Preparation... and waiting...
It's been awhile since we took a vacation that involved going anywhere. We need this break. We aren't really looking for excitement or adventure - just rest, fun, new experiences, and a chance to spend some quality time together. I'll let you know how it goes...

Wednesday 4/11
Dick and I are scheduled to leave on Friday morning for an 18-day vacation. We are going on a 7-day cruise the first week, and sightseeing and visiting family the rest of the time. We have been looking forward to this trip for a few months and can't wait to get going. We have done a LOT of planning (we even made a spreadsheet). We have made reservations, purchased tickets, printed maps, and arranged for things to be taken care of at home while we are gone. We still have to finish packing - the only major thing left to do. And yet, in these final days before we leave, it is uncertain whether we will get to go at all...
Dick's dad is in the hospital facing major surgery, which he needs but may not survive. The doctors have postponed it a couple of times already this week, and now it is scheduled for tomorrow - the day before we leave. We have some flexibility in the first two days, but the cruise ship leaves New Orleans on Sunday afternoon, and it's a 15-hour drive to get there. So, we prepare as if we will go as planned, hope and pray that everything turns out ok, and wait...

Thursday 4/12
Well, it appears that we are ok to go. The surgery went well, and while there is still some risk, the worst is over... vacation starts tomorrow!