Barbie Perkins-Cooper, Author

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  • The Top 10 Workout Songs for March 2015


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    The Top 10 Workout Songs for March 2015

    Fort Wayne, IN – March 2, 2015 – This month’s top 10 workout songs cover a wide array of tempos and styles that will complement an equally diverse range of workouts. For low rep exercises that strengthen your body—crunches, weights and so on—you might start with one of the slower tracks from David Guetta or Flo Rida. For a cardio routine—running, ropes, and the like—consider one of the faster numbers from alt-rock favorites Bleachers or club stars Yellow Claw.
    If the feel is more important to you than the tempo, there are tracks spanning 100-128 beats per minute (BPM) and a variety of genres. The mix includes the latest confection from Maroon 5, a remix of Big Data’s crossover hit, and a collaboration between X Factor alumni Fifth Harmony & L.A. rapper Kid Ink.
    There should be something here for every taste and routine. If you’re looking for a few new songs to spruce up your existing mix, you’re in luck. Alternatively, if you need a clean break, you can swap in this entire list—since it blends a variety of speeds and sounds that will get you moving and keep you guessing.
    Here’s the full list, according to votes placed at Run Hundred–the web’s most popular workout music blog.
    David Guetta, Afrojack & Nicki Minaj – Hey Mama – 86 BPM

    Flo Rida, Sage the Gemini & Lookas – GDFR (K. Theory Remix) – 73 BPM

    Big Data & Joywave – Dangerous (Spacebrother’s Electro Stomp Remix) – 126 BPM

    Fifth Harmony & Kid Ink – Worth It – 101 BPM

    Madonna – Living for Love – 123 BPM

    Imagine Dragons – I Bet My Life (Alex Adair Remix) – 117 BPM

    Bleachers – Rollercoaster – 163 BPM

    Maroon 5 – Sugar – 121 BPM

    Yellow Claw & Ayden – Till It Hurts – 146 BPM

    Penguin Prison – Calling Out (Elephante Remix) – 128 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

  • My Weight Watchers Saga…

    My Weight Watchers Saga…


    Dearest Readers:

    I’m back! Have you missed me? Frankly, I think I’ve missed myself. Allow me to explain. Three weeks ago, I awoke on my Weight Watchers weigh-in day with a bit of a stomach bug. I stayed home. Jumping on my scales, it appeared that I was gaining — again!

    RATS! I screamed, choosing to return to bed to sleep off the stomach bug. Sleeping is something I embraced since I have a rather serious case of insomnia. Last week, I promised to return to Weight Watchers for the dreaded weigh-in; however, my body decided I needed to stay home. I awoke early Wednesday of that week with a dreadful migraine headache. For those of you who do not recall, I have suffered from migraines since nine-years-old. I was hit by a car as a child. All I recall about that incident was feeling a gush of wind escaping my body as I hit the hood of the car. Reportedly, I bounced around like a dog, flying through the air, landing 60 feet across the highway of a “Dead Men’s Curve” landing on the sidewalk. Don’t ask me…I wasn’t there! When I did awaken, I looked into the beautiful blue eyes of a medical technician. In those years, we didn’t have EMS, or EMT’s, only ambulances. I remember attempting to turn my head, noticing a crowd of people overlooking me. I struggled to move – but I couldn’t. I saw my parents. I do remember saying, “I can’t move,” and the medical technician with the gorgeous blue eyes picking me up. My response was, “Mommy, he’s cute!”

    Yes, at nine-years-old, I was checking out the guys. Silly me. I remained in the hospital for two or three days. The doctors said I had a brain concussion and needed to take it easy for a while. I do remember touching the crown of my head, feeling it squashing like a sponge as I pushed it. The pain it created was almost unbearable! No playing. No bicycle riding…skating…dancing…Nothing! The driver of the car that hit me was only 17-years-old and drunk! I do not know his name, nor do I know what happened to him; nevertheless, I do hope he learned a valuable lesson that afternoon about drinking and driving. The only thing I do remember about this accident were the severe headaches where my head throbbed, feeling as if someone was beating my skull with a hammer. I could not stand bright lights (still have trouble with them and probably will for the rest of my life.) I could not tolerate loud noises, and when I did get a headache, I was sick to my stomach. Friends have told me they can tell when I have a headache simply by my voice. Apparently, my voice is raspier than normally. I do know that when I have one of these headaches, it is difficult for me to focus, comprehend and make simple sentences. Yes, a writer who cannot communicate due to a headache. Duh! Fortunately, those severe migraines have ceased. Rarely do I get one, but when I do — it is truly a headache from Hell! Last Wednesday, my headache remained all day and all night long, leaving me to be not too nice to everyone around, including my four-legged friends.

