"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

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!

Day 10 - taken from my 365 blog

kara's 365 blog

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love?
Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace
Who blessed Your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

Not well-traveled, not well-read
Not well-to-do, or well-bred
Just want to hear instead
Well done, good and faithful one

- Nichole Nordeman 

I have thought about this, and how will "they" remember me? Don't you sometimes wonder? In this rat race called life, it seems like we get so caught up with things that don't matter. I sometimes think, what if I don't make it back home, who will find all those dirty dishes? Who will take care of the things I hold most dear to me? If I were to leave this earth tomorrow, what would "they" say about me? I am trying to "Leave a Legacy" and show my kids there is more to life than "stuff."  

We made these little verse cards and were reading them before every dinner. Everyone would pick one to read, then take turns reading one. I did a mad clean one day and they disappeared. Well, guess what I just found (and my youngest was elated!).. the cards we had made together. I pray that my children hold these verses close to their hearts. And maybe, one day, "they" will pick up my Bible and find these verses underlined and realize what matters most.

Day 10

Settings:

ISO 400, f/1.8, ss 1/50, 50 mm, no flash

Day 2 - Taken from my 365 project blog

A great start to a new year is always spending it with my awesome man. Today we celebrated being married for 18 years! We have gone through so much together. We've laughed, cried, celebrated life, mourned loved ones, locked arms trying to raise three kids, supported each other, and taught each other what it is to be partners. It's not easy at times, but if you can let things roll and trust that God will help you all through, you can make it! I say this after 18 years of marriage, 19 years of being together. After all this, I love this man, I'm thankful for this man, and I support him.

There. Enough mushy stuff, here's to my 2nd day! We went downtown to an amazing dinner, it was so lovely I forgot to take out my camera. Plus I thought, that's a little tacky, to grab my camera and take a picture of the cute dessert they brought us "on the house" complete with candle! After we had several bites, I thought. THAT should have been my 365 photo! Oh well, live and learn. 

I do love clocks. I could take a tour of old clocks around the city and put them all together. In fact, I may do that! So don't be surprised to see several clocks show up in the next year. 

Okay, I read about night time shots in my manual today. I realized that I didn't need a flash at night. Let the lights take on their own tone. So here is the old Marshall Fields clock (before it became..ahem..Macy's) on the corner of State and Washington. I used to work across the street and just came to love seeing it every day.

365 Day 2 

Night time.

My thoughts: I love the old feel of the stone, the coloring, and the old lamp posts. It probably still looks a lot like it did so many years ago. I'm sure I'm not the only one that loves and appreciates that old clock.

Goals for 2011

My friend posted goals for herself this year. One for each month, makes sense to me.
So I've been thinking about this as I rang in the New Year last night, before I went to sleep and this morning. What do I want accomplished by 2012? I think I've made my list. Not sure if it's in order of importance, but here goes..

1. Reading the Bible everyday. I wanted to do some "Bible in a year" plan, but I really don't think I'll make it through. I will shoot big though, and try one of these fabulous reading plans from you version. They also have a great Bible app. for your phone!
2. 365 days of photos. I want to get better and learn from others, so I've started my kara's 365 blog. Join me!
3. Work on my photography business. Learn more about the business side and learn how to apply myself, advertise and gain respect in the photography world. Find workshops in my area, and attend a Merakoh workshop somehow! Okay, one can dream...
4. Shadow a professional photographer. This is hard for me because I hate to ask people to tag along. In any way shape or form. So this has to be it's own "goal."
5. Get family photos on my walls! Another goal that I cannot seem to accomplish. I need to order and frame family members. I have immediate, I just need to branch out more and get this done.
6. Garage sale! Will try to de-clutter our lives a bit more. Don't laugh, I have to make this a set goal or it may not get done.
7. Once a month family ministry opportunities. Last month it was dropping off blankets to a shelter together, touring the facility and being changed by seeing through other's eyes. Each month it can be as simple as taking some food to a neighbor, but being more mindful of other's needs.
8. Helping the kids get prepared for their missions trips. One to Uganda, one to Missouri. I guess to help prepare them more spiritually. Which leads me to the next one..
9. Become a better example of God's love. I sometimes get wrapped up in the moment, get frustrated like everyone else, and react. I need to stop, be patient, think about what I say, then respond..or not. This is easier written than done, but I'm putting it out there.
10. Better steward of my time/money.. Less time facebooking, blogging and watching movies, and more time picking up, and delegating people to help in certain areas around the house. I will try and take at least 1 coupon on every shopping trip, then hope I can add more and save. Putting down the things I don't "need." Telling the kids "no" more when they think they need things. Silly, but necessary.
11. Enjoy my family time! Putting things down and letting things go to take more moments with who matter most. 
12. Work out! Well, one could hope...notice how it is the last one posted.

 I may have to add things as I think of them, but these are what I've come up with in the last 24 hours.