It was my birthday today! I think I can safely say that I’ve never celebrated my birthday on a boat before, let alone one coming back from Alaska. I was surrounded by beautiful scenery all day. I read my birthday messages from family and friends, and opened my cards early. I was sad too that I was not in Whitby with the rest of my family, but they have shared lots of photos, and even had a birthday takeaway for me as usual so I was almost in two places at once!!
Sam and Martha went to all the Club Hal sessions they could- they have really enjoyed this kids club all week and didn’t want to miss a moment there. Mike and I went to one of the many events on board – this one was ‘Meet the Captain’, where we learnt more about how everything works and the history of our captain.
We had games and lunch together with Sam and Martha following this and then they went back to kids club in the afternoon whilst I went to the gym (I know, on my birthday??) – it is situated on Floor 9 right at the front of the boat, and the treadmills are right at the front window, so I actually enjoyed spending time there, whale spotting sometimes or just taking in the views.
Mike sent me to get indulged at the spa so I got my toenails painted – don’t think I’ve had something like that done since we went to Centreparcs when I was pregnant with Martha. They have lasted well, I’m writing this entry a few weeks late and they are as shiny as ever!!
We picked the kids up early from Club Hal as it was their chance to see the illusionist again – Leon Etienne was going to reveal some of his secrets! They learnt how to do a card trick and a mind reading trick and spent the rest of the day practising on everyone, including our lovely waiter Awal at the restaurant.
I received a surprise at teatime – a gorgeous mini birthday cake and a happy birthday song from the waiters. Then 5 minutes later they were serenading someone else, never did see who was my birthday twin on board!
It was the last evening Club Hal pyjama party so we let Sam and Martha go to party and to say goodbye to all their friends there. Mike and I went for a last walk around the boat, lovely scenery all around.
It was a very different birthday to usual, and one that I enjoyed tremendously!
Captain Bas Van Dreumel 
Shiny toes 
Leon, Martha and Romy 
Learning a card trick 
Entranced at Leon on stage 
Awal, our waiter 
Happy Birthday! 
Club Hal friends 
Beautiful scenery 
More beautiful scenery 
Evening stroll