    It appears I am rambling a bit, doesn’t it? Today, I returned to Weight Watchers after a three-week absence. Much to my surprise, when I slipped on to the scales, I maintained my weight. No loss…No Gain! I was stunned and so proud!

    Next month will be four years since I joined Weight Watchers. “And you’re still going,” my friends say. “Yes…still going…and still maintaining…” BUT — not reaching my goal yet. I confess, I have not discussed my goal weight with my leader, but I will say — for me — I have a goal in mind and that goal is only about 35 pounds away.

    Meanwhile, I still exercise weekly. My NordicTrack treadmill is blessed with my presence at least four days weekly. When I started on the treadmill two years ago, I used one that was purchased in 1998 for my husband. After his zipper was placed in his chest — The infamous Zipper Club — he bought a new treadmill to use – to keep active. To be honest, the only activity he gets is a remote control, to exercise his thumb so he can watch TV and the golf he plays. So, two years ago, I decided the treadmill needed to be used for something besides a place to hang clothes to air dry. In mid 2014, that treadmill said enough, when the belt decided to split. Attempting to be conservative with our funds, I bought a roll of duct tape, to repair the belt. Guess what…It didn’t work! The belt continued to split!

    Fortunately, I have a generous husband. He bought me a new treadmill. “One of my choosing,” he said. I chose the NordicTrack. Now, I have it inclined at seven degrees, walking at a speed of 3.2, for 50 minutes at least four times weekly. My right leg is fighting me now, wanting me to quit, but I ignore it and move! Not so bad for someone with asthma!

    Today, when I returned to Weight Watchers, I was ecstatic that I did not gain. I really expected to see a two or three-pound gain. I think I’ll take a “maintained” as opposed to a gain, shooting to lose maybe one or two pounds next week. Meanwhile, the inches are melting away and I am proud of who I see now in the mirror.

    The question I have for myself is — “Will this be the year that I achieve goal and lifetime at Weight Watchers?”

    I certainly plan to. Stay tuned!


  • From McKenzie News Service
    PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    (long and short version provided)

    View this press release online with photos :
    http://mckenzienewsservice.com/news/Jade-Mountain/Valentines-Day.htm (View PDF Version)

    Event Date: Through April 15th, 2015

    Valentine’s Day at Jade Mountain Resort, Saint Lucia: All-Inclusive Total Romance Package

    Jade Mountain Resort View Larger Image

    Saint Lucia, February 4, 2015 – Lovers staying at Jade Mountain Resort in Saint Lucia celebrate Valentine’s Day every day of the year. The daily enchantment begins with the intoxicating views, sultry atmosphere, large sweeping rooms with private infinity pools with fourth wall missing, discreet butler and complete privacy. And to enhance the romance, many couples take advantage of Jade Mountain’s many activities and book the Total Romance Package; an adventure a day in the pure Saint Lucian waters, plantations and rain forests, jungle biking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and relaxing on the beach before a sunset cruise.

    THE TOTAL ROMANCE PACKAGE INCLUDES:
    Accommodation for number of nights in suite category chosen, all tax and service charges, airport transfers both ways, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, all drinks including house wine (but not bottled wines and champagne), welcome cocktail, tour of Sulphur Springs and Diamond Mineral Baths, guided tour of old French Colonial Plantation of Anse Mamin, drinks package in room fridge, tropical fruit display, use of tennis court and equipment, snorkeling, kayaking, mini-sailing, windsurfing, use of beach chairs and beach towels, a guided boat snorkel trip, a resort scuba diving course for beginners or two dives for certified divers, bottle of French champagne, one hour Swedish Massage, 1/2 day Jungle Biking in Anse Mamin Valley, two Jade Mountain t-shirts, half day sailing on skippered resort yacht Searenity, an anniversary certificate of US $500 to be used on a return visit. (unused features are not refundable).

    Package rates for two persons sharing room start at $7,116 USD, through April 15, 2015.

    Package Details and Options: http://www.jademountain.com/reserve/packages/romance2015.html.

    Getting to Jade Mountain is easier than ever this year with new flights from various destinations in the U.S. on American, JetBlue and Delta, United Airlines, all nonstops to Hewanorra International Airport, just 60 minutes from the hotel.

    For reservations call 1- 800-223-1108 or contact JADE MOUNTAIN at 758-459-4000, Fax 758-459-4002, Email: jademountain@ansechastanet.com, Website: http://www.jademountain.com

    # # #

    ABOUT JADE MOUNTAIN RESORT:
    The award-winning Jade Mountain resort soars majestically above the exclusive 600-acre beachfront estate. Jade is an architectural marvel that embraces and celebrates St. Lucia’s stunning scenic beauty – the view from your suite is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sanctuaries are grand sweeping spaces with extravagantly sized private infinity pools which appear to float out to nature and to the amazing views of the Pitons and Caribbean Sea – views that make a perfect backdrop for hours of reverie. Jade Mountain has been named one the world’s top Caribbean hotels by Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure.

