Rebecca VanDeMark's Blog, page 249

A Prayer for Election Day 2016 and Beyond

Happy Tuesday friends... the thought of today overwhelms me in so many ways... the state of our country... the choices that are before us on so many different levels... and the amazing right to vote- especially as a woman in our country. In so many areas of the world this is not a right or a choice and today we have the privilege and choice to do so. 
No matter where you are, no matter who you are voting for, I hope that you will join me in praying for our nation and the elections that are happening at every level around the country. I wanted to share a brief prayer that I wrote out a while ago and have been praying from my journal... 
O God, I bless and thank you that I have awakened to another day and today as everyday I acknowledge you as Lord, not only over my life as an individual, but also over the nations and governments. The government rests on your shoulders Lord (Isaiah 9) and today I humbly come before you on this election day. I thank you for the incredible privilege that it is to have the opportunity to vote. There are governments that exist around the world where this is not possible or a choice, and I have that choice Lord. Thank you. Thank you for the opportunity to vote and for the men and women who daily protect our freedoms. Lord, no matter the level of race (Congressional, Senate, Governor, Presidential) outcome may I look to your unfailing love and faithfulness. May I pray for the strength and humility to be burdened to pray not only today but everyday for those in office. You state "Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity." (I Timothy 2:2). Often times Lord I grumble and get angry without praying for my leaders. I am quick to judge, quick to criticize, and quick to complain but I am beyond slow to pray. Change my heart Lord and gently remind me that my duty and calling of prayer for this country I love and its leaders goes beyond just today and into everyday that comes. Please put your hand on our nation and most of all bring a revival of your love and grace that starts with me loving my neighbor, even those whom have different political views. Give me strength Lord and courage to trust you today and bless this country that I love so much. Bless today Lord. Bless those that are pursuing serving our country in this way. Protect them. Raise them up to be leaders who love You and this country.  Thank you Lord.  Please Lord, we humbly ask that you will bless our nation. Amen. 
"Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land."-2 Chronicles 7:14-
Let us pray for our country friends - today and everyday. 

10 Things to Pray for Your Single Friend During the Holiday Season

picture found on internet, altered by Caravan SonnetHappy Monday sweet friends! I hope that you had a wonderful weekend! It is hard to believe that the calendar days have slipped by and that we have said goodbye to October and are well into November. The holiday season is quickly approaching and today I wanted to share 10 Things to Pray for your Single Friend During the Holiday Season. 
Today I wanted to re-post a post that was originally published last year, but has remained one of my highest read posts to date so I thought I would re-post it for this holiday season! The holiday season can be a difficult and emotional time for many singles and while this doesn't address everything to pray and is definitely not a "formula" I do hope and pray that this is a good "starting point" for you to be praying for those that you love who are single. 

1. Pray that your friend would feel securely and completely loved during the holiday season.If there is ever a time that many singles struggle with feeling "alone" it is often during the holidays. There are so many parties and events to attend that you would think it would be the opposite but many times singles feel more alone than other times of the year simply because it seems that everyone has a "plus 1" to all of the company holiday parties, family gatherings, and Christmas shopping. Pray that your friend would experience the hope of the holidays and would know fully the promise of Psalm 68:6 ("God sets the lonely in families...") during the holidays. 
2. Pray for their protection as they travel alone. The holiday season is often a season ripe with lots of travel and often times singles travel alone. Pray that your friend would be protected as they come and go (Psalm 121:8) and that the Lord would watch over them (Psalm 121:5). Pray that the Lord would keep them from all harm and watch over their life. (Psalm 121:7) Pray that the Lord would place His angels around your friend as they travel and live alone. (Psalm 91:11)
3. Pray that they would see the Lord cares uniquely and lovingly for them in this season. Listen, I love Hallmark and all of the Christmas movies that started playing the day after October 31st more than any girl I know, but sometimes as a single it can feel extremely discouraging to watch on TV or experience in real life all of the romance and engagements that happen in the holiday season. Pray that your friend would unique see that the Lord has not forgotten them and is with them. When I think of this area I always think of the story of Hagar in the Bible (Genesis 16). The Lord provided beautifully and uniquely for this single woman. Pray that your friend would see that the God of Hagar is still the same today and is uniquely and lovingly working in this season. 

