Chandra Adams will host a podcast featuring some of the best up and coming authors and poets.

Music: Victor Cajiao and Joe Cristina on Simpatico Music copyright 1995

Can’t Miss What You Never Had

Can’t Miss What You Never Had

Why do you suppose it’s easier to get things you need when you don’t really need them? You know what I’m talking about. The bank, you can’t get a loan when you really need it. But if you already have some money, the banks just won’t leave you alone. Of course there’s the obvious – if you don’t pay back the loan, they have something to go after. So unfortunately, if all you have is a tin can to your name and a piece of red, polka-dotted cloth tied to a stick with all of your worldly possessions inside, don’t expect too much from your local branch except monthly checking account fees and a good solid kick in the pants when they think you deserve one.

Same goes with celebrities. When I feel like wasting time and those awards shows roll around, I watch the celebs out on the red carpet, most of the women looking simply smashing in their designer gowns. Some say, ‘oh, they just sewed the last stitch on this dress twenty minutes ago’ and others remark ‘I didn’t have a thing to wear, and I rolled up on Versace this morning and they had the perfect dress just sitting there’. I say, yeah, that must be so wonderful. To make it worse, or better, depending on your perspective, the dresses are often donated or given to the actresses. Now, let’s see here, if you are attending an awards show, there’s a good chance you’ve struck gold already somewhere down the line. If that’s the case, you can pretty much afford to buy any dress you want at any time – we’ve established that these are not charity cases. But once again, because these women don’t need these clothes, designers are beating their doors down to get them to wear their designs. Do you see the cruel irony here? I know you do, and I know you know that I do, but it still pains me. Terribly. My high school reunion is coming up soon, and I will need something to wear. I’m sure I can afford just about any one outfit at the local Macy’s. Now let’s think about how slim my chances are of walking out of the store with any freebies. Mmm hmmm.

The final blow with regard to freebies for people that don’t need them are jewels, particularly diamonds. Those same red-carpet-walking women come through with a blinding display of diamonds and other jewels. Jewelers aren’t nearly as generous as the designers. Most of the elaborate jewelry is given on loan, and we’ve even heard cases where stars have been sued for not returning jewelry upon request. Still, less elaborate gifts are given to celebrities, such as diamond earrings, necklaces and other semi-precious and precious stones and metals. Once again, I’m completely aware of the reasons why these things occur – it’s great promotion for the designers and jewelers. The celebrities will most likely continue to patronize them, and it will encourage others who see their favorite stars looking good to find out where they purchased this piece or bought that item. The world of material goods is a strange one indeed, and although I would love to receive some free clothing and jewels, one thing remains true – you can’t miss what you never had.

Chandra Adams
Author
Shades of Retribution
www.AdrolitePress.com
www.ChandraAdams.com

The World Wide Web and Marketing

The World Wide Web and Marketing

I recall the first time I got one of my websites up and running. I was so excited, but as I performed routine searches for my website on Google and Yahoo, I realized that I had an uphill battle to get recognized on our internet search engines. Slowly, as I kept adding content, my company name would appear and I would be ecstatic. Surely, however, as other people with the same first name or any other similar attributes would do the same, my site would sink back down to the bottom of the pile.

For a while I started taking my website for granted. I figured I was doing enough business in retail outlets and face to face with clients, so my site didn’t seem quite as important as it once was. In fact, the idea of having an internet store began to seem like quite a bit of a joke. A lot of folks are still opposed to buying products off the internet, so I made the decision to place my attention elsewhere.

Lately, it seems that I have come full circle with regard to the internet and my own websites. I have one more that I acquired in the middle of 2005, which is this blog site. I also realized that, although many individuals are not totally comfortable with making purchases on the internet, they sure do check out what they want at length before they step into the retail outlet to make a purchase. Realizing that, I have known for some time that making my information easily accessible would be key if I want to stand out from the crowd, and it is something that must be attended to on a regular basis.

Now what you can do to rise to the top of the heap will depend a lot on, like just about everything else, how many resources you have available at your disposal. Time and money, to name a couple. If you have access to funds, then you can employ a company who specializes in Search Engine Optimization. They are great at helping a company become more accessible and visible on the web. And if you’re interested in utilizing the web as a marketing tool, then you will definitely want to be found easily. Nothing is more frustrating for a consumer than to scan through pages and pages of Google results to find what he is looking for – and it can definitely make the difference for a company’s sales.

