Author: Southern Simple Blessed

Welcome Y'all! My name is Davilyn. I am a lifestyle/ travel blogger and a Travel Agent. It is my passion to help you make wonderful memories. I am a wife, mom, and GIA (grandmother)  A Texas Lady living a Southern, Simple, Blessed life. I love the sun, the beach, travel and especially cruising. I'm here to give you a glimpse of my life through travel, tips, photography, and inspirational post. My family and faith are everything to me. Feel free to leave a comment and let's get to know each other. Thank you for visiting and I hope you continue to check out my blog. Enjoying the simple life, Davilyn

Carnival Vista: My Tour

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Travel/Cruising

As a travel agent, I got to tour the Carnival Vista. The Vista is one of the biggest ships that Carnival has. The ship set sail May 2016. Its new home port is in Galveston, Texas, only 3 hours away from my home.

This was my first ship tour as a travel agent. I was very blessed to be able to go on this ship inspection because they only allow so many per inspection/tour. I was happy to be approved but also had anxiety. Almost didn’t go. I am an introvert, and it’s tough for me to do things alone, where I know no one! Therefore, this was a big step out of my comfort zone.  I’m so glad that I stepped out. I met so many fellow agents and even stepped out and introduced myself to people. BIG deal for me!

Some of my new friends and fellow travel agents.

I have been on ten Carnival cruises and knew the layout of their ships pretty well. When I walked onto this ship, I was wowed! The lobby/atrium area was so different than the other ships. It was beautiful with the fiber optic aquarium fixture. There is also one in the casino bar area. Missing in the atrium is the glass elevators, that the other ships have.

Beautiful

The Vista is the first ship that has the Havana rooms. Kids must be at least 12 to stay in these cabins. You can choose between a Havana cabana with a patio which has a hammock and lounge chairs. A Havana suite or an interior Havana stateroom. These rooms have their own private pool, hot tub, and outside bar until 7 pm. The Havana restaurant, lounge, bandstand and the bar on the inside is available to all passengers.

Havana Cabana Patio

The Havana Lounge & Bar

The ship is big, and I was a little overwhelmed trying to see everything. I know that I missed some areas of it.

I love the big screen. As you can see the next stop was Montego Bay, Jamaica. This is my favorite route. It goes to Montego Bay, Cozumel, and Grand Cayman. All Carnival ships have this big screen on the lido deck. At night, they show first-run movies, under the stars. Usually, the first show is a kid show and the second adult.

The main cabins, Lido deck, pool area, buffet, is about the same as the other ships that I have cruised.  The lido deck is where I live during the day while I’m cruising.

There is something for all ages, from camp carnival for young kids, circle C for young teens, club 02 for older teens, Dr. Seuss, waterworks, sports deck, sky ride.

A sports bar to watch games on so you won’t miss any while you’re out at sea.

 Guys Pig & Anchor BBQ and even though that wasn’t on our schedule, a couple of ladies and I ventured that way, and yes, we did have to taste it. Yummy!! We also got an ice-cream cone on the Lido deck.

The Seafood Shack located on lido deck aft. 

Carnival loves travel agents. They fed us in one of the main dining rooms and gave us a full course meal. The waiters put on a dance show. It was a great experience. They also had drawings for different carnival items, and I won a carnival mouse pad, small I know but I was excited because I never win anything.💙

The ship is big and beautiful, and I love the decor.

The staff was very friendly.

It seemed weird being on a cruise ship without my husband, if for only 4 hours. I would say it was hard to get off, but it wasn’t because he wasn’t with me. He went with me on the trip, dropped me off, and he went to the movies. He’s good like that.

I’ve always loved to travel and for the past 11 years cruise. I love helping others plan/book their vacations.

It’s never too late to start living your dreams. I’m proof of that. I just started my blog in January and my travel agency in May, at 48 years old.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Jeremiah 29:11

The Lord has blessed me with this blog and becoming a Travel Agent. I’m also a stay at home Gia (grandma). I love being able to help my kids out and spoil my grandbabies while doing this.

Travel, your money will return, your time won’t. Time is short.

I would love to help you plan your vacation. I know a lot of people ask why to use a TA instead of booking themselves online. I have a previous blog about that, you can read here to answer those questions.

