what are we searching for out there?

I was surfing the net today, and came across one of those "top search" lists. I always wonder who puts them together, and whether or not the surveying is done in a full 24-hour period. How can you really tell that their research is valid? The top 3 searches today, apparently are year-round faves:
Paris Hilton (duh...)
WWE (wrestling, over almost anything else???)
Britney Spears (guess she's still got it

The rankings didn't totally surprise me. That Bush, Obama, Osama, or Hilary didn't make the list DID surprise me.

Bill Gates wasn't on it. Tyra Banks wasn't on it. The Queen of England (and none of the other royals) were on it, either.

To be sure, a lot of people who search on the net are younger than I am, but a rock star, a celebu-tante, and some wrestlers are what pique the interest of the most people on the net?

Apparently, the top searches on Google for all of 2006 were: 1. paris hilton2. orlando bloom3. cancer4. podcasting5. hurricane katrina6. bankruptcy7. martina hingis8. autism9. 2006 nfl draft10. celebrity big brother 2006

I'm glad to see that in the top ten, at least Hurricane Katrina and podcasting made it into the rankings. And...autism?

One has to wonder.

my Day of Beauty at Warren Tricomi Salon

When I was born, my hair was a bright orange that turned light blonde. As a child, it was strawberry blonde, with coppery strands that glinted like fire in the sun. It was so unusual that my mother sometimes asked me if I "did something" to it to make it that color. I didn't. My hair might be frizzy, curly and sometimes, uncooperative, but it always was a beautiful color.

Nothing lasts forever. When a few strands of silver started to clash with the copper, I freaked! I ran to a swanky (and expensive) salon, thinking I'd whisk away the greys with a few highlights. Alas, the colorist and I were apparently speaking different languages, and when I left, I had dark red hair! I had to admit it was a change (and change is good), but not that good--I hated it! Worse, I quickly learned that you get a "skunk line" down the middle of your head the minute the color starts to fade and your hair starts to grow. I couldn't afford the time, money and effort to keep touching it up and I longed for my own, nautural color back.

A friend (whose blonde hair I always thought was completely natural) came to the rescue with another salon that was the direct opposite of swanky (you change in the bathroom and put your things on a hook along with the stylist's lunch and shopping), but the colorist was personable, and she listened to what my needs were instead of imposing her vision. Best of all, the neighborhood was fun to visit--almost like being in another city entirely. She managed to get my hair somewhat back to "normal" between blonde, and red.

But nothing lasts forever. Too much hair dye over too long a period of time made my hair dry and brassy. Worse, it was splotchy. I waited as long as I could stand it, and when it was not only brassy, but faded, I'd had enough....and that's how I ended up at the Warren Tricomi salon on 57th Street in Manhattan.

I admit I was nervous. The salon is pricey and in the high-rent district off 5th avenye, a far cry from the low-key operation I'd been visiting. But my hair was really a mess, and Fashion Week is coming. I figured I wouldn't look any worse, and with luck, I'd look a lot better.

I felt a bit better being greeted at the door by an outgoing, stylish man named Paul who called me by name (nice touch). He directed to change (not in a bathroom but in a dressing room with beautiful, silk, maroon drapes) and to take a seat. I wasn't seated more than just a couple of minutes when colorist Simone's Assistant greeted me and brought me a glass of ice water (there is a complete "bar" at Warren Tricomi which is a nice touch if you are going to be there a while). Simone introduced herself and was very businesslike. I know that the salon is frequented by socialites, celebrities, and high-profile regulars. The thought was a bit intimidating, so I let it drop that we were both in the "beauty biz" but in different part of it. "Well, then I'd better do a good job," Simone gently joked.

I won't bore you with all the conversation, but Simone (very gently) informed me of something I already knew but didn't want to face: that as you age your hair color and perhaps, even the tone of your skin, changes. Some people go grey, some get darker. In my case, I didn't have much grey, but my strawberry blonde hair was not the same color anymore (is there anything really good about aging?). In any case, Simone suggested that I make my hair lighter without any red.

Red has always been my trademark....I wondered whether I should trust this virtual stranger. But Warren Tricomi is known for amazing makeovers (I've seen them do their magic on tv shows) and of course, they work their magic on models for designers at Fashion Week. The salon uses Redken and Wella products, and also has it's own line of signature products as well (I will be reviewing some of them in the next couple of What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review columns). Looking around the large salon with it's slightly "Moroccan" and very chic vibe, and assessing the other patrons (who were not at all strange-looking), mostly expensively dressed and attractive, I decided to go with Simone's professional opinion. After, all, I am someone who writes abuot beauty and fashion, who is a certified image consultant, and who is known for giving advice about life and career to others--but when it comes to myself...well, let's just say I can be as myopic as the next person.

In a flash, Simone foiled, mixed, brushed on, and applied color to fix the blotches and turn my straw back into gold. A treatment that I think is one of the new, Warren Tricomi product lines made it soft and shiny. My hair was transformed into a beautiful shade of something that might have been closer to the way it was when I was a child...not blonde, not red...unique..and I got the few, subtle highlights I longed for when I first started this hair-color journey! Before I knew it I also had an amazing cut by Emiliano (adorable to look at and talented as well) that made my hair straight, swingy and stylish.

