I just got back from a Panama Cruise with my family; and being away for two weeks in the middle of December can have quite an effect on this "busy" Christmas Season. Fortunately, I was able to do my Christmas cards before I left; but, it also meant that I only had time to send cards to a limited list of people, and not to all the people I usually do. I also had to restrict my gift giving as well, since I don't as much time to get together with friends.
In some ways, it was a more "bare bones" Christmas, which can be good. It can help to focus on what's truly important, and to not be caught up in the busy-ness. And, I was able to spend time with my family; and to relax and enjoy time off.
And, I still had an opportunity to catch some Christmas programs before I left for vacation; and now that I am back, I was able to be at my Church Christmas program, run the projector on Sunday and for Christmas Eve, and celebrate Christmas with my family at my home.
It took me 5 hours to get through my 600 work emails; and about 200 personal emails; and I still have some catching up to do. But, my main work project has been delayed; and I still have this week to sort through all the other things before Christmas.
As for the Panama Cruise. The Norwegian Star was nice; and going through the Panama Canal was definitely the highlight. But, the ports were not as good as I expected. I liked Cartegena, Columbia; but, the rest were a little disappointing - Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Hualtulco, Acapulco, and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. I did get to watch a few movies on the cruise. The one I liked best was probably August Rush. I love music, and it was interesting how they used listening to music as the way to bring that family back together again. I also watched Kung Fu Panda. It was funny, and I learned that the five martial arts styles are Monkey, Tiger, Crane, Snake, and Mantis. And, I liked Julie & Julia, since it involved cooking. As for other aspects of the cruise, the food in the dining rooms were actually not great; and there were flaws in some of the service. However, overall, it was a good trip and a good get-away. I did get sick at the end; so, I'm still recovering; but, I am grateful for having the opportunity to go. It is important to value opportunities to spend time with family.
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