#I miss our most holiest love couple

[ladys-maria]

I've been wondering since the 6th how Dracula took over practically my entire year and I'm still wandering around waiting for something to happen, but then I remember that next year is about to start and HE'S COMING BACK SOON! It's almost comical this whole situation

Dracula daily is over.

What am I supposed to do with my life now??

[bumblingbabooshka]

What if Tuvok didn’t want to read the letter from T’Pel at first because he was (deep down - he’d never admit to this of course) nervous that she had in fact done the logical thing and moved on. She absolutely could have, couldn’t she? She’s on Vulcan with so many options and it’d be illogical for him to expect her not to, she didn’t even know he was alive after all. It’d be logical to- But then he hears that she’s still calling him her husband and praying for his safe return. And suddenly he very much wants to read it.

[walkingshcdow-a]

As some of you guys know, I RP with a FANTASTIC Blitzo on Discord and we were talking last night about our AMAZING AU (Blitzo and Stolas and their daughters go to Earth undercover to avoid Stella and her assassins and have to pose as a married couple with teenage daughters for everyone’s safety; Millie and Moxxie are next door, living their best lives. We’re so cool.) and Tis pointed something out to me I hadn’t noticed: Stolas’ official lore page says “fallen angel”. There are two possible candidates Tamiel and Rathaiel, who deal in astronomy. The page further goes on to describe his angelic form as being a very beautiful human with black hair and blue eyes. So, you know, gorgeous or w/e. 

But we got talking about the universe at large and what things we believed are on track for the future of the series (and for its sister series) and what we would *rather* see and *why*. Here are seven HCs about Stolas, Hell, and maybe even a little bit of Heaven to give you an idea  of what to expect from me. These apply only to my RP Stolas, not to general series predictions, so fanblogs, please do not interact. 

The Goetic Demons are princes(ses) of Hell. This implies they were the ones who followed Lucifer in rebelling against God, which means they are angels. This leads not only to class disparity between Goetic Demons and native/colonized citizens of Hell (like imps, succubi, and hell hounds), but a racial component. Stella’s issue with Blitzo is then three-fold (at least): first, he is the man that her husband is having an affair with; secondly he is much lower class than the Goetias; lastly, imps are a different race (and possibly a different species, but different in the way that wolves and dogs are different species, since we discussed them as the progeny of Satan in the Wrath ring, and thus, (fallen) angel born.

)The Goetic Demons are fallen angels. Stolas’ form was that of an exceedingly beautiful man and when he rebelled against God, part of the punishment is not only separation from the holiest of holies, but separation from the physical identity he’d had since the start of creation. He has embraced his demon form - that of a giant, four eyed owl - because 1. He’s beautiful, especially in comparison to some of the other fallen angels and 2. There is no undoing* his choice to have fallen. This means, of course, that other Goetic demons are fallen angels (including Stella!) and that their children are full-blood angels, who cannot unlock their forms in Hell. Theoretically, this means Octavia is an angel who has not chosen to fall and could enter Heaven. (Theoretically. I still think the angels that are left to run the day-to-day operations of Hell are jerks, even if I disagree that God is corrupt in my take on this universe). 

That asterisk? *It is possible for the fallen angels to gain redemption, but they don’t realize that. Some, like Lucifer, Satan, and Mammon might be beyond the pale, but Stolas? Stolas has reopened himself to giving unconditional love (to Octavia first; to Blitzo in our AU as things unfold and with other ship partners and friend characters here as time goes by) and has accidentally set himself on a path of redemption. Native denizens of Hell, such as imps and Hell Hounds, are capable of putting themselves on redemptive paths, too, but would not necessarily become angels (although I wonder if they *could*, since they are angel-made beings? I also imagine some subspecies of demon - which is more like a nationality than a common set of genetic traits - are primordial/elemental spirits, entirely separate from Heaven and Hell, drawn into the conflict only because they live there. This probably applies most to my Fae universe here on Tumblr. This makes me wonder if they can earn redemption, too. 

God is not the corrupt one here. He’s overworked and stressed, a little depressed that his children (especially Lucifer) flipped him the bird and chose estrangement with him over staying in Heaven. He focuses his energy on earth and is a little unaware of the turmoil in Hell and in Heaven. If he knew units like CHERUB weren’t doing good things and were misconstruing his teachings, he’d be angry; if he knew that Charlie had essentially invented purgatory, he’d be proud of his granddaughter and try to help. And if he knew Stolas finally understood unconditional love for another person, he’d sit with him under a tree and dispense fatherly wisdom to him about being a father and tell him he was so proud of how Stolas is raising his daughter. *Heaven* is corrupt under the angels who have taken over since the rebellion. They don’t ever want the fallen angels to know they can regain their places in Heaven; they don’t want to give up their power.

Goetic demons and the princes of the realms retain some angelic powers. Stolas’ include portal-creation to anywhere in the universe(s). He took Octavia to a real dying solar system to let her know she would be safe with him (and with his love when he was gone). His grimoire contains the secret to doing that. The fact that Blitzo can open a portal makes me think that because he’s technically (fallen) angel spawn, the ability to use the book is not unique to Goetic demons, but to those with angelic heritage. Humans might not be able to use the magic, even if they tried for years and studied. 

If fanon lore about angels that their wings/feathers are the most sensitive parts of their body, does it surprise anyone that Stolas is the way he is? The man is now covered in feathers!

Threads with human-shaped!Stolas are surreal to Stolas because it’s a funhouse mirror or his angelic form and he isn’t sure if he misses his demon form (which he’s grown fond of and used to) or if the gnawing in his chest is for reunion with his heavenly Father and heavenly self. It’s actually very stressful for him to be “human” for very long, but he won’t appear as a demon unless he wants to scare your muse or he’s very comfortable with them/their surroundings. 

There was definitely more and there definitely will be more as I get comfortable RPing him

[lawrenceop]

HOMILY for the feast of the Holy Family (EF)

Col 3:12-17; Luke 2:42-52

When I spent a couple of Christmases in the USA recently, I noticed that the carol “What Child Is This” was unusually popular, sung to the tune ‘Greensleeves’, written by one of our most recalcitrant royals, who was also called Harry! And yet, although Mary pondered the mysteries of the Incarnation in her heart, she would not, it seems to me, have asked such a question. She knew Who the Child is - after all, the angel Gabriel told her. So, what did she ponder in her heart? She pondered the depths of God’s love, and she must have wondered, given Simeon’s prophecy, where it would lead him. In other words, Our Lady asked not “What Child Is This?” but, more significantly, “What Love Is This?” What Love has the Father shown to us in the Christ Child? What Love has been bestowed on mankind? And how is this Love expressed in the Holy Family of Nazareth.

In his becoming Man, God has united himself to our humanity. But Christ did not just appear like an avatar though he could have. Rather, he chose to be born of a woman, as we all are, and to be subject to a mother and a father, as is proper and fitting for all human children. Christ thus chooses to be truly human not just physiologically but also relationally, socially, culturally. The Church has always pondered this in her Liturgy, which is why the Genealogy is sung on Christmas Eve, and we celebrate the feast of St Anne, and the feast of St Joachim, and medieval art liked to depict the Holy Kindred, that is to say, the Holy Extended Family of Jesus Christ (shown above). 

For all these aspects are as much a part of what makes us human as the biological soul-and-body unity that we are. As St John’s Prologue says – and we venerate this mystery after every Mass: “Et Verbum caro factum est, et habitavit in nobis.” ‘And the Word become flesh and dwelt among us’ (Jn 1:14) and so we see in today’s Gospel what this dwelling among us entails. For it means that Christ was part of a family – not just the intimate nuclear family that we’re used to in the West but even the large, rambunctious, extended family of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures. Incidentally, this adds to the tragedy of the refugees that have fled from Syria, Iraq, and other war-torn parts of the Middle East, for they are torn away from their larger family context and culture, even as Jesus, Mary and Joseph had to be torn away from their family when they fled as refugees to Egypt. So, as soon as it is safe, they return to Nazareth, and Jesus becomes part of the extended family; thus Christ can be missing for three days and his parents do not notice. This little detail hints at the size of the Holy Extended Family who had gone en masse to Jerusalem for the holy day. 

So, what Love is this? It is a relational love, a love that is expansive and embraces a large family. For it is in the family that Love first comes to dwell. For this reason, the human family is sacred to God, and the Church and good governments must protect and encourage family life. 

However, in today’s Gospel we see just how expansive God’s love is, and how wide is his holy family. For when Jesus says that he is in his Father’s house, in the temple, he reveals something vital about God. He is not thereby rejecting Joseph’s foster-fatherhood, nor showing teenage lip to his mother, as some have suggested. Rather, he is revealing something more fundamental and theological that affects each of us: he reveals what love the Father has bestowed on us, that is, on all humanity through the grace of Christ. Again, St John’s Prologue says: “But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God; who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” (Jn 1:12-13) 

For, by the Incarnation of Christ, God wills to extend the holy family to include even us sinners. Christ’s incarnation makes possible for Mankind what had been beyond our human nature to grasp; Christ unites himself to our humanity so that we might be united to God’s divinity. Through grace, therefore, Man is united to Jesus, and so Man can share in what is his by nature, namely, Sonship. As St John says: “from his fulness have we all received, grace upon grace.” (Jn 1:16)

So, what Love is this that the Father has bestowed on humanity? It is pure Love, a merciful and unconditional and all-embracing love that surpasses our limited human imaginings. So profound is God’s love for sinful humanity that he has come in search of us; he has come, indeed, to dwell among us. What a marvel this is, which Our Lady must have pondered all her life. As St Robert Southwell put it: “Behold the father is his daughter’s son, / The bird that built the nest is hatch’d therein, / The old of years an hour hath not out-run, / Eternal life to live doth now begin”!  

But although God has come in search of lost humanity by sending his Son, we find in the Gospel that two people, or probably all the Holy Kindred, are in search of the Christ Child. Something of a parable, not without irony, is being played out. For the sinless mother and her most chaste spouse play the part of humanity who, having fallen into sin and unchastity, have lost sight of God. And for three days they search for him with mounting anxiety. So too, when Man knows his sinful and fallen state, when he is gripped in anxiety, and confused, and lost – as our culture and civic society seems to be at this time – then Man must seek God, he must go to the Father’s house. Humanity without God is orphaned, and we must now return to the holy family of God into which we have been inserted by the Incarnation of Christ, and again by the grace of the Sacraments. 

