Florida Family Weekend

 Weekend trips to visit family are nothings I typically blog about.  Typically it's the big planned vacations that make it on these pages, but this weekend has been so nice thus far.   We are tired and well tired, but it's so good to be down here with family and the weather could not be better.

We left yesterday evening from the house.   God was really looking out for us.  We decided to eat dinner at the house as we had leftovers and then head down to my brothers.   I had the bright idea or rather God gave me the idea to throw my leftovers outside vs. in the trash.  I didn't want the trash smelling up the house... now keep in mind throwing my leftovers out like that is something I never do, but this time I was like - yea do that.   Well, we had some power brown out's a few minutes earlier and the sprinkler was on at Mama's porch and not spraying properly.  If I hadn't noticed it I have no doubt we would have come home to water damage, but God made sure I saw it.  He directed my thoughts and my actions - so thank you for the Godwink as my friend calls them :)  I love that he is always protecting and guiding us.

We then headed on down.  Jack drove and Mama and I mainly chilled.   It was rainy and I'm grateful for his driving.   We arrived safely and after a few brief moments of visiting, we all went to bed.

I woke up bright and early (7ish) and went for coffee @ Dunkin with Kaylee.   We then came back, visited, and got started on our day.   It all began with a nice breakfast at Beach Diner, followed by a trip to a plantation house - Kingsland Plantation.  It was about a 40-minute drive and we took 2 cars so I grabbed a bit of a catnap.   The driveway into the plantation was beautiful with large Oak trees filled with moss hanging over the drive.

Once on the plantation, we explored a bit and then went and just sit by the water and visited.   The day was beautiful and just sitting there talking with the view was really nice.   We then headed back for a bit more chill time.

After everyone rested for a couple of hours we headed out to the beach so Mama could feed the seagulls, which she loves to do.   And then went to dinner at a local seafood restaurant.   The food overall was good - the crab legs were a little dry, but everything else was amazing.   The servers knew my family's name, and well - it was just a nice experience overall. 

Tomorrow we will go to church with my niece and then probably head home after visiting a bit.   It's been such a nice trip so far.  The past few weeks and the next few weeks are cra-cra schedule-wise, but it's all good stuff.  We are grateful for the reprieve and the visit :)   Now to do a bit of my Bible study and call it a night.  Sleep well blog land.

KY Adventures Day 6 & 7

 I'm writing this post quite late, but I know if I don't journal about it then it will be gone.  My memory - such that it is.   So here is a brief recap of days 6 and 7 of our KY adventure.

After the hike yesterday we were all exhausted (with the exception of Linda).  So day 6 was really a cabin day.  We slept late, played board games, and took naps.   Linda hiked the land the cabin was on a bit... overall it was heavenly.   

We really didn't leave the cabin except for twice:  1) Midway through the day Jack and I ran to Walgreens to pick up some cold and sinus medicine.     and 2) that night we grab some Mexican food at a local restaurant.    We wanted to go to a couple of other restaurants and even drove to one, but it only served appetizers on Wednesdays, they only are a restaurant on Thur-Sat.  Apparently, that's common here - very weird. 

After our relaxing day, we all went to bed.    Around 1 AM I heard Mama coughing and my heart dropped. It was then I knew...   I got up, helped her get our O2 plugged in and on her, gave her some medicine, put some oils on, and prayed.

The next morning I woke up and felt ... just bad.   I knew the dreaded virus had hit me - somehow, someway, here it was.  I told Jack I thought we should cancel the rest of our adventure and go home.   I also told him we needed to grab a C * O * V * I * D test on the way home.    We were scheduled to leave the cabin today and head to TN.   Mama, Linda, and Shannon were already scheduled to head home, so the change in plans only affected us and our friend in TN.    I canceled the reservations (we only lost one night of the fee thankfully) and we proceeded to pack up the cabin.   

I tried to distance myself from the others while packing, but at this point, I know we've all been exposed and tell them my thoughts.    It is what it is.    So we pack up and head out.   There were some drive-by areas we had planned to go to today and given they are outside and away from people we decided to go ahead and do that.  I can stay in the truck if need be.   So off we went.

We went up the Chimney Top Rock area... or at least tried to.   The GPS was a bit squirrely but the drive was so pretty.   There were 3 cars in total as we were all going our separate ways so we were caravaning along this road, pulling off at stops and taking pictures.  It was so pretty.   We drove through a mountain - I love tunnels, they are so cool :)      We wound up at an area that had an arch.  I can't remember the name - I'm not sure I knew it as we found it by accident.   Many times I stayed in the car and just took pictures but this was a tiny hike so we walked down the first path.   The overlook was grown up and you really couldn't see anything so Mama and I headed back.   We chilled in the car while the rest explored a bit more. 

Once they came back we found there was another path.  Linda and Shannon went to explore and we chilled.   Shannon quickly came back and told us we really needed to go see this.  I'm pretty weak and tired at this point so Jack drove me as close to the trailhead as possible and off we went.    I walked down and we were standing on a really pretty arch with gorgeous views.  I'm grateful I didn't miss it.    Then Linda comes up and says we really must go below the arch.  It's not something we should miss... At this point, I'm really questioning if I should.   I didn't want a repeat of Tuesday and my body is really saying rest, but I'll only be here once.  So off I go down this trail.   Toward the end, I remember telling Jack after seeing really nothing that this better be worth it.   My body was screaming and it was a really minor trail - maybe 1/4 mile if that.   And then we rounded the corner and saw the arch.  It's the prettiest one we've seen.  We took a few pictures, I sat and enjoyed the view and just rested.  I'm glad I went ... the walk-up was a bit slow going and I had to stop several times, but it was worth it. 

Once at the top we pulled the cooler out and had a makeshift picnic with the leftover sandwich stuff.  And then we headed home.   I ordered a C * O * V * I * D take-home test from a Walgreens and we stopped along the way to grab it.   As I suspected it was positive - the line was super faint so I don't think Jack really thought it was positive, but I knew.      We didn't stop much on the way home and I tried to avoid going in anywhere as much as I could - making sure I wore a mask and stayed away from people if I did have to go the bathroom or something...  Jack was awesome and drove the entire 8 hours while I slept/rested/zoneed.

Once home we crashed and other than to schedule a doctor appointment I think I slept for most of the next three days.   Jack had no symptoms whatsoever, but Mama and I were both sick.   Monday we went to the Dr and they did the official "test" - positive.  Our symptoms were really mild so we treated mainly with oils, supplements, and over-the-counter medicines.   Jack tested negative and needed to go see his father who is extremely ill, so after grabbing some groceries for Mama and me he was off and it was just us.    For the next week - we just rested and recovered.   I slept so much - I can't even tell you.   

I'm happy to say it's been well over 10 days now, our quarantine is over and we are both well.    My energy level is still a slight issue, but at this point, it's more having my sleep schedule so out of whack vs. recovery.   

So with that our adventure ended.   We later found out a caterer at my brother's wedding had it, catered anyway, and 14+ people at the wedding got sick.   A mixture of people got sick - some had the Vax some didn't, some were young, some were old, there was no rhyme or reason.     The caterer later passed, I hate that, I hate that for his family, I also hate the fact he knew he was really sick (even if he didn't know it was the dreaded V) and came anyway...   I don't get it.   If you are sick, especially right now, avoid people.   It's not rocket science.

Anyway, I digress - the trip was amazing.  It ended sooner than I wanted, but we had a great time and I hope we get to do another family adventure soon.     Our next big adventure is hopefully Southern Italy next year :)   Fingers crossed!