4. Pray for them as they navigate a "couples world" and deal with many who have a lack of understanding for their situation. I have heard it said a thousand times and I often agree... it is a couples world and the holiday season seems to intensify this with all of the "well-meaning" comments. Whether done intentionally or unintentionally this can often lead singles to navigate a host of situations that are "normal, daily events" that requires a lot of grace and a lot of strength. Many times those who are well-meaning have rash words (Proverbs 12:18) that can hurt those who are struggling with singleness. Social media explodes with engagement announcements, wedding pictures, and relationship love during the holiday season. Christmas cards with happy couples and happy family units arrive almost daily. Family members may ask, "so you are still single?" and look at you like you are an alien. All of these things can be difficult to handle. Pray that your friend finds hope in the Lord as they navigate these areas. (Psalm 3:3)

5. Pray for their Joy. I am not saying that you pray that you friend is just "happy", but pray that your friend knows and experiences true joy during the holiday season. Pray that your friend experiences the true meaning of the holidays beyond their relationship status.

6. Pray for their self-esteem. Look, even the most confident person who is single questions and wonders if something is "wrong" with them and that is why they are single. Many singles struggle with self-esteem whether in their looks, or feeling that something that occurred in the past makes them "unworthy" for a great relationship, or feeling that for "xyzreason" they are "not good enough". The holiday season can be particularly rough in this area! Pray that your friend would know the truth of Psalm 139:13-14 and that this would resonate in their hearts. 

7. Pray for their spirits during the "questioning inquisition". It always seems that people can say the most insensitive things at exactly the wrong time doesn't it? I can't say how many inappropriate things have been said to me during what I affectionately call the "questioning inquisition". From, "oh my it must be awful to still be single at your age" to "honey, you just have to lower your expectations" to "you are not married yet? I thought you would be popping out babies right out of high school" the list goes on and on. It can be pretty discouraging and I walked away from more than one holiday gathering in tears over the years. Pray that your friend would be encouraged that the Lord is guiding their romantic journey and that their hearts would be protected from discouragement. (Looking for specific ways that you can encourage your single friends at any time of the year? Check out this post HERE on how to encourage your single friends!)
8. Pray for their broken heart. Many many many singles have experienced a broken heart and rejection in their single journey and a single can struggle with a broken heart more during the holidays than any other time. Whether this is a broken heart due to a relationship that didn't work out or the feeling of rejection by another person or the disappointment that a situation didn't "pan out" the single often feels "brokenhearted". Pray that your friend would tenderly know the loving care of God and that they would experience His healing of any brokenness that they are experiencing. (Psalm 147:3)
9. Pray for their hope. Pray that your friend would clearly see that they have hope for every situation, including their dreams for marriage especially during the holiday season. Pray that they know the truth of Jeremiah 29:11 and that they would find their hope not in marriage but in Christ and His word alone. (Psalm 130:5) Pray that they would find comfort in in Job 42:12 and that they would be clothed in strength and dignity so that they can laugh at the days to come. (Proverbs 31:25) 

10. Pray that your friend experiences God's love in unique ways this holiday season. Pray that your friend experiences love in unique and creative ways during the holiday season. Pray that your friend's hearts desires will be filled. Pray for their future spouse. Pray that the Lord's love would unique and creatively embrace your friend during this holiday season. Pray that there will be people who will love on your friend well. Pray that the Lord will give you wisdom on how you can love your single friends well during this holiday season. 
Are there things that you pray for your single friends during the holiday season that could be added to this list? I would love to know! Looking for things to pray for your single friends in general? Check out this post HERE! May you be blessed as you take the time to lift up your friends in prayer! You are a blessing!!

