tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41030177157349587902024-03-05T03:16:10.297-08:00Let's Bear Good Fruit!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-4530356664987376112015-08-23T15:46:00.001-07:002015-08-23T16:48:48.590-07:003 THINGS with NIGERIA LOCKLEY<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO95rLBELDbBnElpCMn3VLq5J-n2nC4StlJZMrBxUhXZ8HsNfoKxY-xFQXbLOdU84E-BdvkyerBoFDpFC3Rk4VqngHAR-fPVZuVy-dcHu4TzRMEMYmx9EmbQmOK2854ytqH_fwSRgqw8o/s1600/Niigeria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO95rLBELDbBnElpCMn3VLq5J-n2nC4StlJZMrBxUhXZ8HsNfoKxY-xFQXbLOdU84E-BdvkyerBoFDpFC3Rk4VqngHAR-fPVZuVy-dcHu4TzRMEMYmx9EmbQmOK2854ytqH_fwSRgqw8o/s320/Niigeria.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Nigeria Lockley is steadily building a
name for herself in the </span></span><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> literary industry. Her novel <em>Born At Dawn</em> won the 2015</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Wheatley 2015 First Fiction Award. Her second novel</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Seasoned-Grace-Urban-Nigeria-Lockley/dp/1622868102/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1440369512&sr=8-1&keywords=seasoned+with+grace">Seasoned with Grace</a></em> <span style="color: black;">released in July 2015. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Below are ‘3 </span></span><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Things’ about the author and her work.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">3</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> THINGS ABOUT NIGERIA LOCKLEY</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->I’m a native New Yorker.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->I took dance class when I was a child at the
Boys and Girls Club.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->My first job was at McDonald’s.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;">3 Things about Seasoned with Grace<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->I wrote most of the book on my cell phone.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->There is a parallel between some of the events
in the book and the Bill Cosby situation. That was totally unplanned. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->The protagonist, Grace King struggles with drug
and alcohol addiction.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmF_6AYMj0YQ9A9Z7Xllum3MwrdiVKjC4bxU9Ip5IKnIPxm5sNmdNfo4nP02A6_5NkH6n73f1f2TANC6i6LsLaWGMCQkev_eisrv79TxBZdJHLomI2Tai2ls6M2UQhI03-sUNpxQoBGb4/s1600/SEASONEDWITHGRACE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmF_6AYMj0YQ9A9Z7Xllum3MwrdiVKjC4bxU9Ip5IKnIPxm5sNmdNfo4nP02A6_5NkH6n73f1f2TANC6i6LsLaWGMCQkev_eisrv79TxBZdJHLomI2Tai2ls6M2UQhI03-sUNpxQoBGb4/s320/SEASONEDWITHGRACE.jpg" width="211" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;">Book Synopsis: <span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sentenced to
probation, thirty-year-old, supermodel Grace King must put her plans of
transitioning into acting to extend the longevity of her career on hold.
Desperate to keep a close eye on Grace and his job Grace’s ambitious lawyer,
Ethan Summerville has her complete community service in the last place Grace
wants to be. His church. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Instead of God, Grace finds a "chocolate drop" of a man-Brother Horace Green. However, Horace isn't looking for a supermodel. He wants his woman saved and sanctified, but Grace has never met a man who has been able to resist her. Will Horace compromise his faith for a tast of fortune, fame, and Grace?</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;">While Grace focuses on the pursuit of
passion Ethan finds one director willing to take a risk and cast Grace in his
debut film, but this role fits Grace all too well. Will this film revive
Grace’s relationship with God and her career or bring her closer to
destruction?<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">You can learn more about then author
at her home on the net:</span> </span></span><a href="http://www.nigerialockley.com/"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">www.nigerialockley.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-17433132843482734832015-05-26T00:00:00.000-07:002015-05-26T00:00:01.827-07:00'TIS the SEASON<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7MqstYaTpchY9V-P2kwpOPQGGy2JJMPoulm06ZrfuukDKUzx6OGyroECJ9UVcVbfUC9itfL4moURlH1LPht4QZiJoi4WoW6uwKvVTMxf_gPqZzSD5SDb7YAANGc5Nqp5qL0wrH90Ag0/s1600/writerswelcome.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7MqstYaTpchY9V-P2kwpOPQGGy2JJMPoulm06ZrfuukDKUzx6OGyroECJ9UVcVbfUC9itfL4moURlH1LPht4QZiJoi4WoW6uwKvVTMxf_gPqZzSD5SDb7YAANGc5Nqp5qL0wrH90Ag0/s400/writerswelcome.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The
summer season is fast approaching and many have already made the decision to attend
some type of reader or writing event. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">As
an aspiring, novice or established writer there is wisdom in seeking to enhance
your skill set and/or gain visibility within the reading and writing community.
To better understand the value of industry based knowledge one might consider
attending a writer’s conference, writer’s retreat, writing workshop, book
festival, book club event or reader’s convention. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">While
most may view these venues as a social event, the majority of them are the valuable tool writers
can benefit from attending. They are worthwhile in an ever-evolving industry because most serve multiple purposes. Chief among those purposes is the ability to expose the writer to the world of possibilities they may not have
known existed or did not previously have a way of connecting to. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Over
the years these once primarily academic events have evolved into a combination of continuing
education and memorable social events. To date there are a myriad of options to
satisfy a writer's need. However, before you rush to fill out registration and push
send, be sure that you understand what it is you need and if the event you’re
considering will fill that need. To assist you with your making your decision, brief definitions
of various writing events are listed below. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Writer’s
Conference</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">
– For the most part a writer’s conference provides the attendees with
introduction to basics and continuing education as it pertains to the craft of writing
and publishing. Those offerings most often are taught in a one-hour classroom
setting by industry professionals. There may be many classes offered, and for
the preservation of time, they are run simultaneously. It will be up to you to
determine which will be the most beneficial for you. At some conferences there
is also opportunity to pitch to an agent, editor or publisher representative,
receive free books and interact with popular authors. The conference may offer
a luncheon and formal dinner, both with a keynote speaker (usually a popular author), and
book signing events.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Writer’s Retreat</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> – The writer’s
retreat is less formal than the writer’s conference. The retreat offers
concentrated instruction in the area of writing in a comfortable and often
secluded environment that lends to a sense of fellowship with attendees. The
primary focus is to instill a sense of confidence in the writer while teaching
foundational skills that will inspire their creativity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Writing
Workshops</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">
– Writing workshops are often locally held events hosted by a literary
professional. The offerings are usually in the areas of writing basics and
editing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Book Festivals</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> – Book
festivals are events that give opportunity to expose the author to a large
number of readers. Some festivals offer a main stage/VIP event with headline
authors. Author participants can be as few as a dozen tor as many as several hundred. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt;"></span></b><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16pt;">Book Club
Conferences/Conventions</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> – These events often cater to fans of a particular
genre, but some have expanded to encompass several genres for a greater impact.
