Cruises By Marilyn

Shake Your Groove Thing....and Get Down to Business

2010-01-31T09:48:00.002-05:00

Happy Feet...Incredible Feats!

People often ask me, "where do you come up with the ideas for your columns?" This one is courtesy of our radio media partner, BEN-FM.

So I was driving on the Atlantic City Expressway headed to the first of three meetings I had scheduled for the day when the song "Shake Your Groove Thing" came on the radio. I quickly found myself "getting down" to the music in the car. And I realized that music is my "happy place"--it energizes me, it gives me strength, it centers me and it flat out makes me feel good.

I walked into the first meeting with confidence, a smile a mile wide and the excitement of knowing that I was "in the groove." It was a fabulous meeting with 8 women sharing stories, challenges and resources with each other (we call these Wisdom Circles...ask me how you can be invited to participate in the next on on 2/9/10). The following two meetings were just as positive-- creating plans for future events and marketing opportunities for the chapter. I even reconnected with two friends I hadn't seen in years.

My question to you is, what do you do that takes you to that "happy place"? More important, do you take time to let it take you there? It can be as simple as dancing in your car, or taking a course in ballroom dancing; meditation and yoga or a an hour of cardio at the gym. FYI: Ever heard of Zumba? It combines music with an hour long cardio workout--look for special classes forming soon for eWomenNetwork members at various Island Gyms down the shore.

It is no coincidence that happy, confident, energized people are like magnets. Not only are you drawn to them, but as per the "Law of Attraction" positive opportunities seek them out as does success.

Still, getting your groove on does not guarantee success without getting down to business.

On a conference call this morning with Sandra and Kym Yancey, founders of eWomenNetwork, Inc., Kym reminded us that 3 most important questions I need to ask myself are:

What is our objective this year?
What is our strategy to achieve those objectives?
How will we achieve our goals?

Sandra challenged us to recognize the difference in "business" and "busy-ness." It is too easy for us to stay busy and then wonder why we have not accomplished what is important. Learn to differentiate between the two!

Her 3 steps were "Plan - Do - Review".

So I say...play some funky music, get your endorphins motoring and then get down to business so your happy feet can lead you to a path of incredible feats!

Marilyn Kleinberg
Executive Managing Director
eWomenNetwork
marilynkleinberg@ewomennetwork.com
609 601-1333

Not a member of eWomenNetwork?
Join Now at http://www.ewomennetwork.com

At eWomenNetwork we provide opportunities to surround yourself with like-minded businesswomen who share, inspire, teach and connect so you can grow personally and professionally.

The Business of Friendships

2009-11-18T15:55:00.001-05:00

Diamonds Got Nuthin' Over a Girls Best Friend...her Girlfriends!

Okay...I know a lot of men receive this newsletter, so you can either skip this section or just sit back and learn! :-)

Did you ever notice how a girlfriend can sense when something is off? And no matter if it is business or personal, a few words of encouragement and a hug can make you feel better.

If you are smart, you have surrounded yourself with all kinds of girlfriends. A network of girlfriends, if you will. My best friend (or chosen sister as another friend calls it) lives a thousand miles away in Florida, but she's there for me and visa versa. I also have my "go to girlfriends" for when I need an immediate answer to a problem or as a reference or referral. I have my "femtor girlfriends" (yes ladies, that's a female mentor) who I turn to when I need a new set of eyes to review a situation, kick me in the butt when I get stuck in rut, tell me what I need to hear, not just what I want to hear and give me words of encouragement to push past the slippery slope of self doubt. I have girlfriends who I admire for their wisdom and strength, and girlfriends who admire me for my inspiration and leadership.

We laugh, we cry, we share, we bond, we support, we teach, we lift, we encourage, we dare to be honest, and through the mix of it all, we empower each other to succeed.

Being a serious business woman doesn't mean abandonning what makes us special together, it means using these traits to build alliances and forge new opportunites to connect and grow--personally and professionally.

I am blessed to have a lot of girlfriends. In fact, now that I think about it, they're a lot like a diamond. Brilliant. Strong. And make me feel good!

Most are business women just like you. They've pulled me through many murky moments. . I call them my eWomenNetwork....

Not a member of eWomenNetwork? Join Now!

Okay guys, I'm done...and just so we are clear...my girlfriends and I are happy to accept diamonds this holiday season!

Marilyn Kleinberg
Executive Managing Director
eWomenNetwork

At eWomenNetwork we provide opportunities to surround yourself with like-minded businesswomen who share, inspire, teach and connect so you can grow personally and professionally.

Deciding to Succeed

2009-08-26T20:04:00.001-04:00

It's all about making a commitment...

I recently returned from the eWomenNetwork National Conference in Dallas. It was a convergence of 2500+ women from all over the country and Canada sharing their wisdom, experiences, resources and contacts. These were professional women, that despite the current economic conditions, or perhaps because of it, made a commitment to learn, laugh, and recharge their batteries by spending time with like-minded women. They showed up because they made a commitment to succeed.

Overhead at the conference: "Until you make a decision that you're going to succeed, you won't." Seems rather harsh until you realize that the speaker was really talking about making a commitment. (This is just one of the empowering messages I took home with me).

If you are a business owner, it's about knowing deep inside that there is nothing else you'd rather be doing because you are following your passion. That drive, that ambition, that invisible force must be inside you.

But you don't have to own the business to be passionate about succeeding. You need to be committed to the goals that have been set for you. And, I have found, you have to have your own set of personal goals that at least mirror your professional goals or exceed them.

Okay, I hear you askng, " I am passionate about my business, how come I am not succeeding?"

And so I ask you, how dedicated are you to succeeding in your business? Passion does not equal success without a good heaping of the right marketing plan, strategic alliances and partnerships, exceptional resources (think vendors and services) and, of course, an investment of time, money and effort. And as we like to say at eWomenNetwork, it takes team work, to make the dream work.

If you have made the decision to be successful, then you are surrounding yourself with a team of professionals that share your passion, can visualize your goals, and can help you make the leap from being in business to succeeding in business.

At eWomenNetwork, our goal is to be each other's team. I invite you to attend one of our upcoming events and start building your new team. Better yet, make the commitment right here and now to join the #1 resource for professional women. I promise you, you'll grow as you help others grow around you. Visit our website at www.ewomennetwork.com/chapter/snj or give me a call 609 601-1333, and let's decide to succeed together!

Is Image Everything?

2009-07-27T13:34:00.001-04:00

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall...

Lately I've really come to hate my mirror. It doesn't even matter what angle I use, I still see an image that is less than flattering to my ego. This hits me at my very core.

Okay, I recognize that this is a personal problem and that I have at my fingertips a network of trusted resources within our eWomenNetwork membership to seriously address many of these this issues. And I will. Soon. I promise!

I grew up with tight, frizzy, curly hair (before the Afro was popular) and was always on the pudgy side (I still remember my pediatrician saying "all potatoes and no meat---ha! Now I'm equal portions of both!) Even in the 60's skinny and straight hair was what girls saw as perfection.

But other than health, why does it matter that I am no longer the same size 12 that I was 5 years ago? For that matter, why was I so relieved when Milt (my boyfriend) finally cut off all of his long, unruly, tangled, hair this week? He now looks respectable in my eyes. Here's my ego saying, "this is what I want him to look like so people take ME seriously when we are out together."

And why, when I struggle to pay bills each month, I find the money to color my hair, get my nails done and buy new clothes?