    Many couples like to languish in their sanctuaries and choose a variety of the romantic in-sanctuary treatments such as:
    Mini–Massage Course which gives couples the gift of loving relaxation. Learn how to massage each other and give strained areas a soothing touch. A spa therapist will go through the movements step by step to ensure that you can take a piece of paradise home with you. And Alchemy of Two which begins with a calming bath infused with male and female Elixir oils to sooth the senses. During this time poetry and delicious treats are given to each other signifying the support one has for the other. Once your energies are connected the journey continues with synchronized massages side by side using warming oils. Each person is anointed with specific oils to conclude these massages and your ritual finishes with handcrafted Jade Mountain Chocolates to offer each other.

    Then there are the unforgettable romantic evenings. Couples can begin with The Lover’s Cruise with music and champagne. Roses for the ladies and gourmet canapés and a chocolate Fondue all while the sun is setting behind the Pitons and the Caribbean Sea. For dinner savor the “Platinum Amour;” roses and candle light, champagne to start, gourmet dinner with wine pairing and Jade Mountain Emerald Estate Chocolate and chilled champagne in your sanctuary as a finale. There is even a “Gold” option which offers a solo musician, perhaps a guitarist, saxophonist, or violinist during dinner. When returning to your sanctuary, expect beds turned down, candles lit and petals around the private pools or Jacuzzis, an essential oil gift and chilled champagne. There is a menu for intimate private dining for those who wish to be alone. http://www.jademountain.com/cuisine/private_dining.html.

    Jade Mountain is romance every day of the year. There is something for every couple and new discoveries to be made in the world of “Amour.”

    RELATED PRESS RELEASE:
    Jade Mountain Resort, Saint Lucia, Opens Interactive Chocolate Laboratory

    LINKS TO IMAGES:
    https://www.dropbox.com/sh/h4jii3xtrixe95w/oboaoaZIDC
    https://www.dropbox.com/sh/n9sy0lxwqansv7q/AAAgKgY2EbgQJjKwPft7evqEa

    MEDIA CONTACT: Martha Morano, Morano Public Relations
    Email: martha@moranopr.com
    Phone: 212-860-5566
    Media Visits: Complimentary media visits for journalists on assignment or with approved credentials. If you are unable to accept a courtesy visit, a press rate can be negotiated.

    CONDENSED VERSION:
    Valentine’s Day at Jade Mountain Resort, Saint Lucia: All-Inclusive Total Romance Package
    Lovers staying at Jade Mountain Resort in Saint Lucia celebrate Valentine’s Day every day of the year. The daily enchantment begins with the intoxicating views, sultry atmosphere, large sweeping rooms with private infinity pools with fourth wall missing, discreet butler and complete privacy. And to enhance the romance, many couples take advantage of Jade Mountain’s many activities and book the Total Romance Package; an adventure a day in the pure Saint Lucian waters, plantations and rain forests, jungle biking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and relaxing on the beach before a sunset cruise. The Total Romance package includes: Accommodation for number of nights in suite category chosen, all tax and service charges, airport transfers both ways, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, all drinks including house wine (but not bottled wines and champagne), welcome cocktail, tour of Sulphur Springs and Diamond Mineral Baths, guided tour of old French Colonial Plantation of Anse Mamin, drinks package in room fridge, tropical fruit display, use of tennis court and equipment, snorkeling, kayaking, mini-sailing, windsurfing, use of beach chairs and beach towels, a guided boat snorkel trip, a resort scuba diving course for beginners or two dives for certified divers, bottle of French champagne, one hour Swedish Massage, 1/2 day Jungle Biking in Anse Mamin Valley, two Jade Mountain t-shirts, half day sailing on skippered resort yacht Searenity, an anniversary certificate of US $500 to be used on a return visit. (unused features are not refundable).
    Rates: Package rates for two persons sharing room start at $7,116 USD, through April 15, 2015.
    Package Details and Options: http://www.jademountain.com/reserve/packages/romance2015.html.
    Getting to Jade Mountain is easier than ever this year with new flights from various destinations in the U.S. on American, JetBlue and Delta, United Airlines, all nonstops to Hewanorra International Airport, just 60 minutes from the hotel. For reservations call 1- 800-223-1108 or contact JADE MOUNTAIN at 758-459-4000, Fax 758-459-4002, Email: jademountain@ansechastanet.com, Website: http://www.jademountain.com

    PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU PUBLISH A PRESS RELEASE:
    Paul McKenzie, McKenzie News Service: paul@McKenzieNewsService.com

    Download the GREAT EVENTS MEDIA GUIDE 2015 – The Guide for Editors & Journalists to 2015 Events. The Media Guide includes over a thousand event listings throughout the United States: Festivals and Fairs; Performing Arts and Cultural Events; Museums, Aquariums and Zoos; Adventure Travel; Miscellaneous Events.

