Queen Mary

The 6 days on the ship have been very relaxing. We have had an interesting week as we crossed the Atlantic. Mia and Ruben have learned some nautical terminology and how to navigate a more then 14 story ship on their own. Ruben and Mia both participated in some of the children’s activities which included arts and crafts and a scavenger hunt.

Mia was inspired to push herself slightly and take an adult water color class where she learned some technique. This afternoon there will be a show of the work created in the class. On one occasion Ruben went to pick Mia up from the class and ended up participating himself.

There has been a number performances to attend on ship, the first of which we saw was Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing. We all enjoyed Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales although some of the humor was racy. We all attended a dance performance which included many styles such as flamenco, ballet, jive and others.

Last night it was spooky to listen to a ghost story being told by two of the professional actors from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. The Kids and Tom made it through 2 hours of a 3 our production of Carmen in “real D-3D”.  They were all interested to hear how the tale ended but Ruben was not keen on how repetitive and drawn out the story was. Sadly there has not been an opportunity for Ruben to participate in any theatre classes.

We had one fantastic swimming adventure at sea and that took place on the outdoor deck during high seas. What an incredible experience to be in a pool on a rocking ship, that is what a real wave pool is!

Ruben and Mia have tried particularly hard to refine their manners. The different venues on the ship have specific dress codes and Ruben has uncomplainingly put on a collar shirt virtually every day. High Tea in the Queens room was sweet and the kids have also learned to further their self control  as we are surrounded by  desserts of every kind, self serve ice cream and mountains of food. They have learned more about manners at the table and have been polite and friendly to all the staff.

The views off the ocean are beautiful when we are not surrounded by a thick fog. We have had some beautiful sunny days and it is impressive to sea how an ocean can just go on and on. This afternoon we will make our way to view the bridge and this evening will be the final evening of the Proms with the National Symphony Orchestra.