New Music Releases

I am so excited to share 2 new music releases in celebration of my birthday this month!

Big Red Silverado Pickup Truck

Just released this week is a country honk-tonk single Big Red Silverado Pickup, written and arranged in 2012. It’s seductive and fun for country chicks that the boys are also gonna love. Grab the keys, climb aboard and hear where your imagination takes you!

“Written, produced and performed by Celeste, Big Red Silverado Pickup Truck captures the hearts of romantics who daydream about what could be possible.”

Hitting the airwaves in Europe on October 3, 2016, Big Red Silverado Pickup Truck has immediately been named “Song of the Week” by the Starliner’s Radio Network, who broadcast to 40 countries across the world. Check out all of their awesome air talent at http://Starliners.nl

You’ll find Big Red Silverado Pickup on CDBaby, iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify and more. Check it out at http://CDBaby.com/cd/Celeste1.

Mess ‘a Blues
On October 28^th, Songs for Charlie Music will launch the debut of my new blues album Mess ‘a Blues.

With this latest collection of all originals, written over the past twenty years, my hope is to inspire in a world of despair and heartbreak. The title track, Mess ‘a Blues, was initially intended to be released several years ago, but every word still rings true in this current environment of political unrest.

Mess ‘a Blues is filled with jazzy blues arrangements, R&B, a dash of Gospel and a touch of Second Line, sure to carry you from Memphis to New Orleans.

“I’ve been told, that it’s body and soul.”
. . . Celeste Reichert Friedman

Songs for Charlie Music FAQ: All 14 tracks on the Mess ‘a Blues album are written, produced and performed by Celeste. A frequently showcased songwriter at Nashville’s Bluebird Café, she debuted several cuts off the album for Bluebird audiences. Celeste’s singles and albums have reached Number One in France, Italy, the Netherlands and Australia since 2007.

“Celeste is indeed a true Renaissance woman!”
                                . . . Carole Easterling, Senior Director, Performing Rights, BMI, Inc.

Mess ‘a Blues will be available exclusively on CDBaby. Please visit her official website: http://CelestialVoices1.com to learn more about Celeste’s music.

“These projects have been on hold for too long and waiting on me”, says Celeste. And as she always asks . . .

“If your dream awakens, grabs the keys and heads out the door, are you ready to accompany it? If not, will your dream find another dreamer? “

Thanks for listening and for your support!
Celeste

Dream or Fantasy?

I’m sharing my September 20^th KeyBlog from my website: http://YOUaretheKey1.com

Maya Angelou once said, “A solitary fantasy can transform a million realities.”

Each individual has their own talent, skill and desire. Thus, each one of us will have our own unique path and design for getting from point A to point B. It would be great if we could move our game board piece to GO, collect our two-hundred dollars and simply head out and see where we land. That is fantasy.

We have the ability to transform our vision or lofty dreams into reality.

Several years ago, I composed a song titled, Where the Eagles Fly! In writing the lyrics, a very powerful statement poured into my heart, as if it were delivered directly from my
soul . . .

   “I believe that I can sing the song and I can dance the dance.”

As a songwriter and author, I have learned and believe that I alone do not write the words and create the melodies. We must always remember that just like the gift of life and the measurement of time, these gifts are on loan. It’s our mission to find a way to share them with the world while we have the chance and the proverbial clock keeps ticking.

It’s time to cease being the keeper of the keys, storing your dreams in notebooks and shoe boxes or holding them up in a medieval-like tower as a prisoner, but how do you know when they’re ready to be unleashed and set free?

Before you take that leap of faith, have you established that your dream is real, not a pipe-dream or a flight of your imagination? Like a fairytale, is it simply a whim destined to exist only as a memory? Once upon a time, there was a dream.

So, is your dream ready? Has it begun to dictate to you, make demands, or reveal what it wants to become? You may have heard me say it before, but I’ll repeat . . .

“If your dream awakens, grabs the keys and heads out the door, are you ready to accompany it? If not, will your dream find another dreamer? “

To be a part of the YOU are the Key Network, subscribe to YOUaretheKey1.com and receive a free tip sheet, The 3 Keys to Success.

To learn more about my eBook, YOU are the Key, Self-Discovery Course and Self-Discovery Lecture Series, discover it all at http://YOUaretheKey1.com

Share YOU are the Key with those you love, admire and mentor. Link to Amazon Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/YOU-are-Celeste-Reichert-Friedman-ebook/dp/B01CPUHDQQ/

Also available in Nook Books! http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/you-are-the-key-celeste-reichert-friedman/1123890618?ean=2940158220609

Aristotle said that, “Hope is a waking dream.”  YOU are the Key!

Vote for Celestial Voices!

Celestial Voices is proud to announce that Celeste has been approved in the first round of the FedEx Grant Contest! 

Celeste is vying for the grand prize of $25,000. There will be a total of 10 winners announced on July 11, 2016.

As a winner, Celestial Voices can build a stronger presence online and sustain Celeste’s mission to inspire achievement. (Learn more at CelestialVoices1.com) 

When you pass that FedEx truck on the road, think of how they are helping small businesses in America get a leg up and how hope never fails.

To vote for Celestial Voices, follow the link below. Thank you for your love and support!

Gratefully,
Celeste

Vote Now!

