So we are having a fabulous time in Disney World! I have a million stories and photos that I am going to upload! Very excited about this trip. I'm a little sunburned on my face but that's okay with me. We have had a fabulous time. We haven't rode any of my favorite rides yet but that changes after the marathon in a hour!
Which leads me into the title of this post! I know a lot of people think I'm crazy already but I'm about to get worse. I am going to do the Princess Half Marathon in February! Yep I will continue to run like a lunatic. My future sister in-law is joining me in doing this. Not only her, but my cousin Bridgitte (she will be unpregnant then). We might have more join us, but for now we are the only ones signed up. The shocking part? We have only 145 days until then.
So we will be running in running gear and princess skirts and tiaras! Awesome! Well to me I think it will be amazing! Dressed up and running like a Tasmanian devil. Plus there are several perks for runners. I think it will be a great way to stay motivated to keep running and training.
So on the weekend on February 22-24 I will be back here in Orlando! I'm looking forward to this even more because it is right after I return from the the Holy Lands. It's going to be crazy for me that month. I'm honestly thinking about taking the semester off except for online classes. I think it will be very eventful for me. I'm looking forward to everything in the coming months.
Bridgitte's baby shower is going to be a freaking blast! Halloween with Chris and my family will be the best Halloween I've ever had. Thanksgiving week my grandmother from Paris is coming to spend Monday through Wednesday with me. Thanksgiving I will be with my family and Chris. Then Black Friday shopping with the Tuscaloosa Gang and the Auburn game the next day! Then Christmas plans galore! Nashville, New York, soup kitchen, babies coming, Christmas at work, Christmas with Chris, Christmas with my family, and Christmas with my church family. Then Erica's wedding and New Years. I swear my planner was well worth it's $60 dollars that paid for it.
There will be no interview today. I have the interviews done however, I feel like I should give them my full attention and that's not really where I am at the moment. I have a lot going on.
People forget that God is around you no matter what. I am even guilty of that. Sometimes I'm reminded of it in a sweet way and in other ways I'm knocked on my knees and I'm praying he forgives me for not giving him praise when I should be.
For me God is amazing. He is bigger than my midterms I have to face when I get back from vacation. He is bigger than my budgeting for Christmas presents. He is bigger than forgetting to turn in a homework assignment. I love that no matter how many bad things I face God has so much bigger and better things planned for me.
I look at people depressed because something didn't go their way or the way they had planned it. I am all about my grades, but I don't skip church to study. I know some of you are mumbling about missing church to go to Disney World. Hold your horses. Regardless I always do a devotion EVERY DAY and I listen to Pete Wilson on Sundays when I am unable to attend.
2 Corinthians 12:10 - For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong . That Bible verse gets me through a lot of people telling me I should be depressed or them talking about how depressed they are because I can't stand being depressed. I physically get sick. I think it is a key connection between my state of mind and my health. I know this is short but it has been weighing on my mind.
Hey Sorry for lack of updates once again. Life is weighing in on me. I have had a major headache for the last two weeks that finally eased up night before last. I'm hoping to get caught up the day of the race. I'll be conditioning that day but will have some down time to get some rest that night.
Jackjack is doing good. He is still getting slightly sick from the chemo, otherwise though he is good and responding well. My stepmom had a family emergency (trust me I know..) and my dad is with Jackjack right now while she is in Paris but my older brother and cousin is helping my dad.
Tumblr will be updated throughout my vacation because one of my best friends is stepping up to the plate to take on that challenge of my Tubmlr. She is the one the interview was with this past Friday.
I hope all of you have a good week and I promise pictures and updates during the week!
I think there is a big take away from each movie of Harry Potter. Though there are many lessons to be learned with each and every character from the Harry Potter series. I personally feel like each movie/book had a lesson. I partnered with a fellow blogger Maria to do this joint blog. Her lessons from Disney movies can be found here Phoenix Desire: Lesson Learned.
In the first movie I believe the biggest lesson learned in the first movie/book is that you need friendship. Friendship for every aspect of your life. Some can overlap and some can be for certain parts of your life. Friendship that is strong enough to be there with you through anything. Being a friend that encourages your friend and helps them is a huge lesson to learn. However, in the beginning of the Sorcerer's Stone Malfoy tells Harry that he thinks they should be friends and can help him pick out the good and bad. Harry can automatically tell that Malfoy isn't the kind to be friends with when selecting people to be friends with in life.
