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Women in the Workplace: Baby, Have We Come A Long Way? 
By Lutishia Lovely

“Why can’t a woman be on top?” This is the first line in my novel  Mind Your Own Business, spoken by the daughter of a successful soul food chain. The company is expanding out west and she is competing with her older brother to head up the new location. In 2011, one might consider that a moot question. After all, we have females in all manners of high government, female presidents of major corporations, female fire fighters and police officers, doctors and EMT personnel. We’re no longer wearing aprons, pearls and heels while waiting for daddy to come home…but we’re not yet a gender-blind society either.

For instance in the workplace and regarding same-held positions, women still generally make less than men. In 1979, when the National Committee On Pay Equity was founded, women made 59.7 cents to every man’s dollar. In 1994, this total had risen to 72 cents to the dollar men received. This organization estimates that the figure is still hovering around 76-77 cents to the dollar. Now, in 2011. Can you believe that there’s still a need for the slogan “equal pay for equal work?” If you’re doing the same thing, isn’t getting the same pay a no-brainer? The reality causes me to shake my head and brings to mind one of my father’s favorite quotes, “common sense ain’t too common.”

While conducting research for the Business Trilogy (okay, translated staying glued to the Food Network, one of my favorite channels), I learned that women make up roughly ten percent of the chefs/cooks in America. For me, that was an astonishing figure. How is it that when it comes to home cooking women rule the proverbial roost but when it comes to cooking as a career, as a money maker, it’s a man’s world? Do you find this as interesting, and somewhat disturbing, as I do? If you are a chef or a cook in the industry, do you have an explanation?

One of the joys in writing the above-quoted character, named Bianca Livingston, was the ability to portray a smart, strong, successful woman who knew what she wanted and wasn’t afraid to go after it. Who could hold her own in the boardroom, and roll with the big boys. When I recently read this line during an internet radio show, it was met with knowing chuckles. Some readers assumed Bianca wanted to be on top in the bedroom. Knowing Bianca, these readers are probably right but taking this question from the boardroom to the bedroom would be a whole other discussion! Maybe next time… ::smile::


About the Author
Lutishia Lovely is the award-winning, best-selling author of sixteen novels. The Business Trilogy, her latest work, combines two of her passions: writing and food. This series (All Up In My Business, Mind Your Own Business and Taking Care Of Business) centers around the Livingstons, owners of a soul food dynasty called Taste Of Soul—where sizzling scandal and delicious drama are always on the menu. Find out more about this series and Lutishia at her website: www.LutishiaLovely.com.  And please sign up for her newsletter, where readers are treated to contests, updates, excerpts from upcoming novels, contests and more!.


Shop for all of Lutishia Lovely's books, here.
http://www.amazon.com/Lutishia-Lovely/e/B001IOH5F0 

 


Become Yourself by Electa Rome Parks 

“Ordinary, brown braided woman with big legs and full lips, become yourself.”

Wow! The first time I heard Phylicia Rashad’s character speak those words with her gravely, powerful voice that demands attention, speaking straight, no chaser, from her soul. . . from a place of knowing, from a spiritual realm in the For Colored Girls trailer. I literally experienced chills up and down my spine as if they were saying, pay attention. This is a lesson in life. I was speechless, mesmerized and empowered to action. Two little words. Become yourself.

Tyler Perry brings Ntozake Shange's seminal work For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf to the big screen and changes lives. 

Become yourself.
I have been trying to accomplish that task my entire life. You hear me, my whole life. That has become my subconscious quest and divine mission. Only in recent years has it become my mantra, repeating it over, again and again in my head. I embrace it with a depth and passion as my own.

I desire to be the best mother, wife, sister, daughter, aunt, friend. . . person. . . that I can be.  I owe it to myself and I owe it to those around me, the ones I touch with my spirit on my path to discovery and wisdom.

 Become yourself.
Something supernatural screams directly to my soul, with a mind of its own, challenging me to make a difference. 
A positive difference. Life is too precious to live and pass through in the blink of any eye, and nothing has changed. That is simply not acceptable. You were simply a blink when you should have been a bang. The world should be a better place simply because you were here.

Words, especially robust, passionate ones spoken from a place of wisdom, a place of knowing. . . words that speak to strength and coming into one’s rightful self. . . they wrap me cocoon-like in colorful, vibrant silks as they caress my mental palette and stroke my very soul with the possibilities. Something primal, from generations after generations gone by, remembers who I am suppose to be. And I embrace it because I recognize its power.

 Become yourself.
I want to embrace my essence, live up to my fullest potential and beyond. Each year of my life, I’m changing, growing, and evolving. That’s a good thing. I’ve come to realize there is power in my words. They touch people. They make people feel. My words incite emotion. A higher power has lovingly bestowed that gift upon me and I gladly accept it and all the responsibilities that go with it. Find yourself so that you can become.

 Become yourself.
What a beautiful world we would live in if we all did as much. We could create a world of miracles and harmony. 
A utopia. Yes, such simple words, but oh, how powerful upon closer examination, scrutiny and understanding.

I have a glorious destiny to live out, so do you. Become the beautiful spirit you were meant to be. . . you don’t have to be extraordinary, you can be ordinary, brown-braided. . . simply look within.

 Become Yourself.

 
Electa Rome Parks lives outside Atlanta, Georgia and is the best-selling author of 
six acclaimed novels, The Ties That Bind, Loose Ends, Almost Doesn't Count, Ladies' Night Out, These Are My Confessions (anthology) and Diary of a Stalker. Dubbed a "book club favorite," avid readers have embraced Electa's true to life characters that tackle prevalent and heavy hitting issues that take them on an emotional roller coaster. 

The self-proclaimed Queen of Real, Electa has been a frequent guest on radio shows, nominated for many industry awards and interviewed by numerous newspapers and national magazines. Electa is currently following her passion and working on her next novel and first screenplay.


Check out the new release:  
True Confessions by Electa Rome Parks
ISBN-13: 978-1601622396 
Purchase from Amazon.com
 

 

Taking Lemons and Making…Lemon Ice Box Pie! 
By Lutishia Lovely

I don’t know about you, but memories of food punctuate much of my childhood and in fact, my life. Untold hours of bonding occurred while my mom was fixing a meal or, even more delectable, a dessert!  I’d be asked to measure a cup of this, or a teaspoon of that, to check the item in the oven and determine whether or not it was ready to come out.  During these times spent together in a warm and aromatically amazing kitchen, I developed a respect for food, a love of cooking, and a wonderfully close relationship with Mama! 

Do you have a particular food or dessert that elicits a wonderful childhood memory? Or does your family have a favorite dish that encapsulates who you are, or epitomizes your taste buds? For me, there are several dishes, but one would absolutely have to be the lemon ice box pie. If anyone is having a birthday, or if it’s a holiday, or if there is any type of celebration in my family, the hands-down dessert request for my mama to prepare was, and continues to be, a lemon icebox pie.

There’s something you need to understand. It’s not so much the ingredients of this relatively simple, yet absolutely succulent dish that makes it special. It’s the love that goes into its preparation. If you try and skimp with the recipe, using prepared graham cracker crust, for instance, or imitation lemon juice instead of fresh squeezed, the results won’t be the same.  But if you follow the recipe below, the one that I requested and then typed (pretty much) verbatim from the letter my mother sent me…then you’ll not only taste a dessert that is delicious, but you’ll feel a whole lotta love!

Lemon Ice Box Pie

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

1 Box Honey Graham crackers, crushed to make the crust, finely crushed, and add ¾ cup butter along with 1 ½ T. sugar. Form in pan. Normal for one 9-inch pie crust, takes two packages (of graham crackers from the box).

1 can condensed milk
½ c., plus 1T fresh lemon juice
3 egg yolks, and the zest of 1 lemon
Save the 3 egg whites for topping

(Mix the above ingredients together, and pour into the pie pan lined with graham cracker crust.)