Why Use A Travel Agent

 Facebook travel group  Lost At Sea Travels with Davilyn

I have videos of different areas of the ship on my  YouTube channel

Enjoying the simple, blessed & traveling life,

💜Davilyn

Why Use A Travel Agent

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Travel/Cruising

I am often asked, “Why to use a travel agent when I can book online myself?” There are a lot of things we can do ourselves, but we get someone else to do them. Right? I could cut and color my own hair, yet I pay someone to do it. Why? Because I want a professional to do it right. Now think of things you could do yourself, but you get someone else to do. Silly to think about, I know.

Sometimes, travel agents get bad reps. I understand there are probably some that are not as attentive or as good as others, that’s in any business. In fact, at first I wouldn’t call myself a TA, I would say vacation planner or vacation specialist. I thought if I changed the title it would be better. I realized the title doesn’t matter, its whose behind that title that matters. I treat each of my clients as I want to be treated.

Many people think Travel Agents cost more, but they do not. It doesn’t cost you any more to use a travel agent than to book through Expedia, any online site or directly through the company.

Experienced and Trained

Travel agents regularly attend travel industry seminars, conferences, webinars, inspections and most importantly I travel myself, which I love.

Customer Service

No travel website is going to offer you the personal touch that comes from working with a travel agent who has your best interest at heart.

We work for YOU, not a company. You always have direct contact with your Travel Agent instead of being on the phone pressing buttons, on hold and waiting to speak to a random person. We save you time because you’re not searching the internet for hours on the best prices and what to expect while on vacation. We also like to give complimentary gifts and/or extra amenities.

VIP ACCESS

Travel agents have phone lines and connections that you won’t find online or have access too. We receive information from companies that you may not necessarily receive online or by phone.  When I get this information, I pass it along to you or adjust your vacation for the better.

Personal Service

My main niche is cruises and beaches. I have first-hand knowledge and expertise in this area. I can answer individual questions and give you honest and non-biased answers from my own experiences and help you choose what’s best for you. I customize your vacation for you. I help with getting the room you want, rooms near your family, special needs or meal plans, family dinner reservations, help with tours, excursions, parking. I have packing list and blogs for traveling. I let you know what documents you need so you won’t be left behind.

I want my clients to travel prepared and stress-free. I stay in personal contact from the time we first talk, book, travel, return home and beyond.

Using a travel agent comes down really to four things; personalization, your best interest, expertise and saves you time. I’m the one on hold or searching for the best deal for you, so you don’t have too. I’m looking out for your best interest. If I don’t have the answer, I’ll find it!!

Also, when you book online or directly through a company, you’re giving the big companies more money, when you book with a travel agent, you’re supporting a small business.

It’s not always an easy job, but I love it and passionate about what I do. I work 7 days a week and almost always available.

I give quotes, help get the best prices & help you with ALL of your vacation needs for a great vacation! I do all of the work so you can have all of the fun💙

The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been and the memories we’ve made along the way.

What story will your vacation tell? I would love to help you plan it.

You can find me on Facebook Lost At Sea Travels, Southern Simple Blessed

email davilyn30@yahoo

I believe we all need to slow down and enjoy our lives.

Enjoying the Simple, Blessed & Traveling Life,

💙 Davilyn

Fall Caribbean Cruise

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Travel/Cruising

This was our first time to take a fall cruise. We did a four-day cruise to Cozumel, Mexico. We have now cruised every season. October is a great time to cruise. It was actually warmer than our Spring cruises have been. The only negative thing is its hurricane season. There was one in the Gulf of Mexico and actually hit land the day before we sailed.

Praying for the people affected by Hurricane Michael.

The seas were very calm and beautiful.

We packed as much as we could into this 4-day cruise or maybe I should say, we ate as much as we could within this time. The food is so good. We had Guys burgers, Blue Iguana tacos, Lido buffet food, gourmet dining room food, room service, lots of ice-cream and much more. They definitely feed you well on a cruise. I try not to think of calories while there. On the last sea day was a chocolate extravaganza. Oh my goodness! Delicious! They had anything and everything chocolate.

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I love to dip my fruit in chocolate. Well, really cover it in chocolate. It’s still healthy, isn’t it?

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There is so much to choose from. I probably gained 5 pounds in those 4 days.

We had a costume night which consisted of a costume parade, photos, costume contest, and a deck party.

Our cruising buddies are our good friends, for over 30 years, which happen to be my brother and sister-in-law.

We had never dressed up in costumes before, and it was fun.

