One Day, Two Stark Contrasts Of Paddlewheelin’ Up The Mississippi River

Looking at the photos above and below, it’s hard for even me to believe that both were taken yesterday — and I was there.

Our morning started with fog as thick as the cream cheese that American Queen Culinary Director Regina Charboneau uses in her signature breakfast dish, the delicious and oh-so-decadent Bananas Foster Stuffed French Toast.

By mid-morning, however, the fog had dissipated and the day came to resemble Regina’s Poached Eggs over Andouille Hash. I’ve included photos of her dishes for comparison.

You might wonder how many pounds I anticipate putting on by the end of this cruise. The answer: zero.

Sure, I occasionally indulge in Regina’s inspired dishes, but more often I am having a bowl of oatmeal, fresh berries and fruits, and yogurt for breakfast, then for lunch and dinner, salads, fish, chicken and vegetables with sorbet or something light for dessert.

I also use the well-equipped gym at least once a day, and you know what? I’m never alone up there.