sister. You should meet up with Stella over coffee or cocktails for her version of this story. She’s got a good one, just saying! ROSS my Program Coordinator for awhile and oh boy did we manage to create some crazy memories & projects together. JO MARY who provided departmental support and JAN who became a special friend though City projects as we managed to share and interact among other City friends such as ANGIE & IRENE.  Through my coordination in traveling and cruising a number of group trips, Roger and I had the pleasure of developing friendship with Pat’s childhood friend DEE DEE . JoMary brought her husband MICHAEL as well as Jan introduced her fiancé JIM and Angie brought her Mom LIEN on our incredible Asian Cruise which we will always cherish the moments.

My success, excitement and passion could not come about without No.#6... no degree of separation here! Instead my partner in crime in my successful travel/cruise trips since our 15th Anniversary Renewal is due to ALEX. I may create and have a vision, but if it wasn’t for the expertise, professionalism and experience of this amazing and dear friend, well

Roger would be going crazy as my retirement days would surely be without focus and fun. With Alex comes her husband chef TED. Love this guy and our passion for cooking and food truly bonds the two of us. What a double bonus for me travel and  culinary adventures. Two of my passions! The years have brought about so many laughter and fun times...sharing dinner parties, restaurants and events. Most recently Ted brought CONNIE his sister to our Mexico cruise and obviously she must have had a great time with us and will be joining us on our 25th Anniversary Renewal Cruise to Hawaii.  

I’m getting to think this world of ours is a very small world!  Welcome Aboard Everyone and let our celebration begin... as of today, 91 days till embarkation!  See you on deck of the Ruby Princess soon! 

RUSSELL: Cruise Connection

As it turns out, Russell is very shy and reluctant to write an article about himself.  So, once again Roger and Diana must turn to their editor to track down Russell and provide some information for the Cruise Connection.  The editor, bless his heart, managed to finally get ahold of Russell on the phone and ask him a few questions.

Ed.  So Mr. Cobb, I understand that you have had a long-standing relationship with a fellow called Randy.  And before that, you had a very long-standing relationship with Duane Davis.  Since Duane is able to go on this cruise and Randy is not.....are you planning to once again hook up with Duane??  I know you have stated in the past that you are not gay but your actions seem to indicate otherwise.  So what is going on??

Russell.  (Sniff) what?

Ed.  I thought the question was/is pretty clear.  Are you once again hoping to re-connect with Duane??  You know he is married now and his wife Linda would be upset if you two became an item again.  We all know about your frequent trips to the Rudder Room when you spend the night with them in Oxnard at the beach house.....so are trying to take this relationship to the next level??  What will happen to Linda??

Russell.  What (sniff).

Ed.  Perhaps we should move on to another topic.  I understand that (at least in the past) that you have an inclination to have the occasional cocktail.  So, just exactly what is your favorite drink?  This should be fairly easy for you.

Russell.  Abolut on the rocks (sniff).  

Ed.  You seem to be a man of few words.  Is that because Randy is always talking when you’re together and you have learned over the years to just remain quiet or is it that you really don’t have much to say and when you do speak up......no one seems to be paying attention......you know, playing to the hair-cuts??  Rumor has it that you first met Roger at one of Jim Allison’s halloween parties where Roger was wearing some sort of disgusting, twisted, demented, sick costume and, of course, there was an instant bonding.  And, you finally met Diana when the two of them were dating and ultimately got married.  Does all of this ring a bell??

Russell.  Huh?

Ed.  Have you always been this hard to talk to??  I mean, I thought you used to own a bar in Glendale called the Odd House.  Didn’t you have to talk to customers when you were serving drinks??  Didn’t Ike and Tina Turner and Little Richard play at your bar??

Surely you had to talk to them or did you have a partner that did all the talking??  Also, weren’t you married several times and have several kids and grandkids and even great grandkids......so don’t you have to talk to them once in awhile?

Russell.  Would you repeat that (sniff)?

Ed.  Never mind......let’s try a new topic.  Diana tells me that you really enjoy music and that you have quite a collection on your iPod or some other kind of electronic device.  She also tells me that you spend a lot of time doing on-line shopping for all kinds of things and usually wind up sending them back.  Is this some kind of social intercourse for you since you seem to be on the outs with Randy.  You know, you can get help for this.  So, given your love of music and your current situation with Randy, do you currently have any favorites?

