ivywriter
Kellea Tibbs, who writes and posts under the pen name "ivywriter", is a recognized Writer, Poet, Educator, Entrepreneur, Opinionated, Cultural Critic, Woman, Daughter, Friend, AKA, and lover of social media!
- lifestyle30 - my 30 & over perspective
- march thirty one - poetry
- grown up creativity
- the cook(book)ing school
- my twitter stream - follow me
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Posts
- May 11, 13
Recently, I signed up to walk with a group called Girl Trek (www.girltrek.org) and they have a website where you can
track your walks. I am logging in my minutes from the whole week, 180. I admit, I’m not good at tracking the daily walks because I get busy but I am walking. I actually started jogging in between my walking on the treadmill and it’s not as hard as I thought it would be. My goal is to start walking early in the morning. I work on a college campus and there are lots of good walking paths there so this will help and I’m looking forward to getting it in this summer.
#the30andOverProject
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- May 06, 13
Okay, so because I’m determined to manage my weight loss and take it to
great heights this summer, I have finally decided on a program I want to follow. Since turning 40 in March, I have noticed that my metabolism is super low which is not good if you want to lose weight. I need my metabolism to cooperate and so far, no matter what I do, it’s not being a friend to me. I have been researching and reading about many types of programs but most of them seemed too hard to follow or you needed to buy to many specialty items to get the job done. Because I’m trying to stay on a budget while I lose weight, I thought I was at my wit’s end.
By fate, I just happened to be sitting at home on Friday, May 3, watching one of my favorite shows, Dr. Oz (I’m normally at work when he’s on). Dr. Oz featured Dr. Caroline Apovian, the creator of The Overnight Diet, http://www.overnightdiet.org/ and I was hooked. And I know it sounds too good to be true and I was skeptical, but really, the diet is just real food and exercise with lots of science behind it. I like that at the beginning of the book, Dr. Apovian says, “I’m not a cardiologist, or a family physician, or an emergency room doctor who dabbles in weight management on the side. I’m an obesity medicine physician, which means I specialize in weight loss”. I love this statement because she keeps it real with you and this is her life’s work and it tells me it’s not just a fad. And I’m normally not a fan of e-books (I love real books), but I will tell you, I have never downloaded a book so quickly, than I did The Overnight Diet because I’m determined! (by the way, it’s only $10.55 on Amazon Kindle – and I don’t own a Kindle but I use their Kindle Cloud Reader online – it comes in handy!)
I’m starting with the recommended one-day cleanse/fast. Normally, I’m not good at anything that requires me to not eat, but I said, since this is for one day, what the heck. The smoothie recipes are good too and easy to make. I started with the Banana Latte. As a person who hates bananas, I will say, it’s quite tasty. Plus it has coffee in it and that’s certainly a plus. The true test for me will be lunch time because I’m usually starving by that time.
After the one-day cleanse, you are allowed to eat a myriad of food items that are not limiting and in fact, are foods we probably already eat daily. The only difference is that you must eat all of the recommended daily amounts of: proteins, lean carbs (including fiber, grains, etc., fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, lots of water, and the best….wine! It doesn’t get any better than that for me!
So, with all of that said, I’m hoping, praying that I can keep up with this plan. I’ve been working out and I need this type of plan to help put me over the top and get me in better shape this summer. Wish me luck!
thanks for reading lifestyle30!
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
Related articles
- MED Prof’s Overnight Diet: “Fast, Permanent” Weight Loss (bu.edu)
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- Apr 20, 13
I walked 3 miles in an MS Walk today for the MS Ohio Buckeye Chapter. It was a great experience and very easy to
do. This has inspired me to seek more events like this to participate in so that I can do fundraising for my community but also stay in shape. I also walked around at an International Fest to round out my exercise for the day. A long nap was in order after all of that. Zzzzz……
join www.girltrek.org
thanks for reading lifestyle30
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
- Apr 09, 13
Someone posted a question on My Fitness Pal (www.myfitnesspal.com) that asked, “Why does everyone listen to Dr. Oz?”
The comments varied from nice to very harsh but here’s my take on it:
Dr. Oz is the truth!
I love Dr. Oz. I think that what he does is make getting healthy more personable and a reachable goal for people. He makes medicine (particularly preventable medicine, normal and real for those of us who are not MDs.) And yes, because Oprah told us to, but like Oprah, he appeals to women, in particular, and provides practical advice on how to stay healthy and he helps answer questions about fads, etc and really calls people on the carpet if their “quick slim” product seems too good to be true. Dr. Oz makes what seem like complex medical mysteries, more understandable for the layperson. I like him and just about everything he talks about is interesting. Plus, he has some very cool guest stars and he makes healthy living fun.
#Fitness2013
thanks for reading Lifestyle30
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
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- Mar 10, 13
I’m so glad I ran across GirlTrek.org and their social movement for fitness! It’s the perfect concept for me and I really
think it will help me on my quest to become more physically fit in 2013. As a GirlTrek.org Team Leader (Team: Athens Trekking For Change), I have been inspired to also encourage others to get fit and to focus on how we all can be a catalyst for change for our community. When GirlTrek.org asked me “What It Means To You?” I said the following:
For me, Girl Trek means focusing on community and having the type of impact on the Black community (students, faculty, staff, and other communities of color) where I currently live, it means working hard to reach my personal goals with a support team that consists of family and friends, and it means turning 40 on the path to health and wellness! Girl Trek is such a creative way to bring women together and a unique catalyst for social change. The Tribute to Harriett allows Women’s History Month to mean so much more than just history facts and figures, but gives the month purpose.
Join The Movement: www.girltrek.org and on Twitter at @GirlTrek
Thank you for reading my blog and follow me and my fitness journey on Twitter: @ivywriter
- Mar 06, 13
Reblogged from Sisterhood Agenda:
GirlTrek Registers 13,000 to Walk in Honor of Harriet Tubman:
Nonprofit Organization Makes Huge Impact on Black Women's HealthThousands of women and girls throughout the country will be walking in solidarity for 100 minutes, in their own neighborhoods, and at their own pace on Sunday, March 10, 2013 starting at 4:30 p.m. (EST) as a moving tribute honoring Harriet Tubman.
I LOVE THIS! - Mar 02, 13
So, in an effort to keep my workout routine fresh and exciting, I want to revisit a couple of videos that would normally be considered club songs. When I used to live in the MD/DC area, my friends and I used to go out dancing in the clubs almost every weekend. This, in turn, kept me very fit. Line dancing is so fun but most people don’t realize that it gives you such a workout. Cupid Shuffle is one of those club banger workout songs that I love. Also, because Mrs. Obama started the “Let’s Move” Campaign, Beyonce also got on the team a few years ago and did a remix of her “Get Me Body” club banger and changed the lyrics and called it “Move Your Body” to get kids (and adults) moving around.
Since it is now March and I’m on a mission to lose lots of weight before my 40th birthday at the end of the month, I have decided to kick it into gear and incorporate these two club bangers into my daily routine. It’s not a game and to me This is a Serious Matter (Skeewee!). I encourage you to use them too because they are so fun to dance to, it’s almost like you are not working out!
“Move Your Body” by Beyonce
Cupid Shuffle (Official Music Video)
Related articles
- #WeAre40: my fitness chronicles (lifestyle30.wordpress.com)
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- Outdoor Workout Ideas – Get the Most Out of Your Workout Outdoors (massageenvy.com)
- First lady announces website to help kids exercise (eschoolnews.com)
- #WeAre40: Roe v. Wade turns 40 – January 22, 1973 (lifestyle30.wordpress.com)
- #WeAre40: fun facts for those of us born in 1973 (lifestyle30.wordpress.com)
- Jillian Michaels’s Best Workout Beauty Tips (dailyglow.com)
- Feb 23, 13
I learned three things at the gym today: 1) If you get there early, it’s pretty much empty so you have free reign of the equipment, 2) the elliptical machine is a B*tch (used the stand up machine for the first time today for 5 minutes – that was enough), and 3) if you choose the “Random” workout option on the treadmill, you burn more calories than if you only choose the fat burn workout.
Follow me on Twitter: @ivywriter
If you are turning 40 this year, share your story here and use #weare40
- Feb 13, 13
I have spent most of my professional life working on college campuses and I have seen my share of
English: McKeldin Library, on the campus of the University of Maryland, College Park. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
interesting situations from crime, drugs, students with mental health issues, sexual assaults, virus outbreaks, campus shooters, and the list goes on. Recently, I heard about a shooting at University of Maryland, one of my former employers, we also recently had an alleged “shooter” in the campus vicinity at my current employer, Ohio University, which all brought back memories of a campus shooter when I was on campus as an undergraduate at Kent State University back in the 1990s, before campus alerts, text messages, and social media chatter.
See the story about the recent shootings at University of Maryland using the link below, then read my commentary.
