Wondering About Water

Did anyone besides me wonder about the article on water in the August 2010 Woman's Day magazine called "Drink Me"? I have always read and heard that the more water you can drink the better (well within reason of course). And that drinking coffee and soda can be dehydrating. And drinking lots of water DID help with weight loss, contributed to good skin, and was the magic elixir of life. But according to this article, all these facts and long held beliefs are not so true. So what's the deal?

I remember vividly when the hue and cry came about that drinking water from your tap was a horrible thing to do for your health--drink bottled water was the battle cry. Since I had been drinking tap and well water most of my life, I was horrified and rushed to find the bottled water that I would purchase. Dasani was my H2O of choice--it was superior in taste to me--and bottled by the coca Cola Company which also bottled my Diet Coke. Naturally I didn't talk about that too much as DC was dehydrating and not PC anymore. 

Then I found out that Dasani (and more) bottled waters were merely tap water from another municipal source with a bit of chemicals thrown for good measure. What about lugging around all those big cases of water? I was furious--my tap water was from a municipal source? Geez! 

Now it seems that bottled water is totally bad for you and that the bottles are super bad for the environment. What idiots we were! But we were operating on the best knowledge available, or were we? Now I read an article that counters everything my old copies of women's magazines had to say? I want my money back!

Worst of all, it seems fishy that popular and even dare I say medical advise is attuned so closely to dollars and cents. Almost as if "if we can't make money from water anymore, we will tell the public they don't need to drink so much". ???

And could we be being manipulated about other things? Maybe nasty tasting green tea isn't as good for you as "they" say--could it be that yummy tasting old fashioned black tea is just as healthy? Who knows the truth and what will happen down the pike. 

Maybe it's just me--tell me what you think! And go drink some water!

The Bubble Burst

Recently, I took a great familiarization trip to Chattanooga, TN.  I had seen online that a historical steam powered riverboat was docked there and was now a unique hotel experience.  Since my sister and BFF was within driving distance, I booked a room and off we went.  While on board I met two different women's groups, including a group of ever flamboyant Red Hatters!  We had a great time and I have lots of ideas for women's retreats and fun times in the area.

This blog is not about the trip itself, however, but about the flight to and from.  I have been flying for 30 years and except for a few minor snags, have never had a real problem.  Once I made a mistake that cost me time and money; but other than that--things have gone very smoothly--actually amazingly smoothly.  On this one short flight LOTS went wrong--none of it my fault--but I paid the price in stress, wear and tear and time.  Both coming and going the first leg of the flight was late causing a mad scramble for my connection.  On the return flight, I had to literally run through the airport and tripped over my carry-on bag.  I made it with seconds to spare; and found out from my seat mate that the gate had been changed four times.  One lady I met while running told me she had been trying to get home to Norfolk since the night before, having experienced two canceled flights causing her and her son to have to stay overnight in a hotel and sleep in their clothes (their bags were lost).  Speaking of lost bags, my one and only bag was lost on the trip to Chattanooga AND home.  I was horrified at the prospect of spending the four day excursion in the same outfit and shoes sans makeup, toothbrush, and pjs.  My bag didn't arrive until almost 5 pm on the day following the return flight.  Two late flights, two mad scrambles, and two lost bags--all in one flight!

Throughout the experience I was disturbed, scared, and inconvenienced, and a part of me kept thinking--what if this happened to one of my clients going on a honeymoon, resort, or cruise?  No matter how carefully you pack, if you don't have your suitcase, what would that do to your vacation?  I noticed on the airlines website, information on what to do if your bag had been missing for 10 days.  10 DAYS?  DID that happen? apparently! By the way, the line to file a claim for a lost bag took us over 30 minutes to navigate.

What about my new friend who had to stay overnight because of canceled flights?  Who paid for that?  What would have happened if she couldn't have found a room, would they sleep in the airport?

And worse of all, what would have happened had I really hurt myself when I tripped over my case?  I barely made the flight as it was--what would an injury thrown into the mix have done?  What would happen to someone older, a little slower, or worse if someone got hurt in the mad scramble of an airport?

