Kick It Out The Door ... But, Was It Really All That Bad?

Dearest 2020… 

Those four digits send shivers down our spines as we think back on the tumultuous year this has been.  It is definitely a year that will go down in the history books. From panicking over finding toilet paper (I guess people forgot good ‘ole wash cloths and soap can also clean ones derriere!) to being locked down or quarantined within our homes to visiting with family and friends via virtual communication methods to well, you name it, it likely happened during these crazy past (almost) 12 months! 

While most of us are ready to kick 2020 right on out the door, one must look back and ask was it really all that bad?  No, I am by no means saying COVID-19 was a blessing, especially considering the number of lives that have been lost, as well as those tragically affected by the virus itself or the loss of a loved one.  But looking back as a whole at 2020, can’t you find at least ONE positive thing that happened to you?  (I challenge you for a few moments to sit back and ponder over that by December 31^st – as no matter the circumstances, there should always be something we can find to be grateful for.)

That being said, I’ll be the first to admit, if you had asked me that very same question toward the
beginning of the year, I would have thought no way could anything good come from a year riddled with a pandemic, violence, riots, chaos in the polling places and so many other ‘negative’ thoughts that come to immediate mind.  2020 was filled with darkness, and believe me, I know.  I am NOT one who likes isolation.  I do not like being quarantined or staying at home.  I want to be on the go.  I want to be at lunch and/or dinner with friends.  I want to be at sporting events and concerts IN PERSON.  I want to be on an airplane travelling across the United States.  So, when all of that was basically put on hold (or to be honest, felt like ripped away from me), it hit deep. It hit hard.  There were many days and nights where I cried, I’ll admit that I’m not ashamed to say.  I struggled with feeling all alone merely for not being able to see friends and do things that were ‘normal’ to me, sometimes I still struggle with that, and yes, sometimes I still cry too!  It’s extremely hard when you uproot a natural on-the-go person and force them to stay put or have some restrictions placed on them. 

However, in many ways, I was willing to do what was asked as I didn’t want to get my parents sick from a virus or anything else that was ongoing in this crazy world.  I wanted to help them by running their errands and attempting to minimize their going out in public (although keeping them home, at times, was almost like herding cats or telling a teenager to be home by a set curfew!).  It’s seemed very strange working from home for almost a year, but I’ve been grateful to have been afforded that opportunity as so many others don’t even have a job to go to.  Have things always been ideal?  Certainly not.  But God never said we would have an easy path; we must depend on Him and rely on Him to get us through.

As crazy as it sounds, staying home and helping out, I feel, has allowed my parents and I to grow closer.  Yes, we get on each other’s nerves occasionally (okay, that’s a lie, probably daily!) but we have become closer and hopefully more appreciative of each other. We’ve learned more about each other’s quirks, and I’ve attempted to show them more technological advancements (the Chick-fil-A One App, Instacart, DoorDash and Grubhub have nearly blown their minds!).  I’m very grateful they’ve allowed me to be home and aid them over these past few months and try to be a better daughter for them.  So, see, there is something that proves 2020 wasn’t all that bad, right?

Additionally, while 2020 has been complex for any type of relationship, it has also brought some of my friendships closer in ways that I could never have imagined.  Whether it’s been texts, calls, video chats, picture messages, cards or whatever, each little outreach has meant more to me than some will ever know.  Some friendships aren’t meant to last a lifetime as I believe some people may only be meant to be in your life for a certain reason or season, and for someone like me, who cares very deeply, it’s often hard to lose friends.  And part of me truly feared that happening this year with a literal separation, yet in some respects, the opposite happened. Even though separated physically, friendships grew closer and blossomed in new methods, deeper bonds and trusts were formed.  For someone who battles a number of health issues, one of which was just discovered this summer (that is for another blog as I truly feel it may aid some people in their own journeys) having new ways to still reach out to those who care for you definitely aided this ole’ gal’s heart, mind, body and spirit.  I am beyond blessed for the friends that I have.  None of them are a like as they’re all ages, in various locations and all share varying interests, yet they mean the world to me, and I cannot thank them enough, especially some that I may have pestered a ton more than others! 

That’s just the tip of the iceberg for why 2020 wasn’t all that bad for me.  Yes, the dark moments hit me very hard and still affect me, but having family and friends who are by your side or praying for you from afar, that is what you need to help you get through the uncertain times.  But, most importantly, if it weren’t for my faith and hope in my Lord and Savior and having more time to spend in my own Bible studies, who knows where I may be, let alone any of us.  It amazes me to think how some people can’t believe, yet I know they don’t, or they have a false hope/belief.  Many believe that 2020 has been a sign of the end times, and while I can understand that, only God knows when He plans to send our Savior back to us to take us to Heaven where peace, love, healthiness and happiness will abound – there will be NO DARKNESS.  I hope and pray that you’ll be ready, and you’ll be there to join me as I don’t want any of my friends and family to not be there with me.  If you aren’t sure or have any questions about your eternal home, please don’t hesitate to ask me, as it would be my privilege and honor to share Christ’s love with you. 