Russell.  What?

Ed.  Geeze, interviewing you is like pulling teeth.  You know, there are lots of activities on the cruise ship and many folks really enjoy participating.  Do you have any favorites.  I know you enjoy drinking and eating.....but are there any others??  Are you in to rock climbing, bingo, dancing, art auctions, ping-pong, swimming, anything??  Yes, I know you would probably prefer the eating and drinking so do you also have a favorite meal?

Russell.  Tofu (sniff) and steamed veggies.

Ed.  I guess that about wraps it up.  Do you have any other thoughts or comments you would like to make about yourself or about Roger and Diana or about why you are going on the cruise?

Russell.  Wait a minute......I’m going on cruise??

PATRICIA "Pat" & DIANA "Dee Dee": Cruise Connection

Diana, whom I call Dee Dee (and I'm talking about Diana Pittaluga, not Diana Davis) and I have been friends since we were three years old, growing up three doors apart on the same street in Pico Rivera. Dee Dee's family moved to neighboring Downey the summer between eight and ninth grades, but our friendship endured.

"Dee Dee"

 

DeeDee has been a single mother for over 25 years, raising her three daughter in Lake Forest. She is a small business owner with her own Pool Cleaning & Pool Repairs business, which put all three daughters through college. The eldest is a pediatrician, one is a CPA and her youngest has chosen to follow in her mother's footsteps working side by side cleaning and repairing pools. She has four grandchildren ranging in age from two to eleven years. 

I'm the connection to Diana and Roger having worked for the City of Irvine in the Community Services Department for thirty years. The City was only three years old when I started, however Roger was our General Support Manager in this new City. Shortly thereafter, Diana worked as an intern for me for several months and she never left until she retired. While there, she met Roger, which is another story, that I'm not going to share, but you could ask them. 

"Pat" 

While in Irvine, I had an opportunity to work or supervise all the sections of the Department, ranging from Facilities Maintenance, to Community Parks, Aquatics & Athletics, Seniors, Teen Programing, the Fine Art Center, the Animal Care Center, etc., but I'm most proud of is my work in Park Planning and establishing the Park and Facilities Standards Manuel. 

After I retired from Irvine, I had the wonderful opportunity to work for the CEO of the Anaheim Ducks for two years on a part time status, which I've loved! Having never attended a hockey game I immediately fell in love with sport which was aided by the Ducks run and eventual win of the Stanley Cup in 2007, the first time the Cup came to California! The love for the sport and the Anaheim Ducks has spread to Dee Dee and other friends as I share my season tickets. We go to sports bars that hold Watch Party's when the Ducks are playing out of town. All in all we have become big FANS of not only the Ducks but the sport of hockey!!

IRENE: Cruise Connection

Aloha, future Hawaii Travel Cruisers.

I am Irene Cianfarani…..you can call me Irene C to make it easy. 

I began working at the City of Irvine in the early 70s.  That is where I initially met Roger Davis who began working in the Purchasing Department.  It seems just like yesterday…..Roger was a mere youngster with: a head of beautiful thick, wavy hair; a v-shaped physique ….a waste line; and muscles…a real Jack La Lane look alike! Oops, almost forgot, he had a cute wiggle in his walk as he stalked the halls of City Hall seeking co-workers to flirt with and others just to be the friendly Roger that he still is to this day.  

I left the City but returned after several years and that is when I met Diana Davis. She worked in Community Services; I worked Public Works.  The departments shared the coffee/mail-room, where I met Diana as we normally had to wait our turn for the copy machine. Diana was always warm, friendly and a pleasure to converse with…even had “nice things” to say about her Roger!

My travels over the years have included: several cruises to the Caribbean; Jamaica; and Mexico. I have travelled to Canada and Europe to the countries of: London; Belgium; Germany; Switzerland; and Paris. I have been to Hawaii many times to the islands of: Honolulu; Maui; and Kauai.  My favorite place of all to travel to – Hawaii.  The best place for pina coladas!