These questions have been rummaging around in my brain the past few days. In between legs of the flight, I tweeted and posted to Facebook about what was going on.  Since then, several people have chimed in and shared horror stories about unsafe conditions, delays, waste, and problems, many of which make my story look lame.

I have come to a few conclusions.  First, I am thankful I made it as long as I did without major flight problems.  Secondly, I am more energized than ever about making sure every client has travel protection.  Thirdly, I intend to file a complaint with the powers that be about my experiences.  What will happen?  I am not really sure.  Will it make a difference?  I don't know that either.  My intent is good, but my story is not unique--it happens hundreds of times a day every day if not every hour.  And that may be the worst part of all, that we have come to accept poor service, dangerous situations, industry wide apathy as the norm.

Keep the faith and blessings as you travel,
Sandy

  

The Airport Shuffle

I love to line dance--it's super fun and good exercise.  The exception maybe what I call the "airport shuffle" --when you ride an escalator to get to another escalator to get to a monorail to get to an elevator and on and on.  But such is the reality of modern day airports, it's part of the dance.  The bigger the airport, the longer the dance, and like a line dance, it's easy to get out of breath.

Another modern day reality that makes the trip longer is, of course, the security check in, which seems to get more elaborate every time I fly.  I laughed out loud when the TSA took my rolledup tube of toothpaste.  As a travel advisor, I spend a good bit of time reminding people what to pack.  I keep a cosmetic case packed so I can grab and go, but my last trip was to a resort and didn't involve flying.  OOPS! note to self!  never assume!

But in the few seconds (which stretched out a l---o----n----g time) when I realized my bin of stuff was being pulled aside and I was being called over-- my thought was OH NO, SOMEONE PUT SOMETHING IN MY BAG!  I had never let my bag out of my sight, but still eek!  I wasn't exactly sure what would happen in this situation but I was pretty sure I wouldn't make my flight, among other things too scary to mention.  When she held up my toothpaste and said she would have to keep it, well as I said, I laughed. 


So to recap, just a couple of points that might be of interest.

• Keep your eyes and hands on your bag at all times.  Don't trust anyone you don't know, no matter how innocent they seem.  Check out reruns of NCIS or rewatch the Mission Impossible movies for examples.  Plus, hey, it's Mark Harmon and Tom Cruise-never time wasted!
• The 3 ounce carry on rule applies to liquids AND gels.  Toothpaste IS a gel dear readers!
• Don't argue with the nice TSA's.  They are there for your protection and just doing their jobs!

Happy and safe travels, Sandy



Sandy, the diva crusiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, and Independent agent of Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or on her website http://www.sandywheelertravel.com/.  Email questions about this or any of her blogs, she loves to hear from readers. 

Cruising Question SOS-What About My Diet Coke?

Growing up I never acquired a taste for coffee.  Maybe because my parents drank so much of it, maybe because I am just a bit wierd, but for whatever reason, I just can't stand the taste.  So needing to get my "jolt" from somewhere, I turned to diet coke.  I drink it for breakfast and need a couple to get the neurons firing in the morning.  It's like you probably are with your coffee--I don't prefer it--I need it!  Funny but two or my three sisters are the same way.  You should see us at family gatherings, each packing a 12 pack of diet coke under each arm, trust me I have pictures!

So when clients ask me about the availability of their favorite (and necessary) soda on board their cruise ship vacation, I completely understand.  After all, it's not as if you can pop by the 7-11 and stock up in the open sea.  So let's address this question and  see what's available, what's free, and what's for sale.  Here we go:

• Coffee, tea, iced tea, water, are free all day
• Milk and juice are free during the breakfast hours
• Soda is available by the glass at the bars, dining room, pool, and theatre for $2-3 each,
• Alcholic drinks are available at any bar, in the dining room, pool, and theatre $5 and up
• "Drink of the Day" are daily specials and can be made virgin if requested
• Fountain soda cards can be purchased on most cruise lines for $6 per day adults, $4 children (approximate)

The soda fountain card is what I always get--first thing--at the "sail away" party!  (I always get a fruity ptooty sail away drink too, but that's another story).  Considering I drink at least 3 sodas every morning and a gingerale with my evening routine, it's well worth it.  Plus I just like to relax with my diet coke while reading out on the pool deck or having popcorn with the movie out by the pool.  So the soda fountain card saves me a good bit of money. 

