Filed under: fresh vegetable
Question:
In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth and populated the Earth with broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, green and yellow and red vegetables of all kinds, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives. Then using God’s great gifts, Satan created Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream and Krispy Creme Donuts. And Satan said, "You want chocolate with that?" And Man said, "Yes!" and Woman said, "and as long as you’re at it, add some sprinkles." And they gained 10 pounds. And Satan smiled. And God created the healthful yogurt that Woman might keep the figure that Man found so fair. And Satan brought forth white flour from the wheat, and sugar from the cane and combined them. And Woman went from size 6 to size 14. So God said, "Try my fresh green salad." And Satan presented Thousand-Island Dressing, buttery croutons and garlic toast on the side. And Man and Woman unfastened their belts following the repast. God then said, "I have sent you heart healthy vegetables and olive oil in which to cook them." And Satan brought forth deep fried fish and chicken-fried steak so big it needed its own platter. And Man gained more weight and his cholesterol went through the roof. God then created a light, fluffy white cake, named it "Angel Food Cake," and said, "It is good." Satan then created chocolate cake and named it "Devil’s Food." God then brought forth running shoes so that His children might lose those extra pounds. And Satan gave cable TV with a remote control so Man would not have to toil changing the channels. And Man and Woman laughed and cried before the flickering blue light and gained pounds. Then God brought forth the potato, naturally low in fat and brimming with nutrition. And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy center into chips and deep-fried them. And Man gained pounds. God then gave lean beef so that Man might consume fewer calories and still satisfy his appetite. And Satan created McDonald’s and its 99-cent double cheeseburger. Then said, "You want fries with that?" And Man replied, "Yes! And super size them!" And Satan said, "It is good." And Man went into cardiac arrest. God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery. Then Satan created HMOs. Thought for the day . There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today than on Alzheimer’s research. This means that by 2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them.
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did courageously avow: >In the beginning, God …
Stole it and passed it along to some friends. [8-) Ken Wilson
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Nope , just passed it along as I got it. (;>}~ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > did courageously avow: >In the beginning, God … > Stole it and passed it along to some friends. [8-) > Ken Wilson
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> In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth
Prove it.
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Don’t have to.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth > Prove it.
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Don’t have to. >> In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth > Prove it.
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>There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today than on >Alzheimer’s research. This means that by >2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge >erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them.
I thought the end was suppose to start at 2012 …Armageddon … looks like I have a couple more years now.
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> >> In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth > Prove it. > Don’t have to.
You never prove anything else, so why start?
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did courageously avow: >Nope , just passed it along as I got it. >(;>}~ > did courageously avow: >>In the beginning, God … > Stole it and passed it along to some friends. [8-) > Ken Wilson
No, I meant I did, not you. LOL Ken Wilson
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courageously avow: > >> In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth > > Prove it. > Don’t have to. >You never prove anything else, so why start?
It’s a fucking joke Pix. Try pulling that turpentine rag out of your ass one of these days, you might enjoy life. Ken Wilson
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2012 is when the bonds the U.S. has been floating around the world, come due. Mostly China & Japan. We will not have the money. Wonder what will happen then???? HHHMMMMM.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today than >on >Alzheimer’s research. This means that by >2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge >erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them. > I thought the end was suppose to start at 2012 …Armageddon … looks > like I have a couple more years now.
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Now you are being silly, again. Your scientist proved that " this" global warming started 10,000 years ago without the help of mankind. You either believe in a higher power as far as this life goes, or not. Then whatever is fact becomes your truth and proof.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> >> In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth > > Prove it. > Don’t have to. > You never prove anything else, so why start?
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You sure about the bonds … ? I thought most of that funny paper work and plastic money is just something that really can’t be paid back .. we’re in Trillions of debt now … what me .. worry ? just mine more diamonds and gold… texas gold .. black crude.
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did courageously avow: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->2012 is when the bonds the U.S. has been floating around the world, come >due. >Mostly China & Japan. >We will not have the money. >Wonder what will happen then???? HHHMMMMM. > >There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today than > >on >>Alzheimer’s research. This means that by >>2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge >>erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them. > I thought the end was suppose to start at 2012 …Armageddon … looks > like I have a couple more years now.
The administration will renege, just like they do when NAFTA rulings don’t go their way. Ken Wilson
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth and populated the >Earth with broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, green and yellow and red >vegetables of all kinds, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives. >Then using God’s great gifts, Satan created Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream and >Krispy Creme Donuts. And Satan said, "You want chocolate with that?" And Man >said, "Yes!" and Woman said, "and as long as you’re at it, add some >sprinkles." And they gained 10 pounds. And Satan smiled. >And God created the healthful yogurt that Woman might keep the figure that >Man found so fair. And Satan brought forth white flour from the wheat, and >sugar from the cane and combined them. And Woman went from size 6 to size >14. >So God said, "Try my fresh green salad." And Satan presented Thousand-Island >Dressing, buttery croutons and garlic toast on the side. And Man and Woman >unfastened their belts following the repast. >God then said, "I have sent you heart healthy vegetables and olive oil in >which to cook them." And Satan brought forth deep fried fish and >chicken-fried steak so big it needed its own platter. And Man gained more >weight and his cholesterol went through the roof. >God then created a light, fluffy white cake, named it "Angel Food Cake," and >said, "It is good." Satan then created chocolate cake and named it "Devil’s >Food." >God then brought forth running shoes so that His children might lose those >extra pounds. And Satan gave cable TV with a remote control so Man would not >have to toil changing the channels. And Man and Woman laughed and cried >before the flickering blue light and gained pounds. >Then God brought forth the potato, naturally low in fat and brimming with >nutrition. And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy >center into chips and deep-fried them. And Man gained pounds. >God then gave lean beef so that Man might consume fewer calories and still >satisfy his appetite. And Satan created McDonald’s and its 99-cent double >cheeseburger. Then said, "You want fries with that?" And Man replied, "Yes! >And super size them!" And Satan said, "It is good." And Man went into >cardiac arrest. >God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery. >Then Satan created HMOs. >Thought for the day . >There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today than on >Alzheimer’s research. This means that by >2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge >erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them.
Don’t worry about it. Some of us already have perky boobs and huge erections without being elderly. The end of the world is already scheduled for December 21st, 2012. Maybe a flood. Maybe a fire. Till then, pig out. Enjoy. Do something nice for/to somebody. Claude
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>> In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth >Prove it.
Why?
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > 2012 is when the bonds the U.S. has been floating around the world, come > due. > Mostly China & Japan. > We will not have the money. > Wonder what will happen then???? HHHMMMMM. >>There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today than >>on >>Alzheimer’s research. This means that by >>2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge >>erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them. >I thought the end was suppose to start at 2012 …Armageddon … looks >like I have a couple more years now.
Who knows what happens when sigs are stolen?
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> 2012 is when the bonds the U.S. has been floating around the world, come > due. > Mostly China & Japan. > We will not have the money.
And yet you and your ilk continue to support Dubya & Co…
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courageously avow: >> In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth >Prove it. >Why?
It’s spelled ‘posting’, not ‘postung’ dip shit. Use your spell checker. Or are you among those uneducated who by a greater percentage support Bush than do those with a real education? Ken Wilson
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courageously avow: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth and populated the >Earth with broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, green and yellow and red >vegetables of all kinds, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives. >Then using God’s great gifts, Satan created Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream and >Krispy Creme Donuts. And Satan said, "You want chocolate with that?" And Man >said, "Yes!" and Woman said, "and as long as you’re at it, add some >sprinkles." And they gained 10 pounds. And Satan smiled. >And God created the healthful yogurt that Woman might keep the figure that >Man found so fair. And Satan brought forth white flour from the wheat, and >sugar from the cane and combined them. And Woman went from size 6 to size >14. >So God said, "Try my fresh green salad." And Satan presented Thousand-Island >Dressing, buttery croutons and garlic toast on the side. And Man and Woman >unfastened their belts following the repast. >God then said, "I have sent you heart healthy vegetables and olive oil in >which to cook them." And Satan brought forth deep fried fish and >chicken-fried steak so big it needed its own platter. And Man gained more >weight and his cholesterol went through the roof. >God then created a light, fluffy white cake, named it "Angel Food Cake," and >said, "It is good." Satan then created chocolate cake and named it "Devil’s >Food." >God then brought forth running shoes so that His children might lose those >extra pounds. And Satan gave cable TV with a remote control so Man would not >have to toil changing the channels. And Man and Woman laughed and cried >before the flickering blue light and gained pounds. >Then God brought forth the potato, naturally low in fat and brimming with >nutrition. And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy >center into chips and deep-fried them. And Man gained pounds. >God then gave lean beef so that Man might consume fewer calories and still >satisfy his appetite. And Satan created McDonald’s and its 99-cent double >cheeseburger. Then said, "You want fries with that?" And Man replied, "Yes! >And super size them!" And Satan said, "It is good." And Man went into >cardiac arrest. >God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery. >Then Satan created HMOs. >Thought for the day . >There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today than on >Alzheimer’s research. This means that by >2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge >erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them. >Don’t worry about it. >Some of us already have perky boobs and huge >erections without being elderly.
You have both conditions I assume. Ken Wilson
Response:
dolt.princess Kenni, spokesloon for the Al-Queef brigade of the People’s Liberation Jihad for the Independence of the Democratic People’s Republic a type and shit himself with glee: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >courageously avow: >>> In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth >>Prove it. >Why? >It’s spelled ‘posting’, not ‘postung’ dip shit. Use your spell >checker. Or are you among those uneducated who by a greater >percentage support Bush than do those with a real education?
