Here are the past few days of Advent goodies.
**PHOTOS TO COME WHEN WE'RE BACK. IT TAKES FOREVER TO LOAD AND COSTS 50 CENTS A MINUTE ON BOARD**
***
And now, for the quaratine story…
We made it up to LA on Saturday with Audrey throwing up the whole way up I-5. (Toben’s beyond brilliant idea was Double Gulp cups from 7-11. They are perfect throw up cups!) We returned the car to the airport, met the limo and sprawled out on the way to the dock. Audrey and Emma were both so excited about the limo, but didn’t appreciate it at all in their sick state. Oh well. It was nice for them to be able to lie down and rest so I guess it was worth it.
We finally made it on board and went to the emergency drill. Toben and Emma went to dinner that night with everyone (Mom and Dad; Wade, Kristen, and Ava), but Audrey and I stayed in our cabin. Emma fell asleep five minutes after they were seated and slept through the entire meal.
And I got sick. So sick. In fact, I don’t remember ever being that sick before—except maybe for some food poisoning that landed me in the hospital when Audrey was a baby. You don’t want to hear all the gross details, but I was sure that dying or passing out would be a better alternative.
We called the doctor the next morning; she and a nurse came to check on the three of us. (Because, by now, Emma was throwing up again.) She was NOT happy that we were on board. We filled out the vomiting/diarrhea questionnaire honestly, and the person who checked us in was NOT supposed to let us on the ship. Apparently phone calls have been made and someone may not have a job anymore. Oops.
She gave us medicine and lots of electrolytes and orders not to leave the room.
We’ve had a special crew to clean our room—full body suits, gloves, face masks. And everything that leaves our room—dishes, trash, linens—has gone out in red bio-hazard bags. I’m not sure the next door neighbors think!
The girls and I have been eating chicken broth, poached chicken, saltines, and ginger ale. Mmmm… love that cruise ship food!
We got the clearance to leave this morning and had breakfast with the whole family. Dry toast, hot tea, dry cereal. We’ll see how we do and maybe try something more adventurous for lunch.
I do know that the girls are feeling better, because they are driving each other (and me) completely crazy. I’m feeling a little shaky still. And Toben has somehow managed to stay totally healthy. Thank goodness.
And we’re all totally skinny.
We’re in Puerta Villarta today, but hanging out on the ship to explore. Next time we’ll have much more exciting things to report…and maybe some pictures too!
So, wash your hands and then wash them again. You don’t want to catch this, trust me.
Hi Joanne,
so sorry to hear you were all so sick. I was a bit worried after Audrey was here the evening before she got sick, but no one here, or any of our other visitors came down with anything. I think this was a "Colorado" bug. Glad you're on a 7 day cruise and able to enjoy the remaining part of it. We'll pray for a full and speedy recovery. No doubt Princess cruise didn't want to be on the news with a whole ship of sick people. Sickness spreads quick on cruise ships.
Adios..
Posted by: Brenda Corsi | December 19, 2006 at 05:10 PM
So sorry to read about your illness. I think my toddler and I just got through the same thing you and your girls had. Oh, the sickness. Hang in there. I hope you get to enjoy some of the cruise.
I enjoy reading your journal. Merry Christmas.
Posted by: Rhonda | December 19, 2006 at 07:50 PM
That is one of the worst things I've ever heard. You poor dears! Good to know you're skinny though. Looking forward to hearing some happy news from aboard the U.S.S. Ralph. :)
Posted by: Marla Taviano | December 20, 2006 at 08:34 AM
I have been following your blog for a while now, I have commented a few times over the months. But this entry definitely requires comment. I am so sorry you and your kids have been ill. I will pray for a speedy recovery for you three and also that Toben doesn't get struck with the bug. I hope you are able to enjoy some of your cruise.
God Bless!
Posted by: erin | December 20, 2006 at 01:23 PM
So sorry to hear that you and the girls have been sick... especially when you have been looking forward to such a special family vacation! I'm praying that everyone is feeling better quickly. Merry Christmas!
Posted by: Julie | December 21, 2006 at 01:44 PM