Story Veta (Book 2) (complete)

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 337: Dec 29 - Richland, WA​

Weather: 37/24

Poor weather has stopped the American Pride dead in the water and we were lucky to get tied off and docked before the worst of it hit. Work continues however. While Vit works in communications, tonight I helped security out by keeping everyone from going nuts by playing my violin and using it more like a fiddle. Essentially I was musical comedy back up for the new entertainment Dr. Forrester just brought onboard the 27th. The plan was to give an educational retrospective of the area but it turned into low-brow variety show that kept people entertained rather than informed. No one cared, least of all I. It was something to do rather than stare out the port holes and windows at the ice storm that was building.

Once known as the village of Chemna, Richland was incorporated as a city in 1910 and sits at the confluence of the Yakima and Columbia Rivers.

Honestly, I think I’ve lost my mind. On the other hand? I feel like I’ve won a battle. I have no idea why other than the fact that I haven’t allowed today’s lousy weather to stop the plan … or should I say The Plan.

I found out today that Dr. Forrester … and that is just going to drive me up a wall trying to balance the fact that our ED is a Ph.D. … is a psychologist. Ridiculous to feel so creeped out by the idea but I am. The analytical side of me sees they are trying to combine a lot of “hats” in one position and the logic they are trying to use. The practical side of me thinks it might even work short term. The realistic part of me? Eh … this could be a disaster waiting to happen. Dr. Forrester is nice enough but nice is not the talent that is needed here, extreme organization is, or such has been my experience for the last however many months. And she is also supposed to provide counseling for those that may need it. I wonder if she will ever rest. I wonder if she really knows what she is in for.

And speaking of rest, due to the weather-related change in the itinerary I was given the full day off. I haven’t really had one since Paris and when Dr. Forrester realized that she nearly freaked. I almost laughed in her face and told her that it has been the same since the beginning. I was either providing security or was doing translations with few exceptions along the way. It hasn’t bothered me because it would be no different if I wasn’t working … there is always something that needs doing.

She got a little nosey and asked how that worked with Vit, and I said we’d worked it out between us and there had been time on some Sunday’s to spend together as we both worked. We both realized the positions we held would not last forever and we wanted to take advantage of what we could while we had them, and we were committed as individuals and as a couple to the success of the Mission itself.

“All well and good but I still see there are a few things I need to be more aware of. I’ll admit I’ve never held a position quite like I’ve got at the moment, but it was too interesting to pass up.”

“You didn’t get drafted?”

“In a manner of speaking. I got my masters in counseling via ROTC. While I was in, I worked on my doctorate. Served my ten and then went into private practice. I remained in the Reserves. I had just finished closing my office in DC and was going to open a new one in New Orleans when a colleague recommended me to his Uncle who was on one of the committees that set up the original Bonhoeffer personnel rosters. You do realize you and your husband are one of only a handful of original civilian personnel remaining.”

“Vit would know that better than I. I primarily served the student program until the Denmark disembarkation of that entire department.”

“Do you miss them?”

“Yes. And no.”

“And no?”

“The interaction, yes. However, I’ve been a traveling tutor in Asian ports and that group size would have been more than challenging given the circumstances we eventually faced. They could have also been used – or abused – by the cultists that have masqueraded as government representatives more than once during the upheavals.”

“Cultists? That’s what you call them?”

Smelling a potential trap I said, “That’s what we were instructed to call them.”

“And … your brother isn’t it? Dylan Petric? Has he been able to find out anything further on the incident?”

She wasn’t very good at her job if she was supposed to be sly.

“Dylan may be my brother, but he is also an employee of his company who is under contract to the US government. We’ve had to … let’s just say we’ve had to come to an agreement that our being family can’t interfere with the work we are doing.” She was going to add something but then I chuckled, “Not to mention, I am the ‘baby sister’ in this equation. He may insist on keeping an eye on me, but he’s got blinders on when it comes to what my job has really entailed I think. He squawks on occasion then goes to his bosses with new ideas on how to ‘help’ and I only find out about it down the road. Do you have any brothers?”

She slowly grinned. “I’m the Big Sister with two younger brothers. I believe I can understand your brother’s position quite well.” She nodded then tapped something into the computer on her desk. “Take the remainder of the day off. May I ask what you plan to do with your time? Just in case someone asks me of course.”

Good thing I’m beyond the adolescent stage of rolling my eyes. I told her, “Probably run to the store … assuming there is one close by … to grab some hygiene items. Onboard supplies are for the active military and diplomats and their staff.”

“You resent that?”

Ugh. Obvious much? “Not at all. And if I’m being honest, choosing my own is cheaper than having it taken out of our paycheck.”

She got a thoughtful look on her face and as I was leaving her office I saw her making some quick notes in my personnel file she’d had on her desk. I don’t guess she realized that in addition to the various languages I am proficient in, I know shorthand and can read upside down. Entertainment Director isn’t all Dr. Forrester is being paid to do.

Convincing Vit of the advisability of my hastily constructed plan was a little more challenging. “Veta …”

I pulled him into the bathroom and turned the vent on. “Does that toy that Dylan gave you still work?”

He nodded and said, “I use it daily. And why are you wondering?”

I explained about Dr. Forrester.

“It is not to be unexpected. It could be worse. Grover told me that for a while when he first enlisted it was much worse with even how they voted being investigated. It is not a good thing.”

“Do … do you regret changing your citizenship?”

He gave me a surprised look. “Nii. Do not worry of that. In America there is still a chance even if there are those set against you. You can still find people that prefer risk and freedom over safety and slavery. But it is not a topic to discuss if you really are planning to leave the ship. Get dressed and I will adjust your faraday bag straps so that it fits over your coat.”

I kissed him and was glad I was no longer required to wear a skirt at all times. At least Dr. Forrester is good for something. She had enough pull with Human Resources that female personnel are now able to wear slacks when they went off the ship as part of their “uniform.” She was still working on getting the okay for personnel to wear civilian clothing off ship when they were off-duty.

As I was dressing I looked up the nearest shopping opportunities and there was a Dollar type store and something called a Winco a mile and a half away. Good deal Lucille as Charlie would say. I screen shotted my planned trail for Vit and then headed out. Security laughed at me … until I had to tell them why I was going off ship and then they got a thoughtful look on their face. Ugh. Thirty-seven freaking degrees. At least it was still a dry-cold and I wasn’t tromping around in rain or any other kind of damp that was predicted for later.

About half the way was along the Riverfront Trail which meant that I was out of traffic and the route was maintained. The rest of the way was along paved roads but traffic was minimal. Sane people obviously didn’t go out in the cold unless they had to. I am so thankful Vit insisted I pick gloves up in Astoria. I would be sick and miserable without them. After leaving the Riverfront Trail I basically followed two roads that followed then bisected a large golf course and country club. The Dollar Tree and Winco was right where the map said it should be.

I walked into the Winco and then walked straight back out. The place was a madhouse. Government checks had hit and people were stocking up for New Year. Crazy, crazy, crazy people. About a quarter of everyone was wearing masks but the “Mask Police” were coming out of the woodwork and I barely avoided two fights between the pro and con mask people. I am forced to wear a mask by employment mandate but otherwise I think wearing masks at the moment is a waste of time. Derrick told me he remembers all the cases of breathing-related illnesses caused by mask wearing during Covid19 and its variants. He also says it is like trying to swat a fly with a chain-link fence. But I wasn’t touching the arguments or getting involved. Everyone must find their own comfort level.

I switched over to a nearby deep-discount store. Their after-Christmas sales hadn’t been nearly as stripped as at the other stores I have been in the last few days. It was also busy, but nothing approaching what I’d seen at the Winco. Going back to what we could need when we got home and taking into account what I’d learned from Angelia about what has been in short supply and what was moving that direction I stuck to staple items for food, then moved on to the health and beauty items and cleaning supplies. I also drew from memories of what I did when I was with the Marchands, particularly sending things home from San Diego that time. And I was lucky that I had the large back pack and found out a Post Office was within walking distance as well. It would mean that I would be out longer than I had intended but it has proven such a productive idea that I’m going to try and continue to do it at each port. Charlie – who will be our point man for delivery – reminded me that I just have to be careful that nothing will freeze in transit. For today’s items there are no worry. We are going to wait to send the “freight” home to hopefully avoid the issue with other items.

The main reason I have decided to mail what I can when I can is, once again, Dr. Forrester. Whether it is only her or not, I don’t want people getting into our business, especially if restrictions get to be a problem. The store shelves already have limits on them … and yes, I picked up my limit on each paper and hygiene item and paid for it with the dollars we are supposed to spend back into the community.

I made one unplanned stop by going next door to a sporting goods store and buying leggings for me and the male version of compression leggings for Vit. I don’t care if he is part polar bear, this weather is cold and he is on deck out in it a great deal of the time it seems.

Shipping proved a little more interesting than I wanted it to be but that’s because it was a spur of the moment idea at the time. First off … boxes. I wound up having to buy boxes at the post office. Second, I had a significant number of items to mail. I addressed both of those issues by taking the packaging off what I could and then packing things like a jigsaw puzzle, utilizing every square micron of space I could. Privacy to do this with? Essentially none but I did the best I could and was only observed by one older, slightly inebriated gentleman that said, “Honey, you can pack my boxes any time.”

I didn’t mail all my purchases because I didn’t want to draw suspicion after I said that I was going shopping. I brought back on ship some of my hygiene purchases and some snacks … Vit learned to like fried pork rinds from Charlie and I wanted to surprise him since I’d spotted a couple of bags of them in the snack aisle.

 

[moldy]

Yikes. And how badly she was watched before is nothing like this.

 

[sssarawolf]

Always enjoyable, thank you. I managed to get all the Christmas stuff packed for going to the barn while dh plowed snow when there was a break in the weather and the wind.

 

[nancy98]

Yeaaaa All caught up. Very good Kathy. Thank you.

 

[beaglemama]

Thanks again, Kathy!

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 338: Dec 30 - Pendleton, OR​

Weather: 39/26

The boat remains docked in Richland, but this time for a repair part to be delivered and installed. There were complaints by a small but vocal minority in the community about how the boat’s personnel were using resources. I was momentarily guilt-stricken until it became clearer the local protestors were referring to fuel. But there have been no transportation demands on the community as those few personnel who got off the ship walked to their destination. It was also pointed out how much money was being spent in the community at restaurants, etc. and that the ship had not refueled.

However, to address the concern, transportation from outside the community was requisitioned – causing some in the community to turn on those that had been complaining – and a contingent of personnel was sent to Pendleton, OR to spread a little economic cheer there after being invited. I was nominated to play point person on this unplanned excursion. All righty then. Perhaps I have become suspicious and somewhat jaded. Fine. I’ll wear the title. But more than that I think I have become less tolerant of all the complaining I hear on all sides, on ship and off. I will leave it at that for now. Hopefully as the holidays pass, people will get their heads out of an orifice they do not belong.

A charming city, Pendleton began as a European-American commercial center around 1851. Incorporated as a city in 1880, Pendleton is known for its famous woolen mills. We visited the Pendleton Woolen Mill and Museum to learn about the town's weaving process that has produced world famous woolens since 1901.

Pendleton Woolen Mill crafts high quality wool clothing & blankets with designs that endure … or so says their advertisements. The town of Pendleton, a major railhead serving the Columbia Plateau, was a wool shipping center for sheep growers of the region. The mill, originally built in 1893, began as a wool scouring plant, which washed the raw wool before shipping. Today the mill stands on the same foundation as it did in 1909, but has added a retail operation along with investments in state-of-the-art technology.

I stuck to the clearance area as it was a very expensive store and got a few items for Vit and I. A wool scarf/muffler (not of the heaviest because of the weather of our final destination); plenty of socks for both of us (crew socks, no-show socks) that Vit laughs at because of the garish patterns and colors but kisses me for the thought and for sticking to the clearance section; a warm hoodie for Vit; a warm hoodie for me; and several flannel shirts in both Native American prints and plaid for Vit.

It was challenging to break away from the group and make a quick stop in a store to grab a few odds and ends and then run to the post office to mail a package, but I did so by foregoing my lunch. I was starving by the time I got back to the Pride and had to explain my extreme hunger to Vit.

