Girl's Get A Way Cruise

Do you Remember the Hat Contest?

2011-05-23T06:51:00.000-07:00

We had a BLAST!!

Meet Donna Gaines!

2011-05-07T12:29:00.000-07:00

We are so thrilled to have Donna Gaines sailing with us this year. Now, maybe you don't know Donna, but you are going to just love her!

GGA Blogger Mary: Donna, tell us a little about yourself? Who is Donna Gaines?

Donna: I am a wife and mother of four and grandmother of three. My husband is a pastor and I love the local church. I have been teaching and writing Bible studies for over 20 years and love to see women get excited about knowing Christ personally and then sharing Him with others.

Mary: Twenty years! Whoa -- that's a while. What keeps you going?
Donna: I desire to teach God’s Word in such a way that it comes alive for the hearers who then desire to know God’s Word and live it out!
I desire to take part in fulfilling the Great Commission!

Mary: Seems you have a heart for ministry. What area of ministry calls you most?
Donna: I am called to women’s ministry. I love women – they are the heart of the home. I enjoy teaching them in America and around the world – we are really the same everywhere.

Mary: What are you looking forward to on the Girl's Get A Way cruise?
Donna: I am looking forward to spending some special time with our youngest daughter, Bethany, who will be a freshman in college.

Mary: How wonderful!! I'm hoping to bring my youngest, too! Paige will be freshman at Mississippi State.

Mary: What do you hope women walk away from your session with?

Donna: I hope they leave with a greater desire to know God intimately through His Word and a sense of responsibility and urgency to be about Kingdom business. We are living at the “End of the Story” and we must not waste our time on things that do not matter!!

Mary: Donna thank you so much for your time and for your heart to serve women. We are all so excited about hearing your speak!

And now, the just for fun stuff: Okay, "would you rather time." Respond to each with your choice, then give a brief explanation.

Would you rather:

1. Eat fried chicken or a burger?

They are both great picnic foods – but I would probably choose fried chicken – I am a true southern girl!

2. Fancy restaurant or hole in the wall?

Fancy restaurant – I do enjoy ambiance.

3. Sweet tea or unsweetened?

Sweet tea – see question 1.

4. Elvis, Paul McCartney, or Jon Bon Jovi?

Elvis – I am a Memphian.

5. Beach or snow skiing?

Now that is a tough one!! I love them both – the beach would probably win out.

6. Chocolate pie or chocolate cake?
Anything chocolate is always at the top of the list. Just don’t get between me and my chocolate!

7. Power to read minds or the power to stop time?

Stop time – I would freeze my children and grandchildren and enjoy uninterrupted time with them.

8. Eat a cup of worms or a cup of spiders?

Definitely worms – I hate spiders!!! Besides, worms would go down easier.

Hello April!! Only 9 months to go!

2011-04-08T18:23:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's only nine months until we cruise again! It seems like a long way off, but it will be here before you know it.

Nine months until we hit the high seas together!

We have so much fun planned for all you blog readers -- interviews with our speakers and musicians.... and our Zumba girl (you're going to love her story... she met us on a cruise and now she's our official Zumba girl). We have fun giveaways planned and so much more!

Nine months gives you enough time to book and have really low payments -- $100 deposit and only $105 a month (for eight months)! But you have to book in the month of April to get these payments.... so call today!

800-889-5265 - and tell them Mary sent you!

It's a Girl Thing!

2011-03-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

And the Girl's Get A Way cruise is a Girl Thing!

With incredible speakers & Bible teachers -- Angela Thomas and Lysa TerKeurst to name just two and the hilarious Chonda Pierce and three of the funniest guys I've ever met, 32 Improv, this is going to be one fantastic cruise!

And the prices are very affordable -- just $898 per person (with two in a cabin) and that includes port fees, taxes, gratuities, all the food you can ever want to eat, water, tea, coffee, lemonade, all the speakers, devotionals, teachings, concerts, and comedy -- that's everything you need for a great girlfriends get away!

Oh, and you can set up a payment plan! Yes, just $100 down per person and your payments are only $89 for nine months (if you book in the month of March)!

So grab your girlfriends and come along. But hurry, these great deals will sell out. Call our office at 800-889-5265 to book today!

Subscribe to the blog where you'll read about the speakers, teachers, singers and also our Zumba instructor! Yes, we have a certified Zumba instructor traveling with us!

Have you booked yet?!!

2011-02-22T14:50:00.000-08:00

Hi all!

Can you believe it's almost March 2011? January 2012 is going to be here before we know it!!

We are sailing on the beautiful Royal Caribbean ship - Liberty of the Seas -- this ship has an ice skating rink!! Can you believe it?

If you book this month -- it's $100 down and only $83.80 a month for ten months (per person -- with two in an interior cabin).

Girls, you don't want to miss this cruise!! Lysa TerKeurst, Angela Thomas, Chonda Pierce, and so MANY MORE!!

So Thrilled for Her!

2011-01-18T08:33:00.001-08:00

Many of you met Lysa TerKeurst on our last cruise and we are thrilled that she’s cruising with us again! I wanted to let you know about some exciting stuff happening with Lysa’s new project Made to Crave.
(Which will be on the New York Times Bestseller list next week! Way to go!! )

If you haven’t heard about Made to Crave you have to run right over there and check it out. It’s about craving God over food – or anything that you focus your time and attention on. It’s about strengthened your walk with Him as you really consider what you are putting into your mouth.

Now before you decide that this is way to diet like for you, let me just say this: I felt the same way until I read the first few pages of this book and OH MY WORD! Lysa has the same struggles as I do – and she shares them …. in a book!

Oh, and it gets better. Lysa is doing a live webcast each week – and it’s free! You’ll find it on Monday nights at 7pm Central Standard Time at the Made to Crave website. Just show up! It’s amazing. Each week (from Jan 10 –Feb 14th) Lysa talks about the journey of craving God and she has a guest or two with her.

And on January 31st I will be her guest! Yes, you read that right.. me! Why, you ask? I don’t have a clue, it’s a God thing. But I tell you this Made to Crave is truly making a difference in my life. The weight is coming off, very slowly, but more than that it’s about my relationship with God – it’s changing, growing deeper, and more focused. When I’m frustrated I turn to prayer & scripture instead of chocolate chip cookies and chips. And I remind myself that Jesus loves me no matter my size and this helps me make better choices.

I hope you’ll take a look at Made to Crave and I hope you’ll tune in on January 31st! I would love to know you’re out there!

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T18:27:00.001-08:00

In just a few hours 2010 will be a memory and nothing more. It was a great year! We sailed together on the Grandeur of the Seas and we had a blast!

We wore great hats!

We chatted with some great artists and speakers!

We hung out and enjoyed our time together!

Let’s have fun in 2011 as we get ready to sail in 2012!

Happy New Year! I hope you will sail in 2012!

Have you BOOKED for 2012?!

2010-12-09T08:27:00.000-08:00

It's TIME! Yes, it's time to book for the NEXT Girl's Get A Way Cruise.... and I'll let you in on a little secret....shhhh.....

if you book now you get the best cabins for the most affordable prices... and you can spread you cost out over 12 WHOLE months with NO INTEREST!

So let's say you want to book today! (And you SHOULD!!)

For an inside cabin, you put down a $100 deposit per person (What a great Christmas present!)
Your payments will only be $75 a month for 12 months!
But you have to book in December 2010!

So grab that girlfriend and book TODAY!!
Call 1-800-889-5265 and tell them you read about it on the Blog!!

Do You Know Who I Am – Angela Thomas

2010-11-02T13:24:00.001-07:00

Many of you had the chance to meet Angela on board the ship! She is such a joy!

I am so excited to tell y’all about this new book -- Do You Know Who I Am and other brave questions women ask by Angela Thomas.

Angela told me about this project months ago when she was still knee deep in the writing process – and I fell in love with concept. And this book meets my expectations and then some. Let me share with y’all a little bit about it.

Angela asks God if He really knows her, sees her and loves her right where she is in the midst of her life. In return God asks if we know just WHO He is. It’s wonderful biblical teaching on the character of God.

Each chapter mirrors a time in my spiritual life – some more recent than others, but all applicable to me and probably every woman out there walking this life in Jesus.

I love the opening chapter -- I Am Afraid to Dream Big … He Is Worthy

Oh girls, how many times do we put God in a box with words such as “I just can’t do that” or “I don’t have that gift" or some other sad excuse to cover up our fear? We ask God do you know I’m afraid to dream big? I’m afraid of what may be ahead?” And God answers us “do you know Who I Am – I Am Worthy.”

Angela takes us into the book of Ephesians for some rich application on what we have received from God --

God has provided you with every spiritual blessing (1:3)

God gives you a glorious inheritance & His incomparable power (1:18-19)

God has prepared good works for you to do (2:10)

And the list goes on and on. This page is highlighted, tagged and written all over – it’s a great list to keep beside you when you feel a little down or unworthy.

I could talk/ write about every chapter but I’ll just share the titles:

I am Invisible … He is My God Who Sees

I Am Trembling Inside … He is My Comfort

I Am Worn Out … He Does Not Grow Weary

I Am Suffering with a Thorn … He is My Sufficiency

I Am a Sinner … He Is My Savior

I Am Lonely … He is Here

I Am Undisciplined … He Is My Strength

I Am Hesitant … He Is Generous

I Am Ordinary … He is My King and Father

I Am Broken…. He is My Redeemer

I Am Disappointed… He Is My Hope

Angela teaches us the secret to being known by God is understanding who God is – and that He does see us and love us right where we are. God loves us even when you’re knee-deep in toddlers and the most exciting thing you can accomplish is taking a shower. God sees you right there.

God loves us when we are afraid, lonely, frightened, hurt – God sees each one of us and He has a purpose for each one of us.

I encourage you to pick up Do You Know Who I Am. It’s filled with wonderful storytelling, spot on biblical application and heartfelt insight.

I was given a copy of this book for review, but I would have bought it anyway!!

I have one to give away to y’all! So comment away and I’ll select the winner (by random drawing) on Friday!

Cruise News

2010-10-21T13:26:00.000-07:00

So many stories and so many people! I didn't get to hear every story on board, so now is the time to share them.

Did you do something funny?

Or find yourself wearing two different shoes... oh wait, that was me!

What about your excursions?

Tell us about your time on the cruise!

I want to hear your stories, I'm really tired of my own.

2010 Cruise… What a BLAST!

2010-10-18T11:21:00.001-07:00

I’m sitting in the Ft Lauderdale airport waiting to fly home. It’s been an incredible 5 days of fun, food, laughter, sun, food, speakers, music, food, and then more food.

We had so much fun! Hurricane Paula threatened to send us some difficult weather but God had a different plan for this group of His girls!

Key West was beautiful and fun – but I didn’t get to visit Ernst Hemmingway’s home and the six toed cats.

Cozumel was hot, but still beautiful! The water was incredible – I don’t think I’ve ever seen that color blue.

My favorite part – you. I loved sailing with each of you! We laughed, cried (at Karen’s movie), ate (I did this part a lot), sang, listened, learned, worshipped and just enjoyed each other.