It's to make me feel good. And ya know, I think I'm okay with that. That's why our nights out at the Bella Medical Spa earlier this year and our evening at the Cherry Hill Laser and Skin Care Center last week were so well attended. Because I'm not the only that feels that way!

And let me share this secret with you...your image of yourself...it is everything! But it is not so much about your body as it is about your mind. How you feel about the way you look can alter the way you feel, the way you present yourself, the clothes you chose to wear, the people with who you interact, and the confidence in which you go after what you want. It is a struggle that you can win without altering the outer picture, but by readjusting the inner picture.

At eWomenNetwork we talk a lot about the tools we need to grow our business. That those tools are not stand alone items. We take a more holistic approach: healthy mind, healthy body, healthy business. Each month our speakers share their knowledge, ideas, and experiences that help sharpen one of those tools in your toolbox, whether it be for personal growth or professional growth. We are all a work in progress!

Need some help looking in your mirror? Come out to one of our events and let us help you find the new you! I know I'll be there!

Noah's Ark for Business

2009-07-27T13:32:00.000-04:00

So, who's Got Your Back?

If you live in the northeastern part of the US, or it seems anywhere on the east coast, you've heard or said..."where's the ark...its been raining 40 days and 40 nights!"

It got me thinking, what would I take with me, as a 21st century businesswomen, on my ark?

I'd take two computers, two printers, two cell phones, two generators, two sets of legal pads and pens....but what about people?

Well I'd certainly take two of my best girlfriends (who else would you complain to when your hair is all frizzy because of the rain!)

Let me tell you about a program that eWomenNetwork quietly kicked off last year called "Building Your NOAH." It was created to help managing directors build stronger chapters.

The goal is for each chapter to have at least two representatives for every industry: two accountants, two marketing specialists, two financial planners, two event planners, two florists, two computer specialists, two skin care specialists, two...you get the idea.

But do you get the idea behind it? It's about creating opportunities for alliances, partnerships and resources. Let's face it, not everyone works well together and not every service is identical just because it sounds the same.

Alliances and partnerships become your back up plan, your go to people, your measuring stick of accomplishments. They help you build a stronger ark. They've got your back!

That's what eWomenNetwork is all about--helping you fill your ark of 'go to" people so you can keep your head above water when things get tough.

We've Got Your Back!

Building a Strong Team

2009-07-27T13:29:00.001-04:00

Who Have You Thanked Lately?
A lesson learned is often at the expense of others. If you are lucky, you are forgiven and both parties walk away smarter.

Such was the case this week when I was reminded that everyone needs recognition for a job well done-no matter how seasoned and professional they are in their industry.

I also heard about an employee meeting a friend attended. The employees were concerned about some new procedures being implemented and the response from management was "If you don't like it, there are plenty of people looking for work. I am sure we can find a replacement for you." OUCH!

It got me thinking, how many of us take for granted the very people that help us grow personally and professionally.

In order to build a strong business, you need a strong team surrounding you--from employees to vendors; from clients to business alliances; from volunteers to friends and family.

Every last one of these people is integral to your success. Doesn't matter if they are compensated for their support, they need/deserve recognition that their efforts are appreciated.

Gratitude is simple. It can be verbal or written. It can be a special lunch just to say thanks. It can be a card--Send Out Cards are great way to show gratitude. Or a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

So here's my shout out to all of you who continue to support eWomenNetwork in South Jersey, Philadelphia and surrounding chapters. I appreciate the time you set aside each month to join us at our Accelerated Networking events and I appreciate the referrals you send my way for potential new members.

Thank you!

Riding the Rail to the Finish Line--Becoming a Business Jockey

2009-05-13T23:27:00.002-04:00

Can You See the Finish Line?

Last weekend, on a sloppy, muddy course, I watched an unknown horse, an unknown trainer, and a savvy jockey win the biggest contest in the horse racing industry--the Kentucky Derby. Mine That Bird (the horse) was the underdog going at 50-1 odds.

Do you sometimes feel that you are operating at similar odds? That the course is muddy and you can't get a solid grip? That your vision is so blurred that the finish line is no longer in view?

How did they do it? First, the trainer, Chip Wooley, had a true sense of belief and trust in the horse. He had an unbridled passion for the sport. And he had something to prove--he was the long shot.

The horse, well, he was a supreme animal with a winning lineage. But it was the jockey that won the race by adjusting his course, clearing his vision and he "riding the rail to the finish line."

The jockey, (Calvin Borel), despite the odds, believed in himself. He was committed to working towards the goal by using his proven skills and talents. He never gave up. And he never lost sight of the finish line.

Together--trainer, horse and jockey, they formed the perfect alliance built on trust, passion and the ability to keep a clear eye on the finish line.

Who are you building alliances with to reach your goals? It's obvious the trainer could not achieve his goal without the horse and the jockey. Do you know who your business needs as key alliances? Are you working to create these relationships?

eWomenNetwork is the perfect partner for professional businesswomen looking to find key alliances for their business. We provide access to businesswomen seeking like-minded, goal oriented, passionate people to connect, learn, grow and share resources with the common goal of supporting each other in our ride to the finish line. For more information visit the eWomenNetwork SJ chapter.

Are you a Lion or a Lamb?

2009-03-07T23:22:00.003-05:00

Calling all Lionesses!

Hello and welcome to March. It surely did come in like a lion and I hope it has roared itself out so the lamb can start sticking her head out.

But if you are a business person, this is no time to be a lamb. In order to be heard you really have to roar. And to be seen, you really need to roam the jungle and build up your pride (pride of lions and self pride!)

The best way to accomplish this is network, network, network. And the most cost effective networking is with eWomenNetwork.

Did you know for the price of one membership you have membership in all the chapters across the country and Canada?

Think about it. How many chambers do you belong to? Do you pay dues to each chamber? Of course! Or how about a professional organization? Don't you have to pay to belong to a chapter in Philadelphia and the chapter in South Jersey?

With eWomenNetwork, you have 5, count 'em 5, opportunities to network across the tri-state area with just one membership!

--South Jersey (Burlington to Cape May!!)
--Philadelphia
--Buxmont (Bucks-Montgomery County)
--King of Prussia
--and as of April....Wilmington, DE

At eWomenNetwork our goal is to provide you access to everyone--no geographic boundaries in our business plan!

So no matter how far you want to roam, eWomenNetwork has a road map to help your success ROAR!

Here's my Lioness special of the month:

Non-members: Join eWomenNetwork in March and be my guest at your first event as a new member! To join visit: http://www.ewomennetwork.com/joinUsNow_2.html

Members: Sign up a new member this month and you BOTH have a free event on me!

It's a jungle out there...why not hang out with Queens of the Jungle.

All the best to you,
Marilyn
Executive Director
eWomenNetwork SJ
609 601-1333

Food For Thought: Adding New Ingredients Can Reshape Your Success Recipe

2009-02-14T15:22:00.002-05:00

Although it is often said, it bears repeating "If you keep doing what you're doing, you'll keep getting what you're getting." Not rocket science, but how many of us have really taken a look at what we are doing...what are the ingredients in our daily plan of work and how can we "spice it up" to change the results?

Sometimes you have to start with what is important to yourself. Are you happy with what you are doing? If not, what are you going to do about it?

