Books and Authors

I Can See Clearly Now

2011-12-08T08:51:00.000-05:00

I hesitated when asked to review Unfinished . It wasn't the book description. After all, who wouldn't be intrigued by this:

This is a true story of a woman who experienced such a profound awakening that she could no longer live the same way, the same life she was just one week before. She could no longer ignore the woman who was screaming to be set free from the ties that bind her to a life she no longer desired or recognized. The transformation to become the woman she really wanted to be has propelled her upon the most remarkable self-discovery journey of her life. She sold her home, gave up her career, kissed her children, grandchildren and friend’s good bye, got into her vehicle and just drove away…ALONE. Where was she going? 30,000km later she finds herself in the most unlikely place to try to piece her life together, trying to make sense of the constant feeling of being UNFINISHED.

Even Suzanne's bio sounded intriguing:

Suzanne Gravelle is 49 Years old and has 3 children, 2 grandchildren who live in Nova Scotia. At the time this book goes to print she is single and homeless by choice, still travelling, seeking that place of comfort she will eventually call home.

She spent most of her life living in Nova Scotia but her formidable years aged 10-25, were spent living on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. She resigned as a Real Estate Agent in Nova Scotia, to embark upon this most incredible journey, driving, exploring Canada and writing this book. To read Suzanne’s extended bio, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2011/11/10/suzanne-gravelle-bio/

The Universe, however, has a way of bringing things into our lives just when they are needed. So it was with this book. As I started to read, I could hear Suzanne's voice, as though she were sitting across the kitchen table from me. Her writing flows so naturally you know that she speaks and writes in the same voice. This is a rare thing. Many authors strive for a conversational tone, Suzanne just comes by it naturally. She simply tells you her story, holding nothing back. Her emotions flow freely throughout the pages, whether that emotion is relief, pain, wonder or confusion--or a myriad of others that make their appearance.

As I read, I felt something inside changing, a spiritual uplifting that took away the cloud of confusion that had settled in over the past year. I began to see clearly where I must travel next n m road. No, I won't be hopping in a car and leaving everything behind, that is Ms. Gravelle's journey, not mine. Suzanne's story, however, was a catalyst that allowed my own mind and heart to open up and receive directions from within my own soul. Will this be the experience of every reader? I can't promise that.

What I can promise is that this book will be one readers will want to keep handy and re-read again and again. Much like the beloved stories we heard on our grandparent's knees, it will become a favorite source of comfort. This is an absolute must-read for anyone who has reached a stage in life where they have realized that so much of their lives have been lived for others that they now don't have a clue about how to start living for themselves.

I won't give Unfinished a Rainbow Rating. It impossible for me to put a value on a book that has literally changed my life. My suggestion, however, is to seek out more information about this book and review how others have seen it.

For more information about Unfinished by Suzanne Gravelle, visit http://www.amazon.com/Unfinished-Suzanne-Gravelledp/192700506X and you can follow her journey on her blog – http://ontourwithsuzanne.blogspot.com.

The Full Moon Bride by Shobhan Bantwal -- A Review

2011-08-18T20:07:00.000-04:00

Shobhan Bantwal has graced the literary community with yet another work that shows the art of writing is still alive and well. The Full Moon Bride has readers delving into two very different worlds--that of modern day America and old time India tradition. I have yet to find an author who can blend two worlds so successfully.

A successful lawyer, Surya hears the clock ticking as she slides past thirty. While her career is a success, her personal life leaves much to be desired. Maybe her answer to love lie in the old traditions of India. Giving in to her parents' wishes that she participate in the traditional bride viewings, Surya fights within her soul, questioning all she knows from an American way of life and comparing it to the tried and true traditions of her parents. Which way is "best"-- or can the only true answer come from within Surya herself?

Shobhan Bantwal takes the art of ethnic writing and applies it in a way that appeals to any woman who has ever felt the pull addition and the modern world. Her characters come alive within the book and you feel as though you are helping your best friend through a crisis, or you must make the decisions. It takes a true artist to be able to maintain an ethnic view and still reach the world as a whole. Having read her previous books, I can say a fine writer has been consistently evolving and has become phenomenal.

After reading The Full Moon Bride you will want to go back and read Ms. Bantwal's previous books. Her writing speaks to the softer side of women everywhere, from every culture. You will immediately understand where her characters are in life and how they feel, not because the author tells you, but because you have been there. The details may differ, but the basics are universal.

You can read an excerpt of The Full Moon Bride, as well as excerpts from her past works, at Shobhan's website . I suggest you put aside a couple of hours when visiting, as you will find yourself unwilling to stop reading once you start.

The Full Moon Bride earns six colors on the Rainbow Scale.

Talking With Shobhan Bantwal

2011-08-17T00:01:00.002-04:00

I have had the great pleasure of interviewing many authors over the years. One of my favorites has been Shobhan Bantwal because of her openness and willingness to allow readers to see who is behind the books. Today's interview is no exception, Once you have enjoyed the interview, please leave a note for Shobhan (and a FB like or Tweet would also be appreciated!). Thank you!

***

You are such a prolific writer. Can you pass on any hints you use to keep yourself productive and writing consistently?

Actually I am not as prolific as I would like to be, mainly because I have a demanding full-time job that does not allow me the luxury of time to devote to my writing projects. But my best source of inspiration to boost my productivity and creativity is reading books by other authors. I love reading and try to fit in at least a half hour of reading just before I go to bed each night. It is a great way to wind down and relax, also a way to energize the muses and overcome writer's block.

As for writing consistently, I have to discipline myself constantly because I tend to go in spurts, and to succeed and meet a writer's deadlines, one has to establish a schedule. My writing is almost always done very early in the mornings.

Your books all have deep emotion throughout. Do you find yourself emotionally drained after a particularly fruitful writing session or have you found a way to somehow convey the emotion and still distance yourself from its effects?

When I write an emotional scene I am completely immersed in it, heart and soul. It can be a lot of fun, but quite draining at times. Nevertheless that also tells me it is a good scene if it can move me, the writer, to that extent. A sex scene is not worth much if I don't feel at least a little aroused or a heartbreaking scene has not been effectively captured if I don't shed a few tears. Women's fiction by its very nature is very emotional and the writer needs to be completely engaged in the drama of it.

The subjects you have covered are ones that could be controversial in certain places. Have you ever found yourself debating whether or not you should write about these subjects? How do you decide if a subject is best left alone or is worth the flack you may receive?

Some of my topics have been subjected to controversy and negative scrutiny, especially dowry abuse and female-fetus abortion in India, the subjects of my first two books. Not everybody feels it is wrong to demand a dowry from the bride's family. A lot of otherwise morally upright people have secretly turned to abortion to avoid having a female child. Such folks feel that I am turning a simple social practice into a huge moral debate by bringing awareness to it. There are others who feel a writer should not expose the darker side of one's culture. Consequently I have to do a lot of deliberation and soul-searching before I embark on writing a story with a controversial or incendiary theme.

What prompted you to write Full Moon Bride?

After having lived in the U.S. for over 37 years and raised a daughter who was born here and is now married and has a family of her own, I have witnessed a lot of cultural and social conflict that the second-generation Indian-Americans and other Asian-Americans grapple with. Trying to fit into two vastly diverse cultures can be a tough challenge for young people. The Full Moon Bride is a result of my observations and what could happen when a young woman can't quite decide if it is passion or pragmatism that makes a marriage, and which path she should choose to realize her own dreams and those of her family.

Of the books you have written, can you pick one as your favorite (the one you would suggest reader’s who are unfamiliar with you start with)? Why this particular choice?

I don't really have a favorite book, because I put my heart into every one of them. But my last book, The Unexpected Son, has elements that I can personally relate to the most. The college campus life that my heroine experiences in the 1970s in small-town India and the way her youthful indiscretions come to haunt her 30 years later, when she is forced to make a life-altering decision, make for a very emotional and intriguing story. I could picture a lot of what she was going through more vividly because my experiences, to some degree, as far as family life and the conservatism of it are concerned, are similar to my heroine's.

Are you currently working on anything you’d be willing to share information on?

My publisher prefers that I not discuss future projects, but I will say the next book is also about a young Indian-American professional, who in her quest for love and passion and family, ends up falling in love with the most unlikely man. Needless to say the journey to happiness has a few interesting bumps.

Is there anything you would like to say to our readers?

I would like to encourage readers who have never read any ethnic fiction to open their minds and read my books. Many previous skeptics have come to love my books and have become long-time supporters, some of them being men. I try to make my books both entertaining and educational. If nothing else, readers will learn something about Indian culture and be the richer for it.

Readers can find my books, events, contests, photos, recipes, and contact information on my website: www.shobhanbantwal.com/ or visit my facebook page: www.facebook.com/ShobhanBantwal.author

***

Thank you for the wonderful interview, Shobhan! Everyone, please come back tomorrow to see what I think of Full Moon Bride.

An Old Friend Returns

2011-08-16T00:01:00.001-04:00

Those of you have followed this blog regularly will be familiar with this week's special guest, Shobhan Bantwal. She has visited us numerous times over the past few years--each time with a new book. This time is no different, Full Moon Bride, her latest literary work, is now available. Award-winning author Shobhan Bantwal calls her writing “Bollywood in a Book”—romantic, colorful, action-packed tales, rich with elements of Indian culture—stories that entertain and educate. Shobhan has five published novels by Kensington Publishing, with a sixth slated for 2012. Shobhan can be contacted through her website: www.shobhanbantwal.com or Facebook.

About Full Moon Bride

What makes a marriage—love or compatibility? Passion or pragmatism? THE FULL MOON BRIDE is a compelling story that explores the fascinating subject of arranged marriage, as young Indian-American attorney Soorya Giri navigates the gulf between desire and tradition.

In choosing between two very different men, Soorya must reconcile her burgeoning independence and conservative background. And she must decide what matters most to her—not just in a husband, but in a family, a culture, and a life.

Later this week, I will be posting my review of Full Moon Bride, but tomorrow I'd like to share with you a wonderful interview I had the pleasure of doing with Ms. Bantwal. I know you will find her as charming and insightful as I do.

Until tomorrow, you can find much more information about Shobhan Bantwal and Full Moon Bride, you can visit her website http://www.shobhanbantwal.com and you can order your own copy at http://www.amazon.com/Full-Moon-Bride-Shobhan-Bantwal/dp/0758258844

Amy Winehouse -- Don't Blame the Drugs and Alcohol

2011-07-24T02:16:00.002-04:00

I realize my readers have come to expect book reviews and author interviews when they stop by. In a way, today's post isn't too far off, as Amy Winehouse wrote many wonderful songs. Comments today have ranged from "what a waste of great talent" to "I'm surprised she lasted this long". Almost everyone mentions the drugs that were so present in the past few years. I have read only a few comments that actually acknowledge Amy--not her talent, not the drugs--Amy Winehouse, a young woman who fought demons much deeper than many of us can imagine.

You see, drug and alcohol use aren't the problem in many instances, they are merely symptoms of something deeper, something a person finds too strong to fight. Amy herself gave us a clue to this pain, scattered throughout the songs she wrote: "My tears dry on their own." "I tread a troubled track." "I'm not going to spend ten weeks having everyone think I'm on the mend." "I don't want to drink again. I just want a friend."

The first time I saw Amy perform, my mothering instinct kicked into overdrive. Take the time to view a few of her live performance videos. Amy always took a deep breath and physically straightened as she entered the stage--an act so common with someone about to face something they fear. Each song ending saw a look of pure relief, a silent "I made it through". Her eyes did not seek out the audience, but submissively looked away, as one fearing rejection. Pictures abound of this beautiful woman--and in only one did I see a real smile--one that lit up her face and crinkled her eyes. Maybe it is the Psychologist in me, or the involvement I've had with others like her, who tried to fight their demons with drugs and alcohol.

Amy was one of those old souls who found herself in a world beyond her understanding--a world that requires an inner hardness that old souls seem incapable of developing. Look around you,, if you want to see what I mean, we all know someone who has had the drugs or alcohol become their existence. Think back to before the drugs and you will see what I mean. Many of these individuals were those who couldn't "fit" into the "competitive, do better than everyone no matter who gets hurt" lifestyle that seems so prevalent today. These were the ones who reached out to the outcasts, gave all to see someone smile--the gentle souls who tried to make the world a bit kinder.

Is Amy Winehouse's death a waste of talent--no, for what she gave us, however briefly, will remain. giving us moments of joy and pain, comfort--and maybe understanding. Amy tried to tell the world what she felt--but few, if any, heard her. She did not hide her fear, her confusion, but few, if any, saw. Amy's death wasn't a waste of talent--it was the loss of a special individual who could have taught the world love, compassion and looking beyond the obvious.

Amy Winehouse may you find the peace that so often deluded you here. Tonight I mourn the passing of, not a star with great talent, but a young woman who had so much to give if only someone would have listened.

And Twice the Marrow of Her Bones by Susan Petersen Avitzour -- A Review

2011-05-27T23:22:00.001-04:00

Click here to purchase now!

This is my seventh or eighth attempt at what has to be the most difficult review I have ever written. And Twice the Marrow of Her Bones has a fairly straightforward synopsis. Susan Petersen Avizour had a good job, a loving husband and seven children that meant the world to her. Their lives were ones many yearn for--until the day her middle daughter was diagnosed with leukemia.

This book follows Susan and her family through the several years leading up to her daughter's death--and into the aftermath. Through weekly updates at her church, a blog written five years later, based on these updates and poems written by Timora, we get to see how Timora's life, illness and death impacted not only her family, but those around her.

What is complicated about reviewing this book is finding words to describe pure emotion. The author holds nothing back in the telling of her story. You feel her pain, the anguish of feeling that all hope is lost. You feel her great pride in a daughter that tries to make the most of every minute she has on Earth.

Words do not flow from the pages of this book. And Twice the Marrow of her Bones is an exercise in capturing and sharing pure, untainted emotion. The subtitle is "A Mother's Memoir" and that doesn't come close to describing this book. The closest description I can come up with is that this book IS a mother's love.

Women everywhere (and men too) will feel themselves in this book. Even if you have not physically lost a child, every parent fears that chance. As your child moves from babyhood to school and from school to adulthood, you feel a sense of loss for the being they once were. Take that feeling and multiply it a hundredfold and you can come close to what a parent feels when physically losing a child.

This is not an easy book to read. You will find the need to step back and get your emotions in check before continuing. You will have not only the wish, but an undeniable need, to hug your own child. You may even find yourself having to force yourself to let them go. In the end, you will feel as though you have been given one of the greatest gifts in existence, a mother's pure, unconditional love.

I am afraid there arent't enough colors on the Rainbow Scale to rate And Twice the Marrow of Her Bones.

Susan Avitzour Visits

2011-05-26T00:50:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow, I will have a review of an important book written by Susan Avitzour, And Twice the Marrow of Her Bones. This book is different than most I feature here, but one I feel is necessary to share. For today, I'll leave you with a brief synopsis and some information on Susan.

Susan Avitzour was born in 1955. She earned degrees in French literature and law before moving to Jerusalem, where she and her husband raised seven children. She worked as a lawyer, mediator, grant-writer, and translator before returning to school in 2005 for a Masters degree in clinical social work. She now works as a cognitive-behavioral therapist, helping people who suffer from depression, anxiety, and trauma. Her fourth daughter, Timora, was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 12. The family spent the next six years struggling to maintain a normal life while she underwent extensive treatment, including two bone marrow transplants. She died in 2001, at the age of eighteen. In addition to her memoir, And Twice the Marrow of Her Bones, Susan has written short fiction, which has been published on line and in Israel Short Stories, a collection of stories by English-speaking writers living in Israel.

In her memoir, And Twice the Marrow of Her Bones, Susan Avitzour uses narrative, poetry, and a journal to grapple with the profound personal, philosophical, and spiritual questions raised by her eighteen-year-old daughter’s illness and death from leukemia. Ultimately, she faces the challenge many of us must confront in the course of our own lives: How to affirm faith and love in an unpredictable, often cruel, universe.

To learn more about Susan Avitzour, author of And Twice the Marrow of Her Bones, we invite you to visit her site - http://www.fiveyearslater.blogspot.com. For the full virtual tour schedule, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2011/01/06/twice-the-marrow-virtual-tour/

The Digital Diet by Daniel Sieberg -- A Review

2011-05-10T00:54:00.004-04:00

Click here to purchase

Yesterday, I introduced you to Daniel Sieberg and his book, The Digital Diet. Daniel Sieberg has the knowledge to write this book. He was once addicted to technology, to the point of losing sight of what was truly important--family, friends and peace of mind. The 28-day plan he sets down within this book is something he's tested and found to work.

I may not be the best one to objectively review this book. Being very much old school, we didn't have a TV until I was twelve. I still value my quiet time--disliking the sound of a ringing phone, being constantly available for anyone who chooses to call (I often leave my cell phone at home) and I find social networks like Twitter and Facebook too fast and too "busy" to remain calm while engaging in them. However, I am surrounded by technology and have daily contact, even within my own home, of people who can't seem to function without it. Multi-tasking is a way of life, I rarely see a pair of eyes when talking --or get a full sentence answer. I could go on and on. The human race has lost track of the joy of silence and the serenity of time alone.

Taking into account the shorter attention span of most people these days, The Digital Diet is written in sections that can be read in a minute or two and picked back up later. The steps in the action plan are small ones that are meant to help break the habit of digital dependence without causing a shock to society's overloaded senses. The purpose of this book is not to take society back into the Dark Ages, but to help everyone be able to enjoy the things we now have yet still keep in touch with family and friends. For example, Day 18's exercise is to send five emails to people you truly care about and letting them know that. This isn't a "I love you guys" post on a group, but a personal email to someone special.

Daniel Sieberg writes without judgment, from a place only those who have been through the fire can write. His words resonated with a truth that will immediately draw readers in and help them look at their lives clearly, without judgment, excuse or blame. Through self-questioning, brief quizzes and other similar exercises, the reader can see just how much he or she depends upon technology. Further, the reader will see what damage may have already been done, emotionally, socially and physically, with this dependence.

Mostly, however, the reader will learn how to enhance their life with technology. They learn how to integrate it into a well-rounded and full life -- without making technology their life. By listing both the pros and cons of various technological items, the author allows readers to examine and decide for themselves whether a certain item is truly necessary or can be limited. He does not make the choices for readers--only lays out the facts.

I believe this book should be in every home throughout the world. It is a book that every person can read and see, if not themselves, than someone they love within its pages. I truly believe the daily stress that is present in the world would be greatly reduced if that were te case.

The Digital Diet earns six colors on the Rainbow Scale.

For much more information about Daniel Sieberg and The Digital Diet: The 4-Step Plan to Break Your Tech Addiction and Regain Balance in Your Life visit

http://www.danielsieberg.com/.

For your own copy, visit

http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Diet-4-step-addiction-balance/dp/0307887383 (print)

and

http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Diet-addiction-balance-ebook/dp/B004J4WM3G (Kindle)

Is Technology Taking Over Your Life?

2011-05-09T05:38:00.001-04:00

The first time it occurred to me that technology was becoming something we depended upon too much was when I visited the library that had been my second home for years--and the computer was down so I couldn't check any books out! It wasn't long after that I heard someone mention they couldn't write--because their computer was down.

We have become a society that years to be connected constantly. Cell phones seem permanently attached to ears, our children play video games rather than read books or play outside and when a computer system fails, whole work places stop! Daniel Sieberg and about The Digital Diet have come to the rescue! Listen to this brief video and then we'll talk some more:

Does this sound familiar?

The Digital Diet: The 4-Step Plan to Break Your Tech Addiction and Regain Balance in Your Life by Daniel Sieberg

Have you ever felt that something hasn’t really happened until you post it on Facebook or Twitter? Does a flashing red light on your BlackBerry make your heart flutter? Do you know you shouldn’t be texting and driving—but still do it? If you said “yes” to any of these questions then you’re not alone; you’re among the millions of people who can relate to being overwhelmed by technology. Fear not—from leading technology reporter Daniel Sieberg comes the first self-help book to address America’s newest addiction: THE DIGITAL DIET: The 4-Step Plan to Break Your Tech Addiction and Regain Balance in Your Life, a four-step, dietary-style approach to help you slim down on everything from gadgets to social networks to video games.

The Digital Diet is a 28-day plan that’s meant to reawaken our awareness of technology in our lives, provide tools and gadgets to improve life, and instill the right motivational/practical formula for managing it in the future. It can be tailored based on age, profession, hobbies, and a person’s particular electronic poison and includes a self-assessment, a detox phase, and a week-by-week guide to building time for technology back into your routine.

Daniel Sieberg is an Emmy-nominated reporter who hosts Tech This Out! for ABC News NOW. He has also covered science, environment, space and technology stories for CBS News, CNN, PBS, NPR, BBC News, Planet Green, MSNBC, Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, Oprah.com, Details, Time, The Vancouver Sun, CTV News, CleanSkies.TV, Fuse.TV, The Nate Berkus Show and The Dr. Oz Show.

Tomorrow, I will be sharing my review of this book as well as Mr. Sieberg's ten digital diet rules. Please come back--and bring your friends!

For much more information about Daniel Sieberg and The Digital Diet: The 4-Step Plan to Break Your Tech Addiction and Regain Balance in Your Life visit

http://www.danielsieberg.com/.

For your own copy, visit http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Diet-4-step-addiction-balance/dp/0307887383 (print)

and

http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Diet-addiction-balance-ebook/dp/B004J4WM3G (Kindle)

How Frank Lloyd Wright got Into My Head...by Sandy Sims -- A Review

2011-03-14T16:44:00.000-04:00

Who decides your destiny? Ultimately, the Universe works as a partner with us to manifest the things we want. In How Frank Lloyd Wright Got Into My Head, Under Mu Skin and Changed the Way I Think About Thinking, author Sandy Sims takes readers on a journey of self-discovery--his own and theirs. Having an idea inspired by the works of Frank Lloyd Wright, Sandy sets out to make that idea a reality. Along the way, he meets many teachers and learns lessons we often don't stop and listen for. Determined to realize his dream, regardless of how impractical it may have appeared, Mr. Sims learned how rge Universe strives to work with us to help us realize our full potential and our ability to create what we seek.

The companion workbook, Creative Thinking for the 21st Century: An Experiential Guidebook, walks readers through the steps of discovering what they really want from life, clearing the blocks along the path and realizing that each of us has the power to create our own realities.

Sandy Sims writes as though his words are simply written in a journal for himself. He illustrates concepts by showing how came to the realization rather than explaining them in a abstract way. For example, he doesn't give us the dictionary definition of synchronicity; instead, he shows how he needs something and that something appears, or the means to achieving that something appears. He allows his own learning to do the teaching, making the reader feel comfortable and unpressed. The concept seeps into your conscious through osmosis rather than study.

I haven't completed the workbook yet but have been doing the exercises step-by-step. The way they are set up, Sandy Sims assumes you haven't analyzed things too deeply so he starts at the beginning, rather than diving into the deep end and hoping the reader can swim. After each exercise, you are asked to consider what you have learned and how you can apply it--and what you will do to apply the knowledge. He includes a fairly extensive list of further study material for the reader to seek out.

The fact that I'm posting this in the afternoon rather than first thing in the morning is testimonial to how inspiring Sandy Sims is in these two books. I've had a dream for some time now, and reading this had me realizing that, even if it seems impossible, I have to attempt it--and I've worked non-stop trying to get the details in order and devise a plan of action.As it is any time you find yourself truly working with the flow, time becomes meaningless. That this one book enabled me to allow myself to enter that state says more than anything else I could possibly write.

If you have ever had a dream, if you find yourself seeking deeper fulfillment and a direction in life, if you feel you have to rely on luck and not your own power to create, this book is a must read. You will come away from the reading with a new sense of strength and faith in your abilities. The book alone is inspiring, but I highly recommend using the companion workbook. By using both, you not only see the path, but also can figure out the best way to follow it.

This isn't one of those "think it and it will happen" books. Sandy admits that you need to act in order to achieve--and that action will prompt the Universe to help. He also encourages you to think of the times you wanted something and it didn't occur. Explaining that others are also adding energy to what they want and sometimes their wants may be stronger or more along the lines of what the Universe wants. For example, he uses wanting to drive fast and not get stopped. You may want that, but the rest of the people in the area want safety, safety that your speeding will destroy. Their combined want is stronger than yours. Mr. Sims really makes it possible to understand why or why not. He does not judge, only explains.

Ask yourself "Do I have a dream that I want to make reality?" If the answer is yes, this book will give you a strong base from which to launch your journey. Visit Sandy Sim's website now to learn more and find out where you can get your copy.

How Frank Lloyd Wright Got into My Head, Under My Skin and Changed the Way I Think About Thinking earns six colors on the Rainbow Scale of Reading Excellence.

Talking with Sandy Sims--Author, Philosopher, Creative Genius

2011-03-13T05:19:00.000-04:00

I don't impress easily -- in fact, it is almost impossible to impress me. There have been a few times in my life, however, when someone crossed my path and totally earned my respect and admiration--and yes, impressed me. I was fortunate enough to be allowed to review Mr. Sim's books and get to know more about this man. It doubt if I'll soon forget him. Today, I'd like to share with you an interview with Sandy Sims -- I think you'll understand my point completely.

Who is Sandy Sims?

A Virgo with Pisces rising and a moon in Taurus he is comfortable in both the world of Ralph Lauren and Timothy Leary. Interesting people and ideas are a fascination. A curious soul he will try most things at least once. He is drawn to metaphysical ideas in terms of finding meaning in life. A good cappuccino, living abroad and smelling the roses are high on his list. His goal is to make life a continuous gracious adventure.

What role does passion play in your life activities?

Passion now is directed towards balance. Learning is for the sheer joy of learning. I pay attention to what I have energy for and move in that direction, not so much questioning why but realizing that that is where the energy is, and that is good enough.

What might be the most important thing the universe is telling us?

I feel that it is that we are truly the architects of our life and the choices we make lead to the life we have. The difficult thing is to realize our own personal power because there are so many events and set backs that seem to cloud that realization. If we can make notes as to when we first wanted things, or people or opportunity to show up, and then connect those dots in time to their occurrences, we can gather more confidence about our ability and move confidently towards what we want.

How do you define reality?

I feel it is simply the moment by moment we experience in our physical life through our senses, but that it does include in the background the vast consciousness of existence we live oblivious to.

What does success mean to you?

It is a bio feed back loop. It is understanding that where my efforts are applied there are results. Where there are set backs, or apparent disappointments it is because I have not yet applied the effort required. Perhaps I have not paid attention to my own intuition and been courageous enough to act, or realized that there are other forces working at cross purposes and my path is elsewhere.

Are we born creative or must we learn to be creative?

I feel that we are born innately curious and that as we learn how to survive and function in the world, we are required to conform. Those around us who have lost awareness of their own personal power are very influential and if there are too many we can become lost. Creativity is like a portal or channel or even a lifeline that gives us direction from the smallest incidents in life to the “Aha” moments. The ability of these portals to become more useful is enhanced by our awareness of their existence. Living life as a question is one way to do this.

What does the future hold for Sandy Sims?

