Cruise Time

  Cruising off into the Adriatic

         Recently, we've had a lot to celebrate - Matt's promotion, his completion of residency and passing score on the boards, our five-year wedding anniversary, both of our birthdays - but not a lot of time together to celebrate. That is why we decided to take a cruise for our first big European vacation. A cruise sounded like a nice compromise between sightseeing and relaxation, and a good way to spend some quality family time after all of the separations due to work and relocation that we've experienced this year.
       Luckily, we were able to catch the end of the Adriatic cruising season, which afforded cooler weather and less crowds than in the high season of summer. We chose a week-long journey aboard the Norwegian Jade because of the exciting itinerary (Croatia, Turkey, Greece - I've been a repeat visitor to Greece but it was Matt's first time), the children's programming for Christopher, and the options afforded by their Freestyle dining program - classic cruise dining room, specialty restaurants and 24-hour room service.
       Our time on the ship was all about fun and relaxation. We spent leisurely afternoons reading or just watching the ship's wake expand out into the sea as we floated past mountainous islands and coastline. Christopher had a blast at the Tree Top Kid's Club, where energetic counselors led themed activities based on our destinations. At the pool, Matt and Christopher braved the very high, very swirly water slide. I got a chance to relax with a "fire and ice" pedicure at the spa. Almost every day, we sought out Christopher's favorite - the pianist in the two-story Atrium. And all of that was just on the ship! I'll be posting more from our ports of call later this week.

Christopher enjoyed watching the bustle and business of the ports. Here he sits with his dad for a better view of the tug that got our ship underway in Venice. 

 Room service was a definite perk when we just felt like relaxing in our suite. This lamb shank, butternut squash and spicy bean cassoulet was delicious. 

 Positively my favorite thing to do onboard. Grab a book, sit on the balcony and watch the sun glint off the water.