Mary wrote: I got up and washed my hair before we went for breakfast at 0900. I went to the craft morning and handed over my Angel after I had borrowed a needle and stitched up its head. I was back in the cabin by about 1020 and started my packing. Mel went off to visit the engine room for 1040, but apparently, they had a problem with the engine, so it was rescheduled for 1430.
We carried on packing, and I was very pleased I had escaped from Craft Angels, as it took until 1230 to get as far as I could with the packing.
We both went to the Ballindalloch just after 1230, as they had a seafood buffet. I had three very large mussels (I believe ‘green lipped’), three very large tiger prawns, and half a very small lobster. I then went to the Neptune lounge to see and hear the singers from the group that had been to sessions on all the days at sea. This was followed by the ukulele groups (beginners and intermediates), 40 in total.
An auction was held for three items for RNIB, including ‘The Ship’s Chart of the Trip’ which went for over £200, also a framed form with the 34 quotes from the Captain at £100 and an RNIB book for £100.
The craft show was on from 1400 until 1600 on the area by the lift on Deck 7, between the entrances to the Neptune Lounge. Plenty of people looked at the work and were interested in the work done. I was amazed at the volume on show.
I found Mel who had been in the engine room for half an hour, We went for tea after I had removed my craft and then went back to the cabin. I changed ready for the Captain’s Cocktail Party, so managed to pack a few more clothes. The Cocktail Party started at 1945, so we ate as usual at 2030. The menu did not impress me and I had a very tough chicken breast. Showtime was due to start at 2230 but the rest of the second sitting had not finished their quiz, (that we had chosen to miss), and there were very few people when we arrived. We finally got going and watched the Balmoral Dancers and Singers perform ‘Balmoral High’.
We finally got to bed before midnight after putting out our bags and suitcases, the alarm being set for 0545.