    VIEW THE GREAT EVENTS MEDIA GUIDE PDF VERSION:

    Click to access Great-Events-Media-Guide-2015.pdf

    VIEW THE GREAT EVENTS MEDIA GUIDE MICROSOFT WORD VERSION:
    http://www.mckenzienewsservice.com/Great%20Events%20Media%20Guide%202015.docx

    This press release was sent from McKenzie News Service (www.McKenzieNewsService.com). Our press release distribution service specializes in Festivals, Events, Arts, Culture, Theatre, Performing Arts, Music, Museum Exhibits, Food & Wine/Culinary, Adventure, Tours.

    View All Press Releases with photos by State/Month: http://mckenzienewsservice.com/news/index.htm
    Subscribe to McKenzie News Service: mailto:paul@McKenzieNewsService.com?subject=SUBSCRIBE-MEDIA

    McKenzie News Service, 4 Kenlee Gardens, South Hadley, MA 01075
    Web: http://www.McKenzieNewsService.com Email: paul@McKenzieNewsService.com

  • The Top 10 Workout Songs for February 2015


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    The Top 10 Workout Songs for February 2015

    Fort Wayne, IN – February 4, 2015 – Remixes rule in this month’s workout music round-up. Exactly half of the songs voted into the top 10 appear in re-worked versions. As always, this is a blessing for folks in search of musical inspiration, since these uptempo updates take existing gym favorites and accentuate their beats and momentum.
    Songs getting a makeover include the latest from from Gwen Stefani, a club anthem from David Guetta, and the three way collaboration between Jennifer Lopez, Iggy Azalea, and Pitbull. Meanwhile, the other half of this month’s list includes a Taylor Swift song you might recognize from a Target commercial, a Fall Out Boy track that pays tribute to a scene from Pulp Fiction, and the follow-up to Clean Bandit and Jess Glynne’s breakthrough hit “Rather Be.”
    By combining new music from Top 40 regulars and updated versions of recent hits, this month’s list strikes a fine balance between fresh and familiar sounds–both of which will come in handy when you’re ready to get moving.
    Here’s the full list, according to votes placed at Run Hundred–the web’s most popular workout music blog.
    Gwen Stefani – Baby Don’t Lie (Kaskade & KillaGraham Remix) – 100 BPM

    Taylor Swift – Style – 95 BPM

    Jennifer Lopez, Iggy Azalea & Pitbull – Booty (Bali Bandits Remix) – 129 BPM

    Robin Schulz, Lilly Wood & The Prick – Prayer in C (Robin Schulz Radio Edit) – 123 BPM

    Fall Out Boy – Uma Thurman – 149 BPM

    Jessie J & 2 Chainz – Burnin’ Up (Aero Chord Remix) – 100 BPM

    Kelly Clarkson – Heartbeat Song – 74 BPM

    Clean Bandit & Jess Glynne – Real Love – 125 BPM

    David Guetta & Sam Martin – Dangerous (David Guetta’s Banging Remix) – 128 BPM

    Pitbull & Ne-Yo – Time of our Lives – 124 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
    ###

  • Finding True Happiness With Myself and Weight Watchers

    Finding True Happiness With Myself and Weight Watchers


    Dearest Readers:

    Like many women, there have been many road blocks and detours in my life. Marrying at a young age — much too young — I recognized that happiness does not come from marriage, or from living with someone, or from the temptations of food. I have battled with weight problems all of my life. You probably know the drill. Diets…Diets..and More Diets. I tried high protein diets…Lost weight, only to gain again. I found success for a while after going to a doctor. I lost weight, only to gain again. Over and over I found myself on an endless spinning wheel of weight loss and weight gain.

    In 2005, I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. My doctor suggested losing weight, and so I stepped onto that spinning wheel once again. Three months later, I went back to my doctor, discovering a weight loss of 14 pounds. “I’m eating healthier now,” I said, ever so happy of my weight loss and A1C levels.

    “I’ve got this,” I whispered to myself on the way home. “I want to lose 30 more pounds.” Little did I know how difficult weight loss would become.

    I remembered the last time I joined Weight Watchers without success. Going to the meeting, I saw a beige curtain, with a doctor’s scale. When someone entered the curtained area, they closed the curtain, weighed and hopped off the scale, but the number on the scale was still revealed. Yes, everyone could see the weight of the previous person. I was mortified. I went to one meeting, never going back. If my memory is correct, liver was one of the foods recommended to eat once a week. Since my family would not eat liver and we rarely ate in restaurants, I knew I could not be successful with Weight Watchers; nevertheless, I wanted to continue my weight loss.