The second book/movie takes on a whole different lesson for me. I believe in the second movie it's about not to judge people by what facts you only know. You won't know everything about that person and you are still judging them. Most everyone believed that just because Harry could speak Parseltongue and was around the attacks they believed he was the heir of Slytherin. However, many knew that he wouldn't do such a think nor knew how to do such a thing. Also a small lesson on the side is that if you know about something that could help matters please go ahead and advice an adult.
In this book/movie there is my almost favorite lessons from the Harry Potter series. Learn all sides of the story before making judgements, and also that secrets and unforseen circumstances can greatly impact peoples lives. This is the main reason I do like politics you never really know the truth behind what they are saying and rarely anyone proves what they say is true. Harry jumped to conclusion based on what he had overheard adults saying without checking with anyone else. And the adults jumped to conclusions without asking Black did he murdered Pettigrew. So in all always make sure to know the whole story and better yet just stay out of it if it has nothing to do with you.
In Book/Movie 4 I think what I learned most about is not matter how young you are that you are still able to do challenges that adult may not be able to do themselves either. It is also a Bible verse about that too which I love called 1 Timothy 4:12. Yeah Harry had some help, but we all need help. It's all about using our strengths and our abilities to conquer what is in front of us with the help of God. Though Harry might not have had the help of God. He had Moody helping him.
Lesson to be learned in book/movie 5 is to stand up for the truth and what is right even if you are one of the few. Harry is ridiculed by most of the wizarding community because they don't want to accept what he has seen. Even more they feel like he is trying to take over the community with Dumbledore in tow. Harry sticks it out by dealing with heartless characters Umbridge and Fudge. In the end everything is rectified. So always stick up for what you know is the truth and right.
In the sixth movie/book you learn several lessons. One lesson is that We all face conflicts, dilemmas and obstacles now and then. That is a given. It’s how we handle them that makes the difference. Another one is beliefs are extremely lucky because you have to believe you are lucky and things go right for you. I believe this lesson with my whole heart. Also the lesson to have someone to push you to do something you don't want to do but must do. And finally when something bad happens in your life that you never expected life does go on and you can't stop living. Your own life has a purpose so live it.
In the last movies/book is where things really are learned. Hermione teaches you that you can fight equally beside a man. Ron teaches you to conquer your fears. Dumbledore teaches you to look past prejudices. Lily and Snape both teach you that love is the most powerful magic. Dobby teaches you that friendship, real dedication, and love out weighs riches or rags. Neville teaches you that hard work and complete determination will get you to the top with success. Luna teaches you that it's ok to be scatterbrain on occasion and to open your eyes to different views of the world. Fred and George teaches you that even when the everyone else is glum and scared that you can always find humor somewhere no matter. Lupin can teach you to realize that people are who they are not what they are. All the Weasleys, especially Molly, taught us that family is important. Harry teaches you to do what is right instead of easy.
My love for Harry Potter never dwindles. I am a Christian. I do not believe magic can really happen, however, I do believe in the lessons taught by Harry Potter. And as the Queen herself, J. K. Rowling said " Whether you come back by page or by the big screen, Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home."
This week's part of the series is going to be slightly different. I did an interview with a person that isn't saved and doesn't plan to be (or maybe one day far off.) When I was younger I thought anyone with tattoo and dressed differently didn't believe in Jesus. That's so far off from the truth especially since I myself have tattoos and people dressed nice are huge nonbeliever, just like our person of interest this week, Mary Ann Parker.
September 21, 2012
11:25a.m.- 12:48 p.m.
What beliefs do you have?
"I do not feel like I have any beliefs. I just have been exposed to many religions in past. I've lived all over North America and I never went to church."
How do Christians make you feel?
"Most Christians don't bother me. A lot of them automatically think I'm all for gay marriages, opposing prayer in school, etc., but when in reality I'm strongly oppose to gay marriages. I've done my research on gay marriage. It doesn't make sense at all."
What are your views on Christian values and morals?
"I believe that they have good values. I'm a nonbeliever, but I believe sex until marriage is great because I think it gives the marriage something extra special instead of just two people being together. I think if more people quit just giving their virginity away to people that they would be a lot happier once they were married and sometimes even before or if they get married."
Do you feel Christians really walk the talk that they talk?