I walked down the street with attitude...and the salespeople at Bergdorf's were very attentive (they usually totally ignore me). Even the check-out lady at the market seemed a bit friendlier! They say money can't buy happiness...but it CAN buy great hair!

It has been a while since I've looked in the mirror and loved what I see. Now, I do.

The Devil (and You) Wear Prada contest-please help to pick the winners

Dear Advice Sisters Readers:

As you know, we've been running a contest with five luxurious beauty prizes for several months. Now, it's time to pick the winners. We have selected 16 semi-finalists out of hundreds of entries. We asked contestants to tell us about their "devil-esque" or really great, boss. The stories are real, and we want real people (you) to help us pick the most deserving.

The stories about BAD bosses will help make your boss seem much better.....and let the stories about the good bosses, inspire you! You can access these semi-finalist's entries from the Advice Sisters FEATURES Page http://www.advicesisters.net/Features.html or go there directly: http://www.advicesisters.net/devilsemifinalists.html

You have until January 31, 2007 to CAST YOUR VOTES. SO HURRY!

Alison Blackman Dunham (aka. "Advice Sister Alison")

Secrets of the Model Dorm, at the Sanctuary Tribecca Grand

Last night I attended a book launch party for Secrets of the Model Dorm by Amanda Kerline and Phil Oh in the Sanctuary, at the Tribecca Grand Hotel. I've passed the building many times, but never really had either the time or the reason to drop in.

The hotel is chic and modern, the quintessential "I'm cool and I know it" place to be. The Sanctuary is in the way-back part of the bar. Go through the lobby, get to the first part of the bar, go through formidable, opaque glass doors, and you're "in."

I got there early, planning to stay just a short while, but while DJ Prince Language and James Friedman kept the music going, and with a glass of Palmes d'Or Champagne and then an OJ and Svedka (you've got to boost your intake of Vitamin C during cold and flu season--right?) I found the Sanctuary a cozy place to spend a couple of hours.

I was briefly introduced to Amanda Kerline, who was bubbly and beautiful (she is a model, of course). I didn't meet the other author, Phil Oh, who apparently lives in Brooklyn and has some sort of fashion publication called Street Peeper). Phil, if you're out there, get it touch!

The crowd was primarily under 30 and everyone was hugging and air kissing. I have the strong feeling that some of the real people present are "fictionalized" in the book. They were a good looking, lively bunch. Everyone was having a great time.

And, as to the book, I haven't read it yet because I don't have a copy (it just launched a day or two ago). From the descriptions on Amazon, one can assume you'll get a healthy and fast-paced dose of sex, drugs, New York nightlife, and some dishing on how models deal with other models in an industry that can chew a girl up, and spit her out if she's not careful. Should be FUN--especially with Mercedes Fashion Week just a few weeks away.

I hope to get the book from the Simon & Schuster publicist (whom I also met ) and if so, you'll be seeing my review in the next Advice Sisters Enews. If you want to get my book reviews, get the free Enews (go to http://www.advicesisters.net/thankyou.html and sign up)!

alison

Getting Ready For Fashion Week? Here are some "Must-Haves" from the Advice Sisters & the Latest Enews

Fashion Week is just around the corner, but the latest Edition of the ADVICE SISTERS ENEWS has links to articles, and Winter skin care tips you might want to know about. The Enews is bi-monthly and free, but you must sign up for it: http://www.advicesisters.net/thankyou.html

You can visit the Advice Sisters Relationships Web Site and our Features Page to learn about new items and contests throughout 2007, but you'll get even more information fast, and first, through the Enews.

Here are some of the things you'll find inside this issue:

What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion Review Columns for 2007: The first Advice Sisters "What Works" Beauty, Cosmetics &* Fashion review column of 2007 is a large, double-issue, featuring the latest skin and body-care products, and romantic gifts (Valentine's Day is coming). Check it out on January 16th! Don't forget: the What Works Archives for all the columns you may have missed in past years.

Blog Name Change: The Advice Sisters Blog used to be titled "advicesistersblog." When I switched the blog to a new format, I changed the name. It is now: "Advice Sister Alison's Guide to Life, Love & Happiness" The blog http://www.advicesisters.net/advicesistersblog topics will be the same: a wide range of issues about life, culture, travel, career, relationships, style, and other things that interest us in daily life. If you'd like to subscribe to my Blog Feed, the form is at: http://feeds.feedburner.com/advicesistersblog. Kindly visit, and leave a Comment?