A final thought: The Blessed Mother has few words in the Gospels, so they are worth pondering. Here, it seems to me, her words have a kind of prophetic quality. She says: “Son, why have you done this to us?” And yes, this can be read in its most obvious way, even as a mild rebuke, for she had been worried for her lost son. However, she who is immaculately preserved from sin by Christ asks a question that should also be found on the lips of each of us who have been saved from sin by Christ. Maybe we don’t stop to ponder this often enough, but every Manger scene invites us to pause and raise this question: “Why have you done this to us?” Indeed, why have you done this for us? And the answer, as St John says, is this: “See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” (1 Jn 3:1) 

So, go in search of the God who first came in search of us. And then, take him into your homes and hearts. For if we do, them Christ will take us with him to his home, to heaven where he grants us to dwell eternally in his divine family, he draws us up into the relationship of love that unites the Blessed Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Holy Family on earth, united in love for Jesus Christ mirrors this divine and Holiest Family. So, on this feast day and in this Christmastide, when we go to look at the Holy Family in our Nativity scenes, ponder anew what Love this is: the infinite wondrous Love that is the one true God.

[nedflix-n-chill]

12 Days of Christmas #8 Black Friday Yeah Black Friday might be the day after Thanksgiving but this is definitely a Christmas film. Just like like The Blob, Christmas has been slowly growing and consuming each day placed in front of it. "12 Days of Christmas" turned into 25. Now when the bell rings at midnight on Thanksgiving Mariah Carey's icy grip tightens around our necks. Soon Thanksgiving won't even exist. You go to a Target or Walmart and Christmas is beginning to encroach on the most holiest of holy days, Halloween. And lord knows where Walmart goes, the United States follows. For a cast this solid, it's a bit of a disappointment. I'm not saying it's particularly bad or anything, it's passable and any other year of my "12 Days of Christmas" series it might even be a highpoint (I'm certainly in a festive mood, probably cuz I haven't watched a Krampus movie yet). But that cast is dope (I'm loving this Devon Sawa horror resurgence) and there's some cool monsters and splatter that frankly should carry your interest through most of the film (at least if you're a basic bitch like me). But Black Friday (the actual day) is just the fucking worst. A bullshit faux-celebration of the absolute antithesis of the holiday spirit, where we rip service industry workers away from their families in name of the almighy dollar. It deserves a satirical skewering but this movie ain't really saying anything that hasn't already been said by probably the first AND last word on mindless consumerism, Romero's classic Dawn of the Dead. If anything this movie will at least have you thinking about the absolute hell we put retail workers through just so your brat nephew can have an overpriced piece of plastic at a marginal mark up disguised as a sale which they'll discard in a couple weeks anyway. Though as someone who worked in a toy store on Black Friday The chaos here is weirdly subdued. They actually go out of their way to shut it down early, which feels like kinda missing the point. But it also gleefully borrows from other horror/monster films in a fun way that eventually leads to a "The Thing" inspired kaiju and like who can hate that? https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmccqo8vaNw/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[joeldexerfan-blog]

Warren’s Reaction to Joel Quitting the Priesthood

It was exactly 7:30am. And Joel, most unusually for him, was still in bed. Normally by now, he was having toast, reading the newspaper over his dad’s shoulder and half-listening to Sienna talk about nursery designs. Warren looked at the bedroom door. “Why isn’t he up yet?”

Sienna looked up from where she was cutting up slices of watermelon and cherries for her breakfast. “Maybe there was a heavy metal concert or something.”

There was a point. But then priests couldn’t get drunk. Could they? It couldn’t be a hangover that kept Joel, surely. He looked at the door again. “What if he’s ill? We haven’t seen him much since we got back.”

“Warren, we live with a nurse.” Sienna popped a cube of cerise watermelon in her mouth and offered him some fruit. “If he was ill, she’d know what to do. Stop worrying about Joel, it’s probably his day off or something.”

Sienna was right. He was being stupid, worrying over his fully-grown adult son like he was as delicate and helpless as the twins growing in Sienna’s rounded belly. He put all thoughts of Joel out of his mind and settled in front of the telly, his fiancée joining him, giving him a kiss on the cheek. He squeezed her hand, unable to stop a smile and she started reading one of her pregnancy books, leaving him free to watch whatever he fancied - a rare occurrence. Of course there was practically nothing on, so he decided on the news.

“-Ben’s son was such a sensible lovely boy, but after his mum was diagnosed with breast cancer, he relapsed into his addiction-”

Warren froze. Sienna grabbed his arm just before he started getting up. “No!” she said firmly. “You can’t go barging in, accusing him of things. If him being in bed bothers you so much, go and talk to your son. Don’t go roaring in there, thumping your chest like some primitive beast.”

“Alright. I’ll be calm and collected.”

“Thank you. Just think of the twins. They don’t need to hear the pair of you bickering any more.”

They didn’t bicker a lot. The last major fallout they’d had was when he’d moved Joel’s crucifix from the telly and lost it and Joel had retaliated by deleting the recording of a match Warren had missed. Sienna had said they were both as bad as each other and refused to pick a side. Honestly, she acted like he and Joel were constantly at each other’s throats and never ever got on or even made an effort to. All boys argued with their dads. At least he and Joel made up. He’d found it difficult to forgive him for a few days, until Joel had found the match on the Internet and Warren had asked him to watch it with him. Maybe they needed more time together. Perhaps Sienna had been right when she’d suggested tuxedo shopping. He stopped at the bedroom door and knocked sharply.

“Kim?” Joel called, sounding worried. “Are you okay?”

“It’s me, Joel.”

“Oh, Dad! I didn’t know you and Sienna were up… I’ll be there in a minute!”

“No need,” Warren said and he opened the door, expecting to find Joel holding that poison in his hand. What he found was Joel with the duvet having mostly slid from him onto the floor, wearing a tank top and a most surprised expression.

“How are you both?” Joel asked, trying to smile. He kept pulling at the white and black cover as though nervous, which only heightened Warren’s suspicions.

“Never mind us. Are you…alright?”

“Me? Yeah, fine. I want to get dressed, can you, you know, get out of here, please?”

Warren crossed his brawny arms and fixed his firstborn with a steely glare. “What’s going on? You never stay in bed this late. Why aren’t you in work?”

Joel kept fidgeting with the duvet cover. “Well, I don’t have work today-”

“It’s Sunday, the holiest day as you insist on reminding me and it’s now half past eight. What’s going on?”

“Nothing! Just go away!” At Warren’s even icier glare, Joel quickly added; “Please.”

‘Don’t go roaring in there, thumping your chest like some primitive beast.’ Sienna’s words reminded him. Warren breathed in deeply. He wasn’t going to go off the deep end. Not again. He sat on the edge of the bed and tried to think how best to approach the matter. No good at all beating around the bush. Even less good being all soft and delicate. Yet, getting angry with Joel about it would only make him stubborn and equally angry. Why was raising a son so difficult? He thought it all ended at eighteen, but apparently he’d been wrong.

Joel was looking at him with genuine confusion. “Dad, what is it?”

“I know you’ve not been clean very long. And relapses happen. I promise I’m not angry, but you need to be honest about this with us-”

“You think I’m an addict?”

“I swear on your little brother and sister that I’m not angry. All I want is for you to get well again.”

“Now you’ve said that about the twins, I believe you. Oh, Dad-” Joel put his head in his hands and sighed heavily. “You don’t understand… Okay, I know I’ve got explaining to do, but I don’t know how.”

Warren placed a hand on Joel’s shoulder. “Look at me. You’re my son and I’m not going to let you go through this alone, okay? Just tell me how long it’s been.”

“I’m not on drugs, I’m in love!”

“Love?” Warren repeated. “Is this about Cleo?”

Joel put his hands on his lap. He stared at them and started picking at a hangnail. “Yes. I’ve left the priesthood and I’m with her.”

“When did this happen?”

Joel started nibbling the hangnail instead. “A week ago…”

“YOU’VE BEEN OUT THE PRIESTHOOD AN ENTIRE WEEK AND NEVER TOLD ME?”

Joel jumped and cursed as the hangnail started to bleed. “Dad! You promised you weren’t angry-”

“I’m not angry, I’m disappointed you kept this a secret from me! Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because there were…problems.” Joel glanced at him apologetically and Warren knew he meant when Cleo had landed a kiss upon him when what she had really wanted was Joel.

He closed his eyes and exhaled softly. “I love you,” he said quietly. “I want you to be happy with someone who loves you, whether it’s God or Cleo. Whatever happened in the past, it’s in the past. Are you happy?”

Joel nodded. Then he smiled brightly. “Yeah. She’s the best thing ever and the only thing I regret is that it took me so long to realise that.”

“Then there’s nothing for you to hide any more.” Warren ruffled his hair. “Tell you what, you can do a couple of shifts at the Loft to give you something to do until another job catches your eye.”

“Grace won’t mind?”

Warren scoffed. “I don’t give a toss what she thinks! You know you’d go mad if you had nothing at all to do.”

Joel could only agree to that, ducking his head silently. “Thank you.”

“What else are dads for? Come on, time to rise and shine!” Warren stood up and lifted the duvet back to motivate Joel into getting to his feet. There was a squeal of surprise and he found himself looking at a small figure clad in Joel’s dressing gown. Cleo’s gold-green eyes looked up at him sheepishly and he looked at Joel with a raised eyebrow. “You didn’t want to wait, did you?”

“Dad!” As an afterthought, Joel muttered; “As though you’re one to talk!”

Warren huffed softly. “Watch it. Are you staying for breakfast, Cleo?”

“Won’t Sienna mind?”

“Of course not.”

When Joel and Cleo emerged from their love-nest, Sienna’s lips tightened and she squeezed the cherry she was holding so tightly it exploded, leaving a droplet of juice travelling down her wrist like a drop of blood. “What on earth is she doing here?”

Warren nodded his head at Joel. “Your soon to be stepson has something to tell you. Don’t you, Joel?”

“Er.. I'mwithCleo.” Joel mumbled, shrinking at the impressive glare Sienna pinned him with.

“Speak up!” Warren prompted. “Go on, tell your stepmum.”

“She knows!” Joel protested. “I just told her.”

“You do realise every time you kiss her, you’re kissing the same lips that were on your father’s?” Sienna asked coolly. Joel gave Sienna a look Warren couldn’t quite decipher and she sighed deeply. “Fine. You’re a grown man, do what you want!”

“Don’t be like this. We happen to really like each other.”

“I happen to really like your dad and she kissed him!”

“That was an accident!” Joel said. He shyly took Sienna’s hands. “Please be happy for me. You know how I feel about her. Don’t you remember when…when you or Dad would have to stay up with me? I kept talking to you about Cleo then.”

Sienna clearly did remember. Neither she or Warren had known exactly how to help someone off drugs, but she had done everything she could, often staying up with them both or even just with Joel by herself. She looked at Joel’s hands and squeezed them gently. “Okay, I do. I do remember. I wanted you to be happy then and it hasn’t changed now.”

Joel smiled hopefully. “Does this mean I have my future stepmum’s blessing?”

Sienna freed one of her hands and rubbed Joel’s shoulder. “Yes, you do.”

“Thank you.”

She seemed to be about to add something, but flinched, cradling her bump. “I need to sit down.” At the worried looks, she smiled. “Pregnancy cramps. I might lie down, actually.”

