Barbie Perkins-Cooper, Author

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  • The Adventures of Cletus Cleet, Cleet Runs Away

    The Adventures of Cletus Cleet, Cleet Runs Away


    The Adventures of Cletus
    Cleet, Cleet Runs Away
    By
    Barbie Perkins-Cooper
    Copyright ©2012 Barbie Perkins-Cooper, All Rights Reserved

    Thursday, November 8, 2012, was a bitter day, with an early and cold winter’s chill, the first for the fall in Charleston, South Carolina. The morning sunshine could not warm the grounds of the coastal area where Cletus rested. He sniffed the coldness under his belly. Shivering, he was so tired, weak and getting thinner every day.

    How long has it been since he ran away? Although he struggled to remember, his brain was tired from so many nights of little sleep. He dug deeper under the house. He heard the noise of a motor. Someone’s coming. I need to hide. She might see me again and this time, she might catch me.

    With his docked tail tucked between his legs, he rushed away. The dark skinned lady with white hair knew where he hid at night. She tried without luck to catch him, but he always managed to move quicker than her crimpled body would permit. Her arthritic legs would not bend so she could stoop down to get him. Cletus knew how to outsmart humans. Yes, they were taller than he was. Bigger, and humans had long arms that stretched out with fingers that felt more like shovels than something warm to touch him. His sandy blonde and cream colored fur usually kept him warm, but this morning it was cold in Mt. Pleasant.

    Cletus looked back as he moved. Why can’t I run like I did when I ran away? Why is every step feeling like I will fall and never get up?

    Cletus crept down under the bushes. She could not see him here. “Here little puppy. Come here to me. I got some food for you. You look so skinny. I just want to feed you little puppy.” The lady walked with a cane, dragging it behind her as she shook the food bowl. For three early mornings, Cletus ate the food, warm with runny looking yellow grains of corn, oats, bread, egg, and other ingredients. Cletus didn’t care what it was. He ate every bite, wanting more.

    Cletus heard the softness of a human voice before, at the house where he escaped. The woman living there was blonde, with big green eyes, colorful red fingernails and a sweet sounding voice, and a great smile. Every time Cletus looked at her, she smiled at him. Yes, her voice was a nicer tone than before…in the puppy mill. When Cletus lived there all he ever heard was a harsh shouting of Move…get on over there…do your work boy…now get! Cletus knew what to do, and he rushed away before the bald headed man with a belly that jiggled every time he moved, turned the water hose on again. He didn’t want to get wet again. The waters stung him every time they hit his tiny body. The waters made him feel like he was drowning. He didn’t want to drown. He hated when the man picked up the shovel, grabbed him, throwing him into the next kennel where a frightened girl dog shook next to him. He wanted to hear the soft voice again…the gentle voice and the sweet words, “Cleet…Cleet…Come on Little Buddy. It’s OK. No one will hurt you here.”

    Cleetus curled into a ball to get warm. His tired eyes closed. Cleet. Cleet. He dreamed. The soft, musical voice of a woman soothed his tired, emaciated body. Cleet….Cleet…Hi, Little Buddy. It’s ok. No one will ever hurt you here. Your sadness ends, starting today.

    Isn’t that what the blonde headed human said when she met him? The day he left Maddy, his little black schnauzer friend, and the vet’s office? Yes, she called me Cleet…Cleet. I didn’t know what it meant, so I jumped out of her arms. Humans hurt. I was afraid she might hurt me while smiling at me. If only I could find my way back to the place. The red brick house with a gold car in the front and a white ornament next to it. There were trees in the yard. Sweet Jasmine. A magnolia tree. Dogs…Dogs barked at me. Dogs played with me. Dogs told me I would be happy here. One dog, a salt and pepper color talked to me, telling me I would be happy here, but he said I had to learn the rules. Try not to poop on the floor. If you have to poop, do it on the doggie papers, or wait until you’re outside. Cletus didn’t like the outside. He didn’t like rules. He wanted to make his decisions. He was scared.

    The world outside is a cold, cruel world. Cars are on the road. Kids rush around and on bikes. Bells rang during the day from a big brick building with lots of children. When they’re on bikes, they play games, trying to run over me. Just like today. A boy in a gray hoodie and jeans rode on a bike. When he saw me on the sidewalk, he darted over to me. “Get out of the way you stupid dog.” The bike tires caught up to Cletus, but he ran, not as fast as before; he managed to scatter away from the bike, bumping into a fence. The gate was open. Cletus rushed to the corner of the fence, waiting for the boy to come after him. The boy stopped the bike. “Stupid dog. You’re nothing but a scaredy cat! You know I can’t go back there. Stupid…stupid dog!”

    Cletus took a deep breath. He fell fast asleep. If only he could find his way back to the red brick house.

    Dreaming again, he thought of the place he left. If only he hadn’t been so curious. Walking around the fence, he found a loose piece of wood. His feet scratched at it. The soil was soft. Before he knew it, the hole was big enough for him to slide through. He looked back, at the door. The blonde headed lady with a sweet voice wasn’t there. Cletus wasn’t certain he should leave, but something inside of him said Run. Go on. Set yourself free…where humans can’t hurt you. Go…Run!

    The dogs told him he was in a safe house. Shakespeare, the alpha dog, teased him, but he could tell that Shakespeare, Sandy Bear, and Shadow were happy in the red house. Shakespeare didn’t know what a cruel world it was. Sandy Bear knew. Sandy Bear was the same color of Cletus. He told Cletus he might want to give these humans a chance. Sandy Bear barked, “If you give her a chance, you’ll love her. She pets you. She rubs your belly, and at night, she lets you snuggle up close to her. Sometimes she sings to us. We watch TV together. Sometimes we watch doggie shows, and she laughs, telling us Doggies on TV. And if you’re scared when storms happen, she’ll hold you close and sing to you. Such a soft and sweet voice, you’ll feel safe and warm. She doesn’t raise her hands to hit you, and she’ll give you treats and make sure you eat well. There’s no violence here. Ever.”