KY Adventure Day 5

I'm writing this, the next day, because yesterday I was flat exhausted.   It was a good day overall though.   We got up and had breakfast here at the cabin.  Shannon and Linda made avocado toast and then we were off.   We headed off to our reservations at the boat.   

So, let's talk about this boat.  It was reservation to go on a boat tour of a local cave.   The internet really hyped it up - well, that is what it was hype.   No one else had booked our time slot so we ended up on a private tour.  The cave is not cave, but an abandoned mine that was abandoned after they drilled into the ceiling absolutely hitting a water table that filled it up.  It was a limestone cave and the limestone was pretty.  The water is kept by the geothermic conditions at a cool 30 degrees...     They have trucked fish in (rainbow trout) and feed them. The water is a temperature they can survive (as they have two hearts) but not populate.   They have bits of it lit up with green lights so you can see, but overall it was a bunch of nothing.   Boring beyond boring and certainly not worth $50.  Shannon and Linda enjoyed it more than we did but, I wouldn't do it again.

After that we came back home to reset and figure out the remainder of the day.  I took a couple of Mama's Agilese as I was really starting to hurt from the day before.  My lower back especially.  I also put on Deep Relief and some CBD- between the 3 something worked and I was all set.   We ate some leftovers and Mama decided stay here and rest.   So the rest of us went off to and did a 2 mile hike one way  - it was marked as moderate but on the easier side and I must say it wasn't bad at all.   Some climbing, but not really that bad.... unless you had killed yourself the day before.     We got 1.5 miles in and came to a nice overview and I told them to leave me and come back.   Up to that point I was steady getting more and more tired... my body was screaming to stop.  It was a nice hike though - some pretty vista's and lots of mushrooms, flowers and well just being out in nature was nice.    Along the way I laid several times just flat on my back in a vista to rest and let my back stop screaming.

I chilled for about 30 minutes at that last vista while they want to the next one.   I took off my shoes and just relaxed.   Shannon got back a little bit before Linda and Jack and at that point she was as done as I was.   Once Linda and Jack made it back we put up the cameras and started going back to the car - at this point we wanted to be sure and get back before dark, not to mention the fact Shannon and I were on fumes.   I felt a little feverish to me, but Jack said I felt fine as far as he could tell - what I do know is that my body was screaming at me to stop.    Shannon and I were together most of the hike back going at a lower pace.    We survived ... about 3/4 of the way back Shannon started walking with Linda and I Jack.  It's like we both went to the people we were most comfortable with while we were at our weakest - I know I gave Jack a look that I wouldn't have given anyone else, the one that said I can't do this - help.     It was one of the hardest things I've ever done - pushing my body to finish that hike.  It was screaming.  But we made it out!  

Couple of more notes about our hike:   I pea'd in the woods :) HAHA!   We had thought about doing the longer looper that was more strenuous - thank GOD we didn't do that. 

We came straight to the house and got showers.   While Linda was cooking dinner I laid down in the bed for a bit.  At this point I'm almost positive I have a fever - I can't get warm.  I have the comforter, a throw, my robe and several sweaters laying over me.   When I finished eating I apologized for leaving early and went to bed.     I've been taking inner defense for a few days, but I doubled up last night and I've have been doing my be well and headache rollers.   I've been fighting a headache for a few days now... I don't have all of my migraine oils with me....   Anyway, I laid down and rested some.  Mama and the rest of the girls played scrabble.  I could hear them having a good time and it made me smile :)

Around 10 Jack came in to bed and at this point I have a serious fever.  No idea what the number was, but I was hot and freezing at the same time.  I pushed my body beyond it's breaking point for sure.   I laid there for a bit and finally got up and asked Linda if she has any Advil.  Shannon did so I took 2 of them, took more inner defense, put some happy tummy on, drink some OJ and laid back down.   This time I really went to sleep. 

This morning I woke up around 7:30 - and felt human.  I'm still fighting a bit of a headache so I took a couple of more Advil and laid back down.  When I woke up at 9:45 I felt human.  The fever is gone and the aches are normal aches from hiking too much.   The headache is coming and going and I have a slight cough.   The goldenrod up here has been playing absolute heck with my sinuses since day one.  I made a joke the other day that goldenrod is great for penises, but not for breathing :) 

Today we are taking a lazy day.   We got up and I made breakfast (Jack grilled the sausage) and we've been playing games and just resting.  It was a good day to rest because it's been raining most of the day.    We may get out a bit here soon - not sure.    I'm just grateful I feel human again.   You all have a blessed day.

KY Adventure - Day 4

Too day was intense!   But we did it, we had fun and we are all still here so - YAY!   Ok, so now for the details.

I didn't particularly sleep well last night.   This cabin has no sound proofing, but the bed is comfortable.  So when my alarm went off at 7:45 I was not ready.   I got up though, got mostly dressed and went and cooked eggs and bacon.  Mama washed all the fruit and by 8:50ish breakfast was ready to eat.   We all enjoyed it - at least I hope they did, and then we were off. 

Let me just preface to say I typically plan everything out.   If you've been around this blog for any length of time  you know I have restaurant options, times we are going to be at certain places, all of it planned.  I'm good with changing the plan, but we have a plan.  This trip - No Plan.   Yep, no plan.  I'm regretting that decision, but here we are.   So our loose idea was to go to Natural Bridge State Park.  I had planned to go to the visitor center, get the lay of the land and go about our day.   Well, there is no visitor center.   Just a gift shop with a lady that was nice, but not really a park ranger or anything of that nature.     She said the trails we discussed with her to go to the arch were all moderate and had some steep steps.   Ok... I heard her.

It was raining a bit so we decided to go back away from the sky lift to the nature center and see what they had.  Maybe it was a visitor center - nope.  We got over there and park.  We start to head down and I realize that for 1 of my 2 camera's I don't have everything I need for it.  My brain is not firing on all cylinders today....   So, I tell them I'll be right back.   What I didn't realize is how far the trail was from where we parked - it took forever for me to get the batteries, cards, and go back.   I get back to see Jack walking up to meet me.  The others have gone on a bit so I begin to walk with him - then I see the stairs.   I asked - "did Mama go down that" - "yes" he said.   Well.... no way she's getting back up it without her O2, this I know.  She thinks she can I'm sure but... yea not happening.  So... I go back to the car while Jack heads on to meet the others.

When I get to the car I decide to at least drive her car closer and park next to the lodge.  It's for lodge guest only, but at this point I don't really give a flying ****.   So, I get the car moved.  Strap her oxygen on my back (that crap is heavy - I know why she hates wearing it) and off I go.    I get down and there is a fork in the path.   I call Jack - no answer.    I call again - no answer.   So I see a building - they were going to the nature center so I climb the steps to it.    It's closed.... and then Jack calls.   They apparently went the opposite direction.   FUN.  So I climb back down the steps... of which there are more than a few and join up with them.     I thought it was a lot, but as you will soon learn that a lot is a relative term.

I get Mama on her O2 with me still having the backpack, cause well it's heavy.  So it's a bit like a leash situation between the two of us,  but if nothing else its funny.   And she needed the O2 before we got back so I'm glad I went and grabbed it.   But, I digress.   Once I join up with them I start to join in and take pictures.  I decided that today I would just use 2 camera's vs. swapping lenses back and forth all the time and to leave the camera bag in the truck (thus the hike back the first time).   The problem is 3 fold - A) I haven't shot with the 50D in forever and have almost forgotten how, B) between Mama's O2 hose, the 2 camera's and the backpack carrying the O2 it's difficult to get the cameras where I need them and I feel a bit like a science experiment with hoses everywhere, and the final straw C) the battery I charged for the 50D isn't holding the charge....  Just eek.