New Wedding Double-Take Q&A: I've added the first new Wedding "Double-Take Q&A Advice Column featuring the Advice Sisters' signature "Double-Take" (2 views for every situation) format since my sister, Advice Sister Jessica, died a few years ago. This one features too many bridesmaids for one frustrated bride! Check it out at: http://www.advicesisters.net/Weddings/dt_wedding.htmlNew Article To Kick Off the New Year: "12 Ways to Make Positive Change This Year" is an article The Advice Sisters originally wrote in 2002, but it's just been revised for 2007. This article might just give you the kick-start you need to move forward with your goals -- even before today, ends! Check it out at: http://www.advicesisters.net/WitWisdom/PositiveChange.html

WINTER SKIN CARE TIPS FOR MEN, from Tony Sosnick, Founder, Anthony Logistics

The Winter months can be overly-drying to everyone's skin, but until recently, men tended to suffer and not find a solution. The Advice Sisters consulted, Tony Sosnick, the founder of Anthony Logistics. who was kind enough to share some easy Winter Skin Tips especially for men (of course women can benefit, too):

1. “Drink a lot of water. At least 8 glasses a day. Drinking water can help the skin perform its vital processes of cell regeneration and renewal.”

2. “Use a cleanser for your face and body that is nourishing and hydrating. Look for ingredients such as Aloe Vera, Sodium PCA and Azulene.” For example, the Anthony Logistics for Men Glycolic Facial Cleaner has aloe vera for soothing, glycolic acid to ease away fine lines and vitamins A, C and E to nourish. Cleanses and buffs away surface skin cells, leaving skin smooth and ready for shaving. Helps prevent ingrown hairs and razor burn.

3. “An exfoliate or scrub works great at this time of year, to remove dead skin cells from skin that is dry and flaky. Exfoliators are not just for women, guys...you need them to help free your ingrown hairs as well. The bonus? Your face will feel smooth and moisturized.

4. “Use a rich moisturizer, preferably one with Glycerin at a high level, and SPF protection (or any humectants-based moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.” Moisturizers made just for men are "must-haves." The objective is to protect your skin in the cold, windy winter months. A good choice is a moisturizer made just for men, and free of oil, lanolin and fragrance such as Anthony Logistics for Men Oil Free Moisturizer SPF 15). Use it daily to protect your skin from environmental damage and minimize signs of aging, while avoiding the damaging rays of the sun.

Anthony Logistics can be found at Bath & Body Works Flagship stores, Barneys, Fred Segal, Nordstrom, Sephora and www.anthony.com.

BOOK REVIEWS-MOSTLY FOR THE GIRLS:

Books are great "best friends" any time of the year but they're particularly great, curled up with a cup of tea, on a dreary Winter day or evening. From romance novels to books that help you find a new love or mend a broken heart, here are some of the newest Chick-Lit suggestions to "take you away" from the everyday:

Desire by Leda Swann (Red/Avon) *January 30, 2007, Alluring Tales Awaken the Fantasy, Assorted Authors (Red/Avon) *February 27, 2007, and Into the Darkness, by Delilah Devlin (Red/Avon) *on sale March 27, 2007 fall into a category of women's fiction with erotic themes. In these, from Red/ Avon Books (an imprint of Harper Collins), fantasy is combined with romance and adult situations. As a relationship expert as well as a book reviewer, I'm the first to admit that what's "hot" to one person might not be for the next, but women's erotica as a genre is gaining in popularity and availability. These are mildly erotic, but they are most definitely for adults, containing words and detailed descriptions of adult sexual acts and situations. The main formula is more similar to a traditional romance novel, however, with the main focus of the plot being love, not sex. These have all the mystery, passion and romance of romance novels, but with additional erotic and fantasy. Set in another time and place, or dealing with an improbable situation, women are invited to let themselves go, and lose themselves in a good story with a bit of "naughtiness" openly displayed in a lot of the pages. Into the Darkness , for example, is set in New Orleans, but the heroine, Natalie Lambert and her lover are vampires, dealing with the world of "darkness," so the reader gets a thrill, but not a chill-- that the situation could really happen. Desire features a Victorian woman "forced" to accept a life she isn't prepared for when fate lends a hand. Will love triumph in the end? Alluring Tales Awaken the Fantasy features 7 stories by different authors in a mixture of styles and settings, so there should be something to "awaken the fantasies" of most readers. If you want to read one of these, the plain, shiny red covers and simple black lettering will let you read one of these in public, and not feel foolish.

Swept Away by Toni Blake (Red/Avon, 2006) is a milder, but still sexy book of women's fiction. Katrina Spencer is a reluctant bride-to-be begs off her own bachelorette weekend in Vegas, to be alone at a deserted island hideaway owned by her family. While she is contemplating whether or not she can go through with the wedding, a former flame with a checkered past, literally washes up on the shore. Improbably, but the rest of the book packs some "heat" as they spend some steamy days and nights together that will make you want to reach for suntan lotion (and a fan)! It's not War & Peace, but it makes for good, escapist, fun.

I'm in no Mood For Love by Rachel Gibson Avon/Romance 2006) will be a Valentine's elixir for the female singleton who wishes her prince would come, but has currently found only toads. A typical "chit lit" romance, "Clare Wingate," is pretty, and young, and of course, rich. She has her career on track, great friends, and incredible clothes (designer name-dropping in chick-lit fiction is de rigueur). Wacky situations prevail, as our heroine finds her way in and out of romantic situations that are just this side of realistic. If you're not in the mood for love, I'm in no Mood For Love will make you feel positive that the princes are out there, if you give love a chance. Fun, fast-paced, "feel-good" reading whether you are single, or not.