    Shakespeare jumped. “Violence?” He barked. “What’s violence?”

    “Oh get real,” Shadow interrupted. “Don’t you know what violence is? I forgot – you came to this house when you were a puppy. No one’s ever been mean to you.” Shadow was midnight black, a giant schnauzer that loved to jump high in the air. Tall with wiry fur that shined in the sun, Shadow pranced around with grace. “Violence is when humans throw their hands up and hit you. Sometimes they’ll kick you with their big feet with hard shoes. And sometimes they’ll get a shovel, and poke it at you. Sometimes the shovel cuts. It hurts. Humans don’t give you food. And if you tear up things, they’ll take you for a ride and drop you off somewhere. You’ll end up sleeping outside in the dark of night. Alone. You’ll have to find your own food. Maybe that’s why I love to catch squirrels. Humans are mean. But Mommy and Daddy, well, they’re from a different world. The sweet lady I call Mommy has a pretty smile. They drove all the way to Georgia to rescue me. They let me sleep on a soft and warm blanket in the back seat and drove a long ways to bring me here. I met Shakespeare and Sandy Bear when we arrived. They told me to let these humans love me, but Shakespeare said, he was first…the most important and alpha dog. He gets the most attention. At least he thinks he does. Never have I seen these humans hit any of us. They sit with us on the floor when feeding us. I’ve never seen a human do that. And the lady? She walks us, but she won’t allow us to chase squirrels. I guess that’s the only bad thing I can say. She wants us to behave and prance around with grace. She combs us. Heck, she even sings to us. This house is a good and happy place to live. You’ll learn to find out what love is.”

    “Love?” Cletus barked. “What’s love?”

    “Oh silly. Hush,” Sandy Bear spoke. “Love is something that makes you feel warm and toasty inside. Just like you feel after eating a good meal. I fell in love with Mommy when she looked into my eyes after rescuing me. She rubbed my floppy ears, smiled and kissed my forehead. She told me I was going to a new home with her and some more doggies who would play with me. She said I’d have a warm, fluffy bed and a soft blanket to sleep on. Mommy gives us all attention. If she feeds one, she feeds us all. She even sits in the floor with us, to make certain we all eat and no one steals the food. This family will give you a good life, Cletus. You might be sorry if you escape.”

    Cletus turned to look at all of them. “Don’t you want to go with me, guys? I can dig a deeper hole, Shadow.”

    Barking in unison, they sang, “No. Don’t go, Cletus. Don’t go!”

    Cletus rushed away. Shakespeare poked his head out, watching him as he ran away. “You’ll be sorry!”

    Sandy Bear rushed to the back door, barking a high pitch. “Mommy. Help!” Mommy!”
    Sandy Bear jumped by the window. Mommy wasn’t there. “But she’s always here,” he barked. “She sits there and has her hands working across some silly board with a big picture screen on a shelf.”

    “Computer, stupid,” Shakespeare grumbled. “Mommy’s always at the computer.”

    “Not now,” Sandy Bear barked.

    “I hear her,” Shadow shouted. “See. She had to get some coffee.”

    “Mommy!” Sandy Bear screamed. “Help Cletus!”

    The door opened. The dogs rushed inside. “What’s all that barking for? Where’s Cletus?” Mommy said. “Cleet…Cleet…Here Cleet Cleet. Here Little Buddy…”

    Cletus was gone. Escaping into the sidewalks, woods, bushes, roads, and shrubs of the Old Village of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.

    Mommy rushed around the back yard, looking, sighing, singing, “Cletus…Here Cleet…Cleet. Come here, Cleet…Cleet…Mommy won’t hurt you.”

    Cletus heard her sobs but he kept running. No one will ever mistreat me again, He cried.

    Later, as Cletus frolicked along the sidewalks, he chased squirrels. He drank from a stream. He heard sounds from a school. Children on bicycles. His eyes widened. Quickly he dove into the shrubs. The ground was warm. For the first time in his sad life, Cletus felt safe. He curled his body into a tightly woven frame and slept, the first real sleep he felt in much too long. When he awoke, it was dark. He listened. Only the sounds of night were around. An owl on a tree. A cat meowed a frightening sound. A fog horn hummed along the coast. Cletus heard a growl recognizing it was his stomach.

    I should’ve caught that squirrel. I could’ve had a nice meal with him. I’m hungry. Maybe I should go back. He stood, rushing away from the shrubs. Which way do I go? Oh no. I’m lost. Help me. Shadow. Shakespeare, Sandy Bear — where are you?

    The next morning, Cletus awoke lost and frightened. He heard a familiar voice.

    “Cleet…Cleet…Here Cleet…Cleet.”

    He ignored it. He sniffed the familiar scents of Shakespeare and Shadow, choosing not to respond.

    I’ll be all right. The world is a big place. I don’t need humans to take care of me. No one will mistreat me again. Ever! I am free. Tears rushed down his face.

    “Here Cleet Cleet…Little buddy…”

    Cletus lifted his head. She’s here. He lifted his tired body, praying she would not hear his growling stomach. He sniffed. That smells like her.

    Moving closer, he heard the school bells ringing. Cletus dropped to the ground.

    “Come here, little Buddy. I’ve got you some food. Aren’t you hungry?” She shook a brown bag dropping it. Cletus sniffed. Food!