So we walk around a bit - take a few pictures and decide to head back to the car.   There are some trails on this side here that come down from the arch.  Please note: I honestly didn't equate these to the trails on the other side that the lady said were moderate.    Seriously spacey today.  Anyway - they seem to have lots of steps as they are going up... so we decide we will ride the skylift up and then walk back down.  We all agree that down won't be bad at all and that everyone will be able to do it....   So we leave Mama's car on this side and ride the truck over to take the sky lift up to the top.

I swap back to the camera bag, 2 lens, and the 7D (whew).   I also called the hotel from the other night to see if they have found a charger for my 7D batteries because I can't find it :(  Which prompt's a truck wide discussion on how I could get one, what we would do, etc...    Rolling on the oils at this point.

We go back into the original gift shop,  get our tickets and off we go.   The skylift was peaceful, beautiful and at a nice sedate pace that allowed me to breathe.  It was just me and Jack and I talked to him about how I was feeling.   Told him I wanted to reset my day and start over... so that is what I did.    I was going to breathe and just enjoy the day.

So when we got to the top that is what we did.   We tromped around the arch - we walked on top of it.   We got pictures.   We left Mama for a bit at the top and walked up underneath it - so pretty.   We took pictures and more pictures.   It was fun - it was a reset and I was grateful.

We then joined Mama at the top again and began the walk down.  There are several trails down and we intend to take the short, easier one that goes back to the lodge.   I later realized that is called the Original Trail.  Instead we took the Balanced Rock Trail.    The sign said 3/4 of a mile to the lodge, no big deal - easy,  so off we went. 

HA - This trail is something else.   Most of it was down hill (the good bit) - there was some climbing at first and Mama was cussing about that, given we left her O2 and ..well.. easy it was not.   Just so you know we didn't forget her O2.  The air today is cool and going down doesn't tax her the way going up does so we are fairly confident she will be good without it.  We did bring her inhaler as a CYA... which she did use so I'm grateful we did.    Honestly, I'm glad we left the O2 as neither of could have handled carrying it the entire trip, but during that brief UP section I was worried, but overall most of it was down hill which was good.   Anyway, I digress - Just wanted you to understand the O2 bit some more so you didn't think we were complete idiots.  Though by the end of the day I wonder...

The trail however, while down was not a gradual descent with event steps.  It was in parts extremly step and the steps uneven and often times huge.   And not just a few steps it was steps with steps, more steps and more steps.  It had slippery rocks, limbs and roots, areas with rotten wood, areas where the handrails had fallen... maybe 20 minutes of the hike was simple in any shape form or fashion.   Now keep in mind my mother is 76 and Shannon has Fibromyalgia  -  and we are on this trail that is... well I'd say difficult.  None of us, save Linda, were remotely ready for this level of trail....  

What I will say is:

a) I'm so grateful Mama had grabbed her walking stick - it made the trip possible.

b) I'm so grateful Shannon had gotten two trekking poles and let me use one, because I couldn't have done it without one.

c) I'm grateful Mama had on real hiking boots.

d) My mother is a freaking rockstar who just kept going and had a good time overall.  By the end she was ready for it to be done, but we had fun.

e) Jack's mother is like the energizer bunny.  She never got tired, maybe kind of slipped once, and could have hiked 10 more miles when we got done.

f) We took so many pictures and had such a good time.

g) We were so glad to see the end - my legs were vibrating so bad they would barely hold me up.  I can only imagine what Mama's were doing. 

It was quite the adventure and we really had a great time.  We got on the airlift around 10AM and didn't get down until 3PM.   I'd say we got on this 3/4 of a mile "trail" by noon at the latest but probably closer to 11.   Yea 3/4 of a mile in probably 4 hours, maybe 3 😮   

At one point I asked Mama - Just think about how great it is that you were able to do this!  The accomplishment.   Her answer - "You mean think about what an idiot I am to do this?"  😂🤣

Fun - Exhilarating - Full Day and we are all exhausted.

We were going to picnic, but everyone was ready to come home.  So we came back, ate sandwiches, got cleaned up and rested.  Well most of us did - Linda, Jack's Mama- went in search of the trails on the cabin property.  Energizer Bunny she is...

She got back around 6 and we all started stirring again.   Mama and I got dinner ready - Jack grilled, but I got the hamburgers ready for him.   None of us are really hungry at this point given we ate so late so I just got everything prepped.    The girls played Ticket to Ride while Jack read and grilled.      Once the game was over (around 8:45), we all ate something and called it a night.

It was a really great day after I reset it in my brain.   And that little section of mild irritation I had was only maybe 45 minutes.   We conquered a trail most of us knew we could (or would have tried on purpose) not do and lived to tell the tail.   

KY Adventure - Day 3

 Today was jammed packed and awesome!  We got up, ate the amazing continental breakfast again, said by to Amanda and headed out.   

First stop was Flat Lick Falls.   It was about an hour from the hotel and was AWESOME.  It was a very easy walk to the top of it.  There you found wading pools, moss covered rocks and beautiful forest.   Mama joined us for this part and then she found somewhere to chill and enjoy the area while Jack and I headed down to the bottom.  The trails going down would not have been something she could have done.   The All Trails map showed a longer trail down, but we watched another couple cross the creek and go straight down so that is what we did.   I may have slipped and fell at least once but it was great.   The walk down had a couple of really hairy spots where it was sheer and not very much room to walk on (thus the reason All Trails recommended the other one), but the adventure itself made it fun.  I must say Jack scared me a couple of times getting to close to the edge though.   

The trek down we had several different vista's to stop and take pictures - the falls were tall and narrow and flowing well.  It really was quite neat.    At the bottom was another wading pool and several rocky shoals all surrounded by rocky cliffs and forest.   It was so cool.   Jack and I took the safer path up so we really made the loop - I'm glad we did - I felt like we got to see it all :)   And I wasn't hiking because I stopped every two seconds to take pictures of mushrooms, but I loved it.

Once at the top we met back up with Mama, who by this time had made it to her A/C in her car and headed to the next set of falls, McCammon Falls.  

Now McCammon Falls, read as an "easy trail" on All Trails so I told Mama it would be good... well after we hiked down a pretty steep, uneven, trail we thought - hmmm... maybe not so easy, but by this time she was down and the rest looked pretty straight so I told her to come on.  The worst was probably over....  and as far as going down it was.  However, this trail was not really a trail, but more of a rough path through the woods, next to sheer drop offs.   I almost had 5 heart attacks, thinking she was going to fall, but she did great.   I was the one freaking.     The falls themselves were pretty, there was a house right beside them behind where the trail came out at which I found interesting.   The falls are partly obscured by vegetation and you can't get to the bottom (though people have thrown some trash :( down there).   We were able to walk over to the top area and it is cool...  I'm glad we went, the adventure itself was worth it, even if I have a few more grey hairs.