We went on the Carnival Valor, a medium-size ship. I don’t know if it was the size of the ship or the length of the cruise, but it was a fun, intimate community. The staff was friendly and attentive as well.

Cozumel is one of our favorite ports. We’ve been there many times, it’s like a home away from home. The port itself is very lovely, and the beaches are beautiful. The people there are so friendly.

Cozumel, Mexico

We always go to Mr. Sanchos. It’s an all-inclusive beach resort. There is so much to do there, anything from parasailing, snorkeling, jet skis, horseback riding, massages, etc. or you can just relax on the beach all day. Oh, and all you want food and drinks.

Mr. Sanchos Beach Resort

I almost forgot to tell you that we are University of Texas Longhorn fans. We wore our longhorn shirts on the day we boarded and my brother, well, he had to be different and wear a Texas Aggie shirt, the Longhorns rival, even though he’s not really an Aggies fan. Let’s just say, we got asked about our shirts A LOT and they got lots of attention.

      I forgive him! I have too! LOL

I love this view!

It was a great cruise…one of the funnest we’ve had. It’s always good to get away. We love cruising because you can really disconnect from everything. Sometimes we spend so much time working and just life in general, that we forget to enjoy it. I encourage to slow down, have fun and enjoy your life.

The sunsets are beautiful.

If you would like more information about cruising, I would love to help you. I also have a vacation/cruise Facebook group Lost At Sea Travels that you can join.  I am an expert cruiser! 😉

Enjoying The Simple and Cruising Life!

💜 Davilyn

The Palm Tree

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Inspirational

Palm trees have always been my favorite tree, they stand tall, secure, and are beautiful. I always take lots of photos of palm trees and have lots of palm tree decor throughout my house.  I have several palm plants, and it’s my goal to plant a palm tree in my yard one day.

     The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree… Psalm 92:12

This photo was taken by me in Nassau, Bahamas

Have you ever seen a palm tree in the midst of a storm? It may bend so much that it’s almost touching the ground, but it always comes back up.

I researched palm trees and found that it gets stronger through the storm.  Isn’t it incredible how much wind, rain, tornadoes, and hurricanes that a palm tree can handle? Palm trees have a different root system than most other trees. Instead of the roots tapering and becoming smaller as they grow farther away from the trunk, palm tree roots stay about the same size. These roots can make their way below the dry, shifting sand to find stability where other trees would not. Because they have heavy fonds and trunks, the roots act as both anchors and feeders to sustain their growth.

Unlike most trees that have a woody, dead outer layer, the entire trunk of a palm is alive, allowing it to be very flexible, bending in hurricane-force winds that would break other trees.

Spending time reading God’s Word, fasting and praying – regardless of your circumstances – will give you strong roots in your faith, ready to weather any storm, just like the palm tree. We will come through the storm with a victory.

God said to flourish like a palm tree!

Maybe he is telling us this because He knew we would go through storms in this life.  He wants our roots to go deep in him so when the storms come and try to blow us over or even break us, that we will be like the palm tree, maybe bend some but not break and always come back stronger.

Simply put, we find strength through storms when we know the Word and do not stray from its commands.

Palms tolerate high temperatures, little rainfall, and high winds. Palms can flourish where other trees would wither and die. God promises that we who serve Him will prosper where others will shrink.

The coconut palm is considered one of the ten most useful trees in the world.  It plays a vital role in the economy and food.  Think about all things coconut. Coconut oil, coconut water, etc. the list goes on and on.

I took this photo on a beach in Cozumel, Mexico.

I love the smell of anything coconut; sunscreen, candles, hair products, lotions, too many things to list, not to mention, eating and drinking anything coconut.

I find so many spiritual meanings behind the palm tree! Weathering the storm, growing stronger, producing fruit, anchoring ourselves in him.

I took this photo on a private island in Cozumel, Mexico

“They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna! ” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!” ‭‭John‬ ‭12:13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

But a far greater symbolic waving of palm branches occurred when Jesus made his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Not fully aware of the symbolic significance of what they were doing, the people were waving Palm branches in advance of Jesus’ victory over death, sin, and the enemy when He died on the cross and rose from the grave.

The next time you see a Palm tree learn to appreciate the season you are in, even if it’s a stormy one! God is using that storm for your good and the benefit of others, all for His glory! When you go through storms of life, remember the palm tree and how it may bend, but it doesn’t break.