Brilliance Comes to Light in "YOU are the Key"

For Immediate Release
CelestialVoices1@aol.com
740.334.0550
March 25, 2016

              Brilliance Comes to Light in “YOU are the Key”

Columbus, Ohio- When Grammy nominated singer-songwriter and author Celeste Reichert Friedman is asked,
“Who are you, what do you do and why do you do it?” Her reply is simply, “I compose and perform music, as well as write books to inspire and encourage.”

In her latest eBook, YOU are the Key, Celeste explores the mind’s eye and timeless wisdom of the inner voice in an innovative novelette, now available on Amazon Kindle.  Inspired by a dream of the three glass keys, Friedman believes you can unlock the secrets of who you truly are and your purpose in life.

Your Path to Happiness and Fulfillment

If you dare, test your true self with her Questions of Self-Discovery. Celeste invites you to challenge yourself, your hopes and dreams. You will be amazed at what you bring into the light.

The time is right for a new take on self-help and inspiration. Celeste is a fresh voice in this challenging world as we know it. YOU are the Key offers key insight and encouragement for graduates, young professionals, those changing course in mid-life or retirees who are seeking new opportunities.

“Glowing”
                   Anna Hovind, CNN News

Live Presentation

Celeste’s live keynote, a companion to YOU are the Key, is thought provoking and enlightening. Woven with original inspirational tunes, audiences are enthralled. As an author and singer-songwriter, her life experiences of challenge and adversity are compelling. Throughout the live keynote, as in the book, she covers topics on setting goals, tenacity, never giving up against all odds and the power within each and every one of us to achieve.

Here is your link, your Key to reaching inside. YOU are the Key!

http://www.amazon.com/YOU-are-Celeste-Reichert-Friedman-ebook/dp/B01CPUHDQQ

For interviews and presenter bookings, please contact CelestialVoices1@aol.com or 740.334.0550.

It all begins with one step. YOU are the Key!

Where the Green Waters Flow

Although Dublin, Ireland is the ultimate destination to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, other cities across the globe explode in similar reveille.

New York City claims to host the largest St. Patty’s Day parade in the world, where you’ll find the infamous Fifth Avenue in green and orange for the holiday. As they do on New Year’s Eve, crowds jam the parade route to view the bagpipers, marching bands and Irish dancers. Why orange? Now, don’t ya be askin that question around anyone from Wales!

In the windy city of Chicago, they dye everything green, even the Chicago River! Irish marching bands and dance troupes, along with pipers, fiddler and drummers, brave the cold winds of March to entertain all over town.

Dublin, Ohio represents not only Irish, but Scottish and Welsh traditions with a parade down Bridge Street into Olde Town Dublin, followed by entertainment in every pub and they’re not gonna be waitin for the 17^th, as the party starts at 11:00am on Saturday, March 14^th.

In Savannah, Georgia, green waters flow as well in fountains and the Savannah River. As the azaleas and magnolias are ‘a bloomin, the shamrocks are shimmering in the mornin sun.

The Sydney Opera House in Australia illuminates sails in shamrock green in honor of the holiday. How do you say “Good Day” in Gaelic?

The majority still votes for the original, as most of the buildings in Dublin, Ireland are lit up in Kelly green. Local crowds and tourists line the streets to check out the stunning performances and brilliant costumes from one parade to the next. You can check out the fabulous kilts in every parade and pub, while you enjoy classic entertainment by traditional bands and musicians.

To share in the celebration, here are a few YouTube links to my own Celtic performances. My tour began on Tuesday and lasts beyond St. Patrick’s Day. May the blessings of the good St. Patrick be with you!

“Siuil ‘a Run” traditional Irish ballad  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dD_E1ZR1Msk

“Emerald Isle” original ballad by Celi McDaniel 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_-nb8n8T-k

“Si Do Mhaimeo I” traditional Gaelic tune 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FxqhLdjen8

　
Enjoy!
Celeste, aka Celi McDaniel

Where Will You Be on Valentine's Day?

If you lived in San Francisco, you could take in the Gourmet Chocolate Tour on Valentine's Day.

In New York City, you could spend thousands of dollars at Tiffany's.

You could shop online and customize your own M&M's.

You could spend way too much time in the Hallmark store searching for the right card.

-OR-

You can share your love by giving to Hospice of Central Ohio!

Join us for our benefit concert, "It's All About Love" on February 14th in Newark, Ohio!

For more details, please visit: http://Celestial-Voices.webs.com

 WE WILL have chocolate and decadent desserts! What is that? Wine too? Of course!

See you there!

'Tis the Season

What a way to kick off the holidays for 2014. On Sunday, December 7^th, I shared an incredible day with 39 other authors at the Delaware District Library, Orange Branch. All of the authors who participated are based in the Central Ohio area. There were writers who have passion about relationships, animals, retirement, medicine, self improvement and those who love to write novels about fantasy, mystery, sports and history.

I have always believed that I am exactly where I am supposed to be and on that day, the library coordinator had positioned my Single 101 table next to an expert and author on numerology. As we met and greeted the library patrons, signed books and networked with the other writers, Nancy Fairbrother and I shared our experiences and the joyful journey of being an author. Nancy was there with her eBook, “Born to Succeed”. Those of you who are a part of the Single 101 Nation can guess immediately where this is going, because you know I was intrigued by her book and yearned to know more.