The Prince Kidnaps A Bride by Christina Dodd (Avon Historical Romance, 2006) is a classic romance novel, complete with handsome prince and beautiful princesses, unrequited love, loss, an demanding Grandmother, and of course, romance. The heroine is Crown Princess Sorcha, heir to the throne of Beaumontagne. Although promised in marriage to someone she barely knows or likes, and responsible for the continuation of her family's royal line, her path to the throne and love, isn't smooth. This is a fast-paced book that continues to build excitement as the plot unfolds. Christina Dodd obviously knows her craft, well. The book is a feel-good. If your own love life isn't great, this is a fun , fantasy pick-me-up.

Better Single Than Sorry by Jen Scheftt (William Morrow, 2007) *on sale 1/23/07 is not a love story or a romance novel, but it is a story of love and romance (or lack of it). The author is Jen Scheftt, made famous as a reality TV "personality" by her appearance on the Bachelor (where she got the guy, but gave him up) and then, as the bachelorette, where she walked off the show, still a singleton. The focus of this book isn't how to find a man, but how to live well while you are single, whether you choose to be or not. Jen's personal experience as a single woman is honest and well intentioned, but it doesn't make her an expert on the topic of love and relationships. As a relationship expert, I have to look at all the angles, and there are some good ones in this book. Human feelings have not changed in hundreds, maybe thousands, of years. A good relationship book provides readers with information or ideas that help them think differently about their own situation and move forward in their lives. Better Single Than Sorry does that, and does it well. Get it for a friend who is stuck in a bad relationship, feeling bad about a heartbreak, or if you feel that you may "never love again." You will, and if you read Better Single Than Sorry, the next relationship could be "the one!"

Welcome To Your Crisis by Laura Day (Little Brown, 2006/paperback January 2007) I was eager to read this book, especially since it's a new year and so many people are saying "Oh, my life is such a mess!." Without any embellishments such as graphics or graphs, the 12 chapter, 162-page book is a dry-read. Although it isn't necessarily going to be the result everyone gets from reading Welcome To Your Crisis the author speaks from experience: When her marriage ended, leaving her with no money and with a newborn son to raise, Ms. Day ditched her former life and reinvented herself. A few years later, she had earned almost $4 million. Like any goal, the path from crisis (or crisis prevention) to something better isn't always easy or clear at the beginning. You're going to have to work at it. There are questions you must ask, and exercises you must follow if you really want to get the most of out this book. If you do the work, and do it honestly, you may find yourself on the way to your own, life-changing experience. Goof for women and for the guys, too.

To The Media, Authors and Publishers: Alison Blackman Dunham (aka. "Advice Sister Alison") is a life and career expert and freelance writer. If you'd like to quote or interview her, or If you would like to arrange for a syndicated version of this ENews or any of the Advice Sisters online content, please email Alison at: advicesisters@advicesisters.net

LIKE THIS: GET YOUR OWN COPY: The Enews is bi-monthly and free, but you must sign up for it: http://www.advicesisters.net/thankyou.html

Copyright 2007 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham, The Advice Sisters. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. No portion of this content may be copied or used in any without written permission. For information about syndicated Advice Sisters content. email advicesisters@advicesisters.net

Forget Winter, The Accessories Show & Moda Manhattan Look To Spring/Summer 2007

For the last three season, on the specific day I plan to attend the Moda Manhattan and Accessories the Show at the Javits Center in New York, disaster strikes. This season was no different (could I be jinxed?) but I was determined --before the show closed today, I was going to attend.

The organizer of the Moda Manhattan Show (and I'd guess, Accessories The Show as well) is Business Journals Inc (BJI), a business media company that produces 5 business-to-business magazines, 8 trade shows, and a number of seminars and web sites. They have always been gracious to the press, and attending the Moda Mahattan and the Accessories shows is always a very pleasant experience. Moda Manhattan offers juried, ready-to-wear fashion, while the Accessories Show is the only juried, all-accessories trade event in the entire USA. These shows attract throngs of buyers from speciality stores and boutiques, to department stores, catalogues, and even duty free shops looking to see what's available for the next season in activewear, special occasion/evening, outerwear/coats, suits/ careerwear, dresses, knitwear/sweaters, sportswear, related separates, soft separates, loungewear/sleepwear, fur/leather, and accessories from belts to bags to hats to tons and tons and tons of jewelry in all price points. If you can't spot trends here, you're not looking very hard.

It was pretty cold outside, especially after days of record-breaking warm weather, but I began to "think Spring" as I walked in and heard "Itsy bitsy, teeny weeny, yellow polkadot bikini" blaring out of speakers into the exhibit hall. Once inside and walking the aisles, I wished I was a buyer, because there is a dizzying array of "eye candy" that will soon find its way into stores and I want a lot of it -- now But these are shows for writing orders, not retail sales . Even so, my press badge gives me the opportunity to check out "what's next," and I always find at least a few unique items that I know readers of my Advice Sisters online publications, will want to know about.

