The 9th annual ETA bluegrass music cruise was a resounding success but more importantly alot of fun.  I was so excited to be sailing on the biggest ship in the world and let me tell you, everything we had heard was true.  Imagine a ship big enough for a rock climbing wall, basketball court, wind surfer, ice skating rink, putt putt golf course, pool upon pool, hot tub upon hot tub, a sauna, a gym, a theater . . . . and on and on and on.  It was AMAZING!  With so much to do, I didn't know what to try first but I can tell you that most of my time was just spent relaxing on deck. . . . . . . and EATING!  I ate too much.  The food was phenomenal.  Our servers were so funny and relaxed.  Every meal was a new experience.  It was also great getting to sit and chat with Ted and Irene, who were so engaging!  The meal was fantastic but, made so much better by great conversation.  Ted and Irene are some of our biggest fans and I want to thank them for their support. 

 

My favorite port was Labadee.  It was so beautiful with clear blue water and clean white sand.  I did all of my shopping there as well.  Kudos to Ben Green for being the master haggler.  I entered the island and was immediately pulled to the flea market by anxious salesman.  These guys are good!  But, to mine and Todd's advantage, Ben was better.  We got some great handmade gifts at very reasonable prices.  We also watched some interesting acrobatic and fire eating acts performed by the islanders.  Very Cool!

 

But of course the purpose of the cruise was BLUEGRASS!  Steve, our cruise director, did a bang up job of putting everything together.  This guy is as professional and loyal as they come.  Also thanks to Tami Newton and all of Steve's staff who made us feel so comfortable.  It was great seeing all of our friends from different bands (especially on a cruise ship instead of the usual bluegrass campground festival).  Most amazing was our fans who cheered like wild animals at all of our shows.  Special thanks to Glenda, our fan club president, and her husband Paul for their continued support.  Also thanks to Ruth, our fan club vice president, and her husband Paul for their enthusiasm. (Ruth, where were you at on the wind surfer?)  Ha Ha.  The shows were a huge success.  

 

We're booked back for next year so get your tickets now!  We would love to have you cruise with us.  Speaking of the band, I am so lucky to have such great friends.  Todd, Ben, and Jerry are really special people.  Not only are they talented but they are the best guys you will ever meet.  But my greatest thanks goes to Lorraine for being such a special band leader and being so generous with everything.  She works so hard to make this band a success.  Thanks Lorraine!  

So, was it a great cruise?  IT WAS THE BEST!  Above all, it was just so nice being away from normal life for a while.  

 

See you on the road! (and hopefully on next year's cruise)

 

Josh