I’m exhausted but already excited about sailing again in 2012!!

Karen and Betty! More news about Betty later.

The beautiful Grandeur of the Seas.

Answers to ALL your questions.....

2010-10-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

EIGHT days!

Can you believe it? I fly into Ft. Lauderdale next Tuesday and I am so excited!
I just spent a week in the office with the sales staff and they are all so excited to get on this cruise. Can't wait for you to meet everyone... but until then let's answer some of those questions.

AND, you're going to LOVE this, we will have a live chat Thursday, Oct. 7 at 8pm Eastern time. Here's the link to it:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/premier-christian-cruises

Janet is going to answer questions about the cruise but until we go live with Janet let me answer some of the questions now:

Are we having any special activities on board? YES! We have a hat contest! We'll have 3 categories -- originality, creativity, and go big! We also have a grand prize winner -- Top Hat! So create a great hat -- you never know what you might win!

Is there a PJ party? Yes!! We are having a PJ/ movie party. We're watching Like Dandelion Dust based on Karen Kingsbury novel. Get your tissues out -- there will be some tears!

Are we the only people on the ship? We are sharing this ship, but we do all eat at the same time and have all of our events together. It's really like two cruises in one -- you get all the wonderful features of a Royal Caribbean cruise with all the incredible speakers, artists, and contests of a Premier Christian Cruise!

How do you get the wrinkles out without an iron? You can have your outfit sent out to be pressed or bring along a bottle of Downy Wrinkle Release and relax... it's vacation time!

Make plans to join the LIVE chat on Thursday, Oct 8th for more answers!
See you all very soon!!

15 DAYS to go.... Q&A time

2010-09-28T12:39:00.000-07:00

Hi girls! It's ALMOST time to sail!

Can you believe it?

It's time for Questions and Answers --
What are your pressing cruising questions? If I don't have the answer, we'll find the answer.

I was shocked to learn we are not allowed irons on board -- yikes! But you can bring your flat iron -- and that's good.

So let's get those questions rolling. And remember, we've all been a first time cruiser -- don't worry, just ask away.

Mary

And the Winners are.....

2010-09-28T12:30:00.000-07:00

We have three winners of the Girl's Get A Way cruise surprise pack:

Charity Beecham
Shana Yandle

Susan Copeland

Contact me at Mary@PremierChristianCruises.com and I'll get your prizes to you!

Mary

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

47 50 24
Timestamp: 2010-09-28 19:23:55 UTC

Countdown to Cruising 2010 - WIN PRIZES!

2010-09-21T07:57:00.000-07:00

23 Days until we sail!!!!!

It's going to be an amazing cruise and we'll all be together in a matter of weeks.... until then let's have some fun.

Comment on this blog with your name/ state and I'll pull a winner for a Girl's Get A Way cruise -- surprise pack!

Let's get it rolling -- remember name & state!

Are you READY to CRUISE & WIN!

2010-09-07T08:05:00.001-07:00

I love fall! And I love it even more this year because we are cruising in only ….36 days!

Can you believe it’s almost here?

We have so much fun planned!

Don’t forget to pack your hat for the contest. You don’t want to miss these prizes!

Also, have you entered The GREAT Makeover! Do you need a new look? Or have a friend who’s in need of an updated look? Enter today!

Take a look at the cruise hotel…..

Doesn’t it look wonderful!!

See you all VERY SOON!

The GREAT Makeover Event!

2010-08-26T08:30:00.001-07:00

Ladies, we are so EXCITED to have Shari Braendel joining us on the cruise. And if you’ve not met Shari you are in for a treat!! She’s the fashion & beauty guru we all love.
And she has a great new book Good Girls Don’t have to Dress Bad that is not only wonderful, it’s practical. We are thrilled that Shari has agreed to put her talent and wisdom behind The GREAT Makeover Event!
One lucky woman will win a MAKEOVER complete with fashion and beauty consultation from Shari.
If you want to nominate someone (and yes, you can nominate yourself) we will need just a little bit of information and a photo. That’s all – no video (which we initially requested, but have since changed this).
So click here -----> Makeover to enter TODAY!

And the winner is…..

2010-08-26T07:39:00.001-07:00

Random Integer Generator

The winner of the Jonny Diaz CDs …..

Oh, let’s just pick TWO winners!!

Michelle Cyrus

Janice

Ladies, send your mailing address to Mary@Premierchristiancruises.com!!

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:
13	
Timestamp: 2010-08-26 14:28:29 UTC

Here are your random numbers:
5	
Timestamp: 2010-08-26 14:36:26 UTC

Cruise News …. & MORE!

2010-08-11T11:24:00.001-07:00

Only 2 months until we cruise.... can you believe it!

First, for the cruise news....

You'll be receiving your cruise packets in the mail within the next couple of weeks.
They are going in the mail the first of next week, so watch for them.

Hat Contest

October 15th is Hat Day! This is your chance to wear your biggest, loudest, most colorful hat. Bring your favorite vintage hat, fun big hat, or create a fun new hat. It’s all up to you!

The anonymous judges will be looking for winners in different categories:

Creative
Size – the bigger, the better
Original
Top Hat -- the hat above all other hats

And the prizes…. oh my, the prizes… well, you’re just going to have to wait until we’re on board but let me tell you…. they are wonderful prizes!

The GREAT Makeover!

You are going to LOVE this contest! Do you have a friend or family member (who’s coming on the cruise) who is just fashion challenged? This is your chance to help a girl out!

Enter her in The Great Makeover contest. You’ll need to share why she needs a makeover and humor does count! Also, you need a video entry. This is a simple video of you sharing why your friend or family member needs this makeover. You can make the video with most any digital camera or webcam and upload it to youtube or other hosting site. The entry can be found here -----> Entry

The winner wins --

Makeover with Shari Braendal the author of Good Girls Don’t Have to Dress Bad and a featured guest on the cruise!

And one more contest to share…..

Talent- LESS Show

That’s right! No talent, talent show. If you have a strange, odd, or downright embarrassing ability or skill , then you are the PERFECT candidate for talent – less show!

And for all you talented singers, dancers, musicians, and other artists – this is not for you. We are looking for the gal who truly doesn’t have a talented bone in her body, but does possess some odd skill.

Only two months to go!! Can’t wait to see you on board!

Say hello to Johny Diaz & Giveaway!!

2010-08-06T13:08:00.000-07:00

Jonny Diaz is joining us on the cruise in only...... 68 days!!!

I recently asked Jonny a few questions.

What are you looking forward to on the Girl's Get A Way Cruise?

I'm looking forward to playing my song, More Beautiful You, and hopefully hearing stories of how God is using this message in the girls' lives.

What is your favorite scripture?

Micah 6:8

What is something most people don't know about you?

I have a natural ability to balance things on my chin (i.e, my guitar)

"More Beautiful You" Music Video

Jonny Diaz | MySpace Music Videos

We are giving away a set of TWO autographed Jonny Diaz CDs
Stand for You (w/ More Beautiful You)
&
They Need Love

To enter, share what you are looking forward to on the cruise.

*I was not compensated in any way for this giveaway. Products were provided by artist.

Kenn Kennington! Comedy on the Cruise

2010-08-02T13:11:00.000-07:00

Welcome Kenn Kington to the Girls Get A Way Cruise!

You will love this funny guy!

Enjoy the video!! and check out his website at KenKington.com

Countdown to Cruising!!

2010-07-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

Only 103 DAYS until we cruise!!

I'm so excited and can't wait to see each of you face to face!! We have so much to do between now and then... like great giveaways!

Watch for Giveaways to BEGIN very soon.... and we are giving away tons of great stuff. Books, Music and oh so much MORE!

Have a great weekend and Happy Independence DAY to you!

Winner of Swimsuits for All!

2010-06-24T14:49:00.000-07:00

We have a winner!!

Congratulations to:

katerina H said...

I would love a chance to win a swimsuit I just told my mom I needed to get one before I go on the cruise ksh_kitty_11@hotmail.com

Jun 18, 2010 7:49:00 AM

You are the winner! I'll be contacting you with all the details!!

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

18

Timestamp: 2010-06-24 21:46:26 UTC

Free Cruise Give Away from Lysa Terkeurst

2010-06-16T21:08:00.001-07:00

Lysa Terkeurst is one of my favorite speakers and writers. She is also one fun girl to be around and I’m so excited she’s joining us on the Girl’s Get A-Way cruise.

I’m so excited to let y’all know about her new website and to celebrate she’s giving away a free cruise for two. You can find all the details at Lysa’s new website.

Don’t forget to enter the $100 giveaway from Swimsuits for All!!

Giveaway! $100 at Swimsuits For All!

2010-06-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

Swimsuit Season is here!

I love the summer, but I struggle with the swimsuit selection. All look cute in the magazine, on the mannequin or on the 6 foot, 100 lb model.... but how will they look on me? And then I found the most INCREDIBLE web site -- Swimsuitsforall.

The swimsuits are created for real girls (like us) and the models are real women. My favorite part is they tell you the model's size. It really helps me figure out what would look good on my slightly fluffly frame.

The wonderful people at Swimsuits For All have offered to host a giveaway for us! It's a $100 gift certificate! And y'all you can get some CUTE stuff at this place. You can search by size, by type and you can even search by 'fit solution' -- I'm looking at the 'slim my tummy' section. Even if you're not in the market for a swimsuits they have some cute cover-ups, but who wouldn't want one of these cute suits! Just take a look:

I LOVE this cute tankini! Love it.

And I LOVE this navy sarong style suit. Cute and modest!

You'll also find lots of swimsuits, cute coverups, and so much more!

Now -- the important part. How to ENTER!

Go to Swimsuits for All web site -----> click here
Join the mailing list
Leave a comment here on the blog to enter (PLEASE put your email address in the comment so I can contact you if you win! )

You can get an additional entry if you invite your friends to follow us on facebook.

Join the Facebook page -----> click here
& invite your friends to our page by clicking the 'suggest to friends' on the left side of the page
Leave comment here on the blog to enter (Please put your email address in the comment so I can contact you)

Have fun and I cannot WAIT to giveaway this gift certificate! What fun!!

Win a Cabin on the Girl’s Get A Way Cruise!

2010-06-01T23:19:00.001-07:00

We are blessed to have Angela Thomas sailing with us! She’s a sweet spirit who delivers a powerful God-given message! She will make you laugh out loud and she’ll make you think about where you are in your walk with Jesus. She is a talented speaker, gifted writer, incredible Bible teacher and lover of Jesus. On top of all this Angela is hosting a

CRUISE GIVEAWAY!

For all the details click here -------> Girls Get A Way Cruise Giveaway!

If you’re sailing with us, pass the word along to a girlfriend! And what a blessing if she wins! I’m telling all my girlfriends to enter … today!!

Oh, and when you see Angela on the ship, tell her Thanks!

Happy Mom's Day!!!

2010-05-09T17:44:00.000-07:00

To all the Moms out there -- hope you had an incredible day!

Only 157 days until we sail!!!

Mother's Day Special!

2010-04-26T17:53:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for an incredible Mother's Day surprise? Just take a look at this!