When Light Dawns- Devotional Book for Advent and Christmas

Last November my book, " When Light Dawns " was released. This 40 Advent and Christmas topic devotional is the first and only Lyme patient specific book for Advent and Christmas. " When Light Dawns " features daily reflections that will inspire, encourage, and give hope to Lyme Warriors. Containing a daily reflection for each day (from the last week of November through the first week of January) " When Light Dawns " can be used as a simple encouragement to the weary heart or as a guided devotional study. Either way, this book will provide spiritual encouragement and give new meaning to the popular phrase "holiday preparations". 
Today I wanted to share a brief snipped from the book- the note from the author at the beginning of the book. This truly shares my heartbeat behind this dear book and my hope and prayer for each of us in the upcoming holiday season:
(a note from the author,  When Light Dawns )
Dear Fellow Lyme Warrior,
            The book that you hold in your hand has been written from my heart. I found out I had Advanced Late Stage Lyme Disease the day after my 33rd birthday. For the previous six years prior to that day I had experienced a myriad of intricate and confusing health symptoms that never made sense to any doctor. I had spent hundreds of hours traveling across the United States talking and consulting with some of the best in the country. No answers came and I was eventually told that either (a) this was “in my head”, (b) I had a very “complex case” of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (for which I had been diagnosed for) or (c) “stress was contributing to these issues”. Finally, after seeing 273 doctors in one year, seven years of searching, hundreds of invasive and painful tests, and thousands of prayers, I was correctly and accurately diagnosed with Advanced Late Stage Lyme Disease.
To be frank, I have often approached the Advent and Christmas season with a myriad of different emotions: joy at our Saviors birth and yet discouragement at the extreme lack of energy I have and the way that fighting Lyme Disease often prohibits me from celebrating the way I wish I could. I have found that there are so many emotions and issues that accompany the holiday season while fighting Lyme Disease, and yet there is incredible hope in the picture of waiting for the fulfillment of our longings.
Over the last few years I started writing and praying through bits and pieces of this precious holiday season and out of this journey has come the book that you are holding in your hand. My prayer with this book is that it will encourage you, lead you to scripture, and remind you that you are not alone in this fight, especially during this Christmas season.
It is of interesting note that untrue to popular belief, the season of Advent is rarely four weeks long and it can vary from year to year what its exact length is. I find this particular interesting for us Lymies as this is similar to our fight with this disease- never knowing exactly how many days or weeks or years that this journey will last. Due to the way that Advent can shift and change in length this book starts on the earliest possible date (November 27th) and this book is arranged to see you through January 5th. Each day’s devotion has a scripture memory verse, a reflection, an inspiring quote, and highlights a Christmas hymn or a specifically chosen song that relates to the particular topic in the days reflection.
The Advent season is a season of waiting and a fascinating and inspirational season for Lymies who are in the midst of a fight for their health and waiting for healing to come. Like those who have gone before us and fought the good fight we can find inspiration and encouragement in this season knowing that the God of light came in the darkness. May we find everlasting peace and hope in this season as we celebrate the birth of our King as the true light of lights has dawned.
Rebecca  
If you are looking to purchase the book you can buy it where books are sold and find it on Amazon  HERE . Happy Saturday friends! May you have a wonderful day and weekend!

Disney Dream Cruise Round-Up

Happy Friday friends! I hope that you have had a wonderful week! Today I wanted to do a quick round-up of all of the posts about our Disney Dream cruise. I have been asked so many times if a Disney cruise is worth the money and I can't say it enough. It is worth every.single.penny. From the amazing ports of calls to the ship rooms to shows to food to the ship itself. A Disney cruise is absolutely stunning. You will not regret taking one and you will definitely treasure the memories for a lifetime. 
If you would like to read more about any of the specific things on our cruise you can read more by clicking the links below: 
Disney Dream Ship ReviewBoarding Outfit for Disney CruiseBoarding the Disney Dream7 Tips for a Perfect Disney Dream Cruise Embarkation ExperienceDisney Dream 6192 Stateroom ReviewDisney Dream Spectacular ShowsDisney Dream Cruise Ship Food and Dining ReviewPort of Nassau, BahamasAtlantis and Aquaventure Port ExcursionCastaway Cay, Bahamas
 And guess what? Disney Cruise Line just announced their 2018 cruise iteniers! They look amazing! You can check out more about Disney Cruise by clicking HERE! 
Please let me know if you have any questions! I would be happy to answer them!

a season of adventure

As I shared this past weekend on instagram, we headed out on Sunday morning from my favorite place on earth to embark on several different adventures of my precious sisters wedding, seeing dear friends, a fun writing job, speaking engagements, an intensive treatment schedule, a mandatory meeting with my main medical team, a new book release, and an amazing opportunity to visit the set of my favorite TV show. 
I have tears because despite the difficult treatment days, sickness, and pain I still experience in this journey of healing I realize how far how I have come. Truly I feel overwhelmed by the goodness of the Lord for so many things. Thank you for all of your prayers for my continued treatment, our safety in travels, and for wisdom and grace to meet us each and every step in the days to come. On Monday evening we safely arrived to the south and our home after 18 months away. We encountered several issues but also our sweet neighbors welcoming us home, the kindness of strangers helping us, and this beautiful sunset over the mechanic's office when our car battery was dead. 
As we waited for the car battery to be worked on Monday evening, I walked the parking lot with my mom admiring the beauty of the sunset. All at once I had a memory from two years ago in the same parking lot. At that point I was so sick that it was hard to ride in the car for any length of time so my mom brought me to the parking lot to see the beautiful fall colors in the trees that surrounded it. We sat in the car, cried deep tears, and begged once again to the Lord for healing. 
To be at this point two years later, able to walk that same parking lot, and see the healing progress that is taking place is a beautiful encouragement gift to my heart. (The above three photos were taken by Katie at Always, Katie)
And then yesterday was absolutely perfect in every single way! Having the opportunity to meet in person one of my best friends was such a God-thing. It was absolutely lovely. I can't wait to share more about this exciting and amazing time with y'all very soon!
I hope y'all have a wonderful Wednesday!! 

Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Our day at Castaway Cay was absolutely beautiful and truly epitomized what you think of when you think of "a Caribbean island and paradise". Castaway Cay is Disney's private island is that exclusive to those who are traveling on Bahamian and Caribbean cruises. This private island and Caribbean paradise is unique in its amenities and its world-class creation on a Bahamian oasis with the signature Disney influence.  Castaway Cay is designed for the ultimate island and retreat experience and leisure and the beauty is absolutely breath-taking. From the moment that the ship pulls up to dock you are struck by the absolutely beauty that surrounds you. You definitely feel like you have entered a completely different world. As you dis-embark off the ship everything that you need for a perfect day is provided from comfy and large beach towels to a wonderful tram service that will take you to any part of the island that you wish to go (or you can walk if you prefer), to beach umbrellas that were plentiful and easy to find, to tasty food (an open-air BBQ dining at several locations) and family friendly-environment, including ample opportunities to see lots of your favorite characters wandering around the island.  There are several different sections on the island including the Castaway Family Beach area that allows for lots of family fun. There are opportunities for sailing, kayaking, swimming and snorkeling in the beautiful blue lagoon. In addition to this there is a feast at Cookie's BBQ close by that has lively family music and dancing (and several characters joining in for fun!).  This is where my sister and I spent the most time of the day. Due to the easy convenience of Cookie's BBQ holding the allergy friendly food orders, it was easy and convenient just to sit down and enjoy this beautiful blue lagoon. We were also sailing at a time where it wasn't that crowded and we felt that we had a lot of the area to ourselves.  For those who are looking for an adult-only oasis that is exclusively for those who are 18 and older than you will want to head over to Serenity Bay. Serenity Bay offers open-air massages, frozen specialty drinks and hosts its open BBQ pit along with a beautiful area to relax in the stunning ocean. 
As I mentioned several times Castaway Cay is simply stunning. I am going to let the pictures speak for themselves but I can't say enough how much I loved this island and how much I want to go back someday. It was beautiful. 

Short Getaway Vacations from the Upper Lake Champlain Area with Groupon Things to Do

This is a sponsored post. All opinions are mine. One thing that I love to do is to travel. Y'all know that traveling to me is a gift to the soul and something that is a hugely important part of my life. And while it is fun and adventuresome to travel to far off places, sometimes it is fun and wonderful to find a travel adventure closer to home. I have shared before about the beauty in exploring your own city and the ways that you can do so easily and sometimes finding an adventure closer to home brings a unique beauty to our lives. 
Unfortunately though any type of travel can become expensive and that is what I love about Groupon. I love using Groupon because there are so many different ways to save money on so many different things, but especially for great deals on lodging. 
As I looked around the Lake Champlain area for short getaway vacation deals with Groupon during the upcoming holiday season I was amazed at all of the thing that I found. Here are just a few travel deal around the Upper Lake Champlain Area that you will want to check out and explore:
First, starting in the historic Olympic Village of Lake Placid, NY which is situated in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains Groupon had several wonderful Lodging Deals: Whiteface Lodge Groupon Deal
The Whiteface Lodge is beautifully set in the woodlands surrounding the town of Lake Placid and has been named the No. 1 Lake Placid Romantic Getaway by ResortsandLodge.com. Groupon has this amazing deal right now for the lodge costing only $236 a night instead of the usual $300+. You can find out more about this Groupon deal HERE. Golden Arrow Lake Placid Resort
Another Groupon short getaway vacation option in Lake Placid, NY is to the Golden Arrow Lake Placid Resort. This beautiful Adirondack setting is located steps from the beautiful Mirror Lake and boasts a farm-to-table fare and uses energy-efficient heating. You can find out more about this Groupon deal HERE.  Lake Placid Summit Hotel
Finally, a third and cheap option for those who are wanting to visit Lake Placid yet save on lodging is the Lake Placid Summit Hotel Groupon deal. Many of the rooms at the hotel offer beautiful views of the scenery and this hotel offers a heated indoor pool, perfect for the chilly holiday months. Groupon is currently offering a deal of $59 a night to stay here so check this deal out. You can find out more about this Groupon deal HERE. 
Second, moving away from the Lake Placid Area and heading to another wonderful short getaway vacation trip from the Upper Lake Champlain Area would be a trip to Lake George, NY with a Groupon deal: Fort William Henry Hotel
The Fort William Henry Hotel has a long and rich history associated with it as the hotel opened back in 1855. It is situated on Lake George's south shore and is comprised of several buildings and restaurants on the beautiful 18-acre property. You can find out more about this Groupon Deal HERE. Do you like History? Then consider purchasing another Groupon Deal and visit the Fort William Henry Museum. You can find out more about the incredible savings that Groupon has for groups of two, four, six people HERE.  Wyngate by Wyndham Lake George
This property is a family-friendly hotel boasting a wonderful location to explore Lake George, the southern Adirondacks, and the shopping areas. At a Groupon reduced rate of $72 a night this hotel could be the perfect lodging setting for your family. You can find out more about this Groupon Deal HERE. 
Looking to head into Vermont? Then consider checking out this Groupon deal for the beautiful Stowe Mountain Lodge: Stowe Mountain Lodge
With winter predicted to bring a high snow fall this year, a short getaway vacation to the Stowe Mountain Lodge is the perfect escape. This beautiful 4.5 star resort is in close proximity to wonderful winter activities and boasts beautiful views. You can check out the Groupon Deal for this HERE.
Fourth and finally, are you looking to leave the US for a brief getaway with Groupon? Check out the following amazing deal for Quebec: Cap Tremblant - Mont-TremblantRising at an altitude of 1200 feet, the mountaintop condos at Cap Tremblant - Mont-Tremblant offer panoramic views of the beautiful forests, snow capped mountains of Quebec and lakes. Inside each condo you will find a full-sized kitchen, dining area, and private balcony or terrace. As an extra bonus Groupon guests will receive 15% off the regular table d'hote menu at the properties restaurant, II Pinnacolo which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can find out more about this Groupon Deal HERE. 
These are just a few of the many deals on lodging that you can save on with Groupon! There are so many other events and experiences that you can discover and I love how Groupon allows you to save money and is super easy to use. Probably my favorite part about everything is the fact that Groupon is FREE to use. Completely FREE so head on over to check out these deals that I have mentioned and find deals in your area! (Are you in the San Diego, California area? Check out this post on Groupon Things to Do in San Diego for some great and fun ideas!) Want to learn more about Groupon? Click HERE to connect with them on Facebook and HERE and to connect with them on Twitter. 
What about y'all? What Groupon deals have you found for traveling? Any tips to share?