I am looking forward to my first cruise to Hawaii with the Davis group! I am expecting nothing less than – fun, relaxation, lots of pina coladas, coconuts, and great food. I am looking forward to meeting those of you who have been a part of the Davis’ cruises for the past few years and join in the fun. 

WHO IS GARY HEARD?: Cruise Connection by Roger Davis

This is Gary! 

Since there are mixed reviews as to the correctness of any answers to this perplexing question; (is he an urban myth or an urban legend?) it seemed appropriate to let our editor try and get ahold of Gary and ask him a few questions.  Following is that “interview”.

Ed: Given the historic difficulty in reaching Gary, I will try and reach him on his cell phone.  It’s Sunday morning just a little after 8:00 a.m.  Hello Gary I believe Diana had sent you an email about my interviewing you and I would like to start off by asking what exactly is it that you do?

Gary: Well, I’m a very important person and am in charge of all of the computers at the Napa Valley Unified School District.  Hold it, I have a call on the other line...........

Ed: Thanks for getting back to me.  So how is it that you know Roger and Diana?

Gary: Well, let me be sure that this is just between you and me.  OK?  Well, Diana and I used to be an item and then I joined the navy and became a submariner.....you know, under the water for long periods of time with other submariners.  So after many moons at sea, Diana had finally had enough of me and dumped me.  Please don’t tell Roger about this I really like him and wouldn’t want him to be..........oops, that’s the other line and I have to get this ‘cause I’m really a very important person.

Ed: You’re back.  Actually, this is not really that confidential since this article will be on Diana’s blog for the upcoming cruise.

Gary:  What the @#$%& is a blob??

Ed:  It’s blog, and it’s a term or name for a computer or web based article or perhaps a diary used by multiple authors.  You should check the term out on Wikipedia.

Gary:  What the @#$%& is Wikipedia??  Is this some place in Hawaii??  ‘Cause I’ve been there you know and I don’t remember any @#$%& Wikipedia!!

Ed:  I thought you said you were in charge of computers?  You should be aware of these terms.  You don’t have an Apple.....do you??  It is easy to look up these terms on an Apple.  You might want to consider this.  Anyway, let’s get back to the interview.  Why do  you like cruising?

Gary:  I’m with Roger on this one.  I like cruising ‘cause Diana likes cruising and while we were together, I learned the hard way that it’s best to like what.........hold that thought, I am important and I have to get the other line.

Ed:  Whew.....you’re back.  It’s way past lunch-time and I need something to eat.  How ‘bout I call you back in 45 minutes and we’ll continue this.

Gary:  Thanks for calling me back.  Feel better now?

Ed:  Yes, thanks.  So Gary have you ever cruised before??
  

Gary:  Hello!!??  I was on submarines with lots of other men for many moons under water and I’m pretty sure we went to different places but now it’s sort of a blur and I have trouble.......wait, there’s the other line and given my importance, I need to get it.

Ed:  You’re back again.  So, what is your favorite cocktail?

Gary:  I’m with Roger on this one again.  Bombay Sapphire martini up with no vermouth.

Ed:  And you’re favorite food and desert?

Gary:  Again I’m with Andre and Roger on this one but mostly Roger.  I like what ever is put in front of me and since I was on a submarine I eat everything that is put in front of me and often what is put in front of my table mates.  Sometime I pay them back if you know what I.......damn, it’s the other line again and I’m sure it will require someone of my importance to answer it.

Ed:  Do you have any hobbies?

Gary:  Just my work.  I love going to work.  It’s really fun and I am very important.  Oh yeah, I’ve sort of got into Japanese swords......mostly because Roger likes them.

Ed:  I’ve noticed that you refer to Roger quite often.  Is there something going on between you two??

Gary:  I have no idea what you’re talking about!!  OK, so I spent a lot of time on submarines with a
lot of good looking older men and they showed me how to shower and how to wash myself properly.  And they showed me that sometimes two or even three of us could fit in the same bunk.  Yes, I passed these techniques on to the younger men but I always preferred being taught and disciplined when I misbehaved.  And, Roger is older and he is kinda cute and he has a wonderful sense of humor and he is very soft and.......wait a second, there is the phone again.  Hang on gotta go.