"I love how they do missionaries and are willing to help all kinds of people the ones that are true to their word. It's inspiring to read some Christian publications on inspiring stories. I think people don't give Christians the same respect they do other religions because they know Christians have a God that can take over everything."
So you do believe there is a God?
"Wow, well, hm, I guess I do."
How do you feel like Christians don't do what they preach?
"I think a lot of Christians that are hypocrites are just the ones that say they are Christians and aren't really Christians at all. However, I do know even Christians make mistakes and that is one of the things I do like about that religion is it has strict guidelines and has consequences and forgiveness."
How do you feel like Christians have consequences?
"Because God punished people back then, why wouldn't he now? I don't think that God is Santa by any means at all."
Have you ever thought about becoming a Christian?
"Not really. I've never really went to church except for a few times in my life. However, my ears and eyes are being opened these days."
What makes you believed before that there wasn't anything?
"I tried the whole Wicca thing and that's just a huge joke. I just quit believing anything because I just didn't feel like there was anything for me. Like I said though I'm seeing the truth these days."
What do you feel like you would get out of Christianity?
"Because Christians know they have a purpose. True Christians cope with stress better than any group I've seen. Knowing that no where I'm at I have someone that I can turn to and can talk to in times of need and happy times. I think people dwell on the fact that Christians are just happy go lucky ignoring the problems in the world when really they have to deal with those people plus other problems. I guess I am starting to consider being a Christian."
So sitting here you have really thought about becoming a Christian?
"Yes, I wasn't expecting this either. I went to church last Sunday and Wednesday night. But I have a lot of questions. Some I know I just have to accept and go with in faith. However, I'm already feeling better."
That's really great. Do you have anything you want to add for other non believers or even Christians who do believe?
"For the non believers, there is something out there nothing just happens. For Christians, I'm going to be slightly selfish and ask for prayers as I begin to become like you. Thank you."
I had no idea that this would happen or what would go on. I caught her completely off guard with this interview. She was not happy at the beginning, but by the end she was laughing and had a genuine smile on her face. It was great interview. She will be taking over the Decoding Odette tumblr which can be found at Decoding Odette Tumblr.
**Warning** Strong views on this subject if you disagree please don't bother commenting, if you agree and want to tell me go ahead a comment. I've been thinking about these decisions since I was young and they aren't going to change. Also when I say child (2-18)
I have had the urge to be a mother since I was just a baby myself. I had so many baby dolls it on the point of pathetic. The thing is my dolls were not like the some other little girls' dolls. My dolls could be bad and they were punished. No I did not beat my dolls, but they were spanked. Just like I was and I am not ashamed to say it.
I am a pro spank. I do believe however that there is a way you should do it. I do not agree with child abuse and do not start telling me that it is. If the child believes it is ok to hit people because you are spanking them then there is some hitting going on elsewhere in their lives. I never once thought it was okay to hit someone.
I was spanked a lot as a child. I wanted to do what my brothers did. I thought it was awesome to climb trees even when dad told me not to climb them. And let us not forget the time I thought it was so cool that I climb the hay bale trying to chase after Jared. I do not resent my dad for spanking me for those things at all. It was a consequence.
It amazes me how America claims it was started to get away from Government telling them what to do about church and here 200 and 300 years later they are doing the same thing to their own country. "Allow gay marriage." "You do not have the right to spank you kids." I'm sorry, but if the people back in 1700s heard this they would be screaming witchcraft at all of us. I don't blame them.
I'm tired of parents giving in to their kids. "Oh his mother walked out on us that's why he acts the way he does." No the real reason is he wants your attention and guidance dummy. "Well it's just a phase." Yeah it's a phase that won't end unless you put your foot down. "I raised them better than that they wouldn't do that." Apparently you didn't because they are telling everyone but you and the people in charge that they did it. "His teacher isn't teaching him right. I never see him crack open a book." Well duh you are too busy at work and/or you don't make him study at home like he should. Open your eyes parents. You think the world is turning into such an awful place you can change it by starting with your own kids.
Stop living like granted all sorts of freedom to your child will help rectify that you felt like you were enclosed as a child. I realize you want to be the cool parent, but what a child really wants is love. Just saying I love you and buying things doesn't get it. Rules and consequences will be what really sticks out in their head because it shows that with all that is going on in your own life you care.