If you don’t have the money, you have to have the time to spread the news around the internet about your website and your product or service offerings. Nesting your link on other websites, listing your website and business information on directories…oh the possibilities are endless, and tiring. Whether you launch a do-it-yourself campaign to get recognized on the internet or hire someone else to do it, the message has become crystal clear. The internet is still an excellent vehicle for marketing and promotion, but being savvy about your plan of attack is crucial. Just remember, it’s going to be a matter of time, or money. Take your pick, but do it soon before you get left behind.

Chandra Adams
Author
Shades of Retribution
www.AdrolitePress.com
www.ChandraAdams.com

Where Do We Go From Here?

Where Do We Go From Here?

I’ve been reading in the newspapers that the housing market is beginning to face its inevitable decline. While I could honestly care less, because I think that everybody needs a place to live, it does make me wonder what is safe to invest in these days.

I recall sitting on the sidelines in the 1990’s as far as investing went. My salary out of school was barely enough to help me pay for my student loans along with all of my living expenses, so I listened as my coworkers and some friends bragged and showed mock angst over what do about their investment portfolio mix. I dreamed of the day I would make my fortune investing, but by the time I was in a position to, the face of the stock market changed drastically.

With that said, there’s nothing like a bank account with some cash in it to make me happy. Very little risk, not much of a gamble, but I can sleep at night. No nightmares about losing hundreds of thousands of dollars as one company after another folded around the turn of the century.

I imagine there are so many various ways to invest money now, as long as you are comfortable with the associated risk. Investing in your own business, for instance, is definitely one very rewarding and solid way to build your financial future. Some people make the decision to go at it full time, some actually have no choice but to invest all of their time, money and energy into one, and some choose to invest their time and resources on a part-time basis. You either know or learn about the risk involved, and if you’re good at what you do, you will reap the reward.

Investing in precious metals seems to be another lucrative route to follow. The silver market is on the rise, and the gold market is tried and true. Investing in silver seems natural to me, because I love silver. I have always worn more silver than gold. Someone might think I’m a little strange for sharing this, but in astrology, silver is symbolic of the moon. My name means moon in Sanskrit, and the day I was born is ruled by the moon. Did I mention that there has been a supply deficit of silver for the past several years? Look out Macy’s, I just found another excuse to maraud the jewelry department for yet another sterling silver necklace and earring set. Or maybe I better stop by Tiffany’s and get one of those engraved necklaces.

Well you know how it is with some of us, mention shopping and we’re out of the door. Just wanted to give us all something to think about though, investing ain’t what it used to be, but it’s up to us to make it what we want it to be.

Chandra Adams
Author
Shades of Retribution
www.AdrolitePress.com
www.ChandraAdams.com

Saint Valentine

Saint Valentine

Did you know that there is no clear account on how St. Valentine’s Day came about? It clearly has something to do with Romans, Christians, and depriving someone of something, that’s for sure. As far as vague stories go, one says that Valentine was a priest who secretly married couples after Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers. Valentine was put to death for his deeds. Another story suggests that Valentine was put to death for helping beaten and tortured Christians escape prison, he wrote a letter to the jailor’s daughter and signed it ‘From your Valentine’.

At any rate, Valentine definitely made an impact and here we are, two months after blowing all our cash on gifts, doing it again. At least most expenditures will be focused on a few specific things, such as chocolate, valentines day flowers, and any and all things red and/or pink.

This year I wanted to try to dig up some information on exactly what this saint was about, only to find vague stories about why his legend helps Mastercard and Visa make their yearly sales goals. Although I didn’t find any information that satisfied my curiosity, I will say that I am impressed with one thing. Despite how cruel human beings can be to each other, one thing is certain, and that is that we still find ways to celebrate love.

Don’t you remember when you were in kindergarten and you spent the afternoon cutting hearts out of pink and red construction paper? Then there was the list of your pals that you were going to give one to, but saved the best and biggest heart for that one little cutie pie? Those were the days, I tell you. Love was so uncomplicated, yet so real.

What you could do for your sweetheart (or what your sweetheart would do for you) as you grew older depended on several factors, including the size of your wallet and the depth of your concern for that other person. For some, a simple card and a walk in the park holding hands would do, and for others, nothing short of a romantic dinner, roses, or even a marriage proposal would satisfy. All in all, it’s the effort that counts.

Some couples don’t need tokens, however, to prove their love to each other. They know what they have with each other, and that’s all that matters to them, flowers or no flowers. Now that’s some real love, or some real denial. Either way, Valentine’s Day is here every year to make us face up to what we have or what we are lacking in love. If you find yourself alone this year on February 14th, do not despair. Find a mirror, smile, and decide how you can better care for yourself from that day on – I think Valentine would approve.

