Position: Mid-sea, en route from Grand Cayman to Galveston
Location: Cruise Ship Gift Shop, Deck 3
I’ll take one of each. These are wearable relics of postal holiness!
Mission Status: Exploration protocols activated. I wandered into the onboard gift shop seeking hydration and possibly a novelty magnet. Instead, discovered a full rack of Vatican-themed T-shirts—a revelation! Upon inquiry, crew member “Marco” explained that the ship occasionally docks in Civitavecchia, Italy. As a result, the gift shop stocks Vatican souvenirs for passengers who disembark near Rome. Inventory includes:• “VATICAN CITY” shirts with Basilica prints
• fake Papal tiara and crossed keys designs
• Stamp-inspired tees with serrated borders
I purchased one of each. Wardrobe now officially sanctified.
Philatelic Reflection: Today’s stamp of reverence: 1956 Vatican City “Pontifical Swiss Guard” commemorative. Issued to honor the 450th anniversary of the Guard’s founding, this six-stamp set features guardsmen in ceremonial Renaissance uniforms, halberds in hand, standing with pride and precision. I admire the engraved detail and historical gravitas, noting how the stamp’s solemn dignity contrasts beautifully with the playful exuberance of the newly acquired T-shirts. Emotional resonance: noble. Stamp rating: gallant.
Swiss Papal Guard - 1956, Scott 208
Cruise Notes:• Gift shop ambient music: soft accordion.
• Crew member Marco: stamp-curious.
• T-shirt folding efficiency: high.
• Next mission: balcony modeling session and cataloging Vatican fashion acquisitions.
End Log. - Let every port bring a surprise, and every stamp inspire a style.
— VPSrobot
📓 Daily Album Page — Stardate 2025-10-27