If your child messes up do not stop loving them. Yes crack the rules down further. Do not compare them with a sibling or friend because that does hurt and brings down self esteem. A child has to realize right and wrong. I see the same problem with my stepmom and dad. They give in to my oldest brother so much because they don't want to deal with his tantrums.
He is twelve years old. I do not allow that crap when he is with me. I meant business with him. I might have been mean sissy afterwards but he respects me now and talks to me like a human being and not his slave. I know he reads my blogs and I know for a fact he doesn't care that I'm putting this out there because 1) It is my own right. He is the minor. Yes he is a human being with feelings, but I am not shaming him for this. 2) He knows he deserves it. His own reaction to when I put him in his place? He hugged me.
Parents stop thinking your children are little innocent angels. They aren't and they won't be unless you teach them wrong from right. That goes back to you, not church leaders or school teachers, you! What you do you child will do.
I never knew my mom. Did that justify me not getting to my butt spanked? No it didn't. If anything it should have furthered it so I can make her proud. I want to make her proud and being a spoil brat that gets in trouble all the time and nothing happens.She would not be happy if my dad beat me for nothing though. So it does balance out. I do not fear my dad at all. I love him for spanking my butt as a child. If you do not feel loved after that then they either did it wrong or you are just close minded to understand.
Also if you feel like you need to work 2 jobs, spend outrageous amounts on clothes, and material things and you cannot afford a child do the whole world a favor and close your legs and don't have any. I get so sick of hearing "I'm having to work 2 jobs because his dad is a good for nothing that never comes around." 1) That problem could have been solved with you a long time ago. A relationship takes time. A baby will not help things in many cases it makes then worse on the relationship. So many times couples don't talk about having children. Well they talk about having them with all the sweetness and happiness they don't talk about budgeting or how to disciple a child. And if there is a conflict they just shrug it off but then they have sex and you can shrug it off when the child is actually in the world. Close your legs or make role model decisions.
On an ending note. I do plan to spank my children if they need it. I'm sure like most children they will from time to time. Please do not try to persuade me it won't do you any good. Below is a perfect example I'm sure we have all seen and heard where a child needs a spanking.
The quote above is completely true. You never know when you smile at a stranger that it changes their whole day, but it may have done just that. A simple innocent sandwich from Jimmy John's changed my life. Because of a taste factor my life was changed.
I can't get over the fact of how much my life has changed since Chris came into it. I know some of how his life changed since I came into his. We aren't dependent; we might be distraught if something happen to the other one. I have full trust in him. It's a wonderful thing knowing that he knows so many of my flaws yet he still loves me and doesn't make crude fun of me.
My first kiss was him. It was one for the books. Seriously, I had many people tell me it was too perfect. I'm sorry I waited 22 years for it, so it was suppose to be amazing. However, I remember the movie clip going through my head the days before it:
Have I made out with him yet? Nope. Have I "French" kissed him? You bet. I love his kisses that start with his hand on my cheek. I thank God every day for giving me such a special man. Not a boy, guy, but a man. He is intelligent enough to speak on his own. He is so funny that he can literally make anyone laugh or at least smile. He can cook and clean. He has his low points.
He hates anime and manga. He is stubborn. They are small things because honestly. I embrace his things that gets on my nerves. If he was perfect it would be completely boring. I like that he makes fun of me about the little things, gives me challenges, and pushes me harder than I would myself.
Today has been a day, but I started this blog with the determination in mind. I am not going to slack on the blogging too much. I care about my blog way too much to do that. I'm sorry that they are coming at night now. I will really work on posting blogs.
So part of my problem for not posting blogs? Polyvore. Yes, I spend hours on end working with a color wheel creating outfits that I will probably never wear or come close to wearing with the exception of the things I buy while making the outfits which a lot of people's mouth drop when I say that, but I have a budget that I have for myself if I can afford it I'm going to buy it.
I love doing outfits. I love requests from certain events, to personalities, to characters and even lyrics. I like challenges with this. Even I'm amazed by what I'm able to come up with when people ask for certain things. It's been a lot of fun for me. I really enjoy doing the requests. Please feel free to send me requests.
I should be doing some school work, but I'll finish it soon. It's easy that's why I put it off until the last second. My cousin and I went to Target yesterday. I wanted to get a few things before the trip. I was struck when an idea while pouring over the Halloween items.