“No more of that Veta. I will not see you make such sacrifices as …”

“You are making more of it than it was Vit. You act like I did something … I don’t know … heroic or dangerous. It wasn’t. It wouldn’t have happened if I had planned better. I think I have found a partner-in-crime to help out next time.”

“Er …”

I laughed. “There is another woman that was trying to do the same thing and be just as on the sly as I. She has a couple of kids at home living with her in-laws … their father isn’t in the picture apparently … and she says her mother-in-law told her the supplies were even better than the paycheck she is bringing in.”

“Veta, your … uh … soft heart …”

“Easy Husband. I am aware of how easy it is to tug at that organ. However, this woman reminds me a bit of a female Charlie. She even warned me to keep what I am doing quiet.”

“Ah … I know the woman you speak of. Ms. Connerton on the Med Team. She’s Canadian.”

“That’s her. She filled out our First Aid-trained person slot this time, and will likely be in the position permanently. Or at least until she gets her new assignment in Toronto.”

“Just be cautious Kokhana. I still have some concern about Forrester and the attention she paid you.”

Carefully checking out other people’s experience I was able to tell Vit, “I’m not the only one, I think I may have just been a test subject as it were since I was handy and will be working closely with her.” Then I asked, “Have you heard anything new?”

“You must be specific.”

His wording sent my antenna up. “I take it Dylan has asked you not to say something unless I ask specifically.”

“He would never ask me to lie to you.”

“Of course he wouldn’t,” I said but then added cynically, “But he would ask you not to say something unless I asked. So consider this me asking.”

He sighed. “It is good we make the plans we do and then do something about it. And I hear this not just from Dylan. Derrick called again asking about you while you were out.”

“And let me guess none of them necessarily want me knowing they are calling asking about me.”

“You know your brats well.”

“So what has them so concerned?”

“The situation is worsening. You would have been too young to remember the pandemic. For that matter I do not remember much as we were not touched by it as we already had few freedoms in the orphanage and were to be grateful for what little we had. But many of your elder siblings remember quite well though they were young children at the time. They all say that Angelia is in a panic that she cannot ‘fill our pantry’ as she did before we came home the first time.”

“It isn’t her responsibility.”

“As I told them to tell her. But they say she still worries. Charlie …” I saw a concern on Vit’s face he didn’t necessarily want to share. “He told me not to mention that we are sending things to him, that he has spoken with Devin and they both agree that we should keep such things to ourselves.”

“That’s …” I didn’t quite know how to complete what I wanted to say.

“Yes, it concerns me as well. Derrick asks that we stock what you will need … vitamins and such. Dylan asks that we are careful in what we buy. Charlie has already given his advice and is helping. Dev is trying to do much the same as we but in his area.”

“They probably all suspect something, but let Charlie and Dev be the only ones that know the majority.”

“And not even they will know all. And come, let us go eat. This is making you uncomfortable and you are starting to shake.”

“Not as much as you worry about. I hate 007 crap but … I can do it. It just makes me worried for them and why they feel they must be the way they are. I can understand Dev and Charlie … Dev because of his ‘neighborhood watch’ activities. Charlie because of Patrice and her parents. Derrick has his own hands full. And Dylan is as Dylan-ish as he has always been … but is maybe having his own problems at home. Angie … bah! … you know what I mean.”

“I do Kokhana. Let us eat and then come back here and work.”

“I thought you and Grover were going to watch a football game.”

“Later in the evening. I wish to work on our lists first. We need to pay particular attention to any import items, but I would like to look at our inventory spread sheet before we determine how much.”

When we came back to the cabin I gave Vit the pioneer-style hat that I had purchased for him. “It isn’t your Cossack hat, but you still look handsome.”

“My hat is warmer,” he says grinning at me for wearing his hat because the heat has been turned off on our deck while a repair is made.

I stuck my tongue out at him and then laughed happily, noting that Vit’s stress level has gone down now that we are back in the States. He still worries, but no more Mitkin. No more Asian cabal masquerading as a legitimate government. The virus is still far away. And we are making concrete strides in our plans. A call from Devin letting him know that several major repairs have been completed hadn’t hurt his mood either.

After going over our inventories we both agree we are better off than we expected, not as well off as we had hoped, and that the plan, while good overall still needs some fine tuning. I wish I could stock up on some shipping materials but it might draw too much attention at security checkpoints. I will pick up some mailing labels and have them pre-filled as that will save some time. Ms. Connerton suggested it and it makes sense. I am going to spend some time tonight looking at the itinerary and create some lists of “want” items and locations to get them at. If anyone notices my search details I can say that I am doing research for my job and for suggestions on where and how to spend the per diem to mostly local businesses rather than the large chains. Sounds plausible even to me.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 339: Dec 31 - Clarkston, WA (New Year’s Eve) (1)​

Weather: 39/28

It was only a half-day today as it is New Year’s Eve and things are getting complicated.

One of the Pacific Northwest's most inland seaports, Clarkston is located on the Snake River, near the famous Hells Canyon. The 10-mile wide canyon was carved out from significant events occurring 15,000 years ago, including a flood from Glacial Lake Bonneville in Utah. Frustrating many miners, explorers and settlers, Hells Canyon is now a popular recreation destination.

Clarkston, WA sits on one side of the border, Lewiston, ID on the other. Care to guess how the towns got their names? Lewis and Clark, naturally.

Basalt Cellars Winery was one of the main stops. Dr. Forrester decided to head this group up and I was free to lead the other group thankfully. Vit decided to avoid a large liquor purchase that would have to be mailed home in advance until after the weather changes. It doesn’t make me sad. Due to stress my stomach has turned to acid. Unusual for me but Vit is started to rub his stomach as well. Both of us are better off drinking a mug of hot chocolate or warm milk at night instead of a glass of wine anyway. If Vit wants something else he fixes himself a cup of chamomile tea or similar.

My group, instead of the winery, was supposed to go to the Nez Perce County Historical Society & Museum and learn about the rich history of the Nez Perce Native American tribe, remembered especially for having saved the Lewis and Clark Expedition team from starvation following their harrowing journey through the Bitterroot Mountains. However, the museum was not open so the itinerary changed and there were some staff that needed personal items so I and Ms. Connerton agreed to shepherd them to a Walmart Supercenter that was very close to the port … within walking distance for those willing to brave the temperatures. Strangely this Walmart had a self-serve shipping center near its entrance, and it was an easy way for them to send off our purchases without other staff getting nosey. Those few that did were easily put off by it being holiday gifts.

When I came back on-board Dr. Forrester met me at the top of the gangway even before Vit could reach me. “This sucks Veta but I’m going to beg a huge favor. Can you play for about an hour tonight? We’re under orders to have a quiet New Year’s Eve … there have been some credible threats made and we don’t want to get caught with our pants down if they pop off here in the States … but I’d like to try and bolster morale by having something. I’ve managed to arrange a midnight toast, the meal has been spiffed up thanks to the mess hall staff being willing to rearrange the menu, but I’m trying to pull some light entertainment together.”

Vit overheard and gave a minute nod. It wasn’t that he was giving permission, but accepting what he knew what I would choose.

“One hour. I can manage that.”

“Fantastic,” she said seemingly relieved. “That will give McDonald a chance to get off his shift and grab a bite to eat before playing for an hour. And Isabell from Communications will play acoustic guitar. You three are really saving my bacon. I’ll owe you.”

“Don’t say that unless you mean it,” I told her. She says that quite often to others and laughed to have her words used on her.

“How about I assign someone to help you and Vit get that monster crate off-ship with the rest of the luggage. Will that keep me in your good graces for the next leg?”

“And how. We are downsizing our luggage as much as possible. We kept too many clothes and other items since we didn’t have much of an opportunity to take care of it in Guam. They just shipped everything here to the States for us and … I’m done with the mess and so is Vit. We’re just lucky that both duffle bags fit.” Trying to redirect her I asked, “So, we’re really disembarking tomorrow? I’d heard there was some question whether it was going to happen.”

Looking around before telling us she said, “Of the few foreign diplomats remaining, most got called home today … or had their pleas for returning home answered. I expect more to say they are returning home before the night is over with. Only the Canadians and Mexicans are for-sure remaining. Those threats? People are getting twitchy. For appearances sake the Peace Mission is going to continue here like it is in a few places in Europe, but between you and I my sources are saying by the end of January or February we may all be getting furloughed until things settle down.”

Nonchalantly we headed to our cabin. Quietly I asked, “Do you believe her?”

Vit nodded. “The timeline? It is as I have heard as well. It gives us time to add to our supplies, but we’ll need to be more proactive.”

“Anything from Dylan?”

“Radio Dylan has gone quiet. He warned that it might happen. He feels he is being watched so must be careful with any show of favoritism.”

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 340: Jan 1 - Clarkston, WA (New Years Day) (2)​

Weather: 39/28

Disembarkation Day. Despite it being New Year’s Day, there is a lot of work going on as personnel and diplomats are shifted around as incognito as possible. There are several personnel changes as well as some have completed their temporary tour of duty and some are just starting.

All personnel were instructed to dress in whatever civilian clothes they have. All non-North and -Central American diplomats have been recalled. Everyone else is directed to an Airbus to fly to Chicago. We had one person in our travel group almost not pass the health screening at the airport, but a quick antibody test shows that she is clear. An on-call doctor suggests her slightly elevated temperature is due to nerves, ovulation, or both.

There was a storm when we landed and we are stuck in the airport but are in good company. The airport is very full and there is some concern about security as well as potential cross contamination. Vit and I are careful to keep to ourselves as do the rest of the Peace Mission personnel who remain incognito. Thankfully we have all been shifted to one of the First-Class lounges that used to belong to a now defunct airline.

Vit and I are sleeping in shifts with the rest of Security. It allows all of us to feel safer. It also gives me time to listen to the news on the airport monitors. Not much new but some new is better than nothing. The airport coffee is disgusting. Thank goodness I found some packages of mint tea deep in my duffle bag. Most of the restaurants are out of food.

 

[sssarawolf]

Glad I checked again, thank you.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 341: Jan 2 - Board the mv Victory I in Chicago​

What a day. I am sure that when I reread this journal at some distant point I will cringe at the number of times I write those words. But it fits and I cannot find anything better to say to sum things up.

By traveling as incognito as possible, the diplomats and their entourages are barely noted by the media. It is an amateur vlogger in downtown Chicago that gets the skinny and shares it before the government can head it off. No one believes him at first – he’s known online as a bit of a nutcase and conspiracy theorist and has been caught in lies before – and by slight of hand and some well-placed leaks, more attention is paid to a well-known social influencer who OD’d.

Weather: 32/19

A series of chauffeur-driven vans transfer us from the airport to downtown Chicago where the mv Victory I awaited us. First thing they did was feed us. We were all very grateful by that point. While we ate they handed out our cabin and position assignments. Vit and I had no surprises.

It was a rather unexpected welcome aboard, however. Along with dinner there was free-flowing wines, cocktails and beverages with welcome aboard speeches from the captain and the highest-ranking diplomats. This is a momentous occasion. A peace accord has been reached between the old EU countries and those that have left the union. New Zealand and Australia have also signed mutual aid and support. Several Asian countries are close to doing the same thing despite China’s saber rattling, or perhaps because of it. Canada, the US, and Mexico are days away from signing the North American Peace Accord, hopefully more successful than a previous one more about illegal immigration. Part of the Accord is that both the US and Canada have agreed to help Mexico protect their southern border. The US has also agreed to keep and prosecute gang and cartel members, including expedited death sentences if convicted. Several large contingents had been due for paroled release, including some well-known crime bosses. It has been decided that until the virus that is fast heading towards pandemic level has been quelled, paroles are on hold. For the safety of all involved of course, including the potential parolees.