Shootings in College Park were the latest of several recent crimes near U-Md. campus
All of this just brought into mind some of my observations about what I think the state of campus crime is today and what I think the solutions are:
As a former professional on staff in the residence halls at UMD, I would say that a combination of things need to happen. 1) Students need to understand that they are in somewhat of an urban environment, and UMD’s proximity to DC makes that all the more evident, Keep in mind, all a criminal has to do is hop on Route 1 and head into DC or go north towards Baltimore and disappear quickly 2) Students need to exercise safety and precautions just as much as the UMPD need to watch for crime more. Students have to be proactive in the process, stop being so lax and trusting with people you meet (you can’t party with everyone) and be more cautious about what you are sharing with people in person and on social media and be more proactive about looking out for your neighbors and friends, lock your doors, check the bathrooms, be safe about getting in your cars, put your money in a wallet, ladies carry a purse, keep your ID and keys in the same location so you can get them quickly (stop losing things), make sure your backpacks are secure, etc. 3) I’ve always said those campus “checkpoints” were not as secure as they appear especially when you only check people coming on to campus (and that’s only cars) and you don’t check cars as they leave campus and anyone coming into residence halls can just waltz in (no ID checks), and lastly, 4) Look out for your friends, changes in behavior, etc.; if you suspect someone needs a mental health professional, tell someone or offer to take them yourselves, make sure you know who your friends are hanging out with besides you, observe the amount of alcohol or drugs a friend might be consuming; all of this can play into triggering them to behave out of the ordinary. And you can’t blame the police for someone who snaps. I hate that these tragedies have happened but I challenge students to take on a larger role in their community because, whether you think so or not, UMD is your home and your community for four years. Make the most of it.
Related articles
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- University of Maryland: Police increase security after armed robberies on, near campus (wjla.com)
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Posts
- May 17, 13
So I decided to respond to a twitter poetry challenge by Young Chicago Authors (@YoungChiAuthors , http://youngchicagoauthors.org/blog/), to write a haiku about your favorite TV show. Here’s mine:
haiku for my favorite tv show
ripped from the headlines
real life stories with a twist
law and order love
thank you for reading march thirty one poetry
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
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- May 10, 13
I have been thinking a lot about my grandmothers lately and I felt compelled to write a mother’s day poem for them. And Happy Mother’s day to all mothers everywhere! That includes birth mothers, adopted mothers, aunties, grandmothers, sisters who play a mother’s role, and anyone who cares for someone in a maternal way!
lessons from my grandmothers
dear grandmothers
I miss you times two
grandma to the left
and grandma to the right
where
on the family tree
you both add value
to who I am
for you gave me
my mother
and my father
who had me
the offspring
of you
and it is on this day
that we honor mothers
and the mothers
of mothers
I honor you
my grandmothers
my wise apparents
who showed me how to
bake and sew
how to make water
out of wine
how to take loaves
and turn them into
a feast
you taught me
about beauty
inner and outer
how to take care
of loved ones
and how to
be love everyone
unconditionally
womanly
god fearing
in all actions
deeds
and words
I thank you
for existing
and I know
that heaven is a better place
with you
thank you for reading march thirty one poetry
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
- Apr 30, 13
So, I’ve been totally off my game this year for National Poetry Month. I was doing so well at the beginning of the month when I had a lot of down time but towards the end of April, I just couldn’t keep up. So, to round out the month, I want to eek out one last poem. This is an homage to graduating seniors everywhere. Congratulations graduates and here’s to the rest of your life.
finals week
heads hang low
books open
eyes glazed over
pajama pants
become your outfit
of choice
as you work
to cram
a semester’s worth
of information
into your head
with energy drinks
on tap
like happy hour
as you intake
coffee
like a patient
who needs
a blood transfusion
as anxiety builds
you realize
that
it’s all a crap shoot
unless you
keep calm
relax
and do your best
because
in the end
it’s all about
how tough you are
and how these
past four years
of your life
will be
worth it
in the end
degree in hand
it’s over
#30poems30days
thank you for reading march thirty one poetry
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
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- Apr 22, 13
The Earth flag is not an official flag, since there is no official governing body over Earth. The flag holds a photo transfer of a NASA image of the Earth on a dark blue background. It has been associated with Earth Day. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Forgive me for not keeping up with National Poetry Month and #30poems30days but here is my homage to Mother Earth.
a birthday
a celebration day
a rejoice day
because today
and everyday
she does
she provides us
with everything we need
to survive!
God graces her with
water for drinking
wind for power
sunshine for warmth
plants for nourishment
trees for shelter
and seasons for change
let’s do better
and treat her kindly
because without her
life would be impossible
thank you for reading march thirty one poetry!
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
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- Apr 19, 13
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Posts
- May 08, 13
This is a great resource! If you write a blog and you need a professional way to help get your name out there, start doing public relations, or get funding for a project, one of the first things you need to do is to create a media kit.
The Life Your Way website, offers many “printables” as resources for all. Their free media kit printable is fantastic:
http://printables.yourway.net/media-kit/
thank you for reading grown up creativity
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
Filed under: writers resources & conferences Tagged: free tools, Media, Tools, Writers Resources - Apr 16, 13
Thank you for reading “grown up creativity” and for being a book lover. Through my blogging platform, I also serve as a blogger for AAMBC Public Relations, a company founded by author Tamika Newhouse (www.aambc.com). It is my pleasure to help Tamika increase exposure for up and coming authors and to help spread the word about what’s new in creative writing! Follow me on Twitter: @ivywriter
AAMBC New Book Release
Claiming Jeremiah by Missy B. Salick
Synopsis of Claiming Jeremiah:
On the same night that twenty four-year-old Jordyn Sims has a miscarriage, her sister-in-law Tori Sims conceives a child. Nine months later, Tori, a long term heroin addict, abandons her two-hour-old drug addicted newborn Jeremiah, in a hospital stairwell. Jordyn receives the news and pursues foster adoption. However, Oscar, Tori’s possessive drug-addicted boyfriend, is not about to give Jeremiah up so easily. While in confrontation with Tori and Oscar, Jordyn seeks help from the Administration of Children Services (ACS), only to discover she is faced with a maze of departments, regulations, legalities and overworked social workers. Jordyn, however, remains strong and continues to push through the uphill battle, even after she discovers she’s pregnant.
With all odds against her adoption of Jeremiah, and her pregnancy at high risk from increasing stress, will Jordyn win this tough battle, or will her world crumble before her?
Meet The Author, Missy B. Salick:
Missy B. Salick is a new author who has written her first novel, Claiming Jeremiah. Her fictional memoir on foster adoption is drawing a hefty buzz, and the online release date isn’t until April 7, 2013 (May 4 in paperback). The novel is small in size, but contains a powerful message. “Children in foster care need a place to call home.” Salick, a foster care advocate, wrote this book based on her personal journey of foster adopting her four-year-old son.
Before self-publishing, Claiming Jeremiah, Salick spent several years as a freelance business writer for Fortune 500 companies such as: Shearman & Sterling, KPMG, Deloitte and many more. She also had a stint with song ghost writing. Salick’s experience in the entertainment industry stems from working with entertainment companies and media including Violator, MBK, Village Voice and more. As the founder of J.J. Autumn Publishing, her publishing company is geared towards highlighting urban fiction dedicated to special causes and community awareness projects.
What inspired you to write Claiming Jeremiah?
A: I was inspired to write Claiming Jeremiah after I experienced the foster adoption process with my son. My son was a family member who entered foster care and I wanted to prevent that from happening as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, due to legal and state laws it was harder than I thought. I did research, reading several books and articles on what I could do to stay positive and to learn more about the process. While I found several books about the technical information I needed, I couldn’t find any that illustrated a positive story and outcome.
I wanted more than just information. I wanted to experience the roller coaster ride of someone else’s journey to give me hope. And the stories that were hopeful seemed too good to be true. I wanted the bad along with the good. I wanted the truth. While foster care isn’t always a beautiful and positive subject to speak about, I believe it is a subject that needs more public attention drawn to it in the media and from those who have experienced it from both sides, both the children and the parents. I kept a journal of my own personal trials and tribulations and that lead to the birth of Claiming Jeremiah.
How long did it take to complete from start to finish?
A: I started the novel a year after my son arrived. Once I started writing I couldn’t stop. I would say it took me a couple of months. However, once I finished and reread it, something was
missing, it wasn’t complete. I put it down for a year and returned to it after that time, once I had had time to grow, not only in my writing but also as a human being. This story is so personal that I knew the timing and my mindset had to be perfect. After I picked up the pen for the second time it took me about three to four months to complete.
What was the toughest part about writing Claiming Jeremiah?
A: The toughest part about writing Claiming Jeremiah was the character development. It was very important to me to capture each character the right way. The reader needs to be able to experience not only what it is like being each character, but also to get the information they needed to foster a child in care. For instance, from the first chapter you easily understand Jordyn and what she is about. However, with Tori, she is a much more complex character. From the first pages, you see her confused, scattered, and being a heavy drug user who has left her two-hour-old newborn in a hospital stairwell. The normal reaction would be to dislike her character. Tori is misunderstood, however, and I wanted to reveal what it would be like to walk in Tori’s shoes. What causes her to do this to her body, to herself, and to her children? What’s the driving force behind her actions? These are all questions I wanted to explore and give some shape and impression of to my readers. More importantly, I wanted to show her other side and not make her out just to be the villain.
Do you intend to write a second book? Is this the first in a sequel?
A: Yes, I definitely intend to write another book. Claiming Jeremiah tells the beginning stages of what it’s like to go through the process of fostering a child. The next book will give you more information on what happens when the child is in your home and the stages of adoption.
You are still very young—at what age did you begin this process, and what has it been like being a young foster (adoptive) mother?
A: I began this process when I was twenty-four years old. I must say it has been a rewarding experience. Never in a million years would I have thought I would be doing this, yet alone at this age. It’s funny, because when my husband and I go to trainings or into the agencies we are always the youngest ones there. We usually get bombarded with questions and then praised for our actions.
As a foster parent, since you have witnessed some of the challenges involved in all the red tape, what are some solutions that you can offer?