Beat the 3 egg whites  until stiff,  gradually adding 2 T. sugar.  Creating a meringue for the topping. Spread meringue over lemon/milk/yolk mixture.  

Place pie into the oven, leaving in only until the meringue has a nice, toasty look on top. Transfer pie from the oven to the refrigerator, leaving it there for two-three hours or until filling is firm.

Slice and enjoy!!!


About the Author
Lutishia Lovely is the award-winning, best-selling author of sixteen novels. The Business Trilogy, her latest work, combines two of her passions: writing and food. This series (All Up In My Business, Mind Your Own Business and Taking Care Of Business) centers around the Livingstons, owners of a soul food dynasty called Taste Of Soul—where sizzling scandal and delicious drama are always on the menu. Find out more about this series and Lutishia at her website: www.LutishiaLovely.com.  And please sign up for her newsletter, where readers are treated to contests, updates, excerpts from upcoming novels, contests and more!

 
Purchase Mind Your Own Business by Lutishia Lovely  
• ISBN-10: 0758265794
• ISBN-13: 9780758265791



Love Your Body:  Forgive Your "Self" 
By Laura M. Turner, M.Sc. CNHP

This may sound a bit odd coming from me, but I believe that regardless of what you eat - how many times each week you exercise or what particular diet you decide to try - if you do not have your inner life in order, it will be difficult to be at peace with yourself and your body.

In discussing ways to love your body, therefore, it is important to look at ways we can have peace with ourselves. Moreover, in this article, we will discuss an idea you may not have considered: forgiveness.

The Past Is The Past, Let It Go:
The most important process we can undertake for our health and well being is to make a conscious effort not to leave negative energy embedded in the past. In effort to move into present time, and be at one with our own body, it becomes essential to let go of all the hurts and struggles that have led us to this moment. There is only one road to this state of oneness, however: The act of letting go.

As it turns out, I'm not the only one who stands by the belief system of releasing the past in effort to improve the health of our minds, as well as our body and spirit. Carolyn Myss in her healing lecture series: Why People Don't Heal, makes the claim that forgiveness is the #1 way to move forward in health. And she can back it up. She has used the healing process of letting go to transform people from near death to glowing health. With this in mind then, ask yourself: Is there anyone or anything from my past which prevents me from moving forward? Said differently: is there something in your past that's holding you back?

Learn To Forgive Others, The Process:
This brings us to the next step in our progress of releasing the past: learning to forgive others. Keep in mind, most often others say and do things as a result of how they are feeling about themselves. In most cases, whether they are aware of it or not, unhealthy individuals inflict their wounds upon us to salve their own pain. This can no longer affect us if we make a full effort to do as Don Miguel Ruiz says in his book The Four Agreements, and "not take things personally." When we do take things personally, we really could gather up a lifetime of emotional baggage.

As it pertains to body image and self-esteem, however, is there anyone you need to forgive? Has someone knowingly or unknowingly inflicted a negative body view onto you? Here's my personal example: When I was in high school, I had a "friend" who was popular, pretty and blonde. As an introvert and troubled youth, I took everything most personally. Imagine my emotional baggage when any time I would so much as mention my interest in a particular boy, she'd make sure she would go out of her way to get his interest.

Needless to say our friendship wasn't long term. And later I learned she was living in an unstable home. Yet, when I was younger, her actions just plain hurt my feelings and gave me a negative self image. Now I realize my insecurities at the time were my wounds to heal, and once I'd forgiven her and not taken her actions personally, I could move forward without holding on to past insecurity.

Learn To Live In the Present, An Exercise:
When we can learn to let go of the past and live fully in the present, we are also growing. After all, how could we grow if we have negative energy lodged in the past? Moreover, there are many other active ways to learn to live in the present. Begin the process by taking a current inventory of your body. I like to do this by using my journal (you do have a journal, don't you?)


Here's how it works:

Take a scan of your body. First take body part by body part and make a note of what you are happy about. Ask yourself: What do I love about me? At first this may seem awkward, but I cannot stress the importance of taking time to spend time with your self and learning to know "you."

After you've noted all the positive aspects of your self, make note of those parts you'd like to change.  Keep in mind your boundaries - are these changes within your control? If so, make notes to yourself as to how you may go about making a change for the better. If changes are out of your control - take time every day to consciously send love to those parts of your body. When ever possible, tell your mind that you accept your body and your self for who you are, right now.

When you've finished, take a look at your list. What can you do right now that would make you love a part of yourself?  Consider this your permission slip:  Today take time to do something good for yourself. Better yet, walk to the phone right now and make an appointment to do something for your self. My favorite self-love activities?  Here's a couple suggestions.  Ladies: A manicure or pedicure? Gentlemen: A massage?

Today, take time to focus on all of your positive qualities. Make an effort to forgive the past and move into the present moment.  Prepare to grow!

Journal Entries:
Make note: What do I love about myself?
What can I do for myself this week that is "just for me"?


About the Author
Laura M. Turner, M.Sc., CNHP is an author, journalist and wellness mentor specializing in natural anti-aging practices and nutritional medicine. Visit her online at www.beauty-and-body.com  and subscribe to the BodyTalk eZine - www.bodytalkezine.com.  While you're there learn how to get her new eBook Retro-Aging and enroll in her "Take Charge Of Your Health" eCourse FREE, as well as improve your health with Nature's Healing Treasures: www.beauty-and-body.com/youngliving.  

 


10 Tips To Making Lasting Changes In Your Life
By Farah Risoen 

Rising Light Coaching & Inspirations 

If you are going through midlife changes, life transitions, or just want to take your life to the next level; here are 10 simple tips to making lasting changes and start living your best life:

1. Make a Commitment - Commit yourself 100% to the change you want to make or create, and make the change a MUST. That means no more excuses!! Step up and do whatever it takes!

2. Be Specific - Make sure you are very specific, exact and clear about the change you want to make or create. The more concrete your goal, objective or intention, the easier it is to achieve it.

For example, if you're 150 lbs and want to lose 20 lbs;  instead of saying:  "I want to lose 20 lbs" or  "I want to lose weight", say:  "I intend to weight 130 lbs in three months, releasing 1.5 - 2 lbs each week."

3. Focus on Solutions - Again! No more excuses. Let go of what you can't do... Instead focus on the solutions and what you CAN do! For example, if you want to exercise, but you keep saying to yourself: "I don't have time to go to the gym or work out"; then STOP saying that, and make the time!

Come up with 2-3 possible solutions and options like getting up an hour earlier, or ridding your bike to work...

One of my clients used to get up at 4:30 in the morning to be at the gym by 5:00. At the time, this was the only time she could fit into her schedule to work out, and since she had already made a commitment to herself (and me!), she just did it!

4. Schedule it - Schedule your action items into your day! When you schedule things, they actually happen! So if you want to get up earlier to go to the gym, then schedule your workout time. My client used to get up at 4:30 am, be at the gym by 5:00am, workout until about 7:00am, get home, shower, get ready and be at work by 9:00â?¼! Remember... When you schedule things, they become part of your routine!

5. Do it Everyday - Create a daily practice. The more you make you what you want part of your daily life, the faster you'll get in the habit of just doing it. For example, if you want to live a more healthy and active lifestyle, then do a little something each day: Go for a walk during your lunch; take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible, or substitute green vegetables for bread or white rice at dinner.

6. Find a Role Mode - Look around you and find someone who is already made the change you want to make or create! If you want to lose weight, make more money, start a business, be more kind, patient, forgiving, grateful or determine, study people you know who are already successful and embody those qualities.

7. Notice What's Working - As you go through your day, pay attention to what's working by keeping a journal. Research shows that when we keep track of our progress in writing, we tend to do better. So monitor your actions, behaviors and thoughts! Continue doing the things that work, and let go of the things that don't!