It is hoped in the coming weeks that South America will join the North and Central American accord but that depends on several left-leaning governments that want assistance that has nothing to do with peace or the virus. Asia and the Middle East are also struggling to come to accords, but some movement is being made in a positive direction. It is not peace so much driving the talks these days but memories of the terrible economic times that resulted from the way the last major pandemic was handled around the world. You cannot shut down the world’s economies without expecting at a minimum a recession, and possibly worse. And when the stimulus packages kept going out, inflation was not transitory, as first claimed, but significantly impacted recovery efforts for years. Add to this that many places are still recovering after the Year of the Bombs. There doesn’t need to be any more reason for certain countries to use war as a way of distracting from economic pain.

The ship we are on has a gross register tonnage of 4,954 tons and a deadweight tonnage of 200 tons. The ship is 300 ft long overall and 296 ft long between perpendiculars. The cruise ship has a beam of 50 ft and draught of 28 ft. The ship is powered by a two-shaft diesel engine that gives the ship a maximum speed of 13 knots (roughly 15 mph). Characterized by her owners as a "luxury" vessel, she has a capacity of 210 passengers that are bunked in 105 double staterooms and are said to have available all the amenities offered on larger vessels. But I must be honest, the cabin looks like an old Motel 6 room with the entrance to the room from the outside deck. I am told it is a mess to deal with in bad weather.

Diplomats and Personnel	202
Ship Crew	84

Vit and I are surprised to be assigned to one of the larger cabins, 185 sq ft on Deck 3 Aft. A note in the cabin contains a more than generous per diem as well as some other gift cards. That is when we realized, of the remaining personnel, we and Grover are the only ones that have been with the Peace Mission since the beginning. I, in particular, was asked to make sure and spend ourr per diem in each port as a continuation of spreading “economic cheer” as they had on the Bonhoeffer and each ship since, and to set an example to other personnel to spend it, not hold onto it. There is also a list of upcoming ports and a contract for the leg after this one along with a note that if we sign on for the next leg, we will receive a signing bonus.

Vit, after looking at the itinerary, gave his immediate agreement but was willing to hear any objection that I might have. Seeing that the end of the next leg would be moving them closer to Pembroke, along with the signing bonus, I was more than agreeable as well. His one concern was shipping our purchases but looking over the remaining papers, we both noted a slip that said in view of the “economic cheer” they were supposed to be spreading, shipping of up to 150 lbs. is included as a benefit. That concern dealt with we continued by unpacking our toiletries and uniforms but everything else we have left in our luggage, not that there was much as the rest was shipped for Charlie to pick up. We will only be on this leg until the 11th and saving ourselves work is high on our list of desirable efforts.

Tomorrow will be a day of “cruising” on Lake Michigan will we settle out. My understanding is at the start of the next leg after this one, we will be as much a scientific mission as one dedicated to peace. It is all rather hush hush at the moment but Vit, refusing to risk our health or safety, has gleaned that we will be traveling on a new ship and the technology is what will be tested.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 342: Jan 3 - Cruising Lake Michigan​

Since this is the completely wrong time of year for river cruising, public sentiment is against the rumors of a continuing Peace Mission. If anything, they think it is a repositioning of a riverboat. Mission personnel did what they could to aid this by not using the outside decks any more than absolutely necessary. Fools most of the mainstream media, or they allow themselves to be fooled, and gives those in charge time to reorganize and deal with the increasing number of H2H2H (human to human to human) infection chains in Asia and try and figure out a way to minimize a possible pandemic of a novel virus reaching North America. The accords and peace treaties are also designed to prevent any more economic hardships than will naturally occur if a pandemic does become reality.

Vit left for his shift work and I huddled with Dr. Forrester going over the itinerary, excursions, and personnel files for anything that needed to be adjusted for. I say huddled as I was under two deck blankets as there was something wrong with the heat on that deck. Ugh. Afterwards, on my way back to our cabin, I got permission from housekeeping to “recycle” several boxes I spotted in a trash cart. I plan to use them as shipping containers.

I’m not sure that I fully understand this leg of the mission. I know there are a lot of meetings going on with the higher ups but it is just odd. It is almost as if they know something or are expecting something.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 343: Jan 4 - Mackinac Island (Sunday)​

Weather: 27/15

Snow. I mean seriously … snow. Snow! Okay there wasn’t much of it, but I was freezing. I am very glad that I did not send home the boots that Mr. Baird gave me for my birthday. And quite frankly I didn’t care they weren’t part of my “uniform.” My feet were dry if not always warm and that is what I cared about.

The riverboat stuck close to its Coast Guard escort that acts as an ice breaker should the need arise. In truth while it was and is below freezing there is neither snow nor ice of any amount because it is so dry and the lake seasonally warmer than normal. Vit said I looked “comically horrified” when I took my first breath outside of our cabin. I ran back inside, passed a slightly alarmed Vit, and straight to the bag and pulled out a second pair of tights and a third pair of socks. When Vit finally understands what is going on he laughs with abandon.

“Kokhana, if I could, I would come with you and keep you warm.”

“Bah!”

“And is that not the noise you tell me not to say unless I wish you to call me a sheep?”

“Keep going Vit Dymtrus and I’ll wish a cold wind to find an uncomfortable place.”

He just kept laughing as I struggled to get the tights on and then had to run to catch up with the day’s activity group.

Not many people know this, but there’s an island just off the coast of Michigan that’s got one of the richest histories in the United States. It’s called Mackinac Island, and of the 35,000 islands in the Great Lakes, it stands as one of the most interesting. Of those that know of Mackinac Island even fewer realize that it is open year-round and not just during the tourist season of April to October.

On Mackinac Island, you’d have no idea you were in the modern century (aside from someone pulling out an iPhone). Cars have been prohibited since 1898. The only vehicles I saw today were bicycles and horse-drawn carriages! The island uses 500 horses for transportation needs.

Indigenous to the islands were the Anishinaabe (Ojibwa) Indians. They believed Mackinac Island was the home to the “Great Spirit”, which in their language was the Gitchie Manitou. Thus, Mackinac was a sacred place for tribes around the area. They used it as a gathering place for worship and presenting offerings for the Gitchie Manitou, as well as performing ritual burials for tribal chiefs.

It wasn’t long until Mackinac became a desirable territory for incoming foreign settlers. First came the French missionaries, who turned the island into a fur trading post. Years later, the British took over after the French and Indian War. They used the island for militaristic reasons, and built Fort Mackinac in 1780. The United States got involved in 1783, acquiring the Strait of Mackinac thru the Treaty of Paris. The British officially evacuated the Great Lakes region in 1794, but captured the fort during the War of 1812. The Treaty of Ghent forced the island back to the US, who has remained in control of the island since.

With the establishment of Mackinac for military purposes, tourism didn’t really take off until after the Civil War. Here’s a fun fact: Mackinac Island was America’s second national park (Yellowstone National Park being the first). Once the Island was established as a National Park, the Grand Hotel was built (still standing since 1887), and wealthy Americans started developing summer homes on the island.

Now, the economy is dominated by tourism. The tiny, 4-mile island sees nearly 20,000 visitors per day during the peak seasons. And how do those visitors stay fed? Well, according to multiple signs in every few shop windows it is fudge. The island has at least fourteen different fudge shops, some dating back to the 1880s.

Well I certainly went a little fudge crazy for some reason. Some of my purchases came from Joann’s Fudge Shop that offers 25 fantastic flavors as well as an assortment of hand-dipped chocolates and sugar-free candies. Gift packages, online ordering, and shipping available. May’s Fudge and Candy Shop was another one: May’s fudge shop has been family operated for six generations. The smell and their free samples is what drew me in but it was their flavors that kept me: French Vanilla, Amaretto Chocolate Chip, Butter Pecan, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Nut and Plain Chocolate, as well as English toffee, Monsters, Pecan Rolls and Clusters. Then there was Murdick’s. In 1887, father-and-son sail makers, Henry and Jerome “Rome” Murdick, were commissioned to create canvas awnings for the new Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. “The Grand” would eventually contribute in a huge way to making the Mackinac region a center of booming tourism. With the Murdicks’ arrival to the island came Mrs. Henry Murdick (Sara) and her exceptional confectionery skills and recipes, In 1887, Mackinac Island’s first candy shop opened as Murdick’s Candy Kitchen. Henry Murdick continued to make sails in the back of the building, while up front, Rome crafted fudge using his mother’s recipe. Murdick’s favors traditional flavors as well as nuts in their fudge. Man is that stuff rich. My faraday back was ready to squeal for insulin from the smell alone.

With no cars allowed on the island, horse-drawn carriage tours were a hit with our group. It was a great way to experience the Victorian ambience. The drivers were proficient at sharing the island’s history and pointing out turn-of-the-century summer homes built by early captains of American industry. High atop a bluff overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, was also Fort Mackinac which we stopped to learn about and take photos.

The island was nearly devoid of tourists, except for the snow skiing type, and everything was quiet. Then we took in the views from the Grand Hotel’s verandah, the longest in the world, and enjoyed the hotel’s Grand Luncheon Buffet which they serve year ‘round.

I don’t know how someone heard but the subject of the Slide Shows that I used to make came up. I am not sure why, but I’ve agreed to try it again so long as it doesn’t my ability to do reports and such. It really hasn’t been that difficult. The only glitch is that Chief Boone has asked me to clear it through him before I post them on the ship’s mainframe for crew members to download with a passcode.

Vit was amused by the amount of fudge I brought back on board.

Feeling more than a little embarrassed I told him, “I would have shipped it but I couldn’t find a post office handy. Besides, I need to pack this better. At least I found a place that sold food grade plastic wrap and wax paper. I’ll wrap these slices better and then pack them better so that next time we dock I’ll be ready.”

And now on top of everything else I am late. Stress. Gah.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 344: Jan 5 - Through the Soo Locks to Sault Ste. Marie​

I will use on of Charlie’s phrases for trouble. Crap on crackers. The next few days it is very important that we all stay sequestered. A yacht originating in Asia washed ashore in California after a storm. All hands perished though the timeline of whether it was before, during, or after the storm has yet to be confirmed. Given some physical signs, despite decomposition, it was the the swine plague. The question in everyone’s mind is whether the remains are still infectious.

Today we transited through the historic Soo Locks where freighters, barges and tugboats traverse the 21-foot drop of the St. Mary’s River between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. The first lock here was built in 1855 and the canal was navigated by 27 vessels during its first year of operation. Today, more than 10,000 ships hauling 86 million tons of cargo pass through these historic parallel locks each year, even though they’re closed during the winter when ice shuts down shipping on the upper Great Lakes. They’ve remained open thus far but may be closed within the next week as a storm is expected.

After traveling upward through the locks into Lake Superior, we returned downward to dock on the northeastern banks of the St Mary’s River at Roberta Bondar Place – named for Canada’s first female astronaut. I assisted Dr. Forrester in keeping high-interest educational programs running in the common areas. I also helped to man a room that has been set up as a library. It is all we have the capacity to do to keep people from going a little crazy due to the access to the internet being shut down. Select bits of information are shared throughout the day but only after it has been thoroughly sanitized. What someone allowed to slip through is the “ticker tape” scrolling across the bottom of some of the screen shots. Just because there were in non-English languages did mean some of us were incapable of reading them.

There is a lot of glee in China while in other areas there is terror. If the US shuts down we’ll take down a lot of emerging economies that count on us to buy their exports … or count on us to provide grains and other basic food sources for their people.

Chief Boone has asked that all upper ranks project as much calm and confidence as possible. I’ve been doing my part though I am anxious for Vit to get out of the shower and snuggle with me. I wouldn’t say I am frightened exactly but having too much knowledge about what might happen isn’t setting well in my stomach.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 345: Jan 6 - Little Current on Manitoulin Island​

Early this morning found our ship navigating through the waters and islands that lead into picturesque Georgian Bay, sheltered by the rocky shores and forested hills of Ontario’s Bruce Peninsula and Manitoulin Island. After breakfast we pulled into Little Current, Ontario. No one exited the ship, but we did take on some additional medical personnel. Everyone had their temperature taken and given a basic questionnaire that must be filled out daily, prior to leaving their cabin. They didn’t come right out and say it, but the idea is that anyone caught lying and/or not taking health protocols seriously would be treated like a criminal … per our contract.

Vit and I both got into the fudge and stress ate nearly half a pound of it. We both got a bit sick but wound up laughing at ourselves because of it.