A: Each situation is different. You have to find what solutions work best for you. For me, I was dealing with two states and therefore had to deal with four different agencies: the ICPC of each state and each state’s local agency. It was a nightmare. My solution was to make sure nothing fell through the cracks. Each day I was constantly e-mailing or calling someone for a status update. My advice would be to find out what the hold up is or what you can do to make the process move faster and more smoothly. The caseworkers have so many cases and things going on, it’s easy for them to get sidetracked. I’ve learned they care as much as you care. If you show extra incentive, they will too.
Why did you start writing?
A: Writing has always and will always be a part of my life. Writing is my comfort zone. Nothing brings me more peace and assurance in my life than writing. There is no judgment when my pen hits the paper. To me it’s my time to be free. I can say what I want, wear what I want, be whom I want. Writing keeps me sane. When I write I have the opportunity to let go and express myself.
What’s your next project?
A: My next project is the sequel to Claiming Jeremiah, but I am also working on a short novella that is currently Untitled at the moment. My readers will get to see a different side of me after reading Claiming Jeremiah. This novella is going to be a romantic comedy.
You are new to the writing industry; what can your readers expect to see from you?
A: My readers can expect to never expect the same thing. I am a prolific writer and my mind tends to come up with stories in various genres. One day I can feel romantic, the next day like a thriller, then inspirational, and so forth. Every day and every story won’t be the same.
Read an Excerpt from Claiming Jeremiah:
Hazel pulled a black garbage bag from her jacket pocket and gave it to Tori. Another black bag protruded from her pocket.
“You take the living room and I’ll take upstairs.”
Tori walked around the well-decorated house looking for valuables. She saw a silver picture frame with the word FAMILY written in decorative script across the top. It was a family of four: mother, father, little girl, and her brother. Tori stepped back and gazed at the photograph wondering what it felt like to have what they have.
Hazel hurried into the living room, her garbage bag filled to the top. Tori could see a laptop poking out.
“Tori, what you doing standing looking at that picture? We have to go. In and out remember?”
“I . . . uhhh. Do you know these people, Hazel? We stealing from people who have kids you know.”
“No, I don’t know them, Tori, and neither do you,” said Hazel, heading for the back door. “You don’t owe them nothing. Come on. We do this now or you going to be sucking someone off later for that score. You choose. I’m outta here.” The screen door slammed behind her.
Hazel’s words brought Tori back to reality. She quickly rummaged through the coffee-table drawers grabbing what she could. She found a PlayStation, some DVDs and two DSs that had been left plugged in to charge, a dead cell phone, knickknacks from the mantel, and a printer. She scurried down the steps and ran around the corner.
Hazel was waiting for her two blocks down, bumming another cigarette from a corner store regular. When she saw Tori, her face broke into a delighted smile.
“Nice choice,” she said. “Here, I got you a loosie. Ha, I see you got that printer. We should be able to get at least ten for that.”
“Yeah,” said Tori, as she and Hazel walked along the busy street. “It was a waste to leave it behind.”
They arrived at Barry’s, who ran an illegitimate pawnshop from his apartment. He bought everything from electronics to furniture, anything you needed to get rid of.
Hazel pressed the buzzer and they waited. Tori had never been inside Barry’s apartment. She had only waited outside many times when Oscar brought him some hot merchandise.
Barry opened the door. He was tall and had to weigh close to four hundred pounds. He was dark-skinned and his face was covered with a thick beard. He wore black tinted sunglasses even though there was no sunlight in the room. He blew a thick cloud of cigar smoke into Tori’s face. Hazel slipped past him and went inside. Tori stood at the door and peered into the apartment.
“You coming in?” he asked.
“Umm no. I’m going to stay outside. Let Hazel know when she gets back.”
Tori made her way back outside. After three attempts to get a cigarette from someone, a teenage boy finally gave her one. As she puffed the nicotine in the cool air, she mentally counted how much Barry might give Hazel for the merchandise. Even though he was known for low-balling, Tori calculated there should be at least fifty dollars’ worth of stuff in her bag alone. If Hazel had as much as she did, which she did, that would be another fifty. Split down the middle and it would be fifty apiece. It would be enough to buy five bags. Not bad for ten minutes’ worth of work.
And I was able to do it without O.
Tori paced in front of the building and flicked her cigarette.
Damn. What’s taking this chick so long?
As if on cue, Hazel came out of the building flashing a bunch of ten-dollar bills.
“How much we get?” Tori asked, her eyes never leaving the cash.
“A hundred. I tried to get more but you know that cheap-ass wasn’t going for that.”
Tori laughed loudly, as she had calculated that amount earlier in her mind.
“What’s so funny?”
“Nothing. Nothing. Give me my half and let’s go cop from Blue over on Wilson.”“Blue be having that good dope for real,” said Hazel taking a sniff.
“Yeah, when he got it. That dude be on some other stuff sometimes.”
“I know, right? He a fake-me-out dealer.”
Tori stood over Hazel’s kitchen counter and inhaled the heroin she had copped from Blue. The sink had an annoying leak that hit the dishes with a loud, wet plop every second. The doors from the cabinetswere missing and roaches boldly scuttled by.
Hazel shared the one-bedroom with her daughter, sister, and her son. Hazel’s daughter was turning five and could barely speak or say her ABCs. Hazel’s plan was to say that she was special-ed so she could receive more money from the state. In addition to the Section 8 for housing, she received food stamps and cash assistance.
“Yo, I gotta be out Hazel. Thanks for that hook up.”
“No doubt, catch you on the block.”
Tori resumed her search for Oscar along the streets of Brooklyn. Chasing Oscar and heroin had become her daily and nightly routine. The sun would fall and rise again before she laid her head down to rest.Find the author:
FB: www.facebook.com/meetmissy24
Twitter: @meetmissy24
Instagram: @awriterzlife
Website: www.meetmissy.com
Publisher Site: www.jjapublishing.comEmail Address:
jjapublishing@gmail.comBuy the book:
www.meetmissy.com
www.jjapublishing.com
www.smashwords.com
www.amazon.comRelated articles
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- Baby abandoned on bench to go into foster care (scotsman.com)
- The Bair Foundation Launches a Campaign to Find Homes for Foster Children in Lexington, Kentucky (prweb.com)
- grown up creativity: AAMBC New Book Release, The Knife In My Back by Stacey Covington-Lee (grownupcreativitymagazine.wordpress.com)
Filed under: AAMBC new book releases, grown up creativity magazine Tagged: AAMBC New Book Release, African American, Foster care, New Authors, www.aambc.com - Mar 25, 13
AAMBC (African Americans On The Move Book Club)
Thank you for reading “grown up creativity” and for being a book lover. Through my blogging platform, I also serve as a blogger for AAMBC Public Relations, a company founded by author Tamika Newhouse (www.aambc.com). It is my pleasure to help Tamika increase exposure for up and coming authors and to help spread the word about what’s new in creative writing! Follow me on Twitter: @ivywriter
AAMBC New Book Release
Operation Climaxxx by Girly G
Synopsis of Operation: Climaxxx
Operation: Climaxxx takes you on a roller coaster of sexual bliss from first interaction to foreplay to the highest peak of culmination. Grant your body the freedom to indulge in immeasurable pleasure as you take your sexual appetite into overdrive. With 15 tantalizing, lustful, passionate, and intoxicating titles like Backseat Luvin’, Birthday Sex, Seduction, Corporate Shone, Forbidden Fruit, and Masturbation, you are sure to find sexual therapy, sexual healing, and sexual fulfillment.
Operation: Climaxxx delivers the ultimate “O” with a string of supermarket hook-ups, stimulating quickies, orgies, and one night stands. Bask in the exchange of mind blowing orgasms as you venture through the pages of this sexual odyssey. Be a fly on the wall and witness bodies intertwined gripping the sheets and rolling around the mattresses, shadows outlined on the walls, to the sweet sounds of screams of joy and cries of passion.
Operation: Climaxxx will have your juices flowing like a river, your sexual interest piqued, your adrenaline pumping, your heartbeat racing, your temperature rising, and your body twitching into convulsions as you sexsessfully complete the mission of Operation: Climaxxx.Girly G. a native of Miami. She is an ambitious, talented, passionate, and creative young woman. Coming from a place where the urban genre does not dominate the readers she is striving to bring the essence of street Lit to the Magic City. Girly G is also an HIV-AIDS activist who loves to give back to the community and empower the youth.
After taking a bitter bite from the industry, founder and CEO Girly G. decided to take control of her career and place her fate into her own hands. Despite the many upsets, adversities, and obstacles placed in her path she remained faithful, dedicated, determined, and ambitious. She never gave up on her dreams, goals, and aspirations no matter how far ahead the road to success may have seemed. She is on a constant mission to reach her pinnacles to turn dreams into realities and to make the impossible possible.Get to know the Author:
1. Q: Why did you become an Independent Author? A: 2 Reasons Creative control and Profit. I love the freedom of being able to write the
content I want to write the way I want to write it. Also I love not having to pay a million people a percentage of the profit when I wrote 100% of the book.
2. Q: When you aren’t writing what are some of the things that you enjoy. A: Giving back, volunteering, and being an Activist for HIV-AIDS.Also I’m working on founding and establishing my non-profit organization for under privileged kids focused on youth empowerment and helping families infected with or affected by HIV-AIDS.
