Anchored in Love, Carried by Curiosity: A Birthday Salute from Alaska to our son Jason

by Dennis Augustine

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” —Anonymous

Happy Birthday, Jason! We first brought you to Alaska when you were a curious young boy, with your little sister Michelle five years behind you. Now we find ourselves here again — surrounded by glaciers, mountains, and that wild northern magic — and it brings back the warmth of those early family adventures.

In honor of your birthday, we’re sharing a photo essay — favorite moments from your life’s journey. These snapshots beautifully mirror our shared history and the deep joy we feel watching you grow.

You’ve become a traveling man in your own right — thoughtful, well-read, a lover of the world’s flavors and stories. And whether you’re traveling with both of us, just one of us, or charting your own course, we’re always grateful for every shared mile, every conversation, every laugh. Let the pictures do the telling. This one’s for you.

With all our love,

Mom & Dad

A Perfect Pairing: Fine Dining at Toscana & Broadway Dreams Starring Carson Turner

by Dennis Augustine

Last night aboard the Oceania Riviera was one we’ll remember. Cecile and I were fortunate to be chosen from the waitlist for Toscana, the ship’s exquisite Italian specialty restaurant. From the moment we sat down, we knew we were in for something special. The fresh bread centerpiece alone was a celebration—an artful assortment served with a trio of fragrant and flavorful olive oils.

The meal was beautifully prepared and leisurely enjoyed—each course a reminder of how luxurious it can feel to simply savor.

After dinner, we made our way to the Riviera Lounge for Broadway Dreams, a solo show by our talented cruise director Carson Turner. What followed was more than entertainment—it was a heartfelt journey through Carson’s life told through the Broadway songs that shaped him. Raised as an only child in North Carolina, he shared how musicals like Annie, Oklahoma, The Boy from Oz, and The Jersey Boys (my personal favorite) guided his path, even as his father—once a starting quarterback—hoped he’d follow a more athletic route. Eventually, his father saw Carson shine on stage and became his biggest fan.

Carson’s performance was a beautiful tribute to his parents and to the power of the arts. At the end, he urged us all to support arts education—so vital and too often underfunded. And as he often reminded us throughout the cruise after announcing daily activities:

“…If you do nothing else, be kind to one another.”

We stayed afterward to thank him, and Cecile shared that our daughter Michelle had also performed in many of those same shows growing up. Like Carson, neither she nor our son Jason were into sports—but both found joy and expression in music and theater. Jason played clarinet in his high school and college bands, and Cecile herself was a proud volunteer mom producer-helping stage musicals at JCC summer camp under the guidance of director Laural Perelman Cohen.

Wrangell, Alaska: A Hidden Gem Steeped in Layers of History

by Dennis Augustine

After breakfast at Oceania’s Grand Dining Room, Cecile and I stepped ashore into one of Alaska’s most quietly captivating towns—Wrangell.

Unlike the bustling ports packed with tourists, Wrangell greeted us with stillness and sincerity. No chain stores, no cruise ship chaos—just genuine local charm and the echoes of a rich, layered past.

Wrangell is one of the oldest towns in Alaska and the only one to have flown four flags: Tlingit, Russian, British, and American. Each has left its mark, but the Tlingit people—whose presence here goes back thousands of years—remain the soul of this land.

The town was named after Baron Ferdinand von Wrangell, a Baltic German explorer who governed Russian America in the 1830s. Later, during the Gold Rush, it became a rugged supply town—and though the boom has passed, its frontier spirit still lingers.

One highlight: Cecile and I had our photo taken with a woman in beautiful red and black traditional regalia of the Tlingit, the Indigenous tribe native to the Wrangell area.

Alaska Unfiltered–A Front-Row Seat to Nature’s Majesty of Glacier Fjords

by Dennis Augustine

There is a voice that doesn’t use words. Listen.”— Rumi

We woke early for breakfast in our room, not wanting to miss a moment of what would become the major natural highlight of our cruise—navigating the breathtaking Holkham Bay Glacier Fjords.

Because larger cruise ships can’t access this hidden gem, it felt like a secret passage into Alaska’s untouched wilderness. Cecile and I stood in awe as slabs of ancient ice calved from the glacier, into the water below. Even the smallest shards sparkled like diamonds, floating past us in silence.

With only 1,250 guests aboard Oceania and a remarkable staff of 800 from over 50 nations, it’s easy to feel pampered. But today, the true luxury was outside. Nature herself was the star, and we were just lucky enough to be there to witness it.