We were only allowed out during our particular inspection. I wanted to shake my head at the mistakes they were making. They should have gone to each cabin and then changed PPE between each one instead of having people come to them. All it did was risk that if someone was infectious that it was traipsed through the boat rather than quarantined. What Derrick would say I don’t even want to know. He can be a little rabid about that sort of thing.

We are behind on our lists, our per diem is stacking up with no way to spend it, and I need to get rid of that blasted fudge before I weigh four hundred pounds. And we are low on prophylactics. How could we have possibly not been paying attention to that?!

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 346: Jan 7 - Cruising Lake Huron​

Late this evening the CDC finally clears the yacht/corpses that washed ashore of any active infection. Even wit hthat it is causing havoc with the airline and shipping industry. And this despite memories of what the last economic chaos such a reaction caused during the last pandemic.

Border security has become exponentially tight … and exponentially more militarized … overnight. TSA and all its components now include a third mandatory temperature check … prior to entry to the airport, at TSA, then prior to boarding the plane. Not that it does much good. Temperature is only a minor indicator. And taking fever reducers hides that potential symptom and rumor has it that everyone is now taking such medications as a matter of course rather than due to any real cause.

The Southern Border Wall was completed years ago; except in the few areas it remained dismantled as a result of battling strategies and tactics for reducing illegal immigration. There are still issues with illegal immigrants … those that have stayed over their visa’s, those who did not renew their green card, illegal crossings, and those that did not go through the amnesty process that had been offered because they did not want to pay taxes and/or give up their citizenship in their country of origin, etc. However, the newest tech gear is being deployed along the border. It’s first night in use some wall jumpers from Asia are apprehended and taken into custody. They were immediately tested and two out of a group of eight tested positive for antibodies to the new virus.

Having the antibodies is not the same things as an active infection. In fact, it means they’ve either received an experimental vaccine – which they refuse to admit to – or they’ve already had the virus or been exposed enough that their body reacted.

The full results aren’t released to the public but even the media is wondering if the virus is not much more widespread than we assume … or are being told.

 

[Freebirde]

I know it is January that they are on Lake Superior, but Veta could threaten Dr. Forrester with playing a Gordan Lightfoot song

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vST6hVRj2A
if she gets to be too much.

 

[Lake Lili]

I know it is January that they are on Lake Superior, but Veta could threaten Dr. Forrester with playing a Gordan Lightfoot song if she gets to be too much.

Gordon Lightfoot's daughter was a year ahead of me in school in grade school and he came and played for the students as we all sat on the gym floor. Happy memories...

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 347: Jan 8 – Windsor, Ontario​

Strangely, or so I thought at first, Dr. Forrester decided at the las minute to lead today’s primary excursion. From Windsor, Ontario where we were docked, the original home of the Ford Motor Company, a group crossed the bridge into the United States to visit the Henry Ford Museum. More than just a showcase of the auto industry, the museum explores 300 years of history, culture, and innovation. Among the highlights are the limo that transported John F. Kennedy through Dallas on November 22, 1963 and the bus on which Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat in December 1955. I would have liked to have seen in but instead … and not a bad thing give The Plan … I took some other personnel and arranged for them to spend some per diem that has been backing up.

Thankfully Ms. Connerton knows Windsor and is able to get us on foot and quickly to various shopping opportunities not too far from the riverfront park where our ship is parked … oops, long day … where our ship is docked. Once an important stop on the Underground Railroad, Windsor became an important center of whisky production and, thus, a major smuggling port during Prohibition. (Apparently Al Capone liked his Canadian Club.) Well I was looking for maple syrup, dried blueberries, and cheddar cheese. However, our first stop was at a Dollar-rama, Canada’s version of a Dollar Tree. The females in our group stocked up on feminine hygiene items and the males on other types of personal hygiene items and energy drinks. Ms. Connerton and I did that but we also grabbed our limit on toilet paper.

She also took us to several Asian and Middle Eastern grocery stores that are strangely free of customers. Possibly due to fear or prejudice concerning the virus is all I can think of because the prices were absolutely worth the slight discomfort of going in unknown territory. I had come up with a strategy for hiding what I was doing in plain sight and that was by picking up items for other people. Just what no one knew is that the majority of what I bought would be my own purchases. Let’s see … instant rice noodles, instant milk tea mix, dried shitake mushrooms, Korean BBQ jerky, Japanese cup o’ noodle meals, Chinese five spice, instant Vietnam pho noodles, mushroom herbal tea, bone broth “tea” in tea bags that you steep and then sip, instant Thai tea = black tea + condensed milk, Café’ Pho instant ice mild coffee, Korean grain “teas” that you could add water or milk to for a breakfast drink (12 grain, black grain, and grain and yam), falafel mix, rose water, couscous, and pomegranate molasses.

There was a beauty supply location that I thought we would never get out of. I didn’t buy anything there but some additional bobby pins and hair ties because I really needed to offload some of what I was carrying. Ms. Connerton smiled as she’d come up with the perfect diversion.

The BeaverTail is a whole wheat hand stretched pastry resembling … you guessed it … a beaver’s tail. It is gently placed afloat in a deep fryer of canola oil and then topped and served piping hot. Toppings range from the classic cinnamon and sugar to the maple bacon and the “Triple Trip” (chocolate hazelnut spread, peanut butter and Reese’s pieces). My personal favorite was the apple cinnamon BeaverTail.

Born in Ottawa in 1978 the BeaverTail was an exclusive Ontario treat until 1987 when it made its way to Montreal. It has since gone global and can be found in the USA, the Middle East and Asia. So many BeaverTails have been sold that if they were placed end to end they would be able to cover Canada from the most easterly point to the most westerly point and then some.

As if the carb-heavy BeaverTail wasn’t enough to get our group dozey, Windsor-style pizza has a medium thick, crispy-chewy crust, tangy Arrabbiata-style sauce and local Galati cheese. The pepperoni is shredded and the mushrooms are canned. Toppings are ALWAYS on top of the cheese, never under. Curiously, a barbecue sauce is sometimes served on the side.

Ms. Connerton and I took turns running across the road to a shipping store. If I have to do things this way, it is nice to have a “partner in crime” that shares my way of thinking. We aren’t out to hurt anyone else, we just want to help our families and ourselves without people getting into our business while we do it.

Once we were back to the ship our “ploy” was reinforced in people’s minds when we had those we’d picked up items for meet us at security so they could take possession of them. It also encouraged our own security people to start thinking in those terms so they wouldn’t automatically assume we were hoarding items. We were just a couple of soft hearted women helping out our fellow personnel. Uh … okay. Sure. And for the record I don’t mind helping out any more than I mind trying to put together slide shows as keepsakes. You don’t get anything in this life without being willing to give. I found out it made people a lot less suspicious of me and made it easier to work with them.

You know what else I found out? Dr. Forrester met her SO in Detroit “accidentally” as he was there on a business trip. Uh huh. Grover pulled security for that group, and he said it was “no accident” regardless of what she was trying to say. Given her job responsibilities, good thing Dr. Forrester isn’t nearly as 007 as she obviously thinks she is.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 348: Jan 9 – Cleveland, OH (Rock and Roll Hall of Fame)​

Weather: 35/23

Industrial landmarks from its days as a lakeside manufacturing town still stand in testament to Cleveland’s roots. But the city of today is also filled with beautiful urban spaces and is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame which was the primary excursion option for today. Vit has tickled me as he “discovers” American music. The look on his face has rendered me nearly breathless from giggles a few times. He would have enjoyed some of the Hall of Fame, and other parts would have had him pulling ear plugs from his pockets as he did a few times when my nephews had their boom boxes playing a little loud with their preferred tunes.

With our expert guide we explored the evolution of the musical genre that shaped a generation and tracked its cultural impact. Among the exhibits are Janis Joplin’s psychedelic Porsche and Michael Jackson’s famous glove. We also had a chance to visit the West Side Market, set in a 1912 landmark and home to more than 100 vendors.

After I got our group back to the ship I was handed another peremptory note from Admin that Vit and I needed to spend up all our per diem we hadn’t been able to spend up to that point. I wanted to snap at them and say I wasn’t wasting money on jewelry or anything like that just to spend money but you have to know how to pick your battles.

I jumped a little when Ms. Connerton said from behind me, “You got one too eh?”

I turned to find her waving her own version of the Admin note.

“Unfortunately.”

“Wanna share a taxi? I know a place.”

Without hesitation I agreed and then sent Vit a txt on our personal comm. Well, “a place” turned out to be a place called Trader Joe’s. It was similar to what I remember being a favorite of some of my university friends, but I’d rarely been flush enough to shop there. Well I was flush, and boy did I shop. Mostly I stuck to soups but there were other things as well: Autumn Harvest, Pumpkin Bisque, Garden Vegetable Soup, bone broth, Mixed Nut Butter, Trail Mix Crackers, 85% dark chocolate (yum), Pumpkin Curry Simmer Sauce, freeze dried fruit snacks, walnut pesto, no bake nut butter bar mix, One Trader Joe’s Absolutely Acerola Juice Shot contains 1010% of your daily recommend amount of vitamin C. (Just to be clear, I did not accidentally add an extra zero. It really is over 1000%!), Organic Watermelon Fruit Spread, dill pickle hummus (Vit’s strange vice), sparkling strawberry juice, raspberry rose, white chocolate bar, juice shots (turmeric, ginger), almond flour, and rice flour. Whew.

I like Ms. Connerton, she’s not shy about asking for what she needs, and she got us several good waxed-boxes from their recycling bin so that we could stop at a shipping store and not have to spend anything for crates. And since they were waxed, the boxes were less likely to be damaged in any foul weather.

I kept out the dill pickle hummus and a bag of chips and I thought it was me that Vit was going to eat up. LOL. And I admit having the juice shots, especially the acerola ones, is already telling the difference on my energy level. I swear this cold just sucks it out of me. And we have another disembarkation day where we will be transferring to the “hush hush” scientific something or other.

 

[sssarawolf]

Thank you, wonderful and I have a sister who still lives in the UP of MI. I lived there as a child. The last time I was there was in the 1980's to visit my dad and the family. Pic of the lake posted by follow Yooper.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 349: Jan 10 - The Welland Canal + Niagara Falls​

I would have given a lot for Vit to have been with me today, and not just to keep me warm. Lord, Lord, I was so cold.

Opened in 1829, the Welland Canal continues to play a vital role, allowing goods to travel from Great Lakes ports like Cleveland and Detroit to the ocean ports of Montreal and Quebec. As our ship began its Canal transit, we stopped in Port Colborne for a scenic drive into the vineyard-laced landscapes of the Niagara Peninsula. Would have been scenic any other season but today it was just awfully cold.

Since we were out and about in that snowy “wonderland,” we also took in Niagara Falls. The Falls weren’t really falling however, more iced over. Brrr. There were three stops of note and I think even my Polar Bear would have needed his jacket.

First came Niagara’s Fury. Already freezing, the temperature dropped 20 degrees. The water normally bubbles and sprays bit it was a snow falls all around by the time it got to us. Standing in the snowy mist on a massive platform the floor still trembled beneath us. Incredible images produced with technology previously used only in satellites and medicine immersed us in a “4D”-style attraction. The Niagara Fury experience starts with an 8-minute animated pre-show, staring Chip the Beaver and his pals re-creating how the Ice Age formed Niagara Falls. Then, in a specially designed, 360 degree theatre, we witnessed the hypthetical Creation of the Falls in a 6-minute, multi-sensory extravaganza. I got a little dizzy at one point and apparently I wasn’t the only one experiencing a little motion sickness.

Then came the Journey Behind the Falls, a year-round attraction that offers a unique view of the Falls from below and behind. Oh. My. Gosh. How it works is visitors descend 125 ft. by elevator, through bedrock, where a short tunnel gives access to two outdoor observation decks and two portals located directly behind the Falls. We experienced the awesome spectacle of one-fifth of the world’s freshwater crashing down to the basin below. Well, some of it crashing, most of it was frozen today. During summer daylight hours, over 2,800 cubic meters of water thunders over the brink every second, travelling 65 kilometers per hour! We received a free souvenir biodegradable rain poncho as protection from the slush and snow of the Falls.

