We left the ship, our enchanting home for five days. There were no worries. Delicious meals were prepared. Our room was cleaned twice a day. We just relaxed, listened to the water, and breathed fresh air. Relaxed doesn't mean inactive - not for a Type O. I got lots of exercise climbing stairs, working out at the gym, and swimming.

We stopped for a visit with my parents on the way home. My Dad is 88, and his skin has become fragile. Every time I see him he has a bandage some where from a cut. He bumped his leg, and what should have been a minor injury became seriously infected. Fortunately he responded quickly to antibiotics. I must see if I can find some natural supplement that would strengthen his skin.

When I first started the BTD my Dad went to the library and checked out the books. He has always eaten a lot of vegetables and a lot of beef. Now he uses soy milk instead of cow's milk and has cut back on wheat. I'd say he is 75 - 80% on the BTD.

He has a Norwalk hydraulic juicer that he is going to give me. We had way too much luggage this trip and couldn't squeeze it into the car. It is an older model 235, I believe. The only problem is that he can't find the instruction book. Another thing on my to do list - find out how to operate and clean the machine.

My Mom fixed beef tenderloin for dinner. After the first bite I said, "The chefs on the cruise ship can't hold a candle to your cooking." She laughed, but I wasn't kidding. The first meal I fixed at home included turnip greens and parsnips with ghee. I just realized I never saw cooked greens on any menu on the ship. I guess greens are too practical or down home for elegant dining.

The grass needs to be mowed, and the paperwork has stacked up. There is a mountain of laundry to do. Vacation was wonderful, but now we're back on terra firma (solid ground).