Free stateroom UPGRADE!

You can buy an interior cabin and upgrade to an oceanview!

Don't wait, there are only a limited number of these available and they'll go quickly!

Winner of Initials, Inc Giveaway

2010-04-14T21:56:00.000-07:00

The Winner of the $50 product gift certificate from Initials, Inc

Number 27

Janice from Georgia!

who loves the Smart Tote in Cosmo

Congratulations to Janice!

Watch for more giveaways coming soon.

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

27

Timestamp: 2010-04-15 04:57:41 UTC

Giveaway Time w/ Initials Inc!

2010-04-06T06:59:00.001-07:00

It's about that time.... we are six months (and a few days) from the cruise and it's time to start the GIVEAWAYS!

I wanted to start off with something new and different.... and I found it!

Initials-Inc

When I saw this tote I knew ......

Initials Inc and Girl’s Get-Away Cruise may just be a match made in heaven!

I can just see this tote with all my carry-on stuff in it – because, as you may know the airlines LIMIT you to only 2 bags to carry on and, get this, they consider your purse as one of the two! So, I see this tote as my new purse … and the name of this tote is Resort Tote. How perfect!

But there’s more …

(Conveniently with my first initial on it and in PINK!) Love it!

Or you can get it in the gorgeous Oasis print

Can you just see this as your money, id, lipstick bag? I can, oh I can!

There is so much more like these darling items.

Oh, my there is still so much more and you can see it all in the sassy catalog here -----> Catalog

But y’all are waiting on the giveaway part aren’t you… well, hang on we are almost there.

I just want to share one MORE thing with you…..

you can become an Initials Inc creative partner!

My oldest daughter saw this….

(yes, that’s a monogram decal) and fell head over heels in LOVE with Initials Inc. She joined as a Creative Partner just a few days ago and she’s already taking orders! Apparently a monogram for her car was something she’s been looking for and not just ANY monogram, but one she can customized with fonts & colors!

You can check it out at ----> Creative Partners

And I know there are so many who are looking to add a little to the family income.

So you want to get to that giveaway, right?

Win a $50 gift certificate you can use toward any product or products in the catalog!

Here’s how you enter.

Take a look in the catalog

Come back here and share your favorite items and colors.

REMEMBER – to put your EMAIL address! I have to be able to reach you to get the information to you!

Have fun and enjoy shopping!!

Lead a Group & Cruise Free!

2010-03-25T16:27:00.000-07:00

Whether you've booked your cabin months ago or are waiting for your tax refund or another windfall, you can still cruise free.

Just gather up friends, fill six cabins (including your own) and you sail free. Lisa C. is the queen of gathering up a group -- to date, she has twenty cabins in her group! And yes, she's sailing free and so much more.

I want to introduce you to Lisa and let her tell you a little bit about her method of leading a group.

Susan, Lisa, Karen Kingsbury

How did you get started as a group leader ?
I sailed with a group of 12 last year -- my first Girl's Get Away cruise.

You started with a few cabins – how many did you have at first?

While on the last Girls Get -A-Way Cruise I booked 12 cabins for this cruise. When some of the ladies had to drop out , I put the word out to all the churches near me and let friends know we had extra cabins that needed to be filled.

How many cabins do you have now? We have 20 cabins in our group now.

How many women in your group are from your church?
Seven are from my church and nine are from the area. That's 16 of us who are all very good friends.

How did you find the women who aren’t from your church?
I told all the other ladies and had them spread the word. I let local churches know about the cabins and I put it up on my facebook page and on the Girl's Get-A-Way page, too.

With such a large group, how do you manage keeping up with everyone?
For the 16 ladies who live in my home town, we meet once a month. For the other ladies who live out of town, most are on Face book , and for the ones that aren't I email them . I send updates by email and face book to all my ladies, at least twice a week.

You are the leader of our largest group on Girl’s Get Away cruise. What advice would you give to a women who is starting her first cruise group?

First of all you must open your heart and be a friend to everyone , Each lady is going on this cruise for different reason , love them like Christ would. And be willing to spend at least six hours a week on the internet , answering question and sending information to the ladies. I have met some wonderful ladies by doing this, and have developed friendships that will last a life time.

Thanks Lisa! And look for her on the cruise.

If you'd like to cruise free, just like Lisa, all you have to do is:

fill six cabins (and this includes your own cabin)

You'll get:

free sailing
$200 discount for every cabin booked in your group
$50 cash bonus for each cabin booked

Start today! For every cabin booked in your group, you'll earn the $50 bonus and they get a $200 discount per cabin.

If you're ready to be a group leader call me, Mary, at 800-889-5265 x 221.

Book NOW - Pay Later!

2010-03-17T05:28:00.000-07:00

Tax Refund Special

Have you booked your cabin? Well, there's still time and you can book your cabin between now and April 15th for only a $1 deposit!

Pay in full when you get your tax return before June 15th and never have a monthly payment!

Make sure you mention "TAX REFUND SPECIAL" when booking!

Don't wait, the cruise is 70% sold out! You don't want to miss this one!! We're going to have a blast!

Idea Time!

2010-03-03T14:15:00.000-08:00

We've had some great ideas:

Thanks Deb from WI ideas.... build your own sundae! You KNOW I love me some ice cream. The Blogger meet & greet at the hotel & on the ship for those who aren't at the hotel. The door decorating contest and the PJ party....

What else?

Ideas! This is your chance to share your favorite or even your most outrageous idea for the cruise.

Share away!!

$100 off Facebook Special!

2010-03-02T18:42:00.000-08:00

It's a Facebook Special!

Have you booked yet? Book now and mention the $100 off Facebook Special and you'll get... well, $100 off your cabin.

It's that easy and that simple.

If only more in life were that simple.....

Swimsuit Time!

2010-02-23T21:46:00.000-08:00

They're out there -- in the stores. And snow is still on the ground. Well, not here but I live in the South. But you get my meaning.

As I wandered through Target the other day, I ran smack into the a rack of swimsuits. And it got me to thinking ... about diets and about swimsuits.

Not two things that I want to think about in the middle of February, but think about it we must.

What about you... do you have your swimsuit, yet?

We sail in 7 months.

Save $100 off your Cabin! Book NOW!

2010-02-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

Super Early Bird Special ends tomorrow! February 12, 2010

Book now & save $100 off your cabin!

Go HERE to book your cabin now!

Or call 1-800-889-5265 and talk to a cruise consultant!

Don't miss the boat!

Super Early Bird Ends Feb 12th! Save $100!

2010-02-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

Have you booked yet? The cruise is over 50% sold out! Don't wait!

Book your cabin by Friday, February 12, 2010 and you'll SAVE $100 per cabin.

You DO NOT want to miss this cruise!

Lysa Terkeurst & Angela Thomas
Karen Kingsbury & Shaunti Feldhan
Nicole C Mullen & Rebecca St. James
Mark Harris & Johnny Diaz
Scott & Melissa Reeves & The Spa Girls

And these are just SOME of the speakers and artists on the cruise.

Book by Friday and save that $100 per cabin! Oh, also you can still set up monthly payments to make it easy and affordable.

Call Premier Christian Cruises today at 1-800-889-5265 or head over to the website at www.girlsgetawaycruise.com/
and book your cruise today!

Your Ideas NEEDED

2010-02-08T05:58:00.000-08:00

The cruise is only a eight months away. That may sound like a LONG time, but it will be here before we know it. So let's start planning NOW!

We've had several people ask about a door decorating contest. This is something that Premier Christian Cruises KLove Friends & Family Cruise has. (Check out the doors on facebook )

We've also had requests for PJ parties. A grown up pageant (with no winners or losers, just tiaras & sashes for all).

What would YOU like to do? Beyond the wonderful music and incredible speakers.

Share your ideas.

Early Bird Special! Save $100 on your Cabin!

2010-01-29T11:00:00.000-08:00

Book by Feb. 12, 2010 and save $100 on your cabin!

Have you booked yet? If not, there's still time to take advantage of this SUPER early bird special!

You don't want to miss out on the fun! the friends! the incredible speakers! or the awesome worship!

Get REFRESHED & RENEWED (Ps 23:3)
on the
Girl's Get-A-Way Cruise

Shaunti Feldhan on the TODAY show, Jan 15

2010-01-13T15:01:00.000-08:00

Shaunti on the Today Show
January 15

I am SO thrilled to let you know that Shaunti Feldhan (one of our speakers) will be on the Today Show this Friday (January 15th)

Shaunti will be talking about her new book,

The Male Factor:
The Unwritten Rules, Misperceptions,and Secret Beliefs of Men in the Workplace

Set your TIVO or DVR (don't you just love those things!!) for the Today Show -- you don't want to miss a preview of this GREAT speaker/ author!

Let the Countdown Begin!

2010-01-03T18:19:00.000-08:00

2009 is now a memory -- a good one I hope -- and now it's time to focus on 2010!

That means cruise time! I'm so excited. I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone on the blog -- and to meeting you face to face on the ship!

We have some great fun plan for the cruise -- some fun blogging stuff. Our last cruise was a test cruise. We have some wonderful surprises in store for y'all this year. Contests, giveaways, and some special guest bloggers.

But I need something from you....

What do you want to see on this blog?

Ask and I'll do my very best to make it happen!

Merry Christmas & Happy New YEAR!

2009-12-29T14:52:00.000-08:00

Hope you had a wonderful Christmas and I wish you a blessed New Year.

I'm also hoping that you're joining us on the Girl's Get Away Cruise 2010~

We sail in l0 short months!!

If you haven't booked -- book it today while the rates are still down and the payments are low. Yes, payments! You can make installment payments.

You DO NOT want to miss this fun!

Reminder - Live Chat with Scott & Melissa Reeves

2009-12-11T20:07:00.000-08:00

Sun, Dec 13 -- 6pm PT, 8pm CT, 9pm EST

Join us for the live chat with Scott & Melissa Reeves. You may remember them if you ever watched daytime television (which is where I spent a good bit of my teens and early twenties).

Melissa is best known for her role as Jennifer Horton from TV’s Days of our Lives.

Scott is known for his role as Ryan McNeil on The Young and the Restless. He is now devoted to music full time. Scott, along with partner Aaron Benward, make up the country duo Blue County.

Now, personally I have about 3 or 47 questions for these two and I cannot WAIT to chat with them.

Put it on your calendar. They are going to talk with us about the cruise! I cannot wait to hear what they have to share.

Here's information again and a link:

Sun, Dec 13 6pm PT, 8pm CT, 9pm EST

http://www.kyte.tv/ch/368635-premierchristiancruises

Live Chat with Scott & Melissa Reeves

2009-12-01T18:10:00.000-08:00

Sun, Dec 13 -- 6pm PT, 8pm CT, 9pm EST

I love to chat -- and I'm so excited about the live chat with Scott & Melissa Reeves. You may remember them if you ever watched daytime television (which is where I spent a good bit of my teens and early twenties).

Melissa is best known for her role as Jennifer Horton from TV’s Days of our Lives.