8. Teach What You're Learning To Someone Else - One of the best ways to really strengthen a new habit, is to teach it to someone else! Become a mentor and always walk your talk!

9. Take It One Conscious Choice At A Time - Making or creating a change can feel overwhelming! The trick to go through it making one conscious choice at a time! The reality is our lives are made up of our minute by minute choices and decisions. When we bring our choices to consciousness we are in control and in our power. If you're having one of those days, and about to do something that's unsupportive of your commitment; then make your choice consciously. For examples:

• I can either eat this piece of cake for lunch, or go get a salad instead
• I can either sleep in, or get up right now and go workout
• I can either get angry with this person, or find out all the fact and come up with a solution
• I can either distract myself by reading emails, or finish this project

Remember you have a choice in any given moment. Make choices that will give you long term gratification vs. short term!

10. Be Loving To Yourself - Practice being loving and kind towards yourself. You may have some great days... But you also may have some not so great days! If you mess up, fall off the wagon, or have a temporary setback, remind yourself that you are only human and are doing your best! Be very gentle and kind to yourself when you face challenges, and move forward by focusing on your smallest wins and successes!

With much respect and appreciation
Farah Risoen

To learn more, visit Rising Light Coaching & Inspiration at: http://www.RisingLightCoaching.com  or email me at farahr@risinglight.com. Article Source.  

 

 



Signs That Say, He Doesn’t Want You!
by Kendall Banks

Most of us have seen the movie, “He’s Just Not That Into You.” It’s a great eye-opener and so true. Normally, after sex the signs are even greater. Take heed folks…the writing is on the wall. If you’re with a guy and you make eye contact, yet his eyes are following someone else, that’s a sign. If a guy tells you that he’s decided to go celibate after having relations with you, then there’s another sign. So there’s no confusion., let’s start at the beginning.

Step #1- So you’ve given up the cookies on the first night, and you think you might have a chance at a real relationship.

Step #2- He dates you a few more times, but then the visits become less frequent. Now he’s spending less than 10 percent of his time with you, mostly after 9pm. Let’s be clear; if a guy likes you, then he’s going to spend as much time as he possibly can in your presence. 

Step #3- Now he’s sending you to voicemail regularly. Wow! This is a biggie…he doesn’t really want to hear your voice, no matter what seductive touch you’ve concocted. 

Step #4- Out of the blue he tells you, “ I think you and my boy might gel a lil’ better than me and you.” The ultimate let down! He’s handing you off to a friend? There’s nowhere to go from here!

Step #5- He deletes you as a friend on Facebook, and finally changes his number. 

It’s officially over! Move forward...


About the Author
Kendall Banks, author of bestselling author of Rich Girls (2009) and the soon to be released One Night Stand (February 2011), is offering the reader a glimpse at the consequences of cheating. In addition, after reading One Night Stand you’ll realize that sleeping with someone you don’t really know can have a life changing effect. Check out excerpts from her books on the publisher's website at: www.lifechangingbooks.net. 

One Night Stand by Kendall Banks
ISBN-10: 193423026X 
ISBN-13: 978-1934230268 
Purchase today at LCB, Go. http://www.lifechangingbooks.net 
Purchase today at Amazon  http://www.amazon.com/One-Night-Stand-Kendall-Banks/dp/193423026X

 


Dirty Divorces: Homewreckers or Survivors
by Miss KP

What do you think of people who go into a relationship with a married person, hoping for a future divorce? Are they victims or monsters? Should they expect a committed relationship from the cheater?

Imagine a sexy, well dressed guy wooing you from the start. He meets your family and your kids, impresses your best friend, and tells you all the things you’ve always wanted to hear. A dream comes true. Soon, he’s spending all his time with you, at your beck and call, causing you to put the rest of the world on pause. 

Months later, or even a year…imagine the day the he proposes. “Aweeee, so sweet,” I’m sure most are saying right now. Now Stop! Imagine this…you find out he’s married, maybe even with kids. But he tells you, “No worries. I’m leaving my wife. She knows I’m in love with you.”

Like an idiot, you smile. “Okay.” Witlessly, you think you’ve won a prize. You brag to your friends. “So what he’s married, he doesn’t love her anymore. And he’s getting a divorce!” Like the trophy girlfriend you stand by your man and let love take its course.

The love triangle continues and finally his Dirty Divorce is over. Unfortunately, your drama is just beginning. Three months into the new relationship you’re up to bat. You just got dogged, even caught him red-handed yourself. “Aweeeee no,” most of you are probably saying right now. 

Why would any female think that if a man is willing to break his vows with one woman then he wouldn’t with the next one? Marriage is sacred and should be honored by every living person. However, nowadays people divorce, and switch up mates just as they do sports teams. Why aren’t we in it for the long haul? And whatever happened to respect for someone else’s marriage? 

Yes, things happen, some more hurtful than others. Surely some situations can be forgiven; but not all. Let’s chat about this today. Give me your thoughts on the following situations. What about your mate being out on a dinner date with someone else, is this cheating? How would you rate a secret phone call or sexually explicit text message? Does a nude photo on your mate’s phone point toward cheating? What about catching your spouse in bed with someone else? Ask yourself, would you take your man back? Or would you run downtown and file papers?

In some instances these are just normal folks who aren’t perfect and who got lost in not taking care of themselves and their marriage. And some; are just plain foul, disrespecting the institution of marriage. They live for Dirty Divorces. 


Community Discussion:
What's your thoughts on cheating, settling, man-sharing and divorce? What do you think of people who go into a relationship with a married person, hoping for a future divorce? Are they victims or monsters? Should they expect a committed relationship from the cheater?

Check out The Dirty Divorce 1 and 2 written by Miss KP at Life Changing Books 


About the Author
Miss KP began writing in high school as an outlet to express her emotions as a teenager. She would write poetry and has even written unpublished songs. However, after feeling as if she had much more to say, she decided to purchase a laptop and began working on her first novel, which we now know as Dirty Divorce, Part 1.

Just months after a good friend introduced her to publisher, Azarel; Miss KP’s dreams came true. She became a published author with the Life Changing Books (L.C.B) family with a #1 hit behind her name. Along with being an author, Miss KP works in the fashion industry as a Merchandise Manager in prominent department store. 

A native Washingtonian, Miss KP currently resides in Maryland with her eight year old daughter, and is awaiting the release of her second and most anticipated novel of 2010, The Dirty Divorce- Part 2, ISBN-10: 1934230774. For more information on Miss KP or her books, visit her website at: http://www.misskp.com. 



Cheaters Never Win 
by Carla S. Pennington, author of The Available Wife

He swept you off your feet when the two of you first laid eyes on each other. The conversation at this unexpected meeting assured you that you’d see him again and again. You do. You become “available” to him. You’re on cloud nine and after a few dates and sexual rendezvous, you’re sure that he’s the one. Wait a minute! You’re married with kids! This is not a concern to you at this point. You continue your affair. 

You begin making plans to seal the deal, but in the months or even year(s) that you’ve “been” with him, not once has he spoken the words that you long to hear. “I Love You.” Why do you think this is? You fret the answer, but he doesn’t love you. You try to convince yourself that his actions speak louder than the actual words. The more time you spend together, you find yourself needing to hear them. So, you begin doing everything imaginable and even unimaginable to make him do so. Sad, but true. You don’t know anything about this man, but you’re willing to give up everything for him. Is he? 

Most women marry believing that nothing in the world will ever change how they feel about their husband until Mr. Irresistible comes along and changes her mind. Marriages in our society today do not seem to mean nearly as much as they used to in the past. It is so easy to give in to temptation than to fight it. One thing that marriages are lacking is communication. It is the primary reason that marriages fail. Okay, you feel that this new “fling” is giving you everything you ever wanted and needed. What if your spouse can do the same? Have you taken the time to express your wants or needs to him? What about his feelings? What about your kids? Are you truly willing to give up everything that you built with your family for someone you don’t know? For someone who isn’t really trying to get to know you? For someone who only wants you for…one thing? Think about it. 