    On March 3, 2011, I turned the TV on, watching a new commercial from Weight Watchers. Jennifer Hudson was speaking about how she has lost 80 pounds with Weight Watchers. Staring at her, I was envious. I remember saying to myself, “I deserve to be happy, and I deserve to lose weight. Maybe I should go back to Weight Watchers. I want to be slim. I want to wear clothes that compliment my body instead of covering and hiding my body. I can be slim – one day –someday. Sitting at my computer desk, a voice spoke to me. ‘Go to Weight Watchers…Go to Weight Watchers…’ I Googled Weight Watchers, reading about how they had new programs – with ‘confidential weigh-ins.’ I was curious. Just what is a ‘confidential weigh-in?’

    Confidential weigh-ins…I decided it was time to start the journey. Rushing to get dressed I decided…today is the day…My first day in a long time…I will be the REAL ME…the one who enters a building with a gigantic smile on my face. I will lose weight. After all, I am SOMEBODY!

    At 9:45, I entered the meeting area of my local Weight Watchers. I wanted to cover my head with a grocery bag. I prayed I did not recognize anyone at the meeting. Never did I establish eye contact. The leader approached me, introducing herself as Kathy.

    “I’m new,” I whispered. She reached for my hand.

    “Welcome to Weight Watchers.”

    I thanked her, found a seat in the back row, holding my head down. Listening to the meeting, the tightness in my body eased. I left the meeting a bit confused. Just what could I eat?

    At home, I read the literature, discovering all I needed to do was track my food intake, making certain to have 26 points daily. “Sounds easy enough,” I said.

    Yes, I am still a member of Weight Watchers. March 11, 2015 I will celebrate four years as a member of Weight Watchers. Have I reached my goal?

    Absolutely not. I haven’t even discussed my ‘goal weight’ with my leader — Yet! For now, I am somewhat in limbo. Bouncing back and forth. The holidays were a nightmare for me. I gained almost 10 pounds and was so furious with myself, I missed meetings due to the holidays and a cruise to the Bahamas.

    When I did force myself to return to the meetings, I discovered a weight gain of two pounds – not the 10 I thought I gained. I missed the meeting last week due to a stomach virus. Tomorrow is my regular weigh-in day. I think I have gained; nevertheless, if I have — I will face the music and get back on track.

    Losing weight is easy for some people. For me, it is a struggle. Nevertheless, I am determined. I have changed my eating habits considerably and I work out every week – usually five days weekly. My exercise routine includes walking on the treadmill, inclined at seven degrees, with a speed of 3.3 for 50 minutes. By the time I finish, I am dripping wet! My goal is to incline my NordicTrack to 10 degrees. You must realize, I have asthma and if I push myself, I end up gasping for breath. After the treadmill, I do aerobics. My exercise routine is a slow progression. I must say, the inches are melting away. I am able to wear clothes I never thought I could. My shoulders are slimming down, and a few weeks ago, I discovered I actually do have ribs and collar bones! Rejoice! Eureka! “Yes, I’ve got this!”

    If you are curious about Weight Watchers, go to the website, https://welcome.weightwatchers.com/ and read all about it. I encourage others to consider joining at a meeting, not online – however, if you are the type of person who can work alone and do it all by yourself, then online might work for you. When I joined in 2011, I started to join online. Fortunately, I listened to that little voice in my head, deciding to go to the meeting — just to see what ‘confidential weigh-ins’ are all about. At our meetings, the confidential weigh in consists of two small scales sitting on the floor. NO BEIGE CURTAIN! As I approached I thought — that can’t be confidential…all the people have to do is move a bit closer to the line up and read what he or she weighs.

    Surprise! I was incorrect! When I got on the scales, I expected the scales to moan or groan, so I looked down to read the number – but –the number was not visible.

    I glanced at the receptionist writing on my card. “Where’s the weight?” I asked.

    “We’re confidential now. Only the person behind the desk can see the number.”

    I laughed. “No beige curtains?”

    “Nope…not anymore.”

    Silly me. She was familiar with the beige curtains!

    After almost four years with Weight Watchers what have I learned? Simple. I’ve learned so much it might take an entire chapter to discover all that I have learned. I’ve made friends — loyal, supportive, kind friends, and I’ve learned that all of us who enter the Weight Watchers meeting have felt the same way. The first visit, I recall walking in, just wanting to be invisible. I did not want others to discover what I weighed, nor did I want them to laugh at me. No one did. I’ve discovered all of us at the meetings, even those at lifetime, have walked in those same shoes. The dreaded shoes of weight gain, and together, we join hands to encourage everyone. When we see someone returning to the meetings after a few absences, we smile at them. Many times I embrace them, telling them I have missed them…and many times, they will hang their heads in shame. I smile and say, “But you’re back…”

    Together we can do this. So for now, smile and welcome to Weight Watchers! Together we are on an amazing journey!

