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.

Flying Solo Publishing and Songs For Charlie Music is proud to announce a new release from singer-songwriter and Grammy nominee Celeste Friedman:

 

"I Saw God Down on Hollywood Boulevard"

Now available on CDBaby http://CDbaby.com/cd/celestefriedman3

and in iTunes at http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/i-saw-god-down-on-hollywood/id548471692

 

 

"striking and poignant"

"sings like an omen"

"foreboding and very telling of the critical state of our world"

Whether you choose to believe the prophets from the Bible or not, some say that we are now witnessing their premonitions. Over-population and global warming are just the tip of the iceberg.

Throughout the centuries, there have been claims made by people in different parts of the world that the Virgin Mary has appeared to them. A remarkable list of miracles, cures and interventions are attributed to Her. Each year, an estimated 10 million visit the Basilica in Mexico City, the most visited Catholic church in the world, 2nd to The Vatican and the site of the appearance of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 9, 1531. Including Fatima, and several other global locations, the Virgin Mary's apparition last appeared in Banneaux, Belgium in 1933.

If God, Jesus, Mary and the Holy Spirit all came together to make their presence known now or in the near future, how would we react? Should it ever happen, will we be ready?

c. 2012 Songs For Charlie Music, BMI

http://SongsForCharlieMusic.com

Latest Release in Single 101 Series

 

Flying Solo Publishing is proud to announce the latest release in the Single 101 series from Celeste Friedman.

 

Single 101: 101 Music Industry Resources and More on Twitter!

For musicians and songwriters who connect with Twitter, this eBook has 101 plus links to music industry experts.

http://www.amazon.com/Single-101-Industry-Resources-ebook/dp/B008CI3T2S/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1340374187&sr=8-3&keywords=single+101%3A+101+music+industry+resources

Happiness and The Single Life

Tracy McMillen, TV writer and contributor to the Huffington Post, published a blog on June 12, 2012, titled "Single Women Can't Really Be Happy".  When I saw the heading, it ruffled my feathers at first. Reading further, she states, "eventually, most women I know want to be partnered."

I agree with her findings, but find it very sad. We enter this world alone and leave it in the same way. It stands to reason that we truly live when we love, however, that doesn't have to mean that we must be loved by a man or woman as our life's partner. Reason #63 in my book, "Single 101: 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single" is "You are Not Desperate to Find a Mate."

Secondly, I'm saddened by the fact that articles and blogs like Ms. McMillen's get published because the media loves to spread bad news, negative energy and gossip. Last on the list to make it past the gatekeeper of a magazine or newspaper is a positive story. The Single 101 Nation is all about independence and celebrating the freedom of choice to be single.

It used to seem as though our mothers, grandmothers and aunts were pressuring us to depend upon a man. Now, our society via the media wants to shut us in a closet until we come out begging not to be alone. Well, guess what? That's not going to happen.

Dear Tracy McMillen,

You could have at least changed your heading to:

"Can Single Women Really Be Happy?"

Welcome Europe to the Single 101 Nation

Flying Solo Publishing proudly announces the release of Celeste's book, "Single 101: 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single" in several European markets, including Germany, France, Ireland, Italy and Britain, in addition to Amazon.co.uk

Purchase a copy for you and a friend on Amazon.com or download in seconds to your Kindle!

From Southampton to the Depths of the Sea

A musician, composer and performer myself, I salute the brave orchestra members who played until the end after midnight on April 14, 1912, (one-hundred years ago), on board The Titanic.   This is just part of their story . . .


Pianist W. Theodore Ronald Brailey, age 24 of London, and cellist Roger Bricoux, age 20 of Lille, France had previously served together on the Cunard steamer Carpathia before signing on with the White Star Line. On April 10, 1912, embarquing from Southampton, Brailey and Bricoux joined cellists Percy Cornelius Taylor, age 32 of London and John Wesley Woodward, age 32 of Oxfordshire; bass violist John Frederick Preston Clarke, age 30 of Liverpool; violinists Georges Alexandre Krins, age 23 of Belgium, John Law Hume, age 29 of Dumfries and Wallace Hartley, age 33 of Dewsbury. Wallace Henry Hartley was also the bandmaster and no stranger to the sea and cruise ships who hired entertainers.

They had all been acquired by C.W. and F.N. Black, a booking agency located in London. Musicians engaged on such ships as the Lusitania, Oceanic and Carpathia would be paid when the White Star Line would pay the agency. Until 1912, musicians were paid 6 pounds and 10 shillings a month plus a monthly uniform allowance of 10 shillings. Then the rates were cut to 4 pounds a month with no uniform allowance. Each man hired to perform on the Titanic was registered on the same ticket: 250654 with accommodations in cabin E, second class.