The convention offers programs and events that give opportunity for attendees
to meet experts in that field, popular personalities and to become a part of
the culture for the duration of the convention.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Attending
one of the many literary events offered each year can be a memorable and
life-changing event. Before registering, be sure to know what it is you want to
experience and take away from your investment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">For
those who feel that the investment of travel, accommodations and registration
fees may be out of their budget—don’t despair. Online conferences may be the
perfect option for you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">To
find out what writing events are being held online or in physical locations,
type your request into your favorite search engine, ask a friend or those in
one of your writing groups. You may be surprised at what you might find that
will fit your industry and budgetary needs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Until next time, I encourage you to use your words
to bear good fruit!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt;">Linda!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-26969507697669916342015-04-30T07:04:00.005-07:002015-04-30T07:04:47.376-07:00Do You Have the Victory?<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Claim the victories in your life. They may be small or large, but they are worth celebrating.</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3mINTjVyEw">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3mINTjVyEw</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-2146044240502051752015-04-29T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-29T00:00:02.990-07:00UNITY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipMAKXxIRj4H2GPHU42LBFzeHkU1FXPUHlf21UnXxLjb8daKd4abbARaeRUTM_1MYWzUvRJ1X7truHNcxSeuzs0zuGrFb_Tr0bFIVPLS7x0C8gF7D_Sk7H9DOoVeW6ye4ScA6eRFIXSqE/s1600/baltimore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipMAKXxIRj4H2GPHU42LBFzeHkU1FXPUHlf21UnXxLjb8daKd4abbARaeRUTM_1MYWzUvRJ1X7truHNcxSeuzs0zuGrFb_Tr0bFIVPLS7x0C8gF7D_Sk7H9DOoVeW6ye4ScA6eRFIXSqE/s1600/baltimore.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In this world there are so many who have embraced the ‘Me-Me’
mentality. Too often we’re so consumed about an individual agenda being met
that the good of whole gets lost.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It warmed my heart yesterday as I watched the groups of Baltimore residents ban together to clean the aftermath of a night of violence in their city. To me that signified a sense of unity. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Their actions may not have impressed everyone, but to me their collective effort displayed the true heart of the city. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: x-large;">Linda!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> </span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-5558716844387677072015-04-28T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-28T00:00:03.216-07:00
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMLq5JcyKil1zyaXf5qhwY4ORtIDY0pw-y6xVWVWjkqtQ9KaIg4JEaJevt2TwuPEag6L1pEIc0qQj38NMGPR5ewzx3RTrnq9_Mxg_qNL3DDfgI3KeFxWLzEVnH_-r3WLH6SMMd0B7Ed0/s1600/trust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIMLq5JcyKil1zyaXf5qhwY4ORtIDY0pw-y6xVWVWjkqtQ9KaIg4JEaJevt2TwuPEag6L1pEIc0qQj38NMGPR5ewzx3RTrnq9_Mxg_qNL3DDfgI3KeFxWLzEVnH_-r3WLH6SMMd0B7Ed0/s1600/trust.jpg" height="320" width="315" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Trust is something that we all would like to have in all of our
relationships. Trust is something that has to be earned, is highly regarded and
can be easily broken.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Placing trust in ourselves is something that is developed
over a period of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like other
relationships (yes you should have a relationship with yourself), when trusting
yourself, it requires a measure of belief. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">In this life having a healthy trust/belief in your abilities
is necessary. Without that trust, that belief in your abilities it will be easy
for others to tell you who you are and what you’re not capable of. Likewise, a
lack of trust in self defeats the purpose you’re born to as you convince yourself of who
you aren’t.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Trust in ones abilities is not being conceited; its
understanding who you are and what you’re capable of. Trust your gut and trust that you are all that you've been set on this earth to be.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Linda!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-22695066569755345982015-04-27T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-27T00:00:00.567-07:00SOLID PLANS
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Over the years that I’ve been writing and reviewing many</span> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">people have asked </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">how I’ve
been able to achieve the measure of success that I have. My answer is a very
simple one. I wrote what I believed to be a solid business plan and did my best to
stay on track with it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhMgxeYNTtIO_YCbUd5oIxBpRDl8xo6MH0RQ_YOh4iO1cthXxcdHQdwab3udHwmb_tctzj9FmNakorStTq9v36O04svHotvexygSwU-vIFXk74Q2Kj738dsuo55IjbLpSpAm44o44bHM/s1600/plan.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhMgxeYNTtIO_YCbUd5oIxBpRDl8xo6MH0RQ_YOh4iO1cthXxcdHQdwab3udHwmb_tctzj9FmNakorStTq9v36O04svHotvexygSwU-vIFXk74Q2Kj738dsuo55IjbLpSpAm44o44bHM/s1600/plan.png" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Many believe that writing the story is all that you need to
do. I’m sure that many authors will tell you that writing the story is only a
portion of what it takes to achieve a measure of success in the industry. And if
I may so bold, I will dare to say that whether your business is featured on the
stock exchange, an established fixture in your community or the most important
one of all, seeing to the budget of your family, having a solid plan is vital.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">It is said that a person without a plan is planning to fail.