Selfish is defined as: concerned chiefly or only with yourself and your advantage to the exclusion of others. Adulterers are selfish and greedy. While they’re thinking about only themselves, consequences are building up. When the affair finally hits the fan, what will they gain? The lover will flee and leave the adulterer holding the bag. Now, you’ve lost everything: husband, kids, home, friends, family and in the some extreme cases…your life. 

Instead of being unfaithful, tell your spouse why you are unhappy. Communication is the key in all marriages/relationships. If your issues or concerns can’t be resolved then take extra measures; counseling. There are many options and paths to take before you ruin your marriage by cheating. Think before you act. You’re not the only one that will be affected. 


Discussion:
What are your thoughts on this subject? Have you experienced betrayal in a relationship? What advice would you give someone who is going through a divorce?

Available today on Amazon Online 
Order The Available Wife today!
Paperback: 264 pages 
ISBN-10: 1934230170 
ISBN-13: 978-1934230176 


Meet Author Carla S. Pennington
Carla S. Pennington was born and raised in Prichard, Alabama where she continues to reside with her family. In 1996, Carla was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Over the years, the disease has halted her, but she refuses to let it stop her. She is currently working on a number of other projects that she plans to have published in the near future.  In 2002, she received her Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in journalism from Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama. After graduation, Carla decided not to pursue her career in journalism. Her heart and mind were elsewhere. She wanted to write fiction novels and short stories, something that she had been doing since she was a young girl.  In 2005, Carla published her first novel, Fling and from there several short stories which appeared in anthologies across the country. Finally, she landed a book deal with Life Changing Books which released the wildly anticipated novel, the Available Wife in January 2011. Readers can reach Carla S. Pennington on FaceBook and Twitter as: carlapennington. Email address: carlapennington@hotmail.com 

 

 

A New Born Dad 
 by author Alfred Steven Harris

It was quiet in the room. The sun, closing on the day, was sending her warmth and comfortable colors through the Venetian blinds. Bewitching, charming and divine, soft in its touch, enchanting like a rainbow...my eyes danced with the colors as they turned...and I knew that twilight would soon have his due.

It was peaceful!

I was surprised at the calm; distant was the rough activity of the world outside, it seemed to be a complete absence of noise, of agitation, even of stress. Which was surprising to me under the circumstances, but I was enjoying this ambience. The bedroom door was closed, which was atypical because we were the only ones in the house, but somehow it did seem more private.

When I heard the toilet flush, my heart quickened, which made me chuckle, why? I'm not sure, but I do know that was when thoughts of my age came to mind. Algebraic equations flowed across the blackboard of my mind. Arithmetic answering my questions about five years from now, even ten... then eighteen.  Ahhh eighteen, all the years before it are just preparation for that year. Then the board was wiped with a mental eraser and other numbers flowed, representing the needs of what might be coming out of that bathroom, from the first day of confirmation, things have to be brought, and I'm not sure if it ever stops. I know that it gets increasingly more as the years go by....

That's when my hands starting getting sweaty; although the room was cool, I could feel the circulating air blowing from the vents. Again, my heart quickened as I looked at the bathroom door. Was that doubt that knocked!

Just an instant! Then I thought of her!

Her, with her warm smile and her quirky ways, her laugh that sounds so musical... it made me wonder what she was feeling right now. Did she enjoy any of the peacefulness that I was enjoying just moments ago, somehow I doubted that she experiencing that, she probably was wondering about how I was feeling. That would be just like her, to wonder how I was feeling...

With that, doubt...was knocked down for the count!

When the bathroom door opened, it squeaked on its hinges and I made a mental note to spray some W-D 40 on it, another strange thing to think about at a time like this. She didn't come through like I thought she would, instead she called out my name, she had to call me twice while I found my voice to answer. My life could possibly change within the next few moments...

"Yes Honey..." I said.

She said something about coming into the bathroom.

Well, I fumbled with my feet and made my way to the bathroom. It was bright when I stepped inside there; I looked back briefly, to the quietude. The impression of my thoughts still sitting in the pattern I left on the bed.

I looked into her eyes but didn't see any answer....

Gee, thanks baby... but I didn't say that!

I looked down on the sink counter and viewed the pen shaped medical apparatus...

There was a plus sign.

"Honey," she started. "You're a New Born Dad!"

Joy! That's what I felt, and when I reached for her hand, I felt her joy too!

"I'm a New Born Dad!"


Written by Alfred Steven Harris, Author of 'Don't Push Me' and 'On-line Love'
All rights reserved. Copyright April 2010;  Email author: aplussolo@yahoo.com


Kissing the Day 
by Alfred Steven Harris

The sun was kissing the day, laying its yellow lips on the skyline. She had told her white, fluffy, and flurry little friends to scram, they weren't needed today. She wanted the sky to be clear and blue and was determined to hold on to this day, for an amazing thing had happened. True love was born, she knew it was love, they knew it too, and everyone that was witness to it... knew it too, what they didn't know was that it would last....forever!

So the Sun, to the annoyance and exasperation of the powers that be, was refusing to let caliginous have his due. You see many, many years ago it was agreed upon that both would share the world, but this day was different...

There is so much bad in the world that today the Sun, beaming in all her glory, wanted the world to remember, to commemorate the improbability of the growth of a new love, born out of the apprehension and trepidation from all the horror stories one usually hears from this source, this love was born!

These two had met on the Internet! 

Twilight once again winked at the horizon, but the sun just turned orange, from yellow, in her determination. She shined her light on the lakes so that her glow would shimmer across the waters, those on the docks were astounded that the sun sat so long. Children, who dared to skip rocks, were delighted. 

She peeped between city buildings casting effulgence and warmth, even cheer to those who would accept it.

'Just a little longer' she whispered to Darkness, knowing that he, contrary to popular belief, could be kind and gentle, providing things like secrecy and ambiance. He, too, would understand the importance of true friendship, which could, and in this case would, lead to True Love...and with True Love, comes True Peace...and our world needs that!

Then the two people broke their kiss, but not their embrace, and Sunshine was able to bless them with her warmth upon their faces, she watched them both smile, accepting, lost in their own, but joined thoughts. Sunshine settled in and lowered herself below the junction of earth and sky; she was witnessing happiness and decided that she would bless the world with her face again tomorrow.

There is so much good in the world...why do we only advertise the bad!


Written by Alfred Steven Harris, Author of 'Don't Push Me' and 'On-line Love'
All rights reserved. Copyright April 2010; Email author: aplussolo@yahoo.com 





Author Sharon R. Wells Draws on Her Past 
to Create a Resource Guide for Sexual Abuse Victims

Last year was a landmark year for Sharon R. Wells. One year ago she created a business called Angel Wings Publications, LLC, and a website designed to empower and educate victims who suffer a wide range of repercussions resulting from sexual abuse. 

Today she celebrates the one-year anniversary of her organization at the same time that she anticipates the publication of her first book, "Without Permission." "Without Permission" is a candidly-written story of the many problems Wells has suffered, all of them the result of the sexual abuse she experienced as a child. 

Book and Website Helps Victims, Friends and Families Struggling
 with the Effects of Sexual Abuse 

The mission of her website and her book is both simple and critically important - to build the awareness that can help prevent sexual abuse in the future. 

"I decided to open up and tell my story in the hopes that it may help spare others the pain of sexual abuse," Wells stated. "I have had the opportunity to speak at a few panel discussions. I look forward to other such speaking engagements in the future. My most important goal is to encourage victims to break their silence and begin to heal. I also hope to educate and inform people so that they may recognize the various signs of potential abuse and hopefully prevent other children from becoming victims too." 