Scott is known for his role as Ryan McNeil on The Young and the Restless. He is now devoted to music full time. Scott, along with partner Aaron Benward, make up the country duo Blue County.

Now, personally I have about 3 or 47 questions for these two and I cannot WAIT to chat with them.

Put it on your calendar. They are going to talk with us about the cruise! I cannot wait to hear what they have to share.

Here's information again and a link:

Sun, Dec 13 6pm PT, 8pm CT, 9pm EST

http://www.kyte.tv/ch/368635-premierchristiancruises

What’s On Your Christmas List?

2009-11-25T09:17:00.001-08:00

Happy Almost Thanksgiving! Hope you have wonderful plans for food and family.

It’s time to start thinking about Christmas decorating and gifts. What’s on your list?

Mine always starts with a getaway of some sort.

I LOVE to travel! I just do!

I just love the memories made on these getaways. Sure, I could ask for a bracelet, some new clothes or a refrigerator (since mine is limping on it’s last leg), but I would rather breakaway from every day life and just have fun.

So what’s on your Christmas list this year? Maybe you want to ask for the cruise? or just the deposit?

If you book in November your monthly payments are as low as $ 74.40 a month!

We’ve had over 150 women book their spots in just the last couple of weeks. Get your cabin now. Just click that blue button on the left that reads ‘Book Now.’

It’s only 11 months away!

2009-11-16T08:53:00.000-08:00

I'm just so excited!

Lysa TerKeurst, who's cruising with us, is putting together a cruise giveaway! Can you believe it? A cruise giveaway!

But she's looking for ideas and that's where y'all come in. Hop on over to Lysa's site and share your insight and ideas with her.

I cannot wait to hug her neck on the cruise and THANK her for such a sweet blessing!

Blogger Cruise Special!

2009-11-06T09:19:00.001-08:00

Yes, you heard it here! We have a special rate for blogging girls…. well, it’s a special rate for anyone who HEARS about it through the blog, friends of the blog or friends of friends of the blog. So pretty much if you’ve heard the word blog you qualify for the savings….

Here’s how it works:

save 100 dollars!!

Nov 9-13 you save $100! on each cabin!

Go to the Girls Getaway Cruise page to make reservations. click on book now. Use “blogger” as the promo code. Or skip over the site page and go straight to booking here.

You can set up easy monthly payments! I want to see you on this cruise! Yes I do! So grab a friend or two and let's get going!

Don’t miss this fun!

Coming Soon.....

2009-11-01T13:43:00.000-08:00

Keep your eyes on the blog for some great news.....

Information has Arrived

2009-10-22T10:19:00.001-07:00

Okay -- it's here!

the line up

The pricing

The details

I CANNOT wait until we're sailing again!

Cruising Again in 2010!

Girls Get Away Cruise

One YEAR from today....

2009-10-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

Just one year from today we'll sail away on GGA 2010!

I CANNOT WAIT!

Watch for more details .... coming soon!!

This Blog is for You & You & You, too!

2009-09-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

We've had a couple of comments about who this blog is for....

It's for Everyone -- that's everyone whether you're going on the cruise or not. It's still for you!

When I first 'found' the Girls' Get A Way cruise it was 2005 -- oh, how I wanted to go, but it didn't happen that year. It didn't happen for several years, but I followed the cruises each year. Read everything I could get my hands on.

I tell this story to say -- hang out here with us. Join in the conversation. Share ideas, insights, and information. Laugh, joke and have a great time. Meet the speakers and artists sailing in 2010. Get to know the other girls (okay, grown up girls) hanging out here. Pray for the speakers, the staff, and the cruisers.

We love you and want you to cruise with us. If not this year, then another one.

So to answer the question "Who is this blog for?"

It's for YOU!

Best Bunch of Girls AROUND!

2009-09-09T14:10:00.000-07:00

I just want to brag on this incredible group of women -- yes, that's y'all! All y'all, as we say in the South -- and that is said with about four to six syllables.

There is so much you want to know and trust me the minute I know it, y'all know it. I do know this --

Girls' Get A Way Cruise 2010 will be FANTASTIC

Girls' Get A Way Cruise Bloggers are wonderful and AMAZING!

I want to answer some questions -- Michelle of course I've mentioned Zumba one or forty two times. By the way, Candace Cameron Bure (who sailed with us last year) was twittering about Zumba just the other day. I immediately thought of Michelle -- my Belle! And the Zumba Queen!

Amber - thanks so much the theme idea -- how true is it that we forget to "Be still" before our Holy God. Love that theme.

Deb Heath -- thanks for the themes -- love both of them. One in the Lord and Great is thy Faithfulness. Both are much needed! And I LOVE Mandisa singing anything, but this song is just a wonderful complement to the theme.
Deb, also thanks for your sweet words of affirmation. I am enthusiastic about this cruise, but I know the Lord can use it to draw women closer to Him and to one another. I would email you this thanks privately, but I don't have your email and can't get it from blogger.

Also, I've heard, everything isn't firmed up yet, that there is an exciting idea coming from the Cruise folks! So stay tuned for that.

More artists to be announced soon! Can't wait to see who else is sailing with us. Thrilled with a great lineup so far!

So, let's keep hanging around -- and anonymous, I'll make sure that Premier knows they need to add a blog link to the cruise page. Thanks for the heads up!

A Theme for the Cruise?

2009-09-03T13:25:00.000-07:00

What about a theme for the cruise this year? Not just the bloggers, but the whole kit & caboodle.

What are your ideas?

What theme would you like to see?

Maybe it's colors and visuals?

Maybe you have a specific spiritual theme you'd like to see?

Now is the time to let your voices be heard. Speak out loud and proud!

More News on GGA 2010

2009-08-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

I don't know about y'all but I'm bouncing off the walls about the cruise! I just can't wait, well, I guess I'll have to since we're not sailing for a few months.

I do want to share some information and some updates with y'all.

First, as Deb shared in the comments, this new ship is fabulous! Check it out the Grandeur of the Seas.

This is one gorgeous ship!! I had someone tell me she'd just been on this very cruise and loved it. She loved the ship and shared all sort of great stuff. I'll try to get her to hop over here and share, too.

Also, I have some confirmed speakers -- Renee Swope (w/ Proverbs 31), Angela Thomas, Shaunti Feldhan, Karen Kingsbury, Creative Memories, and The Spa Girls!

Looks like we are starting out right!! And there is so much more to come!

Watch for discounts and specials t0 come. Remember, we have the inside track and we'll find out about it as soon as decisions are finalized.

Can't wait for 2010 -- we'll be crusin' again!

The Cruise Dates are Here!

2009-08-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! We have the cruise dates! And y'all are the first ones to find out.

We are sailing
October 14- 18, 2010
Royal Carribean, Grandeur of the Seas
out of Ft. Lauderdale

The official Girls' Get A Way Cruise site will be updated soon, but I wanted to let y'all know first!

Can't wait to see y'all in October 2010!

Survey Winner....

2009-07-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

The winner of the $100 Target card is Mary M of Oklahoma!

Congrats to Mary! Mary if you're around we'd love to hear from you!

When do You Want to Cruise?

2009-07-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

Claire shared that she wanted to cruise in October.

When do you want to cruise?

Me? I'll just hope on whenever that boat sails! I love October and September is my birthday and November would be great. Anything is good with me.

What about you? When do you want to sail?

The Fun Will Happen!

2009-07-04T20:30:00.001-07:00

As Annette said... .we were only eight months away. But that's okay! We're going to have a blast in the Fall of 2010!
Also, it gives us all more time to save a few more dollars -- and to recruit more people to come along.

The more the merrier! That's always my motto.

I would LOVE to see our Getaway Girls at least 250 strong! Wouldn't that be wonderful? But it's not about the numbers, it's about the relationships. It's about getting to know each other. That's the blessing.

We have so much FUN stuff planned for the 2010 cruise -- so much! We are just going to have a blast! And we're going to spend more time together -- well, let me put that another way, you'll have a chance to spend more time together if you wish.
And giveaways... oh, my the giveaways will boggle the brain.

Cruise UPDATE & Win $100

2009-06-26T21:11:00.000-07:00

Hi all -- looks like there is a change in the plans .... but the positive thing is you get to help make the change.

We won't be cruising in Feb 2010, but in Fall 2010. Which month works best for you?

Share your voice and you'll have a chance at $100! Pretty cool, huh? But act quick, it's over Monday, June 29th.

You'll find the survey here.

Take the survey and then tell us which month works best for you. Sept. Oct. Nov. Which is your pick?

It was a Blast!

2009-05-23T20:59:00.000-07:00

Was it really just three months ago that we were cruising?

Seems like yesterday and seems like forever ago.

Take a look at the slide show.....

I can't wait to CRUISE again in 2010~ Are you ready?

Who do you Want to Sail With?

2009-05-05T19:23:00.000-07:00

First, let me say that I know the title ends in a preposition (for all my English majors out there) but it just sounds better that way.

Now, on to the important issues -- who would you like to see / hear on the 2010 cruise? Now, this in no way means we'll get to have these people on the cruise with us, but I know that the GGA Cruise people love to have your input.

Many of you have given me some ideas to pass along... here's my list
Shannon Etheridge
Karen Kingsbury
Robin Jones Gunn
Candace Cameron Bure
Chonda Pierce
Chris Tomlin
Jamie Jamgochian
Casting Crowns

Surely we have more suggestions....

Maybe it's someone who's not as well known or someone who's extremely well known -- let's send in our dream lineup.

So, let me hear your voice.... (well, read your words really, but you know what I mean).

Geez -- I miss y'all~ can't wait to cruise again!!

What's Happening in Your World

2009-04-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

Oh Getaway Girls! How are all of you?

What have you been up to since we docked?

Me? Just working, missing my getaway girls, doing some yard work, missing my getaway girls, spending time with the family, missing my getaway girls.

There's a theme here. I miss talking to all of you!

Let's get some conversation going.

Who's planning on Crusin' Again in 2010?

Who do you want to see on this cruise? It's not like I have any power to make it happen, but I think it'll be fun to see who the Lord puts on this ship with us.

So, let me hear from y'all!!

Guest Blog - Claire

2009-03-22T13:26:00.000-07:00

Robin Jones Gunn & our guest blogger, Claire

Hey Get-A-Way Girls!

How was your cruise?! Mine was so memorable! I totally loved it!

I found out about the cruise from a newsletter the author Robin Jones Gunn sent out last April. I started reading her Christy Miller series (it’s geared towards teen girls!) during the summer of 2004 and I have always dreamed of the opportunity of meeting Robin to let her know what an impact her books have had on my life!

The Christy series has taught me to keep high standards in dating, it has reminded me to cherish the times I have with my family and friends, and been an excellent example through the fictional characters to show me what kind of relationship I should have with God. After reading these amazing books, I couldn’t keep it a secret so I started sharing my books with all of my friends; so much that I went on to purchase a 2nd set of the entire soon to be 33 book series! The best part was my friends were reading the books and loving it, the bad part was when I wanted to read the books, they were never on my shelf so I could read them!

After receiving the email, I talked to my mom and asked if she’d be interested in going on the cruise with me. Next, thing I knew 7 of us were planning to go on the cruise. My mom, my 2 sisters, my 2 best friends, their mom, and I were all going.