The Happiness Boutique (and a coupon!)

Today I am so excited to share with y'all a new boutique that I have recently discovered that I love. The Happiness Boutique is a beautiful online boutique offering a timeless classic style with a charming vintage touch. Each of their clothing and jewelry collections feature eye-catching designs, timeless classic styles, beautiful prints, adorable patterns, and vibrant colors.
The Happiness Boutique provides a wonderful and engaging shopping experience while building a positive, connected, and fun community. You can definitely tell that they are driven to create a positive vibe in the world and are making a difference. The Happiness Boutique offers worldwide free shipping without any minimum purchase and also offers a customer reward program!
Some of my favorite pieces are the following: The Spring Inspired Multi Colored Statement Necklace I love the color combination and the statement necklace in general! This piece would be fabulous for some holiday parties and gatherings! Turquoise Jewel Statement Ring I love me some statement rings and this turquoise jewel statement ring does not disappoint! 

Sparkling Marble Statement Necklace
Flower Bouquet Vintage Gold Statement Necklace I love that this necklace could be easily dressed up or down. It has an instant classic and bold look while being extremely elegant.
And my favorite and the piece that I have chosen to wear- the beautiful and amazing: Stones and Gold Statement Necklace. I love that this necklace (which is even more beautiful in person!) gives a bold and sharp look while retaining vintage charm. It is an absolutely gorgeous piece that I know that I will treasure forever in my jewelry collection!
I hope you have loved learning a bit more about The Happiness Boutique and some of my favorite pieces! And guess what? The Happiness Boutique is currently offering a 10% discount code to my community and friends! Simply use the code: caravansonnet to receive 10% off your order now through November 29th! I would love to hear what your favorite piece is and what you chose to purchase!

