July 24, 2007 - Cruising Glacier Bay, Alaska

Our first day on the ship was in open water heading for Glacier Bay Alaska. As each hour passed the scenery around us changed. We sailed through small clusters of Islands, then through areas with mountains on each side. Before long we would spot the occasional chunk of ice floating in the water. With each mile that passed ice chunks became more frequent and larger. Finally we entered some of the most beautiful land in the world. Click here to see more photos of Glacier Bay.

July 23, 2007 - Bon Voyage!

Cruising from the Port of Seattle

We left Indiana for Seattle on July 21st eagerly anticipating our first cruise. After a one-night pitstop at Lisa's Apartment, we boarded the MS Noordam from Pier 30.

As this was our first voyage we weren't quite sure of what was ahead. We had an amazing experience, and certainly too much detail for this entry. We will tell you that it was fantastic and that we cerainly were NOT disappointed! From the moment we boarded the ship until we disembarked, we couldn't have asked for a more wonderful experience

Our internet connection here in Indiana is less than great. Nancy's been trying to download photos but all attempts have been futile. Bear with us - stores and photos are on the way.

July 8, 2007 - Ester's 90th Birthday Celebration

The Chamness family paid loving tribute to their Mother today in celebration of Ester's 90th Birthday. It was a lovely party and fine opportunity to visit with family and friends. To see a few of the pictures we took at the party CLICK HERE.

July 8, 2007 - Visit with Uncle Leon and Florence Farr

Nancy and her mom visited Nancy's Uncle Leon and his wife Florence at his home in Hagerstown, Indiana. Leon is Joan's younger brother. Leon is rebounding from a serious illness and Florence is doing a terrific job keeping Leon happy and comfortable in addition to taking care of the business, their home, the ducks and chickens and of course their dogs! It was wonderful to see them both. To see more photos of our visit Click here.

What's Up?

The past few weeks were spent visiting the grandkids and Nancy's mother, Joan. Nancy continues to plug away at some chores she thinks need to be done at her mom's place. Joan installed a parking pad for our RV to her property which left a mound of dirt piled nearby. We spread the extra soil around the base of her house, added a weed barrier and spread bark mulch. Looks nice! We also cleaned the garage and parceled out a bunch of stuff mom no longer uses to anyone we could convince to take it away. Nancy's sister Cindy and her brother Jack offered their trucks to haul the mulch and take away all the stuff the trash service won't. We organized tools and lawn equipment - what a transformation - the garage is now usable. Let's just say we've been keeping the trash man busy.

The girls took a break over the past couple of days to do some shopping for our Alaska Cruise. First mom, then Aunt Scharlene - they snagged some bargains and will look lovely - I'm next.

We're beginning to get excited and are certainly planning to have a great time so stay tuned.

June 21, 2007 - A Day at the Zoo

To see a few pictures taken at the zoo, click here.

Our day at the Zoo was a lot of fun. The weather was incredibly hot, but it was good that we went when we did, as it's done nothing but rain since. The boys really enjoyed the day - especially Peyton - as it was his first roller coaster ride. You see he only weighs 34 pounds and words really cannot describe his reaction to the coaster. On our third trip around, he was screaming "STOP THIS MOTORCYCLE - I'M GONNA THROW UP". His death grip and expression were too much. I only wish I were able to get the ride on video.

June 13, 2007 - Our Little Boys

Since arriving in Indiana we've been busy helping everyone get well. Mom has been dealing with a stubborn case of bronchitis that required a trip to the emergency room. After a 2 week regimen of antibiotics she's feeling much better. Both boys and Heather have been suffering from allergies, and Justin has been diagnosed with Mono. Geez....just what he needs!

We are working on a few chores. Nancy is helping her mom with lawn and they are also reworking her flower beds. We've washed and waxed the bus and car, added quite a bit of stuff to storage, and striking things off our to-do list. Of course our visit has included time with the little boys (having sleep-overs.) Justin and Peyton are as wild and energetic as ever, never a dull moment. By the end of 3 days, we usually need a break and they are ready to go back to mommy and daddy. More pics of the kidds click here.