Both of my friends, along with my younger sister Rachel, have also read the Christy Miller series and loved it! We decided we wanted to do something to show Robin how much we appreciate the time she spends writing these books. We choose to make her a scrapbook. We asked a bunch of our friends who’ve read the books to help us with the scrapbook. We took a picture of all the girls holding their favorite book, had them write their favorite Bible verse, answer questions like: who is your favorite character?, what is your favorite part in the series?, and write Robin a note telling her how the books have impacted their lives. With all of these things, they got to designed their own pages for the book! At the end of the scrapbook, we used my Cricut machine, stickers, and anything else we could find to make collages of the stories. Like one thing we made was a bouquet of carnations out of paper symbolizing flowers Christy had received! We had so much fun making this scrapbook together!

Some of my favorite moments from the cruise were interacting with Robin! Over the years, I’ve emailed back and forth with her and recently added her on Facebook and before we left for the cruise, I told her I’d be going too. After her first speaking event on Friday afternoon, we went up to talk to her and say hi. She asked our names and I answered, “I’m Claire…” and before I could finish she exclaimed my last name! I guess you could say she remembered me! I was honored to know that she knew who I was! We talked to her wonderful assistant Natalie and were able to schedule a time to spend with Robin on Sunday afternoon.

On Sunday, all of us met with Robin, Natalie, and Robin’s friend Donna to present Robin with the scrapbook. Robin absolutely loved the scrapbook and started tearing up. She spent time looking through the scrapbook and when we got to the collage pages, she went through and pointed to different items and told us stories as to why she put those parts into the books. We had such a good time laughing together and enjoying each other’s company!

This trip included spending time with 6 of my favorite girls, meeting my favorite author and making some wonderful new friends! I especially loved meeting ‘the blog lady’ Mary, and others including Michelle, Kahla, Alexis, and Charity!

This trip was definitely full of memories and one I’ll never forget! I hope to be back next year (we’ll see!), but if not I definitely want to come back sometime in the future!

Love you all!

Claire <><

Guest Blog - Annette from WA

2009-03-15T04:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome Annette from Washington
and thanks for taking the time to share your cruising adventure with all!

Without further Mary comments:

Traveling with: Vicki on her second GGA cruise, Barb on her third (and Annette is on her third, too)

What was your most favorite part of the cruise? Meeting new people who have in the same interest in common, faith in God and salvation through Jesus Christ.

Not so favorite part? Trying to do too much...still learning to take time to relax too!!

Did you meet any new people on the cruise? (will you stay in touch with them?)

Yes, I met Gail and her daughter from Illinois at the Atlanta airport before the cruise. We are still in touch through Facebook(sending a "hey Chicago" out to you Gail!).

Also, met Michelle from Kansas before the cruise on the GGA blog and we keep in touch through Facebook too. My roommates were from previous cruises. I met Vicki on my first cruise with my sister. Vicki and her roommate were just down the hall from us. We met the night before the cruise at the hotel and enjoyed dinner together as well as time on the cruise. Barb I met last year on the GGA message boards. We were both looking for roommates and decided to room together. And we did again this year!

Favorite speaker, artist, or comedian (you can have more than one) and did you get a chance to meet, if so can you share what happened and how it happened?

I'd have to say my fav is our hometown gal Karen Kingsbury. She got me started on these cruises, now I'm addicted! It's always a pleasure to hear her speak and I enjoy her books very much. Another person that I was so impressed with was Tanya Crevier. Not only her basketball talents were impressive, but her faith is so strong. She just radiates the love of the Lord throught her fantastic smile. Jaime Jamgochian was good too. I had not heard of her and enjoyed her performance very much. She really seemed to connect with the younger gals. That was nice to see such a wonderful role model for them.

Tell us about your experience in Progresso -- I didn't do a shore excursion this time, and wished I had. I saw pics from other gals that went on some of the tours and met the Mayan people. That would have been very interesting to experience. I just did some shopping. Having been to the Bahamas on my first cruise and Cozumel last year, I prefer the Bahamas over Mexico any day. I don't care for the pushy hawkers in Mexico.

Did anything funny, unusual or odd happen to you? if so, will you share a little of it? Can't think of anything funny or odd to share that happened to me, however I will never forget the Spa Gals though, the one who ran backstage because she was suddenly overcome with seasickness Saturday night...poor thing...her mic was still on....

Thoughts on the cruise: There is something so majestic about being out on the open sea. Seeing God's wonders all around us. I remember one night on one of the previous cruises that was so beautiful. Let's see if I can set the scene. It was late into the evening, very few people on deck. It was a clear night, we were far out to sea so that you could not see the lights of any cities on land. The ships lights on deck were dimmed and the moon was full. I tried to take a picture...the moon was reflecting off the water and the sight left me breathless. The beauty of the moment and God's creation was something I will never forget. The picture did not turn out or even begin to do it justice, but the one in my head...I will always remember.

Annette, Barb and Vicki

Vicki, Karen Kingsbury, Annette

Barb & Vicki in Progresso

2009-03-13T05:23:00.001-07:00

(Peggy & Amber)

Guest Blog from Amber

Amber and her Mom, Peggy, are from Blue Ridge, Georgia

Amber and my mom Peggy are veteran GGA cruisers and Amber has 11 cruises under her belt!

What was your most favorite part of the cruise? The whole feeling like we were a close knit family. We were all sisters (and some brothers) in Christ traveling together and worshipping God!

Not so favorite part? I was really sad that they changed the port of call. We already had our plans made for Cozumel and when they changed it we were lost on what to do. I didn’t have time to research Progreso! I like to know where I’m going. J

Did you meet any new people on the cruise? I met Mary on the lido one day and her beautiful daughter. I saw Michelle trip up some stairs. Ha! We also ran into a woman we met on the last cruise. She was actually the woman who showed Karen Kingsbury the shirts we had on the night she spoke on the last cruise. They read “WE LOVE THE BAXTER FAMILY” Karen asked us to come up on stage with her and that was really awesome! (will you stay in touch with them?) Thanks to this blog and facebook I will be able to stay in touch with Mary and Michelle.

Favorite speaker, artist, or comedian ? We really enjoyed praise music with Jamie Jam. The speakers and concerts at night were amazing and you could really feel the Holy Spirit moving through that place. I think by being on a ship, eating with these people and enjoying everything the trip offered you realize that they are just like us and the just love the Lord like the rest of us.. I guess what I’m trying to say is they don’t act like celebrities.

Tell us about your experience in Progresso -- I had been to this port one time before and didn’t really enjoy my time there so my mom and I just opted to get off the boat and hit the shopping right there and then enjoy the rest of the day by the pool.

This trip was very low key for my mom and I. We are/were going through a rough season in our lives at that time so we pretty much stayed to ourselves and just enjoyed being away.

Thanks so much to Amber for sharing her cruise experience!

Guest Blog -- Michelle S.

2009-03-09T17:22:00.000-07:00

Michelle, Karen Kingsbury, and Kgirl

Our guest blogger today is Michelle S -- the super commenter. I think Michelle has commented on every post or almost every post. I enjoyed spending time with her on the cruise ship and can't wait to hug her neck on the GGA 2010!

Hola, Getaway Girls (and anonymous males?)

My name is Michelle (from Kansas!) I am an active "boarder" on Jaime Jamgochian's website... for the past three years I have built tons of awesome friendships with girls of all ages from all over the country... (and world even). One of these girlies and I, Kgirl, grew very close over the last three years... we talked online and on the phone... and when we saw the cruise advertised for 2009, we talked TRAVEL!

So for 8 months we planned our fabulous cruse. . . a flight to TX and an 8 hour drive to Mobile and we were both on our first cruise ship. YAY!

I LOVED being on the ship. I LOVED all the opportunities to receive awesome teaching about Christ- the worship, the laughter, the fun, and the fellowship. I made lasting friendships and networked with some awesome ministries and agencies.

I'm already planning on GGC 2010 (yay!) and cannot wait to see my new friend Charity again... (she's one of those people who I met and keep asking God, "why couldn't I have met this girl years ago? life would have felt more complete!) I thought it was so cool being connected with Mary and the other bloggers online before the cruise... but actually meeting these women, hugging them, sharing stories with them and taking pictures - it brings tears to my eyes and joy to my heart that God could take women from all over, of all ages & walks of life, and make us not just friends but sisters . . .

I really enjoyed Candace Cameron's testimony- and had fun being a little star struck (seriously, who wasn't? DJ? From Full House- c'mon. You KNOW you wished you had a twin so you could play Michelle! At least I did!)

There was a sweet moment in Karen Kingsbury's session where she had a special prayer for women who had lost a child... in that moment, when she shared the strength and love they have for their children in their last moments, my heart broke for my own mom and dad, who lost their first son at 18 months- that moment opened up a load of respect, love, and gratefulness for who God has made me through the love my parents give!

I have so many fun and funny moments - like when I sat next to Sharon Hanby-Robie at breakfast the last day and asked her if she was part of the GGC- and she told me, "yes- I actually led a workshop"... then told me all about her interior design/QVC ministry (she was even interviewed on the blog- whoops

My motto for the cruise was. . . "make yourself known". I didn't want to be overly obnoxious- but for once I felt so safe being ME. I was excited to be surrounded by so many Christian women! The speakers/artists/authors were so approachable- I felt lots of love on that boat- and my spirit was so refreshed!

Here's my awkward story of the cruise: I was telling a story to a friend- and dancing a little bit on the stairway, and little did I know Karen Kingsbury and her crew were behind me. One of them commented on my dance moves and after they passed by my friend said, "do you know that Karen Kingsbury?" I was embarrassed but we laughed... less that a half hour later, I accidently tripped up the stairs and fell hard against the wall (it was that crazy rocky night- the boat just kept disappearing under my feet! ha)... then behind me someone said, "glad you watched your step so we didn't have to". . . it was Karen Kingsbury (and her crew again) . . awkward. (and apparently Amber from the blog saw me too, and failed to introduce herself- but she let me know later that she saw me trip. ha). . . to make it even better... less than a half hour later I was talking to Kgirl's mom ( actually, I was singing and dancing by her) and guess who was nearby? yes yes, my KK crew... I was really embarrassed this time, but my friend Kgirl went over and talked to Karen, and we ended up with a few laughs and a great pic...

God taught me so much on the cruise ship. It was so good learning to be flexible- I was excited about Cozumel but had a BLAST in Progresso. . . got my hair braided, some pics on the beach, lots of trinkets, and some QT with the camera man (does anybody know his name? I need to tag his picture on facebook). God spoke a lot of truth and encouragement in my heart- and He clarified more why I am where I'm at right now in Kansas.

*happy sigh* who wouldn't sign up for GGC '10? it was worth every penny!

Michelle & Charity

Michelle & Mystery Cameraman

Having fun in Progresso!

Guest Blog - Gail L.

2009-03-03T17:20:00.000-08:00

Sunday Night Sunset

"Who can deny God?"

