"My Note" posted on the Girls Get Away Blog

I am excited to be a featured blogger for the Girls Get Away Cruise. Just the other day they asked if I would write a devotion for their blog. This is the devotion I wrote, I pray that it blesses you this week. Click on this link and it will take you to their blog and website. It was modified a bit for their blog, but I thought I'd add the entire thing here. 

And, come and join us on the cruise! Book under my name and save $ (See bottom of post)

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“THIS”

Doesn’t it seem like chaos is all around? From floods to famine, hurricanes and earthquakes.. it almost seems like we’ve stepped right out in older Biblical times.  Some of what our favorite people in the Bible went through, we are also experiencing.

What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:9

We all know someone who’s lost their job and had to move as a result, we’ve all experienced a tightening of our belts when it comes to spending. What is this? Where are we supposed to be?

My husband is a firefighter for the city of Chicago, and for the last four years we have homeschooled at one point or another, all three of our children. I am a stay at home mom, starting up a photography business, and also continuously run these kids from point A to point B. Our oldest is a junior at a Christian high school nearby, and just this year we have signed up our youngest two for 8^th and 4^th grade at the local public school. Lately, for my family, it seems like the rug has just been completely pulled out from under us. Almost every corner we turn, it seems like that’s not where we are supposed to be.

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9

I’m reading about Job in my personal devotions, with it I’m also reading a J. Vernon McGee commentary. He points out how wealthy this man was. He had everything from livestock that lined the horizon, to property that didn’t seem to end. He was the Bill Gates or Donald Trump of his time. Yet in a heartbeat, God allowed Satan to wipe him out. A little at a time, or should I say a LOT at a time.  Job continued to praise God.  Sure, he went through a time of complaining, wanting to take his life and suffering, but in the end he still trusted that God was in control. After his suffering, Job was given twice as much as he once had.

Then Job replied to the LORD: “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’ Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know. Job 42:1-3

If we lost a little of our earthly treasures, or a lot, would we still trust and believe that God is in control? When it comes to our families, our homes and our livelihood?

When I was just out of high school, I had three jobs. I worked for my dad who was a contractor, I was a lifeguard/swim instructor, and also babysat once a week. My parents taught me how to work hard, and learn how to spend my money. They helped me purchase a condo, and taught me how to maintain it and take care of my renter.  All was good, right?

One morning some friends (youth leaders) and I drove about 180 miles (4 hours) to Leavenworth, WA. We were checking out a campsite for a possible youth group retreat. A friend and I led the way as a few others were in the car behind us. After about 3 hours, I got pretty tired. No doubt as a result of being young and watching movies the whole night before then thinking this was a smart thing to do the next day. So my friend drove instead, and I went to sleep. We were almost up the Cascade Mountains, and we hit the embankment on the mountain side. We flipped and skidded to a halt. I was pinned underneath my truck. The cliffs had huge boulders that fell from time to time, and somehow God let my head rest on a perfect sandy area. My sunroof also molded around my head, and for some reason, God spared my friend’s and my life. 

Even though I thought I had everything under control, everything changed in a heartbeat. People have told me that I must have something big to do, I’m still not sure. I still don’t have that huge moment or a sign that’s told me “This. This is why you’re still on this earth!” I used to wait for “that moment,” but then I’ve come to really appreciate this wonderful verse.

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17

THIS is why I am still here. I will do my best even when it’s not easy. Do I fail sometimes? Yes, miserably. But I know that Jesus’ sacrifice, and his loving grace allow me to stay on the right road. I will persevere, because He has given me the tools to do “this.”

I hope to see you on the Girl’s Get Away Cruise! I will be a group leader for the very first time this year, and it will also be my first cruise! You’re welcome to join me. I can’t wait to meet up and visit with you. I plan to bring my oldest with me, please stop by and say hello!

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 here is the link to their blog on Girls Get Away Cruise!

A Note from a Girls Get Away Small Group Leader

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Kara is a group leader on the upcoming Girl’s Get Away Cruise. If you wold like to be in Kara's group send her an email theschoenles [at] yahoo.com.  Be sure to comment your thoughts on this blog as well as look out for her and her oldest on the cruise!

