FIVE DAY CRUISE--ONE CHECKED BAG!

FIVE DAY CRUISE--ONE CHECKED BAG!!

The difficulty with packing for a five day cruise is the necessity to change clothes at least twice a day. This particular business trip requires a little more thought than simply throwing a couple of shorts and a  bathing suit into a bag.

I start with a chart and outline each day and time of individual activities. I pencil in potential outfits for each event. I review my color palette and narrow it down to one or two choices. Attached is a copy of the chart I use to organize my thoughts. 

DATE/ACTIVITY	DAYWEAR	EVENING WEAR
03/06/17-Monday DL 1420 Depart 9:05 Arrive Ft. Lauderdale 10:55 Check-in at hospitality desk on Deck 6 Open from 1:00-4:30 pm Welcome Reception 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm Pyramid Lounge Dinner 8:30 King Lear-Deck 5, Table 651	Blk/Gold Sweater Black Jacket Black Jeans Blk Sketchers	Black. Jumpsuit Gold Sweater Gold Sandals
03/07/17- Tuesday Cruising	Denim Capris Navy tank Blue floral kimono Blue Sketchers	Black slacks Royal Blue Cold- Shoulder Sweater Black sandals
03/08/17-Wednesday Labadee, Haiti Arrive 7:30 a.m. Jet Ski's 9:45 a.m. Depart 3:30 p.m.	Bathing Suit Cover Up Water Shoes	Black slacks Turquoise Blouse Black sandals
03/09/17-Thursday Falmouth, Jamaica Arrive 8:30 a.m. Hike to Waterfalls and Beach Picnic Depart 4:30 p.m.	Bathing Suit Cover Up Water Shoes	Black slacks Black/Silver Top Black Sandals
03/10/17 -Friday Cruising 6:00-10:00 pm Farewell Dinner Giovanni's Table Restaurant	Denim Capris Turquoise T-shirt Blue Sketchers	Blue Tropical Jumpsuit Gold sandals
03/11/17 -Saturday Ft. Lauderdale Arrive 7:00 a.m. Flight DL 2026, Depart 12:57 pm Arrive Atlanta 2:53 pm	Black Jeans Royal Blue Tank Blk Floral Kimono Black Sketchers

I place my chart in my carry on. It's an easy reference for events and times. You never want to be late or show up at the wrong venue on a business trip.

My evening attire is black with accessories in  bright colors. My daytime wear is denim with a variety of tops. 

If you're a person who hangs out by the pool, all you need are bathing suits and cover-ups for daytime. Sun damage and cellulite keep me in capris!

Shoes can really trip you up. I love them and I like different ones for each outfit but on a cruise the most important thing is comfort. The ships are large and you walk everywhere. I leave the high heels at home. You can pack a ton of flip-flops in very little space, i.e. the outside pockets of your suitcase. Having had many and varied foot surgeries, I enjoy my Sketchers GOGA Plus. They are cushioned with arch support.  I wear the navy with denim and the black with casual slacks. One pair of black flip-flops serve as my casual bed slippers. Dressy black sandals go with evening wear. That's only four pairs of shoes plus my water shoes which I pack in a plastic bag in case they are wet on the return trip. The shoes that can't go in the outside pocket of your suitcase should be placed at the bottom of your suitcase (toward the wheels). Heavy items at the bottom keeps a top heavy suitcase from falling over.

On this trip I took one pair of denim capris and one pair of black pants. I wore the capris during the daytime with various tops. The black slacks paired with dressy tops and sandals for the evening. I packed yoga leggings and tops to double as workout and comfort wear. I like to change pajamas every couple of nights so I packed two sets. For a five day trip I pack 10 pairs of underwear. I roll everything and place it in packing cubes.

I used four cubes. Two small ones for underwear and bras,
bathsuits, cover-ups and yoga wear in the largest one, medium for
socks, evening shape-wear and miscellaneous items which might get lost.
These lay flat in the suitcase and transfer nicely into drawers in the cabin
without unpacking. Packing up again is equally easy

A five day cruise has one formal night. A seven to ten day cruise has two formal nights. If you want to avoid packing formal wear all together plan to eat at the buffet or one of the specialty restaurants in the evening. There's always room service. You cannot get into the main dining room at night in shorts, so plan on khakis and a collared shirt or top. Hanging clothes and formal wear fold on top of the packing cubes.

For short plane trips like this one I carry my Genius Pack Flight Bag, no purse or carry on. I bought mine at Sam Moon in Dallas, but I've given you a link to order one. I found it on Amazon too, but nothing beats Sam Moon's $40 price tag. 