We warmed up At the Château des Charmes, founded by a fifth-generation French winegrower, where we enjoyed a tour, tasting and lunch. We had another hour to explore Niagara-on-the-Lake before reboarding the Victory, now docked in Port Weller on Lake Ontario. I didn’t have time to ship anything so I had to bring everything back on the ship with me, but at least it was evidence I was setting an example of spending the per diem. I brought back several bottles of ice wine, lavender from the lavender farms outside of the Niagara Falls wineries, a couple of silly t-shirts, and a coin purse because the latch on my other one gave up the ghost.

I hated not being able to ship stuff home because of disembarkation. I spent the rest of the day encouraging … also known as harrying according to some personnel … Peace Mission personnel and staff to have their belongings packed and tagged and outside their door prior to 10 pm. All remaining foreign diplomats on US soil are returning to their country of origin, assuming they are accepting returning citizens. Diplomats from Asia and the Middle East however, are all but begging to be allowed to remain in the US. I’m not sure what that is about but it could be multiple things. Many are citing the invitation to the Russian Peace Mission personnel as their reasons as to fairness but I’m not sure that is going to work for some of them. There are rumors in the news that some countries might have their diplomats and diplomatic staff ejected, willing or not. I’m not sure if that is just bombast since that could set up some difficult diplomacy if this pandemic turns out to be nothing, or even if it does.

US Personnel will continue on though neither Vit nor I are sure of what our next assignment entails.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 350: Jan 11 – Disembarkation Day (Sunday)​

We disembark in Toronto where we were transferred to the airport. I hated saying goodbye to Ms. Connerton, but she has a life to get to the same as Vit and I. We both wished her well and she gave me her in-law’s address so we could exchange greetings at some point down the road. From the airport we took a two hour flight – it took longer to get through security and the blasted health screening on either end than the actual flight took. Our plane skidded on the runway at touchdown leaving most of us a light green tinge. Not even Vit managed to hold onto his stoicism as he bit off a particularly creative string of curses in multiple languages.

Since all we had were our carry-on duffle bags … our other luggage were sent ahead … we quickly got off the plane, had to walk to an entry gate since the plane was stuck (an no I did not slide down a chute and get my behind soaked as some did) and were then taken to one of the first class waiting areas. Once all of the groups had landed, not all came in on the same plane or carrier, we were taken to a bus and then taken to the Radisson Blu at the Mall of America of all places. The evening was ours but they asked that we not go far as security wasn’t being provided in Minneapolis.

The problem was that the Mall of America is full of “youths” who don’t exactly want to give anyone any peace to shop. For every group that is eventually swept up … the local code is that all “youths” under the age of eighteen must be accompanied by a parental unit type person in a one-to-one ratio. Everyone must have a picture ID and “youths” and their adult must sign in and get a coded arm band and have a fingerprint and facial recognition on file prior to entering the mall. The adults are held financially and legally responsible for their “youth.” Any “youth” that gets three infractions during a quarter are permanently barred from entering the mall until they reach the age of 18 and then the clock starts all over again. Any adult 18 years of age and over that incurs three infractions in the mall regardless of time period are subject to civil fine and criminal prosecution depending on infraction. You’d think that would be enough to keep people in line, but apparently not.

My understanding is that most personnel and staff opted to stay in except to get food.

Weather in Toronto: 33/19
Weather in Minneapolis: 23/7

The weather is insane and I was clueless how we are going to make it on the ship. I decided it was someone else’s problem and crawled under the covers of the bed in our hotel room and inadvertently went to sleep. I don’t wake up for some hours and only because Vit crawls in bed with me and his hands are cold.

“Eeek!”

“Ah, I am much warmer now,” Vit says grinning like a naughty boy.

“You are so lucky you are so handsome,” I grumped.

“Ah. Yes,” he says continuing to grin. Then becoming more serious he pulls her into his arms. “I wish you to sit up and eat. You have not eaten properly in days.”

“I admit that I am a little …” Then I get a look at the clock. “That can’t be correct.”

Turning to see what she is looking at Vit says, “It is.”

“I … I didn’t mean to … sleep …”

“Shhhh. You needed it. I would not have awakened you except you will be more comfortable changing into your night clothes … after you eat and take the pills that Derrick recommends. He says you are become anemic or very close to it. That you did so during the stress of your parents’ death as well. If it were possible I would send you home. But …”

“Nii,” I growl.

“None of that my Cossack Bride. We will not be separated but you must heed your brat on this.” I opened my mouth to mention my suspicion, but he pulled out all the stops by adding, “You will do this for me?”

That’s when I decide it is time to mention calendars and biology.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Sorry this post was such a hot mess when I posted it. I was in the middle of too many things and trying to get out the door on top of it. I think I have fixed it but you know how that goes. ​

​

-----------------------------------

​

Chapter 351: Jan 12 - Red Wing, MN​

Weather 22/4

*Last night*

“How certain are you?”

“Actually not certain at all. I have a suspicion, but no certainty.”

“We …” then Vit started looking like he had completely forgotten what he meant to say.

I told him, “It isn’t the end of the world. And if you ask me how this could have happened …”

He finally woke from his frozen state and took me in his arms. “Nii, I am not a stupid man. I know how it happened and I know it is me that caused this. But … we must … your brats will have my head.”

I snorted. “One, we aren’t sure yet.”

“Yet.”

“Yet,” I agreed. “Two, my brats better keep their noses out of it or risk losing them after I call down all the females in the family on their heads as revenge. Three … you weren’t alone in ‘causing’ this. I can’t think of when we oops’d but maybe we didn’t and it is just the Creator saying it is time. Please … don’t be upset.”

“Upset?! I could not be more proud. But … this … this …”

“It isn’t something we need to worry about yet.”

“Yet,” he said disbelievingly.

“Yes yet. I’m not even for sure. And … and sometimes biology isn’t kind for no discernible reason. I’ve seen some of my sisters go through that. Let’s keep it to ourselves and take it day by day.”

“Very well,” he responded. He added, “My relief does not mean that I am less proud Kokhana …”

“Hush. I know that. We’re just private people and cautious. Let’s not start changing that when our goal is in sight.”

Well that got me some approving … er … none of anyone’s business. By the time we finished I was starving and didn’t care if the mashed potatoes and gravy were cold or not.

*Today*

Nestled among the scenic bluffs of the upper Mississippi River, Red Wing's beauty has inspired artisans, craftspeople and artists for over 150 years. Red Wing delivers a diverse blend of arts, entertainment and activities for both the visitor and the local’s pleasure. There are thirty-eight nature parks in the city to prove it. The reason for us being here is that this is the pier this leg of the Peace Mission starts from.

And yes, the Peace Mission continues, but in a modified fashion. First, the Peace Mission has definitely broken down into more country-cific groups. Now, in addition to averting World War, they’ve taken on the task of planning how to deal with potential pandemic (it hasn’t officially been labeled as such yet) and avert the economic repercussions of the last one. It hasn’t escaped Asia to any great extent due to embargoes and health checks before and after any kind of border crossings.

International travel out of Asia has been shut down much faster than it was with the last pandemic. The US borders have been shut down much faster as well. It is making it more difficult for the infection to spread. It isn’t stopping it but it is slowing it down. Illegal immigration and refugees appear to be the main vector for moving the virus out of Asia. As a consequence there are some brutal retaliations against immigrants in general and against illegal immigrants in particular. There is word that “boat people” are finding themselves at risk of being torpedoed. Some routes are even being mined.

In the US, due to climate change (not man-made but due to the natural solar cycle) temperatures have noticeably definitely cooled over the last two decades. The challenges are encouraging creativity and ingenuity. The Gates Foundation, now solely under the control of Melinda Gates and her daughter, in conjunction with the Lowell Woods Think Tank, has created a ship that can run in the waters despite freezing temperatures. The hull is warm enough that it keeps the water around it above freezing. Also the front of the ship is built like an ice breaker. This prototype is what the Peace Mission will use to go south along the Mississippi, test it in the freezing water and then seeing how it continues into warmer waters further south and into New Orleans. Ships such as these could aid in creating year round shipping lanes where once they would be closed during the coldest weather. This was the hush-hush mission. Corporate espionage is at a critical level, with China being the worst offender. Testing the ship under these conditions will provide added security that is needed to stay ahead of such criminal activity.

One of the things I did today was stop at a pharmacy during a break while the personnel I accompanied was standing in line for coffee or tea. I purchased two pregnancy test kits at the suggestion of the salesgirl because I may not be far enough along and may register a false-negative. Or even a false-positive.

We will also start taking cash out of the ATM machines at every port; our daily limit so we are able to build up a cash reserve for just in case. After the “digital currency” instituted by the US government proved insufficient entire accounts can be wiped out, not just debit cards and credit cards affected. Some stores continue to accept fiat currency but it is a limited amount and most people in large cities rarely if ever use physical cash these days.

We will modify our plan as we go along to stay flexible.

 

[sssarawolf]

Thank you.

 

[beaglemama]

Thanks, Kathy! When I clicked on the link to your story, I was so happy to see the little gray scroll bar thingy on the side of my browser window at the top of the page with LOTS of room left meaning there was a bunch to read. It was a nice treat!

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 352: Jan 13 - Winona, MN​

Weather: 26/10

The city of Winona is referred to as the “Island City” because of the large sand bar it was built upon. Evidence suggests that the land’s history reaches back as early as 9500 B.C., while present-day Winona was founded as the small village of Keoxa in 1851. Nestled between the covered limestone river bluffs of the Mississippi River, this small town is full of culture and small-town Americana. Rolling bluffs plummet to the mighty Mississippi below and there are incredible museums, galleries, and parks. So concludes my travel agent spiel.

Hey, who knows, maybe that can be my job when I get sent home when they find out I’m “with child.” Actually we don’t know if I am or not. The test I took last night was inconclusive. Probably too early if the instructions included with the test is correct.

“Kokhana, I am just a poor male. Explain please. Why are you crying?”

“Oooo, don’t you dare smile you neanderthal.”

“Er … I am not.”

I sniffed but it was not because I was crying. I wasn’t. Not at all. “Well I’m not crying,” I told him. “It’s … it’s just stress ... and dust.”

“Do you … er … not wish to be with child?”

“Of course I do. I’ve wanted to for … for a long time. Things just didn’t work out for us. And … and now …”

“And now you worry that you are not when you wish to be so but that perhaps it is not a good time just in case you are?”

I looked at him suspiciously. “And just how did you get so smart?”

“Because I watched your cousin Cynthia nearly decapitate Devin’s friend when a similar subject came up. Only a foolish man does not take notice of such things and seal them in his heart.”

And for some ridiculously stupid reason all I could do was giggle. “I probably am you know. It is the only explanation for acting like a complete lunatic.” I sighed and hugged him. “I’m sorry for being so emotional. I can say I know what has got into me whether the stupid little stick agrees or not. But … you are correct. This may not be the best time for it. I don’t want to spoil things or ruin your plans.”

“Nii! You do not ruin anything. You will be the mother of my child whether now or later. No more talk like that.” I opened my mouth to say I haven’t a clue what when he continued, “We will make plans. We will not be separated, and I will not let you think that. Perhaps you worry for good reason, but it is a worry we can address and make less.”

I do not like this emotional whipsaw. The problem is there was a time in my life when I could be very emotional, and I don’t know if this is because of that or hormones or fatigue and stress. I do need to get a handle on it. In public because I don’t want to act like this in front of other people. In private because I don’t want to treat Vit as rough and unthinking as I almost did last night. He might be able to ignore it if it happens once or twice, I don’t want him to have to figure out how to deal with it if it happens regularly. Ugh.

This morning I felt better but Vit still insisted that I eat a good breakfast even if I had no appetite, and stick to milk rather than the tea I would have preferred. I suppose I had best start thinking along those lines as well. Can’t leave all the heavy lifting to Vit no matter what he thinks is his responsibility as “the man.”

It never got above freezing today. I suppose some men would have become super overprotective but thank goodness Vit grew up in an area where snow and such is “normal” and expected and doesn’t stop people from working and living. He did stick a pair of crampons in my pocket and told me to use them if things became slick. I never had to, it was a dry cold and hardly any wind or dampness. The sky was a cloudless cerulean blue when my group and I stepped off the ship.