Disney Dream Cruise Ship Food and Dining Review

Along with all of the amazing other things (from the boarding and embarkation experience, our gorgeous stateroom, the spectacular shows, the port excursions, and the beautiful ship itself!) the food on the Disney Dream Cruise Ship was simply wonderful, especially if you have food allergies like myself.   From the moment that we arrived on board we were immediately impressed with the quality of food, the taste, and the attention to detail that Disney gave.
As a bit of an explanation for those who haven't sailed on the Disney Dream before seating is a bit different than on other cruise ships. While you keep the same table number (and your table comrades and your same waiters) you actually move between three different restaurants (Enchanted Garden, Royal Palace, and Animator's Palate) for each night of a 3 night cruise. When I first heard about this I was curious at how this would work since I didn't have experience with anything but being in one restaurant at the same table each night on a cruise. Honestly, I absolutely loved it. It was fun to rotate between the three restaurants and feel like you were going out to eat in a different setting each night. The decor in each of the restaurants is different with unique twists and it made the whole cruising experience even more unique.
The first night of our cruise we ate at the Enchanted Garden which was absolutely adorable. As we were sitting there we kept trying to figure out which Disney story the Enchanted Garden was from. We had all sorts of guesses and it turned out that it is inspired by Versailles. Honestly the moment that our head waiter shared this I immediately could see it. It was gorgeous and you did feel like you were in an enchanted garden.  If you are interested in seeing the Enchanted Garden menu you can click HERE. Disney Cruise Line As it was the first night and our waiters and managers were getting to know each of us I ended up choosing something pretty basic off the menu that could be tailored to fit my allergies. The food was very nice, but it was the following meals (as a person with food allergies) that were absolutely amazing. From the next morning on I was able to look at menus ahead of time and the chefs would work to tailor each meal into a custom meal so that I could enjoy almost anything on the menu. (As a bit of background I had called ahead to discuss my allergies, was able to talk with a Disney Cruise chef, and never had one worry about food. Not having this concern truly made the difference on this ship. I was so impressed with the way that Disney handled everything throughout our cruise.)
For the record Disney Cruise Lines offer gluten free, vegetarian, no sugar added, dairy-free, and lighter note offerings on all of the table-service restaurant menus. Disney Cruise Line will also work to accommodate kosher meals, lifestyle/cultural meal options at no additional charge if you call ahead to speak with someone. You can find out more about who to contact (especially if you have a life-threatening food allergy) and other questions about how Disney is allergen friendly by reading HERE.  The next morning (and each of our mornings on board the ship) my sister and I chose to eat at the Royal Palace. During the morning and afternoon hours, the Royal Palace offers table-service dining if you choose to skip the buffets. My sister and I chose to do this on the recommendation of the Disney Dream staff and it was absolutely an amazing way to start the day. I definitely recommend it. 
And y'all... even though I eat a low-carb diet I had to try to the famous Gluten Free Mickey Waffles. They were delicious!  Disney Cruise LineOur second night of the cruise we ate in the Royal Palace Restaurant. For every little girl and wanna-be princess the Royal Palace is an absolute dream.  You feel like you have definitely entered into a classic Disney fairytale as the restaurant is modeled after the classic Disney films including, Sleeping Beauty, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.  The circular room decor (a special nod to Cinderella) includes ornate marble floors, hand-painted portraits of Disney princesses on the walls, and even a royal entry that includes a pumpkin coach, glass slipper, and tiara. In addition each of the chairs are extremely comfortable as they are plush lavish chairs and once again shows the incredible detail that Disney puts into everything. If you are interested in seeing the Royal Palace menu you can click HERE. As an added touch in each of the dining rooms the silverware, plates, and even the bread baskets are uniquely themed to each restaurant!  On our second day of the cruise (when we had our Aquaventure Port Excursion) a meal was included as part of that experience. If you are interested in reading more about this experience you can click HERE.  On our third day of the cruise we were in Castaway Cay (absolutely break-taking and amazing and I can't wait to share about that with y'all tomorrow!) and while you could eat on board the ship, they also provided a buffet on the island. I have to share a bit about this experience as I was completely impressed with how Disney handled this. The night before the head waiter came and asked me what I would like for the following day and said that they would have it ready for me at one of the buffet cabanas. When I arrived the next day my sister went through the buffet line while I went to pick up my pre-ordered meal. Y'all seriously. This is amazing. As a person with so many different allergies and who doesn't like to be the center of attention, Disney has kindly and graciously though through so many details. (Even including a salad and a safe dressing for me which was not on the menu because I eat a very specific low-carb vegan diet.) As I was waiting I spoke with a mom of a young boy who has severe allergies and a teen girl who was waiting to pick up their special food. Both had the same reactions that I did. The way that Disney goes above and beyond is absolutely spectacular. If you have allergies and are wanting to go cruising go with Disney because it is amazing.  Disney Cruise LineOur third and final night of the cruise we ate in Animator's Palate which is a fun and uniquely themed restaurant. The decor is absolutely amazing with unique architectural design, and the scenes and sketches on the walls around you change. It was so cool.  There is also a talking Finding Nemo/Finding Dory show that was pretty impressive. (If you are on a longer cruise than 3-nights there is an additional show that takes place. You can read more about it HERE. Again, every detail of the Disney Dream is down to perfection.  As far as food choices, I have to say that this restaurant was one of my sister's and my favorite meals. I am looking at that vegan black bean burger meal and wanting it right now! *smiles* Every restaurant was amazing, but the food in this restaurant was supreme. If you are interested in seeing the Animator's Palate menu you can click HERE. Every night our table enjoyed different deserts. According to my sister and my table mates the deserts are absolutely amazing. To be honest, I can't really comment on them as I don't eat sugar due to my journey with Advanced Late Stage Lyme Disease, but they looked incredible and beautiful!  
  The Disney Dream also offers two additional restaurant options- the Palo Restaurant and the Remy Restaurant. Both of these restaurants do cost extra but come with different perks and benefits. We didn't chose to do this on this cruise but heard from others that both restaurants are absolutely delicious.  Disney Cruise Line

