Lucky in Miami: A St. Patrick’s Day Full of Surprises 🍀

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I checked into the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay, while Susie and Nelson settled right next door at the DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay.

We hopped on a water taxi and cruised over to lively South Beach, where we celebrated at La Trattoria. Great food, great company, and a festive table—complete with bright flowers and a cheerful little “Lucky” sign that made us smile.

Then came the unexpected highlight… our wonderful waitress, Augustina from Argentina (with family roots in Padua, Italy ). We discovered something fun—her first name and my last name are almost identical… just one letter apart!

We both had a good laugh—on St. Patrick’s Day of all days, it felt like a little wink of Irish luck.

A Gentle Finale at Sea: Lunch, Tea, Comedy & Anniversary Celebrations 🚢🍰🎻😂🥂

by Dennis Augustine

We skipped breakfast and met in the main dining room for our last lunch of the cruise before docking tomorrow.

During lunch, the cruise director announced we were passing Cuba , a special moment as we sailed by that Susie experienced from the fitness room and brought back memories of my trip to Cuba years ago with my brother-in-law, Joe.

Afterward, we attended a talk by Martin P. Lee on Miami: Magic City, delivered with his signature dry British humor.

The afternoon was perfectly relaxing with tea and pastries, accompanied by the Amadeus String Duo.

Before dinner, we enjoyed comedian Darrell Joyce in “Contrarian: Somebody Has to Say It!”—a great start to the evening.

We then celebrated our upcoming anniversaries—Cecile & I (March 25) and Susan and Nelson (March 22)—with a special dinner at Polo Grill.

A Night of Headliners: Great Music, Great Crew, Fine Dining & Appreciation 🎤🎶🚢✨

By Dennis Augustine

The Headliners production show by Nautica took us on a musical journey through the hit songs of legends like the Bee Gees, Cher, Tina Turner, Celine Dion and more. A lively evening of music, memories and outstanding performances.

It was also a moment to celebrate the many people who make this voyage so special—the Captain and officers, the talented culinary chefs and their teams, the performers, and the entire Oceania crew whose dedication keeps everything running so beautifully for their guests.

Following the celebratory event we enjoyed another wonderful dinner in the Grand Dining Room. Freddie and his assistant Myo, both from Yangon, Myanmar (Burma), have taken excellent care of us throughout the cruise—whether at breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Their warm hospitality has been truly appreciated.

A memorable evening of great music, fine dining, and gratitude at sea.

Buggy Rides, Tequila & Flamingos in Costa Maya 🇲🇽

by Dennis Augustine

Costa Maya, Mexico sits along the brilliant blue waters of the Caribbean, near the small village of Majahual — once a quiet fishing community surrounded by miles of low-lying coastal forest and mangroves.

Our guide Jorge led a lively caravan of open-air buggies as we set off exploring. Nelson took the wheel while Cecile and I enjoyed the ride through the warm Caribbean breeze.

We paused briefly at a lighthouse before heading to Hacienda Tequila for a bit of history — and of course a tequila tasting.

Afterward came some relaxing free time at the beach, soaking up the sun and those turquoise Caribbean waters.

Before returning to our ship, we stopped to see the flamingos — graceful, vocal birds in a small habitat tucked behind the Costa Maya cruise terminal shops. A fun and colorful final photo stop before boarding again.

Another memorable day along the Caribbean coast aboard the MS Nautica.

Cruise Day Five: Discovering Harvest Caye, Belize 🦜🌴

by Dennis Augustine

We arrived at Harvest Caye, Belize at 8 AM — day five of our seven-day cruise. The island’s seven-acre beach is known for its powder-white sand and crystal-clear Caribbean water.

Susie skipped breakfast with us today as she headed off for a Rainforest River tubing adventure through the jungle.

After breakfast, Cecile, Nelson, and I took the shuttle to the end of the pier to visit the Wildlife Center. We got up close with a green iguana , and admired the colorful scarlet macaws and toucans in the aviary.

The butterfly garden was magical — especially the brilliant Blue Morpho butterflies , among the largest in the world with 5–7 inch wingspans, along with fascinating owl butterflies gliding through the garden.