We left there and headed to Booneville KY.   The plan was to eat at the Ole' Bus Stop Diner, see the visitor center/museum and head to the cabin.   After seeing the town, or lack there, of we decided just to eat and head on.    Lunch was.... interesting.   Mama and Jack both enjoyed theirs, though Mama's hamburger steak was a bit dry.   Mine... well mine was yellow.   Very Yellow.   I ordered Chicken and Dumplings and they bring out something that looks like the color of yellow daisy's.  I kept looking at it - we all took a bite and Mama and Jack said it tasted fine, but I couldn't get past the fact it was yellow.  I finally asked and he said they put yellow food dye in them.... WHY?  Just WHY?    I ate my cabbage a bite or two of my fried apples and a piece of lemon meringue pie and called it done.   Mama insisted on getting the dumplings to go - I'll let you know by the nd of the week if she ate them or not.

We left the restaurant and headed up to the cabin, taking the scenic route.  The roads were windy and I'm sure Jack hated driving that big truck through them, but I enjoyed the ride.    We passed the cabin by accident once we got here and I'm so glad our cabin isn't higher up this gravel road - Mama's car simply wouldn't go up it.   We were on the road past the cabin and her car was just not going to do it.  I ended up backing the car down the road and then saw our cabin and was thinking Jesus it was there and not higher.    We only have 2 parking places so Shannon is parked at the office... overall that is my only issue with the cabin.  It's beautiful, has almost everything we need and is literally in the middle of the woods.

Once we got here we were able to chill for 2-3 hours while Shannon and them were still on there way and I think we all needed it.  Jack and I walked down a bit to the stream... but mainly we relaxed.    Once they here we ran over to Miquel's for pizza.  It's famous around here and I know why - the pizza was really good.   It was raining so we ate in the basement - if I come back I'd love to sit at their outside seating though, it looked so inviting.   

We then went to the grocery store to grab food for the week - we got there about an hour before closing so we were scrambling to get it all.  It was like a scavenger hunt and it was so much fun.  I had tried to do Kroger Clicklist but they don't offer it up here and upon seeing the store I know why.  It's like an old Ingles size store - not very big at all.   After the mad dash though I'm grateful I couldn't order it - the dash to find everything was really so much fun.  Most fun I've ever had grocery shopping.   

Once back at the cabin we all dived in, unloaded, put stuff away and headed to bed.   Its about 12:30 now and I'm no breakfast duty tomorrow with Mama so I plan to get up around 7:45.... so with that goodnight :)

KY Adventure - Day 2

Today ended up being a really nice day.   We got up and ate breakfast at the hotel.   For a continental breakfast it was surprisingly good.   I wouldn't recommend the cheese omelets, but the biscuits and gravy were divine.   We had some time to kill before the wedding so we drove up to Indian Mountain State Park.   It has a lake and a few small trails that circle it, but unfortunately it rained on us.   We still drove around for an hour or so and just enjoyed the scenery.

We also did the Walmart run for the poncho's and the hose that are still in our Honda back in GA - as I was afraid of yesterday they did not make it into the truck, lol.    

We then came back to the hotel and went to my brother's wedding.   It was nice to see everyone all dressed up and the wedding was small, simple and perfect.   I must say it was the fastest wedding and I've attended and the first one I've attended in a while I didn't photograph.   The photographer they had seemed more than competent and I  think there pictures will be amazing.  One really cute thing that happened in the wedding, my great-niece Graylynn was the flower girl - well she didn't throw any flowers.  Then she got to the end and was just kinda standing there.   So her Mama (who was a bridesmaid) grabbed her, threw some flowers on the ground and called it a day - it was so cute!   Amie always amazes me with her ability to manage 4 kids - she is a go with the flow Mama that is just natural and seemingly effortless.   I admire her greatly for it.  I would be so stressed, worried about every little thing - she's like "great, he ate dirt, that will be fun coming out" :)  Not really - but you get my point LOL. 

Anyway, I digress.  The wedding was nice and the reception was also great.   The food was amazing - I'm not sure who made that BBQ, but I had 2 sandwiches.  It was awesome and they had tons of fruits and veggies which is always a win with me!   

After the big send off we headed back to their house for a few minutes.  They got into comfortable clothes and we just visited with the nieces/nephews, etc.   I also got to play with micro lens and took some pictures of Sherri's (my new sister-in-law's flowers), they were beautiful.  You can tell she loves working in the yard- it shows.

After a bit everyone was getting ready to head on to their destinations so we came back to the hotel, changed, and ventured out on our own for a bit.  We went down to Cumberland Falls State Park and explored.  We didn't do any real trails as we only had about 30 minutes of daylight left, but we got to explore the immediate area and just enjoyed our "nature walks" as Jack calls them.   The falls were really roaring as it's been raining a lot.       As it got dark we headed back to the hotel, ate our left over Maggiano's and called it a night.

Tomorrow we head up to the cabin, exploring all along the way!   

KY Adventure - Day 1

Wow, it's been year's since I've published a travel journal.  I guess that is about right - COVID hit in 2020 and other than a brief beach trip we've pretty much stayed home.  I know there may have been a side jaunt here or there, but nothing major.     Can I tell you it feels good to be back on the road, to have something to share here? Well, it does!

My brother, Donald, is getting married tomorrow near Williamsburg KY.  Given it's  a 6-7 hour trek up here, we haven't traveled in forever, and well because I wanted to we are creating a vacation out of it.  I'm so excited.   

Before I dive in to deep about today though I need to tell you about packing - it was a bit different and I want to remember it.   For some of this trip we will be in a cabin and we plan to cook as restaurants are a good bit away.   The cabin has some basic kitchen stuff, but who wants to be stuck using that?   So I grabbed a big container and brought my 2 Instant Pots, a crockpot, a couple of Cutco knives, my cutting boards, spices that I would need and a few other staples :)   I also brought yoga mats, board games galore, toilet paper and paper towels :)   So yea... not my typical packing.   I probably over packed, heck I know I did, but it will be fun.

Before we get to the cabin though there is the wedding... so we are in a Holiday Inn Express tonight.  We took our time today getting up here though and it was nice.   We started out running the truck to get he brakes/rotors done as I forgot to do it yesterday.  While it was being serviced, we grabbed breakfast, grabbed a few things at Walmart (that I hope made it in the truck 🙄) and then we headed out.

We stopped in Atlanta and checked out the Van Goug Immersive Experience.    There was a bit of trouble with purchasing the tickets - I went to buy it online, but it said there would be a $10 internet fee.  There were several tickets available so I figured I'd just buy them when I got there.   Well  - it was $20 more than the advertised price.    They guy said "it's more if you buy here"...  we paid, walked in and I was like... wait - no!  I pulled up the pricing on there site and it says no where that there is a fee to pay at door more than what was advertised.   It just didn't sit right with me so I headed back and asked for the manager.   It took a bit to get to the right person, but once I did I'm happy to report they made it more than right.  She actually comped me my ticket and thanked me for showing her the issue - so hopefully they will fix it.   Apparently the pricing is set by another party or some something... 

Once that was straightened out I actually breathed and really started enjoying the event.   I know you are probably like  - it's $20 why let it ruin your event.   But it wasn't $20 - it was the principal of false advertising and customer service.  I was kind - so were they and in the end they made it right so... good deal.... anyway I digress

The first section is more like a art museum with paintings, a couple of cool 3D things and info about the artist.  Jack read it - I streamed through.  Though they did serve a flower tea from Japan that I need to find - it was yummy.  Anyone have any ideas?

Next up was the actual experience - it's a room with light projections all around you.   Where they made his art come alive.   We had a seat in a lounge chair and just absorbed his masterpieces for an hour +.  The art of making Van Gogh's pieces come alive like that was a master piece unto itself.   So amazing.  There was a little girl who was running around chasing the light show that appeared on the ground.  She was running all over the place having a great time.   I'll admit to thinking her parents should try to keep her quiet and more contained, but then I remembered how Jesus thought of the children.    I'm no Jesus - Kids are not my jam - but it did reframe it for me and I was able to look at her in a new light.  She had fun, we had fun, it was a win.   

