hodge podge

we are getting settled here on the ship and finding our way around.  we are meeting LOTS of people, and from all over! we were quickly introduced to the hard reality of people coming and going--the first couple relationships i've made here, both gals are leaving for good within a week. because the ship is mostly staffed with short-termers (those who are here weeks to a year) there are always people leaving and new people coming.  there are fewer long-term staff like us. its just the way it is around here, and something we will have to learn to cope with. 

because we are dry-docked right now, we are both working in temporary positions.  i am working in the dining hall until we sail.  once we reach Benin i will help get the wards ready for patients. tim is working in reception and then will move into the Assistant Purser role.  both positions have been a great way to meet and have contact with many of the crew.

this weekend was our first opportunity to go into town!  the manager of food services took several of us galley and dining hall staff out to pizza and gelato friday. and saturday, the whole ship crew got to go to Loro Parque for free!!  a very generous donor bought the crew entrance tickets to the park! we all piled into two buses and spent the day there.  its a cross between a Sea World and the Zoo.  our favorites were the sea lions and dolphins.  now back to work! :)