On February 20th at the Atlantic City Country Club we'll meet Roseann Vanella who did just that. She took stock of what she had accomplished, took measure of her happiness quotient and decided to change her menu of choices. In 2007 she walked away from the corporate world to follow a passion for food and opened a Super Suppers business catering to busy families by offereing fully cooked meals to go. Join us we we learn about her Recipe for Success.

Okay, so now you've looked at yourself; now what about your business? Here your ingredients include the green vegetable...money. Are you making the best decisions with managing your money? Are you worried that you did not plan for tax season? Are you preparing a recipe for success or disaster at tax time?

Join us on March 4th at the Mansion on Main Street for a half-day workshop on How to Make Tax Time Less Taxing. Hear from a panel of experts tax saving tips and strategies to manage your personal and business finances. Learn about corporate structures and the difference between a corporate entity, a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a S-Corp, and sole proprietorship. Meet experts on money management and tax saving opportunities. Learn about employment law and how it effects your hiring practices including full time, part time or contract employees. Get tips on using QuickBooks to keep your pulse on money management and tax preparation. And finally meet an expert on organizing it all.

So you've got your passion, you've got your money organized, but what about marketing? What are the ingredients in your marketing plan? In today's world if your recipe doesn't call for a heavy dollop of social media, your marketing will fall flat.

On March 20th at the Gourmet Italian Cuisine in Galloway Township we'll host part one of a two part series exploring the phenomenon of Social Media. Learn the basics about the top social media websites, Facebook, LinkedIn, Plaxo, and Twitter. This hands on workshop (bring your laptop) will teach you how to create your profile, build contacts and navigate the various applications unique to each site.

At eWomenNetwork it is our job to provide you opportunite to learn, connect promote and build your business. For me, the most important ingredient is YOU.

To register for these and other upcoming events, visit eWomenNetwork SJ

Get Connected. Get Involved. Get Busy!

2009-02-01T12:13:00.003-05:00

All right ladies…It’s time to take control of your business, your lifestyle, and your future. There is no room for “woe is me”. There is no room for “Doubting Thomasinas.” There is no room for discouraging “voices in your head”. There is no room for negativity. Period.

The successful women I meet have at least one thing in common—their belief in themselves, what they are doing and where they are going. At eWomenNetwork we call that “GLOW”. They’ll also be the first to tell you its not 100% of the time. But here’s the key, they recognize when the candle starts to flicker and they find the spark that reignites the flame.

What do they do? They get connected. They call a friend or mentor. They find new people to add to their network who have fresh ideas, new approaches and new resources.

What do they do? They get involved. They look to their community for non-profit work or new organizations to re-energize their personal commitments. They volunteer, sit on boards and make themselves available.

What do they do? They get inspired. They read. They attend lectures and symposiums. They reach out to someone they admire. As Sandra Yancy, the Founder and CEO of eWomenNetwork says, “If she’s the sharpest tool in her tool box, she needs a new toolbox.”

What do they do? They get busy! They go out and seek new opportunities for business. They create new alliances and partnerships. They build new relationships.

What are you doing? Now is the time to join eWomenNetwork. We’ll get you connected, involved, inspired and BUSY!

eWomenNetwork is a membership based marketing and media company designed and created to provide women with opportunities to promote, grow and transact business with other women business professionals. We are a high tech, high touch organization with a focus on each member from a holistic point of view—healthy mind, healthy body, healthy business. Our events are designed to educate and enlighten so that we work smarter, with better tools and better understanding of the process of success. In addition, our strong web-based community is complimented by our monthly local events that bring women together to network, share and learn from each other. Our motto is Give First/Share Always. We teach women to build relationship by sharing our resources with each other and asking how we can help.

Please take a moment to visit our local chapter website at www.ewomennetworksnj.com and feel free to call me with any questions.

Need Inspiration? Check out the GLOW Project

2008-09-29T22:12:00.012-04:00

All across the United States women are sitting down in small groups to experience the GLOW Project movie. Locally we've met over lunch, after work, and even on a Sunday afternoon. Just us girls--sharing the experience of watching the GLOW Project movie together and then sharing our hopes, our dreams and our passions.

What is GLOW? GLOW is a uniquely female phenomenon. When women GLOW, they burn the candle of passion and compassion that ignites a force greater than oneself.

Have you ever met someone and were drawn to them for their strength, their presence? Not in an intimidating way...but in the way that a flower turns towards the sun for warmth...for its GLOW.

The GLOW Project movie is an exploration in the source of that GLOW expressed though the stories of fourteen powerful, successful, entrepreneurs and corporate leaders. Each story reflects the hardships, the courage, the heartbreaks and challenges they faced and how they tapped into their GLOW to overcome; to survive; to succeed.

Reactions to the film vary, for it is an extremely personal experience. For some, it is the rekindling of a desire to do or be more; for others is it is a realization that it's okay to be where I am right now in life--permission to be who I am; and for many it has empowered us to look inside to see what spark of inspiration is just waiting for that flame to ignite us.

On Wednesday, October 22, you can meet participate in a powerful event featuring three of the women from the film when the GLOW Project tour comes to Voorhees, NJ at the Mansion on Main Street. To Register click here.

Sandra Yancey, producer and co-creator of the GLOW Project, is your personal guide as she leads and moderates an intimate discussion with two stars from the GLOW Project Movie.

Discover how to tap into your GLOW to achieve happiness and fulfillment
Learn how to overcome insurmountable challenges and reach for your dreams in spite of fear, lack of support and money
Learn how to work through feelings of guilt to fully enjoy your life experience
See clips from the movie and exclusive scenes not on the DVD
You participate -- Q & A session

No matter how hard you work, no matter how hard you try, you can never achieve your full potential and happiness without GLOW. Learn how to embrace your essence and forever live in GLOW.

You will meet Marion Luna Brem, President and CEO of Love Chrysler, who's' story of survival when given only 4-5 months to live will inspire us all to fight back no matter what the odds. And Donna Orender, President of the Women's National Basketball Association--who is blazing a trail in a previously male dominated sport. Her strength and conviction to her own truth is a lesson we all need to learn.

The truth is I can't even begin to describe the power of this event. All I can tell you is you need to be part of it.

Dog(gy) Days of August

2008-08-10T18:19:00.006-04:00

A funny thing happened on the way to the rest of my life--I actually got one. I never knew what I was missing until I moved in with Milt, his three teenage sons and two dogs.

Now, to be honest, I could live without the teenage sons, but I've come to absolutely love my furry new friends---allergies and all.

The little dog is a Jack Russell. Her name is Serenity. Unfortunately she got the short end of the twin thing and has shorten legs that make her hop like a bunny when she runs-- it's sad and oh so cute at the same time. Thankfully she also missed out on the crazy, loud, yippy, wild traits that most Jack Russells exhibit--except when she is outside and spots a rabbit, bird, bug or a ball with which she can play...and play...and play. It is a never ending game of fetch with Serenity.

She is also a lap dog and is happiest when sitting on Milt's chest or burrowed inside a bunch of covers.

The bigger dog is a boxer/lab and her name is Pippy. She has a wicked tail--don't get to close when she's happy, she'll leave scars! But what gets me is that she has the most soulful eyes--ya can't help but love her.

As the woman of the house I am, of course, the nurturer. This includes the making sure the dogs have food and water and, yes, I am the treat lady. So when Pippy looks up at me with those soulful eyes I turn to putty.

But is so worth it. I never understood, never experienced, and up to now, never missed the unrequited love that animals can provide. Pippy follows me all over the house and plops down in whatever room I happen to be in and when I go up the stairs, she waits at the bottom of the stairs for me.