If you are near one of these - they are all over the country - I highly recommend checking it out.  Just buy your tickets online :) 

Next we went for a late lunch at my favorite, Maggiano's.   The waiter was amazing and as always the food was delicious!   It made for a great "date day" with the hubs.

Then we headed on up here to KY.  It was about a 4 hour drive from ATL and was fairly uneventful and quiet.  Neither of us felt like talking much so we just rode.   I drove the last bit and we had to figure out how to adjust the seat differently so my neck stopped screaming.   Since I was on here last I've been having some neck pain and am really careful to hold my neck and posture correctly to mitigate it.  This is the first time I've driven the truck for any length of time since the issue and well the car seat was all wrong - the head rest was pushing  my head forward away from may back and well OUCH !   But after a quick pit stop my amazing husband fixed it and here we are - safe and sound in KY!

Tomorrow we will hopefully do something before the wedding, which doesn't begin until 3.  Not sure yet what that will be.    I'll let you know  - until then, sleep well.   

Jamaica Day 2 and Part of 3

I'm relaxed - I mean really relaxed and it feels amazing.  Yesterday after the post they showed us a new room and I was really undecided on it   It has a small balcony, but had no lounge chairs and what I loved about our original room when I booked it before I knew of the tree is that the balcony was huge.   I knew we would want to just be outside much of this trip and I wanted to do that comfortably.  Well, we told the Butler we would take the room and then went back to our old one to pack.   I then decided, no I really wanted the lounge chair and decided to just suck up the tree...  Well, Sandals is not to be outdone, so they rearranged the 2nd room to give me a lounge chair and here we are.   An amazing view and a lounge chair I can relax on and nap on.  It's awesome.

While they were swapping rooms we found a fairly secluded spot on the beach and just chilled.  We read our books, sat under the shade of another gigantic tree and just relaxed.  This portion of the beach has over the water hammocks and swings, both of which I've enjoyed thoroughly.  I also love the fact they have staff on the beach so if you want a drink or lunch, you never have to leave - you can just enjoy the surf while they bring it to you - it's amazing!

After our beach time, we came back to the new room where I promptly got a bath in the garden tub that overlooks the water.   The window above it opens and you can just sit and listen to the waves - amazing!    I then took a nap on my balcony lounge chair :)   

When I woke up I noticed I was quite crispy.  The 50 SPF was not quite enough today despite being in the shade... lesson learned.  I brought some Young Living after sun spray though so it's not painful and healing nicely.

Once we were rested and cleaned up we headed over to the other resort, Ochi, for hibachi and to go to a speakeasy bar they have called the Rabbit.  Dinner was nice and the bar was very interesting with a laid back vibe.  We experimented with a couple new alcoholic drinks, but mainly stuck to water and I enjoyed a fuzzy navel or two, but Sandals wins with us when it comes to the unlimited alcohol - we just don't drink a lot.    The bar has a singer they call Mama and she was really good.  She sang throw back 40's - 60's music that was really good.   there were several there that had drunk too much, which was obvious by the fact they could barely stand, much less dance.  And there was a woman dancing that really looked like she needed a pole in front of her, but other than that most people were really chill and having a good time   I did note that the Ochi resort is not for us though - just too busy and big.   Paula, choose well for us with Royal Plantations, we can relax and then go over to the busier resort if we choose.   I wouldn't have wanted to stay at Ochi - not my speed.  After the show, we came back and promptly fell asleep!

This morning we were exceptionally lazy.   We slept late, had breakfast brought to the room and just chilled until around noon.   At which point we put on our bathing suits, went and bought a much stronger sunscreen and hit the beach.   We stayed there under the tree, or in the water hammock for several hours.   Reading, having lunch, drinks, snacks, and just chilling.   It was awesome - a whole lot of nothing and I loved it.

We did go to the tennis courts for maybe 10 minutes and tried to hit a ball or two around.   It was nothing if not comical.  Afterward, we came back to the room to get cleaned up.  I took another relaxing bath in my gigantic garden tub and am now sitting on the deck updating you all.    We have dinner next to the beach tonight and they have a band playing this evening.   It should be nice.   I hope you all are well.  This trip may have started off rocky but it has improved at every turn and I'm so glad now to be here.   Relaxed and Happy.

Jamaica Day 1

It's technically our 2nd day here, but I didn't journal last night so I'm doing it this AM instead.  It's vacation time - so I'm breaking the rules, lol.

Yesterday we got up at 7:30 which is super early, well early for me and got ready to head out.   We left the house at 8 and headed to the airport.  Overall our flights were uneventful and we made it safely to Jamaica.   Upon arriving we went through immigration and customs, both a fairly seamless process before making it over to the Sandals Lounge.  A few minutes later we got in our transportation to the resort.   Let me just say they need to upgrade the transportation... it was a little SUV that should fit 4 - driver, 1 in front and 2 in back.   In no way is this a luxury vehicle with comfort as its goal.  Instead, it was 3 of us crammed in the back for hour 1.5-hour drive to the resort.   That drive turned into closer to 2.5 due to festival traffic, so by the time we got here I was tired and slightly grumpy.  The drive overall though wasn't bad though and the people in the car were nice.

The similarities between us and the other passengers in the vehicle were eery though.  They were named Jack and Lisa  - he was in IT, she loves essential oils, though she is using Doterra instead of my beloved Young Living.   It was so funny!  There were of course differences, they have kids, we don't, etc.. but what are the chances?  Same name? Same hobbies/careers?

As we arrived at the resort they had a marching band playing out front with Jamaican dancers.   We checked in and met our Butler who showed us to our room and gave us a tour of the resort.   We are hopefully changing rooms tomorrow as this one - while having a balcony looks over a tree.   You can kinda see the water if you hang your head just right, but mainly when you sit down you see a tree...  The sounds of the ocean are amazing though and just being outside is nice.

I hate this blog is a little negative and I am confident that today and the rest of our trip is going to be fantastic, but I must say the service at Sandals Negril is better.  Here everyone has a butler so it doesn't really feel like you have one at all.   The beach spots are first come first serve, only one restaurant takes reservations, it just feels different.  The restaurant we wanted to eat at tonight in the resort next door reservations is full already, it's just not the same.  Of course, nothing ever is.   It's ok, but at Negril, you felt like royalty.   It's an entirely different experience.   Also, they don't have us in their rewards program, despite me knowing I've signed up for it before... so we lost out on some points and apparently some type of returning guest package? 

Anyway enough with the pity party!  I'm at an amazing island with sun, waves, and relaxation at every turn.   We had dinner last night out on the terrace with music playing in the background.   Breakfast this morning was also outside overlooking the ocean.   Nothing really to complain about and hopefully, in a bit, we will get to change rooms to one with a better view!   Now to go oil this irritation away.   Have a blessed day.

Feel Something

Feel Something – the new song by Adam Lambert resonates with me.  I encourage you to listen to it – it’s all about being in a place where you feel nothing… It is a dark and lonely place to be.   I think the song will resonate with many people as it did with me.  This is not an uncommon issue … it’s just not talked about.  It should be though, because it’s nothing to be ashamed of and there is hope! 