The future for Sandy Sims is to practice the idea of living life in the flow. Getting used to connecting with my intuition, paying attention to what I am enthusiastic about and following through with intention. I feel that we are in the midst a huge consciousness transformation where we are being required to trust that life will bring us what we need and move more confidently into the unknown. I don’t say that this is particularly easy. However with practice I feel I can find exhilaration and reward in the process.

What would you like to share with our readers?

I once went to a lecture given by a man in a wheel chair who had burns over ninety percent of his body from an airplane crash. His message was that it isn’t what happens to us, but what we plan to do about it. He said he could have spent the rest of his life feeling sorry for himself and would have had good reason. Instead he realized that there was an entirely new life available, to travel and lecture on this very concept. I wrote my book first as simply a cathartic experience, recording my journey of learning about manifestation and applying those principles. I realized that I was not that interested in people telling me about what they had read on this topic, but more of what they had actually experienced. I was urged to share my own story on manifestation. I found that I had energy and resources to do so, and following the breadcrumbs; so to speak, I have entered the world of book writing, publishing and marketing.

Thank you for sharing your words and time with us, Sandy. Feel free to return for a visit any time.

Don't forget to come back tomorrow, folks, when I share my thoughts on Mr. Sim's book (and the workbook), How Frank Lloyd Wright Got Into My Head, Under My Skin, and Changed the Way I Think About Thinking.
***
or more information about Sandy Sims and How Frank Lloyd Wright Got Into My Head, Under My Skin And Changed The Way I Think About Thinking, A Creative Thinking Blue Print For the 21st Century, visit http://creativethinkingbook.com/ and visit this page to get the Amazon links.

Sandy Sims On Synchronicity, Cosmic Partners and Ultimate Creativity

2011-03-11T04:14:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I introduced you to Sandy Sims, author of the two books over there on your left. Today, Sandy has provided us with his Seven Steps to Ultimate Creativity. I'd also like to share with you a brief talk by Sandy on the subject of synchronicity and your cosmic partners. If you have any thoughts, comments, questions, etc...on today's post, please leave a comment. (I know you guys, and you always have opinions!). Don't forget to return tomorrow for even more from Sandy Sims.

And now for a guest post from Sandy Sims:

A CONTEXT FOR IDEA CREATIVITY

When we want create new ideas, methodologies and results, we can employ a variety of techniques to facilitate the process. Since we did not have the information before the process, we don’t spend much time thinking about where it is coming from or how it might be originating. Yet any explanation of how the field produces the new and novel or the context from which creativity springs, is simply left as a question mark.

Rather, we concentrate on how to coax it in to existence. If we get a flash of insight or an idea that is “Out of the blue” we usually do not imagine it as being the product of some other’s consciousness’s idea. But why not? Probably because our cultural way of thinking and the scientific method does not permit that belief at this time.

One of the trademarks of genius is an abiding and perhaps continuous state of curiosity as if the switch is continuously left in the “on” mode. It is as if there is a perpetual order to keep sending the new and novel.

I would like to think that the collective unconscious is inhabited not only by our connections to one another, but to a vast network of minds beyond ours, who operate not only to bring our desires into reality but to also give us their ideas as we seem ready for them.

To look at the universe in this manner gives rationale explanation to such things as synchronicities, or as Jung referred to them, meaningful coincidences, to original ideas when you least expected them to appear. Furthermore it gives us the comforting feeling that we are part of an immediate team. Therefore, from this point of view I would like to propose that our idea generation is often a result of a collaborative effort with friends we cannot see. In this regard our lives can be filled with the most useful and efficient idea generation possible.

Seven Steps To Establishing The Contextual Mindset To Ultimate Creativity
1. See the collective unconscious as the home of your partnerships, an army of helpers who have unlimited resources and connections willing to do your bidding and also willing to send you unsolicited ideas.

2. live as much in a state of constant question as if you are in a childlike state of curiosity. In this way while your conscious thought is involved in one area your helpers have their assignments and are working even as you sleep. For example if you are to meet in a few days to work on solving a problem, define the problem as well as possible and ask yourself for solutions now. By the time your meeting takes place the process has long been underway.

3 For complicated requests think of the collective unconscious requiring “ TIME ” to make all of the manifesting connections. Know that it is being worked on, and that some ideas may never be revealed due for example to conflicting interests.

4. Think of INTENTION as a means of transmitting importance, hence priority. Assign the degree of intention .

5. Let it all go with gratitude, in effect knowing that it will take time for your partners to generate for you depending upon the difficulty and appreciating their effort.

6. Now that the context has been established enter into the content generation phase and harvest the results. Think of employing various idea generation techniques (content) as a means of making and strengthening the connections. (for example: mind mapping, thinking in pictures, lateral thinking, 1000 mile an hour thinking, listing bad ideas to stumble upon good ones, throwing away all of the initial ideas to get to those in the outer orbits, combine different fields of expertise etc.).

7. In addition to actual “aha” of an idea received, be open to all forms of inputs especially synchronicities to lead you to people, symbols, and resources which may ultimately convey an answer.

Sandy Sims, Frank Lloyd Wright and Creativity

2011-03-10T04:09:00.001-05:00

Creativity is one of those words that conjures up a multitude of images. It is something that seems readily available and yet strangely elusive at times. Sandy Sims found inspiration in the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. Over the next few days, I will be sharing much from the mind of Sandy Sims--and I guarantee you will find it all inspiring.

Sandy Sims was raised and educated in the South. After serving as Naval Officer and finishing graduate business school, he followed a dream to live in Honolulu where he built one of Hawaii's most successful advertising agencies.

The crisis of personal health and business setbacks opened the way to larger spiritual dimensions including a long association with the Caddy family, founders of the Findhorn Spiritual Community in Scotland His book,”How Frank Lloyd Wright Got Into My Head, Under My Skin And Changed The Way I Think About Thinking, A Creative Thinking Blue Print For the 21st Century,” is a memoir of his journey culminating in a 20 year project with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.

He has collaborated with Psychiatrist, Kerry Monick MD, and authored Creative Thinking For The 21st Century, An Experiential Guidebook. Accepting the science that our intention does indeed affect the material world, it addresses what to be thinking about, how to shape these thoughts, and what might be the best way to avoid unintended consequences.

When not travelling, Sandy resides in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico where you can find him writing, playing tennis, poking around with his camera and embracing a new culture.

Tomorrow, I will be sharing a guest post from Sandy, along with a video. Later this week, there is an interview to look forward to and my review of both the book and workbook. Don't forget to come back so you don't miss anything!

For more information about Sandy Sims and How Frank Lloyd Wright Got Into My Head, Under My Skin And Changed The Way I Think About Thinking, A Creative Thinking Blue Print For the 21st Century, visit http://creativethinkingbook.com/ and visit this page to get the Amazon links http://creativethinkingbook.com/buy-your-copy/.

Emotional Freedom --Dr. Judith Orloff helps you move onward and upward

2011-03-02T05:03:00.000-05:00

We all have emotions that tend to be so strong they block out all others. Negative emotions are the worse for doing this. Fear, discouragement, disappointment and many others fall into this category. Judith Orloff understands how destructive these emotions can be; she also understands how difficult it can be to get past these emotions and replace them with the positive ones that can move you forward. This is where Emotional Freedom comes in.

In Emotional Freedom, Dr. Orloff shows you first how to determine what emotional type you are. She then continues to explain what negative emotions exist and how they can cause both physical and emotional pain and stagnation. Rather than leave readers to figure out what steps are necessary to achieve this change, she includes Emotional Action Steps throughout the book. These steps are easy to carry out and you can feel the improvement quickly. Dr. Orloff also includes mini-quizzes throughout the book to help you assess whether or not you need improvement in certain areas.

I have been a fan of Judith Orloff for some time now, so was looking forward to reviewing Emotional Freedom. My anticipation did not go unrewarded. I learned a great many new strategies to deal with emotions as I read. Being a self-help junkie, I don't often discover new ideas in this area any longer. It was a nice surprise to discover new ways. I especially like her section on emotional vampires and how to deal with them.

Dr. Orloff writes with a conversational tone that feels like a friend is explaining concepts to you. Her direct approach gives off a confidence that you can't help but feel enter your own thinking as you read. The book is written in short sections that allow for gaining insight in short periods of time. In today's world of constant activity, we don't often have the pleasure of a few hours of reading time all at once. With this book, I found myself hoping for waiting tme so I could see what was next.

We all have negative emotions of one type or another that we wish weren't so huge in our lives. Emotional Freedom addresses them all, allowing each reader to discover for themselves the pleasure derived from turning the negative into positive. If you have ever felt deep emotional pain, this is a must have book, best kept on your nightstand rather than on a crowded bookshelf. You will want to keep it near.

Emotional Freedom rates 6 colors on the Rainbow Scale.

To purchase the book and receive your "Celebrate Joy" special gift collection go to:

http://www.drjudithorloff.com/emotional-freedom-paperback/

2011-03-01T05:39:00.001-05:00

The above video shows Dr. Judith Orloff speaking about one of the barriers to emotional freedom. Tomorrow, I will be posting my review of Emotional Freedom.

Dr. Orloff celebrates the exciting paperback launch of her New York Times bestseller Emotional Freedom: Liberate Yourself from Negative Emotions and Transform Your Life. She is treating you to an incredible one-time book-launch offer with special gifts from herself and friends such as Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Joan Borysenko, Dr. Michael Beckwith, and more!

To purchase the book and receive your "Celebrate Joy" special gift collection go to:

http://www.drjudithorloff.com/emotional-freedom-paperback/

In Emotional Freedom Dr. Orloff states:

“I’m presenting the unique process I use with patients and in my own life to view emotions as a path to spiritual and intuitive awakening (not EFT). I synthesize traditional medicine with energy medicine to offer you new tools to master emotions and become heroes in your own life. Inner peace leads to outer peace in the world.”

Publisher's Weekly’s review of Emotional Freedom says:

“Superbly written..Dr. Orloff regards emotions as a training ground for the soul, and views ‘every victory over fear, anxiety, and resentment as a way to develop your spiritual muscles.’”

Emotional Freedom has rave reviews from USA Today, Dr. Candace Pert, Christiane Northrup, M.D., Caroline Myss, Dean Ornish, M.D., and Mary Oliver, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet. They call it “spectacular,” “a must-read,” “a heartfelt, accessible guide,” and “resolutely compassionate.”

In the book, you will discover:

• Four questions to transform fear with courage

• What your emotional type is

• How to stop absorbing the emotions of others

• How to combat emotional vampires with compassion

• The spiritual meaning of depression and hope

Purchase book and claim your "Celebrate Joy" special gift collection at:

http://www.drjudithorloff.com/emotional-freedom-paperback/

If you'd like to liberate yourself from negative emotions and compassionately own the moment in all situations instead of just reacting when your buttons get pushed go to:

http://www.drjudithorloff.com/emotional-freedom-paperback/

Nelson Mandela said: “As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” Help liberate others and please share this announcement with them. Your support makes us happy and grateful!

For more inspiration and to learn about the Emotional Freedom book tour schedule and sign up for our affiliate program visit DrJudithOrloff.com

Penny Lockwood Stops By for a Visit

2011-02-10T05:47:00.000-05:00

I have the pleasure today and tomorrow of sharing a wonderful author with everyone. Penny Lockwood is on tour with her newest book, and antholgy of half fantasy and half science fiction. Tomorrow, I will share my thoughts on this book, but I'd like to take a moment to introduce Penny, share the contents of this book and give you some blog addresses to visit. If you get a chance, please stop by and give these bloggers a great big hello :-)

A PAST AND A FUTURE

BY PENNY LOCKWOOD EHRENKRANZ

PUBLISHED BY SAMS DOT PUBLISHING

A COLLECTION OF SIXTEEN FANTASY AND SOFT SCIENCE FICTION STORIES WITH A TOUCH OF ROMANCE

FLIGHT OF THE ROC – Girl collides with a roc as she struggles to find her magic powers.

BLURRED VENGEANCE – Vain and aggressive, Temur ignores the warnings as he seeks vengeance for his father’s death.

WHO WILL HEAL THE HEALER – How can a young sorceress save her mentor when the powers of darkness threaten?

ASHLEY OF ASHLAND – Will the plain, younger brother win the heart of the fair princess or be executed as a traitor?

THE WATCHER – Her vision causes her to become a betrayer of all she holds dear. Can she be saved?

ENCHANTRESS – Merlin knows the one he loves will be his downfall, but can he win in the end?

DRAKONI – Torn from her modern day world and thrust into a world of dragons, evil magicians, and handsome elves, will Farah succeed or die trying?

HESHE- Forced to hide as a young man, will the young noble woman tell her benefactor who she is, or will her pursuers capture her and take her back into slavery?

THE BABY MAKERS – In a world where cloning is possible, will Reese be able to save his illegal newborn child from a government determined to make her a non-citizen?

3-D PICTURES – The government thinks he is crazy and sends him to a shrink. What will Avery do when the elves appear in the 3-D picture in the waiting room? Go or allow himself to be “cured?”

SCREEN SAVER – The program arrives as a demo. Will it be Clancy’s ticket to survival or a rip-off which brings him to destruction?

ISOLATION- The world as we know it is gone. The rich are isolated from the dying poor. Will Caryn and Rader make the right decision when they search for freedom?

LOVE IN A DIFFERENT HUE – What would you do if a blue-skinned robot wanted to protect and love you? Chiri isn’t sure until he takes her in his arms.

DOWN SO LOW, THE GROUND LOOKS LIKE UP – Sylvan drinks herself into oblivion to compensate for her psi talents. Can Deveneaux save her from her demons, or will he lock her up for propositioning an officer of the law?

REBELS WITH A CAUSE – Shayleena is tired of living her life through holovision. She wants a real life with real people. Will she find it as a volunteer for juvenile offenders, or will she be mugged and left to die?

CLOCKWORKS – John lives in Structured. His ancestors came from a country where time means nothing. What will he do when he tries to trace his roots and finds his structured life is now in chaos?

http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.yolasite.com/

If you hop on over to http://pennylockwoodehrenkranz.yolasite.com/bio.php

you can read an excellent bio of Penny--much better than I could write!

Don't forget to stop by tomorrow for my review of this book. In the meantime, below is a list of the other stops on Penny's tour--enjoy!

A PAST AND A FUTURE Blog Tour

http://ciaragold.blogspot.com/ - Feb. 1, Jamie Bevans

http://www.seriouslyinterviewed.blogspot.com/ - Feb 1, Romance Reader

http://mgddasef.blogspot.com/ Marva Dasef – Feb 2

http://bit.ly/f2evHV - Feb. 2 - Professor Baker

http://janiefranz.wordpress.com/ / Janie Franz – Feb 3

http://heatherkuehl.blogspot.com/ - Feb 4, Heather Kuehl

http://barbaraehrentreu.blogspot.com/ - Feb 5, Barbara Ehrentreu

http://lovesbooksandmore.blogspot.com/ - Feb 6, Dawn Roberto

http://jaletaclegg.blogspot.com/ Feb 7, Aleta Clegg

http://www.jqroseauthor.blogspot.com/ - Feb 8, J Q Rose

http://lizzietleaf.blogspot.com/ - Feb 9, Lizzie Lea
http://www.longandshortreviews.com/ Feb 10 - Judy LASR 13 Stories from APAAF

http://www.kaydeeroyal.blogspot.com/ Feb 12, Kay Dee Royal

http://mizging.blogspot.com/ Feb 13, Ginger Simpson

http://writerschatroom.com/ Feb 13, 7 PM EST, The Writer’s Chat room

http://kellyaharmon.com/ Feb 14 Kelly Harmon

http://www.suhalfwerk.blogspot.com/ Feb 15 - Su Halfwerk

Losing Your Only by Dr. Debi Yohn -- A Review

2011-01-25T06:41:00.000-05:00

Life has an order about it that we have all come to expect, even if we haven't thought about it. We are born and we grow, become adults and usually parents. We grow older and eventually pass on. In spite of this fairly predictable cycle, the order of things sometimes change and we are faced with losing a child. Whenever this occurs, grief seems deeper than we can ever imagine. When the child is our only one, the grief can be even deeper, for not only do we lose our child, we lose our identity as a parent.

Dr. Debi Yohn lost her son when he was only twenty. In her book, Losing Your Only, she bares her soul as she relates the process she went through. This isn't just her story, however, because she offers advice between the pieces of her story. Using her experience, she reaches out to other parents who have lost their only child and helps them understand the process they will go through, giving helpful advice on how to best deal with each stage of the process.

Losing Your Only isn't a "get over and go on" book. I really liked the fact that Dr. Yohn tells readers that they will question. She is honest about the depth of pain. She is also positive in her assertion that things do get better with time. She acknowledges they won't be the same, but they will be better. The author found her greatest strength in spirituality. This book, however, isn't based on any particular religion. She states many times that the parent needs to reach toward their own Higher Power, follow their own cultural beliefs and traditions. What is most important is being able to reach out and accept the love and help of others.

I also found the process described by Dr. Yohn as one that can help any parent, anywhere get through the death of their only child. She brings hope and healing through her words and practical actions a parent can take, not just find a way talk. This is a book that should be available to anyone who has ever felt the loss of a child. It is a subject so often avoided in written material, but it needs to be available--and Dr. Debi Yohn allowed her grief to push her forward to give hope to others.

Losing Your Only rates six colors on the Rainbow Scale.

Thank you for your interest in Losing Your Only, by Dr Debi Yohn. This is a very personal story which helped Dr Yohn discover her purpose – to motivate and support parents and others to live life to their highest potential. The digital version of the book is currently available at http://losingyouronly.com/get-the-book/. If you would like to be notified about the upcoming print and audio release, please visit this page and send Dr Debi your name and email address.

Dr. Debi Yohn On Losing Your Only

2011-01-24T04:05:00.001-05:00

Dr Deb Yohn is my very special guest today and tomorrow. Dr. Yohn normally writes with a witty style that not only teaches both parents and children, but also entertains as well. Dan Poynter, author of The Self Publishing Manual describes Deb Yohn as "Dr.Phil with red hair and heels!" Dr. Yohn's current book, however, takes a different tone. Losing Your Only came about from personal tradgedy--and the courage and strength it took to get through it. Deb explains this book's origin best:

A Comment From Dr Debi About Losing Your Only

"My current book, Losing Your Only is written to the Parents or Loved Ones that have lost an only child. This book is written from my own personal experience. When my only child was killed in a car accident, my life took a different path. I was living in Shanghai China. He was going to college in USA. In my grief, I discovered that my purpose is to motivate, and support parents and all clients live to their life potential. Losing a child is horrific, losing an only child brings it up a notch. So what do we do with that kind of experience? We have decisions to make. We can live or we can die with the child. I decided not only to live, but to thrive"

Tomorrow, please stop by and see my review of this book.

.Dr. Debi is an accomplished international psychologist, author, mentor, mother and speaker with 32 years of the most remarkable experience anyone could imagine.

She began her career in psychology helping families in the poor rural south...where greetings were occasionally, "Please put the gun down...I'm a social worker not a revenuer."

As she continued her education, she lived in Saudi Arabia for 7 years where she conducted team building workshops…and in spite of an arrest for an airspace violation, forced landing and resulting disagreement with a middle eastern general, she managed to “discuss” her (and her 87 fellow passengers) way to freedom.

Back in the US, working for 2 Fortune 500 organizations, one in healthcare and one in insurance, quickly rose to the position of Director and skillfully avoided most “rightsizings” except the last one.

She was thrown into crisis intervention when a nearby explosion in a manufacturing plant killed 12 workers and injured another 50. She was part of a team of early responders that helped the families of the deceased, injured and non-injured survivors deal with the emotional aftermath of such a devastating accident.

Off on her next assignment of choice in China, she developed a private practice serving the English-speaking expatriate community of 300,000 providing psychological counseling and help for expats and their families adjusting to life abroad.

Eating bloodworms (yes, a Chinese delicacy and as nasty as it sounds) at the home of a government official or helping to establish “Lifeline Shanghai” an English speaking 911 service to help expats in need are just 2 of her many interesting adventures.

She has always felt that life teaches us what we need to learn and finding ways to learn those lessons as quickly and fully as possible helps improve the overall quality of the life experience.

Fortunately, in our complicated, overscheduled, and often crazy world, Dr. Yohn teaches specific strategies to bring joy, serenity and relaxation to your life even when things don’t look so good.

She has written four books and lectured on a wide variety of subjects related to parenting, mental health, adjusting to change, dealing with loss of a loved one and strategies for a success filled life.

She currently lives between Huatulco, Mexico and Shanghai, China. She travels the world working with her clients, writing and managing her diversified business and charitable interests.

A Passion For Writing

2010-12-05T01:39:00.001-05:00

Karina and Rob Fabian are at it again! They have gathered twelve stories of faith and science fiction with the help of several other authors, to bring us Infinite Space, Infinite God II. The Catholic Press has this to say about this new collection:

"The history of the Catholic Church is full of heroes: men and women of courage and conviction. Not only did these Catholic heroes live and die for their faith, but they saved others, fought valiantly, inspired the masses, and influenced nations.

Now, Infinite Space, Infinite God II honors that legacy with twelve science fiction stories featuring Catholic heroes. Meet a time traveler who sacrifices his life to give a man a sip of water, and the nun who faces venomous snakes to save a friend. Share the adventures of priests who battle aliens and machines in order serve the greater good.

Infinite Space, Infinite God II spans the gamut of science fiction, from near-future dystopias to time travel to space opera, puzzles of logic to laugh-out-loud humor and against-the-clock suspense. A great read for any science fiction fan--a must-read for the Catholic sci-fi lover."

I had a chance to ask several of the authors the one question I feel keep a writer going through all the rejections, critiques and days when the Muse goes on vacation--What fuels your passion to write?

The answers:

Karina Fabian: The characters. They tell me their stories, and if I don't write them out, it gets very crowded in my brain!

Rob Fabian: My wife, Karina, fuels my passion for writing. I enjoy reading fiction, but she brought me into writing.

Barton Levenson: Mostly daydreams, often fueled from books or manga I read or movies or TV or anime I watch.

Alan Loewen: For years I have been an entertainer, first as a stage magician, then as a stage actor, and now, in this season of my life, as a writer. Through all of this, I have taken great delight in creating worlds of my own making and sharing it with others—to safely and courteously be a talented tour guide as I lead my audience through equal parts of wonder and danger (And who is to say they are not one and the same?)—and then hear the words, “Well done,” and Thank you.”

John Rundle: I write to keep emotional pain at bay. Having a sense of accomplishment is what keeps me out of trouble. Science Fiction is particularly appealing since it forces me to use my imagination to its fullest, leaving very little room for anything else.

Andrew Seddon: Well, let’s see. Several factors.

1) Creativity. There is no scope for creativity at work, so I find that writing is a great outlet. I can create a world or character and (sometimes) have them do what I want. I enjoy playing the piano but have no skill at composition; ditto for painting; so I find that writing allows me to express myself in a creative manner. There are lots of personal touches and inside jokes in my stories. Characteristics of myself show up here and there. Sometimes, though, the characters are as different from me as possible!

2) Learning. Since I write mostly either historical or science fiction, and since I like my stories to be as accurate as possible, that means I have to do considerable background research. I love learning about ancient people, how they lived, in what ways they were similar to ourselves, and in what ways different. For science fiction, I’m interested in what ways science will affect the future.

3) Faith. For both fiction and non-fiction, writing is a way for me to express and share the Christian faith, sometimes overtly, sometimes in a more subtle manner. It is both incredible and humbling that other people will read something that I write, so I try to make sure my writings are edifying. I feel that it is a form of serving God and sharing the Faith.

Jay Sherer: Whenever anybody asks me about "passion," my first thought is to ask them what the word even means. I think it probably has a different meaning for each person. For me, a passion for writing means that I just can't stop doing it. I've tried to quit before and I can't. I get an idea and I have to sit down and write it out. Nothing fuels that desire more than reading or viewing someone else's story. When I see or read a well told story it makes me want to sit down and write one of my own. I'm sure God is behind it all. But, movies, comic books, novels, and even art can be gasoline for my writing tank. Anything that captures my attention and engages my imagination.

Tamara Wilhite: I have many ideas of how the world could be, and writing them in fictional format creates a world that others can see and experience - and hopefully choose to help create.

…and because Alex really gets into his topic…

Why I Write

by Alex Lobdell, author of “The Battle of the Narthex” in Infinite Space Infinite God II.

Every job has its perks. People who know how to fix computers always have a lot of friends. Chefs get to wear hats that make them look really tall. Librarians never get work-related hearing loss. Supermodels don’t get traffic citations. Dieticians get to live to be 110 years old.

Writing, too, offers some perks to its practitioners. Below are six reasons why I think writing is a fun and rewarding occupation.

1. Present-tense immortality. If people talk about an author in literature classes, they always use present tense: “I think Shakespeare is saying here that we should…” “When George Eliot says this, what she really means is…” So even if you’re an author who has been dead for hundreds of years, people continue to talk about you like you’re still on the job, still thinking, still making your case. You are present to the readers, in every sense of the word.

2. Freedom – you can go anywhere, do anything, be of any age, meet amazing people, travel through time, breathe underwater, fly, It’s like having a wonderful dream, but because you’re actually awake, you don’t have to worry about running in place when you’re being chased, giving a speech naked, falling from a high place, or having your body snatched by aliens and becoming a pod person.

3. You learn about other people. If you write, that means you are probably interested in people, and by writing, you can actually become other people – male, female, old, young, someone who thinks like you, someone who thinks very differently from you. And sometimes your readers react to your writing in ways that you could never expect. What you thought was hilarious and brilliant just seems weird and stupid to others, and what you thought was a throw-away bit gets picked up on as something significant and profound. Thus, people both real and imaginary open your eyes to the world as seen beyond your own perspective. Of course if the real people, especially critics, dislike your writing, their perspective is wrong, but technically it’s a perspective nonetheless.

4. You learn about yourself. You think you are just diligently applying your craft to meet a deadline and to stay out of the crosshairs of an agitated editor, when suddenly, you blink and the mask your character is wearing slips, and you catch a glimpse of the real face beneath it – a face you know. It may be a face you love, and it may be a face you loathe – but it’s a face that helped make you who you are, and when you see it – see that person whom you have made a part of yourself – you become a deeper person for it.

5. You get to play. When we are children, our parents say, “Don’t just sit around in front of the TV! Go outside! Play!” The inherent message is that an active imagination is good, and sitting around all day staring at a screen is bad. Our parents even give us props to help us in our imaginative endeavors: toys!

Then we have to grow up. We are told to pay attention. Focus. Attend to the matter at hand. Sit down in front of that computer screen.

And some of us think, “Hey! No fair! Why were we allowed to have toys as children and encouraged to engage in imaginative fancies that would later just have to be disciplined out of us? I think that writers, deep down, still want to play. Writing is playing. Playing is learning. Learning is good. Sure, when we write as adults we don’t get to use as many of the cool props as we did as children (though admittedly there are two rubber knives, a plastic triceratops, a pair of walkie-talkies, and a fossil trilobite on my desk at the moment), and we’re still sitting in front of a screen, but as writers we’re still exercising our imagination – we’re still playing! And we get PAID for it sometimes!

