How Do You Spell CHILLAX? Wednesday January 21, 2015

No plans today at all, which sets me up for yet another perfect day.  Left to our own demise with not a care in the world, well that is if you exclude the decisions needed to establish which bathing suit you'll wear today, what kind of omelette you'll favour and perhaps if your morning swim will include the fresh water pool or salt water beach. Interestingly enough, even after a decision is made, one might decide to change their mind and alter their original decision, which will likely have no impact on how fabulous your day will be!

My day, as always thus far has been to rise, on my own accord at about 5:45 am and head to the beach/pool to witness the start of yet another glorious day. Ken won't believe this early rising phenomenon is really happening, but I swear it's true.  My only witness' seem to be the like-minded vacationers who share my love of the morning tranquility of the beach so early each morning: Gloria from Venezuela, and Pink from Holland.  Sadly, Pink has only 2 more full days here, then he will return home, and Gloria leaves in 3.  Pink has been an active participant with our group since onset: cheering us on during our rubber ducky swim competition (which for the record, Teresa TOTALLY cheated in!), he's taken pictures for us, expressed concern when we appeared to be without drink, and has sat or swam and observed with my our daily sunrises.  His kind soul care-free spirit will linger with me for a very long time.

Today, many in our party had breakfast and then crossed the walking bridge into Punda to browse the shops.  It was my intension to follow suit at some point, but milling around our second floor beach seemed more of a priority after contemplating the options. A handful of us stayed back.  Some went for a massage on the beach, others swam, listened to music, threw a football around in the water & I borrowed Bill's snorkel and mask to try my hand at snorkelling.  Tomorrow members of our clan are considering their options for a day trip and adventure, and after trying Bill's equipment, I've made up my mind, I'm going snorkelling in the ocean.

By mid afternoon, my mom, cousin Melinda & Bill and I headed for the bridge to take in some culture in Punda.  The bridge is a swinging bridge that spans across the Queen Emma Canal.  When ships or other vessels wish to navigate the canal, this bridge swings open towards "The Other Side".  There's a warning system by way of a bell and a flag for when the bridge is going to swing, and the locals help you understand this system well.  For example, when the bell rings, the flag is blue, and the locals begin the run across the bridge, you should too, because if you don't make it to the other side on time, you stand the potential to be on the bridge until it returns to the full extension again, which potentially could be 20 minutes, or it could be a couple of hours!  When the bridge is closed for long periods of time there is a water taxi shuttle/ferry which takes commuters back and forth. An orange flag means it's a quick open & close.  Being on the bridge at this time would simply be a minor inconvenience.  Bill was hoping to be on the bridge while it swung open, which secretly, so did I.  We missed the opportunity by a handful of minutes, but I am certain there will be other opportunities.

The bridge obviously is a floating bridge, which has a slight sway and bounce to it.  At night time it is lit with a beautiful array of coloured lights reflecting the colours of the rainbow.  I will be sure to post a picture of this in the  next couple of days, I promise.

Once over the bridge and in Punda, Mel & Bill and Mom & I split up.  Mom and I headed to check out the floating market area where locals display their crafts and wares.  There is also local produce and fresh fish.  It offers all the colours and smells you would expect.  The floating market is where negotiators find their haven, and I was definitely in heaven. The people of Curacao and their language is so beautiful.  Everywhere I go, and every opportunity I have I try and learn a word or two.  The words "Bon Bini" can be found  everywhere, which means "welcome".  It's imperative to say this word with a wide-brimmed smile and a waving hand of encouragement.  The colourful displays of bright cheery paints and clay roof tops decorate the buildings from either side of the canal.  The display is stunning.

The market was a relaxing experience, and yes, I supported the local economy and I am certain I will do so a few more times before I leave the island.  We meandered through the streets and navigated our way back to the bridge after about an hour and a half.  It was hot and we were ready for an afternoon swim and beverage on the beach.  Our crew was there exchanging experiences from our day, listening to music, breaking out in song and dance.  It was a relaxing end to a relaxing day.

Tomorrow, we go on excursions.  As it is right now, 6 are going to "be one with the dolphins" while 2 or 3 will accompany them and visit the aquarium.  Another 6 will be snorkelling, and I am as excited as all get out for this adventure!

But, that's tomorrows blog! Sorry, you'll have to wait until then.