Today we started out with a relaxing breakfast at the Convention Place Hampton Inn as we readied for our 10 a.m. shuttle to the cruse ship. We tried the Faster to Fun option where for $49 you get priority boarding. It really went well and we were set to go on board right after platinum card members. Although in this case there were also 3 wedding parties that got to go first which only made sense. The brides at least all had to get dressed for the ceremony. Some of the guests were sailing also and others were just coming for ceremony and reception on board. It would certainly be a different way to have a wedding where you are off on the Honeymoon right away.

The Faster to Fun option also provided for our room being ready at the time of boarding which was nice because they were still unloading bags to rooms at 5 p .m. and ours was by the door and our room ready at 11:30 a.m. It's not that we needed our bags just nice to get things put away and settle in early. We got a 2014 pin for Gold VIFP (very important fun person) pin and a coupon for a free drink as part of being past cruisers. Had our safety drill at 4 p.m. and now just relaxing.

The Elation is smaller and older than the previous Carnival Ships we have been on which in no ways implies anything bad. It is just different in not being quite as spacious but there a numerous places to relax and read which both Marge and I like about cruising. As well as having nice meals, cool decor and various activities. We are ready for tomorrow's day at sea and have made our bookings for shore excursions on the two shore days. We are ready to have fun.

Dinner in the Imagination Dining room was pleasant sitting at a table with 4 other couples from areas of the Mid-west, Chicago, Memphis and Arkansas. I had Escargot and Marge a cold tomato based soup for first course. Then I had a little more traditional (for me) chicken dish and Marge a pumpkin squash vegetable pie. All quite good if not fantastic. The Escargot were surprisingly good, something I may never have tried if I had to pay for it. It is one reason I like the main dining option on the cruises I do try things I would often not even thought of trying if I had to pay the bill.

To top off the evening we enjoyed the hot tub on a cold night cruising down the Mississippi. I was surprised how long we cruised the Mississippi with lights on each side of us well 8 p.m. when I last looked.