6. We get PAID for it sometimes!

And that is why I write!

Thanks for the wonderful answers, everyone!

Here is a brief synopsis of the stories you will find within the pages of this collection:

Story Summaries

The Ghosts of Kourion by Andrew Seddon: Professor Robert Cragg thought that he could escape the grief of losing his wife and daughter by traveling back in time to study a city soon to be destroyed by an earthquake. He felt safe in the fact that he could do nothing to save these people, but when he befriends a local family, however, he realizes he must try. In the end, he cannot save them, but he learns that if he cannot save the ghosts of Kourion, he can at least ease their sufferings.

Antivenin by Karina Fabian: Three nuns from the Order of Our Lady of the Rescue offer help to a ship that is off-course and not answering hails. They find the ship crawling with venomous snakes who have killed their handler and bitten the pilot. When one bites her partner, Sister Rita must conquer her phobia and snatch the antivenin from their nest.

An Exercise in Logic by Barton Paul Levenson: An ancient alien satellite has diverted an asteroid toward a human colony planet. The people who built the satellite refuse to veto programming logic installed by their ancestors. Can an Ursuline sister who is also an alien contact specialist change their minds?

Cathedral by Tamara Wilhite: Katarina's kind were engineered to love scientific research and dedicate themselves to bettering mankind until their jumped-up neurology caused them to die an ignoble death while in their twenties. Perhaps Katarina could have lived with this, but when she discovers the medicines she created were actually drugs to control the population, she spends the last of her tortured days righting her wrongs.

Otherworld by Karina Fabian: Father Jonas is haunted by the loss of his mother, who died while in a virtual reality world. As a priest, he's driven to evangelize to the players in Otherworld--to remind them of reality and the God who cares about what they do on both worlds.

The Battle of the Narthex by Alex Lobdell: What do you get when you mix a royal assassination, alien militia and the Saturday night Mass-and-Spaghetti dinner? Battle of the Narthex tickels the funny bone and touches the heart!

Tenniel by Colleen Drippe': Bishop Tenniel must fight the leader of the Wolfbane clan to win the conversion of the tribe to Christianity, saving their lives as well as their souls. Another exciting tale from Colleen Drippe's Lost Rythar universe.

Tin Servants by J Sherer: Father Paul's desire to serve his people in war-torn Ghana that he allowed himself to altered to resemble the androids sent to provide medical help. Once there, however, he finds himself limited in the comfort he can offer, and embroiled in a conspiracy to convert the andorginacs into soldiers.

Basilica by John Rundle: A Navy buddy needs help fixing up an old clunker of a spacecraft and Father Carpizo arrives to do his old friend a long overdue favor. As he turns wrenches, however, Carpizo finds a mystery to whet his appetite: a riddle deep rooted in the history of the Church. The scholarly priest unwittingly uncovers a dark secret which others have paid for with their lives. He is suddenly confronted by unspeakable evil and now Carpizo must make the ultimate sacrifice to destroy it…if only there is enough time.

Cloned to Kill by D. Mak: The power of Baptism helps a clone programmed to kill find her humanity--but to what lengths will Father Markham have to go to protect his new ward?

Frankie Phones Home by Karina Fabian: Sixteen-year-old Frankie was kidnapped by aliens who wanted to understand the mysteries of her human religion. Now, as they return to Earth to make First Contact, Frankie calls her family.

Dyads, Ken Pick and Alan Loewen: Father Heidler's latest assignment takes him to Cathuria, where the Catholic Church and all of Earth are blamed when a failed missionary's desperation boils over into terrorism. With the planet in the midst of riots and the Archbishop/Ambassador to Cathuria severely injured in a retaliatory strike, Father Heidler negotiates a delicate maze of politics and religious convictions to find a way to restore peace and reconcile the two worlds

Before you go on with your day, take a moment to leave a comment for these fine authors--and check out the book trailer !

Harvest Moon by Krista Ball - A Review

2010-10-29T15:00:00.001-04:00

Click here to purchase

Harvest Moon, 2010

Paranormal Fantasy

ISBN: 978-0-9865875-0-4

Pages: 35

Word count: 10,000

Price: $2.50

Available in PDF, epub, prc

Krista D. Ball allows her talent full reign in Harvest Moon. I found myself glued to the screen from the start to the end. The twists and turns in plot sent me on a wild ride of surprise, anticipation increasing with each new direction. Part romance, part paranormal and all captivating--this story contains the proper amount of each, making it a story that will appeal to a wide audience.

Harvest Moon is character-oriented. Krista's characters are well-developed without being so developed the reader is left with nothing to fill in. I was able to visualize each one, hear their voices as I read and felt as thugh I knew each one personally. Readers will find themselves drawn into Dancing Cat's world completely, and wishing they could follow her on her journey after the story ends.

Harvest Moon earns six colors on the Rainbow Scale.

An Excerpt from Harvest Moon by Krista D. Ball

2010-10-28T01:38:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we caught a glimpse of Krista Ball's latest work. Today, I want to share with you an excerpt from Harvest Moon and tomorrow will review it. Enjoy and consider leaving a comment for Krista.

***
Harvest Moon

Cross-legged, Dancing Cat sat pounding the sun-dried Saskatoon berries between two hand-sized rocks. The stone, her hands, and her buckskin dress all bore the tell-tale signs of berry duty. Streaks of red dye, impossible to clean, striped her clothing and tanned skin. She tried pushing her hair off her cheeks, only to have the sticky residue coating her fingers glue the dark strands in place. The black flies swarmed and buzzed, ready to feast.

She worked in silence as part of the greater circle of twenty women, who chatted as they worked. Dancing Cat had no reason to join in. They only spoke to her to criticize or belittle, never for companionship. The band no longer even called her by name.

Her attention faded away from her work. She stared past the women to catch a glimpse of Eagle Eyes, her brother, mounting his horse. He was only six years older than her and already leading hunting parties, while she sat, docile and obedient, making powdered berries. His gaze caught hers, full of warning. She looked away with the heaviness of her situation pressing against her chest. Dancing Cat pounded her berries harder, trying to crush her own aching loneliness.

“I wish I could ride again,” she mumbled.

Her mother, Crow, glared at her. “I have no patience for you today. We have berries to crush. Shall I remind you why we need them?”

“No,” Dancing Cat said, sullen. They couldn’t start the pemmican cakes without the berries. Without them, they would starve when winter fell. She’d heard the lecture many times before and did not want to hear it again.

“Good. Put aside your childishness and work in silence, Cursed One.”

Dancing Cat swallowed down the slight. She remained silent against the grunts and nods of the other women. She dropped her gaze, making snide, internal comments about how her mother’s black hair no longer resembled a crow’s blue-black feathers. It made her feel better, petty though it was.

Some days, she saw herself as Cursed One instead of her name. But today was not one of those days. Today, she was still the girl who wriggled out of the womb twenty years before and was joyously named Dancing Cat. Today, she hated her duty and silence. But she would do both and would not complain. One day, she would escape into death and be free.

Using a sharp stone, she scraped the mound of berry powder off the buckskin in front of her into the main pile. She dumped several handfuls of the tiny Saskatoon berries back on her ragged buckskin to resume pounding. But not before licking her fingers clean of the tart, feathery residue. No one noticed.

“Creator wills it, the men will bring home a buffalo from the hunt,” Crow said to the other women, who nodded in agreement.

Dancing Cat let her mind wander as the women chatted about the tribe’s need for a buffalo. The herd would move southeast in another moon cycle and so the entire tribe would move with them before the final move into their winter camp. Faded memories of riding ahead of the hunt flashed across her mind; images so foreign that she wondered if they were true anymore.

A chill crept up her spine. The late summer wind had turned cold. She flicked her gaze back to the hunting party. The rest of the men mounted their horses and galloped off to the nearby buffalo herd. She sighed, remembering the freedom of riding. She had been their tribe’s first female messenger. She missed it.

“Cursed One! Pay attention. You are chipping your rock. If I find stone in my cakes this winter, I will take yours and let you go without.” Her grandmother glared at her, her thin lips pursed. “Stop daydreaming.”

Dancing Cat stared at her grandmother, trying to control her tone. “Sorry, Nohkom. I was just…”

“Daydreaming,” Hawk Sight snapped. “We expect you to do your share of work. If you do not, you will be the first to starve this winter.”

Dancing Cat hung her head, fingers trembling from the nauseating mix of anger and fear. She bit back the disrespectful words that boiled inside her. Hawk Sight was not just her maternal grandmother, but also the band healer and an elder. No one would dare speak back to her, let alone the band exile.

She looked up at the several generations of women around her. The nodding heads and smug looks told her that the threat of starvation was real. She pushed her grandmother’s words out of her mind by grinding the berries perfectly between the two flat rocks.

“Remember Stoney?”

Dancing Cat slumped. Hawk Sight never could let things go.

“She thought she could laze around while we women worked. But when we ran out of food that winter, she was the one left to starve. We don’t need lazy women.”

“Yes, Nohkom.”

And on it went for the afternoon, story after miserable story about women who starved to death. It would have been bad enough for just her grandmother to have told the stories. Instead, the others joined in, telling of captured Red Valley, Cree or Inuit wives who had been left to starve when food stores ran low. All at her grandmother’s say. Hawk Sight might have been a great healer, but she was also cold and merciless in Dancing Cat’s opinion.

They told the stories to make her work harder, but it had the opposite effect. Her work slowed. She could not stand up for herself against an entire band, but she could refuse to obey the people who threatened to kill her. If they wanted her to die, then they could starve, too.

Meet Krista D. Ball

2010-10-27T05:52:00.000-04:00

Over the next couple of days, I'd like everyone to welcome science fiction author Krista D. Ball. Krista has a new book out called Harvest Moon .Here is what Krista's main character has to say about what she is about to embark upon:

As I sat on the bank of the swallow river, the drums pounding in the distance, I asked myself why the ancestors abandoned me. I had always behaved the way my elders taught me. I worked hard, shared with those around me, and never took more from the Earth than what I needed. I listened to my chief and my elders and respected the wisdom that the Spirits offered them. Why, then, would I be called “Cursed One”, never to be a person again?

The crowd in the distance sang and whooped in excitement, rhythmic drums echoing back to my isolated patch of ground. My job during the Gathering consisted of fetching water from the cold stream. Fearful of my presence polluting the festivities and angering the ancestors, several small children were designated to collect the bladders of water from me and run them back to the celebrating people. I could not even bring the water itself.

I was no longer Dancing Cat, messenger of my people. I was Cursed One. I would not experience the opening of the Sacred Bundle and receive guidance.

I looked out and over the endless field of grass opposite of the river and sighed. Someday, I will find a way to deliver myself. Even if I have to call upon death to rescue me.

Tomorrow, I will share with you an excerpt from Harvest Moon. Today, I leave you with this:

Women Can Succeed in Business--A Lecture By Barbara Weaver Smith

2010-10-26T00:01:00.006-04:00

To finish off our visit with Dr. Smith, I'd like to share with you a very inspirational talk she gave. Enjoy!

The Whale Hunters is a strategic sales coaching company that helps small businesses achieve explosive growth by landing bigger deals with bigger customers. Our business development process has consistently helped hundreds of companies create a repeatable, disciplined sales culture that optimizes the company’s ability to land and harvest whale-sized accounts in any economic climate.

Small business is the best way to reinvigorate the American economy. Barbara Weaver Smith, founder of The Whale Hunters, shares a lot of information of benefit to business people who want to grow their business. The question is how can small businesses grow at a rate that will show results sooner rather than later? That’s where The Whale Hunters comes in – and we invite you to register for a free account which gives you access to the wealth of information on the new expanded Whale Hunters website– http://www.thewhalehunters.com/

Freelancing and Whale Hunting -- Guest Post by Barbara Weaver Smith

2010-10-25T00:01:00.001-04:00

Dr. Barbara Weaver Smith has kindly offered a guest post today. Read on for some wonderful advice:

Freelance Whale Hunting

If you have heard of my book, Whale Hunting: How to Land Big Sales and Transform Your Company, then you may know that ”whale hunting” is about growing your business by making bigger sales to bigger customers. It’s a business-to-business strategy typically undertaken by a team of people, not an individual freelancer.

That said, there are many whale hunting practices—strategies, tactics, and states of mind—that can be very useful to a “solopreneur.” You too can think like a whale hunter, act like a whale hunter, and sell like a whale hunter!

Today I’m going to offer three of the Whale Hunting practices that are useful to freelancers who want to grow their business.

1. Create Your Target Filter. This is a tool that helps you define your ideal customer. If you’re thinking like a whale hunter, your ideal customer is one that can give you orders that are ten to twenty times your current average job. You may have industry verticals, key needs that you fulfill, specific characteristics that make a prospect ideal for you. The goal is to identify characteristics of those clients who can provide you with continually recurring business, rather than selling piece by piece or project by project.

2. Populate Your Boat. The Whale Hunters define the “boat” as the team of people who hunt a particular whale. You, as a freelancer, may do all your hunting alone. But what could you hunt if you teamed up with some other freelancers—say, if you are a writer, team up with an illustrator and a graphic designer to offer a complete outsourced service? Or, if you want to go after big technical writing jobs (say, revising all of the Department of Motor Vehicles documents for a state), you could bid as a team of technical writers and design artists who can complete the entire project in record time. These are ways you can compete against larger companies.

3. Find Your Whales in Pods. If there is a particular kind of customer who is especially good for you, think about and research where these customers gather. With whom do they associate? What conferences, conventions, online communities, etc. draw them? What organizations do they join? Any time you can send a single message to a large number of ideal targets, you are whale hunting. Can you do a joint venture with a membership association, offering a discount to each of their members who engages your services.

Of course, there are as many flavors of freelance services as there are of ice cream. But if you are accustomed to finding your jobs one by one, if your customers do not have frequent repeat business to offer, or if you have to pass up bigger opportunities because you lack the capacity, these are problems that Whale Hunting can help you resolve.

I invite you to join our online sales and business development community at http://www.thewhalehunters.com . Basic membership is free. You will find the Target Filter and other tools for growing your business plus a wealth of resources dedicated to the fast growth of small companies.

Thank you, Joyce, for hosting me today!

Barbara Weaver Smith

October 2010

The Whale Hunters is a strategic sales coaching company that helps small businesses achieve explosive growth by landing bigger deals with bigger customers. Our business development process has consistently helped hundreds of companies create a repeatable, disciplined sales culture that optimizes the company’s ability to land and harvest whale-sized accounts in any economic climate.

Small business is the best way to reinvigorate the American economy. Barbara Weaver Smith, founder of The Whale Hunters, shares a lot of information of benefit to business people who want to grow their business. The question is how can small businesses grow at a rate that will show results sooner rather than later? That’s where The Whale Hunters comes in – and we invite you to register for a free account which gives you access to the wealth of information on the new expanded Whale Hunters website– http://www.thewhalehunters.com/

***

The Whale Hunters Website is Growing

2010-10-22T06:02:00.000-04:00

Not long ago, I introduced you to Dr. Barbara Weaver Smith and her Whale Hunters book and website.

Dr. Barbara Weaver Smith, founder and president of The Whale Hunters^®, has an exceptional leadership background that began in higher education and successfully transitioned to entrepreneurship. With partner Larry Smith, she built the consulting firm Smith Weaver Smith, Inc., now celebrating 15 years of significant achievement in the education and economic sectors. In 2004, Dr. Smith founded The Whale Hunters to bring this proven change-management process to small and mid-sized companies. Dr. Smith guides entrepreneurs, CEOs, and sales leaders with education, peer coaching, and team training on this winning process that has helped transform more than 300 companies and counting.

Visit http://www.thewhalehunters.com and http://blog.thewhalehunters.com for much more information.

As Dr. Smith and her staff attempt to improve the services they offer clients, they develop more programs to reach this goal. The Whale Hunters is introducing Pier9, a new online community for entrepreneurs, small business owners, executives, and sales representatives who want to grow their business fast by making bigger sales to bigger customers. Pier9 offers a wide variety of resources for small business development: articles, podcasts, recorded teleconferences and webinars, blog, and new material produced daily and available 24/7. At Pier9 members can check the calendar of upcoming events, both virtual events and face-to-face events in their local communities, hosted by a Whale Hunters Certified Partner, located in many major markets throughout the United States and soon to be introduced in Europe.

Monday, I will be featuring a guest post from Dr. Barbara Weaver Smith telling reader how you too can obtain "big whale" accounts

The Whale Hunters is a strategic sales coaching company that helps small businesses achieve explosive growth by landing bigger deals with bigger customers. Our business development process has consistently helped hundreds of companies create a repeatable, disciplined sales culture that optimizes the company’s ability to land and harvest whale-sized accounts in any economic climate.

Small business is the best way to reinvigorate the American economy. Barbara Weaver Smith, founder of The Whale Hunters, shares a lot of information of benefit to business people who want to grow their business. The question is how can small businesses grow at a rate that will show results sooner rather than later? That’s where The Whale Hunters comes in – and we invite you to register for a free account which gives you access to the wealth of information on the new expanded Whale Hunters website– http://www.thewhalehunters.com/

Wise Mind Open Mind by Ronald Alexander, Ph. D. -- A Review

2010-10-21T02:09:00.001-04:00

Wise Mind/Open Mind: Finding Purpose & Meaning in times of crises, loss & change

Ronald A. Alexander, Ph.D.

ISBN 978-1-57224-643-0

Change is one of the constants in life. Most often, the changes are thrust upon us without our permission, causing us to hold tight to what we are familiar with in hopes it will pass and we can remain "safe". At other times, our souls yearn for change, but something holds us back--fear of the unknown, concern about it being the right thing, and numerous other reasons. Wise Mind Open Mind is about these changes.

Ronald Alexander has spent numerous years as a licensed psychotherapist helping his clients deal with the changes in their lives. At last, he shares his three-step method for coping with the world, allowing readers to benefit from the healing, fear and other barriers holding them back. His method is simple: Let Go, Tune In, Move Forward. The author leads readers to a place where they can access their core creativity and arrive on the other end of the transformation path renewed, stronger and ready to move forward.

The first thought that entered my mind when I started reading about meditation being part of this process, was that I hoped this book wasn't just another in a long list that told me meditation was all I needed to bring about some magical transformation. It wasn't long before I found out this book is different. Meditation becomes a tool to help the reader brush away distractions so their minds can be open to the creative part of their soul. Dr. Alexander does not promise an easy journey nor miracles, only well-tested methods that have worked for him and his clients throughout the years.

Broken down into bite-sized steps, the journey seems possible. It is obvious the author has spent many hours perfecting his training skills in order to convey concepts such as mindfulness to his readers. My only regret is that a CD of the included meditations were not part of the book, I feel the reader could have further benefited had they been. Yet, the lack of a CD does not lessen the benefit. The self-evaluation questions scattered throughout the pages are cause for deep exploration--and many "a-ha" moments. I'd strongly suggest reading this book with pen and paper (perhaps a journal) nearby.

As he speaks of the things that hold us back, he does so without judgment. His words don't reach you with a bang, firing up your enthusiasm full-flame; they reach you with a gentle warmth, igniting an ember that glows brighter as it grows. Unlike the instant inferno, that fires up quickly and fizzles out the same way, the ember ignited by Dr. Alexander's words is meant to grow stronger with time, slowly warming the reader from within long after the book covers have closed.

For anyone facing a life change, be it self-initiated or enforced, this book will be a great comfort, It empowers the reader to take hold of the change and guide it, rather than allowing the change to lead. This is one book I can see being read many times over.

Wise Mind Open Mind earns six colors on the Rainbow Scale.

***
In his groundbreaking book, Wise Mind, Open Mind pioneering psychotherapist, Dr. Ronald Alexander shares his innovative program for using mindfulness meditation, creative thinking, and positive psychology to transform times of crisis or change into opportunities for greater personal awareness, clarity, and creativity. His original three-step plan includes, learning to let go of resistance to change, learning to tune in to your soul’s deep wisdom or core creativity; and then learning how to move forward based on your newly acquired insight.

Ronald Alexander, Ph.D. is the author of the widely acclaimed book, Wise Mind, Open Mind: Finding Purpose and Meaning in Times of Crisis, Loss, and Change. He is the Executive Director of the OpenMind Training® Institute, practices mindfulness-based mind-body psychotherapy and leadership coaching in Santa Monica, CA for individuals and corporate clients (http://www.openmindtraining.com/ ).

For full details about the Wise Mind, Open Mind virtual blog tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/09/08/wise-mind-open-mind-ronald-alexander/

Dr. Ronald Alexander Shares Insight

2010-10-20T05:26:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I shared with you an article by author, Ron Alexander. Today, I want to share both an article and a video to give you a chance to get to know this man and his book, Wise Mind, Open Mind. Enjoy!

How to Make Real Change in Your Life

Adapted from Dr. Ronald Alexander’s new book, Wise Mind, Open Mind: Finding Purpose and Meaning in Times of Crisis, Loss, and Change (New Harbinger Publications, 2009).

Want to make a change in your life? Whether it’s losing weight, a career change, or remaking a relationship if you want to make any real and lasting changes then you can’t do it alone. I work with hundreds of patients and workshop attendees who desire to transform their lives and one of the first points I tell them is that for real success they initially need to build a Wisdom Council of Support. Like an owner assembling a start-up baseball team you begin with those players who are already available to you, being mindful of the strengths and weaknesses of each.

In the council of support you bring people you respect around you, and who are not afraid to exercise what I call a strong dialogue with you in a way that a guru or teacher is not afraid to crush your ego. It is like creating a family of supporters who are willing to bring you along on your path, whether it’s an idea or a project you are developing, and are willing to confront you when you’re in your ego or your nonsensical stuff. They will also help you move through any resistances that arise and over come your procrastination or hindrances to the changes you want to make.

The core players to consider for your team are a peer, an educator, an entrepreneur or someone who can inspire you, some type of leader such as a minister or a role model, a coach who can help you clarify your goals and get organized. If you are looking for work you may also want to include a headhunter, employment agency or an out placement source. I would also suggest someone who has more experience than you and a therapist who can honestly confront you and wisely guide you. If you are on a limited budget you could ask someone at your church or synagogue, look into Toastmasters International or check out SCORE.org, a national association of retired business people dedicated to mentoring anyone who is sincere about developing a project.

Selecting wisdom council members requires that you be sensitive to others’ needs, boundaries, and time. You want them to be available to you, but some members of your council won’t be able to be on call, or respond quickly or at length to your requests for guidance, insight, and help in working through problems and some may require payment for their services. The key is not to become needy but to stay needful. Needy is not honoring people’s limitations or respecting their time. A needful person is someone who is aware of their needs but simultaneously is considerate and sensitive to other people’s situations.

The key to success is to be alive, open and present in order to receive what is unfolding. Check your ego at the door and listen to the possibilities not the limitations. Every change is possible if you are truly sincere, committed and willing to persevere.

Ronald Alexander, Ph.D. is the author of the widely acclaimed book, Wise Mind, Open Mind: Finding Purpose and Meaning in Times of Crisis, Loss, and Change. He is the Executive Director of the OpenMind Training® Institute, practices mindfulness-based mind-body psychotherapy and leadership coaching in Santa Monica, CA, for individuals and corporate clients. He has taught personal and clinical training groups for professionals in Integral Psychotherapy, Ericksonian mind-body healing therapies, mindfulness meditation, and Buddhist psychology nationally and internationally since 1970. (http://www.openmindtraining.com/ ).

For full details about the Wise Mind, Open Mind virtual blog tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/09/08/wise-mind-open-mind-ronald-alexander/

Watch Alexander’s YouTube Video on How to Build A Council of Support: Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYuknKKSG2A

Ronald Alexander, Ph. D. Joins us the Next few Days

2010-10-19T04:25:00.000-04:00

Some books don't have fancy covers that scream "Pick Me, pick me!". I've thought about all the advice we have been given, as writers, about needing a fancy cover. The truth of the matter is, often the most precious gifts come in the plainest wrappers. Take this book:

In his groundbreaking book, Wise Mind, Open Mind pioneering psychotherapist, Dr. Ronald Alexander shares his innovative program for using mindfulness meditation, creative thinking, and positive psychology to transform times of crisis or change into opportunities for greater personal awareness, clarity, and creativity. His original three-step plan includes, learning to let go of resistance to change, learning to tune in to your soul’s deep wisdom or core creativity; and then learning how to move forward based on your newly acquired insight.

The cover isn't fancy, but the words inside are powerful. We'll explore it deeper tomorrow and Thursday.

Ronald Alexander, Ph.D. is the author of the widely acclaimed book, Wise Mind, Open Mind: Finding Purpose and Meaning in Times of Crisis, Loss, and Change. He is the Executive Director of the OpenMind Training® Institute, practices mindfulness-based mind-body psychotherapy and leadership coaching in Santa Monica, CA for individuals and corporate clients (www.openmindtraining.com).

Today, I want to share a post written by Ron Alexander. Tomorrow, I'll be sharing both a video and an article--this man is a powerful speaker. On Thursday, I'll give you my take on Wise Mind Open Mind. We're talking a full week here. I hope you enjoy.

I want to remind you before reading that for full details about the Wise Mind, Open Mind virtual blog tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/09/08/wise-mind-open-mind-ronald-alexander/

How To Let Go of Negative Self-Judgments by Ronald A. Alexander, Ph.D.

Adapted from Dr. Ronald Alexander’s new book, Wise Mind, Open Mind: Finding Purpose and Meaning in Times of Crisis, Loss, and Change (New Harbinger Publications, 2009).

Many people cling to the myth that those who are successful inevitably feel good about themselves and are free from self-doubt and insecurities. I’ve worked with many clients whose résumés, personal achievements, and reputations garner the deepest respect and admiration, yet their negative self-talk is often utterly brutal. Despite their low opinion of themselves, they’ve managed to fashion lives that many would envy. Yet the disconnection between their inner feelings about themselves and their outer success causes them to hold back from making changes that would lead to far greater fulfillment and peace of mind. They’ll remain in a stagnant situation until change is thrust upon them, and then feel overwhelmed by any crises that occur.

The Destructive Power of Negative Self-Judgments

No matter how accomplished we are, no matter how happy we may seem, we all hold on to negative self-judgments, and they hold on to us. They prevent us from discovering our power to change our lives for the better. When we switch to more positive thought patterns, crisis stops being overwhelming, and it’s far easier to let go of resistance, tune in to our passions and inner resources, and move forward with confidence.

Positive thinking is indeed powerful, but don’t hold yourself to unrealistic standards and expect to quickly transform what are often lifelong thinking habits. The object is to stop assigning meaning to these self-judgments, because once you start to give them weight, they begin to weigh you down. Through the practice of mindfulness, you can learn to notice when you are tearing yourself down and begin to change your habit of self-criticism.

The Stories the Mind Spins

Often, the rational mind will string together a series of distortions. Instead of simply noticing “I am shy,” the mind will generate the thought, “I’m shy, which is why I’ll never find a romantic partner; my shyness makes me unattractive.” Another example might be someone who is out going spinning a disempowering story: “I’m an extrovert. My mother never liked that about me, and it seemed to embarrass my siblings. I probably made a fool of myself many times. I am too eager to connect to other people, who look down on me for being emotionally needy.” You may not even be fully aware that you’re embellishing your self-judgments in an unwholesome way.