#AlaskaCruise #HolkhamBay #NatureInHerGlory #OceaniaCruiseMoments

Waking Up to Haines, Alaska–“The Valley of the Eagles,” & Glistening Glaciers

by Dennis Auguatine

This morning, Cecile and I awoke to the awe-inspiring beauty of Haines, Alaska—From our suite aboard the Oceania Riviera, the view looked like a painting—crisp skies, mirrored waters, and snow-kissed peaks.

Haines, known as “The Valley of the Eagles,” sits at the meeting point of the world’s largest protected wilderness area, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site that stretches across the U.S. and Canada.

We explored the quaint downtown and stopped by the Hammer Museum—a one-of-a-kind tribute to the tool that helped shape the frontier-over 2500 hammers on display. Quirky, yes, but absolutely fascinating.

Thanks to the mild weather, reaching 74 degrees, we even enjoyed some unexpected pool time aboard the ship—a rare treat in Alaska! Later, we dined at the Terrace Café.

To top off the day, we attended “Our World”—a vibrant and theatrical celebration of global music performed by the incredibly talented Riviera Production Company. A joyful reminder of how connected we all are through Rhythm and culture.

Happy Independence Day!

by Dennis Augustine

As we celebrate the Fourth of July, I find myself pondering the deeper significance of this day. Here’s a poem I wrote to capture the essence of this moment and the challenges we face:

Freedom Ain’t Easy—but it’s Worth Embracing with Love of Country

It didn’t come wrapped in peace—

freedom never does.

It came through storms and stand-offs,

through fire, flaws, and fuss.

It came with boots in mud,

hands stained with ink and blood,

with broken promises and bold dreams

too stubborn to die.

It was never clean or conflict-free—

this road to liberty. It was wrestled for,

fought for, by courageous and imperfect people.

And unless we’re in a battlefield today,

the hardest battle is within—

to live with honesty,

to carry peace,

to walk in freedom

without forgetting those who paid the price.

Freedom’s not just fireworks, cheers, and flags—it’s how we treat the ones we disagree with,

how we show up for each other,

how we keep the promise alive.

So, while fireworks light up the sky

let’s remember:

Freedom is messy.

But it’s ours to carry.

And it’s worth the weight.

Wishing you all a joyous and meaningful Independence Day, my friends and family.

Sittin’ on the dock of the Bay on the Seattle Harbor—with Mt. Rainier Watching Over Us

by Dennis Augustine

There we were—Cecile and I—‘sittin’ on the top of the Bay,” just like Otis sang, legs dangling over the courtesy orange deck chairs on this peaceful pier in Seattle harbor.

We watched the cruise ships roll in, majestic and proud… and then roll out again… Their horns echoing across the water like a call to adventure. Around us, travelers arrived, posed for selfies, leaned over the railing to feel the salt-kissed air.

Above it all, snow-capped Mt. Rainier stood like a silent guardian—serene, watchful, impossibly beautiful. The tide rolled in and out, as seagulls hovered and then landed on the rails like seasoned performers waiting for their cue—then lifting off again. A helicopter buzzed past, a jet climbed skyward toward the horizon. It was all one grand symphony of motion, sound, and stillness.

These past few days, I find myself wanting to hold on to more of these moments… to write them down, tuck them away before heading home. To record the memory of it all—the quiet joy, the shared glances, the rhythm of the sea. Because sometimes, you don’t need to go anywhere to feel you’ve arrived.

Exploring Seattle Aquarium–A Tribute to Puget Sound

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I spent part of our day exploring the Seattle Aquarium, located right on the waterfront at Pier 59. It’s a beloved local institution—ranked among the top aquariums in the Pacific Northwest and visited by nearly a million people each year. Their mission is deeply tied to marine conservation, especially protecting the ecosystems of Puget Sound and the greater Pacific Ocean.

We were especially captivated by the Window on Washington Waters exhibit—a massive 120,000-gallon tank teeming with local marine life.

When I think of Puget Sound, I think of our friend Brian Walsh, whom Cecile and I met on a small ship operated by American Cruise Lines along with our friends Nelson and Susie Bye a few years ago. He was the guest speaker on a weeklong Puget Sound/Salish Sea voyage.

Brian’s a talented photographer and environmental policy professional, and one of the founding members of #WeArePugetSound, a movement dedicated to preserving the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity. The last photo of the sea lions was actually taken by Brian—reminding us how interconnected these experiences really are.

