Life on the Liners – Christmas Day 2021

Life on the Liners

From Bill Miller

Christmas Day 2021

At sea on the Queen Mary 2

What is that expression about fine intentions and good deeds?  I had long finished my late morning talk and looked forward to a light lunch & then an easy, relaxing afternoon.  I felt firm in my decision:   I was not going to the ship’s Gala Christmas High Sea.  The temptations are far too great!

Well, after attending an afternoon recital, I ran into an elderly British couple – and could I help them, even take them, to the far end of the ship, to the Queens Room.   Well, here comes the good deed.  I walked them all the way and then, in a flash, I was sucked into the door.   And into a  virtual fantasyland of specially made winter cakes, smiling, white-gloved waiters and commanding, white-hatted head chefs & chief bakers.   “We have a table just for you,” said a charming matire’d.   Like the Titanic, I sank – and quickly.  Waiters appeared: pouring tea, offering silver trays of sandwiches, then scones. Despite all intentions,  I was seated at the Gala High Tea!

But then it all gets worse:   I decided to take some pictures of the center display of magnificent cakes, pastries & cookies.  Then, like a tugboat sidling up to an incoming liner, the ship’s head chef – a commanding, proud & beaming son of India named Kumar – grabbed my arm and began a guided tour.   Snap and two waiters appeared, followed us and held three or was it four plates.   “Mr Miller, must try this” were Kumar’s repeated words and that applied to just about everything – and especially his Indian chocolate.  Yes, it was my own journey of late afternoon decadence.  Mountains, yes mountains, of baked items were destined, like a cruise itinerary, to my table.   My plans were in tatters, well at least crumbs.

Kumar (above) the kind, proud villain in our afternoon tale …