I Don't Know What Nirvana Is, But This May Be It

My "Eat, Pray, Love" In Two Weeks

Series

Part Eight of Twelve

Moorea, French Polynesia

I am grateful for a day of reflection and the realization that my life has changed this week. Cheese-less pizza with the Staff Captain, followed by too many Le Gauguins at the pool, plus a perfect rainbow and a final trip to the bridge, wrapped up my last full day on board my first-ever cruise. A sweet ending to the day was needed as we all prepared to say goodbye.

I slept in.

There was no early morning wake-up call or alarm today. There is no need to rush off to any place in particular. I sat on my balcony, looking out at the island of Moorea, and thanked the Universe for my life, for the gifts of my children, family, and friends.

I thanked Her for bringing me here because I feel healed again, somehow. I think forgiveness, peace, and optimism. And I know now that I want to see more of this world before it is my time to leave it. This cruise, it turns out, is the start of a new life and a new attitude, philosophy, and goals.

I appreciate that I am alive now, in this time and moment, and that I have had the life I've had so far. Good and bad. It has led me to this place, both physically and spiritually. And I am thankful.

I had my regular breakfast of champions, an omelet, and fruit in Le Grille, then met the gang at the pool. While we have only known each other for a few days, it feels like we have been friends for years. It is a beautiful morning; the sun is very intense, but after a long Colorado winter, I welcome it.

I left early to clean up for an outing into Moorea to Nenad's favorite pizza place. I loved it! They made me a Hawaiian pizza with no cheese. We did not have much time to explore Moorea (for my benefit, as Nenad knows every place onshore) as he had to be back on the ship due to the fact the Captain was going on a bike ride, and one of the Captains always has to be on board though not necessarily on the bridge. We came back and spent the afternoon relaxing, talking, laughing.

Of course, I ended up again at the pool later in the afternoon. There was to be a farewell party on the Pool Deck when we sailed out of port back to Papeete, but instead, we ended up in a rain shower. We were under the bar's cover, so no complaints, especially when we looked out at one of the most beautiful rainbows I've ever seen. Mel, Lindsay, Carl, and I were over-served sad to say, but I had a wonderful time with these new best friends.

I lost track of time and had to run to my stateroom and clean up quickly as Nenad invited me to the bridge as we sailed into the dock in Papeete. I cannot believe the cruise is coming to an end. It has gone by so fast. I watched Rajko and Nenad maneuver the ship to the dock, and all I can say is "impressive."

I had the chance to drink the ceremonial glass of champagne at the end of every cruise with Nenad and Captain Rajko, then met Mel, Milton, Carl, and Lindsay for dinner at Le Grille. We are already talking about a reunion in Napa, hopefully soon. They all live in the Northern California area. I truly hope this happens, as I will miss these special friends. I got a call at the restaurant from Nenad to save dessert for later. The last night on the ship was a wonderful dinner with my pals.

I met Nenad for a private dessert but had to hurry to my stateroom to pack. We have to have our luggage in the hall for pick up for our disembarkment tomorrow. I am so glad I still have a few more days before going home.

I wouldn't say I liked climbing into bed tonight, knowing I would leave this amazing ship tomorrow. I will miss it and my friends.