A couple of things to remember!  All prices are for example and not a contract.  Prices change, usually going up, these are the latest I found today and vary a bit by the particular cruise line.  Secondly, drinks whether sodas or alcholol brought to you by waiters are subject to a 15% gratuitiy.  Lastly, not all lines may have the soda fountain card, so you will want to check with your travel professional or check the line's web site.  Fortunately for me, most do!

Now sit back, kick off your shoes, and enjoy your favorite drink!

Until next time, keep the questions coming!  Email me here with your question: sandy@cgta.com

Sandy

Sandy, the divacruiser, is in reality, Sandy Wheeler, an independent contractor with Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or on her web site www.SandyWheelerTravel.com.  Have a question about cruising or one of our trips?  Email Sandy  at: sandy@cgta.com. 

A Brand New Series--The Great Shrimp and Grits Survey of the South

As a lifetime Southerner, there are some things I just take pride in.  Our beaches, mild winters, friendliness, culture, great cities and small towns; I love it all. 

One of the best things is our food--fried chicken, red eyed gravy, church picnic potato salad, barbeque, and green bean casserole are the stuff of Southern culinary legend.  A particularly Southern item that is probably misunderstood is the classic dish of shrimp and grits.  First, let's dispel one myth.  The grits used in shrimp and grits are not your typical grits most of the country thinks of when the name "grits" is mentioned.  These grits are especially made for this dish and have an altogether different consistency and taste than anything you may have experienced with products from the grocery store straight out of the microwave.

As a true fan of this uniquely southern treat, I decided to work my way through the south sampling shrimp and grits.  I have had shrimp and grits in Savannah and Charleston--the holy grails of southern cuisine and most people assign the origins of shrimp and grits to one of these. I want to find lesser known locations; the small town take on the subject. At the same time I will be reporting on some interesting bed and breakfasts, resorts, and other accomodations that you may not have even know exist.  I know it's a tough job, but as always, I am willing to take one for the team--you gals my readers! I appreciate your  input, and if you know of a lovely local spot that serves a great shrimp and grits--send me an email.  I would love to hear from you!  Well, I better go to the gym, all this delicious food--I am going to need it!  Until my next installment--happy eating!

Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, independent contractor for Connie George Travel Associates.  She can be reached for comment on this or any other of her blogs at sandy@cgta.com.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @divacruiser or www.SandyWheelerTravel.com.

Reading Labels Can Save You Money!

Label reading has become a passion of mine while trying to eat more healthy food, lose weight, and keep my blood sugar under control.  It's amazing the things you can learn about processed foods, they almost all contain too many chemicals, too much salt, and too many carbs.  A real reality check--if you haven't started reading labels, I recommend you do it, you will be surprised!

These however, are not the labels this blog is about.  Recently, I took a gander at the ingredients list of my cosmetics line.  It's a great line and I enjoy using it BUT the ingredients list on my toner said "witch hazel".  Witch hazel was the only active ingredient.  Everything else was inactive--fragrance, etc. I say again, the only active ingredient was witch hazel!  Worse than that, I was paying $39.50 for witch hazel!  Good smelling witch hazel; in a pretty bottle; but none the less, plain witch hazel.  Geez!

I immediately hit the web and found that witch hazel was an active ingredient in several toners, some costly, some not.  I then went to my local Walgreens and looked at the witch hazel selections.  The kind I chose was Dickinsons.  It cost me $5.95 for a net savings of $33.85 per bottle.  As I probably use 3-4 bottles a year--well we are looking in a savings in at least $100 a year! WOW!

