2024 50th Anniversary Greece Trip

Item	Updated
Celestyal Journey Current Location	Now
Photo Album	17 July 2024
Hyperlinked Excel Itinerary (Password Protected)	18 June 2024
Google Map	27 May 2024
Google Earth KMZ File	11 July 2024
Download Files	18 June 2024
Family Only Downloads (Password Protected)	27 May 2024
Call Signs for Travelers	16 June 2024
Daily Log:

- 19 June (Wednesday): Day 1 of Travel - Pittsburgh to Athens (UTC-4 to UTC+3):Easy morning, as we were already packed and pretty much ready to go. Renee's brother, Mike, was kind enough to pick us up at home and take us to the airport. Got there in plenty of time, so had a nice lunch at Primanti Brothers, then meandered to our gate. Discovered that our carry-on bags, which we'd used for travel previously on pretty much every type of commercial aircraft, were suddenly just a bit too big for the Embraer 175 taking us to Toronto, so had to check one of the carry-ons but somehow managed to carry the other, just as big, with no problems in overhead. Flight was short and without incident. Managed to find our connecting gate without a problem, but we had a 1-hour delay after all had boarded, as a fuel truck parked near our plane apparently had a dead battery. Not clear why it took so long to move the truck, but once airborne our overnight flight to Athens was bumpy, but no otherwise just long.  
- 20 June (Thursday): Day 2 of Travel - Arrival in Athens and travel to Crete (UTC+3):On landing in Athens, our plane had no gate, so they parked on the ramp and we disembarked down some stairs, then took a bus to the terminal. It was pretty easy and quick to pass through immigration and find our checked bags, but the delays on the previous flight made us miss our 1:25pm connection to Crete, so we rebooked for the next available flight on Agean Airlines for 8:15pm, then headed for Starbucks for some refreshment. We kicked around the airport a bit, then found our way to our gate. Our new flight was also delayed, departing around 9:30pm, but we had a great time talking with a couple of Kiwis and local Greeks (Brushing up on our Greek!). Flight to Crete was a short 45 minutes. We remembered the flight path over the water along the beachline, but the airport is perhaps 3 times larger than it was when we lived here. Our luggage was first out, and Hertz rental car pickup was pretty quick and easy. Drive to the hotel was also easy, but we arrived there quite late. I'd called the Hotel Dimitra earlier to advise them of our late arrival. They close the desk at 11:00pm, and we didn't get there until midnight, but they sent an email with directions to our room and left the entry key taped to the door. Room was small and simple, but had a shower, air conditioning, and a bed, so we were all set!  
- 21 June (Friday): First day of our revisit to Crete (UTC+3):*** (Buckle up! This is a bit of a long read!) ***I woke up at 7:00am Greece time, feeling quite rested after only 6 hours of sleep. Athena (Renee's road handle) was still sleeping, but was soon awake and ready to go as well. We headed downstairs to the breakfast area, which was very nice. Fresh fruit, eggs, meats, cheeses, and (of course) Kalamat olives for breakfast! We chatted with both the desk attendant and the manager, telling them of our time living here, showing them old photos, and we asked if they know Nikos (the guy who we rented from) or his sister Katina who used to live in the small house next to the place we rented. They did know Nikos, and said that he now lives in that same little house next door. Nikos' daughter, Dimitra, is who the hotel is named after. We're supposed to meet with him sometime before we check out.  
After breakfast, we walked to where Minas' pension and restaurant used to be next door. Minas was a young guy whose family owned the place. We had fun spending time with Minas, who is now and old guy like me if still around. We then walked across to the beach where I used to snorkel for hours on end. The beach has changed a bit, but still a nice area. We then hopped in the car and headed East to where the old Iraklion Air Station used to be. We drove through the area, identifying old decaying buildings that were once teaming with activity. This included the hospital where I used to work. Some areas have been repurposed, but others left to decay.  
On to Chersonissos, where we walked along the beach area with shops and restaurants, then went to find Pebble Beach, where we used to take Chris when he was a baby. We found the beach and an old windmill where we took a photo of chris almost 50 years ago. The windmill is now inside of a resort, but you can still see it from a walkway. We had lunch in Chersonissos, then headed back to the hotel to refresh and regroup.  
We were able to tour the villa with owner Georgios. The place is as nice as it appears on the website! Stopped at a super market just a couple of blocks away from the hotel and the villa. Very nicely stocked. I can see us all shopping there shortly after we get settled in. Okay...now it gets a bit sentimental (Guys can stop reading here).Renee wanted to watch the sun set on the Agean Sea from Crete for the first time in 48 years, so we walked across the street and did that. Then we strolled to the nearest restaurant, on that same beach, and sat to get something to eat. Renee asked our waiter if he knew Minas who used to live at the pension across the street. Thomas, our waiter, was Mino's nephew. Minas was, at that very time, just a few yards above us in the house part of the restaurant! We went up and knocked on his door, and he was totally blown away! Minas was born just a month before me in 1955, so it's fun to see us as old men now. We chatted for a bit, then went back down to eat dinner. Minas joined us again later. He, Renee, and I were all moved by this reunion. Turns out he co-founded a museum in Heraklion, now managed by his son. We'll check it out, perhaps tomorrow, and catch up some more.  
Once back in our hotel room I headed to the front desk for the wifi code. A woman was there hand-writing a letter...to us! It was Nikos' other daughter, Frosso. She was invitine Renee and I to join the whole family tomorrow morning! This old guy is getting pretty choked up, so gonna shower and hit the sack now. It's been a full and fulfilling day today!  
- 22 June (Saturday): Catching up with friends and exploring Heraklion (UTC+3):We started the day with a nice breakfast by the pool, then met with Frosso and her husband next door, in what was the original quadraplex apartment building where we lived. Frosso and her husband live above the unit we were in, and our old landlord Nikos lives in the ground floor unit right next to that. Nikos and his wife (did not catch her name) came out to greet us, and it was a great event. We were served fresh watermellon and cucumbers, and also a shot of Raki (Greek whiskey). We toured inside of the unit we used to live in, which is now occupied Nikos' daughter Maria and her husband and children who spend most of the year in Holland. Crazy experience, but everyone was wonderful about sharing. We then stopped briefly next door to visit Katina and her son and granddaughter. Amazing reconnections!  