Ed:  Geeze Gary it’s almost 9:30 p.m. you must have a very dedicated staff at the district.....I mean so many folks working on Sunday......pretty amazing.

Gary:  Actually, I’m the only one here.  No one else comes in on Sunday.....just me.

Ed:  I don’t get it.  You say you’re the only one there yet almost every time I ask you a question, you tell me you need to answer an important phone call.  What’s going on?

Gary:  Well, uh, well, listen, I’m a very important person and these people need me. CLICK.

Photo provided by ifunny.com

LEE & BOB: Cruise Connection

Hi, my name is Lee Spar and my husband is Bob Spar. 

We know Roger and Diana as High School friends.  Although I did not really know Roger in High School, we met and got to know he and Diana while working on our Reunion

committee several years ago.   I must say that it has been our absolute honor to have them as friends.   Diana is one of the best things that happened to our Reunion committee.  She is always intuitive and helpful no matter what we may need.

Bob & Lee 

Bob and I love to travel and have been fortunate to be able to do quite a bit of it, both business and pleasure.  We took our first cruise when we planned an 80th Birthday for Bob’s dad.  We took them and our children Michelle and John to Alaska and we could not wait for the next cruise. 

Some of the places we have been, sometimes cruising and sometimes driving, are to Kenya, Tanzania, Switzerland, West and East Germany, England, Portugal, Spain, Budapest, Estonia, Panama Canal, The Amazon, Brazil, several places in Canada, Argentina, Mexico, Costa Rica, Most of France, Italy, Japan, Hong Kong, Austria, Hungary, Yugoslavia, Albania, Holland, Romania, Denmark, Czechoslovakia, Tahiti, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Bahamas, and many of the other Caribbean Islands.  I am sure that I have forgotten a few, but given our age, I think I did pretty a pretty good job. 

Friends & Reunions 

We have 2 other couples that we have traveled with for the last 25 years, and due to health problems, they will no longer be able to travel with us.

We have had to decline previous invitations to join the Davis Group because of our other commitments.   When this opportunity opened up, we were more than happy to make our reservation and to enjoy and laugh with all of you.  We are so looking forward to finally meeting everyone.

We plan to continue traveling as long as we can, and to include our children and our grown grandchildren whenever possible. 

We are very happy to be celebrating the 25th wedding anniversary of these 2 very “special” friends.

ROSS “Keoni” MOODIE:Cruise Connection

Howzit! Ross Keoni "don't call me haole" Moodie here! 

Anyone ready to join Ross on an excursion? 

Keoni?  Are you Hawaiian?  Were you born in Hawaii? My mother Portuguese Hawaiian, Her fault my nose, red hair and belly. Santa Ana born and raised, no Islands. Spent most summers I can remember as a kid on Oahu; therefore, my pidgin is passible.  No hula. No play the ukulele.  Grind poi and laulau, drink beer, but not Primo, it’s nasty. 

Mom’s ohana, ten keiki.  Lotta relatives on islands. Cousins joke, you need to ask a girl who her parents are, so you don't end up bleeping a cousin.

Enuff about my paternal ohana and on to my COI ohana. I work with da wacky wahini Diana at UCP (University Community Park)  two years.  We kept AP (Adventure Playground) open!  On my eval I commented, “As sands through the hour glass, so goes the days of our lives!”  Next ting I know, Diana go to NCP (Northwood Community Park) and bruddah David Suter my boss again (apparently Dave was the only one who could handle me. I guess I was a handful in those days). Met my brah, Roger when he work out of trailer on Sand Canyon with Karen (talk story later).

Ross ready for a new cruising photo!
This one was from Rome on or Med Cruise. 

Dis my numba two time with Diana and Roger to Hawaii, numba tree cruise with them (Med and Mex). Numba one time, nobody eat slipper lobster, tell them it cockroach.  More for me to grind.  (Warning!!! Cockroach fly in HI! Also in Pidgin it means to steal, so you know cockroach on dis trip). No do this time as lots of food on cruise.  You know, if they have poi on the ship, try it!  It’s good if you like ground pigs feet. It was the trip where First trip, Diana, akamai, did luggage inventory and used everybody to ship food back for the reception.