I took this picture sitting on the balcony of my hotel in Galveston, as I watched the wind blow and the storms come. I watched the palms blow and how beautiful and stout they were. It peaked my interest to research the tree, and that sparked this article. I hope you have enjoyed it and will see palm trees differently and know that you will get through your storms in life, stronger.

Leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts on this.

Enjoying The Simple Life,

💜 Davilyn

10 Ways To Keep Your Marriage Strong

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Inspirational

We are celebrating 31 years of marriage this month. We got married young, I was 17 and my husband was 20. We had already been together for almost 2 years. There were many that thought we wouldn’t make it because we were so young. We knew we were in love and wanted to spend the rest of our lives together.

We get asked how do you make it work? This is what has worked for us.

MARRIAGE IS 100/100

You hear so many say 50/50. That’s not it. You ALWAYS have to give it 100%.

DIVORCE IS NOT AN OPTION

We have never used the “D” word, EVER!! I realize that in the heat of the moment, you may want to throw it out there, but don’t give the devil a footstool. Don’t ever make it an option.

MAKE TIME FOR ONE ANOTHER

I know sometimes it’s hard with kids but there are ways to do it. You may have to stay up late or hire a babysitter for a day. So many, after their kids are grown, get divorced because their kids were their marriage and they don’t really know each other. Don’t just be roommates, be soulmates.

YOU DON’T ALWAYS HAVE TO BE RIGHT

There will always be arguments and disagreements in marriage. Some fights aren’t worth winning or even fighting over. When disagreements do come, stay calm, don’t yell, express yourself and if you have to, walk into another room for a while until you calm down. You may realize it wasn’t anything important after all. A lot of little things can be ignored and really not even an issue after all. Let go of the small stuff. Forgive quickly and don’t keep bringing up things from the past.

COMMUNICATE/COMPROMISE

You are different people and won’t always see eye to eye on everything. You have to compromise and communicate. Tell each other your feelings because you can’t read each other’s mind. Try having them repeat what you have said so that you know how they heard it and if different than what you meant, resolve it. Be sensitive to each other. Listen to each other. Seek to understand each other’s intentions and try to compromise on the issue at hand. Sometimes marriage is giving over your way to what your spouse wants. Selfless not selfish!

DONT TAKE EACH OTHER FOR GRANTED

Always recognize what your spouse does and don’t take it for granted. Thank them for all they do.  Let them know that you appreciate what they do for you and your family.

NEVER TALK BAD ABOUT YOUR SPOUSE TO OTHERS

This is so important. Never talk bad about your spouse or put them down.  No one likes to be put down especially in public, to friends, family or anyone. That is so wrong and can be so damaging to a relationship. If you can’t say something good, don’t say anything at all.

LEARN EACH OTHER’S LOVE LANGUAGE

There is a book by Gary Chapman

The Five Love Languages

Everyone needs to read this. It helps so much in any relationship. This is how they feel loved and more than likely how they give love. I encourage you to read the book if you haven’t. Here are the love languages but you really should read the book. There is also a quiz online you can take. You can have more than one but normally one is more dominant.

1. Words of Affirmation

This language uses words to affirm other people

2. Acts of service

For these people, actions speak louder than words.

3.Receiving Gifts

For some people, what makes them feel most loved is to receive and give a gift.

4. Quality Time

This language is all about giving the other person your undivided attention.

5. Physical Touch

To this person, nothing speaks more deeply than appropriate touch.

Rarely will you and your spouse have the same love language but you need to learn each other’s because that is how you fill their love tank.

It’s rare, but it just so happens that my husband and I have the same dominate love language. Quality time! We both have others as well, but that’s our strongest. We love our quality time together, alone. Some may not understand why we like our “alone” time but it’s so important to us. Kind of weird but both of our least love language is gifts. We had rather our “gift” to each other be alone time.

REMEMBER WHY YOU FELL IN LOVE

What attracted you to that person. Think about those qualities. Date each other. Dress up for each other, don’t let yourself go.

MAKE YOUR SPOUSE A PRIORITY

PRAY FOR YOUR SPOUSE

LOVE IS NOT ALWAYS A FEELING

BE FRIENDS

A successful marriage is falling in love many times with the same person.

A man wants to know he is respected and a woman wants to know that she’s loved.

Be those parents who gross your kids out. Show affection for one another in front of your children. Let them know that you love each other.

