After a two-day weather delay (our kids do really appreciate the pool at the Atlanta airport’s Embassy Suites), we finally arrived in Panama, and eventually joined the rest of the Padmos clan in Bocas del Toro, a province with a series of islands on the Atlantic side of the country.  After run-ins with dolphins, sloths (ask any of us about our new euphemism: “Do you need to come down from the tree?”), red frogs, and a forest of jellyfish – not to mention endless swimming and food – we made our way to the Gamboa rainforest, right on the Chagres River and a stone’s throw from the Panama Canal.  We “transited” the Canal – or at least half of it – which included two locks.  Engineering marvels, those – especially for the time they were built.  We also went on a “monkey tour,” with great success – not just in seeing monkeys, but also iguanas, turtles, and toucans.  The latter were a nice touch since our kids have been essentially living off a certain cereal for over a week.  After a couple of days (with more swimming and eating), we made our way to the Pacific side, where we are currently. We're just north of Panama City, with a view of the ocean. In fact, we can see the line-up of ships entering the Canal, which makes quite a sight, especially in the evenings.  We’re at a swanky resort right now, and I have to admit some cabin fever. But Peri keeps reminding me how ridiculous that sounds, with the pools, ocean, restaurants, golf, walking trails, etc., all around us, not to mention sun and warmth, unlike a certain other place. Tonight is New Year’s Eve, and we’ll call in 2009 at a party here at the resort. More (including pictures, which I can't seem to upload at the moment) on the remainder of the trip as it unfolds. In the meantime, cheers!