When I open my door and look down I am filled with a sense of awe (or is that awww). I can't believe how attached we've become. In fact she is sitting right next to me as I write this blog. Yes, I know that ultimately she is here because the doggy treats are under my desk, but right now she's content to just "be with me" and that just melts my heart.

Plus I think we relate to each other. I can always tell when she wants to go out or needs food or water in her bowls. Than again, she's always hungry, so that's a no brainer.

I no longer care that I am allergic to her--that I sneeze when she sheds and that my hands break out when I touch her. Now I play with her, brush her hair and just love to have her around.

The dog days of August are here, and I'm doggone glad about it!

2008 eWomenNetwork Conference Overview

2008-07-20T11:44:00.002-04:00

One of the things that hits you when you attend the conference is that eWomenNetwork is such a powerful organization operating with the heart as its center and guiding force. With 2500+ women from all over the country and Canada in attendance the strength of the organization was dynamic. eWomenNetwork is so much more than a networking organization. We are a marketing and media powerhouse with tools and opportunities to help you promote your business to a larger audience. We are the “Big Idea” in the world of networking.

I am very proud to represent it here in South Jersey and hopefully in the years to come, central and north Jersey, too!

WOW...not only was that the theme of the conference, but it was the effect on all of us that were there. With one WOW moment after another, laughter and tears, smiles and hugs, positive energy and contagious confidence exuded from every room.

For me personally, it couldn't have come at a better time. My confidence and self esteem were loosing ground (you may not think that if you know or see me, but my negative inner voices were winning the battle inside me). I am sure you all know what I mean by inner voices, ya know the one that has to put a damper on all your "I can do it" thoughts.

Pretty tough to exude confidence, positiveness and leadership with all that "other" chatter going on in your head.

Speaker after speaker addressed these issues. Here's just a sampling:

Monica Wofford introduced us to the concept of "Contagious Confidence".
Robin Spizman asked us "Where's our Wow?"
Sandra Yancy lead us in a panel of "Fearless Women" who shared their stories of finding strength to stand tall and succeed in the face of failure.
And Alecia Huck reminded us that "Cinderella Doesn't Live Here Anymore" --that we need to take charge of our lives, give up perfecttion and get back to winning.
Marion Luna Brem share the "7 Greatest Truths about Successful Women"
Marci Shimoff implored us to get to the point where we can be "Happy for No Reason"
Janine Turner shared amazing stories of perseverance and resilience by daring to dream, healing with humor and never giving up before the miracle.
Sheila Stewart reminded us that women succeed "Backwards in High Heels" referencing Ginger Roger's famous line that women have additional challenges that we can and do overcome. FYI:-Sheila will be our featured speaker on February 4th, 2009.
The amazing Michael Gerber closed out the conference with "Awakening the Entrepreneur Within"

And then there is the Glow Project. This is an amazing documentary sharing the stories of 14 successful women and their search for passion...the flame that ignites the inner GLOW. Click on the link to see the trailer. The full length movie will be headed our way soon!

The International Femtor Awards should be sponsored by Kleenex because there was not a dry eye in the house. This event introduces us to the non-profit grant recipients that were selected by each chapter that raised $7,000 to sponsor the grant and announces the Emerging Leader recipient from each chapter that raised an additional $2,500 to sponsor a young woman between the ages of 22-29 who are already demonstrating excellence in the areas of academics, entrepreneurship and philanthropy. I have committed our chapter to sponsoring both for the 2009 conference.

We also recognize a Humanitarian of the Year. This year’s honoree is Joyce Sterkel. Joyce facilitates adoptions of children from orphanages in Russia. She has been involved in successful experiences with US based families for many years. In some cases families who had difficulties would contact her out of frustration or desperation and she began to try to be of assistance to them. She offered respite to the family struggling with a child who had adaptive challenges and took on the kids to help them ease into their new circumstances more easily.

She opened Ranch for Kids after recognizing the needs were greater than she personally had capacity for. She, her husband and older children became the staff and caregivers for children who, due to abusive or traumatic childhood histories, often accompanied by issues related to fetal alcohol syndrome, were violent and rebellious in their adoptive families.

The Managing Directors were so moved by Joyce’s story and by the story of two young girls that accompanied her that we decided to pledge $250 per chapter to raise money to help her continue doing such great work.

If you were unaware of the dedication and commitment of Sandra and Kym Yancy, the founders of eWomenNetwork, to the Foundation, the non-profits honored in the past and present, the Emerging Leaders and Rising Stars amongst us and the women who rise above to serve others, this event left no room for doubt. They walk the talk—give first/share always.

And finally, after the tears of compassion dried, we shared tears of laughter. We learned about the need to embrace change in our lives through Judson Laipply’s Evolution of Dance (ladies you MUST check this out…we were practically on the floor laughing). And later we learned about trust and teamwork with world renowned juggling team, The Passing Zone. (Yes, you must check this out too!)

We shopped, drank, eat and boogied at the blowout party Nordstom’s hosted for us Friday night after normal closing hours. It was, as I heard some of our younger members say, “Off the hook!” And before we could recover from that party, we were back out dancing and drinking chocolate martini’s at the Evening of Chocolate Decadence.

Like I said, it was a total WOW experience. I hope you can join me next year when we do it all over again!

Does Wearing Two Hats Look Funny?

2008-07-05T22:08:00.007-04:00

So how many of you have more than one job or own more than one business? I do and I have to admit, sometimes the sailor hat (CruiseOne) and the networking hat--whatever that looks like to you (eWomenNetwork) don't always wear well together.

But, more often than not, they really do compliment each other.

When I first decided to purchase a CruiseOne franchise in 2005 I based my decision on two things: the growing trend towards cruise vacations and the idea of helping people have fun.

When I first decided to purchase the rights to start a new eWomenNetwork chapter in Southern Jersey in 2007 I did so with two things in mind: the growing trend of small women owned businesses and the idea of helping women build and enrich their personal and professional lives.

Clearly helping people is an important focus of both.

However balancing the two isn't always easy. Because both businesses require responding to people in a timely manner, I can't split my day and say that the morning is CruiseOne and the afternoon is eWomenNetwork.

Another dilemma is what business to market or promote. For the first six months on Blogger I listed myself as a travel professional in the cruise business. I decided to change it tonight (thus the focus of this blog) to highlight eWomenNetwork.

Clearly all eWomenNetwork members or prospects are also CruiseOne prospects, but not necessarily the other way around--many of my initial cruise contacts are male.

Those that receive e-mails from me can see from my signature that I run both business ...what they may not have noticed is that I flip flop the companies depending on the topic. In other words, if you've e-mailed me about a cruise, then I put the CruiseOne signature on top...but if you later e-mail about eWomenNetwork, then I flip that signature to the top (at least I try to remember to do that!)

But I guess my question still remains....does it look funny to see both signatures? More importantly, does it confuse you or lessen the importance of one over the other?

My view is that I try to be upfront and honest with everyone that both are my businesses and both are important to me.

So, I ask you, to quote one of my favorite shows..."How do I look?"

Clone me, please!

2008-06-08T15:04:00.005-04:00

I'm sure a lot of you feel the same way I do....you love to sleep in late in the weekends, but feel guilty for every minute past, say, 8:00 a.m. (Since I am generally up no later than 6:00 a.m. during the work week, I feel 8:00 am is a fair trade--but 10:00 a.m. sounds much better).

