......a transplanted Northern chick writing about Myrtle Beach one experience at a time......

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

11 Changes You May Notice When You Return to Myrtle Beach

Haven't been to Myrtle Beach in a while...like maybe since the Summer of 2011?


Here are a few of the many changes you can expect to find upon your return to the Grand Strand:


J. Edwards Steakhouse


If you don't know already; the owner, J. Edward Fleming, died and it seems the place is up for sale. 
I noticed a For Sale sign as I drove by this morning.
I know a lot of older folks who enjoyed going there for the early dinner discounts.  
There's always Bang Bang Shrimp at Bonefish!


2.  The Backgate Interchange
{click on link for a webcam view of the progress
I mean, if you have absolutely nothing else to do!}
Part of the new interchange is seen on the right side
 Looking Northward from Farrow Parkway

{click on images to enlarge}
Looking Southward from Darrow Prkway

3.  New Target Store Complex




4. New McDonald's on Hwy. 544 
{across from New Target next to Ruby Tuesday}
From what I've been able to ascertain...this McD's is owned by the same folks who lay claim to most of  the McD's in the area. I'd like to take this opportunity to make a smart remark:    I hope the Head Manager at this new restaurant treats the employees (and customers) better than they do at the others.  Poor Management obviously trickles down from the top.


5.  Extension of the Boardwalk in the Center of Myrtle Beach
 The Breakwater Inn is Being Razed
This space will be occupied by a new Mexican Restaurant called Bandito's
The Boardwalk will be extended to this point, which is just north of 14th St. Pier

Where the Breakwater Inn once stood.

Seems I'm not the only one interested in the progress of the demolition site.
(as seen from betw. The Dolphin and Sea Park Inn)

6.  Jamin' Leather
Has moved from Surfside Beach to 17 Bypass 
Between the Airport and the Backgate Entrance
On the side heading South


7.  New Library in Surfside Beach
Still on Surfside Drive, just much larger location


8. Expansion of Myrtle Beach Airport Well Underway

9. Drink! is now Club Traxx
I know quite a few people who went to DRINK!
It is now a Gay Club
Embedded in the hill @ Mt. Atlanticus
8th Ave, Myrtle Beach

10.  The TARGET Store on Seaboard St. is Expanding--Adding Grocery Section





I'm so glad to see some right proper competition to Walmart on both Seaboard St. and in Surfside Beach (which is home to one of the busiest Walmarts on the East Coast)


If Walmart is smart, they will change their policy of allowing customers to languish in line forever and a day...because if they don't...then they'll trot on over to the Competition...Target.
Target may not be able to match Walmart on a shelf-to-shelf item and price comparison, but in my way of thinking an .88 cent item at Walmart increases in cost the longer I have to stand in line to purchase it.  
Our time is worth something and Walmart needs to do something way more aggressive by way of customer service beyond posting "Greeters" at the door.


I walked the isles last night at the Target on Seaboard St. and though I shop there often; I took special notice of the prices for grocery items.
Lots of items on sale and the regular prices were very competitive.
And if you've got some coupons to whip out at the register when you pay...all the better!


11.  Book Warehouse Store in Surfside Beach is Closed

Too Bad.  I loved going into the Book Warehouse for very inexpensive books as gifts.



23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 7

A Few Date Ideas 


1.  New South Brewing
I've written about this local Myrtle Beach Brewery after I took a Tour of the Facility back in July, 2011.
I really wanted to purchase a Growler at the end of the Tour, but I had to leave early so I wouldn't miss my Zumba class.
Hey...this chick does not miss her Zumba!


I missed my opportunity and so I recently contacted the nice men over at the Brewery and asked if they'd be open for tours on Valentine's Day...as Tuesdays are one of their tour days.
I also wanted to inquire about getting a Growler.
The Brewery will be open for Tours from between 3-5:30.
I'd try to get there for the 3:00 tour because otherwise it's somewhat up in the air as to when the other one will start.
I think they keep to a routine, but it's not an exact science.
Check out the New South Facebook page for pictures and updates.


The cool thing about purchasing a Growler is that it gets pumped full of freshly crafted beer made in a local facility by local business owners.  And, I have to reiterate...these guys know and love what they do.
It's not a glamorous job by any means and it seems they do more cleaning than anything else, but they produce damn fine beers and you'll get to taste them while you're there.
At the end, you'll have the opportunity to purchase a 6-pack or Growler.
Due to government regulations, you cannot walk in off the street and purchase beer from New South directly.
But, if you go to the website, there is a directory of all of the local Restaurants/Bars which serve New South.


The New South Pale Ale is sold in cans in the Grocery Store.
I've found it in the Piggly Wiggly in Surfside Beach, but I have no idea where else it's sold.