    Shivering, Cletus did not move. If he moved or made a sound, she could grab him. He was tired of people thrashing their long, extended arms to him, only to hit him or push him around. The lady seemed nice, but he was still afraid what she might do. He let out a gentle sigh falling into an exhausted sleep as the lady turned and walked away.

    The next morning, Cletus sniffed the bag, finding kernels of dog food. He tore the bag open, eating every bite, hoping she would return soon.

    -30-

  • Top 10 Workout Songs for October 2015


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    The Top 10 Workout Songs for October 2015

    Fort Wayne, IN – October 6, 2015 – In a workout playlist, balance is key. Too much familiarity can be boring. At the same time, too much novelty can be jarring. Getting the right ratio often takes a little work, but the songs voted into this month’s top 10 list manage the feat naturally.
    Starting with the familiar side, the list features singles from Macklemore, Justin Bieber, Nick Jonas, and Pharrell—all of whom shot onto the charts following their performances at the Video Music Awards. On the fresh side, there’s a masterpiece of sass from Tink and a lightning-fast rocker from Fenech-Soler. Somewhere in the middle, you’ll find hits from Andy Grammer and X Ambassadors reinvented as a country song and a club track, respectively.
    Not every month produces a mix varied so perfectly for a workout. Moreover, as we edge closer to winter, the days fit for moving outdoors will start getting scarce. So, don’t let October’s bounty go to waste: grab some new tunes and get out among the leaves.
    Here’s the full list, according to votes placed at Run Hundred–the web’s most popular workout music blog.
    Macklemore, Ryan Lewis, Eric Nally, Melle Mel, Kool Moe Dee & Grandmaster Caz – Downtown – 110 BPM

    Justin Bieber – What Do You Mean? – 125 BPM

    Kaskade – Never Sleep Alone – 127 BPM

    Tink & Tazer – Wet Dollars – 124 BPM

    Fenech-Soler – Last Forever – 171 BPM

    Nick Jonas – Levels – 102 BPM

    Pharrell – Freedom – 95 BPM

    Andy Grammer & Eli Young Band – Honey, I’m Good. – 123 BPM

    Zedd & Jon Bellion – Beautiful Now (Big Gigantic Remix) – 148 BPM

    X Ambassadors – Renegades (Astrolith Remix) – 115 BPM

    To find more workout songs, folks can check out the free database at RunHundred.com. Visitors can browse the song selections there by genre, tempo, and era—to find the music that best fits with their particular workout routine.

    Contact:
    Chris Lawhorn
    Run Hundred
    Email: mail@runhundred.com

  • The Calvin Gilmore Theater is open and ready to entertain!


    For Immediate Release
    October 6, 2015
    (843) 913-1453

    The Calvin Gilmore Theater is open and ready to entertain!

    The Calvin Gilmore Theater extends deepest sympathies to those affected by the recent flooding in South Carolina. Fortunately, The Calvin Gilmore Theater was not damaged in any way and our parking lot is free and clear. The theater is open and all shows are running as usual. Calvin Gilmore adds, “We survived Hugo in 1989 and now we have survived the Thousand-Year-Flood. In the great show biz tradition—the show must go on!”

    More About the TCO Show

    Gilmore Entertainment has long been the leader of musical variety show entertainment in the Southeast, with the classic TCO show (The Carolina Opry) and their newest hits, Time Warp and Thunder and Light. Gilmore and his shows have been featured by USA Today, ABC Nightly News, Southern Living Magazine, Variety and a host of other newspapers and television shows. TCO is the only Myrtle Beach show to receive the coveted South Carolina Governor’s Cup, as well as being voted South Carolina’s Most Outstanding Attraction. In recent years, Gilmore has performed regularly on The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, and he is designated as South Carolina’s Official Country Music Ambassador.

    ###
    For further information contact:
    Jordan Watkins • 843-913-1453
    jwatkins@GilmoreEntertainment.com • http://www.TheCarolinaOpry.com

  • Rainy Days…Rainy Nights…Will Charleston, SC EVER See Sunshine Again?


    Dearest Readers:

    As I glance outside at the window by my desk, I see gray skies…Raindrops are dripping slowly to the ground. Trees are covered with so much moisture, they almost lose their color. The mimosa trees drip with a grayish color as if to say they are sick and tired of this rain and don’t want to see or feel anymore! Pine trees are leaning over a bit. These pine trees are the seeds I planted after Hurricane Hugo, so the two that grew are just a bit special for me. My husband gripes about them always saying he plans to cut them down. Pine trees are reminiscent to me, reminding me of my childhood in Georgia. How frightened I would become while laying on the grass, noting their height and strength. I always feared those pine trees might pop and fall on top of me. Nevertheless, pine trees are prevalent in Georgia. I remind my grumpy husband that we lost five trees in our yard after Hurricane Hugo. Again, he grunts knowing that IF he cuts those trees down, he will have to deal with me – an unhappy woman sad that her little children of trees are gone due to his selfishness. We have three mimosa trees in the back yard now – planted from seeds from the hands of Mother Nature. How I love those mimosa trees, although today the branches are leaning down. Perhaps they weigh a bit too much now from all of this monsoon rain. Perhaps later, I will slide my rain boots on and walk outside, just to touch the tree branches I’ve watched growing from a tiny seedling to the height of 20′ – maybe a bit less. I’m much too short to measure them! I want those precious trees soaked and probably curious from the hands and moisture of Mother Sunshine to understand I still love them, and I want them to flourish. All in time. I am hopeful this monsoon rain will end soon…and just when I think I might see a bit of relief, I glance outside again to see sheets of rain. My yards are so wet I would not dare to walk outside in my stiletto or pump high heels. No doubt if I made the attempt, my feet would stick in the sandy moisture and pull me downwards. I don’t want to get soaked or dirty. I have a thing about dirt under my nails, but enough about that.