Gail L. and Brittani (16-year old daughter)

From - Naperville, Il (sub of Chicago)

Gail's 3rd GGA Cruise and Brittani's 2nd

Favorite part of the cruise? The ocean...almost everything the speakers talked about and the songs that were sung can be brought to life looking out on the ocean. God's love it endless...the waves of life toss us (remember Sat. night?!ha),but God is always there. He removes our sins as far as east is from the west. I love being out in the middle of the ocean and just feeling the presence of God.

No so favorite part? There is just NO way to fit in ALL the speakers and artists!

New Friends from GGA: I'm still in touch with some ladies that I met 3 years ago! My daughter made a great friend and she only lives 30 minutes away! How awesome of a "God-thing" is that?! Her mom, Lisa, and I have gotten to be good friends also! So, yes...friendships made on the cruise remain a part of my life long after.

Favorite speaker, artist, or comedian :

I always do the autograph sessions. Not only do I enjoy meeting them, but letting them know how much it has meant that they chose GGA cruise as one of their times to connect with women. This year, one of my favorites was Jaime J. because she connected with my daughter and was a very special influence on her. There is no price that can be put on how special that was for me to watch. I love talking to Karen Kingsbury each year...and amazed at her remembering us!!! The Spa Girls...what can I say? I LOVE THEM!!! My list could continue with each one I've had the pleasure to meet.

Tell us about your experience in Progresso -- We booked an excursion with some of our "new friends" to go out to the Ruins. It was fabulous! Our guide was Andy...and he was the BEST! We got to go to the Ruins, a Mayan church, have an authentic Mayan meal and see the children do a dance. We even were able to visit a true, Mayan family and their home. It was so special to get to see their home and talk with them about the lives. It was an incredible experience!

Your funny story:

At Robin Gunn's signing, the line was soooooo long. Of course, I ended up in the last 15 women. After an hour with the long line and the ship still swaying...we were all a bit funny. However, I guess I was "more funny" than the others. One of the ladies finally asked me if I was one of the stand-up comedians on the cruise and she had just missed my show!!! She suggested I come back next year as a comedian...hmmmmm?

Final thoughts: Each year I think...WOW, could it get any better. I return the next year and sure enough, I think WOW! I'm so glad that 3 years ago I had an email just pop up advertising this cruise. I went out of my "comfort zone" and invited my best friend to go with me. I had never been on a cruise or away from my kids! It was the BEST experience and I've returned ever year. I'm booked for next year! Everyone joining me?????!!!!

Note from Mary: I'm in! My motto is "Cruisin' again in 2010!"

Thanks Gail for the great blog and the great pictures!

Outside the church

Mayan Ruins

Children dancing

Readers Choice Awards

2009-02-26T14:25:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

I just voted for some of my favorite artists at CCM Magazine, greart magazine!

You'll find some of the cruise favorites like:

Big Daddy Weave (who's working on becoming Slim Daddy Weave)

Shane & Shane

Ayiesha Woods

Bethany Dillon

And there are many from previous cruises

And if your favorite isn't there --there's a spot for write in votes! (can we say Jamie Jam!! Carried Away!! Phil Joel!!)

Also there are choices for favorite albums, songs, festivals, and concert tours--(love WINTER JAM!!)

Go vote for your favorites at

CCM's Readers' Choice Awards.

and watch for guest blogs coming soon!!

Guest Bloggers

2009-02-21T17:31:00.000-08:00

Note-- please send me an email at MarySnydr@aol.com or change your blogger id to have your email address on it. I feel bad when you say you'll do it ,but I have no way of reaching you.

Calling all bloggers --

I need some help. We need guest bloggers. I want to hear about your cruise experience. I want to see your pictures and experience the Girls Get-Away Cruise through your eyes. We all had different experiences -- and I want to know all about yours.
Would you be willing to write a guest blog? It's really simple. I have a little form I've created that has the questions and all you have to do is write in your answers. No crafting superb sentences or worrying if you leave that participle dangling. Just write your answers and share your pictures (if you are willing).

If you're interested just leave a comment or drop me an email. I want to start our guest bloggers as soon as possible.

As for 2010-- I'll be there and I hope you will be too. It's a bigger ship, new port and new destination!

Oh and a big ol' THANKS! to all of you who took the time to respond to the survey. If you haven't made it over there -- here's the link Click Here to take survey

We've had a good response, but I would love to get at least 100 responses and we have a ways to go!!

How Was Your Cruise

2009-02-16T22:04:00.001-08:00

I loved cruising and I'm so excited about next year. I want to help everyone have another great cruise and I need your help.

I've created a survey about your cruise experience. Will you take a few minutes and do the survey? It's only ten questions and really simple. We all want to know what you think. Will you help me out and do the survey?

Click Here to take survey

Thanks and I promise to let you know "what the survey says" while keeping everyone anonymous.

Mary

Are you back?

2009-02-11T09:47:00.001-08:00

Are you home yet? As the room stopped swaying?

Seems like we just left and I'm ready to go again.

Cruisin' Again in 2010 is my chant!!

Tell me how your cruise experience went. Favorite parts? Least favorite parts.
Favorite speakers?
Favorite musical artists?

One of my favorite parts of the cruise -- free ice cream 24 hours a day!!

Pictures and Stories -- oh, my!

2009-02-10T06:19:00.000-08:00

I want to see your pictures!! Send me your pictures, your stories, and anything else.... t-shirts, cash (just kidding).

Let's share our fun times with each other.

Did you get a photo of your favorite artist or author?

Did you have a fun adventure in Progreso?

Let's share our stories with each other --

You can reply on the blog or send me an email at MarySnydr@aol DOT com. (Notice there is no "e" in Snyder) or you can email me at Mary@MaryRSnyder.com

It was so much fun to meet y'all! Can't wait to do it again in 2010!!

Sunday Cruising

2009-02-09T17:13:00.000-08:00

Sunday -- the fun day at sea

The day started with worship with Jamie Jamgochian and Susis Shellenberger.

And Kerri Pomarolli closed the night out.

Jamie Jam, Big Daddy Weave and Angela Thomas were on the big stage tonight. It was an amazing day packed full of tons of great speakers, acts, and fun stuff.

In between, Sharon Hanby Robie spoke on Life in Living Color; Shari Braendel hosted a Teen Fashion Show, Tina Marie Griffin talked on the truth in today's pop culture and Lysa Terkeurst spoke on Eight things every wife should know. (And all I could think is "there are only eight?")

The sun was out and people were loving the pool today. I'm not much of the sun bunny, but the weather was great and I sat out in it for a short while.

Autograph sessions were happening all day long -- at least it seemed that way.

The seas were calmer and the people not so green.

It was Bethany's Birthday!!! Happy birthday Bethany (29 again?)
(take a close look at that snazzy birthday label)

Ran into this group on the way to dinner -- they read the blog (well, some of them do).

Sunday night we hung out late with our Spa Girls -- Lisa and Melissa -- and just laughed the night away by the ice cream machine.

Watch for some random pictures and for an anonymous survey. Share what worked, what didn't and how we can make it better next year. I have some suggestions of my own --

I want more gatherings for the bloggers. I want to meet you face to face and spend time with you. I want to sit down with you and hear your stories. It was a blast to meet all the bloggers I got to meet, but I missed some of you. For next year, I'm working on some things for us to do together..... don't ask, it's still in the works.

Until next year, I want to hear about your adventures on the cruise. Tell your story and include pictures. I'm going to run these guest blogs throughout the year. If you would like to be a guest blogger, just email me at MarySnydr@aol DOT com and I'll give you the details.

Mary

Saturday Cruising!

2009-02-09T06:48:00.000-08:00

Great day of sunning and fun!

We got some time out on the deck – loved the view and the warm sun. What is it about laying out in the sun in February that makes it so fantastic?

Port of Progresso was our port of call (it was supposed to be Cozumel, but the delay in leaving Mobile changed all that)
We headed off the boat to look for some bargains. We found a few and ran into Michelle getting a new ‘do.

Back on the ship and sailing again, we set out to find some late night fun. The winds kicked up and the ship started swaying back and forth. When the crew put out the get-sick bags, I knew things weren’t going to be smooth. It was pretty fun trying to maneuver through the crowds and not bump into someone. It was like bumper cars, without the cars. Wait -- isn't the point of bumper cars to ram into the other cars? This was like ANTI- bumper cars. We were working hard to Not bump into each other.

Shannon Ethridge and Shane & Shane were on the big stage – amazing speaker and awesome music! What a blessing! Y’all know I just love me some Shane and Shane! I saw Bethany Dillon and Shane walking around the deck, but was a little too star-struck to run up and announce myself as Mary the Blogger. (Note -- most cases I just jumped right up and announced myself, but for some reason I was a bit shy with Shane & Shane)

We caught the SPA Girls act and I LOVE these chicks!! They are the best and some real troopers. They were on the stage while the ship was rocking and swaying – and they stuck it out even when the going got tough. That's all I'm saying -- Lisa and Melissa, you chicks rock!!

We caught the 321 Improv guys – and oh my, they are just too funny! I laughed until I almost hurt myself.

Then it was up to the Lido Deck for late night fun and ice cream. And we got to meet Anonymous! Remember Anonymous who shared the great tips? Gurss what y’all? Anonymous is a man! Greg.

Greg is funny and I think he can be charming, although he tried to hide that from me. I’ve made it my mission to find Greg a wonderful wife. Since most of the women I know are married ladies, I’ll need some help. Appreciate all the help I can get in this area. We're starting a regular section on the blog -- Find Greg a Wife project -- with regular updates

Late Saturday night we’re back at the ice cream machine and run into Jonathan and his beautiful daughter, Claire. Jonathan is the big guy with Premier Christian Cruises.

Tomorrow – Sunday, a day at sea.

Friday Cruisin' Pt 2

2009-02-08T17:14:00.000-08:00

After handing out the t-shirts and hanging out with the bloggers, Charity and I ran into Candace Cameron Bure – she is just darling and so pretty!

Charity wanted to go rest and I wanted to go find more new friends.

She headed back to the cabin and I made my way around the ship.
I ran into Michelle and Robin Jones Gunn – great women! I thanked Robin for supporting the blog.
Michelle has a great testimony of how the Lord used Robin’s books in her life.

Shannon Ethridge came by and I got to hug her neck and thank her for supporting the blog. What a blast to meet Robin Jones Gunn and Shannon Ethridge just walking through the ship!

Then it was off to get ready for the dressed up dinner night. We dressed up and ate Lobster—yummy!! We sat with the Faithbooking ladies – Isis, Tamara, and Christy. Now, I’m not one to scrapbook (y’all know the whole funny scissors thing gets to me), but these ladies told me that a lot of people are going to the digital scrapbooking – now, that sounds like fun and I don’t have to use funny looking scissors.

Karaoke in the Tahiti Lounge! Now, I love to karaoke and I can just mess up a song like nobody’s business. Who’s there but Robin Jones Gunn and we start talking. I don’t know how it happened but the next thing I know we’re on the stage singing STOP in the name of Love. And Karen Kingsbury is dancing backup with her daughter, Kelsey!