If you'd like to join my group, all you have to do is click on this banner that says, "Kara's Group" and book your cruise! Or, call premier cruises 1-800-889-5265 and speak with an agent and tell them you want to be booked under "Kara's Group." 

Are you going? Let me know! See you soon, only 4 months away!

There is also fun prize being offered for my group only. A mini photo shoot to be drawn on the ship for those who book under my name. If I get 20 people booked under me, I will draw for the photo shoot. How fun would that be to get your pictures taken on the cruise, a mom and daughter..or best friends, maybe just a quick portrait shoot of yourself.. 

Here's a little shot of the water to get you longing for that sand and surf!



Only 4 more months! Book today and save $100! Join my group by clicking on this link AND get the savings! We'll have so much fun! We set sail to Cozumel Jan 12-16 2012

Things to Remember on the Cruise - from Mary of Premier Cruises

I just had to share. This looks great! Have you ever been on a cruise? If you want to join me and my group, save $100.00 and book under my name! Group Kara!

Join us as we will sail from Ft. Lauderdale, FL to Cozumel MEXICO Jan 12-16, 2012! If you click on this square banner, you will be connected to my group. Or if you want to call the cruise line, remember to mention Group Kara. And, if you are a part of my group, and I get 20 cabins booked, you could win my drawing on the ship of a mini-photography session for you or you and your group of ladies!

Things to Remember When You Cruise

Things to Remember When You Cruise
Only seven months until we head out on the Girl’s Get-A-Way cruise – I can’t wait!  I know many of you are working on your cruise packing plan and your ‘what to do’ on board.  I love a girl who plans.  I thought I’d share some cruising tips that I’ve gathered from past GGA cruisers, the Premier Christian Cruises staff, and my own trial and error experiences.  Hope this help you along the way.
1.     It’s ALL in your name—is your name spelled right?  How about your birth date? Double check your documents when they arrive (about 6 weeks prior to the cruise) to insure that everything is correct.  If you find an error contact Premier Christian Cruises at 800-889-5265 to make changes.
2.     Paper or Plastic (packing)  – use tissue paper or dry cleaning bags as you fold and pack.  You’ll love how it cuts down on the wrinkles. Also, you’ll have extra space when you toss this out – and extra luggage space is great for all those fun souvenirs you’ll find along the way.
3.     Tag your Bag – make sure to attach a luggage tag to your bag and include your information on the inside, too – just in case.
4.     Keep Your documents handy – don’t pack your passport or birth certificate.  Keep it in your bag or carryon.   You’ll need it as you head into the port.
5.     No Irons allowed – that’s right.  No irons are allowed in your stateroom, but there is a laundry area onboard where you’ll find ironing boards and irons.  Or you can opt for tip number 3.
6.     Wrinkle Release --  bring along a bottle of wrinkle release (look for a travel size). Hang your clothes, give them a good spray and wait.  You’ll love the way this works.  And relax – you’re on vacation, a few wrinkles are allowed.
7.     Power strip – most cruise ship staterooms have only one outlet and if you’re anything like me that just won’t do.  I bring along a power strip so I have a place to plug in all my necessary stuff like battery charger, flat iron, hair dryer, and my phone (which I use for an alarm clock)
8.     Cell Phones at Sea – okay girls, turn off that cell phone or put it on airplane mode (which means it’s not receiving a signal) or you may find yourself facing high priced roaming charges.)   You can access the internet while we're sailing.
9.     Wake Up – if you don’t want to miss an early morning devotional, pack an alarm clock or use your cell phone (in airplane mode).  Cruise ship staterooms aren’t equipped with clocks.
10.  Night Light – if you booked an inside stateroom you may want to pack a nightlight as the room can be very dark.  (Great for sleeping in, but not so great for waking up.)
11.  Try something new – order a dish you’ve never tasted, sit in on a speaker you’ve never heard, or listen to a musician you don’t know.  You’ll discover some great treasures.
12.  Open Heart – ask God to guide you as you meet new people and interact with the crew.  Open your heart and eyes to see that person who needs encouragement or friendship.
13.  Jump on in – not overboard, but into the FUN!  Join in on the contests and events. You’ll have a blast and meet new people.
14.  Say hello – don’t forget to find me and all the Premier Christian Cruises staff and say hello.  We love meeting each of you and it’s fun to put a face with a name!
See you on the Cruise!!