    Last week, the rains began – at least I think it was last week. On Wednesday, Tammy, Sara, Chris and I walked the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge. It was a humid, gray morning with only a slight breath of wind. Walking up the first incline, I struggled with my breath, stopping several times to use my inhaler. I encouraged the girls to go ahead.
    My asthma is leaving me a bit short-winded today. Go ahead, I’ll be fine.”

    I stopped several times, just to catch my breath. I counted the lamp posts, telling myself that If I made it to the last lamppost at the first twin towers, I would rest, and I did. Still, I pushed myself, anticipating the approaching rains. I am proud to say, I accomplished my walk – but it appeared to take me forever. Thank you so much, silly asthma. How I wish I did not have asthma, although it is something I have battled all of my life.

    For me, there is something magical I feel while walking the bridge. DSC_0033

    While walking — sometimes it appears I am crawling, up the first incline, I feel as if God is pushing me, guiding me, telling me – take just one more step. You can do this! And so I do. I believe it doesn’t matter how long it takes. All that does matter is I am taking baby steps to my health. I am accomplishing something I’ve always said I would do “One Day,” after the bridge opened in 2005. I see walkers, runners, bikers, strollers, and I’ve seen a few walkers walking dogs (you do realize dogs are not permitted on the bridge – don’t you?) On one morning, a dog left a calling card. I missed stepping on it by just a few baby steps. Honestly, some people love to break the rules, don’t they!

    I suppose you could say I believe in breaking rules – sometimes; however, I am considerate of others. I do not take my dogs on my walk. Accomplishing that bridge walk is something I take extremely seriously. I don’t want interruptions. Now that we have about three to five women walking with us, we all move at our pace. We don’t compete. We encourage, and If one of us gets behind like “slow poke Barbie” a nickname I’ve given myself — we text to make certain all is ok. These women are the greatest! Did I mention one of them is a high school friend from — let’s say — a few years ago in another town? Her name is Melanie. In high school, we were not close friends, and that is all my fault. When I was in high school, the only thing I wanted was to graduate and leave my childhood home. I failed to make close friends, only wanting to get out of Bibb City and the traumas of my youth.

    Now, a different place. A different time. A different woman. I am proud of the woman I have grown into in my adult life. Gone is the wallflower. Gone is the child afraid to speak up. Replaced by someone who speaks her mind, believes in herself and is proud for the small accomplishments I have achieved. Finally, I can smile, look in the mirror and say, “Hey woman…You’ve got this! You is smart. You is determined, and you Is a better person for breaking that mold!” Thank you, God!

    So today, I suppose is a day to reminisce…to ease the gloominess of all of this rain. A day to erase all of the past, or should I say — a day to WASH the past away!

    Glancing out my window again, the rain has stopped. I am confident it will start again. I’ve lost count as to how much rain we’ve had, but I imagine it is close to 15 inches, possibly more.

    I imagine the mosquitoes will be increasing now, along with the disgusting mold, mildew and ragweed. Wouldn’t it be nice IF the ragweed was washed away. I think I’m looking forward to a day where I awaken to the sunshine peeping thru the windows. I am so sick of all of this rain.

    It is time for all of us to smell the flowers…inhale the scent of fresh rain…and to move on with our lives.

  • Treadmill vs. Walking the Arthur Ravenel Bridge

    Treadmill vs. Walking the Arthur Ravenel Bridge


    Dearest Readers:

    Today is a bit humid, compared to the crisp fall air I felt yesterday while walking on the Arthur Ravenel Bridge. Walking with two of my friends, I had just a bit of difficulty walking today, stopping twice to use my inhaler.

    I detest when I must use an inhaler; nevertheless, since I am an asthmatic, I must stop when my breathing is difficult. I suppose today was a challenge since the humidity has returned to Charleston. Maybe it was challenging because I still remember the bullying effects of children who laughed at me whenever I had an asthma attack as a child. Sometimes children can be so cruel.

    I am an advocate for walking since I have walked for years. As a child, I walked ten miles to school. Walking has never been an issue for me, even with asthma. Walking inspires me. When I walk on the treadmill, I work out the difficulties of writing. If I think of an unusual line or character, I stop the treadmill and jot it down. Walking on the bridge is different. Why? There is a 4.1% incline. Anyone who has attempted the bridge can understand how difficult it might be IF you are not accustomed to walking. I have flat feet. Probably the flattest feet ever! Nevertheless, when I walk, I thrust these flat feet to keep moving. My friends say my ankles turn inward. Don’t ask me. I cannot see them. No, they do not hurt. After all, these are my feet. No one understands them better than I do. And I STILL wear my platform heels, just not on the bridge!

    Today while walking on that gorgeous, breathtaking bridge, I logged 22 floors, 69 active minutes, walking 4.95 miles and 9,242 steps. I will meet my goal of 10,000 steps daily today! Walking on the treadmill, my Fitbit One numbers would be something like:
    0 floors
    40 minutes active (provided the Fitbit counts these activity points on the treadmill). Sometimes it does, other times – it does not.
    4 miles (maybe)
    6700 steps

    Apparently, I’m getting a better workout on the bridge than on the treadmill. Walking on the bridge is a goal I have set for weekly. On the days I do not walk the bridge, I will probably do the treadmill. My goal is to work out five days weekly. Wish me luck!