I love Halloween. Jeez I can hear the gasping and I haven't even published this yet. Yes, this die hard Christian girl loves Halloween. I am not all about gore and scaring people. A little scary is fine, but to the point where people have hysterics, no. Nor do I believe in pulling extreme mean jokes and pranks on people. I think it might be the teacher in me that loves watching the little ones dress up.
My idea is I'm going to do treat bags a little differently. "Oh no she is going to put Bible verses in the treat bags." Lol no. I'm putting other things beside candy in the bags this year. I am going to put a few Christian like things in there because I'll be making Trunk or Treat bags. But I think I'm only going to do half candy and half other things to use. But not Halloween things because that always irked me. Oh Halloween erasers on Halloween, still using them at Christmas.
But my big surprise is I'm going to make Jackjack a huge Halloween basket. I'm going to make the rest of my brothers one as well. But Jackjack's is going to have things he can play with while at the hospital. So that will be my gift for him!
There are many different people in God's world. I'm not a Christian who think that the Big Bang Theory couldn't have happen, I believe God could have made the Big Bang happen! So yes there are different ways of looking at people. The nonbelievers, the almost, just got save, been saved a while, and preacher of God's words are how I view people. I'm starting off my series of God's people with a person that is close to being saved.
The following is the interview with Maria:
September 13, 2012
10:09 PM – 10:52 PM
1) What has you compelling to be a Christian?
I know the life I am living isn't right, it's almost deadly.
2) How do you feel like you are different from people who are saved?
People who are saved just have this amazing outlook on life.
3) How do reply when someone asks you about your beliefs?
The answer is always different. It can range from my beliefs are none of your concern to I don't believe in anything.
4) Do you think your beliefs impacts all relationships you have? Why or why not?
It can either be positive or negative impact. In my relationship it at first was negative and the cause of many arguements and debates, now it's turning positive.
5) How do you feel like the Christians around you are helping you reach the decision to get saved?
By saying how God is full of grace and love
6) How are they making you second guess the decision?
Some Christians have this overbearing tendency to force feed people their religion
7) What is one thing you want to accomplish when you do become a Christian?
To show people that not all Christians are hypocrites and bigots.
8) With Christianity always being questioned how do you plan on taking a stand for Christianity?
By standing my ground no matter what I am up against.
9) Many people thinking about getting saved has a favorite Bible verse? If you do what is it?
I actually have two. Psalm 34:18 and 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
10) When do you believe you will become a Christian?
Miss Who (that's me) is decorating her classroom today and ditching the summer things. I have a huge tote containing autumn things that is just busting to get out. I'm one of those people that if you tell me the fall and winter depress you I look at you in disgust. Trust me this is the time of the year that I love and I blossom during it. Unlike summer time when I come in to hide from bugs and the summer heat. You find me out a lot more and even taking more evening strolls. I love the colors. I love winter and fall colors.
Today is the 13th and I meant to get on here on the 11th but with just getting back from Disney, cleaning, work, and school. That just didn't happen with how busy I was that day. Rest assured that day has major meaning for me that day as well. Even if America did verbal attack the French community after that. I remember sitting at the table and father calling us into the living room to watch what was happening. I am still in amazement about that. I do not care what conspiracies are brought forth that is still sad what happened to those poor people trapped in those buildings. I do not think I will ever forget that.
Speaking of French, my cousin is moving in with for a little while. So my accent has returned times 10 and I'm using outlandish phrases that Americans very rarely use. She has recently been let go of her job and is looking for something more challenging anyhow. She has had a few minor setbacks, but she has gotten through them. It's been interesting having her around to talk about things and share things. It is not a permanent set up with her living with me. She wants her own space. She is, however, moving to Huntsville.
School is going great. I'm slightly worried about the work I will miss while going to Disney but I think I can pull it off and not worry about it. I like the atmosphere of our college. It is no where near as uniformed like the University of Alabama, but I am still prideful. I haven't exactly gotten used to the colors yet but I'm warming up to them. I love all of my classes except one and I find it very boring and useless. I have been using Microsoft Word for over 10 years and yet I'm having to learn how to save a Document and close Word? That's the only let down. On the upside I have classes that I love as well. My procedures class is amazing. I love the learning and templates we are acquiring from that class. As for my electronic booking class, I adore it! However, I do not adore the timing of the class. The professor is incredibly sweet and understanding.