I think the Tour is a great way to kick off a great Valentine's Day.


2.  Buy An ATTRACTIONS Dining and Value Guide


Buy the Guide and then you and your Valentine can start using the Coupons to go somewhere nice for dinner.


If you go to the Website now and scroll to the bottom of the Home Page, you'll find an offer for $5.00 off the Online Edition of the Book.


I've seen the Book and I don't think you'll be disappointed, but don't take my word for it...Preview the Book yourself. 
The cool thing is that you can look up everything you want to know about the book, most especially to find out which local restaurants and attractions are included so there are no surprises or disappointments if you buy the guide site unseen.
Go to the Search box on the left sidebar.
There is also a link on the right side with FREE online coupon offers delivered to your valid email address, but I didn't see any for the Myrtle Beach area as of today.


No matter where I go, when I head out for groceries, dinner or lunch at a local restaurant, or if I'm hauling out-of-town guests around to the typical attractions; I always check out the main website of all businesses.  You'd be surprised at the offers you can find online...especially on Facebook.


In fact, I noticed something on the New South Brewing Facebook page....they had a promotion going on where once they hit 800 "likes", they would offer beer for 1-cent.
I'm not sure how that is going to work, but keep checking their Page to find out.


While we're on the subject, I want to also suggest signing up for loyalty programs at your local grocery store.
I'm sure I've mentioned this before but it doesn't hurt to hit you over the head with this fantastic information:


I use my card at Bi-Lo and for every $50 in purchases with my card; I receive .05 cents off a gallon a gas at participating gas stations.
I wait until I have 20-50 cents off per gallon and then go fill up the tank.


Every store has a card...I'd take advantage of it if I were you, but that's just me.


I also visited the Liberty Steak House Facebook Page today and because I signed up for their email list....which even though I know they're going to use to Market the Hell out of me...I don't care, because every now and then, I'm going to take advantage of one of those deals. 


If you're into crafts, then sign up at Michael's website with your email address and receive a 40% off coupon on the spot.
They send some sort of coupon each week and a great feature is that  if you're like me and frequently forget to shove the coupons in your wallet, then all you have to do is pull it up on your smart phone and let the cashier see it...and voila...you get your discount.


Valentine's Day is a great time to use those coupons for that incredibly thoughtful homemade gift you're putting together.
(see my previous posts).

Monday, January 30, 2012

The 9 for the 7th on the 26th

The title isn't a code, or a puzzle or a riddle.

The 9:  are the GOP Congressional Seat Hopefuls 


(not to be confused with the Nazgul)

The 7th:  is the New Congressional District in South Carolina that each of the Nine has their hopes set on Representing in Washington D.C.

The 26th:  was the date these 9 met at a Georgetown County GOP sponsored Meet and Greet event in order to answer questions and give a little 10 minute spiel about who they are and what we could expect them to focus on if they are elected in November.

My brain was getting a real workout after I left the Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort Thursday night as a few things I heard rattled my cage...and I'd like to tell you why.
Before I do, let me say that there are already more than several places online where you can find a blurb or excerpt from this Meet and Greet and more specifically...from each candidate in attendance.
I am not going to handle the Event in that way. 


Basically though, the 9 stood around in the Lobby for a bit prior to the Main Event.  They utilized this time to shake hands, introduce themselves and answer questions of the folks who paid $10 a ticket to come out and hear what they had to say.


It was mostly an older crowd who populated the Tara Theater.
I know most of them were older than me and I'm 49.
Basically they were your 55+ crowd.
So, there's your point of reference.


The 9 then assembled in the theater and were given 10 minutes to talk to us and tell us who they are, what their political philosophy is and why they think we should vote for them.


As I milled around the Lobby beforehand, a few attendees grabbed my arm and told me how delighted they were to see women running as they feel under-represented in Congress.
Renee Culler addressed that fact during her first few minutes at the microphone and I've heard Mande Wilkes make mention of it in an interview with WPDE News as well.


 I tend to agree with the idea that in this day and age there should be better representation in Washington consisting of a nice cross-section of South Carolina society.
Alas...that isn't the case and Alas...we can only send people to Congress who are voted in.
Alas.


For Women to be Voted in...
They first have to run (and not just from lecherous old skirt chasers) for Office.
Each woman who seeks a political seat (whether she wins that position or not) is blazing a trail for others who will follow in her steps.
She has to be cool with that role, as that may be all that comes of her "run".
For now.
The more exposure women get in the political arena...the more comfortable the electorate will be with voting them in.
Each new generation is more accepting of things which the former ones were not.
All change happens by degrees.
I know because I've watched it play out before my eyes decade after decade.
The change occurs at a faster pace in some areas of the Country and South Carolina isn't one of those areas.
Women are far better represented in other States.
I know because I've lived in Washington State, Ohio, Virginia, Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and now, in South Carolina.