Now I am known for being an advocate for women pampering themselves.  In fact, I insist on it.  But, there's a difference between pampering ourselves with a superior products and spending money for no good reason.  Go into your cosmetics storage area right now.  Examine the labels and do some research.  Throw away any items that are over the expiration date; particularly eye items like mascara and shadows which can harbor germs.  See if you, like me, are overpaying on any items.

Need a suggestion for the extra money you can save?  How about using that extra as your downpayment for our October, 2010 Chicks at Sea ladies cruise?  Visit my web site or email me for more information.

Now go read some labels!

All the best! Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler an independent contractor for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser and on her website www.SandyWheelerTravel.com.  Email me for more information about our Chicks at Sea ladies cruise. 

One Step At a Time OR Plodding is a Good Thing!

One day last summer a new  woman showed up in my pool aerobics class and seemed to be working very hard for a newbie.  Being the busy body I am (I like to refer to it as "friendly") I asked about her and we were all told that she was indeed new to the Y, and was scheduled to get married soon and wanted to shape up.  Since most brides feel this way, I thought nothing of it until she further replied her wedding was only 2 weeks away!  I was floored as were the other members of the class as she mentioned her dress was too tight and she needed to lose 20 pounds in these two weeks to fit into it.  And that she intended to take at least 5 classes that DAY!  Since she was at least my age, I thought "she's going to kill her fool self"  but her enthusiasm was not to be shaken, even though our instructor tried to make her see that fitness and weight loss was achieved slowly over time.  I don't think I ever saw her again, but the lesson has stayed with me.  Some things don't happen overnight and are best done a bit at the time OR plodding along.

One thing I think fits this same principle well is spending money on travel.  Some people enjoy the thrill of finding a last minute trip and plunking down their cash and heading out! That's super and if you are of that mindset, call me, I always have last minute trips and cruises ready to book.  But for me and a lot of people, well we may not have a lot to cash to plunk.  Or enough leave from our employment, or quick-as-a-flash childcare available.  But with the right planning--especially financial planning, almost anyone can take the trip of their dreams.

So to help all those planners and plotters, Connie, (our esteemed leader) came up with the idea of a "payment plan" for our trips and cruises.  Two such trips where this would work well are my New Orleans at Christmas escorted bus tour or the Chicks at Sea cruise.  Pay $200 down this month and $100 a month (or more you decide) and pay until you are all paid up! With New Orleans coming in at $879 and Chicks at Sea 5 day ladies cruise prices starting at $500, it won't take long to make your trip a reality.  Plus to me, part of the fun of a vacation is the anticipation--you will have a few months to savour your trip--all paid for without taking too much out of the budget at one time.  I will be happy to work for you on a payment plan that suits your needs.  I will be delighted to help you join the ranks of the planners and the plodders--it's a good thing!

Happy travels AND happy budgeting,

Sandy

PS Just IN!  We have an absolutely fabulous value on board Holland America Line cruise ships.  Book during our Cruise Sale and receive an exclusive Onboard Value Booklet valued at $354.  Sail anywhere--these onboard services will enhance your voyage!   

PSS  Sail on our Chicks at Sea voyage and have dinner every night with Sandy the Diva Cruiser herself.  Have your picture taken for free!  Chances like this to mingle with celebrities don't come along every day!

Sandy, the divacruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, Independent Contractor for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or on her web site: www.SandyWheelerTravel.com

My Trip to the Sanderling, Part II--The Massage!

Hello again, it's Sandy here with more information about my great visit to the Sanderling Resort and Spa.  Be sure to read the first installment which describes the property and our room.  Now it's time for my favorite thing--a massage. Since I have been experiencing some shoulder spasms and a really tight neck, I had asked for a "deep tissue" massage, which is a bit more ($10) but in my case well worth it.  I had asked for a 50 minute massage and was impressed the massage therapist didn't spend much of my alloted time talking--actually spending 50 minutes working on my pain.  But let me back up and take it through the experience.