First, since it was closest, we went to the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, a nonprofit art museum and educational center that helps showcase and recognize the Winona area for their culture and art. A little redundant but that because while it originally featured a collection of traditional marine paintings and folk art, today the museum holds pieces of art that portray such styles as Impressionism, Luminism, Realism, Modernism, and Contemporary.

From there we went to the Winona County History Center. By van thankfully. It was painfully cold in my opinion despite the fact I saw a few locals running around in shorts or short sleeves. Founded in 1935, The Winona County Historical Society is comprised of three museums. The Willard Brunnell House, the Rural Heritage Museum at the County's fairgrounds, and finally, the main museum, the History Center, which houses the Society's offices and the Laird Lucas Library and Archives. The History Center is the largest County Historical Society in the state of Minnesota. It showcases three floors of exhibits and often hosts local events and award ceremonies.

While the County History Center was interesting I actually preferred our next stop, the Polish Cultural Institute. It had artifacts of early Polish culture displayed in the old Laird Norton Lumber Company building that employed thousands of Polish men working in riverfront sawmills. The exhibit items dated back to the 1850s and highlighted the lives of these early settlers. The gift shop had Lubiana pottery. Lubiana is a well-known brand in Poland, the pieces we saw today were exclusive to North America. And while I didn’t dare touch any of the consignment pieces in the gift shop there was a thrift store nearby that I strolled into and I spotted an amazing vase that was pennies on the dollar and had just been taken in from items left over from an estate sale. I know it is for real because of the stamp on the bottom and I happily took it back to the ship with me.

Our last stop was basically my whole purpose for being will to brave this ridiculous weather. The Watkins Museum and store is a local landmark and as beautiful as you would expect an old building to be; a marble rotunda, Tiffany-style glass, and a freestanding dome covered with 24-karat gold leaf. Watkin’s company began in 1894 selling products such as J.R. Watkins Liniment, which was their very first and most popular. The company was noted as the very first business in America to offer the famous, “money back guarantee” in 1869 as Watkins made most of his sales door-to-door. The museum covered the history of the brand and the store had over 350 unique Watkin’s products that have stood the test of time.

I also discovered the JR Watkins and Watkins were once the same company but in 2018 the company was sold and they broke off the home and personal care products into the “JR” like and the original Watkins continues to sell the famous spices, extracts, and gourmet food lines. When I was little, before she got so frail she could barely stand to be touched, Momma could sometimes only find relief with the famous “white liniment” or the “red liniment” depending on how her day was going. Derrick has what remains of the last bottle she had and … it is a special thing he only opens on her birthday. I was determined to get what I could get.

I picked up the red petro carbo salve, the white cream liniment, and the original liniment in bulk. The sales lady blinked but quickly became happy for the sale … happy enough that she gave me a special bulk price. I made her even happier when I added the menthol camphor ointment and menthol camphor vapor rub.

Going over our inventory last night I determined we already have a lot of spices but we don’t have seasoning mixes, which I plan on picking up in bulk from the grocery next chance I get so I avoided the more expensive Watkins brand leaving me more money to use to pick up some of their 11 oz. size extracts … vanilla, almond, lemon, and butter … as well as 2 oz. sizes of all the other unusual extracts. It wasn’t cheap, but it wasn’t as expensive as I expected either. And for bonus points, since I spent over a certain amount I could have them shipped home for free. Hurray.

I had finished my report, helped Chief Boone with a translation that kept making his translator try to turn itself into a irritated chicken, and was heading back to the cabin to add my purchases into our spreadsheet when Vit spots me.

“You are back. Good. The sky grows dark.” Then there is a snarl from Chief Boone and a odd squawk from his translator. Again.

“Oh dear.”

“What was that?”

“You know how it seems that Derrick occasionally develops a black hole around him when it comes to computers?”

We both heard Chief Boone say something rude about some piece of technology’s evolutionary origin.

I explained, “I’ve already fixed his translator. Twice. In the last thirty minutes. All he is doing is touching it.”

I can see Vit is trying not to grin. Chief Boone is unusually creative even if what he suggests is impossible.

“Er … perhaps it is something …” He cleared his throat. “Let’s rescue the computer. I have enough things that break accidentally. I’m sure it would not be a good thing to try and explain in a report.”

We turned in unison and headed in the verbal maelstrom’s direction and within the hour Chief Boone is relaxed, smiling, and cradling a coffee dosed with off-duty fortification, and Vit and I are taking our leave. Apparently the Chief’s wrist comm was creating some type of back feed or some other electronic hiccup every time he touched something, causing that something to freak out. I suggested the same thing I did for Derrick’s expensive watches that constantly stopped working … a cotton cloth band between the watch and his wrist.

Dinner in the Mess Hall was almost over and they were trying to clear everyone out so it could be cleaned up. Vit grabbed both of our trays and said we would bring them back in the morning with our breakfast trays. The staff all looked relieved and returned to smiling.

“Well, we’ve certainly made some people happy today,” I said laughing after closing our cabin door. “Chief Boone actually seemed human for a change and the Mess Hall staff were happy that we wouldn’t interrupt their schedule. And I hope to make you happy tonight by rubbing that sore elbow with some carbo salve.”

“With … er … what?”

I let him smell the tin of salve that I had opted to bring back with me and watch his sinuses clear.

“It smells as if it works.”

I chuckled. “Yes it does.”

And now Vit is happy and asleep and I intend to join him in a moment as soon as my jumpy energy subsides. If I were alone I would pull out my violin and play but he needs sleep and I should get some myself. Whew. Where did all of this energy come from? I feel like I could stay up all night, tomorrow, and tomorrow night and not miss a wink.

 

[sssarawolf]

Reading in between laundry. Thank you.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 353: Jan 14 - La Crosse, WI​

Weather: 25/9

Another impossibly cold day that stayed below freezing. Brrrr. This one damp rather than dry. I assume the hush-hush experiments are going well since we aren’t stuck in the river and move about freely if sometimes slowly. Today we were docked in La Crosse, WI.

We disembarked and stepped into 19th century America in La Crosse, located on the banks of three rivers. Named by explorer Zebulon Pike, who saw a group of people playing a game with sticks that looked like a cross, La Crosse is now a popular tourist stop. Filled with statues, architecture, and an exquisite view of the river, this river city is an artist’s dream. Like much of Wisconsin, La Crosse became heavily involved with the lumber industry in the mid-1800s until the decline of the forests throughout much of Wisconsin took its toll. But in the wake of the vanishing lumber era, La Crosse became a city renowned for its beer making, with around five breweries operating in La Crosse near the turn of the century.

Unfortunately some of the breweries have closed and the microbreweries that took their place have closed as well. The “arts” don’t really keep a city running long term. Back in the 20s the job market wasn’t bad but it was all service industry driven. With tourism sinking during the recession that followed the pandemic of that era, it nearly gutted what was once a vibrant community.

It turns out that due to the cold, all of the places my group was scheduled to go were closed. The Dahl Auto Museum, Chapels of St. Rose, Hixson House, and the Riverside Museum. In fact it was so cold that we couldn’t get off the bus that was driving us around. I admit to being disgruntled but trying not to show it. I got nothing today that could be added to our inventory. I wasn’t going to spend all of today’s stipend on fast food even had we found a restaurant set up to take us. After we returned to the ship I spoke with Vit and he understood.

“Yes, there were complaints by others unable to get off the ship for even just a brief walk around. But think on this Kokhana, Charlie says the order I made for freeze dried foods has come in and there will be things that Angelia has gathered on our behalf. And Charlie has purchased … he calls them bulk items … and only asks that if he must ‘get out of Dodge’ because Patrice gets the house, that he can have a room to sleep in.”

Veta sighed.

“You are still worried about him?”

“I can’t believe Patrice is still trying to take everything after the judge and her own lawyer warned her. That’s so wrong.”

“He says his lawyer is a good one.”

“I hope so. Patrice has three college degrees to his none and yet she wants … everything. I just …”

Vit placed a hand on my shoulder. “I do not mean to be cruel, but it is Charlie’s choice. And the worrying does you no good. You are not eating properly and … now you must. We will do what we can but until he makes it our business …”

I nodded. “I understand. It’s just difficult.”

“You know it is not a good idea to become stressed. Your condition …”

“Vit, I thought we agreed you wouldn’t treat this as a sickness.”

He sighed. “Not an illness, of course not. But … Kokhana …” He sighed again. “Very well. But you must promise me to take as good a care of yourself as you can. And no, I will not speak of sending you home again. I do not think I could stand you away from me. But you will take care.”

“Of course my Cossack.”

I worked off some of my stress by checking on Chief Boone. “I don’t need a mother,” he said while taking the coffee I had brought him.

“Good,” I told him. “But you serve an important spot and I am used to a … well … closer working relationship with security. I beg your pardon if I overstepped.”

I turned to leave and he called me back. “I’d heard you and the Russians worked together a long time.”

“I didn’t consider them ‘Russians’ so much as fellow Peace Mission personnel. I belief that they felt the same. The mission was … different then … a more diverse group. As I said, pardon if I …”

“No, it isn’t that. I was told to handle you with kid gloves, that you have contacts.”

I rolled my eyes. “If that came from my brother, I’ll bean him. I’m sure he means well but I need to stand or go on my own feet and on my own skills and performance. Don’t treat me that kind of special. Chief Ivanov did not, and I learned a lot from her. I’m well aware that the mission has … um … morphed a bit due to China and now this virus and probably other things that I am not privy to. I don’t expect that I am needed to fill the same slot as I did since the military is involved more directly.”

“You aren’t complaining because you lost your position?”

“If you are referring to me being an interim entertainment director? No. I know it was only interim and as I acknowledged, the situation is different. Dr. Forrester has previous military experience. I do not.”

“They like you better.”

I blinked, unsure how to respond. “That’s not the point.”

He slowly grinned. “You’ll do. Just watch your back. That little stunt you pulled in the Philippines …”

I let my face going stoic. “It was not a stunt. There were crewmembers in danger, some already hurt before any action could be taken. I was not the only personnel that acted in defense of the Peace Mission.”

He stared at me and then tapped a pen on his desk. “I read your file. How the hell does a young teacher fresh out of college wind up in the position you are in not even five years later.”

Still stoic I answered, “Life happens. And you learn … or else.”

He nodded then nodded me off when someone knocked to bring him some reports. Teach me to try and be nice. As Polina would have warned me, I need to watch that.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 354: Jan 15 - Dubuque, IA​

Weather: 26/11

Dubuque is among the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi River and during warmer months is overflowing with things to do and see. Today? Not so much.

One of the few large cities in Iowa with hills, Dubuque is an extremely popular tourist destination, featuring unique architecture and desirable river location. From the America’s River Project in the Port of Dubuque that transformed the riverfront, to the revitalization of the historic Main Street, the ongoing evolution of the Historic Millwork District downtown, and the impressive and expansive westward growth, Dubuque remains a remarkable city along the Mississippi. Intelligent Community Forum named Dubuque as one of just five U.S. cities as a “Smart21 Community” in 2015 and the National Civic League has named Dubuque as a top All-American City three times in just six years! Guests will surely enjoy exploring this beautiful and unique city as they uncover the history and advancements held within.

Dr. Forrester once again surprised me by taking the lead on the primary excursion of the day while asking me to lead a group to get their needed personal items. I suppose most people would consider it a bit of a slap in the face but I considered it part of my job … keep morale up, make sure personnel and staff aren’t having personal problem that could affect their morale and therefore the Mission, etc. Such groups have proven to be smaller and more personable. It doesn’t hurt that I do my own per diem spending at the same time. Today the van driver took us to Aldi and Hy-Vee. At Aldi I bought a lot of chocolate and some other imports that I was sure would not freeze in transit. At Hy-Vee I picked up my limit on items like coffee, tea, and paper products.

