Sin City and More

We are trying to get back into our ‘normal’ routine, but it seems like if we are gone for a few days it takes awhile to get our act together. Head colds and such have been making their rounds. We took Blake to the doctor yesterday and he has an ear infection. On a good note though, he is up to 33 pounds! They didn’t measure how tall he was, but we can tell by his how things fit that he is definitely taller.

So now I get to use this blog as an outlet so feel free to stop reading and pardon my rambling. More than one person has asked in some fashion, “What does a Christian girl do in Las Vegas?” The motives behind the question vary from person to person. Some are legitimately curious what we do for fun when we go; others are teasing and are not looking for a response; and there are the people that ask that want to cast judgment in some fashion. I must first say that Christians that separate themselves from the world are not being obedient in my opinion. Jesus lived among the people and ministered to those that were hurting and sinning the most. We are called to set examples and be as Christ-like as we can given out human limitations. Is Vegas the place for everyone? No! Is Vegas full of sin? Yes! Is Macomb, Chicago, Roseville, full of sin? Yes! Ok enough of that. Below is a random list of what I did in Vegas….

- Enjoyed the sunshine and temperatures each day that were WAY above freezing!

- Had uninterrupted adult conversations with my dear husband and held his hand as we walked down the strip.

- Saw a magic show at the Luxor and was a bit disappointed. However laughed hysterically at the pre-show entertainment and got the weekend’s mantra of “FU FU Fu!”

- Spent time with our new friends Bill and Malloree and learned so much about the things we have in common. Kindled a friendship that will last a lifetime.

- Walked past a gambling area where half naked girls were dancing for the gamblers at the table. I said a silent prayer for them and let my mind wonder how hard times have to be for them to think such a job is ok?

- Saw the world’s largest chocolate fountain at the Bellagio hotel and enjoyed their fresh flower arrangements.

- Stepped on a slew of cards that people were handing out of have topless women and again wondered whose daughters these women were. Prayed that they too would find a better way to support themselves and their families.

- Shopped at the M&M store for great gifts for the kids. Talked with Justin about what a great job the company has done with marketing and keeping their product alive.

- At a magnificent dinner at the top of the Stratosphere after the four of us said grace and thanked God for blessing us with great food, friendships, and so many other blessings.

- Saw the Cirque du Soleil show O at the Bellagio. Oh my gosh it was soooo amazing! The talent of the performers is unbelievable. The choreography is complex and intricate. The mechanics of the stage and floor was unreal.

- I gambled a total of $20 between two slot machines. I do not like to gamble – I do not like losing my money. For me there is way too much to do and see in Vegas to waste time on gambling!

Ok, so my list could go on and on. The bottom line is that we had a great time in a city where there is always something to do no matter what your interests are. I am thankful to have had the time with Justin and with Bill and Malloree – it was very rejuvenating!

Here I am outside the M&M store.

Justin and Bill with SpongeBob!

Hopefully Malloree’s pictures turned out better than mine and I will have more to share.