Crete and Athens - the Finale

The final stop on our cruise before returning to Athens was the island of Crete.  Very picturesque arrival - clouds over the mountain tops but blue skies above.  It was also exciting as there were several sailboarders in the harbor.  One, in particular, seemed to dare the ship by sailing right in front of the ship's path.  He then took a spill and had a somewhat difficult time righting the sail as it was so very windy.  The ship's horn blared several times to signal the town of our arrival as well as to warn the sailboarders.  He finally did get the sail righted and skittered across the water out of the ship's path.

We took a short tour of the island and ended at an Olive Farm where a donkey was working an old olive press.  We had apple tea (delicious) and other olive treats.  I did break down and buy some olive paste.  How I'll use it is still up in the air but it was very tasty.

The town of Agios Nicolaos on Crete from a nearby hillside.  The picture doesn't do justice to the azure blue water or the beauty of the hills.

After just a few hours in port, we set sail for Athens, arriving the next morning.  How sad it was to pack our clothes and purchases - and to realize the trip was nearing an end.  We did have time for an afternoon of sightseeing in Athens and spent several hours at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.  The Mask of Agamemnon was on central display.

 

Lots of pottery in the museum.  I loved the design in the border and know this will end up in a quilt at some poing.

How graceful this is.  I love the swirls at the bottom of the feathered fan.  And while I've done several feathered fans on past quilts, the addition of the curls at the bottom is a new idea to me.

Other motifs that are so graceful and interesting.  Possibilities for quilting designs abound!

After a farewell dinner, we headed back to the hotel.  On a whim, we went to the rooftop dining room and bar at the hotel and had a wonderful view of the Acropolis.  The bartender was great fun - even giving us shots of Ouzo to commemorate our visit.  What a beautiful way to end a terrific vacation. 

Perhaps not the clearest picture - was this before or after the Ouzo?  But unmistakable is the Acropolis in the background and June's delight at being on the rooftop in Athens. 

Rising the next morning, we were sad to leave Greece and return home.  But the memories of a wonderful time with great friends will be treasured forever.  Thanks, June, Julie and Joan, for being such great travel partners and for asking me to go with you in the first place.

Cheers!
Margaret