Next we decided to scout out how to best visit Heraklion, and found a fantastic parking place at the port for just 3 Euros for all day. We walked right past some ruins up to the main street with shops, then on to the ancient Greek technology museum that, apparently, was a collaborative effort between Minas, who bought the building, a professor that his son met while in college, and Minas' son Thomas who is the Museum Director. Minas was not there when we arrived, but his wife was at the ticket counter. We were pleasantly surprised at how cool the exhibits were, with functional displays of ancient technologies of Archimedes and others. Worth a stop for anyone visiting in the future! Soon, Minas joined us and we sat upstairs for a drink of lemonade with mastika resin from the Greek island of Chios, which is distilled after hardening to crystals. Minas gave us a private tour of the back deck of the historic building, and we said our goodbyes for more exploring.  
Walking just a bit further we came upone what I've always called Lion Fountain (real name is Morosini Fountain), which is a 1628 sculptural piece that supplied the city with more than 1,000 barrels of water a day and was named its builder. Athena shopped for more jewelry and I settled for another ball cap. We strolled about the shops a bit more, then wandered back toward the port and stopped for an early dinner at Trata, a great spot with good food and a great view. We'll take the family here next week. We then walked off dinner along the breakwater leading out to the Venician fortress, and back to the car for the short drive back to our hotel. All in all, another great day back on Crete!  
- 23 June (Sunday): Recon trip to Matala and Rethymno (UTC+3):Nice, casual breakfast by the pool again. I love the sea breeze that seems to constantly blow.  
We hit the supermarket down the street for more Euros (found which ATMs offer best conversion rates), then went inside to by some snorkeling gear.  
We then headed out for Matala Beach on the South side of the island, stopping at a Shell station along the way to tank up. The ride was scenic, with mostly good roads and a surprise or two along the way. We were greeted in Matala with a swarm of cars and people. Somehow we found a place to park just a short walk from the beach. There are shops and restaurants all along one side of the cresent beach, so we started walking that way. There was a fun activity underway, with many people, young and old, painting the center of the walkway with various types of art. We then headed down to the beach and walked the hot sand over to where the hippie caves are, then dipped our feet in the water. The place was packed, but all seemed to be having fun. We headed to a restaurant that overlooks the beach and had a nice lunch. We're thinking it would be a good venue to bring the full complement of 14 of us sometime next later this week.  
After some light shopping, we headed out and decided to drive to Rethymno, back up on the North side of Crete West of Heraklion. The drive was again scenic, and took about 1.5 hours to get there. We parked near the port and walked up along the coast to a small cliff-side cafe for some refreshments. Somehow, while Renee was visiting the W/C, I "accidentally" ordered some Baklava and ice cream too. Not sure how that happened, but we were obliged to eat it! We walked off the snack through the narrow streets in old town Rethymno...worth a visit for sure. We stopped at a Venetian Fountain made in 1629 that still flows spring water to the city. Our recon objectives completed, we returned to our hotel, freshened up a bit, then walked back down to the beach to catch some drone video over the water while the sun was setting. Very nice! Had a WhatsApp exchange with Talia and a WhatsApp call with Chris...all are getting very excited as they start their journey to Crete tomorrow, arriving on Tuesday, 25 June.  
- 24 June (Monday): Recon trip to Agios Nikolas and Psichro (UTC+3):After yet another pleasant breakfast here at Dimitra Hotel, we made our daily stop at the supermarket just down the road, then headed to Agios Nikolas (Saint Nikolas), which I remember fondly. It was a nice, hour-long, drive, mostly on Highway 90. We've learned to look for the speed cameras! Parking was a bit of a challenge. We also learned that the parking sign size is not commensurate with the size of the parking lot!!! We walked to the lake, which is a central feature of Agios Nikolas. First stop was at the tourist info booth. The gal there was very helpful on many things. From there we walked to the lake, which is fed on the surface by a chanel to the sea, and from the bottom by a fresh water spring. I know this because I did a SCUBA dive there ~50 years ago. It drops down fast in a conical shape to about 95 feet. At the bottom we found munitions that the Germans had dumped as they were leaving during WWII. We walked partially around the lake, which was teaming with small fish, then hiked the steps up to a viewpoint over the lake. We made a stop at a photo shop to print photos that we took with Minas and with Nikos and family to give them as momentos of our reunion with them. Then we headed over to scope out a better parking area near the port.  
We left Agios Nikolas and took some twisty, winding, back roads up to Psichro, where Zeus' Cave is found. This is the cave of Greek mythology where Rhea hid him in as a baby to save him from Chronos, who was eating all of his kids (not the best dad). We hiked up a very rough and steep path for about 15 minutes, then hit a point where the much easier path meets the final short part up to the cave. At the cave we descended many steps into the darkness. As our eyes adjusted we were treated to a very nice view of stalagtites and stalagmites. It was nice to return to my childhood home, though they could have put in an elevator!  
We stopped for a nice meal on the way home right at the pass in Lesithi where windmills lined the ridge. Firewood oven-cooked pork roast with a nice Greek salad and some side dishes.  
Once home, our attention turned to Chris, Michelle and Finny and their families, as their journey to Crete was begining. We're very excited for them to join us here on Crete! They will all arrive in Athens around the same time and fly together to Crete, arriving at around 2:30 local time. We did see Nikos and Georgia sitting outside, so we brought over the photo of us all together that we printed for them. They loved it!  
- 25 June (Tuesday): Families Arrive! (UTC+3):Hard to sleep last night, knowing that all three families were currently traveling to Crete. In the morning, we had our final breakfast at the Dimitra Hotel. Hotel staff were very accommodating, allowing us to keep our luggage in our room for the full day, even though we had checked out. This allowed us room in the car to help carry luggage from the airport to the villa. We met with Frosso at 10:00am and also gave her a copy of the group photo with her husband, her parents and us. She wanted to take us out for a drink at a place along the beach not too far away. We drove through the remnants of Iraklion Air Station, then along the beach to the restaurant, which had outdoor seating on a rocky outcrop. Very nice location, and the fruit drink and tea that Renee and I had were very good. Frosso took us back by way of her son's garden. She wanted to give us some fresh-picked cucumbers, but they were not ready to pick yet. Instead, she pulled what looked like a weed and gave it to us, saying that it was an herb that would be good in a salad.   
We returned to the hotel, then headed out to the super market to get our daily pull of Euros from the ATM and to buy more water. I also picked up a small bottle of Roki and a bottle of Ouzo for folks to sample at the villa. We then headed to the airport and found the parking area quite close to the Hertz terminal and baggage claim. We went inside, only to learn that the flight to Crete from Athens, that all three families were on, had pushed from the gate but was delayed. The flight finally did arrive a bit after 3:00pm. It took a while for the families to gather all of their luggage, and one of Finny's bags did not make it on the plane. Caused some consternation, but hopeful that it will arrive tomorrow. Everyone got their rental vehicles and navigated their own way to the villa using Google Maps.  