That is true in some many ways. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although
it is, I’d also submit that a solid plan doesn’t always have to be a long drawn
out process, but it should be one that is thought out and executed with care.</span> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;"><strong>Linda!</strong></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-8093779971766153912015-04-24T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-24T00:00:01.728-07:00LIVE YOUR PERSONAL RAINBOW
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_hlDLtMShWHstTnHbyu4JN9SsycRLl_6jdHW1oDKPQzIJbx7h_QG1n5nUMPztgmiQWeWO4Vbrknsk5INRlR6RBxUnCgERsdgWOoN7oNO_Ua7xEf9TP-DGl9hT1x5US1_gH4wzAYYGK4/s1600/rainbow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_hlDLtMShWHstTnHbyu4JN9SsycRLl_6jdHW1oDKPQzIJbx7h_QG1n5nUMPztgmiQWeWO4Vbrknsk5INRlR6RBxUnCgERsdgWOoN7oNO_Ua7xEf9TP-DGl9hT1x5US1_gH4wzAYYGK4/s1600/rainbow1.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I often tell people that I’m not afraid of color—and I’m
not. I love vibrant colors and wear them often and incorporate them into the décor
of my home, workplace and the multiple projects I create.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">To me, color, my personal rainbow represents the many
attributes that makes me – ME!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I’ve embraced who I am and live being unapologetically me. I
encourage you to do the same. Whether your color palate consists of earth
tones, deep jewel tones or tips the color spectrum with the vibrancy of electric
pink; the point is to dare to live out loud embracing the multiple colors of
your personal rainbow.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-11351327916400993912015-04-23T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-23T00:00:06.886-07:00QUENCH NOT<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">There’s a scripture that warns</span> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">against quenching (denying)
the Spirit of God. What that scripture is saying is that believers are to shy
away from distractions that prevent them from being led by God's Spirit. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Likewise I would like to give this charge to artists – <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Do not
allow the opinions of others to quench the ideas, inspiration and authenticity that has been entrusted to you</i></b>.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGWDY6ZKeXfZ5IroNrMGQ-LZt9lr685Edh-2sht1ym9KhcXFpG5qk7yKyBCVTOpibR7KIQwcRjDkYDNv7MazmIqOCY5aE_dFGg0anDTEfnSFqiH9HifRJ2b2pvPFLfrEXc4Yc3gg7O9f0/s1600/authenticity1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGWDY6ZKeXfZ5IroNrMGQ-LZt9lr685Edh-2sht1ym9KhcXFpG5qk7yKyBCVTOpibR7KIQwcRjDkYDNv7MazmIqOCY5aE_dFGg0anDTEfnSFqiH9HifRJ2b2pvPFLfrEXc4Yc3gg7O9f0/s1600/authenticity1.jpg" height="165" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The artistic mind is one that most won’t understand.
However, artistic management often quenches creativity in order to mass produce
the ‘<strong><em>current trend’</em></strong>. Good for them – not good for the authenticity of the artist.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Accepting sound advice should not be mistaken with being
detoured from inspiration for the sake of ‘trend’. But, be mindful that what’s been given to you was
never meant to be replicated for the sake of exchanging who you are or your
gift, for monetary gain. Therefore I encourage you to go forth with who you are and allow no one to quench
the gift entrusted to you. Have no qualms about walking away from that which would quench your authentic muse.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!<o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-47070521640759019382015-04-22T10:55:00.001-07:002015-04-22T10:55:32.408-07:00PATIENCE<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWDC1jv7-NzSUST0ZKMFyK7gd0lngz6t5Tz7Cs69uYcR5jTBBRvnAUO-BZC-Teb9uPOJxFZdF_7EdZJUVIdg-Sp9WEmqowU-O2T66EYxWYe7k0xhu4aDG6QHAjjGmvCmV0fpFJdJu_54/s1600/patience1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWDC1jv7-NzSUST0ZKMFyK7gd0lngz6t5Tz7Cs69uYcR5jTBBRvnAUO-BZC-Teb9uPOJxFZdF_7EdZJUVIdg-Sp9WEmqowU-O2T66EYxWYe7k0xhu4aDG6QHAjjGmvCmV0fpFJdJu_54/s1600/patience1.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: 18pt;">My literary
journey began long before my first release. Shortly after publication, a
fantastic book release party and invitations to numerous book clubs, my father
became seriously ill.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 18pt;"></span><o:p></o:p> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Plans that I had painstakingly
made now had to take a back seat to caring for my dad. It’s something that I
gladly did, but I wouldn’t be honest if I didn’t admit that I was bit bummed.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 18pt;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">Rather than stew
in my own juice (as one of my sisters would say), I exercised the patience most were
surprised that I had. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 18pt;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">During the time
away from writing I used what was in my hand and began to delve deeper into the
literary world. I inherited an online writers group and worked with and learned from them, developed a blog and when
time allotted, I ventured out to conferences.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">It wasn’t what I
had planned, but because I chose patience, many doors opened for me. Through
those opened doors I was able to develop relationships and a knowledge base
that not only helped my future, but allowed me to support others.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 18pt;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 18pt;">They say that
patience is a virtue and I believe that it is. It’s also a way of keeping us from
putting our cart before the horse.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Linda!<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br /></div>
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span> </div>
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-40378994056346032932015-04-22T10:30:00.000-07:002015-04-22T10:30:02.844-07:00CENTER STAGE with RHONDA BOWEN<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It is my absolute pleasure to present to you, author Rhonda Bowen and her latest release <strong><em>Under Covers.</em></strong></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">ABOUT THE BOOK</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirD8zaKKpMu9WU_fIqUK5rC5ZgERclIZShfJK81fY-ripK5VEMc8jdQ97-ZcDI3cT032dve9PUvRv0JKQ98kkhNd-KaXYHGhJS9OcidkofZyStj-eFDtdpr6UR5yYTn5vZN1KDA9JfdJo/s1600/RhondaCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirD8zaKKpMu9WU_fIqUK5rC5ZgERclIZShfJK81fY-ripK5VEMc8jdQ97-ZcDI3cT032dve9PUvRv0JKQ98kkhNd-KaXYHGhJS9OcidkofZyStj-eFDtdpr6UR5yYTn5vZN1KDA9JfdJo/s1600/RhondaCover.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Naomi Savoy
is five days away from marrying Jordan Lennox, the man of her dreams, when she
is faced with her worst nightmare. Her sister is missing. When her search for
her sister sets her on a path into her past, she is forced to ask for help from
the last person on earth she ever wished to see again - Garth Duhaney - a man
she has both loved and hated for most of her life and whose power over her she
has never been able to break.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Jordan
