Sabbatical days 45-50: Cruising the Gulf of Mexico

Where we are: 5 day cruise in the Gulf of Mexico, with stops in Cozumel and Progreso. Departing from Galveston.

As a surprise graduation gift, my brother, Shane, arranged a cruise for my nephew Brandon. Trent and I thought that would be a great add-on to our sabbatical and a great way to celebrate with them, so we tagged along.

This was our fourth or fifth cruise, second or third to Mexico, and it was pretty much like the rest. Food, sun, yummy drinks, naps, shows. Then do it all again the next day.

Cruises are a great way to spend time with family without being overloaded because everyone can go their own way on the ship and meet up for meals, excursions and shows (we love the comedy shows and the casino the most).

Aside from some quality time with my niece and nephew and husband and brother, this cruise was perhaps most memorable among the others for its less than tranquil start (flat tire on the four hour drive to meet the boat in Galveston) and horrific ending (norovirus is no joke-that’s the bug that causes gastroenteritis or stomach flu and spreads like wildfire on cruise ships and in daycares).

So, we had fun, but I can’t say that I’m looking forward to another cruise anytime soon after getting the norovirus and suffering through several days of vomiting, diarrhea, and constant nausea. Trent and Shane also came down with it (no doubt because of me), and we all agree NO FUN.