The Spa is located across the street and has very nice views of the Currituck Sound.  The building also houses the indoor heated pool and hot tub, so I knew I would spend a good bit of time there.  Upon entering the building, I was greeted by Ashley, the spa manager at the front desk.  To the left of the reception desk is built in space for bath and spa products, candels, spa clothing and other gal friendly items to purchase and enjoy.  To the right was the manicure, pedicure, and hair salon areas which although seemed busy, were very quiet and serene.  The Sanderling has 9 treatment rooms and once inside one you feel as if you are the only one there.  I was welcomed and led into the ladies dressing room area where I was given a key for my locker which contained a thirsty robe and sandals for my feet.  I appreciated the material of the footware, noticing it could be easily sanitized, which always makes me feel better.  I was then shown the "quiet room" with relaxing couches and chairs as well as a glass container of water with cucumber slices floating in it.  There was a short form to fill out, and I was really getting into the relaxation mode thumbing through a ladies magazine and sipping this theraputic water.

In approximately 8-10 minutes (watches are left in the locker of course) I met my therapist, Jackie.  After asking a few questions, she immediately got to work.  She assured me that she would give my neck and shoulder adequate pressure to relieve my problem, but that I was to immediately tell her if the pressure became too much.  I use massage therapy routinely to manage stress and fibromyalgia, so I know my stuff when I tell you this was a great massage. 

I did not mention the room, so let me back track a bit--it was above standard, well ventilated, and best of all had a view of the Currituck Sound.  The Resort has rooms for couples massage and a screened gazebo for water front massage when the weather permits.  This I definitely have put on my "bucket list" girls, what a super indulgent way to relax away the stress!  They have a complete line of facials and jetted tubs for scented, relaxing soaks.  The only thing I could say negative about the experience was the price is a bit high, considering it was the winter season. 

After the massage, I reversed the process and went back to the quiet room and enjoyed another glass of water and gave myself a few minutes to just breathe.  After checking out at the front desk, I wandered around out back of the spa, checking out the pier, gazebo, and more.  It was warm enough for a leisurely stroll and as usual, these unplanned moments were some of the most relaxing of my visit.  I finally wandered back to my room for a quick nap and when my husband returned from his tennis outing, (Pine Island Tennis Center) we made way back to the spa to use the pool.

The indoor heated pool was an absolute joy.  Glass enclosed, with a gorgeous view,  we really enjoyed working out swimming laps and in my case, treading water.  After about 30-40 minutes in the pool, we made our way to the indoor spa.  What a great way to end a relaxing, but busy day.  Everything in the pool area was immaculate, well stocked, and  "cozy" I guess is the best word to describe what I felt.  I did not see an attendant during our swim and soak, which left me feeling a bit disconcerted.  Somehow I thought someone would be near by, allowing for a point of contact should an accident arise or a problem--maybe that's just my own insecurity speaking?  Since we live only an hour or so from the Outer Banks, we ate dinner at one of our favorite spots and came back to our room exhausted but refreshed too.  A great massage and swim--a wonderful afternoon!

Check back for Part III in my series--having breakfast at the award winning LifeSaving Station Restaurant on property and being given a  personal tour by the Sanderling's Exective Chef, Joshua Hollinger.

More to come!

Remember gals, Relax, Refresh, and Realize Your Worth!

Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, independent agent for Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventure on Twitter @thedivacruiser or on her website www.SandyWheelerTravel.com

The Gentle Art of Listening

Although my blog is technically about women’s travel opportunities, I also like from time to time to comment, ask questions, or make observations that might be beneficial to other women. Some of these observations are common sense that we just need to be reminded of from time to time—travel safety tips for example. Other things I share with my readers are about lessons learned or even grey hairs earned. And these are the blogs that seem to generate the most emails and comments, many of them off the record. For example, I was gratified that my blogs about weight issues during the holidays prompted many of you to write and share your struggles with me. So, with this in mind, here goes a little blog about an important issue; learning to listen.