I'd like to focus on the Women running for the 7th Congressional District and I'll tell you that Thursday night revealed a few stark differences between the two.


The Female Candidates are:


1. Renee Culler 
and 
2. Mande Wilkes


I'm very excited to see more than one woman in contention for this Seat. 
I'm also very excited that neither of these ladies has ever held Public Office.


As I wrote previously; I heard Mande Wilkes speak when I attended the Event @ Ripley's Aquarium a few weeks ago when the GOP Presidential Debate Circus was in town.
Renee Culler did not participate in that event.
And to be fair...only 6 candidates participated; she was not the only one who did not.
I believe she was in the audience, as I sat in the row behind her family.  Her lovely daughters are hard to miss.  
Besides that...Sharkee...the Ripley's Mascot,  was behind me signing autographs for the young ladies and passing them through my row to the girls and so it was very difficult to avoid the fact that Renee Culler's family was in the house.
I have no idea why she did not take part in the forum.


I actually didn't realize that the girls were Renee's daughters until the night of the Meet and Greet on the 26th.
She made a grand show of having her whole family stand up and then she proceeded to use a chunk of time explaining her hierarchy of accountability. 


We learned that she is teaching her girls about politics. 
The idea she focused on was that we...her potential constituents, could count on her to do right by us, as she was accountable not only to us, but to her family...and more importantly, to her daughters.
She believes her daughters will quiz her on how she votes each day and since they'll be up-to-speed on the issues they will hold her feet to the fire so that she'll remain true to her campaign promises.


Ultimately though Renee will be motivated by fear as our Representative from the 7th District.  She fears going to Hell for politics if her god isn't well pleased with her actions in Washington D.C. and so we can rest easy because she will do what she promised or go to Hell for breaking covenant with us and with her god and with her daughters. 


All well and good Renee and here in the South that god card plays quite well, but here's the thing...once a candidate plays the Christianity hand so openly [and I thought she did]...they have now told those of us in the room who do not believe as she does...that it doesn't matter what our religious beliefs are...because she is going to represent her God first of all and her believing constituents second of all...and the rest of us...maybe not at all.


In making such a show of her "faith"...she cut off a portion of us in the room that night and in the District overall.
Other candidates couched their faith in words like Family Values or just the word..."faith".
We still know what those words mean and those words are polarizing.
I'd like to have the candidates define those terms when they use them.  
They're sort of throw away words...bait used to haul in the proper draught of fish.


Renee is going to Washington with a mission and the centerpiece of her plan is to please god and promote faith and family values.


Once again...goodie for you if you believe that way...but, what if you don't?
Are you just s**t out of luck?


Are non-believers just supposed to wait around for Renee and other Bible Believing Representatives to come back from Congress to report on what they've done on "our behalf"?
Or, should it maybe work something like this:


Renee gets out among the people...she talks to them...gets her finger on the pulse...and then goes to Washington to represent the issues on the minds of those of us who have to live and work and pay taxes and put up with all the fall out from the lame-ass selfish and conceited actions of our politicians in the 7th District?


You are not elected to promote your own agenda.
Yet that is what politics has become.
Promoting not only your own agenda, but those who supported you financially and who wrongfully expect some goodies in return. 
You are not your own person when you trot on off to D.C.
You are the embodiment of all of us back here at home.
Alas.


{to be continued...I've only just begun...}

Saturday, January 28, 2012

23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 6

I want to reiterate something about my Valentine's Day posts...
...I am not against going out to a decent restaurant with your Sweetheart...
...but...
...that's a been-there, done-that kind of idea, wouldn't you agree?

So, that is always an option and you can always combine a night out with other ideas.  

But I'm endeavoring to come up with plain and simple and easy suggestions.
There's nothing worse than the resentment felt the "day after" you've splurged on a bunch of unnecessary stuff.
It stinks.
I just want to help you to avoid that day-after stench of resentment.
Resentment...towards how you spent your money and 
Resentment...towards who you spent your money on.

If you and your special person agree to "do it up"...then that's one thing.
I'm one of those people who believes in spontaneous combustion and so I cannot relate to doing anything "typical" or "standard" or "expected".
I like them if they come about in a sort of organic fashion...but I don't like when things are too planned...overworked and over-thought and tortured.

This idea can involve the "two" of you or maybe it would be ideal for a small gathering of friends.