  • Carnival Fantasy — Cruising Along On A Rocking Ship!

    Carnival Fantasy — Cruising Along On A Rocking Ship!


    Hello Readers, and Carnival Fantasy:

    Yesterday, I reported briefly about the first bitterly cold day of our cruise. Although it was cold, Phil and I could not check into our room for a bit, so we dragged laptops, cameras and other items around with us. We chose to eat at the Mongolian Wok and Off the Grill where food was plenty along the buffet lines. I was impressed with how clean the buffet area was, choosing to do my best to eat healthy via the Mongolian Wok. After lunch we continued our journey to find our friends and tour the ship. Climbing onto the next level, I found the jogging and walking track and mini-golf.

    Carnival Fantasy would not depart until 4pm, so we walked around in hopes to stay warm. Of course my husband is always hot natured so he wasn’t cold. We chose to locate our cabin so we could drop off the personal items we were carrying. Trust me, next time we will not pack laptops. Never did we use them, along with cell phones! This was a nice way to ‘unplug’ for a bit.

    I changed from boots to my ShapeUps, deciding to find the walking and jogging track. Believe me, it was cold there. The wind rushed thru my hair, freezing my ears, but I was determined to get a few laps in. Meanwhile, Phil is still trying to find our friends — on a cruise ship loaded with guests, staff and a few children.

    After my brutally cold walk, Phil continued leaving voice mails to locate our friends. I heard someone whistling in the distance, looked up and finally — our friends approached!

    We were scheduled for early dinner at the Jubilee Dining Room. Jubilee Dining Room resembled an upscale restaurant, with the wait staff dressed in black and white, intimate lighting and soft music. While the ship rocked back and forth, ever so relaxing, I ordered chicken breast — the driest chicken breast I have ever eaten. If memory is correct, Phil ordered a steak or maybe it was prime rib. Nevertheless, it was small. When I saw the prime rib, I could not believe my eyes…. The prime rib was the thinnest prime rib I have ever seen – reminding me of a package of thin deli meat.

    On the menu, there was a box with several tempting entrees that I do not recall now. Lesson and note to myself – carry your journal everywhere, even when on a vacation. What I do recall is the entrees listed within the box were an additional $20.00!

    As a food and travel writer, I know quite a bit about culinary cuisine. The baked potato our friends ordered was overcooked and dry. Carnival Fantasy could do a much better job with their dinner presentations along with serving sizes and culinary skills! The wait staff was amazing. Never did I have to request a refill of water or decaf coffee. I splurged on the chocolate molten cake, served in a small ramekin dish with vanilla ice cream. It was delicious!

    After dinner, we relaxed a bit and went to the Cat’s Lounge. Some critics have reported the Cat Lounge is a smoking lounge. Trust me, no one ever smoked in the lounge while we were there. Nor did I smell the dreadful tobacco aroma in the lounge! As the ship continued to rock back and forth, like a slow-moving swing or rocking chair, we relaxed, enjoying the music of most of the karaoke singers. Of course, I sang although on this night we had a new karaoke DJ who catered to one particular singer I reported about yesterday in my blog post. This singer sang four songs before I was able to sing a second song. And in case you were wondering what I drink before finding the courage to sing??? ‘Water with lots of lemon!’ I am one of the rare animals who loves to hop on a stage and take it over!

    What songs did I sing? My signature songs — of course:

    At Last, Etta James version
    Georgia On My Mind, Ray Charles version
    Unchained Melody, Righteous Brothers

    After three songs, I was ready to call it a night, while the ship continued rocking and relaxing me. I do believe this is the most I have relaxed in a long — LONG TIME!

    Carnival Fantasy — I hope you change a few things on my next cruise — I am more than certain we will cruise on the Carnival Fantasy again. When? That’s my little secret!

    Bon Voyage!

  • Cruising On The Carnival Fantasy…

    Cruising On The Carnival Fantasy…


    Dearest Readers, and Carnival Fantasy:

    Yes, it is true. During January 8 – January 13, 2015, my husband and I cruised from Charleston, SC to Freeport and Nassau, Bahamas on a bitterly cold day in Charleston. Just picture it, if you will. Packing for the cruise, I listened to the weather forecast in Charleston and the Bahamas. The forecast for Charleston on the morning we boarded the ship was a whopping — 19 degrees! Yes, you read correctly — 19 degrees with a bitterly cold wind! The forecast for the Bahamas was 72 degrees.

    Dressed in a turtle neck with long sleeves, a tunic, a scarf, sweater and leggings, I slipped my gorgeous fake fur coat on, along with mittens. I was certain once I boarded the ship I would change into appropriate resort clothing for the cruise. I did not!