Lennox knows his wife-to-be is hiding things in her past. But his love for her
keeps him believing that one day she will come clean. But when the secrets
force him on a trip across the ocean only days before their wedding, he begins
to question whether love is really enough.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Will love
keep them together or will it all fall apart when everything is uncovered?</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span></span> <span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><strong>ABOUT THE AUTHOR</strong></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>Rhonda Bowen</b> knew she would be a writer as early as
eighth grade when she wrote her first novel with a classmate in a dollar
notebook. While waiting for the day to come she completed a degree in
Communications and spent a few years working in Public Relations and Event
Planning. Throughout this time however, her desire to write stayed alive. She
eventually completed her first novel, </span></span><a href="http://www.rhondabowen.com/man-enough-for-me---rhonda-bowen.php"><b><i><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Man
Enough for Me</span></i></b></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">, which was released under Kensington Books’ Dafina
imprint in February 2011.</span></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Several years, a stint in Asia and a career change to youth
work finds her still writing. She has written fou<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">r</span> romance novels and her books have been
featured in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY and LIBRARY JOURNAL. <span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Her latest novel Under Covers was released
March 16, 2015. She writes about the themes of Real Life, Real Love and Real
Faith, weaving stories about strong women who must deal with life and love
without losing themselves. Sometimes they succeed, other times they make a mess
of things while trying. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwoeRtq9S0mKkz1gt50w73sd3JXW4-vW9DGM4EAHRFvBS5ETRw-6V5G-mq7GhACpTGMA4ykNaXQ9uZCvT_RJOPvjTWw1BcSPzsmur6ZDi8FpmgGRyDeInF3pjq2EJjhKNkYekq4bQCDE/s1600/rhondapic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwoeRtq9S0mKkz1gt50w73sd3JXW4-vW9DGM4EAHRFvBS5ETRw-6V5G-mq7GhACpTGMA4ykNaXQ9uZCvT_RJOPvjTWw1BcSPzsmur6ZDi8FpmgGRyDeInF3pjq2EJjhKNkYekq4bQCDE/s1600/rhondapic.jpg" height="200" width="182" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">When not writing or<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"> being schooled on what’s current by the youth she works with</span>,
she enjoys <span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">chilling</span>
with her family, trying on shoes she can’t afford<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">, bargain hunting online on Asian clothes
websites </span>and enjoying the great outdoors. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Visit her online at: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Under-Covers-Rhonda-Bowen-ebook/dp/B00UPOZZ4W/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1426510648&sr=8-4&keywords=Rhonda+Bowen">Amazon</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.rhondabowen.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">www.rhondabowen.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> , </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/RhondaBowenBooks"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">www.facebook.com/RhondaBowenBooks</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">or drop her a note at </span><a href="mailto:rhondakbowen@gmail.com"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: blue;">rhondakbowen@</span><span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="color: blue;">yahoo</span></span><span style="color: blue;">.com</span></span></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
Purchase at: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Under-Covers-Rhonda-Bowen-ebook/dp/B00UPOZZ4W/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1426510648&sr=8-4&keywords=Rhonda+Bowen">Amazon</a></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-73160001682226761782015-04-21T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-21T00:00:00.267-07:00IT'S OKAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj520QNmoZsDQoRjux9RyU1GzTlGU12-_X23VQAouOf_VV9tFnL6zFGkLso4fkYPMorWoHL4XV0ftqdaNSk7TCjBF54NxXPBW-rNcOBWSQWROxEt_1feNIzRKVC7R9Vg3z_ybtXeV2PULk/s1600/okay1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj520QNmoZsDQoRjux9RyU1GzTlGU12-_X23VQAouOf_VV9tFnL6zFGkLso4fkYPMorWoHL4XV0ftqdaNSk7TCjBF54NxXPBW-rNcOBWSQWROxEt_1feNIzRKVC7R9Vg3z_ybtXeV2PULk/s1600/okay1.jpg" height="160" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How often have you
been asked:</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What's
wrong with you?</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">How
are you feeling?</span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Is
this what you wanted?</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How often has your
response been:</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I'm
okay</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">It's
okay</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How often was your response a lie based
on the following definitions of 'OKAY'?</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Used
to express assent, agreement, or acceptance<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Satisfactory,
but not exceptionally or especially good<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You said you were okay but you
weren't. You didn't really feel good, but you pretended that you were. What was
presented wasn't what you needed, but you accepted it anyway because in your
opinion, it was okay.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Often we say okay
because we either don't want to rock the boat or we don't want to hurt
someone's feelings, but either way, we aren't being honest. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Why? </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Because while we're
internalizing what's best for another, 'OKAY' is growing into stress that can
lead to a variety of medical issues. Or, equally as detrimental, years of OKAY
has the potential to erupt into a rage with the ability to destroy the future
of many.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">So how do you
overcome this? By giving yourself permission to tell the truth.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">If you’re angry, not
feeling well, not in agreement with what’s being presented to you—say it.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Say it because it’s
OKAY to do so. Say it because it can save you much health-wise and in your
personal and professional relationships. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-44009665068102967182015-04-20T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-20T00:00:10.298-07:00NETWORKING<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">NETWORKING</span></strong>—<span style="font-size: large;">a supportive system of sharing information and services among individuals and groups having a common interest.</span> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELuBKnK5ZHvC0ajn4aEtd40a86uCJ5GcLbmBE-vnqjYkkjFXY3o1WJTZmEpYCQorvF-70x8S58a0xLSrOpt8WtCYrhyphenhyphenfDUl4-5ESk-3YDzNqlXEinR2dnBhOKvKfC8fYaLbnJCa_OH7M/s1600/networking.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELuBKnK5ZHvC0ajn4aEtd40a86uCJ5GcLbmBE-vnqjYkkjFXY3o1WJTZmEpYCQorvF-70x8S58a0xLSrOpt8WtCYrhyphenhyphenfDUl4-5ESk-3YDzNqlXEinR2dnBhOKvKfC8fYaLbnJCa_OH7M/s1600/networking.png" height="192" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