I happen to make my own Kahlua.  
I bring it with me as a gift when I go on visits. 
(if there's any left)
I make White and Black Russians with it...Spiked Coffee Granitas and Shakes, Kahlua cappuccino and Kahlua flavored ice cream.
It's a great base for creativity.

Back when I was a young girl in the 70's, Fondue was all the rage.
My mom would melt cheese and we would dip bread and cooked meats.
On nights when my parents would go out we were sometimes allowed to fire up the sterno and melt chocolate and dip bananas, marshmallows, pretzels, pound cake, and whatever else we could find.
We were young then and didn't know when to stop.
It didn't take long until me and my brothers were lounged on the couches in the Family Room holding our bellies because we'd stuffed ourselves "to the max" and felt awful.

So, fire up the old (or brand new) fondue pot or just melt the cheese or chocolate...or why not both? in the microwave or on the stove in a double boiler.
Transfer to individual small bowls or baking dishes and let the dipping begin.

Dim the lights.
Torch the candles.
How about a few tapers on the table or coffee table?
I love the idea of sitting on the floor, with friends or alone with a special person by firelight or candlelight [we all look better in a dim glow]...baptizing tiny pieces of food in sweet and savory sauces...adult beverages within arms reach...playing old-time board games like Monopoly, Clue, Pictionary or Trivial Pursuit...or watching an old movie or listening to music with soft conversation...

When you've had enough...then kick everyone out and spend the rest of the evening with your honey.

Here's a recipe for Kahlua that's mucho simple.
I buy my Vanilla Bean at World Market.  
If you buy their brand...it's only a couple of bucks for a Madagascar Vanilla Bean.
(back of the store in the spice section.  It comes in a small bottle)

We've entered the Age of Flavored Vodkas and a nice Vanilla infused would work well with this recipe, but I suggest buying the cheapest Vodka for making up your initial batch of Kahlua... as you can always add the better stuff to the individual drinks later on.

Homemade Kahlua

1 qt. water
2-1/2 C. sugar
3 T. instant coffee
 
1 T. vanilla
2-1/2 C. vodka
1 vanilla bean (optional)
 
Boil water, coffee and sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool. Add vanilla and vodka and vanilla bean. Bottle and cap tightly for at least 4 weeks, but can be consumed right away. Remove vanilla bean at end of 4 weeks.
 
Variations:
You can simmer this drink for as long as you like. 
I've simmered it on very low heat for up to three or four hours.  
If the heat is too high, then the sugar will burn and you'll have to start all over again.
A watched pot never boils...so watch this pot so it doesn't boil!!!!

I would also suggest using real vanilla if possible, but if you use the bean, then you can get away with the imitation flavor variety.
The best instant coffee to use is Medaglia D'oro


I think I bought my last jar at Bi-Lo, but don't quote me on that.
If you prefer, you can use Maxwell House or Folgers or Taster's Choice w/a fine result.

I would get a very cheap mason jar with a tight sealing lid or even an empty Vodka bottle would work.
The first batch I made; I kept in a cool, dark cabinet and all went well.
The batch I made recently wasn't sealed tight and so when I gleefully went to retrieve it from its hiding place; I found little islands of mold floating on the surface.

This time; I put my jar in the refrigerator.  
I'm not taking any chances.
It's another good reason to use the cheap vodka in the initial batch.
My Homemade Kahlua has never made it the four weeks; I've usually dipped into my stash to share with someone.
I don't drink it, except as a Granita because it's just too laden with calories when made into a Kahlua Concoction.

To Make a White Russian:

1-2 parts Vodka  (Depending on how strong)
This is where the flavored Vodka would be nice.

1 part Kahlua

1 part Cream
(shake it a bit first to thicken it...not too much though or it will become butter!)

I would crush some ice in a blender first.


Here are a few simple and easy fondue recipes:


A few suggestions with this recipe...use bread or steamed veggies or cooked sausages for dipping.
Mix some of the flour with the cheese first.
Traditional Cheese Fondue has beer and so if you'd like to try that...decrease the milk to one cup and add a cup of beer.

Hopefully you can incorporate these ideas into your Valentine's Day.

Bottoms Up! 

Thanks to Twitter I'm Now Addicted to Bella's Kettle Corn

Damn YOU Twitter!
If it weren't for YOU I'd probably never know about Bella's Kettle Corn.

If it weren't for YOU I'd probably keep on living my life without the knowledge of how scrumptious Kettle Corn is because I'd never tasted it heretofore.

If it weren't for YOU I'd still be living my feeble Kettle Corn-less life.

A yummy bag of Bellas Kettle Corn...Cheddar Flavor...sitting on the  passenger seat of my car.  What a Great little driving companion! 