Mary

Still thinking about it?

What fun it will be, right? 

Are you thinking about it?

Keep thinking, planning, hoping.. 

I am!

  Girls Get Away Cruise ... we're next!

Remember, you could win a mini- photoshoot with your family and/or friends!

Win a mini - photography session on the Girls Get Away Cruise!

Hello ladies! We have about 7 more months left until we set sail for bluer skies and warmer temperatures on the Girls Get Away Cruise 2012! Ready for Cozumel?

When I book 20 cabins or more, I will draw the name of someone from my group, Group Kara, to win a mini-photography session aboard the ship! You can either use it to get some great pictures of yourself, the group you came with, you and your mother, you and your sister, you and your daughter.. you get the picture. *wink*

This includes a 1/2 hour session with me and my camera. You walk away 8-10 great photos on your own CD. You will own the right to these photos, and I can also use them for advertisement. This includes my time editing them and sending to you.

How often do you take the time to document yourself having a great vacation? If you're like me, you are taking all the photos, get home and realize that you are not in a single one. Reflections in a window or eyeball do not count.

Take advantage of this, and book with me!

Book today and save $100! Come join my group by clicking on this link to get the savings! Set sail Jan 12-16 2012

Are you excited? Have you been "traveling" on google earth like I have? So much fun! Even more fun in person, I'm sure. Let's go, girls!   

Find more information if you click on this Girls Get Away Cruise link, or this link that accesses each post I've written about it since the beginning. Just scroll your way down and find out what it's all about!

Who is Lysa Terkeurst?

Some people have been asking me about her since she's going to be speaking on our Girls Get Away Cruise, so I thought I'd do a little introduction to Lysa TerKeurst. By the way, are you going too? Click on the button under my banner or at the end of this post to save $100 by booking under Group KARA! 

I first heard her subbing in for KLove Radio's morning show. She was talking about her blog post being featured on CNN and the firestorm that ensued as a result. There were many comments for and against her convictions. She talked about her faith, and how many people have now heard her story and what she believes, that may never have heard from anywhere else. You can read it all here from her blog titled When the fat girl got mad at God.


I also heard the tail end of her story about how and why she adopted two children from Liberia, Africa. I couldn't stop listening as I drove up to my house, how these adoptions led to over 45 boys in that orphanage being adopted to families in her church and community. It just takes a leader, doesn't it?

Lysa’s amazing story led to appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, The 700 Club, USA Today newspaper, Woman's Day magazine, and Focus on the Family radio! Her story on Oprah can be read here called Love Knows No Color.

Lysa is also the president of Proverbs 31 Ministries. I was a fan of her page on facebook before I even knew who she was.  
Proverbs 31 encourages nearly 400,000 women through their daily online devotional. In addition, she co-hosts a 1-minute inspirational radio program aired on more than 1,200 stations around the world. Lysa’s blog averages over 70,000 avid readers per month. Plus, she touches hearts through their monthly magazine, P31 Woman.

Something else about Lysa that I love, is that we both have an Ashley and a Brooke! :) I said, "No way!" when I read it. How cool is that? This is her Ashley and Brooke (and family) on the left, and this is my Ashley and Brooke (and family).

Lysa's book, Made to Crave, is number 9 on the New York Times Bestseller List for paperback advice books! She has also written 14 other books. I am going to pick one up this week! Probably Made to Crave, that's what I need most help with I think! Because, wow.. I love sweets and treats, coffee with cream and sugar, and other fattening things that my mother taught me how to cook. This was directly passed down from my paternal grandmother as she taught her how to "cook southern!" Gotta love that Alabama cooking! Even though I'm from the Pacific Northwest, I have roots as a "southern belle!" Ask my husband about these arguments we've had over this. :)

I am excited to hear her speak on the cruise! Anything that I can hold onto to help me get through the day in a positive way... is my kinda speaker!  