Warren went to help, holding her hand and rubbing her back tenderly. “I’ll help you get comfy. Have breakfast, you two!”

Just as they closed the bedroom door, they heard one of them murmur to the other; “I know what I’d like for breakfast…”

Sienna pressed her face into Warren’s shoulder and shook with laughter. “Cleo! That was definitely Cleo.”

“She is a McQueen after all.” Warren kissed Sienna’s forehead and carefully sat her down on the bed, helping her to rest back. “There we go.”

“Thanks. So, this has been an eventful morning, hasn’t it?” She looked at the door. “Those two. Do you think he’d ever have told us himself?”

“When we were on our deathbeds.” Warren chuckled and kissed Sienna again, aiming for her lips. “That’s just him, isn’t it? You know, I think Cleo might be good for him.”

“Me, too.” Sienna winced and rubbed her swollen belly. “When the time comes, I hope she has a less painful pregnancy.”

“Oi! He’s not getting her pregnant any time soon. And you’d be called Granny!”

“Don’t worry.” Sienna closed her deep green eyes. “You’d make a very handsome grandfather.”

Warren slid his arm around her shoulders. “One thing is for certain. They’re going to bring a lot of excitement with them. What is with Joel and the McQueens? I know there’s a lot of them, but still..”

“Oh, Warren. He’s happy. What does it matter who he’s happy with?”

“I’m glad he’s happy. I want someone to look after him when I’m not around.”

Sienna took his hand and held it tight. “You’re going to be around forever, Warren Fox. You have to be.”

Warren wriggled his hand free. If she held his hand so tightly now, he didn’t like to think what the labour would bring. “Alright, I will be! I’m not going to leave you or our beautiful babies or their big brother. I love you all.”

Sienna was smiling again. “I love you too.”

She soon fell asleep and Warren couldn’t help watching her, how her dark eyelashes fanned above her cheekbones, how her glossy dark chestnut hair spilled over her shoulders. He really was getting soft, but that was okay. It was alright to sometimes be soft with the ones you loved.

-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_

Screw it, I know it’s a soap, but where in the name of God was the scene when Warren found out his pride and joy packed in the priesthood? We saw Myra’s reaction and it turned lovely very quickly with the sweet, sweet aunt-niece scene, but I wanted to see Warren’s! So I made my own just so we have his reaction somewhere. Also I hasten to add that Sienna was not happy with Cleo and yet she was at the wedding that didn’t happen which may have meant she thought enough of Joel to forgive Cleo for kissing Warren like that.

[atrayo]

Jewels of Truth Statements and Favorite Quotes of the Month

Hello All, Boy! I've missed writing here on "Atrayo's Oracle" these past few weeks. I've been posting once every couple of weeks or so at my Facebook Fan page of the same name. But it's not the same as here. Otherwise, I've kept busy with my local school for the psychic arts of "The Spirit University". Including participating in their community psychic faires as an Intuitive reader or a volunteer. This is aside from being a caregiver for my mother with Parkinson dementia. That sort of caregiving has truly zapped my motivation from sharing my clairvoyant inspired automatic writing. Not including the more so elaborate channeled conceptual designs this blog site saw once a month over a year ago for a decade. Today's trio of inspired angelic wisdom is one of three topics of Command, Lightworkers, and Reincarnations. Most of my angelic automatic writing has been done either at my Facebook page. Or the practice group at the school for automatic writing. Otherwise, my motivation is sluggish to a degree until I build it up to share as of right now. For a little background, I've accomplished now 23 years of Clairvoyant Inspirational Automatic Writing. With three self-published books by iUniverse of angelic wisdom called the "Jewels of Truth" series. Although the subject matter is intriguing. Even if you disagree with aspects of the statements. Please allow it to just expand your consciousness onto new horizons. Thank you. May you enjoy these spiritual wisdom statements of the Inclusive compassionate angels within us all. Namaste. Command: 2717) To all those who declare wonders through an utmost sincere faith. Will come to understand an oft-forgotten grace referred frequently as "The Command". For aside from prayers, meditations, contemplations, affirmations, and gratitude as living praise to God. There is the divine power to command the allness around you known as the holiest Spirit of God. The God spark is the kernel of you that is married to the eternal and infinite emanation of God forever in you. Each One of us has this focal point as our unique thumbprint of God's divine spirit upon us. Hereby the power to take Command that alone triggers your will power to harness your holy highest self, as a righteous faculty of the soul within. You can indeed move the spiritualized forces around you like a baby angel via trial and error. Each of us has this as our Inherited Divine Birthright from the Heavens above and upon the Earth. It is an everlasting grace that the Ascended Masters as the avatars of God have stipulated we too can accomplish in the world like them. This is the function of calling forth your brethren and sister angels to your earnest begotten aid. For only this can be exercised through the spirit of a pure heart and never by the human vain ego. All powers are showcased to the blessed seekers when they are ready to commence. In earnest spiritually by an unconditional faith lived in sacred moderation on Earth. Be forewarned the power to command the heavens only works when in perfect alignment with the Pure Will of God(dess). Never will it occur by the petty and empty Will of Men and Women on any world in the cosmos at large. Be the Angels in Heaven once more and never forget your godhood is sacred as a living gift from the Creator forever and ever. Hallelujah!   ---Ivan Pozo-Illas / Atrayo. Lightworkers: 2712) We thank those that have come our way before. We have not forgotten your kindness and certainly haven't misplaced our blessings steeped in our Love for all of you Light Workers. You have carried the torch of the beauty of God in each of your soul's truth. Only when you stop and reflect for a moments pause can we reach out to your open hearts. To squeeze each of you gently by rubbing your shoulders with an "Ata boy or girl!" for your sincerest efforts by genuine faith. The Angels of Paradise cannot overcome the errors of this world without your unconditional cooperation. You are us reborn as the ancient smiles of God's beauty remembered in all the grandeur that only the Creator can muster. Not one reborn spirit is erroneous for all have merit to God(dess). No matter the circumstances of your human conditioned lives day to day and lifetime to eternity. All of it has consequences to us in the heavens with jubilation. Even though it is constantly forgiven by the Absolute Love of God Forever. The world isn't just a school it is also a playground and a nursery for all to mature with beauty and compassionate inclusive truth. Amen. ---Ivan Pozo-Illas / Atrayo. Reincarnations: 2722) For all those that care deeply for topics such as this regarding the reincarnation of souls. Those who believe and do not believe upon reincarnation it is of no consequence. For all rebirths are miraculous sacred sojourns of the Infinite Presence of God upon reality. Be not afraid to comprehend the near impossible for people do not just reincarnate as people again and again. That is a narcissistic fallacy that is species superiority complex of the ego mind. All Over Souls as the pinnacle connection with the Creator as his/her Infinite Supreme Self commands a multiplicity of varied lifeform expressions of rebirths. This becomes an endless chain of custody times Infinity across all creatures from the tiny to the behemoth scales of life and death conceived by the Creator. Nothing escapes from being reborn not even the Almighty Angels at the right-hand side of the God of all gods. Irrespective of the divine influence of the angelic choirs upon the Heavens, Limbo's, and combined endless metaphysical and literal Hells. Your Soul can have a zoological legacy that can include semi-sentient mammalian primate species such as humanity. However, it can go way way past such animalistic forms of reborn physicality. One can be reborn as the archetypal forces of Mother Nature herself. As the elemental weather, as entire landscapes, bodies of water, as the Planets themselves, and even entire Nebulas in deep outer space. Even unto other semi-permanent metaphysical constructs as the Angels and the lesser deities across other Universes as the Immortals. The scale of rebirths can dwarf the human Imagination of what reincarnation can express upon Totality. Here we welcome this knowing upon the world. From one lifetime as a person to a refreshed spirit of your direct soul lineage can be reborn into a caterpillar literally. As a form of near-mindless escapism from a former toxic complicated human lifetime of abuse. Especially those seeking a very natural release of being a troubled spirit in chaotic worlds such as your Earth. Remember all is embarked upon with dignity for the rebirths of souls as the beauty of God restored in each of you forever. It is always the Infinite Faces of God smiling back at Creation as a whole. Amen. ---Ivan Pozo-Illas / Atrayo. Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting. ---Elizabeth Bibesco. The function of freedom is to free someone else. ---Toni Morrison. Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble. ---Psalm 119:165 Great necessities call out great virtues. ---Abigail Adams. The trick it seems is to be able to hold both things very close, the gratitude and the misery, and then with a semblance of faith to let them fly. ---Elizabeth Aquino. Ivan "Atrayo" Pozo-Illas, has devoted 23 years of his life to the pursuit of clairvoyant Inspired automatic writing channeling the Angelic host. Ivan is the author of the spiritual wisdom series of "Jewels of Truth" consisting of 3 volumes published to date. He also channels conceptual designs that are multi-faceted for the next society to come that are solutions based as a form of dharmic service. Numerous examples of his work are available at "Atrayo's Oracle" blog site of 13 years plus online. Your welcome to visit his website "Jewelsoftruth.us" for further information or to contact Atrayo directly.

[ancienthinduism]

JOURNEY OF LOVE @Shiva :EPISODE 12 ~ Preparations for Shiva & Parvati marriage begins!

WHEN LORD SHIVA APPROACHED KING HIMAVAN TO ASK HIS DAUGHTER’S HAND IN MARRIAGE,THE KING WAS MORE THAN HAPPY TO OBLIGE.And hence,it was that celestial priests where consulted & the date and hour where fixed for the union of the divine couple...

Lord Shiva invited all of his Ganas to the marriage ceremony. He also instructed sage Narada to intimate all the deities, sages and the celestial entities.

After getting the invitation from Shiva everybody started making preparations to be a part of the holy marriage ceremony.The seven mothers- Brahmi, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahai, Aindri and Chamunda dressed him up beautifully .Shiva then performed all the necessary Karmas to pacify the planet. At last this wonderful marriage-procession of Shiva proceeded towards the in-laws house.

Mean-while at king Himavan’s palace -THE BRIDE’S PLACE ,was getting ready to receive the BRIDEGROOM PROCESSION with great pomp & splendour.Parvati’s mother - Queen Mena was to receive the Great Lord with his party at the palace entrance.

                             ~ KING HIMAVAN & QUEEN MENA

Through all this The bride Parvati was being made to go through the Pre-wedding rituals set for a girl.Parvati was woken early in the morning and first showen the rising sun.She was then taken to bathe in the most holiest of waters,the richest of creams and pleasently smelling perfumes where applied to her whole body.The woman-folk of the house then proceeded to apply the holy turmeric through out her body and applied a Mangal Tilak on her forehead.They then gave her the Mangal Aarti that officially now designated Parvati as the Bride.

                            ~ Parvati bathed in holy waters,milk etc...