As I act out the words to the song, I’m wondering if I’ve just dropped into surreal world. I’m singing and dancing with two of the most well known and best writers in the Christian market!! This cruise just keeps getting better and better!

Polly Ester and Penny Dollar showed up and posed with Charity -- and gave her some fashion tips

Stay tuned for Saturday Happenings!!

Friday Cruisin' Part I

2009-02-07T09:47:00.000-08:00

Friday -- A Day at Sea

I thought I’d sleep until noon or later, but I didn’t. I was up and looking for coffee at 7am! Charity wanted to find some cereal, so we headed off to look for food. We found it!! Oh my there was so much food! Hot foods, cold foods, and everything inbetween. I grabbed a yogurt and an apple, 'cause I'm being all health conscious and stuff -- these were great with my eggs, sausage and pancakes.

After getting our fill, we headed over to hear Jamie Jam, Phil & Heather Joel at Morning Worship. What a blessing they all are!!

Candace Cameron Bure came out and I tell you, that woman is beautiful inside and out!! What a sweet spirit she is and it just oozes from her pores.

Her message struck me right in the heart – Being a Good Person isn’t Good Enough. Romans 8:5

It was then time to don those life vests and head to our appointed areas for the Life Boat drills – now that was some more fun! (For those who don't know, it's a requirement that everyone sailing on a ship participate in the life boat drills) I found myself hanging out with Jamie Jamgochian and Susie Shellenberger – What a blast this group is!! Susie decided that life jackets just weren’t her thing.

After getting all of our instructions down and following the rules, we headed over to the Tahiti Lounge for the blogging get together and t-shirt hand out ! Wow! What a blessing that turned out to be. I just wish we'd had more time to visit. Nest

My sweet daughter, Charity, along with Michelle, Kahla, and Alexis helped sort and hand out t-shirts. And they all worked so hard!

(Alexis & Kahla)

We had so many wonderful Getaway Girls drop by to say hello and get a t-shirt! We handed out tons of bracelets.

Getaway Girls Bracelets

Roylan, Me (on the floor) and Michelle -- these are two blog commenting girls!! Love them!

I wish we’d had more time to just visit, but there’s always tonight after the concert. We’ll be hanging at the free ice cream area again!
The other Michelle came by – what a sweetie.
Roylan and her group dropped in and we got some pictures.

Annette from WA showed up and there was also her friend, Vicki from Arkansas home of the Mothership (aka Wal-Mart).
We gathered up our t-shirts and headed out. I’m sure there’s more adventures to come!!
Stay tuned for more!! Friday night updates to come.

Showing off our shirts!

Showing off the great Getaway Girls Shirts -- front and back!

Annette from WA and Vicki from Arkansas

Roylan giving T-shirt advice!!!

Day One -- Cruising

2009-02-06T15:19:00.000-08:00

Day One -- Thursday

The trip to the port was uneventful until we were almost there and then the GPS decided to just go wacko. I couldn't figure out where to turn and ended up going the wrong way on a one way street. I didn’t see any One Way Only signs and only figured this out when a big ol' bus was headed right for me -- I took some fast evasive maneuvers which involved a bit of curb riding and a U-turn, but I dodged a major incident.

One way streets need to be better marked - I'm just saying.

Anyway, we made it on board and I'm loving everyone and everything. The Premier people are the BEST! Cheri and Rick helped guide me in -- God Bless their hearts, helping my directionally challenged self is not for the faint of heart.

We quickly got settled in and then it was off to find food -- which is never hard for me. I'm real talented like that. Gifted, that's what I call it. After our eventful arrival we found our cabin and dropped all our stuff and boy was it a lot of stuff. Now, I don’t know what it is about traveling that makes me think I’ll change clothes four times a day – but I like to be prepared for all things. And we are traveling in all sorts of weather, a girl has to be prepared, right?

Since the blogging get together was canceled, we made our way over to the Tahiti Lounge to check out Kerri Pom’s show – but apparently everyone decided to do the same thing and a big ol’ bunch of folks managed to get there long before we did. We didn’t get it in. I LOVE Kerri and I told the keeper of the door just that. No go. I mentioned that we were email buddies, but still no go. Something about a fire code and all that jazz.

So off we went, I didn’t want to pull the “hey, I’m the blogger chick” as I like to only use my blogging powers for good. I figured that I'd catch Kerri's show later.

I saw that Lysa Terkeurst was speaking – I LOVE Lysa T! And she's friends with a friend of mine so that makes us like friends once removed.... right?

Lysa brought a powerful message from 2 Timothy 1:7 – For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love and a sound mind. Lysa challenged us to live Fear – Less!

I missed Jamie Jamgochian, Susie Shellenberger and Ayiesha Woods, but heard from lots of people that they were all GREAT!

I promised all the Getaway Girls I would be by the ice cream machine at 11pm, so I headed over that way to make my camp.

BJ Harris was incredible (at least that’s the report, I didn’t make the show since I was holding down the table next to the ice cream station).

I was so excited to meet some of the getaway girls! I was fortunate to meet Lori and her daughters, Claire and Rachel. What a cool bunch of ladies.

Claire & Rachel are big Robin Jones Gunn fans (and so is Lori!) Claire shared this incredible scrapbook that her and her friends created. It’s full of great Robin Jones Gunn information – favorite books, favorite verses, and so much more. I know Robin would be blown away by the creativity and the heart that has gone into creating this book.

The Reunion Girls showed up – this four went to high school together 25 years ago and they are celebrating together on this cruise. What a great idea! I think I’m going to call some of my high school girlfriends and see if they’ll join me next year!

Lisa, Wanda, Me, Rhonda, Cindy -- Class of 1983 (well, except for me... I'm class of '81)

About the time we're finishing up the pictures with the Reunion bunch, here comes Michelle! I think Michelle was the first regular commenter on the blog. She popped over at the late concert and it was such a blessing and a blast to meet her! She brought along her friends – Alyxis and Kahla, sweethearts all three!

Alexis, Michelle, Me, and Kahla!

After hanging out until about 2am I headed back to the cabin and fell into the bed.

Whew! What a great day!!

More fun to happen tomorrow -- right now. I'm going to need some sleep!

It's 11pm on Thursday night!!

2009-02-05T21:23:00.000-08:00

So it's 11:24 pm on Thursday night and the fun is in full swing here on GGA 2009. I'm just blown away by the amazing amounts of fun available to us. Okay, I admit it, the ice cream station is just so very cool!! I'm camped in front if it with my ice cream, my laptop and my camera.

I was found by a couple of bloggers today -- I hope to find a whole bunch more tomorrow!! I really want to meet everyone face to face!!

I'm bummed that we didn't have our get together today. The Tahiti lounge is such a fun place -- can't wait to make some pictures with everyone. And on that note, let me remind y'all --

Friday at 1pm in the Tahiti Lounge!!! Pick up your shirts
Get your surprise!
And let's take some pictures -- we need faces on this blog.

Away we Go!!!

2009-02-05T17:36:00.000-08:00

I'm here -- on board! And I can't wait to see your faces!! Of course, most of you won't get this today, but for those who do.... here's the updated meeting information.

Tahiti Lounge
Friday at 1pm!!

Pick up your t-shirt and hang around to take a picture with the group.

Oh, and don't forget the surprise. If you see me, just ask, I may have one with me.

And don't forget, look for me at the ice cream station tonight.... and every night.

Looking forward to lots of fun!!

When will you get your T-shirts???

2009-02-04T18:35:00.000-08:00

With our new sailing schedule, it appears that no one will make it to our 4:30 Tahiti Lounge meeting. However, the makers of the schedule are re-scheduling us. We will all be notified of the new time / location on board.

I know that there's a lot of schedule moving and changing going on right now, but it'll all work out just wonderfully.

I still want us to meet Friday night for our late night ice cream run -- after Kerri Pom's 11pm show!

I am going to try to be there on Thursday night after the 11pm show, but I'm not sure (I'm still battling this wicked cold). I'm going to try my very best! So, if you're not too tired from a long day and it works with your schedule pop up to the ice cream area and look for me.

See you in just a few hours.

Things to Do -- Mobile Style

2009-02-04T15:46:00.000-08:00

Let's say that you have a few hours to explore Mobile -- what do you do?

Are you a history buff like me? Then you'll love all the history at the Battleship Memorial Park.

Take a stroll on the deck of the USS Alabama -- this famous battleship sailed the seas during WWII and now serves as a reminder of all those who fought for freedom. The USS Alabama is only one of the sites you'll see, there's also the submarine, the USS Drum and all types of aircraft and machines. It's a fascinating spot.

Another great place for history buffs is the Oakleigh House -- which you'll find at the Historic Mobile website.

From the Historic Mobile Site:

Located minutes from the USS ALABAMA battleship, Gulf Coast Exploreum and other visitor favorites, Oakleigh offers a pleasant experience for all ages. The complex consists of Mobile's Official Period House Museum, Oakleigh, circa 1833, listed on the National Register of Historic Places; Cox-Deasy Cottage, circa. 1850, and the Cook's House, circa 1850.

Oakleigh museum is a T-shaped Greek revival mansion featuring unique architectural features including a distinct cantilevered front staircase, grand double parlors and classic six-over-six windows and galleries accessed through jib windows. The house was built by a cotton factor from Virginia and later inhabited for three generations by one of the leading society families of Mobile.

Interested in what Mobile was like hundreds of years ago? Check out the Mobile Museum -
you'll find some fascinating exhibits.

If shopping is much more your style than check out the Eastern Shore Centre with shops such as Pottery Barn, Ann Taylor Loft, Hollister, Talbot and so many more.

Or you can just cruise the area checking out the old homes and enjoying the scenery. Mobile is home to the oldest Mardi Gras dating back to the early 1700s -- there's lots to see and do.

Enjoy! See you on the ship tomorrow!!

Some Last Minute Changes

2009-02-04T15:14:00.000-08:00

Hi all!!

Just think tomorrow we'll be talking face to face and not reading screen to screen. I can't wait, but it looks like we're going to have to wait just a bit longer than we'd anticipated.

The Holiday is running a bit late arriving back port and that means we will embark later than planned.

I just got my call from Carnival and they are asking for those with flexible travel plans to arrive at the port between 5:30pm and 7:30pm. Now, if you're staying at the Renaissance Hotel and traveling on the shuttle, they should have you covered on everything.

Okay --- this is a little bump in our trip, but it's only a tiny glitch and one that is no big deal. You can sleep a bit later tomorrow. If you're in Mobile you can do some great sightseeing. I'll post some fun stuff to do in just a bit.

This is going to be one FANTASTIC Cruise! I'm looking forward to meeting y'all all face to face, worshiping the Almighty God, listening to some amazing speakers, laughing along with great comedians, and getting some serious praise on!!

Just one more day to go

2009-02-03T20:04:00.000-08:00

It's really two days, but by the time most read this it will only be one. I appreciate the prayers for my quick recovery and I ask that you continue. I'm feeling better, but still not 100% and I want to be at LEAST 100%

As for our late night gathering on Friday! Kerri Pom is performing at 11pm that night (I think) so I say we just meet after her performance! I don't want to miss Kerri -- she makes me laugh so much -- and I'm sure laughter and chicken soup are just what I need!