Typo lame. <yawn> Good job, Princess. What would AGA be without your proofreading? Keep up the good work. At least it keeps you busy. — | ^ JOIN THE | /" ASCII RIBBON CAMPAIGN | / TO RID USENET OF | X NATTERING FUCKWITS | /
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dolt.princess Kenni, spokesloon for the Al-Queef brigade of the People’s Liberation Jihad for the Independence of the Democratic People’s Republic – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >courageously avow: >>In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth and populated the >>Earth with broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, green and yellow and red >>vegetables of all kinds, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives. >>Then using God’s great gifts, Satan created Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream and >>Krispy Creme Donuts. And Satan said, "You want chocolate with that?" And Man >>said, "Yes!" and Woman said, "and as long as you’re at it, add some >>sprinkles." And they gained 10 pounds. And Satan smiled. >>And God created the healthful yogurt that Woman might keep the figure that >>Man found so fair. And Satan brought forth white flour from the wheat, and >>sugar from the cane and combined them. And Woman went from size 6 to size >>14. >>So God said, "Try my fresh green salad." And Satan presented Thousand-Island >>Dressing, buttery croutons and garlic toast on the side. And Man and Woman >>unfastened their belts following the repast. >>God then said, "I have sent you heart healthy vegetables and olive oil in >>which to cook them." And Satan brought forth deep fried fish and >>chicken-fried steak so big it needed its own platter. And Man gained more >>weight and his cholesterol went through the roof. >>God then created a light, fluffy white cake, named it "Angel Food Cake," and >>said, "It is good." Satan then created chocolate cake and named it "Devil’s >>Food." >>God then brought forth running shoes so that His children might lose those >>extra pounds. And Satan gave cable TV with a remote control so Man would not >>have to toil changing the channels. And Man and Woman laughed and cried >>before the flickering blue light and gained pounds. >>Then God brought forth the potato, naturally low in fat and brimming with >>nutrition. And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy >>center into chips and deep-fried them. And Man gained pounds. >>God then gave lean beef so that Man might consume fewer calories and still >>satisfy his appetite. And Satan created McDonald’s and its 99-cent double >>cheeseburger. Then said, "You want fries with that?" And Man replied, "Yes! >>And super size them!" And Satan said, "It is good." And Man went into >>cardiac arrest. >>God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery. >>Then Satan created HMOs. >>Thought for the day . >>There is more money being spent on breast implants and Viagra today than on >>Alzheimer’s research. This means that by >>2040, there should be a large elderly population with perky boobs and huge >>erections and absolutely no recollection of what to do with them. >Don’t worry about it. >Some of us already have perky boobs and huge >erections without being elderly. >You have both conditions I assume.
You are the Ace of ASSumers, Princess. Thank you for your concern, but I wouldn’t worry about *me*. Your life as you knew it was over by 1973. — | ^ JOIN THE | /" ASCII RIBBON CAMPAIGN | / TO RID USENET OF | X NATTERING FUCKWITS | /
Response:
Yep, we floated all that paper & are about to float some more.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> You sure about the bonds … ? > I thought most of that funny paper > work and plastic money is just something > that really can’t be paid back .. we’re in Trillions > of debt now … what me .. worry ? just mine more > diamonds and gold… texas gold .. black crude.
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Question:
taboos against swine. 1 large toddler or small child, cleaned and de-headed Kentucky Bourbon Sauce (see index) 1 large can pineapple slices Whole cloves Place him (or ham) or her in a large glass baking dish, buttocks up. Tie with butcher string around and across so that he looks like he?s crawling. Glaze, then arrange pineapples and secure with cloves. Bake uncovered in 350
Question:
bamboo shoots Sherry chicken broth oil for deep frying (1 gallon) Salt pepper soy & teriyaki minced ginger, etc. 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in a little cold water 1 egg beaten Make the stuffing: Marinate the flesh in a mixture of soy and teriyaki sauces then stir fry in hot oil for till brown – about 1 minute, remove. Stir-fry the vegetables. Put the meat back into the wok and adjust the seasoning. De-glaze with sherry, cooking off the alcohol. Add broth (optional) cook a few more minutes. Add the cornstarch, cook a few minutes till thick, then place the stuffing into a colander and cool; 2 hours Wrap the rolls: Place 3 tablespoons of stuffing in the wrap, roll tightly – corner nearest you first, fold 2 side corners in, wrap till remaining corner is left. Brush with egg, seal, and allow to sit on the seal for a few minutes. Fry the rolls: 325
Question:
Yeah, go ahead, change your oil now. Why wait? !00 miles is plenty! And then when you reach the 5000 mile mark and your getting lousy mileage you can blame Honda for selling you a lemon. Because you know better! Yeah, that’s the ticket!
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> And is it easy to get to? What about the drain plug? I just have a 100 > miles on it now, but I don’t know if I should leave in the oil for 5000 > miles as people have mentioned that Honda has a special ‘break in’ oil or > just to change the oil my self at 1000mi. I don’t think the manual > specifically mentioned that I should do by first oil change not before 5k. > Any suggestions? > thanks
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Yeah, go ahead, change your oil now. Why wait? !00 miles is plenty! And then > when you reach the 5000 mile mark and your getting lousy mileage you can > blame Honda for selling you a lemon. Because you know better! > Yeah, that’s the ticket! > And is it easy to get to? What about the drain plug? I just have a 100 > miles on it now, but I don’t know if I should leave in the oil for 5000 > miles as people have mentioned that Honda has a special ‘break in’ oil or > just to change the oil my self at 1000mi. I don’t think the manual > specifically mentioned that I should do by first oil change not before 5k. > Any suggestions? > thanks
WTF are you talking about? The guy said 1,000 miles, not 100 miles. — Bearman If it’s got tits, tires, tubes, or transistors, it’s trouble.
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Why doesn’t he change it every 100 miles? I heard also that if you change your tires every 1000miles, you will get better grip. Why are people overdoing the maintenance on their cars? In the US, it’s 3000miles and for some reason, here in Canada, it’s 3000 kms to change oil?? My book says every 5,000miles/7,500kms when in extreme conditions. Will the extra 2000miles make such a difference in saving your engine’s life? Garages want to make money and are lying to their customers about the 3K mark.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Yeah, go ahead, change your oil now. Why wait? !00 miles is plenty! And > then > when you reach the 5000 mile mark and your getting lousy mileage you can > blame Honda for selling you a lemon. Because you know better! > Yeah, that’s the ticket! > > And is it easy to get to? What about the drain plug? I just have a > > 100 > > miles on it now, but I don’t know if I should leave in the oil for 5000 > > miles as people have mentioned that Honda has a special ‘break in’ oil > or > > just to change the oil my self at 1000mi. I don’t think the manual > > specifically mentioned that I should do by first oil change not before > 5k. > > Any suggestions? > > thanks > WTF are you talking about? The guy said 1,000 miles, not 100 miles. > — > Bearman > If it’s got tits, tires, tubes, or transistors, it’s trouble.
Response:
Cuz its a brand new car…i jus wanna get all the machine gunk out…calm down asshole
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Why doesn’t he change it every 100 miles? I heard also that if you change > your tires every 1000miles, you will get better grip. > Why are people overdoing the maintenance on their cars? In the US, it’s > 3000miles and for some reason, here in Canada, it’s 3000 kms to change > oil?? My book says every 5,000miles/7,500kms when in extreme conditions. > Will the extra 2000miles make such a difference in saving your engine’s > life? > Garages want to make money and are lying to their customers about the 3K > mark. >> Yeah, go ahead, change your oil now. Why wait? !00 miles is plenty! And > then >> when you reach the 5000 mile mark and your getting lousy mileage you can >> blame Honda for selling you a lemon. Because you know better! >> Yeah, that’s the ticket! >> > And is it easy to get to? What about the drain plug? I just have a >> > 100 >> > miles on it now, but I don’t know if I should leave in the oil for >> > 5000 >> > miles as people have mentioned that Honda has a special ‘break in’ oil > or >> > just to change the oil my self at 1000mi. I don’t think the manual >> > specifically mentioned that I should do by first oil change not before > 5k. >> > Any suggestions? >> > thanks > WTF are you talking about? The guy said 1,000 miles, not 100 miles. > — > Bearman > If it’s got tits, tires, tubes, or transistors, it’s trouble.
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> Cuz its a brand new car…i jus wanna get all the machine gunk out…
its not a 50s flathead ford. there shouldnt be any machine gunk.
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1 stillbirth, de-boned and cubed
Question:
do you take a diuretic? jeff
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
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No — I would think someone with IBD would NOT take one. Rebecca – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> do you take a diuretic? > jeff > So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there > anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->No — I would think someone with IBD would NOT take one. >Rebecca > do you take a diuretic? > jeff > > So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there > anything > > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > > Thanks, > > Rebecca > > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
I thought kiwis were high in potassium also in case you want a change…If you had high blood pressure you might be on diuretics…I know Darin takes a combo vitamin of potassium , magnesium and calcium because of his diaherra. Linda
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ROFL! Do you add some corn flakes to that mixture? LOL! mgbio – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > NEVER LIKE A MONKEY!! I prefer mine cut up and soaking in milk (soy milk). > Yum yum. . . > Rebecca >Hi Rebecca, >Well, the lovely part of CD is its ability to cause absorption issues of > nutrients, so, it _could_ be the CD or it could just be that your potassium > is just low right now. My Grandmother had low potassium and always ate a > banana a day. I, on the other hand, need no such encouragement to enjoy my > banana treats, hehehe. >Now, the big questions, how do you eat yours? I love to eat mine like a > monkey but my Mom discouraged it, LOL! >:) mgbio >>So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there > anything >>specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? >>Thanks, >>Rebecca >> Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Response:
No — icky — I don’t like corn flakes. . . .
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> ROFL! Do you add some corn flakes to that mixture? LOL! > mgbio > NEVER LIKE A MONKEY!! I prefer mine cut up and soaking in milk (soy milk). > Yum yum. . . > Rebecca >>Hi Rebecca, >>Well, the lovely part of CD is its ability to cause absorption issues of > nutrients, so, it _could_ be the CD or it could just be that your potassium > is just low right now. My Grandmother had low potassium and always ate a > banana a day. I, on the other hand, need no such encouragement to enjoy my > banana treats, hehehe. >>Now, the big questions, how do you eat yours? I love to eat mine like a > monkey but my Mom discouraged it, LOL! >>:) mgbio >>>So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there > anything >>>specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? >>>Thanks, >>>Rebecca >>> Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
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ROFL, ok, ok, then how about Raisin Bran? Those are the two cereals I was allowed to eat growing up, i.e. no high sugar content <G>. I snuck Apple Jacks at camp, but, you know, they were too sweet, LOL! mgbio – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > No — icky — I don’t like corn flakes. . . . >ROFL! Do you add some corn flakes to that mixture? LOL! >:) mgbio >>NEVER LIKE A MONKEY!! I prefer mine cut up and soaking in milk (soy > milk). >>Yum yum. . . >>Rebecca >>>Hi Rebecca, >>>Well, the lovely part of CD is its ability to cause absorption issues of >>nutrients, so, it _could_ be the CD or it could just be that your > potassium >>is just low right now. My Grandmother had low potassium and always ate > a >>banana a day. I, on the other hand, need no such encouragement to enjoy > my >>banana treats, hehehe. >>>Now, the big questions, how do you eat yours? I love to eat mine like a >>monkey but my Mom discouraged it, LOL! >>>:) mgbio >>>>So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there >>anything >>>>specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? >>>>Thanks, >>>>Rebecca >>>> Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Response:
[Rebecca ] > Thanks for the informative post (as usual). I’m very excited to know that my > inability to think clearly (space brain) may be attributed to my potassium > level, and NOT the fact that I am blonde (which is what I always figured was > the cause).
One thing I’ve found in a quarter century with Crohn’s is that the best asset for good mental and physical health is a good sense of humour! > I appreciate the information. Hope you are doing well.