In my Single 101 blogs, journals and scratchings on the desire of flying solo, a greater part of my passion has been about success. Whether it is success in relationships, career or simply finding peace, those 6 letters always float to the top. It has also been interesting to me throughout my life that the second half of the word ‘success’ is one of my nicknames, Cess.

Nancy Fairbrother asks us, “What is success?” These are her statements:

Success is living with passion, enthusiasm and joy.

Success is experiencing the delight of expressing your authentic self.

Success is using your challenges as opportunities for personal growth.

Success is using your innate genius to serve your highest good and the highest good of others.

Nancy writes, "You were born to succeed in every area of your life. Your personal formula for success is encoded in your birth name and birth date." Her e-book shows you how to reveal your life purpose and the key to creating the life of your dreams.

Check out Nancy Fairbrother’s eBook on Smashwords, Kindle, or Nook.

Living the single life will always present new challenges and it’s definitely worth the time to look deeper with the help of experts like Nancy Fairbrother. Visit her website at: http://YouWereBornThatWay.com

After having the great opportunity of meeting Nancy, my theme for 2015 is “success”!

Thank you once again to Joe O’Rourke and his great staff of the Delaware District Library, Orange Branch for a lovely author’s event.  If you live in the Delaware or Columbus area, stop in over the holidays and relax by their wonderful fireplace with a great book.

As we close another year and begin a fresh look at the horizon, pick up a copy of “Single 101:101 New Year’s Resolutions” on Kindle, downloadable to Kindle Fire, iPad and iPhone.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Single-101-New-Years-Resolutions-ebook/dp/B006RY6IP4

Share your theme or goals for 2015 by commenting here!

Happy Holidays!

XO,

Celeste   Cess  :)

http://Single-101.com

 

 

AskMen.com Relationship Survey

AskMen.com decided to survey their readers to find out what it means to be a man in today’s world. Opinions and roles have changed dramatically throughout the past few decades. You may be impressed at how compassionate and considerate today’s man is with regard to the woman in his life.

The percentages of the answers are very revealing in how men view their roles in relationships. Here are a few of the AskMen questions:

Of the four choices listed below, which is the most important personality trait for deciding if a woman is relationship material?

40% a sense of loyalty

25% sense of caring and nurturing

16% sense of humor

19% intelligence

Comment:  Okay, so some women might view these answers responding that you have to display that you think he’s funny, take care of him because every man needs a mother, be loyal even if he cheats and you don’t have to be very smart. (just sayin’)

 

Do you believe in the institution of marriage?

76% yes and one I would participate in

16% yes, I believe it is an institution, but it’s not for me

8% no, I do not believe in marriage

 

Is it important for a girlfriend to have wife potential?

48% somewhat, although I won’t break up with her if I realize she isn’t wife material

32% yes, I won’t bother pursuing a woman who isn’t a potential wife

20% no, I don’t look that far ahead in my relationships

Comment: “material”- the Encarta English dictionary defines this as the substance used to make things. The Thesaurus lists- fabric; cloth; textile; stuff; substance; matter; bits and pieces. Can you find a better word?

 

If there were no chance of your partner finding out, how likely would you be to cheat?

40% not at all likely, I might be tempted, but cheating violates my morals

32% not very likely, I may be tempted, but I love and respect her too much

19% somewhat likely, but I would feel guilty, nonetheless

5% very likely, she can’t be hurt if she doesn’t know about it

Comment: Ouch, is your mate or better half in that 5 percentile?

 

Who should pay on a date?

45% both parties should take turns

51% he should

3% always go Dutch

 

Have you ever read your partner’s Facebook messages, email or other electronic correspondence?

37% no, I respect her privacy

24% yes, but with her knowledge

17% no, but I would if I suspected she was up to something

15% yes, I have broken into her email and social media accounts

Comment: I wonder why ‘trust’ wasn’t listed as a choice to that first question.

 
To read more, check out AskMen.com. We’d love to hear your answers to these questions here on the Single 101 blog.  Post a comment.

 

The Bible as We Know It- or- Do We?

On a blustery, snowy Saturday evening, I joined a friend to see the film, “Monument Men”.  As we entered the theatre, it wasn’t listed on the menu board and the last feature had been presented that afternoon.

We checked out what choices in other films were offered, should we decide to stay and chose the new sci-fi, fantasy “Noah”, in I-Max format.  At the start, we were uncomfortable in the theatre with the maximized volume of sound, which pounded your head and bounced you around in your seat from its strength.

Starring Russell Crowe, this Darren Aronofsky-directed epic has met with much controversy.  My friend and I left the theatre with mixed feelings as well, but the greatest effect it had on me was the motivation to open my Bible and read the book of Genesis.  After seeing an interview this morning with the director, I have a new take on the film and understand it not merely as art, but a provocative look at the destruction of the world by water.  It is truly a brave new world where younger audiences desire the X-game approach to film design, but I still don’t see the need for the gargantuan transformer-looking rock men called ‘The Watchers’.

What does this have to do with being single?  In the story of Noah, man was to be destroyed and the innocent, the animals of the Earth, were to be saved, each species by two.  In this new film, Noah’s family is spared, but not every member is left with a mate.

    If you were on board the ark, would you be satisfied with being single and left alone 
without a partner?

My answer, from a lighter approach, is that I’d be just fine, as long as all of the animals were saved. Much greater is the fact that the planet Earth was saved.  Left with being single on the ark would have still been a gift, offering the chance to see the world once again.  I just wonder about all of the sea life that wasn’t affected in deeper waters.

