Regularly, I spend time at dinner tables that are not my own and vacation with people who love me.  A couple of years ago, I traveled across country with my friend Grace and her five boys.  Now, I am again blessed to travel across country, this time with my niece and nephew.  I relish every minute that God has given me to love and be loved!  It is wonderful to be present when children experience new things and are introduced to landscapes they have never seen before.  

While in New Orleans, my traveling companions suggested going to Preservation Hall.  I was rather elated about the notion and struggled to wait patiently for the treat. 

Okinawa is known as the “Japanese Caribbean”.  The seawater is clear blue and warm, ideal for scuba diving.  We dove in Blue Cave, an underwater cave, as well as Kerama National Park.  

The diligence and skill of the folks rolling cigars at Cigar Factory New Orleans is captivating.  They do not falter in their performance, even while being interrupted with admiration by observers.  The warm, brown interior of the shop indicates years of producing and savoring a delectable leaf that has been enjoyed by countless people through history.  The thick, spicy musk of unburnt tobacco mingles with the humidity of New Orleans and makes me smile. 

We flew into Heraklion on Crete, rented a car and drove a relatively short distance to the preserved historical site of Knossos.  Sections are roped off for its protection, but you can still get an up-close look at the ancient ruins.  Some of the ruins have been restored to give onlookers a vibrant notion of what Knossos looked like at its peak. 

A short ferry ride from downtown New Orleans, across the Mississippi River will take you to Algiers Point.  Algiers Point is refreshingly quiet and full of pleasant experiences, such as the Rosetree Blow Glass Studio and Gallery.  The studio is housed in an old Art Deco movie house.  You can watch the artists in action and even purchase a one-of-a-kind, hand-made glass item.