… check out “at sea” activities …

… like “find the missing library.” On the maps of the Oosterdam there is no library shown, and although we had looked in the most likely spots, we hadn't found it. When Frank stopped by the Crow’s Nest lounge on the Observation Deck on all Holland America ships, he discovered the library, re-branded the “Explorations Café Library,” is located right next door. In fact, the Library is so popular that during the day the Crow’s Nest is filled with library users. Most of the time it’s hard to find a seat, what with the puzzle-piecing folks, the people using computers, laptops, iPads, tablets and other devices, passengers reading Kindles or actual books, and the crowd drinking premium coffees accompanied by delectable pastries. This is clearly a winning combination: it’s the most crowded place on the ship!

We’ve attended some of the very popular free Digital Workshops, co-sponsored by Microsoft. Classes offered include Meet the New Windows 8, Learn to Use Your Digital Camera, Keep Your Photos Organized, Reinvent Your Email with Outlook, and Discover SkyDrive. The courses are well-taught by our perky Techspert, Jessica, who also has a few hours of “Techspert Time” each day, for all the Windows questions not covered in her courses.

We had a little get-together in our Halloween-themed suite on Saturday, with new friends and old. It came together with cheese plates from room service, a fabulous tomato, olive and eggplant relish from the Smelly Cheese Store, and wine from our various wine tastings. From left, Alan, Bev, Terri, Lyn, Nancy, Lynn and Frank. Lee and Troy on Lyn’s lap – as the original organizers of the cruise, and our common thread, they rated a special toast!

 

 

A highlight of Sunday was the ship’s passage through Fiordland National Park, a series of “Sounds”: Milford Sound in the early morning, Doubtful Sound at lunchtime, and Dusky Sound in the afternoon. We passed very close to shore during the transit; it was a beautiful, mild day with cloud-topped mountains and waterfalls everywhere. Doubtful Sound was so named because the discoverer felt sure he could get into the Sound, but was doubtful he could get out!

 

 

Frank got a didgeridoo lesson with Bruce Rogers, a master didgeridoo maker and player. We’re expecting much improved performance from his didgeridoo when he gets home! Bruce has also lectured on the culture, beliefs and life of Australia’s indigenous peoples.

I’ve had three acupuncture sessions for my aches and pains; very relaxing, I usually snooze while the needles work their magic. Frank’s had a few massages - with the same results. There’s also been quite a bit of napping, card playing and time in the Thermal Suite.

Tomorrow we’ll be in port again, and will visit a different port each day until the end of the trip in Auckland. It’s a good thing we’ve had a chance to rest up!