Finally, the best shot in “Noah”, for me at least, was at the end where the dove returned to the ark carrying a stem of something green in its beak, a sign that life existed and God, or the Creator was still with us.

Who are we to judge?

With so many critics weighing in, who have knocked down the film before even opening in theatres in the United States, who are we to be the judge?  I congratulate the director and his writers for having the courage to create a biblical film, fifty years after the Cecil B. DeMille story of Moses. What would we write if compelled to do the same?  Do we have the courage to share the possibilities of history?  For an experience that makes you think and question, I recommend seeing this film.

On the Battlefield of Cancer

    Author Celeste Friedman shares her experiences with her late mother, Awanna Reichert, who fought a valiant battle with cancer for twenty-plus years.  In her newly released e-Book, “Among the Fallen Leaves” she tells the story from the view of her journal, “On the Battlefield of Cancer”.

    Each day, we learn of countless individuals who have some form of cancer.  Most of the world now has somewhat of an understanding of what this monster is and its name has become a part of our daily dialogue.

    There are over one-hundred forms of cancer and research is unveiling more about metastasis.  After a radical mastectomy in February of 2013, her mother’s oncologist informed them of the grave possibility that the cancer would metastasize the bones, lungs and spleen.  A former nurse, Celeste’s mother refused to go through any further treatment, as she believed that her eighty-five years on this earth had been enough.  With her strong belief that life is in God’s hands, she continued to fight, still hoping for an unparalleled breakthrough.

    Current statistics show there are approximately 155,000 Americans living with metastatic breast cancer.  40,000 of those individuals will die within the coming year.  The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 232,670 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnosed in women in 2014 and possibly 18 million by 2020.  To date, there are 2.8 million documented breast cancer survivors in the United States.

    If caught early enough, many cancers are manageable.  Some of the most common treatments for cancer include chemotherapy and radiation, miraculously killing the abnormal cells, if you are one of the fortunate.  The cost endured from treatment can be insurmountable, having a critical impact on a patient’s financial situation and adding a tremendous burden on the family.  Cancer takes its toll on everyone and the price that is paid emotionally is immeasurable.

    The National Cancer Institute predicts that the amount of money Americans will spend on cancer treatments yearly will reach a staggering $158 billion by the year 2020.  Since the 1950’s, the American Cancer Society has been committed to intensive research with regard to preventing cancer; the link between cigarette smoking; lung cancer and other risks such as obesity.  To learn more, visit the following online links:
www.CancerResearch.org
www.CancerCenter.com
www.Cancer.org – The American Cancer Society official website.

For more on Celeste’s upcoming eBook release, please visit http://BattlefieldofCancer.webs.com

Reason Number 75- Freedom to Pursue Your Passion

Dear Single 101 Friends,

I have been away for the past few months caring for my mother, who fought breast cancer for twenty years. She was a warrior and a champion. Due to the angels and volunteers of Hospice of Central Ohio, she went peacefully just before dawn on a frigid December morning just before Christmas. Her soul is now free to expand in eternity.

My mother and I spent countless days, months and hours together, agonizing over medical decisions and existing in a life of ambiguity. Leonardo da Vinci taught that we must embrace life’s uncertainties.

As I get back on track with Single 101 blogs, I’d like to share da Vinci’s wisdom and highlight Reason Number 75 from my book, “Single 101: 1201 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single”.

Reaching the summit of your full potential is a tough climb, but so worthwhile. If you’re single, there are far more opportunities for self-actualization and reaching your goals. It is possible that you have experienced times in your life when a partner or spouse held you back or distracted you from focusing on your heart’s desires and dreams. Life is too short. Go for it all fearlessly!

Check out the seven steps to genius, designed by artist, scholar and inventor Leonardo da Vinci:

“The Seven Principles”

1. Curiosita- the unrelenting quest for continuous learning.

2. Dimostrazione- the commitment to test knowledge through experience and persistence.

3. Sensazione- continual refinement of the senses, especially sight, which enlivens life’s experiences.

4. Sfumato- literally meaning, “Going up in smoke”- the willingness to embrace ambiguity, paradox and uncertainty.

5. Arte/ Scienza- the development of balance between science and art, logic and imagination.

6. Corporalita-the cultivation of race, ambidexterity and poise.

7. Connessione- a recognition of and appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things and phenomena, also known as ‘systems thinking’.

To learn more, visit: http://www.davincisciencecenter.org

If You're Afraid to Go It Alone, Don't Read This!

If you don't need the bed all to yourself, don't read this! If you love sharing the milk jug in the refrigerator with someone who sneaks a slurp or two, don't read this! If you don't mind living with a slob, don't read this! If he's insanely jealous that you having male friends in addition to your female friends, don't read this! If he's so adorable hogging the remote and being the master controller of the thermostat, then . . . well?

There are those who believe that if you are not in a relationship and prefer living alone, you just exit and don't really live. Yes! When it's five below zero in the middle of winter and he insists on sleeping with the bedroom window open, now, that's living! Is that guy the Prince Charming you waited for all of your life?

Those who try to influence you with fear and negativity will never understand the strengths of flying solo. They're bullies who never experience the possibilities because they don't want to know. It may be true that there are some who are really living life and those who are just existing, but the latter is not true for the majority of singletons and factually, countless men and women end up just existing when locked in a marriage.