She has published her introduction along with the first chapter of "Without Permission" on her website as a free resource to people needing help. For people who wish to know her entire story, the book will soon be available at www.angelwingspublications.com  for $15. 

"It is my fondest hope that 'Without Permission' will inform people about the effects of sexual abuse and encourages sexual abuse survivors to heal," said Wells. "I also believe my website can be a wonderful resource for victims and the people who love them. If my book and website can make a difference in just one person's life, then it will all be worth it." 

Further information about Sharon R. Wells, her website and "Without Permission" is available online at http://www.angelwingspublications.com  


Sharon R. Wells, is a writer, entrepreneur, survivor and advocate of sexual abuse prevention and awareness. It has been her determination, unwavering faith and perseverance that has helped her to overcome many challenging obstacles in her life. She has written heartfelt, spiritual and inspirational essays during her healing journey. This has inspired her to create Angel Wings Publications, LLC, to help victims find strength, hope and courage to begin their healing process. 

Sharon presently works as an executive liaison for a prestigious fortune five hundred company located in New York City. Over the past few years, she has achieved a certification in Human Resource Management and is also a certified rape crisis advocate. 

Book Excerpt: Without Permission A Spiritual Journey of Healing
http://www.angelwingspublications.com/?page=news&id=977 

"Without Permission" is my personal story of how I have survived child sexual abuse and my journey towards healing, forgiveness and finding inner-peace. 

As I look back at the turbulence in my life which stemmed from sexual abuse, it lead me down a path of self-destructive behavior. It included drug abuse, relationship and trust issues with family and friends. Not to mention, the long list of typical effects that this particular type of abuse tends to spawn. 

In addition, are stories of courageous survivors who share their stories on how they have overcome their trauma and began to heal. The stories of victims may differ in various ways, but the root of the problem is still the same. I share these thoughts with those who seek comfort and closure. This problem can torment the victim from childhood throughout their adult lives. This is a sensitive issue, and for those who have been affected, this may open a door where you find courage to seek help and support. This is an issue that must be addressed, and up until now, has had a lack of exposure. It is time to unveil the secrets without shame or fear, and trust that God will help you find inner peace.

Angel Wings Publications, LLC
Sharon R. Wells, Author & Founder
P.O. Box 96 
Vauxhall, NJ 07088
sharon@angelwingspublications.com  

 

Lifestyle Hot Topic
Consequences by Linda R. Herman


Look at me, take a long, hard stare.

I'm the face of HIV. I represent every woman 25-34 who has died or is dying from AIDS. AIDS is the leading cause of death in African American women in this age group.

So, LOOK at me!

Do you think I'm ready to die? I'm not ready. I don't want to leave my children, family, and friends. LOOK at me!

Can you honestly tell me we can't change the statistics by raising awareness? Can we not see the Consequences of our actions? Oh God, is anybody even listening to me? LOOK at me!

Now, take a long hard look at yourself and answer this question: What am I going to do today to raise awareness of HIV & AIDS?

HIV in the African American community: AIDS is the leading cause of death in African American women 25-34 years of age. Take a stand, make a difference, and eradicate the spread of HIV. Consequences is now available on Amazon Kindle.


Consequences by Linda R. Herman
It all begins with the look; that initial contact when the eyes speak loud and clear as to what the body craves. Deep, wet, passionate kisses leading to mind blowing orgasms that leaves the body trembling much like a leaf on a tree on the windiest of days. Sex. It's meant to be a beautiful bond, a physically satisfying act between two people, but when not engaged in responsibly, sex can turn ugly, deadly even. 

Andre Peters, a man who has it all; the perfect wife and family, and the job of his dreams. From the outside looking in, one would have to ask, What more could he ask for? What he didn't ask for was his secret desires for the same sex; those desires that occasionally lead him astray from his marital vows. But Andre doesn't consider himself gay or bi. He still loves sex with his wife; it's just every now and again that he craves something different, pleasure he can only find in the arms of another man. His failure to be honest with his lovers of both genders; his failure to engage in safe sex; his denial of his sexual preference; and his desire to straddle the fence-sleeping with both women and men-leads to a domino effect, destroying lives one HIV infection after another. In Consequences, readers are taken on a journey into the lives of a down-low husband, his wife, his lovers, and a cast of others who are affected, whether directly or indirectly, by the HIV virus. The story is fiction but the reality of HIV is fact, and the reality is that each year there are thousands of new cases diagnosed-most of those new cases being women of color and minority. It has to end; and it has to end where it begins-with each one of us. 
 
Linda R. Herman, Co-Founder of Authors Supporting Authors
Website: http://www.lindarherman.org  
ISBN-10: 0981809405



Fashion Mantra For Plus Size Women 
By George Lyle Walker

Size doesn't matter. Slim, tall, short and yes plus sized big beautiful women can also turn heads and attract people. We have seen a few turn around in celebs like delta burke, they have not just broken the jinx that plus sized women can't look glamorous, also have become the style mantra of how to carry yourself whatever your size be. Some people have rewritten the primitive rules that black is the key to cover your flab's. The trick is just about choosing the right colors and supporting accessories.

You might have the common thumb rule that dark colors help you hide the flab; however covering yourself in outfits of the same shade isn't a good idea. The effort is to camouflage one area of your body which spoils the whole show. So the trick is not just about colors it is also about the lines. Vertical is the key the big buttons vertically stacked on your jacket, beads hanging around the longest length that you can carry and anything that shows the flow vertically on you would help you trick it. The best is about choosing what makes you most comfortable.

Flaunt the colors that you think help you pep up your mood.  Also don't forget to add they key elements that we discussed earlier, yes don't forget to add a necklace, a scarf or even a big tie. Gone are the days when loud colors were thought as the best friends of big size.

Another common sin that we big sized people do is to jump into sizes that aren't ours. Squeezing yourself into something that doesn't fits would always end up in a bad show. Don't wear that jeans which is tight, it would not just make you uneasy also would showcase the butt which you always wanted to hide. So stop yourself from picking up that isn't meant for you. Shops have realized that there exists demand for plus sizes and they do stock it. Ask them and they would help you find your right size.

The most common critics are your friends and family. Some are brutally honest to give their opinion and some just give out for the sake of it (at times just to cut short the discussion they just say what you like to hear) Avoid such people. Pick the ones who are true in their thoughts.

If jewelry is what you love then follow the same rule of size, pick the ones that justify your size. Yes, big bracelets and bangles, neck pieces that flow long on you. Also avoid washing off the thought that big is bad. It is not a thing to be embarrassed about. It's the same way of the size zero think of them. Your size is what you are so the sooner you accept it and work towards the tricks we taught you today, the better you would feel about yourself. You are beautiful in your own unique way.

As I always say friends are in search of big beautiful hearts and souls. Your external looks would only help others judge about you from a distance. Remember the last time you saw your friend in her pajama, just out of bed, no makeup and bad hair. You still loved her as much as you would have when she looked at her best.

Get the friends who value you for what you are as a person. Install your beauty as a belief in yourself. Pick the right friends, follow the right rules and above all listen to your heart.

About the Author
George Walker has been writing articles for nearly 3 years. Come visit his latest website over at Queen Air Mattress which helps people find the best Portable Air Mattress products.  Article Source  


Intimate Conversation with Rick Spann

Rick Spann’s background as a youth growing up in Detroit, MI, as well as his experience as a military officer, civic leader, business owner, entrepreneur, and local political candidate has fueled his passion for Black America and its respective role within society. As a result, he has spent years studying the Black experience not only in the United States, but abroad. This knowledge is now being voiced through various platforms, and his message is about achieving social, political and economic and spiritual vitality in the black community. Spann is the author of Man-Up: A Plan for the Organizational and Spiritual Retooling of Black America. 