Reframe Your Negative Self-Judgments

Through mindfulness practice and self-inquiry, you can render any negative self-judgments neutral and even see them in a far different light. To be “self-centered,” focused on resolving inner conflicts, can be perceived as negative, but it’s very important at times to direct your attention to yourself and your needs. If you feel that you are “callous,” you might reframe that quality as “courageous” or “bold.” If you see yourself as “weak,” consider thinking of yourself as someone who is sensitive to others’ feelings.

Here are some steps to help you mindfully reframe an unwholesome self-judgment that you know is of no use to you and that causes you anguish. It is beneficial to use a journal to work through each step.

1. Identity and label the judgment. Give it a simple name or theme, such as “inadequate provider,” “insincere,” or “people pleaser.”

2. Discover the quality of the judgment. Ask yourself, “What is this self-judgment causing me to think or feel about myself in this moment?” Does it make you feel ashamed, angry, or guilty, for example? Notice whether the feeling is wholesome and supportive of your well-being, or unwholesome, making it difficult for you to enter a state of spaciousness, openness, and trust.

3. Find a remedy for the unwholesome thought or feeling. Ask yourself, “Would I like to think or feel something different? What thought or feeling could I generate to shift myself out of this unwholesome state?”

4. Formulate a new thought, image, or feeling, and begin to hold on to it firmly. Experience it in your mind’s eye and in your body. Feel a wholesome sensation, such as relaxation, excitement, or expansiveness.

5. Assess whether you’ve shifted. Ask yourself, “Have I shifted out of the feeling, state, or thought that was unwholesome and let go of my negative self-judgment?” If you have, then enjoy the new sensations, feelings, and thoughts you’ve generated as a remedy. If not, go back and repeat steps 1 through 4.

You may never totally rid yourself of your unwholesome self-judgments. However, you can alter their quality, learn from them, and either let them go or transform them so that they no longer block you from a sense of well-being, a feeling of spaciousness, and openness to new possibilities. Hidden gold will appear when you let go of your negative-judgments. The aspects of yourself you’ve been overlooking will ascend to your consciousness. Through mindfulness, you can discover these forgotten qualities that will inspire and vitalize you, and carry you through the rough waters of criticism to more placid waters.

***

Ronald Alexander, Ph.D. is the author of the widely acclaimed book, Wise Mind, Open Mind: Finding Purpose and Meaning in Times of Crisis, Loss, and Change. He is the director of the OpenMind Training® Institute, practices mindfulness-based mind-body psychotherapy and leadership coaching in Santa Monica, CA, for individuals and corporate clients. He has taught personal and clinical training groups for professionals in Integral Psychotherapy, Ericksonian mind-body healing therapies, mindfulness meditation, and positive psychology nationally and internationally since 1970. (www.openmindtraining.com). For full details about the Wise Mind, Open Mind virtual blog tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/09/08/wise-mind-open-mind-ronald-alexander/

A Visit From Marvin Wilson

2010-10-18T01:36:00.000-04:00

The other day, I shared information with you on Marvin Wilson and his newest book, Beware the Devil's Hug. Please continue scrolling after this post and read about the contest information--then click beneath the cover art for a link to buy the book!!!

I had a chance to ask Marvin a few questions, and he agreed to honor us with a guest post today! Please enjoy--and show your manners by leaving him a thak you :-) (Always a mother, aren't I?"

It's all yours Marvin!

Hi Joyce, and everyone. It’s a pleasure to be stopping here today as part of the Hugs Therapy Virtual Tour 2010. Joyce, you asked me to write a special piece for this post, one that focused on how the book, Beware the Devil’s Hug, came about. Specifically, you asked:

· Where the idea came from

· Why did I write it

· What do I hope the reader takes away from it, and

· Who is my favourite and least favourite character – and why.

Good questions. The idea for the book is one that I came up with almost five years ago. I was observing—for quite some time—an old homeless man panhandling on a street corner. He seemed to me to be a kind man, gentle, very humble and gracious. But of course he was raggedy, old and ugly, poor, probably smelly, and just, well—to most people who didn’t take the time to really look deeply at him—repulsive. Some people would stop and give him some money, pulling their hands back quickly as soon as he had taken the cash—as if touching him might infect them with a terminal disease—and walk away without any emotion other than a mild relief. The majority of folks would look down and/or away, not even wanting eye contact with him.

And I thought to myself, what if this man is some high spiritual being, maybe an angel, someone with special powers, who chooses the life of a homeless beggar not out of necessity, but simply for the purity of it? And that’s where the adblurb and premise idea for the book came from:

What if a homeless, smelly, ugly, unkempt old man had a hug so powerful it could cure cancer? Cause a prostitute to stop hooking, find happiness and seek true love? Shake the demons of addiction free from a junkie? Make a radical terrorist Muslim want to befriend and love a Christian and visa versa? But rare is the beneficiary of his divine embrace – nobody wants to come near him out of fear.

I knew this book would be, needed to be, special. And several times over the next four and a half years I tried to write it. Each time the writing did not do it justice. Nothing but mundane, lame writing. I did more highlighting and deleting when trying to write this story than on any other manuscript. Then one day, several months ago, it all came together in my mind and heart. Suddenly I knew how to write the story. I wrote furiously, in the blessed writer’s zone, barely sleeping or eating. The characters were alive in my head, telling me, sometimes shouting at me, what they needed to do and say next. Three weeks and almost 90,000 words later the rough first draft was finished.

I wrote it because I had to. Just had to. For some reason I couldn’t rest spiritually and emotionally until I got it out of me. So I feel all better now. (big smile)

What do I hope the reader takes away from it? That appearances are not always what they seem; that beauty is not on the surface; that the people you call strangers could very well be your best friends if you would overcome inner fears, open up, and receive them into your world with love; that love is the tie that binds, connects us all together, and is the root meaning of all true spiritual paths—hating and warring against each other over religious beliefs is a horrible misuse and ignorant abuse of the great teachings of all the Avatars upon whom the various world religions were founded—Jesus brought people to the truth through unconditional, all-encompassing, non-judgmental love, not through hatred of those who had not yet seen the light. Also I would hope the reader was entertained, experienced the full gamut of emotions, including some laughter and a couple of wet eyes here and there. And when the last line is read, I’d hope the reader feels inspired to open up more to others, becoming more loving, understanding, and caring for people who may not seem, on the surface, like anyone they would normally allow into their life.

As for my favourite character, that’s a tough one, but I guess I’d go with Iam, The Old Man ... he’s an example of some of the vast potential within any of us. My second favourite would be Christian Dean Wilson, because after all, he’s fashioned a great deal after Marvin Dean Wilson (wink). Well, except for his prudish ways when it comes to sex. I was never that puritanical as a young man, but hey—nobody’s perfect, right? Christian’s views and beliefs on spiritual and social matters are mine. He is the author’s voice throughout the book.

Least favourite would have to be Hans. He’s one of the head leaders of the Zenith Group (which is really the Bilderberg Group, I just didn’t want to use the actual name and wind up having helicopters flying over my house when the book gets popular), and he is instrumental in the terrorist plot to squash Christian’s coalition, CUE (Coalition for Unity and Enlightenment). The Zenith Group considers CUE a threat against the establishment of their egregious and nefarious designs for the New World Order.

Joyce, again thanks for having me here today. It was a pleasure thinking through and writing the answers to your thought-provoking questions. I’ll be stopping in a few times today and through the early evening, so if any of your readers would like to ask questions or make a comment that inspires a reaction, I’d be happy to interact with you all.

Beware the Devil's Hug by Marvin Wilson --A Review and more

2010-10-16T00:01:00.002-04:00

Click here to purchase!

Those of you who visit regularly will recognize the name Marvin D. Wilson. He has visited us several times over the years. I'm especially happy for this current visit, for Marvin has written a book that is awesome. I've posted my review below (aong with contest information) but let me first tell you abit about the book and author.

What if a homeless, smelly, ugly, unkempt old man had a hug so powerful it could cure cancer? Cause a prostitute to stop hooking and seek true love? Shake the demons of addiction free from a junkie? Make a Christian want to hug and love a Muslim and visa versa? But rare is the beneficiary of his divine embrace – nobody wants to come near him out of fear.
Marvin D. Wilson has a widely varied and rich life experience background - from Hippie Rock and Roll musician, to nightclub entertainer, to Zen Buddhist minister, to carpenter, to small business owner, to network marketer, to sales and sales training, to skilled trades instructor and adult education teacher, to public speaker and motivational coach, to now in his chosen “golden years” career, a writer and multi-published author with the self-proclaimed, “audacity to write novels”.

Wilson describes his spiritual path as one who is a non-religious, dogma-free, maverick spiritualist Christian, with a strong bent toward Zen, Taoism, and the Law of Attraction, and who believes in the Oneness of all creation and all paths leading to re-awakening to the On e. He is a family man with three grown children and six grandchildren, and works with his son and oldest daughter in their organic compost and vegetable farming business when not writing, traveling, and marketing his books.

Marvin writes primarily in the spiritual/inspirational genre, but likes to pen “cross-over” novels that appeal to a wide variety of readers. His books are uplifting, sometimes weighty, oftentimes humorous, abidingly thought-provoking, meant to instill and create passion and emotion, more than occasionally provocative to the point of controversial, and always “tell it like it is”, real world, no punches pulled writing. He likes to deliver spiritual messages in a non-preachy, often irreverent, sometimes sexy and ribald way, through the medium of an entertaining story.

***
Now for my thoughts :-)

Hugs—they bring comfort to many, disgust and horror to others and a feeling of safety to still others. Some hugs can invoke all these emotions. One hug can’t change an entire life—or can it?

In Beware the Devil’s Hug, Marvin Wilson has once again brought together an unlikely cast of characters whose lives entwine in such a way they weave the very tapestry we call life. Love, hatred, pain and laughter are the threads that bind the tapestry tightly, making it impossible for even one of the characters to remain untouched by all the others.

For those familiar with Mr. Wilson’s work, you won’t be surprised that he does not skirt issues that may cause controversy. He presents what is, leaving his own ego and thoughts completely out of the picture and allowing the reader to fully experience each issue from a perspective within their own soul. Before your experience, for this book is truly an experience, is through, you will question reality, ponder your idea of right and wrong and, if you are willing, get to see the world from perspectives you thought were much different than your own.

For those not looking for a spiritual revelation, that is fine too. The storyline is full of drama, action and a twist that I never saw coming. Beware the Devil’s Hug contains something to please almost any reader, male or female, young or old. It is definitely an adult book, but only the most prudish or narrow-minded will find it offending. Marvin Wilson may not skirt the difficult issues, but he handles them with finesse and a genuine empathy found rarely in today’s world. Marvin Wilson is a modern day Richard Bach – inviting the human race to question, strive and dream—but most of all to open their minds and hearts and embrace all the wonder that lies within each soul.

Beware the Devil's Hug earns the Full Rainbow of Writing Excellence--seven colors!

***
Marvin is holding a contest for those who visit stops on his blog tour and for those who purchase his book.

Hugs Therapy Virtual Tour 2010 – Contest, Prizes and Giveaways

Readers following the tour will have the opportunity to win prizes and receive giveaways in the following manner:

Point System-

· Every comment left will count as one point, be it on that day’s host’s blog and/or The Old Silly’s Free Spirit Blog. A reader can earn two points per day in this manner.

· Each tweet of any post stop will count as one point. Tweeting the host’s post and also tweeting the Free Spirit post that day earns two points. This one is on the honor system, so the commenter should include that he/she tweeted the post(s) in their blog comment.

· Each Facebook tour announcement/message with a link to that day’s host’s blog earns one point. This one is also on the honor system, so the commenter should include that he/she facebooked the post in his or her blog comment.

· Buying an ebook version of Beware the Devil’s Hug earns five points. Reader/buyer must confirm the purchase by emailing the author a copy of the invoice to: marvwilson2020@gmail.com

· Buying a print (paperback) version of Beware the Devil’s Hug earns 20 points. Reader/buyer must confirm the purchase by emailing the author a copy of the invoice to: marvwilson2020@gmail.com

Prizes for Point System Winners-

· Grand Prize – The person with the most points will receive an autographed paperback copy of Marvin D Wilson’s last novel, Owen Fiddler.

· First Runner-up Prize – The person with the second highest point total will receive an autographed paperback copy of the author’s first book, I Romanced the Stone (Memoirs of a Recovering Hippie).

· Second Runner-up Prize – The person with the third highest point total will also receive an autographed copy of the author’s first book, I Romanced the Stone (Memoirs of a Recovering Hippie).

· Third and Fourth Runner-up Prizes – these people will receive an autographed paperback copy of the author’s book, Between the Storm and the Rainbow.

Additional Incentives and Giveaways:

The first reader who purchases a print copy of Beware the Devil’s Hug during the tour (again providing proof via email), pays for rush delivery (if they feel that necessary), reads it, and posts a review on Amazon before the tour ends, will receive a $25 gift certificate to Borders or Barnes and Nobles bookstores, his or her choice.

· Any other readers who purchase a print copy of Beware the Devil’s Hug during the tour and can post a review before the tour ends will receive $10 certificates to Borders or Barnes and Nobles bookstores, their choice.

· All readers who purchase a print copy of Beware the Devil’s Hug during the tour but cannot or do not get a review up before the tour ends, will still be rewarded – with a free ebook copy of Owen Fiddler.

***
Remember, guys, just click the link under the cover art above. You'll also have a chance to read an excerpt there. These prizes are awesome (but the book is even more so). To give you more chances to win, here are the rest of the tour stops:

Elizabeth Spann Craig http://mysterywritingismurder.blogspot.com/ 10/17/10

Joyce Anthony http://joyce-anthony.blogspot.com/ 10/18/10

Stephen Tremp http://www.stephentremp.blogspot.com/ 10/19/10

L. Diane Wolfe http://circleoffriendsbooks.blogspot.com/ 10/20/10

Patricia Stoltey http://patriciastoltey.blogspot.com/ 10/21/10

Sylvia Dickey Smith http://sylviadickeysmithbooks.wordpress.com/ 10/22/10

Michelle Emrath http://southerncitymysteries.blogspot.com/ 10/23/10

Leeuna Foster http://leeunafoster.com/humorblog/ 10/24/10

Jane Sutton http://janekennedysutton.blogspot.com/ 10/25/10

Mason Canyon (Pamela) http://www.masoncanyon.blogspot.com/ 10/26/10

Arlee Bird http://tossingitout.blogspot.com/ 10/27/10

Helen Ginger http://straightfromhel.blogspot.com/ 10/28/10

Lacresha Hayes http://learntofeelpretty.blogspot.com/ 10/29/10

Kissie http://justkissie.com/ 10/30/10

The Journey to Truth by George Garlick, Ph.D. -- A Review

2010-10-12T14:47:00.001-04:00

· The Journey to Truth

· George F. Garlick, Ph.D.

· 978-1-933204-89-5

· VMI Publishers

· 2009

· 14.99

For more information, visit George Garlick's website

From the dawning of time, man has pondered many questions concerning the meaning of life, our place in the universe and other equally elusive concepts. Truth has always been near the top of the list. Dr. George F. Garlick has spent a lifetime searching for the truths of the universe. As a man of science, he believes there are answers to everything. As a man of God, he has tried to reconcile the apparent inconsistencies between religion and science. The Journey to Truth shares with us Dr. Garlick’s personal journey and gives us a view into the truths he has found.

In the past, science and spirituality have often battled against each other. It has been like two magnets with the south poles at the forefront, pushing against each other and never coming together. George Garlick takes the known discoveries on science’s south pole and has the foresight to turn the spiritual magnet around. What has resulted is a highly enjoyable book with many “a-ha” moments as the two disciplines come together into a seamless blending.

I enjoyed the way Dr. Garlick compared both science and scripture in a side-by-side manner that allows the reader to envision a compare/contrast chart. Visual readers will be able to follow along effortlessly, seeing how the two disciplines truly do support each other. Normally one to look for inconsistencies that are not addressed, I can say I found none in this book. The author was meticulous in his research and did not skim over inconsistencies, hoping the reader did not see them. With a true scientific mind, every “t” is crossed and “i” dotted.

I had a bit of difficulty with the science part of the book. The author speaks to readers who have a working understanding of scientific principles and I found myself having to re-read some of these paragraphs in order to understand. The understanding did come, but I would have liked Dr. Garlick to simplify some of the more complex areas a bit. The average reader may have difficulty grasping some of the more complex concepts. All in all, however, taking the time to re-read and dissect the passages helps with this.

George Garlick has shared with us one of the most personal journeys a person can take—that of the soul’s search for truth. He allows us to see his confusion, his pain and not knowing and finally his joy at discovering the two disciplines do not have to battle, for they are both necessary to truly understand our universe.

The Journey to Truth is a book I would recommend to anyone who has an open mind and a willingness to question what makes our universe the wondrous creation it is. Be prepared to take your time in reading, for this isn’t light reading’ it, however, is not dry and boring like a textbook. It is full of discoveries and understanding for those who seek answers. Dr. Garlick does an excellent job bringing together two very different disciplines—and he provides an extensive bibliography for those wishing to search deeper.

The Journey to Truth earns five colors on the Rainbow Scale.

The Unexpected Son by Shobhan Bantwal -- A Review

2010-08-17T04:51:00.001-04:00

Read an excerpt

Secrets are a strange thing. They tend to create lies and even more secrets and then seem to disappear, only to jump out at you when you least expect it.  This is what happens to Vinita, the main character in The Unexpected Son.

For many years, Vinita carried a secret she believed would forever remain in the past.  An innocent-looking note in the mail turns her world upside-down.

Vinita discovers that nothing is as it seemed and her secret is nothing in comparison to that which was kept from her. The time has come to face her past. Will she be able to make amends after so many years -- or is she going to lose everything she holds dear?

Shobhan Bantwal writes with a sophisticated skill you might expect from an author of forty books, not just four. The subjects that run deep within The Unexpected Son  speaks of secrets, lies and betrayals. It examines the complex human emotions that take many authors decades to perfect.

I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Bantwal's book. Her setting and characters are without flaw. The entire book plays out like a dream that surrounds you and makes  it nearly impossible to shake off the after-images and return to the safe, yet uneventful, waking you experienced before starting to read.

Once again Ms. Bantwal has created a masterpiece of words that explores the very bases of human emotion. She leads you on a journey you won't soon forget.

The Forgotten Son earns five colors on the Rainbow Scale.

Shobhan Bantwal Writes on Mothers and Sons

2010-08-16T00:06:00.000-04:00

Last week I shared some videos with you that introduced you to Shobhan Bantwal, whose latest book, The Unexpected Son, will be reviewed tomorrow. Today, however, I would like to share with you a very special guest post from Ms. Bantwal. I'm sure she'd love to hear your comments!

Mothers and Sons

By Shobhan Bantwal - Author of The Unexpected Son

While practically every mother-child relationship is a bond based on unconditional love, there is something about mothers and sons that goes beyond the typical parent-child relationship. It is an instinct that goes back millions of years, when mothers considered it their sacred duty to raise strong, healthy sons who would be the salt of the earth and perpetuate the human race. To this day, mothers tend to act on that same primitive instinct.

Fathers and daughters sometimes have that rare connection that makes fathers go a little crazy when they perceive their little darlings are in danger. Macho male impulse can make a man easily go out to do battle to protect his daughter in some instances. But men are generally not as emotional as women, because their actions are ruled more by the head than the heart.

On the other hand, women often take the role of parenting to a level that can defy logic, especially when it comes to sons. This is even more apparent in Asian cultures like India, where sons are expected to take care of their parents when they grow up, while daughters are considered burdens, offspring that will someday marry and leave home. A son is expected to stay with his parents forever and shoulder the responsibilities of family, home, and fortune.

As a result, a son is viewed as a precious commodity to be nurtured like an exotic seedling which will eventually grow into a sturdy tree, produce wholesome fruit, and protect the clan. He is a source of comfort and strength, the one who will carry on the family name—an insurance policy of sorts. No wonder Indian women are so dedicated to their male children.

In my latest book, THE UNEXPECTED SON, a contented Indian-American woman wakes up one morning to a shocking truth: she has a grown son in India, a child she was told was stillborn 30 years ago. He is now seriously ill. Revealing her closely-guarded secret that could ruin her marriage and family. Nonetheless she is compelled to return to India to meet her unknown son, perhaps even save him.

A Note From Shobhan Bantwal - Information about my books, video trailers, contact, photos from India, reviews, contests, and recipes is available on my website: www.shobhanbantwal.com. All my books can be purchased at any retail bookstore or online bookseller. For more information about The Unexpected Son virtual tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/07/02/unexpected-son-virtual-tour/

Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines -- A Review

2010-08-10T11:47:00.000-04:00

Click Here to Purchase

On Thursday, May 21, 1863, a mortar shell rips through the wall of fourteen-year-old Elizabeth Stamford’s bedroom. Afraid their home is no longer safe, her mama, Susan, rushes Lizzie and her younger brother, Nathan, to the cave, where she plans to live until the siege of Vicksburg, Mississippi, ends. Lizzie, however, has her own plans–to enlist in the Confederate army and help drive General Ulysses S. Grant and his Yankees into the Mississippi River. Her older brothers, Joseph and Willie, are in Virginia, fighting for their cause. Can she do any less?

Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines is the story of one girl and her family’s day-to-day struggle to survive a changing way of life during the War Between the States.

***

I have always found it amazing how people can take an entire book and reduce it to a few simple words. What I have trouble with is how do you convey all the subtle nuances that make the book come alive? Take the above description for example.

Caves, Cannons and Crinolines is told from the viewpoint of Lizzie, who watches as the Civil War changes all she finds steady and true in her world. We follow Lizzie as not only the outside world is changed, but her inner being as well. We feel her fear as she dons boy's clothing and faces war first-hand and we struggle from crying when the war takes from her someone precious. As we read, Beverly Stowe McClure literally takes us back to what it is like to be fourteen. While many of us forget as we grow older, Ms. McClure has held onto that part of herself and writes purely from the perspective of Lizzie' she does not allow her adult self to enter at all, which is very rare indeed.

This book packs a lot between its covers--laughter, pain, fear, anger, and most of all emotional growth that can only come from experience. I applaud Beverly McClure for being able to convey so many subtle messages to her audience, without once sounding as though she's teaching, or preaching. This book is sure to become a favorite part of any girl's library and I imagine many boys will secretly find it among theirs as well. (Secretly because I don't think many young boys will willingly be seen reading a book with crinolines in the title!). To be able to craft a book that appeals to both boys and girls of this age is yet another rare accomplishment that Ms. McClure has achieved. You will never see war the same again once you finish this book.

Caves, Cannons and Crinolines rates a solid six colors on the Rainbow Scale!

Talking With Beverly McClure, Young Adult/Children's Author

2010-08-09T00:59:00.000-04:00

Today and tomorrow, we'll be visiting with Beverly Stowe McClure. Beverly has several books published and contracts for more. I'll share info on the latest one tomorrow, but today I'd like to share an interview with Ms, McClure. Don't forget to drop her a comment!!!

What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Quiet, kind, emotional.

How do you think others would describe you?

Honest, dependable, a true friend

Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing

My grandchildren, animals, and genealogy

Do you have any pets? If so, introduce us to them.

I have a calico cat named Patches. She’s a little stray that showed up one day on our patio. She was catching insects to eat. So I started feeding her. At first she was shy, but eventually she let me scratch her ears. The next thing I knew, she was in the house, making herself at home. She talks to us with little squeaky meows. She also puts her paw on my knee when she wants in my lap and waits for me to tell her it’s okay. Can you tell how much I love her?

What is your most precious memory?

Bringing my second son home from the hospital healthy. My firstborn son lived only three days.

What is your most embarrassing memory

My mind must have blanked it out because I can’t recall anything.

If you weren’t a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Probably teaching. I loved it when I was. Or traveling to historical places.

In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Beverly quietly went to live with her Heavenly Father last night. On Earth, she was a Christian, wife, mother, teacher, and writer of stories and articles for children and teens. She graduated cum laude from Midwestern University with a BSED degree. She was selected Conservation Teacher of the Year in 1988 in the Wichita S.W.C.D. She loved her family and enjoyed genealogy research, playing the piano, and scrap booking.

She was blessed with her husband, Jack, for 53 years, and three sons and their wives. Rex and Kristina, Scott and Ann, Kelly and Amy. She adored her six grandchildren, Amanda (and husband Paul), Courtney, Felicity, Shawn, Scottie, and Katie. She also had three lovely great-grandchildren, Riley, Paige, and Henry. A sister, Linda Landers also survives her. Beverly’s parents, Lorena and Audra Stowe, a son, David, a granddaughter, Sierra, and brother Arwood left their earthly home before her. They are reunited now.

Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a “real” writer?

I think, when my first article was published in Happiness, a TV Guide type magazine, I finally believed I could be a “real” writer.

What is going on with your writing these days?

I’m busy promoting my latest young adult historical novel, Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines. Also, I’m editing my forthcoming contemporary novel, Life on Hold, due out summer 2011. I’m working on the synopsis and query letter for my middle grade paranormal story. Three other manuscripts are in various stages of development.

What are your future goals for your writing?

I hope to continue writing for children and teens as long as I am breathing.

Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I usually start the day by checking my email and answering the important ones, saving the others till later in the day. From about 9 to 11 or 12 AM, I write. At the present, I have three novels in progress.

After lunch I work on promotion, do research, post on blogs, and whatever needs to be done.

Evenings, I critique manuscripts for my crit groups, write reviews, and take care of other business.

Why do you write

I write because I like to escape to other worlds and times and places. I like to explore feelings and emotions. I write because it gives me purpose in life and brings joy.

What writer most inspires you? Why?

I really can’t think of anyone in particular.

How do you define your writing?

Good question. I’d say, an eclectic mixture of humor, life, history, and contemporary.

In one sentence—what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

I wish I’d written that book. J

Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website? Blog?

Web site: http://beverlystowemcclure.wordpress.com/

Blogs: http://beverlystowemcclure.blogspot.com/

http://lizzieswar.wordpress.com/

http://justbreeze.wordpress.com/

http://rebelinbluejeans.wordpress.com/

Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Beverlysmcclure(at)aol(dot)com

Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Listen to the Ghost – YA paranormal

Secrets I Have Kept – YA mystery

Rebel in Blue Jeans – YA contemporary

Just Breeze – Tween contemporary

Caves, Cannons, and Crinolines – YA historical

For new readers—what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Real-life situations with a touch of humor whenever possible, characters (even the ghosts) that have problems readers can relate to and cheer for them to succeed in their goals. I like to write about vivid settings that give the reader a sense of place and how it relates to the characters and their lives.

Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers—what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I’d like you, my readers, to know how much I appreciate your interest in my work. Time is so valuable in these days of fast-paced living, I want you to feel like you can relax awhile, forget the jillion things you have to do and enjoy my stories. I hope you can bring away something positive from your reading.

I’m surprised that I’m actually a writer. My life plans did not include a career as an author. Sometimes, though, our lives take off in unexpected directions. Mine did. I’m so glad I followed the winding road with the uncertain ending.