By the time we got to the villa, the owner (Georgos) was there, as was our chef Eleni and her two helpers who were already cooking dinner. Everyone resolved their room choices and sleeping arrangements while I returned to Dimitra Hotel to fetch our baggage. On return, Georgos stepped me through a few things with the house (keyless entry, wifi, how to operate the washer and dryer, etc.) By this time the kids were already in the pool, having a great time. Others went out the back gate to our private beach and took a walk.  
At 6:30, Eleni served dinner. All 14 of us sat at the outdoor table as they brought a parade of dishes, all according to our request list, to us. It was a lot of food, and everyone seemed to eat their fill. Eleni had carefully prepared multiple items that were gluten free to meet Clara and Peyton's dietary needs. After eating, we left the table as the team cleared the dishes and set up for a birthday party for Chris. It was a day early, but they made a nice gluten-free cake for us all to enjoy. Also had party hats and favors to make it festive. Everyone enjoyed their first Cretan sunset and chilled for a while longer out back. We all found our ways to our rooms and tried to get some sleep after an exhausting day for all.  
- 26 June (Wednesday): Chill day, with drive through old Iraklion Air Station and to Chersonissos Pebble Beach area (UTC+3):Officially Chris' birthday today, so Happy Birthday Chris!  
Our villa owner brought us a very nice assortment of food and drink for breakfast. We saddled up for our first 4-car exploratory of the local area, each car with a handheld radio to make communications easier.  
We drove first to what is left of the old Iraklion Air Station, passing many shells of buildings, to include the hospital where I worked. We then headed down to the beach and drove East along the small coast road, viewing a variety of popular tourist beach areas.  
Then is was a fun drive dodging large tour buses on small, winding on back streets to what used to be a fairly remote beach in Chersonissos. We would take Chris to Pebble Beach occassionally during our 1974-1976 stay here on Crete. We found our dirt parking spot and got out for a walk to a small church at a point along the beach. We explored here...water was beautiful!  
Rick, Finny, Gavin and Nevaeh had swim suits on so they went for a quick dip. Then back to the villa, where some walked across to the beach for a swim and then back to the villa to swim in the pool until dinner time.  
Dinner was left over food that Chef Eleni prepared the night before. More relaxation and swimming after dinner, and some walked to some nearby shops to check them out. Nice to see our grandkids all having a good time!  
- 27 June (Thursday): Rethymno Exploring and Dinner with Greek Music & Dance at Poliou House in Astiri Village (UTC+3):  
We had another wonderful breakfast at the villa and chilled for the morning, then saddled up at 3pm for another 4-car caravan.  
This time we headed West to the town of Rethymno. We're toting handheld radios in each godmobile as we travel (our powers aren't quite what they used to be) and we're using our Greek god and goddess call signs to communicate while driving. The grandkids do most of the comms, and are having a great time with it.  
In Rethymo we parked, hit the WCs, sync'd our watches, then began exploring in three separate groups. Hephaestus, Venus/Aphrodite, Gaia, Calliope, Persephone, and Circe stormed the Venetian castle, then did some shopping. The rest started together, then split into two groups: 1. Poseidon, Amphitrite, Bia and Apollo, and 2. Zeus, Athena, Enyo, and Selene. Lots of browsing and some shopping. Jewelry stores and clothing seemed to be the main attraction for Athena, Enyo and Selene. Zeus had the serious job of holding bags, water, purses, etc. while the rest tried things on. Such is the life of an aging Greek deity it appears. NOTE: to decode who is who, check out our call sign sheet at: https://2024greecetrip.dave-dev.net/gods.html  
After a couple of hours of exploring, we loaded back into our chariots and headed for the small town of Astiri in the hills Southeast of Rethymno. We had a reservation (booked over a year prior) at a fantastic venue called the Poliou House. We arrived a bit before our reservation time and were immediately seated at a 14-topper right next to the musician's stand and dance area. Meals were prepared and served quickly, much to everyone's satisfaction. Around 8pm the music started, then the dancing a bit thereafter. Soon our whole table was up and dancing at various times with chains of arm-linked professionals and visitors (will have videos posted in the Google album at some point). This went on well into the night, with us not leaving the venue until around 11pm. We were back at our villa a bit after midnight, and all hit the sack pretty quickly.  
- 28 June (Friday): Drive to Psychro and hike up to and into Zeus' Cave (UTC+3):  
We decided to visit where I remained hidden from Chronos back when I was just a bouncing baby god. (Check Greek Mythology to find out why) The drive was pleasant, scenic, and fun. This group seems to really have the hang of it now!  
Once there, we made the hike up to the cave in two groups: one group on the steeper and rockier old path, and the rest on the steep, but smoother walking path. On the latter, Circe was treated to a ride on the local taxi...a donkey named Rhea.  
We reunited as a single group at the entrance to the cave. Athena secured our tickets and we all descended into the naturally air conditioned, dark, yet beautiful realm of Zeus' nursery. Lots of photos and videos which will be in the album sometime in the next day or two.  
After exiting the cave, we descended the path with Persephone joining Circe on a second donkey named Dora. At the bottom of the path we explored the shops and had some fresh-squeezed juices for refreshment. At one shop we were treated to samples of many different local products, along with some honey Roki which was quite good.  
Making our way back down the winding road through tiny yet beautiful villages, we stopped for dinner at a great restaurant right at an historic windmill pass overlooking the Lesithi Plateau. Once again, we had a table for 14 and all ate their fill of a variety of great Greek dishes. After desert, we did a short hike up along the ridge to examine the ruins of the windmills, with one of them partially restored.  
We completed our return trip to the villa, where everyone could retreat to their favorite place, be it a quiet bedroom, the villa pool, or our private beach to watch another beautiful sunset. Apollo flew our drone to capture some great aerial video (not as challenging as his chariot that pulls the sun along its path, but still fun).  
What all seem to love is the fact that we have a full, unobstructed, view of both the sunrise over the Agean Sea each morning and sunset on the water each evening from our pool deck and beach.  
Another wonderful day that we were able to share with our family. It is wonderful to watch everyone interact and have fun exploring with us. Kidding aside WRT our call signs, all credit to the true God who enabled all of this to be.  
