Tomorrow, I leave for the big trip! Not looking forward to the flights (16-18 hours worth), but flying first class should make a difference. Planning on seeing as many ancient ruins as possible. I'm already thinking ahead to the next cruise (Alaska). And would like to go back to Ireland. Will probably go to Virginia to look at ancestor type sites in Feb. And have put the word out that I will be retiring upon my return. I contacted the Navy college teaching programs re teaching on board ship. Or, it may just be nice to hang out and do nothing. My mother's surgery will be the first of the year. She wants to go to S FL first to say goodbye. Her sister's husband (the Flying Tiger) is very ill, and will probably not last long. I think this is a good thing for her to do. The kid's unit is imploding, and thank goodness, I am on leave. I expect a BIG mess upon return. And anticipate a nice Thanksgiving with family.