Being a very social person, one of the components that I
enjoy most about my literary journey is networking. Most people view this
aspect of the business as one of formal business meetings, skype and
teleconferences. Those </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">scheduled interactions are definitely a part of the process, but
not the only way to develop and maintain business relationships. Below is a snapshot of what networking can look like: </span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">That formal meeting, teleconference or Skype encounter that has already been mentioned</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">A conversation over coffee </span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The
passing out business cards in line at the grocery store</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">That chance encounter with an individual shopping for something you've spotlighted in your book</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Opportunity to speak to a group/organization whose cause connects with yours </span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Professionals hired to develop a plan for your goal</span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Nonprofessionals dedicated to supporting your goal by helping to get the word out about your work</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This list could go on, but for the sake of brevity I'll sum things up this way, networking is a valuable tool for the authorpreneur. It's also a tool that has to be nurtured.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Don't forsake turning those appointments or chance encounters into success. </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Follow up on leads or information given at the end of that unexpected or
chance meeting. What's in your hand could be the door opening to what you’ve been longing for. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Follow up should be made within 48 hours of
meeting. When you do:</span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Don’t try to oversell yourself</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Take the time to understand who the
individual/group is , what they're about and what they have to offer</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Determine if you’re
able to reciprocate</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Be honest on both fronts</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Why is this important?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Because although what looks like opportunity is offered, you have to
determine if it is the one you should partake of. Likewise, don’t offer
something you shouldn’t. As the saying goes, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">everything that glitters isn’t gold</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For that reason alone consider what
connecting to certain people and entities will do to your personal and business
reputation.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><strong>*It's good to hand out your card, but don't walk away from someone you've engaged without getting their contact information.</strong> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-65863601383009350482015-04-17T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-17T00:00:09.108-07:00MARKETING--Isn't That for Groceries?<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">When I was creating the strategy for my first book I enrolled in a class geared toward the business side of writing. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I enjoyed all that was being taught until the 'M' word rolled off the facilitator's tongue.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZRgUl7XWnydUG1suTwYaIxr5cONMVp91gTSwNOyukxUVy2stk7K9gLC6ZhzOOelmbR4iSj_oRvXJqxn7BDcsIJ0rtT0louWbbYw_Ex7CUQHkglK8vUWafx367mhNqDJGQOg9n-UpVZs/s1600/groceries.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZRgUl7XWnydUG1suTwYaIxr5cONMVp91gTSwNOyukxUVy2stk7K9gLC6ZhzOOelmbR4iSj_oRvXJqxn7BDcsIJ0rtT0louWbbYw_Ex7CUQHkglK8vUWafx367mhNqDJGQOg9n-UpVZs/s1600/groceries.png" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Marketing. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I leaned in and pretended that I hadn't heard what had been said. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Marketing, she couldn't be talking about a subject I dreaded on a good day. As far as I was concerned marketing was for groceries, and anyone who knew me, knew about my aversion to the grocery store and cooking on a regular basis.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">My saving grace was that the woman didn't know me and gave me what I needed in spite of my self-proclaimed and unresolved issue. In an emphatic voice she told the class that unless our goal was to keep our books on our own shelves, we had to have a marketing strategy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Over the next hour she filled our heads with must-do and never-do tips to help us create our very own plan for pre and post release promotions. Initially I looked at it as another burdensome task, like going to the market. In time I found myself adjusting because my goal was to get my books into your hands.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!</span></strong></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-49038871194961870972015-04-16T18:26:00.000-07:002015-04-16T18:26:20.531-07:00CENTER STAGE<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5Ef8IomtdqAFQ3k6hdtpUX8Lcf6A8PMfIBoIKyJbalnF25DDR2Zm3r0G109UmvsIEPkhC-ZN_It0HvluyBxqsTWi7x0efTsd5hB9bVZnvGhkddiLTuELKcWzvugy6-fi6paRsS1Q4_k/s1600/ty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5Ef8IomtdqAFQ3k6hdtpUX8Lcf6A8PMfIBoIKyJbalnF25DDR2Zm3r0G109UmvsIEPkhC-ZN_It0HvluyBxqsTWi7x0efTsd5hB9bVZnvGhkddiLTuELKcWzvugy6-fi6paRsS1Q4_k/s1600/ty.jpg" height="200" width="167" /></a><br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;">It is my pleasure to introduce to some and reintroduce to others an author, entrepreneur and a woman I'm proud to call my friend, Tyora Moody. </span></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></o:p></span> </div>
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p>In the time that we've known each other, Ms. Moody has quietly established herself as an internet and social media powerhouse whose services are in high demand. </o:p></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p>A woman of faith, Ty believes in giving to others and has been the silent force that has contributed to the success of many. As a hybrid (traditionally and independently published) author of fiction and non-fiction books, the awards she has won and has been nominated for speak to the quality of her work. </o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p>Below is just a glimpse into what the power of her pen produces. Please enjoy this spotlight for <strong><em>HOSTILE EYE WITNESS</em></strong> the first installment from her new <strong><em>SERENA MANCHESTER SERIES.</em></strong></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p><strong><em></em></strong></o:p></span></span> </div>