You, dear readers, are very precious to me. Without you, I’d have no one to write for. Thank you. Thank you.

Shobhan Bantwal Speaks

2010-08-06T04:00:00.000-04:00

Sit back and enjoy this interview with Shobhan Bantwal :-)

Natasha from Princeton Community Television on Vimeo.

A Note From Shobhan - Information about my books, video trailers, contact, photos from India, reviews, contests, and recipes is available on my website: www.shobhanbantwal.com. Enter a giveaway on my website during August for a FREE copy of The Unexpected Son. You can also visit me on Facebook and MySpace. All my books can be purchased at any retail bookstore or online bookseller. For more information about The Unexpected Son virtual tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/07/02/unexpected-son-virtual-tour/

Shobhan Bantwal Has Done It Again!

2010-08-05T06:44:00.000-04:00

What has she done? She has written another book that not only feeds the emotions, but forces the reader to examine things, relationships and themselves. Today I'll give you a brief peek and tomorrow will be sharing both a recorded interview and the book trailer. Later this month (the 16th and 17th to be exact) Shobhan will return with a guest post on mothers and sons and I will be sharing my thoughts on this latest work.

What happens when a woman who’s realized her dreams wakes up to a shocking truth? It is a morning like any other in suburban New Jersey when Vinita Patil opens the battered envelope postmarked “Mumbai.” But the letter inside turns her comfortable world upside down. It tells Vinita an impossible story: she has a grown son in India whose life may depend on her.

Once upon a time, a naive young college girl fell for a wealthy boy whose primary interests were cricket and womanizing. Vinita knew, even then, that a secret affair with a man whose language and values were different from her own was a mistake. He finished with her soon enough—leaving her to birth a baby that was stillborn. Or so Vinita was told.

Now that child is a grown man in desperate need. How will she confess her secret past to her arranged-marriage husband and her grown daughter? Nonetheless, to help her son, to know him, Vinita must revisit her darkest hours by returning to her battle-scarred homeland—and pray for the faith of the family she leaves behind.

Shobhan Bantwal calls her writing “Bollywood in a Book,”romantic, colorful, action-packed tales, rich with elements of Indian culture — stories that entertain and educate.

Her writing career is a “menopausal epiphany,” because she took up creative writing at the age of 50. By day Shobhan works for the government. In the evenings and on weekends she slips into her writer’s cape and flies off to Authorland. She loves writing stories about her native India and Hindu culture.

To date, Shobhan has four published novels by Kensington Publishing, with a fifth slated for 2011. Since 2002, Shobhan’s articles and short stories have appeared in a variety of publications. Her award-winning stories are available for reading on her website: http://www.shobhanbantwal.com/

A Note From Shobhan - Information about my books, video trailers, contact, photos from India, reviews, contests, and recipes is available on my website: www.shobhanbantwal.com. All my books can be purchased at any retail bookstore or online bookseller. For more information about The Unexpected Son virtual tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/07/02/unexpected-son-virtual-tour/

How to Sue a Telemarketer by Stephen L. Ostrow -- A Review

2010-08-04T13:09:00.001-04:00

Usually, I'd give a brief description of what a book is about, but this title is EXACTLY what this book covers :-) I like it when authors make my task easier :-) What the title doesn't tell you is the wealth of information packed within this short (under 150 pages) manual --information that walks you step-by-step through the process!

I have never read anything that so clearly explained the telemarketing laws. Mr. Ostrow not only explains them, but includes sample conversations you can have with telemarketers--and an entire trial brief. He has done the legwork and includes the cases that are relevant to telemarketing and shows how to apply this knowledge.

Pretty dry reading, huh? Not in the least! The author's sense of humor is evident on each and every page and his pen and ink cartoons are liberally scattered throughout the pages. His use of bold type for the most important points (such as websites) and his chapter checklists all come together to make the material even more understandable. Knowing that Steve Ostrow has over thirty years experience as a lawyer helped add to his credibility for me.

I can't find anything about this book I would change, whether it was to add or leave out. The information included is all applicable and it is complete. The language used takes into account most of us readers to not hold law degrees, yet it is not over-simplified. I do wonder if Mr. Ostrow would consider a companion book that discusses dealing with debt collectors?

How to Sue a Telemarketer rates a solid six colors on the Rainbow Scale.

Join us on the How To Sue A Telemarkter virtual tour. To learn more about the tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/07/05/how-to-sue-a-telemarketer/. You can also learn more about How to Sue a Telemarketer at http://howtosueatelemarketer.com/

Steve Ostrow Talks About Suing Telemarketers!

2010-08-03T00:28:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I introduced you to Steve Ostrow, an incredibly versatile man, and his book, How to Sue a Telemarketer. Today, I want to share with you both a guest post from Mr. Ostrow and a video he made where his personality shines through brilliantly. Enjoy!

HOW TO SUE A TELEMARKETER IN SMALL CLAIMS COURT
By: Steve Ostrow

Congress has spoken! Anti-telemarketing legislation has been passed. Under reasonable restrictions, certain tactics by telemarketers are prohibited and court actionable. Violations can be enforced by the State via the attorney general’s office, the public via class action lawsuits or private lawsuits, and individuals via the small claims court.

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 (TCPA) started the ball rolling. Congress was torn between the special interest lobbyists and the people’s vote. The green cash of the lobbyists stalled the legislature for numerous years, but eventually the annoyance of the telemarketing industry became too much. The door opened and the unfettered invasion of free speech was outweighed by the consumer’s right to privacy. After strong objection and outrage by consumers groups, the common sense legislation protecting the privacy of one’s own home was long overdue.

The 1991 original law was pretty weak and without sharp teeth. A free bite at the apple was given and the first offense by a telemarketer to a residence was forgiven with only a simple apology. A second offense was required in order to make an unsolicited commercial call actionable. Basically business did not change under the original law. In 2003, over great objection from the special interest groups, came the National Do Not Call Registry. Yes, 2003 was a great year for the peace and quiet in a consumer’s home. Instead of a consumer requesting individual companies from not calling the home telephone soliciting their service, a residential consumer could sign up at one location and prohibit almost all telemarketers from calling the home phone number. The burden shifted to the telemarketing companies to check “the registry” rather than having the consumer contact the merchant and opt out. Penalties were instituted which are collectible by attorney generals, lawyers, and individuals through the small claims process.

Under the TCPA and the Do Not Call Registry, there are several different violations which are collectible. The most popular ones are: 1. Calling a residential telephone number that is on the National Do Not Call Registry; 2. Using a pre-recorded dialing device to initiate a commercial sale; 3. Using a blocked telephone number when initiating a commercial sale; 4. Soliciting a consumer before 8am or after 9pm; 5. Failure to provide a copy of the company’s Do Not Call Manual after demand for a copy;

Each violation is actionable separately, or can be “stacked” together when multiple infractions are incurred. Even though the courts are supposed to punish each violation with a $500 penalty, different judges will approach cases differently. Some judges will allow you to “stack” as many violations into one case as possible. Others may limit you to one, two, or three causes of action. Regardless of the amount of the judgment, you are able to prosecute the invasion of your peace and privacy in your home through the small claim courts.

Penalties under the TCPA may be “trebled” when the court finds that the violation is intentional. It can be tedious to understand when a telemarketing violation is intentional and when it is not. Rationally thinking, all solicitations by telemarketers are intentional; they are intentionally picking up the phone at their boiler rooms and randomly telephoning as many people as possible making their commercial pitch. It is not accidental that your number may be called, just random bad luck. I guess the easiest way to understand the intentional tripling of damages is using the playoff basketball foul analogy. Some fouls are hard basketball fouls, some are flagrant one fouls, and others flagrant two. Sometimes you just shoot free throws, other times you get ejected from the game. Sometimes the court awards you $500; sometimes the atrocious call telephone solicitation can be awarded $1,500. It’s all up to the ref.

If you are a Democrat and you get a telephone solicitation from a Republican candidate, slow down before you start licking your lips about bringing the opposing political party to its knees. Under the TCPA, certain types of speech are exempted from lawsuits under the Act. Always remember, the violations under the TCPA were balanced with the First Amendment Right of Freedom of Speech. Certain solicitation exceptions are specifically carved out: 1. Tax exempt non-profit organizations, including political parties and campaigns; 2. Organizations with which you’ve had a prior business relationship; 3. Organizations with which you’ve given prior written permission and not expressly revoked; 4. Calls which are NOT COMMERCIAL.

Convenience is a big part of our lives. All of us would like to nail these pesky telemarketers; sometimes it is easier just to hang up the telephone. However, if you are in the mood to make some cash and fight back against these commercial parasites, the good news about small claims court litigation is that it can prosecuted in our home backyard. Since the violation occurred at our telephone, the proper jurisdiction for the action would be our local court.

Steve Ostrow is an attorney, celebrity impersonator and the author of the new book How To Sue A Telemarketer: A Manual for Restoring Peace On Earth One Phone Call At A Time. To date, Steve has successfully sued, or settled, won and collected, over 10 judgments against telemarketers. To find out more and order his book, go to www.howtosueatelemarketer.com

Join us on the How To Sue A Telemarkter virtual tour. To learn more about the tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/07/05/how-to-sue-a-telemarketer/. You can also learn more about How to Sue a Telemarketer at http://howtosueatelemarketer.com/

Turning the Table on Telemarketers

2010-08-02T00:01:00.001-04:00

This week, I have two wonderful guests visiting. The first one is Steve Ostrow, who will be discussing a subject we can all relate to--how to get rid of telemarketers.

Telemarketers have been a pain in the general public's behind for decades. Thanks to their interrupting us day and night, the telephone has been transformed from a convenience, into a source of annoyance and frustration.

How To Sue A Telemarketer: A Manual For Restoring Peace On Earth One Phone Call At A Time is a tongue-in-cheek manual that shows the average citizen how they can fight back against a telemarketer by taking them to small-claims court. Half humorous and half how-to, the book combines comedy with savvy information about the legal system and step-by-step instructions on how consumers can take telemarketers to task.

A practicing lawyer for 30 years in Cardiff by the Sea, California, Steve also had the unique opportunity to play the celebrity double for Seinfeld's Cosmo Kramer, originally played by actor Michael Richards, in venues around the country for 10 years. With the additional skills of being a small claim judge and licensed real estate broker, recently Steve turned his attention to writing a tongue in cheek manual on How To Sue A Telemarketer- A Guide to Creating Peace On Earth One Telephone Call At A Time. Combining his wise guy roots in New York with a laid back California lifestyle, an unusual combination of wit and insight into the legal system is explored in his latest exploit. With insights from a long time yoga practice, the lawyer Steve tries to see a bigger emotional picture of the client's needs.

Stop by tomorrow as I share a video from Steve with you! I guarantee you're going to love him!

Join us on the How To Sue A Telemarkter virtual tour. To learn more about the tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/07/05/how-to-sue-a-telemarketer/ . You can also learn more about How to Sue a Telemarketer at http://howtosueatelemarketer.com/

Fin, Fur and Fatal By Billie A. Williams -- A Review

2010-07-30T06:09:00.000-04:00

Purchase Here
Read an excerpt here

Fin, Fur and Fatal was released earlier this year and I decided to focus my review of this book. Some books tend to get lost when another book is released shortly after and I didn't want that to happen to this one.

February (Ary) England runs a pet shop. She's a very active animal rescue advocate. Unfortunately, it is this very thing a psychotic man from her past uses to lure her into his plans. Rogert has just been released from prisonn, where he spent too short of a sentence for atrocious acts of the past involving not only animals, but Ary's best friend at that time. It takes every ouce of strength for Ary to survive being kidnapped by .

This book immediately caught my attention because I could identify with February. It held my attention, however, because the writing flowed so smoothly that time slipped away as I read. Ms. Williams definitely did her research. The setting and characters were as real as your next door neighbor.

Billie knows how to weave a mystery. More than that, she takes a horrific situation and presents it without gory details, giving just enough for the reader to know what the situation is, but not creating such an adverse reaction you can't go on reading. With a book involving animal abuse, it would have been extremely easy to get me to the point where I couldn't finish. The way Ms. Williams handles such subjects is definitely classy.

I have read several of Billie William's books, but this one stands out. Billie writes each of her books in such a way that you believe she's been right there as the events occur. She engages her reader right from the start and doesn't let go until the last page is turned. Fin, Fur and Fatal was no exception. I am consistently amazed at how Ms. William's mind comes up with things that nobody else can. The little details of events that set her writing apart from others. For example, who would have thought a toilet tank cover could be a weapon??

For anyone not familiar with Ms. William's work, I highly recommend this one as a starting place--it won't be the last!

Fin, Fur and Fatal rates six colors on the Rainbow Scale.

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Billie's tour is continuing. Please vistit her calendar for a list of the blogs she has visited and those still to come. There are some excellent hosts on this one! Don't forget to leave a comment to be eligible for the prizes and give me a shout if you want any of the ebooks mentioned in this week's first post

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Billie, I want to thank you for joining us this week. Please come back again; it has been a great week.

How to Be Marketable --Guest Post by Billie Williams

2010-07-29T04:49:00.000-04:00

You guys have been awesome in your support this week!!! Today, Billie has provided us with a guest post. Tomorrow, I'll be posting a copy of the other blogs Billie has visited so you can check them out--and I'll be posting a book review. Enjoy today's post :-)

4 WAYS TO BE MARKETABLE

by Billie A Williams

1. Define the ideal skill sets desired for your industry and then develop them through

education, reading, following a mentor or apprenticeships.

2. Be involved in continuing education –this keeps you competitive, desired. If there

is a skill you have offer to teach it at your company, your place of work, a local

community center or through a continuing education outreach program of a local

university or community college.

3. Be a leader. Take the initiative to act, to be a role model or a mentor for newbie’s.

Offer to take on new responsibilities, stretch yourself.

4. Promote yourself it is okay to show others what you are capable of. A resume lets

an employer see what you are capable of achieving. You are hired as much for his

vision as you are for your current skills. Use your desire to know how to do

something to motivate you to learn, accept challenges, or volunteer.

The formula for success according to Bo Bennett in his book Year to Success is:

Education + Inspiration + Action = Success

How can you better position yourself for success?

What time can you allocate to increasing your skills, testing them, practicing them?

How much money can you direct to furthering your education, skills, or practice of them?

Can you delegate some of your responsibilities to free up more time for you to pursue

your goals?

Can you increase your tolerance for risk?

Do what you can to move toward your goals.

“In whatever position you find yourself determine your first objective.” Marshal

Ferdinand Foch.

Once you have that objective in mind- you have a direction for your action.

====================

Billie A Williams

http://www.billiewilliams.com/

billie@billiewilliams.com

A Talk With Billie Williams

2010-07-28T12:01:00.000-04:00

Folks, I owe you a huge apology for this being posted late. This sinus infection (not an excuse, an explanation) has really floored me this year. To make it up to you guys, I'm going to share a special post from Billie with you tomorrow and save my review for Friday.

Now, onto the interview (Hint: Billie doesn't mind answering questions if you'd like to leave one in the comments section!)

Billie, you are such a prolific writer, I'm wondering how many hours a day you spend writing?

My day usually starts with my writing – I get up at 5 a.m. I do my reading/journaling and then write. By 9 hubby gets up so I make him breakfast and such. By 10 a.m. I’m at the computer typing in what I’ve written and then browsing, reading emails and etc until noon. So I guess in reality the concentrated writing is about 2 hours a day. If I get time I like to get two chapters a day on whatever current WIP (works in progress)I have . Later if I have a column(Whodunnit) to write for Voices in the Dark, Mystery Fiction.Net I do that. I try to post to at least one of my blogs every other day (that doesn’t always get done) A lot of my day is spent in various writing projects – whether that means social media like Twitter or Facebook, emails, groups or marketing – I love the process so I steal whatever time I can to write somewhere.

Your books fall in many categories, but suspense/thrillers dominate. What in your personality do you think makes this such a natural selection for you?

I’m a perpetual what if person…Since I am shy and I guess mostly an introvert, my adventure and exploration is done by writing. And if a topic makes for suspense/thriller I like to twist and turn and try to figure out what would my characters do it…what would happen if…and then what? I guess what I would never dream of doing in person, like my accidental sleuths do, I do vicariously through their adventures.

You tend to take on subjects many people avoid in fiction (such as dog fighting, adoption...). Have you ever received any flack from doing so? If so, how did you handle it?

Actually, no I haven’t received any flack from people. Its stuff that happens in real life, closing your eyes to it doesn’t make it go away. Reading about it, if it might give you some insight into how someone else handled it, even fictional characters, just might help you deal with it in your life…then I think my books have a purpose and those tough subjects are dealt with appropriately, which is always my goal. And the fact that most of my bad things happen off stage, as it were, I deal with the after affects – and the what to do next part of it. I try not to dwell on the abuse but the solutions.

Each of your books is earmarked to benefit a charity. How do you choose which one will benefit?

It all depends on the story itself. For instance my writing how to books I donate to the local libraries because readers tend to be writers – or want to be. Watch For the Raven is my only young adult book, so naturally I want it to help young adults of both genders the local 4-H club gets those donations. In the Bed and Breakfast series there are many rescue squad aids, so the local rescue squad gets those. It just so happens with Money Isn’t Everything, our local community action committee has a drive going to get Christmas lights for the main streets, and things the town can’t do – so I decided they should get some help and it will prove that money isn’t everything – community/family is most important. Fin, Fur and Fatal helps our local Veterinary Clinic, Ghost Music of Vaudeville – suggests historical preservation so the Historical Museum in town gets those and Ancient Secrets hinges on a South African visit to save the world as we know it—and a new book I have coming out in October (Diamonds, Death, Deceit)will benefit Missionaries of Africa…I have a list and updates for all my books on the donations page of my website if anyone wants to keep up with it. I try to update it as royalties come in and are paid out. It’s the theme of the book that suggests to me where the 25% of royalties should go. Right now I have a poll out for readers because my newest release to date Cauldron suggest several place it could benefit and I’d like some help to decide where to send that money…people can email me with suggestions they might have. I have three ideas so far: 1. Habitat for Humanity, 2. Alzheimer research, 3. Homeless Shelters Other suggestions or votes for these three are welcome.

Related to the above question: Do you feel that, as a writer, you have the ability to bring about change on a large scale? Why or Why not?

Change happens one step, one person, at a time. Everyone has the ability to affect change. I feel that as a writer I have a perfect opportunity to influence, or at least get people to think about what might be a good thing if people would cooperate. Like, can you imagine if everyone gave one dollar to help the homeless what a difference that would make. Or if one person decided to smile and give a warm friendly greeting to everyone they meet – the domino effect that might have? In the end though the only person I can change is myself, so if I be the best example I can be—I may be able to show others a way they hadn’t thought of previously. That’s like my donations in this economy – you can entertain yourself with a good read and donate to a good cause at the same time. I see that as a win, win situation.

I was delighted to find you write like I do--first in longhand and then first edit as you type the material in. Do you do this for a particular reason--convenience, greater inspiration, etc...? Have you always written like this or did you come upon this system after trial and error?

Part of it is necessity – my computer happens to be set up in our bedroom – and hubby sleeps at least four hours longer than I do – so if I write in long hand he gets to do what he likes while I get to do what I like. The other part is I find I am more connected to how I feel, what I want to say if I do it by pen and paper. I still have trouble writing on the computer – the thoughts don’t flow as easily. I’m answering these questions on the computer – non-fiction is easier J to do that.

Who is Billie Williams? I'm not looking for family, description, etc. here but rather the essence of you.

You’ve heard of Pandora’s Box haven’t you? (just kidding, I think) I am just me. I love to learn new things, I love to write, I’m shy—I care about people and animals. It hurts me deeply to see people or animals mistreated. It hurts me deeply to think someone is so depressed that they would consider ending their life. Natural disasters grab me by the insides, I know they can’t be prevented –but I hate to see the suffering it causes—Manmade disasters like the oil spills or arson in our forests – make me angry, but they also tear at the fabric of my life—it hurts. I feel helpless a lot of times. So I guess I am ordinary. I have enough of all that I need (though it’s hard to remember that sometimes) I value friendships, and my family—I want to succeed as an author, as a human, as a friend, wife, mother, grandmother – and whatever other title life gives me. Normal, ordinary, just me.

I know you've been asked numerous times about favorite author/books, so I'll let readers find your answers on some of your other stops. What I'd like to know is what music inspires you? Favorite performer? Favorite song?

I seriously love all types of music. But, it goes with my mood. Sometimes Jazz is just too much for me, but most times Kenny G and his light and beautiful saxophone are exactly the music I prefer. Actually, he’s my writing music. But I like piano music of any kind, and I like Beethoven, Bach, and especially Mozart. I like country western, I like Rock, I like everything….though I can’t listen to a steady diet of anything. Kenny G’s Greatest Hits album with Songbird and Silhouette are favorites for sure – but I like his album Breathless as well.

What does the future hold for you--writing, personally, etc...

Ah the future, I really wish I had a crystal ball. I want to finish my Accidental Zodiac Sleuths Series I have 5 more to go then I do the finally with all the sleuths in the final book solving one final crime. I want to write a good children’s book – I’m studying – but so far nothing has caught publishers attention.

I would like to visit several places: New York City, Oregon, Australia, Ireland, England, perhaps Montana and Wyoming – I’d like to move to Wyoming – a big ranch with hunting and fishing right out my back door, or close.

I would like to be a best-selling, internationally famous author, wouldn’t all writers.

Mostly, I am content with what I have and where I am, but I’d like to travel to visit all my Word Mage friends and other writers that I’ve *met* on line and through reading their books…I guess I’m open to whatever the future has in store for me. J

Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers today?

I want to thank you for allowing me to visit your site this week and for your kind efforts on my behalf. I would like to invite your readers to visit my site, send me an email, and ask me questions or just chit chat. I love hearing from people and what they think. If you want to be a writer read, write, read and write some more. Ask questions of the authors you read, most of them are happy to share what they know. If you have an idea for a charity that needs help, I am always open to suggestions as to where one of my books might fit with a cause.

Be sure to leave comments on the blog so that you are in the hat for the drawing for some nice prizes. And Thank You all for allowing me to share me with you.

Money Isn't Everything -- The Latest Release From Billie Williams

2010-07-27T00:19:00.000-04:00

Cool Cover, isn't it?? Today you get to read the first chapter of Money Isn't Everything. Before you do, however, I want to remind everyone to scroll down after today's post and see the prizes and freebies that are up for grabs this week. When you are done, just leave a comment with your email and you'll be sent. When you leave here, jump on over and check out all the other books by Billie Williams, There is bound to be at least one or two that appeals to each of you! Finally, don't forget to come back tomorrow when Billie will be sitting down foir an interview--you willlove this one!! Now, onto Chapter One of Money Isn't Everything.

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Money Isn’t Everything,

By Billie A Williams

Chapter

One

Mary March pulled into her parking spot at the Idle A While Nursing Home. The slush and ice of March trying to decide whether to be spring or winter created ruts where, depending on the time of day and the amount of sunshine, ice created a walking hazard or rivers of muddy water running in the ruts.

Skirting the puddles and ruts when possible, Mary was loaded down with treats for her favorite residents, her lunch bag, assignment book and her purse. Tanner Irish, that would be Doctor Tanner Irish to the public, whizzed by her in his not-meant-to-be-driven-in-the-winter blazing yellow Fiat Spider 124.

She thanked her lucky stars it was still ice this early in the day and not slush. Jerk, why did he think his money could make every woman fall at his feet? This one wasn’t about to. Money isn’t everything. Arms full, she returned his honk and jaunty salute with a nod. Nothing’s changed.

She went in the employee entrance of Idle A While, the halls were buzzing as day shift prepared to replace night shift. The exchange reminded her of Girl Scout Camp and the competition between the cottages for who was the ‘best’ that day.

The Charge Nurse of the night time CNAs and the Day Charge Nurse would meet with the others in the employee lounge to exchange information on the patients under their care before the day crew began their rounds. Mary wasn‘t looking forward to exchanging anything with Jayde Blarney. In her opinion Jayde was a mistake, but then she wasn‘t on the hiring committee. Jayde‘s credentials must have been good enough, but Mary was uncomfortable with her. She‘d felt bullied by the woman in their few encounters. Maybe she was just testing the water. Everyone deserves a chance.

Mary deposited her stuff in her locker, then she moved toward the employee lounge. Amid “welcome back” and “gee we missed you” from her crew, and glares from Jayde and her chief witch mate Dolly Sweetig and second in command Ebony Jane, Mary felt the stress of the previous weeks return in one fell swoop. The three had their heads together and that unnerved Mary. She felt there was trouble brewing but she wasn‘t sure what.

Edith Erhoes clapped her hands to get everyone‘s attention. “Welcome back, Mary, we‘re relieved to have one more pair of helping hands.”

Edith had been Director of Nurses since Columbus came over, Mary was sure. “Thank you, nice to be back.” Though the statement felt like a lie amidst the glares of Jayde and her team, she really did enjoy her job.

“We have gained residents, five to be exact, and lost three since you went on vacation,” Edith continued in her all business drill sergeant manner.

Mary couldn‘t help but wonder who they lost. Life, especially at the nursing home, was so fragile. It got harder and harder to watch people she had become attached to slip away. One day at a time, she told herself. She gave them all she could while they were at Idle A While. There was nothing else she could do.

The meeting broke up quickly. The night crew was anxious to break free for the day. The smell of breakfast carts arriving drew her attention to the task at hand, making sure those that could were showered and brought to the dining room. Those that needed help eating were assigned CNAs or orderlies to help them.

Mary noticed Audrey wasn‘t eating. She was slumped over on her chair. She laid her hand on Audrey‘s shoulder. Audrey winced and pulled away, pain and fear darkening her faded olive green eyes. “Are you okay, Audrey?”

Tears slid down her furrowed cheeks and her gaze darted around the room like a hunted rabbit. She didn‘t speak. Mary crouched down beside her and wrapped her arm around her shoulders, Audrey pulled away. She put her hands over Audrey‘s. “What happened, Audrey? Did you fall?”

This was so unlike the exuberant and talkative Audrey. Mary became worried. “Here, let me help you with this. Do you want jelly on your toast?” Audrey ate in silence, but at least she ate. She acted like she hadn‘t eaten in days. Mary made a note to have Dr. Irish look at her today. “I‘m going to have Doctor Irish come look in on you today. You be sure to tell him where you hurt, okay?”

Audrey offered a weak smile and patted Mary‘s arm. But, she didn‘t speak.

As Mary made her rounds she noticed more lethargy than normal. Something was definitely wrong here—or was she attaching flawed memories to the usually lively dining room that was only truth in her mind. Memory was such a fragile thing. And it had a tendency to be more about a hoped for truth then reality.

Mary couldn‘t wait to talk to her crew and find out what was going on. One of the CNAs called her to come look at a resident. Raw open sores on the woman‘s buttocks told her hygiene practices had been skipped more than once. She knew Maude was a difficult person. She swung at her caregiver, swore, and threatened all manner of repercussion at whoever was near. She was an angry woman. Part of it Mary knew was because her children forcefully removed her from her home. Now that Idle A While allowed pets, she thought Maude had become more docile. However, the cat that had adopted her was nowhere to be seen.