For example, Spare Change Jewelry by Designers Erin Walker and Betty Bobrow create reasonably-priced, "stretchy" fashion jewelry (made in Chicago) that supposedly appeals to young girls to teens, but when I saw their CZ rings and necklaces, I realized they have a huge market for women, too. Stacked up on a post were rings made of stretchy rounds of material in various colors, the centerpiece of which was a large, cubic zirconia (and I mean, eye-poppingly large--I'm estimating a 20-carat round). They're obviously fake, and obviously meant to be fun, and they are. What I love about these (besides the fact that they retail for only around $20.00) is that the soft, really stretchy fabric that comprises the "ring" really is "one size fits all." If your fingers are tiny (mine are, and I never get big rings that fit) the "ring" part won't need to stretch much, but if you are like my friend, who has large fingers, the ring easily stretches to fit without pulling or digging into your hand. "You'll forget you have it on" said the woman I met at the booth (I think it was Erin). She was right--it's effortless fashion. Moms and daughters , best friends, even women who are gaining or losing weight can share and wear and get a bit of "bliing" for not a lot of cash. There are matching necklaces, too.

I also liked the Locked by Love bracelets from I.D. Jewelry. The simple, but eye-catching design pairs a corded bracelet with an adjustable slide on both sides for a perfect fit, with two silvery "cuffs." You fasten the bracelet by angling the cuffs and sliding each cuff into one another. There were simple silver ones, heart-shaped ones, and even CZ-studded bracelets in small, medium and large (so men can wear them, too). I thought these Locked to Love bracelets were really unique. Apparently, so do celebrities such as Teri Hatcher, Paris and Nicky Hilton, Kelly Clarkson, Kelly Osbourne, Sylvestor Stallone, and even Ice Cube, just to name a few.

So what else will we be seeing for Spring/Summer 2007? At Moda Mahattan, where there were more than 450 lines exhibited, Trapeze, tent, baby doll, sack dresses in beige, black, brown, navy, mauve, and a bit of soft lemon and lime predominated, with almost no brights at all. Rock "Color, I need color!" I heard a buyer, sigh. And the styles were conservative and subdues, too. Rock star vibe replaces hip hop bling, body-baring fashion is out, and unconstructed, flowing, and perhaps, a bit looser clothes seemed to be the popular offering. But the clothes we saw on the runways during Spring 2007 Olympus Fashion Week were also subdued and covered-up, so none of this was a big surprise. There seemed to be as many long dresses and short ones, and the short ones weren't mico-mini. and few were anything but conservative and definitely not splashy. My general impression was that fashion is just reflecting the mood of the country. The items we'll be seeing for sale in stores are attractive and you'll want to stock up, but I miss the "pop!" and sex appeal of season's past.

The accessories exhibits, on the other hand, were a bright spot, literally and figuratively, and may provide buyers in the stores with excitment, after all. Row upon row, table upon table were laden with embelished and studded belts and bags, large-brimmed hats, and so much jewelry from huge (the size of a fist) crosses and pendants, to diminutive chains dangling a crystal or a dainty bead. One trend I liked was the use of natural material such as mother or pearl and wood, either carved, or added to long chains. Crystals and crystal beads add shine and glitz to otherwise restrained fashions. Flip-flops and sandals with crystals, beads, feathers, and embellishments were popular as well. The red, straw satchel with leather handles and wild, floral print cotton lining from Magid (created expressly for Accessories, the Show and Moda Manhattan) and given to VIPs and press, summed up the exciting feel of the accessories nicely: Bold, functional, bright, and fun to wear.

As I left "Wipeout" was blaring through the speakers. I was exhausted, "wiped out" but glad I'd taken the time to attend, and report on the Spring/Summer '07 trends for you!

Alison

Wisdom for the New Year

A friend sent me a list of inspirational sayings. Since all of these are in the public domain, and it's still the first week of the new year (when we can all use a bit of inspiration) I am sharing the best of them with you:

A man is not honest simply because he never had a chance to steal.Yiddish Proverb


A hero is someone who can keep his mouth shut when he is right.Yiddish Proverb

One of life's greatest mysteries is how the boy who wasn't good enough to marry your daughter can be the father of the smartest grandchild in the world.Jewish Proverb


"The nice thing about being a celebrity is that if you bore people they think it's their fault."-Henry Kissinger

trying one more time!

After a few days of burning the proverbial midnight oil, trying to figure out what I did wrong when I moved this blog from the old blogger format to the new one, I finally, after literally hours and hours and hours of experimentation, am able to publish posts again.

I have to say, NO THANKS TO BLOGGER and GOOGLE. True, the third party software they offer is generally user-friendly and it is free, but I would have paid right up front to have five minutes (that is all I needed) to have someone walk me through my settings so I could fix the small problem that stopped me absolutely cold.

