Sunday, June 21, 2009

Sunday Mornings

I love going to church. I have a great church family, and I love to worship God among them. I also listen to a great pastor Monday through Friday. His name is, Pastor Paul Sheppard. He is always a bright spot on my day and speaks truth into my life. He is funny, truthful, and loving in his delivery. Even if you don't have much time you can listen to him as each segment is only twenty minutes. Since being in Mexico, I've done many Bible studies, but none of them take the place of good old fashioned preaching. However, Pastor Paul continues to be a bright spot, shining Jesus' light into my life.

Here is a link to listen to him: http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/Enduring_Truth/ You can download any of his lessons, any which way you need to, for free. If you are searching I hope you get as much pleasure of hearing God's Word from this man as I do.

There is nothing like a great church family, and I am blessed to have that, but getting to hear God's Word this way Monday through Friday, is also a wonderful blessing. Since this is Father's Day, and my Daddy was who got me listening to him, I thought I would share him with you.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Tips for Packing / Traveling

As someone who has traveled a lot and made a few mistakes all on her own I've come up with a few tips to help anyone pack. It doesn't matter if you're a teenager or someone who doesn't travel often. The key, unfortunately is organization, but it doesn't take much and makes you feel far more relaxed knowing you didn't forget anything!

So, here is what I do to help keep my packing under control:

Biggest rule? Make a list. It doesn't matter if you do it on the computer and print it out or do it by hand, but if you have a list you tend to remember what you need to take and it forces you to figure out what outfits need to go and those that don't.

When making the list remeber these rules:
1. Go through your every day routine, starting from when you first get out of bed. Write down every product you use that you need to take with you. Example, toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, medication.

2. When packing underwear always make sure you pack for each day +1. In case of emergencies.

3. Don't forget your pajamas. I can't tell you how many times I've done this. And shoes. If leaving for a week pick about three shoes that can go with several outfits.

4. Accessories. It's amazing what you will forget. Earrings, watches, necklaces, bracelets, write them all down.

5. Others/Entertainment. Do NOT underestimate the need for this category. This includes your phone, your chargers, DVDs, DVD Players, MP3s, and books/magazines. You will want these and be sorry you forgot them.

6. The final part: MONEY!, Purse/wallet, Passport (if going to a foreign country which does include Mexico and Canada).

7. Always pack a few plastic ziplock bags. I choose various sizes, but you should always have a couple with you. You'll be surprised how handy these come in.

Since I'm going on a trip this week I thought this might be helpful for those of you who get panicked when it comes time to pack. I've certainly packed too much or not enough, but through trial and error I've found the above points to work and I always end up having a great trip.

If you have any great tips that have made your packing easier, please pass them along!

Saturday, June 13, 2009

New Years Come Early?

No, it hasn't. I turned 28 yesterday and realize I want to change just a few things. I don't want to change myself, just fix some issues that I can. What has happened is that I'm issuing a challenge for myself. If I were to look in the mirror or have to go on one of those shows and tell you what I don't like about myself there are five major issues I have.

1. I don't like my weight first off. I am a size 18 on a good day.
2. I have a few moles. Nothing gross that is really outstanding, but they drive me nuts. I just need to find a good doctor, which leads to number three.
3. I have some medical issues that I need to get resolved. The problem is finding a good doctor.
4. I may be looking for a new job in the very near future and I want to make a good impression. Despite the weight.
5. I want to feel good about what I look like despite what size I am.

The Challenge:

Starting July 7th I will fully begin the challenge of remedying all of this. The reason is I will be back in the States and I get my new haircut on that date. A great hair cut is a great way to feel good about yourself, so we will start with something simple, easy, and something everyone can do. After that I will try to tackle each issue and by July 7th, 2010, I hope to have each issue resolved.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Beach Time

I enjoyed the beach this past Saturday. Now, I have no idea who the guy is in the last photo, I was hoping to take a picture of what I was sitting under that was all down the beach, and with the sun in my eye I didn't see him until now. I know you're thinking that's what they all say, but if you saw what the dude was wearing you would believe me. Speaking of, never did get that photo of the rather large man in a turquoise speedo....




Monday, June 1, 2009

Spiders

This is actually a calm tale because a.) I didn't find it in some place where it could attack me and b.) Grady took the picture. I'll let the little guy speak for himself.: