Gratefulness Even in the Storm
Most of you know by now The Berry house is in the midst of a storm. It has been a while since I have blogged, but it does not mean I am giving up. For now it just means that as of late my energy is being spent taking care of my kids and myself first. #priorities
My number one priority right here!
The one post I was able to crank out talked a little bit about our storm and how honestly even though this storm is Ugly, Fierce, Big, and STILL thundering down on us, I am able to find gratitude. You guys I cannot tell you how much just changing my perspective and looking for something to be grateful for each day has helped me in the midst of this hurricane. Truly!
There are days where I feel like I am being kicked when I am down, there are days that start off feeling “quasi normal” and then I get slugged, and there are days where everything is “not too bad” all things considered. -Every one of those days though I have found something to be grateful for. Even the bloodiest of days!
I can’t begin to tell you how this little change has been so good for my soul and for my family’s livelihood. I am learning a lot about myself and my kids resiliency, but I am learning a HUGE THING.....gratefulness even in the storm.
I know there are people out there fighting through their own storms right now. I also know that EVERYONES storm, no matter what that storm looks like, is big to YOUR heart and YOUR family. I know this. PAIN IS REAL. If there is one thing that I can offer you today besides a virtual hug it is find something-ANYTHING-to be grateful for today, then tomorrow, and the next day, and the next day.
Trust me when I say I understand if you can’t and I understand if you don’t believe me when I say this helps. I did not believe myself when I started this. I actually started with little notes in my journals of what I was thankful for. It started out like this, “Today I am grateful my kids got fed and to school.” The next day it looked like, “Today I am grateful the kids got fed, to school, and I moved from my bed to the leather chair downstairs.” NOT KIDDING! One time it read, “I am grateful Graeme got something other than Captain Crunch Donuts Cereal today to eat!” I will digress for a moment and say that cereal is the bomb.com!
Slowly my gratitudes turned into something more meaningful. Just this weekend I wrote, “Today I am grateful of my new mindset and I am grateful for Will and his friends and their imaginations.” You see, Will came to me asking if he could change our Backhouse into an art studio. Folks, let me tell you the old Amy would of said, “UM not just no, but Heck NO! That Backhouse is for guests and I want it cute!” What the What! With my new mindset I am learning what is important. Right now in our Storm it is important for Will to have something that is his. Not the entire Backhouse. I am making him keep the bed and TV up their for guests, but he has a dream and a vision and the space is only used for guests, so why not? No it might not be cute and quaint! But let me tell you what I saw unfold. Will and about 7 of his friends started building furniture, discussing what they could do with the space for their dreams and desires, THEY PUT DOWN THEIR DEVICES, and they worked together! Like good old fashion work and they are proud! It was amazing! Something that I assure would have not of happened before my storm because I would have blocked it with my worldly thoughts.
So yes, this storm is powerful! It is powerful in more ways than destruction. It is powerful in that it is bringing in a tide and the tide is rising and so is my family! No, I am not sure what the outcome will be, but I trust in God and I know He is faithful and I am still hoping for my double rainbow!
The Tide will Rise…the boats will rise with the tide…..my family will rise!
So I want to challenge all my readers who are in the midst of their own storm-start writing down one thing each night you are grateful for, EVEN if it is you brushed your teeth, write it down, keep doing it nightly, and watch what happens! I dare you!
XO,
Amy
Need an idea for a journal here is one! Try it! Tell her Worthy Heart sent you! XO
Hurricanes, Rainbows, and Hope
Have you ever been in the middle of a crisis and stopped to think what you could learn? I know I personally have not stopped-while smack dab in the middle- and thought, “what could I learn from this?” That is until now…..
You see, the Berry family is in the middle of what I would describe as a hurricane. I actually want to call it a typhoon, but if I am being honest with you all, a typhoon would be a worst case situation ever and I don’t believe that is the case. It is bad and it is a story I may or may not tell you someday, but today I will tell you it is rough.
While sitting here this early morning I am honestly starting to feel the heavy weight of this storm slowly lifting. I am starting to see the clouds lift and I am thinking their is hope. I also find myself comparing my situation to Noah. Who is Noah some of you might ask? Noah is a pretty famous dude who has a really cool story. One that I find myself living in. I might get some backlash for comparing myself to this guy, but just go with it. I promise you will see what I mean.
If you don’t know who Noah is, look up in the Bible, Genesis Chapters 5-9. This will help you understand my analogy a bit. And when I say I am comparing myself to Noah I am by NO means comparing my character to Noah’s character….again, just go with it.
You see for this past couple of weeks I did not feel like I had the protection of the ark. Honestly, I felt like I was up to my neck in deep deep waters, paddling like a mad woman, all the while my head was cocked back and I was gasping for air- while the waves lapped water over my face and the rain kept pelting down on me. Then…I got smart and flipped on my back… and this past week I felt like I was entering the protection of the ark, but let me tell ya, the ark provides me a safe place and I don’t feel like I could drown, but it ain’t no party.
The ark is cramped. It is humid and muggy. It is smelly, loud, and the animals are going crazy in their cages throwing their poop at me! It is not fun and I am scared, sad, irritated, impatient and confused. It is however the place I find myself and I, like Noah, keep sending the dove out in hopes for some sign of life. I will say I am not seeing it yet, but I have the beautiful story of Noah and I know there is a rainbow for me and my family- selfishly I hope there is a double rainbow. I mean after all God does say the rainbow is the sign of his promise to never send a flood to destroy all life on earth again so I am asking for TWO rainbows in hopes that this hurricane we are in will never happen again. I mean come on….it never hurts to ask!
Did you know that a rainbow is a mixture of light-a perfect harmonic combination which produces a symbol of beauty, promise, and enlightenment.
Some Symbolic Meanings of Rainbows:
Life, hope, promise, potential, provision, harmony, connection, transformation
So as I wait for my double rainbow and I think about all the different meanings above, I find myself pondering the following:
What am I suppose to be learning from this storm? I think it is to breath. Don’t react. I cannot control anyone or anything, I can only control myself and my responses. Be grateful even in this storm-Transformation of Self.
Am I prepared to move into these circumstances with an open heart, forgiving and letting go where and when I need to? I don’t know, but I do know I have God in my corner and all I can do is lean on him and remember I have four humans counting on me. Their names are Trey, Will, JP, and Graeme.-This falls under life, hope, promises, provisions, and harmony.
What kind of promises have I made to the four individuals above and to myself and am I honoring them? I can honestly say yes to my family, but I need to remember my promise to myself and take care of me too. I need to put my oxygen mask on first to be able to take care of them and others. If that means I don’t respond to text messages or phone calls because I have zero energy then so be it. People will understand. If that means I need to take a nap and the house will suffer….oh well. If that means sometimes I need to go “dark” as I put it to get my footing then I shall go dark. This falls under hope and transformation.
Am I ready to be open to the new life in front of me once the dove comes back with signs of it? I don’t know, but what I do know is that it is okay and for now I will live my life one day at a time, some days one hour at a time and that is ok. Again hope.
My little words project bracelet for my daily reminder. I love it so much!
So as I sit on this stinky ark in the middle of our storm I will wait patiently for the signs of life and the rainbows. While I do that, I will take this time to grow in my relationship with my Lord, I will relish my times with my family, and I will learn to let go and let God and I will do it with a grateful heart. From here on out I will announce how grateful I am for this storm.
XO,
Amy
In the beginning....
When it began and where we are today and why……
October 22 will mark a year since I started this blog and it will mark the 48th year I have been on this earth. A lot has happened in that one year and in those 48 years! But when I look back I would not change any of it! Funny to say that too, because Lord knows there have been a lot of ups and downs, but those ups and downs have molded me and shaped me into the woman I am today, a woman I am proud of. I have a long way to go, but I like what I see and that is enough for me!
When I started thinking about October and the blog I honestly filled with joy. Joy because I NEVER really knew where it would go or if I would still be writing- I am and I love it! I love it so much I decided to start October with an idea.
My redheaded angel and the reason I started this blog. “Thank you Mom….I love and miss you dearly.”
I have been taking some online blogging courses and speaking with bloggers and speakers and the common theme is trust. Well, my thoughts are how can my readers trust me if they do not know me? So I have decided to start from the beginning. No I will not bore you with it all today nor will I bore you with it post after post, but every once in a while I will sprinkle in a little “Get to Know Me.” I figure if you know me you will understand me and my heart. You will understand my passion and dream for motivating others and showing them they are loved and they are worthy. No matter what color, what sex, what gender identity, what height, what weight, what background, what you have or have not done, gay, straight, bi, who your mom or dad was or is, how much money you have or don’t have, if you are alone or surrounded by millions of people but really alone, my goal is to show you are loved and you are worthy. Not by me either! I mean I do love you all, but Jesus- that is who really loves you. That is who will NEVER let you down. That is who will ALWAYS be with you, even when you think He is not. People let us down, we let ourselves down, but Jesus will not let you or me down. How do I know this? Well, once you get to know me and hear some of my many stories you will see a common thread, the thread of the Glory of God and you know what else, if you were to take time to look at your past you will see the same thread! I just know it! So won’t you join me on my journey of getting to know me! Who knows-maybe I will get to know me even more….stranger things have happened!
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
This journal started my journey….maybe it can help start your journey.
Amy's September Book Review
Looking for a great read? Look no further!
Nothing like a rainy day and a good love story to get lost in!
This might be one of my favorite post each month. One because it is so EASY to write, ESPECIALLY when the books I am reviewing are awesome-which this month they are- so BONUS! And two because sometimes you guys give me suggestions and I ALWAYS love that and I promise I take you seriously! So if you have a book you think I should read, please tell me and I will try and make that happen-especially if it is fun chic lit! Wink! Wink!
This month I started off with a book actually suggested to me by one of you. I got it reluctantly, but I did and I am so glad I did! Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Beck Albertalli. This book is so entertaining and so fun and so what I would call normal for what is going on in a teens world! Which is why it was so perfect for me raising teens. Especially if your teens are normal, yet weird at times! I mean aren’t all teens like this? And Simon is so this! And to be able to be in his head really helped me to remember how it was to be a teen and how we thought as teenagers, which quite honestly is scary, hilarious, refreshing, sad, fun, exciting, and down right confusing! Now the main theme is how Simon is dealing with his sexuality and coming out and refreshingly his family and friends are a huge support for him. So it is not heavy and in all honestly I was very happy after reading it because it is a story of love, friendship, acceptance, and hope. Which as you all know is what I really want the world to have-hope and to know they are worthy! Simon in my book is worthy and he is loved and he is a child of God! So if you have a teen in your life, click the link and get this book! If you don’t still go get it! I promise this is a great book that leaves you happy and filled with hope!
Next up, I grabbed The Little Bookshop on the Seine by Rebecca Raisin. You guys what a quaint, fun read that literally made me want to move to Paris for a year! If you love Paris, books, Christmas, and love stories click the link and get this book! Basically the main character Sarah Smith, who owns a quaint little bookstore in America, has been given an opportunity of a lifetime to trade places with a bookstore owner in Paris she has been friends with and she jumps at it and takes you the reader along with her! It was so fun and exciting that I really mean it when I say I want to go to Paris for year! What an experience! If you are looking for a fun, quick, light read, this book is for you! Loved every minute of it!
My final pick for this month was another amazing read! I was so pleased as I kept thinking will I really get three for three and by golly yes I did! In a nutshell, this is a story about family, love, loss, and how sometimes people are just not who you thought they were, but in the end everything and every situation always turns out how it should. The book is heartwarming and heartbreaking all in one. I found myself crying within the first chapter when Kate’s new husband died suddenly in a freak accident and I was hooked! You will be too! Especially as the story evolves and you learn about Kate’s half sister Ainsley and you watch the bond of sisterhood grow. Great story! I highly suggest you snagging this one too!
So there you have it! Three great reads for you to get lost in! What have you been reading that I might enjoy? I am always looking for a new book to take me away!
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
Mango Chicken How You Like It!
It has been a while since I posted a recipe and a few people have asked why. The truth is I have a hard time getting into routine when there is a change. So when school started back up, I had to drudge through the change at my pace. It just is what it is and it is how I roll. I have learned to accept that about me and it has been very freeing! So now that I am back on track until the next season of life maybe you will be seeing more. Maybe not. Either way I am O.K. Know why? Because I am worthy and so are you!
So last night I made a recipe from a gal I follow and you really should too if you are looking for clean eating and healthy choices. I have been following Amber with Primal Mom for about three years now and I can honestly say she was one of the reason’s I changed a lot of our eating habits around here and she helped me on my weight loss journey along with my dance. So if you are intrigued at all you should look her up.
Last night’s recipe was so easy and I was able to literally appeal to all in the family while keeping it uber clean and healthy for me. I must admit I cheated with a chip or two in the mango salsa, but I am really not on a diet per say so I am a O.K. with that! I did a few things differently than Amber just because I have a house full of boys who eat me out of the house so I added flour and corn tortillas for those who wanted tacos, no tortillas for those who wanted a chipotle type bowl, and cheese for those who just can’t live without their cheese. Mainly the 7 year old! At least he did not put ranch on this so I consider that a win! Everyone was happy namely me with the way mine turned out so clean. So I highly suggest you giving this little easy quick recipe a whirl and seeing if your family enjoys it as much as mine did!
Delicious Chipolte type bowl! Look how pretty too!
Mango Chicken How You Like It
Ingredients:
8 Chicken Thighs-I got bone in (I did 8 to have left overs for busy nights, but you can do as little as 2)
1 Mango
3 garlic cloves or 2 Tablespoons of Jarred Crushed Garlic is what I used
1 Red Bell Pepper
1.5 to 2 Limes
8 Green Onions
1-2 Jalapeños depending on how much kick your family likes
Cilantro
Butter
Prep for the chicken:
Preheat oven to 375
Wash Your Thighs and pat them dry. Next put some butter, salt, and pepper on both sides. I use alot of butter. Probably 2-3 Tablespoons if not more.
Place in baking dish and bake at 375 for 45 minutes or until the skin is as brown as you like.
Prep for Mango Salsa while the chicken is baking:
Peel and chop the mango.
Chop the garlic or use the jarred garlic.
Chop the green onions.
Seed and chop the Jalapeño.
Chop the cilantro as much as your family likes. We like a lot. If you are one of those who just cannot stand the taste of cilantro maybe try 1-2 teaspoons of dried cilantro or none at all.
Place all of that in a bowl and squeeze your limes over it.
When Chicken is done plate or wrap it how you like it. I did one breast with salsa over the top. JP did a taco with the salsa and a side of rice. The rest of the family did bowls made with Rice, black beans, chicken, mango salsa and cheese. Well, Graeme may or may not have had the salsa, but we tried! So easy peasy and EVERYONE was happy for the most part! (Once we got the mango salsa off the little man’s bowl and the skin off his chicken everyone was happy!)
Try it and tell me how your family likes it and take a peek at Ambers site! Tell her I sent ya!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Hello, World!
How do you get the juice from your limes and lemons? I use the zulay and Love it! Get you one here!
Room Mom! What!
Do you guys remember my book review in November? If you don't let me give you a little refresher on one book in particular.
I am living the book! The only difference between Jen Dixon and I is that I have an amazing partner in crime! Karen! But, I am almost 48 years old with a first grader and finding myself in the roll of class mom again! I mean Will is 16 and JP is 15 and I think it has been almost 8 years since I had this job! Yall I just had to get this book out again and read it to remind myself everything will be O.K. The old lady can and is up for the task of the job as room mom! Now that I have read the book for the SECOND time I give it more than 10 STARS! If you have not read this book you must order it right now off of the link above! But only if you want a good laugh and only if you want to see the life I will be leading this school year! Just kidding.....kind of! I mean I don't see any old flames showing up in my future and I promise not to use some of the method's Jen Dixon does in the book, although they would make for juicy gossip in my neighborhood and fun curriculum nights!
What I do promise is to get the job done. I may or may not cross the line at times with my sarcasm, but I promise to do it with love and humility and all for the good of the class! And if there is anything I have learned from this hilarious book- it is that as an older mom I might see through the lens of a first graders life a little differently. This might come in handy when things seem bigger than they are so I hope that I along with my Co-Parent Karen can make this first grade year the most relaxed, fun year yet for these kids. I hope we can help them and their parents really relish and enjoy these precious times. Not stress about the stupid stuff. Because trust me, there is a lot of that happening with our poor kids these days.
So if you are looking for a great read, one where you will find yourself laughing hysterically out loud get this book! You will not be disappointed especially if you find yourself walking in the same shoes I am in now! Shoes of the Room Mom!
Enjoy!
XO,
Amy
Finding Hope
What would people say is typical of you? How do you find hope when life is throwing curve balls or just plain being mean?
Have you ever felt like your family is being attacked? Like truly attacked by the devil. Maybe you are single and it comes in forms of personal attacks on you. Maybe it is with your work and nothing seems to be going right even though you are doing everything you can that is right. Have you ever felt this way?
I know I have, just recently actually. Raising teens is no easy task and I really think the devil likes to mess with parents of teens. No I don't think it..... I am actually convinced of it! But, I can honestly say I know God is fighting for me and I know He has me-Truly has me and I know He has you too.
Last Sunday morning was awful-ever notice how it is on Sunday mornings when that idiot attacks? Just an observation. Anyways, it was a terrible morning and I LITERALLY remember saying to the boys, "EVERYONE is going to church and EVERYONE is going to LOVE it!" Funny thing looking back they were not even pushing back on going to Church, but I just HAD to make sure they knew who was in charge. Silly me! It happens!
Will and JP were sick of me and they left early and it was just Graeme and I driving to church. I literally told him, "G, mom is in a horrible mood! No whining, no complaining, no nothing or else you are grounded! Your brothers have pushed me to my limit!" Poor thing just nodded and asked when daddy was coming home.
As we were walking up to the church Graeme quietly grabbed my hand and gave it a squeeze, first sign God was with me. How sweet is that? After I just yelled at him for sitting quietly in the back seat and threatened to ground him-grabs my hand and squeezes? Melt my heart just thinking about it.
Next, it was as if the sea of people parted and out walked Pastor Elizabeth Mosley who a number of people have been telling me to contact about some situations we are working through here in the Berry household. As God as my witness yall I started to cry and she looked me right in the eyes and said "Welcome." I swear I felt like it was Jesus looking at me. Our church is huge and I do not go to the services she attends so she really had no idea at that moment we were members, but she knew I needed her at that moment. She quickly helped me pull myself together and let me know to contact her. Sign number two God had me.
I proceeded into to Church and that day in worship the Holy Spirit was filling me up fiercely! I am not kidding. EVERY song, EVERY word spoke to me like never before. Basically telling me what I knew, but needed to hear for real. God has me! When I am feeling I can't anymore He has me. Let me tell you friends, Sunday, August 26 I was feeling like I couldn't anymore, but I got up, washed my face, went to church, and was filled with nourishment that this world just cannot give. Nourishment for my soul. That worship team was Sign number 3.
I was starting to feel better and then Reverend Matt Tuggel got up and delivered a message that did not fall on deaf ears. He asked the question, "What for me is usual? What is typical about me? Who am I? What would the kids say is typical about me?"
I pondered on that a lot this week. I personally think the usual for me is why even when the devil was attacking my family fiercely this weekend, I still got up, washed my face, and made it to Church. Maybe with my jaw clinched, a few curse words screamed, and my mind racing, but by God we were there and did you hear the signs I talked about? I really think that was God saying, "Well done Amy. You are getting it!" He was holding me up by using others and showing me I am not alone even when I feel like my life is unraveling. He was speaking to me in the songs. I swear there was a moment this week when I realized what is typical of me.
My kids see me get up everyone morning and do my quiet time. Some mornings with a joyful heart, some with a heavy heart, some with an exhausted heart, and others just going through the motion. BUT, I am there every morning and I am giving my first 15 to God every day trying desperately to get to know Him more and to be a better version of me. To be the version He wants me to be and the version when people are in front of me see Jesus. That is what I want my typical to be.
I realized that we all have our lives and in our own personal lives we have anything and everything from PTA, meetings, dance classes, taking care of others, school projects, picking up kids for sports, teen issues, health issues, behavior issues, organizing groups, social events, you name it, there is a lot going on. When we find the time to carve out those 15 precious minutes...miracles happen. Do you know why? Not because you did your 15 and you got your check in the block, but because when you do your 15 you grow closer to our Heavenly Father so you can see Him, feel Him, and find Him in the moments you need Him most. Doing 15 minutes a day forms a relationship. A relationship that is real. You don't call your friend only when you need something and it is the same by doing your first 15. I don't ask God for something everyday. Some days I read my devotional, think on it, talk about it with God and that is it. It is not always a conversation of need and that my friends is how I am getting to know Him. If I am being 100 percent honest I have gone to God in my first 15 minutes and literally said these words, "Dude, I got nothing today. I am blank, I am exhausted, hell I don't know what to ask for, so here I am." I then just sit there in the silence and I think God is o.k. with this. You know why I think that? Because if I called my girlfriend down the street and said, "Tram, I am so exhausted and sick of the world I just want to sit! I got nothing to say." You know what she would say? "Want a glass of wine while we sit?" Ha! True story, but we would just sit! That is a relationship and that is what God wants!
I want that too for you my friends. I want you to find what I find in this quiet space with God. I find hope-a hope I never seem to find in the external world. I have no idea what tomorrow will bring or even what the afternoon will bring, but when I go and retreat for 15 minutes in this holy space, I know I have hope. A hope so that on days when I feel like I just can't go on-like last Sunday-I do! I do go on because my father in Heaven is cheering for me and sending me all kinds of signs and whispering, "You got this Amy."
So let me ask you-What would people say is typical of you? What do you do when you are losing hope? Might I suggest you implement your first 15? Try it for a week. Let yourself get up and spend 15 minutes in a quiet Holy Space-alone with God-and watch what happens in your life. I would love to hear because I know it will be beautiful!
Until next time.
XO,
Amy
Need a little help getting started on your first 15? This book has been a God send for me! Every day there is a devotional to help me along. Some days I need it and other days I think I don't, I dive in, and guess what, it speaks to me! Get it and see for yourself!
Amy's August Book Review
Have you ever found a person you just really connect with? Someone who speaks to you? I did! Funny thing is she has zero clue I exist! Read on and see how I got to know this amazing Sister!
This has always been my favorite post of the month as I always love sharing what I have read. However, it has been a while since I have posted a book review because I went through a season if you will. A season of "Self Help" books and while I love amazing self help books, I tend to read slower and really dive in to what the book is about and it slows me WAY down! It is not a bad thing by any means, it is actually a good thing, but it does mean less time for fluffy reading, which is what I REALLY dig!
On our cruise at the beginning of this month, I met a lady who turned me on to a beautiful thing! Now, don't make fun of me when I tell you because it has been around forever, but I discovered the world of audible books! Holy Smokes! Now I am getting the best of both worlds! When I am reading my self help in bed or on the couch I can take notes, when I am driving in the car or on a walk I can listen to fluff! You guys! I am in love! Some might say this is cheating, but the way I look at it, it is better than listening to trash on the radio or watching trash on the T.V. I listen to fluff and I LOVE it! I still read fluff as I personally think there is nothing like curling up in a nook or a in a cozy bed and escaping into the world my mind imagines in a book I am reading! Can I get an Amen?!
So for August I did something different. My self help book was by a gal that has literally become one of my girl crushes! I stumbled across this author while browsing blogs and I fell in love with her and her husband! They are amazing and when I grow up I want to be just like them! If you don't read, you have to at least tune into her podcast and if you are married do yourself a huge favor and tune into their couples podcast! Who am I referring to you might be asking yourself right about now? Well, I am referring to the amazing Rachel Hollis! I know some of you know her and those of you who do not, get to know her! I promise she is amazing!
Full disclosure-I picked up Girl Wash Your Face at the beginning of the summer. This was where I started after finding Rachel's blog. Great book! Like really good book! It is almost as if she was writing the book for me! No lie! I took TONS of notes, pulled out my journal and dug in more, and read and re read it. No lie. What I really liked is I personally feel like Rachel writes like she talks and I have been told I do the same and their is no hope for me. Well, friends, after reading this book I know that is a lie! And I will not listen to it or let that lie feed me or drive me. If you have read the book you know what I am talking about, if you have not run to the store or click this link and get it NOW! I promise it will be the beginning of a beautiful journey! One in which you get up and wash your face everyday!
So I fell in love with Rachel and decided to keep on reading her books. I mean if it ain't broke don't fix it right!? So the next book I got was book book one of her Party Girl Series. It is literally called Party Girl and I will tell you I was wondering if I would like it because Girl Wash Your Face is obviously self help or improvement and Party Girl is non fiction. Can I just tell you she nailed it! Rachel has talent and can write both! I was so amazed and impressed and I could not put the book down or take the ear plugs out if you want me to be technical here! Speaking of Rachel, the author, does the narrating of her own books. I know some might not like that, but I personally loved it and it made it easy for me to get through the entire series this month. If you are looking for a fun, fluffy book, this book is for you! You get lost in the world of a young blue eyed Texas girl, Landon, who finds herself in Los Angeles and starting out her life in the dog eat dog world of Party Planning for the stars! You guys, it is funny, stressful, and downright good! You really should get this book if you need a break from reality and you want to laugh and get lost in someone else's world for a little break in life. Click the link and get it this week!
Once I started the series I could not stop! That would just not be right! So next up is Sweet Girl. In Sweet Girl we get to know one of Landon's friends, Max, on a deeper level. As I was listening to the book I could not help but wonder is Max like Rachel Hollis or is Landon? Or maybe she is a combination of both! Yall, I am serious when I say I am mesmerized by Rachel! As I kept listening I realized I was more like Max and literally thought to myself, "That's it! Landon is Rachel and if you are like Max, then you and Rachel could be friends in real life!" Who does that! I do! Point being, yet another great book you get lost in and when you finally look up the book is over! I did not want it to end! I LOVED Max so much! Get the book below and figure out why! She is so strong and she is a fighter and I love this about her!
The last book in the series which makes me so sad is Smart Girl. And not sad because of tragedy, sad because it ends! I personally think they could make a movie out of this series, but hey nobody asked me. So in Smart Girl we get to know Landon's other best friend Miko and Miko is one of a kind. I would call Miko a horseshoe maker. If you don't know what I am referring to check out my letter to Graeme . When Landon first moved to L.A. Miko was definitely a horseshoe maker and that is where the friendship started for these two and flourished. As I read Smart Girl I started to realize maybe I have a little bit of all three of these girls in me because I related to Miko on a certain level. I could not help but wonder if all three of them make up Rachel! I mean she is Smart, sweet, and party girl-well not sure she is a hard core party girl, but I do know she loves her music and loves to dance! Watch her on her insta page in the morning. She kind of wears me out in a good way! Back to the point-Smart Girl basically is the end of the series of a story about friendship, love, forgiveness, and life! Really great read! I feel like I have said that a lot! But it is! So click the link below and grab this one too! You will be glad you did!
So that pretty much wraps up August and after writing this review I think I will dedicate my August book Review to Rachel Hollis! If you have not checked her out you really should! You will be so glad you did!
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
Dear Graeme
Dear Graeme,
So you have one day in the books as a first grader! How does it feel? Can you almost taste the guacamole and chips? Second grade will be here before you know it son and you too can order guacamole and chips. I promise!
Until then I want you to know how proud of you Dad and I are! We thank Jesus every day for our caboose as our family would not be complete without you Graemebear! It just would not! So this year I want you to do your best, be a leader, not a follower, listen closely, and have fun! That is one of the most important things! Have fun! Life is too short and you need to know we love you just as you are! Kind, sweet, funny, and smart!
The horseshoe I used to illustrate the story. He is keeping it by his bed now to have a constant reminder. Love this kid!
Remember to always be a horseshoe maker! Always leave an opening for anyone who is alone and ask them into your group of buddies. Don't just be a circle maker that closes your group. Keep it open! Because then you leave room for someone Jesus wants you to love and needs you to love! I know you can do this and I know you will! Your heart is so beautiful and you have such a sweet spirit just like your big brothers! Man did I hit the jackpot from Heaven when God gave me you all!
So as you continue on in your first grade endeavors remember this: Be a leader, not a follower, always do your best, AND BERRY'S NEVER QUIT!
Love you big my beautiful Graeme!
Mom
Hello, World!
We are walking the little man to school and encouraging healthy lifestyles! This watch has helped him to see how much he moves or does not move!
Dear JP
Dear JP!
Today is your day! You're off to great places you are off and away! That always was and always will be our book! Do you agree? I cannot believe that today you start your Sophomore Year! Where has the time gone?
Seems like only yesterday you had cracked your hard skull and you were in the MRI machine and I was reciting our book by memory to you! Do you remember that!? And look at you now kid! You have been and will continue to go off to great places! I truly believe that with my whole heart!
Big things are happening to you JP and will continue to happen! You have the "IT" factor. I see it and the world will too! Just remember to always stay true to yourself and your beliefs. Remember Jesus always. God gave you this gift of talent son! Treat it with the upmost respect and love and you will go far. I just know it! Use this talent and be a light to the world. The world needs more light and could sure use JP Berry's smile! That smile lights up a building! Not just a room!
Remember to do your best in your studies as I know the stage is your passion, but study hard and the stage will come to you. I promise. Like I told your brother Will, peer pressure is real and it is present and it is big, don't succumb to it. Be you! Don't let anyone push you into something you don't want or out of something you want just because it is not cool or they will not like you. Trust me JP, everyone will not only like you, they will love you! So you be you and shine bright my boy!
Your very first playbill add! Look at the book I recited!
This year will be the best yet and I can't wait to see what God has in store! Remember-be a leader not a follower and Berry's NEVER quit!
Happy First Day of School my JP!
All my love,
Mom
Hello, World!
Need a high tech backpack for your teen? Check these bad boys out!
Dear Will
Dear Will,
Tomorrow you start your junior year of high school! Are you kidding me? I cannot believe this! It seems like just yesterday we were bringing you home from the hospital! I cannot believe how fast the time has gone and I really cannot believe in two short years you will be off to college! That is just insane and this mama is having a hard time wrapping her head around that fact. I will get there, it will just take me some time!
In the meantime, I wanted to take a moment today to tell you and the world how proud I am of the young man you are becoming. You have such a kind spirit and your soul is so pure. I learn so much about compassion from you. Thank you for this son! I will never forget the day you made sandwiches and took them to hand out to the homeless. I had no idea where that came from and I still don't, but I know I like what I see. I see Jesus in you. I hope that never changes.
Summer of 2018 mission trip
I also see fire in you. Whatever your interests are you go at them with passion. I know you hate when I say this to you son, but you cannot coach that into someone. You cannot coach your passion towards peoples feelings into someone, you cannot coach your love of soccer and the game into someone, you cannot coach your protective nature towards your brothers into someone. Son you are amazing! I hope you never let anyone or anything squelch your fire. You are beautiful!
As you enter into your junior year son, I hope you enter into it knowing how proud your father and I are of you. I hope you enter into it with an open mind and open eyes and I hope you enter into with a desire to continue to keep your fire burning and continue to do good. Peer pressure is real and peer pressure is hard, I know I succumbed to it once or twice. Just remain true to yourself Will and to Jesus and you will achieve more things than you ever imagined! I know because I see it in you! I cannot wait to watch your story unfold. God has big plans for you! I just know it!
I hope this year is the best year yet son! I can't wait to see what God has in store! Remember-be a leader not a follower and Berry's NEVER quit!
All my love,
Mom
Hello, World!
Are you missing any back to school essentials! I have them for you here! Just click the link!
Dear Future Kindergartner-A letter from my son Graeme
Even if your Kid did not go to the same school Graeme thinks his advice is sound! Have to say it is not bad advice being he is only a future first grader!
With school about to begin I thought it would be fun to interview my kids on what their experiences were like last year and what they hoped to learn this year. Well, the teens were having no part of it, but the little guy jumped right on it and had a lot to say actually! I so wish I had done this with the first two so I could watch their brains grow. I guess 1 out of the 3 is not bad!
Dear future Kindergartner,
Hi! My name is Graeme and I was in Miss Rumsey's Kindergarten class last year. Here are a few things you should know about Miss Rumsey.
Three things that made Miss Rumsey smile:
Miss Rumsey smiles with all her kids because she was born to be a teacher! What a gift she was to our family and still is!
When I was encouraging to my friends. Miss Rumsey really likes it when you encourage others so always think about that. Especially if someone has a bad day and drops their tray in the lunch line. She likes to see you help pick it up and make them smile.
Being Self Kind-What I mean here is not being selfish. Show others what is the right thing to do especially if something is wrong.
Being Self Respect-Show others how you will treat them and yourself and then they will know how to treat you.
Three classroom rules to remember are:
Whole body listening. Basically sit still and don't move. Don't touch others and keep your eyes on the person speaking.
Be safe. No running in the halls. That can be unsafe.
Be respectful of things you use everyday like glue, books, pencils, notebook, you know stuff you need to learn.
Three things you will learn if you are going into Kindergarten.
Subtraction
How to divide
Respect. That is a big one. One my mom and dad teach too, but you will learn that at school I promise.
My favorite thing about being a Kindergartner.
Head person of the whole school. Meaning first goes last because in my school the Kindergartners always went first and the fourth graders were last.
Gym and Music. They were so fun.
Spanish and art! I don't want to forget art. I created a lot of master pieces and my mom framed them and put them around the house.
My advice to you if you are going in to Kindergarten:
Have fun! Do what you are suppose to do! Be a leader. Not a follower! Because Berry's never quit! That is what my mom and dad say to us everyday before school.
Things I will be looking forward to as a first grader.
The Boy Loves his food so he is so not kidding about the chips and guac!
Getting closer to being able to order chips and guacamole. You get to do that at my school starting in second grade.
Finding out who my teacher is! I really want Mrs. Savage, but my mom says I will be happy with whoever I get! I guess she is right! I have always loved all my teachers! And that is what I will miss most about Kindergarten. My teacher Miss Rumsey! If you are lucky enough to get her please give her a hug from me!
Your friend,
Graeme
Hello, World!
If you have sweaty feet like I do you really need these shoes for school! My mom found them and they are AMAZING! Get your mom to get you a pair and be like me and have dry feet at the end of the day!
Thinking of Cruising? Tips to Help You Have an Amazing Experience
If you read my blog this week you learned that The Berry family LOVES cruising! Now with that being said I know cruising is not for everyone, but I promise if you have not tried it you really should! It is a really neat way to go to some really cool places and all you have to do is relax!
We have been on a total of 5 cruises as a family and I went on one with my family as a teenager so I have some tips, but I am no means a pro as every time I go I seem to learn something new. With all that I would love to share with you the tips that have helped us.
MOTION SICKNESS
First, the number one question I always get or concern is motion sickness. Honest to God I have NEVER had an issue and I do get carsick and I do NOT ride round and round rides because of this. I know people really worry about this and I get it, but MOST of the ships are so big you really do not feel it. I will not lie and say you never feel it, but I promise it is rare. There are things you can do to prevent motion sickness as well. Here are a few options that I asked people about, but have never used as it has never been an issue for us.
Again I have never had to use these but I did take the time to ask people who I saw wearing them on the ship and they swore by them. I would also say the majority of people I talked to liked the patch over the bracelet and again not real sure why.
Now that we have that out of the way let's talk packing! We have only been on 7 day, 7 night cruises so here is exactly how I pack.
PACKING
Water shoes were definitely needed on this tour!
I NEVER bring a purse on a cruise. You do not need it unless you want a tiny purse for nighttime for lipstick and powder. I always have a back pack with our swim suits, sunscreen, and cover up so once we board the ship we can change and get to the pools and lunch! The minute we are on the ship we get to our room, lock up our billfolds in the safe, change and let the fun begin! I make sure everyone has a reusable water bottle and pack as many of those in my backpack so we have them once we board as your luggage does not get to your room right away. In my luggage I pack a sundress for each night (pretty much same ones I wore in New York and you can see those here )so 7 dresses, 3 bathing suits, 2 sets of work out clothes, 2 cover ups, depending on my excursions maybe shorts and t shirt for that, a pair of shoes that will go with all of my dresses at night, tennis shoes, walking/water sandals for excursions that are rocky and wet, and flip flops. On excursions if we are going to the beach I just wear my swimsuit and cover up off the ship and shop or play and explore in them as every cruise I have been on is in the Caribbean and that is dress code! If we have an adventure like zip lining or tubing I wear my bathing suit with cut offs and a tank and bring in my backpack a dry bathing suit and cover up to change into. That is pretty much all you need. They talk about dining room dress code and two nights are "formal" and yes you see everything from sequins to a sundresses like mine so if you want to dress up then pack two formal or semi formal outfits. Me, I like to just stick to the sundress and dress it up with some jewelry. I am on vacation for crying out loud. Men do have to wear pants to dinner but khakis are fine, jeans even. My teenagers do get away with khaki shorts, but not sure that would fly with an adult male. Have not tried it. I also bring a fold-able bag for the pool and excursions that I can put in my backpack in the event I need it. Toiletries-I always bring my own, but I will tell you it has been my experience on a cruise all they supply you with is a cheap bar of soap and shampoo so I just bring it all! Besides you can get anything travel size now so I just am happier with my own toiletries. I always pack an umbrella in the event it is rainy, ziplock bags to keep our phones safe from the sand and water, or a waterproof pouch for your phone, sunscreen, and everyone should have a lanyard. You can get these on Amazon, but we always get them on the ship or as we board and everyone gets whatever design they want. Seems like a lot, but I have a secret that helped me out!
My girlfriend Corrine loaned me her cubes and I already bought my own for our next trip! These bad boys are amazing for packing and it kept everything organized and neat and I packed everything above and still had room! So I HIGHLY suggest these and I promise you I will be using them on ALL our trips in the future!
WIFI
In the past we never got Wifi, but these past two cruises we did for a number of reasons and I have to say I just went with the package on board. I am not sure if there is really a way around this and I assure you if you do not do this your bill will be stupid high! Something I did learn though is if you do not want to purchase the Wifi just ask your room steward or waiters or any crew member when you are at port where is the free Wifi. They all know trust me! If you choose to unplug from the world like most of our family does, MAKE sure your phone is in airplane mode!
ATM
We always bring enough cash as there is a safe in your room, however, if you find you're in a bind and you need more DO NOT USE the ships ATM. You will be charged a min. of $5. There is a way around that. Use your sea pass card and go to the Casino. Find a slot machine, put your sea pass card in and deposit the amount you want to withdraw. Once the money is loaded into the slot machine hit the cash out button and take the ticket to the cashier as your sea pass card has now charged your onboard account the amount you wanted minus the extra fees.
CASH
Jeffery with Tree Top Canopy Adventrues in Roatan in 2016!
Speaking of cash we always make sure we have a lot of $1 and $5 so in port we have plenty of money to tip and shop. I found out the hard way in Mexico a lot of the shops did not want to use my credit card so I had to run back to the ship to get more money. I was not far from the ship, but now I know.
Jeffery this year! 2018 with Tree Top Canopy Adventures!!!!! Love this kid!
BOOZE
Our AMAZING cabin Steward from our 2017 Cruise
So here is the deal. If you are the kind of person who when you are on vacation you like a cocktail in your hand then I HIGHLY suggest you get the drink package. We do not drink soda pop and we are fine using our reusable water bottles and filling that with water, but they do have packages for Evian Water, Soda Pop, fancy coffee, and booze. I always tell people decide if you would like it and just get if you think you might be drinking anything from pop to special coffee to booze daily. It will save you money. With that being said each state room is allowed 2 bottle of wine and amazon has some amazing containers you can purchase to bring your own booze on if you are smart. Lucky for our family Trey does not drink and I do not drink that much so we really don't need them as we have two state rooms and 4 bottles of wine is plenty for me. But here are some ideas for you to bring your own in the event you want to, but remember to bring your mixer too as you will get charged for soda water or anything other than tea and lemonade. You can buy booze on the ship in their store and use it, but it cannot leave the ship. What do you do at the end of the cruise if it is not finished? You give it to your cabin steward with a note and his tip and say thanks for taking care of us! We had an amazing week and you played a role in that!
SNACKS
You really don't need snacks while on the ship as there is plenty! With that being said I like my gold fish and wine at 5 so I bring gold fish and I always have protein bars, peanut butter and crackers, cheese and crackers, and nuts for excursion days as sometimes those can be long or the kids do not like the locals food.
SHIPS TIME
This is huge! No matter what time it is at whatever port you are at, the minute you start your cruise until the minute you end it you are on ships time! This is very important as your phone will be in whatever time zone you are in so make sure you remember this! You don't want the ship to sail without ya because that would really cost ya!
DINNER TIME
See my rainbow laynard? That keeps my sea pass card safe and with me at all times.
There are two different times to go to dinner and like everything else in life there are pros and cons to both. You have to choose one or the other as you will sit at the same table every night and have the same wait staff which we always enjoy because you really get to know them. We choose the 5:30 seating for a number of reasons. Kids club is closed on the Royal Caribbean from 5-7, BUT some nights you can send your kid to eat at kids club during those hours which makes for a nice dinner if you have little ones in tow. The other seating is at 8 so yes you will have more pool time, but if you are eating at 8 you miss the 8 o clock show so you have to see the show at 6 unless you are still at the pool, which the shows are amazing so you really want to see them! So as you can see there are pros to 8, but cons and pros to 5:30 but you are leaving the pool early. Con! So decide what is best for your family and just go with it and enjoy! There is an option if you do not want a set reservation. It is called Anytime dining. The pro is you can go anytime. The con you do no get the same table and wait staff which my family always loves getting the same staff so we can really get to know them and learn about their country and families. With all that, however, my friend Ashley said they chose the anytime dining and she called the Royal Caribbean BEFORE they boarded and made a reservation for 7:00 every night and they got the same table and the same staff! So maybe you can and it my opinion it is worth a try if you don't like the 5:30 or 8:00 times because honestly you get the best of both worlds. Same staff and a time that fits your needs.
EXTRA STUFF OTHERS PACK BUT I NEVER HAVE
So if you google how to pack for a cruise you can get a ton of great tips. Things I always see people discuss are an extra power cord to plug in more electronics, an over the door shoe plastic shoe rack to keep things organized, a flashlight, and chip clips or towel clips for your towels to save chairs. Here is the deal. I did all of this on our first family cruise in 2012 and all this extra stuff did was take up space. The extra power cord was not used nor was the over the door shoe rack. Flashlight, well you have that on your phone now. Chip Clips-if you are weird about your towels flapping ok, but you will get a chair. In other words all this extra stuff does is take up space, but if you think you need it and you have the space by all means bring it if it makes you feel better, but I promise you will be fine without it.
WHO WE USE TO BOOK OUR CRUISES
There are all kinds of ways to travel, but I promise you if you have someone who knows what they are doing you get undivided attention for any and all questions and they handle most of the details! We use Brandon with Select Cruises for all of our cruises and we found him because he works with my husband at Southwest Airlines. Very patient, Very kind, and EXTREMELY knowledgeable in the area of travel and cruising! So if you would like to investigate cruising a little further you can find Brandon at cruisewithbrandon@gmail.com or call him at 407-374-9637. Tell him Amy Berry sent ya!
So there you have it! Some useful tips to help you out if you are thinking of cruising. I LOVE cruising and so does my family! Funny story-When Trey and I first got married he was a pilot in the US Navy and he literally said, "We will NEVER go on a cruise!" For those of you who do not know, being in the Navy requires most individuals to do six month tours over seas on a ship, unless of course you are a submariner, then you are on a submarine. So Trey had his share of cruising! But once he had been out of Active Duty for about 7 years we finally convinced him to give it a try and he has NEVER looked back! So we Berry's think you all should give a cruise a go! You might be surprised at what you discover!
Message me with any questions as I always love to help people thinking of taking a cruise! And if you are like me and love cruising and have other useful tips I don't know and could use and share, PLEASE let us know!
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
Hello, World!
Even if you are not going on a Cruise I highly suggesst packing cubes! I will NEVER travel without mine again! The secret is....Roll your clothes! You will be amazed how they look when you get to your destination and how organized you will be!
Salty Kisses, Jungle Adventures, and Cave Tubing on the Berry Family Summer Vacation
If you have ever thought about going on a cruise take a look at our 2018 Summer Cruise. You might decide to jump on it because I am telling you we had a ball! Lots of salty kisses, swimming, adventures, and great family time! Take a look!
If there is one thing you need to know about our family trips, it is that at least once a year we cruise. I am married to a pilot so the last thing Trey wants to do is get into an airplane to get to a destination so we do a lot of driving. Lucky for us we have a few ports within driving distance and we all win. There is no flying, which if you read my post earlier in the week you know I am way O.K. with that, AND we get to beautiful places and do amazing things! This past week was no different!
Royal Caribbean still caters to the young at heart! Graeme Loved all the characters! Especially King Julien!
Side note- we have graduated to the Royal Caribbean and I say this because we have done Disney Cruises in the past and they are WONDERFUL, but with two teenagers now they are past the Disney scene and Royal offers more activities for kiddos their age while still catering to the young. If you are reading this and you have kids that are younger and you are considering a cruise I highly suggest Disney and then you can graduate on to the Royal. However, if money is a factor Royal is probably half the cost of Disney and just as good so keep that in mind. Either way you go you will be happy!
Golden Ticket to Paradise! Your Sea Pass Card!
We set sail on Sunday on the Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas and I will tell you we kind of have this down to an art for our family until this time! We decided we would leave our house a little later and see how the boarding process went and let's just say that was not smart! With that being said I am not sure if it is always like this because I later learned they were having technical difficulties that day with getting everyone their sea pass card. Which speaking of, your sea pass card is as golden as your passport. You MUST have this card to get on and off the ship, it is the key to your room, you can use it to shop on the ship, order food that is not included, which there is plenty included, or for special drinks like Evian water up to booze. So this card is important and they issue it to every human on the ship and this particular day all of their systems on land were down so they only had 4 on board to work with. That was quite an ordeal considering there were 4000 of us! So that made for long lines in hot weather and that was not fun, but once we got through it the fun began! However, with that being said, I would still suggest getting to the port at 11 and then you get to enjoy the ship all day. Just pack a tiny bag with swimsuits, cover ups, sunscreen, and Yeti/waterbottles! Because remember that sea pass card I spoke of? Well it is the key to your room so you have access to your room immediately just not your entire luggage hence the reason behind a small bag with swim gear etc.
Once we finally boarded and got to our room we were all famished so we headed for some grub. Now food is never a problem on the Liberty as they have many options. At lunch the Wind Jammer is always open and they have all kinds of buffet style food from Chinese to hamburgers to salad to you name it they have it. They also have a pizza joint on Deck 5 that is out of this world and the pizza is FREE! There is a Johnny Rockets on Deck 11, however, that is not included in your meal plan so that will cost ya, but it is good. The milkshakes are on point! Once we had some grub it was time to get our cruise on and do what we came to do and that was to sit by the pool and REEEELAX!
Pretty much that is how our days at sea went. Get up, do our first 15, grab some breakfast. Next Trey and Graeme would hit the surf rider and I would hit the gym, all the while Will would sleep in because he stayed up way too late the night before with all the new and exciting friends he met from all over. We would all meet up around 10 or 11 for a check in, Graeme would go to kids club, Will we would not see again until dinner, and Trey and I would hit the pools and REEELAX! It is amazing! Dinner rolls around and some nights Graeme joins us and others he eats at kids club! On nights he would join us we would take him to kids club after dinner, Will again would split off, and Trey and I would have a date night! Yall 7 date nights in a row!!!!!!! It was so good for our marriage! We talked, we laughed, we cried, we dreamed, we danced, and we enjoyed each other. Some days we would even snag a nap or two! Cruising for our family truly is relationship building! We love it! Sea days on every 7 day cruise we have taken are the day you board and the next two days. After that you hit your ports.
Wednesday was our first port and it was beautiful! We were in the beautiful country of Honduras on the island of Roatan. This was my second time to the island and it is still as beautiful as the last and I felt very safe. We took the boys zip lining through the jungles with the group Tree Top Canopy Adventures. This was our second time with this group and I asked for our tour guide from our first experience and he was still there! IF you ever go and do this ask for Jeffery! He is AMAZING especially with the little kids! He is so funny and he makes you feel very safe! This excursion is something anyone who has dreamed of being in the tree tops or gliding through the air like a bird! You literally get to do just that through 28 acres of jungle and mountain terrain! It is so awesome! You cover about 2 miles above the trees and through the trees and it is a site to behold! Especially when you are zipping towards the ocean! By the end of the experience you truly feel exhilarated and on fire. After the zip lines they take you to a beach where you can grab a bite to eat and put your toes in the sand. The first time we went we were dropped at a quiet beach, this time we were dropped at a resort beach and yes it was nice, but there were a lot of people there pushing massages, hair braids, bracelets, blankets, etc on you. It was crazy! Before I knew it I was slammed onto a stool being lathered in oil where not one but THREE ladies were massaging me! I DID NOT even say yes! It was crazy and Trey just sat there watching and laughing because I TOTALLY got bamboozled! And listen people, while I love a good massage, sitting on a beach in the middle of the Caribbean, being slathered in oil, well, I just could not relax. All I kept thinking was this is a recipe for skin cancer! So my advice here, if you find yourself on a beach where you are being swarmed by pushy sales peeps, put your game face on and just say NO! Or else you too will find yourself being slathered in oil while your boys are getting Caribbeans braids in their gorgeous locks! Don't have SUCKER written all over you like I OBVIOUSLY did!
Our next port was Thursday and that was Belize City, Belize. I had never been to Belize and I was very excited about this stop. We decided to do the Cave Tubing Tour and we were with a group called VIV tour and our guide was Karim and he was so good. I cannot say enough about Karim! You start your tour in a car and he takes you on about an hour drive out to the jungles and the caves. All along the way he told us about his country and different sights etc. It was very interesting and even our seven year old was a part of the conversation. Once you arrive at the site you take about a 45 minute hike through the jungle and Karim was our guide and you learn about all kinds of things from trees, to bugs, to animals, to medicinal uses of leaves, and the list goes on. I was so amazed at everything we learned and Karim did such an amazing job of keeping even Graeme involved. It truly was a cool experience. Once we got to the caves we were all given a tube, a life jacked, and a hard hat with a light and we hit the sapphire blue water. You guys this was a very cool experience! You pretty much just get in your tube, lay back and relax as you float through the dark cave, but again Karim knew some very interesting information which just made our experience even cooler! Our float lasted about an hour maybe longer and we ended with the boys jumping from some rocks and just having a bang up time. We then grabbed some lunch from the little village there on site and it was delish! The beans and rice had an underlying taste that I could not put my finger on but I later learned from Karim was coconut milk! So cool! We then got back in the car and headed back to the ship. Our tour that day was amazing and Karim made it even more special. If you are ever in Belize you should look him up with VIV and take his tour. You will not be disappointed. You will learn things you never even imagined and experience the beauty of this beautiful country.
Our last port we hit Friday and it was Cozumel. This time we chose to go to Playa Mia I am not going to lie. If I have to do it again, I probably would not do this. It looks amazing and I am sure for kids it is, but it was more of a beat down for us. Our day in Cozumel there were 6 other ships so that meant 7 ships PLUS the normal tourist. If you did not arrive to this beach by 11 you were out of luck on getting a seat anywhere, luckily we did, and it was just stupid crowded. It was an O.K. time, but nothing spectacular and the food was awful. We probably stayed all of 2 hours total and decided we would have more fun shopping. Which we did so that was a good call on our part. If you go I have a few tips I think would of helped us.
Get there by 10
Great spot if you have multiple kids other than just siblings (Ie. cousins or friends) because Will and Graeme are too different in age to really play together on the water jungle gym which means I was doing it. It was fun, but you guys it is a full on work out in the ocean on that bad boy!
Maybe bring your own food unless you are just jonesing to try theirs, but I promise it is not good and I am not a picky eater.
Bring your own life vest if you have room for the water jungle gym otherwise you are waiting in line. Once you have one you can keep it as long as you are in the water, but once you get out you have to return it and if there are seven ships at port this makes for long lines.
Bring your own snorkel gear or goggles because you do see some cool stuff if you go a little out.
Bring Cash because there are extra activities you can do if you have the $$$$ Like jet ski or water tricycles.
So like I said, once we left there we took to the streets of Cozumel and had a ball. We bought all kinds of stuff and we had so much fun watching Will use his Spanish speaking skills and negotiate with all the people. I was very impressed on how well he speaks the language, but I guess when you have been playing Soccer for as many years as he has you learn things, Spanish being one of those things you learn.
Saturday we woke up to our last day at sea and we did not waste it! We hit the slides, the surf rider, the pools, the shows, the pizza parlor, anything we loved we did! We had a ball! So much of a ball as God as my Witness we have already booked our next cruise! This time we will be bringing JP as we had to leave him behind because he is in his school musical and had rehearsals, so we will have JP, our cousins, and Grandparents! So that will be a big time! It will allow for more intimate dinners and awesome talks, more family time, more date time, more awesome countries, and more vacation time, which all in all equals very blessed time! So there you have it! The Berry Summer Family Vacation! Soon I will share with you how I packed and some tips and tricks if you have never been on a cruise and are considering it! I have an amazing Contact who will set you up and once you step board on the ship your worries will disappear! I will share with you tips I have learned for excursions like what to bring etc. If you are considering a cruise don't miss it! I promise it will be huge because you do not need half the stuff you think you do!
Until then!
XO,
Amy
I have included some video to give you a feel of all the activities you get to do in seven days and this is just a taste! I am telling yall.....cruising is so fun if you are an active family like we are! I promise to send some tips this week and if you are interested but have questions you can message me and I will answer what I can. I even have a contact that can hook ya up! And no it is not me. It is my friend Brandon and I promise he will hook you up!
Hello, World!
Thinking of going on a trip soon? It is the end of the summer and you know what that means! Good deals on Swim Suits!
Things I Am Afraid To Tell You....
We all have things about ourselves we don’t want others to know don’t we? Today I share a few of mine…you might be surprised, ashamed, mad, or not interested at all, but for me it is freeing to admit I am not perfect and it is o.k.
Today I am turning the tables a bit. I am stepping out of my comfort zone and I am going to tell you a few things I am scared to tell you. Why would I do this? I mean after all my goal here is to get readers and a following, why would I do this? Because, I need you to see my life is real. It is not all roses and unicorns. There are some things about me that honestly I am ashamed of, but it is who I am and I make mistakes. A lot of mistakes. So today I will step out of my comfort zone and I will show you the ugly side. Not the pretty pictures where you see of all of us laughing, but the side where I am a human and I too make mistakes. This thing we do called motherhood is hard and it is so easy to feel judged, but what you need to know is you are not alone. We all make mistakes, in whatever season of life we are in, we make mistakes. So let's give ourselves some grace and love and remember no one is perfect. Unless we have walked in that persons shoes we really should not judge. We should just love.
So here we go! Things I am afraid to tell you about me....
I yell. I mean I straight up scream and it is embarrassing to admit. I mean who full on screams at their kids? I do. I lose complete control sometimes and I just can't stop. I have really been working hard on it, but it still do it sometimes and I know my older boys have just gotten to the point where they just ignore me because I am that crazy. Sure they say, "Yes mam" or acknowledge whatever I am going off about, but I know it is falling on deaf ears which is why I wish I could just get it under control. I try. I really do and I will say that since I have started this blog and really been consistent with my quiet time I am doing better, but I do slip sometimes still. When I do I ask for forgiveness and drop to my knees. Does not mean that makes it all better though because I still get sick to my stomach when I stop and realize what I am doing. Because after all if I was a "good mom" I would not do that right?
I am horrible with money! Yep! Just horrible! I don't pay any of our bills and I honestly do not pay attention to our accounts. This is horrible really and I know this. Money for whatever reason has always given me stress and anxiety. I don't know why either because I did not want for anything growing up, but for whatever reason when Trey wants to talk about the budget or look at our accounts I literally break out in hives. Really have no clue why, but I do and I hate paying bills and I hate talking money with ANYONE! Hate it!
I have a huge fear of flying and I am married to a pilot. Ya you heard me. Massive fear of flying. I do it, but I hate it and I dread it! Seriously dread it! Good news here is the last place Trey wants to be on a vacation is on a plane so we take a lot of cruises.
I cuss. It is terrible and as my father always says, "It shows a lack of vocabulary." I know this and I agree with it, but gosh darn it, for whatever reason I have a filthy mouth. I need to really work on this because yall, it is so bad! Not kidding! So yes, I love Jesus and I cuss a little.
So there you have it! Confessions of a yelling, poor money managing, scared to fly, filthy mouth mama who loves Jesus. No I am not perfect. I have good days and I have bad days and sometimes I have really bad days. What do I do on those really bad days, in those really bad moments?
We all need to remember with each new day is a new chance. A new chance to grow and a new chance to change habits about ourselves we don't like. I don't know what it is for you, but for me it is the screaming and the cussing I want to change the most so how am I going to go about it? I am going to do everything I can to get in my first 15! Don't know what I am talking about? Click here! First 15
First 15 is me turning to God! And in the heat of moments I turn to God and I remember I am worthy and you my friend are too! Don't ever forget that! No matter what the mistake is or bad habit is, you are worthy! So look up because we are loved even in the midst of imperfection.
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
Hello, World!
Do you need help finding a daily devotional? Jesus Calling is INCREDIBLE and here are some more ideas!
New York State of Mind Finale!
It’s here! Our final day in the city! It is a day to remember. It was amazing watching JP finish strong and we visited the 911 Memorial. Needless to say, all kinds of emotions. To see more read on.
We have done it! We have made it to the finish line in my recap of New York! Today I will share what we did on Sunday and Monday and I have to warn you parts of it are pretty somber as we visited the 911 Memorial and would you believe we did not make it half way through. I just couldn't. It was so emotional, so dark, and so real, and JP called saying he was done. Secretively I was so glad as my stomach was in knots and my head hurt. I will go back, but I will go back knowing I might not finish it yet again. It is that raw you guys. At least for me it was.
The dark hole
So, we woke up Sunday morning and got JP delivered to the studio safely, grabbed some breakfast and made our way over to the memorial. We started with the original spot of the Twin Towers. You guys, it is amazing what they have done. The hole and the way the water just flows down into the pit is peaceful yet eerie. Peaceful as you listen to the water and know there is life, yet eerie as you look down into this dark hole and you know there was tremendous loss of life. Yet the water keeps circulating and flowing which for me is a sign that those who were lost that fateful day are still with us. They are with us in spirit and the evil that created it is deep down in that pit. That was what I felt. It brought me chills and tears. It is very sobering.
The water flowing to the hole
We made our way inside and at first I was o.k. because it was honestly just pieces of metal and stuff that made it through the fires and collapses that day and for me I could not wrap my head around the pain from that. Everyone is different I know, but for me I could not grasp the gravity.
Metal from the Towers.
The different colors of blue fascinated me.
However, as we moved deeper into the museum that changed. We hit a wall where individuals were asked to paint a watercolor of what they remembered the sky looking like before the attack. This wall got to me. I really cannot answer why, but it moved me in a way that brought me to tears. Maybe it was because the sky was obviously a beautiful blue that morning, a blue that is so peaceful. You get that message loud and clear from the wall and I kept thinking, "Man, what happened that morning turned that beautiful peaceful sky to a dark and lonely color". A color I imagine hell or purgatory being. Not that I believe in purgatory, but I was raised Catholic, so the idea is in my head. That wall was changed from life to death in one hit. Tragic and senseless and that wall got me but good. I loved the quote, " No day shall erase you from the memory of time." I will remember that wall always.
Next we came to the "Survivor's Stairs". It is literally remnants of a staircase that connected the northern edge of the World Trade Center's Austin J. Tobin Plaza to the Vesey Street sidewalk below. These stairs along with an escalator provided an unobstructed exit for hundreds seeking to escape. The guide at the top of the stairs was telling people to literally go down the stairs and just run! "Run as fast as you can". He literally was repeating what a Police officer was saying that dreadful day to all the people trying to escape. It really was paralyzing thinking about what they must of been feeling and how scared they must of been.
The Survivor's Stairs
We then came to a part of the museum that had pictures of the deceased. It was very somber and just thinking about what each person left behind. A child, a spouse, a parent, friend, sibling, and the list goes on. I could not help but cry especially when I saw the children's faces who were lost. It made feelings of anger come up even.
The next area we hit I could not even finish. It was voice recordings of people saying good bye to loved ones on voice mails, stories of people witnessing individuals jumping to their death, and just more stories of death and evil. I could not take anymore. I had to leave. Thankfully JP called right about that time and we did have to leave. I honestly don't think I could take much more.