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p><em><span style="font-size: x-large;">~ ~ ~</span></em></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;">Depressed from the complications of a head injury, <strong><em>SERENA
MANCHESTER</em></strong> seeks solitude in the hometown she left almost twenty-five years
before. Unknown to Serena, her hometown’s landscape has changed and unseemly
elements have seeped into the quaint Southern seaport town.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span></o:p></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;">One night Serena witnesses a gang-related crime. She thinks she
recognizes one of the young men, but chooses not to identify him. What if her
brain injury has deceived her perceptions? Her estranged family has already
reminded her why she left town in the first place. Drawing attention to herself
and perhaps threatening her well-being is the last thing Serena needs.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;">Serena is determined to keep a low-profile, but Trey Evans
persistently tries to draw her from her hiding place. With her track record
with men, Serena isn’t interested. What does she have in common with a minister
even if they were childhood friends?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilONPesa_OnLkhGxCC462vyfNlpS7gCXFOcEmo8FIWxTPtiL8biCEP0bQsPY0cI12pdazuLC4QrqqtI9VIW224J0bpinLWIe5c5wmOoX7CIiEdN-wvwSYfzrgMkiBH-7EHk5v0DgyJmU/s1600/HOSTILEEYEWITNESS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilONPesa_OnLkhGxCC462vyfNlpS7gCXFOcEmo8FIWxTPtiL8biCEP0bQsPY0cI12pdazuLC4QrqqtI9VIW224J0bpinLWIe5c5wmOoX7CIiEdN-wvwSYfzrgMkiBH-7EHk5v0DgyJmU/s1600/HOSTILEEYEWITNESS.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;">When tragedy strikes close to home, Serena can no longer keep her
head in the sand. Feeling responsible, Serena’s reporter skills kick in
and to the angst of the local police, she decides to start her own
investigation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;">What began as journey to recover her sanity now becomes a fight
for redemption.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span> </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;"> ~ ~ ~ ~</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span> </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;">Visit Tyora Moody at her home on the web:</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.tyoramoody.com/"><strong>www.tyoramoody.com</strong></a> </span></span></div>
<o:p></o:p><div style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
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<div style="line-height: 15.75pt;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-48082319405002101582015-04-16T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-16T00:00:09.645-07:00Loving to Learn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDJ4OuGpqO6jE2_e9U4T0iTJZUgg3nxCtzdq2x0azOP2pUGHdcpaTSRw_lLX3rQH6YlLVhiZOn8AQKxtLTebF22fueLrJ5fiera6lE2JLNDAES4FuUEQzsJkJqQLBvgEHSMg6xZ1PwLQ/s1600/learn.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDJ4OuGpqO6jE2_e9U4T0iTJZUgg3nxCtzdq2x0azOP2pUGHdcpaTSRw_lLX3rQH6YlLVhiZOn8AQKxtLTebF22fueLrJ5fiera6lE2JLNDAES4FuUEQzsJkJqQLBvgEHSMg6xZ1PwLQ/s1600/learn.png" height="200" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Some may call me a bit nerdy because of my need to know. I can't help it, I love to learn. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I love research because it's a way for me to discover something new or learn more about a subject I thought I was well-versed on. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">As a writer my natural inquisitiveness came in handy, but only to a degree. I soon found that the art of research was good, but not if it didn't yield the appropriate data. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">In my first novel, Business Unusual, I wanted to create a quick-witted conversation between the two protagonists as it pertained to roses. I knew that roses from a man signified a strong interest in the woman he sent them to. What I didn't understand was that there were specific meanings behind each color of a rose. Having that knowledge allowed me to add another layer to the personalities of my characters. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The enhanced confidence in my skill set prompted me to dare to go deeper with forthcoming storylines, scenes and plot development. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Developing that habit wasn't as easy as it sounded. It wasn't, but I learned to love the time it took to bring you reading enjoyment. So far you've told me I've done a good job.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-10265978220157581602015-04-15T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-15T00:00:04.470-07:00BEING KIND<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A few days ago a friend and I were discussing how so much had changed in our society. The consensus was that we're living in a world where being mean had become the rule rather than the exception. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">As we continued our talk we touched on the mindset that when kindness was offered, it was perceived as an ulterior motive. That alone caused me to question why. What happened to us? What happened to us? What happened to us?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMCaDuIH264nPhh9Q8lBvlyUueJtjzw5MuLq5hUmCd35joQJTj9bloTzysgf3K2BCN96gUnqv2mSnspNLBgzfhEVKN5JRml6cqVWoLpbMOtgLKnIKwYcBUnrs4mBL666XTcq19SaCic8/s1600/kind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMCaDuIH264nPhh9Q8lBvlyUueJtjzw5MuLq5hUmCd35joQJTj9bloTzysgf3K2BCN96gUnqv2mSnspNLBgzfhEVKN5JRml6cqVWoLpbMOtgLKnIKwYcBUnrs4mBL666XTcq19SaCic8/s1600/kind.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">After a few more repetitions of my question the answer became clearer than it ever had been--we (society) made a choice. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">As choosing to be unkind/mean gained notoriety virtually everything around us took on the mantra, "It's not personal--it's business." That somehow became the medication that absolved us of our bad behavior. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">On the other hand, being kind is more often looked upon as a sign of weakness; the blinder that prevented one from having that killer instinct that men and women of power are made of.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Fortunately, being kind or unkind is a matter of choice. It's up to you to choose which path to take. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Linda!</strong></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-9897317447365340462015-04-14T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-14T00:00:01.683-07:00I'M JUSTIFIED <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Okay I admit it--I'm just plain tired. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">As a writer or anyone with a full schedule, fatigue can sneak up on you. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrLEBesMj7JVKrGnvERvyVqKjj3eTcs3DzMrOOBuHqzYQmtiEWombvLc_PUQQqQ1BLOUs5yD2hwwLSSUxtoPL8jU7MiH6BujUsT1JHWiZP0SE8WGFa7Dqaa49sNAYBPeyupHTHW75YQk/s1600/tired.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrLEBesMj7JVKrGnvERvyVqKjj3eTcs3DzMrOOBuHqzYQmtiEWombvLc_PUQQqQ1BLOUs5yD2hwwLSSUxtoPL8jU7MiH6BujUsT1JHWiZP0SE8WGFa7Dqaa49sNAYBPeyupHTHW75YQk/s1600/tired.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">I spoke previously of being addicted to 'hurry' and took the only step in my 'one-step' program. Those first few days were glorious. Had the chance to get away for a few days, relaxed, slept and did very little. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">However, before I made my way home, chaos came-a-calling. The extra day I took off from work turned into a need to handle some private business. So right now I'm tired and I feel justified in taking time to take care of me. I'm going to bed.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">See you tomorrow.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!</span></strong></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-30571082212910236292015-04-13T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-13T00:00:01.697-07:00It's In Your Hand<div align="justify">