Um, is this 2013?

Guess what? No matter what the cowardly bullies say, you don't have to be one half of a couple to feel complete. Single people who have chosen to remain single are actually enjoying life, especially in the way they choose to live. Single men and women have been labeled many negatives, but until you embrace the possibilities, you'll never know.

You may want to try living single for a period of time before you enter into another relationship and you're bound to discover who you truly are. In this so-called sophisticated and evolved society, people will knock you down for managing your life on your own without a spouse or partner. It's true that single parents cannot possibly give equitable time, energy and creativity compared to what two parents can do. However, life goes on in the same manner as when you're the sole grocery shopper, mower of the lawn, changer of every light bulb and air-filler-upperer of every flat bicycle tire. It all gets done and you are a champion.

If you're like some women who convince themselves that they can tolerate mediocrity with a condescending mate, then why are you still reading this? One of the saddest moments you can experience is when you've realized how lonely you are in a relationship. No matter what you have tried to stay committed, communicate or make an effort toward building your relationship with your partner or spouse, you discover that you've wasted precious time. Your time- your life.

Doggie Doo and Cat Vomit
I will admit that it would be nice for someone else to handle a few chores now and then, especially when the gross things that cats do make it impossible to get the stains out of the carpet. Hair balls aside, there is one great benefit to having sole responsibility of walking your dog. You get fresh air, exercise and both you and your buddy cherish the time you've spent together. You may have to convince yourself now and then that you'll survive when your Golden Retriever is taking ten minutes to pee on one bush and the frost is developing into icicles on your eyelashes. It is most definitely true that what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger. It's huge. Taking the first step across the threshold into single status is all about strength and courage.

Serenity is the Key
In what is probably the most complicated and challenging times in our world, peace and serenity are hard to find. If you're ready to make a change, find the happiness you deserve and not laden yourself with insurmountable guilt, it's time to go and you have had the key all along.

From "Single 101, 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single", remember Reason #24- you never have to be afraid to go it alone. Thanks for reading through to the end!

From our Friends at Purina

I have to share this wonderful story recently published on Purina's PetCetric site!

The Perfect Friend
by Rebecca Desfosse

Marni can't wait to get out of work each day. No, she doesn't hate her job or dislike her boss. She's just crazy about her dog. "When I pull up to my house and see that adorable face in the window, all the stress and irritation of the day are just gone." Marni's gaga over her pet's love.

Forget that old cliché of a single woman and a gaggle of finicky felines. Marni, a single woman living in New Jersey, is all about dogs - namely, her cocker spaniel Chico. Why is Marni crazy about Chico? Well, she'd love to name the reasons.

"Now that I have a dog, I get more exercise." Chico and Marni go for long walks on the boardwalk and like to go hiking. Since Marni adopted Chico a year and a half ago, she's lost five pounds. That's mostly thanks to daily walks around the block with Chico in addition to the longer walks they enjoy on the weekends. "He gets me moving," she says.

He's also great company. "With Chico, I don't feel alone. He's my constant companion," Marni admits. That makes spending the holidays as a single woman much more bearable. It also means extra security at home. "I just feel safer with Chico around," she says. It's true. Chico acts like the perfect guard dog - barking at anyone who walks past the house. He's very protective of her. He also loves to greet Marni at the door after a long day at work. "The second I walk in the door, I'm showered with kisses from Chico."

However, she's not overly close to her dog. Pets love human attention, but they also need time on their own. Marni loves Chico a lot, but she'll leave him home to go out on a date or with her friends. He's also not a stand-in for a kid. She avoids what she calls "baby talk" at all costs. "I realize I need to go out and socialize - it can't all be about the dog," she says.

She go to lengths to socialize on her own, but Marni sure spends plenty of time spoiling Chico. He eats the highest-quality organic food, wears a pricey leather collar, and gets a monthly grooming session at the local pet salon. "I definitely spend a lot of money on Chico," Marni says. She also brushes his teeth each day, hoping to keep him healthy for years to come.

Will Marni adopt another dog? She's not sure. With Chico, she feels like life is complete. She might get a second though, just to give Chico a friend. "Sometimes I think he must get lonely all day by himself," she says. Pets love the company of another animal throughout the day. A new pet won't take the place of Chico in Marni's heart, however: "No other dog can take his place. Though there's always room for more."

Rebecca Desfosse
Adoptive mom to two dogs and a cat, Rebecca Desfosse understands life with pets and why we love them.

A Letter to the President

So many of us would like to have our voices heard.  Maybe you've wanted to write to the President of the United States, but procrastinated, thinking it would end up in an oval office shredder.

This is one woman's recent correspondence.

April 17, 2013

Dear President Obama,
In a recent press conference, you stated, "As humans we can identify galaxies light-years away. We can study particles smaller than an atom, but we still haven't unlocked the mystery of the three pounds of matter that sits between our ears."

On April 1st, surgeons removed a 7.5 lb. mass from my abdomen and three additional cysts from my left fallopian tube. Pathology results proved the same conclusion, another mystery of life. My mother, who has stage four breast cancer had surgery in February to remove a cancerous tumor, along with her left breast. A second surgery looms for her, but we don’t know how much time she has.

