Embarkation Day!!
Our bus arrived at the Praktik early, and the poor driver looked at our group and asked me "Dees-ney?" Of course, the answer was YES!!! He was a bit shocked I think. We kept bringing more and more luggage out! We managed to fill the under bus luggage area, but we didn't need to bring anything into the bus itself.
Unfortunately, the Bus driver didn't follow directions. Or, fortunately, depending on how you look at it! The driver only went to our hotel and not the Praktik Barcelona. So, Stephen (Nacho – who organized the whole thing) was left behind! They did finally get to the port, and since we were sneaking Hayley and her family in with us she passed her #3 boarding card to him and Becky so that they could board earlier.
After boarding, we left the Littles and headed to the Concierge reception. We met Lynda (SHE IS AWESOME!!!), got our stuff straight, grabbed a drink and a snack and before we knew it, the rooms were available.
We had the kids watch the doors, and they found ours. Still oblivious to what was about to happen, we entered the room. Stephen went first and exclaimed "This is different…This is really different…There are 2 rooms!!!". He is much better with the surprise this year!
We went to the DIS meet, got most of the shirts handed out, picked up lanyards, met more of our DIS Family and got a few group shots, and then headed up for sail away party. First time we made it there. We grabbed streamers and proceeded to have a great time! Becca got into the dancing as did the Little girls! A good time was had by all. After sail away we headed down to the room to unpack.
I was a bit worried as the hall was not filled with cases, but upon opening the door, we found all of them in the suite. A nice perk, totally unexpected! Got unpacked, met Marilo, Lynda popped in and then we set off to see Maricar! (Who says HI! To Mark, Lynn, Scott and the rest of the family!! It is nice to be remembered!)
We finally made it to dinner, and found Depesh to be our server with Hector as assistant server. Not impressed with Hector straight off, and made mention to Ivo our head server. We shall see… Stephen headed to Ocean Quest after dinner, and Becca, Bella and Lucy headed off to the lab.
All in all a wonderful start to our trip!