                              ~ Parvati all decked up in bridal finery

Parvati was then dressed up in a intricately designed gold -embllished Red saree.They  dressed her with bridal jewellery and finery ,filled her hair with fresh,scented flowers.Parvati looked beautiful & breathtaking in all the regalia.So,incredible was her beauty that all the birds cooed in joy & all the animals - big and small danced in happiness to the beat.The whole universe was preparing itself for the auspicious moment to come !

                              ~STUNNING BRIDE - PARVATI

Shiva proceeded with his marriage procession which considered of crores of his 'Ganas' and deities like Vishnu who were boarded on their vehicles. Even Narada and Lord Brahma were present in his (Shiva's) marriage procession.First of all, Shiva sent Narada to Himalaya's house to inform him about their (marriage procession) arrival. Queen Mena & her husband left to receive shiva &his party.

    ~ The marriage party of Shiva - with his ganas arrive at Parvati's place

When Mena saw  the marriage procession coming , She  was curious and wondered how handsome the master (Shiva) must be. Suddenly a horrible sight met her eyes.Shiva arrived with his Ganas - His body coated with ashes on it. His Ganas too were looking ferocious.Holy ash was in the air & all his ganas danced to vigorous beats& recklessely  shouted like wild animals .All this was too much for a calm,peace loving Mena and she fainted then & there.

The maid servants arrived instantaneously and helped Mena to regain her consciousness. She started crying and cursing everybody. She thought everyone  was responsible for her daughter's marriage with Shiva. Nobody was spared- Narada, the Saptarishis and even her own sons. She even admonished Parvati by saying--"Did you do severe penance to get such a horrible husband like this (Shiva)?"

Lord Brahma and Narada tried to console and convince her, but it was of no avail. When Himalaya tried to intervene, he was soundly rebuked. Mena threatened him that if this marriage took place then it would be the last day of her life.At last lord Vishnu arrived and tried to pacify her anger by saying that her anger was baseless as she had not seen the real appearance of Shiva, which bestows benediction. 

Shiva who was all the while listening to all this quietly  stepped in and spoke to Parvati’s Mother - “O Mother ! I am sorry that my appearence  & company sadden’s you so much .Since I have no parents to speak on my behalf ,I  would like to say a few words about me and my ghost friends.Would you please listen to me Mother ?I wont take much of your time.”

Still Hysterical,Mena nodded uncertainely,Just so Shiva  would leave after talking.  

He then went on to advocate on Mena the meaning of real beauty,His reasons for the hermit lifestyle that he led and how the rigorous penances & austerities that he underwent had the universe going.He also went on to detail Mena of how his Ganas helped him protect the Universe from the Evil and  how their existence was obligatory not only to him but for the common good of the world.Shiva said “ Parvati accepts all this of me and loves that most frightening Self of mine.She is my shakti ,without whose existence Iam nothing but Shava(corpse).We have both always belonged to eachother & separating us is unsustainable for the whole universe.All the gods & the three worlds await our union for the existence of this Creation.But I cannot go against your will & marry your daughter.Hence ,the decision lies in your hands now !”

                      ~ SHIVA ADVOCATES MENA ABOUT HIMSELF

Mena ,listening to all this was silent for a while.She then slowly spoke ,” O Lord! I apologize for being a fool & insulting  a supreme being like you! I now understand the meaning of  true beauty  & acknowledge your superiority surpassing all that meet’s my eyes.You are the saviour of this glorious creation & it is my daughter’s good fortune that you are marrying her .I plead to you to forgive my insanity & accept my daughters hand in marriage.I request all the gods & guests ignore this minor intervention and proceed with the wedding festivities. “ 

On hearing this all the Gods became happy & were relieved . Shiva who was pleased to hear Mena’s word’s  showed his most enchanting beauty.Mena was delighted and was now completely relieved of her fears .

At last Shiva entered the Mandap (canopy) where marriage ceremony was going to be organised. He saw Parvati sitting there. SHIVA SMILED LOVINGLY AT HER & PARVATI BOWED HER HEAD SHYLY...

                                ~ PARVATI SMILES AT HER LORD !

{ SHIVA ~ PARVATI WEDDING VOWS,TOMMOROW @ 7PM .DONT MISS ! }

[nolimitsongrace]

How to Protect Your Children

The Power of the Blood of JesusFebruary 6, 2018

The power of the blood of Jesus has provided everything you need to live a life of victory, including Redemption, fellowship, healing, protection and authority over the devil.

As Christians, we know about the blood, sing hymns about the blood, and remember it during Communion. But how many of us truly know how deep its power runs, and all that it has provided for us? Even more important—how many of us use it and apply it in our lives every day?

From Genesis to Revelation, the words the blood are kept before our eyes—a reminder of its importance and significance to God and to us. The sacrifices of Abel, Noah and Isaac, and the Passover lamb, and the giving of the Law all came to pass, but “not without blood” (Hebrews 9:7, NKJV). The blood symbolizes cleansing and purification—the settling of a matter.

God is love. And the greatest expression of His love toward us is the blood of Jesus. That love covers every need man has had or ever will have, and every time we apply the blood, we experience an outpouring of this love. It is love, through the blood, that has created a barrier between you and all the works of the devil.

“Of all the glorious things that the blood means, this is one of the most glorious: His blood is the sign, the measure, yes, the impartation of His love.” —Andrew Murray

Let’s elevate the blood of Jesus to the same place in our hearts that it has in God’s heart—and awaken in our spirits those powerful things the blood has procured for us. The power of the blood of Jesus has provided everything you need to live a life of victory, including redemption, fellowship, healing, protection and authority over the devil.

Redemption Through the Blood of Jesus

“We have redemption through His blood.” –Ephesians 1:7 (NKJV)

You know the story. Satan came to Adam’s wife, Eve, in the form of a serpent and deceived her into disobeying God. Adam followed suit and did what Satan told him to do instead of obeying God. When he did that, he made Satan his lord. In bowing his knee to Satan, Adam turned over the authority that God had given him. He made Satan the illegitimate ruler of the earth.

From that day on—everything changed. With one trespass, death was passed on to all men (Romans 5:12). The earth and everything in it was suddenly cursed and man was separated from God by sin. Sounds unfixable, right?

But God had a plan.

His plan of Redemption was the same as it was for Abel, Moses and Noah—it would be through the shedding of blood.Such great Redemption for all mankind, for eternity, could not be accomplished through the blood of just a goat or ram. Redemption of this magnitude required a much greater sacrifice—the blood of His Son—Jesus.

The greatest thing the blood of Jesus accomplished was this—it washed all your sin away and made you clean and pure—white as snow. From the minute you receive Jesus as Lord of your life, God will not remember any past sin in your life. That’s how powerful the blood is!

The best part? You don’t have to earn and pay for what has been provided on the Cross. In fact, you couldn’t earn it even if you tried. The best thing you can do is joyfully accept this free gift.

In addition to being redeemed from sin, the blood also set us free from the curse of the law so that THE BLESSING of Abraham might come upon us in Christ (Galatians 3:13).

What is the curse?

The curse is death, sin, sickness, disease, poverty, lack, depression—anything bad you can think of. Adam’s treason gave Satan authority over the life of man, but because of the power of the blood of Jesus, the moment you made Jesus Christ the Lord of your life, you were redeemed from the curse and Satan was put out of business.

Fellowship With God Through the Blood of Jesus

“Having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus.” –Hebrews 10:19 (NKJV)

When you think of fellowship, you likely think of time spent over coffee at a Bible study, or time spent enjoying the company of friends. Fellowship is closeness—a friendship. That’s what we have with God, but it was bought with a price.

Before Adam fell in the Garden of Eden, he had enjoyed friendship and fellowship with God. After Adam’s Fall, sin separated us from this precious fellowship and could only be restored through the blood of Jesus. When you receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you declare that you want to receive His fellowship and friendship, and the door is opened for you to enjoy it!

Because of the power of the blood of Jesus, you can come boldly into the presence of God. The blood of Jesus builds a mighty wall between sin and believers who have been made the righteousness of God through Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Another word for fellowship is communion. One way we recognize that the blood provided for fellowship with God is through the taking of Communion. Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). That’s why Communion is much deeper than a religious observance—it’s a recognition of (and fellowship with) what God did for us through the blood of Jesus. You are a friend of God (John 15:15)!

Healing Through the Blood of Jesus

“By His stripes we are healed.” –Isaiah 53:5 (NKJV)

When you take Communion, do you think of healing? Most Christians take the emblem of the blood and say, “Thank God, we are delivered from sin,” and that is true. Praise God for it!

But according to Isaiah 53:4-5, Jesus’ sacrifice covered every area of man’s existence. He bore spiritual torment for our sins, mental distress for our worry, care, sorrow and fear, as well as physical pain for our sickness and disease. The stripes He bore and the blood He shed were for our healing. By His stripes we are healed.

God gave everything He had to redeem mankind from the curse. When we receive only part of His sacrifice, it’s an insult to Him (see this prophecy by Kenneth Copeland). When we apply the blood of Jesus, and receive its power, we need to remember to apply it in its fullness. Don’t just receive and apply it halfway. Accept everything Jesus’ sacrifice provided. If you fail to understand and receive the full power of the blood, you will be missing out. Paul wrote, “For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep” (1 Corinthians 11:30, KJV).

Learn How to Take Communion for Your Healing here.

If you need healing today, the blood of Jesus is free and without side effects. You don’t need a prescription, you don’t need an appointment, and you don’t have to check with your insurance company. Jesus provided it all through the blood! You can appropriate the blood of Jesus for your healing today.

Protection Through the Blood of Jesus

“When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” –Exodus 12:13 (KJV)

In Exodus, after nine devastating plagues, Pharaoh still refused to let God’s people go. So, God sent a final plague—one of judgment—to “smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 12:12). As sons of Adam, Satan knew the children of Israel had broken covenant with God and were also due judgment. God could protect them, but “not without blood.” They had a covenant relationship with God through Abraham, but they needed to stand in that covenant. They needed to choose the covenant over the curse.

So, God instructed them to take the blood of a lamb and paint it on their doorposts. They did, and the angel of death passed them by. Was it really the blood of a lamb that stopped them from being killed? No! It was the blood of the Lamb (Jesus) who was slain from the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8, KJV).

When Kellie Copeland’s daughter, Lyndsey, was just a young teenager, there was a wave of spinal meningitis n the area that had been killing young people. When Lyndsey was hospitalized with the condition, the Copelands were faced with a decision.

How would they respond?

Refusing to fear, the family stood together for Lyndsey’s healing—applying the blood of Jesus, and taking Communion together. Sure enough, Lyndsey was healed by the blood of Jesus!

Kellie later said of the situation, “We had been pleading the blood of Jesus over our family solidly for a couple of years.  When I was in the hospital room, I could feel fear come all over me.  But I went out in the hallway and I started speaking our covenant because it was so real to me.”