I've heard some of the most successful entrepreneurs don't need much sleep. They go as far as saying, "I'll sleep when I'm dead so while I'm alive I'll do as much as I can with every 24 hour day."

Sorry but that's just too much pressure for me. In fact, while I was making the bed this morning I was thinking how nice it will be to crawl back into it later tonight. Guess I'm not as High A type personality as I thought.

Not sure that's a bad thing.

I've recently undergone some major life changes including giving up my single life and my condo in Cherry Hill to live with my boyfriend, his three teenage sons and dare I say, not quite ex-wife (she lives in the in-law suite attached to the house). Also, within the past three years I walked away from a high paying, well, paying anyway, job to start two new businesses.

So now where one load of clothes was all I worried about in a week, now there are 2 loads a day, plus dinner, dishes, etc.

Isn't that pressure enough?

Then there are the multiple meetings I need to attend, the events I produce (eWomenNetwork), the educational seminars I need for industry accreditation (cruise business) and the clients that need attention for both.

I'm not knocking being busy. I love it! I just sometimes really want to be at two places at the same time. If only I could clone myself!

Sound familiar?

Well I do have some solutions. I've recently hired two very interesting companies to help me. One is BC Organizing (to help organize the office, the laundry room, etc) and Running Errand Services (website should be available soon), to help me be in two places at once! If you'd like more info on either, drop me a line.

These are just some of the services I have found to help me delegate the stuff I have to do and enjoy things I want to do.

Asking for help and delegating are not two of my strong suites, but then again, I haven't figured out how to actually clone myself either.

Consultative Selling...is it appreciated?

2008-01-20T11:55:00.000-05:00

Maybe I'll sound like a poor loser, but I need to get this off my chest.

Back in August of '07 I was contacted by the co-worker of a friend/client to help them plan their honeymoon. Referrals are great and I always treat them as though the clients are my friends, too.

So I put together a package of brochures for the couple to review, chatted with bride to be about her dream wedding, asked them their budget, did tons of research on their destination and proceeded to put the perfect package together.

This process, though, took several months. I stayed in touch, followed up, discussed different options, fully expecting to sit down with them when they were really ready to make a commitment to the planning. And then earlier this month, the bride said that her intended wanted to go somewhere else, spend less money, use some air miles and hotel awards.

No problem, I started the process over again...research, pricing, etc. Thinking that we are still going to sit down at some point and review all the options, I put together the "bells & whistles" package allowing them to cut back expenses by eliminating some of the options.

My thinking is that this is their honeymoon, not mine, so why should I pick and choose when we can review the options together and decide what fits their dreams and pocketbook best.

A couple days go by and I get an e-mail from the bride thanking me for all my efforts but her fiancee has a travel agent that he uses and they booked with him.

WHAT???? I didn't even realize I was in a competitive situation. After 6 months you'd think I'd know.

So, in an e-mail, I expressed my disappointment (months of research, follow up, etc), not to mention my surprise, but wished them the dream wedding and honeymoon and all the best in life.

The fiancee felt I was totally unprofessional and that I'll never get their business nor his company's business.

And, you what? I'm okay with that. I chose to go into business for myself so I could work with people I enjoy. I don't think I would enjoy working with him.

Time Flies when....

2008-01-15T19:14:00.001-05:00

So I just noticed that it is a month to the day since my last blog and I have to wonder, where did the time go?

Actually, I do know. I just not willing to admit it!

For the sake of argument, let's say the holidays took a chunk of that time. Then there are the regular chores of life in a house of 4 men (father and three sons). As you can imagine that's a lot of clothes to clean, meals to prepare, dishes to wash...not to mention the endless trips to the supermarket for milk, cereal and snacks. And in this house, medicine.

Can I tell you? I have never seen so many meds in one place outside of a hospital or pharmacy. The kids each have their bi-polar meds, the middle son also has Asbergers meds and Milt has his various pain medications (a result of 23 surgeries over a 48 yr lifespan so far!). All I have is my daily allergy pill (we're a 2 dog house) and a medication for high blood pressure (did I mention the kids are bi-polar!!!!)

Let's see, I got my nails done, hair cut and colored, tanned and, well, I meant to work out....

Of course there were NFL playoff games and Bowl games that begged to be watched.

And yes, thank goodness, there were cruises to book and recently lots of event planning for eWomenNetwork.

But more important, American Idol is back on tonight...and I know where my next two hours will fly.

Learning from Mistakes

2007-12-14T21:13:00.000-05:00

Business, like life, is all about the learning curve. And some weeks the curve just gets deeper and deeper.

The steepness of the curve is measured by the mistakes we make in the process of learning. Perhaps you've gathered that I am speaking from experience....a current experience.

And its one thing to make a mistake that just impacts yourself. Its another thing when it impacts others.

Its been a relatively trying time for me and a group of my clients. You see they entrusted me to plan and facilitate their family's holiday vacation. And for the most part all went well. They asked questions, I found answers. I quoted them a price and we booked the cruise.

The first problem came when I entered the pricing into my confirmation system and transposed two numbers so the pricing on the confirmation was $600pp less than I quoted. Thankfully the family understood and honored the original price quoted. I sent them a gift card to thank them for their understanding--it could've gotten ugly.

The second and more serious of the problems arose out of my ignorance, stupidity, and neglect. When I entered the cruise into my booking system, the system generated an approximate final due date, which in ignorance I accepted; in stupidity didn't question; and in neglect never checked against the cruise line's final due date.

The cruise line final payment date, due to the fact that it was a holiday booking, was two weeks earlier than the system generated date so when I called to make final payment the booking had cancelled. Thankfully, luck was on my side and the cabins were still available and the cruise line reinstated them at original price which was lower than the current prevailing price of the cabins.

I really thought I'd dodged a bullet and didn't give it any further thought until the client contacted me last week to say that when they reviewed the cruise documents it was noted that they have early dining when they specifically requested (and I had confirmed in writing) that they wanted late dining.

So I checked the cruise line confirmation from the reinstated cruises and right there in black in white it clearly states: early dining.

At this point we are three weeks out from the sailing date, and pardon my pun, but I get a sinking feeling that I am in deep trouble. And I am.

I called the cruise line and fessed up the whole ordeal and plead for mercy, but as I feared, late dining wasn't available. I couldn't even waitlist it. My clients were now at the mercy of the maitre'd--only he could arrange to change their seating and that couldn't be requested until they were physically on board the ship.

Naturally my clients, who booked this cruise almost a year in advance, are livid. But I was too chicken to fess up to them that I screwed up again, so I blamed the cruise line saying that there must have been a large group requesting late dining and they got bumped.

I am beside myself not only with worry, but with shame. I ignored my own ethical principles and flat out lied to my client.

I appealed to higher levels within the cruise line and asked for my parent company to intervene. But the end result was the same..."no room at the inn."

In mega-ships as my client will be sailing, there are many dining options, so eating in the main dining room every night is no big deal. Unless you need kosher food.

And of course that was the case. One of the sons requested kosher meals, which it turns out, can only be served in the main dining room.

So that bullet I thought I'd dodged, is now headed my way.

After further conversation with the cruise line I learn that the family can ask the maitre'd to have the kosher meals delivered to the specialty restaurants on board.

So my fate and my clients happiness all rest within the hands of the maitre'd on board the ship.

To make amends I have offered to pay the nightly per person fee rate at the specialty restaurants for the four nights when they will be returning from shore excursions (they were concerned about being rushed to make early dining).