Ella:  Introduce us to Man-Up: A Plan for the Organizational and Spiritual Retooling of Black America.
This book not only talks about the issues, but provides us with solutions to help us to overcome the plight within our communities. This book showcases issues like The Willie Lynch Syndrome – and how we allow people to engrain in our community the spirit of division, and cause us to perpetuate a slavery mentality for 300-400 years. We, as black Americans, are so caught up in the physical that we teach this and reemphasize this to the next generation. As a result we are not able to enter into social or economic debate and then develop a strategic solution to overcome our internal challenges. Man-Up addresses the symptom of blacks fleeing the black community just to receive spiritual and emotional support elsewhere. This book challenges us to take a look at this and other issues, and break the cycle and have a strategic system where we breed success stories from cradle to grave.

Ella:   What inspired you to write this book, Man-Up?
I have always had a sense of community about me. As I looked around, I could see the inequities within our communities compared to other communities. Our leaders, the media and others have constantly bashed black communities and the lack involvement of black men. I felt that it was time to start giving back through teaching our people to accept responsibility, forgive, and move forward. 

I felt it was time that a book be written that gives a how-to as oppose to a what’s wrong with us approach to addressing the political, social, economic and spiritual ills of the black community. Man-Up is about mankind, black Americans’ position in the scheme of the creation. It’s not about racial divide or prejudice. It’s about all men are created equal and all men’s responsibility to do the best they can do the greater good of all mankind. It gives a spiritual road map for the healing that must occur and the forgiveness that must occur before blacks as a people can transcend a carnal existence to the spiritual existence, and cohabitants of this world and worlds to come.

Ella:  What was your primary quest in publishing this book?
My primary quest is to get a national organization that will take a unified strategic approach to identifying and solving the problems I the black community. I hope to help to stop all the finger pointing, good or bad, by the blacks who rise about their circumstances and turn around and point a finger at other blacks less fortunate and accuse them of being lazy, crazy, etc. Some of our wealthy and educated blacks blame everything on education or the lack thereof. I know our success hinges on more than just education or starting and succeeding at business, etc. It requires a community of interdependence and global participation.

Ella:  What issues in today's society have you addressed in the book?
I have addressed issues ranging from economics to poverty to politics. I talk about education, relationships, religion and community. I’ve tried to address all relevant issues that impact the black community and suggest a plan to alleviate and overcome the problems that we collectively face.

Ella:   Who should read your book, Man-Up, and why?
First and foremost it is targeted toward the black community. It’s a how-to self-help book of developing strategies and subsequent plans to solve the social, political, economic and spiritual problems that are currently inhibiting the advancement of the black race, and fulfilling our God-given purpose.

Ella:  What impact will this book have on the community?
It will begin to teach us as a people to organize, educate and train our people to achieve objectives based on our short-term and strategic goals in order to create economic viability in our community and become active participants in the global exchange. I apply some of my life’s experiences in the book and intertwine a character of Little Johnny to portray the future generations, what they are up against, and what we need to do to provide them with generational wealth as it relates to social, political, economic and spiritual wholeness and viability.

Ella:   Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp and share?
Yes, the message is that we are responsible to no one but GOD and that we must know, understand and follow the universal laws (e.g., Law of Attraction) to achieve and maintain success in this world. If we don’t apply these laws then we allow ourselves to be enslaved by default…virtually asking others to rule over and exploit us.

Ella:  What was the most powerful chapter or scene in the book for you?
Move Mo-Fo because it teaches us to devise a plan to overcome our current unpleasant condition for a more favorable one. Simply, it is up to us to Move Mo-Fo if we find ourselves being taken advantage of.

Ella:   Do you write full time? Describe your writing schedule for our readers.
No, I don’t write full time. In fact, I have a three-year old, Rico, and I write when my son is asleep, mostly at night or early in the morning before everyone gets up.

Ella:  What does your family think of your writing? 
For the most part they are supportive. They have always encouraged me to write especially when I engaged them in philosophical discussions. Rather than listen to me for hours they always suggest just write it down.

Ella:   What is the best piece of advice you would give to an aspiring author?
I would simply tell them to write as much and as often as they felt in the mood. I’d tell them to not to worry about editing and grammar initially. I believe it is better to put your thoughts on paper or computer and fix later.

Ella:   Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases. 
I received recognition for Man-Up voted in the Top 100 Books of 2009 by Conversations Live. The Associated Press release for this recognition went out in November 2009. The theme of the show will be “The Year that was 2009.” 

I can be followed on Facebook and Twitter sites, and my website at  www.rickyspann.com  You can also email me directly at my website. Man-Up: A Plan for the Organizational and Spiritual Retooling of Black America can be ordered at www.iuniverse.com  or www.amazon.com.  Website: www.rickyspann.com 


 


Intimate Conversation with Minnie Estelle Miller

Minnie Estelle Miller presently resides in Chicago, Illinois, USA. She retired in 1999 from her last job with the Office of the Mayor of San Francisco, California as special assistant to his press secretary. For forty years, home was anywhere she hung her hat: London, Paris, Jamaica and many cities in the United States. 

Ella:  If  your book is non-fiction, what led you to create this book now?
A: “Lucien: Prince of Darkness” is adult fiction in the vampire genre. I’ve been writing vampire stories since publishing “Catharsis” in 2003.

Ella:  Tell us a little about your main characters. Who was your favorite? 
A: Vampire Lucien is my favorite and Christina next. Both have strengths and weaknesses. Lucien proclaims to be the Prince of Darkness and is building an empire. He is a young upstart at five-hundred-years-old, yet vows to dethrone two-thousand-year-old Ebliss and take over his coven. Lucien’s weakness is Christina. She is mortal, an independent businesswoman, divorced, and loves the charming, tall, handsome Lucien, before learning that he is immortal.

Ella:   What inspired you to write this story, Lucien: Prince of Darkness? 
A: I love writing about vampires and am happy to see the genre becoming so popular. I became addicted reading Anne Rice’s novels about the vampire Lestat. Mind you, African American writers have numerous books out about vampires. A couple of examples are Octavia Butler’s Fledgling, and L.A. Banks’ The Vampire Huntress Legends—her twelve books were very popular long before “Twilight” hit TV.

Ella:  What issues in today's society have you addressed in the book?
A: Several issues are addressed: banking fraud, insider trading, looking into the future, and the need to protect the innocent. Imagine a vampire keeping on eye on Wall Street on behalf of Main Street. Who better to keep Wall Street under surveillance? I received this “what if” idea watching the banking industry bottom-out in 2008-09.

Ella:  Who did you write this book for? Why?
A: I wanted to write this book to give readers another view of the genre. Readers of horror and vampires books are loyal fans, and the genre is hot. It’s so fun to write “what if” using today’s events.

Ella:  Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?
A: I would like readers to be more aware of our (mankind’s) world, to step outside of their comfort zone, their community, even. The world is merging. An excellent example was the election of an African American male as President of the United States. Much of the votes came from young adults and seniors. That tells me something. We can look back, but only to remember where we came from. Our young people want us to move forward. You may ask what does that have to do with “Vampire Lucien?” I want readers (and writers) to understand that it’s okay to write outside of the box, entertaining even.

Ella: What was the most powerful chapter or scene in the book for you?
A: Please forgive me for bragging, I love this. It’s part of Chapter Nine.

“Temptation taunted him many nights.