The blood of the Lamb is inexhaustible and never-ending. It is an unlimited supply. When we apply the blood of Jesus to the doorposts of our lives in faith—we access the power to defeat every part of the curse that tries to take residence. When you speak the Name of Jesus in the face of sickness, disease or danger, the blood of the Lamb is behind it, and you are protected!

Watch Gloria Copeland and Billye Brim talk about How to Protect Your Children:

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Apply the power of the blood of Jesus over your family and household and watch every danger pass over you!

Authority Over the Devil Through the Blood of Jesus

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony.” –Revelation 12:11 (KJV)

There is someone who knows, maybe even better than you do, the power and authority given to you by the blood of Jesus. He will do anything to make sure you never find out. He will try to keep you distracted, send people or ideas to confuse you, and plant seeds of doubt to keep you from operating in what belongs to you.

You can probably guess from this description who it is—the devil. If there is anyone who has anything to lose by your finding out the truth—it’s him. Well, his day is done. You are about to put him right under your feet where he belongs!

What happens when believers find out about the power of the blood of Jesus?

Chip Brim, son of Billye Brim, once told a story about a meeting he had preached where a young lady who was a witch doctor and demon-possessed was in attendance. A group of pastors had spent five hours trying to deliver her. They were praying and praying, but she continued to physically attack them, and the demon in her was speaking lies and tormenting the people in the room.

Though Chip had been staying in the background, the woman spotted him and suddenly charged him at full speed. At that moment, it rose up in his spirit to yell out, “I plead the blood!” Immediately, she fell and grabbed her ears and screamed, “Not the blood! Not the blood!” Realizing its power, all the ministers gathered around and began singing and pleading and declaring the blood. Within 15 minutes, she was set free—delivered. If demons hate the blood so much, that is evidence of how powerful it really is.

Of course, the curse is still out there. You can see it all around you, but now you have a choice—to use the blood or not. You have authority over whatever it is in the Name of Jesus, and by the blood of Jesus, you can stand against it. The blood is powerful enough to remove all evidence of the curse in your life.

As Gloria Copeland says, “The blood that Jesus shed for you and me has enormous, great power. And we need to be saying so, and declaring it over our lives.”

That means that when the accuser says we’re guilty, our plea before God, the Righteous Judge, is the blood of Jesus. The blood is our defense. It declares we are not guilty; instead, we are free from all penalty of sin. The blood kicks Satan out of the affairs of our lives and the lives of our families. But you have to do it by faith!

Faith in the blood produces great results.” —Andrew Murray

Every day you have the right to exercise that authority by pleading what the blood of Jesus has done for you. Refuse to give the enemy even one small inch of territory. Satan is a defeated foe, and through the precious blood of Jesus, we are victorious!

Learn How to Plead the Blood of Jesus here.

When you receive revelation that the blood of Jesus has provided redemption, fellowship, healing, protection and authority over the devil, you will begin to operate in the fullness of its power! The power of the blood of Jesus is enough to overcome everything coming against you. This is how you live a life of victory in Christ, and it’s the life Jesus died to give you. Be blessed, and remember…“Jesus Is Lord!”

[charllieeldridge]

Travel Guide to Candidasa, Bali

You’ve probably heard of the popular Island of the Gods in Indonesia. Bali is a hotspot for backpackers, holidaymakers, yogis, surfers, scuba divers and everyone in between. There are so many things to do and places to visit and there really is something for everyone here. 

During our previous trips to Bali, we spent time in Canggu, Sanur, Lovina, Seminyak, Ubud, Kintamani, and more, but this time around, we found ourselves on the east coast in the seaside town of Candidasa — a place that spans less than a kilometer long. 

We based ourselves at Lotus Bungalows which is overlooking the water and used it as our base to explore in and around Candidasa. Read on to see if this quieter part of Bali is the place for you,  

Don’t miss our travel video of Candidasa at the bottom of this post!

Why Candidasa?

First of all, it’s pronounced “Chandidasa”!

If you’re looking to escape the busy southern beaches, make your way further northeast to Candidasa where you’ll find rice paddies surrounded by palm trees, and Mount Agung looming in the distance. Intricate Hindu temples, friendly locals, relaxed beaches and epic dive sites are all nearby.

The east coast is a great place to base yourself if you’re interested in culture, natural beauty, and scuba diving. For hikers, Mount Agung is still active these days, but when she’s calmed down, trekking the volcano will resume. With many things to see and do in Candidasa, you’ll never be bored here.

This is a slower-paced, less-developed Bali, and while there’s still a lot of traffic, it’s far less hectic than in the south. 

These sweet girls stopped us on the street and wanted a photo

Where to Stay in Candidasa, Bali

Candidasa has a road running directly through the town. In order to avoid the traffic noise, I recommend choosing a seaside accommodation and enjoy the sound of crashing waves (and an amazing view).

After a very long travel day from Raja Ampat, we arrived late and were greeted by the friendly property managers at Lotus Bungalows. Sensing how tired we were, Henriette gave us a very brief overview of the property and town of Candidasa. 

With the moon illuminating the way and tree frogs, crickets and geckos as the accompanying sound, we made our way through the property and arrived at our bungalow.

Completely exhausted, we pushed our luggage aside and plopped down on the bed — after a much-needed shower in the outdoor bathroom. We were looking forward to seeing what the property looked like in the light of day.

our bungalow at Lotus Bungalows! The property is stunning

As with our previous trip to Gangga Island (North Sulawesi) and Birie Island (Raja Ampat), we were invited by Lotus Hotels to experience Lotus Bungalows here in Candidasa. Having not really seen the property the previous night, we were pleasantly surprised when we woke up and saw the view!

Twenty bungalows dotted the garden, with ours pointing directly to the infinity pool and the Lombok Strait beyond. The architecture was in traditional Balinese style, with an outdoor bathroom, tiled roof and private verandah. Surrounded by towering palm trees and frangipanis, this would be our tropical home for 3 nights.  

The room itself had tile flooring, a comfy bed, air-conditioning and lots of natural lighting. As a bonus, we were given a reusable shopping bag for the duration of our stay — helping to reduce the use of single-use plastics in Bali.  

On our verandah, we had a clothing rack to dry our swimsuits and towels, plus two chairs and a table. Just steps away was the stunning open-air restaurant — an incredible bamboo structure with mosaic tiles flooring and tasteful wooden decor throughout.

Breakfast was included in the (very affordable) room rate, and we could choose between a la carte, or buffet. 

If we wanted, other restaurants were just minutes down the road, but with a perfect view of the sunset, a wood-fired pizza oven, and tasty Indonesian dishes, we ended up eating our meals here at the property.

We both loved the outdoor bathroom!

Apart from the friendly staff members, the onsite dive center, and our cozy bungalow, the large pool was a highlight of Lotus Bungalows. As in most parts of Bali, the sea can be rough depending on the time of year. There are cement barriers along the coast to break up the waves before they reach the shoreline (to help prevent erosion), but waves can still be strong.

Thankfully, we were able to enjoy swimming in the infinity pool while gazing out at the sea. Sunbeds were set up on the grassy area, while chairs and tables for dining and comfy day beds were placed around the pool. It was the perfect place for me to relax while Nick was out scuba diving.

As Candidassa is still quite busy, wherever you choose to stay you should try to find a place that has a respite from the traffic.

To learn more about Lotus Bungalows and the accommodation they offer, click here. 

Chillin’ poolside

Scuba Diving East Coast Bali

There are numerous dive sites on the east coast of Bali, many of which aren’t all that far offshore. The 4 Gilis are popular for shark sightings, Amed (a town about an hour from Candidasa) is known for its macro and muck dives, while Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are the places to spot manta rays.

Prior to our visit to Candidasa, we didn’t realize that Bali had awesome scuba diving sites. Of course, Indonesia is known for its underwater world, but we had always thought of Bali as more of a surfing destination. 

Wow, were we wrong!

Nick chatted with Hans, the manager at the onsite Gangga Divers shop and after an inspiring and exciting discussion about the creatures they could potentially spot, he checked out the gear and had it put aside for the dives the following morning.

With water temperatures around 17-22 °C in early October, rather than dive in his usual shorts and t-shirt, Nick had to wear a wetsuit this time around.

After about a 20 minute drive, the crew, Nick and the two other divers from Switzerland and Austria arrived at the Padanbai Port. The dive sites were Sental and SD, both of which were around Nusa Penida, and as soon as Nick entered the water, he couldn’t believe he had never been diving in Bali in the past!

Because of its currents, this area is known for manta rays, mola mola (sunfish), reef sharks and turtles, which come to feed on the plankton that is brought to the area with the tides and fast-moving water. 

While no mantas or mola mola made an appearance during Nick’s dives, he did see turtles, eels, bump head parrotfish, and lots of healthy coral. After a fun day under the water, he returned with a smile on his face and together with new dive friends, we all enjoyed Bintang beers poolside at Lotus Bungalows.

The pool at Lotus Bungalows was an amazing spot to spend the afternoon!

As with our previous experiences with Gangga Divers on Gangga Island and in Raja Ampat, the 5 star PADI company were professional, and safety was a high priority. Again, Nick had a divemaster to himself while underwater and there are never more than 4 divers for every divemaster. 

The dive shop is run by a couple from Denmark, while the divemasters and boat captain are Indonesian. We always like to see locals being employed when possible and Nick had a great experience diving here in Candidasa.

Things To Do In and Around Candidasa

Although the east coast is a great base for scuba divers, there are numerous other things to do here to keep you busy. 

Lotus Lagoon

About a 20-minute walk from Lotus Bungalows, you’ll find the Lotus Lagoon, which is filled with (you guessed it), lotus flowers.

This 1000 square meter pond stretches from the road all the way to the sand and is best visited during the morning when the lotus flowers are open (they close during the heat of the day). Another great time is during sunset.

View of the Lotus Lagoon

Pura Candidasa

Directly across the road from the Lotus Lagoon, you’ll find this Hindu temple. When wanting to be blessed with fertility and children, this is where Balinese will come to pray to the Goddess Hariti.

We, however, were there to enjoy the beauty of the temple and hike up the numerous steps to enjoy a view of the Lotus Lagoon, and the sea beyond.

As is customary in all Balinese temples, you must wrap a sarong around your waist (over top of your pants or shorts). Both men and women need to do this. If you don’t have your own, you can usually rent them from stands just outside the temple.

Pura Candidasa temple

Temple Hopping

There are many temples in this area. Just a 30 minute to 1-hour drive from Candidasa will bring you to some magical spots. It’s a good idea to visit a few in one day — either by motorbike/car or with a hired driver.

The Pura Luhur Lempuyang is probably the most famous at the moment — Instagram famous. People line up to get a photo between the two gates of the temple, with a view of Mount Agung in the distance.