    Walking on the ship, I shivered. The ship was so cold. I asked an employee of the cruise line why it was so cold on the ship. He smiled. “Carnival Fantasy does not have heat on board.”

    Br-r-r-r! I remained dressed for Alaska, or New England!

    Did we enjoy the cruise? Well…let’s just say, Carnival Fantasy chose to change a few things during the cruise.

    WHAT CHANGED?

    Mainly, the singing competition. Since Carnival Fantasy departs from Charleston, I have several friends who cruise on this ship on a yearly basis. I was told to make certain that I sign up for the singing competition. When I inquired about it at guest services, I was told the singing competition had been cancelled — due to — the FOOTBALL game!

    “You mean to tell me that I’ve paid for a cruise where I planned to enter the competition only to watch a football game?”

    I should’ve stayed at home! Perhaps that set the mood for me at Carnival Fantasy; however, since this ship departs from Charleston on a regular basis, my husband and I will probably cruise on it again in the future — that is — when it is warm enough to cruise on a ship without heat!

    CARNIVAL FANTASY NEEDS TO IMPROVE, OR REMODEL A FEW THINGS…

    Such as Cats Lounge where karaoke was held. Cats Lounge is decorated with gigantic Campbell’s Soup Can memorabilia, and the stage consists of a gigantic Goodyear tire — with only a slight step where the performer (excuse me, karaoke singer) must EVER SO CAREFULLY step onto the thin tire edge of the stage. I wore boots, making it a big difficult to step on to the stage. My recommendation for Carnival Fantasy is to modify this stage – considering those who wear high heels and boots. Otherwise, someone will fall – and perhaps get a free cruise — due to injuries!

    The sound system on the first night of the cruise was a bit off. Fortunately, an engineer climbed on to the stage to adjust the sound and all was better. Of course, I sang — several songs on the first night. The DJ, Adien, gave me a small Carnival Fantasy trophy. How nice! On the next evening, we had a new DJ. Although he tried to please the entire audience, he appeared to favor one singer – over and over again. Yes, his voice was a good voice, reminding me of Lou Rawls, and I listened with delight while wondering just WHEN I would sing again. This large, a bit disabled guy who entered Cats Lounge on a mobilized scooter, amazed me how he could get on stage! Remember, the stage is not exactly safe, nor is it meeting any ADA [American Disability Act] guidelines. Maybe they are exempt from these guidelines since they are a cruise ship. I confess, each time this man got on the stage I held my breath, and each time I stumbled wearing boots on the stage, I held my breath — since I am a bit clumsy!

    I will have more details later about our cruise — along with photographs to share, but for now, I must complete my work out and get busy with this day.

    Will I go back to Carnival Fantasy? Probably yes — only this time, I will inquire about the events, along with the cancelled events. PLEASE CARNIVAL FANTASY – don’t cancel an event due to football again. Guests can watch football at home!

  • Moving On — With Weight Watchers…

    Moving On — With Weight Watchers…


    Dearest Readers:

    I apologize for not posting much this month. Let’s just say, it’s been a most unusual month for me, starting with getting so frustrated with weight loss, the holidays and my lack of interest in losing weight, combined with a cruise we took on the Carnival Fantasy. I promised myself I would be good on the cruise…the reality is – I’m human and I blew it big time! Arriving home from the cruise I hopped on the scales and almost cried. A ten pound gain! Yes, I beat myself up — not physically, just mentally…and then, I decided it was time to return to Weight Watchers and face the music.

    From January 8 – January 13, we were cruising from the Charleston, SC port to Freeport and the Bahamas. Every day, I ate breakfast, ever so careful of what I ate. Fruit. Cheese omelet. No toast. Coffee. When I tried to log in to e-tools of Weight Watchers, I could not — unless I wanted to pay the outrageous rates for “Cellular by the sea.” I got lazy. Never writing any of my food intake in my journal. Lazy…LAZY…just downright a Lazy Lion. After all, I was on vacation! At lunch, I treated myself to cheeseburgers and fruit and — the dreaded — french fries!

    I said a prayer that God would motivate me. He replied it was time for me to find my motivation, and so I did. On the cruise, I took the stairs most of the time, clocking over 500 steps in five days. Yes, occasionally, I huffed and puffed on the stairs, but I refused to stop. Breathing a bit heavily (thanks to asthma) I refused to give up. I did the jogging track, walking 15 laps – daily, with exception of the day it rained. Back at home, I hopped on the treadmill, increasing the speed and incline. I huffed and puffed my way with a newfound determination. I was so angry and disappointed with myself.

    Although Weight Watchers does not encourage it, I weighed daily, watching those dreaded pounds decreasing! “Eureka,” I shouted to myself. My four-legged friends popped their heads up to see why I was so excited. Those uninvited pounds were going away! I was so proud.