3. Q: What is the easiest part about being an Author? What is the most challenging? What is the most rewarding? A: The easiest part would have to be writing. The most challenging would have to be the real work which comes after writing the book i.e promoting, marketing, etc. The most rewarding would definitely have to be the feedback from the readers to hear and see their reactions and excitement from enjoying my hard work. It really humbles me and is ultimately the greatest feeling of all.
4. What inspires you to write about the subject of Sex? I think sex is universal. I believe there is always a fantasy or a thought in your mind that makes you want to sexplore something out of the norm and maybe what’s considered freaky or kinky. It’s just a part of human impules. Sex allows you to be sexpressive and fully let go and just be whoever you want to be and do whatever you want to do to yourself or your partner(s).
5. Q: What’s next in 2013 for Go Hard Publishing and Girly G? A: There is a lot more in store for the readers this year. We have Scandalous Encounters, Deceitful Affairs, Skittles 2 “HomoSEXual Tendencies” and A Cold Summer all scheduled to release in 2013.
6. Q: How can readers follow Go Hard A: Twiiter: @authorgirlyg @Teamgohard__ Facebook: Go-Hard Publishing Website: www.gohardpublishing.com
Excerpt from Operation: Climaxxx:
Climax, I would do anything to achieve it. The almost indescribable, but most desirable feeling you get when chasing it is nothing compared to the ultimate pleasure you gain once you actually reach it. I could climax every day for hours on in and never get tired with it or bored of it. I was addicted to sex, but I was obsessed with the climax. It was my drug of choice.
Some people preferred liquor some preferred hard drugs, but all I needed was a hard nut. I preferred climax above anything else. I couldn’t focus, concentrate, function, eat, sleep, live, or breathe without it. Just one man was not enough to satisfy the hunger, appetite, craving, need, desire, or thirst for climax. The spine tingling, body shivering, intense, and electrifying sensation was unlike anything I could ever describe with words.
My entire life consisted of climax. I was controlled and consumed by the need for it. I was in a constant pursuit of the adrenaline rush and the ultimate high of climaxing. It was like the explosion of a firecracker going off in my body. It was like skydiving, it left me soaring through the air at the highest altitude.
It was like surfing the perfect wave, climbing the highest mountain, swimming the deepest ocean, and walking through the hottest fire. It was definitive gratification. One day while working at a fruitless job I had an epiphany. I realized that no career was going to satisfy me or be fulfilling enough if it didn’t allow me or involve me doing what I loved to do. That’s when I came up with the bright idea to open up a modern day brothel or as some would call an escort service.
My objective in life became climax and from that point on Operation Climax was in full effect. I was only going to hire the most desirable vessels. I would build an empire based on satisfying both men and women’s strong desire for climax. I was seeking only the finest of the male specimen. I only wanted men that desperately needed a constant dose of climax. I needed men who knew all the elements of providing women and themselves with the best and most powerful climax.Find the author:
Email: authorgirlyg@aol.com
The book will be available for purchase @ www.gohardpublishing.com
Email: authorgirlyg@aol.comThe book will be available for purchase @ www.gohardpublishing.comRelated articles
- grown up creativity: AAMBC New Book Release, Holy City by Michael F. Blake (grownupcreativitymagazine.wordpress.com)
- grown up creativity: AAMBC New Book Release, The Game Ain’t Always Fair by Camille Sanders (grownupcreativitymagazine.wordpress.com)
- grown up creativity: AAMBC New Book Release, Forever And A Day by Jae Henderson (grownupcreativitymagazine.wordpress.com)
- grown up creativity: AAMBC New Book Release, The Loudest Silence by Kai (grownupcreativitymagazine.wordpress.com)
Filed under: AAMBC new book releases, grown up creativity magazine Tagged: AAMBC, African American, Author, Birthday Sex, Creative writing, New Book Release, Urban Fiction - Mar 23, 13
AAMBC (African Americans On The Move Book Club)
Thank you for reading “grown up creativity” and for being a book lover. Through my blogging platform, I also serve as a blogger for AAMBC Public Relations, a company founded by author Tamika Newhouse (www.aambc.com). It is my pleasure to help Tamika increase exposure for up and coming authors and to help spread the word about what’s new in creative writing! Follow me on Twitter: @ivywriter
AAMBC New Book Release
The Knife In My Back by Stacey Covington-Lee
Synopsis:
Brook Mansfield was born into a life of privilege. She had a family that loved her and all of the advantages that came from being rich, smart and beautiful. She also had friends, one of which was Tameka Williams.
Tameka was a desperate woman looking to gain fortune, fame and love at any cost. Despite the warnings from others, Brook took Tameka in and tried to love her as a sister. However, after taking the one thing that meant the most to Brook, it was time for the tables to turn. Tameka had used and betrayed her for the last time.
Get To Know The Author, Stacey Covington-Lee
Author Bio:
Stacey Covington-Lee is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. She has written multiple manuals and training guides for various companies and local government. However, it was her love for literature that led her to pin her first novel in 2009. Since that time, Stacey has written several short stories and two additional novels. Her first published novel, The Knife in My Back, was re-released by Delphine Publications November 2012.
Stacey continues to live in an Atlanta suburb with her family and is currently working on her next novel. Visit her at www.staceycovingtonlee.com for a full chapter excerpt of The Knife In My Back and a sneak peek at her second novel, The First Cut Is The Deepest.
Q. How old were you when you first started writing and what motivated you?
A. I was around eleven years old when I read a book by Judy Blume called Are You There God? It’s Me Margret. Something about that book
lit a spark in me and set me on a journey to write my own pre-teen novel.
Q. What inspires your writing?
A. I am inspired by the people around me. I love watching how folks interact with one another , how they speak to each other and what angers them or brings them joy.
Q. Your novel, The Knife In My Back, primarily focuses on the relationships between female friends, why is that?
A. There are numerous books that discuss the male/female relationship. However, the relationship between girlfriends can be so complex and at time so difficult that I felt it deserved to be highlighted.
Q. Does the book primarily focus on the negative aspects of friendship?
A. While the relationship between characters Tameka and Brook is a very volatile one and dominates the storyline, there is also the loving and supportive friendship between Mia and Brook and it celebrates the kind of friendship we all long for.
Q. Was any part of this book based on real life experiences?
B. I think that we have all had to deal with a troubled friendship at some point in time, but fortunately I’ve not had a female in my life that has presented me with the evil and deceptive ways that Tameka possess.
Q. Would men also find your novel interesting or do you think they would view it as a “chick novel?”
A. Men would absolutely find the novel entertaining. It’s a great story with wonderful male characters. The men in this book are strong, successful men that support and love their women. There’s no male bashing here, but plenty of lust, love and drama.
Q. Can we expect to read more from you in the near future?
A. Yes, you can look for my next novel, The First Cut Is The Deepest, to hit bookshelves early 2013. It is the follow up to The Knife In My Back and begs the question, are some people beyond redemption?
Excerpt from The Knife In My Back:
Wayne held Tameka while she sobbed. He was so confused as to how to handle or comfort her. He had never seen someone so obsessed with someone else’s life. He could not understand why she couldn’t be happy with the life that she had made for herself. Couldn’t understand why she couldn’t be happy with the life that they could build together. And as he held her, Tameka came to the realization that he didn’t know and would never understand her. She would never be able to get him to see things from her point of view. So she decided to dry up and let him believe that he helped her feel better and that her little tantrum was over. She would keep her feelings to herself from now own.
“Tameka, I promise you that together we will make a great life for ourselves. We will have our own family and a beautiful home. You’ll be proud of the life we make together. I promise.”
“I know, baby, I guess I just had to get all of this off of my chest. Jealousy is an ugly thing and I hate that I let it do this to me,” Tameka said with an ugly smirk on her face.
She didn’t mean a word of what she was saying and Wayne should have realized that. But instead he chose to believe what made him feel better about his beloved, Tameka. He would learn soon to see her for what she was and not the woman he wanted her to be. But for now, he held her in his arms and held on to the dream that he had of the wonderful life he wanted them to share.
Find The Author:
Contact Info/web links:
www.staceycovingtonlee.com ; Twitter @covingtonlee; Facebook/StaceyCovingtonLee1; email lee27495@bellsouth.net
Book Available:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/252011
Filed under: AAMBC new book releases, grown up creativity magazine Tagged: AAMBC, Atlanta, New Book Release - Mar 11, 13
AAMBC (African Americans On The Move Book Club)
Thank you for reading “grown up creativity” and for being a book lover. Through my blogging platform, I also serve as a blogger for AAMBC Public Relations, a company founded by author Tamika Newhouse (www.aambc.com). It is my pleasure to help Tamika increase exposure for up and coming authors and to help spread the word about what’s new in creative writing! Follow me on Twitter: @ivywriter
AAMBC New Book Release
The Game Ain’t Always Fair by Camille Sanders
Book Synopsis:
Time Reese has lived the good life for as long as her memory can recollect. Time’s undeniable beauty and affluent family background are merely masks for her promiscuous, abrasive and “out for myself” mentality. She makes for a great match with cold hearted kingpin Trell; and together the two go on to operate one of the most merciless drug enterprises Memphis has ever seen. But when a familiar face resurfaces, and digs up the demons of her painful past, Time finds herself at a crossroads that may force her to make the ultimate choice. Tearney Richards is struggling to raise her two kids, both from different men, on government assistance. A chance encounter puts her in the crosshairs of Ethan Kish, a big time record label Exec who gives her the one thing she’s always dreamed of- a record deal. Her life begins to change dramatically and the girl who once had nothing now has everything. But, at what cost? Brena Sheldon went from waiting tables to living in the suburbs with a successful attorney. After his jaw dropping secret life is revealed, Brena gets an attitude makeover, moves out of state and embraces a new life. She soon becomes engaged to hoop star Darrell, and believes she has met her Prince Charming finally. Is he who he proclaims to be or is it all just smoke and mirrors?