Also, y'all all know my face!! And I'm NOT skinny!! There I said it! I'm not skinny, I'm not thin, and I could stand to lose 5 or 40 pounds!!

I'll be easy to find -- I'll have a laptop stuck to me and I'll probably be blogging or taking pictures. OR both.

Please feel free to come up to me and chat away! Tell me how things are going and what fun you're having. I want to create a memory blog of this great fun time!! To do this, I'll need your help. So bring me those stories.

Here's a recent picture -- so you'll know who to look for. Disclaimer -- this was a good hair day, some days it's not this good.

One day to go!!!!!!!!!!!

Late Night Get Together

2009-02-02T13:43:00.000-08:00

Hi all! I'm battling a wicked cold, so I appreciate all the prayers for a super fast recovery. I went to the doctor today and got a shot - so I should be 100% by Wednesday.

But let's focus on the cruise! We have our Thursday meeting, but I would love to plan another get-together later in the cruise.

We've talked about a late night ice cream run -- and for those who don't want the ice cream, you can just join us for fellowship and fun. What about Friday night? At the ice cream station (which I understand is in the Wharf Grill)? What time? Do you think 11pm will be late enough?

I'm really calling on those who've cruised the GGA before. You know when the acts stop performing. Would 11pm be a good time for a late night gathering?

See you on Thursday!!!

T-Shirt Day is....

2009-02-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

Friday OR Saturday!

We were just all over the board on this one!! If you see someone in a t-shirt say hello and introduce yourself! We're going to have a blast!!!

See you in three days!!

Getaway Girls Gathering -- in Four DAYS!!!!

2009-02-01T16:10:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it??? Only four days until we ship out! It will be here before we know it. I want to remind everyone of the get together we have planned for Thursday.

First Annual (but not the last)
Getaway Girls Gathering
Thursday, Feb 5, 2009
4:30-5:00pm
Tahiti Lounge

Drop by and meet the other bloggers. Pick up your t-shirts.

We have a small surprise for all the bloggers, so come by and visit with us... oh, and get that surprise.

Just some FYIs

2009-01-29T20:31:00.000-08:00

Just think this time next week we'll be cruising! Can you believe it's here???

As for packing.... I'm so impressed with those of you who are packing now. I'm still trying to figure out what to wear and I'm a night before packer. So, I'll be doing that (along with LeAnn who commented the very thing I was thinking. Great minds and all that jazz, right LeAnn?)

T-shirt day? I'll post that under a separate post and don't forget our get together in the Tahiti room on Thursday at 4:30. You will pick up your t-shirts then and I have surprises for all (Well, the first 200). I will also do a reminder post early next week.

We've had a great discussion on all manner of things and I wanted to thank Amber (a 10x Carnival cruiser) and member of the "A" Team for sharing her expertise!

Thank you Amber!!

Amber's Info:

You don't need a beach towel. Carnival will provide a beach towel in your stateroom. You are responsible for it and if you lose it they will charge you for it. It's like $20+. Your room steward will bring you a clean one each day if it's dirty. This makes it nice to not have to pack a big towel in my suitcase! :)

The cabins do not have alarm clocks so i always bring one. I like to know what time it is when i wake up at random times of the night. Also, your cell phone might change time zones and the ship will stay on their normal time so it might get confusing. That's why i like the alarm clock. It keeps me on ship time.

Power bar strip: There is only one outlet by the vanity in the room so if you are going to plug in cell phones, alarm clocks, hair dryers you might need one of these. They will also have one outlet in the bathroom.

Don't forget your $1's for tips! It is nice to tip the porters that handle your luggage ($1 per bag) and when you have room service it's nice to give them a couple of dollars each time you order...which is a lot for me! Is it bad that i have the phone number memorized for room service? #8000!! :)

The only free drinks on board are Water, juice (apple, punch, oj) coffee, hot chocolate and unsweet tea. Soft drinks will cost and it will be charged to your sail and sign card.

(From Carnival's Site)

What is the Fountain Fun Card?

We will offer to all guests the option to purchase a "Fountain Fun Card" which will allow them unlimited soft drinks for the duration of the cruise at a one time purchase price (including gratuities). The "Fountain Fun Card" can be purchased at the casino, lobby and pool bar onboard the ship. In all locations where beverage service is offered, guests may receive a glass of the soft drink of their choice - one glass will be served at a time and only to the guest whose name appears on the card. The card cannot be used through room service.

NOTE: A 15% gratuity will automatically be added on at the time of purchase of the Fountain Fun Card

What are you Doing and What are you Wearing

2009-01-27T12:40:00.001-08:00

Let's find out what everyone is wearing and what everyone is doing for excursions.

I'll go first:
Wearing -- capris, jeans, light jackets, etc. And for formal night, just some black dress pants (the travel kind!) and a jacket

Going -- don't know, may just do some shopping, etc.

And I'll have the results from the T-shirt vote in just a day or so.

Mary

Vote for T-Shirt Day!

2009-01-23T12:54:00.000-08:00

I want to be fair and get the word out about a vote. So, vote for the day you want to wear the t-shirts.
Do you want to do Friday, Saturday (while we're in Cozumel) or Sunday?

Of course, you can wear your t-shirt anytime that you want to

Just twelve more days!!

Two Weeks!! Oh My!

2009-01-21T20:34:00.000-08:00

Just two weeks and so much to get done. I feel a little like the White Rabbit in Alice and Wonderland -- always checking my watch.

Anyway, we have several decisions we need to make.

1. What day / night do you want to wear the t-shirts? It would be so cool if we all wear them at the same time. Suggestions?

2. We have our planned meeting on Thursday (and don't worry I'll send out reminders) but do we want to try to connect other times? Suggestions? (I like the late night ice cream run myself)

3. I'm sure we have more decisions, but my brain just shut down..... help. What else do we need to figure out. I want to get an opportunity to meet y'all and hug everyone's neck and get email addresses, etc so y'all help me out...I don't want to forget anything.

Geez -- I'm ready to start planning the next cruise and I haven't even gotten on board this one!

Also -- I'm doing a LIVE from the GGA Cruise blog! I'll post every night and I want to have quotes from y'all and pictures and pictures and pictures!!

The Winner of the Angela Thomas book, Beautiful Offering

2009-01-19T20:28:00.000-08:00

Number 2

Kathyt

Here are your random numbers:2
Timestamp: 2009-01-20 04:23:48 UTC

Congratulations!! Email me your mailing address at Mary@MaryRSnyder.com and I'll get the book in the mail asap!

Winner of the SPA Girls Bag is ....

2009-01-19T20:00:00.000-08:00

Number 23
LeeAnn

Here are your random numbers:23
Timestamp: 2009-01-20 03:59:47 UTC

LeeAnn, email me at Mary@MaryRSnyder.com with your address and I'll get this in the mail to you asap!

The Spa Girls are also GetAway Girls!!! So don't miss their show!!

Winner of the 321 Improv DVD is ....

2009-01-19T19:55:00.001-08:00

Number 9

Charle

Here are your random numbers:9
Timestamp: 2009-01-20 03:54:45 UTC

Charle, email me your address at Mary@maryrsnyder.c0m and I'll get this in the mail to you ASAP!

The Winner of the Carried Away CD is ....

2009-01-19T19:48:00.000-08:00

Number 13

Sue Hook

Here are your random numbers:13
Timestamp: 2009-01-20 03:47:25 UTC

Congratulations Sue!! Send me your mailing address at mary@maryrsnyder.com and I'll have this in the mail asap!

And the Winnder of the Kerri Pomarolli & Ron McGehee DVD is

2009-01-19T19:42:00.000-08:00

Number 16

Annette from WA

Here are your random numbers:16
Timestamp: 2009-01-20 03:41:51 UTC

You are the winner! Please email me at Mary@MaryRSnyder.com and I'll get this out in the mail to you ASAP!!

Just a word from Mary

2009-01-19T13:17:00.000-08:00

First, I want to thank you all for the sweet words of encouragement. I'm blessed to be working with this group -- and I'm having more fun than should be allowed. I just adore each of you! I'm praying that God give all of us a peaceful couple of weeks leading up to our cruise. I know I could use it.

Are you ready to escape the cold? My word, I live in the Deep South and it's cold as the dickens here -- single digits. Now, I know that you northern girls laugh at that, but I just don't have the wardrobe to manage bitter cold. I don't even own a pair of snow boots -- and if the weather keeps going I'm going to have to buy a pair (cute ones with fur trim).

I'm looking forward to meeting all of you so don't forget to join me at the Tahiti Lounge Thursday at 4:30 -- we'll have t-shirts to hand out and a little surprise for all those on the blog! I need a number, so if you didn't give me your name and who all is traveling with you, please do that now.

Now, it's time to start announcing those winners!!!

The Get Away Girls

2009-01-18T21:28:00.001-08:00

Oh my have we got a great group of women going on this cruise. We have Moms and Daughters traveling together. We have friends, scrapbooking friends, friends who met on the last cruise. We have highschool friends who are celebrating 25 years beyond graduation.
There's sisters, sisters-in-law, cousins, neices and neighbors traveling together. There are church friends and neighbor friends and their's even one husband! Brave guy!

And we're traveling from all over the world -- yep, world!! We have Paula and Emily coming from El Salvador and several from Canada. We even have someone from my state -- Alabama. From West Virginia to California and from Candada to Texas.

I can't wait to see each of you and promise me that you'll find me and say hello! Don't forget our meeting time and place -- and I'll repost that in a few days.

Also, the giveaway winners will be annouced on Monday!

Giveaway Extravaganza Super Cool SPA Girls Tote Bag

2009-01-16T07:38:00.000-08:00

This super cute and very functional bag is just perfect for the cruise. The black tote bag has the SPA girls logo on it in Hot Pink and green -- very fun! (The shiny gray on it is just my amazing picture skills. The bag is shiny black and big!)

You DO NOT want to miss the SPA girls! These ladies are fun and funny!! In fact, since they get the whole girlfriends thing we need to invite them to join us at our Getaway Girls Gathering. I will send out the invite.

You know how to win this one -- just comment and we'll let the random number generator work out the details.

Roll Call!!

2009-01-15T12:04:00.000-08:00

Hi all -- it's been quite a week of giveaways! I hope y'all are loving them. We'll do the random number generator over the weekend and announce all the winners ASAP!

I've seen several comments from people stating where they are traveling from and I thought ..... hmmmm, let's do another roll call. It's really simple, just comment and give your name, who's traveling with you, and what state / area you are traveling from. I'll go first.....

Mary from Alabama and I'll be traveling my 22 yr old newly married daughter

(Once everyone puts in their information, I'll put together a log of all of us)

Giveaway Extraganza - 321 Improv Comedy

2009-01-15T07:33:00.000-08:00

These guys are just so funny! I can't wait to sit in on this show on the ship.
This great DVD is the perfect way to get into the cruising and fun mood. It's full of hilarious comedy.

So, start those comments and we'll let the random number generator chose the winner at the end of the week.