- 29 June (Saturday): Knossos Palace & Heraklion (UTC+3):  
Winds and waves forced a change of plans for us today. Instead of the catamaran to Dia, which we rescheduled for Monday, we headed to Knossos Palace, which is one of the top attractions on Crete. The Minoan civilization lived here from 7,000 BC to 1,000 BC, and it's amazing what they accomplished here! We met and hired a private guide, Irene, outside of the entrance. She was outstanding! What has changed since we were last here, over 48 years ago, is that they now move the significantly greater tourist traffic through the ruins in a single direction and in timed groups. We entered right away, and Irene filled us in on a lot of the details of life leading up to and during the Minoan period. We made our way through the ruins, stopping for many group photos with ruins and frescos in the background. We took photos of King Minos' throne in the throne room, which we could only look into but not enter. A photo we have from ~49 years ago shows our toddler son sitting on that throne!!! We were surprised to hear that they had built aquaducts from a mountain quite a ways away into the palace, which provided them with fresh water for drinking, bathing and to flush their toilets!  
After leaving Knossos, we headed to nearby Heraklion, Crete's largest city (estimated 2024 population 154,599) and the administrative capital of the island. We parked in the port parking lot (travel tip: at least on Crete, parking at a port is a great option...cheap and typically has WCs right there) We walked from there to the port end of 25th Avgoustou street where we stopped for lunch at Trata restaurant. The place does not show good ratings, but Renee and I had previously checked it out and the service and food were great. It also has an amazing, elevated view of the port and Venetian fortress with plenty of seating for our group and a nice sea breaze blowing through the covered outdoor venue. All had their fill, and Michelle challenged Nevaeh to eat a fish eye (from her fresh catch dish), which they both did.  
We then took a quick walk to the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology by Kotsanas, which was only minutes away from the restaurant. Our friend Minas and his son, Thomas, who is the Museum Director, were both there. They showed us around the exhibits, narrating and demonstrating several of the items. Definitely worth a visit when in Heraklion! Chris came away with one of the world's first puzzles, which can be assembled in 563 different ways. Michelle, Talia and Yeshe sampled some of the refreshments. We meandered on to Morosini Fountain, where we took a couple of snapshots, then folks wandered around the shops some more. On our way back toward the port, we stopped at a jewelry shop where Renee had set aside a set of earrings, ring, and necklace. While she was finalizing that deal, Gavin had an imprompty jam session with the owner, who played guitar and bouzouki. Gavin had is first bouzouki lesson as well.  
We returned to the villa for another peaceful evening and gorgeous sunset. Some of us walked East along the shore to a small restaurant that Nevaeh found right on the sea for some more great food. After that, Renee and I walked West along the shore to visit Minas and Nikki at the restaurant across the street from where we lived 50 years ago. Nikki had just returned from having hip replacement surgery, but she seemed to be doing well and she sat with us during the visit. As we looked out of their window at Dia and the Agean Sea, Minas told us that he swims there every morning for 30 minutes to start his day. We gave them a some photos we'd taken when we first reunited a few days earlier, and they were very grateful. Nice to have good friendships that span decades and time zones!  
- 30 June (Sunday): Down Day - Choose Your Own Adventure (UTC+3):  
It was good to have an unscheduled day for all to unwind, relax, or explore a bit on their own. All took advantage and did just that. Some local shopping trips, some went back to Heraklion, Gavin and Maddie found a local pizza place and loved it.  
- 1 July(Monday): Catamaran Sail to Dia Island and back (UTC+3):  
We woke with uncertainty about whether or not our trip would go today, as the wind and waves were still a bit high. Luckily, we got the green light, so all saddled up for our caravan drive to Heraklion Port, where we parked and walked a short distance to the Marina Cafe. Once all gathered there with one of the crew from DanErie Yachts, we walked to our boat and boarded. There were 6 other people with us on this trip. Two women from Ireland and London England, a newlywed couple, and another couple. Everyone found a secure location to sit (mostly up front where we could get wet), and we slowly left the dock.  
We motored past the Venetian fortress to the mouth of the breakwater, then they hoisted the sails and we sailed out into the Agean Sea. Lots of pounding up and down on the sea, much to everyone's joy. Just prior to arrival at a quiet cove called Port of Agios Georgios. We dropped anchor, and everyone found their way into the water. Some swam, some floated, snorkeled, paddle boarded. The water was great, with no waves in the protected cove. I took some GoPro video while snorkeling. The water was crystal clear, but mostly small fish in the area. We did make our way to Analipsi Beach, where we exited the water to stand for our first time on Dia Island. There are some hiking trails on the island, but it is otherwise uninhabited by humans. There are Kri Kri goats and seabirds, but that's about all. We then had a nice lunch before our return sail back to Heraklion. After lunch we were treated to a performance by the captain and our son Chris, both in costume. Chris repeated song lyrics that our captain sang in Greek, which was a lot of fun. The ride back was much more animated. Lots of music, some dancing, and Talia was invited to actually take the wheel for a portion of our trip back. She looked like a natural sailor!  
On Return, Chris & family and Michelle and family stayed in Heraklion for a bit more exploring and to replace a hat that Peyton had donated to the Agean Sea. They also found a great gluten-free pizza place and tried it out. The rest of us returned to the villa. All were back for the sunset again, of course!  
- 2 July (Tuesday): Open Itinerary - Choose Your Own Adventure (UTC+3):  
Finny & family got an early started and headed West to a beach at the West end of the island. The rest of us had a relaxing breakfast at the villa. Michelle, Talia and Yeshe then set out to explore a bit more to the East, to include a botanical garden they'd found online. Chris, Rebecca and Maddie headed back to Heraklion to visit the Archaeological Museum and explore a bit more. They mentioned that they saw our future cruise ship, the Celestyal Journey, in Heraklion Harbor. We'll all board it this coming Saturday in Athens. Renee and I took Clara and Peyton to a nearby village called Anapoli. They have a craft center there and we checked out a bronze shop and a pottery shop. Clara bought a bronze bracelet and Peyton bought a small bronze dog. They had both of them engraved with their names...Clara's in Greek! We had some great views back on Kokkini Hani, Dia, and the Agean Sea from Anapoli, which we captured a bit in photos. After a quick drive-by of "Water City", a water park there, we headed back to the villa where Renee played a few hands of a card game called "Trash" with the girls.  
In the evening, we walked along the shoreline with Chris & family to the PanAsian restaurant that our friend Frosso (daughter of the landlord we rented from decades ago here on Crete) owns and operates in Kokkini Hani just a few steps from our old home here. Everyone had fun with the idea of being in Greece and eating Asian food, of course. We were seated at a large, round, table, just perfect for our group. Frosso brought out the chef, who was from Tailand, and we discussed some of the menu items. Turns out that his father worked at Iraklion Air Station Hospital where I worked, but apparently started just after we left Crete. Chris & Clara enjoyed some fresh sushi rolls, and all other dishes were delicious as well. Frosso and her daughter served and chatted with us throughout the dinner, and we met her son as well.  