Blogger and Google: if anyone on your staff ever finds this blog and this post, please be assured that I think your programs are awesome, but if you are going to put software out there for the general public to use, wouldn't it be reasonable to stand by it, with a help desk? FAQ's are great unless you get stuck and just don't understand it. To refuse even an email address to write to is so, well, irresponsible!

Ok, I know: you would be inudated with people if you just put yourself out there for free and 24/7 for assistance, but I'd have been happy to pay, by the minute, if necessary. I knew I'd only need a few minutes to fix what should have been obvious, but wasn't.

To my readers: What I have learned from this entirely frustrating, time-wasting, unproductive and unpleasant process is that either you have to figure it out yourself (which ain't easy, folks) or give up entirely, or throw yourself on the mercy of user groups (great bunch, but they can't be spending all of their workdays helping people with the same, relentless problems either, and sometimes they do not give accurate direction because they are not profesionals, just folks who know a bit more than the average).

Note that while I was making changes I didn't want, I made one I did want: instead of the old title: askalisonsadvicesistersblog it's now Advice Sister Alison's Guide to Life, Love and Happiness.

I hope you like the change, and I hope this is the last test post I need to make

alison

There's nothing like a human interface

If you subscribe to this blog, you probably received a number of posts that simply said "test" in the past 24 hours. The reason? Blogger has been "encouraging" it's users to migrate their old blogs into their new program, fueled by Google groups.

I resisted, and resisted, but now that the new program is out of beta, I finally I decided that I ought to move the Advice Sisters blog.

What a mistake!

For starters, I now have a more complicated sign-in procedure which takes more time. Once in the dashboard, I see little benefit except it's more confusing. But the worst part of all is that the settings for the blog were messed up in the move, and I cannot get new posts to publish on the blog that has been hosted on my web site, advicesisters.net.

I used the (limited) knowledge of have as a webmistress to try and figure out the problems. I looked at blogger's FAQs (which only encouraged me to make adjustments that made the problem worse). I posted on the user groups (no one answered except for one helpful soul who told me I had "warnings and errors" (duh!)

I tried to find a single human interface..this is a problem with my fundamental lack of understanding of how paths and directories work (although I have some knowledge, apparently not the right pieces). A simple phone call or email to a real person might help.

After spending an hour (my long distance dollar, of course) to Godaddy.com all I came away with is the knowledge that if you don't pay for Godaddy's blog software, you're not going to get any true assistance (although the tech guy really did try to help me until he realized I wasn't using Goddaddy's blog).

If you are reading this either on the feed or hopefully, online, please comment and let me know.

I miss the good old days, where someone would still pick up a phone or answer an email. Now, if you don't get pity from someone on a users group (yeah, let the consumers help each other instead of the company that encourages them to use their products) you are sunk!

Norwegian Pearl--a "simply irresistable" Gem from Norwegian Cruise Lines

The Norwegian Pearl is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Latest Gem: The slogan for the 93,530-ton, 2,384-passenger ship Norwegian Pearl of Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) is "Simply Irresistable. I discovered why, when I attended the inaugural celebration of this impressive ship this past December.

NCL’s Young Fleet: NCL touts their fleet of 15 ships as the "youngest" on the seas. The Norwegian Pearl, carrying up to 2,394 passengers, is the 7th ship built specifically for"Freestyle Cruising," a signature of NCL that sets it apart from other cruise lines. Emphasizing a "do whatever" attitude, NCL sees their passengers as individualists and who don’t want to be regimented on vacation and may wish to go with the flow, or not. I loved the brilliant, new television commercials that make the clear point that NCL passengers don’t have to deal with dress codes, dining times, or table assignments. If a picture is worth a thousand words, NCL has also created a fantastic graphic: a school of blue fish, with one white fish swimming the other way. Each NCL passenger is a "white fish!" You’ll see the "fish" on everything from print advertising, to the glass doors leading to the pool deck!

Among the Norwegian Pearl’s unique features is the Bliss Ultra Lounge and Night Club, a fantasy room that gives passengers a unique mix of family fun and later night entertainment options. It features the cruise industry’s first four-lane ten-pin bowling alley at sea. The lounge and bar areas, surrounding the bowling lanes, has reclining double couches that look like they’ve been lifted out of a genie’s bottle. On one side, there is also an area with interactive video rides. The back, behind the lanes, has a dance floor, and the entire room features a disco with DJ later at night. The Norwegian Pearl also has the first rock-climbing wall on any NCL ship (constructed on the back of the ships’ funnel), and a pair of ultra luxurious Garden Villas and Deluxe Owner's Suites, plus 10 restaurants, 13 bars and lounges, two swimming pools and a casino. There is truly something for everyone, regardless of age or interests!