I want others to see our marriage and KNOW that we love each other!

31 years ago we said, “I do,” and 31 years ago, I THOUGHT I LOVE YOU THEN. As you grow and mature, your marriage grows and matures, and your love grows and matures. I loved him so much when we got married but now it’s so much deeper. It’s hard to explain unless you’ve been there.

So 31 years, 2 sons, 2 daughters-in-law and 6 grandchildren later here we are...Living Our Love Song

I pray that we have many many more blessed years of marriage.

No marriage is perfect, no love story is perfect, but I sure do love ours.

Enjoying the Simple Life,

💜 Davilyn

Disclaimer: I am not a marriage counselor this is my advice only. May contain affiliate links.

LIVE YOUR DREAM

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Inspirational, Travel/Cruising

DREAMS TO PLANS: WHY I BECOME A TRAVEL AGENT

I love helping people. It has always made me happy. I love taking vacations and even small trips.

We have always taken family vacations. Mainly to the beach, but also to other places, as well.  After our boys were grown we started cruising. Facebook become popular and I started sharing our photos and stories of our vacation on Facebook.

I began getting messages from people asking me about cruising, ships, excursions, packing etc. I told them everything that I know and recommended things to them and I enjoyed doing it. I’d refer them to our carnival cruise vacation planner (PVP) to book. I even started blogging about cruising and those blogs got so many more views and comments than any of my other blogs. I even had a blog on cruise packing that went viral on Pinterest.

You can book online but there are so much more advantages and offers by booking through a travel agent (ME) even more than a PVP through carnival. I couldn’t even tell you how many people that I have referred people to our (former) PVP.  He’s great! Then one day I thought, why work for someone else’s dream.

Why live someone else’s dream when I could live my own dream.

I looked into classes to become a travel agent. I talked to my husband and talked to a friend that is a TA, and I felt such peace, signed up and took the course to become a TA. I know it’s not a “get rich” job but I also know it’s something that I’m experienced in and passionate about. I can continue to help people and now even book for them. There are even more advantages to being a travel agent than there is being a personal vacation planner with Carnival because I can give you my honest answers to things (since I don’t work for carnival) I can help get rooms with or by one another, book your dinner together, give you quotes, etc. You get more of a personable experience with me. I can help you from where to park your car to excursions. I can give you all of the in’s and out’s of cruising. I know about boarding, disembarking, what’s on the ship, best room locations, elegant nights, best places to eat and even price drops.  You don’t just get your cruise booked, you’re not just a number, you can contact me any time with any questions, we will become friends.  Carnival even likes people to book through TA’s. Oh, by the way, it cost you nothing more to book through me than booking online or straight through carnival. It’s all the same price so why not take advantage of everything that I can offer you.💙

If you have a cruise booked right now and it’s not paid in full, you can even transfer it to me. 😊

As Carnival says #travelagentsrock

I know when the sales are and it’s best to book your vacation in advance, it’s cheaper and you can pay it out any way you wish, as long as it’s paid in full 75-90 days before the cruise.

I can also book other cruise lines, all-inclusive beach resorts, river cruise, land vacations, Disney, and just about anywhere you’d like to go. I’m excited for myself to go discover more places.

I’m really excited about being a Travel Agent or as I like to say a vacation specialist. I’ve only been doing it for about six weeks and the agency that I contract out of said that I’m doing great. I take webinars weekly from different company’s. I’m still learning. I want to be the best that I can be.

I look forward to helping YOU book your next vacation.

My facebook travel group is Lost At Sea Travels

Join my group and feel free to add others if they cruise/travel or may be interested. Help me to get the word out. I would appreciate it!

Americans work too much and don’t enjoy life enough!

Enjoy your life!!

I encourage you to find your dream and make it a plan. 💙

Enjoying the simple life,

💜 Davilyn

Liebster Award Nominee

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Uncategorized

Y’all, I’m so excited! My blog was nominated for an award! How did this happen to ME? I feel like a celebrity saying, “It’s an honor to be nominated,” but it really is, especially this short time in my blogging career. The most amazing thing about the nomination is it comes from a fellow blogger, The Plentiful Cup… she is such an amazing blogger. Her blog is real, raw, honest and she encourages other women to be who they are and to accept themselves. She is bringing more awareness to mental illness, especially PPD. I love how open and honest she is. You should check out her blog.