You’re very welcome: I hope that it helps you to get back to health quickly. Kind regards, and I am doing well right now, thanks. Alan.
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Yup, that’s the only way I’ll eat them. I don’t like them green OR over ripe. I’ve heard the same thing. Thanks! Rebecca
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Going out and shopping for banana as we speak > Be sure they are ripe but not over ripe bananas, and not the green ones. At > least, that is what I have heard.
Response:
Hi Alan! Thanks for the informative post (as usual). I’m very excited to know that my inability to think clearly (space brain) may be attributed to my potassium level, and NOT the fact that I am blonde (which is what I always figured was the cause). I appreciate the information. Hope you are doing well. Rebecca
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> [Rebecca ] > So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak > Diarrhea causes loss of potassium, so it is important to try and > reduce frequency of bowel habits when addressing shortage of > potassium. Do this by avoiding things that accelerate bowel activity, > i.e. gas generating foods, caffeine, smoking, drinking sugar-laden > sodas, etc, etc. > It’s important to address potassium deficiency quickly, since > inability to absorb water can rapidly lead to dehydration and a range > of (potentially serious ) complications. An important symptom of > potassium deficiency is an inability to think clearly (since sodium > and potassium regulate neuronal communication in the brain, among many > other things). Examples of consequent problems include finding > yourself having to read the same paragraph/sentence twice. Examples of > consequent problems include finding yourself having to read the same > paragraph/sentence twice. > If reducing frequency of bowel habit proves to be difficult to > achieve, then oral rehydration salts are a quick and effective > solution to the problem. They are generally cheap, i.e. approx 50 cent > per sachet, address the problem rapidly and effectively, and can be > taken even when one feels like not eating. Ask your pharmacist about > rehydration salts. > Another pharmaceutical way to address the problem is with tablets such > as Slow-K, a hard tablet which slowly releases potassium as it passes > through your guts. One can also get potassium solutions, such > "Kay-Cee-L" syrup. These are often available without prescription, > although pharmacists will interrogate intensively to ensure that you > can be trusted with them. Excessive potassium levels can be extremely > dangerous, i.e. fatal. So the pahrmacist will want proof that you’re > not going to go home and do something stupid like drink half a litre > of the stuff, and give yourself an instanteous fatal heart attack. > Non-pharmaceutical rehydration/isotonic/sports drinks are also a good > solution. In the USA, I believe that Gatorade is a popular choice. > Over here, lucozade sport is a good choice, although ridiculously > expensive for what it provides. One can also make one’s own > rehydration drinks, using simple ingredients, for a fraction of the > cost. > http://www.medicdirectsport.com/sportsnutrition/default.asp?step=4&pi… > On the food side, I find that bananas are very hard for me to digest, > unless they are cooked. I usually do so by mashing a banana thoroughly > (with a fork) and then mixing it with some oatmeal/porridge and giving > it a minute or two in the microwave. > Cooking unfolds the soluble fibre in the banana, and thus increases > the intestinal cleansing benefit of the fruit. Research has shown that > the bananas close relative, the plaintain, has even more such soluble > fibre, although it must be cooked before eating: plaintains are > indigestible when raw. > Cooked bananas and oatmeal/porridge is one of my fallback meals: I can > eat it no matter what medical state I’m in: although it’s a little > bland, it’s nutritious and nevers upsets my guts. A little honey makes > it tastier, and a little nutmeg (which also has anti-inflammatory > properties) helps spice it up a little. I have had times where I have > gone up to a week eating nothing but banana and porridge (such as the > time I had to live on it for a week after a nasty reaction to an upper > GI-series, i.e. a barium meal. I’ll *never* submit to barium > examination again!). > Bananas are not necessarily the best food for obtaining potassium, > particularly if your guts are sensitive. There are plenty of other > potassium containing foods: I find that by including small amounts of > lots of such foods in my diet, I generally don’t have > electrolyte/hydration problems. For example, I mix raisins (and > turmeric) into tuna for sandwiches, I drink soya milk instead of dairy > (I’m also occasionally lactose-intolerant), I drink (decaf) instant > coffee, etc, etc. > Here are several online lists of potassium containing foods. > http://www.weightlossforall.com/potassium-rich-food.htm > http://www.headachepainfree.com/potassiumrichfoods.htm > http://www.dietitian.com/potassiu.html > http://www.kidneywise.com/community/lifestyle/food/diet/potassium.asp > The latter page is particularly useful, since it relates to how to > *lower* your potassium levels (for kidney dialysis), and thus shows > all the things we IBD’ers should *not* do, such as > 1. overcooking vegetables, particularly by boiling > 2. eating preserved/tinned vs. fresh fruit/vegetables > 3. preferring pasta to potatoes > 4. avoiding cakes, biscuits and desserts (Hey, a man’s gotta live, not > just survive 
> 5. Etc, etc. > Be well. > Alan. > CD, class of ‘79.
Response:
Hi John!! Thanks for the post. I’ll talk with the doc about potassium tabs if the level continues to be low next month. I didn’t even know such things existed. Hope you are feeling well. Rebecca
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I take 2 potassium tabs (slow K) twice a day. In my case it’s because of my > ileostomy and loss of fluid. > John H(I) > So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there > anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Response:
Hi Annie: I can’t drink orange juice either — way too acidic for me too. I’m going to stick with the bananas for a while and see if they help. Are you home yet?? Rebecca
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak > rebecca > i had that problem seriously once..i had been bleeding..slightly for a > week about..and one morning i got up and almost fainted…and we went > to the er..and it was low potassium…it could be from bleeding or > D…cos D will dehydrate you quickly…yes..i keep bananas in the > house..orange juice is good for that too but personally it’s too > acidic for me when i am not feeling well..and bananas are good for D > anyway…good luck > annie
Response:
Yes, I’ve had a few IV’s in the past and boy, they really make a person feel better!! I guess we will monitor my levels (along with everything else) and see what the doc suggests if they are still low in a month. I haven’t had any worse D in the last month than usual, so I’m wondering if it is something else. Thanks for the input! Rebecca I have had an electrolyte imbalance (which includes potassium) after a good case of the runs. Often when we have the big D, it is mostly liquid and this can throw off your electrolytes. This generally results in an IV containing the proper balance of potassium and other salts to bring things back into balance.. Paul
So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? Thanks, Rebecca Dear Rebecca: Hey there, Lady. How is every little thing? How have you been generally? I pray this post finds everything well in your life. Now, to the question at hand. Very recently, I found out that I keep having a very low potassium level even though I take Potassium pills twice a day,every day. It seems that the level of potassium in your blood is directly related to the amount of diarrhea you may be having, how much you urinate and just generally how much of your regular bodily fluids you are loosing each day. Some days it may be normal, due to either little or no exertion and other days it may be quite low, depending on what you have been up to that day and just how many (and much ) daily "output" you may have. So, the short of it is, YES, Esmerelda, there is a direct connection between your disease and your potassium levels. Please take care of yourself. You have become a dear friend to me and many others and you deserve so much in this life that none of us are in a position to give you. I know God has a special place for you and others like you who have been through hell and deserve a long respite at the end of the road. God bless you, Rebecca, I know that you are a blessing you are and have been to others. Be well. Love, Margie CD Class of 67 UC Class of 96
Response:
Hi Margie! Thanks for the lovely words of encouragement! I don’t spend as much time on the ng as I used to, but please know that you are all still very dear to me. I’m doing pretty well. I have been on Methotrexate for the last few months and it seems to be helping. It took me a little while before it worked, however. Things here are busy, busy. My girls are now 13 and 16 so I’m pretty much on a "hormone rollercoaster" everyday (my poor hubby). Anyone who has had/has teenage girls will know what I am talking about!! But they are great and lots of fun. How are you??? Rebecca
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything >specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? >Thanks, >Rebecca > Dear Rebecca: > Hey there, Lady. How is every little thing? How have you been generally? I > pray this post finds everything well in your life. Now, to the question at > hand. Very recently, I found out that I keep having a very low potassium level > even though I take Potassium pills twice a day,every day. It seems that the > level of potassium in your blood is directly related to the amount of diarrhea > you may be having, how much you urinate and just generally how much of your > regular bodily fluids you are loosing each day. Some days it may be normal, > due to either little or no exertion and other days it may be quite low, > depending on what you have been up to that day and just how many (and much ) > daily "output" you may have. So, the short of it is, YES, Esmerelda, there is > a direct connection between your disease and your potassium levels. Please > take care of yourself. You have become a dear friend to me and many others and > you deserve so much in this life that none of us are in a position to give you. > I know God has a special place for you and others like you who have been > through hell and deserve a long respite at the end of the road. God bless you, > Rebecca, I know that you are a blessing you are and have been to others. Be > well. > Love, > Margie > CD Class of 67 > UC Class of 96
Response:
Tomatoes and me don’t mix, but thanks for the suggestion anyhow. My doc sent along a list of potassium rich foods for me. Rebecca
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> By the way, Rebecca, tomatos are another great source of Potassium. I am sure > there are others but it is just early in the morning to force my brain to start > working, okay? As and/or if I think of them, I will let you know. > Byeeeeeeeeeeeee! > Margie > CD Class of 67 > UC Class of 96
Response:
NEVER LIKE A MONKEY!! I prefer mine cut up and soaking in milk (soy milk). Yum yum. . . Rebecca
> Hi Rebecca, > Well, the lovely part of CD is its ability to cause absorption issues of
nutrients, so, it _could_ be the CD or it could just be that your potassium is just low right now. My Grandmother had low potassium and always ate a banana a day. I, on the other hand, need no such encouragement to enjoy my banana treats, hehehe. > Now, the big questions, how do you eat yours? I love to eat mine like a
monkey but my Mom discouraged it, LOL! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> mgbio > So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Response:
> So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
rebecca i had that problem seriously once..i had been bleeding..slightly for a week about..and one morning i got up and almost fainted…and we went to the er..and it was low potassium…it could be from bleeding or D…cos D will dehydrate you quickly…yes..i keep bananas in the house..orange juice is good for that too but personally it’s too acidic for me when i am not feeling well..and bananas are good for D anyway…good luck annie
Response:
I take 2 potassium tabs (slow K) twice a day. In my case it’s because of my ileostomy and loss of fluid. John H(I)
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Response:
> Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Be sure they are ripe but not over ripe bananas, and not the green ones. At least, that is what I have heard.