There are only a few days left in 2020, so anything can happen (I’m still waiting for dinosaurs to return!).  But I pray that you will be blessed and try to find one small glimmer of hope that has touched you this year and share that memory with someone. Reach out to a loved one (friend or family) and let them know how they’ve blessed you this year, as you never know one small blessing and kind word can be all that we need to spark a fire of light and happiness during these chaotic times.  Here’s hoping for a much better 2021 and may we all keep on shining!  

Be Down, BUT Don't Drown!

“Turn around. Don’t Drown.” 

It’s something we hear on the news every time we are expecting significant amounts of rainfall, which could lead to localized flooding.  It’s a warning to be safe on the roadways and if you see, what could be, high water, don’t try to push through it, but instead, turn around and get out before things worsen. Ironically enough, in many instances, this same statement could also be applicable to our personal lives, and not just potentially hazardous roadway conditions.

2020 has been an unprecedented year to say the least.   With so much uncertainty in the air, stemming from a multitude of sources, it can leave anyone feeling on edge.  Have you had moments of disappointment?  Confusion? Do you sometimes feel all alone? Hurt? Angry? Fearful?  – You name the emotion, I am sure someone has bound to have experienced some form, if not all, within the past five months or so.  And, you’re not alone, I’ll raise my hand and join you – actually, let me raise both my hands to testify to the emotions I’ve endeavored this year!

At times, the pressure from such tumultuous times can almost leave the feeling of a cloud hanging over you. While it is absolutely, 100% okay to periodically feel down, we must be careful of how long we stay down and try to ‘turn around’ and head back up the hill to keep from drowning in the emotions brought on by our minds.  I will be the first to admit that 2020 has given me a lot of time to do some thinking, which for those of you that know me well, know that is NOT always a good thing. During times of chaos, the mind can often play tricks on you. There have been times during the past five months where I have been low and other times where I’ve just been okay and tried to remain steady. The emotional rollercoaster with the constant ups and downs, what ifs and so forth, it will begin to take its toll on you – physically and mentally. 

There has always been much discussion over whether it is okay to allow yourself to experience a period of the blues.  Some people even question whether such times even exist and instead accuse individuals of making everything up.  Well, I don’t know about you, but I know that I have experienced the blues, and I am not fabricating these feelings – I mean seriously, if you feel as bad as I have, who on earth would fabricate such a thing, let alone why would anyone enjoy those types of feelings?  When you are at low point, you sometimes have no idea what brought you there.  It could be a combination of many things or it may just not be anything at all that you can identify.  We all have moments, whether you care to admit it or not, but how we handle those moments is what is the most critical step.

I’ve been doing a new Bible study by Nicki Koziarz on the two infamous sisters Rachel and Leah.  The study itself centers on comparison and how so much comparison not only affected their relationship, but it affected those around them, and it also affects us.  While I won’t delve into the study itself, one lesson that I just recently finished up was entitled “It’ll be Okay, Just not Today,” and that lesson really helped open my eyes to a lot of my ‘not so’ okay moments.  Call it a pity-party or a meltdown, let yourself have one. Sometimes you need a good soul-cleanse and realize that you can still be okay, but it just doesn’t have to be right then and that day. 

Here are some pointers that I took away from my “It’ll be Okay, Just not Today” lesson regarding our momentary emotional lapses:

• It's okay to not be okay, but we must be wary of not letting the 'not okay' days stack up.

• During your ‘not okay’ times, it is okay to admit to someone that you are suffering – it doesn’t have to be a secret.  Reach out to someone to confide in and/or ask for help – don’t let your ego get in the way!  If that person truly cares about you, they’ll support you no matter how up and down you are.

• Even in the midst of your suffering, attempt to find some type of sanity. 

• Even when things aren’t okay, we still have to maintain our faith in God because He is in control and will see us through the bump in the road. 

• No matter how many ‘non-okay’ days we have, there is NOTHING that can keep us from God’s love.  

God loves us more than I love Diet Coke (and that is A LOT!).  In the midst of our chaos, never give up

hope.  God is just waiting for us to call on Him so He can toss us the life preserver that we need to keep us from drowning and ultimately pull us back to safety.  No one said the road will be easy.  It may take baby-steps to recover and convince yourself that you can keep going.  BUT YOU CAN!!!!!!!