Our driver was a local and recommended we try some of the famous Betty Jane Homemade Candies. They’ve found their way in places like Acdamy Awards gift bags and have been featured in magazines like Taste of Home. He also took us to a place called the Calico Bean Market. Most of the group didn’t stay in there long but wanted to go to a sit-down sandwich shop for lunch. I grabbed what I could, found out there was a line but no one objected to the time off ship since we still had plenty. While most of the group stopped to eat, I disappeared through the shops back door near the ladies room, and carried my purchases to a nearby shipping store to offload most of what is in my faraday bag.

Then it was back to the ship, my to-go bag of sandwiches and sides sealed shut so I could get it through security. I got into a bag of the chocolate covered coffee beans that I had brought back. I was only going to smell them but … a bean … or three … weren’t going to hurt anything. Vit caught me sealing them back up when he came in during his break.

“Kokhana, in your condition you should not be eating those espresso …”

Before he could go any further I popped one of the espresso dark chocolate beans in his mouth. He had no choice. By his third chew there was a look of bliss on his face … until he realized it and tried to hide it.

“Aren’t you glad I got you a pound of these?” I asked.

“For … me?”

“Yes. For … you,” I told him with a naughty grin.

“Ah. But I will not count them should a few go missing here and there.”

"Smart man.”

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 355: Jan 16 - Bettendorf, IA​

Weather: 31/14

Bettendorf, Iowa. Its history is intriguing. During the Civil War, the nearby river towns of Davenport, Iowa, Rock Island, Illinois. and Moline, Illinois, thoughtful planning and strong leaders helped them to flourish while other settlements began to fail. It was during this same time period that the three towns began to refer to themselves as the “Tri-Cities.” Today, despite the name “Quad Cities,” the area is comprised of five towns in total with the addition of East Moline, Illinois, and Bettendorf, Iowa.

Today, rather than leading the main excursion which Dr. Forrester once again announced that she would do, I was ordered to remain on the ship and help translate some of the scientific results into other languages. I was shunted to a back corner and was doing multiple things at the same time and didn’t realize that when someone spoke to me that I was responding to them in whatever language they were using. Habit I suppose.

Things have grown quiet and that I did notice. I slowly looked up and there was Vit trying not to laugh while some of the others were exchanging what I found out were IOUs. All I did was twitch my nose and get back to work.

Grover belly laughed but Vit came over and bent down to say, “I will take you to lunch on my winnings.”

“You better,” was my only reply which apparently only created more mirth.

One of the female scientists came over a few minutes later and asked, “You aren’t offended?”

“For men acting like men? Definitely not.”

She snickered. “Good. They just needed to blow off some steam. Most of them are grad students and the military strictness …”

“Sure. That’s the reason,” I told her deadpan. She really did laugh that time.

Nice to know I can still navigate that world just in case I need it for a job at some point. I still have no idea what I am going to do with myself when the Mission turns me loose. And I have a feeling that is what is going to happen even if Vit is kept on. What happens then?

I’m going to be like that woman in Gone With The Wind … I’ll think about it tomorrow.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 356: Jan 17 - Davenport, IA​

Weather: 30/12

Davenport is often described by newcomers and life-long residents alike as a lively, active city with a hometown feel. It didn’t feel that way today. Thirty degrees F was the high and it was difficult to get anyone to sign up for the excursion which was little more than a panoramic tour of this town. Not to mention Dr. Forrester was leading it. From what little gossip Vit shares with me, the woman isn’t really well-liked. I’m somewhat surprised, she isn’t that bad. Perhaps she is merely trying too hard.

This city features the Legacy of John Deere, the largest agricultural exhibit in the world. Music enthusiasts would have enjoyed Davenport’s many music festivals, including the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival, The Mississippi Valley Fair, and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival, which is dedicated to native jazz musician Bix Beiderbecke but no such event occurs this time of year for obvious reasons.

There was some new movie out from what I read in the newspapers – on land is the only place I can find anything approaching current news – and there is a lot of controversy surrounding it. It is about an apocalyptic future where an ice age returns and they use solar science to back up the theories in the movie. It really is more of a docu-drama and is drawing lots or ire from the crowd that still believes in global warming despite calling it the more politically acceptable term of “climate change.” My personal opinion? How they can still believe in it when every deadline for destruction they have set has not occurred is beyond me. They pat themselves on the back and say it is by their efforts that “The End” has been pushed further down the road. It still competes with the actual science and data currently available for decades.

Even in Pembroke the movie has had an impact. The “Neighbors from Hell” are selling out and moving to Costa Rica. No. I’m not kidding. And the old home place was bought so quickly for roughly the same reason by someone from Canada. They aren’t going to live there, just hold it as an investment. Tal has been hired to be the place’s caretaker which gives Angelia access to the remaining fruit trees, though a lot of them have been destroyed through neglect or outright tearing them down and out. But something is better than nothing according to Derrick – whom I spoke with tonight – and every little bit is helping. The economy is even more worrisome. I am growing scared that Vit and I will finally have a home, but not have the finances to keep it. And I do not want to live there without him. Only with the baby – oh my goodness that is so crazy to say – I am not sure how I would be able to follow him. And then there is the pandemic. It is far from a hoax as people are really dying from it but the facts surrounding it, including how narrow the most at-risk groups are, is making it difficult to determine the best way to prepare for the inevitability of it coming ashore in the US.

I got off the ship at lunch to walk despite the cold. Remembering that Vit would need some appropriate clothes, I hunted through the clearance racks of a nearby thrift store. There wasn’t much in his size but there were a few items that would work for Florida’s weather. He will still stand out like a good-looking, hard-working man does, but not nearly so much as if he only had his sea-faring togs.

Vit wanted to know why I only bought clothes for him. My answer was perhaps a little swifter than necessary. “Because in a few months I’m going to need … er … different stuff and afterwards …” She sighed. “My sisters have all said that you become a different shape after you have a baby. Who knows if my clothes, once I outgrow them, will ever fit again?” My obvious worry was plain for Vit to see even though I said nothing.

“You worry without cause. Are you upset because I am not quite … hmm … the shape I was in when we were with the Marchands and able to exercise every day?”

“You are just fine. You’re a man and …”

“And you are a woman. Built to do womanly things … like bare my child. Let us be concerned, as Der-rick often says, with our health and not our waistline. Come now, you are beautiful to me.”

“Ugh. I feel like I am PMSing. And how is it you always know what to say?!”

A little smugly Vit answered, “Because I am a brilliant husband and have learned to listen to your brats as they dig themselves out of holes of their own making.”

I got a terrible case of the giggles and Vit was relieved that I relaxed. He did urge me to drink some warm milk before going to bed. He even poured some cream in it first.

 

[Lake Lili]

Thanks Kathy! A great way to end the year! It is almost midnight here in Newfoundland and I wish you and yours Bright Blessings for 2023!
Lili

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 357: Jan 18 - Burlington, IA (Sunday)​

Weather 31/15

Explored in 1673 by Pere Jaques Marquette and Louis Joliet, the land that is now Des Moines County changed hands from France to Spain, back to France and finally to the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase. After Lt. Zebulon Pike’s expedition landed at what is now Crapo Park in 1805, it was part of several territories – Louisiana, Indiana, Missouri, and Michigan. In 1834, residents named the land “Burlington” after trader John Gray’s Vermont hometown. When Iowa was named a territory in 1838, Burlington remained the capital. Today, visitors enjoy the sights and attractions of the town as the hills and valleys, prairies, and the Mississippi River create the perfect scenic backdrop.

I don’t know why I bothered memorizing those facts because Dr. Forrester once again took over the excursion at the last minute. I don’t know if she is pushing me to react, has no idea how her behavior looks, or if she is getting orders from the Home Office or whomever is now in charge of the entertainment program.

I was again kept on ship to translate documents for what is euphemistically being called the Science Department. They don’t even bother running the sheets through the translators anymore despite my reminders. I did it myself and noted the code on the cover sheet.

Grover said, “They trust you, why bother?”

“Because that is the rule. Independent verification and those blanks on the coversheet are there for a reason. The translator, the date stamp, and the translator machine number. Just because we are here in the States doesn’t mean …”

He was grinning and I turned to find Chief Boone standing there. I gave Grover an I’m-going-to-kick-you-in-the-shins look which after all these months he is impervious to. I turned back to Chief Boone and said, “I’ll make sure someone verifies these before they go out.”

“Second set of initials is all that is needed. Leave ‘em on the corner of my desk. I’ll handle it … and I'll have a little discussion with these kids about rules and the reasons for them.”

Through my discussions with other people I’m finding that a lot of personnel and staff not directly involved in the day-to-day of the Peace Mission are growing depressed and withdrawn. I again asked if UV lamps can be made available and suggest a few of the staff and personnel really require more watching by the healthcare staff. Dr. Forrester takes affront at first but starts listening to me when I give specific examples. She’s a psychologist after all. I hope her professional gene has been turned on.

“This isn’t in your job description. You also don’t have any training,” she told me at least pretending not to want to glower.

“I’m aware of that Dr. Forrester, however I have worked in medical settings, gone on medical missions, and similar activities with my father and eldest brother. I was also called to work in similar situation when I worked for a medical foundation. I helped man emergency phones when I was at university because I’m multi-lingual. And I’m sure you are aware of the coursework required to obtain a teaching degree these days. I don’t claim to be a clinician, but I do know what signs and behaviors to look for. It isn’t up to me to determine where the problems originate doctor, just recognize that there is a problem and push it up the chain of command. If you’d prefer I can make a report to Sick Bay.”

“That isn’t what I’m saying. Don’t take affront.”

Well it wasn’t me that was getting bent out of shape . I told her, “I’m not. Like I said, I’m aware of my lack of clinical training and that’s why I’m bringing it to the attention of those that are. The suggestions I’ve made are in line with minimal impact on someone’s job. They may help, they may not, but the effort gets made with someone’s well-being being considered. I don’t want to embarrass anyone, least of all myself. But I would be negligent not to, at a bare minimum, bring the subject up with my immediate supervisor.”

Whatever she had been going to say, she became stymied and then pretended to get a call when I could plainly see she was making a call. She shoo’d me out so she could “take her important call” and that was that. I don’t know what to say.

“Vit, she’s terrible at whatever she is trying to do.”

“Or perhaps you are just too good at seeing through her tactics.”

“Don’t be insulting.”

“It is not an insult to speak the truth Kokhana. I know you do not like what you call the ‘007 crap’ but I am glad you are on my side and not working against me as I’ve seen a few times since the beginning of this assignment. Or do you not remember those that you first called the SOs of the XOs.”

“Ugh. Don’t remind me.” I stopped and rubbed my temples. “I don’t know whether she is being sloppy on purpose to see if I will say something or … nevermind. It is whatever it is and I’ll live with it. I just … it just … it makes me …” I shook my head. “Vit, I don’t respect the woman very much. She is making things harder than they need to be. We could work together and make it much better for those on the ship. I just don’t understand.”

“Nii, neither do I. I will admit that I thought it a good thing when you no longer had to wear the hat of an interim chief. Now I am not so sure the best decision was made.”

“I don’t mind not being the boss. I just wish the boss was … better.”

“Agreed. And I miss Yegor as well so do not worry about trying to hide you wish you knew how they were. They were our friends … and good working partners. We could use more of that.”

“I haven’t asked and I should have. How are you doing?”

He gave a very Slavic shrug. “The work goes well despite some of the problems of trying to mesh civilian and military personnel. On the military side there is professionalism and driven … and what you call an understood chain of command that makes things run efficiently. But there is also a lack of flexibility in some of them that is needed. The work is efficient, but it does not always move quickly when a signature or initial is needed. The civilian’s? Too easily offended and too much suspicion. They guard their job and efficiency is lost as is speed unless there is some kind of competition going on. My patience is too often stretched thin as I try and keep the two parts working together. And yes, if feels at times that there are suggestions – perhaps orders – coming from higher up that runs counter to good sense and only makes work harder.”