While on the ship you don't need a purse, just a lanyard to keep your Seapass Card handy. It serves as your room key and credit card. The only cash you need is for tips. I stick lip gloss and my phone in my pocket.

A small backpack is nice for shore excursions. We use it to carry towels, bathing suits and a water bottle for a trip to the beach. I the same bag for shopping expeditions.

If I'm flying internationally I always pack a small carry-on with what I consider to be essentials: medicine, jewelry, cosmetics, toothbrush and toothpaste, and a change of clothes, especially underwear. You never know when your luggage will take a side trip.

When visiting my daughter in Budapest I usually have a 10 hour flight with a 12 hour layover in London. It's nice to be able to wash up, brush your teeth and change your undies.

Here is a sample of a chart I sent my granddaughters to follow when we took them to Washington, DC. They were 8 and 10 years old at the time. I didn't get specific about their clothing choices. I gave them guidelines and room to fill in the blanks. One used it. The other didn't. It's all about what works for you. 

WASHINGTON D.C. TRIP	DAYTIME APPAREL	NIGHTTIME APPAREL
Thursday, August 28, 2014AA Flight Depart 7:40 a.m. Arrive Washington D. C. 11:30 a.m. Check-in JR Marriott Washington & Lincoln Memorials	Jeans  or Shorts Comfortable Walking Shoes	Bathing suit and cover-up Flip-flops Nightgown
Friday, August 29, 2014 American History Museum	T-shirt Jeans  or Shorts Comfortable Walking Shoes
Saturday, August 30, 2014 Washington Zoo Air and Space Museum	Jeans  or Shorts Comfortable Walking Shoes	Dinner in Alexandria Casual dress or pants
Sunday, August 31, 2014 Ford Theater Spy Museum	Jeans  or Shorts Comfortable Walking Shoes	Home to GiGi’s

Toothbrush/toothpaste                                      Blister bandaids

Hair Brush/rubber bands and clips                  Sunscreen/sunglasses/hat

5 pairs underwear                                             5 pairs of socks

2 sets of night clothes                                       Light jacket or sweater

Books/games/snacks                                        Water bottle (must be empty at the airport)

The temperature will be in the 80’s in the daytime. In the 60’s at night. Currently an 80% chance of rain onSaturday. You may wear anything appropriate for school--dress, jeans or shorts. We will be walking everywhere. Make sure your shoes are comfortable. Flip flops for the hotel so your feet and shoes can air out a little.

I don’t know that we’ll have time to swim, but pack your swimsuit anyway.

We might eat on the wharf in Alexandria on Saturday night. We will be taking the metro and walking to our destination, so don’t get prissy. I’ll try not to.

I’ll bring a small backpack for first aid kit, snacks and umbrella. Don’t pack more than you can carry.

Holler at me if you have any questions. Safe travels, my friend!

Ten Hostess Gifts for $10!!

My sweet daughter is increasing Gigi's fold of grandbabies to six in January. She asked me to write this post because she needs three hostess' gifts for her baby shower. I went to some of my favorite stores and came up with this list of gifts under $10. Tuesday Morning, Ross, T.J. Maxx, Home Goods and Burke's carry plenty of items in this price range. They can just as easily be used as stocking stuffers or as gifts to exchange at the office.

Knowing your host/hostess is the surefire way to chose an appropriate gift. Pay attention when you are with them. If they never wear perfume, don't give them a scented lotion or candle. They may have a sensitivity (no pun intended) to odors. If they don't drink, don't give them wine.

1. STATIONARY-- In this world of instant communication (texting), note cards are rarely used. I love to buy notepad sets which have a small pen included for myself. The pen ends up in my purse for "just-in-case"! 

2. BEVERAGES--Coffee or Tea Cup -- You can include their favorite tea or coffee. Or get a gift card and refillable cup from their favorite coffeehouse.

Sparkly?

Or Funny? I would use either one!

How cute is this! I just pinned it on Pinterest!

3. GOURMET FOODS  -- Most of us have more "stuff" than we need. If we can't eat it or drink it, we don't need it! 

 

Specialty salts and spices!

These sassy containers are begging for dip, nuts,
candy or cookies, When they are gone your
hostess still has a container for leftovers or lunch!

Buy or make a cheese ball. Wrap it up with
a cute spreader. Perfect!