I haven't heard back from the client, but I am hoping they will accept this offer.

I'll keep you posted.

Three days later....all is right again in the universe. The cruise line was able to guarantee my clients (all three cabins) late dining. To thank them for thier patience, I still gave each cabin $50.00 shipboard credits

And while this could have been an extremely expensive mistake, there is no doubt I learned my lesson!

Self help, coaches and finding one's course

2007-12-02T19:28:00.000-05:00

As a member of eWomenNetwork, an international women's organization, I have the opportunity to receive two free coaching sessions from a list of pre-selected coaches. For two years I've debated whether or not to utilize this benefit.

My excuse is also probably my ignorance for this profession. But I always believed a coach was akin to a psychiatrist and I wasn't getting comfy on one of those couches. Besides, I always felt I could self correct without outside influences.

But I know some of the most successful women have personal coaches for various aspects of their lives. Perhaps I was wrong.

SO I finally decided to give it a try. Well, that is I made the connection with the coach. Now I have to make the appointment. I'm a little unsure of what to do. You see she asked me to tell her a little bit about myself what area I would like to concentrate on in the session: personal or professional.

When I started to respond I was like a "push me-pull you" character...every time I wrote about my personal goals I got pulled into business goals. They are not exclusive of each other.

Here's what I mean...

I’m 47 and never been married---my choice. Two years ago I entered a relationship with a great guy, but he has three children and I never wanted kids. He lived an hour away and it became increasingly difficult to travel back and forth and since he had custody of the boys, we decided I would give it a shot and move in with him and work from home. The kids love me, so there’s no issue there.

What I found after a year was that I had changed. Without my circle of influence that gave me a sense of pride and self worth, I was losing ground to the fuzzy bunny slippers/sweat suit work style and slower pace life. I knew going in that I was going to give up things to make this work, but what I realized recently is that when you give up core values and needs, everything suffers. I was spiraling downward and my relationship and my business suffered.

I gave up my home
I gave up my close proximity to my circle of influence
I gave up my music (I was a regular fan on the local blues circuit—check out http://www.marilynsmusicscene.com/ ) because what was once an hour drive to see the bands is now 2hrs.
I gave up my sense of self

But that's where the self-correcting factor kicks in. I must have unconsciously recognized that I needed to make a change because I began to resurface in the networking world. I traded my sweat suit for a dress suit (sadly a few sizes larger than I'd like) and took on the challenge of building a new chapter of eWomenNetwork in South Jersey.

But I couldn't do it alone. Thankfully, Milt and I can talk about anything. In a tear-jerker session the other day he vowed to support my "rebirth" because what is important to me is as important to him. And he means it. Like a said earlier, great guy.

So when I stayed back in Cherry Hill the other night to catch the Randy Lippincott Band at Red, Hot & Blue and then drove up to the Mermaid in Chestnut Hill later that night to see Zydeco-a-go-go, he was totally supportive. John Colgan-Davis from the Dukes of Destiny, who was at the Mermaid summed it up when he said, "the music world is all right again...Marilyn is back."

And I think I'll send the coach a link to this blog so she can decide where should I begin....

2007-11-12T23:21:00.001-05:00

Networking--

2007-11-07T09:13:00.000-05:00

Every once in a while you are given a chance to start something meaningful from the ground up. If you are lucky there is a blueprint to follow, but the final result is determined by the building blocks you can lend to the foundation.

So it is with the new eWomenNetwork chapter in South Jersey. After a few years of attending events on the PA side of the bridge, I lobbied the founders of the organization to start a chapter in New Jersey.

In most states, chapters can be found in major towns and cities, but my vision expanded beyond townships and counties--I wanted to bring this organization to all women in South Jersey and I now have that opportunity as the new Managing Director of eWomenNetwork SJ.

I am blessed that I have a core group of women standing right by my side as we launch the new chapter. Some are women that, like me have be attending the Philly events, others are women that I've known and admired through my own business network and others are friends of these women.

Together we are poised to create the largest, most resourceful organization for women in business in SJ.

"It takes teamwork to make the dream work." (I wish I could claim that as mine...but kudos to rightful owner of that quote.)

In many ways eWomenNetwork is about business—we want to connect women with other women opening doors for them to do business with each other. But we are much more. At eWomenNetwork our philosophy is that you must first and foremost give to others "first." We believe that by giving and being "other-focused" you create a world of abundance for all. For us, networking is really the art of "giving" and searching for ways to serve the needs of others before focusing on ourselves.

eWomenNetwork is comprised of various levels of women in business…from entrepreneurs with one–two employees to representatives from larger companies. Our goal is to offer the best resource for women to do business with other women. We offer members a website on which they can post their photo and business profile for the 200,000 women who visit the site every day; we celebrate women authors by providing them a publishing company dedicated to their success; we have our own radio program; we offer free mentoring and coaching sessions to the members; we support other women through the eWomenNetwork Foundation; and we strive to provide access for our members to women in senior levels of the business world.

http://www.ewomennetwork.com/
http://www.ewomennetwork.com/vision.html
www.ewomennetworkfoundation.org/index.html

I hope you will read this and "get it". If you do, I'm sure I'll see you at an upcoming event. Just visit the website listed above and click on events. Scroll down to SJ and make your reservation! And remember to share this with other women you admire.

Boomers, vacation planning and River Cruising

2007-11-05T22:47:00.000-05:00

I recently read an article from the Chicago Tribune, "Boomers are spelling 'vacation' l-e-a-r-n-i-n-g. "

This seems to hold true in the cruising industry, too. As we (yes, I am a "boomer") look towards taking future vacations, the potential for seeing new places, learning about different cultures, and experiencing new adventures are all major components of the decision making process.

CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) lists the number one reason (76%) people choose cruising is the "opportunity to visit multiple places." And 60% are looking for "unique and different" experiences. 42% of cruisers reported that they seek a "cultural learning experience."

And the industry is listening. Luxury cruise lines such as Crystal, Regent Seven Seas and Cunard all have some type of on board enrichment programs.

Celebrity recently spun off a new cruise line called Azamara. It's two ships, the Journey and the Quest each offer the experienced cruiser an exploration type experience on a deluxe cruise line.

Holland America has the Culinary Arts Institute on board all their ships.

CruiseWest and Hurtigruten provide unique sailing that are itinerary intense. And the size of their vessels allow close encounters with nature.

But of all the cruise products out there, river cruising seems to best fit our growing desire for cultural immersion. Picture cruising up the Rhine, the Danube or the Yangtze river with history within view from your stateroom on deck. Image sitting down to a meal sampling the culinary delights from that day's port of call or local storytellers coming on board in the evening to share their history with you. Or perhaps the idea of spending an overnight at a port of call entices you--enjoy a night at the opera, an evening at a local pub or specialty restaurant or maybe be invited into the homes of your hosts.

With so many choices, its no wonder cruisng is a favorite vacation for Boomers!

If you ready to learn more about any of these cruising options, drop by my website or drop me a line.

Trade Shows and Tired Shoulders

2007-10-31T14:01:00.000-04:00

I just returned to my office from a Home-Based Travel Agency trade show in Atlantic City. It was great to meet reps from the cruise lines, resorts and convention and visitor bureaus of various countries. I reconnected with some colleagues and spent some time chatting with the CruiseOne team, including our CEO Vivian Ewart who is so genuine and easy to talk to. She was there to market the company to potential franchisees--not that I need any more competion in my backyard!