Chandra Adams
Author
Shades of Retribution
www.AdrolitePress.com
www.ChandraAdams.com

Getting Used To Pets

Getting Used To Pets

I visited a friend of mine last night and she has the cutest dog. I’m not much of a pet-lover, I must admit. Growing up we only had one pet, and he stayed in the backyard most of the time in his own house. He was a sweet puppy, but as he got older he got considerably excited about everything and I just made the decision to steer clear. Most of my other experiences with dogs include getting chased down the street and when I wasn’t being chased I would be well aware as a youngster that I needed to watch my back around many of the neighborhood dogs or be prepared to possibly lose a chunk of my behind.

As an adult, I can’t say I have fared much better with dogs. I recall attending a baby shower a few years ago and the hostess’ dog spent the entire time jumping all over everyone. He was a large dog, too, so it got to be a bit unbearable. Looking back, I really blame the owner, I mean, it was a baby shower, not Golden Gate Park.

Getting back to my friend’s dog, after a couple of hours of visiting with her and another friend, I noticed that her pet was very quiet and stayed to himself. As soon as I asked about him, his ears perked up and he made his way over to the dining room table. Before I knew it, I started petting him, and when I realized how much he was enjoying the attention, I continued to talk with him and rub his head. Whenever I would stop, he would make every gesture he could think to let me know that he wanted me to continue. When I finally left my friend’s house to return home, I started thinking about how nice it would be to own one of my own, and the thought surprised me a little.

After spending several years feeling threatened by dogs, I had decided that if I ever owned a pet, it would be a cat. Cats seemed clean, and were very discreet and aloof. Sounded like an ideal situation to me, until I was once again visiting a friend and the resident cats (there were three of them, I think) decided that they didn’t know me and that I didn’t belong there. They circled, jumped, and became a lot more aggressive than I ever would have expected from some housecats. Once I found out about the fur balls and scratched up furniture, I decided that I would remain a petless woman.

I have come full circle with regard to dogs. I’m still not totally convinced that I’m ready to take care of one, but I’ll tell you, they are a heck of a lot more fun than cats. They love to be around you, can be helpful, and will even protect you if the need arose. What more can you ask for in a pet? As far as dressing them up in capes and hats and furs and all that junk, you can keep it, but Pet ID Tags will work and you can get as creative as you want with those without getting weird about it. It feels good to be a little more tolerant of dogs, and it helps me understand people who have formed strong attachments to theirs as well. Who would have thought one cute little fluffy dog could make the world seem a little better?

Chandra Adams
Author
Shades of Retribution
www.AdrolitePress.com
www.ChandraAdams.com

Rising Health Care Costs Part 2

Rising Health Care Costs Part 2

According to Eurweb.com, Angela Bofill, at the age of 51 has suffered a stroke. To make matters worse, she does not have health insurance.

Just to give a little background on Ms. Bofill for those who may not be familiar with her, she is a jazz vocalist who made her debut in the late 1970’s. Some of her bigger hits include ‘This Time I’ll Be Sweeter’ and ‘I Try’ which was remade by Will Downing.

I became a fan of hers after over a decade of wishing I didn’t have to listen to her day in and day out. One of my older sisters played her music over and over and I just really couldn’t stand hearing her voice. Then, I think it was in 1992, I attended The Long Beach Jazz Festival where she was part of the lineup. Let me tell you, hearing someone sing live can really change your mind about the quality of their voice and their music. Ever since that festival, I have loved her songs and am saddened to hear of her illness. Unfortunately she is now paralyzed on one side and her friends are donating money and a benefit concert to help her cover those astronomical bills she will undoubtedly face.

I really hate to hear that one our great artists is suffering in such a manner. I am unsure of her financial situation and why she would not have health insurance for herself, but it is not doubt a shame that anyone in this country should have to go without. That may sound idealistic to some, but the reality of the situation is that this is the richest country in the world. I am very proud to be an American and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else in this world, but let’s face some facts – the quality of life here appears to be diminishing and I point to the absence of health care for many people as a determining factor of this condition.

Sure, after I turned twenty-three I could no longer be included on my parent’s health plan so I went without for a while. When I was in graduate school, I had to go forego health insurance. At some point in many of our lives, we have to sacrifice and do without it for any number of reasons. But just because someone doesn’t have it, it shouldn’t mean that they might face financial ruin should he or she become ill.