Although not as Insta-famous, Pura Luhur Besakih is the holiest and most important temple in Bali. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, this isn’t actually just one temple, but rather a complex of numerous temples. Ceremonies take place here and it’s a popular spot with tour buses. 

About a 30-minute drive from Candidasa will bring you to Taman Tirta Gangga. This 1.2 hectare, aptly named water temple is a sight you don’t want to miss. Here you’ll find fountains, springs, and ponds filled with koi fish, all of which are surrounded by lovely gardens. 

The Village of Tenganan

After just a 10 minute drive from Lotus Bungalows, we arrived at this 11th century Bali Aga village (meaning, it’s pre-Hindu). Here, residents live as they have for many years (with the addition of smartphones and TV!). After paying a donation, we were allowed into the village and were showed around by our guide and resident, Wayan. 

Walking around with Wayan, we learned about how the villagers here are farmers, have a unique style of weaving (double Ikat) and the men make unique palm calendars. If you visit during the Pandan War, you’ll see traditional combat between the men of the village — using pandan leaves, which have sharp spikes.

This bloody battle is to honour the God of war and is held every June. The Pandan War is a huge event with many people coming from all over Bali to witness it.

Once we were finished with our “tour”, we wandered around aimlessly and saw offerings being delivered for a wedding, children running around, numerous homes climbing up the hillside (with small lanes for exploration), and were offered palm wine by a group of men who were sitting around.

Sure, this is a tourist spot, but it was interesting to see this type of traditional village life. 

Note: there’s actually a walk you can do from Lotus Bungalows through the rice paddies to reach Tenganan. If you’d prefer to walk, ask the staff for directions and a guide.

Learning about Tenganan with Wayan

Beach Bumming

While the east coast may not be known for its beaches, there are actually a few beautiful stretches of sand worth checking out. Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, minus the crowds.

Note: as with all beaches in Bali, be mindful of currents and strong tides. It’s best to ask a local’s advice before swimming.

Pasir Putinh is a gorgeous white sand beach with clear blue water. It’s about a 15-minute ride north from Candidasa. There are sunbeds for rent and a couple of small vendors selling food. Don’t expect an empty beach, but it’s still a beautiful spot, and will be quieter than any beach in the south.

Blue Lagoon near the Padangbai Port is another good option. The beach here is rocky, so it’s a good place to do some snorkelling. Bring your water shoes, or fins.

To the south of Padangbai Port, you’ll find Bias Tugel which is quieter than the Blue Lagoon. Here you’ll find some small vendors, a sandy beach and little rocky pools that you can sit in. It’s also a great spot to watch ships coming and going.

How to Get to Candidasa

Getting to Candidasa is easy. There are numerous international flights that arrive in Bali at the Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. If you’re coming from Asia or Australia, have a look at Air Asia. If you’re coming from North America or Europe, there are many different airlines and flight options.

We personally flew from New York to Bali via a 5-hour layover in Taiwan. Have a look at your preferred booking engine to compare flights and routes.

Once you’re in Bali, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive from the airport to Candidasa. The traffic in Bali can be horrendous in the south, so the duration of the trip to the east coast can vary. Rush hour runs from around 8-10am and 3-6pm. However, it’s pretty busy throughout the day as well!

If you’re staying at Lotus Bungalows, they will send a driver in an air-conditioned vehicle to pick you up at the airport (for a fee). 

Taking a taxi is another option. Fixed rates are posted at the airport, so make sure you go to the official counter and receive your piece of paper with the rate, and the taxi driver number. At the time of our visit in 2019, it was 425,000 IDR. Click here to learn more about taking a taxi from the airport to Candidasa.

If you’d rather utilize rideshare to Candidasa, you’ll need to download either Grab or GoJek on your phone with an Indonesian number. At the airport, after you’ve picked up your baggage and are about to exit, there are a couple of booths selling SIM cards. You’ll need a valid phone number to receive a text and verify your account on these apps.

It’s 260,000 – 350,000 IDR for Grab Car, and GoJek Car is 240,000 – 270,000 IDR. Uber doesn’t operate in Indonesia.

Final Thoughts

Having seen so many other areas of Indonesia, we really enjoyed visiting the east coast. Rather than malls, shops and a lack of nature, this area was relatively undeveloped — there were still some rice paddies on the side of the road! 

These rice paddies with Mount Agung in the distance are just on the side of the road in Candidasa

Not only did we enjoy seeing Mount Agung each day and the surrounding palm trees, but this was such a great base for scuba diving. Within a few minutes, Nick was at the harbour and heading out on a dive. Since all the dive sites are located on the east coast, Candidasa is the perfect base.

As a non-diver, I loved staying back at Lotus Bungalows and relaxing poolside, and on the non-diving days, we both enjoyed village visits and temple hopping. As with all trips, there are many things we weren’t able to see during our stay in Candidasa and we’re looking forward to returning. 

A special thank-you to Lotus Hotels for hosting our stay at Lotus Bungalows. As with all promotional campaigns on Goats On The Road, all thoughts and opinions remain our own, regardless of any complimentary services received.

The post Travel Guide to Candidasa, Bali appeared first on Goats On The Road.

Travel Guide to Candidasa, Bali published first on https://travelaspire.weebly.com/

[nice--is--a--four--letter--word]

Good Omens

Good Omens

Episode 1

You’re an angel I don’t think you can do the wrong thing - Az looks so genuinely happy at that and they’ve literally just met

A demon can get in to a lot of trouble for doing the right thing

If I did the good thing and you did the bad one. No. It wouldn’t be funny at all

I do not sully the temple of my celestial body with gross matter

Most of the great triumphs and tragedy in human history are caused not by people being fundamentally good or fundamentally bad but people being fundamentally people

Everyone knows the best place for a clandestine meeting in London is and always has been st James’s Park. They say the ducks are so used to being fed by secret agents that they’ve developed pavolvian reactions to them. The Russian cultural attaché’s black bread is particularly sought after by the more discerning duck.

When they’re crossing the road Crowley does the thanks wave to the car that stopped

Godfathers. Well I’ll be damned

It’s not that bad when you get used to it *glowing smirk* Az’s face just drops

Az might have taught warlock sign

No one’ll notice anything. It’s reality angel

So the humans beat me to it, that’s not my fault

Crowley knows what Az smells like, Az has a new cologne that his barber suggested

Would I lie to you. You’re a demon it’s what you do

Episode 2

You can’t have a war without War

What he does is put the fear of god in to them. More accurately the fear of Crowley.

Crowley’s very bendy, all long and thin and sauntering

Hey this is Anthony Crowley, you know what to do, do it with style

He stands by the phone letting it go to voicemail and picks up when he hear it’s Az

What do you mean it feels loved

I like spooky, big spooky fan me

Guns in the right hands give weight to a moral argument

Az says hell at they real guns

You know Crowley I’ve always said deep down you really are a nice

Shut it. I’m a demon I’m not nice. I’m never nice nice is a four letter word I will not have -

Excuse me gentlemen, sorry to break up an intimate moment. Can I help you

Excuse me ma’am we’re just two supernatural entities looking for the notorious son of Satan. Wonder if you might help us with out enquiries

You’ll wake having had a lovely dream about whatever you like best

Angels aren’t occult we’re ethereal

Az can feel that the areas different, Crowley can’t, Love

Get in angel

They both have a human network, they’re just shadwell

Bebop - The velvet underground, if you lined up everyone in the world and asked them to describe it not one of them would say

Episode 3

Eden - Aziraphale, angel of the eastern gate

3004 bc Mesopotamia

Crowley looks more shocked about the flood than Az, he trying to justify it

Not the kids, you can’t kill the kids. Mmhmm. That’s more like something my side would do

Are you going to say ineffable

That unicorns going to make a run for it. Oh you’ve still got one of them

Rainbow invented

33 ad Golgotha

Crawly -> Crowley

Bit too squirming at your feet ish

Crowley gave Jesus a tour of the world and looks sympathetic at the nails

8 years later Rome

What kind of questions that still a demon what else am I going to be an aardvark

Crowley has little sunglasses

Crowley’s working, Az is trying a new restaurant - Crowley’s never eaten an oyster, Az looks shocked

Oh well let me tempt you oh I guess that’s your job isn’t it

Wessex 537

Knights, Az is part of the round table, Crowley is the black knight spreading forment of discord, Az is formenting peace and they’re working in damp places cancelling each other out

Crowley says they should just pretend they’ve done it and stay home, Az is against it

Globe theatre 1601

Az likes grapes

No one wants to see hamlet

Shakespeare wants the audience to interact and make the actors feel appreciated

Oh he’s not my friend we don’t know each other we’ve never met before

Shakespeare nicks a line from Crowley

No rest for the well good

They’re both going to Edinburgh to do little things so they toss for it so only one has to go - They’ve done it dozens of times before - the arrangement in a little sing song voice - Az doesn’t want to talk about it

It’s take a miracle to make anyone come and see Hamlet. Yes alright I’ll do that one my treat

1793 Paris

Az really doesn’t speak french

Az was supposed to be openingbg the bookshop and he did but he was peckish and came to France to get crepes looking like that

Az was reprimanded for too many frivolous miracles so he figured he’d just stay there and let himself get discorperated the idiot

My lot do not send rude notes

1862 St James Park

Sauntered vaguely downwards

Stay out of each other’s way, lend a hand when needed

Asking for holy water - for if it all goes pear shaped, I like pears - walls have ears no trees have ears ducks have ears do ducks have ears must do that’s how they hear other ducks

Az thinks the holy water would be a suicide pill

Fraternising - Crowley is betrayed

I don’t need you. And the feeling is mutual obviously.

1941 London

Az was trying to double cross the nazis and got triple crossed back - Crowley knows, someone knows how, and steps on consecrated ground to come save him

You can’t kill me. There’ll be paperwork

You don’t like it ? No I didn’t say that, I’ll get used to it. What does the j stand for. Nothing it’s just a j

You won’t enjoy dying. Definitely won’t enjoy what comes after

You’re wasting your valuable running away them - Kill them, they are very irritating

Probably where Crowley gets he idea for nicking holy water from a church

That was very kind of you. Oh shut up. No paperwork for a start

1967 Soho London

Shadwell was in prison and got taught lock breaking

Crowley’s definitely got contacts - Az ‘hears things’

You told me what you think. A hundred and five years ago.

I can’t have you risking your life. Even for something dangerous

“The holiest”

Should I say thank you. Better not.

Az is so trying to push him

Maybe one day we could go for a picnic, dine at the ritz

You go to fast for me Crowley - double meaning

Crowley really fits the time.