I started blogging because I wanted and needed something for me. I had been putting ME off. It had been on my heart for years but I never took the next step. It’s easier for me to express myself through writing than speaking. I love blogging about our trips and sharing my own travel photos. Blogging is how my passion and purpose come together. It led me to become a travel agent. I love helping people plan their vacations. I blog about many things, travel, inspirational, motivational, my life/family, whatever the Lord lays on my heart at the time. I’ve met so many people from all around the world, which wouldn’t have happened without blogging. The name of my blog describes me well, I am a Southern, Simple, Blessed woman. I hope you enjoy my blog as much as I enjoy sharing it with you.

The award I’m nominated for is the LIEBSTER AWARD. It started in 2011 and is an online award that is given to bloggers by other bloggers. I am so excited, honored and privileged that out of thousands (or more) of bloggers around the world that I was chosen. The winner will be announced at the end of the year. Thank you so much The Plentiful Cup for the nomination.

Liebster means sweetest, kindest, nicest, dearest, beloved, lovely, kind, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing, and welcomed. It’s so special to me that someone thought of that when they read my blog.

Along with this nomination I have to tell 10 random things about myself, answer questions, nominate others and give them questions to answer.

10 Random Facts About Me

1. I’m married to my high school sweetheart for 31 years. Young love can work. I married at 17.  More in love now than ever.

2. I have 2 sons and 6 grandchildren.

3. I had a licensed home childcare for 19 years.

4. I’m a cruise addict

5. I love summer

6. I can be a girly girl but I am also a sports fan. Houston Astros & Dallas Cowboys…WOOHOO

7. I’m a planner and have to make myself be spontaneous at times.

8. I’m OCD about SOME things but not ALL things.

9. I make my bed every day first thing in the morning.

10. I love being outside.

 QUESTIONS FROM THE BLOGGER THAT NOMINATED ME

1. If you were a type of weather what type of weather would you be and why?

I would be sun mixed with clouds. I can be bright, shiny, warm, a hot mess and I can be cloudy with a possibility of showers, tears. But I’ve learned that those tears water my grass, and grow me.

2. How would you describe yourself? Now ask someone else to describe you? Are the answers similar or different? If they are different why do you think that is?

I am a Christian, family person, loyal, sincere, honest, a peacemaker, over thinker and a worrier. I ask my husband to describe me and he said determined, dependable and beautiful. I’ll take it. 😊

3. Are you comfortable with the person you are currently? Why or why not?

It took me a long time, but finally, at 40, I become comfortable with who I am. I decided it was time to stop worrying about others opinions of me and live my life in freedom. But there are still things that I’m working on like perfectionism, not looking at my physical flaws and my own insecurity.

4. What did you Google last?

The Galveston cruise cam because my son and daughter-in-law were leaving on a cruise.

5. What was the most awkward conversation you have overheard?

I don’t know about the most awkward conversation that I’ve heard, but it’s very awkward to be in a public restroom and to hear someone on a cell phone having a conversation in the stall next to you.

6. You can eat 1 thing for the rest of your life, what is it?

Tex-Mex (Texan-Mexican food)

7. What has changed about you since you started blogging?

I have become a travel agent through my traveling/cruising blogs. I have become more vulnerable which is hard for me. I’ve also become more confident in myself.

8. Which actor/actress would play you in a movie about your life?

REESE WITHERSPOON

9. If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be? Why? What would you eat?

My Granny, before dementia. She was so full of wisdom and love. A lot of times we don’t appreciate what we have until it’s gone. I would soak up every minute. We would have whatever she wanted to cook, which would probably be a baked ham, pinto beans, cornbread and sweet tea.

10. What have you seen that you wish you could un-see?

I will never forget, I was watching “Live with Regis & Kelly” and the news cut in with an airplane hitting the twin towers, LIVE. (9/11/01)

11. What would 2008 think about your answers to these questions?

That I’m stronger, braver and more courageous.

Now, I have the pleasure of nominating 10 bloggers.

1.Simple Life Simple Faith

2.Our Southern Life Blog

3.A Cowboy and Me

4.Fresh Grace for Today

5.The Chickish Chick

6.Simply Filled.