Chris and I got our questions for counseling and we have went over them. It has been very interesting some of the questions. We have found out so much about each other on so many different levels. Questions have been asked that I never would have thought about because of their complexity. So it is not only beneficial; it is also very fun and interesting.
Have you ever felt like nothing is going your way? Feeling like nobody would even notice if you were gone? It is not true. Somewhere you are changing someone's life. You may feel like a hindrance but you aren't. When you feel like you can't go on. Tell someone, anyone. If your best friend won't talk to you, parents, or teachers you can email me. I will listen to you. Everyone has a purpose in life.
I have had a friend take their own life. We sat beside each other in high school for most of it because her last name started with an M as well. She wasn't a best friend, but we would casually talk. She asked me one day about how did I like work. We talked for a while. Two days later she didn't show up for school.
I guess what upset me the most was counselors kept asking who her best friend was or if anyone had talked to her in the past week or days. I felt horrible because I was the only one to come forward. Her lonely grandmother asked me what we had talked about. I told her that she had simply asked about my job. Her grandmother burst into tears. "She wanted to help me. She really did care."
I know a lot of advocates and other people think that it's all up to the person that takes their own life. I'm here to tell you it's not. So many people are pounded with the fact that they aren't meeting someone standards. You have to realize that no they are not dealing with the same things as you but they are dealing with their own problems and conflicts.
I try my hardest to be as friendly as possible to people, even if on the inside I want to rip my hair out and my eyes go black as night just so they leave me alone. There are few rare cases where people just try my patience and kindness. I end up ignoring those people and not caring what goes on in their lives. I would care if they died, but that's about it. Should I feel this way? No but I am working on it.
Even while I was writing this blog a friend of mine was faced with a friend wanting to commit suicide. It is always difficult being faced with that. What if you say the wrong thing? What if they do it anyhow and the last words said to them were the words you spoke to them? It's a very unnerving thought.
Every 15 minutes someone takes their life. Spend 1 minute learning the warning signs and learn how to prevent suicide.
Suicide Warning Signs:
Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
Talking about being a burden to others
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
Sleeping too little or too much
Withdrawing or isolating themselves
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
Displaying extreme mood swings
Please help out someone you know and let's everyone have a second chance at life and living!
If you a person thinking of committing suicide and you found my blog please reconsider.I don't know you personally but I would like to help you please email me. Also please call the hotline for help that is confidential.
We just got home from Disney. I'm sitting here in the living room with my suitcases all over the floor. Yes I had a fabulous time. It was so much fun. However, I was disgruntled that we didn't go to see WwofHp (Wizarding World of Harry Potter) but I will survive because I get to go twice in less than a month now!
Ok I know it's Monday and that means health, beauty, or fitness. I know a lot of you like the skin blogs and those will return. I think a lot of people enjoy beauty blogs and I want to be set apart for the things that I do.
My health tip for you today is: Get your flu shot!
I'm not joking. Do you realize if nobody got their flu everyone would get the flu because then no one would be immune to it. Why did I get mine? Well several reasons.
Reason number one for me getting a flu shot was I am going to be doing a lot of traveling the rest of the year. I do not want to be susceptible to getting the flu and therefor not able to continue travelling. I have so many plans for the reason of the year and I do not like being sick. Also I am a huge germaphobe anyhow so I'm like number in stocking up on hand sanitizer.
Reason number two is because I want to be able to see Jackjack all the time and whenever I want. Not three weeks after getting over flu or something. I highly recommend getting a flu shot if you have children around. Since not only am I a student but I also teach preschool children and so I'm surrounded by germs on a daily basis and I want to stay healthy while the germ months kick up.
The third reason has to do with the fact that the flu can turn very serious. According to Prevent Influenza's official website influenza is the 8th leading cause of death among people of all ages. Also flu worsens all chronic problems and therefor problems rise up even more.
Fourth reason it doesn't hurt at all and I'm very terrified of long needles. Yes my boyfriend works for the pharmacy and made fun of me because I was shaking like a leaf and chalk white when going to get it. I was also on the verge of hurling while thinking about it. If you are nervous be upfront with them. I had mine given to me by a pharmacist that I go to all the time for my medicine and health questions. I only bled a tiny bit whereas Mr. Chris didn't bleed at all. Neither of us had an allergic reaction and only a slight soreness.