The Worchester Evening Gazette published an article on the Titanic’s perilous voyage, quoting survivor Miss Hilda Slater . . .
                                 “The orchestra played until the last. From the moment the vessel struck, or as soon as the members of the orchestra could be collected, there was a steady round of lively airs. It did much to keep up the spirits of everyone and probably served as much as the efforts of the officers trying to prevent panic."

Other survivors from the lifeboats recalled seeing the musicians standing in knee-deep water and hearing their performance echo into the night air of ‘Alexander’s Ragtime Band’, ‘Song d’Autumne’ and ‘Nearer My God to Thee', just moments before the great ship was swallowed.

Many often wonder what went through the minds of these courageous and noble musicians. In 1910, Georges Krins entered as first violin at Le Trianon Lyrique in Paris. After that, he traveled to London and played 2 years at the Ritz Hotel until March 1912. The following month, he was recruited by C.W. & F.N. Black in Liverpool to play on the Titanic, while serving as bandmaster of the Trio String Orchestra playing near the Café Français.

The body of John "Jock" Law Hume, was recovered wearing his uniform jacket with green facing and vest, a purple muffler and light raincoat. John Clarke had a crucifix tucked into his uniform pocket and wore a grey muffler and grey overcoat. Wallace Hartley had been a choirboy at the Bethel Independent Methodist Church in Lancashire, where they also held his funeral. He had worked on the Cunard Liner Mauretania before leaving to become bandmaster on the Titanic and planned to return to his fiancée in Yorkshire. John Wesley Woodward joined the White Star Line in 1909 with his first voyage being to Jamaica. He made a number of journeys across the Atlantic, and three across the Mediterranean.

Aforementioned, the bodies of three of the eight band members, Clarke, Hartley and Hume were eventually recovered. The other five were lost to the depths of the icy Atlantic or if recovered, unidentified.  May their souls and songs play on forever.


Nearer My God to Thee

Nearer, my God to Thee, Nearer to Thee
E'en though it be a cross that raiseth me
Still all my song shall be
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee

Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down
Darkness be over me, my rest a stone
Yet in my dreams I'd be
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee

There let my way appear steps unto heaven
All that Thou sendest me in mercy given
Angels to beckon me
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee

Words: Sarah Adams, 1841. Music: Lowell Mason, 1856

In Search of The Fountain of Youth

Single 101 celebrate its 100th blog posting today.  Thank you for checking it out!

The average life expectancy of the world's population is 67.59 years and in the United States, it is 78.49 years.  In my book, "Single 101: 101 Reasons to Celebrate Being Single", I added a bonus reason, 'The Secret to A Long and Happy Life'.

Since the human brain has been able to calculate, reason and ponder man's existence, we have dreamed of longevity, fantasized of a fountain of youth and conjured elixirs to maintain good health. A recent report by the Central Intelligence Agency published the Top 10 places in the world for better health and well being, as well as the grand prize- longevity. According to their World Factbook, here are the fountain-of-youth destinations:

At Number 10 is Italy, where the average life expectancy is 81.86 years. The Mediterranean diet is credited with lowering the risk of many diseases. The antioxidants found in olive oil and red wine can improve cholesterol, prevent blood clots and stave off heart disease. Italians also rely on spices like basil, oregano and garlic, while Americans depend heavily on salt.

Number 9 is Australia, where the average life expectancy is 81.90 years, they are proud to boast relatively low smoking and obesity rates, as well as an active lifestyle enjoyed by its citizens.

Hong Kong holds the Number 8 position, where the average life expectancy is 82.12 years. Much like the Italians, people from Hong Kong attribute their longer lives to diet. Rice, vegetables and tofu are staples. With their focus on an active lifestyle, Hong Kong reports a much lower obesity level than the United States, as well as fewer instances of related health conditions, like diabetes.

There is a small island in the English Channel that holds the Number 7 position in the Top 10 picks. With an average life expectancy of 82.24 years, Guernsey is independent from the British crown with wealthy residents, above average healthcare, in addition to low tax rates and higher-paying jobs. Unaffected my the world's economic woes, there are theories that Guernsey's residents live longer because they have no financial burdens or stress.