“Moonlight reflected on the vast, dark blue ocean, but Lucien’s mood was darker. He paced the California beach, hands clasped behind his back, head bent, gazing at each grain of sand. He was alone in that particular section. He spoke to the wind. “Yes, my darling, your laughter touches my heart.” He stopped cold, planted both feet hard into the sand, and rolled his shoulders. “No!  This will never do. I am the Vampire Lucien! Besides, my heart was preserved centuries ago. So what is it about this woman? Yes, I need her. Yes, I love her. I feel a love never before experienced. Me,” he said, pounding his chest, “a vampire! If she accepts me as I am, there’s no limit to my love. I know, I know, I’m being selfish. She has to understand...er...there I go again, being selfish. But I can give her the world if she accepts me. No mortal can say that. I must see her again. It’s almost like craving human blood and hers is the biggest gift. I can die without human blood and accept death, but I cannot die without love. I must plan. Discipline is essential. My approach must be flawless. I cannot, must not lose her.” Lucien stopped and sighed. His patience was wearing thin. Acting out of character amused him just so long. It was time to get back to his world, to get serious or move on. “I miss my châteaux in Bordeaux; need to spend some time at home.” He smiled at the thought. “She’ll love it. It’s perfect surroundings for my wife. Yes, Christina will be my wife."


Ella:  Do you write full time? Describe your writing schedule for our readers.
A: I write full time—I’m retired—and my schedule is whenever I feel like writing. I can sit for 4 or 5 hours on the computer, and then my back becomes painful. As an older person, I need my rest, but I have been up past midnight with this baby. Please understand, living alone has its advantages as well as drawbacks. Sometimes I feel my characters’ presence—strong characters have a tendency to visit. I don’t mind Lucien stopping by, but don’t want him to stay too long.

Ella:   What is the best piece of advice you would give to an aspiring author?
A: Other than the usual write and read constantly; write what captures your passion; it is important to listen to your peers; and listen carefully to the bad and the good of their journeys. When you get to the professional edits, and you must, take your time doing your re-writes. Know your genre, find that market and target it. Take pride in your work, and don’t let it out of your hands until you feel you’ve done your very best. And those are just the basics, there’s more, much more. I’m not the ultimate authority on literature; Stephen King is not the ultimate authority either. I believe history will judge us all.

Ella:   Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases. 
A: I have many projects pending. “Lucien: Prince of Darkness” is a spin-off from “Forever, My Love,” an Amazon Short. The novel is under contract with NTD Publishers for an early 2010 release as an eBook and paperback later. People can keep up with its progress through my web site.

"Reconstructing Emily" is my contribution to Ménage-à-20, an eBook of short stories due out before the end of the year. Sorry, the book cover is not ready yet. It promotes writings by 20 members of Goodreads, “On Fiction Writing,” many from different countries. The e-book will be given away as a free download from every blog and web site we can muster, to paraphrase Carlos J. Cortes, the father of the project. He has put tremendous energy and determination into our baby and I’m honored to be a contributor. I’ll announce the happy birth on my web site at http://www.millerscribs.com 

Information about my work can be found at http://www.millerscribs.com  and I can be contact me at minnie247@sbcglobal.net ;  visit my blog at: http://www.msprissy-dreamweaver.blogspot.com  

Minnie Estelle Miller, Marvelously Mature Author and Essayist

 

Intimate Conversation with Sean Gardner

Sean Gardner is a freelance writer, who after dabbling with writing in college, decided to take his love for the written word to the next level. His first published work was a piece on sexism & rap. Since then, he’s gone onto other projects, including his new novel, Excess Baggage. He is currently working on his second manuscript and his first screenplay.

Mr. Gardner is also a strong believer in the importance of civic contribution, having worked previously with such organizations as the Watts Health Foundation and Mother’s Against Drunk Driving. Gardner holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Ethnic Studies from UC Santa Barbara. He was born in Baltimore and has also lived in Atlanta and New Jersey. He now lives in Southern CA, when not “living” on the road.

Ella:  Introduce us to your new book, Excess Baggage the Novel.
After conquering the Big Apple, Tara Stevens, successful record executive, returns to Los Angeles to take a bigger title, bigger office and bigger paycheck. Her homecoming gives her a chance to reconnect with the “village” that reared her and to reunite with high school sweetheart, Dorian Daniels, a promising advertising director. Their courtship is a tale of conflicting schedules and egos. When the appearance of a mysterious outsider from the past forces them to re-evaluate their priorities, Dorian seeks the counsel of his best friend, Christian James, with whom he has nearly everything in common. The ambitious attorney bears his own cross. Having witnessed the death of his mother, Christian fights to mask the void left behind by this tragedy.

Ella:  What specific situation or revelation prompted you to write your book?
I’ve always been a pretty good story-teller. At the end of my tales, which usually ended in laughter, people would tell me that I should write a book. It seemed like the thing to do, especially since the dating experiences of my friends and family (particularly my sisters) were too juicy to keep to myself. There was a lot of rich material there. Thus, Excess Baggage was born.

Thanks in large part to my parents, my sibling and I fell in love with the spoken word at a very young age. I’m fascinated by the power of words to move people, to change lives and to inspire. I also believe that the best lessons learned are those told through a story. That’s why I love storytelling and storytellers.


Ella:  Who did you write this book for? Why?
I write for men & women that want to improve the quality of their lives by improving the quality of their personal relationships. I want everyone to be wealthy in all the things money can’t buy—love, laughter and longevity. This novel is “edutainment” (education and entertainment) for everyone. It is perfect for people that like a little mystery to go along with their romance.

Ella:  What impact will Excess Baggage the novel have on the community?
At its core, this is a story about redemption and the power of releasing past personal issues that might weigh us down. I think if we all buy into this idea, the world is a better place. We will become more tolerate of one another’s individual uniqueness. We will heal the relationships that are more important in our personal lives. And we will grow in our love for one another. All of these are good things.



Ella:  Tell us a little about your main characters. Who was your favorite? Why?
There are four main characters. The story revolves around the lives of two couples: Dorian & Tara; and Christian & Nona. Dorian and Christian are long-term friends that share a common childhood tragedy. Dorian is the pretty boy/playa’ of the group. He leaves a lot of dates in his wake. Christian considers himself to be an “enlightened brotha” and defines himself through his career as an attorney. Nona is a nurse, who serves as a caretaker to others, but does not take very good care of her own needs. She’s really stuck on past love. Tara is my favorite character among this quartet because her evolution travels the farthest. When the reader first meets her, she wears this tough exterior. It’s partly because she has this very powerful corporate position, but it is also due to her mistrust of men. As her layers are peeled back, we glimpse the reasons for her complicated make-up. At the same time, her character is forced to re-evaluate her life and her idea of happiness. The journey she takes is both engaging and entertaining. It is very much like the experience a lot of us have.

Ella:  Are your characters from Excess Baggage the novel a portrayal of real people?
They are a composite of people I’ve known or come into contact with. Over time, though, these characters took on lives of their own so that they became “real” to me.

 Ella:  What issues in today’s society have you addressed in the book?
I heard a pastor once say that nearly all of our problems we have are based on some past experience that we struggle to get over and/or let go. The more I thought about this, the more profound the idea became. So, that’s why I call my stories “edutainment” because I wanted people to know that we come to the table with “issues”. It’s just a question or whether we can carry our own “baggage” or if we need a porter. We also have to be willing to explore the virtue of forgiveness, if we are going to ultimately be happy. 

Ella:  Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp and share?
As you’re seeking that one person that God created just for you, keep in mind that He didn’t promise that this person was going to be perfect. And that’s okay too. Love is definitely a contact sport. A famous comedian hinted at this when he recommended that “you find someone who’s as (screwed) up as you are and be happy!

Ella:  What was the most powerful chapter or scene in the book for you?
There is a scene where one of the lead female characters talks about a life-altering heartbreak and its aftermath. She goes to such extremes to rid her life of any reminders of this man, that she nearly destroys herself. It is a powerful scene. I’ve been told that some readers have cried during this part of the book.

Ella:   What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
I’m a big sports fan, so I love participating & watching football and basketball. I also really enjoy comedy, music and skating. And, of course, I love reading.