So, the next time you start feeling down, just know that somewhere, the sun is still shining.  You may not see it right then and there, but you can press onward.  Don’t give up the fight or hope.  If you need a listening ear, message a friend or family member, or even me.  Remember, no one has all the answers but sometimes, all you need is someone to just sit beside you and listen.  Additionally, and most importantly, spend time in God’s Word and pray asking Him for strength, guidance and peace.  Remember that God is higher than your highest highs and your lowest lows – He will always be with you each step of the way, even if no one else is there. 

And remember, it is absolutely okay to be down, BUT don’t drown!

Which Sheep Are You?

Baaaa, Baaaa….

Oh! Sorry, I was channeling my inner sheep voice, and it was not a success.

Sheep – there’s just something about them.  Precious little lambs that you just want to pet and cuddle, who when grown up turn into a big fluff ball of wool.  Meek, mild and gentle, but often viewed as dumb and clueless.  Some sheep are calm and timid and typically remain within their herd, however, periodically, one will stray and develop a wild and rebellious streak attempting to live life on its own, which makes it more susceptible to attack from predators.  Predominantly, sheep are known for flocking, meaning they are most likely to be found in a herd with other fellow sheep, which aids in their ability for protection against predators – proving that there can be power in numbers!

When flocking, sheep are known for following their leader, which can be a good or a bad thing.  Depending upon which sheep is leading the flock, could determine the outcome of the entire herd.  For example, if the herd has a bad leader, it could result is severe consequences for entire flock, which was confirmed in 2006, after over 400 sheep followed their leader off a cliff and into a ravine ultimately and tragically perishing. 

So, while there can be safety in numbers when fending off a wolf or predatorial animal that may be on the prowl waiting to pounce and attack, power in numbers in following a wrong leader, can have very tragic and damning results.

Sound familiar?  Sound like anything or anyone else?

While we may not like to admit it, there are a lot of parallelisms between sheep and humans.  We humans (or at least I think that’s predominantly all that read my posts!) often can be calm or timid folk, who may or may not prefer to stick with our group.  Some will possess wild and rebellious mannerisms and depart from their atypical routine.  But ultimately, just like sheep, humans can be very, very easily led astray by following a wrong leader, influencer, group, movement, example or whatever notion they could be tempted by and ultimately fall prey to. 

In this day an age, where virtually any and everything goes and is possible, we need to keep our eyes open to the dangers that lurk amongst us.  No matter what group, movement, influencer, leader or whatever you are passionate about, and you have every right to believe what you choose to believe, support who you want to support, always keep your guard up to what may be looming on the horizon.   Don’t become one of the 400 who falls off into the ravine of doom and perishes because you fell victim to the wrong trap, belief, myth.  Listen to your heart, trust your gut and stand up for yourself, even if that is against your own family and/or friends, as sometimes and very sadly, even they can try to lead you astray. 

While there are many people and things vying for our attention and support these days, ones who want to be our shepherd and try to sway us with their beliefs to joining their side, in the end, there is only one true Shepherd – the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.  If you follow Christ, you cannot be led astray.  Oh, yes, you will be tempted, you will veer off the path many times in your life, you will face persecution and deal with people who have no desire to associate with you, but if you put your faith and trust in Christ, believe that He died on the cross to save you for your sins, accept and trust Him as your Savior, one day, which could be very soon, He will return and you will be led to the best pasture ever known to mankind – Heaven! 

Even in the Biblical times, where sheep were most notable for being sacrifices upon the altars, we see numerous situations where humans are referred to as sheep, who were easy targets for being led astray.  Isaiah 53:6 clearly states that we are like sheep and are known for being led astray.  Similarly, with flocking, we as fellow Christian believers must flock together and stand strong together to ward off the attacks of Satan and his deceptive tactics.  By following our leader, the Good Shepherd, we will not be led astray and off a cliff into a ravine. On the contrary, if one of us should stray, as it says in Ezekiel, “I will search for My sheep and seek them out.”  Christ will not allow one of His flock to wander lost and weary.  He will seek and find them and bring them back to the fold.  Additionally, when we face times of consequences, when we are hurt and betrayed by others or when we are utterly at a loss of what to do, Christ will always be our protector.  John 10:11 quotes Him the best when He proclaims, “I am the Good Shepherd.  The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.”