Seattle’s aquarium is more than a tourist stop—it’s an immersive journey into ocean life, and for us, a meaningful return to the stories and people who’ve deepened our appreciation for these waters.

The Fire Within Glass: Our Spiritual Encounter of Dale Chihuly’s Heavenly Masterpieces

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I were absolutely mesmerized touring the Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle—a sanctuary of color, creativity, and transcendence. Every room we entered felt like walking into a dream painted in molten glass.

Dale Chihuly, the visionary behind it all, is more than an artist—he’s a modern-day alchemist who transformed the fragile medium of glass into spiritual wonder. Now in his early 80s, with a net worth estimated at $20 million, his influence spans the globe. His Belagio Hotel collection in Las Vegas alone is reportedly valued at over $10 million, with 2,000 glass blossoms blooming across the ceiling of the hotel’s lobby—one of the most photographed installations in the world.

The exhibition in Seattle offers an immersive look into his life and technique, showcasing rooms of floating seaforms, shimmering chandeliers, and riotous garden blooms made entirely of glass. It’s no exaggeration to say this experience moved us deeply—it felt like standing inside a kaleidoscope powered by soul.

We were also treated to a live glass-blowing demonstration from two incredibly skilled young artisans. Narrated by a passionate guide, we learned that it takes three years to develop solid technique and thirty years to become a master. Watching the transformation from glowing molten glass into elegant form was nothing short of magic.

A Seattle Waterfront Stroll, an Artistic Fountain & Epic Sculptures at Olympic Sculpture Park

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I enjoyed a gorgeous walk along Seattle’s harborfront, heading from Bell Harbor toward the Olympic Sculpture Park. Along the way, we passed a beautiful fountain crowned by a striking Olympiad-style nude statue—a powerful opening to a morning of art and city energy.

The walk gave us sweeping views of Elliott Bay, ferries drifting across the Sound, and the Space Needle rising proudly in the distance.

At the Olympic Sculpture Park—part of the Seattle Art Museum—we admired a landscape where art and nature merge seamlessly. Most memorable was Alexander Calder’s iconic red “Eagle”, its wings stretched wide against the Seattle sky. And just before arriving, I couldn’t resist a selfie beneath Roxy Paine’s monumental “Molecule”, a swirling tangle of red steel tubes soaring above like a frozen explosion of energy.

A perfect way to blend art, nature, and the rhythm of the city—all with Cecile by my side.

Lunch with our Very Special Niece Annabel at French Restaurant Place Pigalle Overlooking Elliot Bay in Seattle

by Dennis Augustine

Whenever Cecile and I find ourselves in Seattle, we make it a point to call on our sweet niece Annabel—daughter of Cecile’s brother Laury and sister-in-law Jessica. Having moved to the greater Seattle area from Ann Arbor some years ago, she’s become our local connection to good company and great food.

Today we had the joy of treating her to lunch at Place Pigalle, her excellent recommendation nestled in the heart of Pike Place Market. With views of Elliott Bay and dishes that wow, it’s no wonder this spot has such staying power. And what a story: this place dates back to the post-Klondike Gold Rush boom, originally known as the Lotus Inn—a speakeasy during Prohibition and a tavern in its next life. A perfect mix of old charm and current flavor.

Speaking of history, it’s hard to believe it’s been 11 years since our 2014 trip to Alaska with Annabel and her parents. We’ve included a few photos from that time—Annabel was just a young girl then. Now she’s all grown up, smart, gracious, and still a joy to be around.

One Iconic Market, 500+Vendors, Endless Colors & People-Watching-Pike Place in Seattle Never Disappoints

by Dennis Augustine

After stepping off the Oceania Riviera at Bell Harbor, we hopped into an Uber and headed to the Courtyard Marriott in historic Pioneer Square. From there, we set out on foot to the legendary Pike Place Market—ranked among the top five public markets in the world.

Bustling with life, color, and character, this iconic market is an absolute feast for the senses. Beyond the famously flying fish and dazzling floral stalls, you’ll find artisanal cheeses, handcrafted pastas, smoked salmon, baked goods, spices, souvenirs, vintage comics, and local honey—over 500 vendors in total, including shops, stalls, and eateries.

Street performers filled the air with music and laughter. A duo of tuxedo cats with their own little setup stole the show, drawing crowds and raking in tips with their charm.