Response:
[Rebecca ] > So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Diarrhea causes loss of potassium, so it is important to try and reduce frequency of bowel habits when addressing shortage of potassium. Do this by avoiding things that accelerate bowel activity, i.e. gas generating foods, caffeine, smoking, drinking sugar-laden sodas, etc, etc. It’s important to address potassium deficiency quickly, since inability to absorb water can rapidly lead to dehydration and a range of (potentially serious ) complications. An important symptom of potassium deficiency is an inability to think clearly (since sodium and potassium regulate neuronal communication in the brain, among many other things). Examples of consequent problems include finding yourself having to read the same paragraph/sentence twice. Examples of consequent problems include finding yourself having to read the same paragraph/sentence twice. If reducing frequency of bowel habit proves to be difficult to achieve, then oral rehydration salts are a quick and effective solution to the problem. They are generally cheap, i.e. approx 50 cent per sachet, address the problem rapidly and effectively, and can be taken even when one feels like not eating. Ask your pharmacist about rehydration salts. Another pharmaceutical way to address the problem is with tablets such as Slow-K, a hard tablet which slowly releases potassium as it passes through your guts. One can also get potassium solutions, such "Kay-Cee-L" syrup. These are often available without prescription, although pharmacists will interrogate intensively to ensure that you can be trusted with them. Excessive potassium levels can be extremely dangerous, i.e. fatal. So the pahrmacist will want proof that you’re not going to go home and do something stupid like drink half a litre of the stuff, and give yourself an instanteous fatal heart attack. Non-pharmaceutical rehydration/isotonic/sports drinks are also a good solution. In the USA, I believe that Gatorade is a popular choice. Over here, lucozade sport is a good choice, although ridiculously expensive for what it provides. One can also make one’s own rehydration drinks, using simple ingredients, for a fraction of the cost. http://www.medicdirectsport.com/sportsnutrition/default.asp?step=4&pi… On the food side, I find that bananas are very hard for me to digest, unless they are cooked. I usually do so by mashing a banana thoroughly (with a fork) and then mixing it with some oatmeal/porridge and giving it a minute or two in the microwave. Cooking unfolds the soluble fibre in the banana, and thus increases the intestinal cleansing benefit of the fruit. Research has shown that the bananas close relative, the plaintain, has even more such soluble fibre, although it must be cooked before eating: plaintains are indigestible when raw. Cooked bananas and oatmeal/porridge is one of my fallback meals: I can eat it no matter what medical state I’m in: although it’s a little bland, it’s nutritious and nevers upsets my guts. A little honey makes it tastier, and a little nutmeg (which also has anti-inflammatory properties) helps spice it up a little. I have had times where I have gone up to a week eating nothing but banana and porridge (such as the time I had to live on it for a week after a nasty reaction to an upper GI-series, i.e. a barium meal. I’ll *never* submit to barium examination again!). Bananas are not necessarily the best food for obtaining potassium, particularly if your guts are sensitive. There are plenty of other potassium containing foods: I find that by including small amounts of lots of such foods in my diet, I generally don’t have electrolyte/hydration problems. For example, I mix raisins (and turmeric) into tuna for sandwiches, I drink soya milk instead of dairy (I’m also occasionally lactose-intolerant), I drink (decaf) instant coffee, etc, etc. Here are several online lists of potassium containing foods. http://www.weightlossforall.com/potassium-rich-food.htm http://www.headachepainfree.com/potassiumrichfoods.htm http://www.dietitian.com/potassiu.html http://www.kidneywise.com/community/lifestyle/food/diet/potassium.asp The latter page is particularly useful, since it relates to how to *lower* your potassium levels (for kidney dialysis), and thus shows all the things we IBD’ers should *not* do, such as 1. overcooking vegetables, particularly by boiling 2. eating preserved/tinned vs. fresh fruit/vegetables 3. preferring pasta to potatoes 4. avoiding cakes, biscuits and desserts (Hey, a man’s gotta live, not just survive 5. Etc, etc. Be well. Alan. CD, class of ‘79.
Response:
By the way, Rebecca, tomatos are another great source of Potassium. I am sure there are others but it is just early in the morning to force my brain to start working, okay? As and/or if I think of them, I will let you know. Byeeeeeeeeeeeee! Margie CD Class of 67 UC Class of 96
Response:
I have had an electrolyte imbalance (which includes potassium) after a good case of the runs. Often when we have the big D, it is mostly liquid and this can throw off your electrolytes. This generally results in an IV containing the proper balance of potassium and other salts to bring things back into balance.. Paul – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything >specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? >Thanks, >Rebecca >Dear Rebecca: > Hey there, Lady. How is every little thing? How have you been generally? I >pray this post finds everything well in your life. Now, to the question at >hand. Very recently, I found out that I keep having a very low potassium level >even though I take Potassium pills twice a day,every day. It seems that the >level of potassium in your blood is directly related to the amount of diarrhea >you may be having, how much you urinate and just generally how much of your >regular bodily fluids you are loosing each day. Some days it may be normal, >due to either little or no exertion and other days it may be quite low, >depending on what you have been up to that day and just how many (and much ) >daily "output" you may have. So, the short of it is, YES, Esmerelda, there is >a direct connection between your disease and your potassium levels. Please >take care of yourself. You have become a dear friend to me and many others and >you deserve so much in this life that none of us are in a position to give you. > I know God has a special place for you and others like you who have been >through hell and deserve a long respite at the end of the road. God bless you, >Rebecca, I know that you are a blessing you are and have been to others. Be >well. >Love, > Margie >CD Class of 67 >UC Class of 96
Response:
>So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything >specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? >Thanks, >Rebecca
Dear Rebecca: Hey there, Lady. How is every little thing? How have you been generally? I pray this post finds everything well in your life. Now, to the question at hand. Very recently, I found out that I keep having a very low potassium level even though I take Potassium pills twice a day,every day. It seems that the level of potassium in your blood is directly related to the amount of diarrhea you may be having, how much you urinate and just generally how much of your regular bodily fluids you are loosing each day. Some days it may be normal, due to either little or no exertion and other days it may be quite low, depending on what you have been up to that day and just how many (and much ) daily "output" you may have. So, the short of it is, YES, Esmerelda, there is a direct connection between your disease and your potassium levels. Please take care of yourself. You have become a dear friend to me and many others and you deserve so much in this life that none of us are in a position to give you. I know God has a special place for you and others like you who have been through hell and deserve a long respite at the end of the road. God bless you, Rebecca, I know that you are a blessing you are and have been to others. Be well. Love, Margie CD Class of 67 UC Class of 96
Response:
Hi Rebecca, Well, the lovely part of CD is its ability to cause absorption issues of nutrients, so, it _could_ be the CD or it could just be that your potassium is just low right now. My Grandmother had low potassium and always ate a banana a day. I, on the other hand, need no such encouragement to enjoy my banana treats, hehehe. Now, the big questions, how do you eat yours? I love to eat mine like a monkey but my Mom discouraged it, LOL! mgbio – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Response:
I’ve had low potassium before, once from a bad fever/infection when I was in the hospital but most of the time its been assocociated with diarrhea and/or vomitting and not enough fluid intake during it. UM MOM Susan
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there > anything > specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? > Thanks, > Rebecca > Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Response:
So my bloodwork came back and my potassium level was low. Is there anything specific in IBD that causes this, or it just me? Thanks, Rebecca Going out and shopping for banana as we speak
Response:
Question:
>Actually, Celebrity provides cotton terry cloth towels in public restaurants. >I guess someone forgot to do their homework. They also provide chilled towels >when reboarding from hot Caribbean ports.
I think he was talking about Carnival. Mason Barge "If this is coffee, please bring me some tea. If this is tea, please bring me some coffee." — Abraham Lincoln
Response:
LOL Sorry. I meant cotton terry cloth towels in public restrooms.
Response:
> And this points to something that is a concern for people on my "track". > I find it sort of disturbing that while many are quick to give the > business point of view, that the companies have to be responsible to > their stakeholders, not many are coming out with the sociological point > of view, what happened to that discipline being represented? Most of us > are consumers, not businesspeople or stakeholders and I don’t think the > business POV has to be so dominant. And nobody should feel that giving a > sociological point of view is illegitimate, impractical, or any other > such negative.
There’s something I need to add. Sociology and Marketing overlap at points in study. I go to en.wikipedia.org for comprehensive defitions with multiple sublinks under the umbrella of many subjects. One can find "behavioral finance" under Sociology or get there through Marketing links. As I’ve been saying the difference in what’s gleaned from the same subject matter is under which umbrella one reaches definitions and the perspective and main reasons for getting there. Ben S.
Response:
Actually, Celebrity provides cotton terry cloth towels in public restaurants. I guess someone forgot to do their homework. They also provide chilled towels when reboarding from hot Caribbean ports.
Response:
> Actually, Celebrity provides cotton terry cloth towels in public restaurants. > I guess someone forgot to do their homework. They also provide chilled towels > when reboarding from hot Caribbean ports.
What are you replying to? Since you don’t provide any context I can’t figure out who you are guessing did not do their homework. — Charles
Response:
Howie, thanks for your quick summary of several lines. And your comment about Carnival: >Finally, the lack of any towels (they used to provide paper >towels) in public restrooms is very annoying.
So that means those disgusting wind blowing machines? Reminds me of the gym or the public library. Ugh.
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or > more, what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a > time ago and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of > improvement and/or slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, > quality of amenities, ship maintenance, training of crew. > I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m > interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in > cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. > Ben S.
Great response, Howie. > Cruised many times on Celebrity, Princess, HAL, Carnival, and RCCL over > the past five years. > IMO, among the five lines above, Carnival is the most improved overall – > particularly in the culinary area, where I strongly feel it now exceeds > any of these others. I think there has been some slippage in bar > service with the elimination of Jamaican bartenders. I’ve also noticed > a decline in the overall quality of musical talent (although there have > been exceptions). Perhaps strict drug testing has been responsible for > this . Finally, the lack of any towels (they used to provide paper > towels) in public restrooms is very annoying. > All of the other lines have gone downhill in my opinion.
That’s the impression I get. While you and Eileen are very flexible cruisers some of those that favor the "premium" lines, such as Ernie R. and Babette, are very impressed with Carnival’s Spirit class and the other new Carnival class ship’s product delivery in key aspects, including service and cuisine that includes buffet, dining and specialty cuisine. > The food on Celebrity has steadily declined. > The food on RCCL has steadily declined, though maintenance may have > actually improved. > Food has declined on Princess and entertainment, which used to be a > major strength of this cruise line (often having known talent, e.g., > Nell Carter) has definitely declined. > On HAL, I have seen a decline in both food and service.
And this points to something that is a concern for people on my "track". I find it sort of disturbing that while many are quick to give the business point of view, that the companies have to be responsible to their stakeholders, not many are coming out with the sociological point of view, what happened to that discipline being represented? Most of us are consumers, not businesspeople or stakeholders and I don’t think the business POV has to be so dominant. And nobody should feel that giving a sociological point of view is illegitimate, impractical, or any other such negative. Here’s some of the major points. Does popularity breed "run of the millness" and spread? And, how does that impact the overall quality of what is offered to consumers and their "choice pool". Then, do run-of-the-mill products through popularity improve? Does the homogeneity and blurring of somewhat higher-rung products and mainstream product trickle into a higher blurred standard for the mainstream? What’s preserved of an older and higher standard and how? Do people seeking a higher or distinctive standard have enough outlets if one spreading model has undue influence on what’s available in a particular price range? And, where do you go from there, what’s the course? I also think we need to examine how we get to places before we get to them and wonder why we let them get where they are. Ben S. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Howie
Response:
Mason. Did NCL get rid of the Jean Ann Ryan dancers? They were be best dance troup I’ve seen on any line.