Seriously...I've made some great new local Myrtle Beach friends...thanks to Twitter and the nice, young lady at Bella's Kettle is one of them.
She keeps going on and on and on about Kettle Corn...and I figured it was high time I tried some.

I popped into (of course the pun is intended...what do you think?) Ocean's Edge Salon and Spa on Surfside Dr. in Surfside Beach...as I was told that was where I could buy a bag of Bella's Kettle Corn.

To be honest; I'd never ever taken notice of Ocean's Edge Salon prior to just a few days ago and I travel Surfside Dr. several times a week.  I love supporting local businesses...especially those in my own neighborhood and so I'm hoping to score a great hair experience with Ryan very soon.
I have to do something.
I can't keep hiding how desperately I need a cut by fashioning my hair in a sloppy upsweep.

How did we get on haircuts? from kettle corn?
Damn YOU Twitter!
If it weren't for YOU I'd be able to stay focused on one subject.
But I can't...not with all of those Twitter feeds endlessly scrolling past my eyes...ever beckoning.

Where was I? 
Oh yeah...Bella's Kettle Corn.
I chose the Traditional and Cheddar flavors to buy and sample.
I paid $2 per bag.
I lit into the Cheddar first...and I was amazed at the great balance of flavoring, sweet, salty...and what tasted like butter as well...though I've looked over the Bella's Concessions website and saw no mention of butter.

Since I'm an equal opportunity enjoyer...I opened up the lonely bag of Traditional corn and sampled.
It was addictive.
I just kept mindlessly reaching in.
Before I knew it...those two bags of kettle corn became my dinner.
And before I knew it...those two bags of corn became my late night snack.
And...before I knew it...those two bags became my breakfast in the morning.
And, before I knew it...those two bags of Bella's Kettle Corn were demolished.

My daughter asked me where the kettle corn was so she could try some.
I then perpetrated a lie on my oldest offspring and fibbed that I went ahead and ate all the corn because once you open the bag on food like that...you kind of have to eat it immediately as the quality deteriorates lightning fast.

I promised to buy her a bag of her very own.
That seemed to put her off the scent of my false utterings.

So...there's only one thing to do:

YOU have to find some way to get a hold of your very own bag of Bella's Kettle Corn.
If you don't live in the Myrtle Beach area, then I suggest calling or writing by visiting their website.

You'll notice when perusing the website that Bella's Concessions are willing and seemingly able to lug all of their kettle corn apparatus to any sort of Event you can conjure up...


...fundraisers
...buffets
...reunions
...work conference
...birthday bash
...wedding reception
...showers
...sporting events
...you name it


I've not personally seen Bella's Kettle Corn in action and so I can't say whether or not they do a good job...but it is something a little different which appeals to all age groups.


From what I understand, there will be a storefront opening within the next few months in.....drum roll please.....Surfside Beach!!!

Over the lips...past the tongue...look out tummy...here it comes!


Thank YOU Twitter!

Friday, January 27, 2012

23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 5

So sorry...beg pardon...I'm a day behind in posting my Valentine's Day Ideas.  I should be on #6 today, but alas; I must post #5 first.  Today will be a double banger...two for one!
One now...and one this evening.




Today's Idea is for a Valentine's Day date.
It's oh-so-simple and easy breezy that you'll be slapping your forehead wondering why you didn't think of it yourself.


Here's the plan:


You and your Valentine's Day Honey each write down 3-4 of your top ideas for what you'd most love to do on February 14th.
The female gets to write down 3-4  "main" course ideas.
The male of the species will pick 3-4 "side dish" ideas.


Fold over your ideas and separate them into two separate containers.


You sir, will pick an idea from your sweethearts "main course" container.


You kind madam, will pick an idea from your sweethearts "side dish" container.


Put the two together and you have a whole day and/or evening planned out.


Do this before the actual day so that you have time to make any pre-Valentine's Day reservations or shopping if necessary.


Now wasn't that simple?
And everyone should be happy.


"should be"...are the operative words.











Coming Attractions


I hope you'll stop by later this evening, as I'm looking forward to sharing with you some recent pictures and video footage from the local area, a Review of Bella's Kettle Corn, 
...get your own...this bag of Cheddar Kettle Corn is all mine!


...and a Review of the Event I attended last night which was sponsored by the Georgetown GOP.  
[I know...my camera phone takes yucky pictures]
In photo above...the 9 for the 7th speaking on the 26th


The (now) 9 candidates who desire to be our Representative from the 7th Congressional District each spoke for ten minutes.  
I'd love to give you my take on what went down.