Fifth and final reason, I didn't want to gamble with my own health, family and friends health. I don't like missing school, work, church, or vacations. I also like grocery shopping and feeling like I have a barrier to the flu germs that will surround me.
I encourage everyone to get vaccinated. If you are unsure of where to go visit AAFFA's website (click the link) and it will tell where flu shots are available or if it's allergies or the flu shot.
Floo Powder? Take a handful toss in fire and shout clearly "Walgreens!" or "CVS!" Trust me I trust either of them.
In July, Chris and I signed up for the chance to tour the Holy Lands. A two week expedition going through the places where God Himself walked? I was on the edge of my seat to sign up! I have friends who have went to the Holy Land Experience in Orlando and loved it. I am doing that on our Disney trip in a couple of weeks but this at my church was the real deal.
The night we returned from Dallas I was checking my email and there it was; Chris and I are invited to go! I was so excited and I couldn't wait to tell everyone! I will be going to the Holylands! Places that most people only read about in the Bible! I will get to see them with my own eyes! Places like Bethlehem, Caesarea, Capernaum, Galilee and the Dead Sea are only some of what I'll get to experience.
It's a lot of money to go. My dad is paying half because being a preacher he has never gotten to see the Holy Lands either and was extremely fascinated and excited like I was that I get to go. However, he is weary of pickpockets so he is going to go over a few things with me.
The following is our sample itinerary from the website which our church is going through to send us to the Holy Lands!
Welcome by our representative and assistance with arrival formalities.
Transfer to the hotel in Tel Aviv.
Check into the hotel.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Tel Aviv
DAY THREE: Monday CAESAREA-MEGIDDO-HAIFA-ACRE
Breakfast at the hotel.
Check out of the hotel and depart north along the coast plain.
Guided visit to the ancient city of Caesarea, built by Herod the Great in honor of Augustus Caeasar and considered the traditional site of Paul's imprisonment before his trial in Rome and the home of the first gentile believer, Cornelius and of Philip the evangelist; the theatre, aqueducts and Hippodrome serve as a backdrop for the events chronicled in the Book of Acts.
Visit Megiddo, one of Israel's most famous biblical sites and the traditional site of Armageddon, and walk through the archaeological park and biblical period waterways.
Lunch on your own, en route
Continue north to Haifa.
View the Ba'hai Gardens, one of the holiest sites of the Ba'hai religion, located on Mount Carmel in Haifa while standing atop Mount Carmel.
Visit Acre (Akko), a UNESCO Heritage Site, for a multi-layered experience from the days of the Crusades through contemporary Israel, including guided visits to:
The newly renovated Crusaders' City.
The Jezzar Pasha Mosque, one of the most important mosques to Israel's Muslim citizens.
The Ottoman Fortifications around the city.
Check into the kibbutz hotel.
Dinner at the kibbutz hotel.
Overnight: Kibbutz Hotel, Lower Galilee
DAY FOUR: Tuesday TIBERIAS-CAPERNAUM-BANIAS
Breakfast at the hotel.
Drive through Tiberias on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.
Enjoy a Boat Ride on the Sea of Galilee.
Guided visit to some Christian Holy Sites around the Sea of Galilee, including:
A visit to Capernaum, on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, the site of Jesus' teachings and the remains of a 2nd century synagogue.
A visit to Tabgha, traditional site of the Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes, and the site of a modern church built on the remains of a Fourth Century church.
A visit to the Mount of Beatitudes, traditional site of Jesus' ‘Sermon on the Mount', overlooking the Sea of Galilee.
Lunch on own, en route.
Short hike along the Banias River at the base of the Golan Heights, also known as Caesarea Philipi, the site where Jesus revealed Peter's leadership role among the disciples.
Overnight: Kibbutz Hotel, Lower Galilee
DAY FIVE: Wednesday NAZARETH-BEIT SHEAN
Breakfast at the hotel.
Check out of the hotel.
Visit the Church of the Annunciation of Christ and Mary's Well in Nazareth.
Drive to Yardenit, the baptismal site on the Jordan River.
Visit the Beit Shean National Park, one of Israel's largest archaeological sites with its biblical period archaeological mound and on-going excavations exposing the vast Roman-Byzantine City.
Lunch on your own, en route.
Continue south along the Jordan Rift Valley.
Ascend to Jerusalem through the Judean Desert.
Welcome to Jerusalem: Enter the vibrant and colourful 3,000 year old city of Jerusalem and experience the convergence of the old and the new.