Isn’t that a wonderful blessing to think about?  In a time that is filled with much chaos and confusion, when we are often left with a multitude of questions over who or what to believe and may even feel scared for our own lives at times, there is not likely one leader, group, movement or influencer who will voluntarily lay down their own life for the lives of all their followers.  In this current era, we simply need to turn to the Good Shepherd and follow where He leads.  The path may not be easy, matter of fact, it will likely be very cumbersome at times, but, by following our true Shepherd, it will keep us in the pasture surrounded by His love and protection.

 

So, which sheep are you?  Who do you want as your Shepherd, your leader?  Who or what will you choose to follow? The choice is up to you, and you alone. No one can tell you what decision to make, as that is a choice you freely can make on your own.  But, choose wisely because you could end up either in the Heavenly pastureland or in a deep ravine. 

**This post is not meant as a debate nor to sway to you to my side or anything, but should you have any personal questions about your eternal future, please feel free to message me and I’ll be happy to discuss with you.  Until then, I wish you all a hearty Baaaa!**

Hello, My Name Is...

Well, I must admit that I have not been the greatest at keeping my blog up to date as of late, which is not typical of me! A lot has transpired which has caused me to ponder how I want to proceed with my current blog, or even if I really do want to continue. 

However, in looking at my statistics and seeing how people from all over the world occasionally view my blog, it inspires me to want to continue some type of writings.  No, not everything I write may be meaningful to you, or even enjoyable, but as I always have said, you never know how something you say or do may impact someone else, and ultimately, it could be what someone needs to make it through that day! 

With those things, and a few others, in mind, I decided to press onward with the blog.  Rather than continue with the travel theme, I have decided to start over.  This post will basically be another introduction to me, a blog survey of sorts, where I’ll answer a few random questions that allow you, the reader, to have a little more insight into who I am.  Afterwards, and when the notion strikes me (hopefully more frequently than every two years!), I’ll post random topic blogs.  Some may be travel related or random thoughts or even suggestions by friends to discuss.   I hope you’ll buckle in and enjoy the ride!

Oh, and by the way, “Hello, My Name is Meredith!” and let’s play 20 questions about my life!

1. Do you have any nicknames?

I used to have a lot when I was younger, but mostly now, people will call me M, Mere, Merf or Merfy (pronounced like Murphy).  I also will respond to Tennessee, which was bestowed upon me by my favorite Georgia Belle!

2. Are you named after anyone?

To my knowledge, no.  I used to think I was named after Meredith College, but apparently, I was not.

3. Do you have any siblings?

No, I am an only child.  Sometimes that’s a blessing and sometimes it’s depressing, ha!  But, thankfully, I have a lot of cousins and some friends who are like siblings to me.

4. Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Raleigh, North Carolina – one of the rare few authentic ones who are left.  I say that merely because my great-great-great…ever how far back it was, grandfather was one who donated a portion of his land to help form the city of Raleigh.  So, my roots run deep here, although lately, it is hard to find true born and bred native as so many transplants have moved into the area.

5. If you could move anywhere else in the United States right now, where would you move to or would you prefer to stay where you currently are?

Had you asked me when I was younger, I would have told you that I would never foresee myself leaving Wake County, North Carolina, but my how times have changed.  I am itching to get out of this county and likely this state!  North Carolina does have a lot to offer from the mountains to the coast, but sometimes, a change can be a good thing, if not needed! 

I think if I could move today and it had to be within North Carolina, I would likely relocate to Wilmington, North Carolina.  If it were outside of North Carolina, that would be tough as I’ve been to so many places that I have enjoyed.  I could see myself living in Knoxville, Tennessee; St. George, Utah; Henderson, Nevada; Marietta, Georgia; Austin, Texas; or on a house boat in the harbor in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (yes, I know that is not within the United States but it is a short ferry ride away!)

6. Where did you go to college?

Campbell University – Go Camels!

7. What was your favorite thing about college?

Most people would say Chicken Tenders day at Marshbanks or Shouse Dining Halls, and that was always a good day!  Overall, I really enjoyed college from the atmosphere to the courses themselves, there wasn’t much that I didn’t enjoy.  I didn’t stay on campus, so sometimes I feel like I may have missed out on part of ‘college life’ but I feel I was able to get a great education and make a lot of lasting memories!

8. What did you study in college?

I studied Government, which is now reclassified as Political Science and minored in History with a concentration in American History. 

9. What was your first job out of college?

I had been working a seasonal job ever since I had graduated high school and all throughout college.  Closing in on graduation, since I wasn’t 100% sure what I wanted to do, I was offered a full-time position at that employer, which I took.  It wasn’t in any way related to Government or History, but it was a job nonetheless!