Response:
> For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, > what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago > and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or > slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, > ship maintenance, training of crew. > I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m > interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in > cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. > Ben S.
Cruised many times on Celebrity, Princess, HAL, Carnival, and RCCL over the past five years. IMO, among the five lines above, Carnival is the most improved overall – particularly in the culinary area, where I strongly feel it now exceeds any of these others. I think there has been some slippage in bar service with the elimination of Jamaican bartenders. I’ve also noticed a decline in the overall quality of musical talent (although there have been exceptions). Perhaps strict drug testing has been responsible for this . Finally, the lack of any towels (they used to provide paper towels) in public restrooms is very annoying. All of the other lines have gone downhill in my opinion. The food on Celebrity has steadily declined. The food on RCCL has steadily declined, though maintenance may have actually improved. Food has declined on Princess and entertainment, which used to be a major strength of this cruise line (often having known talent, e.g., Nell Carter) has definitely declined. On HAL, I have seen a decline in both food and service. Howie
Response:
Celebrity: Food has definitely slipped, and I liked the older ships better, too, although the Millie class is okay. Service and cleanliness still A+ for the price. HAL: Food and service have held up. Really have slipped on the upkeep of their ships and are currently destroying the famous HAL ambiance by taking away little freebies, the old Mariner society benefits, the laid-back tipping system, implementing new predatory liquor policies, gradually removing the Indonesian and Dutch cultural elements, etc. Rapidly becoming Carnival with antiques IMO. I’m very disappointed with HAL right now and it has lost me as a "core customer". NCL: Quality of entertainment has gone down (from outstanding to average plus), which was for me the only reason to choose them. Mason Barge "If this is coffee, please bring me some tea. If this is tea, please bring me some coffee." — Abraham Lincoln
Response:
7 of my 12 cruises have been on HAL ships, and I’d have to say the embarkation procedure is the most improved on HAL. Candy <– awaiting my 3rd Zuidy embarkation – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, > what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago > and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or > slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, > ship maintenance, training of crew. > I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m > interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in > cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. > Ben S.
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, >what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago >and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or >slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, >ship maintenance, training of crew. >I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m >interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in >cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. > The concept of "overall" is difficult. > On our last Viking Cruise, last December on Navigator, the buffet food for > both breakfast and lunch was every bit as good as just about every cruise > we’ve been on. The dining room food may have been the worst ever – maybe > even worse than Destiny. > I would give the buffet for breakfast and lunch a solid A. > I would give the dining room for dinner a solid D-. > Same sailing. > Even the evening buffet was better than the dining room. The prociutto > (sliced paper thin and very tender) and melon in the buffet was fantastic > one night (I went for a 6:30 snack since we had late seating). Later that > evening in the dining room, the prociutto (thick sliced and tough as shoe > leather) and melon were terrible. > What’s that come out to overall?
True inconsistency. I think inconsistency can bring down an overall assessment. It’s a tough challenge, Tom. There’s also the cost consideration, factoring in inflation and relative costs of the cruising, then and now. In general, amenities are up on ships with the newer ships, availability of balcony cabins, amenities in terms of spas and gyms. Passenger space ratio is up on newer ships. So you have to look at subjective things like service points like knowledge of crew, personal attention, timeliness. I think the nickel-and-diming thing is a frequently mentioned negative. Another negative seems to be quality of dining cuisine and things offered in Princess, HAL, Celebrity and to some degree RCI. Too many passengers on larger ships than desired is mentioned, but less frequently. With Celebrity the food doesn’t get the overall praise it used to get and many have noticed cutbacks in variety, vegetables, presentation, sauces offered, fresh peppers, hearts of palm, etc. Overall Celebrity seems a fine value, but standards of service attention and food quality and creativity have dropped. Some also think maintenance of the Horizon ships have dropped. I think how much weight people put on various cruise aspects will determine how they feel overall. Similar things with HAL, noticeable cutbacks and more obvious onboard revenue promotion. Maintenance also has been mentioned as not up to the level of the past. Vista ships took away free java bar and some services offered in previous classes. Problems with ship management and service are frequently mentioned with Vista ships. Princess seems to have dropped a rung from premium to mainstream (though these classifications are getting harder to justify). Seems product is inconsistent. I don’t know this product. Carnival, however, is getting high grades for its food. I know you disagree but I read review after review and look at comments in 4 internet boards and improved food is frequently mentioned. Also, service seems up, entertainment has always been high, new ships have good amenities even if I don’t like their interior asthetics. The party till you puke reputation is going away quickly and many put them on par with RCI with food as good as and often better than HAL and Celebrity. Ben S. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> –Tom
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Hi Ben, In the last 5 years we have not cruised Carnival NCL or RCCL. Of those we have cruised I would say that Princess has improved for Elite passengers with all the extras they give us. I especially like the way they handle on board bookings.Celebrity seems to be trying harder, but I think HAL has gone down a notch. Only been on the Noordam so maybe that’s not a fair evaluation. Personal opinion only! ~~DORIS~~
Response:
> For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, > what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago > and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or > slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, > ship maintenance, training of crew. > I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m > interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in > cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome.
The concept of "overall" is difficult. On our last Viking Cruise, last December on Navigator, the buffet food for both breakfast and lunch was every bit as good as just about every cruise we’ve been on. The dining room food may have been the worst ever – maybe even worse than Destiny. I would give the buffet for breakfast and lunch a solid A. I would give the dining room for dinner a solid D-. Same sailing. Even the evening buffet was better than the dining room. The prociutto (sliced paper thin and very tender) and melon in the buffet was fantastic one night (I went for a 6:30 snack since we had late seating). Later that evening in the dining room, the prociutto (thick sliced and tough as shoe leather) and melon were terrible. What’s that come out to overall? –Tom
Response:
For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, ship maintenance, training of crew. I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. Ben S.
Response:
Ben. You’re probably right. Carnival has improved alot. Food now is very good and the line enjoys the same demographics as RCCL. Royal Caribbean still has the most stunning ships in the mainstream market. Food is still good, but not as special as their ships. I’ve seen no slippage on Celebrity of anykind. One not-so good meal out of 4 cruises. (veal picata on first night).
Response:
For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, ship maintenance, training of crew. I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. Ben S.
Response:
Ben. You’re probably right. Carnival has improved alot. Food now is very good and the line enjoys the same demographics as RCCL. Royal Caribbean still has the most stunning ships in the mainstream market. Food is still good, but not as special as their ships. I’ve seen no slippage on Celebrity of anykind. One not-so good meal out of 4 cruises. (veal picata on first night).
Response:
Hi Ben, In the last 5 years we have not cruised Carnival NCL or RCCL. Of those we have cruised I would say that Princess has improved for Elite passengers with all the extras they give us. I especially like the way they handle on board bookings.Celebrity seems to be trying harder, but I think HAL has gone down a notch. Only been on the Noordam so maybe that’s not a fair evaluation. Personal opinion only! ~~DORIS~~
Response:
> For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, > what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago > and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or > slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, > ship maintenance, training of crew. > I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m > interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in > cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome.
The concept of "overall" is difficult. On our last Viking Cruise, last December on Navigator, the buffet food for both breakfast and lunch was every bit as good as just about every cruise we’ve been on. The dining room food may have been the worst ever – maybe even worse than Destiny. I would give the buffet for breakfast and lunch a solid A. I would give the dining room for dinner a solid D-. Same sailing. Even the evening buffet was better than the dining room. The prociutto (sliced paper thin and very tender) and melon in the buffet was fantastic one night (I went for a 6:30 snack since we had late seating). Later that evening in the dining room, the prociutto (thick sliced and tough as shoe leather) and melon were terrible. What’s that come out to overall? –Tom
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, >what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago >and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or >slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, >ship maintenance, training of crew. >I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m >interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in >cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. > The concept of "overall" is difficult. > On our last Viking Cruise, last December on Navigator, the buffet food for > both breakfast and lunch was every bit as good as just about every cruise > we’ve been on. The dining room food may have been the worst ever – maybe > even worse than Destiny. > I would give the buffet for breakfast and lunch a solid A. > I would give the dining room for dinner a solid D-. > Same sailing. > Even the evening buffet was better than the dining room. The prociutto > (sliced paper thin and very tender) and melon in the buffet was fantastic > one night (I went for a 6:30 snack since we had late seating). Later that > evening in the dining room, the prociutto (thick sliced and tough as shoe > leather) and melon were terrible. > What’s that come out to overall?
True inconsistency. I think inconsistency can bring down an overall assessment. It’s a tough challenge, Tom. There’s also the cost consideration, factoring in inflation and relative costs of the cruising, then and now. In general, amenities are up on ships with the newer ships, availability of balcony cabins, amenities in terms of spas and gyms. Passenger space ratio is up on newer ships. So you have to look at subjective things like service points like knowledge of crew, personal attention, timeliness. I think the nickel-and-diming thing is a frequently mentioned negative. Another negative seems to be quality of dining cuisine and things offered in Princess, HAL, Celebrity and to some degree RCI. Too many passengers on larger ships than desired is mentioned, but less frequently. With Celebrity the food doesn’t get the overall praise it used to get and many have noticed cutbacks in variety, vegetables, presentation, sauces offered, fresh peppers, hearts of palm, etc. Overall Celebrity seems a fine value, but standards of service attention and food quality and creativity have dropped. Some also think maintenance of the Horizon ships have dropped. I think how much weight people put on various cruise aspects will determine how they feel overall. Similar things with HAL, noticeable cutbacks and more obvious onboard revenue promotion. Maintenance also has been mentioned as not up to the level of the past. Vista ships took away free java bar and some services offered in previous classes. Problems with ship management and service are frequently mentioned with Vista ships. Princess seems to have dropped a rung from premium to mainstream (though these classifications are getting harder to justify). Seems product is inconsistent. I don’t know this product. Carnival, however, is getting high grades for its food. I know you disagree but I read review after review and look at comments in 4 internet boards and improved food is frequently mentioned. Also, service seems up, entertainment has always been high, new ships have good amenities even if I don’t like their interior asthetics. The party till you puke reputation is going away quickly and many put them on par with RCI with food as good as and often better than HAL and Celebrity. Ben S. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> –Tom
Response:
7 of my 12 cruises have been on HAL ships, and I’d have to say the embarkation procedure is the most improved on HAL. Candy <– awaiting my 3rd Zuidy embarkation – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, > what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago > and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or > slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, > ship maintenance, training of crew. > I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m > interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in > cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. > Ben S.