When a friend confides in me, I consider it an honor and a blessing. I think women are a powerful force, more powerful than we imagine. The sharing of a confidence or concern is something that women do for other women that is so different from sharing with a man; no matter how loving or well intentioned. As I age, I am learning that the art of true listening is a skill I am developing after having done it the wrong way. It’s taking time, and I still don’t have all the answers, but here goes a few things I have learned.

I have always wanted to be supportive of people. But until recently if you tried to share a problem with me, I would listen attentively for a few moments, get the big picture of things and then jump right in—talking, talking, talking. I would immediately offer well intended advice and a plan for correcting the situation if MY ideas and action plan are followed. And often I would blow it with the friend trying to express herself. I want to “fix” things, it’s what I do, but not very helpful at all in a listening situation. Maybe it was my ego, I like to believe not—but everyone loves to hear the sound of their own voice, hey? I really did want to help and I certainly didn’t want to come across as bossy. So what IS good listening?


Most people just want your undivided attention when sharing with you. Making eye contact, a hug if appropriate, and active listening—really getting involved with what they are telling you. No recriminations or judgment during this time either. My favorite saying when a friend begins to chastise herself for a mistake is: “stop talking about my friend that way”. Just that bit of humor dispels the idea that you might be judging. I make soothing noises like “aw”, but I think the main point is stay engaged, continue with eye contact and provide a safe haven for your friend. A safe haven is a priceless gift you can give and by learning the art of gentle listening you will have made a difference to someone in a huge way. And chances are when your time comes to need counsel, she will be there for you too.  Listening is a skill that we may not have been born with, but it can be developed over time.  Good luck with your journey!

Have fun and be sure to visit our webpage.  We have a great new New Orleans escorted tour ready to book!  Email me at sandy@cgta.com to talk about this blog or to ask questions about our upcoming trips!

Sandy, the Diva Cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler,Indpendent contractor with Connie George Travel Associates.  Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser or through her website http://www.sandywheelertravel.com/ 

The World is Shrinking, So Why Won't My Waist?

I just finished reading Rhys Bowen's latest book called Royal Flush. The herionine, Georgie, is a relative of the "royals" and is at the castle when the Royal Grouse Hunt is being held. As an aside to the event, a group of the locals volunteer to take a group of haughty American visitors on a "haggis hunt". Since haggis is a Scottish sausage concotion and not an animal to be hunted--well you get the point.

Reading this reminded me of an old Southern tradtion called the "snipe hunt". Good ole boy locals would take visitors out at night hunting for snipes with some interesting results. And if by chance the visitors were haughty; then they were taken to an especially thick part of the woods and left till morning. Strangely enough, no one has ever bagged a snipe in the woods. (They are actually shore birds.) Go figure.

The world is different now. Myths like the snipe hunt are easily debunked by just
Googling the words "snipe hunt". There's even a Wikipedia entry for it. Easy access to information about other cultures, peoples, and places to visit are at our fingertips. New and exciting venues have recently developed into the "it" spots to visit. Costa Rica has become one such place, and the requests for Costa Rican womens' adventures have been coming in.

So, tada! We are offering a ladies only trip for November 2010. A 9 day, 8 night adventure in Costa Rica including the following sites and activities: a visit to the Poás Volcano, a cooking class, yoga on the beach, a painting lesson with the local artists community, a boat ride on Lake Gold, the Museum and National Theater in San José, Monteverde Cloud Forest and Orchid Garden, Tortuga Island Excursion & Snorkeling, and much more. Plenty of exercise, activities, and unique opportunities to see culture, art, peoples, and places that give you a profound experience of development as a woman. All in the company of exceptional women just like yourself! Here's the link to this great trip http://www.sandywheelertravel.com/id14.html.

Yes, our world may be shrinking, but you don't have to shrink with it. Decide instead to grow and join us on this super adventure!

And remember, don't go hunting after dark!

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler, Independent Travel Consultant for Connie George Travel Associates. Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser.

Email Sandy to ask questions about any of our great trips and check out www.SandyWheelerTravel.com for more information about our escorted tour to Costa Rica!.