We had a nice walk back to the villa, where everyone then relaxed. I called it an early night for Zeus and got some much needed shut-eye! Michelle and family made it back after having a nice time at the Botanical Garden. Finny and family got back quite late. They had a great adventure driving off-road for miles, then walking a mile down rugged terrain to reach the remote beach they wanted to visit. They said it was beautiful. It's fun to see our kids and grandkids get so comfortable here...they're quickly becoming locals, exploring on their own and shopping like they live here!  
- 3 July (Wednesday): Beach Day at Matala on the South side of the Island (UTC+3):  
Today is another beach day. We got a somewhat early start to beat the crowds, rolling out of the villa shortly after 9am. The deity caravan traveled West to Heraklion, then South across the island to Matala. The trip took a little over an hour, with the grandkids serving as communications officers in each vehicle, having fun on the handheld radios.  
We were fortunate that the temperature for the day was only in the high 70's, as the beach sand gets very hot in Matala. The small town was setting up for the annual Hippie Festival to commemorate how things used to be many years ago here. We found parking without a problem and meandered with all of our beach bags down to the far West end of the beach umbrellas, close to the Hippie caves for which Matala is so famous. We easily snagged several beach lounges with umbrellas for everyone.  
Renee immediately took Maddie, Gavin, and Clara up to the caves to explore. Others were content with sunbathing or swimming, and I headed strait out to snorkel a bit. Saw lots of fish. There were many large rocks and bolders under the water and not a lot of vegetation, but it was a nice snorkel. Chris snorkeled a couple of times and enjoyed it as well. After seeing how uneven the footing was I set out to find some floatation devices for the kids. At a nice store in the nearest parking lot I found a boogie board and a large inflatable pink flamingo, which I thought might be fun, so I snagged those. They got some use, perhaps enought to warrant their purchase, but Peyton loved the flamingo and it made for some fun photos.  
A bit later, Talia and Yeshe headed over to the shops and restaurants to explore and shop there, then returned. Michelle swam out to a rock and did some meditation. Chris took Peyton exploring in the caves. I broke out the drone and did a short fly-out along the caves and over the sea, then back toward the beach and right over our umbrellas. Great views...it really is an amazing beach!  
We then all gathered at  Plaka Matala, a restaurant that Talia and Yeshe found at the most Eastern part of the cove. Outdoor, covered seating, with a fantastic view back over the beach. We all found food that we liked...everyone seems to really be enjoying Greek food...and had a nice early dinner. Our group then fragmented a bit, with folks pealing off and wandering the shops to find what they may. Renee and Nevaeh bought some jewelry and a dress for Nevaeh. Michelle had earlier found an outfit that she was now wearing. Talia and Yeshe also found some clothes and jewelry. Gavin was shopping for the most special thing he could for his girlfriend, but did not quite find it. I had a milkshake, and just tagged along checking in on everyone to see what they were finding.  
Each family car returned to the villa separately, again illustrating how comfortable everyone is driving around here now. We had a nice, relaxing evening again, catching yet another beautiful sunset, and heading off to bed.  
- 4 July (Thursday): Our Last Day on in the villa! (UTC+3):  
Woke up about 6:30 to yet another beautiful day here. Gazing out at Dia Island that we'd visited a couple days ago and the now tranquil waves from the Agean Sea continuously rolling in. It's quiet, for the first morning, here in the villa. Everyone seems to be sleeping in. We're all getting a little sad to think that our time here is about up. Hard to remember that it was the 4th of July in the States, but we all acknowledged it in some way.  
We conducted another parent powwow to step through all for the next few days, since our activities will be quite different than those to which we've become accustomed. Today is an open day for folks to do whatever they'd like.  
- Chris & Maddie returned to Heraklion for a bit.  
- At 10am Frosso stopped by the villa to pick up Michelle for a ride into the mountains where she grew up and they collected wide sage and thyme and anise seeds. They then went back to where Renee and I lived to visit Nikos and Georgia. She toured through the home where we lived which is not occupied by Nikos' daughter Maria and her family. Georgia brought out a variety of cucumber seeds, mellon seeds and some beans to share with Michelle. Michelle gave them a 5 oz native american silver piece.  
- Renee and I took Gavin back up to Anapoli to the bronze shop where Gavin bought a small bronze knife keychain and we bought a small bronze trojan helmut.  
Our chef arrived at the villa at 2:30 to begin preparing our farewell Cretan BBQ meal which he served at 4:00. The meal went well, and everyone chilled and watched the sunset after dinner. I broke out the drone and captured photos and video of all of us standing in front of the villa and down on the beach. The kids had created a heartwarming arrangement of stones, sticks and shells in the form of a heart to commemorate our 50th anniversary. Everyone hit the sack at different times...our last night in the villa!  
- 5 July (Friday): Trip to Athens (UTC+3):  
We'd set a departure time of 8:30 from the villa. Giorgos stopped by a bit before that to bring us some parting gifts. Raki, ouzo, food items, and souvenir knives with a Cretan poem engraved on them. He's been an amazing guy who really helped make our stay there fantastic.  
All 4 cars rolled out right on time, laden with lots of luggage and an assortment of Greek gods and goddesses. Car turn in at Hertz went pretty well, and we made it up to check our luggage and make it through security and to our gate. The flight was delayed about an hour, which compressed our already tight schedule. The short 35 minute flight to Athens was pleasant, with views of the water and islands. We could see Dia Island and the cove that we'd sailed to on the catamaran days earlier. I also caught a distant view of Santorini, which we'll cruise to in a few days.  
We were fortunate to collect all bags and find our two transfer drivers who whisked us away through crowded streets of Athens to the Adrian Hotel. We had a sharp deadline to meet our tour guide at 4:00, and we were dropped off at the hotel at 3:40. Renee did an amazing job getting room keys for everyone in record time. We all wrestled our bags upstairs to our rooms, then quickly made the 11 minute walk to our meeting point. To our surprise, we arrived with time to spare! That moment made me very proud of our family. Clearing all logistical hurdles of the day, they pulled together to make it a success. 
Our guide, Eva, had a very calming demeanor. She slowly moved us along the walking route to the entrance of the Acropolis, finding shaded stopping points along the way. Through our radio/earphone devices, she shared many interesting facts about life in the days that the Acropolis was built. We made our way through and past crowds to various stops within the Acropolis, stopping for shade, information and photos. It was hot, and a difficult walk, but all enjoyed the hike and exploration of the Acropolis.  