    To those who haven’t walked the bridge, I encourage you to do it, especially if you are planning a trip to Charleston. There is something magical when walking on it. I do not focus on the traffic since I was hit by a car as a child. The view is the greatest view of the Charleston Harbor. Walking on the bridge, I do my best to reach the first tower, and then I stop to rest on the concrete bench. Next goal – the second twin tower. My final goal is to walk the entire bridge down to East Bay Street — just like I did the FIRST TIME I walked the bridge.

    Today was a bit of a challenge for me — nevertheless, I did it! Next week, I must remember to use my preventative inhaler before I leave the house. Breathing will be so much easier IF I pay attention to my body and do what I know I should do.

    Here’s a toast to continuing walking on this magnificent bridge even with my crazy FLAT FEET.

  • In Remembrance – 9-11-01


    http://www.911memorial.org/

    Dearest Readers:

    Fourteen years ago on this date, I awoke, deciding not to listen to the morning news. I suppose I was tired of ‘shootings…crimes…rapes…murders…’ all of the ‘if it bleeds, it leads,’ stories. Sipping a fresh cup of coffee, I turned my computer on to write. The screaming phone broke the silence.

    My husband asked, “I know you always watch the news, so I wanted you to know we are all OK here.”

    “I decided to ignore the news this morning. Whatever are you talking about?”

    “Turn on the TV. A jet just crashed into the World Trade Center.”

    My heart skipped a beat. Sporadic news reports were pouring in from people sharing cell phone reports, voice mails, and horrors.

    “Oh my God,” I remember saying aloud in my home. “This isn’t just an airplane crashing. This is an act of war.”

    Never did I realize how true my words were.

    Every year on this date of remembrance, I am sad for two reasons. On 9-11-01, the world stopped moving due to the shock of the terrorist attacks in America. On 9-11-02, my mother died – unexpectedly, under questionable circumstances. When I received news of her death, a cold, uncalculated family member said, “She died on 9-11.”

    “NOT THE 9-11,” I said.

    The morning sun shined brightly on 9-11 in Charleston, SC. While watching the news, I watched the beautiful skyline of New York City turn from a beautiful sky blue, dissolving to a faded gray. Plumes of gray smoke covered the area from a day of beauty to a day of darkness.

    Watching the TV, somehow I knew this was not an accidental crash but a premeditated attempt at terrorism. Just how could a jet crash into a historical skyscraper? How?

    Reports continued pouring in as another jet hit the other tower. Additional reports included not only the Twin Towers, but a third plane attacked the Pentagon in Washington, D.C, a fourth plane crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. I thought of Pearl Harbor. I wasn’t alive during the Pearl Harbor attacks. I remembered reading about them in history books, writing projects in school and learning all that I could about Pearl Harbor. I’ve met several World War II veterans, and my husband is a Vietnam Veteran, so the military holds a significant portion of my heart. These attacks seemed to be happening all over the United States. I asked myself, “Is Charleston next?”

    I phoned my husband, just to make certain he was safe. He has a government job. No doubt his safety was a great concern. Only two weeks prior to 9-11 he was in a meeting at the Pentagon.

    How did I feel on 9-11? Angry. Shocked. Fearful. Just what was happening to our world? I had family members who worked at some of these venues. I prayed they were safe while feeling as if I was a bit selfish. How could I pray for safety when Washington, DC, New York City and an area in Pennsylvania was not safe?

    9-11 is an unfortunate, perfect example of how quickly life can change. Thinking back to that date, I imagine someone on the top floors of The World Trade Center. Perhaps an administrative assistant sitting at her desk, reviewing the schedule of events for that date, only to glance up to look out at the view of this amazing structure just in time to see something coming a bit too close. “What is that? No. It can’t be. Planes don’t fly this close…”

    Were those her or his last words? We shall never know. Everything happened so quickly. In the blink of an eye, our world changed. We, the stunned viewers of the news could not believe what was happening. I heard people saying, “Oh, this is someone overtaking the media…maybe a computer virus…this cannot be going on in America.”

    But – it was…and it did happen to America. For days, we prayed. We joined together to pray for the victims while praying in hopes another victim would be found alive, trapped under the debris.

    Days after the terrorist’s attacks began like other days. We planned to go to work, to church, our children would go to school. Although our nation was in mourning, we had to continue living. Truly a hard reality pill to swallow daily. There was a thick air of gloominess in our communities. How could this happen to the United States of America? Why? Just why did our world stop turning?

    For days, I was glued to the television. My entire life seemed to revolve on the news. I saw news reports of people jumping out of the buildings. One report mentioned a pregnant woman jumping from one of the buildings, knowing she nor her unborn child would survive.

    New York City was covered in a blanket of gray ash and debris. People were running down the streets and bridges in fear for their lives. Airplane flights were canceled IMG_0572and all airlines were forced to land by the federal government. Not only were we in mourning, America was crippled.

    Today, 9-11-15, I still grieve for those who died from these dreadful terrorist attacks, and I grieve for my mother. Never did we become close as a mother and daughter, although I tried to resolve the issues of our relationship. On the day of her death, I was extremely ill with Acute Bronchial Asthma. My doctor prescribed Prednisone, resulting in a dangerous reaction that left me a zombie. My husband was in Italy at the time of her death so I could not get to the funeral.

    Losing a loved one, including a distant loved one, is unbearable. After my mother died, I felt an emptiness I cannot describe; nevertheless, I learned that we must walk through the grief so we can continue living. Fourteen years after 9-11, America still grieves. Perhaps we are more observant about questionable events. Maybe we are more cautious. Speaking only for myself, I do have the tendency to look carefully and cautiously whenever I am out in the public view. I look behind me. I carry my car keys pointing the tip out, in the event someone attacks me. I suppose I am now more pro-active and prepared while remembering how quickly life can change. Yes, in the blink of an eye our world can change — not necessarily for the better. May God protect us — Everyone.