4. PET TREATS--Do they love their fur babies? Check out their Facebook page. If they've share more pictures of their pets than their spouse, this is the way to go! (Tip: Keep a lint roller in the car when you visit.)

Obsessed with this pillow! My dogs would be all over it!

I'm giving this to a (currently) close friend.
Let's just say her cat is less than friendly. The status
of our friendship may change based on the above.

We all love a cute sweater on these cold days!

5. PICTURE FRAME-- Do  you have a picture of a special time shared with your hostess? Print and pop it in. If they aren't that crazy about you, they can always change it!

6. BAKED GOODS--This year my neighbors are getting a loaf of my Honey Wheat Bread and a pint of yummy Pecan Honey! My recipe makes four loaves of bread in two hours--start to finish. I picked up the honey from Gilbert Pecan Company. You could buy your favorite jam or just give them the bread. I promise their low-carb diet will go out the window until the bread is consumed!

7. CANDY-- My father-in-law always kept a candy dish of Tootsie Rolls next to his recliner. My children headed straight for Grandpa/the candy dish when they arrived.They loved it and so did he! The dish and the tradition has been passed down to the next generation.

8. FLOWERS-- How can you go wrong with this standard? I took a Thanksgiving bowl to our local Kroger. Sherry made up this gorgeous arrangement for my dinner table. Shout-out to Kroger, the largest floral company in the world. They have helped me with many weddings, bridal showers and other events. Always reasonable! Always helpful! Thank you, Sherry and Mary!

This particular arrangement was over $10, but your can buy
prearranged bouquets and put them in your own vases.

9. HOSTESS PLATE SET -- I've given so many of these little sets of plates that I've forgotten to whom I've given them. I use them every day for breakfast, lunch and snacks. Yes, they are glass, but my grandchildren use them too. It makes them feel special and I love to make them feel special. 

10. DEVOTIONAL OR INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE -- This brings us to my VERY FAVORITE gift. I buy ten at a time and have given them to all my friends. The words of this little 10-minute devotional changed my life. Who doesn't have 10 minutes to change their life? Leave it in the bathroom, I know you take your cell phone in there to check Facebook, read this first!! If you don't have one, it's because you saw me coming!

BECAUSE---

A little extra--

This season affords a huge selection of holiday gifts.
Each of these items are under $10.

Small tabletop games.

A great tin to leave by the door to collect what usually

 goes on the floor!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE APRONS!!!

Go forth and shop! Blessed are the givers of blessings!!!

Pink and Glitter Bridal Shower!

Margie, Mother-of-the Bride, Amy, and
Tara, Mother-of-the Groom
Photos by Raina McIlwain

My dear friend Amy picked a destination wedding in the Bahamas to commemorate her lifelong commitment to Ryan. Since not all Amy's friends would be able to make the trip, my daughter Lauren and I threw a bridal shower to include all her friends. Amy wanted a dressy evening cocktail party for her 20-something friends. Her mother preferred a more traditional daytime cake and punch shower for her friends. We compromised by starting at 6:00 p.m., serving heavy appetizers, non-alcoholic beverages, and a light signature cocktail of strawberry nectar and champagne.
We begin gathering ideas and planning the shower six months before the chosen date. Amy's colors are pink and glitter. I researched current trends and pinned over 85 ideas to my Bridal Shower Pinterest Board. Some of the following are my original ideas, some came from Pinterest.
I got lucky to find "Bling" as a huge trend in the Christmas decorations. It began showing up at Hobby Lobby at 40% off in September.

I used glass ornaments hung on pink and silver garland to add sparkle.

Stairs wrapped in lights and silver mesh ribbon brought
more glitter to my home.

My dear husband outlined the walkway
in lights. I dressed up the "dogs" for the party.

A veil and a touch of bling decorated
the front door.

An area for the guestbook included Amy's favorite flower,
candles, and pictures of the couple.

A birdcage held gift cards.

We went to great expense to give each guest a ring as big as Amy's.

Above the fireplace are champagne bottles frosted with pink glitter. I wrapped a pink boa 
with rice lights, elevated silver candles on graduating sizes of cake stands, and 

 made arrangements with glitter picks, pink hearts,
and silver balls.

My daughter made the finishing touch, a banner hung on garland. 

These decorations were in place at least a week before the shower. I never wait until the last minute to do anything if I can help it. It's my idea of being in control. A false idea as it turns out. Of the 70 invitations mailed, I only received four regrets. I planned food and chairs for 35 to 40 people operating on the theory that only half of those invited will actually attend. I had no idea how many guests would show up. My anxiety alternated between fear of not preparing enough food and food going to waste. I'd rather make a trip to the homeless shelter with leftover food than not have enough, so I over-prepare.