7.Chasing Heatherwood

8.Joyfully Overwhelmed

9.Wander Lust and Laughter

10.The Mid Summer Daydreamer

QUESTIONS FOR MY NOMINEES

1. If you could go back and tell your 18-year-old self one thing, what would it be?

2.  If you could wake up anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would it be and why?

3. Do you have a favorite place or thing you do to unwind, if so where and what?

4. Which one would you choose A) 8 hours of sleep per night? B) a self-cleaning house C)Your kids never fight with each other or complain D) someone to run all of your errands

5. Which color would best describe you and why?

6.  If money wasn’t a problem what would you do?

7.  Early Riser or night owl or as I like to say sun-riser or sun-setter?

8.  Imagine your 90, what memories do you want to have?

9. What do you want people to remember you for?

10. What habit would you most like to break and what habit would you like to start?

11. What excites you and scares you at the same time?

To learn more about the Liebster Award click here

Again, thank you The Plentiful Cup for the nomination. I’m truly honored.

Enjoying the simple life,

💜 Davilyn

DEPRESSION IS REAL

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Inspirational, Motivational

DEPRESSION is a MEDICAL CONDITION and it’s very real. Depression is NOT something you can control. It is NOT something to be ashamed of. It is NOT made up.

More people than we know suffer from it and pretend everything is okay. They are embarrassed, ashamed or afraid that someone is going to put them down, tell them to get over it or say you have nothing to be depressed about. They think you can just “snap out of it.” You can’t! Depressed people may not even understand why they are feeling a certain way, why they are emotional or having certain thoughts and feelings.

You can have money, friends, a good marriage, great family, be a spiritual person, or even be a Prince and be depressed. Everything may look good on the outside and you can still feel dark, lonely and empty on the inside.

If you feel like your depressed talk to your family, friends, a doctor, tell them your feelings and thoughts so they can help you. Depression is real, and nothing to be ashamed of.

It’s okay to admit that you’re not okay!

It’s okay to take medication if that’s what you need. I’m not saying everyone needs medication, I’m saying it’s okay if you do.

I know that God can heal you of ANYTHING. I believe in PRAYER and know it works. That being said, it’s not right for we as Christian’s to tell someone with depression or anxiety to NOT take medication. If that’s the case, then no one would need glasses, take blood pressure and heart medicine, headache or migraine meds, insulin, or whatever else any other MEDICAL condition requires because depression is a MEDICAL condition as well. Unless you’ve walked it, you don’t know the feeling. You don’t have the right to judge.

Many depressed people turn to alcohol and drugs because they don’t know how to cope.

Ask your family, friends, co-workers if they’re okay. Let them know they can be real with you. It hurts my heart when I see people struggle with depression and deny it. I think people deny it because they think it makes them appear as a weak person or they’re embarrassed or they don’t even realize they are depressed. That’s one reason we need more awareness.

This is close and dear to my heart because it’s in my family. I’ve dealt with it myself. I’ve had to take antidepressants before. I’ve had panic attacks and have even been awakened during the night with them. They have sent me to the doctor/hospital several times. They are very real my friends. It’s no joke. It’s not just for “attention.”  I’ve also learned the signs I get if I feel one coming on and have learned coping skills.

We as a society need more awareness of mental illness. People who suffer need to come forward, without feeling scared or like they are being judged.

If someone opens up to you about depression and or anxiety, you should treat that person the way you would if someone told you they had cancer or some other medical disease.

Depression/Anxiety is a silent disease and a silent killer.

I think the saying, “I’m praying for you,” has become just that, a saying. If you are having problems message, comment, contact me and I WILL PRAY FOR YOU!

Friends, if you’re reading this and you have depression or think you’re depressed, seek medical help.

“Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.””

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭31:8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

xoxo,

Davilyn

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or medical professional. If you think you are depressed seek medical help.

Summer Lovin’

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Uncategorized

I know summer doesn’t “officially” start until June 21, but to me, it starts Memorial Day weekend.

I love summer!



Hair gets lighter, skin gets darker, water gets warmer, drinks get colder, music gets louder, days are longer, life seems better. Kids are out of school. Some are going on vacations, visiting family, going to camps and others enjoy time at home. They enjoy small things like staying up and sleeping late, water slides, small plastic pools, popsicles, ice-cream cones and home picnics.

Life seems more laid back and relaxed during the summer. I love sitting on my deck, drinking sweet tea, grilling, listening to music. At dark, I like to watch the fireflies. I remember catching them as a child, putting them in a mason jar and putting them in my room to watch at night.  I want to catch some with my grandkids this summer so they can have that experience.