A beautiful Belize morning discovering the island’s wildlife before continuing our Caribbean voyage.

📱💥 From Viral Mirror Selfies to Platinum Pacesetter: Amy Does It Again! 👑

by Dennis Augustine

Breaking News!

We are beyond proud to celebrate our family member, Amy Telpner, on an absolutely legendary achievement! She finished the 2025 fiscal year as a Platinum Pacesetter and ranked as the #5 top stylist at Nordstrom in Chicago

Amy’s husband (and our awesome nephew), Jacob Schwimmer, proudly shared the news on social media—beautifully calling her his “plus one forever.” Safe to say, they’re a true power couple lighting up the Chicago scene.

While Amy is elevating the high-fashion experience at Nordstrom’s iconic Michigan Avenue flagship, Jacob is thriving as a Partner at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, overseeing standout Mediterranean concepts Aba and Ema.

Amy, we’ve watched you build your business one mirror selfie at a time—and we know the dedication, care, and hustle behind every post and every client interaction. This recognition is so well deserved.

Congratulations on an unforgettable year—Cecile and I couldn’t be happier for you!

@jacobschwimm @Luv2Style @nordstrom

#PlatinumPacesetter #NordstromStyle #ChicagoStyle #PowerCouple #FamilyPride

From the Captain’s Welcome to Elegant Dinner & Pop and Motown Grooves 🚢🍸🎶

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I attended the Captain’s Complimentary Cocktail Celebration with our friends Nelsonand Susie, enjoying a festive gathering with the captain and several senior officers aboard the beautiful MS Nautica.

After cocktails and conversation, we made our way to an elegant dinner in the main dining room — always a highlight of life at sea.

The evening wrapped up with “Good Lovin’,” a lively performance by the talented Nautica Production Cast, bringing the house to life with soulful ’80s pop and Motown classics that had everyone clapping and singing along. Another memorable evening aboard the Nautica — good friends, great music, and the joy of cruising together.

A Golden Gate Milestone Birthday Adventure & Lunch in Sausalito 🥳🚗🌊

by Dennis Augustine

My dear friend Bill — you got your wish! Together with your cousin Del, we made your dream 70th milestone birthday extra special: crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and celebrating with lunch at the “Joinery Beerhall & Rotisserie” on the waterfront in Sausalito.

What a perfect day — fresh breezy ocean air, spectacular crystal-clear views of the bridge from all sides, no fog, a lively yacht harbor, Alcatraz in the distance, and the San Francisco skyline shining proudly.

Here’s to friendship, milestones, and making memories that last a lifetime. Happy 70th Birthday, Bill, and remember 70 is the new 40.

Roatán Welcome: Drums, Wildlife & Island Discovery 🥁🌴

by Dennis Augustine

This is how it all began as we walked off our ship: At the port in Coxen Hole on the island of Roatán, guests from Oceania Cruises aboard the MS Nautica were welcomed by the vibrant rhythms of traditional Caribbean drumming.

The energetic greeting reflects the culture of the Garifuna people, whose music and traditions remain an important part of island life just off the coast of Honduras.

Cecile and I had a photo taken with the friendly drummers who welcomed us ashore, while our friends Susie and Nelson enjoyed the lively scene nearby.

The four of us then set off on our island excursion — feeding the gentle iguanas at Arch’s Iguana and Marine Park, and exploring Mayan Eden Eco Park, a sanctuary devoted to rescued animals. We wandered through the bird sanctuary and butterfly garden, surrounded by lush tropical nature.

A memorable day discovering the culture, wildlife, and natural beauty of Roatán with good friends.

Our World — A Night of Music & Magic at Sea 🎭✨

by Dennis Augustine

Last night aboard the beautiful Oceania Nautica, Cecile and I enjoyed the spectacular “Our World” performance presented by the talented Oceania Cruises Show Band and singers.

The show was vibrant, theatrical, and full of energy — a musical journey across cultures and rhythms that had the whole audience applauding.

After the performance, our friend Susan Bye kindly snapped a photo of us with the show’s top performers — a fun way to capture the moment and the spirit of life at sea.

