By 8:10 AM on Day 16, we were off the ship and stepping onto the solid ground of the Vancouver port. A quick cab ride brought us to the hotel, where we dropped off our luggage, clearing the way for the morning. We walked just a block to pick up coffee and breakfast, then found a bench at a beautiful nearby park. The setting was incredibly peaceful.

The weather was a comfortable 60 degrees with clear, bright sunshine and a gentle breeze. Spring maple leaves were almost fully open overhead, contrasting with the lush mimosa trees below. Nearby, birds were busy feeding their young, while the Canadian flag rippled against a sharp blue sky.

Sitting there, the moment felt distinctly bittersweet. Behind us was an unforgettable, luxurious cruise to Alaska and the Dawes Glacier, which was a huge personal accomplishment. On the health front, I am feeling better, but I am pacing myself carefully to avoid overexertion. Tomorrow brings a very early start with a 5:45 AM departure for the Amtrak Cascades train to Seattle. But for today, we are simply enjoying the city, taking this once-in-a-lifetime adventure one day at a time.