I can hear the chant already, “Hana Ho!  Hana Ho!  Hana Ho!”

All pau for now.  Goin’ to the islands in May to practice my pidgin, buy my slippahs and see the ohana.  Next time talk okole maluna, pakalolo, mokes, tetas, lolos, honu… 

Later, shaka and ALOHA!

Keoni

REAGAN : Cruise Connection

Hey There....Meet, REAGAN MIYASAKI !!!  

Diana’s younger middle brother. And Roger’s brother-in-law & buddy pal. Did you know that Reagan and Roger have their birthday one after another? Yup Dec 11th is Reagan’s and Roger’s the 12th. No wonder trouble attracts one another. Reagan is number 1 of two of Fumi’s sons (Ladd is the youngest of Fumi’s 3 kids) Reagan has a girlfriend Tauni who is not much on traveling. But his one & only truly love, is his Jack Terrier Mix Dog,  “Dots”! She would have gladly joined him had Princess Cruises allowed dogs, NOT! So Reagan will have to enjoy family and friends for a change.

Like Roger and Diana, Reagan enjoys laughing out loud, tasting different and delicious cuisines and enjoy being with family and friends. So that’s why he didn’t hesitate to sign up to “C’mon Aboard” this Hawaiian Island cruise. Hanging around Diana and Roger he knows you can count on a good time. Certainly lots of laughter and fun. So why wouldn’t you join them, right? Heck it’s certainly better then working for goodness sake!

On this cruise Reagan will be Fumi’s roommate. Although being that his stateroom is right next to Diana and Roger’s. He’s counting on a direct tie to a great time and will no doubt be keeping Diana company as  he knows Roger loves his sleep and nap time. Reagan is an early riser and so if you are too. Be sure you connect with him and rendezvous at the International Cafe on Plaza deck 5 or check him out in the Internet Cafe. Don’t be surprise to see Diana sipping an early cappuccino with him as well.

Reagan, like Fumi, Karen & Buzz has not missed any of Roger and Diana’s Renewal Celebrations. And he was certainly not going to loose this honorable status by not showing up for the Finale Renewal. By the way, Reagan wants to know if he gets a prize for showing up to all these renewals. It can be quite exhausting to laugh so much that your side hurts, to not miss eating delicious food and creating memorable lifetime memories to cherish...but Reagan will do it! 

You can be sure to catch Reagan on the Sun deck 16 for “Movie Under the Stars” or join him for a “Sea Breeze” at the Calypso Bar and then challenge him to a game of Progressive Rummy. Though the tip here is to change his other favorite drink, “Ice Tea” to Sea Breeze and add extra vodka  so you might have an edge to win (hear this tip Peggy?) 

Asian food is Reagan’s absolute favorite so heading off port will be a culinary delight for him in the Hawaiian Islands. Reagan can’t wait for that fresh sweet juicy Hawaiian Pineapple and of course he is counting on his sister Diana to show him the way for all the local kine ono food, manaupa, siamen, kalua pork, malasadas, adobo stew, shaved ice, Kahuku Shrimp and sweet homegrown papayas and oh so many more.... oh my mouth is watering too! Hey Reagan, maybe Matsumoto will have Blue & Orange T-Shirts, your favorite color, Brah’!

So when Reagan is not hanging around Roger and Diana he is often playing with his APPLE computer, iPad, iPhone and other gadgetry. I’m sure we’ll see him on Plaza Deck 5 at the Internet Cafe. Reagan also loves DIY projects, Gardening, Music, Recreational Vehicles and he also Scuba Dive as well (Hear that Alex, Ted, Rocky & Gary, SCUBA!) When are shore excursions on line anyway??  

So to recap a bit here,  Reagan hopes to relax, have fun, eat-drink, spend time with friends and family! Reagan does have a bit of concern with the sea days but after talking to his sister, don’t think there’s gonna be enough time to be bored. Oh and he has to share this (sorry Roger), his favorite cruising moment? Caribbean Cruise 15th Anniversary Renewal, Roger’s finest moment at the reception “‘Peed in his Pants “ - Ask him to share that story. OMG...see you guys on deck for more fun moments! 

