June 5: Ancient Abbeys, Afternoon Leisure & a Toast to 32 Years

June 5: Ancient Abbeys, Afternoon Leisure & a Toast to 32 Years

Today was a day of history, beauty, and celebration as our Paris to Normandy cruise continued through the heart of the Seine Valley.

Morning: Jumièges Abbey & the Normandy Abbey Route

After breakfast, we set out on the Jumièges Abbey & Normandy Abbey Route Tour. Our journey took us through the lush countryside, dotted with centuries-old churches and abbeys that tell the story of Normandy’s spiritual and architectural heritage. The highlight was the hauntingly beautiful Jumièges Abbey, with its soaring ruins and peaceful setting along the river. 











We also visited Abbaye Saint-Wandrille, another remarkable site where history and tranquility blend seamlessly. Walking among these ancient stones, it was easy to imagine the monks who once called these places home.


















Afternoon: Rest, Tea, and Onboard Delights

We returned to the ship for a relaxing lunch onboard, followed by a quiet afternoon to rest and recharge. Some of us enjoyed the views from our cabin window, while others took a well-deserved nap. Later, we gathered in the lounge for afternoon tea, savoring pastries and conversation as the ship glided gently along the Seine.










The "Rhino" mod to the tanks to get through the hedgerows. 

During one of our last visit with our Uncle Dan Laslo, he told us that he came in to Normandy after D Day. He was a welder and one of their jobs was to take the  "Panzersperre," or anti-tank barriers, cut them up and make and weld these hedgerow cutters to the tanks. It was great to hear them say that this modification saved many lives.
(More info at https://www.thenmusa.org/armyinnovations/rhinotank/?utm_source=perplexity)

Evening: Happy Hour, Anniversary Surprises & Entertainment

As evening approached, we joined the group for Happy Hour and then a delicious dinner in the dining room. Tonight was extra special—it marked our 32nd wedding anniversary! To our delight, our group surprised us at dinner with a heartfelt card and a chilled bottle of Prosecco from Gary and Michele (our travel agent and friend). We toasted to many more years together, surrounded by friends old and new. And Michele's husband and our former boss Gary was celebrating his 64th birthday (3 months older than Rob).









The night concluded with an entertainment show featuring local performers. Their music and energy had everyone smiling and tapping their feet—a perfect ending to a memorable day.

We feel incredibly grateful to celebrate this milestone surrounded by such beauty and camaraderie. Here’s to more adventures—on the river and beyond!

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