Take a ride with these three friends as they face the harsh reality that, The Game Ain’t Always Fair.About The Author, Camille Sanders
Camille Sanders is a native of Coldwater, MS. She attended Tougaloo College after high school for two years, and went on to attain her Bachelors Degree from the University of Memphis in 2012. Camille discovered her love for writing in the 4th grade, when she and a group of classmates compiled a series of short stories that they dreamed would one day be made into a movie. Camille became engrossed in Urban Literature when she was 13 after reading, ‘The Coldest Winter Ever’ by Sister Souljah. After carefully researching the publishing industry, she was inspired to start her own publishing company, Madam Millie Productions. The ‘Millie’ in the name of her company is in memory of her maternal grandmother Millie, a woman whom she never had the honor or pleasure of knowing. Camille currently resides in Northern Mississippi with her daughter, Addison and often times, her darling niece Madeline Grace.
1. When did you first begin writing?
I started writing short stories in elementary school with a group of friends. I’ve always been an introverted person, so I used writing to express myself.2. What inspired you to write your first book?
My father inspired me to take my writing to the next level. He loved to read my poems and short stories. I read my last poem I wrote for him at his bedside, two days before he slipped into a coma. He told me to promise him that I would “do something” with my writing. So, completing and publishing my first book was keeping my promise to him in a way.3. Tell us about your new book, The Game Ain’t Always Fair.
TGAAF is an urban tale with an original storyline about three young women. It’s a coming of age tale with a lot of twist and turns. What I love about this book is there is something for everyone. From romance to drama to tragedy to sisterhood, it’s all there.
4. Do you write from personal experience?
Yes and No. Some of the things in my book, are based on personal experiences and some are not. For example, one of the girls is a single parent, and I found myself venting some of my frustrations I had towards the whole “deadbeat dad” thing through the character. On the other hand, one of the characters is very cold and unfeeling, and can kill a man and not think twice about it. I’ve never done that. (laughs)
5. What new authors have caught your eye and/or gained your interest with a new release?
Although her book came out a few months back, and has been out a while, I loved Love Lee’s Already Taken. I have been antsy for the sequel since I read it.6. What kind of advice would you give someone looking to break into the literary industry?
I would say do your research and seek counsel from productive sources. If you are interested in self-publishing I recommend reading manuals and how-to books that offer guidance. There are plenty of them out there, and remember ‘google’ is your friend. Life Changing Books also offers an online boot camp for those authors who are interested in self-publishing. No matter which route, you take never give up and stay the course. You will get discouraged at times, and hear a lot of “No’s” before you see any results. No matter what, is this is what you desire to pursue, keep pushin’ against all odds.7. How can readers contact you and where can your book be purchased?
I can be contacted or reached at:
www.facebook.com/camille.a.sanders
www.twitter.com/literarydiva89
www.camillesanderswrites.com
misscamille2007@yahoo.comMy books can be purchased at: Amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, Smashwords, or iBooks.
Excerpt from The Game Ain’t Always Fair
Prologue
I never was the one to cry over spilled milk. And why should I? I mean, once the milk was out of the glass and on the floor, what good was it
to me then? Actually I probably shouldn’t say that because here I am, headed down I-55 to do what? Yep you guessed it, clean up spilled milk.
The usual 3 hour drive from Memphis had been cut in half. I guess adrenaline makes you drive faster.
I took the exit that led to Byram, MS. It had been three weeks since my boyfriend Trell and I had sparked a deadly drug war against our rival competitors. This drug war was so ruthless, and so without mercy. But, it was effective. Like any war, sometimes the blood shed comes from that of one you love. I had lost my best friend in the midst of our fight to keep our reign as the king and queen of the Memphis drug game. But, that’s not what I was about to get revenge for. That had been handled. The execution I was about to deliver was personal for different reasons.
Once I saw the three mile long white fence come into view, I knew I had reached the ranch. I approached the front gates as they opened slowly, remembering all the times Trell and I had shown up here with our 18 wheelers moving weight in and out. A white 745 BMW was parked at the front entrance with its headlights on high beam. I let down the driver side window and watched as William Garrett, or Mississippi Willie as he was affectionately called him, got out of the Beamer and made his way over to my car.“You sure you don’t want me to take care of it?” Willie leaned into my window. I saw his sharp eyes do a sweep of the vehicle. I could smell the scent of Black and Mild on his breath as he spoke.
I shook my head. “Nah. I got this.”
He nodded. “What that nigga did was the ultimate disrespect. I know deadin’ him won’t resolve what you feel on the inside but at least he won’t get the chance to do it no more. I just don’t get why you wouldn’t tell Trell about this?”
I gave him a look that let him know to leave it alone. The less we talked about it, the better.
“Aight, now everything locked down, nothin comin’ in or leaving’ out. You got it from here?” he asked as he backed away from the car.
“Yeah. It’s not like I never done this before.” I reminded him. I gave him one last glance before putting the car in drive and taking off.
I breezed down the long gravel road until it ran out. The black SAAB that Willie’s aunt had rented for me, came to an abrupt halt as I reached my destination. I hated driving low budget cars, but times such as these called for me to be as low key as possible. I climbed out of the vehicle, decked out in all black–the ensemble of a true boss. I looked up at the six thousand square foot plantation style home. I shook my head at the realization that after tonight, it would be nothing more than a pile of useless ashes.
I used Trell’s key to unlock the front door and walked across the marble floors that led to the staircase. I could smell the faint aura of Pine Sol, like someone had just done a thorough cleaning of the place. I placed my foot on the first step of the staircase and it made a creaking noise upon impact. I passed the open sitting area and tried not to look at the large oil painting of Trell, his mother, and Rayshawn that sat in plain view above the double doors that led to Rayshawn’s sleeping quarters. Could I really do this? Could I really murder my man’s brother in cold blood?, I asked myself. I opened the doors quietly and immediately knew the answer to my question once I saw Rayshawn sleeping peacefully in bed. I moved closer. His face was as beautiful as a summer in Costa Rica even with the scar on his eyelid. To look at him, a person wouldn’t even believe the horror he was capable of. I reached for my .45 and cocked it back, triggering a slight noise. Rayshawn shot up in his sleep, and opened his eyes. His fair complexion turned even paler.
“What the….-BLAOW! I sent a bullet through his right kneecap. He wailed out in pain, reminiscent of a woman pushing a baby through the birth canal without an epidural.
I cocked my head to the side and raised the gun higher.
“Did I say you could talk?” I asked.
He held his wounded knee and grimaced. “Time how you get in here? Why you doin’ this shit?” he shouted.
“Why did you do what you did to me? Huh? I’m askin’ the questions today…get that understood!”
“I thought you was feelin’ me! Everybody ‘round the way said you was a freak and you liked it rough so I went for it! It wasn’t personal!”
That did it. Damn him for trying to justify what he did to me. I snapped, and for a moment I was no longer in the bedroom, but back in the barbershop on the cold floor. I could feel the cool air hitting the torn skin of my vagina as he violently forced himself on me. I thought about the two STDS I had contracted in the process. The lustful look of satisfaction on his face, bought it on home. I retrieved the silencer from my jacket pocket, screwed it on and released bullets until his bloody image replaced not only the agony of the rape but all the horrifying demons that haunted me daily. All the memories I couldn’t bear to remember. I shot until they were no more.
I stared into his now lifeless eyes and spoke in a pained whisper, “It was ALL personal to me.”
I dashed out of the house and back into the night. I went around the back of the house to ensure that the bomb was in place. Everything was trained and ready, just like Willie had promised. I walked back to the car, and got in. I put the car in reverse and backed up further down the road and turned into a driveway that led to an open field, used for rodeos. From this spot, I could watch the show easily. Burn in hell.
I closed my eyes for a few seconds and rested against the headrest. I was ready for this to be over. I was tired. I opened my eyes and caught sight of a black Mercedes SUV coming to a stop in front of Rayshawn’s house. How did that car get in here? What kinda watchmen does Willie have? A pack of royal dumbasses! They’re all good as dead. I put on my high tech binoculars. I was all set to let whoever was occupying the car go up in flames until the driver got out. It was Tearney. My heart began to beat loudly in my chest. I felt nauseous and light as a feather, like even the slightest wind could blow me over. The feeling escalated when I saw chubby Ishmael resting on Tearney’s left hip. My hands shook violently as I started the car and floored the pedal, veering in the direction of the house. I felt as though the car was not getting me there quick enough, so I got out and sprinted forward, yelling out to Tearney.
“Tearney get away from the house!” I screamed waving my arms over my head.
Tearney turned around and when Ishamel saw me, he immediately scooted out of her arms and began trotting in my direction. Tearney ran behind him.
“Come on Ishy! Come to Teetee Time baby! Come here!” I yelled running towards him with my arms outstretched.
He smiled brightly at me, totally oblivious to what was going on. Tears streamed down my face, and in that moment everything that had happened earlier seemed so small. In fact, nothing mattered except his safety. Strangely my father’s last words came to me, “That unforgiving spirit of yours is going to be the death of you, and when you finally realize it, life will have passed you by completely.” I wept openly as I briskly swept Ishmael into my arms and took off running without a thought. I looked behind me, and watched Tearney sprinting behind us.