    Today, I decided it was time to face the music completely, get on the scales at Weight Watchers and get rededicated to my new healthy eating weight loss style. “Hello, NordicTrack…You are now my best friend.”

    Using the treadmill five days last week, I think I actually heard it moaning from overworking. I suppose that treadmill had a nice rest while I was out-of-town, and now, I am a workout queen!

    Arriving at Weight Watchers this morning, I could not find my weekly pass booklet, so I opened e-tools to show I was a member. Believe me, everyone at Weight Watchers knows this ‘totally shy and reserved’ woman that I am not, so they were happy to see me returning to face the music. My weight gain that was over ten pounds? Now, according to Weight Watchers, it is only a 2.2 pound gain! Think I’ll do a happy dance, just to get a few more steps and movements going!

    WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE HOLIDAYS AND WEIGHT LOSS/GAINS?

    According to Weight Watchers, the average gain of a person during the holidays is only one pound. Okay…So, I’m not an average person – or normal! I am me. Determined. Stubborn, Opinionated and Gregarious. I simply LOVE being the center of attention. Anyone who knows me can attest to that statement!

    This year, even though I told myself I would not gain — I would lose, and on the cruise, I would not gain — I sabotaged myself! Like most women who cook during the holidays, I found myself nibbling and not counting those infamous “B-L-T’s.” BITES…LICKS…and TASTES. I baked cookies and cakes. Some of you who read my blog regularly might remember two years ago when I went on a binge with “Christmas cookies.” I do not know what caused me to be so weak during the holidays of 2014, but something certainly sent me on a downward spin. I am so happy that I had a talk with myself, telling myself I could not afford to gain ten pounds, and I could not afford to quit Weight Watchers.

    Today was a good day for me. Although at Weight Watchers it appears that I only gained 2.2 pounds. The reality is since last week I have lost eight pounds!

    Yes, I am using that NordicTrack and I’m certain it is a bit tired from all the workout…and I do aerobics, so I am back on the move — ready to attack this year of 2015 with a force. I do plan to make my goal weight this year and become a Lifetime member of Weight Watchers. Will I accomplish this?

    Don’t laugh! Of course I will. After all, I am a stubborn, opinionated, determined woman who does not believe in the word No! Think I’ve proven that over the holidays and at the cruise. No is not an option! This I WILL achieve!

    You JUST WAIT!

    DREAM…

    BELIEVE…

    ACHIEVE…

    My bracelet reminds me of this daily. After all, today is a new day…and I AM BACK!

  • The Top 10 Workout Songs for January 2015


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    The Top 10 Workout Songs for January 2015

    Fort Wayne, IN – January 4, 2014 – The highlight of this month’s workout music round-up is the balance it strikes between perennial favorites and relative newcomers. By veering between the two, the mix manages to send both familiar and fresh at the same time.

    Starting with the hits, you’ve got a pair of collaborations uniting Jessie J with 2 Chainz and Wyclef Jean with Avicii. Continuing with the upstarts, you’ll find a song from Penguin Prison that could pass for vintage Hall & Oates along with a club track from Alesso & Tove Lo featuring lyrics by David Bowie.

    The whole affair kicks off with AC/DC’s first new song in six years. The song’s beats-per-minute count (BPM) is slow enough to ease you into things physically, while its thundering riff gets you fired up mentally. If you need a power track mid-routine, press play on the fastest (and most popular) song of the month: Sheppard’s ode to taking plunges.

    For most folks, the new year is a time for taking stock and making changes–mixing things that worked in the past with new approaches for the future. This month’s top 10 list does a little of the same–blending veteran hit makers with promising, newer acts. To that end, it might just be the perfect playlist for the new year and your next workout.

    Here’s the full list, according to votes placed at Run Hundred–the web’s most popular workout music blog.

    AC/DC – Play Ball – 119 BPM

    Deadmau5 – Some Chords (Dillon Francis Remix) – 129 BPM

    Penguin Prison – Calling Out – 124 BPM

    Charli XCX – Break the Rules – 125 BPM

    Wyclef Jean & Avicii – Divine Sorrow – 130 BPM

    Mr. Probz, T.I. & Chris Brown – Waves (Robin Schulz Remix) – 120 BPM

    Jessie J & 2 Chainz – Burnin’ Up – 124 BPM

    Alesso & Tove Lo – Heroes (We Could Be) – 126 BPM

    Sheppard – Geronimo – 142 BPM

    Ella Henderson – Ghost – 105 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
    ###

  • 2014 in review


    The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2014 annual report for this blog.

    Here's an excerpt:

    A San Francisco cable car holds 60 people. This blog was viewed about 2,200 times in 2014. If it were a cable car, it would take about 37 trips to carry that many people.

    Click here to see the complete report.