One of the beloved cruise traditions is animals made of towels and washcloths appearing on your bed, sofa, chair or hanging from a hanger every night.  When I first encountered it it delighted me and still does.  Since the pandemic that custom, at least on Holland America, has been paired back to gala evenings.  While some people lament the loss I approve.  It makes the animals special, and it cuts down on carbon emissions, it takes electricity generated by the ship’s diesel generators, to power washers and driers.  It also cuts down on gray water that needs treatment.   Living in a cruise port I approve of cutting emissions.

But still, their variety and sense of whimsy charms me.  So I’m happy when at the end of a cruise we have a parade of towel animals, or to borrow from Camille Saint-Saëns, a Carnival of Animals in the midship lido.  Many of the creations come with handwritten notes of thanks from the staff who made them. 

And while I was enjoying the “The Carnival of The Animals” another carnival was happening over the rail as we sailed past feeding whales and dolphins.  I include them as kind of an ‘easter egg’ for those who click on the link.  You find more than you expected.

We are off the ship now but There will be more posts coming.  I am backlogged on processing pictures and writing my thoughts.  The last three sea days have been hectic with activity, and while I have always been an observer, I also like being a participant.  I will catch up. Right now I am waiting for a plane.