“Time! Time! What the hell are you doing here? Stop running!” she exclaimed.
I wanted to tell her I that stopping was not an option. I wanted to tell her our lives were flashing before us. But, I couldn’t. There was simply no time. I glanced back again, and for the first time I noticed Tearney’s protruding belly. She was pregnant. Oh God, what had I done? The emotions that I had buried my entire life, had finally burst to the surface. Compassion, humility, regard for human life, sympathy, and love for someone other than myself. But, these feelings had all come far too late. Seconds later, the bomb exploded.Related articles
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Filed under: AAMBC new book releases, grown up creativity magazine Tagged: AAMBC, Creative writing, New Book Release - Mar 05, 13
AAMBC (African Americans On The Move Book Club)
Thank you for reading “grown up creativity” and for being a book lover. Through my blogging platform, I also serve as a blogger for AAMBC Public Relations, a company founded by author Tamika Newhouse (www.aambc.com). It is my pleasure to help Tamika increase exposure for up and coming authors and to help spread the word about what’s new in creative writing! Follow me on Twitter: @ivywriter
Forever And A Day by Jae Henderson
Synopsis of Forever And A Day by Jae Henderson:
Tee and Michael Stokes have realized that life for them will never be normal. As heads of a new entertainment management company and expecting parents, it’s now more important than ever to figure out if their stalker, Rebecca DeFoy, is dead or alive. If she’s alive, will she kill again? If she’s dead, who is impersonating her and why? Whichever the case, they must put an end to the harassment once and for all before she puts an end to them.
Their friends have drama of their own……
Tiffany has traded in her tight clothes and stilettos for big hats and conservative dresses as she tries to prove to one of Memphis’most promising young pastors that she is worthy of a man in the pulpit. Can she control her feelings for Michael, or will temptation ruin her chances for love and her friendship with Tee? Lenice has entered the world of online dating. Her keystrokes can’t mask the pain of a failed relationship, but they could lead her into the life of an elderly millionaire. Lenora’s weight loss has changed her body and her attitude for the better, but her husband’s job at the Kitty Kat Club may be too much for even the new and improved Lenora to handle.
About The Author, Jae Henderson:
After embracing careers as a radio talk show host, marketing and media professional, and voice over artist, Jae Henderson decided to add
inspirational romance author to her roles. Her entertaining stories about the astounding power of love and God’s ability to care for us have been warmly received by readers of all ages.
Jae began her I’m A Good Woman literary series in 2011 with her debut novel, Someday, and followed it with the 2012 released of its sequel, Someday, Too.Now she’s back with the final book in the trilogy, Forever and Day. Join Jae as she uses her wit and way with words to take us on a most entertaining journey filled with wisdom, romance, suspense, and jaw dropping twists and turns that inspires believers to keep the faith and remember that we may not be perfect but we serve a perfect God. She even has an inspirational estory series entitled, Things Every Good Woman Should Know. These short stories encourage women to be the best they can be in their spiritual, professional, and social lives. Two have been released thus far: You Are Beautiful and Take Care of Those You Love.
Jae Henderson is a graduate of The University of Memphis where she earned a BA in Communications and an MA in English. She is the former host and producer of On Point, a once popular radio talk show geared toward youth and young adults. Other accomplishments have included serving as a contributing writer for the award-winning, syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show and a successful career as a voice over artist.Her signature voice has been heard in hundreds of commercials and even a couple of cartoons. When Jae isn’t writing, she works as a public relations specialist and college professor. She currently resides in her hometown of Memphis, TN.
This is the third book in the Someday Trilogy. What can readers expect?
Like my previous books, this is an inspirational romance and my characters experience several faith-challenging situations in their relationships, friendships, and careers. However, this one extends the story with suspense and a great mystery as I slowly reveal who has been stalking Tee and Michael for over a year. It’s a wonderful “who done it” with a Christian twist. It also contains words of encouragement and scriptures for those who are celibate, dating, as well as those in relationships and marriages.
Do readers have to read the first two books to understand Forever and a Day?
No. I wrote each book in a manner that allows them to fully understand the main occurrences in the previous books and prevents them from feeling lost within the story. However, I encourage those who haven’t read the two previous books to do so. Each character has an interesting story that has evolved with each book. For the month of February, the ebook versions of Someday and Someday, Too will be on sale for only $1.99. I hope people will take advantage of this limited time special and download them.
You write Christian/inspirational romance but your books contain love scenes. Why do you include those?
I don’t feel that I can realistically illustrate the amazing bond than can occur between a man and a woman and ignore the physical aspects of it. Christians have sex, too. My love scenes are always tastefully done. But my genre also includes the word romance and I recognize that romance includes more than sex. I make sure that love is illustrated in other ways such as acts of kindness and words that make your heart melt. The characters in my books include married couples who enjoy love to the fullest and celibate singles. I have messages to encourage those who are traveling those roads and the ones in between. It is important for me to include something for everyone. Everyone isn’t having sex just as everyone isn’t abstaining from sex.
What’s your inspiration?
My inspiration is my love for people and my desire to help others live the best life possible. I believe our relationship with God is a major part of that. I want to encourage others to read their Bible and seek His will for their lives. I also want to let the world know that Christians have fun! So many people think that you stop having fun and live a boring life in order to do God’s will. That is so not true. I try to make my characters realistic, which means they have flaws, so that people can see themselves in them and see how much more fulfilling life can be when you live according to the Word. I really am living the good life!
Now that the Someday Trilogy is being put to rest, what’s next?
I am in the process of writing books that contain some of the minor characters in the Someday series. I am enjoying creating backgrounds for these men and women with fresh storylines for my readers. I will also continue to release short stories in the Things Every Good Woman Should Know Series. These estories provide me with the opportunity to encourage and inspire women to be the best they can possibly be in their spiritual, professional, and social lives.
What do you enjoy most about being a writer?
I LOVE connecting with my readers. It warms my heart every time I talk to or get a message from someone telling me how much they enjoy my books. Every writer wants to feel that they are contributing to the lives of others, even it is by simply allowing them to escape their reality and immerse themselves in a good book. It’s a very gratifying experience. So, please keep the face to face comments, emails, Facebook posts, and Twitter tweets coming.
What’s one personal thing you are willing to share to your readers?
My mother was recently diagnosed with high blood pressure and kidney failure. She spent nine days in the hospital and by the grace of God, she is fine now. I am now working hard to make sure she understands the importance of taking her medicine every day and getting her routine dialysis treatments. She can be stubborn. It’s a challenging time, but I am grateful that she is still with me and God is enabling me to care for her. She is my motivation to succeed.
Excerpt from Forever And A Day:
“Thank you for calling MiTee Management, how may I help you?” asked Sheba in her sweetest voice.
“Yeah. Can I speak to my momma?” said a young male.
Sheba hated prank phone calls. She had better things to do with her time than play with somebody she couldn’t see.
“Sir, I think you have the wrong number. Everyone in this office is childless,” she said rudely.
“No. Tina Stokes is my momma. Tell her that her son is on the phone. She’ll know exactly who you’re talking about,” the young man insisted.
Sheba was sure he was crazy. Tee didn’t have any chil-dren yet, and if she did, whoever was on the other end was way too old to be her child, but she decided to humor him. “One moment please,” she said and pressed the button to put him on hold. She then pressed the extension for Tee’s office. “Boss Lady, there’s a young man on the phone who says you’re his momma. Do I need to get rid of him?”
Tee giggled. “No, Sheba, that’s my baby. I’ll explain lat-er. Put him through.”
Her phone rang two seconds later. “MiTee Manage-ment, where we are lifting our clients to new heights. Tee Stokes here. How may I help you?”
Tee loved to say the name of her and Michael’s new management company. They selected MiTee because it was a combination of their names and it sounded like the word mighty. That’s exactly what they planned to be—stronger, bigger, and badder than any other management company in Jae Henderson the nation. Together, they were a force to be reckoned with. They had only been in business two months, and MiTee Management was currently responsible for maintaining the I’m A Good Woman brand and executing the I’m A Good Woman Empowerment Conference. They also managed Michael’s career as a motivational speaker and book author, Tiffany’s Magic Touch Mobile Massage, and now gospel hip-hop artist Icy Blak. It was an eclectic bunch, but nothing she and Michael couldn’t handle. So far, their assistant Sheba was the only employee, but they were looking to add an additional manager to the team so Tee could attend solely to the baby after he or she was born.
Things took off much faster than either of them could have imagined. After the word circulated that MiTee Management existed, many of the celebrities she and Michael knew called to see if they would be interested in managing them. They turned most of them down because they didn’t want to take on too much too soon, but when Blak called, there was no way Tee could deny him. He was her mentee, and she was honored that he wanted her to help manage his career. They finally had the details worked out, and Blak would be in town tomorrow to sign the contract. She was quite proud of the businessman he was becoming.
“Hey, Ma! I liked your name better when it was Tina Long,” teased Blak.
“Boy, I told you I am nobody’s mother. At least not yet, and I think my new name is beautiful and my new life is beautiful!” Tee looked down at her small, almost three-month baby bump. She was actually enjoying being preg-nant. She got to eat as much as she wanted, and everyone pampered her. The breast swelling was annoyingly painful, but she was secretly excited about the notion of added cleavage. They seemed to be getting bigger every week. She hoped the added inches would stay once the baby was born. Although she didn’t enjoy the morning sickness she first experienced after finding out she was with child, it seemed to have stopped. Odd eating habits were the newest phase in her pregnancy. She dipped a Cool Ranch Dorito in applesauce and chewed it loudly in Blak’s ear.