     

STELLA : Cruise Connection

For those of you who know me and my preferences for travel, you’re probably asking “why would Stella sign-up for a cruise?” There are only two reasons I would sign-up for a cruise...Roger and Diana!

Diana & Stella - sisters by heart! 

From our first meeting at the City of Irvine, I felt a connection to this beautiful gal and Roger. Roger was instrumental in teaching me the in’s-and out’s of purchasing :-) and I’ll NEVER forget those lessons, Rog! After almost 25 years, and constant nagging from Diana :-) retirement called to me 2007. Paul retired from LA County Fire in 2003.

My hubby and I have attended several of Diana and Roger’s renewals and adventures and our cruising experiences have been only with Di and Rog...all fantastic! Paul and I were thrilled when our tender recovered from its Poseidon adventure and we made it safely back to the ship on our Mediterranean cruise. The reason we enjoy traveling with the Davis’ is their ability to make everyone feel special, whether you are an old friend or new acquaintance and the atmosphere, no matter where we are, is all about having fun.

Normally, you would find Paul and me on the East Face of Everest or hiking 200 miles

Paul & Stella from 17,000 ft 

across England. We love the outdoors and all its recreational activities...hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, you name it, we probably do it. There’s a special feeling we get at 17,000ft, gazing across the magnificence of the Andes or Himalayas, soaking in the views of our incredible earth and living simply. We never get homesick, although after months on the road, a big bowl of rice and some tofu taste pretty darn good. 

Paul and I also enjoy being “trailer trash.” We own a 21ft travel trailer which has made many journeys back and forth across the USA and Canada. Believe it or not, our marriage survived after spending 9 weeks together in our little “Palace on Wheels.” 

Although I love adventure and pushing the envelope, it's not to say I don’t enjoy kicking back and relaxing. Give me a stack of trashy magazines, some good coffee, flannel

Sisters so different & yet the same! 

pajamas, My Sis, "Diana" and I’m a happy camper for hours on end. And then there’s food! Oh how I love to eat! Currently Paul and I are eating our way through the 61 Best Latin Restaurants in Orange County and 101 Cheap Eats in LA.

I’m looking forward to this cruise because I will have just completed a 500 mile bicycle ride across Oregon and Roger promised he would care for my tender, bruised and abused parts on all the sea days.

“Wherever you go, go with all your heart”

Confucius

SARA & HOLLY: Cruise Connection

Holly & Sara

We are Holly and Sara Graves (maiden name McBride), we are really looking forward to cruising with all of you. Diana and I have been friends since grade school, in Sonoma. My husband Holly and I met in Las Vegas, where we make our home, 32 years ago (married 8 years).  We love to travel and we love adventure. We've been on a couple of cruises together, the Alaska Inside Passage, which was absolutely breath taking.  We also enjoyed the German river cruise.  We love Hawaii, but we have never cruised there, so this will be a first. It is also the first time for us to cruise with Roger and Diana. I know we will have a great time! Roger always keeps us entertained...the first time I met him was at our High School reunion, sporting a Steve Youngdahl  name tag. Steve was our fellow classmate, but he was the dreamy popular guy, girls giggled over...so you all get it now, right? Roger you always make us laugh! I've been trying for years to go on one of Diana's cruises...so now that I'm retired, Holly and I will be there! Can't wait!  
                                  Looking forward to meeting you, Sara & Holly 

LAST CALL for CRUISE CONNECTION

Allow me to give a big shout out “thank you” to those who have submitted their Cruise Connection Introduction for our cruise blog. Truly appreciate the contribution and need I say that it has been fun reading about each of you. Just to let you know, those articles that I have received and have not posted yet, are ready and awaiting their assigned dates for our blog debut. So stay tuned, there is more coming your way!

However for the handful of cruisers (you know who you are!)  you need to still get your introduction to me please! I have extended a final deadline date of May 1st as per our Master

Cruise Calendar, check out the blog article “IMPORTANT CRUISE DEADLINES FOR YOUR CALENDAR”. 