10. What kind of music do you like?

Maybe the question should be ‘what kind of music do you NOT like’!  Music is my passion, and I will literally listen to anything under the sun.  I have so many varied playlists that one minute I may be listening to Praise and Worship music before it transitions to Bluegrass, Country, Rock, Pop, Classical, Rap, Hip-Hop – well basically any and everything.   As Marie Osmond’s song says, “Music is Medicine” and it is clearly my medicine and holds a dear place in my heart.  

11. What’s one hobby that you’d like to take up?

This is a tough one!   Part of me would love to learn to play another musical instrument, and another part of me would love to develop some photography skills.  So many other ideas that I can think of as you’re never too old to learn something new!

12. What did you think you wanted to be when you grew up?

As a kid, I always wanted to be an airline pilot or flight attendant or a television news anchor.  As I grew older, my desire was to be a local political analyst but was informed that there wasn’t a need for that in our area, so it kind of deterred my plans.  Little did I know how times would change and our local news stations now have their own political bureaus! 

13. What’s the biggest project on your to-do list right now?

Hmm…at work, I’ve got plenty of little projects here and there that I need to delve in and focus on. Outside of work, I’m not actively working on any major projects.  I likely should put my mind and attention towards something though to distract my overthinking mind!

 14. Do you have any irrational fears?

I am not a fan of snakes – real ones, rubber ones or photos of them.  They absolutely terrify me, as I had an incident as a child while looking at a photo of one in an encyclopedia and someone jarred the book, which made it seem like the snake was jumping out at me.  To this day, I am unable to look at a photo of one because they are creepy looking and just terrifying! 

15. Have you ever traveled outside the country? If so, where?

The vast majority of my travels have been within the United States, of which I am beyond blessed to have those many opportunities to see things that I never dreamed I would see, but I have travelled outside the country albeit not very much.

My first experience out of the country was to the Bahamas, where I went to Nassau and CocoCay on a cruise.   Otherwise, I have also visited Montreal, Vancouver and Victoria in Canada.  The three times I have been to Canada, I have never been disappointed! The beauty that exists in each city was amazing!  I would go back to any of those three cities in a heartbeat. I am hoping to expand my out of country travels in the near future, as well!

16. When’s your next vacation and where are you going?

Alas, since we are still in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, that has kind of hindered any travel plans, including a trip that I had planned to London back in March,  (See, I was expanding my out of country travels!) it is hard to contemplate travelling now without some remorse sinking in!

I must admit that I have been perusing flights and pricing for various locations within the United States as I am going beyond stir crazy and need to get out of North Carolina!   So, as far as when and where the next vacation will be, that’s anyone’s best guess.  It could end up being Gatlinburg, Tennessee, or who knows, it may be Las Vegas (again!) or anywhere in between.  Get out an explore, that’s what I like to do!

17. Do you speak any other languages?

Fluently, no!   I can read Spanish, but not speak it very well in conversation – well, at least not at the speed in which they speak it!   I am also currently learning Russian, which is a HUGE challenge, but it is a challenge that I am willing to take.

18. What’s one talent that you wish you had?

I wish I could dance.  I’ve never really had many opportunities to dance, except with the Cow at Chick-fil-A, and shockingly, I actually did well.  But, I would love to learn how to do some of the amazing dances one sees on Dancing with the Stars!

19. What’s something that you wish you could do one more time?

Honestly, probably spend more time with my grandparents.  I never thought I would have lost them so early in life.  Many things I wish I could have asked them or talked to them about, places I could have taken them and other things I wish I could have done with them. 

Additionally, I can think of a few other situations in my life where I wish I could either do things over or go back and completely not do some situations!   The lessons we hopefully learn! 

20. If you weren’t in your current job, what would you want to be doing?

I would truly love to be a flight attendant.  I absolutely love flying.  I enjoy meeting new people and obviously travelling.  I just think it would be such a neat experience.   Otherwise, I sometimes wish I had gone on to law school so that I could be a District Attorney, or I think I would enjoy being an investigator of some type, whether with the FBI, CIA or some organization of that nature! 

What about you?   Why don’t you answer some of these questions and share you own insights with me or your own friends!   It never hurts to learn from our own experiences and share them with others!   

Go out and make it a great day.  When it’s dark, cloudy, rainy and gloomy outside, when all you want to do it cry, dig deep and try to be a light for someone else!  Inspiring others can only cause you to be inspired yourself!

What Happens There...