We have survived the recession until this point, although I’ve needed to borrow funds to keep my self-employed business alive, incurring more debt. Within the last two months, we have hit a wall with no work, medical bills arriving and facing home foreclosure. We have had my mother’s home for sale since 2005 and I know that I will have to prepare to lose my own home as well. Every application I have completed with Federal and State government agencies who have been designed to help the elderly and the disabled are finding us ineligible.

I am 59 years of age, challenged with rheumatoid arthritis for the past twenty-five years and my mother is 85. My SSD and her SSI is unsubstantial for survival. Our economic challenges, rise in the cost of living, gas and utilities are shutting us out, dividing us from those who get through the doors of new opportunities.

Will our government’s $100 million investment in new research of the brain unlock the area that will lead us to answers for our survival? Will we be more intelligent and wiser? Are there any programs forthcoming to help Americans like my mother and I bounce back or recoup what we have lost? We are among the countless American citizens who do not want to leach off of the government. We don’t need a hand-out, just a leg up and who will keep us from being written off? Will studies of the brain produce new solutions for people like us?

Hoping for your personal attention and reply.

Sincerely,
American from Ohio

Sunshine and Me

It's finally here. "Sunshine and Me" by Celeste Friedman.

A heartwarming story of cat rescue and happy endings.

Now available for download to Kindle and Kindle Fire: http://www.amazon.com/Sunshine-and-Me-ebook/dp/B00B1WDHR4

　

Here are a few excerpts and a peek inside . . .
 . . . His routine was the same, showing up every couple of days or a week later.  What he was putting me through! He wasn’t my cat, but was he my cat?  Still, I was concerned for his welfare daily.


 . . . Sunshine continues to be pressed for time, as if he’s late for an appointment or a date.


 . . . At this point, I have reluctantly kept Sunshine’s adoption ad updated and as beautiful as he looks in his photo, no one has inquired. Maybe no one was supposed to.


 . . . There is a new lady in his life, an all black long-haired beauty with brilliant green eyes and very chatty. He escorts his new love to the deck and up to the back door, as if it is necessary to be ceremonial about it. Sunshine puts his front leg, forearm, if you will, around her neck and grooms her face. He is smitten, for sure. 

　
. . . Suddenly, the big day arrived. It was a hot August afternoon and I happened to be near the door to witness Midnight leading the kittens into my backyard. Following obediently behind her in a straight line, they parade across the lawn and up the steps onto the deck.  Midnight lies down in the middle of the deck and stretches out, content, yawning and ready for a nap. The kittens stay near to her, watching and waiting for her next move. They are a bit spooked by me and keep their distance.  Sunshine comes around the corner of the house and stations himself on the top step of the deck. They appear to recognize him immediately. I know in that moment that this is not my house anymore.

　
. . . Sunshine continues to linger on the railing of the deck in the evenings, gazing off into the distance, either waiting for someone or daydreaming. We both ponder about survival. Feline or human, we possess instinctive ways of smelling the coming rain or sensing changes on the horizon. Of course, he’ll never understand my concerns of finding work, paying the bills, keeping our house and being able to afford the cat chow. Regardless, he has become the architect of my greatest priorities.




 

　

 

　

New Traditions for the New Year

How do you plan to celebrate the new year?  Counting down the days, hours and minutes to the coming year has always been fun and intriguing for me.  Here in the United States in 2012, the focus is on the fiscal cliff, an imaginary visual describing the state of our finances.   According to our government, Americans will not be holding onto the edge of the cliff anymore in 2013, but heading out into the wild blue yonder of the bottomless pit, like Wylie Coyote.  Frankly, self-employed people like me have already gone over that cliff and all I can report is that most of you looking over the edge should simply hope for the best.  There are millions of us out here already, still tumbling aimlessly, so you won’t be alone.

But wait . . . there is hope!  I came across a listing of New Year’s Eve traditions that sound interesting and may provide a different angle on how we are wishing the new year will bring a better life.   Superstition-schmooperstition, so what?   Why not try something different?  First, don’t forget to download your copy of Single 101’s 101 New Year’s Resolutions, available on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Single-101-Years-Resolutions-ebook/dp/B006RY6IP4. Let’s take the leap together!

Good luck and best wishes for love, happiness, good health and prosperity in the coming year . . . Celeste

Global Trends and Traditions:

Eat 12 Grapes
In many cultures around the world it is good luck to eat 12 grapes for each time the clock strikes at midnight.

Hallow Out an Egg
Fill hallowed out egg shells with confetti. At the stroke of midnight, gently smash them releasing a shower of confetti.

Toss Coins Into the Air
Tossing coins into the air could be symbolic of throwing caution to the wind to see where your booty lands, but many believe it can inspire good fortune.

Sing!
Whether you consider yourself a vocalist or not, sing loud and clear!

Anoint Your Friends With Water
Water is the symbol of renewal and rebirth, so think of a fun way to sprinkle your guests. It could be pouring a small amount of water from a glass on someone's head or spraying each other with water bottles.

Throw Confetti
Make use of the basket from your paper shredder or rip apart your discarded Christmas wrapping paper, toss and be merry.

Release Your Wishes into the Sky
Write your wishes for the new year on a Chinese lantern and release it into the air at the stroke of midnight.

Chase Your Blues Away
Jot down something you weren't happy about the previous year on a piece of paper, toss it into the fire or tear it up. Maybe if we all wrote down our discontent for our congressional representatives, we could change Washington with the power of pen and fire.