I'm off to work...so catch you later.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

23 Days of Creative Valentine's Day Ideas, Day # 4

This is a "Singles Only" post:

Valentines's Day is a time of year when the sting of being single is most sharply felt.
I don't know if there are any stats on this to back me up...but I would imagine that the days leading up to VD are when Online Dating sites see the most activity.

Though Online Dating has come a long way...you still have to be vigilant about Safety...no matter how reputable the site.


Though Online Dating has come a long way...it's not a magic pill.  You still have to be persistent and patient and highly selective.


I would definitely suggest going the Free Website route first, as it's a great place to get a feel for what sort of people are signed up in the Myrtle Beach (and surrounding) area.
And, it allows you to get a feel for how to put your Profile together and to test out how what you write affects the outcome of how many singles respond to you.  


I won't lie to you; there is a difference between the free and subscription Online Dating sites.  The main difference is a serious commitment to dating. 
I know many who have paid for sites such as Eharmony.com and Match.com only to be disappointed.  
That is going to be a personal choice.


And whether you've done this before or not...you have to set yourself apart from the pack with a great Profile...looks will only get you so far.
If you use your Profile effectively then it will naturally filter and weed out those you're not interested in right off the bat.


Here are a few tips:


1.  Upload a photo which is not more than 6 months old.


a. Smile...if not with your mouth...at the very least with your eyes.  This makes you seem approachable.


b.  DO NOT...and this is so important...DO NOT take a picture of yourself in your bathroom mirror.  This is so typical and tacky and quite frankly...it's sort of a turn off to see your dirty skivvies hanging from the towel rack.  
If you're going to take a picture of yourself, then use a Webcam or hold the camera facing you and just smile naturally.
Or, if you're not shy...ask someone to take the picture for you.


c.  whether a man or a woman...please don't post "skin" shots.  Very likely if you're over 30...your self-perceived "hotness" does not translate well via your smartphone camera. 
I'm serious. 
Keep your clothes on.
Yes, to cleavage ladies...but even then...be tasteful.
I'm not writing this post to men looking for a good "rack" or to women looking to put their best "rack" forward.
There are other venues which cater to folks like you.




2.  Take some time to think about your Profile Name.
I've noticed a grave mistake many men make, especially those over 50...they use the nickname given to them by their grandchildren...such as...
"Rustybucket" or "GrandpaGrayhame".   
Those names just aren't going to cut it when it comes to attracting the opposite sex.
You will be passed over.  
Trust me on this one..


And ladies, it's great to incorporate a degree of sensuality into your name, but don't go the Stripper route...even if you really are one.
Choose a name which intrigues a man to want to know more about you.
Make it playful, yes, but sophistication begets sophistication.


Don't take all of this so seriously that you come across as unlikeable or stuck up.


3.  SPELLING and GRAMMAR matter.  This is my personal gripe.  It's very sexy and alluring when a man can use the spell check feature on his computer. Of course, this doesn't help when it comes to words which sound alike, but have a different meaning.  
Yes, you might have spelled "you're" correctly, but if you didn't mean "you are", but "your", then that's a place where you might lose "points" with those who are looking for signs of intelligent life on your planet!  


So, know the difference between "your" and "you're" and "there" and "their" and "they're", etc.


4.  Don't start off a profile with the same old dead horse that every other profile-er drags out and beats to further death, such as:


"...O.K., so here we go..."
"...I really don't know what to say about myself, so here we go..."
"...if you want to know anything about me, just ask..."
"...I love walks on the beach..."


Gag me!


There's a vast world of sentence starters out there...and if you can't think of any on your own...do an online search.
Here's the thing though...if a lame profile is all you can offer up online, then maybe that's all you can offer up in person.  
It's something to think about.


If you're just one of those people who chokes under the pressure of dating, then do some research and make an outline and take whatever time is necessary to put your best virtual foot forward.


5.  If you Smoke, then please don't post in your profile that you don't smoke just to open up the field of interested daters.


What's worse though...is when someone posts that they don't smoke, and yet they've included in their Profile a picture of them smoking or holding a cigarette.
That's rather obnoxious.
Talk about shooting yourself in the foot!!


Do me a favor before you get started.


Go on over to Plenty of Fish @ www.pof.com
It's a free website.

Don't sign up or anything, just go to the Search page.
Type in your parameters and when you do that, the website will allow you to look at a page or two of choices before they will require you to Register.
Be sure to type in Myrtle Beach with maybe a 35 mile radius range.


Try to get a feel for what the opposite sex is looking for by reading through some profiles.


Let me warn you though...lots of people (and I think this is a character trait common among all humans)...do in their profile what they tend to do on their Resume...they pad it with qualities which may or may not be true...they say they are interested in things which may or may not be true.
They even (gasp)...post pictures on their profile which are five or more years old.
tsk. tsk. tsk.
Your sins will find you out when you meet in person! 
Duh!