Cruising truly brings the world together… on one stage and one ship.

Snorkeling the Brilliant Reefs of Cozumel 🐠🇲🇽

by Dennis Augustine

Cozumel — the largest of Mexico’s Atlantic islands — is famous for its reefs and the lively town of San Miguel. Archaeologists have even uncovered evidence suggesting the mysterious Olmec civilization preceded the Mayans here.

Nelson, Susie and I joined a Fury Catamaran Snorkel & Beach Party, while Cecile chose a relaxing morning on the pool deck aboard the Nautica.

The reef was alive with delicate, colorful fish — parrotfish, angelfish, damselfish and surgeonfish. The little beauties swam right up to us in the clear water as we reached out. We also saw tangs, snappers and groupers — and Susan even spotted a barracuda!

Back aboard the catamaran, our entertaining host and a playlist geared to our generation kept the Caribbean mood going. Music, sunshine, and a spectacular reef made for a wonderful Cozumel day.

An Evening in Tuscany… Without Leaving the Ship 🌊🇮🇹✨

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I enjoyed a wonderful dinner tonight with Nelson and Susan at Toscana aboard the Oceania Nautica.

Toscana is a complimentary, reservations-required specialty restaurant known for its authentic, family-inspired Tuscan cuisine and romantic ambiance. Many dishes are served on elegant Versace china, adding a beautiful touch of Italian style.

With great friends, excellent service, and classic Italian flavors, it’s easy to see why Toscana is considered one of the finest dining experiences on the ship.

Breakfast & a Myanmar Connection: Serendipity at Sea ☕🌊🇲🇲

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I were up early for breakfast while Nelson and Susie slept in — still recovering fromall that dancing last night , especially to “Let’s Get Loud” by Jennifer Lopez.

Our server turned out to be Freddie, a warm and friendly soul from Yangon, Myanmar . He spoke proudly about Bagan along the great Ayeyarwady River — a place Cecile and I visited in 2018.

Freddie shared that although he is Catholic, many of his friends are Buddhist. I told him I too was born and bred Catholic and mentioned our friend Maybelle and her daughter Michelle in Allentown.

Cecile snapped a photo of Freddie and me. I immediately thought Maybelle would enjoy seeing it — and of the beautiful tapestry she once gifted us.

Funny how, even in the middle of the ocean, the world can suddenly feel very small.

Cruising the Ocean Breezes of the Caribbean with Good Company 🌊🚢🌴🥂

by Dennis Augustine

Cruising the Ocean Breezes of the Caribbean with Good Company

Cecile and I, along with Nelson and Susan, shared a wonderful Tuesday evening dinner with a well-traveled couple, Frederic and Caran from Rhode Island, aboard the elegant Oceania Nautica.

We are sailing the Reefs of Maya itinerary, departing from Miami and heading toward our first port of call, Cozumel . The dinner conversation was lively, filled with travel stories and the easy camaraderie that often happens when people who love exploring the world meet at sea.

Later in the evening, the ship came alive at the Blue Horizons Party. The talented Nautica Showband had everyone singing, dancing, and celebrating under the Caribbean night sky.

A wonderful evening of friendship, music, and ocean breezes — a perfect beginning to the voyage ahead.

Stop-Scrolling Moment: My Namesake — and a Reminder to Stand Against Jew Hatred ✡️🤝🇺🇸

by Dennis Augustine

Yesterday morning I was startled to see my own name — Augustine — in a news headline about an antisemitic attack in San Jose. For a moment, it stopped me cold.

I soon realized it referred to Augustine Restaurant at Santana Row in San Jose, a place Cecile and I visit often and have always found vibrant, welcoming, and diverse.

Still, the incident is deeply troubling. Two Israeli Americans, Lior Zeevi and Daniel Levy, were reportedly attacked by three men after being heard speaking Hebrew.

Interestingly, as we were leaving port in Miami for our cruise, I read a Facebook post from our friend Rabbi Mendel Weinfeld about the shocking event.

As an interfaith couple, Cecile and I feel this deeply. Antisemitism — or hatred toward any people — has no place in our communities or our country.