“We‘re going to have to get you into a bath tub to sit awhile, Maude,” Mary advised ready to be hit verbally and physically with all this used-to-be sheriff wanted to throw at her. Instead Maude merely blinked her eyes, and turned her head away.

The CNA shrugged. “This is the first I was assigned to her.”

“It‘s not your fault. I‘ll have a couple of the orderlies get her into the bath. You can comb her hair and do her nails whiles she sits. Make her feel pampered.” Mary felt her stomach churn. Maude might be a handful, even malicious, but her fighting spirit kept her going. This made Mary‘s heart ache. Clearly, she‘d been neglected.

“When she comes back use some A & D ointment on those sores. Be sure you wear gloves. Then don‘t diaper her. Let her be exposed to the air with just a puddle pad and sheet.” The CNA nodded. Mary made notes on her chart and went to the desk to page the orderlies. Anger was building up inside her. There were cases that flared every day. A fall, a misstep, resulting in a bruise, a patient would be bedridden and prone to bed sores, no matter how careful and well-cared for, but what Mary was seeing was not ordinary. She needed to talk to Edith Erhoes. As Director of Nurses she should be made aware, if she wasn‘t already. How could she not be, Mary thought as she slipped down the hall between housekeeping carts, wheel chairs with residents and CNAs going to and from rooms, appointments or lounges.

She knocked on Edith‘s office door. Edith motioned her to come in as she finished up a phone call. She jotted a name on a piece of paper and handed it to Mary.

“Her family…nothing but trouble. Always complaining. Wish they‘d just take her out of here. I may request they do just that if this keeps up.”

Mary glanced down at the name. The woman hadn‘t been there very long. Mary liked her. She always seemed congenial. She participated in all scheduled activities. “I‘ll check on her right away. What‘s the complaint?”

“Oh, some gibberish about rough treatment again. Same as last week.”

“There is something going on.” Mary cautiously approached the subject. Why should she be worried about reporting suspected abuse, those were state rules, the state demanded suspected abuse be reported immediately to a supervisor.

Edith‘s eyes flashed open wide and then narrowed into angry slits. “What do you mean?” It came across as more an accusation then a question in Mary‘s mind.

Mary listed the problems she had seen already that morning.

Edith fluttered her fingers as if Mary were a bothersome gnat she was trying to dispose of. “You‘ve been on vacation. After a while away from here you forget how most of these people deteriorate by the day. They go from ambulatory and lucid to bed ridden and dementia faster than you realize.”

“I really don‘t believe it‘s that.” Mary pressed on. “When a resident exhibits fear when you place a hand on their shoulder that signals a different kind of—“

Edith cut her off. “I haven‘t got time to deal with your fantasies. After you are back for a few days we‘ll speak again. Don‘t be stirring up trouble where there is none. Now, I have real work to do.”

Mary was angry. A scuffle down the corridor drew her attention and she hurried to intercede. Billy James‘ arms flailed the air. He was refusing to be taken anywhere. He demanded to be returned to his room. “Good morning, Billy. What seems to be the problem?”

“Ain‘t goin‘ nowhere. I‘m stayin‘ in my room where it‘s safe,” he said. His warm cocoa eyes wide with excitement.

It was then Mary noticed his bruised eye. “Who you been fighting with?” She bent to examine the eye.

Billy jerked back. “Ain‘t fightin‘ nobody.” He clutched his lap robe up to his chin and turned away.

“When did this happen, how?” She stood up straight directing her questions to the CNA, a new girl since Mary had worked last. The girl looked frightened, she let her shoulders rise to her ears and then dropped them, her eyes not meeting Mary‘s as she did so.

“I—I really don‘t know. I was assigned to take him to physical therapy.”

“If you don‘t do your physical therapy, you‘ll turn into a vegetable and have to spend all your time in bed.” Mary motioned to the girl to move on to Pearl‘s room and help her. “I‘ll take care of him,” she said softly.

The girl nearly ran down the hall away from her.

“I‘ll take you down today just to prove you are perfectly safe, okay?”

“If that‘s the case, I don‘t want no more shiners from the likes of her.”

“Who do you mean, Billy?”

“That other woman.” anger edged his raised voice.

“You mean the little gal who was just helping you?” Mary thought the tiny young woman who she had relieved of the burden of Billy couldn‘t give a mosquito a black eye, or shiner as Billy‘s colorful language explained it.

“Naw, not her—that Amazon woman.”

Mary searched her mind for a CNA whose stature would qualify her as Billy‘s Amazon woman. Most of the CNA‘s were her size, medium height and build. None of them were very imposing figures.

Dropping Billy off at physical therapy and asking them to treat him with kid gloves today, Mary made her way back up to the main floor nurse‘s station.

Idle A While seemed to have taken on a hostile and disjointed persona, if a place can have a personality. The warm friendly family atmosphere had evaporated in the three weeks she was gone on vacation. Janet had assumed her duties as her second in command. Very competent and motivated. She had been given three days off as compensation for the extra duty. Mary wouldn‘t see her until Wednesday. Already, Mary sensed an urgent need to get Janet‘s take on what she sensed in the atmosphere at Idle A While.

Meeting Billie Williams

2010-07-26T06:21:00.000-04:00

This week's guest is someone I have admired for many years now, Billie Williams. This week, we will be talking with Billie and sharing her writing. You'll get to peek at several of her books and get some free gifts AND get a chance to win some neat prizes! You need to know from the start that you have to leave a comment and a way to contact you in order to win and get your free gifts--otherwise, we don't know where to send them :-)

Best Selling and Award winning Mystery/Suspense author Billie A Williams is a fiction, non-fiction and poetry author and has won numerous contests for her short/flash fiction stories, essays, and poetry with over two dozen works published. She is published in various magazines such as the literary magazine Thema; Guide, a Magazine for Children, Novel Advice.com, Writing Etc. WritingNow.com, and Women In The Arts newsletter as well as Sister’s in Crime, to list but a few.

Her articles, columns and features have appeared regularly in newspapers. Short stories, Flash fiction, poetry and book reviews have appeared in Mystery Time, True Love Magazine and various anthologies and on line e-zines and web sites. She writes a bi-monthly column titled “Whodunit?” for Mystery Fiction’s Voices in the Dark and is a contributing editor for Writingnow.com a Blueberry Press Newsletter. She also hosts her own writer’s group, Word Mage Writers and Readers as well as The Amberg Writers Group that meets at her home monthly. She is an active blogger; http://printedwords.blogspot.com and http://onewomansgarden.blogspot.com A website for writers is at http://writingwide.com where you can find plenty of tips, tricks and good reads, as well as a current novel in progress serialized in her newsletter, “Printed Words.”

Williams is currently a member of The Wisconsin Regional Writers Association (WRWA) Upper Peninsula Writers Association (UPWA)National Association of Women Writers (NAWW) Sister’s in Crime, Women in the Arts Program, Electronically Published Internet Connection (EPIC), Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. (SCBWI) and Children’s Book Insider, and the Children Writers Coaching Club. Her website http://www.billiewilliams.com/

She lives with her husband and Lady Slipper the Maine Coon Cat she received the day she got her contract for The Pink Lady Slipper bed and breakfast murder mystery from Wings ePress so of course the kitten got the name. Amberg, is home, a small Northern Wisconsin community where the winters are cold and long, but the people are warm and friendly.

*There are three booklets available for the asking! They include several authors answering--Where I Got My Idea, Why I Write and What's My Chosen Genre. Just give me a shout and I'll send them your way.

*Each person who comments will have a chance to win either a $100 note pad, a $100 pen, or a $100 bookmark magnet. (They all incorporate the hundred dollar bills into their design)

*Everyone that comments and includes an email address will get a bookmark with the cover of Money Isn’t Everything and one lucky winner will get an autographed poster of the cover of Money Isn’t Everything.

*Billie will draw one name from all the blog sites to get an autographed copy of the print version of Fin, Fur and Fatal another Mystery in the Zodiac Sleuths Series. (That is stateside– if the name drawn is overseas or Canada-- it will be a download version.)

Wow, all that, some excellent reading and a wonderful interview (Oh, and a book review from me!). Stop by each day between now and Thursday--and don't forget to leave your comments!

Re-gifting Can Be Good

2010-07-19T03:11:00.001-04:00

JURGEN WOLFF posted a little gift over at his blog, Time to Write (excellent blog btw--check it out!) and I just had to pass it on to all of you to say Thanks!!

Female Nomad and Friends -- A Review

2010-06-30T06:12:00.000-04:00

Breaking Free and Breaking Bread Around the World -- the subtitle of this books says so much about Female Nomad and Friends . Over forty authors joined forces to make this book a reality. Each author tells a tale of a moment in life that found that author connecting with others in a manner that left a deep impression. The authors are as varied as the countries that make up this planet, yet each one shows how we are all alike in many ways.

One of the easiest ways for two people to connect emotionally is to share a meal. With this in mind, the recipes inter-mingled with the stories are as varied as the authors. Everything from baked beans to Ho Mok, Grandma's fried chicken to Sun dried Mopane Worms. If the stories alone aren't adventure enough, the recipes will be. Before finishing the book, I knew it was food for both body and soul.

The people in this book aren't famous, rich or powerful --not in the usual sense of the words. Yet, you can't help but feel you are witnessing daily miracles as you read their stories. These are the people that make up this world, your friends, family and the new people that just moved in down the block. Their individual moments are miracles we see every day if we take the time to notice and open our hearts to receive.

I can't help but feel that these authors have found what the world needs to bring about peace on a planet-wide level. Their stories will stay with you, showing up at odd moments, entering your dreams, and causing a subtle change within your soul as you go about your day. You will find yourself smiling more, greeting strangers, and finding more things to cherish. This book does not belong in a particular genre, it is a book for mankind. Are words powerful enough to change the world? Read Female Nomad and Friends and you will know they are.

Female Nomad and Friends rates six colors on the Rainbow Scale.

***
We invite you to join s on the Female Nomad and Friends virtual tour. The full schedule can be seen at http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/17/female-nomad-tour . You can learn much more about Rita Golden Gelman and her work on her website - http://www.ritagoldengelman.com/

Soul Food -- An Excerpt from Female Nomad and Friends

2010-06-29T00:35:00.000-04:00

Of all the stories in this collection, I chose this one because it reminds me of when I was young. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did :-)

SOUL FOOD

Melanie Ehler

When I was a child, my Nana would take me along to the Old Reg’lar Baptist meetings at her church. Full of good-hearted people, we had a much higher preacher-to-sinner ratio than your average church. The Old Reg’lar Baptist meetings generally went through three or four different preachers during the same service, and the sermons often lasted several hours.

To a kid, they seemed interminable, as infinite as salvation itself, though not nearly so sweet. Most Sunday mornings, I would busy myself in ways other than spiritual. First, I would rearrange the contents of my Nana’s patent-leather purse, eating all the interred peppermints and circus peanuts. Then, I’d lean back in exaggerated repose and vigorously wave one of the church’s paper fans, overly enthusiastic in my attempt to be mistaken for a Southern belle. The fans were the old-fashioned, paddle-type that had a vibrant Biblical scene on one side with the name of a funeral home underneath it. The message seemed to be, “Just because Lazarus was revived after four days, it doesn’t mean you’ll be. Buy your coffin early.”

I would interrupt my fanning five or six times to make trips to the drinking fountain. All these activities never took up more than fifteen minutes. Once I’d gone through my routine, I’d stretch out on one of the wooden pews for a nice, long nap. My casual attitude provoked a story that still circulates in my family. Upon being asked how I liked church, I purportedly answered in a peevish tone of voice, “It’s fine for the most part, but the preachers keep waking me up when they holler ‘Amen!’”

At any rate, for both somnolent sinners and attentive saints, a certain earthly reward was attached to the church meetings, and that was the church supper. All the good ladies of that church knew how to cook, and they did not waste their talents doling out dainty portions of haute cuisine. No, these soft-bellied, gentle souls served up homey foods, comfort foods, soul food, every Sunday creating a sumptuous spread that covered three fold-out tables. Immediately following services, a line of people gathered in front of those tables, and the prayer that was given before supper was always the shortest one.

Even the everlastingest preacher couldn’t ignore the tables laden with home-cooked food. There were mashed potatoes piled in high, snowy peaks, sitting side-by-side with thick pools of gravy; there were mounds of dandelion and turnip greens picked fresh from the nearby woods. There were tureens of red beans in savory sauce; there were round cakes of golden-grained corn bread and white corn pone. On occasion, there was turkey with stuffing or dumplings bobbing in gravy. And there was fried chicken. Always and forever, there was fried chicken, a crowd pleaser that just about everybody piled on their plates.

And so it was, many years later as a graduate student, living far from the comforts of home, alone and hungry, and perhaps a bit homesick, that I got a hankering for fried chicken. Now, meat of any sort was not a regular part of my diet in those lean years. I was supported solely by the money garnered from my assistantship. As per the usual assistantship trade-off, in return for teaching freshmen classes, the university offered to pay my full tuition, along with a bit extra to cover living expenses--so long as said living expenses didn’t include luxury items, such as heat in my room or more than one meal a day.

I lived on the thin of things, always on the fringe of hunger. I existed on a diet that consisted chiefly of bananas and cereal moistened by water.

Upon occasion, I would see fit to reallocate my meager food budget. That is to say, I would sometimes spend my grocery money on admission to a local swing dance. After such occasions, I would, from necessity, scavenge samples at the local grocer’s for my next meal. Whatever food samples were being offered, I would take two, sly vulture that I was, and after circulating the store twice, my stomach would be full, or at least it would stop growling for a few hours. I certainly had nothing in my budget that would allow for eating out, not even at the most humble establishment.

Yet, there I was, this one particular day, hungry as could be; and nothing could divert my mind from fried chicken. I could not make fried chicken, my cuisine art was limited to microwave food and toast, and so, with little-exercised extravagance, I went into a local diner.

“How many pieces are in the adult portion of chicken?” I asked the waitress. “Five pieces,” she answered. “And in the small?” I asked. “Three,” she responded.

I did not need to finger the money in my pocket to know how much I had. The thing with being poor was that I always knew, down to the last cent, how much money I owned. I had enough for the large portion, unless they charged tax. I could never remember if restaurants charged tax, and then there was also the embarrassment of leaving a cheap, nearly non-existent tip.

“I’ll have the small portion,” I said in a tiny voice. Perhaps my eyes looked hungry. I might have also sighed.

When the waitress brought me the plate, it was heaped with fried chicken. It did not contain three pieces, or even five pieces, it brimmed with ten pieces of chicken, all coated in a crisp, peppered, golden skin and, as I found out by sampling, with tender white meat inside. Thin curls of steam rose from the chicken. I ate and ate and ate. I ate that hot, delicious chicken until I was full, and then – oh, unheard of luxury – I kept going and ate past being full. Even so, I couldn’t manage to eat all the chicken. I carefully wrapped the remaining pieces in paper napkins and discretely deposited them in my purse. They would be for tomorrow. When I got the bill, the total cost was listed as $3.99, the price for a child-sized portion.

I was too embarrassed to thank my waitress properly. I just smiled shyly when paying, hoping she’d understand. Some hunger can be satisfied with food, but there is also another, more intimate type of hunger which can only be appeased by kindness. I was filled that day with both food and compassion. I’ve never felt more full. And I’ve never been richer.

Melanie Ehler has paddled a gondola down Venice’s Grand Canal, fallen asleep during a root canal, and eaten at Burger King when they ran out of burgers. She’s danced the tango in Prague, the blues in St. Louis, and lindy hop everywhere from grocery aisles in Ohio to cocktail clubs in Oahu. Several years after obtaining her Master’s degree in English, Melanie decided to spend a year living in Seoul, South Korea, and from there, she will circumnavigate the globe. Follow her most recent adventures at: http://odysseusdrifts.blogspot.com/.

Reprinted from “Female Nomad and Friends” by Rita Golden Gelman. Copyright © 2010. Published by Three Rivers Press/Crown Publishers, a division of Random House, Inc.

We invite you to join us on the Female Nomad and Friends virtual tour. The full schedule can be seen at http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/17/female-nomad-tour . You can learn much more about Rita Golden Gelman and her work on her website - http://www.ritagoldengelman.com/

Taking a Stay-cation with Female Nomad and Friends

2010-06-28T01:07:00.000-04:00

More people than ever are staying home during their vacations this year. This week, my guest, Rita Golden Gelman, and her friends will take you on a trip around the world, all from the comfort of your living room.

Female Nomad and Friends: Tales of Breaking Free and Breaking Bread Around the World - From the author of the international bestseller, Tales of a Female Nomad, Female Nomad and Friends is a moving anthology of essays that celebrates traveling, connecting, and eating around the world. Also included are more than 30 travel-inspired, taste-tested and author-approved recipes.

Rita Golden Gelman is the author of Tales of a Female Nomad and more than seventy children’s books, including More Spaghetti, I Say!, a staple in every first grade classroom. As a nomad, Rita has no permanent address. She is currently involved in an initiative called Let’s Get Global, a project of US Servas, Inc, a national movement deigned to bring the gap year to the United States. Learn more at: http://www.letsgetglobal.org/

Tomorrow, I will be sharing an excerpt from this book and on Wednesday, my review. Come join us on this world adventure! The full schedule can be seen at http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/17/female-nomad-tour . You can learn much more about Rita Golden Gelman and her work on her website - http://www.ritagoldengelman.com/

Fear to Freedom by Rosemary Trible -- A Review

2010-06-27T00:21:00.000-04:00

Fear to Freedom
by: Rosemary Trible
Published by: VMI Publishers 2009
ISBN 978-1-935265-09-2
$14.99

To the outside world, Rosemary Trible had it all. She grew up in a loving family, her marriage was full of mutual love and caring and her husband was a rising star in the political arena, so money was never an issue. Rosemary had something, however, that others could not see, or even guess--a deep fear within caused by a horrifying rape at gunpoint. Fear to Freedom is the story of how Rosemary Trible came to find even more within in herself than she realized--faith and strength that allowed her to reach out and embrace God's healing. Once she gained the courage to forgive, her fear was released and she found it her mission to reach out to other women who faced daily fear, teaching them to find that faith in God and the strength within.

This book is very much about allowing God to heal your fears, yet it does not preach to the reader. You feel the author's faith on every page, yet she speaks of God in the casual manner she would speak of an old friend who has been with one since childhood. She does not pretend that healing is easy, even with God. She shares stories of women she has counseled and shows how they struggled and eventually triumphed. All this is done without judgment. You do not get the feeling she is looking for someone to say how special she is for her work, she simply relates what is in a simple, down-to-earth style.

The pictures included caused me a bit of concern. I believe the author's intent was to show that fear can find its way into even the most seemingly charmed life. Yet, it is possible that some readers may mis-interpret this intent and feel that she overcame because she had so many powerful people in her life. The pictures may make it difficult for some readers to relate to the author on an emotional level. If the reader, however, gives the book a chance, they will find it quite easy to relate. Rosemary Trible shows without a doubt that fear knows no boundaries in regards to economic status, skin color, or religion.

The end of the book contains devotionals for each chapter. These allow the reader to stop and reflect. It enables them to apply what is conveyed to their own life and situations. I found the devotionals extremely helpful and thought-provoking. I'd like to see them published in a stand-alone book. I can see this book being read not only by individuals, but also as part of healing groups, both within and outside the church. This is not only the author's story, it is the story of every woman who has found herself violated and in fear, in whatever way.

Fear to Freedom rates five colors on the Rainbow Scale.

The Writing Mother by Phyllis Schieber

2010-06-24T01:49:00.000-04:00

Today we see the third guest post from Phyllis Schieber. I have been honored to have her here this week. Her writing moves me deeply. I've read both A Sinner's Guide to Confession and Willing Spirits and they remain among my favorite books. I hope you have enjoyed these three posts (okay, third one is below). I am sure Phyllis would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section.

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Many years ago I read “One Child of One’s Own,” an essay by Alice Walker. In the essay, Walker discusses her decision to have a child, but “only one” because more would make it difficult for her to move about with ease. She also points out that it is unlikely that the question of whether or not to have children is even asked of men who are artists, but that is a whole other discussion. Nevertheless, when I was pregnant, I worried about how I would balance my need to write with my responsibilities for my child. It soon became apparent that there was no contest. He came first, and he still does. It is a decision I embraced with no regrets because that is the only way to do anything successfully.

It is true that I am not a real baby-person. Some women just adore infants. I am not one of them. Give me a two-year-old, and I am there for the duration. The emergence of language thrills me. I am intrigued by the surfacing of thought processes; I am captivated by their play, and by their creativity. I invented games to play with my son that involved little more than our imaginations. I grew as a writer because he challenged my vision and my originality as nothing else ever had. As he got older, I enjoyed the time I had with him even more because I knew it was short-lived. I welcomed school holidays and snow days because it gave us more time to be together. I stashed away little art kits that we could do on these days. We baked and cooked. We painted. I introduced him to mishmash. From time to time, I would allow him to empty the kitchen cabinets and pour a little of everything into a huge bowl. He delighted in this game as only a child could. With his sleeves rolled up and a big wooden spoon clutched in his hand, he stirred the ingredients as he explained what he was making. Each time, it was something else. Years later, when he told that he had chosen to write about mishmash as one of the topics for his memory piece during his six-week Language and Thinking orientation at Bard College, I was moved to tears. He remembered. My time with him had been well spent.

My role as a mother has enriched me as a writer. I can go to a place inside myself that understands what it means to split yourself between your own needs and dreams and your role as a mother. Of course, after so many years, I have a better grip on how to balance the two. Clearly, I have written consistently since my son was born. Still, when my son is home, I turn my days over to him whenever he wants me because now there are weeks and months that go by without seeing him. Although I cherish the time I now have to myself, I often miss those endless days of being wrapped in a cocoon with my baby. And like the women in my novels, I continue to create a life for myself that is separate from my child’s life because that is natural and best.

My son came home after college and lived with us for two years. They were busy years, and I recall the frustration I often felt when my work had to be placed on hold. However, I reminded myself that this time with him was temporary, and I found ways to do my work without taking time away from his needs. It was a balancing act, but I managed it well. And, as predicted, after he left, I missed him terribly. Now, he is settled into his own life with a newly earned Masters of Music in Voice from the School of Performing Arts at Boston University. We speak often, video chat, and enjoy his visits when he comes home, as well as our visits to Boston. Technology has made it easier to stay in close contact, but I often miss his presence. I get an urge to hug him, to plant a kiss on his cheek, or just to share a meal. Nevertheless, I am enjoying my time. I got to yoga classes six times a week; I walk, and I go the grocery store much less than I need to when my son is home. I write at all hours of the day without interruption unless I have students to see, Life has a different pace now that he is out and on his own. I would love for him to live closer to home, and I am hopeful that he will return to New York some day. I think he will. For now, we are each exploring our new lives. I am not sorry for the time I gave him when he was home. I got up a little earlier to write, went to bed a little later, and in-between, I relished the time he wanted to spend with me, even if I was only chauffeuring him somewhere. It didn’t matter. We were together, and it was good. His presence enriched my life, added texture and depth to my writing, and simply made me happy. When I look back on those years, I am satisfied with the decision I had made to always put him first. It is a decision I continue to stand by and to encourage. The time we spend with our children as they are growing up and even after they are allegedly full grown is always time well spent. I am more certain of this than I am of anything else.

***
Join us on the Sinners Guide to Confession and Willing Spirits virtual tour. To learn more about the tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/04/phyllis-schieber-blog-outreach/ . You can also learn more about Phyllis Schieber and her books at http://www.phyllisschieber.wordpress.com/.

The Magic of Women's Friendships by Phyllis Schieber

2010-06-23T00:01:00.001-04:00

Today, I am glad to share with you the second guest post by Phyllis Schieber, author of Willing Spirits and The Sinner's Guide to Confession.

In her essay, “Women Are Just Better,” Anna Quindlen quotes the observation of a friend who says, “Have you ever noticed that what passes as a terrific man would only be an average woman?” And that’s when, as Quindlen describes it, “A Roman candle went off in my head… What I expect from my male friends is that they are polite and clean. What I expect from my female friends is unconditional love, the ability to finish my sentences for me when I am sobbing, a complete and total willingness to pour out their hearts to me, and the ability to tell me why the meat thermometer isn’t supposed to touch the bone.” It’s so true. I know for certain that it is exactly what I expect and invariably receive from the women friends in my life.

I have a circle of women friends, who sustain me, keep me sane, remind me of my worth, and reassure me that I am treasured. We say, “I love you,” at the end of every conversation; we unashamedly sign off our emails with the symbol for kisses, and we embrace and affirm our love for each other each time we meet. I think it is because women spend so much of their lives nurturing—their children, their husbands, their partners, their ailing parents, their students, co-workers, the list is endless—that they understand the need to let each other know how much they matter. I don’t know how any woman survives without close woman friends. My friends are my support, my secret keepers, my cheering section—they mean everything to me.

Willing Spirits is actually dedicated to two women I lost very prematurely. The novel was inspired by my love for them and is intended as a celebration of the friendships women share. I describe what it is like when the novel’s protagonists, Gwen and Jane, find themselves “falling in love” shortly after they meet:

Yes, women do fall in love with each other. Differently, of course than they fall in love with men. Falling in love with a man is a feverish experience. There is little control. But falling in love with a woman is much more serious. It guarantees so much more for the investment. For it is from other women that women are nurtured. It is from other women that they hear what they hope to hear from men. I understand. I know how you feel. I’m sorry for your pain. I care about what you think: Words that need no prompting. In that circle, women tell each other things that men and women tell each other first with their hands and lips and tongues before they can tell each other with words. Women comfort each other with touch that is meant to heal, rather than to excite. The mysteries of love are less complex between women. The hidden passages are easier to negotiate. And the dangers do not seem as great as when the same journey is taken with a man. Around each dank and frightening corner, women hold out their hands to each other and form a human chain that is, quite simply, spiritually different. The lucky ones find men who (and it is a deep and well-kept secret between women) are more like women.

My friends are my mainstay. I have women friends from various stages of my life. One friend in particular has been my friend since she was twelve and I was ten (I continue to point out our age difference at every opportunity!) We met at sleep away camp and in the almost fifty years that we have been friends, we have been through everything together. Several years ago, she found out she had lung cancer. It has been a long and challenging battle that she blessedly seems to have won, but we take nothing for granted. We speak every morning, exchange news, reassure each other we are still here, and remind ourselves how lucky we are to be friends, to have each other yet one more day. We always, always have something to talk about, secrets to share. We are always still girls together. And I love that about us.

In The Sinner’s Guide to Confession, the protagonists, Kaye, Ellen, and Barbara, are very different from each other, yet their bond is unshakable. They are girlfriends. They may disagree. They may disapprove. But they are there for each other. It is the one certainty they can depend on in their otherwise unpredictable lives. Their bond is solid, and it strengthens each of them, making possible for them to navigate the unforeseen complexities that come their way. They are girlfriends together.