The Christening Ceremony: On December 16th, as scattered showers moistened the Miami air, forcing a shore-side ceremony inside the opulent show lounge (the Stardust Theater), the Norwegian Pearl was officially named and christened by the Emmy-award-winning entertainer and talk show host (and now, Godmother to the Norwegian Pearl), Rosie O'Donnell. NCL is a very family-friendly line, and Ms. O’Donnell and her partner Kelli O’Donnell have a strong connection to NCL not just through their personal love of cruising, but by their association with R Family Vacations, http://www.rfamilyvacations.com/. Founded in 2004 by Kelli and Gregg Kaminisky, this vacation company and NCL made history, when R. Family vacations chartered the NCL Norwegian Dawn for the industry's first ever gay family cruise. This concept was so unique that HBO made it the subject of a documentary: "All Aboard! Rosie's Family Cruise," which was subsequently nominated for three Emmy awards. R Family Vacations, has chartered four ships for gay and lesbian family-friendly cruises from NCL. The cruise line has also been generous in it’s support Rosie’s For All Kids Foundation, http://www.forallkids.org/site.php , a non-profit organizations serving economically disadvantaged and at-risk children and their families (see below).

As we sipped champagne, members of the Miami Philharmonic Miami provided the accompaniment for a local Miami chamber choir, singing holiday songs. Then the celebration really got going. As the Robert Palmer song "Simply Irresistable" boomed over loud speakers and the iconic girls in the Palmer video strutted their stuff on a video screen, four sexy dancers from the Norwegian Pearl’s dance troupe, dressed in glittery, bright blue mini-dresses, appeared onstage, holding guitars and swaying to the music in the video.
A christening celebration wouldn’t be proper without some serious ritual, of course. The Norwegian Pearl's Cruise Director Matthew introduced a color guard from the Miami sector of the United States Coast Guard who marched to the front of the stage as "The Star Spangled Banner" was played. Reverend Kevin Johnson blessed the ship. The handsome, charismatic President and CEO of NCL Corporation, Colin Veitch took the microphone, made a few remarks and introduced Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri KT Lim. We later learned that Mr. Lim was actually onboard not just for the 2-night inaugural sailing, but for the 5-day sailing (on which my husband and I were passengers) that followed. Acknowledged were employees who have been with NCL for over 18 years (quite a few of them sitting in the first half dozen rows) along some key personnel, dignitaries, family members, and Rosie O’Donnell’s partner, Kelli Carpenter O’Donnell.

Rosie The Godmother: Rose O’Donnell might have a few differences with celebrities such as Donald Trump, but she was greeted with applause and cheers as she walked up to the stage. Dressed dressed casually for NCL’s signature (no dress code) "Freestyle Cruising," Rosie wore in black pants, and a pink and blue-striped shirt. A"video cam" had been rigged up so we could see Rosie pull the level that would send the traditional bottle of champagne hurling against the hull to christen the ship. When Rosie pulled the lever, however, nothing happened! We did see the bottle smash successfully on her second try. Just for laughs, Rosie yanked the lever a few more times, and streamers fell from the ceiling in the Stardust Theater as if it was New Years’ Eve.

Happy 40th Birthday, NCL: After the official festivities, CEO Colin Veitch took the microphone, and reflected on Norwegian Cruise Line’s 40-year history, as the line marked it’s 40th anniversary the same weeks as this inaugural. He also treated us to a visual trip down NCL’s memory lane, showing the former ships in the line, to the present day. To close the festivities, we were treated to a lighthearted corporate video featuring NCL employees, including Veitch and Executive Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Passenger Services Andy Stuart. Carrying electric guitars, they hammed their way throughout the ship, lip-synching and dancing (along with members of the crew), to Robert Palmer’s video (you guessed it) "Simply Irresistible."
We hadn’t even left the dock, but the Stardust Theater pulsed with excitement, people talking, laughing, and making new friends. It is the people on the ship that make it come alive. I definitely felt the pulse of the pearl, stirring! *watch for my personal comments and review of the Norwegian Pearl, shortly.

Helping Children, Helping Families, Building Community: Rosie and Kelli O’Donnell are parents to four children, and they are dedicated to helping children in need throughout the United States. Since 1977, the O’Donnell’s charity, Rosie’s For All Kids Foundation, http://www.forallkids.org/site.php, has awarded more than $15 million in early childhood care and education program grants to over 1,100 non-profit organizations serving economically disadvantaged and at-risk children and their families. The foundation has also helped to build 27 day care centers (aka. "Cutie Patootie Centers") in low income areas throughout the United States and has created "Project Katrina," to help provide child care and other services to Louisiana children and families who have been affected by Hurricane Katrina. Norwegian Cruise Lines has been a generous supporter of Rosie’s For All Kids Foundation, too. The cruise line donated the Norwegian Pearl to Rosie’s For All Kids Foundation, for a one-night charity event that raised a whopping $600,000.


2007 Cruise Itineraries and Information: NCL ships sail just about everyone you’d ever want to visit. For more information on NCL cruises visit their web site: http://www.ncl.com/nclweb/home.html

A New Year, New Start, News-The Advice Sisters

If you read this blog regularly, you know that there hasn't been much activity on it during the last few weeks of 2006...but that doesn't mean that I've been sitting on my you-know-what, doing nothing. Definitely not! Aside from providing personal advice to private clients by email, I've been adding new advice content to The Advice Sisters Great Relationships Web Site. I will continue to add new things regularly as 2007 unfolds, so please visit the FEATURES PAGE often to see what's new including the latest What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion Review Columns, "Double-Take" Q&A, Articles,"Ask Alison-Managing Your Life and Career Columns" contests, Advice Sisters' news, and more!