It’s the small things in life that I enjoy. Wildflowers, sunsets, stars, moon, the frogs croaking, the birds singing, the crickets chirping…I love nature. I also like to hear wind chimes, when we do get wind during the summer. It is hot and humid here in Texas during the summer but we have fans on the deck and AC in the house, so we’re good.

Have a time that you put your phone down, disconnect from social media and make memories. Be in the moment, simplify and enjoy your summer. My motto is, don’t collect things, collect memories.

My freckles always come out during the summer. My granny use to tell me they were sun kisses, they use to bother me but now I love to be kissed by the sun. I love to be outside. It makes me feel better. All of the feel-good endorphins get going and we need the Vitamin D the sun gives us. Of course, use sunscreen.

My wardrobe in the summer consists of flip-flops, shorts, t-shirts, and sunglasses.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy your summer. I love to see pictures and stories of the good times people have.  I like to see that on my newsfeed rather than depressing things.

If you would like ideas about planning a vacation, staycation or ideas on what to do this summer, I can help you.

If you would like to join my vacation group it is Lost at Sea Travels with Davilyn

Whatever you do this summer, enjoy it, that’s the most important thing. 💛

Enjoying the simple life,

💜Davilyn

Passion and Purpose

by Southern Simple Blessed, posted in Travel/Cruising

It’s never too late or you’re never too old, to start something new.

I read this in October, in a devotional…

“Take time to align your actions so that they reflect your passions.  If you’re finding that you’re not as passionate about things, dig into your purpose.  If you’re finding it difficult to recognize your purpose, then follow your passions, because on that path is where your purpose is waiting to be discovered.”

I read and re-read and thought about it and prayed about it a lot. I wanted to find out what my purpose was so I had to think about what my passions are.  I wanted something for me, outside of my family. Three of my passions have come together, photography, writing, and travels.

I had thought about a blog for a couple of years but I was scared. I am an introvert, insecure, have anxiety and a private person. I had to step out of my comfort zone to even start a blog. I’ve read and heard that good things happen outside of your comfort zone. How could I write a blog, though?  In January, I started with fear and all, not knowing what I was doing.

A few months ago when I started this blog I never dreamed it would bring me to the place I’m at now. I knew I would write about traveling, cruising, sharing photos, my family, and inspirational post because those things are my life. So far, the cruise and travel blogs have the most comments and views.

I’ve thought many times that I would love to be a travel agent, had even inquired about it but I was scared, and it went no further.  Finally, I just did it out of fear, as well.

This little blog has turned my passion for traveling/cruising into more. I am now a Travel Agent. A lot of people over the years have come to me asking for help because they see my photos and know we cruise a lot. It makes me happy helping people! I really love to help someone plan a vacation or a staycation. It helped me, turn my passion, into my purpose.

It’s my desire to make each person that comes to me happy and help them have a great vacation or staycation and make wonderful memories.

I can help you plan a cruise, excursions, beach vacations or even Disney. It doesn’t cost you any more to book travels through a travel agent (ME) than you would online or calling the company itself. I can help you find the best deals and you’ll have a “real” person to talk to.

I am still learning and taking courses. If I don’t know something, I can find out because I have a great agency that I work for and that is so helpful.

I have created a group on Facebook Lost at Sea Travels with Davilyn. I would love to have you join my group. I will post promotions, photos, answer questions, make it fun and help you any way that I can.

Maybe you can’t afford a vacation & think you shouldn’t join? Join anyway! As I’ve said in a previous blog, you can pay out a cruise or have a staycation at home. I encourage you to read it… Cruising on a Budget/Recent Cruise

Although, I love to travel and cruise, you can make great memories with a staycation and we do that as well.

Turn your home into your little piece of paradise and have a staycation. It doesn’t have to be extravagant. I’d be more than happy to help you and give you ideas for that as well. I want to help you relax, have fun and make memories. We need to enjoy our lives and not work and worry all of the time.

I can help anyone from anywhere!

My blog will be a lifestyle/travel blog because I will have blogs about different things. Some will be motivational, inspirational, about my family and of course travel. That’s one reason I wanted a separate group for traveling.



Thank you for reading my blogs, visiting my sites and for all of the support. Thank you for helping me turn my passion into a purpose, to help others.

Travel Agent website

I would love to help you with your future travels. Contact me on here or any of my sites. Thank you!

Enjoying the simple life,

💜Davilyn