Looking for a Few Good Men..and Women!

I get absolutely thrilled when I can announce that I was able to make a good thing better! It's awesome and I couldn't wait to share. . . so here goes!

As you may have heard, we have a great themed cruise sailing April 11, 2010; a Marines' cruise for active, retired, and spouses and friends of Marines. It's a 7 day sailing on board Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas with ports of call in CocoCay, Bahamas, St. Thomas, and St. Marteen. Three great sea days are perfect for mingling with friends and fellow Marines and their families. We have group space set aside especially for our group in the categories of Inside, Promenade, Ocean view, and Balcony cabins.

Now for the news! They say good things come in threes, so watch out!

#1)For a limited time we are offering $200 per cabin shipboard credit on new bookings. $200 worth of specialty dining, drinks, shopping, gambling--your choice! A great addition to an already awesome cruise experience.

#2) Since "Toys for Tots" is a project near and dear to the hearts of many Marines and their families, we can now $500 Toys 'R Us gift card to Toys for Tots to any marine league, organiation, or individual for every 5 cabins brought into the group.

#3) There is no limit to the number of gift cards you or your group can earn! What a wonderful Christmas memory this will make.

You see why I am excited? I love giving goodies to my clients!

Now, get your friends and fellow Marines together and let's make this happen.

Call me 252-339-9614 for more info or to book.

*Toys for Tots gift cards will be available after the cruise.

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is in reality Sandy Wheeler from SandyWheelerTravel.com. She is an independent agent of Connie George Travel Associates and looks forward to hearing from you. Email her for more information. Follow her adventures on Twitter @thedivacruiser

Chicks at Sea 2010

Chicks at Sea

It’s one of my favorite times of the year, when I start booking our annual Chicks at Sea Girl’s Getaway Cruise, and this year is no different. I get jazzed up when I remember the fun and deep relaxation I get when on a cruise and the idea of sharing that with other women—well I get excited—I really do. I love, love, love the idea that I am a tiny part of giving women something positive to help them restore, relax, and rejuvenate. Having been a working mom while raising two kids; I know how hectic and tiring it all can become. My mentor and friend told me to be successful one must find their “bliss” and I think I have. Helping women feel better about themselves, to become nourished and renewed so they can go back to their family, friends, and career ready to take on the world.

This year’s Chicks at Sea is a five day cruise departing from Tampa, FL on February 20th, 2010. We will be making port stops at Key West (can you say fun) and Cozumel, Mexico. We also have 2 sea days for visiting the spa, taking in the entertainment, making new friends, and enjoying the many other activities of the ship. Or maybe just lounging by the pool doing something special—absolutely nothing! How long since you did nothing?

We have a range of rooms reserved for our group ranging in price from $574 to $924 per person based on double occupancy. Your price includes everything including your prepaid gratuities. Also included is a swag bag with spa goodies, a pretty journal, and other goodies just for the gals. We do recommend you add Travel Insurance. Deposits of $100 per person or $200 per cabin are due November 19th. Final payment date is December 12th, 09. Find a roommate and get your deposit in. I feel pretty good about saying you will so glad you did.

Chicks at Sea is near and dear to my heart and I so look forward to talking to you more about this special gals getaway. Feel free to visit my web site: www.SandyWheelerTravel.com fore more information or just give me a call 252-339-9614. You can also email me for more information.

Love and peace, Sandy


Sandy Wheeler, the diva cruiser, is actually Sandy Wheeler an Independent Contractor for Connie George Travel Associates. Follow her adventures at www.SandyWheelerTravel.com or on Twitter @thedivacruiser

Gold Stars For My Girls!

I ran across some little gold stars in the back of my desk drawer the other day and had to laugh. I’ve used them for a number of “teacher” type activities through the years, but the laugh came from a memory, way back in the day when my daughter was in Sunday School. The girls received gold stars for memorizing verses and the competition was hot and heavy for these special tokens. While listening to one little girl recite her verses I had to stop and ask her to repeat. I tried hard not to roll with laughter when I realized she was using the words “barn dance” instead of the word “abundance”. Since her whole family was into square dancing, I can see how the error occurred. I still laugh when I hear the word abundance. Actually though, it’s a pretty good word, don’t you think?