I know I had said in my initial travel entry that I would be sporadic in my travel posts, well, I didn’t anticipate the sporadic including a two-year hiatus in any posts, so I apologize in advance for that!!  A lot has transpired in the past two years, including a current lockdown, stay-at-home order due to a world-wide pandemic, which one would assume would allow me much more free-time for creating more blog posts, but alas (and maybe thankfully!), I have stayed busy with work and other projects. Aside from being locked down now for nearly two months (someone save me!), the past two years have been a blur with so much transpiring, but fortunately, I have been able to do a bit more travelling during that time period, as well, which maybe will one day be featured, if I can get myself back in the writing groove!  I initially started writing this post shortly after my last entry on the Grand Canyon, but I soon realized that this post could turn in to multiple posts, so I have had to condense it, which I found very, very difficult and as a forewarning, it is still quite lengthy 

They always say that New York City is known as ‘the city that never sleeps’ and while I can understand that from having been there a couple of times, I personally believe that Las Vegas could give the Big Apple a run for its money in determining which city truly never sleeps because ‘what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!’

For a city that had never been on my ‘bucket list’ nor, quite honestly, a place that I ever really had the desire to visit, during the span of August 2017 through August 2018, I trekked to Las Vegas, Nevada, FOUR times.  (Yes, I did just say FOUR times! And, as of this date, I have now added a FIFTH visit!)  From North Carolina to Las Vegas, that is a good long haul, especially if you aren’t able to secure direct flights, so to do it four times in a span of a year, was quite taxing yet absolutely exhilarating!

Had it not been for my friend Allison asking me to attend the Star Trek Convention with her, I likely would have never gone to Las Vegas, and I’ll be honest, when I was about to embark on that week-long trip in August of 2017, I was beyond nervous.  I had only ever heard horror stories associated with Sin City, so I had absolutely no idea what to expect. Thankfully, I had been out West before, so I knew to expect a different way of life, and I told myself that if I had survived Portland, Oregon, then I could survive anything! But I’ll admit boarding our flight from Raleigh-Durham to Atlanta and then to Las Vegas, I was slightly on edge!  However, once I arrived in the incredible Las Vegas airport and subsequently saw the large Donny and Marie marquee on the face of the Flamingo Hotel, I immediately knew this place was going to be spectacular. 

The lights, the shows, the people, the food, the architecture – there is absolutely nothing that you cannot find in Las Vegas. Each time I go, I am still mesmerized by the size of the resorts and the immaculate decorations that each casino maintains all throughout the year.  Because of there being so much to see, do and eat, I could easily post a blog per trip that I took and detail each and every thing that I did.  However, I won’t bore you with all of those details, matter of fact, if you really want to know, feel free to comment and ask any questions, and I’ll be happy to answer as best I can. Instead for this post, I’ll just list some of the highlights from places I’ve stayed, eaten, shopped and shows I’ve seen, as well as other sites and personal recommendations.

Where I’ve Stayed – In my five trips to Las Vegas, I have only stayed at two of the hotel/casinos:

1. The Rio
2. The Flamingo

The Rio if located off the Strip, so if you don’t want to be in the hustle and bustle of “all things Las Vegas” but still want the resort/casino feel, you should check out the Rio with its amazing view of the Strip, but just know, being away from the main sites, you’ll have to acquire transportation to/from as walking is not likely the best option!  On the other hand, if you want to be in the dead-center of it all and in the heart of where it all began, stay at the Flamingo.  It is the oldest casino on the Strip and where Bugsy decided to try something new by creating a travel destination mecca in the middle of a desert.  Unlike its neighboring casinos of Caesar’s Palace, the Bellagio and the Venetian, the Flamingo is not flashy at all, but hey! It’s Las Vegas so who is really staying in their hotel rooms for more than a few hours anyways, right?!? PLUS, they have flamingoes on site – so that alone should make you want to stay there!  (And for me personally, after I had a MAJOR crisis with my credit card company prior to leaving for Las Vegas, upon arrival, the Flamingo upgraded me to a larger and newly renovated room and provided me a complimentary food voucher, and it was absolutely NO fault of their own – they did it as a mere courtesy to ease my travel anxiety that I had endured that day!)

Where I’ve Eaten – This is just an abbreviated list because I cannot remember all the places I’ve eaten as Las Vegas has virtually ANYTHING you can imagine for whetting your palate!