I have a tendency to push myself and not delegate responsibility, but on this occasion I asked Lauren to come into town early to help me. For three days we tackled our chores. As we finished one list of tasks, I made another. On Saturday morning we rose early. Lauren frosted and assembled the "Dress Cake." We were almost to the point of assembling the sandwiches when disaster struck. 

I used an emulsion blender to cream strawberry jam and cream cheese. The mixture was to be spread on thin slices of pound cake and cut into finger sandwiches (no pun intended). I pulled the blender out of the bowl to check the mixture. As I tested the consistency with my left index finger, fatigue caused my right hand to twitch on the switch. I dropped the blender and rushed to the sink. I ran water over the cuts, but felt nothing. Lauren seeing blood in the sink, screamed for my husband. He rushed downstairs. I wrapped two paper towels around my finger and turned from the sink to assured her that I was okay. "Mom, there's blood all over your face!" she cried. I washed my face with my right hand. Ralph calmed her and took me out of the chaos of the kitchen and into the bathroom to inspect the damage. 

"I have butterfly bandages. We can fix this up," he said unwrapping my finger."Oh, no!" he said immediately wrapping my finger back up, "We are going to the emergency room. Apply pressure and keep your arm up. It's bad. Get in the car. I'll get my keys." 

I did as instructed, but protested, "I don't have time for this! People will be here in five hours!" I didn't stop to put on a bra or makeup, but began calling out instructions. "Lauren, call Margie and tell her what happened. She'll come help you. I'll call Karin and Laura from the car. They've offered to help. Follow the list on the counter and I'll be back as quick as I can." With my left arm in the air, I buckled my seat belt and dialed my cell phone with my right hand.

In hopes of a shorter wait, we chose Urgent Care rather than the ER. Luckily, I was their first patient of the afternoon.The nurse checked me in immediately. Waving a bloody hand in the air seems to expedite matters. She took my temperature, checked my blood pressure, and put me in a room.

As I lay on the table panic rose and threatened to overwhelm me. My brain whirled with doubt and fear: How can I finish the shower preparations; can I make all the sandwiches and put out all the food; can I finish the floral arrangements; can I tell someone else where the serving platters are if I'm laying on the couch; can I take a shower, much less do my hair and makeup; will I be able to host the party through the pain, or will I be in a haze from pain pills?

Dr Wu came in and introduced herself. She examined my finger and shook her head, "I will try to put it back together, but you didn't leave me much to work with." She explained the procedure and left the room to get the necessary supplies. 

While I waited for her to return it occurred to me that I never was in control. In spite of my compulsive organization and lists, life happens. Good things and bad things. They happen. I don't have any control. A verse came to me, "Cast all your anxiety upon Him; for He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7 NASB). The stress and anxiety drained from my shoulders as I gave up control. I gave up trying to micromanage and be perfect.

 I remembered another verse, "Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious--the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse." (Philippians 4:8 MSG) I began to fill my mind with the best, not the worst. I still have a fingertip. It didn't mess up my manicure! I am blessed with amazing friends. My daughter is a wonder, she can do anything I can do!

It only took seven stitches and an hour and a half to get me back home. My marvelous friends had dropped everything to help Lauren. All the sandwiches were made and in the refrigerator. My friend Karin finished the flowers and helped me put together a table for the party favors. When she left I still had time to call my mother, cause sometimes you just need your mother. After a twenty minute nap, my husband bagged my hand and helped me take a shower. I had no problem with hair and makeup. I used extra trim to bling  my finger, popped a pain pill, and began setting out the food. 

Hostesses: Lacene, Lillee and Lauren

I ran a little behind getting the food out. A couple of ladies
jumped in and put out the sandwiches.

Other than my blinged up finger no one was
the wiser. My Sweetheart played bartender
and caretaker.

Lauren made her wonderful Mexican
Pineapple Cake

And the gorgeous Cake!

I made Lemon Tarts and Turtle Brownies to round out the desserts.

Lillee enjoyed delivering presents almost as much as 

Amy did opening them!

Lillee showed everyone where the food was

About fifty ladies attended and we had enough of everything!

The bride's thanks were so effusive she cried.

From the point I gave up control, I relaxed and had a great time. Not everything I wanted to do was accomplished, but it no longer matter. Our bride, and her mother, were thrilled. I call that a success.