Why do people get in this space?  Where we don’t feel anything and frankly don’t care?  I think the answer is varied.  For some it’s past trauma.  For some it’s a genetic disposition.  For some it’s stress… For other people it’s a chemical imbalance in the body that causes emotional swings up and down.  And there can be a host of other causes...

I have good news though – we don’t have to live like this!  We don’t have to feel nothing… we don’t have be in the pit alone and uncaring.  We don’t have to be scared to feel again.   We don’t have to live with the highs and lows.  This doesn’t have to be the way it is.   It simply doesn’t have to be…

I want to get personal for a moment and tell you a bit of my story.    For most of my life I have been on a see-saw of highs and lows.  One day I’m energized, goal oriented, conquering the world.  I want to go see people, do all the things, I am unstoppable.  The next day (and sometimes it can be the next hour) I could care less, goals don’t matter.  Who cares about that degree or that job?  Who cares about money or people?  I am perfectly happy to sit in my chair, feel nothing and see no one – ever!     I lived like this – I was blessed that I was functional and had the sheer will power to push through – some people are much worse than I was and simply can’t.  Even at my level there were times I called in sick to work because I just couldn’t deal – I just couldn’t get out of bed – but many people are so much worse than I have ever been, and I feel for them.

What caused this shift in me?  This up and down I experienced?    I can see things in my past that may be triggers, or maybe it just runs in my family as I can see some genetics involved as well.   Maybe it’s because of the food I consumed.  Maybe it’s the toxins I’ve been exposed to all my life (hello household cleaners and the like).  Maybe, it is just a chemical imbalance in my brain.  Maybe it was an attack from the enemy trying to steal my witness.  Maybe, it’s none of those things – maybe it just was.

But do you know what?  No matter the cause it exists and I’m here to tell you today you don’t have to live with it!  What is the answer to escape this prison of nothingness?  It’s not a one answer fits all situation.  For most several things need to be tackled for healing to begin.   Below are the things that I’m doing to get off the roller coaster!   I’m still healing, but I’m so much better than I can ever remember being.

1. I checked my relationship with God.  I realized I had distanced myself from him emotionally and was trying to do things on my own.  We were made for our life to be in constant communion with the creator of the Universe.  We were made to be reliant on God in our life and to be in fellowship with him.   If my relationship with God was not right, nothing else would ever be.   I’m still learning and striving to get closer to him every day – he is constantly working on me and refining me and I’m loving the journey!   If you have no idea who God is, if you haven’t accepted the sacrifice of his Son as your only saving grace I’d encourage dig in and find him.  I’m always glad to help you and to try and answer your questions.


2. I was eating garbage.  We had changed our diet about 6 years ago and were eating better than we had in my teens, but I was still eating a ton of processed carbs and sugar.   My diet had things in it such as sweet tea, coke, candy, Doritos, bread, pasta, sugar laden sauces, etc...   It still has some of this, but we have made great strides to limit these items to be the exception vs. the rule.   The book 21 Day Sugar Detox really opened my eyes to what I was doing to my body by consistently eating these foods (or poison depending on your perspective).   To summarize – they affect every system in your body which can lead to inflammation throughout our body which leads to aches and pains. Sugar leads to diabetes, obesity, heart disease, acne, cancer, depression, energy loss, fatty liver and a whole host of other issues.


3. I do an essential oil regiment every day to help with my emotional balance and healing.  I really didn’t want to go on an anti-depressant, so I looked for a more natural method.  Please hear my heart on this – prescriptions are necessary for a lot of people so I’m not saying dump your pills!   There is no shame or anything wrong with needing a prescription.  I just didn’t want them for me – I had been on them in the past and the side effects were just too much for me.  

The oils have been amazing for me and my husband.  We do a combination of oils from Young Living called the Feelings Kit twice a day and I have seen a drastic improvement.   I also keep a set of oils on me to help with anxiety issues and times of melancholy.  Instead of turning to a prescription with chemicals I turn to an all-natural oil instead.        What I love about the oils is that I don’t have the side effects I did with prescriptions in the past – they come along my body to help it what it needs to do naturally vs. a brute force solution that forces my body into compliance and doesn’t care what damage it’s causing. 


4. Physical Exercise – I hate working out.   It is just not my jam and I doubt it ever will be, but our bodies were not made to be sedentary.  So, I’m working out a minimum of 30 minutes 6 days a week.   I feel better for it, despite not loving the action itself.

Those are the things I have done to get off of the emotional roller coaster of ups and downs.   Again, there is no one magic solution for all and some people need more than I did to pull themselves out.  They will need to talk to someone, a professional.  They may need a prescription medication.  They may need more and there is NOTHING wrong with that!   If you feel the need to reach out to someone please do!  Below are some resources that may help you:

Journey Community Church Office: 706-364-1454

Hotlines:

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255

Georgia Crisis Line: 800-715-4225

Text CONNECT to 741741

Additional Resources for Military:

Substance Use Disorder Clinic: 706-787-5392

Behavioral Health: 706-787-8650

Veterans' Crisis Line: 800-273-8255 #1

Military One Source: 800-342-9647

Emergency Department: 706-787-5222

I also want to say one more thing.   Between God, Oils and diet changes I’m better emotionally than I have ever been.   I still have room to grow though and I am getting better every day.   I’m healing and I’m grateful for it.    However, I’ll never be the “emotional” person.   I am not in the emotional high or the low of the valley right now – I am steady somewhere in the middle and that is where I believe I should be when healthy.  I feel, I have happy moments, I have sad moments I get frustrated, I am ok … I’m striving for more.  I hunger for personal connection, but don’t have to go and be all the time, I can rest.   I see goals and have dreams and am ok to seek them with an even pace, striving to follow God’s lead in all things.   

But I’m not one that cry’s or gets choked up when speaking about God or emotional things.  I don’t feel deeply in that manner.  I am very practical, and empathy is something I pray for God to assist me with – it’s not natural for me.  However, what I’m beginning to understand is that emotions are fickle and not what we should live our life based on.  I had a bad experience as a teenager living a life based on emotions vs. fact and it damaged my relationship with God for several years – I was depending on the emotion, not God.   So, yes feeling things is important and if you feel nothing as this song mentions or as I’ve described above that is not healthy!   But just because you don’t feel (or perceive you feel) as much as the person next to you doesn’t mean something is wrong with you either…Follow truth not emotions!   Emotions are fleeting and fickle.  

Do sometimes I wish I felt more “emotions”?  Do I pray God helps me to feel more – to be more empathic, to feel his love in a tangible manner?  Sure, and if he chooses to grant that prayer, I’ll be grateful.  But if he chooses to leave me with the emotions I have, then I’m ok with that as well.  God created me to be me and he doesn’t design junk!

I summarize all this to say – if you don’t feel you are in a good place emotionally then you probably aren’t!    But, just because you don’t “feel” as much as your neighbor doesn’t mean something is wrong with you either.    You know – you don’t need to judge yourself on other’s people’s standards - you know if you aren’t in a good place.   And if you are not in a good place then please know you don’t have to stay there!  There is hope – there is a God waiting to help you – there are tangible steps you can take – there is hope.  If you feel lost as to what that next step is there are people surrounding who love you and who want to help!   Just take that first step and ask – we are here, and we love you!  More importantly God loves you!

I’m here – I’m praying for you – I love you!

Southern Vibe Conference - Savannah - Day 2

1/26/2019

One thing I can say for oil junkies - they start early!   They had yoga this am from 6 -7, needless to say I didn't make that.  I didn't even try!   We did make it over in time for breakfast from 7-7:45.   The breakfast was good, and it was super healthy.  I had a couple of mini egg quiches (crustless), plenty of fruit and coffee.  Jack tried the Acai... I'm not sure what that is or if it's good for you, but he liked it, so I guess I need to do some research.