Birthday Milkshake from Black Tap at The Venetian (Nov. 2019)

1. Carnival World Buffet (Rio)
2. All-American Bar & Grill (Rio) -- This places holds special memories for me as we had dinner here seated with a couple from California, whom we had never met, but joined them for dinner and have developed a friendship!  Hope one day to be able to go visit them!
3. Quark's Bar (Rio)
4. Room Service (Rio)
5. Margaritaville (The Flamingo)
6. Johnny Rockets (The Flamingo and The Venetian)
7. Earl of Sandwich (Planet Hollywood and Caesar's Palace)
8. The Buffet (Bellagio) – I am not keen on buffets because I never feel I eat my monies worth, HOWEVER my most favorite buffet that I have ever eaten at has been at the Bellagio as the variety is just incredible – plus if you get there towards the end of breakfast, you can stay for lunch, too!
9. Virgil’s Real BBQ (Linq Promenade) – They have Carolina BBQ on the menu, and we
   were asked to give them our opinion, alas it was NOT the Carolina BBQ that I was accustomed to.  HOWEVER, if you want some of the most amazing biscuits in the entire world, order one as a side or a half dozen because from a Southern girl who loves biscuits, Virgil’s biscuits are out-of-this-world amazing! Plus, it is one of the few places in Las Vegas that serves Coca-Cola products!
10. Off the Strip (Linq Promenade)
11. In-and-Out Burger (Linq Promenade) – Y’all, I’m just going to tell you, I need and In-
    and-Out in North Carolina and pronto!   My last trip, after checking in to the hotel room, I literally threw my suitcase on the bed and ran to the In-and-Out Burger.  My body was screaming at me that it was 1:00am Eastern Time, but I could have cared less as I was in Las Vegas and there was an In-and-Out Burger just outside the door of my hotel, who cares what time of day it is! Plus, it is VERY cost effective, and whether you like them or not, I think they are some of the best burgers I have eaten!
12. McDonald's (On the Strip near Harrah's and Casino Royale)
13. Gordon Ramsay's Fish and Chips (Linq Promenade)
14. Dapper Donut's (MGM Grand)
15. Pinkbox Doughnuts (On the Strip near Polo Towers)
16. Black Tap (The Venetian) - Simply for the CRAZY milkshakes!
17. Cracker Barrel (Just off the Strip) – Yes, there is one in Las Vegas and I have a tradition where I have to try one in each state/location, so I felt that was a score!

Incredible Biscuits from Virgil's BBQ (Nov. 2019)

Shrimp Snack Pack from Gordon Ramsay's Fish & Chips (Aug. 2018)

In-and-Out Burger (Feb. 2018)

What Shows I’ve Seen – Surprisingly, I haven’t seen that many shows as time has not permitted.  Be prepared, the shows are not the cheapest in the world, but there are ways to obtain discount tickets:

1. Reba and Brooks & Dunn
2. Legend's
3. Diva's
4. Donny and Marie -- I saw them three times in Las Vegas, including their VERY last show after being at the Flamingo for 11 years!)

Donny & Marie's final farewell to the crowd (Nov. 2019)

Meet & Greet with Donny Osmond (Feb. 2018)

Meet & Greet with Marie Osmond (Feb. 2018)

Hugs from Marie -- I was set for life! (Feb. 2018)

Donny couldn't believe I was taller than him & we joked about that (Feb. 2018)

Sights to Behold and Places to Visit/Shop – Again, I cannot begin to list them all, but these are some of the repeat visits for me or ones that stand out the most:

1. The Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace – The first time I went, I spent THREE hours here roaming around in sheer awestruck glory at the unbelievable décor.
2. The Venetian and Gondola Rides – To this day, I am still amazed when I walk in here, as well. I cannot tell if I am inside or outside!
3. Bellagio Fountains, Botanical Gardens & Chihuly Glass – The gardens are changed each season for whatever theme they have decided upon, and the flowers in each display are usually swapped out every three days.  It is an amazing sight to see!
4. Paris and the Eiffel Tower Tour – It is an incredible journey to the top of the tower, especially if you time it so you can watch the Bellagio Fountain Show from above!
5. World of Coke Store
6. M&M Store
7. Madam Tussaud's Wax Museum
8. The Wildlife Habitat at The Flamingo – An escape from the hustle and bustle of the crowds and noise where you can see flamingoes, pelicans and a number of other animals for FREE or just sit an relax in solitude for a moment under the palm trees.
9. The Las Vegas Sign near Mandalay Bay – It may have taken me five trips, but I FINALLY saw the sign and officially feel like I have now been to Las Vegas!
10. Strolling the Strip – Literally, just take a few hours to roam up and down, you never
    know who or what you may see!  A word to the wise – if you are going during the summer months, please do NOT try to walk down the sidewalks as it is nothing uncommon for a ‘cool’ day to be 100 degrees.  Many don’t realize (as I didn’t the first time I went) a lot of the hotels connect and/or they have side doors that are mere feet apart, so if you want to try to stay cool, instead of walking in the heat, dart through the casinos as you never know what you may see while indoors, too!
11. Sit inside of human sized high heel shoes and see the largest chandelier at the Cosmopolitan
12. Fashion Show Mall – They have an indoor ‘lawn’ theater, so pull up a chair and watch whatever is showing on the big screen for free!
13. MGM Grand – Stroll thru the entire complex and try NOT to get lost, and make sure to go out on the patio area overlooking their pools – another nice respite from the busy
    
