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)

The Awe-Inspiring West Rim of the Grand Canyon

Guapo Point in Grand Canyon West, Arizona

When you hear people talk of the Grand Canyon, sometimes people refer to it as the hole in the ground while others talk about the beauty of the landscape.  Each person shares their own opinion about any type of topic or event, just as they share their own opinion on their thoughts of visiting the Grand Canyon.  And, that’s what I’m going to do here – share a little bit about my experience of the West Rim of the Grand Canyon.  But before I do share my detailed experience on my tour of the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, allow me to share some fast facts about the area:

• Even though the air temperatures may soar into the 100s, the water temperature within the Colorado River remains a chilly 45 degrees year round.
• Grand Canyon West lies in the middle of the Tribal Lands of the Hualapai Nation.
• Grand Canyon West is separate from the Grand Canyon National Park, which is maintained by the United States National Park Service.
• The West Rim is the ONLY place in the entire Grand Canyon where you can take a helicopter to the canyon floor.
• The West Rim is one of the only areas that allows visitors to access the bottom of the canyon.
• The Skywalk was built by the Hualapai, and it extends over 70 feet from the Rim hanging out over the canyon floor, which is some 4,000 feet beneath!
• It is only a little over 120 miles from Grand Canyon West to Las Vegas, Nevada, and 242 miles to the South Rim Visitors Center.
• At Guapo Point, you can visit the Native American Village where you can peruse items on sale by members of the Hualapai, Navajo, Hopi, Havasupai and Plains Native American Tribes.
• At Hualapai Ranch, you have the option of staying overnight in a cabin facing the canyon.

Prior to going to Las Vegas for the Star Trek Convention last August 2017, my friend, Allison and I decided that rather than try to spend extra money on seeing Vegas shows, we would opt for a tour of the Grand Canyon instead.  When you’re from the East Coast, it’s not often that you’re going to cross the country, and we both figured if we were that close to the Grand Canyon, we may as well see what all the fuss was about. 

After scouring the various tour companies, we settled for one with Canyon Tours as they provided a pick-up at our hotel, which was very convenient.  The morning of our tour, the shuttle driver picked us up before picking up a few other tourists scattered at various Las Vegas hotel. Soon thereafter, we departed Las Vegas and drove out to Boulder City’s Municipal Airport.  From there, we boarded a 19 seat prop-plane that flew us from Boulder City, Nevada, to the Grand Canyon West Airport.  The flight was quite scenic as you flew over the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and the Mojave Desert (which quite honestly made me think I was flying over Mars as it was so desolate!)  Allison and I were strapped in to the jump seats at the very rear of the plane with both of us having emergency exit doors on either side of us (I wasn’t quite sure whether to be relieved or slightly nervous at the thought!) As our pilots touched us down on the runway at Grand Canyon West, we kept peering around trying to locate the Grand Canyon as from the airport tarmac, you can’t visibly see anything. 

We were immediately paired off with another couple from Russia and escorted quickly to the helicopter pads, where eventually a helicopter landed for us.  I was fortunate enough to be able to ride in the front seat with the pilot, which totally thrilled the aviation lover within me.  As we inched slowly skyward, the pilot maneuvered us so that we hovered over the Grand Canyon and my jaw hit the ground.  He proceeded to fly us through a series of twists and turns before setting us down some 4,000 feet from the top on the bottom of the canyon floor.  Upon departing the helicopter, we endured an arduous hike down a number of trails and stairs to the edge of the Colorado River where we boarded a pontoon boat that sailed down the cool yet muddy waters of the Colorado River. 

When I glanced around at my surroundings, I quickly figured out ‘what the fuss’ was all about with the scenic aura of the Grand Canyon.  I was in completely awe.  Words cannot even describe the sheer beauty that surrounded me, as you can somewhat see in the photos displayed here (although the photos can’t do it justice!)

Eventually, after nearly dying in the August heat and climbing the stairs back up the hill to the landing pad, we boarded another helicopter which took us back up to the top.  We then were given our bag lunches (which I thought were quite nice) before we boarded a bus and headed towards Eagle Point and the infamous Skywalk.  We enjoyed our lunch while staring out at the beautiful expanse that was displayed before us.  That was a lunch view I could enjoy getting used to!

