Hi Cathryn,

Been there, done that. Like they say, "you've got to go out on a limb to gather the best fruit."

I bought a travel diary two years ago and expected by now it would be full of trip diary notes, but alas, not yet. But I did something interesting when I bought it. I wrote a quote inside of the cover and this is what it says:

"In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." Einstein

No doubt, words to live by, especially regarding geophysical events. But very soon, the first diary notes will be written in the tiny leather covered book. I'm taking a cruise to Ensenada, Mexico on Thanksgiving weekend, alone, no less. For a workaholic like me, to be placed out in the ocean away from computers, telephones and housework is the only way to be certain one can really take a vacation.

Of course, it will probably shoot my current diet to kingdom come, but oh well, you can't turn down meals that are that fantastic. With a few pina colada's, I'll be one happy camper.

I too will be at the shallow end of the pool for a time and loving every minute, God willing and good weather permitting.

Petra, wishing you a class A hit soon.