Nestled between France and Spain with a spectacular view of the Pyrenees mountains is the country of Andorra, coming in at Number 6. It is believed that several reasons attribute to their average life expectancy of 82.5 years. Andorrans have easy access to hiking trails and ski resorts. Its citizens have more focus on outdoor activities, which experts say can lower stress levels and consequently, cardiovascular problems like high blood pressure. Secondly, 100 percent of Andorra's population is well educated, which accounts for Andorra's extremely low unemployment rate and affordability for high-quality nutrition and healthcare.

At Number 5 is San Marino with an average life expectancy of 83.07 years. As in both Guernsey and Andorra, Europe's third smallest state and the world's oldest republic thrives on fortune and the fortunate. San Marino's primary industries are banking and tourism, with the majority of the population capable of affording premium healthcare and nutrition.

A clean environment and balanced diet brings in Singapore at Number 4, with an average life expectancy of 83.75 years. Situated on the southern edge of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore's cuisine centers on rice and vegetables, rich in nutrients that help to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. The Singapore government also enforces a strict code of cleanliness and heavily restricted smoking areas, providing a healthy environment to live in.

At Number 3 in the world is Japan, with an average life expectancy of 83.91 years. Take a look at this comparison of obesity rates with Japan at 3.1 percent and the United States at 33.9 percent! The Japanese diet revolves around fresh vegetables, rice and fish. Fresh fish is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, promoting healthy blood pressure levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids encourage healthy brain function, helping prevent diseases like Alzheimer's. The Japanese tend to walk more and never overeat. Their focus on serenity and the body as a sanctuary is the key to a long life.

With an average life expectancy of 84.43 years is Macau at Number 2. With a fruitful economy, (no pun intended), gambling is the main source of revenue. Located in the South China Sea, Macau is considered as the 'Little Las Vegas'. However, the local government invests casino profits in public healthcare. Macau is healthy, wealthy and wise with a bit of fun and risk mixed in.

Finally, at Number One is Monaco, nestled along the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. Its average life expectancy is 89.68 years, supported, if you will, by an abundance of wealth and state-funded healthcare. As mentioned before, the Mediterranean diet is associated with a reduced risk for a variety of health problems, but even experts will tell you that it's Monaco's relaxing atmosphere that keeps residents happy and living longer. Like Singapore, Monaco's clean environment reduces stress, which can lower immunity and contribute to cardiovascular diseases.

Note that most of these Top 10 picks factor in fresh air, fresh vegetables and fish, cleanliness and financial freedom. Think of the term 'cost of living' and consider how health and longevity are at a premium in today's world.

In the 1500's, the Spanish conquistador Ponce de Leon sailed halfway across the globe in search of the Fountain of Youth, but maybe it was right in his own backyard all along.

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/

Happy Single Parents Day!

The Single 101 Nation wishes all single parents "Happy Single Parents' Day" today!


According to the 2010 U.S. Census, there are approximately 13.6 million single men and women raising children in America alone. Almost one out of every three children is raised by a single parent. That's up to 26%, a huge increase compared to the statistics in 1960, where only 9% of children were raised by one parent.

Across the globe, single parenthood is the result of several scenarios: divorce, death of a spouse, an absentee parent or by choice. However, single parenthood is not often by choice, creating a new challenge to take on double duty raising their family.  When asked how they keep all the plates spinning, most will admit that you just do what you have to do. We admire their courage and determination. Many children of single parents will tell you that they grew up in a loving environment and have more respect and admiration for their mother or father who raised them.

Just two weeks ago, Glenn Grothmann, A GOP senator from Wisconsin, who in my opinion is purely attempting to gain his fifteen minutes of fame, acquired face time on national news for promoting the proposed bill 48.982, which states: "To promote statewide educational and public awareness campaigns and materials for the purpose of developing public awareness of the problems of child abuse and neglect. In promoting those campaigns and materials, the board shall emphasize non-marital parenthood as a contributing factor to child abuse and neglect."

His keyword here is 'emphasize'. Grothmann's true agenda is to gain followers in the belief that single parenting leads to child abuse and neglect. He just doesn't get it.  The real truth is, he isn't intelligent enough to get behind the current issues that matter, like jobs, high gas prices and turning around the U.S. economy. Has the senator forgotten that single parents vote and that some happen to be republicans?

Like presidential candidate Rick Santortum, Senator Grothmann has to start a conversation about other issues that in his mind makes him powerful, because he doesn't excel in finding solutions to other issues of greater urgency. Unfortunately, these men are heading over the proverbial bridge to nowhere.

Some things just need to be said, but the focus today is on the greatness and strength of our American citizens who are surviving as single parents. We salute you!