MONDAY, MAR 1ST--AT SEA

Wish you could have seen the beautiful full moon last night shining down over the ocean. We were enjoying more great food and service at a table for two next to a window where we had this awesome view. Next to our table was the Captain’s table and his phone rang and he abruptly left the dining room. We then noticed the ship slowing to a near stop. He returned about 15 minutes later and I said, “Looks like we have stopped”. His reply was, “We have a mechanical problem and have slowed”. During his daily 9am PA, Captain Dag said we had slowed due to “technical problem” and would be delayed arriving in Manila but hopefully we would be there by 10:30am or maybe noon. The crew is very disappointed also because many of them are Philippino and are looking forward to visiting with their families for a few hours. I have just learned from a “reliable source” that our problem was a pretty serious “technical problem” (not life threatening so do not worry) and that consideration was given to proceeding direct from here to Hong Kong for repairs. We are making good speed again and the excellent engineering department has fixed the problem for now anyway. I think it will be interesting when we arrive in Manila and what may happen with our itinerary after that. Suppose to go to China. So another smooth night of sailing in the South China Sea last night, and as I said, with a full moon hanging over us lighting up the ocean. Not a cloud in the sky today with smooth seas. Absolutely perfect cruising weather with nice breeze and 81F. Just checked Shanghai, China, weather, where we are to be this Friday, and high is suppose to be in upper 40’s. That is huge adjustment for us! George and I came in 2nd in shuffleboard tournament this morning. Mike & Bob are tough opponents though. Olympic gymnast Cathy Rigby was one of the lecturers this morning and Rebecca said she was very interesting. I went to gym as have a pound to lose. I had a Slim Fast bar again for lunch today also. This afternoon I am just going to relax and do nothing. I am thinking of sitting our on our balcony and just watch the deep blue ocean water pass by. In a couple of days we will be passing through the part of the South China Seas where our naval aircraft carriers were deployed for years during the war in Southeast Asia, more commonly called Viet Nam War. Thousands of combat air strikes were launched off these carriers and some did not return. I flew over this area 78 times on my combat missions from Guam to SEA. I just want to sit and reflect about those days, 38 years ago. In two weeks I will be stepping foot in Viet Nam for the first time. I’ve only seen it from 30,000 feet high overhead. I need to do this.