As we descended we heard a band warming up in the ancient ampitheater. Not sure who they were, but the moment had a great energy and totally fit the mood. Michelle and family headed back through Plaka and to the hotel, and the rest of us made our way to the Acropolis museum, which was modelled in a way to resemble the Acropolis inside while providing windowed views up to the Acropolis at the same time. Again, all were quite impressed.  
Chris and family had some places they wanted to check out, so Rick, Finny, Gavin, Nevaeh, Renee and I strolled back toward the hotel and stopped at the Diogenes restaurant and had an amazing meal. We then meandered (in a Greek way) through the now lit streets back to Hotel Adrian. On return, I asked the manager if the rooftop was open. He said no, but gave me a key to go up and check out the view with Renee. We made it up to the darkend terrace and were treated to an amazing full view of the Acropolis. Soon others joined us rooftop for the spectacular view. After ushering all back off the rooftop and returning the key, we returned to room 305 only to find that we had nearly the same view from our balcony, one floor below rooftop! All hit the sack for some well-deserved sleep.  
- 6 July (Saturday): Boarding the Celestyal Journey and Departing Athens (UTC+3):  
We met for breakfast at around 8am on the Hotel Adrian rooftop. Everyone loved sitting around, talking about the things we'd seen and learned thus far, and gazing up at the Acropolis. Checkout was at 11am and our two transfer vehicles were to arrive at 11:30am. By 11:15 all bodies and baggage were in the lobby and we'd all checked out of the hotel. Since we'd return to the Adrian after the cruise, we were allowed to leave a bag that the manager secured for us, containing items that would not be permitted on the ship (our souvenir knives, my drone, Michelle's herbs).  
The two drivers were right on time, again driving Mercedes vans. They quickly loaded ~24 bags and 2 guitars, we divided up and hopped in, and off we went through much quieter, but still a bit busy, Athens streets. It was a fairly quick drive to the port of Pireaus, perhaps about a half hour. We unloaded the vans and made our way over to the line for outside check-in. Because we had 6 of the top suites on the ship we also had priority check-in, so our bags were briskly tagged and taken to our staterooms. We entered the terminal and it was a madhouse, but a Celestyal staff member guided us to a point just beside the Disney line for check-in where we by-passed the wait and were issued our stateroom key cards. Not quite as lucky after that, as the port security process kicked in and we all merged into a huddled mass of people to make it through the scanners.  
Still in good spirits, we all boarded Journey and made our way to the 10th deck to find our rooms. Just prior to us leaving for the trip, Renee had noticed that the one and only "Stargazer Suite" had become available, so she booked it. Very nice, and lots of room (see photos and video clips). The 5 other suites were also very nice, and everyone was very excited. Then it was fun to see everyone zipping around the ship, exploring all there is to see. There are a number of places to eat, from buffets to specialty restaurants. I spoke with some of the wait staff about how to best address our gluten free needs for two of our grandchildren, and they asured us they could make it happen. Chris and Rebecca did the same.  
At 4pm we had a muster drill, with two floors emptying out onto the deck 6 sides of the ship, all donning life vests. By about 5:30pm we were underway, making our way out of Pireaus Harbor enroute to Thessaloniki. Several in our group chose to work out in the gym, which is quite nice. Others continued to explore the ship or simply relax on their verandas. Nevaeh had already booked a pedicure, and Gavin a massage, by this time. There is a restaurant for suite passengers called the Smoked Olive, where Renee and I had a bite to eat.  
Later in the evening, the head waiter created a special area in the Pink Moon restaurant where we could all sit and eat dinner. They really took special care of us and it was great. After dinner, a number of our grandkids took off to further explore the Journey. It was great to see them so excited and having so much fun together. All slept well again this night.  
- 7 July (Sunday): Thessaloniki, Greece (UTC+3):  
We arrived and docked early in Thessaloniki. Renee and I have not been here before, so it was fun to be here as a newbie with our family. Everyone seemed quite at home already on the ship, ordering room service or finding breakfast at the buffet. Finny & Rick had massages at 8am and seemed quite happy with the results.  
We had no scheduled shore excursion booked, so we ventured out on our own. The Chandler family headed out first, followed by the rest of us a bit later. We walked from the port into town and past modern day shops, stopping to watch a Socialist protest march (all passionate young people with no clue on what they were really calling for of course) and for some refreshments at a nicely air conditioned pastry shop. Then it was on to see some ruins. First it was the "Arch of Galerius", with a rotundra structure in the background. We split up at that point, with Chris and family heading toward a bakery that reportedly had a lot of gluten-free items and Renee, Michelle, Talia, Yeshe and me heading toward the sea and the "White Tower of Thessaloniki". I couldn't help noticing and remarking that we visited two ancient fast food burger places...Golden Arches and White Castle (latter may be more familiar to those from California).  
Our walk back to the ship was much cooler, as we walked right along the water. We could see our ship from the start, and it was a pretty straight shot back. Once back onboard, everyone relaxed and did their things, then cleaned up for dinner.  
Renee and I had arranged a special table (check for photos once internet allows me to post them) in the Grill Seekers restaurant for all 14 of us. Head waiter, Ali from Cairo, Egypt, was eager to help us celebrate our 50th anniversary. He and his staff pulled out all of the stops and really treated us well. I quickly schooled our table on how to say "Thank You" in Egyptian, and we all yelled it out at once to show our appreciation the next time Ali appeared. The meal was fantastic, and everyone seemed happy. From start to finish they prepared gluten free options for Peyton and Clara, which they seemed to enjoy as well. At the end of the meal, Ali had the staff served ice cream and an anniversary cake. He also gathered a guitarist and another guy (could not make out his role), and all three sang to Renee and me. The amount of special attention was surreal, and all had a great time.  
After dinner we hoofed it over to the theater to catch an acrobatics performance. The troop did a pretty good job, given the relatively small space they had to perform in and the slight bumps and tilts of the ship as we cruised along. The show ended at about 11pm, so most headed straight back to their rooms for some sleep. Tomorrow, Kusadasi, Turkey (which is in Asia!).  
- 8 July (Monday): Kusadasi, Turkey (UTC+3):  
Went to bed in Europe and woke up in Asia! We docked in Kusadasi at 11:45am, allowing everyone to have a leisurely morning before heading out on our first shore excursion with Celestyal. We gathered in the theater at 1:00pm, and the Cruise Director called out "Zeus Group" for bus #1, so we headed down to the gangway, off of the ship, and out toward the buses. Two other groups shared the bus with us. Our guide, Can (pronounced "Jon"), was outstanding! He laid out the itinerary, ensured all knew where to find WCs, and gave a little bit of time for shopping in each location.  
