And it begins!

My mind has been totally focused on our cruise! It's months away, but the planning has begun. I've been learning as much as I can about the process and the cruising itself. Here is where I am so far (my timeline):

1. Jerry agreed to the cruise.

2. I was first adamant about NOT going to Mexico. I believe I've watched too many movies where folks get hurt or killed in Mexico.

3. We obtained a travel agent as a result of my speaking out on Facebook that we were ready to plan the cruise. Actually, we received quite a number of agents offering their services. We selected someone we know, is local, and we want to give her the business. Feel free to contact me if you'd like their assistance. I'll be happy to refer them.

4. We decided on a date. It will be a 5-day cruise for my birthday and our anniversary.

5. We already knew that we would be sailing out of New Orleans. I smile as I think about seeing the cruise ships regularly from my home. We lived close to the Mississippi River on Flood Street before Hurricane Katrina. Also, our son worked by the Port and I often drove him back and forth to work. Many times as I sat out in the vehicle waiting for him to get off, I would see passengers walking to or from the Port entrance. I used to wonder if I would ever be one of those passengers!

6. Selection of destination. We are, afterall, going to Mexico!

7. Even before we made the selection, I began shopping for clothes. I made my first order and the outfit arrived this week. I'm so excited!

8. Now to make our down payment and begin paying for the cruise. We've decided on "packages" we'd like, prepaying gratuties, and I will begin looking to see if we're going to take any excursions. We have time to decide for that.

9. I'm beginning my checklists of things to do, things to buy, and things to pack.

10. Although we don't NEED a passport (which neither of us have ever had), we were advised to get one anyway. I'm working on that now. It's pretty pricy, and I'll finish the application process next month. We want to have enough time for them to arrive in time.

11. Meanwhile, I'm ordering certified copies of our birth certificates (which we do have to have).

12. That's about it for now. I will continue to watch videos, read blogs, and enjoy the cruising Facebook groups I've joined. Great places to learn and to ask questions. I will be putting together resources here on my blog as well.

Bon Voyage!