Abundance brings to mind having enough money to have a comfortable existence. Enough of the green stuff to pay all the bills, save some, and enjoy some. But that’s certainly not all that we aspire to, and I speak here for and to baby boomer aged women in particular. It also means good health for ourselves and our grown children, love and romance, meaningful friendships, a chance to make a difference and give back. A sense of accomplishment, a career we love, hobbies that ease our stress and open our minds and a little more time and fewer responsibilities in which to enjoy the mix. It’s time to start treating ourselves to a few special things we may not have had money or even time to do before. Things like a cruise or trip with gal pals, an afternoon in the hammock with the latest in chick lit, gym membership, or getting ourselves those flowers we admired so much in the florist window. It’s our time and it’s very much OK to treat ourselves well.

It bothers me when I see women still trapped in the role of victim or feeling as if they have to put themselves last every time. A well nourished, relaxed, and happy woman makes a better mother, wife, worker, and citizen. The abundant life is for everyone, even you girlfriend. And heck, who knows, a barn dance might be fun too!

Sandy Wheeler, the diva cruiser, is in reality an Independent Contractor for Connie George Travel Associates who sponsors the Chicks At Sea cruises especially for women. Follow Sandy's adventures at www.SandyWheelerTravel.com and on Twitter @thedivacruiser.

Facebook Fun and Games

I admit it, I absolutely love Facebook! I check it every morning just after I check my business and personal email. I update it most every morning, sometimes several times a day. I check it before I go to sleep at night--I confess I love Facebook! To my friends and family, this comes as no surprise, to those of you who don't know me--well don't judge until you try.

Why do I love FB? Several reasons divided into two different categories. First personal reasons. Did you know I hardly ever miss a friend or family member's birthday now? And, I have reconnected with a friend I started elementary school with. In fact, more than one. Several people I went to high school with, people I knew from 25 years ago; it's amazing how many people I am finding. I found a lost cousin, people I love that I used to work with, and about a hundred kids I taught while they were in high school who are now raising kids of their own. I see what my own kids are doing even when they don't take the time to call their mom, and can take pride in my nieces and nephews as they enter their high school years. It's wonderful--I LOVE Facebook.

The second reason I love it is for business. I use it to introduce cruise specials, connect with clients and post my blogs, tweets, and pictures. I met my business coach and have received help, advice, and a chance to mentor from several like minded industry leaders and new friends. I have found suppliers and resources as well as inspiration from other small business owners working their way through the joys and problems of business ownership. I LOVE Facebook.

Some people maintain you really need to have two separate accounts, and they may be right. I tried it and didn't like doing it that way. I wound up mixing the two parts of my life by accident or lack of time anyway; plus I feel a person is the sum of their parts, so there you go.

However, I have a little advice that I would like to pass along.

• If you are like me and use FB as a personal and professional tool, be careful that you keep a decent balance. Too much info either way may be aggravating.
• Don't use your FB as a political, moral, or economic platform. Think before you expect other adults to change their minds about any of the before mentioned, no matter how eloquent your debate.
• Be careful the information you list in your updates. I freely give my business phone, but almost never give out my home phone or home address.
• Remember your Facebook page may be indexed by Yahoo and Google. Often my FB page will come up higher than my actual web page. And while most of the info is protected, any entry level hacker can figure out a way around the safeguards, so again discretion is advised.

Just some friendly advice, some unfortunately I learned the hard way. I am certainly no expert, but then that's another one of the beauties of Facebook--anyone can learn to use it and enjoy the product for personal and professional benefit. Just another reason I LOVE Facebook!

Keep on posting,

Sandy

Sandy, the diva cruiser, is in reality Sandy Wheeler, an Independent Contractor for Connie George Travel Associates. Follow her adventures on www.SandyWheelerTravel.com and on Twitter @thedivacruiser