I am so glad we made it to the memorial and I do hope to go back someday and finish it. Mainly out of respect of all those who lost their lives that day or those who lost loved ones. I don't think I can EVER forget that day even if I wanted too, but I will say this Memorial is a great lesson for those who were not even alive of how good will always over come evil. How on September 11, 2001 we were all united. We saw incredible courage and amazing acts of heroism. We saw this country unite and stand in solidarity together that day and the days that followed. That is what we will remember.
Needless to say the cab ride to get JP was very quiet, but once we got to JP that all changed. Seeing these kids finishing up was an amazing site to see. They were all so happy and so proud and that was just what I needed. We got JP and started heading back to the hotel and on the way back we hit the Black Tap. Have you ever been to a Black Tap? Oh my! If you have not you must go! It is basically a hamburger joint, but the milkshakes! Oh the Milkshakes! These milkshakes can turn any sadness into pure joy! They look joyful and they taste GREAT! So this was just what the doctor ordered for us!
JP and "Asaka" one of the leads in Once on This Island! Yall....she is AMAZEBALLS!
Afterwards Gramzee was whipped so we took her to the room and for our last night, Ginger, JP, and I headed out to Time Square and decided to try our luck at the lottery for the Musical Once On This Island. Would yall believe we won! We scored 3 tickets for $59 each! For those of you who do not know, a Broadway ticket right now is going for about $250 plus! And that is the back row people! Not only did we score 3 seats at such a great deal, they were KILLER seats! We were so pumped!
While we waited for the show to start we headed to Time Square and had a little fun and made our way back. Here are some of our street shots! Ginger was not thrilled with me making her do this, but she played along and loosened up and enjoyed herself and having everyone stare at the "crazy tourist"!
After the show we were all hungry, so........we decided to go out with a bang and get more.......guess......PIZZA! We went back to the quaint restaurant by our hotel, Serafina, and got some more of that delicious black truffle pizza. Three pizzas to be exact and we ate every last bite! Oh yes we did which made for an incredible nights sleep! Ha!
This pizza is so stupid good! I can't even stop thinking about it! I might have to learn to make it!
Dylan's Candy Heaven!
We got up early Monday because JP still needed to hit one more stop. Dylans Candy Store and at first I was like what is the big deal? Well you guys, unless you go you will not understand. It is a kids haven! It is so fun and there is all kinds of fun candy and treats. Perfect place to stop for treats to bring home, but before we could leave the city we stopped at Rue 57 for lunch and I had the french onion soup in honor of my mom, because who in their right mind would order soup when it is 98 degrees outside in New York City! Me! That is who! And I loved every bite of it just like my mom would have! If you like French onion soup I highly suggest Rue 57! After our last meal in the city we headed to the airport and we were back in Dallas before we knew it!
Whew! We are done! I hope you enjoyed reading about our trip as much as I enjoyed reliving it and telling you all about it! I could not be more proud of what JP has accomplished and where it has brought him and I am so thankful I got to share it with my AMAZING Mother in Law and one of the most special people in my life, my childhood bestfriend! How blessed I am!
Me and my Star!
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
Hello, World!
Do you have one of these wonderful gadgets? If not you really should!
New York State of Mind-Part 3
To see more about our amazing adventure in the City read on! I hope you are enjoying it as much as we did!!!!!
Happy Monday, Friends!
Today I am recapping our third full day in New York and I think this might have been my favorite day by far! I mean it was all incredible, but today was almost magical! And I needed that after our emotional night seeing Dear Evan Hansen. If you missed that post you can catch that here: New York Part 2
And if you missed Day one that is here: New York Part 1
Back to day three! We woke up bright and early again and got JP delivered safely to the new studio! Yes they threw us a curve ball and we switched studios, but honestly we knew that would happen and it was a great thing for JP to see more awesome studios in the city. Luckily this studio was close enough we could walk and there was no subway involved. I like it that way! I mean the subway is fun, but let's just say I am happier walking.
JP and his friends!
Once we arrived at the studio everyone was congregating outside as it was still locked and I got to see JP interacting with all the kids. Nothing warms a mother's heart more than to see their child in his or her element and let me tell you he was! As we were about to leave a mom I had yet to meet arrived a little late with her son and I introduced myself to her and her daughter. I am so glad I did too! Her name was Tanya and her daughter was Kyra. I invited them to breakfast with Gramzee, Ginger, Chris and Trish (our other new friends) and I. I am happy to report they came and I had the BEST day with sweet Kyra. She was like my little shadow and being a boy mom let's just say I was in HEAVEN!
We started out getting breakfast at another cute New York diner which I have decided I am totally all about. You can get your eggs anyway you like them and the bacon oh man the bacon!
Our amazing Pedicab tour guide Z!
From there we all decided we wanted to see Central Park. The only problem was it was 98 degrees outside so we decided to do a pedicab. Best decision ever as our tour guide Z was amazing and as hot as it was, the wind in our face was very welcomed! If you ever find yourself in Central Park on a hot day I HIGHLY suggest this route. The horses are put up anyways when it is that hot so why not have someone else do the pedaling for you! IF you are lucky enough to get Z you are in for a real treat! Trust me! You can see him in the Saturday Night Live Video at the end of this post! He is the adorable Pedicab driver in the video! Look for him and if you are in Central Park find him and have him give you his tour. He knows the park inside and out and he is too cute and so funny!
Kyra running through the water at the park. Oh to be a kid and to be free!
Central Park is magical and experiencing it with new and old friends made it even more special. I will remember this day always. I had so much fun and I cannot wait to go back! Here are a few photos of what we saw and did.
JP and Maise! He was so happy to have her there!
We had to be back to the studios early that day as the kids were performing for us. I had some surprises up my sleeve as JP's bestfriend Maise happened to be in the city with her brother who was performing with iTheatrics on another project and JP's Uncle Frankie too! Both of them text saying they could make it to the performance and we got to surprise JP with his own little fan club!
VERY special to all of us to have Uncle Frankie there! Especially since he lives in California! The stars and the moon were aligned and we were all so happy!
I have to say we were all wowed by the show! What this group of kids accomplished in three short days was nothing short of amazing! I so wish I could show you video or pictures from it, but I can't because I was not allowed to video tape. What I can show you is a group photo we were allowed to take at the end of JP and the cast and I promise you EVERYONE of these kids was amazing! The talent was off the hook and I was over the moon proud of my kid! I am still beaming! Yet another experience I will cherish always!
The cast and directors! Everyone in this photo has AMAZING talent! EVERYONE!
I still laugh at how the water comes out of the ceiling!
Needless to say, JP was whipped after rehearsing all day and then preforming so we decided to just grab a quick bite! Guess what we got! Pizza! Just this time it was from a quaint restaurant, Serafina, which was near our hotel and their black truffle pizza was OUT OF THIS WORLD! You have to try it if you are in the city! I am still dreaming about it! LITERALLY! After pizza I stopped in a pharmacy and got huge bags of epsom salts and we all took long epsom salt baths in our quirky tub and hit the sack early.
So there you have it! Day 3! And what a magical day it was!
Later this week I will wrap up our adventure with the 911 memorial, more pizza, a musical, and onion soup in honor of my mom! Oh how I wish she could have experienced this with us. I know she was there in spirit though and I know she is so proud of JP Berry! We all are!
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
The Trishtini
I promised you the recipe on that amazing cocktail my friend invented and today I have it for you! Just in time for the weekend! Cheers!
Remember that drink I talked about yesterday? The Trishtini? if you missed that post you can catch that here: https://worthyheart.com/blog/2018/7/15/the-trishtini
As promised I have the recipe for you today. It comes with a warning.
WARNING:
Drink at your own risk! EXTREMELY delicious! VERY refreshing! SUPER easy to make. Packs a HUGE punch!If you are still o.k. with all of those warnings-then here you go!
THE TRISHTINI
Developed by my friend Trish who lives in Jersey and has a smile that lights up the room! So does her daughter by the way! Side story: Our first day of practices in New York for JP we were riding up the elevator with Trish and her daughter as well as other kids and their parents. One kid was talking about how he had done this a few times and Trish's sweet daughter said she had tried out before, but this was her first time making it. I saw her smile and I literally said, "They saved the best for last! That smile of yours is AMAZING!" And I promise you she got that smile from her beautiful mom! Now back to the point of today's post! The drink that will make you too smile big!
1 Part St. Germaine
1 Part Cucumber Vodka
dash of lemon juice
Top it off with Prosecco
Ginger, Trish, Gramzee and I! Cheers to new friendships and amazing recipes!
We had our bartender shake it up in a shaker with ice and man was it good! Give this one a try sometime and tell me what you think! I promise you will love it!
CHEERS!
Amy
Hello, World!
Need the perfect glass for this amazing cocktail! Grab one here!
New York State of Mind Part 2-
Part 2 of our amazing adventure in the city that never sleeps!
Part 2 of my New York State of Mind begins today! If you missed part 1 you can catch that here: https://worthyheart.com/blog/2018/7new-york-state-of-mind-part-1
Where did I leave you? Thursday night I believe! So Friday morning again we were up and at 'em early as we had to have JP to the studio by 9, fed, hydrated, and with lunch. I am proud to say we nailed the subway and we were there in plenty of time! Thank God JP is a fast learner because he was the reason it was so easy for us.
Once we dropped JP we decided we wanted to take it easy. My mother in law and I had a nice leisurely walk and along the way we met some really nice firemen and did a little shopping. We found a quaint diner, had brunch, and decided we wanted to go back to the room until Ginger arrived to rest. Gramzee took a bath in our quirky tub and a nice long nap and I wrote a little. It was actually perfect as our room overlooked Central Park and I was able to sit and really reflect on what was happening and how awesome of an opportunity this was and is for JP. In the quiet I was able to thank God for all He had blessed me and my family with. It was a moment I will never forget and one I will always treasure. How often do we moms ever get 3 hours of alone time with no disruption to where we can really be present and grateful. Not often enough.
Ginger arrived around 4 and together with Gramzee we made our way back to the Studio to get our boy. We got to the studio early so we met up with one of the other mother's and found a cute little bar and had a delicious cocktail! I have named it the Trishtini as my new friend Trish is who invented it! Let me tell you it is delish and has a punch! Look for the recipe tomorrow! You will not be disappointed, but warning! ONE IS ENOUGH!