I close the acknowledgments in Willing Spirits with the following statement: “Mostly, however, I am indebted to my friends, the women who embrace me with their open hearts. They nourish me with their love and goodwill. I have been blessed to be surrounded by women who indulge my moods, allow my eccentricities, listen to my complaints, and applaud my triumphs. I cannot imagine how I would thrive without any one of them. They never disappoint me.” Girlfriends. Always, always my girlfriends.

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Join us on the Sinners Guide to Confession and Willing Spirits virtual tour. To learn more about the tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/04/phyllis-schieber-blog-outreach/ . You can also learn more about Phyllis Schieber and her books at http://www.phyllisschieber.wordpress.com .

Phyllis Schieber on Motherhood

2010-06-22T00:01:00.001-04:00

Motherhood figures into the subtext of all my work, most clearly in Willing Spirits and in The Sinner’s Guide to Confession. Undoubtedly, motherhood has shaped my life. I am the mother of a soon-to-be twenty-six-year-old son. One of my dear friends, the mother of five daughters, once told me that, “It doesn’t matter how many children you have. Once you’re a mother, you’re a mother.” I believe that is true. Motherhood has empowered and defined me as nothing else in my life ever has, not even writing. I quickly came to see that the love I felt for my son was boundless.

Needless to say, I was not prepared for the emotional impact of motherhood. I don’t know how anyone can be. Nothing can prepare someone for the intensity of such love. In truth, I did not feel that immediately, and I worried that perhaps something was wrong with me. When the nurse handed me my baby boy, he looked rather perplexed and not at all certain that he liked me. But that first night alone with him in the hospital room, I was enraptured. I pulled the curtain around my bed and peered down into the bassinet He stared at me as I unwrapped his blanket and removed his diaper. I smiled at his naked little body and ran my hands all over him. He relaxed under my touch and wriggled about a bit. As I changed his diaper, I introduced myself and presented my plans for our future. He listened with interest before he began to wail. He was hungry. After a rocky start and the help of another new mother in the bed next to mine (by some miracle, she also happened to be a maternity nurse), I nursed him. I was in love. I knew by then that from henceforth, he would define my plans. I acquiesced without complaint. Once we were home and eventually settled into a routine, my life was defined by his needs. His father left early and came home late most every day, and I spent long, mostly happy days with my baby. I learned how to strap him to my chest and write. He slept to the sound of me banging away at the typewriter keys. If I stopped, he opened one eye and looked up at me, questioningly, but with patience. I often rested my chin on his head and rubbed my cheek against his soft curls. He was my boy, and I could not imagine anything that would ever compromise my love for him. I had never been as in love with anyone as I was with him, and that love persists.

When I write about motherhood, as I often do, it comes from a place that is still a source of wonder to me. How is it possible to love someone so much? Even more compelling, how is it possible to know with absolute certainty that regardless of what transpires, you will always love your children with profound and unshakable steadfastness. In Willing Spirits, Jane must deal with the unforeseen reality of her daughter Caroline’s unexpected pregnancy. Jane rises to the situation in spite of her concerns and her disappointment. Jane is Caroline’s mother and that limitless love demands that we often forego our dreams and expectations for our children and learn how to help them live the best lives they can. In The Sinner’s Guide to Confession, each of the main characters is a mother. Barbara, the mother of three grown children, recognizes the strengths and weaknesses of each of her children. She deftly navigates those relationships, trying not to play favorites and working hard to be what each of her children needs while still retaining her independence and her privacy. When she eventually decides to reveal her secret, she is most worried about how it will affect her children. Kaye has two children and though they are adults, she is unable to disregard how her decision to leave their father might affect them. Even Kaye’s relationship with her own mother, Gertie, explores the push and pull of mother and child. However, Ellen’s loss of her infant daughter and the inability to conceive again play the most significant role in the novel. Ellen’s need is so profound and so palpable that I cried as I wrote the section where she imagines what it would have been like to raise her daughter. Ellen’s situation is heartbreakingly sad. Her loss defines her forever. I loved writing the scene where Ellen and Joy meet for the first time. They are each so full of expectations. Joy, already a mother herself, can really understand what Ellen must have felt and continues to feel. Both women have suffered unimaginable losses, and this brings them closer. Motherhood is a bond.

My role as a mother has enriched me as a writer. I can go to a place inside myself that understands what it means to split yourself between your own needs and dreams and your role as a mother. More importantly, I have learned that my dreams and hopes for my son may not always be my son’s dreams and hopes. As I embrace this truth over and over, it deepens my love for my son. He is a fine man, and his dreams represent the culmination of various influences… all of them, I am happy to reports, good ones. As I watch my son make his way through the world, offering him both solicited and unsolicited advice, I am more and more convinced that there is no way to accurately predict who your children will become. We can only hope that they will make choices that show integrity, compassion, and decency. Each time I speak to my son, I tell him that I love him and that he makes me proud. I know there will be times when he challenges the limits of my patience and frustrates me with his shortsightedness… all privileges of youth. However, I also know (and feel confident that he does as well) that nothing could ever make me love him less. Sometimes I still long for just one more chance to experience another day of the chaos and fatigue that defined those early months of being a new mother. I want just one more day of the newness and the thrill of such never-ending love. And then I remember that it is forever on going, forever deepening, and always newly surprising in its intensity.

***
Please leave a comment for Phyllis and don't forget to return for another post from her tomorrow!

Join us on the Sinners Guide to Confession and Willing Spirits virtual tour. To learn more about the tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/04/phyllis-schieber-blog-outreach/ . You can also learn more about Phyllis Schieber and her books at http://www.phyllisschieber.wordpress.com/ .

Special Guest Blogger This Week -- Phyllis Schieber

2010-06-21T01:39:00.000-04:00

I am going to do something this week I have never done in the nearly three years I'v had this blog -- I am allowing a very special author to make three guest posts for your enjoyment! Phyllis Schieber will be posting on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday -- and the subjects are something we can all relate to. I would like everyone to stop by, read what Phyllis has to say, and leave her a huge thank you in the comments, please.
If You'd like to read my review of Willing Spirits, you can find it here.

Phyllis Schieber The first great irony of my life was that I was born in a Catholic hospital. My parents, survivors of the Holocaust, had settled in the South Bronx among other new immigrants. In the mid-fifties, my family moved to Washington Heights. The area offered scenic views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, as well as access to Fort Tryon Park and the mysteries of the Cloisters. Her first novel, Strictly Personal, for young adults, was published by Fawcett-Juniper. Berkley Putnam released the Sinner’s Guide to Confession, and in March 2008, Berkley Putnam issued the first paperback publication of Willing Spirits

Sinners Guide to Confession - Kaye and Barbara are longtime friends, now in their fifties. Ellen, who is several years younger, develops a friendship with the other two women years later, solidifying this close-knit group. The three women are inseparable, yet each nurtures a secret that she keeps from the others.

Willing Spirits - Jane Hoffman and Gwen Baker, both teachers and in their forties, have a friendship that helps them endure. Years after Gwen is abandoned and left to raise two sons alone, she finds herself in love with a married man. After Jane is humiliated by her husband’s infidelity and Gwen must face her own uncertain path, the two women turn to each other. Now, as each is tested by personal crisis; Jane and Gwen face new challenges—as mothers, as daughters, as lovers. And in the process, they will learn unexpected truths about their friendship—and themselves.

Join us on the Sinners Guide to Confession and Willing Spirits virtual tour. To learn more about the tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/04/phyllis-schieber-blog-outreach/ . You can also learn more about Phyllis Schieber and her books at http://www.phyllisschieber.wordpress.com/ .

When Dreams are More -- A Review of The Sorcerer's Dream by Dreamshield

2010-06-18T06:01:00.000-04:00

Alysa Braceau is searching when The Sorcerer's Dream opens. What exactly she hopes to find isn't clear, but when she meets Running Deer, she knows he holds the answers. The Sorcerer's Dream is Ms. Braceau's spiritual journey from seeking to what she terms finding the Totality of the Self.

Reading first-person accounts is often difficult because they have a tendency to isolate the reader, rather than give them a point of reference to empathize with the author. This is not the case with The Sorcerer's Dream. Dreamshield writes with such emotion you can literally feel her reaching out and pulling you in to share her journey. Her words come through with a lyrical quality that borders on being poetic.

As you follow Dreamshield on her spiritual quest, you start seeing glimpses of your own path. This isn't to say the reader's path is the same one; rather the reading places the reader in a spiritually open position that is perfect for discovering roads that may have been previously hidden. If the reader is also a Dreamer, this connection becomes much stronger. This book is not only Dreamshield's journey, but can also be the catalyst that the reader is seeking.

Alysa Braceau does not hold back on what she shares. Her thoughts and feelings throughout the journey are put forth without hesitation. You feel the author is a woman comfortable within her own skin, and this comfort creates a trust that frees the reader to fully experience what is written. This is a book for anyone who feels the calling to be more, experience more and to live fully.

The Sorcerer's Dream rates seven colors on The Rainbow Scale.

***
We invite you to join s on the virtual tour for The Sorcerer’s Dream by Alysa Braceau (Dreamshield). The full schedule can be seen at http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/03/sorcerers-dream . You can learn much more about Dreamshield and her work on her website – http://www.dreamshield.nl/ . The book can be ordered on Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Sorcerers-Dream-Dreamshield-Alysa-Braceau/dp/1609101561 .

SPECIAL OFFER - Every time you post a comment on any tour post - you will be entered into a drawing for a $35 Amazon gift card -- so, share your thoughts with us.

The Sorcerer's Dream --- Sharing Chapter One

2010-06-17T05:58:00.000-04:00

The following is Chapter One from The Sorcerer's Dream by Alysa Braceau (Dreamshield). Tomorrow, I will be sharing my review of this book. Don't forget the SPECIAL OFFER - Every time you post a comment on any tour post - you will be entered into a drawing for a $35 Amazon gift card -- so, share your thoughts with us.

Chapter 1

Vidar

26 juni 2004

"Can I help you?" a hurried voice asks from behind the counter. I look up absent-mindedly and order "an Indian soup, two cheese sandwiches, a cappuccino and a glass of water please." I turn around with a full serving tray and see with a quick glance to my right that the terrace is packed. I walk to a table further down the hall with a view of the terrace.

It is one thirty. Rush hour in the spiritual centre located along a canal in Amsterdam. I didn't come here for the Ayurvedic massage, yoga or astrology, but for lunch. Apparently there are several courses going on as the line at the counter has never been this long. People are busy talking to each other, standing in groups spread out in the hall or sitting at one of the tables inside or outside on the terrace where they can enjoy the first rays of summer sunshine.

Distracted I dip my bread in the soup. In a gymnasium, some fifteen kilometers from the ring road I drag myself for the second and last day through the Magical Passes of Carlos Castaneda. I was hoping the magical movements would make me as light as a feather, just like they had done two years ago, and free me of stifling emotions which easily drag me down and free me of my inclination to nag about everything. However, this time I feel no difference at all.

I cannot appreciate the movements. As everyone in the entire room releases graciously I stay invariably behind.

This morning while I was driving my car I had already decided where I was going to have lunch because there are no cafés or restaurants near the gymnasium which is alarming for someone like me, with - you could say - a healthy appetite.

I was quick to remember this spot. They serve a nice vegetarian lunch and besides I enjoy wandering around in the bookstore.

While I eat my soup, four women at the table in front of me are busy talking and laughing. They are most likely of Surinam or Antillean descent. I think they are discussing the workshop they are attending.

My thoughts drift back to my friends Anthonio and Camillo. Two years ago the Magical Passes were held at the RAI Congress Cent, where a few hundred people from all over the world filled the room. After reading the books written by Carlos Castaneda, Florinda Donner and Taisha Abelar I was excited to hear that there would be a workshop in Amsterdam, so I immediately enrolled. During the past years I participated in a whole range of workshops and courses in the field of spiritual and personal development. To mention a few, I did meditation, yoga, healing with precious stones, intuitive development, aura reading, rebirthing and trance dance. The more obscure the better as far as I was concerned. But nothing appealed to me more than the adventures of the sorcerer's apprentices.

Wanting to prepare myself well for the big day, I opened my closet and quickly closed it again. Except for grubby sweatpants I had nothing nice to wear in which I could move freely, so I headed into town where I bought a pair of black capri pants, a modern gunny and a tight red top to make it slightly more exciting. Even though I dragged myself through the original workshop just like today, it had a benevolent effect that time. I wonder why things are different this year.

Perhaps - two years ago - I sought refuge in the vibrating energy of the room or was it my meeting the Mexicans Camillo and Anthonio? Or was it due to the combination of the two? After everyone had settled down on the ground after the first lecture, the Mexicans sat next to me and looked at me curiously. "Are you from here?" they asked, and "Where are you going?" they asked me during the break. I didn't know anybody else and felt relieved to be approached, and before I knew it they introduced me to a group of Mexican friends. After the workshop Camillo, Anthonio and I continued talking on into the wee hours of the morning. Anthonio spoke a few words of English but that did not make any difference as Camillo translated - he had lived and worked in the United States as a teacher for years. I bragged to them about my dreams and they listened and gaped at me when I told them in my best English about meeting sorcerers in lucid dreams. With a slight sense of shame I confessed that they had accurately pointed out my weak spots and said things about me that I would never dare to admit to myself. I remember we were talking about relationships and especially about the problems they had. Camillo sat to my left and Anthonio to my right. Once they started talking about their relationships they never stopped. Camillo was very much in love with his girlfriend, but she did not want a steady relationship. She had told him that a relationship hampers the freedom of a sorcerer. He was hoping she would change her mind, but at heart he felt exactly the same way. Anthonio's relationship problems were the opposite. He wanted his freedom but his girlfriend (he was crazy about her) tugged at him and demanded the next step in their relationship: marriage and children. Gloomily the Mexicans gazed in front of them. They started a discussion and I felt like they were forcing that nonsense about freedom on me. I believed that so-called freedom is an excuse for not wanting or keeping a steady relationship. I said they spoke nonsense and brought myself forward as an example. As a modern western woman I had a relationship and in the meantime was free to do whatever I pleased. To a certain degree of course. I leaned back in my chair and looked at them commiserating. I concluded that we were dealing with a cultural difference because it was written on their faces that they did not understand a word I was saying. At least that is what I thought until they approvingly said: "we follow the witch," toasting their glasses against mine. That night we finished several bottles. Actually they seemed to me like a couple of easy opportunists, but I was flattered that they had called me a witch. It was something they would regret, because that night, they even started smoking. We said our goodbyes in the middle of the night and I could not withhold my tears. Perhaps it was because I had never felt so light-spirited, unconcerned, and especially completely at home. I will miss them terribly.

Bitterly I realize that this weekend's workshop stands in sharp contrast to last years', if only for the fact that I miss my Mexican friends. I take a bite of my sandwich to comfort myself. Maybe I will see them at a next workshop in Mexico City. Another voice tells me "no." Enough is enough. I need to put energy into my family and my work. At present, two months after my maternity leave, I am finally getting the hang of things at a publishing company with career opportunities.

Suddenly I look towards my right. A dark man moves slowly passed me wearing an Indian headdress and starts a conversation at a table in front of me. An incredible show-off, probably hoping to attract women wearing that headdress.

However, the calm look in his eyes and his unobstructed way of talking to the women around him contradicts my first thought about him immediately. Shortly after, the dark man slowly walks passed and gives me an open look with his kind dark brown eyes. He is a heavy built man approximately in his mid-fifties, wearing his dark strait hair in a long pony tail. As I eat my soup, I look back at him just as openly. A few minutes later the feathered headdress passes my table once again, towards the ladies, who await him longingly. I am quietly starting to become curious and begin to wonder what kind of workshop he gives. As he talks to them he looks regularly my way as if he knows me from somewhere but does not remember from where. At the same slow pace he walks back and once again we look at each other openly. I become more curious by the minute, no, I mean every second. I want, or rather, I need to know who this man is, where he comes from and especially what he is doing here. As he walks passed once more I don't think I can stand it any longer. My question "What do you teach?" pulls him towards me. The man stops abruptly and walks towards me cautiously.

"I teach people to heal themselves," he says. His voice sounds warm and sympathetic.

"Okay," is the only answer I can think of as another question pops up in my mind. But the question is not necessary as he starts talking himself. He says he is a medicine-man and with the help of drums he is capable of bringing people into a healing state "Sounds interesting," I try to encourage him, because I have always been very interested in everything concerning healing. "The rhythm of the drums produce theta-waves in the brain which activate the self-healing powers," he explains. His head turns to the right to the open door on the other end of the hall where people trickle out, to indicate where it is taking place. "Where are you from actually?" I ask him most sympathetically. I am used to turning a man inside out with questions and if you do it in a nice way it is not necessarily annoying. The man tells me he comes from North-America and he curiously asks me in turn: "Have you ever participated in Indian rituals or ceremonies?"

"You mean shamanism?," I ask. He shrugs and looks as if he is saying "give it a name you like." I stare in front of me and go into a kind of trance in an effort to dig into my memory.

I am playing for time and tell him that I have done so many things and I recollect that shamanism was also one of them. I tell him about the trance journey experiment I made, combined with the modern psychotherapeutic techniques which made me find my lost soul again, or at least part of it.

A tall, middle-aged, strawberry blond woman signals towards the Indian. She is wearing traditional North-American clothes. She is standing at a table a few yards in front of the door and gives me a friendly nod. She is surrounded by a few people. I think they would like to pay, perhaps he has the change. The dark medicine man excuses himself and walks towards her. I quickly stuff my sandwich down my throat and hope he will return as soon as possible. As he walks towards me I wash it down with lukewarm cappuccino. The Indian continues the conversation where he left off. He tells me he gives teachings in original shamanism and goes into the subject of an upcoming event. "If you are interested there is going to be a weeklong festival in July where shamans from all parts of the world exchange knowledge. There will also be healing rituals." That sounds wonderful. However, camping out for a whole week in a primitive Native American lodge, hanging around in casual clothes, standing in line for a cold shower and going to filthy bathrooms, is not for me. I look disappointed and tell him: "Too bad that's right in the middle of my vacation." He puts his hand in his pocket, rattles the coins, looks towards the strawberry blond woman and nods. He has to finish the conversation and says: "We also have a small, exclusive group of people to whom we teach more in-depth knowledge, but that is not until somewhere in September or October." Small and exclusive, that suits me much better. I eagerly ask him for more information. He writes down my address and promises to send me a flyer and hands me a yellow-brown business card with the words "Running Deer" on it and underneath in small letters Vidar, his Western name. He puts the address information in brackets, and tells me he will be moving soon. Three-quarters of an hour later I continue the Magical Passes with renewed energy and meet a kind, big man from Colorado, teddy bear-like, with whom I dance the tempestuous northern and sensible southern wind.

31 August 2004

Vidar throws the door open of his working-class house built in the thirties and located in the middle of a decent neighborhood. "Come on in," he says with a huge smile. A smile that instantly puts me on my guard. As soon as I got out of the car I smelled a stuffy cocoa scent coming from the industrial estate only a stone's throw away. I doubted whether I was at the right address because it did not seem like anyone was living here. This was due to the silence that surrounded it, and the cobwebs dangling from the door-post, but especially because of the closed curtains with a faded flower print. Reluctantly I step across the threshold. I had been looking forward to this moment for three months.

Two weeks after our meeting I still had no information, and hadn't received any flyer. Nothing. So I called him up to see what had become of it. I didn't need to introduce myself again because he knew immediately who I was. "I cannot believe you've gotten a hold of me!, he said surprised. "Why?," I asked in my turn surprisingly. He pointed out the time of day, it is two o'clock in the afternoon, and he said most people try to get a hold of him early in the morning or at the end of the afternoon.

"Oh, of course," I answered him guiltily and asked him about the flyer without beating about the bush. "It isn't finished yet, you have to be patient," he said. His friendly and natural way of making conversation immediately put me at ease and I wanted to fire a question at him but he already started himself. "I have seen many extraordinary qualities in you." "What kind of qualities?" I jumped up and pressed the phone as close to my ear as possible. He called them psychic and healing qualities and mentioned the course with the exclusive group of apprentices and roughly stated that my qualities or gifts could be enlightened in rituals and ceremonies.

This is where I needed to be.

The sun broke through, ropes were casted off, the rusty flood gates were opened and as far as I could see, I was sailing towards a new horizon. In short, I was exulting inside, even when he slightly backed out, saying "After healing your Self you might also be able to heal others." The "Self healing" sounded like an endless road, but I was not going to be discouraged. I felt a sense of recognition in everything he said and I told him that for many years now, whenever I felt pain or discomfort I would practice sending healing energy to myself. I had read many books about everything dealing with curing, healing, laying on of hands and magnetizing and had hoped silently and loudly for a day like this.

He never stopped talking and apologized for the amount of information given on the phone. "Oh, never mind," I told him immediately and encouraged him to continue and I tried to absorb all his words. He talked as if it were about a regular training program and I heard him say: "With the help of the medicine wheel you will become acquainted with your totems, your special place of knowledge and your personal medicine." My thoughts ran away with me. Somewhere in the distance I heard him say that I was going to find two rings in a dream and that is where I lost the thread. Or no, I heard him add: "At a later stage you will have visions and medicine dreams." Normally I would want to break the silence that followed, but I was speechless. I heard a sigh and felt he was starting to end the conversation. I asked if I could meet him in person without sounding too eager. He consented! Then I started to breathe again. He promised to call me after the summer holiday.

"After the holiday," turned out to be a wide notion. My patience was severely put to the test. It was not until the summer was almost over when the phone rang. Finally! A clear voice announced: "Good afternoon, this is Running Deer speaking." My heart began beating faster. I had almost given up hope. After exchanging formalities he asked if we could meet and explicitly mentioned the goal of the appointment. He literally said: "It is my task to explain to you the difference between modern and traditional shamanism." Before hanging up I asked about the price of the consultation. "Nothing at all," he answered. "It is part of my mission."

Now I hand Vidar my jacket in the hall before he opens the dividing door to the living room. He drapes my jacket neatly across a coat hanger and hangs it on the coat rack. An uncertain tension rushes through my body. I am excited and curious, but also on guard since I am with a man I do not know in unknown surroundings. Cardboard boxes are scattered all over the place and it looks as if he moved only yesterday. In the middle lies a deerskin and next to it its antlers. To the right, just passed the hallway I can see the wood timbered stair case. I look at the closed curtains behind me once more, showing only a small strip of dusk. Drawn curtains. I am worried. Is he hiding something from the neighborhood? My host walks to the kitchen just passed the stairway, excuses himself as he starts stirring in a pan on the stove. "I am cooking chai tea," he explains as he turns towards me. I feel sorry for him as I watch him make the tea so primitively. Presumably the poor Indian has no money to buy a teapot, because if you look closely he does not even have a couch. With my hand I lean on the arm rest of the chair at the head of the dinner table. The other end of the pinewood table is stacked with piles of paper, magazines, books and junk. A real male household I conclude.

I look around. The small bar in between the kitchen and the living room is also packed with stuff. "Have you just moved in?" I try not to sound too curious. I wouldn't mind knowing whether he is married and if he has children. I guess he just got a divorce and subsequently, the next question occurs to me: why? Was he banned by his wife because she was fed up with him chasing women? Prove me wrong, but I believe he is a big charmer. By the way, he does not stand a chance with me, because he is too small and too old. He mumbles something inaudible from behind the stove, sounding reserved. I better not ask any further, that would be overbearing. It is probably unusual in his culture to ask personal questions. As he stirs in the pan I observe everything in detail and look towards the backyard which is at least 15 meters long, surrounded by high trees and covered in grass which urgently needs to be mown according to Dutch standards.

A gentle breeze blows through the green branches. At the far end, right against the fencing there is a small wooden shed painted in typical Dutch style: dark green with white window frames. It looks well kept. I look back around the living room nervously. A firm hit over the head would do it if he would start to harass me. I ease my thoughts by thinking there are men who do not have an ulterior motive, but to be quite honest I have never met them, apart from my Mexican friends.

Opposite the stairway there is a burgundy-red cabinet, approximately 5 feet long, stacked with piles of paper, magazines and cd's. I walk across and read the titles. From the corner of my eye I watch my host turn down the gas and reach over to the right to get two mugs from a cupboard above the kitchen sink. I look further. On the wall above the cabinet I see a pouch with two long grey feathers sticking out and two shorter brown-white feathers. Vidar comes towards me and then stays standing next to me with his arms crossed looking like a salesman lacking interest. "That's nice," I say. "It is a spirit knife," he replies. He points at the two long grey feathers "these come from a heron, the brown ones come from a hawk and an owl, the grip was made from deer antler and the pouch from deerskin." He explains "Items of medicine like the spirit knife are made after they have been seen in a vision. The knife is used by medicine men like myself who use the deer's spirit to heal: you can cut open the ethereal body and remove the negative energy." Without stopping he continues and tells me that animals sacrifice themselves to serve humankind. "Just like the prehistoric hunters I received a vision and saw where I could meet the deer. I met him at the pre-arranged time and location and that is where the deer sacrificed himself without hesitation. I roasted the meat, after taking off his skin and his antlers," he says while pointing at the deerskin in the middle of the room. "In a following vision I met the deer once more. I was surprised to see him and asked him: 'What are you doing here, I killed you.' 'No,' he answered, 'I am not dead, I have given up my material form and passed on the knowledge of the deer medicine to help man heal.'" He explains: "Medicine men receive information about healing through visions and medicine dreams. To achieve this, ordinary dreams need to be inactivated." I nod interested but I actually do not understand how that is possible, inactivating dreams. I would rather not. I am actually glad that I have them.

I grant his invitation to take a place at the head of the table. The feeling of tension and excitement increases by the minute. I am curious to know what he has to say. Vidar reheats the tea for a few seconds before turning it off and pours the steaming tea in the mugs. I look at the kitchen sink which is packed with bottles of red wine to the left. They are trying to seduce me with their calling. I would not mind a glass of wine, it would taste good, too good actually. It would relax me immediately. To the right of the sink are many pots of vitamins and other kinds of pills and powders.

He places a mug of hot chai tea in front of me on the table and asks whether I would like a piece of apple pie. I turn down the offer even though apple pie is my favorite. My host makes himself comfortable, blows the hot vapor away from his cup with an elongated breath and asks me what brought me to the place where we met. I tell him about the Magical Passes a few kilometers down the road, the absence of a good place to lunch nearby and my desire for a nice vegetarian lunch. A huge smile appears on his face. Then he asks me what appeals to me in Castaneda's work. "Its accessibility," I call out spontaneously. But as soon as I say it, I realize that his work is far from accessible. When I read The Art of Dreaming I understood less than half of it, but I was hooked as it unleashed my imagination. Just before going off to sleep I read a few pages and as soon as I slept I was dragged into his world and received lucid conscious dreams without having to do anything. It gave me a rush, it was addictive and I wanted to read more. Automatically I read one book after another. All of them were beautiful, but they hardly had the interactive effect of The Art of Dreaming and I kept dreaming that one day I would meet a Don Juan.