Web-Links:
Check out my inspirational romance novels “Someday” and “Someday, Too”! Visit me!
You can now find more inspirational messages on my YouTube Channel!“Many people have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification, but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.”—Helen KellerRelated articles
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Filed under: AAMBC new book releases, grown up creativity magazine Tagged: AAMBC, African American, Creative writing, New Book Release - Feb 26, 13
Retro Post: On this day, February 26, 2012, one year later, Trayvon Martin, a teenager, was shot and killed by Wanna Be Cop, George Zimmerman. Here I share my post from last year and my special poem I wrote in memory of #TrayvonMartin.
Written on March 16, 2012:
I just realized that I haven’t been affected by a teenager’s death and I haven’t felt compelled to write about one specific young person’s death since high school, when a young girl in Cleveland named Diah Harris was killed by her sister back in the early 90s. There was just something about that case that haunted me, bothered me, made me feel like I had to be connected to her in some way, even though I had never met her. I feel the same way about Trayvon Martin. I write this poem today in recognition of the terrible injustice that took place in Sanford, Florida on February 26, 2012 when a vivacious young African American boy, Trayvon Martin, was shot down in a claim of self defense. How shameful it is that once again, America is gripped by the untimely death of another child who was an innocent bystander and who’s death quite possibly, may go away without being avenged by our criminal justice system.
I also felt compelled to write this poem after viewing this haunting photo of Trayvon which, to me, speaks volumes about the innocence of our youth in America and how we should
value and love all of them, and not just a chosen few. His face reminds me of the little boys I grew up with, my cousins, my friends children and all of the little Black boys I see walking around everyday. I hope that you are as appalled and outraged as I, and others across the globe are, and I hope that you will never forget his face.
A Poem For Trayvon by Kellea Tibbs
in his eyes, you can see every kid in America
you can see his hopes, his dreams, his wishes
you can see him playing with other kids his age
shooting hoops and having fun
how unfortunate
to be taken away so soon
he’s our child
he’s America’s child
not just another black child
but his untimely demise
represents us all
and if you love everything
about being an American
all of the rights
and privileges
even the option to walk down the street
free and clear of harm
or the notion that
you might be shot down senselessly
then you WILL cry out
you SHOULD cry out
you should cry
for this beautiful child
another gone too soon
who will speak for Trayvon
who will speak for all of the parents
all of the grandparents, aunts, uncles
all of the sisters, all of the brothers
all of the cousins, all of the classmates
all of the teachers, all of the neighbors
who will miss him
we must speak up
even those of us
who didn’t even know him
but know him in our hearts
who love him
despite never meeting him
rest in peace
beautiful
thank you for reading grown up creativity
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
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Filed under: grown up creativity magazine Tagged: Florida, George Zimmerman, Sanford Florida, Trayvon Martin, United States - Feb 25, 13
AAMBC (African Americans On The Move Book Club)
Thank you for reading “grown up creativity” and for being a book lover. Through my blogging platform, I also serve as a blogger for AAMBC Public Relations, a company founded by author Tamika Newhouse (www.aambc.com). It is my pleasure to help Tamika increase exposure for up and coming authors and to help spread the word about what’s new in creative writing! Follow me on Twitter: @ivywriter
AAMBC New Book Release
Holy City by Michael F. Blake
Synopsis of Holy City:
Imagine all your life you were surrounded by poverty…When a life changing proposition is imposed on Marcus Williams he reluctantly makes a decision that would forever change his life. Leading into a life of blood mischief and crime, would his journey through the cold and gritty streets of Chicago end tragically? Or would he beat the odds and prevail? Experience these events at your own risk as you enter “The Holy City”.Get To Know The Author, Michael F. Blake:Q: Tell us a little something about yourself?A: My name is Michael F. Blake…A native of Chicago Illinois. A father/husband, screenwriter, entrepreneur and the author of an amazing three part series “The Holy City” under Delphine Publication.Q: How have becoming an author changed your life?A: It have given me a more positive outlet to express my creativity, emotions, and past interpretations of some of my childhood memories.Q: What was some of your biggest challenges writing “The Holy City”?A: It’s kind of hard to believe that during the darkest time of my life, in the midst of serving a five year prison bid, God revealed to me a gift of writing. Often times writing in the dark, overcoming all the negativity that surrounded me and staying focused was extremely tough to do.Q: When did you come to the conclusion of making “The Holy City” a series?A: As I began to write my imagination and creativity took over the pen while recalling key childhood events, memories, and tragedies. I knew the movie that played in my head for years couldn’t be subject to just one novel.Q: How can your book be portrayed in a positive light in regards to crime, gangs, and drugs in poverty-stricken communities?A: Although “The Holy City” refers to one of the high crime area’s of the city, my goal is to bring forth awareness to the new generation about the dangers that the gritty streets hold if they take the path of gangs, violence, or any other crimes just to make a quick buck. I know it may sound clich`e but really their are only two ways out and we all know that’s death or prison.Q: Do you see your novel becoming a visual?A: Most definitely. To be honest my main objective was to write a movie but I really didn’t know how to construct a screenplay. After completing my novel and having it self-published while in prison, I was eager to learn how to write a screenplay. I eventually networked with a fellow inmate that had a book called “How to write screenplays that sell”. It’s safe to say from that point on “The Holy City” the novel was adopted into a completed screenplay, which can either be a T.V series, web series, or an actual full length film.Q: What’s next for Michael F. Blake?A: Continuing book tours in several cities across the country promoting and selling my book while building awareness toward high crime communities across America. In the near future I plan to start a non-for profit organization for troubled at-risk youths, to encourage and show them better opportunities outside of selling drugs and destroying their own community. After “The Holy City” series is complete I plan to drop a compilation of short stories to expand my writing genre.Excerpt from Holy City:“Marcus . . . Marcus! You don’t hear Momma back there callin’ you,” said Chris, his younger brother, as they both sat on the steps of theirfront porch enjoying a nice summer morning in June.“Huuuhhh!”Marcus responded to his mother’s calling as he snapped out of a trance “Boy, you know you heard me back here callin’ you!” Sylvia yelled as she stood at the back door in her famous all-black satin nightgown. “Get in here and take out this garbage!
You know it’s too damn hot to be letting this trash pile up like that!” “A’ight, here I come!” Marcus replied, still not making a move toward the door. “Maaannnn, dat nigga gettin’ money,” Marcus said in a hushed tone while staring at Smitty glide down their street in his drop-top cocaine-white ‘79 El Dorado Cadillac with maroon leather interior, bangin’ Al Green’s “Love and Happiness” on his sound system that was so loud that you could actually hear him coming from three blocks away. Honk! Honk! was the sound of Smitty’s horn as he acknowledged the two brothers by throwing up the deuce.“Yeah, dat nigga kno’ who I am,” Marcus muttered out with confidence as he threw up the deuce while staring at Smitty slowly drive down their block. “What make you think he kno’ you, you ain’t nobody,” Chris sarcastically blurted out. “What! You seened how dat nigga looked ova’ here. He know wassup wit’ me.” “The only reason he looked this way ‘cause he know Daddy stay here,” Chris said as he began to ease off the porch onto the sidewalk.“Remember, dats yo’ punk-ass daddy, not mine,” Marcus replied offensively.“Ahhh! You mad‘cause don’t nobody know you, nigga!” Chris taunted in a teasingly fashion while heading in the direction of one of his friends’house two doors down. “A’ight, we gon’ see ‘who know who’ when I start gettin’ ‘dis
money.”“Don’t worry, dat ain’t gon’ happen no time soon,” said Chris as he continued to pick at his older brother. “Marcus!”Sylvia yelled harshly from out the house. “Okay, here I come!” Marcus quickly responded with a slight attitudeas he reached out for the door while looking back at Chris.On his dreadful walk into the house, Marcus was mumbling some pretty unpleasant words under his breath until his mother interrupted his train of thought. “How many times do I have to call yo’ name for you to get in here and do what the hell I told you to do!” Sylvia snapped as she stood in the kitchen with her hands resting on her hips.Even though Sylvia only stood about four foot ten, she demanded her respect from anyone that associated themselves with her, especially men. Sylvia was determined not to allow her kids to disrespect her, but at times, she would show a little leniency toward their smart remarks. “You should’ve asked dat nigga to do it,” Marcus mumbled under his breath while grabbing the bag out the trash can.“What’chú say?”Sylvia asked vigorously after seeing movement come from his lips.Web-Links:“Like” my facebook company page: Michael Blake ” The Holy City”Facebook page: Michael F. Blakefollow me on twitter @MFBlakeincgo to my website http://www.michaelfblake.com/E-mail me at michealblake75@yahoo.comalso visit my blog site… theholycitynovel.blogspot.com“The Holy City” can be purchased at:personally signed copies at http://www.michaelfblake.com/Related articles
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Filed under: AAMBC new book releases, grown up creativity magazine Tagged: AAMBC, African American, Creative writing, New Book Release - Feb 24, 13
As we round out the end of Black History Month this week, you are invited to join us for this unique online event!
the february cafe – Black DIY conference (online)
“celebrating our history of creativity“Panel Discussion: Making A Career of Creativity
http://www.talkshoe.com/tc/126635
The purpose of February Cafe is to highlight Black artists during the month of February who have made a handmade business a way of life for themselves. These “Black DIY-ers” have businesses in skin care, natural hair care, cooking, clothing, accessories, and writing, capturing and mastering the old school way that our people learned to live off the land using only the materials available to them at the time. Today, professional crafters and artisans have modernized the process and have created business to sustain themselves and their families.