You have to ask a lot of questions of those who contact you.
You have to engage them in conversations about things which you consider important and gauge their response.
And... you have to be picky.


The traditional way of dating is to immediately pay attention to looks and if there is no immediate chemistry, then there is no attempt made to get acquainted on a deeper or more intellectual level.


With Online Dating; you can really get a sense of who someone is if you ask the right questions and if you pay attention to the things which are said.
If you like the pictures and the writing, then you could move on to instant messaging and then phone calls.


I would recommend that you meet for the first time in a very public place.  


Let someone else know where you'll be and how long you expect to be there.


NEVER allow anyone to pick you up and know where you live.


Keep the first date short so you can scram if it's not going well.
Both parties should be grown up enough to realize that not every encounter is going to work.


Online Dating just provides you with a larger field of choice and the ability to weed out potential candidates on a level in which you're not able if you meet someone in the produce section of your local Piggly Wiggly.


I'll post more about Online Dating in Myrtle Beach at a later time.


Good Luck!


Please don't be shy about contacting me if you'd like some assistance.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

I Spy a Few New Businesses in Myrtle Beach

I dropped my daughter off at work this morning around 5:30 a.m.
(I know, right)

As I drove down the deserted streets; I was able to maneuver myself in and out of parking lots in order to take pictures a lot easier than I'm able during the middle of the day. 

I spied a few businesses which may or may not be new to the area. I don't always notice a lot during the day as I usually have my eye on the road to avoid the ripples, bumps and potholes on Business 17.
(a not so subtle dig)



Beach Boutique @ 17th

Corner of 17th Ave. S & Business 17
Next to Manny's Subs and across from the Domino's Pizza

I have my fingers crossed for these folks, as I'm not too sure about this location.
I drive past this little strip mall almost every day and I hardly take notice of anything in this area.
I'm usually paying attention to the traffic light on 17...as I think most people are.

I'll stop in when they are open and check out prices and other pertinent information.
Having spent a good part of last year watching a young couple endeavor to get a business started in Myrtle Beach...my heart goes out to anyone brave enough to go forth with the strong wind of the City of Myrtle Beach government blowing hard against them.


My daughter noticed Little Israel Kosher Market and alerted me as to its existence.
I dropped by on Monday of this week to check it out, but no one was there just after 10 am when the store was supposed to be open.

Personally, I'm not into Jewish foods, but if you are...then you might want to check this place out.
I think of Matzah and Gefilte fish when I think of Kosher Jewish fare.
It just doesn't do it for me.
I think you have to be forced by religious tradition to even attempt to consume these items.
But, if you like it or have "need" of it...then you might want to check this place out.



A block up from the Little Israel Restaurant (North)
is King David Kosher Moroccan Restaurant.

I figured that Becky Billingsley of Myrtle Beach Restaurant News had already found this place and reported on it...and my instincts were correct.
Here is the Review from December 14, 2011




23 Days of Creative Valentines Day Ideas, Day # 3

Let's go back to some gift-giving ideas:


  I can't ignore the fact that there will be those of you who will want to go the Traditional Valentine's Day gift giving route.
It's been hammered into your head by Culture and/or your girlfriend/boyfriend  or wife/husband and you just can't get away from it.
I understand and my condolences to you!


I detest the whole idea of people "having" to fork over time and energy and money to comply with festivals and holidays which have been handed down from generation to generation.


I detest the whole idea of women waiting on men to present them with a bouquet of roses and the oh-so-dry-hide huge heart box filled with chocolates.
I can't begin to tell you how much I hate that.
For me; gifts are never fun when they are an obligation.
I don't like to give anything out of obligation nor do I like to receive them out of obligation.
That's just me and I do not judge you for enjoying gifts borne of duty.


Fifteen years ago; I went to visit a friend on Valentine's Day. 
She went on and on about how that she was "expecting" (in the strictest sense) her husband to bring her roses and candy.
She did not prepare anything special for her "Valentine"  in return as she still held to the antiquated notion that Valentine's Day is the day the girl receives and the man gives.


It's a new day and time and though I suspect all a man really wants n return for his "gifts" is appreciation and AFFECTION.
AFFECTION...unencumbered by headaches and frigidity.
So ladies...you may want to give a little something as a side dish to the main course of AFFECTION.
If so, keep reading.


And men...do what you must, but if you're going to do Valentine's Day Obligation Style, then do it slightly different.
Please? for the sake of that woman who has devoted herself to you?


