Frozen in Time

Frozen in Time, One: 

My iPhone has been good for one thing only...telling the time. On sea days, the phone is frozen in time. It will not update; it will not send or receive texts; it will not allow me to play games, make calls or use apps. Oh, the frustration!

Frozen in Time, Two: 

We went on a fantastic excursion in Hilo: “Land Frozen in Fire.” Based on the description, I assumed we would see very old lava flows. I was wrong and so was the name of the excursion. We were taken to see the enormous 2018 lava flow from the eruption of Mount Kilauea, the world's most active volcano. While the lava wasn't moving, it was still “stirring.” The gloomy, rainy day made an ominous setting for our trek out to the southern edge of the island. Because of all the moisture dripping into the cracks and fissures under the surface of the lava formations, the hot magna sent reminders of its presence with plumes of dangerous steam into the air around us, hinting at the uncertainty below. Our guide warned us not to walk on the lava as it was fragile, sharp and a fall or a misstep could end in tragedy. Less prudent tourists, foolishly taunted Pele, the Goddess of Fire.

Frozen in Time, Three: 

The internet! I have some fantastic photos to share with you, however, I am unable to download them from my phone, which is confirmed frozen in time. Two strikes against me. In time, it will be possible to share the images with you. Until then, suffice it to say, the Hawaiian Islands of Oahu, Maui and Hilo were beautiful and magical. Our time spent there was absolutely delightful.

Frozen in Time, Four: 

This is the third of four sea days en route to Nuku Hiva. This afternoon, King Neptune demands our sea-worthiness by requiring those of us who haven't crossed the Equator to undergo an endurance test. Fortunately, we are long time “Shellbacks” and can stand on the sidelines while others pass his rigorous demands. However, from this day forward, we can expect the temperatures to be “frozen in time” with the dial turned to hot.

Frozen in Time, Five: 

Wishful thinking! One thing that should be frozen in time would be my weight! The food has been delicious and a bathroom scale would scold me for indulging in the famous salt sticks, a cookie or two and especially, the fried shrimp at yesterday's lunch....oh, that Fisherman's delight is my favorite mid-day meal. 

Sunset leaving Maui