The February Cafe – Black DIY Creativity Conference is an opportunity to bring together handmade professionals for discussion about how to make it as a handmade entrepreneur while also providing educational tools and networking.
So, as we celebrate our history of creativity, be sure to follow all February Cafe posts on the Grown Up Creativity blog at: http://grownupcreativity.wordpress.com/
Thank you for reading Grown Up Creativity
Follow me on Twitter: @ivywriter
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Filed under: Black DIy, february cafe Tagged: Beauty, Business, Creativity, Do it yourself, Health, Skin Care - Feb 14, 13
This is a very cool article. Love it!
via 4 Ways To Amplify Your Creativity | Co.Design: business + innovation + design.
Filed under: grown up creativity magazine, writers resources & conferences Tagged: Arts, Business, Craft, Creativity
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Posts
- May 14, 13
Modern Caribbean Cuisine by Wendy Rahamut
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’m all about learning about different cultures through ethnic cooking. I absolutely love this cookbook, Modern Caribbean Cuisine. It’s colorful with lots of great recipes. I will definitely be adding this book to my collection.
Join Goodreads!
thank you for reading the cook(book)ing school!
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
Filed under: Cookbooks, Cookbooks - Ethnic Exploration Tagged: book reviews, Caribbean Food, Cookbook, Cookbook Reviews, ethnic cooking, Food, Food and Drink, Goodreads, recipes - May 13, 13
The Big Green Cookbook: Hundreds of Planet-Pleasing Recipes and Tips for a Luscious, Low-Carbon Lifestyle by Jackie Newgent
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
If you are concerned about the environment (as we all should be) and you want to reflect this in your cooking, then this is the cookbook for you.
thank you for reading the cook(book)ing school
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
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Filed under: Cookbooks, Vegetarian Tagged: Cook, Cookbook, environment, Food and Drink, green - May 08, 13
By fate, I just happened to be sitting at home on Friday, May 3, watching one of my favorite shows, Dr. Oz (I’m normally at work when he’s on). Dr. Oz featured Dr. Caroline Apovian, the creator of The Overnight Diet, http://www.overnightdiet.org/ and I was hooked. And I know it sounds too good to be true and I was skeptical, but really, the diet is just real food and exercise with lots of science behind it. I like that at the beginning of the book, Dr. Apovian says, “I’m not a cardiologist, or a family physician, or an emergency room doctor who dabbles in weight management on the side. I’m an obesity medicine physician, which means I specialize in weight loss”. I love this statement because she keeps it real with you and this is her life’s work and it tells me it’s not just a fad. And I’m normally not a fan of e-books (I love real books), but I will tell you, I have never downloaded a book so quickly, than I did The Overnight Diet because I’m determined! (by the way, it’s only $10.55 on Amazon Kindle - and I don’t own a Kindle but I use their Kindle Cloud Reader online – it comes in handy!)
thank you for reading the cook(book)ing school!
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
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Filed under: Cookbooks, Cooking - Healthy Diet & Fitness Tagged: Amazon Kindle, Diet, Health, Mehmet Oz, Weight loss - Apr 24, 13
So periodically, I like to review local restaurants on http://www.urbanspoon.com
Here is my latest review of 9 Tables, a unique restaurant in Athens, Ohio
I love, love, love this restaurant! It’s perfect for a mid size group or for an
intimate dinner with a date or small group of friends who need time to catch up with one another! It’s a very unique experience, no rush to get up and make room for new patrons because, guess what? You are the only patrons for the evening. And the food is super fresh, literally, local farms are dropping off food every morning! I had the salad with goat cheese, Filet Mignon, and the creamiest cheesecake this side of a cow! I’m normally not a cheesecake fan, but this was absolutely the best cheesecake I have ever tasted. And the staff, Chef Bill, wife, and mother-in-law, are all very hospitable. Not to mention the artwork and the jazz theme! I can’t say enough about this place. Thank you for a fabulous dinner. 9 Tables definitely needs to be featured on Food Network, CNN, and The Cooking Channel! Where’s Anthony Bourdain when you need him? If you are ever in Athens, anyone, make sure you give 9 Tables a call before your trip and reserve your space. It will be worth it.
To see all of my reviews: http://www.urbanspoon.com/u/profile/1620631
follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
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Filed under: Restaurant Reviews - Urbanspoon Tagged: 9 Tables, Athens, Food, Food Network, Restaurant Reviews, Urbanspoon - Mar 05, 13
Vegan with a Vengeance: Over 150 Delicious, Cheap, Animal-Free Recipes That Rock by Isa Chandra Moskowitz
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I read this book back in late fall as I began my slow path to explore healthier food options. It’s pretty good. I don’t like that there are not many colorful food photos, but that’s my issues. I do like the backstory about the author and her quest to educate others about the vegan lifestyle and the fact that she got her start on a local access TV show. I would say overall, this book is a great resource.
Thank you for reading the cook(book)ing school!
Follow me on Twitter: @ivywriter
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Filed under: Cookbooks, Cooking - Healthy Diet & Fitness, Vegetarian Tagged: cooking, Healthy Eating, Isa Chandra Moskowitz, Lifestyle Choices, Veganism, Vegetarian - Mar 04, 13
Crazy Sexy Diet: Eat Your Veggies, Ignite Your Spark, and Live Like You Mean It! by Kris Carr
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the only book from my “2013 Healthy Books-to-read” list that I’ve read so far. I picked it up at the local library. I’m glad I got it at the library and didn’t invest in purchasing it. While I did get some handy tips from this book, I was aware of most of the information in it already. But, because I am exploring the idea of anti-inflammatory foods, it was a helpful resource about how to turn your entire health routine around and heal yourself from the inside out. Also, I commend the author on her journey from cancer and her goal to share her journey with the rest of us.
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Filed under: Cookbooks, Cookbooks - New, Cooking - Healthy Diet & Fitness, Vegetarian Tagged: Anti-inflammatory, Books, Cancer, fitness, Health, Healthy Eating, Kris Carr - Feb 04, 13
So, one of my ultimate goals for the 2013 is to research and find a diet plan that works for me. And I don’t mean diet in the sense that I want a diet with all sorts of restrictions. On the contrary, I want a diet or meal plan that will allow me lots of flexibility, allow me to eat anti-inflammatory foods, and be creative with my menu planning, while also providing me with some guidelines so that I don’t have to make it all up as I go along. That’s asking for a lot right? No, I don’t think so and here are a few diet and cookbooks I plan to read throughout the year. And if you have read any of these books listed here or have feedback on how any of them have helped you, please share your comments here:
Crazy Sexy Diet by Kris Carr
This is the only book from my list that I’ve read so far. I picked it up at the local library. I’m glad I got it at the library and didn’t invest in purchasing it. While i did get some handy tips from this book, I was aware of most of the information in it already. But, because I am exploring the idea of anti-inflammatory foods, it was a helpful resource about how to turn your entire health routine around and heal yourself from the inside out.
Shred: The Revolutionary Diet by Dr. Ian Smith
I plan to read this one next. I saw Dr. Ian Smith on Dr. Oz and this plan just seems so easy. I plan to pick get this in February and begin the program in March, once the countdown to my 40th begins.
The Flexitarian Diet by Dawn Jackson Blatner
I have this one already too. Hope to get reading on this soon.
The 5-Factor Diet by Harley Plasternak
The Ultimate Volumetrics Diet by Barbara Rolls
The Body Reset Diet by Harley Plasternak
Paleo for Beginners by John Chatham
I have started reading this one a little. It’s a very tiny book and a good resource but not exciting to read since there are no photos.
Practical Paleo by Diane Sanfilippo
The Inflammation Free Diet Plan by Monica Reinagel
The Anti-Inflammation Zone by Dr. Barry Sears
If you have read any of these books and if they have helped you in any way, please share your comments and reviews.
Thank you for reading the cook(book)ing school
Follow me on twitter: @ivywriter
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Filed under: Cookbooks, Cooking - Healthy Diet & Fitness Tagged: Anti-inflammatory, Diet, flexitarian, Health, Healthy Eating, Ian Smith, Kris Carr, Nutrition, Weight loss - Feb 01, 13
My belated cooking (new year’s) resolution #5:
Become a Part-Time Vegetarian – One of my goals this year is to become a part-time vegetarian. I’ve started having at least 1-2 meatless meals per week and I’m reading up on what it means to be a “Flexitarian” (a person who eats less meat – more plant based foods). As a born and raised carnivore, I will never give up meat, but I do want to cut back on it for health reasons with the hope to increase weight loss.
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Filed under: Cooking - Entertaining Friends & Family, Cooking - Healthy Diet & Fitness Tagged: Food, Meatless Monday, New Year, Semi-vegetarianism, Vegetarian, Vegetarianism - Jan 31, 13
My belated cooking (new year’s) resolution #4:
Incorporate more Healthy fats and oils into my diet – I love fish, so this will be an easy one for me, although fish can get costly; but I’m willing to make the budgetary sacrifice in order to get the healthy benefits from this food as well as other good fats.
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Filed under: Cookbooks - Jan 30, 13
My belated cooking (new year’s) resolution #3:
Embrace the Whole Foods movement – I’m so excited about this resolution. One of my major goals is to incorporate more vegetables into my food routine and to eat less processed foods. We should all strive for this. It’s probably easier said than done, but I’m definitely going to try.
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