Our first stop was at the House of Mary, which Renee and I had visited before. It's a very interesting and peaceful place. We were told that the apostle John brought her here to help put an end to a cult that had built up around the Greek god Artemis. We all had a chance to walk right through the home, reconstructed at a location found based on the visions of a German nun who saw Mary in this place and described in in great detail. Renee and others lit some candles, we all walked past the spring water still running from the location and some posted notes on the wishing wall (see photos). Not too much time to shop here, as we were quickly on our way down the hill to Ephesus.  
It was 95 degrees out, and with little shade, but our guide was good about spending most of his time talking while we were in some shade. All seemed taken by the vastness of the archaeological site, and we all took many photos. We walked from the high end of the site down to the lower end, where our bus waited for us.  
Between the exit of the site and the bus parking lot stood many shops (of course). Gavin, Nevaeh, and Rick all had fun buying ice cream from a vendor who played a long series of funny tricks while dispensing the ice cream, pretending to give the cone only to move it quickly away. Others bought some things, and Rick bought us all copies of the professional photo that was taken of the full group in front of the library at Ephesus (Thanks Rick!)  
Back on the bus once more, and off to a carpet factory. It was very similar to the one that Renee and I stopped at during our 2022 world cruise. We were shown a live demonstration of a woman making a carpet by hand. They take months to over a year to make, depending on size, quality, and complexity of design. We were shown how they make silk string from silkworm cocoons, then we were ushered into a display room where carpet after carpet was rolled out to the oohs and ahs of the group as the shop owner shared information about each. They were master marketers, using obvious psychological moves to condition our thinking toward how much value the carpets represented. People were then divided (divide and conquer, right?) into side rooms for closer looks at specific carpets of interest. Renee and I were shown some round rugs, and we actually picked one we liked. It should arrive at our home in about 6-8 weeks. Finny and Rick also bought a very nice carpet. Others shopped for jewelry and other things at colocated shops.  
The ride back to the ship did not take long, but we did stop at another shop just outside of the port to buy an assortment of Turkish Delight. Back on board, we cleaned up and headed for dinner with Michelle, Talia, Yeshe and Clara at the Pink Moon, with all of the special care we've come to expect from the wait staff.  
- 9 July (Tuesday): Back in Heraklion, Crete!!! (UTC+3):  
This was a fun stop, as our group could have led the tours given our 10-day Cretan experience before the cruise. We all made our way on foot into town from the port, which was a bit further than from where we'd parked while staying on the island, but still not too bad.  
We split the group as Renee wanted to walk the breakwater out to the end with Finny and family. Chris and family wanted to take me back to a shop they'd previously visit to talk with the shop owner, so we did that. The lady there recounted a very pleasant and memorable childhood experience that she had with regard to Iraklion Air Force Station from during the years we were there. She said she remembered a day when the base allowed local Greeks to enter, explore, and shop there. Her two most memorable experiences were tasting a real Coka Cola from the U.S. and using a U.S. dollar for the first time. It was very touching to hear this, as it was clearly a very positive and powerful emotion she was feeling and it was related to the base. I promised to bring her some Coka Cola from the U.S. should we return to Crete in the future.  
After this, I WhatsApp'd Michelle to see where they were and popped into a Starbucks to grab a Frape while waiting for them to meet me. We walked back over to the Ancient Technology Museum to see Minas and to pick up another book from the museum. Minas was not there, but his son, Thomas, who is the Museum Director, was there. He was excited to see us and helped us get the book and to purchase a version of an ancient shape puzzle that Renee told me Gavin wanted. Michelle decided to stay in the museum while Talia and Yeshe did some exploring, and I headed out as well. I walked to Morosini Fountain and had a seat, watching the people come and go and just soaking in the ambience, trying to remember the different times we'd been at that fountain in the 70's.  
At some point, I bumped into everyone about at once, then we split up again as folks went where they wanted. Renee and I wanted to branch out from 25 Augustus street to various side streets. As we did that, then returned to the main street, we found ourselves at the entrance to the old market area where we remembered shopping 5 decades ago. We found this to be a opportunity to pick up a few things for our neighbors and Renee's brothers who were helping to watch our home while we were away.  
Renee and I treated ourselved to some gelato, then made our way back to the ship with a few others who had joined us. I spent a bit of time working on photos, only to have our Google photo album vaporize before my eyes! That has never happened before, and it caused me a bit of consternation. The good news was that all of the photos I'd uploaded to Google photos were still there, so I could easily recreate that part of the album, but any photos that others had contributed were gone. The challenge here is that shipboard wifi is useless and expensive, and the only time I have to use our cellular data connections is when we're in port, which is in contention for our excursion times. Makes it a challenge for trying to keep things current for friends and family following our cruise day to day. 
All in all a great day back on Crete...now on to Santorini! 
- 10 July (Wednesday): Santorini, Greece (UTC+3):  
An early start for all here today. Our first experience tendering in to shore with Celestyal. There was a lot of uncertainty in how the timeline would work for us, as the excursion desk has provided virtually no departure time information other than what gets posted late the night prior to arrival, and tender operations were uncertain.  
It worked out okay though...there were several tenders taking folks ashore early and we had priority boarding on the first tender leaving after scheduled tours. We had booked a Viatour excursion, independent of the ship, to go to Nea Komeni, the active volcano island in the center of the cauldera. There were four other large cruise ships there with us, which inundated the small port where the tenders operate.  
We boarded our mock sailing vessel for a ride out to Nea Komeni, then hiked uphill for about a mile to see what we could see. Great views out over the water and back to Santorini, but not really much to see on the hike. We reboarded the boat and sailed around Nea Komeni to the smaller island of Palea Komeni, where most jumped into the water for a swim into a small geothermal pool area. I had checked that box in April of 2022 during our world cruise, so did not need to do it again. They all seemed to have had a great time with that, and reboarded for our cruise back to the old port.  
Once back, Chris and family headed straight for the cable cars and went up to explore Thira (A.K.A., Fira), the city up top. Finny and Family, Michelle and family, and Renee and I hopped a tender back to the ship to freshen up. Renee and I had some lunch and took our time before heading back to Santorini. Finny and family did a quick turn and headed straight up to explore the town.  
We tendered back to the port with Michelle and the girls. Once there, Michelle and the girls headed for the walkway up and Renee and I took the fenicular, and we could see them walking below from the cable car. Once up top, Renee and I attempted to join the others, and did find Chris for a bit, but he had to rush away and ran all the way down the donkey path to get Peyton's ship card to her (he said it was like being on the Amazing Race!)  