Dog tried to scare a cat with the red eyes and the cat went for him

This is going to sound so stupid but I lost my book and it all just got a bit much

School is a repressive tool of the state

When Az is up trying to report the missing Antichrist he pretty much throws Crowley under the bus, he ends up not telling them who he is but they don’t care and just want the war to happen

Az doesn’t remember which of their rendezvous points are which code

Az is an awful liar

Great postulant mangled bullocks to the great plan

Unforgivable that’s what I am

I’m not personally up for killing kids. You’re the demon I’m the nice one. Crowley’s trying to convince Az to kill the boy

Crowley wants to go off together - Az looks kinda hopeful but he shuts him down

Friends we’re not friends. We have nothing whatsoever in common I don’t even like you

We’re on our side. There is no our side not anymore it’s over

Crowley is way more in love than Az

Az’s voice is breaking but Crowley’s the one that’s hurt

Episode 4

Az is talking like twice as many steps as Gabriel with the jogging

Az has to catch his breath after ‘jogging’ for a couple of hundred meters

But there doesn’t have to be a war

Of course there does how else would we win it

Tie up stuff down here, report back to active service and ... lose the gut. Come on you’re a lean mean fighting machine, what are you

.... I’m ... soft

Now don’t think of it as dying. Think of it as leaving early to avoid the rush

Fight outside bookshop with gay guy at end - it’s all Az’s fault. Crowley loves him

Episode 5

Somebody’s killed my best friend. Bastards

I shouldn’t litter should I - No ones keeping score anymore

Pathetic excuse for an angel

There are celestial wages

“It’s on fire or something”

Right now that’s somebody else’s problem

Dog is just as scared as the kids

Episode 6

Ninety years and not a scratch now look at you

I am having a moment here - Crowley’s mourning the Bentley -You were a good car - I need to get over the car thing

We are here to lick some serious butt. Kick Aziraphale it’s kick butt for heavens sake eugh I can’t believe I just said that

Negative, like black holes. I don’t think they’re exactly human

They’re saying it’s the end of the world. Yes I can hear that

He is not what he says he is

I believe in peace bitch

I believe in food and a healthy lunch. Famine puts up the biggest fight

Tougher. Smarter. More dangerous

Book girl - like who

Crowley the traitor. That’s not a nice word. All the other words I have for you are worse

Dads don’t wait till you’re eleven to say hello

You don’t have a side anymore. Neither of us do. We’re on our own side now

Even if he didn’t know why I was in trouble I would

Dick Turpin was a famous highwayman. Everywhere it goes it holds up traffic Oh I regret asking

The holiest yes

It’s not that we don’t trust you Michael but obviously we don’t trust you

How many nipples you got ?

Don’t talk to me about the greater good sunshine I’m the archangel fucking Gabriel

Shut your stupid mouth and die already

I don’t suppose that anywhere in the nine circles of hell there’s any such thing as a rubber duck

There never was an apple in Adams opinion that wasn’t worth the trouble you got in to for eating it

They’re all domestic and happy

Heaven and hell against... humanity

Right, time to leave the garden

I like to think that none of this wouldn’t have worked out if you weren’t at heart just a little bit of a good person

And if you weren’t deep down just enough of a bastard to be worth knowing

There were angels dining at the Ritz

[trekkinghimalayas]

Guide To Nepal

Nepal is a beautiful country which can be found in the Asian continent, it is situated in between China and India and has been divided into 7 main provinces. It may surprise some people that there is no set language in Nepal, many people across the country speak multiple languages although they are also similar to the official language Nepali.

If you’re looking to take a trip to Nepal then there are some amazing places to go and visit, and loads of trying treks to do throughout your visit. This guide will help you decide which routes are best for you whilst giving you some helpful facts about Nepal and its heritage. Make sure you are prepared for the weather, should you be planning a lot of outdoor activities.

Although Nepal is one of the best countries in the world for hiking and long walks many people seem to think the only place to visit is Mount Everest, although Everest is an unbelievable Mountain which we would recommend visiting. However trying to climb the beast takes years of training and lots of practice.

Everest in 8,848 meters or 5 and a half miles tall and can challenge even the most experienced climbers in the world; nearly 300 people have lost their lives trying to reach the summit. We would only recommend attempting to climb this mountain if you’ve been preparing for a long time!

Best Treks in Nepal

There are plenty of choices when it comes to Trekking in Nepal, there are a couple of main factors you should ask yourself before setting off on this trip. First off how long do you plan to stay in Nepal, this will have a massive effect on the treks you can pick.

We would recommend ensuring your trip will last at least a week, this gives you an opportunity to do certain hikes, although most do last around 2 weeks if you want to experience some of the best places in Nepal. Below are a few of our favorite Hikes with some in depth information about how long each will take, where it will take you and what to expect throughout the Journey.

Langtang Trek

The first Hike on our list is for people who only plan to visit Nepal for around a week. Although this is far from the longest trek in Nepal that doesn’t stop it from being one of the best with thousands of people a year completing it. This is probably the best Hike to do if you aren’t able to visit for longer than a week and will leave you feeling as if you’ve traveled the whole of Nepal within 7 days!

Along with this journey, you will see some incredible buildings, views and much more. Beautiful Local Villages will take you in along the way and make you feel at home. There are also loads of old monasteries that still stand along the path and you can, therefore, experience a bit of Nepali history a long the way.

On this Hike, you will be given the choice of which nearly 5,000-foot peak you would like to reach and no matter what we can guarantee there will be an amazing view from the top of each. When compared to some of the other, longer treks the Langtang is relatively cheap and you shouldn’t encounter any problems whilst walking.

Key Facts

-Difficult, but not too hard (around 5/6 out of 10 on the scale)

-Cheap compared to other hikes

-Can be completed within a week

-Got to experience some of the real Nepal including old monasteries

-You will reach a 4,984m Peak

 Everest Base Camp

Many people think that if you don’t want to climb the whole Mountain there’s no point taking a Trek near Mount Everest. We think this is still one of if not the best Treks in Nepal. Can you think of many things in the world like being at the side of a nearly 9,000 meters tall Mountain? You must also keep in mind the fact that Everest isn’t the only mountain in the area so as you take this magical journey you will be met by incredible and unique views around pretty much every corner! This trek will undoubtedly take up the majority of two weeks as you discover different parts of the Everest Base camp/s. However, a lot of the journey will be spent going back and forth between destinations.

Although you don’t have to train like you would if you were going to climb the Mountain, this is a difficult trek that shouldn’t be underestimated. UP to 14 days of hiking can become rather tiring so make sure you’re up for it before booking the trip! Around 30,000 people a year complete this journey and it isn’t the Cheapest hike around. You will reach a maximum elevation of nearly 5,500 meters which will definitely provide a breathtaking view of the Himalayas.

Key facts

-You won’t be alone throughout this Trek, thousands of people complete this every year.

-Quite difficult, wouldn’t recommend it to anyone who doesn’t Hike regularly (8.5/10).

-Although it isn’t overpriced, there are much cheaper treks around Nepal should you be on a tight budget. However, this is one of the best you can take on!

-You will reach an elevation of around.

-if you don’t feel confident in actually trying to climb Mount Everest, this is the next best thing.

Annapurna Circuit

Another rather long Trek, the Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular years in year out in Nepal and it’s pretty clear why. If you’re looking for a challenging walk that will come packed with unique views and massive difference in terrain then this is for you. You will have to cross the worlds largest pass which in itself will be an incredible experience. This 12-14 day trek will take a lot of effort and leave you looking forward to getting home! But it is definitely doable with pretty much everybody who decides to take it on completing it.

You shouldn’t end up being alone at any point throughout the trip, and if you do find yourself lost or alone it’s very likely you will see somebody with thousands of people doing the Circuit every month. We would recommend you check out the weather in the local area when booking this trip and make sure you pick the best time of year for you. The only negative we could find surrounding this Trek Is just the fact that there may be some road building going on at the side of you during certain parts of it. This could be a bit annoying but won’t last the whole trek so is not something that should put you off.

Key Facts

-With thousands of people a month during this trek it is definitely not remote.

-You will be staying in Guesthouses/Lodges throughout the Journey.

-Also accessible during winter.

-Compared to some of the other Treks this is quite cheap should you be on a small budget.

-Quite difficult (7/10).

-Will take around 12-14 days to complete.

PoonHill Trek

The second trek on our list that won’t take longer than a week to complete, and one which is again going to be an unbelievable journey. The PoonHill Trek will provide you with some beautiful views and an unforgettable experience as you take in all of your surrounds. Thousands of people manage to complete it every month and it’s known to be one of the easier hikes in Nepal. It is best to go to the summit of Poonhill on a clear morning, maybe you could watch the sunset, or sunrise over the mountains?

Because this is a rather cheap and easy Trek anybody should be able to complete it without too much if any difficulties. At the height of your trip, you will reach the PoonHIll summit which stands at 3,210 meters tall.  Throughout the trip, you will stay in Guesthouses and Lodges which is slightly better than certain Hikes where you may have to carry a tent and sleeping equipment everywhere you go!

Key Facts

-Pretty easy to complete, most people should be able to do it.

-Because of the number of people doing this Trek, you should never be alone, or get lost.

-You’ll reach a maximum elevation of 3,210 meters.

-Good value for money, one of the cheaper Treks in Nepal.

-Takes up to 7 days to complete.

What else can I do in Nepal?

Although most tourists visit this country for the awesome treks and Mountains there is plenty more you can do whilst there! If you enjoy observing wildlife then Nepal has plenty of natural life that you can check out. There are also some amazing opportunities to try out some water sports such as kayaking and white water rafting should you be interested in that. Many people think that Nepal is all about walking and seeing the local nature and breath-taking views. We would definitely recommend you go and take a look at some of these treks and hikes. However below we have found some of the best things to do in Nepal that isn’t as common…

Boudhanath Stupa

This amazing destination has managed to become the highest rated activity to do in the whole of Nepal. It’s easy to see why as well. This 14’th Century building is the oldest Stupa in Nepal and the holiest Tibetan Buddhist Temple outside of Tibet itself and is one of the greatest Religious buildings in the world. Throughout the years there have been many different stories surrounding the construction of this amazing building, which means we can’t be sure exactly why it was built in the first place. Although the amazing design and construction is just part of the reason the Boudhanath attracts thousands of visitors from around the world every year!

Chitwan Nation Park

If you love animals and wildlife then make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Chitwan National Park. This will be an amazing experience which you’ll never forget, this Park is protected by The World Heritage which covers a massive 932 Kilometres of Marshlands, Forests and beautiful Grasslands. Rated as one of the best National Parks in the world with loads of different activities throughout, if you’re lucky enough you may be able to watch an Elephant give birth at the Elephant Breeding Centre. On your trip, you can expect to see many different animals which include Rhino’s, Tigers, Crocodiles and much more! Most local Lodges will put on a show where they will dance and sing for guests. Another unforgettable moment that you can look back on in years to come.