After breakfast the conference really began.  Today's speakers that spoke were divided into two areas business/self-motivation and product education.   I found most of the speakers engaging and took copious notes.   Some I'll implement, some I’ll research further and some I'll file away for something to be reflected on at another time,maybe.     

The supplement class Lyndsey Elmore taught was amazing - I didn't really get a full grasp of which supplements I need, but I got a better idea of ones to research for several issues including Liver Health, Hormone Health and Sexual Health.  Plus she is just amazing to hear speak.    

I also really enjoyed hearing Lindsay Moreno speak.  She is a no-nonsense woman who is breaking ceilings and refusing norms.   I think she brings a lot to the table I can benefit from, some is a little too brazen for me, but that's ok - take what I can apply and leave the rest for someone else.   That's the beauty of learning and self-help, what works for me won't work for everyone and vice versa.  I found her talk motivational and hilarious, her husband also spoke, and they are a dynamite team.     He spoke really on finding your why and really digging deep as to what it is vs. just taking the surface answer.  I think I may need to do some work here.

Lunch was catered in and the conference was over around 2:30. They had a silent disco party at the end, but that was a little too far out of mine and Jack's wheelhouse, so we headed back to the hotel room.   At which point I had an emotional moment or two.  I think I expected too much of this conference and that is on me.  I expected to be able to develop connections and that it would be easier to meet people - to dive deeper.   

Looking back that expectation was unrealistic, and the disappointment is on me and no one else.   I tend to expect things to happen when in reality life doesn't work that way and relationship building doesn't work that way.  In fact, I'm not sure how it works - I've had so little experience with it.   But this year will be different.   I know that digging deeper is something I need to do, and I will.   Maybe we should have stayed for the disco - I just don't see us fitting in that scene so, it is what it is.   I had my moment and Jack really did try to help.   Emotional women, men don't understand them.  He did try to help though - he just isn't wired like me.  He wouldn't mind having deeper connections with a circle of people, but it isn't a deep desire for him like it is me.   I know that only God can really fill this desire, if I continue to focus on him, if I continue to ask him for it, if I continue to realize that even without it, I am enough.  I am loved - I am a child of God - I am likeable - I am enough! Then in time he will allow me to have a circle that is deep and strong.   He will meet my needs – I just can’t put the circle before him or even the desire to have one before him.   He has to be first… family has to be second and everything else will work itself out including my amazing circle.  The circle I’m praying for, the circle I’m building one moment at a time, the circle that is to be and is already forming!   I have the beginning of one… I have ladies I love and that love me back.  He has my circle in his hand and he will bless me with it when I’m ready for it.  I am enough and God gets me more than I even get myself!

So, I had my emotional moment, I wallowed for a minute, then I rolled some oils on me and decided to take a reset nap which Jack was totally ok with it.   After I woke up, I felt better, more analytical and less emotional.   I was able to rethink and know where my emotions came from.   That in itself is movement in the right direction.  It shows I still have healing to do, but it's a move in the right direction.  

So, I took a little nap and we went about enjoying the rest of our evening.  We walked back down to the river front to eat at Cotton Exchange Seafood and Tavern.     I got the crab legs and shrimp which was was amazing!  I love crab legs - I don't get them often due to the cost and the work involved in eating them, but they are one of my favorite meals.   We chatted while we ate, joked with the waitress over portions and enjoyed our time.   We talked about the conference, business things we want to do, things we want to research for our own use, we just talked.   We had moments of silence and moments of conversation - we just were, and you know what - sometimes that is the best!  Just being...

After dinner we walked back to the hotel - it’s good mile walk and in the crisp air it was so enjoyable.  Tonight, was a tiny bit chilly toward the end, but there is something about walking to and from restaurants and around town that just make it better.  It becomes an event vs. just dinner... It is more and I love it!  I wish we had the ability to do more commutes via walking where we live.   Maybe when they open the Wild Wings, we will walk to dinner... 

Well anyway that was my day. Lots of learning, emotional moments and an amazing husband that helps when he can and lets me be quiet and alone when I need that too.  Tomorrow we will pack up and head home, but not before I find an amazing breakfast restaurant.  It isn't compliant, but I love cinnamon rolls and I am determined to try them in every city so I may just have to cheat tomorrow... 

And you know what?  That's ok too!  

Love you blogland - sleep well!

Southern Vibe Conference - Savannah Visit - Day 1

1/25/19

So, I like to keep a travel journal, it helps me remember things because my memory sucks and I enjoy sharing with you all.   So even though this isn't a typical "trip" and instead it's a conference to learn all about oils, I figured I'd still keep a journal.  That ok with you guys?   It is!  Awesome, I'm so glad you agree.

With that let’s get started!  Jack took the day off and came to the conference with me.  He did this A) because it was in Savannah and we could make a nice get away out of it and B) he's into oils as much (sometimes more) as I am.  So, we got up this morning, bright and early to begin our adventure.

First things first we had to do our workout - we have started a new 6 day a week plan and I didn't want to lose momentum.  Can I just say working out before coffee or well before noon in general is just wrong!  I don't know how people do it - I used to walk with Mama in the mornings before the heat of the day (and I will again once it gets warm).  I thought that was hard to do – this was a whole new level!  I am so not a morning person!  BUT We pushed through and got it done so yay!

After the workout, Jack drove down the street and secured us some chicken mini's from Chick Fil A.   This is the one thing I really craved during our detox and while I won't eat them every day or even every week due to the bread and processed carbs, I was so glad for them today and yes, they tasted AMAZING!  I mean like sing hallelujah jump up and down good!

After eating we packed up, including all of our oils (because I can never decide what to leave) and headed down to Savannah.   The purpose of this trip is different.   I want to learn more about the oils that have made such a huge impact on my life.  I want to empower myself to use them more effectively.  I want to empower myself to share them with others.  I want to help see lives changed and chains broken.  I want to launch the business side of things in a successful manner.   I believe on so many levels that the oils came into my life at this time because God ordained it.  I believe they have a huge part in my future story and I'm stepping out on the ledge in faith that God will not let me fall.   I may falter and stumble as I walk this path that is unfamiliar and scary, but God has me and he is leading me, he will not let me fall.   

That being said I also believe that God, when he sets us on a path expects us to learn and to take concrete steps to be successful.  He doesn’t promise our path will be easy – he doesn’t say it won’t be work!  In fact, I believe sometimes the path God has for us is scarier, harder and requires more work than the one we may choose for ourselves.   He loves us too much to leave us where we are – he wants us to grow, to live and to flourish!   He also wants us to realize we can’t do it without him!  He is our provider, he is our reason and only with him surrounding us will we ever truly succeed.  He expects us to put in the work – take the harder path – take the scary path, relying on him to guide and protect you.  

So, part of this weekend is me taking steps to learn as much as I can about the oils so I can effectively share them with others.   To get better resources in my hands to share with.  I'm also here to network with people who have been using oils longer than me, who have been doing the business longer than me and who are just amazing people that I can learn from.  Maybe I can offer them a fresh perspective and help them as well - who knows.  I'm certainly willing to try.   