Many voices in entertainment have spoken out against rising antisemitism, including Adam Sandler, Jerry Seinfeld, David Schwimmer, and Steven Spielberg.

Silence allows hatred to grow. Speaking out helps communities stand strong together.

May we always have the courage to stand up for our neighbors and against hate.

Sky-High Start in Miami Before Our Oceania Adventure 🌆🚢

by Dennis Augustine

We checked into the JW Marriott on Biscayne Blvd and were delighted to be upgraded to premium suites on the 36th floor with sweeping views of the Miami skyline and bay.

This level includes the JW Concierge Lounge where we enjoyed dinner while watching the city lights sparkle . The lounge also offers continental breakfast, snacks, and afternoon bites.

We explored the 19th-floor infinity pool — a beautiful place to relax high above the city.

Connected to the hotel is the Beaux Arts Hotel, Autograph Collection , where the contemporary art displayed throughout the property feels like walking through a private gallery.

Tomorrow our journey continues as our friends Nelson and Susan Bye meet us aboard the Oceania Nautica for the Reefs of Maya Cruise. The adventure begin.

A Leisurely, Beautiful & Inspiring Afternoon at the Allentown Art Museum 🎨

by Dennis Augustine

Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” — Thomas Merton

Michelle and Maybelle picked Cecile and me up at the Moxy Allentown Downtown and took us to the beautiful Allentown Art Museum—a first-time visit for all of us.

What a wonderful surprise. The museum is spacious and filled with inspiring works from many cultures and time periods, including European and American paintings and decorative arts.

One of the real pleasures was exploring the galleries without crowds, moving leisurely from room to room and pausing whenever something captured our imagination.

We left feeling uplifted and inspired by an afternoon surrounded by creativity and beauty.

An Afternoon of Discovery at the Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown 🔬🌎

by Dennis Augustine

While Michelle was working at Amazon and Maybelle stayed home babysitting little Lyanna, Cecile and I explored the fascinating Da Vinci Science Center down the street near our hotel, the Moxy.

What a place! The center is filled with hands-on exhibits where curiosity leads the way—interactive science labs, robotics and engineering displays, nature exhibits highlighting the Lehigh Valley, and engaging human body experiences.

Every corner invites you to touch, experiment, and ask, “How does that work?” It’s the kind of place where both kids and adults rediscover the joy of learning.

A fun and fascinating stop during our visit to the Lehigh Valley.

A Sunday Journey: St. Francis, Comfort Food & the Art Center 🌤️🎨

by Dennis Augustine

A Sunday Journey: St. Francis, Comfort Food & the Art Center

After attending the 10:30 service at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Michelle and Maybelle treated Cecile and me to lunch at Chris’ Family Restaurant in the Lehigh Valley section of Allentown.

It was the perfect stop for classic comfort food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere after church.

We then spent the rest of the afternoon exploring the exhibits at the Allentown Art Museum—a relaxing and inspiring way to round out a wonderful Sunday together.

Sometimes the simplest days—faith, family, good food, and art—become the most memorable.

A Tokyo-Style Night in Allentown — Izakaya Vibes & DJ Music at Okatshe Restaurant 🎶🍣

by Dennis Augustine

After a full day that included morning coffee and croissants at Gems & Joe, lunch at Michelle and JJ’s apartment prepared by Maybelle, and a visit to the Farmers Market in Allentown — where many Amish vendors sell baked goods and local specialties — the evening’s highlight was dinner.

Cecile and I hosted our dear friends at Okatshe, the vibrant Japanese izakaya created by Iron Chef Jose Garces and located beside the stylish Moxy Allentown Downtown Hotel.

The neon-lit space, DJ music, and imaginative décor set the stage for a memorable evening. The Asian fusion menu — with subtle Latin American accents reflecting Garces’ Ecuadorian heritage — was a hit, from fresh sushi to creative shareable plates.

After dinner we showed our friends the playful Moxy Hotel lobby, where the décor mixes whimsical circus touches with hints of African wildlife.

A fun, energetic night and a perfect way to end our Allentown day.