I know setting up and working trade shows are hard work--I used to run the Chamber's Annual Business Expo and I've had display tables at many, many trade shows.

But what about the attendees??? After walking row by row and stopping at each table, I was loaded down with 4 bags of brochures and information. As the show was coming to a close,the vendors were happily handing out as much as could, the idea being they more they give away, they less thay have to pack and slep back to the office. Good stuff, absolutely. Heavy as heck---you better believe it.

You'd think my shoulders would be used to the extra weight from carrying my tote bag around, but I'm telling you--I could have used these bags for weights in my exercise routine!

Next time I'll bring a suitcase on wheels--I may look funny, but when I'm still standing up straight at the end of the day and everyone else is hunched over...guess who will have the last laugh then!

Dressing for Success

2007-10-24T12:25:00.000-04:00

Every Wednesday morning at 7:15 I head out the door to meet with the South Jersey Women's Network, an informal group of professional women from the Atlantic County area. Each of us represents a different industry and each is there to learn about and support the other members by word of mouth marketing.

Being in the travel business and working from home I find myself at a quandry as to what to wear each week. One of our members makes no apologies for her attire, and to be honest, I applaud her---she works out every morning at 6:00 a.m., so she comes straight from the gym.

Another member is in the financial business and she is always dressed impeccibly in her business suit.

Others, like myself, dress according to what the rest of the day holds. If I have other appoinments I'll dress in business attire. If I'm coming right home to work in the home office then I'll wear jeans, a tank and a decent jacket and good shoes (today I wore my pink Cozumel tank and pink cowboy hat...souvenirs from my recent cruise!)

And that's really who I am, a low maintenance, dress down, casual person. Does that mean I can't be professional when dressed this way?

Its all about image perception. The question I have to ask is whether I perceive myself as less professional. If the answer is yes, then I'm doomed because my confidence is tied to my self perception.

Turns out that I am a victim of comformity, because in many situations I do need to put that suit on to feel the power of confidence.

Now if only I could button that suit jacket..ah but that's fodder for a future blog!

California Wildfires

2007-10-23T10:17:00.000-04:00

A good friend of mine lives in San Diego. I visited her several years ago and fell in love with the area. So much so, that I brought the real estate section home with me to read and dream on the plane back to Philly.

My friend Karen has built a business working with local and county governments across the country helping them devise state of emergency plans to work with the healthcare organizations in their areas. And yes, she did work with the several of the counties now ravaged by fire.

In an e-mail to me this morning, she wrote:

It is really really bad. My emergency response training is no longer fiction in SD - the worst possible thing that we trained for is actually happening.

A quarter of a million people have been evacuated from their homes so far. From the dessert to the sea some 40 miles of million dollar homes. But, the worst is that no one can breath the air with all the ash and smoke, so the hospitals are packed with wheezing and shortness of breath patients including my parents which I have advised to move up to San Clemente (fires from Fallbrook are now in Camp Pendleton).

AND, I am in Minnesota running a curriculum retreat for the School of Medicine and have been on the phone and internet for the last 24 hours with family, friends and the 19 year old UCSD student that is house sitting with Torrey. I just called her and told her to go up to Pasadena (she has an aunt there), but the traffic won't allow it. The temperature inside my house is 85 degrees since it is all closed up (outside it is 90, even though the fires are 10 miles away). Don't have air conditioning, cause I "live on the coast" ! Never saw anything like it.

I am tired, very sad and really want to be home.... I will be back on Wednesday night.

I am sharing this with you because of the reuccuring truth that plagues all of us. We cannot control or escape nature. But it is also nature that, over billions of years has evolved to provide a planet onwhich human nature has prevailed.

I recently completed two of James Michener's epic novels, Alaska and the Caribbean and am just in the opening chapters of Hawaii.

Two truths have emerged from my readngs:

It is, sadly, human nature to seek, destroy, overcome and rule others that are not like them.
The earth is constantly reinventing itself and although it can/may/will take tens of thousands of years for a cataclysmic occurance, every volcanic eruption, every storm that destroys, and every fire that devours what we have built, is one tiny step towards the next big life altering event.

I don't know where this is all leading except that I know I'm headed to Alaska next summer---I want to see it while the pristine beauty and the wonders of the glaciers are still with us.

Coulda, shoulda, but didn't

2007-10-21T21:45:00.000-04:00

For Eagles fans, the saying "coulda, shoulda, but didn't" is the mantra for today. The Eagles could've won, should've won, but ended up losing in the final seconds of the game.

That got me thinking...How many things in our lives do we miss out on because we "coulda, shoulda, but didn't"?

People that suffer life threatening illnesses upon recovering will often say "I'm going to live everyday as if the next could be my last." And ya know what one of the first things that they do? They take that vacation they've always wanted.

So I ask you, do you really want to wait and find yourself saying, "coulda, shoulda, but didn't"?

I know it sounds impractical, especially when you've just paid your bills and are wondering how you'll make the next payments, but with enough planning, minimum deposits and good budgeting, you can take that family vacation while the family is all together.

Multi generational family reunions on a cruise are wildly popular now. Where else can you find something for the youngsters, teens, parents and grandparents plus activities that everyone can participate? What a great way to create that family bond.

I bet you have relatives you never see except at weddings and funerals. I know I do. And I know we always say, "let's plan to get together soon." For me this is another "coulda, shoulda, but didn't".

Or how about that dream vacation to Alaska or maybe the Greek Isles, or perhaps South America? With so many cruise lines and so many options, you are bound to find something that will fit your personality and your pocketbook.

Milt and I are headed to New Orleans in January for a 2 night stay in the French Quarter followed by a 5 night Western Caribbean cruise. It's a pre-Mardi Gras cruise and I can't wait to get back to New Orleans.

Next September we're taking an 8 night Alaskan cruise--along with 800+ other members of the CruiseOne family. Its our 2008 conference. Which is pretty funny...the morning before they announced the 2008 location, I said to Milt, lets take and Alaskan cruise this summer.

But my dream vacation is to sail the Eastern Mediterranean on a Windstar cruise (a five mast, engine powered sailing ship). I keep telling Milt that will be our honeymoon cruise---even if we never get married!

I'd love to hear from you--what is your "coulda, shoulda, but didn't" that you still have time to do?

New passport rules...again

2007-10-20T21:45:00.000-04:00

Well folks, they've extended the passport requirement for cruise travel...again. However, I strongly suggest that you just go out and get your passport; it is the most recognized form of identification and most readily accepted.

U.S. Citizen Passport Requirements--

Air Travel: ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport to enter (or re-enter) the United States.U.S. lawful permanent residents will continue to be able to use their Alien Registration Card (Form I-551) issued by the Department of Homeland Security or other valid evidence of permanent residence status to apply for entry to the United States.

Cruise Travel--As early as Summer 2008, subject to U.S. Government amendment, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security.

Subject to U.S. Government amendment U.S. and Canadian citizens 15 or younger with their parents consent may cross the U.S. / Canadian border by land or sea with a certified copy of their birth certificate.Until that time, the following travel document requirements apply:International Travel• A valid passport is required; visas are required where they apply. This includes Europe, Asia, Central and South America.

Domestic Travel--For domestic travel which includes: the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico, a passport (valid or expired) is highly recommended.• In the absence of a passport, a birth certificate (original or a certified copy), plus a picture ID card issued by a federal, state or local government agency is required. • A voter registration card or Social Security Card are not considered to be proof of citizenship.• Children under 16 years of age do not require a picture ID.