I return to the subject of accessibility and philosophize: "His books display a desire to learn and show his vulnerable side." Vidar's encouraging smile stimulates me to demonstrate more of my intellectual side. "Carlos shares his fears, doubts and uncertainty which make him human, since he does not pose as a weighty spiritual apprentice, but as an ordinary human being with all his shortcomings. That is what I mean by accessibility." Vidar carefully takes the talking stick out of my hands and expresses himself cautiously: "...do you feel resistance in your life...as if you were held back?" I take some time to reflect, but in fact I could answer him with a straightforward "yes." "I feel I have great difficulties achieving anything," I say, and hope not to sound too wretched. Vidar nods understandably. You could call it resistance, I think gloomily. Dissatisfied I look back on a bumpy career. Sometimes, when I wonder what unknown power is responsible for all of this, the voice of my conscience says I have little patience, I quickly lose interest and lack stamina, I have difficulty adjusting, do not like rules and do not feel like playing up to anyone. In short, I am standing in my own way with my own resistance.

"Have you ever had the feeling you could fly away, escape?"

"Oh yes," I say eagerly "I allow my energy body, or whatever it's called, to fly away into space. I give it wings and make triple somersaults backwards and forwards, high in the sky. I think it is my way to release energy," which would explain these circus acts of my energy body.

"But why do you want to know about my resistance?"

"A human being becomes resilient through experience and the way he has been raised." He declares: "You may have become hardened as you resisted pain and disappointment or it could be that you were raised according to certain convictions which keep you from learning anything. The resistance keeps you from following the path to your eternal Self. For that reason it is imperative you get rid of your resistance."

Returning to our conversation on Carlos Castaneda he says: "You've read his books, then you must also know that Castaneda's sorcerer's tradition is also known as first rule of knowledge, coming from the Toltecs and Aztecs." I nod. "But there is also a second line," he continues. "Originally there was only one sorcerer's line, but because hunters covered great distances during the ice age, and due to the origination of land bridges, this original line split into two tribes. The second line is the North American tradition in which I have been raised," he says without hesitation.

He adds without much ceremony that we both come from the same spiritual family and that his assignment is to lead me into the teachings of the totality. The expression on my face varies from surprise to disbelief and back again. I feel like I am dreaming. Do I hear what he is saying? A deep-rooted desire tucked away somewhere becomes reality, but it seems too good to be true. He says again: "You know Castaneda's books, then you also know that sorcerers discover and train successors." Vidar takes a piece of paper and draws three lines forming a Greek Y. He points at the vertical line and says: "That is the original tribe and the two lines going up symbolize the two lines of sorcerers." Explicitly he says: "You cannot compare the two traditions because there are different teaching methods. The tradition of the first line uses fear and terror as a teaching method, whilst the tradition of the second line is the way of monumental beauty."

Without humility he goes on to say: "I am an experienced teacher and am capable of leading you towards the totality within two-and-a-half years." He releases a deep sigh: "You have no idea how much luck you have had to have met a benefactor like myself," and determines that I must have crossed his path to finish off my personal medicine wheel. I stare at him with amazement. "Your arrival is to accomplish your life's mission, to complete your personal medicine wheel. You have taken up the Way to find or become the totality. That is your spiritual goal," continuing: "As soon as you have obtained sufficient knowledge, you will meet the source of your knowledge, someone like me to bring it to an end." I sense no doubt in his voice when he says: "You are capable of crossing that finish line, recognizing yourself in your totality." I smile at him politely, but I haven't got the faintest idea where this is leading to.

"Desire is the technique to reach that goal," he continues.

Hey, hang on, "desire"? Is that what he just said? I look at him disapprovingly and wonder if he wants to have sex after all. He does not give in. Perhaps he means a different kind of desire. Without reserve he explains that beauty is a clue in finding the apprentice who will be educated to become a person of knowledge. Even though I would love to extensively wallow in his compliment I decide not to let it distract me too much. It would not be the first time I've had my judgment clouded.

As he looks down meaningful he declares: "During the past thirty years I have trained five groups of sorcerers, but I had never expected a sixth one to show up."

Do I hear compassion in his voice, are those tears in his eyes?

"You are the sixth in line and currently the only one in the group." He mumbles: "If only you knew how special our encounter is, it is a chance in a million!" and he stares at the table emotionally. I feel the urge to hug him but my distant nature holds me back. The knife is put to my throat: Tell me: is he a dangerous lunatic or is he speaking the truth. I blink my eyes nervously.

"You do not have anymore apprentices like me?"

"There is a possibility a stalker will join our group, but until then you will have to put up with me," and he gives me a kindhearted look.

There is a tense silence as if the invisible world is listening in. There is great esteem in his voice when he finally asks me: "Officially I must ask you if you are prepared to enter into the apprenticeship of the totality." My heart is in my mouth. I do not doubt for one second but I let the answer drift for a moment, not wanting to sound too eager.

I clear my throat and without sounding too formal I say: "I want to do this for myself and for my family."

He laughs. Amused.

A burst of energy shoots out of me and kisses him on the cheek. It startles me. This made me blush and I wonder if he noticed anything as he is gazing out of the window with a faint smile on his face. It looks like I have given him the go-ahead as he turns towards me and says: "You need to be in good physical condition to reach the totality."

"Good physical condition," I repeat after I have cooled down a bit, "sounds like I am going on a survival trip." Vidar smiles reserved. Outside a white cat pricks up his ears. "Whatever you will become after your training depends on your talents and your predilection, which means that your spiritual family will decide what your life's mission will be."

I am trying to catch the eye of the future but all I can see is a grey twilight zone.

With an unaltered determination he continues "You will reach the totality by dreaming."

I interrupt him immediately. "How do you know I am a dreamer? I might be a stalker." Through Castaneda's books I know that the world is divided in dreamers and stalkers, but why am I one or the other and not both? I fear he might be overlooking something valid.

"You told me how much you dream, and that's says a great deal, your dreams are ready-made." That sounds reasonable. For the brief period that I am here, I have told him about my active dream-life and the fact that I have written down all my dreams in notebooks for at least fifteen years. In the past few years I noticed their development into conscious dreams. It has given me an enormous rush to realize I could direct them and I always look forward to the next experience. I love my dreams and never want to lose them again. Shyly I tell him about the dreams that kept me busy these past years. In those dreams I am seduced by dark men, dragged to their cave where they make love to me, after which they are determined to marry me. Quite a shock when you wake up the next morning beside your own husband.

Vidar explains that there are four practices that guide the apprentice into the totality, summing up: the art of dreaming, stalking, hunting and the art of the warrior. "Gradually you will learn to master all of them, but because you are a dreamer the art of dreaming is the most important one for you. On the way to the totality you will learn to master your dreaming, which means that ordinary dreams will come to a halt and will be replaced by the dreaming of the spirit. Ordinary dreams come to a stop and disappear because they are primitive and take up too much energy . As you master your dreaming, you will have dreams of medicine and visions that guide you into the totality." He explains: "When you start dreaming, you become conscious of your dream body. The totality creates a dream body to travel from this reality," knocking on the table, "which is the first reality, into the second reality." Vidar offers me a notebook and I neatly write everything down. He quickly checks me out to see whether it all makes sense to me. I try to look as neutral as possible and then I look downwards, pretending to be aloof, because the expression on my face never lies. Besides, from experience I know I need more time to absorb all the information and this is all theory and I prefer to put things in practice.

Vidar is quite unconcerned and continues. "The Algonquin-Indians sorcerer's of old believed that the Big Bang was not an instant but a twofold event, the result of the first and subsequently the second reality." He declares "the second reality reflects the first reality," drawing a circle on a notepad with a line in the middle. "The characteristics of the totality is twofold," instructing: "The Totality consists of the first and the second reality. The first is created by the creative energy of the first reality and the second by the creative energy of the second reality." He draws another circle and places a dot in the middle. "The dot is the totality of the Self.

Your dreaming creates the first reality as well turning around your totality. With your dream body and your intention, which is the energy used to create, you will not only travel from the first into the second reality, but you will also reach the totality of the self. Creating and dreaming are one and the same and both are created by the creative energy of your intention." My teacher then tells me that both realities are created by the totality and that the totality is dreaming. "The first rule of the first reality is fixation which means that one believes that this is the only reality, but the space outside the circle represents the boundless second reality. The shamans of old discovered that to balance things out a second reality exists, a reality which is not fixed."

He grabs his mug and says: "We have fixated the mug, but through the shift of the assemblage point it changes into a very random thing." He concludes: "To reach the totality you need to stop or dismantle this reality by manipulating the assemblage point, a small shift is all that is needed."

He looks at me again. I apologize, in case he hadn't noticed it I tell him I need more time to comprehend it all. "You will learn by experience," he reassures me "and that means that you will find out what the truth is and that I am right."

A subtle nod of the head tells me that it is enough for tonight and he invites me to come back in ten days and asks me to find a stone to be used in the first dream exercise. "Take any kind of stone and study it in detail, you need to know it inside out, every line, every dent, every outline. Let your inner eye - between your eyebrows - visualize the stone," pointing with his finger to his forehead. "Aim to find the stone," he continues. "With this exercise you create your dream body, a double, an extension of yourself. You can never break away from it. With your dream body you will be able to travel into the second reality." I put my pen down. My head is spinning from the amount of information and in the meantime I am spun to and fro between what my mind shouts and my heart whispers. My mind gets the worst of it. What a night! My desire for knowledge has come true, everything is coming together. I yawn deeply and look at my watch. Midnight. Time has flown past. An uncontrollable flashback takes my mind back to the eight months prior to meeting Vidar. I get up to leave and tell him I was driven by a powerful energy, like a gust of wind pushing me forward and urging me to undertake all kinds of things but I did not really know what I was looking for. Carefully I tell him the wind stopped blowing the moment I met him, I felt at peace.

I drive back home in a state of arousal, it feels like I am in love, but quickly I put that thought aside. Impossible, he could be my father.

***
We invite you to join s on the virtual tour for The Sorcerer’s Dream by Alysa Braceau (Dreamshield). The full schedule can be seen at http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/03/sorcerers-dream . You can learn much more about Dreamshield and her work on her website – http://www.dreamshield.nl/ . The book can be ordered on Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Sorcerers-Dream-Dreamshield-Alysa-Braceau/dp/1609101561 .

Interview with a Dreamer

2010-06-16T00:01:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, I introduced you to The Sorcerer's Dream and promised you an interview with author, Alysa Braceau (Dreamshield). I hope you enjoy this as much as I did!

What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Self- conscious, dreamy, witchy, adventurous.

How do you think others would describe you?

I just asked one of my friends:

She’s exciting, funny and valuable to listen to, and nice to look at also (but the last, you can’t say about yourself ;-).

Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of your work.

Being with my 6 year old daughter, we can talk, play and laugh together quite a bit.

Do you have any pets? If so, introduce us to them.

In the winter when it’s cold and wet outside we have a mouse running through the living. Shriek.

What is your most precious memory?

I have many but if I have to choose I really come up with this one: the day I gave birth to my daughter and to finally meet her for real!

What is your most embarrassing memory?

This one is tough, which one to choose but this one pops into my mind now: When I had diner for the first time with (what I thought was) the love of my life in a nice restaurant in Amsterdam you can imagine I was very very exited. I never, ever felt more beautiful in my life and after diner, when we went from our table, I walked ahead to the exit with my head in the clouds, didn’t notice the threshold and you’ll guess, I stumbled and (almost) fell. I was very embarrassed and felt more clumsy than beautiful.

If you weren’t doing this work, what would you be doing with your life?

I would travel to the Amazon or to Africa or elsewhere to learn more from indigenous people and about the healing spirit and the power of (medicine) herbs and plants. I dreamt a lot about this, so that must be a good choice.

In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

That’s a good one), I cite this one from my book after I took magic mushrooms in a special ceremony which is presented to those who are following the teachings of Totality.

One of the features of this ceremony is experiencing an intellectual death and to let go of your fears and to be able to travel into the unknown and to reach the totality of the self and then you will discover you are the creator of your own reality:

‘My life has been scattered in a hundred thousand pieces. My life, I have complained and nagged about it so many times, but I would die to return to it. From a distance I see myself lying motionless on my right side and finally realize I am dead. I have always been curious about how it would be and now I have come this far. Now I know your spirit just continues living. From a distance I watch my past life. I had a wonderful life, but I just did not see it and what was I worrying about? The worst thing is the fact that my daughter has a future without a mother. I feel guilty. What a way to say goodbye.

I have lost my physical body, but some way or other I have the sense that my torso has been turned and my legs are somewhere behind my head and I wonder how to get it back in shape. Slowly it dawns on me that I have left the world and ended up in the second reality.

My life passes by like a circus, only now I count my blessings. Now there is nothing left but me and the extremely dull everlasting present. Only now I understand the meaning of the often heard expression ‘it doesn’t matter who you are or what you do as long as you are happy and you mean something to others.’ No matter how small. It seemed a sort of platitude and a cliché, but it is true. I look back on a life in which I was very busy, fretted about the tiniest details and lashed out at everything.’

Can you describe the time you realized you were doing the work you were meant to do?

That time was about ten years ago. I started writing as a freelancer for magazines about spiritual new age workshops and courses I followed and I felt more and more energetic doing the things I really liked (writing and developing my spiritual side).

What is going on with your work at this time?

I’m doing different things at the moment: I have a healing practice and besides that I work at a publishing company in Amsterdam (The Netherlands, Europe). And of course I write, so you can call that variety.

What are your future goals for your work?

I love to do both but finally I hope to be a more of a writer and journalist with a healing practice than working at a publishing company and combine that with writing and healing.

Why do you do this sort of work?

I try to follow my heart and my passion. And that feels good!

What other person who does this sort of work inspires you the most? Why?

People who dare to follow their heart and their gifts inspire me, despite the fact knowing that it might not always turn out the way you hope or expect.

How do you define your work?

Never a dull moment!

In one sentence—what do you want people to say about you in fifty years?

Whoa, she was good dreamer!

Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website? Blog?

My website: www.dreamshield.nl

And I just started a blog: http://dreamshield.wordpress.com

Is there a place where people can reach you?

You can send me an e-mail and my future blog will be a nice way to keep in contact.

Can you list all your titles so people can look for them?

I’ve written one book: The Sorcerers Dream and I want to write a few more books in the future because I love to write and to share my experiences.

For new people —what can they expect when they read your work?

What I hear often is that people start dreaming while reading my book and they enjoy that a lot. People find it a challenging, confrontational and exciting trip. But I have to warn you; it’s not very mainstream:)

Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a “real” writer?

I don’t know if I am a real writer, maybe I will feel like a real writer after writing another book (and another one and another one). But the feeling of being a real writer came more close when I discovered I loved to write this book and also that I want to continue it day and night (impossible of course) and that it gave me so much energy.

What are your future goals for your writing?

That my second book will be as exciting as my first book! That’s a challenge…

Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

When I once start a ‘writing project’, I really want to continue but I need to build in some stops. So I start the day (after breakfast) taking a walk in the dunes where the fresh air and the beautiful nature gives me new inspiration. When I come home I make a pot of coffee for myself and writing starts at about 10 o’clock. I take a short lunch after about three hours and continue to let’s say five o’ clock. Like I said, I prefer non-stop writing but that’s impossible and of course after dinner and after bringing my daughter to bed I usually start writing a few more hours. I just love it!.

What writer most inspires you? Why?

It’s a Dutch writer, Heleen van Royen. She is a very good and tends to bring taboo topics up just as easy and she is so very open and honest about her thoughts and feelings that it can even be confronting and therefore embarrassing to the reader.

How do you define your writing?

Accessible without the tendency of making poetry.

In one sentence—what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

It opened my heart and I became more aware.

Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers—what would you like them to know about you and your work?

My book is about my initiation into the sorcerer's world and mastering conscious dreaming. It is an exciting spiritual adventure that takes you into the magic realms of the unknown and you can read and learn more about:

Mastering conscious dreaming, dreaming practices, traveling to the unknown, dreaming and the meaning of sexual energy, the healing of your inner child and the way to reach the totality of the Self by facing and releasing your emotional, physical and spiritual blocks.

That is to say an adventure!

***

We invite you to join s on the virtual tour for The Sorcerer’s Dream by Alysa Braceau (Dreamshield). The full schedule can be seen at http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/03/sorcerers-dream . You can learn much more about Dreamshield and her work on her website – http://www.dreamshield.nl/ . The book can be ordered on Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Sorcerers-Dream-Dreamshield-Alysa-Braceau/dp/1609101561 .

SPECIAL OFFER - Every time you post a comment on any tour post - you will be entered into a drawing for a $35 Amazon gift card -- so, share your thoughts with us.

The Sorcerer’s Dream: An Initiation into the Sorcerer’s World

2010-06-15T03:56:00.000-04:00

I have hosted a lot of authors on their tours, but every so often, one comes along that really stands out. This week, I have that special type of author and book. I hope you find her as exciting as I do :-) Dreamshield (Alysa Braceau) studied social work and is a freelance journalist who writes for newspapers and magazines. She has a Healing Practice and gives workshops about the Art of Mastering Conscious Dreaming and Dream Healing. Tomorrow, I will be sharing an interview with Dreamshield. For today, let's take a look at her book.

This is the autobiographical story of a young woman bumping into the enigmatic sorcerer Running Deer and her initiation into the sorcerer’s world and mastering conscious dreaming. It takes the reader throughout the magic realms of the unknown and gives a new approach to the traditional training of women sorcerers.

The riveting autobiographical account The Sorcerer’s Dream written by Dreamshield takes the reader throughout the magic realms of the unknown and mastering conscious dreaming. This book, following the traditions of Carlos Castaneda and others, gives a new approach to the traditional training of women sorcerers.

The author describes her initiation into the surrealistic world of dreaming and magic, following the teachings of ‘Man of Knowledge’ Running Deer. In the heart of Amsterdam, a thrilling stride unfolds in obtaining the knowledge of the Second Reality on the way to the ultimate goal: finding the Totality of the Self!

The combination of unusual instructions and experiences within the sorcerer’s world and the level-headedness of a very Dutch woman offers the reader excitement and contemplation on the way to the source of this reality, finding the ultimate self through the experiences and understanding of Dreamshield herself. Up until the last page the reader remains intrigued whether Dreamshield will reach her goal.

Right by the author’s side or facing her stands the character of Running Deer. Sometimes mysterious, then challenging, strict as a guru, or vulnerable as a visitor in a foreign country. However, the precise description of these distinctive steps on the road to her initiation stand like milestones in the landscape of this unique history

We invite you to join us on the virtual tour for The Sorcerer’s Dream by Alysa Braceau (Dreamshield). The full schedule can be seen at http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/03/sorcerers-dream . You can learn much more about Dreamshield and her work on her website – http://www.dreamshield.nl/ . The book can be ordered on Amazon. .

SPECIAL OFFER - Every time you post a comment on any tour post - you will be entered into a drawing for a $35 Amazon gift card -- so, share your thoughts with us.

Glamour Girl From the Stars by Carlton Scott -- A Review

2010-06-12T02:22:00.001-04:00

PleeDee is a girl much like all those on Earth--she wants others to see her as pretty and special. PleeDee sets out on a jurney to realize a dream, but returns home having discovered the most wonderful secret of all.

I have always found the best way to judge the quality of a children's book was to take it to the intended audience, so I got a group of neighborhood kids together and read Glamour Girl From the Stars to them. I also included a couple adults. The reaction was wonderful. The kids all had some comment, whether about PleeDee or the places she visited or about the illustrations. All the comments were positive and this book did exactly what a good children's book should do--it got the audience talking and thinking. The parents gave it a thumbs up also, saying the message was one they believed can't be stressed enough in today's world.

While I had a slight problem with the way the rhyming flowed in one or two spots as I read, it did not phase the children and I would have to say it was a minor issue that did not take away from the book. This is a book I can see belonging in every elementary school classroom and anywhere else that children, especially girls, gather. I can also picture this as a daytime children's program, expanding PleeDee's adventures.

Glamour Girl From the Stars rates five colors on the Rainbow Scale!

***

For more information about this virtual book tour, please visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/13/blog-tour-carlton-scotts-glamour-girl-from-the-stars/ You can learn more about this author and purchase his books at http://www.carltonsbooks.com/index.html .

Carlton Scott Tells Why He Wrote Glamour Girl

2010-06-11T00:41:00.000-04:00

Why I Wrote This Book?

One night while I was watching the Miss Universe Pageant with my wife Annie, I felt terribly saddened that no girls from other planets were invited to this cosmic event... I thought the title was a bit misleading…That was the spark that inspired me to write Glamour Girl From The Stars on 8/8/08. After completing my artwork a few months ago, I finally published my third children’s book in May with great excitement.

Although I don’t have children of my own, I chose to write about self esteem for little girls because of hundreds of experiences I’ve had working with girls of all ages as a mental health counselor and traveling nurse. From infants, children, and older teens, I have given 110% of my time and effort caring for kids who’ve suffered from abuse, self mutilating behavior, and attempts at suicide. I’m amazed at the myriad eating disorders young girls can choose from and the teasing and grudges they can project at one another. I think little girls should be encouraged to be physically active from an early age so they won’t have to worry so much about dieting. They should feel comfortable in their own skin when they look in the mirror, no matter how they look.

After working in five children’s hospitals as a traveling nurse and cheering up sick kids with my books, I hope families with young children will join me in my goal to raise ONE MILLION DOLLARS for the Children’s Miracle Network and their nearly two hundred children’s hospitals by ordering my 3 book set from my website: www.carltonsbooks.com.

Carlton Scott RN

***
For more information about this virtual book tour, please visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/13/blog-tour-carlton-scotts-glamour-girl-from-the-stars/ You can learn more about this author and purchase his books at http://www.carltonsbooks.com/index.html .

Glamour Girl Tour

2010-06-10T06:15:00.000-04:00

It isn't often I get to hot children's books here but over the next couple of days I have a very specialgirl visiting--Glamour Girl. “After traveling to and fro across outer space’s unknown, PleeDee discovers her world is similar to our own. When little girls live up to their potential wherever they are, they’ll shine brightly with confidence no matter how near or far.”

This book was written by Carlton Scott. Carlton Scott has over fifteen years’ clinical experience as a traveling nurse (RN) with a specialty in critical care nursing and a focus on children’s health. He has worked with over 1000 children and teens in both mental health counseling and critical care nursing. Inspired by his desire to cheer up sick children, Scott has authored and illustrated three children’s books that teach kids the lessons of friendship, self-acceptance and adventure. As part of his commitment to supporting children’s health, he donates 50 percent of all profits from his books to children’s hospitals across the country.

Tomorrow, I will be sharing a guest post from Mr. Scott and later this week will be posting my review. I think you will enjoy all that is to come!

***
For more information about this virtual book tour, please visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/13/blog-tour-carlton-scotts-glamour-girl-from-the-stars/ You can learn more about this author and purchase his books at http://www.carltonsbooks.com/index.html .

Book Review: Keeping the Wolves at Bay (Media Training)

2010-06-09T04:01:00.000-04:00

Jonathan Bernstein is one of the most experienced crisis management professionals. He has shared the most important concepts of dealing with media interviews during times of crisis in Keeping the Wolves at Bay: Media Training.

This is a fairly short book, but it contains a great deal of information. Mr. Bernstein covers every part of the interview process from preparing in advance to follow up. He has included information from the reporter's point of view to help readers understand why a certain approach is necessary and he gives information on how to deal with the various approaches that may be used.

I had expected a rather dry book, considering the subject matter, but was pleasantly surprised. The book is set up with quotes, examples and many bulleted lists that help hold a reader's interest. The author used only the words needed to get his points across and doesn't include any "fluff". He doesn't make false promises that the reader will be an expert interview subject, but does say that being prepared will make you better. His honesty is a welcome element in a business that is often full of hype that declares whatever method discussed perfect. The author's willingness t6o avoid false promises further leads me to trust his advice and want to put it into practice.

While the advice in this book is focused on crisis interviews, the information can be equally valuable to anyone who is in a position where interview skills are necessary. I would have loved to have had this book available a couple of years ago -- and plan to keep it readily available for the future. The "cheat sheet" included is priceless for last-minute brush-up. This is a must have resource for all who deal with the media.

Keeping the Wolves at Bay: Media Training rates five colors on the Rainbow Scale.

***

We invite you to join us on Jonathan Bernstein’s virtual tour this summer – for much more information about the tour, the author and the book, visit - http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/04/28/keeping-wolves-bay-tour/

A look inside Keeping the Wolves at Bay (Media Training)

2010-06-08T02:39:00.000-04:00

Today I'd like to share with you an excerpt from Keeping the Wolves at Bay Media Training. Enjoy!

WHAT DO I MEAN BY ‘MEDIA’?

Excerpt from Keeping the Wolves at Bay – Media Training

By Jonathan Bernstein

Media relations, for crisis communications or traditional purposes, used to be so simple. There were three basic types of media – print, radio and TV. Each had reporters, usually people with journalism training. Deadlines were typically within what most would consider ‘normal waking hours.’

{nostalgic sigh}

Now ‘media’ doesn’t just mean traditional media, as above, but also “social media” that takes many different forms, including blogs, MySpace, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and FriendFeed. All of them featuring information – sometimes about you and/or your organization – on a 24/7 news cycle.

Additionally, the lines between print and broadcast media have completely blurred. First, all of them have websites, but on the LA Times website, for example, you’ll find video. On Fox News’ website, you’ll find print. All media sites archive their stories, sometimes for many years, so a single piece of bad news can haunt you for a long, long time. The ‘blogosphere’ can act as a repeater, and distorter, of traditional media coverage, and there’s been more than one traditional media outlet that used a blog as a source.

The demand for news is so high, and traditional media’s budget so low, that fact-checking has become a much lower priority than simply cranking out headlines. On social media, fact-checking is virtually non-existent. And yet clever social media writers and broadcasters can attract a larger following than traditional media. One relatively recent example is the hilarious and instructive ‘United Breaks Guitars’YouTube video.

To the chagrin of many naïve organizational leaders, ‘reporters’ also exists amongst their staff and visitors. In fact, YOU are a reporter. I am a reporter. Almost all of us routinely carry small devices that used to be seen only in James Bond movies, capable of recording sound, photos and video. Mine is called a Blackberry. Such devices have been used by millions of people to record news “as it happens” and transmit it immediately to favored traditional media outlets, to blogs and/or to YouTube. But also, they may well record embarrassing moments and, ‘things you wish you’d never said.’ They can also take photos of confidential material for corporate espionage or disgruntled employee revenge. The negative uses are as varied as the creativity of angry people, none of whom need much technical expertise to do you a lot of harm.

This manual focuses primarily on how to handle traditional media interviews. It will also help you learn to respond more effectively to social media negativity – and how to use social media to your advantage for crisis prevention and crisis response, which is critical to crisis management in the 21st Century, as is total awareness of ‘new media’ in all its forms.

For some related information,look at two articles you’ll find at my website:

· The I-Reporter, Born of the Web

· The Role of Search Engine Optimization in Crisis Management

[Keeping the Wolves at Bay – Media Training is available in hard copy and PDF formats at

The Crisis Manager Bookstore and in hard copy and Kindle versions at Amazon.com.]

***

We invite you to join us on Jonathan Bernstein’s virtual tour this summer – for much more information about the tour, the author and the book, visit - http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/04/28/keeping-wolves-bay-tour/ .