Once we had JP we rushed back to the room to get ready for our show. We took the subway and I can tell you after one trishtini I handled that subway like a champ! I guess my inhibitions were down and I did not care if I looked like a tourist because that was the only time I handled it with ease! Ha! We were starving so Gramzee and I made our way to a little grocery on the corner and grabbed all kinds of goodies so JP would not be late to the show.
We made it to the musical in plenty of time and what a show it was! Dear Evan Hansen. All I can say is WOW! If you have kids, if you are on social media (which I assume you are as you are reading this), if you plan on having kids, and if you ever get the chance to see this show I HIGHLY recommend it. I think every human being should see this show! Truly it is that amazing. The entire premise is about inclusivity and the importance of human connection and it was just beautiful. Sad, but beautiful! Of course I cried through the entire show and the thought of kids not feeling loved just kills me, but it is real. They all need to know they are not alone and they will be found. They need to know to just hold on tight and the sun will come up tomorrow. For whatever reason they don't understand tomorrow will come and it kills me knowing my own kids might be feeling this at times and that really tugs at my heart.
When I later asked JP what he thought about the show he said he loved it! I asked what made him cry and he said he has friends who have thought of suicide and his heart hurt for them knowing it. He told me that social media while it is fun and great it can really hurt a person. I could not agree more and I was so glad he saw such a powerful and moving show to really see and feel how social media can create harm and pain. We talked about the idea of EVERYBODY deserves a smile and a hello! That a smile and a hello might save someone's life. So the point here is GO SEE THE SHOW if you ever have the opportunity! You will not regret it! If you don't believe me ask JP! I promise you he will agree!
Of course after the show we had to hit Ray's Pizza for the THIRD time, but hey who is counting? And besides I was averaging 25,000 plus steps a day so I deserved it! Ha!
So there you have Part 2 of New York State of Mind! Be looking for Part 3 as it was yet another amazing adventure in the city that never sleeps!
Until then!
XO,
Amy
Hello, World!
I wish you could see my dress in these pictures, but you cannot. I am still working on my photography skills! The dress is AMAZING and I got so many complimnets and I got it here!
New York State of Mind Part 1
Part 1 of our amazing adventure in the big apple!
So it has been over a week since JP, my amazing mother in law, and my dear childhood friend and I hit the big apple. I think I am still recovering, processing, and wrapping my head around it all. The trip was truly magical and truly amazing on a number of levels that I just don't know where to begin or end. I have decided I will just start at the beginning and the beginning might surprise you.
May 3 at exactly 1:20 pm I happen to be on my email and I received a message titled: DISNEY'S HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL-iTheatrics 2018 Choreo DVD. I opened it immediately and here is a little of what it said:
Congratulations to all who participated in the 2018 Junior Theater Festival Choreography DVD auditions in Atlanta and Sacramento and others who have done amazing things with iTheatrics throughout the year! You should be so incredibly proud of yourselves...your professionalism, flexibility, and talent amaze me. This email is your invitation into the 2018 High School Musical JR. Choreography DVD Shoot cast. Yes, you are cast!
JP's amazing dance teacher who discovered our shining star and is helping me navigate all the excitement! Thank God for Mrs. Megan and everyone at Preston Center Dance
I remember sitting there and thinking, "HOLY HELL! He made it! He really made it! Now what? HOLY HELL! I have to go to New York! YUCK!" I admit it! I said it! But I am proud to say I obviously sent the email on to him and sent him a text saying, "READ YOUR EMAIL NOW!" Then I picked up the phone and called his dance teacher Ms. Megan. I did not have a clue as to what iTheatrics was or is, remember this is all very new for me having a kid in the dance and acting world, and I asked her is this something that I REALLY need to make happen. Well she gave me a resounding YES and I trust her and I know how much she believes in my John Paul that I started working on the details as I needed to have John Paul in New York no later than June 26. Which that alone gave me the hives. I had ZERO desire at that time to go to New York. I had been before as a kid and I remember thinking it stunk and was stupid crowded! Well I can assure you my mind has since been changed and I am happy to report I LOVE NEW YORK CITY! Like REALLY love it! Like that will have to be a post in itself I love it that much!
JP and I getting ready to board our plane. Smiles all around!
Ok, back to JP! Being that I did not want to go I asked my mother in law if she would come with me and she was more than excited to come and my bestfriend Ginger too! So I had two peeps to keep me entertained while JP danced and sang all day which was great! We arrived in New York late on the 26 and my sweet JP had a list of places he wanted to hit. First on the list was Rays Pizza. Let me just say, "WINNER!" That pizza is amazing! Have you ever had it? If not, I highly suggest it should you find yourself in New York and I highly suggest keeping it simple and going with the pepperoni pizza! I knew New York had amazing pizza as my family is from the east coast, but holy cow I forgot how amazing! And boy did it hit the spot after traveling.
BEST PIZZA EVER! RAYS for the win! One happy kid here!
The next day we were all up and at 'em early as we had to get JP to the Ripley Grier Studios by 9 am, with a packed lunch: all the while figuring out the subway system. Now that was a sight to behold! Trust me on that! I am happy to say we figured it out by day 2.5 and I am now the proud carrier of a couple of metro cards with a few rides left on each! Maybe we can use them next year if he gets invited back!
The AMAZING Steven Kennedy kindly booting the parents out! I will let you look him up and see how amazing he is and how BIG this iTheatrics invitation is for JP! I am still in awe after looking into all of the wonderful people working with JP.
Once we made it to the Studio we were allowed to go up for the parent meeting. I was all ready with my pen and notebook and JP was so embarrassed. I seriously thought it was a meeting! Basically it was, "Hi we will have your kids every day until 6. Here is who you check them in and out with. Pack their lunch daily please and send them with water. Check emails because if there are any changes or updates you will get them there. Do not camp out here! There is a Starbucks somewhere for that! Nice to see you, congrats on having such talented kids, now beat it and let us work our magic!" I was like wow! But, hey I realize if this is what he wants to do in life this is good. So I put my notebook up and my mother in law and I headed out to hit the streets.
AMAZING New York breakfast!
On the way down the elevator one of the sweet moms could tell we were new, it was so obvious it was ridiculous, and she asked if there was any questions we had as she had done this with her child already. I was like, "Thank you Jesus! Yes we have a ton of questions!" Then my mother in law piped in, "Can we treat you to breakfast?"
Chris and Trish were amazing! They knew the program and they knew the city which was an even bigger bonus! So we had breakfast, got our questions answered, and headed out. When we started this journey I asked my mother in law, "What do you want to do while we are in New York?" All she wanted to do besides see JP in his element was Bloomingdales and the 911 Memorial. So Thursday was our day to hit Bloomies as Ginger really wanted to see the 911 Memorial and she had yet to arrive.
When I travel I am not one that has a list of places to go like my son JP is. I am more the type of let's walk and experience it all. So I said to Gramzee, aka my mother in law, "According to my map Bloomies is this way! So let's stroll!" That is just what we did and we had THE BEST time! We happened across Bryant Park. It is this park that has ping pong games going, water fountains, pop up shops, a reading nook, and it was just so quaint and we just really loved it! I highly suggest you going there should you be in the city. It is so sweet! I imagine during the holidays they really do it up!
Right next to Bryant Park was the public library and again it was so beautiful! We did not actually go in but we admired the architecture and statues outside. We kept walking and low and behold found St. Patricks. For those of you who do not know, my mom was VERY Catholic and my dad still is. We walked over and we were going in to light a candle and would you believe they were starting a mass. Actually I have since learned there is a Mass all the time, but I took it as a sign from my mom that she was actually with me. My mother in law asked me if I would like to stay and attend and of course I did. I cried a little, but honestly they were happy tears as I could feel my mom's presence. It really was a magical moment for me. After mass we kept walking and found a quaint french restaurant and had a MAGNIFICENT lunch. I wish I could remember the name, but for the love of God I can't! All I can say is it was delish and is about three blocks down from Bloomingdales! Which we hit hard! So hard I made a friend at the Clarin's counter. Grace! She is amazing and if you are ever in New York and find yourself in Bloomies, you really should stop by her counter and ask her for a quick facial. It was AMAZING and so is she! She had me refreshed, refaced, and ready to get JP and hit the city at night!
The amazing Grace of Bloomies! So lucky to have crossed paths with her!
After our facials we got to JP, thanks to Grace's help in hailing a cab! Another site to behold, my mother in law and I trying to hail a cab! Grace saw the trouble we were having and graciously helped and we made it to JP just in the nick of time! We got JP and we headed to another spot on his list. Ellen's Stardust Cafe, which for those of you newbies like myself, is a very touristy but really neat experience. Especially if you are into the Broadway Musical Scene. Basically in a nutshell your waitstaff are Broadway performers who are in between shows or trying to get a show and they entertain you your entire meal. A lot of fun and I highly suggest you going if you love Musicals and singing! We had a ball and little side note. Go between 5 and 6:30 and your wait will be a lot less than after 6;30. Anything after 6:30 can take up to 2 hours. So take it from me. Try to get there before 6:30, but even if you don't, New York is the best place to people watch, so why not do that in line at Ellen's Stardust Cafe!
Gramzee was in good hands!
After dinner sweet Gramzee was spent so JP and I put her in a bike buggy and sent her home and we headed to Time Square! Want to talk about amazing people watching! It is the melting pot of people watching and JP and I loved every minute of it! From the Pot Mobile, to the painted naked people, yes you read that right, to all the interesting sights and sounds! It was a site to behold and one I am so glad to have experienced with my sweet JP and one that I will remember always. Ever have moments like this?
After that, we headed back as JP had to be up and ready to hit the dance floor by 9 am for another full day in practice. But we first made another stop at Ray's Pizza! JP LOVED their pizza! So we did and yes I am happy to report I ate it again too! I think I ate my way through the city and what a city to eat your way through! They know how to make their food! So we had our late night pizza and hit the sack!
So there you have it folks! Part one of New York! I can't wait to share Part 2 with you later this week with a New York State of Mind!
XO,
Amy
Hello, World!
Have I told you about the AMAZING shoe that I walked all over New York with! It was such a blessing to be able to wear sandals in the heat of the summer and these sandals are amazing for your feet!