    On 9-11, I burn a candle and pray.

  • If It Wasn’t For Weight Watchers….

    If It Wasn’t For Weight Watchers….


    Dearest Readers:

    As you probably know, I am a Weight Watcher. As a ‘weight watcher,’ I lose slowly — EVER SO SLOWLY! I have weekly weigh-ins where I cheer, and I have many weeks at weigh-in where I want to scream…beat myself up…run into a brick wall…or — QUIT! But — I cannot do this. Beating myself up – like I did as a child — is not healthy for me. Getting depressed and quitting – just isn’t who I am now. Years ago, I quit things that challenged me. Now, as an adult — at least I think I am — I like a challenge, and for me, Weight Watchers is a challenge.

    Today, thanks to a beautiful, encouraging friend I am back to a wonderful, intimidating and fun challenge — walking the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge!

    A few years ago, I briefly discussed the bridge:
    To those of you who do not know, “The bicycle and pedestrian lane is 2.7 miles long (14,400 feet), measuring from Patriots Point Road to East Bay Street. Measuring only the part that is on the bridge structure, the walkway is 2.4 miles long (12,750 feet). Most of the bridge is limited to a 4.1% maximum slope. On the Charleston side of the
    main span, the long approach is a 1.8% slope. On the Mount Pleasant side, there is a section three-tenths of a mile long that has a 5.6% slope.” http://www.cooperriverbridge.org/bike.shtml

    When plans for the bridge were in the discussion stages, a high school group got involved, suggesting adding a pedestrian, bicycle lane. I am so happy those plans were included in the bridge plans. Now, the Arthur Ravenel Bridge is one of the favorite spots for active walkers, runners and bicyclists to work out. Speaking only for myself, I find it invigorating just to walk on it. You must remember, I am asthmatic. Exercise, stress, and illness activate my asthma. Today, I forgot to pack my inhaler – in the event I had an attack. On Monday of this week, I had an attack – thanks to my mini-schnauzer, the oldest of our pets. He chose to ignore the command of ‘stay’, darting out to the road. I rushed after him, and he ran faster. The little brat! A police officer drove by, stopping to get Sir Shakespeare Hemingway. On the way to the house, my asthma kicked in, so I must be careful. Nevertheless, I refuse to allow asthma to stop me. As a child, I was told I could not run or play or dance, like the other kids because I had asthma. I listened. Grinned, and danced my way outside. Stubborn? Independent?? Opinionated??? Wanting to do things MY WAY????? You betcha!

    I’ve always believed in breaking the rules. After I had accomplished my first adventure on the Ravenel Bridge, I walked it two to three times weekly. For those of you who have Fitbits, the incline records the steps, floors, miles and active minutes. Today, I paid attention to these records when I got home. I moved on 16 floors today. Walked for 50 active minutes, for a total of 3.66 miles, and I had over 7,000 steps recorded before 10:00 am. Today, I will surpass my goals to walk for 10,000 steps, 30 minutes active. I cannot wait to share this information at Weight Watchers tomorrow.

    When you walk the bridge, you feel like it will be an easy journey. For those who haven’t walked it, or those who are not accustomed to walking, it might be a bit difficult; however, since I am a walker, and I walk the treadmill, today’s journey was not as difficult as it has been. My friend, Melanie did fine too. You must remember, as you begin the journey up the bridge, it continues to incline. Remember – Charleston, SC does not have any mountains, so we in the Lowcountry are accustomed to walking the ‘Lowcountry!’ The bridge has a 4.1% incline. Many people who have walked the bridge say it bothers their legs, but it didn’t for me, and Melanie tolerated it well too. I think she and I will be good walking buddies!

    Now, that I am home, I feel inspired. There is something so special about getting outside to walk. The sun beams down onto your skin. The breeze kisses your face, and the walk gets your entire body moving. Arms are swinging. Legs are moving to the beat. Your heart is beating while the breeze conditions your body to keep moving. I didn’t mention the view, and it is spectacular. You look down to see the view of the Charleston Harbor. Perhaps you see a ship or a cargo ship floating by while the breeze refreshes your face. This is Charleston, SC. A Holy City where we do our best to enjoy this life we are given. God has given us a beautiful, historical city to enjoy the lifestyle we so enjoy and new friendships to cherish.

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  • The Top 10 Workout Songs for September 2015


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    The Top 10 Workout Songs for September 2015

    Fort Wayne, IN – September 1, 2015 – As summer gives way to fall, let the played out songs in your gym mix give way to some current alternatives. This month’s top picks have plenty going for them—with a variety of genres and tempos represented. Moreover, with just a few new tracks here and there, you can re-energize your whole routine.
    In the list below, you’ll find a pair of uptempo remixes from Demi Lovato and Madonna. Elsewhere, there are wildcard tracks—like a single from reunited ’90s darlings Veruca Salt and a collaboration between Flo Rida, Robin Thicke, and the bass player from Earth, Wind & Fire. Lastly, you’ll find a pair of brisk tracks above 140 beats per minute (BPM) from Canadian teen sensation Shawn Mendes and roots rocker Elle King.
    Any workout mix can be improved with some fresh tracks and a bit of variety. The list below has plenty of both. So, take a look at what’s new, preview a few, and put your favorites to work.
    Here’s the full list, according to votes placed at Run Hundred–the web’s most popular workout music blog.
    Beck – Dreams – 114 BPM

    Grace Potter – Alive Tonight – 120 BPM

    Veruca Salt – Laughing in the Sugar Bowl – 163 BPM

    Demi Lovato – Cool for the Summer (Mike Cruz Remix) – 126 BPM

    Flo Rida, Robin Thicke & Verdine White – I Don’t Like It, I Love It – 119 BPM

    Madonna – Bitch, I’m Madonna (Fedde Le Grande Remix) – 128 BPM

    Shawn Mendes – Stitches – 150 BPM

    Elle King – Ex’s & Oh’s – 140 BPM

    One Direction – Drag Me Down – 139 BPM

    Little Mix – Black Magic – 112 BPM

    To find more workout songs, folks can check out the free database at RunHundred.com. Visitors can browse the song selections there by genre, tempo, and era—to find the music that best fits with their particular workout routine.