Check into the hotel.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Jerusalem
DAY SIX: Thursday JERUSALEM-OLD CITY
Breakfast at the hotel.
Start the day with a drive to the beautiful Mt. of Olives to behold the breath-taking panorama of the Holy City.
Descend to Gethsemane with its ancient olive grove, where tradition holds that Jesus prayed prior to his arrest and crucifixion.
Visit the Upper Room on Mt. Zion where Jesus spent his last hours with his disciples before his arrest and crucifixion; it was also here that the Holy Spirit came upon the 120 on the Day of Pentecost. Directly under the Upper Room, is the traditional site of the Tomb of King David.
Lunch on own, en route.
Guided visit through the Old City of Jerusalem, including sites holy to Jews, Moslems and Christians: the Western Wall, the Temple Mount and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Visit the Garden Tomb, traditional Protestant site of Calvary.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Jerusalem
DAY SEVEN: Friday NEW CITY-BETHLEHEM
Breakfast at the hotel.
Walk through the picturesque neighbourhood of Ein Karem, site of the Churches of the Visitation and John the Baptist and art galleries.
Guided visit through the Yad Vashem complex, the Jewish National Memorial to the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust, including:
The Avenue of the Righteous
The new Historical Museum
A concluding Memorial Service
Visit the Israel Museum, one of the most creative and innovative museums in the world to visit the Second Temple Model of Jerusalem, the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Lunch on own, en route.
Visit the city of Bethlehem, site of the birth of Jesus and the Church of the Nativity.
Return to Jerusalem.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Jerusalem
DAY EIGHT: Saturday DEAD SEA-MASADA
Breakfast at the hotel.
Descend towards the Dead Sea Basin.
Visit Qumran and explore the area where the Dead Sea Sect established a community, see the caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found.
Arrive at Masada and ascend this wilderness mountain fortress in a cable car; walk through the remains of the palace, water cisterns and fortifications built by King Herod, and hear about the Zealots who lived here until the bitter end.
Lunch on own, en route.
Experience the weightlessness of the Dead Sea as you float in its waters.
Return to Jerusalem and to the hotel.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Jerusalem
DAY NINE: Sunday TIMNA-EILAT
Breakfast at the hotel.
Check out of the hotel.
Travel south through the Negev and Arava.
Visit the impressive Timna Park with its ancient copper mines, modern man-made pool and many unique geological formations.
Lunch on own, en route.
Continue to Eilat.
Visit the Eilat Underwater Observatory and experience the wonders and mysteries of the world beneath the Red Sea.
Check into the hotel.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Eilat
DAY TEN: Monday
Option 1 - EILAT AT LEISURE
Breakfast at the hotel.
Lunch on your own.
Day at leisure in Eilat.
Dinner at the hotel.
Option 2 - PETRA (for a supplement charge)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Early departure for the Arava Border Crossing.
Upon completion of passport procedures, cross into Jordan.
Travel through the Araba to the ancient Nabatean City of Petra, situated between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea which was an important crossroad between Arabia, Egypt and Syria-Phoenicia.
Lunch at a local hotel/restaurant.
Late afternoon return to the Arava Border Crossing and transfer back to the hotel.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Eilat
DAY ELEVEN: Tuesday MITZPEH RAMON-SDE BOKER-TEL AVIV
Breakfast at the hotel.
Check out of the hotel and depart Eilat.
View the geological wonders of the Ramon Crater.
Visit the home and gravesite of Israel's first Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion, located on Kibbutz Sde Boker overlooking the Wilderness of Zinn in the Negev Desert.
Visit an encampment in the Negev Desert for Bedouin-style hospitality, Camel Ride and a ‘Hafla' Lunch.
Visit the Israel Air Force Museum exhibiting every type of plane ever used in the Israeli Air Force, at the Hatzerim Air Force Base.
Continue to Tel Aviv and check into the hotel.
Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Tel Aviv
DAY TWELVE: Wednesday RETURN
Breakfast at the hotel.
Check out of the hotel.
Transfer to Ben Gurion Airport.
Departure flight to the U.S.A., arriving the same day.
Like I keep saying this is a once in a lifetime chance! I feel amazingly blessed to get the opportunity to do explore the places where the Lord walked among us! Be able to be baptized where Jesus himself did! My heart feels like it will explode thinking about that.
