Having our daughter home for a couple of months was a real treat, but she is moving back to Australia this week.
My hero husband pulled out all the stops to get the house decorated before she left so she would have some Christmas memories to take with her. (Were it not for his hustle we would still be putting away Thanksgiving decorations!)
Doug, Carol & Cherise at a farewell dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
At the end of a busy day, my daughter suggested we watch our annual tradition of A Christmas Carol in which Scrooge is played by George C. Scott. We have watched every version possible, and this is my absolute favorite. In fact, we’ve watched this so many times we quote passages throughout the movie, but that is part of the fun.
Having three girls also meant all kinds of tea parties over the years, and none more fun than those where we lit Christmas candles and used Christmas china. The next night after getting most of the tree decorated, Cherise suggested we relax with a “cup of Christmas tea.” We had a tradition when the girls were young of reading a short Christmas story each day during the Christmas season and we still have the stack of favorites that are classics.
A Cup of Christmas Tea
One of those is called The Quiet Little Woman by Louisa May Alcott. On impulse, I asked my 28-year old daughter if she’d like me to read it to her while we drank our tea. (The fact is, I love the story, and it was a good excuse to do so again.) Tea, candlelight and a warm-hearted tale was the perfect close to a busy day, and we enjoyed both the rest and the memories. But in reality, we were saying goodbye in a way that old traditions allow us to transition to new seasons with gentleness and grace.
Seasons are just that – one fades into the next, bringing its own joys and challenges. Though always an adjustment, leaning in, rather than resisting, is key to softening the harsh edges of change.
For those of you who in a changing season (or are just enjoying this season), and for those realists who have a bit of sentiment buried down in your heart, here is an audio link of this classic story: The Quiet Little Woman.
For March dates, there is a special code for free air and reduced cruise fares:
$1,999 for Standard
$2,399 for French balcony
$2,499 for Veranda
$3,999 for Explorer Suite!!
For those of you who aren’t familiar with Viking’s Explorer Suites, they’re not only two room suites, and the largest on the ship at 445 sq. ft. – but also come with lots of extras:
270˚ wraparound balcony
Private transfers
Silver Spirits beverage package
Air Plus
Complimentary laundry service
Welcome bottle of champagne
Shoe-shine service, and more . . .
Free air and all of those extras too – it’s a great deal, but hurry – availability is limited and the sale only lasts until December 8!
P.S. This would make a great Christmas present ; )
Print Version of The Compass
The print version of The Compass features the travels of Judy and Tim Galdencio, who have taken many Viking vacations and share their favorites as well as tips they’ve learned along the way.
Carol is a Viking Master Cruise Expert and Group Travel Specialist, and she loves getting people together to enjoy the intimacy and hospitality unique to small ship cruising.
Consequently, our clients benefit from the “inside information” we have as a result of the great relationships we have developed over the years. They don't have to call an 800-number hoping to get a knowledgeable professional to answer their questions, and are also on the “first-to-know” list for specials and bonuses, all while receiving the signature TLC we put into every trip.
Vacations are the highlight reels of the year, and each one needs to be truly memorable.
Great Vacations Matter, Because Great Memories Matter Most
P.S. Whether you have questions about your upcoming cruise, or you have a Future Cruise Voucher you're trying to put to the best use, feel free to contact me at 770-421-9627 or email Carol@ImagineGoingThere.com. I'll be happy to answer all of your questions and give you the best advice for your Viking dollars.
P.S.S. If you've booked direct with Viking in the last 60 days, call 770-421-9627 to get an additional $200 shipboard credit to your reservation!
Imagine Going There Travel, 3600 Dallas Hwy, Suite 230-215, Marietta, GA 30064, (770) 421-9627