Jump Into the Air
Embrace the new year with energy and joy, just don’t jump farther than you’re afraid to fall. You don’t want to spend the new year in the hospital.

Share a Secret
Whisper a secret or wish that you have to a friend or a total stranger at the stroke of midnight.

　

　

　

To Play or Not to Play

In recent weeks, there has been a deluge of articles, advice columns, radio and television interviews and panel discussions on infidelity, due to the General Petraeus scandal in the United States. Having invested in 38 years of marriage, Petraeus threw caution to the wind, having an affair with a woman he had employed to write his biography.

You may be asking still how Petraeus, the director of the CIA, kept his affair concealed for so long and if he actually believed he could be successful in this kind of deception. Inevitably, America and the rest of the world became privy to a plethora of graphic details regarding the relationship with his mistress that we didn’t really need to know.

On HealthGuidance.org, Elizabeth Danish began her November article, “Dating A Married Man” with stark reality, that a wise woman never dates a married man. She states that if you are searching for a life-long commitment, you are sabotaging your own success by snaring another woman’s husband.

Are You Simply His Toy?
Once a boy is tired of playing with a toy, he abandons or throws it away. If you’ve run a comparison, you’ve most probably found that the cons out-weigh the pros when it comes to having an intimate relationship with a married man. Danish also brings home the point that a cheating man is the one in control of the relationship. He sees an affair as something that is romantically and sexually thrilling. It makes his life once again exhilarating and full of passion. Some men who cheat often have reinvigorated intimacy with their wives, according to Danish, in an attempt to cover their tracks, thus double dipping, if you will, between wives and mistresses.

Advantage- the Cheating Man
As long as he remains in his marriage, his priorities will be his family, as it should be. However, his mistress and best kept secret will be alone on Thanksgiving, Christmas and if it’s that important to her, Valentine’s Day. He will attempt to spend time with her before or after the holidays, to make up for not sharing in the celebrations.

Finally, Elizabeth Danish asks, “What was your goal when you started the relationship with him?” It is likely that you wanted to have a lasting relationship with someone who is mature and sensitive. If you reconsider the goal, is it really achievable?

　
Cheaters who Cheat and the Fools who Fall for Them
Stephany Alexandre, author of the book “The Cheat Sheet”, leads you over to the dark side and into the secret lives of philanderers by giving first-hand accounts of cheating stories. Alexandre says the cheating experts know how to justify their acts, handle guilt, cope with double lives, and juggle the search for commitment with outside gratification. What are some of the signs that say he’s cheating on you? Ariana Huffington, Editor of The Huffington Post states, ‘texting is the new lipstick on the collar’.

Single 101’s take . . .
Men who pursue extra-marital affairs develop a confidence that they will never get caught, especially when they meet all of their responsibilities as a husband, a father and bread winner. The majority of cheating spouses do get away with cheating on their mates. In one study, 70% of married women and 54% of married men had no idea their spouse was involved in an affair.

No matter how deep you have fallen for a married man, it is best to pull back and wait to see if he is serious about ending his marriage. If it ends in divorce, give yourself plenty of time to see if his love for you, (if that exists) is strong enough for him to emotionally invest in a real relationship with you. The emotional cost of waiting, if he’s worth it, cancels out the shock and hurt you would experience if he cuts off the affair, due to the demands of keeping his marriage together and his infidelity unknown. Time will reveal true love. In some cases, does absence makes the heart grow fonder?

　
After publishing Single 101: 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single, I met a woman who had made a personal commitment to living out the rest of her life as a single person. She had finally freed herself of relationships that left her feeling empty and filled with disappointment. After several years, she adapted well to flying solo. If she was introduced to a man, especially someone who was also single, she looked beyond any element that would create attraction or interest. Her goal was to enjoy a life filled with true friendships where she never had to deal with a jealous spouse or boyfriend anymore.

That Unexplainable Spark
Unsuspecting to fall, she was swept off her feet by a married man who initially dropped hints of having an unsatisfactory marriage for many years and stating that it was over. As the single girl and the man grew closer, they began sharing their attraction toward each other.

In her late fifties, she does not consider herself to be desirable and have anything to physically offer a man. Self-esteem is not an issue for her within the protective walls of living independently. She has dealt with a crippling disability for many years and disturbed by the opinion of many men and women that a man will sleep with ‘anything’. However, she stepped over the threshold that she was determined never to cross and set herself up for the possibility of being disenchanted, alone and ashamed of being an ‘anything’.

She imagines what the future would be like if she were to become the next woman he cheats on, yet she cares for him so much, she cannot bring herself to label him as a cheater. As much as we try to fight or ignore it, there is unrelenting power in attraction for the right or wrong reasons. When your feelings are so strong for someone, you are blind to the realities of deception. The need to be as close as possible to someone can overpower the risk of deeply hurting others who may become affected.

Statistics show that an extremely low percentage of these affairs develop into actual committed relationships. So, do we protect ourselves and try to prevent emotional pain or do we take a chance, follow our instinct that craves intimacy, hoping that our actions may lead to real love and happiness?

To quote the lyrics from Train’s “Drive By”- “on the up-side to a downward spiral, my love for you went viral and I loved you every mile you drove away.”


"To Play or Not to Play" will appear in January of 2013 on Cupid's Pulse. 
Visit: http://CupidsPulse.com
 


　

　

　

　

What the Single 101 Nation is All About

Emma Johnson, Editor of  The Motley Fool, posted the following article on DailyFinance.com, dated November 23, 2012.


