VALDOSTA, Ga. — Tina Welch's family celebrated a number of milestones this year so it seemed fitting that a cruise to the Bahamas would be the perfect way to cherish those memories.
Welch, president/CEO of $8.2 million Valdosta Teachers Federal Credit Union, took a Discovery Sun cruise to Grand Bahama with her husband, three daughters and parents June 29-July 2. Welch and her husband Mark celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary this June. This year, one of Welch's daughters graduated from high school and Welch's parents commemorated their 48th wedding anniversary. Ironically, Welch's mother, Janie Sheffield, served as manger of Valdosta Teachers FCU from 1980 to 2003.
"They wanted to take a cruise on their 25th anniversary but it didn't happen," Welch said of her parents. "It's always been their dream to take a cruise."
The fun began in Ft. Lauderdale when the family boarded the Discovery Sun for Grand Bahama but the trip over was a bit rough, Welch recalled. It rained most of the time, leaving Welch feeling dizzy. Once safely there, everyone's spirits perked up. After checking into the Island Palm Hotel, they hit downtown Freeport for shopping and a tour of the island.
One of the highlights of the excursion was getting to swim with the dolphins, which returned kisses in exchange for petting, Welch said. The family also went snorkeling in the pristine, clear ocean and took a ride on a glass bottom boat.
"It was beautiful," Welch remember. "At times, it was hot and humid but with the breeze coming from the ocean, it cooled everything off."
Welch said the natives were "very friendly" and she was surprised at the large portions of grilled chicken and other island dishes served in the restaurants. She remembers the waitress joking the food "is high in everything."
When it was time to board the cruise back to Florida, everyone left with souvenirs including a conch shell, island dresses and skirts and necklaces and bracelets made with marquisate stones.
"I really loved being with my family," Welch said. "It's not something we'll do every year but we'll always remember the memories."
–msamaad@cutimes.com
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