The Palo restaurant is an italian-inspired restaurant that offers spectacular views of the ocean as you eat and has live music. This restaurant is offered also on the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder and is very upscale and romantic making it an excellent choice and option for couples to try. If you want to read more about the Palo Restaurant you can click HERE or if you would like to see the menu you can click HERE.  Disney Cruise LineThe Remy Restaurant is an adult-only restaurant that serves the finest French fare for dinner. When you step into this restaurant you feel like you have been transported to Paris as the art deco and ambiance gives a complete French feel. For the perfect mixture of Disney magic the character from the hit Disney film Ratatouille appears in creative touches throughout the design. Oh, and don't forget to check out the creative ways to dine in this restaurant- including the opportunity to dine in the wine room! If you want to read more about the Remy Restaurant you can click HERE or if you would like to see the menu you can click HERE. Disney Cruise Line
Finally, the Disney Dream offers a couple of buffet options and room service which had a delicious menu with lots of different options. You can read more about the room service option HERE!
And a quick note about Vanellope's. My sister loved this place. Like seriously loved. Hahaha! I am giggling remembering all of the trips that we took to this spot on the ship! It is only offered on the Disney Dream Cruise Ship and y'all it is seriously amazing. It even offeres some sorbet for those of us that can't eat other treats! (A quick note- you do have to pay extra for the food in here so you might want to stay away or save up for this sweet treat!) Finally, I just have to add that our entire wait staff (and all of the waiters we came in contact with) were absolutely amazing. They seriously went above and beyond in so many ways to help accommodate my food allergies and were just amazing people to talk with and get to know. Each one was incredible patient, helpful, and fun. I was so impressed with each staff member!
I hope that this review of the Disney Dream Cruise Ship Food and Dining has been helpful! Have you been aboard a Disney cruise ship? What was your favorite place to eat? Please let me know if y'all have any questions! 

What's Up Wednesday (October Edition)

Happy Wednesday friends! I am excited to link up with Mel, Shaeffer, and Shay for the "What's Up Wednesday" Link up! I have so enjoyed reading these ladies posts and am excited to join in! It is so fun to connect with so many other ladies who are doing this each month! If you would like to join in and have a blog, just answer the questions above!
What We're Eating this Week...  So back in June I shared a post entitled "17 Ways to Use Apple Cider Vinegar" and then honestly hardly used ACV at all this summer. I think after using it in detox baths (twice a day) and drinking up to 1 cup of it everyday for almost two years my body was done. With fall in full swing and the holiday season approaching, I have started to add this back in. There are so many important benefits of ACV (you can read 15 benefits of it HERE) and I want to add this back into my daily routine.  And if you are considering eating tons of pumpkins this holiday season you may be as shocked as I was to learn how many health benefits that there are in pumpkins (and their seeds!) You can read my post about 9 benefits of eating pumpkins by clicking HERE about just a few of the amazing benefits from this food!
What I'm Reminiscing About...  All things Disney Cruise related. I only have a couple of posts left to share from this amazing experience and in many ways I am delaying because it was such an incredible experience that I want to linger over all of the precious memories for as long as I can! If you want to read more about the experience you can find the following posts:
Atlantis and Aquaventure Port ExcursionPort of Nassau, BahamasDisney Dream Spectacular ShowsDisney Dream 6192 Stateroom ReviewDisney Dream Ship Review7 Tips for a Perfect Disney Dream Cruise Embarkation ExperienceBoarding the Disney DreamBoarding Outfit for Disney Cruise
 And guess what? Disney Cruise Line just announced their 2018 cruise iteniers! They look amazing! You can check out more about Disney Cruise by clicking HERE! 
What I'm Loving...  [image error] Fall in upstate New York. It has been absolutely breathtaking this year (as evidenced by the tons of pictures that I have posted on my instagram feed *smiles*). Starting the fifth fall of this long journey has gently taught me so many different things, mostly about God and His love and knowing that He will have the best in mind. What a good and amazing God He is.
What I've Been Up To... [image error] The last 14 days have literally been an extreme whirlwind of activity. Two weeks ago we attempted to finish packing up our cabin in the woods and moved an hour north to settle in with my grandmother for winter and spring so that I can continue to get treatments like we did last year. Two days later we traveled south for me to speak about marketing and promotion for Indie Authors. Two days after that on Monday, the 17th I was re-accessed as my medical team and I made the decision that I was going to try a 10 day trial run of intensive IV meds to see if my body could handle this treatment plan after the difficult last couple of months that I have had pain wise. At the same time last week I struggled with intense pain for a variety of reasons we started this 10 day trial run and continued to unpack for my grandmothers house as we also re-pack for our upcoming travel down to the south and out west for about 7 weeks. It has been an absolute whirlwind and unfortunately as of yesterday it looks like we are going to have to adjust the 10 day trial run. So I will have a few days off (hopefully no more than this) and then will restart a different trial run. As I say all of the time in this journey, it is literally #onedayatatime. 
What I'm Dreading...  So let us be real. The trip home to the south... 20 hours in the car... yea... I am dreading it. I love road trips but 20 hours in the car is not something that I am looking forward to. Last year I wrote a travel post entitled 10 Tips and Tricks for Long Road Trips and I am going to try to practice some of those ideas! *hahaha*
What I'm Working on...  [image error] As I shared last month, August was such a whirlwind of activity with the December Caravan Book Release. I have truly been so overwhelmed and blown away by the incredibly kind support and words about this book. Thank you again so much for all of your love about that project! (If you are interested in purchasing December Caravan you can find it where books are sold and on Amazon and Barnes and Nobles. If you are interested in bulk/group discount orders you can find out more information HERE.) 
But as quickly as August and early September came and went I went right into finishing up final edits and things for my upcoming book release When Truth Refreshes. I share at the beginning of this month that I  started writing this specific book in December 2013 so the timing of the release date brings a smile to my face. At the time I was deeply struggling with loneliness and grief, fear, frustration, anger, hopefulness and hopelessness in addition to a myriad of other emotions when a stack of beautiful letters arrived at my front door from some former students. These letters (which I have carried with me in a special notebook and are tattered right now) spoke beautiful truth of God's love, His power to do the impossible, and His never ending mercies for each morning. This book is one of my most personal Lyme devotionals yet... walking through the vast array of emotions that can be experienced in the Lyme Disease Journey. You can read more about the story behind this book HERE. When Truth Refreshes will be released on December 27th- right in time for the new year! 