    Contact:
    Chris Lawhorn
    Run Hundred
    Email: mail@runhundred.com

  • Welcome to Weight Watchers — What I Have Learned After Beginning The Most Valuable Journey Of My Life?

    Welcome to Weight Watchers — What I Have Learned After Beginning The Most Valuable Journey Of My Life?


    Dearest Readers:

    Today is Saturday, August 29, 2015. While I struggle to lose the remainder of my weight, I would like to reflect today on what I have learned after making the decision to join Weight Watchers.

    In March 2011, I sat at my desk listening to the morning news while writing. Jennifer Hudson appeared in a commercial as a spokesperson for Weight Watchers. I observed how great she looked. I was envious. She mentioned she lost over 80 pounds on Weight Watchers. To say I was envious was an understatement.

    That unique little voice echoed in my head. “If she can do this, so can you.”

    I Googled ‘Weight Watchers’ https://welcome.weightwatchers.com/ – reading several posts, clicking on to a site, reading. Reading. JUST READING.

    I was intrigued. Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in 2005; afraid I would need insulin injections like my husband I decided to change my lifestyle. Meeting with my doctor, we discussed my trying to get the Diabetes under control with Metformin. My doctor knows how frightened I am of injections. He encouraged me to change and shake up my lifestyle, along with my eating habits. I left his office saying to myself, “You can do this.” Little did I know how important those four words would become for me.

    On that date, I chose to change my eating habits. Gone were unhealthy snacks. No junk food, especially at work. In place were healthy fruits and vegetables and healthy cooking. My doctor said he would give me one year to lower my A1C levels. Three months later, I returned to him to check my blood sugars. He noted that when I came to him three months earlier, my A1C level was over 7.0. According to his scales, I had lost 14 pounds – in three months! After lab work had returned, I was told my A1C level was 5.7! He shook my hand, saying to me — “Whatever you are doing now, let’s continue it. I rarely see any patient lower their A1C levels as quickly as you.”

    After losing those 14 pounds, I struggled to lose more. Although I was eating healthy now, the pounds refused to decrease. Every three months, I went to my doctor for blood work and health check ups. I lost an additional five pounds, but I felt so alone, depressed and confused about why I could not lose any more weight.

    Flash Forward to 2011:

    On the date I watched the Jennifer Hudson Weight Watchers commercial, I was even more depressed about losing weight. Although I tried, nothing was working. A voice inside my head said: “Get up from this chair. Go to a Weight Watchers meeting.”

    I remembered the last time I joined Weight Watchers so many years ago. The way Weight Watchers worked back then is members had to eat liver. Only one-half of a banana. Just what would I do with the other half? I had no idea. I don’t remember all of the programs at that time, but I knew it would not suit my needs since my husband refused to eat liver, and I detested it too! I remember the weigh-ins back then. Walking into the room where other members stood. A beige curtain was provided, with a scale. Stepping on the scale revealed the weight loss, or heaven forbid — a weight gain. Weigh-ins during this time were not private. I detested the weigh-ins. Snoopy people at the meeting could cast their nosey eyes at the scale, and I heard whispers — something to the effect of — “Did you see what she weighs?” How I detested these Snoopy, cruel women! I quit!

    As hard as I tried to ignore the encouragement from a simple advertisement on the TV, a voice echoed to me. “Get dressed. Go to the meeting.” What was the catchy phrase I read on the website? “Confidential weigh-ins?” I was intrigued. “Just what is a confidential weigh-in?”

    “Go to the meeting…” Frightening thoughts entered my head. I knew I wanted to lose more weight. The question was HOW? “I can’t,” I whispered while remembering that “I can’t actually means — I WON’T!”

    Reluctantly, I dressed and drove to the meeting. I had a shopping bag in my car, deciding that IF I recognized anyone, I would place that shopping bag over my head.

    Just before 10:00 am, I entered the meeting. My heart raced. My hands trembled. My palms were sweaty. “Please God, get me through this day.”

    I completed the paperwork. A pleasant woman with auburn hair and a most inviting smile approached me. “Hello.” She said. “My name is Kathy. I’m your leader.”

    I whispered my name, refusing to make eye contact. She gathered my papers and guided me to the ‘confidential scales.’

    This should be interesting, I thought.

    I stepped on the scales – more of a bathroom scale than the type most doctors use. I looked down. “Where are the numbers?” I asked. “Have I broken the scales?”

    The receptionist smiled. “Only I can see the numbers. It’s Ok. You’re amongst friends.”

    She wrote the number down on a booklet and handed it to me. Mortified, I got off the scales, wiping tears from my eyes. “This was official,” I whispered. “You are now a member of Weight Watchers.”

    The next week I practiced and studied all the information Weight Watchers gave me. I jumped on the scales, convinced I lost about three pounds. The Weight Watchers scales revealed I had lost .06 of a pound. I screamed, gathered my things ready to stomp out of the meeting. Week One and I was a loser…not of pounds…but a loser for my life.

    Kathy, the leader, rushed to my side. “Every loss is a loss,” she said. “You can do this.” Her demeanor convinced me to stay.

    And so — I did.