Just across the street is the original Starbucks, a mecca for coffee lovers that still bears its 1971 logo and vibe. On our way back to our “girl” (as we affectionately call our ship), we made one last delicious stop for paninis at DeLaurenti’s, the Italian specialty shop inside the market that’s a hidden gem in itself.

From Tribal Drumbeats to Butchart Gardens Blossoming Magic in Victoria, BC

by Dennis Augustine

After docking in Victoria, British Columbia—our final port after an unforgettable Alaska cruise—Cecile and I were surprised with a heartfelt tribal welcome by a local Indigenous group. It set the tone for a magical final chapter.

We boarded a bus for a pre-paid narrated excursion to the legendary Butchart Gardens, and our driver Leroy made the ride as memorable as the destination. A former police officer of 12 years, Leroy joked that unlike the passengers in his squad car, today he drives only happy tourists—“and that,” he smiled, “is a blessing I never take for granted.”

Butchart Gardens, designated a National Historic Site of Canada and now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, began in 1904 when Jennie Butchart transformed her husband’s exhausted limestone quarry into a garden paradise. Today, it draws over a million visitors a year from around the world.

We explored the serene Sunken Garden, the dramatic first creation; wandered through the fragrant Rose Garden; paused in the contemplative Japanese Garden with its arched bridges and maples; and strolled through the Italian and Mediterranean Gardens, each corner offering its own seasonal charm.

To end our visit on a sweet note, Cecile and I treated ourselves to a creamy scoop of authentic Italian gelato from the Gelateria on the grounds. The perfect taste of summer to go with a truly magical day.

An Evening at Jacques Restaurant Aboard Oceania-A Taste of Paris

by Dennis Augustine

After a full and invigorating afternoon exploring Juneau, Cecile and I treated ourselves to a special dinner at Jacques, one of Oceania Riviera’s signature specialty restaurants.

Jacques is the namesake restaurant of renowned Chef Jacques Pépin, and it feels every bit like an intimate French bistro transported to sea. The ambiance was warm and classic, with vintage Parisian décor, and white-gloved service that added just the right touch of ceremony to the evening.

We were delighted to be joined by Cat from Birmingham, England, a fellow traveler whose stories added a delightful British flair to our French evening.

As a meal—sublime! I began with a silky pumpkin soup, followed by a beautifully arranged cheese platter, and a crisp, refreshing goat cheese salad. The warm, delicate cheese soufflé which shared with me was a highlight in both texture and flavor, and our filet mignon—cooked to perfection—rounded out the savory selections.

For dessert, we couldn’t resist sharing both the apple tart with vanilla ice cream and the flambéed crêpe Suzette—each bite a decadent finish to an unforgettable night.

Port of Call: Juneau – Alaska’s Remote & Radiant Capital

by Dennis Augustine

Our next stop: Juneau, the only U.S. capital that you can’t drive to! Surrounded by dramatic fjords, glaciers, and the towering Coast Mountains, Juneau is accessible only by boat or plane—adding to its mystique and charm.

The city’s name honors Joe Juneau, a French-Canadian gold prospector who, along with Richard Harris, discovered gold here in 1880. That rush gave birth to the town—and the spirit of adventure still lingers in the air.

Juneau is known for its rich Indigenous Tlingit culture, and stunning vistas around every turn. Whether you’re riding the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic views, wandering historic Front Street, or watching floatplanes crisscross the harbor—it’s a place that whispers stories from the past and sings with natural beauty.

We arrived alongside several majestic cruise ships, each one unloading travelers ready to explore this gem tucked between sea and sky. Yet even with the bustle, Juneau retains a peaceful, old-town feel—with quaint shops, friendly locals, and bald eagles perched just beyond reach.

First Light, First Port of Call: Ketchikan’s Rich History & Mystical Clouded Beauty

by Dennis Augustine

After a peaceful night on the open water, Cecile and I awoke to a mystical scene—smokey clouds draped like silk over emerald-green mountains, as our ship pulled gently into our first port: Ketchikan.

Known as Alaska’s First City, Ketchikan, the oldest town in Southeast Alaska, earned its name from the Tlingit word Kichx̱áan, thought to mean “the spread wings of an eagle.”

Its rich tapestry is woven from indigenous Tlingit culture, the legacy of gold rush dreams, and its world-renowned salmon industry. In fact, it was once dubbed the “Salmon Capital of the World”—a title still proudly worn today.

Historic Creek Street, once a red-light district perched on stilts above the water, now offers charming shops and tales of the town’s colorful past. Totem poles—the largest collection anywhere in the world—stand proudly, telling stories that have echoed through generations.