Don't be left behind! Book your cabin now while they are still available and save $100.00 when you use this button (link). Book under Group KARA if asked the affiliate if they double check, and be sure to use this button! 

I have the * Girls Get Away Cruise Information!!*

The information is here! Are you wanting to go on this cruise with us? It is going to be phenomenal! So grab your best friend, your daughter, your mom, your favorite auntie, your neighbor, your friends at work...... and let's make some special memories!! Prepare to be moved, inspired, uplifted and refreshed! 

We will sail from Ft. Lauderdale, FL to Cozumel MEXICO Jan 12-16, 2012!

I am so excited as I dream about my very first cruise with several of my friends, family, and whoever is out there that may be interested! (please click on the box above that says Join Our Group, and the name on that is KARA this will assure that you are placed in our group)

* * * Here are some of the awesome details so far! * * * 

 I will let you know as artists are confirmed, but for now, Lysa TerKeurst is sailing with us on the 2012 cruise! YAY! Lysa, whose book, Made to Crave is on the New York Times bestseller list and who's hosting a FEW webcast on 

Monday nights at MadetoCrave.org.  

Girl's Get A Way Cruise will sail - Jan 12-16

    

We will be sailing on the Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas. I hear it's amazing. I have checked out the site, googled other comments, and am more excited as I see... this will be US! Well, you don't exactly have to ride this wave rider, but I've gone on one before and it's a blast!

 

Prices include -- cabin and all meals (and there is a LOT of it) , entertainment, tea, water, lemonade, coffee, port fees, taxes, and gratuities  -- no hidden additional charges.  

And guess what? YOU WILL SAVE $100 for booking with me!  Make sure you click on my button at the top of the page, that is under my group name, KARA. Make sure while you are booking if they ask, what affiliate you are booking under, and the code is again, my name, KARA. If we book the most cabins then our group will win a special treat!!  I cannot plan what this is, but let's be a part of it on this cruise together!

(excited look!)  ;)

NOTE-- Payment plans are for 10 months (March through Dec).  I will have updated info before March 1. 

Interior (most affordable)  2 per cabin - $848 per person (this includes the $100 savings per cabin for booking with KARA).  

Payment plan -- $100 down per person and 10 payments of $78.80 per person (includes a one time convenience fee of $40) 

Ocean view (most affordable) 2 per cabin - $1148 per person (this includes the $100 savings per cabin for booking with KARA). 

Payment plan -- $100 down per person and 10 payments of $108.80 per person (includes a one time convenience fee of $40) 

Remember that you MUST say you are booking through KARA to get the discount. 

* * * In the next day or so, I personally am planning a special drawing to do with our own group on the ship! I am in the middle of preparing details, so please check back for more info!! * * * 

Please let me know if you will be a part of this. If I don't know you, it will be a great time to get to know you before hand and it will just be like a reunion when we get there! I am SO excited!! 

Blessings for now, I can't wait to hear from you!
~ Kara

I'm an official Girl's Get Away Cruise Blogger!!!

A few weeks ago, I applied to be an official blogger for the 2012 Girl's Get Away Cruise! Last night the email came that I was one of 10 selected. I'm so excited! 

You will have to keep checking back, because there will be...

prizes to be won...

a cruise to book...

friendships to deepen...

family bonds to tighten...

and best of all, increase your faith with sisters in Christ! 

I have always wanted to take my daughters on a special girl's trip. Now that my oldest is at the perfect age, I would love to take her with me. I can't believe she is now only 2 years from graduation. This will be the perfect get away for her and I. I'd also love for my friends to come. Come with your daughters, friends, sisters.. Won't this be great? 

Stay tuned... more details from Premier Christian Cruises to come very soon! I will have a link from my blog for you to get everything you need to know. But for now sit back, put on your flip flops, and dream of the warm breezes in your hair. Then mark your calendars for setting sail January 12-16, 2012!