Poor Vit. I know for the most part he likes his job … or did. But I think what we are both feeling is the bureaucratic costs of what we are doing. Polina fielded much of that for Security. I only ever dealt with it second hand. I got a little taste of it when I was Interim Entertainment Director but things still had a cohesive feel to them … a single purpose. Now it feels like there are too many people wanting to be popular and “in charge” and that’s counter to what the Peace Mission originally stood for.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 358: Jan 19 - Day of River Cruising​

It feels like it has been a long time since we have done so but Vit and I pulled out their lists and reviewed what we have left to work with. We have a baby coming – the second test confirmed it this morning - and the child will require things that we have not considered acquiring up to this point. Vit added in the work that Devin has kept him apprised of and I was startled that so much has been accomplished in such relatively little time. It is mostly because people are actively looking for work and guard the work they do get jealously. Devin says that most of their hires are by word of mouth rather than having to go looking for people. They’ve also found that young men looking for a trade have come begging work for the experience.

“Sis, you just wouldn’t believe it. I wish I could motivate some of our nephews. Angelia had a fit that we have Cory over here working with us, or she did until she realized that not only is his state of mind better, he’s actually putting muscle back on. And that makes the physical therapist very happy.”

“Good,” Vit said. “A man needs to know he can work.”

“Words to live by brother. And Tal has more helpers than he can use so he is trying to piece them out to the property managers and maintenance guys he knows. Vit, you sure you don’t mind …?”

“Does the work get done to your satisfaction? Then no, it is a good thing you are trying to do. Sometimes it is better to work with the hungry than pay for a license. The hungry benefit twice as much and we make friends for the future.”

Our primary concerns are basic groceries to start with and the basics the baby will need. We have other things from our travels, the luxuries we accumulated, but it is staple goods that need to be prioritized from this point forward. After discussing it we have definitely agreed to wait to share the news of the pregnancy for a while yet and will try and acquire a few things as we can. Devin and Charlie agreed to do a few things – like order building materials for future projects in addition to the current ones - but shortages are already creating the latest round of empty spaces on the shelves. Vit is very glad to have the long-term food storage in place as a backup. I am glad to have the food we do. We aren’t saying no more luxuries – or what we view as luxuries – but they must come wit ha purpose. No more vases and linens, you can’t eat pretty.

 

[sssarawolf]

You sure are a night owl girl, but a good night owl. The last load of laundry is in the dryer, the dogs been out afor the last time tonight and I got to enjoy more of your story. Happy New Year to you and yours

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 359: Jan 20 - Hannibal, MO​

Weather 34/17

Hah! This time it is Dr. Forrester being told what she will do. Vit and I were told in no uncertain terms to take a day off by HR. Dr. Forrester is a little miffed she must run the excursions today but accepts that it is an administrative directive that must be obeyed and does it with better grace than I expected to be honest.

Hannibal, “America’s Hometown,” is a place where everywhere you look is a reminder of the author Mark Twain. Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn were alive in the charming Missouri town. There were signs for running your hand along Aunt Polly’s fence, exploring Injun Joe’s Cave, and similar stories brought to life. The downtown area is a thriving haven for artisans filled with shops unique to Hannibal.

Most of the really touristy things are closed until the weather warms up but a few things were open such as Mark Twain’s boyhood home museum and the Unsinkable Molly Brown’s (of the real Titanic fame) birthplace and museum. I heard that the main excursion was over with very quickly as something wasn’t open that was supposed to be … someone forgot to CYA and check before leaving the ship. Someone actually comm’d me complaining about it and all I could suggest is that if anyone was interested there was a copy of Tom Sawyer and a few other movies in the library and they could be shown by projector.

“Why do they call you? Should not Forrester be in charge?” Vit asked, irritated at our day being interrupted.

“I have no idea. I’d say ignore it but …”

“Hmm. I begin to see what you mean. The woman is … strange.”

Since no other calls were forthcoming we got back to what we had been doing, which was shopping in this place we found called the Dutch Country General Store. Whew, did we have a buggy full. Dried bulk beans, soup mixes, gravy mixes, bulk dried vegetable flakes, apple cider honey mustard, black bean salsa, summer sausage, bulk barley, assorted honey sticks, as well as dried kiwi and other dried fruit. There were hardly any empty places on the shelves and I could believe locusts hadn’t found the place yet. There weren’t even any limit signs.

I asked in a roundabout way and found out people remain overly attached to their convenience foods which is why the general store was so well stocked in comparison to local grocery stores. I was determined to take advantage of what other people miss.

The sales lady was nice enough to tell us about another place called the Mississippi Market Place. It was a block further down the street but it was worth freezing my tailfeathers off. For one, online orders of $50+ received free shipping so we looked through the store and the items we wanted that were online we purchased that way and the others we purchased in-store and then took to the post office. Pancake and doughnut mixes, instant cappuccino mixes in various flavors, cocoa powder in bulk, Dutch-jell powdered pectin in bulk, soup mixes that were on sale, and rye flour in bulk.

I was starting to struggle to carry my backpack and my faraday bag in the wind that was picking up. However, we’d found a grocery store, not particularly located by, but near, a shipping store, and bought our limit of paper products and added a few baby-related items such as newborn diapers and some baby cereal and I vowed right then and there, after seeing the price of formula, to breast feed. How does anyone really afford a child at the rate of what people want you to pay for necessities?

We came out to find that we weren’t the only ones from the ship picking up a few items to send home. None of us said anything about it, not a single word, and they were nice enough to give us a ride back in the car they’d rented for a few hours. Getting out of the weather was much appreciated.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 360: Jan 21 - New Madrid, MO​

Temp: 42/35 partly cloudy

New Madrid was founded in 1776 by Spanish Governor Esteban Rodríguez Miró who welcomed Anglo-Saxon settlers but required them to become citizens of Spain and live under the guidance of his appointed impresario, Revolutionary War veteran, Colonel William Morgan of New Jersey. Some 2,000 settled in the region. In 1800, Spain traded the territory to France in the Third Treaty of San Ildefonso, and France promptly sold it to the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase. The city is remembered as being the nearby location for the Mississippi River military engagement, the Battle of Island Number Ten, during the Civil War. The city is famous for being the site of a series of more than 1,000 earthquakes in 1811-1812, caused by what is called the New Madrid Seismic Zone.

Today got into the 40s and felt positively balmy compared to what we’ve been having. The scientists aboard the boat are disappointed because it marks the end of the first part of their experiment with the special hull. Now they will continue to see if it affects the environment around the hull when it is not freezing weather.

I was in charge of a “panoramic tour” of the town where we were dosed with plenty of history. It was only a half day so the remainder of the day was mine to call my own. I spent all of our day’s per diem money on canned goods at a discount grocer since the danger of freezing in shipment is passing:

Canned beef stew, Vienna sausages, canned hash, spam, canned chicken n’ dumplings, prenatal vitamins, diapers, baby cereal, some other hygiene tools like safety razors, Vit’s shaving soap, hygiene items, and whatever else I could get with the product limits in place making things more and more difficult to buy in any quantity and use our per diem. Getting to a post office un-noticed with my purchases also proved challenging as I had to do it all – from purchasing to packaging. However, having made the list with Vit, it was much easier to track how much of something we had and try and work around The Limits in place.

In other news, the epidemic in Asia is everywhere in all forms of media to the point people seem to have forgotten there even is a Peace Mission. We were told not to make an issue of it, and I haven’t. My coat gives me anonymity that allows me to get things done without a lot of questions. Security also grows lax. That I am concerned about. “Secret” diplomatic meetings are occurring on the boat, most of it via secure internet connections, but there’s also rumors that the people we have on board are planning the pandemic response if the WHO and CDC are ineffective. They are doing this in conjunction with how China is going to be treated moving forward. I shouldn’t know this. I do however due to talk that is way too easy to overhear both on and off ship.

Add to that the retrospectives on the NK Bombs and their impact … most right now are continuing with the environmental impact rather than the economic one but there are advertisements for retrospectives on the Covid Pandemic and the economic impact it had for nearly a decade afterwards due to how it was handled, as well as the other political upheaval of the time. I know the history because it was studied extensively in one of my American History courses in my undergraduate years. But I became quite queasy when I went searching for information on the topic and found that much of it has “disappeared” behind pay walls or been eliminated online. Are they re-writing history, or making it difficult for us to learn from it?

 

[sssarawolf]

I don't know how you aren't turning into a pumpkin like in Cinderella, wow girl.

 

[Kathy in FL]

Chapter 361: Jan 22 - St. Louis, MO​

Temperature: 41/22

It was suggested that we reflect upon the role St. Louis played in the opening of the American frontier as we cruised past the famed Gateway Arch Riverfront, the tallest man-made monument in the U.S. The Mess Hall provided cocktails for the occasion and the captain gave a short speech. But all I could really see were the protestors lining the shore and some of the really vulgar signs they were waving. I tried to not let it get to me but I wasn’t the only one having to go inside or risk “responding in kind.”

St. Louis, Missouri, famously referred to as the “Gateway City,” is known for its diverse neighborhoods and the different cultures and traditions each one brings forth. The iconic city was founded in 1764 by French explorers who settled on the east side of the Mississippi, claiming the land as their fur trading post. In 1803, the city’s name began to spread as the beginning point for the famous Louis and Clark Expedition. But what it is known for mostly these days are the St. Louis riots. Part of the city is cordoned off and there’s more of a wall around it than there used to be on our Southern Border. Anarchists took over the St. Louis chapter of Antifa and destroyed it from the within because the communists wanted rules which was the antithesis of their once allies the anarchists.

Vit says he suspects that other members of the crew and diplomatic personnel are doing the same thing we are doing … purchasing items and either holding them or shipping them home immediately. He knows that Grover is sending things home to his parents, though not in quantity. And then there were the crewmembers from yesterday.

Had a lucky find today. Located a restaurant supply company in the warehouse district near the cruise terminal. And they ship if you purchased over a certain amount. They were happy to have the sale given that parts of the city were closing down and MO had already warned the restaurant industry of potential restrictions should a pandemic be declared. I called Charlie and he gave me his business number and told me to double whatever I was ordering, that he’d pick up the tab.

“Charlie!”

“Relax Shorty. I came into some money and this is a good idea. Jacksonville is getting really damn particular about limits and the family has crossed theirs. If we can get a couple orders in before they start shutting things down any harder, it will really help out around here. Now don’t scrimp. I mean it. I sold one of my businesses and …”

“Oh Charlie …”

“It needed to be done. The book of business was useless to me as most were connections from the in laws and that side. It was either sell or risk bankruptcy which would impact the other businesses. Since it was sold after Patrice was forced by the Judge and her lawyer to sign on the dotted line she can’t go after any of the proceeds. And if they try and screw with the guy who bought it … well, I wouldn’t want to be them that’s for sure. Ol’ Belvere is willing to make enemies as needed and he wanted the business.”

Deciding not to fight it I said, “Alright. I’ll cover our part of the order as a partial payment and ship the remainder freight?”

“Fine. Be all grown up if you just gotta,” he said, and I could hear the humor in his voice.

So that’s what I did. It was all pantry items, but it was still good and marked some things off the list that Vit and I had made.

Salt, bulk cornmeal, 20-lb bags of flour, boxes of yeast, baking mix, pancake mix, bulk chocolate chips, molasses, 50-lb bags of white sugar, 50-lb bags of brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, polenta, muffin mixes, dried pastas, rices, couscous, quinoa, large bags of dried beans and lentils, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, etc.

The reality of the pregnancy grows as each day passes. I’m trying not to let it become the center of our universe as we have a great many other things to accomplish but the “more real” the situation becomes the more we must accept it and make accommodations. Vit now makes part of his routine to make sure I take prenatal vitamins before we leave the cabin in the morning and that I drink a warm mug of milk in the evening that he adds additional cream to. He also tries to avoid stressful topics, but I think I’ve finally convinced him that it only creates its own stress and to please act as normally as possible. Not to mention that we do not want to create suspicions that might get us sent home early. We are going to need every dollar we can come up with and there is still Vit’s naturalization paperwork to be completed, something I have been trying to not bring up in this journal as much as it comes up in my daily thoughts.

 

[Kathy in FL]

I don't know how you aren't turning into a pumpkin like in Cinderella, wow girl.

Our neighbors are making the street sound like Mogadishu. There will be no going to sleep for a while yet. Not until they run out of cannons and the dogs settle down. LOL