Post Cards From the Edge Between Tehran & Tel Aviv: Two Artists One Dream for Peace in a World That Rejects it

by Dennis Augustine

As a human being, as the husband of a Jewish spouse and as someone with both Persian, Jewish and Israeli friends I’m moved by the beauty of this imagined world: two citizens, not governments, sitting on carpets, trading recipes, drawing postcards instead of drawing blood.

But I must be honest. I wrestle with my own anger. How can peace take root when the ruling regime in Iran leads with “Death to Israel, Death to America”? That chant isn’t just noise—it’s apocalyptic. It’s hard to imagine coexistence when that’s the starting point.

And yet… this postcard stops me in my tracks. Because despite rockets overhead, these two artists dream:

“Let us meet again, not in fear—but in art.

You’ll draw cacti in swimsuits, I’ll sketch Iranians playing matkot. We’ll sip mint tea, trade our grandmothers’ recipes—Polo with dried hilba for you, gefilte fish with sleepy carrots from me.”

They write to each other, not as enemies, but as humans. They speak about children, comics, embroidered postcards as intricate as Persian carpets. About peace not born of Iron Domes or Shahab rockets, but of open hearts and shared laughter.

In a world of shouting, they whispered with ink. In a time of war, they reached for watercolor. Maybe this is where healing begins—not in treaties, but in quiet acts of creation.

As John Lennon sang; “You can say I’m a Dreamer, but I’m not the only one.”

Artwork by Zoya Cherkassky

Postcard narrative by Zoe Engelmeier (Postcard Painter)

Alaska, Here We Come—In Style! Penthouse Suite & Hollywood Musical Showtunes

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I have officially set sail aboard the Oceania Riviera, departing from the vibrant and colorful Port of Vancouver— one of the most beautiful cruise embarkation spots we’ve ever experienced.

Though this is our fifth time cruising to Alaska, it’s a first in two big ways: our first time with Oceania Cruises—renowned for its refined ambiance, world-class cuisine, and impeccable service—and our first time treating ourselves to a Penthouse Suite

As luck (and a little bidding strategy) would have it, our upgrade came through! We were welcomed onboard with a chilled bottle of Casa Canevel Prosecco on ice and a plate of delicate pasteries.

From the wildlife-rich shores of Ketchikan to the calving glaciers of Hubbard Bay and the charm of Sitka and Juneau, the majestic ports of Alaska still call to us like it’s our first time. But now, we’re answering that call in extra comfort—with a private butler, a spacious veranda, and a suite that feels like a floating retreat. Here’s to new horizons and old favorites…

#AlaskaCruise #OceaniaRiviera

Exploring Historic Gastown–Home to Vancouver’s World’s Famous Steam Clock

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I wandered through one of Vancouver’s most charming and storied neighborhoods—Gastown. With its cobblestone streets, old brick buildings, and the smell of fresh-roasted coffee in the air, you can feel the city’s history echoing around every corner.

Of course, we had to stop by the world-famous Steam Clock, puffing out steam and whistling every 15 minutes like it’s straight out of a Victorian time machine! It’s one of those quirky gems that draws a crowd, and yes—we took some obligatory photos.

From stylish boutiques to cozy cafés and art galleries tucked between heritage facades, Gastown is where old meets new in the best possible way. Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs or just soaking in the atmosphere, it’s a must-see when visiting Vancouver.

#GastownVancouver #SteamClock

“From Lyrics to Life: Our Two for Tea Story at the Timeless Fairmont Vancouver Hotel

by Dennis Augustine

The lyrics "Tea for two and two for tea, Me for you and you for me..." from the classic "No, No, Nanette" always struck a chord with me—an innocent duet between a boy and a girl imagining what could be: a cozy life together, maybe even “a girl for you and a boy for me.”

Well, Cecile and I have lived that dream. We’re older now, with our wonderful boy and girl, all grown up leading productive and happy lives, and a heart full of gratitude.

During our elegant tea service at the iconic Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, celebrating its remarkable 85-year history, I found myself humming that tune again. Surrounded by polished silver, fresh scones, and the timeless charm of this grand hotel, I was reminded how far we’ve come from that hopeful “tea for two” vision.

Sometimes it’s the simplest moments—a shared cup of tea, a soft tune in your mind, and the smile of someone who’s been by your side through it all—that remind you: life really did turn out beautifully.

Here’s to love, memory, and of course… tea.