    What have I learned during this four-year journey?
    1. Weight Watchers is a healthy way of life.
    2. I am not alone on this journey. I have made loyal, encouraging and trusting friends. Together we can do this!
    3. Weight Watchers IS a way of life – NOT A DIET…
    4. Exercise! EXERCISE! EX-ERCISE!
    5. Without Weight Watchers, I would continue to gain — not lose.

    Over this summer, I have been on a roller coaster ride with Weight Watchers. Why? I’ve asked myself that same question. At Weight Watchers meetings, I have learned to track my food intake. However, what I haven’t learned – or practiced too well – is:
    Weekends. How do I survive weekends?
    Friday nights – we do karaoke. I usually have one or two drinks. Last night, I had one!
    Saturday and Sundays are always a test. I think I’ve actually allowed myself just to go with the flow, eating whatever I want.

    The time is now to go on record to say — I will do better. How? Portion control.
    I must lose the remainder of my weight. What works so well with Weight Watchers is the points system. I have 26 points to eat daily. Lately, I haven’t practiced portion control.

    When I mentioned to my leader that I was having too much trouble being on a yo-yo or a roller coaster, she gave me a nice compliment. “Just look at the inches you’ve lost. Maybe for now, you should focus on the inches and not so much on the weight.”

    Good advice. My body is slimming down, and I am proud to wear the clothing I wear now. Nevertheless, I am still focused on the number on the scale, not what I see in the mirror.

    Someone mentioned a beautiful quote I try to remember:
    When you attend the meetings at Weight Watchers, the meetings need you. When you miss a meeting, YOU need Weight Watchers!

    I suppose I should just consider that my body is changing -for the better…and I WILL continue this journey. Weight Watchers is now a part of my life. I’ve met two incredible friends at Weight Watchers. One of the ladies is a beautiful dark haired Greek woman. She is lifetime now. My other friend is a lovely, caring blonde woman riding on that roller coaster ride with me. Together we are either on a see-saw or a yo-yo. Together, we are determined to do this. After all, Weight Watchers is a valuable part of our lives now. “Yes…We can do this!”

    Stay tuned for more details…Meanwhile, I must go get on the treadmill. After Labor Day, we plan to walk the Arthur Ravenel Bridge. I’m so excited!

    “Yes…We CAN do this!”

  • Gloria Gaynor at The Calvin Gilmore Theater August 30


    For Immediate Release
    August 24, 2015

    (843) 913-1453
    Macintosh HD:Users:jgwatkins:Dropbox (GilmoreEntertainment):Logos:CalvinGilmoreTheaterLogo_LR.jpg

    Editorial Note: Interview opportunities available, contact Jordan Watkins at 843-913-1453 or jwatkins@gilmoreentertainment.com. High Res Images available for download here:
    http://www.gilmoreentertainment.info/Other/GloriaGaynor/

    Gloria Gaynor at The Calvin Gilmore Theater August 30

    Gloria Gaynor will appear at The Calvin Gilmore Theater on August 30 for an exclusive concert. Gloria and her band are bringing her critically acclaimed performance to the stage with all of her biggest hits—“Never Can Say Goodbye”, “I Am What I Am”, “I Will Survive” and more. In addition to her powerhouse show, Gloria will add a local flair by inviting the Coastal Inspirational Ambassadors Gospel Choir (CIA) of Coastal Carolina University and the Socastee Singers each to perform in one special number with her.

    Global superstar, World Music Award Honoree and Grammy Award winner, Gloria Gaynor, has topped the Billboard Music charts throughout her illustrious career spanning the past four decades. Her hit songs are known across the world and Gloria has performed in more than 80 countries. Gloria is also a Grammy Nominated author; an honor she received for the audio recording of her 2nd book, “We Will Survive: True Stories of Encouragement, Inspiration, and the Power of Song”. Gaynor’s famous “I Will Survive” not only became the greatest disco anthem of all time, but has also become an anthem for social survival across the world.

    Gloria Gaynor will perform in Myrtle Beach for one night only, Sunday, August 30 at 6pm at The Calvin Gilmore Theater. Tickets start at $49 and are on sale now. To buy tickets call 800-843-6779, visit TheCalvinGilmoreTheater.com or visit the box office.

    New Myrtle Beach Performing Arts Series

    Gloria Gaynor is among many artists booked in the new Myrtle Beach Performing Arts series launched at The Calvin Gilmore Theater. The series was launched with Garrison Keillor’s performance this past January. The Theater plans to bring you musical artists, but also to add in some high profile celebrity lecturers, authors, and political figures. Possible artists include Bill Bryson, Frank Abagnail, Pat Conroy, Michael Bolton, Kevin James, Rachel Ray and various Tribute Bands.

    Gilmore says, “With its burgeoning local population, the area is ready for something new in entertainment—something that brings popular culture and an intellectual edge to the forefront.”

    More Information about Calvin Gilmore and Gilmore Entertainment

    Gilmore Entertainment and The Calvin Gilmore Theater have long been the leader of musical variety show entertainment in the Southeast, with the classic TCO show, their new hit, Thunder and Light, and the all new retro show, Time Warp. Gilmore and his shows have been featured by USA Today, NBC Nightly News, Southern Living Magazine, Variety, and a host of other newspapers and television shows. It is the only Myrtle Beach show to receive the coveted South Carolina Governor’s Cup, as well as being voted South Carolina’s Most Outstanding Attraction. In recent years, Gilmore has performed regularly on the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, and he is designated as South Carolina’s Official Country Music Ambassador.

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    For further information contact:
    Jordan Watkins • 843-913-1453
    jwatkins@GilmoreEntertainment.com • http://www.TheCarolinaOpry.com