The luggage has arrived

2007-10-20T17:45:00.001-04:00

Good news, we received our missing luggage today! Better news, Milt's credit card and cash were still in his pants pocket (did I mention he packed his dress pants at the last minute and forgot to check his pockets?)

I have to say I'm pretty surprised at the expediency of the process...not to mention relieved. When the the airline rep said we'd get a call today I was skeptical. When the delivery service called to say they had our bag and would drop it off at our house within 2 hours I was impressed.

Not that I like the fact that they lost it in the first place (and ripped my other bag which I've chalked up to a total loss), but it is a good feeling to know that the processes the airlines have in place actually work. Of course if it happened on the way to the the cruise and not in reverse I might not be so agreeable--lost luggage can't catch up with the ship until it reaches a port of call.

So alls well that ends well. The kids have their gifts from the trip, we have our souvenirs (including three new stuffed animals) and the dirty clothes are in the wash.

Blues Cruise from Philly?

2007-10-20T09:46:00.000-04:00

Hey folks, one of my goals in the next year or so is to put together a Blues Cruise out of Philly or Cape Liberty, NJ featuring some of my favorite local bands from the Phila/NJ area.

Check out the Dukes of Destiny, The Randy Lippincott Band, Zydeco-a-go-go and Rollin' and Tumblin' on my music website http://www.marilynsmusicscene.com/

I'm looking at maybe a 5 day Bermuda cruise with one or 2 bands on board--depending on the cost.

I'd like to hear your thoughts on this...

Oh where or where is our luggage?

2007-10-20T02:46:00.000-04:00

Or subtitled, "The day our luggage went through the war"

Okay, I have to admit, the first part of this story is my fault. Sort of.

NCL has a program called "BAGS" which is described in the flier this way, "leave your luggage outside your door and the next time you'll see them is at your destination airport." Sounded good to me, so for an additional $15.00pp I signed us up.

What I didn't know (and this is where I have to say mea culpa) is that we DID need to see our luggage one more time and that was to identify them at the cruise terminal and take them to be loaded on the baggage truck. Yes, this was wrtten on the notice I received in the room. No I didn't read that far down (next to the last paragraph) in the letter. I took the flier at face value and so Milt and I breezed right past our luggage and onto the waiting transfer bus to the Miami airport.

Thankfully I had a moment of doubt and pulled out the form and read the entire document, otherwise all our luggage would still be in Miami.

I jumped off the bus and flagged down an NCL agent..really an angel (Warren Eisenberg wherever you are...Milt and I love ya, man!) Warren must have heard it all before because he pulled us aside and gently explained the bad news...it is illegal to leave luggage in the terminal and it is illegal to go back and retieve it. YIKES!!!

This is were the "angel" part kicks in. He found a custom agent who took our passports and then he went and found our luggage for the customs agent to inspect. I was told customs had to take everything out of all 4 bags before they would release the bags to Warren (yuck--one bag was full of dirty clothes..I apologized profusely to Agent Wexler). Warren then arranged for a porter to bring out luggage to the loading truck.

So an hour later our bags were on the truck and Milt and I were on our way to the airport. We arrive about 12:30 for our 3:35 flight. If you read my previous blog you already know my gripe with AA terminal.

Our 3:35 flight finally took off at 5:20 p.m.

We finally touch down, head to baggage claim only to find that one bag was destroyed (ripped across the top and taped together) and another bag was missing. We know they went on the truck in perfect condition, but what happened in between, not even the "Shadow knows" (okay, I'm showing my age, I know).

So here I sit at my computer hopeful that tomorrow will bring the suitcase with all the kids gifts, Milt's suit, and the purchases we made for ourselves.

Stay tuned!

Returning home from a 5 night Western Caribbean cruise

2007-10-19T13:57:00.000-04:00

As I sit here on the floor in the American Airlines terminal at the Miami airport I have to wonder.. why don't they have more outlets for computer plug-ins? Actually it took three or four tries before my boyfriend and I found a live working plug. A tad frustrating since each time we had to unplug, pack up and move on. I'm actually plugged into the panel of the service desk. I figure I only have a few more minutes before they chase me away, so here goes...no wait...looks like I'll have to vacate now...

Okay...now the rest of the report is from the comfort of my home office in Egg Harbor Township (near Atlantic City).

Milt and I just returned from a fabulous 5 night cruise on the Norwegian Pearl out of Miami. Our ports of call were Cozumel and Georgetown, Grand Cayman.

When you think of NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line) you think of the ads they have touting Freestyle Cruising and I have to say, for us it was perfect. We got to eat when we wanted, where we wanted and with whom we wanted. We'd made some great friends along the way and enjoyed being able to sit with them at dinner.

The Norwegain Pearl is one of NCL's new ships. Her sister ship, Gem is just getting ready to launch and their sister, Pride of Hawaii will be renamed the Jade which be sailing the Caribbean waters in the near future. She is a beauty. Every lounge, every dining venue is decorated in clean, crisp and vibrant colors befitting the cuisine or theme of the venue.

Entertainment galore from Wii games on the 70ft screen (approx) in the Grand Atrium, to side splitting comedy routines performed by Second City members, to afternoon pool deck Caribbean bands, it was all there for us to enjoy. The ony disappointment was the smoking in the casino, which really wasn't a bad thing...we only stayed long enough to lose $40.00!

Eventhough we really didn't see many children on the cruise, knowing we would be headed back home to three teenage boys made the Adult only Biss Lounge, well blissfull! It was romantic, bohemian and just a bit naughty...they had luxuourisly decorated sofas that encouraged cuddling and even elegant appointed double beds for relaxation pleasure. When we were there one early evening for drinks, the video screen played 80's classics (has Mick jagger aged at all?)

We were very impressed with their precautionary health measures...making sure we all sanitized our hands before entering any restuarant and when returning from shore excursions.

The only thing that was a bit surprising was the room size. We had a Balcony cabin category BA and we were in pretty tight corners. But by the second day we had adjusted just fine-- the sofa bed made for a great suitcase valet for Milt and a good place to drop our dirty clothes at the end of the day.

I must confess though, that we were part of a large group of cruise travel professionals from CruiseOne (http://www.cruisesbymarilyn.com/) and Cruises, Inc. and we were priviledged to have many of the NCL reps as well as other cruise line reps on board for daily seminars and programs. While I don't believe we received any special cabin treatments, we did get nightly cocktail parties.

Did you know that when you book a group, each cabin may be offered a free cocktail party, or complimentary champagne, or even shipboard credits? Group cruises are a great way to bring the family together, raise funds for your favorite charity organization, party with your favorite local bands and on NCL even your local bowling league...yes, they have 2 bowling alleys on board!

Our 5 day cruise visited 2 ports of call, Cozumel and Grand Cayman. In Cozumel, the group did a deluxe beach party at Playa Mia. Lordy did we have fun! Open bar, free food and lots and lots of sunshine and blue waters. Did I mention I forgot to back my sunsceen? Ouch :-( I'm headed back there in January as a Pre-Mardi cruise out of New Orleans ( some inside cabins still available!) and I look forward to exploring other parts of the isalnd.

In Grand Cayman we partied at the Hard Rock Cafe, but didn't get to the Seven Mile Beach. Next time!

Check out my next blog..."oh where, oh where has my suitcase gone???"