Otherwise, I will be "releasing" Roger to write your Cruise Connection Introduction article. Do you really want that to happen? Seriously, please get your introduction in to me .... you have been warned for the last time....Mahalo! 

ALL ABOUT ROGER: Cruise Connection

Shy Roger & Swords 

As most of you know, Roger is very shy and has a difficult time writing about himself so it seemed easier to have our editor interview him.  Following is that interview.

Ed: So Roger, what is it that you enjoy about cruising?

Roger: Cruising??  I thought this was an article about Japanese swords!

Ed: No, this is about your upcoming cruise to Hawaii to renew your wedding vows.

Roger: You’ve got to be kidding me.  I’m going to Hawaii to do what?  On a cruise? When is all this happening?  Was I there?  Is this why my credit card is over the limit?

Ed: Calm down.......here, take a valium and breathe into this paper bag.....deep breaths.....relax......better??  OK, lets start over.  So why do you enjoy cruising?

Roger: Well, mostly because Diana likes cruising and I’ve learned over the years that it’s best to like what Diana likes.  I’m not stupid you know.

Ed: So, you’ve cruised before?

Roger: Yes, and Diana tells me I’ve enjoyed all of them.

Ed: I understand that you will be renewing your wedding vows.  What’s that about?

Roger: Really good question!  Apparently Diana wants the option to say no if she has finally had enough of me and my constant internal dysfunction.

Ed: I can certainly sympathize with her.......I thought there was some sort of sewage leak nearby.  Ok, next question.  Do you have a hobby?

"What?? Are you @#&%Blind??"

Roger: WHAT??  Are you @#*&% blind??  Can’t you see what I’m wearing?  Really, what school you go?  Diana says I look like a billboard and you ask that kind of stupid question.....geeze??

Ed: OK, I get it, you collect Japanese swords.  Perhaps something a little easier.  What is your favorite cocktail?

Roger: Ah....finally something relevant.  Bombay Sapphire martini up with no vermouth.

Ed: We’re on a roll now.  Your favorite food and desert?

Roger: I’m with Andre on this one.  What ever is put in front of me is my favorite.  However, as I recall, the sorbet was always outstanding.  Or did Diana tell me I enjoyed it?  Probably I liked it.

Ed: Well, that about wraps it up.  Any final thoughts or comments?

Roger: Yes, Diana tells me that I’m really looking forward to being with friends and family but in all honesty I’m not sure who they all are.  I guess that’s what name tags are for.

FUMI : Cruise Connection

Hello Everyone. I’m FUMI. Diana, Reagan, Roger, Karen, Buzz, Gary, Rocky, Peggy., Sara, Sean, Andre’s “MOM” and perhaps many more as I was told people are still signing up. These fellow cruisers I mentioned, I have known them a very long time and have thus through the years become a part of my family. I am very excited to be able to join Diana and Roger on this Hawaiian Island Cruise. I have been to Hawaii before as I have not missed one of their many renewals and I am looking forward to their final renewal for their 25th Anniversary. 

As you probably figured out I did not write this but, on Roger and Diana’s last visit to Sonoma. Diana asked me a lot of questions for this computer thing she is doing. I don’t know how to work a computer or really understand it. But I know that my kids and grandkids and probably even my great grandkids all know how to do it. But me...I like to watch as I am fascinated and inquisitively amazed of what it can do (these are Diana’s words to describe how I am as I look over her shoulder). So to those questions she asked me...

What made you decide to go on this cruise?

Well...because it’s the “LAST ONE”, I was there when Roger & Diana got married and I want to be there for the last one. I haven’t missed one yet and I want to do this because I can. Well, I am hoping to...Diana says “Don’t worry Mom, cruises are use to old people and they can wheelchair you on”. SO, I'M GOING! 

What is the best thing you like about cruising?

I like the relaxed traveling of cruising and still be able to see the world. It’s easy and fun.

Plus, it better then staying at home, right?

What do you enjoy about being with Roger and Diana?

I love to hear my daughter scream at my favorite son-in-law when he toots a backwind. They both make me laugh! 

What are your hobbies and interests?

READ-READ-READ - Japanese Books that is! I like to read daily. It is my favorite hobby and I also like to make homemade cards for those who stay in touch. But I think I’m getting old as my hands and fingers don’t work to good.

