Gran Captain O, I was thrilled that you are taking me back to that exciting time. I have never even been close to a camel so your description was helpful and quite visual. Sounds like it was a blast of fun!! Good memories are awesome! Love, Gran

Paige O it sounds like you had a great time in the Dead Sea. I am glad that you were able to float in the sea and you did not have to worry about sinking. I wonder if people think the mud causes special healing. The water does not sound like it tasted very good. Miss you! xx

Paige Hi O! The science center sounds very interesting and you learned a lot. Hurricanes can have powerful vortexes but I did not know that there can be in cloud rings. Also I was able to see your giant drum from China when I was at your house visiting Jupiter Jen! It was amazing. I can't wait to see you next week!!!! xxx

Paige Hello O! I loved reading about how to make the carpet. They sound very beautiful. I am glad you bought a beautiful carpet so I can see it. I can't believe that some can take over a year to make. Miss you xx

Aunt DeeAnn Hi there O! Thanks for the lesson -- I just love unique carpets, so this was a very interesting read. You answered many questions that I had always wondered about. We love you and are so happy that you are having such an exciting time. We can't wait to see you. XOXOXO Aunt DeeAnn

Gran Gautney Hi Captain, I always enjoyed your blog but I especially liked this one!! What a treasure to own something in which so much time, energy and care was put!! The only thing that I do not understand is this: Silk is not usually a fabric that is amenable to water. So....how do you keep such a carpet clean that is literally "under foot"? I love carpets so I am fascinated by the artistry involved...like painting a picture on canvas!! Love you much, Gran

Aunt DeeAnn Hi O! So great to hear from you. I love the story of the Taj Mahal -- what a beautiful love story -- I had no idea! It sounds like you are having a great time there. We all miss you and can't wait to see you. Enjoy the rest of your trip- XOXOXO Aunt DeeAnn

Gran Gautney Hi Captain, I so loved your blog on the TAJ! It was a lot of history AND romance!! That was a great combination and you told the story wonderfully!! When marriages were arranged, there wasn't always the opportunity for love!! Love, Gran

Aunt Amy That is such an interesting story and EXACTLY what I would have asked you!! How old is it?? I never really knew what the Taj Mahal was beyond one of the man-made wonders of the world. By the way, how many of those wonders, man-made and natural, have you seen on this trip?? So many people have never even see one!!! The pictures are amazing, and I have only seen a few. I am sure there are thousands!!! Can't wait to hear about it in person. Have fun with gma & gpa. Love you!! AA

Aunt DeeAnn Hi O -- Gran beat me to the punch -- your Uncle Jeff and I were almost caught in a water spout once -- very scarey. Thanks for all of the updates -- we miss you -- but we are so glad that you are having such a wonderful trip. How is the food in Singapore? XO

Gran Gautney Hi Captain, Thanks for the lesson! I am guessing the other vortex is a "water spout". Archimedes is one of my favorite scientists. His discoveries helped us invest many helpful things. Hope your nose is healing and you are able to continue enjoying your trip. Thanks for the wonderful travelogues! Love, Gran

Gran Gautney Hi Captain, You were kissed by an elephant and your nose didn't grow long (a little Pinocchio humor). I remember feeling the same about riding a horse and going downhill. You are a risk-taker, Captain. There is no doubt about it! You are amassing many stories that you can tell your own children some day. As always, thanks for sharing them with us! Love, Gran

Aunt DeeAnn Hi O -- you have me laughing. It does sound like you are having a weird time there -- chalk it up to life experience:) Love u!

Aunt DeeAnn Wow O -- not many people can say that they have been kissed by an elephant. It sound like you had a great day. I think you are brave -- I would have been scared to ride an elephant! Sending lot's of love XOXO

Aunt DeeAnn Maybe your Mom and Dad will give you all massages -- this could work out to your benefit O! We all miss you guys and are thrilled thqt you are having such an exciting trip.