 We found ourselves alone at a restaurant where we had a nice dinner and watched the sun set from a terrace with a fantastic view of all. While we love spending any time we can with all, just knowing that they were having their own adventures while still with us in the area was very satisfying. As we wandered back through the narrow alleyways of shops, restaurants and bars, we bumped into Finny and family who were wrapping up their visit as well. Last tender back to the ship was at midnight, but we all found our way back to Celestyal Journey with time to spare. Tomorrow...Mykonos! 
  - 11 July (Thursday): Mykonos, Greece (UTC+3):  
 All shore excursions were cancelled due to a national 1-day strike, so we found ourselves with a more relaxed morning schedule. As families were ready, they tendered into port, as a 4,000 person Royal Caribbean cruise ship was hogging the dock. There was a shuttle bus to take folks to the town of Mykonos, but Renee and I, along with Michelle, Talia and Yeshe, hoofed it the 2.4 kilometers along a road with no shoulder and a steep drop-off at times.  
  We met up with Chris, headed the other way after part of his family headed back to the ship on the bus. They had been out well earlier than us, but Chris kicked around with us as we headed for the famed windmills of Mykonos.  
  The Chandler family also left the ship before us, and were headed out for a beach day just beyond the windmills.  
  At the windmills, Renee and I saw a gift shop with small windmills just like one that we bought in the same area 49 years ago. We bought a couple of things there, then parted ways with Michelle and the girls who set out exploring and we shopped a bit with Chris.  
  At 6:45pm we met with the Chandlers at a nice restaurant Nevaeh had picked out for us called Kadena. It was right near the old harbor, so very scenic with old fishing boats, shops and white-washed buildings. Dinner was very good, and Chris' family met us there to eat as well.  
  After dinner all left the table and headed toward the West shoreline to watch the sunset, which was awesome.  
 Renee and I then peeled off and headed back to the ship, which now was docked since the large ship had left. Others stayed in town, as "All Aboard" was not until 2:00am! Another very nice day!  
  - 12 July (Friday): Milos, Greece (UTC+3):  
 Early start after a late night! We tendered ashore, then split into two groups. Finny & family had a strong desire to find beaches on their own, so they rented a car and headed out. Rest of us boarded a coach and drove first to Sarakiniko Beach, then walked down to explore the amazing landforms and caves. Finny and family visited this beach on their own and had a great time jumping off of the rocks. Next we headed to Plaka for a short village walk up to Korfiatissa Church and some stunning views of the coastline. We had a nice lunch, then drove by the salt fields and down a steep, narrow, winding road to our small boat dock. We boarded the boat and cruised along the shoreline, taking in amazing views of caves at water level. We stopped at Gerondas Beach for a short swim to explore some caves, then on to Kleftiko for amazing views and a much longer swim through natural arches and caves. The water was crystal clear, and we could see the sea floor from the boat, along with fish swimming around us. Beautiful place, and quite popular, as there were a few other boats there as well.  
  We returned to our point of departure to take the last tender back, then quickly cleaned up for our 7:00 farewell dinner that Ali arranged for us in the Grill Seekers restaurant at the same table we used for our anniversary and welcome dinner. Rick was back on the ship earlier and was able to have the time moved to 7:30, which really helped. We had also arranged for a gluten-free birthday cake and decorations for Clara, as the following day would be her 16th birthday. The dinner was great, and all had a good time. The crew sang Happy Birthday to Clara, making it even more special.  
  Sadly, all returned to their staterooms to pack, as we needed to have all bags outside of our rooms not later than midnight.  
  - 13 July (Saturday): Disembarkation in Pireaus and Overnight in Athens (UTC+3):  
 Disembarkation went better than I'd expected it would. We had time for a quick breakfast, then met our full group at the atrium on Deck 6. Our luggage had been offloaded early in the morning, so we had just a few handcarried items. Top 2 decks were called, and we exited in short measure. It was not too difficult to find our bags, but there was a bit of a crowd exiting the facitilty. We hang out for a while until our Viator transfers arrived, exactly on time as they had been to date (I can't say enough about how well this service worked for us!). Knowing the drill quite well now, we split bags and people among the two vans, and off we went back to the Adrian Hotel in Athens.  
  Once again, the Adrian Hotel really helped us out by allowing us to check into one of the rooms early. This allowed us to store all luggage there and for Chris to get some rest, as he was not feeling well.  
  A group of us walked to a coffee shop that Nevaeh found, and we all had something to drink and a small snack (spinach pie for me!) Our group then split up again to meander among the shops of Plaka...not that we really needed to buy anything else! Renee and I took a quick run over to the Parliament building and Tomb of the Unknowns to watch the Evzones changing of the guard. Never gets old for us! Then, while walking among the shops, we found a jewelry store that had small Evzone statues with one, solar powered, lower leg making the kicking action. Cheap plastic, but we had to have it, so we went in to purchase this 15 Euro toy. Talking with the shop owner/jewelry designer then led to us leave the shop with a nice new gold and diamond ring on Renee's finger! (How does that happen?). The ring was designed by the shop owner's father, so we returned (after his siesta) to get a photo of him, Renee, and the ring he designed.  
  Michelle found a nice restaurant called Dia Tauta, just a short walk around the Athens Agora from the hotel. We all met there around 5:30 for a nice dinner. Given our 8am departure from the hotel in the morning, all made it an early night  
  - 14 July (Sunday): Athens Airport & Return to Home for All (UTC+3):  
 A few days earlier, Air Canada decided to move Michelle's flight up 6 hours, so she and the girls had to schedule a 3am cab to the airport. Grueling, but the made it there okay and were the first ones home. It was an indirect route though, as they flew to Munich, then to Toronto, then to Nashville.  
  Our trusty Viator drivers showed up on time and whisked the rest of us away through the mostly empty Sunday streets of Athens to the airport.  
  Saying our goodbyes, our families separated and found their way to baggage check in. The place was a madhouse. Fortunately, we'd planned to be there early enough that we ended up with plenty of time at the airport.  
  Finny & family made their way back to Seattle with a stop in Chicago. Chris and family had a stop in Munich, where they were able to get their passports stamped, then on to Dulles. Renee and I had a descent flight to Toronto and a short flight back to Pittsburgh.  
  On arrival, Renee's brother Mike picked us up outside of baggage claim. Very nice of him to do that, as it was very late in the evening, and it was on his wedding anniversary. Good guy that Mike! Once home, we left all luggage downstairs and hit the sack. We were totally zombied from 24 hours of travel, but feeling very grateful and fulfilled that the trip had been so successful.