In December, I was the subject of the latest"Hook Me Up" video show on Yahoo! Tech. You can see my episode: "Dear Alison, Help Me Podcast" at: http://tech.yahoo.com/se . This is your chance to see that there really is an "Advice Sister" behind this computer screen! In this episode, "Emergency Makeover Technician" Byron Este literally brings holiday "cheer" to my life by bringing me the essentials of podcasting. Please watch. You will probably need an updated Windows Media Player or Real Player to get the show (some of my fans and friends with older computers and dial-up may have some trouble...if that happens Contact Me and we will do our best to help you view the video!

Later in December, I was invited to the inagural celebration and first official voyage of Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Pearl. The 93,530-ton, 2,384-passenger ship isNorwegian Cruise Line’s newest Jewel-class ship, and quite a beautiful and impressive one at that. Popular talk show host and Emmy award-winner Rosie O'Donnell was appointed the ships' Godmother (every ship has one to name her, and they are usually women of note). The Norwegian Pearl’s slogan is: "Simply Irresistible" and that she is! I'll be posting more information about the Norwegian Pearl, shortly.

FYI: The Devil (and YOU) Wear Prada Contest is Now Closed: The Devil (and You) Wear Prada Contest ended December 31, 2006. We are in the process of reviewing hundreds of awesome entries, and will let you know who the winner are shortly. Five people will receive more than $1,000 worth of ultra-luxe products including some of the beauty products and colors used by makeup artists in the film: The Devil Wears Prada, from Benefit, Dior, and Z. Bigatti. If you missed this contest, Subscribe to our free, bi-monthly Enews and our Advice Sisters Forums , and be among the first to learn about our next contest!

I have added the first Advice Sisters® "Double-Take" Wedding Q&A that I've written since Advice Sister Jessica died. Check it out on http://www.advicesisters.net/ I'll soon be adding the first "What Works" Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion Review Column of 2007. It will be a double-issue featuring the latest skin and body-care products, and romantic gifts (Valentine's Day is coming) to make the start of 2007, beautiful and beat the Winter Blues. The What Works Archives" has literally thousands of reviews and links to beauty and fashion-related items you may have missed over the years.

Also in December, I also posted a new article -- one that I hope will help make our world just a little nicer. If you got a cell phone, MP3 player, or another electronic device during the holidays you must read The Advice Sisters Etiquette for Portable Devices It will give you the lowdown on using these little wonders without driving everyone around you, crazy!

My sister, Jessica Blackman Freedman, aka. "Advice Sister Jessica," loved New Years, as did I. Each year we would make plans for a full-packed celebration weekend, filled with love, happiness, and optimism for the future. After her death, I realized that I couldn't re-create this feeling with anyone else ever again, but I am trying to create new traditions. This year, as I've done the past few years, I celebrated the New Year quietly with my husband and some dear friends. Alas, my 16+ year old cat (*we adopted her 14 years ago and she was at least 2 then), was sick and possibly, dying. On New Years day my husband and I rushed home from our festivities to spend the better part of the day in an emergency room where we discovered our beloved cat had a ruptured anal duct. The cat is miserable, but hanging in there.

One of my new years resolutions (one that I intend to do my best to honor) is to look at the bright side of whatever life hands me. As songester Burl Ives used to say: "watch the donut, not the hole." I figure if we started the year off with something this disgusting, the rest of the year has got to be an improvement. I hope your New Years has started off better than mine, and keeps on the upswing! love, success & happiness to you all Alison Blackman Dunham aka. "Advice Sister Alison"

Alison is on Hook Me Up on Yahoo!Tech--please watch

Hi Everyone:

In December, I became the topic of the last "Hook Me Up" show on Yahoo!Tech. You can see my episode: "Dear Alison, Help Me Podcast" at: http://tech.yahoo.com/se . This is your chance to see that there really is an "Advice Sister" behind this computer screen!

In this episode, "Emergency Makeover Technician" Byron Este literally brings holiday "cheer" to my life by bringing me the essentials of podcasting. I think you can tell from the lighthearted video that camera crew and Bryon were a blast to work with, and it was a great experience.

And the podcasting?.....

I'd like to honestly say that I am a whiz at it now, but "reality" video doesn't always come with the perfect ending. The equipment that Yahoo! gave me to podcast is fantastic, and I have a pretty good idea of what is involved in podcasting, but when the camera crew left and a few days had passed, I still couldn't get my newly-minted test podcast to "publish" correctly using Feed-For-All.

Hopefully though, you'll be hearing my voice on this blog, soon!

Alison

Please watch! You will probably need an updated Windows Media Player or Real Player to get the show (some of my fans and friends with older computers and dial-up may have some trouble...if you do, please leave a comment here and I'll ask Yahoo! Tech what can be done!