Ella:   What sets your book apart from other books in your genre?
One of the most unique aspects of the book is the cover. The woman “juggling” emotional concerns, while the men in her life wait to give her more issues to take on is a metaphor that a lot of women can relate to. It is very common for nurturers to take on the issues of those they care about in their lives. The power of this imagery resonates with a lot of people.

Ella:   What does your family think of your writing?
Many are surprised by my artistic side. They’re coming around slowly but surely.

Ella:   What is the best piece of advice you would give an inspiring author?
The world is waiting for your voice, so don’t give up. Write! Write! Write! And after that, write some mo’!

Ella:   Share with us your online contact information. 
You can reach me at  www.excessbaggagethenovel.com . Be on the look out for my next novel, Hi Speed Connection, in April 2010. 



 

 

Intimate Conversation with Rhonda Herring Dent

Rhonda was born and raised in Goldsboro, N.C.  She currently lives and works in Northern Virginia. She is a Senior Program Analyst for the Department of Defense (DOD) and has worked for DOD for more than 22 years.  She holds a BS Degree in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting and a Master’s degree in Public Administration.  She declares that she is a program analyst by day and an author by night. Rhonda is a Streaming Faith guest columnist for 2010 providing monthly devotionals and editorials for a over 600K internet population.

She is married to Timothy and have three children and two step children.   They have a dog name Teddy who is 10 years old. Rhonda started writing at a very young age.  She feels that she inherited her passion and ability to write from her mother who sometimes wrote articles  for their home town newspaper.  She also gives tribute to the many great books she has read over the years.  After finishing graduate school and as her children were getting older, she began to type her memoirs during her free time from a couple of journals she maintained some years ago.  As she did, a story began to unfold before her, thus leading her to write Ever Changing.  

She is adamant about where her direction and guidance came from and hopes that everyone who reads this book will not focus on the painful places, but focus on God and how He took her from childhood to adulthood to purpose.   

Ella:  Introduce us to your book, Ever Changing.
The theme of Ever Changing is the Serenity Prayer and what a difference it made in a life. Ever Changing is a different kind of love story. Not just about relationships with family, spouses, children, but a love story about my inability to feel love from others. It seemed every since I was a child my inability to feel the love of others was always driving me to seek love in all the wrong places. 

Ever Changing starts at the beginning of a life that seemed so insignificant by circumstances. A single mother raising her children presses to instill morals and values, strength and courage in them. As the story unfolds the child who seemed less likely to succeed and faced the most adversity took a stand and changed the course of her life. Plagued with a lazy eye and 2 eye surgeries at 10 years old that did not fully correct the problem, an absentee father and becoming a mother at 18 years of age, her life and destiny seemed bleak. As an adult she carries you through the senseless act of greed that resulted in the death of her beloved brother and the illness that led to the death of her younger sister, the issue in her marriage that lead to a dysfunctional home life, a divorce, literally homeless at one point, uneducated and seemingly hopeless. Through the adversity she cultivates a deeper relationship with God as the prayer she memorized as a little girl resonates in her. 

Through her trials and tribulations she learns the true meaning of the prayer. She realizes that she has spent countless years trying to change the one thing she absolutely cannot change. In her triumph she went to undergraduate and then graduate school. This landed her a position with the Department of Defense in the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Walk with her as she experiences the death of co-workers and friends and comes to grips with the tragic events of that day. Experience the course of events that were pivotal in her Christian walk and how the life that seemed so painful actually led her to find the true meaning of life, love and success. How God took her ashes and turned them into something beautiful. How she learned the true meaning of the prayer that was instilled in her as a little girl and how it sustained her through her trials and tribulations. She finds the courage to change the things she can and the “wisdom” to know the difference. Therefore, as she reflects on her past she realizes her future. A God centered future that embraces her as she dares to make a difference. 

Ella:  What specific situation or revelation prompted you to write your book? 
I have always loved to read and write and thought at some point I should write magazine articles, etc. I began to write in a journal in 1992. I was compelled to write down my thoughts and experiences. I kept several diaries as a child and always wrote in them, although I do not know where my childhood diaries are today. In the beginning I had no idea what I was going to write. I just had the desire to write, so I began to write about my issues and to communicate with God. I had a vision of “Change” several years prior to starting my journal. I had no idea what it meant but I understood that at some point in time God was going to use me to promote change. 

At the time I did not relate my journal entries to my vision. When I finished graduate school I began to get restless after about a month. In my family we are not folks who sit around idle. We have to much restless energy for that. Nor do I watch a tremendous amount of television. I was in school in one capacity or the other for countless years, raising children and working a full time job. With the extra time I decided to type my memoirs on my computer. As I typed my memoirs things from my childhood and past began to come to my mind. I typed those memories as well. I often woke up in the middle of the night and wrote down my thoughts on the pad I kept on my night stand. As I typed, a story began to unfold before me. After I realized the correlation of my writing to my vision I realized that this book was being birthed. It took approximately 2 years to compile and complete this manuscript. It is only in God’s strength that I could complete such an amazing work of art. I prayed continuously about exposing the intimate details of my life and each time I got confirmation to press on.

Ella:  What do you think makes your book different from others on the same subject? 
I have read so many wonderful books on the same subject. The difference is that the story is one of the boldest testimonies ever written. It actually gives a bold account of spiritual development and maturity and the struggles that come along with growth. Not to many of us like change but we really need to embrace it and realize that change provides opportunity for growth and development. Ever changing will compel people to seek change in their own personal lives. It is a step by step account to finding and developing the most important relationship any one could ever have. It will motivate any one to look within and search the very core of their being to find purpose. Most of all it is the intimate details of my relationship with God and how he sustained me even at my weakest moments. I like to call my book a trilogy, a set of three literary or dramatic works related in subject or theme. Ever changing is definitely a different kind of love story. 

Ella:  Give us a detailed profile of the one primary type of person you want to reach with your book. What are some of their specific needs or problems that need answers? 
The profile of the one primary type of person I would like to reach is the person who does not quite understand what or why they are going through the things/changes that they are going through. Their specific need or problems are healing, motivation, faith, acceptance, forgiveness, understanding and the need to embrace the inevitable and the need to understand the importance of change and how it affects our relationship with God. Also, to look high beyond any circumstances and have the blessed assurance that God will work everything according to His Will. They will learn to ask God for His Will to be done and not seek their own personal desires.

Ella:  How will they benefit in a practical way from reading your book (how will their life change)? 
Ever changing is the ultimate life changing reading experience. It is a bold testimonial of the journey toward Purpose. It is a bold testimonial of change and a road map that leads to the growth and maturity. The benefit is to hear the story of how one woman submitted herself under God’s Will and how He sustained here even in her darkest moments. Another benefit is that the reader will follow the true interaction between God and one of His Children with no underlining motive. Ever changing was birthed out of a personal journal and no other guidance but to continue to write. Amazingly enough a story was being revealed unbeknownst to the author that it would one day, years later would be the core of her first book.

Rhonda, how can the readers reach you online and read more about you?
My website is: www.e-rhonda.net  and email address is everchanging@e-rhonda.net  I am currently promoting my book by doing speaking engagements. I am an inspirational speaker bringing my message of hope, healing and reconciliation to hurting souls, 2010 guest columnist providing 2 editorials and 1 devotional each month to StreamingFaith.com, maintain an active website and Blog page EC Blog) and have done numerous book signings, radio interviews for 2009. I am currently planning my 2010 itinerary to speak at churches, do book signings and do radio interviews, telephone and/or personally appear at book club discussions and am currently coordinating a city to city book tour in MA, VA and D.C and much more.

To receive an autographed copy of Ever Changing please order from www.e-rhonda.net  Ever Changing is also on www.amazon.com and featured on www.gazelle-press.com  Coming soon to a book store near you! 

Rhonda Herring Dent: www.e-rhonda.net 



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