What I'm Excited About...  The next two months are going to be a flurry of activities including my sisters wedding, an opportunity to write about a cruise that I am going on with my parents, the release of When Truth Refreshes, and visiting the set of my favorite TV show! AND... so very excited to share that I also will get to see and hang out with one of my best friends, Katie from Always, Katie. I CAN NOT WAIT. All of the fun and adventures (and continued treatment - not so fun!) will kick off this Saturday as we travel home to the south. I definitely covet prayers as there is so much going on and we appreciate prayers for safety and my health. 
What I'm Watching/Reading...  [image error] Robin Jones Gunn PicSo y'all know that I love the author Robin Jones Gunn and all of her different series. Some of my favorites of hers are  The Christy Miller Series, The Sierra Jensen Series, The Katie Weldon Series, Christy & Todd the Married Years, and the Glenbrook Series  (Okay, lets be honest ALL of Robin Jones Gunn books *smiles*) I shared in my post the 5 books that have impacted my life the most how when I was 13 years old I was handed my first of many books I would fall in love with from Robin Jones Gunn and haven't stopped reading them over the last 23 years. I have read, re-read, and re-read a thousand times the adventures of Robin's characters while I have been encouraged in my faith and strengthened and challenged to return to scripture. Robin takes what some might call ordinary characters and weaves a beautiful story line that challenges me to fall more in love with Jesus, to spend more time in scripture, and to love those that the Lord has placed in my life in big ways with lots of grace. Her characters are so memorable that you feel that you are reading about friends, but beyond her talent for writing is a woman who obviously loves the Lord and has changed countless lives, including mine. 
No matter your age- whether you are 13 years old to your early thirties (and beyond) you will love these books. Throughout the last few years of my health journey I have re-read these series and books thousands (literally!!) of times, have handed out countless copies to people on airplanes, in hospitals, and even once in a grocery store line. The beautiful way that Robin writes mimics the beautiful way that the Lord calls people to Himself- with lots of love, lots of grace, and lots of beauty. 
AND I am seriously so excited because Robin is about to release a new book in the Christy and Todd series and also has had one of her books made into a Hallmark Movie that premiers on November 13th! SO excited to watch that!! You can read more about her story of having her book made into a movie HERE. 
What I'm Listening to...  I shared this last month, but it is still the same. A couple of years ago this song was on repeat every morning and I have had it back listening to it again almost every morning and evening. I definitely have used this as the prayer of my heart these past few weeks and this summer and plan to as we enter this fall. If you are tired and weary or feel like you have been forgotten by the Lord this song is for you. 
What I'm Wearing...  Lots and lots of blanket scarves. I love scarves and the changing temperature gives me an extra excuse to use them! *smiles*
I would love to know your answers to these questions friends! Share your thoughts below in the comments!! *smiles* Happy Wednesday!