Musings from Martha Speir

Just recently returned from a 16 day trip to the Mediterranean.  Spent the first two days touring Barcelona, Spain.  A couple of the attractions there included seeing the architectural works of Gaudi, the cathedral and one of the homes that he had designed.  I then boarded the Norwegian Jade cruise ship for a 12 days cruise of the Eastern Mediterranean.  The first stop was in Rome, Italy, seeing such sights as St. Peter's Basilica and Square, Vatican museum, the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo's works, Roman Forum, and the Coliseum.

The next port stop included sights in Athens, Greece, like the Parthenon, Acropolis, Constitution Square, some temples such as Poseidon, Olympic stadium, and other sights along its scenic coast. Izmir, Turkey was our next port.  There we had the opportunity to slide around on the marble stones at Ephesus, the ancient city dedicated to the goddess Artemis and considered the Seventh Wonder of the Ancient World (It was raining that day) and then on to visit the House of the Virgin Mary, and to a Turkish carpet factory and Village.

Due to the unrest in Egypt, the next port stop of Alexandria was changed to Istanbul, Turkey, (I didn't get my camel ride to the pyramids!)  In Istanbul, I visited the spice market, the Blue Mosque, the Sultan's Palace and saw his Gems and Relics collections. Included in the collections were the world's largest diamond, Moses' cane, Peter's Sword, arm of John, and a pan of Abraham's.

One of the most breathtaking sights was on the cruise to our final port of Valletta, Malta before returning to Barcelona. I awoke that morning to see a double rainbow out the balcony window. Got several camera shots.  The visit in Malta included touring a fortified city, historic sites, harbor boat ride, and a scenic bus ride to a fishing village.  After docking in Barcelona, we boarded a plane to Amsterdam to catch a plane back to Atlanta.  Had the thrill of crosswinds when landing in Amsterdam. Enjoyable trip but glad to be back in USA. Sorry, but not enough time to share my many adventures on the boat such as salsa, cha cha, rumba, and disco dancing........

In my spare time, I am taking a class this semester from Olney Central College entitled Community Band.  There were too many alto saxes so the instructor has me learning to play tenor sax.  Mark your calendar for May 12th for the big concert.

I am now booked for a 7 days cruise to Alaska at the end of August.  There is still room if anyone wants to go.  Call me and I will share the details.