What do you like to do in your leisure time?

READ-READ-READ, don’t you remember? I like to read my Japanese Books.

What is your favorite color?

Blue, like the ocean, the sky and the rivers and lakes.

What is your favorite Cocktail or Drink?

Good quality Decaf Green Tea and my cocktail? Whatever Buzz makes or brings to me! There is a Maui story about Buzz’s cocktail you will have to ask him about it.  

Favorite Food & Dessert?

Sushi and I like anything creamy like ice cream (vanilla or coffee), tapioca, creme burlee & panna cotta AND finally (Karen always spoils me) I love DARK Chocolate, no nuts as she well knows! Diana says we get chocolate on our pillow on the cruise! 

And finally, Favorite cruise moment?

Going on any cruise that is with my family and friends. I am very lucky to be able to have such fun times and experiences. I have cruised Mediterranean, Caribbean, Mexico Riviera, West Coast Getaway with Ensenada and now Hawaiian Islands. I am very lucky and grateful. 

  

SEAN & ANDREA: Cruise Connection

The Sean and Andrea Flogg the Blogg, a Wheel Adventure into sight and photos

Aloha folks!

This is the au natural blog for both Andrea Babby and myself, Sean Hagerty.  We’re not

Andrea & Sean

much into writing, other than postcards from where we have visited, but we want to have a little fun giving it the ol’ college try..  To start with, we LOVE to cruise with the Davis Gang; anytime and anywhere!  We have been on four, I think four, previous cruises to the far corners of the Mediterranean, Mexico, Baja (yeah, I know, it’s Mexico too) as well as a beautiful little island just off the coast of southern California called Catalina.  Every time we have participated in one of these shipping sojourns, we have been delightfully rewarded with wonderful company, much laughter, incredible scenery and incredible cuisine.  But wait, there is more to the story than just cruises!

Laguna Time

What you may not know, is that Diana and I go waaaaay back in time…so far back that we first met each other when we were in Second or Third Grade at Prestwood Elementary School in Sonoma.  That’s going back to 1963 or 1964, I’m not sure which, but still a long time ago.  We both grew up in the country, among the fields of foxtail and other weeds, blackberry bushes, tall Eucalyptus trees used as wind breaks, cows, horses, turkeys, sheep..ah, let’s just say that it was very rural.  The town of Sonoma was so small that we didn’t have signal traffic lights (corner of 5^th Street West and Napa Street) until the late 1960’s..maybe 1970???  Anyway, it was a wonderful place to live and grow up.. a place where YOU knew everyone and everyone knew you (mostly good, sometimes not so good…when you got into trouble!).  Trouble, did I say trouble?  Yeah, but nothing really bad, mostly just mischief.  Thankfully, Diana’s parents, Roy and Fumi, were cool folks and opened their home to anyone who needed a little time to chill out, party on, chit chat with Diana, Reagan, Ladd, meet new friends, play thumper (a drinking game if you must know),so long as you listened to the wisdom according to Roy.  He certainly made me think about my proposed career and an alternative in case the first one didn’t quite sound so good.  I’m not sure where I’m going with this or what this has to do with a Hawaiian cruise, but I am very thankful for Diana’s friendship through the many years…

Now, back to Andrea and myself. 

Diamond Head & Us

We are a happy couple who love staying at the Casa Davis whenever we have the chance.  I knew Roger first when he officiated at our 30^th Sonoma Valley High School reunion at the Sonoma National Golf Course.  Andrea, on the other hand met Roger for the first time In 2005 or 2006, when we joined the Sonoma gang for lunch at a fancy restaurant.  Upon meeting Andrea, he made mention that her hands were petite….which according to Roger, he liked women with small hands……hmmm.   Andrea was quite surprised to say the least, but upon further thought, agreed with Roger, I guess that is the long and short of the story.  We both look forward to this cruise to the Hawaiian islands, our favorite island is Maui, and to know that we are docking in Lahaina is even better since that is the BEST side of Maui.  I can taste the sweet pineapple now….ahhh….arrgghh, off to the neighbors, oops, I mean the islands!!!!  See you all in October!!!