There are two great local stores which I love to hack around in when I get the chance. (I rarely get the chance)...and they are:


World Market 
1144 Seaboard St.
(near Target and Ross)


and


Home Goods
558 Seaboard St.
(next to Michaels)


There are Gift Basket services which will provide you with a very generic assortment of goodies...and take a chunk from your wallet as well...so why not put something together yourself and be the boss of the cost?
Show how much you know your Valentine by gathering items that they enjoy, but rarely indulge in.
Once you get a few things, then hunt down something cool to display them in.  Maybe a basket, yes...but maybe something they can really use instead.


Here's an example:


I put together an assortment of items for my youngest daughter on her last birthday...and I got everything I needed at World Market.


A while ago; I began buying loose leaf tea. 
My daughter became hooked and so I bought her a nice blend from the back wall at the World Market.
I then included some dark chocolate laced with chili pepper and various other yummies I knew she'd fawn over.
I then hit the left side of the store for a tea cup made especially for preparation of loose tea leaves.
I was going to buy her a small tea pot, but opted for one of the beautiful Oriental style mugs which comes with an insert strainer for the tea and a lid for steeping.




I placed everything on a very inexpensive tray...to mimic a serving tray and which I knew she could use on her vanity or bathroom counter to show off her perfumes, etc.
I wrapped the whole thing in paper and a bow...and there you have it.  Something very personal, but not a budget buster.


There are so many novelty food items and spices and condiments and craft and imported beers and wines and decorations and a whole area devoted to Valentine's Day...
...you'll enjoy hunting down just the right items.
Throw in a few goofy things too...things which play towards any inside jokes you may have with one another. 


And don't forget to reward yourself for being such a thoughtful human being...and pick out something delectable for yourself as well.
Something you can lay into as soon as you get in the car.


If your Valentine likes Champagne,then stop at a local Beverage Store for a small size to include in your gift arrangement.


And women...maybe you could include a six pack of some imported beer you know he likes or a really small bottle (usually behind the counter at the liquor store) of Scotch or Spiced Rum.


Men:  You can top the whole thing off with flowers, but don't go with roses. 
It might be difficult to do this time of year...but I would think a bouquet-ful of hand picked wild flowers would be awesome.
In lieu of that...go with something cheap.  
Something you can buy a lot of and really look like the man of the hour!


You have lots of time until the big day.
Get out there and start browsing around.


Home Goods has a section of novelty food items, but nothing like World Market.  If you take your time and go up and down the isles, you'll find all sorts of nifty little items to include in your arrangement.


Again, it's about being thoughtful and romantic and playful.


Have fun because it really is the thought that counts.
It should be anyway.
It's not about the giving of lots of "stuff" which should mean something to the recipient... but just knowing that you, the giver,  took the time to get out there with the other person in mind...exclusively...while you shopped...should be what makes your Valentine swoon!


It should be anyway!
If not, then now might be a great time to think about securing for yourself a new boyfriend or girlfriend.
If you're married and the other person is unappreciative, well...













Tuesday, January 24, 2012

23 Days of Creative Valentines Day Ideas, Day # 2

I am Mobile right now without access to my computer and so thought I would make this idea an easy one...one which is a Valentine's Day Date idea.

I will make a disclaimer ahead of time:

This suggestion might be difficult but if you put the effort into pulling it off; you'll be glad you did!

You and your Valentine agree on a Movie trilogy and you're going to watch the movies back to back.

Race home after work.
Phones are turned off.
Dinner will be brought in from outside sources....Pizza...Chinese......whatever!
Have it delivered.....pick it up ahead of time...whatever!
Set up your drink station...cause its going to be a long night....start with cold sodas, beer or iced tea....and segue into coffee...whatever!
Have some snacks ready for later in the night... buttery popcorn or chips and dip or carrot sticks and Ranch dressing...whatever!

You must agree with one another that you will cut off all communication to the outside world.

Get comfy.....
...Dress way down...but not sloppy or slovenly!
Get out pillows and blankets.....as you'll move around a lot....from sofa to floor to chair!

Its all about JUST the two of you and your Trilogy!
It HAS to be a Trilogy!
There's something about watching the movies back-to-back.
Leave all of your cares and troubles and gripes at the door.
Nothing negative is allowed!

My recommendation is The Lord of the Rings Trilogy!
It appeals to men AND women!
Besides that; I'm a huge fan.
But this isn't about you and me...it's about you and "her" or you and "him".

Enjoy yourselves and be all lovey dovey! 
Reconnect and be what you were to each other in those early days when you first met and were more playful and spontaneous and less judgmental and fault-finding! 
You know... before the cares of the world were allowed to bust in on your bond and totally erode away at your relationship?

Lose yourself in the movie!
Lose yourself in each other!

Cell phones and land lines......OFF!

Tell me how it went!