Response:
Celebrity: Food has definitely slipped, and I liked the older ships better, too, although the Millie class is okay. Service and cleanliness still A+ for the price. HAL: Food and service have held up. Really have slipped on the upkeep of their ships and are currently destroying the famous HAL ambiance by taking away little freebies, the old Mariner society benefits, the laid-back tipping system, implementing new predatory liquor policies, gradually removing the Indonesian and Dutch cultural elements, etc. Rapidly becoming Carnival with antiques IMO. I’m very disappointed with HAL right now and it has lost me as a "core customer". NCL: Quality of entertainment has gone down (from outstanding to average plus), which was for me the only reason to choose them. Mason Barge "If this is coffee, please bring me some tea. If this is tea, please bring me some coffee." — Abraham Lincoln
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Mason. Did NCL get rid of the Jean Ann Ryan dancers? They were be best dance troup I’ve seen on any line.
Response:
> For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or more, > what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a time ago > and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of improvement and/or > slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, quality of amenities, > ship maintenance, training of crew. > I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m > interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in > cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. > Ben S.
Cruised many times on Celebrity, Princess, HAL, Carnival, and RCCL over the past five years. IMO, among the five lines above, Carnival is the most improved overall – particularly in the culinary area, where I strongly feel it now exceeds any of these others. I think there has been some slippage in bar service with the elimination of Jamaican bartenders. I’ve also noticed a decline in the overall quality of musical talent (although there have been exceptions). Perhaps strict drug testing has been responsible for this . Finally, the lack of any towels (they used to provide paper towels) in public restrooms is very annoying. All of the other lines have gone downhill in my opinion. The food on Celebrity has steadily declined. The food on RCCL has steadily declined, though maintenance may have actually improved. Food has declined on Princess and entertainment, which used to be a major strength of this cruise line (often having known talent, e.g., Nell Carter) has definitely declined. On HAL, I have seen a decline in both food and service. Howie
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> For those that have cruised a fair amount of lines and 5 years or > more, what lines would you say are most improved *overall* now, vs. a > time ago and what lines have slipped. Please state areas of > improvement and/or slippage: food, service, variety of entertainment, > quality of amenities, ship maintenance, training of crew. > I have a feeling that Carnival may be most improved overall. I’m > interested in how HAL, Celebrity, Cunard, and Princess rates in > cruisers’ assessments. Assessment of any line is welcome. > Ben S.
Great response, Howie. > Cruised many times on Celebrity, Princess, HAL, Carnival, and RCCL over > the past five years. > IMO, among the five lines above, Carnival is the most improved overall – > particularly in the culinary area, where I strongly feel it now exceeds > any of these others. I think there has been some slippage in bar > service with the elimination of Jamaican bartenders. I’ve also noticed > a decline in the overall quality of musical talent (although there have > been exceptions). Perhaps strict drug testing has been responsible for > this . Finally, the lack of any towels (they used to provide paper > towels) in public restrooms is very annoying. > All of the other lines have gone downhill in my opinion.
That’s the impression I get. While you and Eileen are very flexible cruisers some of those that favor the "premium" lines, such as Ernie R. and Babette, are very impressed with Carnival’s Spirit class and the other new Carnival class ship’s product delivery in key aspects, including service and cuisine that includes buffet, dining and specialty cuisine. > The food on Celebrity has steadily declined. > The food on RCCL has steadily declined, though maintenance may have > actually improved. > Food has declined on Princess and entertainment, which used to be a > major strength of this cruise line (often having known talent, e.g., > Nell Carter) has definitely declined. > On HAL, I have seen a decline in both food and service.
And this points to something that is a concern for people on my "track". I find it sort of disturbing that while many are quick to give the business point of view, that the companies have to be responsible to their stakeholders, not many are coming out with the sociological point of view, what happened to that discipline being represented? Most of us are consumers, not businesspeople or stakeholders and I don’t think the business POV has to be so dominant. And nobody should feel that giving a sociological point of view is illegitimate, impractical, or any other such negative. Here’s some of the major points. Does popularity breed "run of the millness" and spread? And, how does that impact the overall quality of what is offered to consumers and their "choice pool". Then, do run-of-the-mill products through popularity improve? Does the homogeneity and blurring of somewhat higher-rung products and mainstream product trickle into a higher blurred standard for the mainstream? What’s preserved of an older and higher standard and how? Do people seeking a higher or distinctive standard have enough outlets if one spreading model has undue influence on what’s available in a particular price range? And, where do you go from there, what’s the course? I also think we need to examine how we get to places before we get to them and wonder why we let them get where they are. Ben S. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Howie
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Howie, thanks for your quick summary of several lines. And your comment about Carnival: >Finally, the lack of any towels (they used to provide paper >towels) in public restrooms is very annoying.
So that means those disgusting wind blowing machines? Reminds me of the gym or the public library. Ugh.
Response:
Actually, Celebrity provides cotton terry cloth towels in public restaurants. I guess someone forgot to do their homework. They also provide chilled towels when reboarding from hot Caribbean ports.
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> Actually, Celebrity provides cotton terry cloth towels in public restaurants. > I guess someone forgot to do their homework. They also provide chilled towels > when reboarding from hot Caribbean ports.
What are you replying to? Since you don’t provide any context I can’t figure out who you are guessing did not do their homework. — Charles
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> And this points to something that is a concern for people on my "track". > I find it sort of disturbing that while many are quick to give the > business point of view, that the companies have to be responsible to > their stakeholders, not many are coming out with the sociological point > of view, what happened to that discipline being represented? Most of us > are consumers, not businesspeople or stakeholders and I don’t think the > business POV has to be so dominant. And nobody should feel that giving a > sociological point of view is illegitimate, impractical, or any other > such negative.
There’s something I need to add. Sociology and Marketing overlap at points in study. I go to en.wikipedia.org for comprehensive defitions with multiple sublinks under the umbrella of many subjects. One can find "behavioral finance" under Sociology or get there through Marketing links. As I’ve been saying the difference in what’s gleaned from the same subject matter is under which umbrella one reaches definitions and the perspective and main reasons for getting there. Ben S.
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LOL Sorry. I meant cotton terry cloth towels in public restrooms.
Response:
>Actually, Celebrity provides cotton terry cloth towels in public restaurants. >I guess someone forgot to do their homework. They also provide chilled towels >when reboarding from hot Caribbean ports.
I think he was talking about Carnival. Mason Barge "If this is coffee, please bring me some tea. If this is tea, please bring me some coffee." — Abraham Lincoln
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Question:
Twanger and said: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->>>What seafood is in season now in Key West? >>>I’m an oyster fan. When is oyster season? >Not so in mid April 2004. I have been going to Key West since 1966 and >have frequented Crabby Bill’s before. This time the best he would do >was $7.99/dozen even at happy hour, but he is much closer to the Hog’s >Breath. Maybe your cruise goes to Isla Margarita, Venezuela, where I >ate oysters as fast as the little beach guy could shuck them for $.10 >each including tip. >If you are prior Navy check six. >John >You was robbed! This is their regular menu. Happy hour price for >oysters is cheaper…. >Crabby Bills Menu >Appetizers >Fried Calamari w/Marinara Sauce ……6.50 >Conch Fritters w/ Key Lime Mustard….5.95 >Raw Oysters on the Half Shell (12) …..4.99 >Cleveland Oysters Baked w/Cheese >Mussels Marinara with Garlic Bread…..8.95 >Fried Chicken Wings (Buffalo or Plain) >All Diners Served with Potato and choice of >vegetable, Cajun rice, Cloeslaw, House or >Caesar Salad. >Crabs our Specialty >Steamed Blue Crabs (1/2 Dozen)……Market >Stone Crab Claws (Large & Jumbo).Seasonal >Seafood Platters >Local Grouper >Mahi Mahi >Yellowfin Tuna >Salmon > Seafood Soups >Clam Chowder Cup…2.75 Bowl…3.75 >Soup of the Day Cup…3.75 Bowl…4.00 >Sandwiches > Sandwich Sandwich > only >platter >Maryland Style Crab Cake. ..7.50……7.95 >Mahi Mahi >Chicken >(Fried, Grilled or Blackened).5.50…..5.95 >Yellowfin Tuna >Sandwich Platters Served with Fries & Slaw >American or Monterey Jack cheese …Add 35cents >Pasta >(All pastas served with garlic bread) >Land Lovers >Chicken Breasts >Kids Menu >(kids 12 and under Please) >Macaroni & Cheese >Oreo
Question:
>>Maybe with where HAL, Cunard and Celebrity are going… and given today’s >pricing, the whole concept of premium is meaningless. > I think it is more marketing spin than actuality. There is no > substantial quality difference among the mass market lines. There are > minor differences. (I don’t include Cunard as mass market, I think they > are a niche product.)
Eye of the beholder. I agree with you about Cunard being niche. > While I think there is no substantial quality difference among the mass > market lines I do think the differences in style can effect passengers. > For some the styles don’t matter. Some prefer one style over another. I > would prefer that the brands have distinct styles and not merge into a > sameness.
I think luxury is style as well, with a huge amount of catering to the individual. Merging into sameness is a danger we face when corporations rule products and feature match. > I don’t think there is anything wrong with having a preference for one > cruise line over another. Even a strong preference for one and dislike > of another. What is wrong though to insist if you prefer one cruise > line that there is something deficient with those who don’t agree.
An individual may not be deficient in any line they prefer. However, lines attract certain stereotypes of pax based on how they define and market themselves. I think people have a right to "filter" when choosing what they are looking for on their vacations, and sometimes it’ll sound like it is based on product rungs, although the rungs may not be price distinguished. Ben S.
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->>Hi Ray, >>Even if it did only affect the "booking process" now, perhaps it would > continue >>in the future to reestablish Celebrity as a true "premium" line and a > cut above >>the others. Anyway, that’s what I am hoping for. >Whatever Celebrity will be in the future, it doesn’t seem like it will >resemble the Celebrity of "old". I don’t understand the Xpedition ships >and how they work with the brand and I don’t understand the emphasis on >entertainment. I hear Celebrity’s changing their menus in September. >What I want to see from Celebrity is high quality imaginative menus and >a move back towards clean but well-detailed dining food presentation. I >want to see better vegetable selections, better salads, sauces served on >the side as they once were, fresh pepper and not pepper on the table, >etc. There’s nothing I’m reading in current reviews of Celebrity >sailings that leads me to think that Celebrity is doing nothing more >than window dressing in terms of making the product a level of more >discernable "premium" than the subtle way it is currently "premium". > Maybe with where HAL, Cunard and Celebrity are going… and given today’s > pricing, the whole concept of premium is meaningless.