My individual health plan is currently eating me alive, but I am gratefully insured. Thankfully, Angela Bofill has a number of friends who are apparently able to stage a benefit concert to help her with her needs. What’s happening to all of those people who won’t see proceeds from a benefit concert when they fall on hard times? It gives us all something to think about with our own situations and those of our neighbors. Our health in many ways is all we have, and our society must find better and more creative ways to assist all members in protecting it and that of their loved ones.


Chandra Adams
Author
Shades of Retribution
www.AdrolitePress.com
www.ChandraAdams.com

The Pain of Rising Health Care Costs

The Pain of Rising Health Care Costs

My individual health plan went up another $47 per month. Every week or so, I hear on the news that health care costs are going to rise and it is affecting more and more people. Here in California, one in six people are uninsured, which is higher than the national average.
There’s also the fact that I have to dish out $25 every time I visit my doctor, plus a $250 deductible on prescriptions. And it turns out that we sometimes as patients and consumers don’t know exactly if our medications are helping or hurting. Vioxx, the painkiller, turns out to be just a killer for some, since it doubles the risk of blood clots, heart attacks and strokes in those who take it, as any vioxx attorney could tell you.
If all of these additional costs sounds excessive, it is because they are. I am self-employed, and my biggest expense next to marketing is health care. Luckily for me I don’t have any significant health problems, nor do I have children at the present time. I can’t imagine the cost of health care for large families, and indeed it is easy to see why so many are going without.
Children should be guaranteed access to quality healthcare until they reach 18 years of age. Adults should be able to pay based on their income. That sounds like a fair distribution to me. I know it is easier to believe that everyone has to fend for himself or herself, but the fact of the matter is that if one of us loses, all of us lose.
Now I can cut back on a few movies and cd’s to meet my higher health plan cost – it will probably help me focus on getting fitter and more healthy anyway. But my heart goes out to those unable to afford good care, and I hope that our decision-makers can start to make the necessary reforms to fit the reality of those people with low incomes.

Chandra Adams
Author
Shades of Retribution
www.AdrolitePress.com
www.ChandraAdams.com

The Scorned Bachelorette in Paris

The Scorned Bachelorette in Paris

The other night I was talking to a good friend of mine who had just moved to North Carolina. We talk as if we still live only half an hour away from each other, so as I’m walking in the door, she is in the middle of watching The Bachelor: Paris. Well, more like the end, where apparently one of the bachelorettes got more than just a little irritated that she wasn’t invited back for the next round. That is one show I have refused to watch, but I’ll tell you, after what my friend described, I just had to check it out.

So I sat through the show – what a catch the new bachelor is for any young lady looking for love! He’s a doctor, wears that kind of smirk that lets you know that he KNOWS he looks good, and overall, seems like a decent human being. I mean, they even got one of his patients to explain how he saved her life after a heart attack, and she worked really very hard to sound sincere. They hugged after a staged check-up in his office and everything. Would you hug your doctor? And if he or she hugged you, would you consider suing them for sexual harassment? Oh, calm down I’m just joking around.

Anyhow, Allie G. was her name, and she really showed out. After Travis made his choices, she confronted him and questioned whether he found her attractive. I thought she was going to jump up and bite his ear off at any given moment and chew it while she demanded answers. Excuse me, sweetheart, have you ever heard of losing gracefully? And how about not looking so desperate in front of millions of people? She went on to mention to a couple of the other contestants that her eggs were rotting as she moaned and groaned about the rejection. Yuck. What an image, huh? I’m sure she still can’t figure out why Travis didn’t want to see her again.

If her behavior were any indication of things to come, I’d say that this is going to be a fight to the death for the remaining contestants. A good-looking doctor husband is what every little girl dreams of for herself and Barbie, and what just about every woman wishes for at some point in her life when she is looking for that special guy. Add to the mix some rapidly spoiling eggs, and oh, what a pathetic scene we have before us. Ms. G is obviously an accomplished woman and considered by most standards attractive. Either her family is pressuring her mercilessly to get hitched, or she has some screws loose. Which leads us to the question of why anyone would want their search for a mate televised. It would be a great move if you’re looking to break into modeling, acting, or you need some serious PR for your business venture or career. I’m not necessarily judging though – hey, whatever floats your boat, you know? But if you’re so serious about it that it warrants behaving like you need to be on medication, I’d say a safe bet would be to take it off-camera.

The good thing about it is that I don’t need to tune in next week, because she won’t be there to make a scene. I have enough reality shows to watch, and since American Idol is coming back, I have to devote the free time I have to watching that. Allie G., I hope you live this one down and really just kind of calm down.

Chandra Adams
Author
Shades of Retribution
www.AdrolitePress.com
www.ChandraAdams.com