    life.
14.  Rent a car – If you get a chance, rent a car and go on a drive!  On my fifth trip, we rented a car and drove down the I-15 from California to Utah.  It is amazing that within 15 minutes of any direction of the Strip, it is nothing but desert.  But the drive from Las Vegas heading toward St. George, Utah, is some of the most breathtaking landscape that I have ever seen.   Before turning your rental back in, make sure you take the mandatory cruise down Las Vegas Boulevard from the Las Vegas Sign at Mandalay Bay all the way down to the Strat, and if you’re lucky Michael Jackson may come on the radio while you are cruising! (I don’t know why, but that just seemed appropriate when it happened to me!)
15. Hit the slots --- Even though I’m not a huge gambler, I’ll still take a few bucks and stick them in a slot machine!   They always say if you find one that ‘calls’ to you, go find it and see what happens.  The times that I have sought out the slots that called to me, I won – granted it may have only been $20 or $35 dollars, but hey, I earned more than I spent!  PS: Thank you to Dolly Parton and Samantha Jones for helping me win at your Dolly Parton and Sex and the City themed slot machines!

I could continue with my lists, but honestly, this would become the world’s longest blog, and it is far too lengthy already.   It is amazing how a place that I NEVER had the desire to visit suddenly became a place that I feel absolutely excited about visiting and cannot wait to go back.  I’m not a partier, drinker or huge gambler, so many people cannot even fathom me being in Las Vegas.  However, there is so much more there than that!   Each person can find something unique to do in Las Vegas, however, it is definitely not a city for everyone. I must say I am so glad that Allison asked me to come along with her because had I never gone I never would have even considered going to Sin City.  And yes, while there are ‘sinful things’ there, there are sinful things in any city.  You just have to stick to your guns and do your own thing.  To be honest, I have never felt unsafe or scared or anything while in Las Vegas. Yes, it is a unique experience, but each trip that I have gone, makes me want to go back – even though now that Donny and Marie are gone, that takes a little bit of the thrill away for me, personally. So, should your paths lead you to fabulous Las Vegas, prepare yourself to expect the unexpected, but try to enjoy as there will at least be one thing that you will find that you like!  You never know who you may see from celebrities to Elvis on a scooter, or maybe even our paths will cross!   Enjoy Fabulous Las Vegas and may Lady Luck be with you!

     Oh!  And please go say hello to the flamingoes for me!

McCarran International Airport has practically become a home away from home (Aug. 2017)

Have to credit my travel partner Sarah for snapping this out the window for me upon our final approach in to Las Vegas from Los Angeles - gorgeous, clear day! (Dec. 2017)

Mickey Mouse in Las Vegas, who knew!?  (Aug. 2017)

In the middle of Las Vegas Boulevard - first trip to Las Vegas and I still have that "I can't believe this is really happening look" (Aug. 2017)

Inside the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace

The Linq Promenade getting ready for Christmas (Dec. 2017)

View from the Venetian Balcony overlooking the outdoor canals while waiting for the Volcano Show at the Mirage (Aug. 2017)

Inside the Venetian and the Gondola Rides (Dec. 2017)

The Bellagio Gardens decorated for Christmas (Dec. 2017)

Coca-Cola bear at the Bellagio Gardens made out of fresh flowers, which are refreshed every three days! (Dec. 2017)

The Fashion Show Mall with Trump Tower in the background - Merri, you would be proud of me!  (Aug. 2018)

Made at stop at Hershey World, which is at New York, New York (Feb. 2018)

Hey, it was actually a "cool" 109 thanks to no humidity.  I actually like hot weather, so this was nice to me!  (Aug. 2018)

I owe Samantha Jones my life - not really but this has been the luckiest slot machine for me that I've found during my treks to Vegas where I put in a couple of bucks and cashed out with a whopping $36!  Thanks, Samantha and the Sex and the City slot machine at the Bellagio! (Nov. 2019)

When the lights come on, it is gorgeous (Aug. 2018)

My most favorite hotel -- I can't imagine why?!?  (Aug. 2018 -- too bad that marquee is now gone!)

Welcome to Paris!  (Aug. 2018)

Taking it to the streets (Nov. 2019)