  Food

When it comes to food, Nepal has some amazing and unique dishes. Most of these are vegetarian options, simply because meat is more expensive and therefore harder to come across. Rice is a common partner to most meals include the most popular ‘Dal Bhat’; A meal which is pretty much rice, or a similar food such as Cornmeal, Potatoes or even bread (Depends on the area you visit and their Farming abilities). With a number of side dishes to make up the remainder of your plate, everything from Yogurt to Fish can be used as a side dish to make your meal more interesting.

Every dish in Nepal is different every time you eat it. The spices used and ingredients that are stuffed inside will differ massively in different parts of the country. So if you enjoy trying new things then this trip could be perfect for you!

Conclusion

Nepal is an incredible country which was recently struck by a terrible Natural Disaster, certain parts of the country are only just getting back to their feet. But this is probably a better time than any to go and pay a visit. There are loads of breathtaking hikes in all the different areas and if you do decide to take a Trek it will be an unforgettable experience. But make sure you check out some of the other things to do in Nepal as well! Thank you for reading and we hope this has given you a bit more information on this Wonderful country.

The post Guide To Nepal appeared first on Trekking Himalayas.

from Trekking Himalayas http://www.trekking-in-himalayas.com/guides/guide-to-nepal/ via http://www.trekking-in-himalayas.com

[nolimitsongrace]

How to Protect Your Children

The Power of the Blood of JesusFebruary 6, 2018

The power of the blood of Jesus has provided everything you need to live a life of victory, including Redemption, fellowship, healing, protection and authority over the devil.

As Christians, we know about the blood, sing hymns about the blood, and remember it during Communion. But how many of us truly know how deep its power runs, and all that it has provided for us? Even more important—how many of us use it and apply it in our lives every day?

From Genesis to Revelation, the words the blood are kept before our eyes—a reminder of its importance and significance to God and to us. The sacrifices of Abel, Noah and Isaac, and the Passover lamb, and the giving of the Law all came to pass, but “not without blood” (Hebrews 9:7, NKJV). The blood symbolizes cleansing and purification—the settling of a matter.

God is love. And the greatest expression of His love toward us is the blood of Jesus. That love covers every need man has had or ever will have, and every time we apply the blood, we experience an outpouring of this love. It is love, through the blood, that has created a barrier between you and all the works of the devil.

“Of all the glorious things that the blood means, this is one of the most glorious: His blood is the sign, the measure, yes, the impartation of His love.” —Andrew Murray

Let’s elevate the blood of Jesus to the same place in our hearts that it has in God’s heart—and awaken in our spirits those powerful things the blood has procured for us. The power of the blood of Jesus has provided everything you need to live a life of victory, including redemption, fellowship, healing, protection and authority over the devil.

Redemption Through the Blood of Jesus

“We have redemption through His blood.” –Ephesians 1:7 (NKJV)

You know the story. Satan came to Adam’s wife, Eve, in the form of a serpent and deceived her into disobeying God. Adam followed suit and did what Satan told him to do instead of obeying God. When he did that, he made Satan his lord. In bowing his knee to Satan, Adam turned over the authority that God had given him. He made Satan the illegitimate ruler of the earth.

From that day on—everything changed. With one trespass, death was passed on to all men (Romans 5:12). The earth and everything in it was suddenly cursed and man was separated from God by sin. Sounds unfixable, right?

But God had a plan.

His plan of Redemption was the same as it was for Abel, Moses and Noah—it would be through the shedding of blood. Such great Redemption for all mankind, for eternity, could not be accomplished through the blood of just a goat or ram. Redemption of this magnitude required a much greater sacrifice—the blood of His Son—Jesus.

The greatest thing the blood of Jesus accomplished was this—it washed all your sin away and made you clean and pure—white as snow. From the minute you receive Jesus as Lord of your life, God will not remember any past sin in your life. That’s how powerful the blood is!

The best part? You don’t have to earn and pay for what has been provided on the Cross. In fact, you couldn’t earn it even if you tried. The best thing you can do is joyfully accept this free gift.

In addition to being redeemed from sin, the blood also set us free from the curse of the law so that THE BLESSING of Abraham might come upon us in Christ (Galatians 3:13).

What is the curse?

The curse is death, sin, sickness, disease, poverty, lack, depression—anything bad you can think of. Adam’s treason gave Satan authority over the life of man, but because of the power of the blood of Jesus, the moment you made Jesus Christ the Lord of your life, you were redeemed from the curse and Satan was put out of business.

Fellowship With God Through the Blood of Jesus

“Having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus.” –Hebrews 10:19 (NKJV)

When you think of fellowship, you likely think of time spent over coffee at a Bible study, or time spent enjoying the company of friends. Fellowship is closeness—a friendship. That’s what we have with God, but it was bought with a price.

Before Adam fell in the Garden of Eden, he had enjoyed friendship and fellowship with God. After Adam’s Fall, sin separated us from this precious fellowship and could only be restored through the blood of Jesus. When you receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you declare that you want to receive His fellowship and friendship, and the door is opened for you to enjoy it!

Because of the power of the blood of Jesus, you can come boldly into the presence of God. The blood of Jesus builds a mighty wall between sin and believers who have been made the righteousness of God through Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Another word for fellowship is communion. One way we recognize that the blood provided for fellowship with God is through the taking of Communion. Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). That’s why Communion is much deeper than a religious observance—it’s a recognition of (and fellowship with) what God did for us through the blood of Jesus. You are a friend of God (John 15:15)!

Healing Through the Blood of Jesus

“By His stripes we are healed.” –Isaiah 53:5 (NKJV)

When you take Communion, do you think of healing? Most Christians take the emblem of the blood and say, “Thank God, we are delivered from sin,” and that is true. Praise God for it!

But according to Isaiah 53:4-5, Jesus’ sacrifice covered every area of man’s existence. He bore spiritual torment for our sins, mental distress for our worry, care, sorrow and fear, as well as physical pain for our sickness and disease. The stripes He bore and the blood He shed were for our healing. By His stripes we are healed.

God gave everything He had to redeem mankind from the curse. When we receive only part of His sacrifice, it’s an insult to Him (see this prophecy by Kenneth Copeland). When we apply the blood of Jesus, and receive its power, we need to remember to apply it in its fullness. Don’t just receive and apply it halfway. Accept everything Jesus’ sacrifice provided. If you fail to understand and receive the full power of the blood, you will be missing out. Paul wrote, “For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep” (1 Corinthians 11:30, KJV).

Learn How to Take Communion for Your Healing here.

If you need healing today, the blood of Jesus is free and without side effects. You don’t need a prescription, you don’t need an appointment, and you don’t have to check with your insurance company. Jesus provided it all through the blood! You can appropriate the blood of Jesus for your healing today.

Protection Through the Blood of Jesus

“When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” –Exodus 12:13 (KJV)

In Exodus, after nine devastating plagues, Pharaoh still refused to let God’s people go. So, God sent a final plague—one of judgment—to “smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 12:12). As sons of Adam, Satan knew the children of Israel had broken covenant with God and were also due judgment. God could protect them, but “not without blood.” They had a covenant relationship with God through Abraham, but they needed to stand in that covenant. They needed to choose the covenant over the curse.

So, God instructed them to take the blood of a lamb and paint it on their doorposts. They did, and the angel of death passed them by. Was it really the blood of a lamb that stopped them from being killed? No! It was the blood of the Lamb (Jesus) who was slain from the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8, KJV).

When Kellie Copeland’s daughter, Lyndsey, was just a young teenager, there was a wave of spinal meningitis n the area that had been killing young people. When Lyndsey was hospitalized with the condition, the Copelands were faced with a decision.

How would they respond?

Refusing to fear, the family stood together for Lyndsey’s healing—applying the blood of Jesus, and taking Communion together. Sure enough, Lyndsey was healed by the blood of Jesus!

Kellie later said of the situation, “We had been pleading the blood of Jesus over our family solidly for a couple of years.  When I was in the hospital room, I could feel fear come all over me.  But I went out in the hallway and I started speaking our covenant because it was so real to me.”

The blood of the Lamb is inexhaustible and never-ending. It is an unlimited supply. When we apply the blood of Jesus to the doorposts of our lives in faith—we access the power to defeat every part of the curse that tries to take residence. When you speak the Name of Jesus in the face of sickness, disease or danger, the blood of the Lamb is behind it, and you are protected!

Watch Gloria Copeland and Billye Brim talk about How to Protect Your Children:

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Apply the power of the blood of Jesus over your family and household and watch every danger pass over you!

Authority Over the Devil Through the Blood of Jesus

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony.” –Revelation 12:11 (KJV)

There is someone who knows, maybe even better than you do, the power and authority given to you by the blood of Jesus. He will do anything to make sure you never find out. He will try to keep you distracted, send people or ideas to confuse you, and plant seeds of doubt to keep you from operating in what belongs to you.

You can probably guess from this description who it is—the devil. If there is anyone who has anything to lose by your finding out the truth—it’s him. Well, his day is done. You are about to put him right under your feet where he belongs!

What happens when believers find out about the power of the blood of Jesus?

Chip Brim, son of Billye Brim, once told a story about a meeting he had preached where a young lady who was a witch doctor and demon-possessed was in attendance. A group of pastors had spent five hours trying to deliver her. They were praying and praying, but she continued to physically attack them, and the demon in her was speaking lies and tormenting the people in the room.

Though Chip had been staying in the background, the woman spotted him and suddenly charged him at full speed. At that moment, it rose up in his spirit to yell out, “I plead the blood!” Immediately, she fell and grabbed her ears and screamed, “Not the blood! Not the blood!” Realizing its power, all the ministers gathered around and began singing and pleading and declaring the blood. Within 15 minutes, she was set free—delivered. If demons hate the blood so much, that is evidence of how powerful it really is.

Of course, the curse is still out there. You can see it all around you, but now you have a choice—to use the blood or not. You have authority over whatever it is in the Name of Jesus, and by the blood of Jesus, you can stand against it. The blood is powerful enough to remove all evidence of the curse in your life.

As Gloria Copeland says, “The blood that Jesus shed for you and me has enormous, great power. And we need to be saying so, and declaring it over our lives.”

That means that when the accuser says we’re guilty, our plea before God, the Righteous Judge, is the blood of Jesus. The blood is our defense. It declares we are not guilty; instead, we are free from all penalty of sin. The blood kicks Satan out of the affairs of our lives and the lives of our families. But you have to do it by faith!

Faith in the blood produces great results.” —Andrew Murray

Every day you have the right to exercise that authority by pleading what the blood of Jesus has done for you. Refuse to give the enemy even one small inch of territory. Satan is a defeated foe, and through the precious blood of Jesus, we are victorious!

Learn How to Plead the Blood of Jesus here.

When you receive revelation that the blood of Jesus has provided redemption, fellowship, healing, protection and authority over the devil, you will begin to operate in the fullness of its power! The power of the blood of Jesus is enough to overcome everything coming against you. This is how you live a life of victory in Christ, and it’s the life Jesus died to give you. Be blessed, and remember…“Jesus Is Lord!”