There is another piece as well - community.   I've mentioned before that this year is all about doing life with intention.  That includes relationships.   When I signed up for Young Living, little did I know the community of people I was getting to go with it.  I've learned through social media that I am now part of a group that is diverse, loving and well just plain awesome and I want to really engage with them.  I want to get to know them off the screen - I want to dig a bit deeper.  Maybe friendships will be made, maybe not, but I admire many of the people I've met in the social media groups for different reasons and I'd love to broaden my personal circle to include them.   

So, with that explained a big part of this weekend is me stepping out of where I'm comfortable and meeting new people.  Typically, in conferences or large gatherings of people you find me on the peripheral.   I don't engage in the chit chat ... I stand next to the wall and watch.  I've actually been on teams that facilitated this type of gathering before – my year as President of our local NAIW chapter happened to fall during the same year we were responsible for the state convention.   I was involved in so much of that conference, but even then - being as integral to it as I was - I was often on the sides looking in.  I did the work but didn't engage – only talking with the few people I knew.   I can stand in front of 100 people and teach, heck I've even spoke in front of 300 - no sweat but introducing myself to a handful of people and chit chatting.   That's seriously SCARY yall!   I mean like DEEP SCARY.  I don't know how to chit chat not really.  My family complains about it often... BUT this time I'm determined it will be different and I'm trying.   

So now that I've taken you down this emotional history lesson of who I am what is actually happening on the trip?     Well, first of all we drove down.  It was a pretty uneventful drive though we did end up driving 30 minutes out of the way in Statesboro hunting for me an unsweetened tea.  We told the GPS to take us to the nearest Chick Fil A - what we didn't realize was that it was inside the college and therefore not one we could access ... that was a bit annoying.  We then went to McDonalds for said tea and got behind the slowest person ordering in history... By this time emotions were bubbling a little bit - you know it goes.  Especially when you are under a self-imposed timeline, that really you should let go of and just relax.   So, we said a prayer, rolled on some Release and Just Chill to help us with the emotions that were bubbling and continued on our way.  

Once in Savannah we checked into our hotel and then walked to the Crystal Beer Parlor for lunch.   This place had really good Yelp reviews and they were well earned.   I had a burger (no bun) with homemade chips and both were really good.  We brought our own ketchup, so I really ate a completely sugar free compliant meal on the road, which was awesome.   Love the fact with just a little prep you can eat out healthy!   Plus, the restaurant gave us a Veterans discount which was appreciated.

And then we headed to the conference.   So, if you know me very well at all you know that crowds FREAK me out - I mean like - freeze - can’t move - panic attack - freak out levels.     So, I'm already coming to this conference with the mentality that I'm going to step out of my zone and meet new people.  I'm going to engage!   So, I walk in and the room where the vendors are and it is so tight - you could not move for bumping into people.  You could not see the tables without waiting in line, you could not breathe.     But you know what?  You know what was amazing?   I was ok!  Jack was with me so - I had him.   God was with me always!  And I was ok.  I had some apprehension and was a little uncomfortable, but no panic attack. No uncontrollable desire to just get out!   God is using this to grow me, he's using the oils to heal me and my emotional stuff, he's showing up and showing out guys and it's amazing!     Does this mean I'll never have a panic attack again - no - it just means God is working in me and I'm grateful for it!  

So, we made our way around the room.  I bought several brochures that I want to read and see what is going to be best for my team and my oily family as they join.   I bought some reference materials so I could help answer questions in a more educated manner and I dealt!  I sat there and compared prices on my phone with people buzzing around me.  I dealt!   I picked out an oily T Shirt and was nice to the person who sold it to me despite my anxiety level being a little spiked.  I smiled at the vendor who sold me books and made it a point to say thank you.   You are thinking, so what, those are normal.  And yes, they are normal.  They are normal for me on a regular day, but me in a crowd - I get anxious and my inner demon comes out or I freeze and can't function.  So, this is huge guys!  I mean huge.

You know what else I did?  I walked to the back and introduced myself to one of our team leads.  I didn't chat with her long and I won't say a meaningful connection was made, but I said hi.  I pushed beyond my normal and introduced myself.

After all this emotional stuff... Jack and I walked back to our hotel. We are staying about a 10-minute walk down the street (free with points - bonus) and dropped off all the stuff I bought, which was a lot.   We freshened up - rearranged our bags and headed back for the conference to begin.   When we got back Bill had saved our seats (thank goodness) and we settled in with some nice ladies from Atlanta.   I introduced myself to them but didn't engage too much as it was a little hard to hear and my inner walls were up a little bit.

We then listened to the speakers which were engaging.  Tonight, was about emotions and learning different ways to use the oils for emotional healing and mental clarity.   So, it was not necessarily "education" where you take notes, but more of an experience where you learned how to use oils in your daily life to help you with emotional barriers and to meditate.   I won't say I got the most of the experience this evening, but I did learn the principals of how to do it and will work on it in my home, in the solitude, during my quiet time.   So, it was beneficial. 

The conference let out a bit early for which I was grateful, but before we left, I did another big thing for me.   I marched right up to the front, through the crowd, against the flow of traffic.  I marched right up to a where a few of the ladies in our tribe were seated and said hi.  I introduced myself to one of them and made sure the others saw and recognized me.   We couldn't really talk as it was crowded and they were engaged with others, but I pushed beyond my own comfort area and said hi.  I'll try tomorrow to connect more, but it was a start and I'm grateful God gave me the power to do it!  I'm grateful for the growth and I'm honored he loves me enough to not leave me where I was or even where I am.

Jack and I then left and decided to walk down to the river walk to eat at Hueys on the River.  Our hotel is only 20-minute walk from the river walk and the weather is nice.  It has a nip to the air, but it's not super cold so the stroll was enjoyable.  We talked all the way down about our dream house, our dream location, the fact we loved being able to walk in town... we just talked.   Jack and I communicate, and I love him with everything I have.   However, times where we just "talk" are not frequent.   It's ok with both of us - it's how we roll - but tonight was nice.  It was ... it was needed.

We get to the restaurant and upon entering there is a sign that ask you to wait to be seated... I didn't see a hostess and then this lady sitting down said hi to us.   She didn't feel well, it was obvious, and I immediately offered her one of my roller bottles.  Guys can I tell you how out of the box that is for me?  To talk to a complete stranger and say here I have something that will help you?   It’s just not me!  So anyway, she rolls the sinus roller on and then I realize she is the hostess, so we chat for a minute or two and she seats us.  

We have an exceptional waiter who made us feel welcome and not rushed.   It was amazing.   The food was also great.  I could only eat 1/2 my food, but aah so good!  I had a salad (with my homemade dressing), crab cakes, a cup of jumbo and some green beans.   A lot of food - but I only ate until I was satisfied which unfortunately did waste a bit, but better than making myself sick by overeating.   The point was the experience and it was awesome!  I love seafood and save it for special nights out - this did not disappoint.

After dinner we headed out of the restaurant and I checked on our hostess friend.  She was feeling a bit better but had a headache.   So, I let her use my headache roller and we exchanged information so I could send her some information about Young Living.   As we were chatting some other customers came in and I discovered they use another brand of oils and are not seeing results, so I talk to them as well - and gave them a card!   At this point I'm shocked at my behavior, but hey, when things happen you just roll with it...

We then left the restaurant and walked the mile back to our hotel, chatting and stopping at a souvenir shop along the way.   Today has been hard, it's been uncomfortable, and it's been amazing!  

Here is to a better tomorrow!  May God continue to grow and stretch me.   May he use me as he sees fit and may I before ever malleable to his will.   

And with that emotional dump combo travel log I'll let you go for the evening.  Sleep well blogland, may God's blessings be upon you.