Tom, something else is coming to mind. Sometimes the price of certain products goes down and their consumer base goes way up. There was a time when mostly wealthy people owned cell phones. Then the product filtered down to lower income people. Now, they are ubiquitous. Cruising has gone through something like this. At one time people either cruised often because they had the time and money and there was a definite sense on a pay scale of what lines cost. As cruising became more and more popular and owned by big companies, due to economy of scale, the prices were able to become more and more affordable for people in the lower income brackets. Emphasis has gone from price of admission to onboard means of making profits for the lines. They no longer depend on price of admission but for those with the means to spend more to pay more when onboard the ship. Premium has gone from something price based to something style based. Premium has become more accessible for those that perhaps have a premium style but don’t make premium incomes. For me, premium may not necessarily be money, but attitude. If a line shows an attitude that can be appreciated by people who recognize what it offers but don’t have an executive’s salary, the price doesn’t have to be high. So, the more I look at the product, I look for the approach and attitude of the line vs. how much it costs for a balcony cabin and even onboard charges. Luxury, for me, is premium with exclusivity, flexibility, and a higher degree of a "can do" attitude. So, unlike others, I’m not so much tying in premium with cost, but more attitude and what’s designed into the product from the ground up. The problem is, how does one keep the product premium when pax looking for products base their decisions on price and not product definition? That’s where marketing is so important, if the line is truly interested in onboard ambiance and not playing lip service to it. (Yes, I think HAL, Celebrity, and to some degree niche Cunard is playing lip service to it) Premium, for me now, is a mass-market priced cruise line with a higher degree of luxury qualities. Mainstream has some luxury qualities as well, but more emphasis on fun/activities, and importantly, diversity. Premium takes out some of the emphasis on fun/activities and adds more pampering at a similar price for most cabins as mainstream, and are by design less diverse than mainstream. Luxury comes at a noticeable higher price (though not necessarily when comparing cabins), but include more, and more caters to individual cruisers. In this context, the separate call centers of RCI brands makes sense. Ben S. p.s. premium doesn’t mean "the best" everything. Though service, food quality, etc. should be on a higher scale they may not necessarily be. It’s primarily emphasis on style (in the blending of hardware and software) and some content. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Maybe the true differentiation is simply around "high energy/activities" > oriented vs. "more relaxing/pampering/chic" oriented within the same basic > price range. > –Tom
Response:
>>It’s been that way for awhile. Cunard is a different beast than HAL and >Celebrity. More expensive and dining quality is tied in to cabin classes. > Cunard is going in another direction very quickly, and with the advent > of their new ships, it’ll continue to change.
What do you think of the Queen Victoria? It’s going to P&O and a more "Cunard" Victoria is replacing it. But Cunard is lucky > just to be, since Carnival Corp. saved them AND HAL. I guess that’s > the price they (and we) pay to be "saved."
To be honest with you Karen, sometimes I think it is good to die a noble death. Ben S.
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> Maybe with where HAL, Cunard and Celebrity are going… and given today’s > pricing, the whole concept of premium is meaningless. > It’s been that way for awhile. Cunard is a different beast than HAL and > Celebrity. More expensive and dining quality is tied in to cabin classes.
I would offer that Cunard stopped being a different beast the day that the Sea Goddess twins went bye-bye. Now THOSE two ships did make Cunard a special beast. Caviar and Dom served from sterling silver trays on the beach. We saw one of the two ships in St. Thomas a few years back, and all morning the airport was busy with the private jets coming and going. There was a constant stream of stretch limos picking up and bringing the "well to do" from/to their little ship. I don’t see any ship with 3000 people a different beast. –Tom
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Thanks for posting this Charles. This is exactly what we had hoped for. Happy Cruisin’ Mark Home Port: Monmouth County,NJ.
Response:
> Thanks for posting this Charles. This is exactly what we had hoped for.
I thought it was positive news too. Kinda surprised at the lack of comments. Ben—where are you — Charles
Response:
Charles, I’m not Ben, but I’ll comment that I didn’t really understand what it meant. It sounds like marketing talk to me. While I appreciate the desirability of cutting the cord between RCI & Celebrity and emphasizing the differences between the lines, other than the provision of separate call centers, I failed to grasp what practical steps will be taken that will be noticeable to prospective/booked cruisers. Can you educate me? > I thought it was positive news too. Kinda surprised at the > lack of comments. > Ben—where are you > — > Charles
Diana Ball near Houston, TX next up: Celeb Millie
Question:
That’s just great advice. I hope you don’t pay him too much for the garbage he’s telling you. I guess he thinks some valium and wine is a good combo. Maybe he’s in some other business besides homeopathy! Debs PS It’s not good for ANYBODY to take Valium and drink wine at the same time. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Did the homeopath tell you that drinking two glasses of wine every day >WHILE taking Valium was a GOOD idea? > First he told me to cut the valium dose in half, and I was already taking a > medium dose so that put me at a low dose. Then he asked if I drink red wine > and I said a few times a week with dinner but not daily. He had already > asked me plenty of questions about me, like if I work, etc. I don’t drive, > I take the train to work. So I think the risk of drinking a single glass of > wine with the lose dose of valium was very minor. In fact I did it all last > week without any ill effects. It’s relaxing and I enjoy wine so I don’t see > any problems. Now I’m taking half of my valium pill every other day and > hope to be off soon. > I agree that taking valium & alcohol can be dangerous if you drive or > operate dangerous machinery, etc. That’s why it’s important to discuss it > with a doctor. What’s safe for one person may be dangerous for another. > Michael
– remove YOURFOOT before responding
Response:
> Did the homeopath tell you that drinking two glasses of wine every day > WHILE taking Valium was a GOOD idea?
First he told me to cut the valium dose in half, and I was already taking a medium dose so that put me at a low dose. Then he asked if I drink red wine and I said a few times a week with dinner but not daily. He had already asked me plenty of questions about me, like if I work, etc. I don’t drive, I take the train to work. So I think the risk of drinking a single glass of wine with the lose dose of valium was very minor. In fact I did it all last week without any ill effects. It’s relaxing and I enjoy wine so I don’t see any problems. Now I’m taking half of my valium pill every other day and hope to be off soon. I agree that taking valium & alcohol can be dangerous if you drive or operate dangerous machinery, etc. That’s why it’s important to discuss it with a doctor. What’s safe for one person may be dangerous for another. Michael
Response:
Did the homeopath tell you that drinking two glasses of wine every day WHILE taking Valium was a GOOD idea? Debs – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I saw a homeopath a week ago and posted what he said in a rather long post. > Basically he gave me some homeopathic medicines and a balanced diet with > more fiber (eat a fruit with every meal). He also made me promise to > exercise at least 30 minutes at least 3 times a week, the minimum being a > fast walk for 30 minutes. > The diet was easy to adopt, no special stuff to buy just eat a balanced > diet: meat, vegetables (cookied), fruit, bread, etc. Drink a big glass of > water before each meal and drink 1 (and only 1) glass of red wine with lunch > & dinner. The wine is important, it relaxes, aides digestion, and the > tannins are healthy. For americans (I’m american living in France) it may > not be possible at lunch but fortunately in Europe you can have wine at > lunch (even in the cafeteria) and it’s no big deal. I didn’t have the > courage to do it cause no one else I work with drinks wine but Friday I > decided to try it. I was definitely less stressed in the afternoon! So I > will continue with a single glass with lunch. > I exercised every day, doing fast walking, jogging, and my bicycle. > Actually I missed one day but I did shopping that day so I was walking a > lot. > I also took his medicines as directed. > Verdict: I had more stomach pains from the increase in fiber (more veggies > and raw fruits), and less diarrhea (from the additional fiber I guess). I > felt much less stressed and I slept much better this past week. I attribute > this more to the diet and exercise changes rather than his medicine. I did > a lot of reading on homeopathy and I now believe it works, but I believe it > is a placebo. Nothing wrong with a placebo when it works and it’s not > expensive! But after reading up on it I’m not sure the placebo effect will > continue. If you’re interested in homeopathy, I recommend this website, > written by a homeopath and somewhat honest about it I must say: > http://www.accampbell.uklinux.net/homeopathy/index.html > specifically this page (the book is mostly history which is fascinating but > if you want the summary just read the last chapter): > http://www.accampbell.uklinux.net/homeopathy/homeopathy-html/chapter1… > Finally, a homeopath doctor who admits it’s placebo! Everything he says is > true from my experience. For example, my first visit lasted 90 minutes. > The doctor really listened to me and didn’t make me feel like I was crazy. > I even told him he’s the first doctor who didn’t make me feel crazy. That > is part of homeopathy! Because it’s partly psychotherapy. Also my > homeopath insisted I do the diet and exercise, and I think that’s important > because that produces more results than the homeopathic medicine. So even > if the medicine is placebo I’m still very glad I went. I might go back I’m > not sure. He is expensive (about $40 after insurance) but the medicine is > free. And putting the sugar pills under my tongue is fun. > I also decided to give up on the psychiatrist I saw. My last visit was only > 12 minutes long. I told him that I wasn’t happy with the progress and that > he kept leading me on. He said that we discussed my medicine (valium) and > that it’s not possible to do therapy after discussing medicine. What a > crook! BTW I followed my homeopath’s advice and cut the valium dose in > half. I’ll slowly taper off over the next few weeks like he said. Again, > more good advice from the homeopath: More exercise and less valium. > Unfortunately in France Psychologists are not reimbursed by the healthcare > system so unless I want to pay $60/visit I’m limited to seeing psychiatrists > who rush you in and out in 12 minutes and just prescribe valium. BTW the > valium did work well, and I recommend it for short term periods of high > stress (wedding, new job, etc.) but definitely not for the long term!!! > All that said, I strongly recommend a balanced diet (add fresh fruit slowly > into your diet) and daily exercise, I think that will produce huge results. > I recommend this before seeing a homeopath. I’ll post another update after > another week. My goal is to taper my Entocort down from 3 to 2 per day and > then take it from there. > Michael
– remove YOURFOOT before responding
Response:
I saw a homeopath a week ago and posted what he said in a rather long post. Basically he gave me some homeopathic medicines and a balanced diet with more fiber (eat a fruit with every meal). He also made me promise to exercise at least 30 minutes at least 3 times a week, the minimum being a fast walk for 30 minutes. The diet was easy to adopt, no special stuff to buy just eat a balanced diet: meat, vegetables (cookied), fruit, bread, etc. Drink a big glass of water before each meal and drink 1 (and only 1) glass of red wine with lunch & dinner. The wine is important, it relaxes, aides digestion, and the tannins are healthy. For americans (I’m american living in France) it may not be possible at lunch but fortunately in Europe you can have wine at lunch (even in the cafeteria) and it’s no big deal. I didn’t have the courage to do it cause no one else I work with drinks wine but Friday I decided to try it. I was definitely less stressed in the afternoon! So I will continue with a single glass with lunch. I exercised every day, doing fast walking, jogging, and my bicycle. Actually I missed one day but I did shopping that day so I was walking a lot. I also took his medicines as directed. Verdict: I had more stomach pains from the increase in fiber (more veggies and raw fruits), and less diarrhea (from the additional fiber I guess). I felt much less stressed and I slept much better this past week. I attribute this more to the diet and exercise changes rather than his medicine. I did a lot of reading on homeopathy and I now believe it works, but I believe it is a placebo. Nothing wrong with a placebo when it works and it’s not expensive! But after reading up on it I’m not sure the placebo effect will continue. If you’re interested in homeopathy, I recommend this website, written by a homeopath and somewhat honest about it I must say: http://www.accampbell.uklinux.net/homeopathy/index.html specifically this page (the book is mostly history which is fascinating but if you want the summary just read the last chapter): http://www.accampbell.uklinux.net/homeopathy/homeopathy-html/chapter1… Finally, a homeopath doctor who admits it’s placebo! Everything he says is true from my experience. For example, my first visit lasted 90 minutes. The doctor really listened to me and didn’t make me feel like I was crazy. I even told him he’s the first doctor who didn’t make me feel crazy. That is part of homeopathy! Because it’s partly psychotherapy. Also my homeopath insisted I do the diet and exercise, and I think that’s important because that produces more results than the homeopathic medicine. So even if the medicine is placebo I’m still very glad I went. I might go back I’m not sure. He is expensive (about $40 after insurance) but the medicine is free. And putting the sugar pills under my tongue is fun. I also decided to give up on the psychiatrist I saw. My last visit was only 12 minutes long. I told him that I wasn’t happy with the progress and that he kept leading me on. He said that we discussed my medicine (valium) and that it’s not possible to do therapy after discussing medicine. What a crook! BTW I followed my homeopath’s advice and cut the valium dose in half. I’ll slowly taper off over the next few weeks like he said. Again, more good advice from the homeopath: More exercise and less valium. Unfortunately in France Psychologists are not reimbursed by the healthcare system so unless I want to pay $60/visit I’m limited to seeing psychiatrists who rush you in and out in 12 minutes and just prescribe valium. BTW the valium did work well, and I recommend it for short term periods of high stress (wedding, new job, etc.) but definitely not for the long term!!! All that said, I strongly recommend a balanced diet (add fresh fruit slowly into your diet) and daily exercise, I think that will produce huge results. I recommend this before seeing a homeopath. I’ll post another update after another week. My goal is to taper my Entocort down from 3 to 2 per day and then take it from there. Michael
Response:
Question:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > We had a thread a few days ago about cooking with turmeric and ginger. > Since then, I’ve been experimenting with canned soups for my BF, in my > ongoing effort to keep an inventory of palatable and nutritious liquids for > him to sip on. As I’ve said, he has obstructive CD and spices don’t bother > him. > FWIW, I’ve figured out that I can fortify just about any canned, condensed > soup (tomato, cream of chicken, beef consomme, etc.) as follows: > In a small saucepan, saute’ a scant 1/4 tsp of turmeric and 1/8 tsp ginger > in a tsp of olive oil over a medium heat for a few seconds. Add one can > condensed soup and the same amount of vegetable broth. Add a dash of > cayenne pepper and a dash of salt. Heat thoroughly and serve. > It’s really quite tasty, assuming you can tolerate the ingredients, of > course. Similar amounts and proportions of these spices will add some zing > to a couple of scrambled eggs, too. > I always keep a big bowl of vegetable stock on hand for all my cooking, > because it greatly enhances the flavor and nutrion of whatever I add it to. > I keep a big plastic container in the fridge, and whenever I trim the ends > off vegetables, I throw the ends in the plastic container — along with all > my egg shells, because boiling eggshells in stock helps to clarify it. When > I’ve accumulated enough, I add it to whatever leftover stock I have in the > fridge, whatever leftover veggies are in the fridge, add at least one stalk > of celery (cut in pieces), add more water, bring it to a boil, then simmer > it for a half hour. Then strain it and put it back in the fridge for use in > future cooking. > This way, you’re continually adding to the stock — take some out to cook > with, then add whatever’s left in the next batch of "fresh" stock. > "Rebuilding" stock like this gives it a richer flavor — like slow-cooking > does. > I don’t eat meat, so I’m not an expert on using meats in stocks, but I think > it’s something similar. I know, however, that meat stocks spoil faster than > veggie stocks.
edna. thanks for the hints..sounds great to me.. annie
Response:
I have continued to experiment with this and have had some yucky results. If you want to try this, start with 1/8 tsp of turmeric and a dash of ginger. It’s easier to add more than to take away, and two much turmeric tastes awful. Also, try adding a little garlic powder. ep
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> edna. > thanks for the hints..sounds great to me.. > annie
Response:
That is really great, I think people really need practical applications like this. Although they must take into account their particular sensitivities. I have problems with tomato sauces and spicy spices like cayenne. Even too much black pepper can cause some problems. tx Jeff
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> We had a thread a few days ago about cooking with turmeric and ginger. > Since then, I’ve been experimenting with canned soups for my BF, in my > ongoing effort to keep an inventory of palatable and nutritious liquids for > him to sip on. As I’ve said, he has obstructive CD and spices don’t bother > him. > FWIW, I’ve figured out that I can fortify just about any canned, condensed > soup (tomato, cream of chicken, beef consomme, etc.) as follows: > In a small saucepan, saute’ a scant 1/4 tsp of turmeric and 1/8 tsp ginger > in a tsp of olive oil over a medium heat for a few seconds. Add one can > condensed soup and the same amount of vegetable broth. Add a dash of > cayenne pepper and a dash of salt. Heat thoroughly and serve. > It’s really quite tasty, assuming you can tolerate the ingredients, of > course. Similar amounts and proportions of these spices will add some zing > to a couple of scrambled eggs, too. > I always keep a big bowl of vegetable stock on hand for all my cooking, > because it greatly enhances the flavor and nutrion of whatever I add it to. > I keep a big plastic container in the fridge, and whenever I trim the ends > off vegetables, I throw the ends in the plastic container — along with all > my egg shells, because boiling eggshells in stock helps to clarify it. When > I’ve accumulated enough, I add it to whatever leftover stock I have in the > fridge, whatever leftover veggies are in the fridge, add at least one stalk > of celery (cut in pieces), add more water, bring it to a boil, then simmer > it for a half hour. Then strain it and put it back in the fridge for use in > future cooking. > This way, you’re continually adding to the stock — take some out to cook > with, then add whatever’s left in the next batch of "fresh" stock. > "Rebuilding" stock like this gives it a richer flavor — like slow-cooking > does. > I don’t eat meat, so I’m not an expert on using meats in stocks, but I think > it’s something similar. I know, however, that meat stocks spoil faster than > veggie stocks.
Response:
Thanks so much Edna. I am printing it out for future references for the day it might be necessary to go liquids again. Hopefully I won’t need it too soon! UM MOM Susan
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> We had a thread a few days ago about cooking with turmeric and ginger. > Since then, I’ve been experimenting with canned soups for my BF, in my > ongoing effort to keep an inventory of palatable and nutritious liquids for > him to sip on. As I’ve said, he has obstructive CD and spices don’t bother > him. > FWIW, I’ve figured out that I can fortify just about any canned, condensed > soup (tomato, cream of chicken, beef consomme, etc.) as follows: > In a small saucepan, saute’ a scant 1/4 tsp of turmeric and 1/8 tsp ginger > in a tsp of olive oil over a medium heat for a few seconds. Add one can > condensed soup and the same amount of vegetable broth. Add a dash of > cayenne pepper and a dash of salt. Heat thoroughly and serve. > It’s really quite tasty, assuming you can tolerate the ingredients, of > course. Similar amounts and proportions of these spices will add some zing > to a couple of scrambled eggs, too. > I always keep a big bowl of vegetable stock on hand for all my cooking, > because it greatly enhances the flavor and nutrion of whatever I add it to. > I keep a big plastic container in the fridge, and whenever I trim the ends > off vegetables, I throw the ends in the plastic container — along with all > my egg shells, because boiling eggshells in stock helps to clarify it. When > I’ve accumulated enough, I add it to whatever leftover stock I have in the > fridge, whatever leftover veggies are in the fridge, add at least one stalk > of celery (cut in pieces), add more water, bring it to a boil, then simmer > it for a half hour. Then strain it and put it back in the fridge for use in > future cooking. > This way, you’re continually adding to the stock — take some out to cook > with, then add whatever’s left in the next batch of "fresh" stock. > "Rebuilding" stock like this gives it a richer flavor — like slow-cooking > does. > I don’t eat meat, so I’m not an expert on using meats in stocks, but I think > it’s something similar. I know, however, that meat stocks spoil faster than > veggie stocks.
Response:
We had a thread a few days ago about cooking with turmeric and ginger. Since then, I’ve been experimenting with canned soups for my BF, in my ongoing effort to keep an inventory of palatable and nutritious liquids for him to sip on. As I’ve said, he has obstructive CD and spices don’t bother him. FWIW, I’ve figured out that I can fortify just about any canned, condensed soup (tomato, cream of chicken, beef consomme, etc.) as follows: In a small saucepan, saute’ a scant 1/4 tsp of turmeric and 1/8 tsp ginger in a tsp of olive oil over a medium heat for a few seconds. Add one can condensed soup and the same amount of vegetable broth. Add a dash of cayenne pepper and a dash of salt. Heat thoroughly and serve. It’s really quite tasty, assuming you can tolerate the ingredients, of course. Similar amounts and proportions of these spices will add some zing to a couple of scrambled eggs, too. I always keep a big bowl of vegetable stock on hand for all my cooking, because it greatly enhances the flavor and nutrion of whatever I add it to. I keep a big plastic container in the fridge, and whenever I trim the ends off vegetables, I throw the ends in the plastic container — along with all my egg shells, because boiling eggshells in stock helps to clarify it. When I’ve accumulated enough, I add it to whatever leftover stock I have in the fridge, whatever leftover veggies are in the fridge, add at least one stalk of celery (cut in pieces), add more water, bring it to a boil, then simmer it for a half hour. Then strain it and put it back in the fridge for use in future cooking. This way, you’re continually adding to the stock — take some out to cook with, then add whatever’s left in the next batch of "fresh" stock. "Rebuilding" stock like this gives it a richer flavor — like slow-cooking does. I don’t eat meat, so I’m not an expert on using meats in stocks, but I think it’s something similar. I know, however, that meat stocks spoil faster than veggie stocks.
Response:
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