"No Man, More Money: Five Women Who Thrived After Divorce"

This 45 year-old mother of two teenagers, Huma Gruaz lives in Chicago where she runs the public relations agency Alpaytac, which bills $2.5 million annually and employs 22 people -- including many single mothers. She divorced in 2000.

Life before divorce: After a successful advertising career in Europe, this native of Turkey married and moved to an affluent Chicago suburb where she raised her children in a large home with a pool. "When my marriage fell apart, it was the scariest thing in the world because I had no work experience in the U.S.," Gruaz says. "I was a suburban mom driving my kids around to playgroups and cooking meals and helping with homework."
Life after divorce: With just enough child support to pay her rent, Gruaz volunteered to work for free at a PR agency. In 2004, she launched her own firm, which has won multiple awards and now has offices in three cities. Gruaz earned an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management in 2008. Today, her personal income is three to four times that of what her now ex-husband earned when they were married.

Philosophy: "I lived a pristine American story, and it was hard to walk away. When I left I barely had enough money to buy food. But through my experiences I became a better, more mature person. And the ride has been enriching and I've had some incredible relationships along the way."

Huma Hruaz is a shining example of what the Single 101 Nation is all about.

Single 101 Reason #24- 'never be afraid to go it alone'

http://www.dailyfinance.com/2012/11/23/no-man-more-money-five-women-who-thrived-after-divorce/#photo-1

Happy Thanksgiving!
Celeste

Has It Really Been Fifty Years?

Fifty years ago, we were rushing home every day after school to watch American Bandstand, hosted by Dick Clark. Chubby Checker inspired the world with a new dance and number one tune, "The Twist". John F. Kennedy was President of the United States, John Glenn became the first American to orbit the earth and we were introduced to Mr. Bond.  One-half of a century ago, I was in second grade with no stress or cares, except to wonder if I'd have a part in the school Christmas play and if my grades would meet my parents' expectations.

Every Sunday night, families across the U.S. gathered around their black and white televisions at 8:00 pm to watch the Ed Sullivan Show. Little did we know who Sullivan would introduce to audiences in the states one year later. In England, John, Paul, George and Ringo were recording track after track of a new sound that would revolutionize the music industry. The world would nickname them "The Fab Four" before they even set foot on American soil.

October 5, 2012 marks the 50th anniversary of the release of "Love Me Do," The Beatles' first single. Written by Lennon and McCartney, it begins with that signature harmonica lick. Maybe you'll dust off that old "Introducing the Beatles" album, download the single to your iPhone or simply hear it playing in your head.

Peace and love to all Beatles fans here, there and everywhere!

Celeste

Single Parenting and Going Green

Most of us are becoming more conscious of what we feed our children, a new baby, as well as ourselves. The Green Movement and how we treat our planet is a step in the right direction, however, it will raise your food expenses a few notches. With well thought-out meal planning and more awareness of where to buy, especially local, it's a greener world for your wallet. Here are a few tips for getting started with an organic lifestyle:

One Step at a Time

Going green doesn't mean going crazy for every organic item you find at the market. On produce, this is the perfect time to enjoy the harvest from your local growers. Still, wash everything thoroughly when you get home. If you're not making your own baby food for your newborn, jarred foods like bananas, mangoes and oranges are good. In many ways, you can start out with a mix of organic and conventional.

Organic is wise when it comes to dairy, meat and poultry. Animals raised on factory-style farms are loaded with antibiotics and hormones. This keeps them healthy, but is not necessarily safe when passed on to the consumer.

Do Your Homework

Shop around for the best deals that conform with your budget.  Many high-end markets are making high-end profits with organic foods. Low-end stores offer most of the same green brands for less, but be selective and know what you're buying. Some of the major department store chains across the United States are offering organic products, but Trader Joe's is becoming the place that most green consumers recommend. Check out http://TraderJoes.com for a location near you. Again, pay close attention to what you are purchasing before you place it into your shopping cart. Look for the USDA organic seal, which means that what you're buying has been certified as an organic product, after in-depth testing.

Keep it Local

Some of the very best in organic foods are available right there in your own back yard. It's the closest thing to strolling through the garden and picking the tomatoes yourself. If you've ever tasted fruits and vegetables right off the vine, you know what I mean. Take advantage of what is in season. The savings from the soil to your table really add up and there are no middle-men or distribution costs included. You may even try tilling up your own garden. Don't be afraid to dig your hands into the soil and enjoy the thrill of watching the seeds grow. You can do it!

Simplicity is Key

You may be accustomed to pre-packaged and processed food and snacks that have become a staple in your diet for most of your life. It might be time for a change and change is good, especially if it prolongs your life and keeps you and your family healthy. Think of it this way- more calories, more sugar and more salt add up to more dollars you have to spend. Why do we have to spend more money to do possible damage to our hearts?  Think grains and vegetables first, meat and poultry second. Soy products, such as milk and yogurt are heart-smart nutritional goodness  for our bodies.

Get to Know Your Grower

Many organic foods and products are now putting the growers information on the label. You can find their code on the product you buy and visit their website to learn exactly where your food is grown, right down to the latitude-longitude location. Kind of like your green GPS link.

Be safe, be wise and you'll save green as well as enjoy the harvest from your local growers.