Our tour did include access to the Skywalk, and I must admit that I was somewhat disappointed with the Skywalk in general.  Due to weight concerns, you aren’t allowed to take any personal items (including cameras or cellphones) out on the Skywalk.  All of your items have to be locked up in a locker.  So, it is just you and your physical body walking out on the Skywalk.  When we first went out, it was so sunny, that you couldn’t even see down through the glass walkway.  Some individuals were even laying down on the walkway trying to see through to the bottom of the canyon.  While it did provide a nice view, it was kind of disappointing not to be able to take photos of your own nor really see what was right below your feet.  (I am sure at other times, if it isn’t so sunny for example, you can likely see straight down – which would terrify someone who has a fear of heights!)

After another picturesque stop in Hualapai Nation at Guano Point, we returned to the airport terminal at Grand Canyon West for our return back to Boulder City and on to Las Vegas.  I can’t speak for my comrade, Allison, but I was absolutely blown away by the beauty of the Grand Canyon.  One of our guides told us that every day was a different scene.  He said the colors were never quite the same because of the sun, the clouds and a combination of any other factor.  Part of me, even a little over seven months later, is still in awe at having visited such a breath-taking place. 

So, if you are ever out in Las Vegas, I would highly recommend taking a day from your schedule and go visit the Grand Canyon.  From Las Vegas, you can drive to the Hoover Dam in 30 to 45 minutes, whereas the drive to the Grand Canyon is around two and a half hours.  But, I would highly recommend the Canyon Tours option, as well.  The cost is a little pricey, but for those that I have recommended it to (who have also taken the tour), they have all agreed it was money well spent, and I must concur.  I’ll admit that I whined and squawked and complained when I saw how much it was going to cost, but looking back on it now, I have NOTHING to complain about as it was absolutely phenomenal!!!

Rather than taking the five-in-one tour (that we did), I would possibly recommend taking the four-in-one, which basically excludes the admission to the Skywalk.  You still get to go to Eagle Point and the other locations, but you save a little money by not purchasing the ticket to the Skywalk and you aren’t likely quite as rushed. 

Canyon Tours describes their Grand Canyon West Rim Tours as follows -- Venture deep into Hualapai Indian country and discover the Grand Canyon’s West Rim! Arrive at the West Rim by bus, airplane, or helicopter and explore the Hualapai Village or experience the sensational views of Guano Point and Eagle Point. Complete your West Rim adventure with a helicopter floor landing, a relaxing cruise down the Colorado River, or a heart-pumping stroll on the Grand Canyon Skywalk. Or if you’re a true adventurer, try one of our one-day whitewater rafting adventures! The West Rim features iconic viewpoints and unique attractions, including the Grand Canyon Skywalk. With tours departing daily from fabulous Las Vegas and complimentary hotel-to-hotel pickup and drop-off to most major hotels on the Las Vegas Strip, you can sit back and relax on your Grand Canyon West Rim adventure.  (https://www.canyontours.com/)

If adventure is calling you or even maybe history or just a love of nature and scenic beauty, you most definitely need to visit the Grand Canyon.  I personally don’t believe that you will be disappointed in the least. It is an action packed, fun-filled adventure!   HOWEVER, if you do go in August, first of all, may God be with you because it is HOT, but second of all, make sure you take plenty of water!!  It is one place that I would most definitely love to visit again, just maybe not in the dead of summer!

From the canyon floor
Colorado River in the close background along with
the surrounding canyon walls.

Helicopter awaiting lift-off from the floor of the West Rim

Took this photo while aboard the pontoon boat in the middle of the Colorado River.

Simply amazing beauty of all that surrounds in the Grand Canyon.

My chariot awaits! 

Eagle Point, Grand Canyon West, Arizona
You can see the Skywalk on the left as it extends out over the canyon.

Pictures cannot do this area justice.  The range of colors is simply incredible!

Another view from Guapo Point

On the return flight back to Boulder City, I didn't have any visual from my side of the plane of the Hoover Dam.  So, I simply held my camera up and took a quick snap out Allison's emergency exit door.  Thinking I didn't get anything, I didn't even review the pictures.  When I returned home and was going through my photos, I found this!  I audibly gasped at how crystal clear and perfect this picture took!  For having not been able to see a thing, I think it turned out pretty well!