<span style="font-size: large;">A few years back it seemed like the world was crashing down around us. Many were concerned about their savings, investments and employment. I was too, but then I remembered something I </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8vj0OaKViG13DaTIp6TX_YHx-7zmRc3BvDEuhb2hkh7hUQsGLal3UCsF_eVXtu3orbaRN5BymvhwKBGQeHcTgBd_Rmr1BhUvErs4oZxAVo1psGlJ-Vf0JtAOfY7yFDmaLnsMZpAj2Cs/s1600/hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8vj0OaKViG13DaTIp6TX_YHx-7zmRc3BvDEuhb2hkh7hUQsGLal3UCsF_eVXtu3orbaRN5BymvhwKBGQeHcTgBd_Rmr1BhUvErs4oZxAVo1psGlJ-Vf0JtAOfY7yFDmaLnsMZpAj2Cs/s1600/hands.jpg" height="315" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">used to say to myself and others when faced with the possibility of a government shutdown in 1995 and 1996. </span><span style="font-size: large;">When people asked if I was worried I'd respond with, "If God can't take care of me then I can't be taken care of." </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Those words ignited a belief in me that if push came to shove I had a few skills in my hands I could draw upon that could keep the roof over our heads and food on the table if it came down to it. </span><span style="font-size: large;">It didn't come down to 'it' and I'm grateful for that. Although it didn't it made me reconsider what was in my hand. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was surprised at what I found. You might be surprised at what's in your hand as well. It could be anything from artistic abilities to the discovering the cure for diabetes. So, the next time you're trying to figure out what to do with your life, look at your hands--you might be surprised at what you find.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!</span></strong></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-14961433969449600842015-04-10T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-10T00:00:00.842-07:00ADDICTED TO 'HURRY'<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">In this age of electronic convenience it's very easy to schedule our lives out to the millisecond</span> <span style="font-size: large;">if we choose to. The problem is--with that convenience it can become too easy to believe we can do it all, and before we know it, we've become addicted to 'hurry'.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What does that mean? Just what it says. We find ourselves in a hurry to finish this because we have to meet this deadline because we're scheduled to do this by this date or time. The rationalization can become the force that drives us to exhaustion and/or distance us from what's important.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do you feel like you're always in a hurry? For most of us the answer is yes. For me the answer was YES-YES. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Juggling what is expected of us with what we look forward to can place us on a treadmill to nowhere with deadlines we can't always meet without stress or guilt. I know because I can honestly say that I had to acknowledge my addiction to 'hurry' and sign up for the one-step program back to 'slow down'.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLbiuh-Sw7rIbGRQb-n6G6V4EIIx_w4jCgxObr26lV2bpvyIK8Nc6QUwcuIzgy-RCMbF-17yiHY3Po96m36Qi-Ap-_INyHsok1IVSEp9zrd34HSf5DxDwwhcd_91C3KSPoR9YQbYqXf8/s1600/treadmill.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLbiuh-Sw7rIbGRQb-n6G6V4EIIx_w4jCgxObr26lV2bpvyIK8Nc6QUwcuIzgy-RCMbF-17yiHY3Po96m36Qi-Ap-_INyHsok1IVSEp9zrd34HSf5DxDwwhcd_91C3KSPoR9YQbYqXf8/s1600/treadmill.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What was that one step -- just stop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hear you out there screaming, "but I can't." Well, you really can, but it's a matter of choice. So today my encouragement to you is to take what you do seriously, but don't allow it to overtake your life. Slow down, because if you don't, you may soon find yourself back on that treadmill to nowhere while life passes you by.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!</span></strong></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-9051014324586113352015-04-09T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-09T00:00:01.065-07:00THE POWER OF THE GORGEOUS BOOK COVER<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYtEm-98X5Hb8N9ZhH8lak8ibzMG6X7iTgKM3TEu9pUjPQ9TyEvRFIrxdVb4OI303itYGRUojOOvz0QUsQ2XrfYzXq4N1KWH0pasw3u09WsyMwZWGmVf63jVPwTyHJiiTSirlL_ouALic/s1600/TTF2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYtEm-98X5Hb8N9ZhH8lak8ibzMG6X7iTgKM3TEu9pUjPQ9TyEvRFIrxdVb4OI303itYGRUojOOvz0QUsQ2XrfYzXq4N1KWH0pasw3u09WsyMwZWGmVf63jVPwTyHJiiTSirlL_ouALic/s1600/TTF2.jpg" height="200" width="135" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9cryu1HZaLS6pPzzwVmPrJ3JXtFm42toJuWPrIGWUNdu996h3bAIy9ktD1zfiFMlNjLKNcZi4X90oyheb3d1qRyjA6oXO4RwzyucjFtXvyobWL82WKZ1IGXcsnyQ2e82aKYBL2Uv5Kwc/s1600/HerGiftsCover2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9cryu1HZaLS6pPzzwVmPrJ3JXtFm42toJuWPrIGWUNdu996h3bAIy9ktD1zfiFMlNjLKNcZi4X90oyheb3d1qRyjA6oXO4RwzyucjFtXvyobWL82WKZ1IGXcsnyQ2e82aKYBL2Uv5Kwc/s1600/HerGiftsCover2.jpg" height="200" width="125" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">How many times have you looked at a book and passed it by due to lack of eye appeal? How often have you been drawn to and even purchased a book because of the gorgeous cover?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As human beings we're naturally drawn to things that are attractive. That's not to say that everything attractive is a good thing. But, human nature proves that the majority of society is drawn to what they find attractive. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've reviewed books for many years. Along the way I've surveyed readers about what helped them decide what would provoke them to purchase. The majority response they gave is as follows:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">An appealing cover</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Intriguing back cover blurb</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The mid-book test</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As writers please consider the three tips above when preparing the cover for your book. A gorgeous/eye-appealing cover could make a huge difference to a potential reader.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Linda!</strong></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-46100021477185437922015-04-08T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-08T00:00:12.708-07:00FEROCITY<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">FEROCITY</span></strong> -- The quality of being ferocious. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the midst of a tense roundtable debate one of the panelist insinuated that I had a Napoleon complex. Years of experience taught me that the remark had two objectives. The first was to divert focus from the point-of-view the panelist couldn't support with their rhetoric. The second was to possibly tone down how I defended my position. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The subject matter on the table that day had long been a passion of mine. The ferocity in which I defended it had been embedded in my spirit for years. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I applied the same to the passion to my family, ministry and business. I have because e</span><span style="font-size: large;">arly in life I found that once I took a stance about subject I would be challenged. I would because of the limitations society had sought to place on me by virtue of gender, stature and ethnicity. In time I learned that the challenge wouldn't be the issue; how I stood, would. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnqxEIORiYpBcwBz0aPwGwUWsMg8dqF1UBLMoIudaVxSDSamUks-cxaNB66YBTMpqFMIkj425Bu58tAPDgoS1indCpLGmb4W9hmvfaTSkxlYEW_hJJzAbmuaNkzmLXcIXsLu3_BszxAg4/s1600/kam.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnqxEIORiYpBcwBz0aPwGwUWsMg8dqF1UBLMoIudaVxSDSamUks-cxaNB66YBTMpqFMIkj425Bu58tAPDgoS1indCpLGmb4W9hmvfaTSkxlYEW_hJJzAbmuaNkzmLXcIXsLu3_BszxAg4/s1600/kam.png" height="265" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">On my quest to fulfill purpose, it was not promised that the road I'd travel would be easy. But I won't be turned way by those who don't understand what I've been called to do. I encourage you to go after whatever you're called to with a ferocity that would stun even you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><strong> <span style="font-size: x-large;">Linda!</span></strong></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-31710200653606948832015-04-07T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-07T00:00:07.679-07:00BE THE EXAMPLE<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEFRzNltn1SlHreagd-HvwRFOzhLPGeifKmtG4sZABfVtptpSlXUdBbid3lnW0HalhWN7NKHBydJrI42K8NiXlBmX8CYn0kX2lAK7dTUx4r0uyCmREkFWHySwD2uEB3lC5MoAn26GzK_s/s1600/example.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEFRzNltn1SlHreagd-HvwRFOzhLPGeifKmtG4sZABfVtptpSlXUdBbid3lnW0HalhWN7NKHBydJrI42K8NiXlBmX8CYn0kX2lAK7dTUx4r0uyCmREkFWHySwD2uEB3lC5MoAn26GzK_s/s1600/example.png" height="320" width="312" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">When I was invited to co-host a literary event I'd long admired, I was excited. I floated around the room for about two hours. At hour two and one second I hit the floor hard. I did because the reality of what I had been charged with weighted me down.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When I got up the nerve to call back and ask why I had been selected, the simple response floored me. I was told by the host that they had been watching me and they liked what they'd seen. Bottom line was that from those observations it was felt that I would be a good example of caring and source of information at the venue that attendees would benefit from interacting with. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's amazing to find out that people have been watching you and what they determine about you from their observations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Whether you're in business or just going about what you consider your ordinary day, people are watching. What example to you want to set?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Linda!</strong></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-71765825659111860702015-04-06T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-06T00:00:02.997-07:00DETERMINATION<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">There will be times in your life when even the little things will seem too complicated to deal with. Then there will be those days when </span><span style="font-size: large;">you will feel like you can conquer the world only to have someone tell you what you can't do. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Long story short, what you determine to do with each day you're granted on this earth is up to you!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8JbK1l8RznUzrYClI3HU7CMS1cSWHXPK4TtcPJMmJjSiRSage9JrNJR4oGbALNTEDP0Fc8BSFQ4BpliwkQVbLqcqIR62UllZwgYuxTjlZGyT5adwC1PSudOFBe82GwfHMj6jKdTIIdQ/s1600/determination.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8JbK1l8RznUzrYClI3HU7CMS1cSWHXPK4TtcPJMmJjSiRSage9JrNJR4oGbALNTEDP0Fc8BSFQ4BpliwkQVbLqcqIR62UllZwgYuxTjlZGyT5adwC1PSudOFBe82GwfHMj6jKdTIIdQ/s1600/determination.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Linda!</strong></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-73284226213968460282015-04-03T00:00:00.000-07:002015-04-03T00:00:10.053-07:00CREATION<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xsb_ndPEOc69bIsAQeFIUpJJVdnbc5azlrmh6BBT0LsnQSvMP3E_HfIThwt50Fx42FYbg7TB2AXWBEdGSpXYrszyMgT3KA5b6TJhiCe2Lzw37mDsnC7JE2RaFyBwBzjZArkBgAwtJNE/s1600/dollbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xsb_ndPEOc69bIsAQeFIUpJJVdnbc5azlrmh6BBT0LsnQSvMP3E_HfIThwt50Fx42FYbg7TB2AXWBEdGSpXYrszyMgT3KA5b6TJhiCe2Lzw37mDsnC7JE2RaFyBwBzjZArkBgAwtJNE/s1600/dollbook.jpg" height="400" width="292" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>"Imagination is the beginning of creation. You imagine what you desire, you will what you imagine, and at last you create what you will."</em></strong> George Bernard Shaw</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Too often the creative mind is stifled by the heavy hand of indifference. Once you find your muse, embrace it, nurture it and present it to the world. Do so because even if there is only one, they are the one destined to benefit from your <strong><em>creation</em></strong>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Linda!</strong></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103017715734958790.post-58070898591798703262015-04-02T07:18:00.000-07:002015-04-02T07:24:12.452-07:00BELIEVE IN YOURSELF<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0pPiHiSvf3bQyJxrF1JPF0cd40mFac6G-RQdGAABCh63W5_6bHGABXhIRYaPtJuUKAVGWIiTnE2kQUgi9YiaseHT9UwHgyJYIbekIodnE9WG05dpBixU8aNbXmUs2J4HOktznBP72tc/s1600/believing.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0pPiHiSvf3bQyJxrF1JPF0cd40mFac6G-RQdGAABCh63W5_6bHGABXhIRYaPtJuUKAVGWIiTnE2kQUgi9YiaseHT9UwHgyJYIbekIodnE9WG05dpBixU8aNbXmUs2J4HOktznBP72tc/s1600/believing.png" height="271" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">As a little girl I often daydreamed about who I wanted to be and what I wanted to do. Of course back then who and what I wanted to be varied from day-to-day. Moving into the ranks of adulthood didn't change the fact that I still had varied interests. What changed was that I began to<strong> <em>believe</em></strong> that I could achieve what others told me I couldn't.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It took time, but I slowly began the process to move forward with the desire that had been burning in my spirit. Holding fast to that desire and needing to be the example of what I had preached to my children, at the age of forty-five I enrolled into college. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was scary for many reasons. The first being that I had doubts about my intellectual capacity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That revelation sounded strange to those who had known me in the realm of business owner and ministry leader. It did because they saw the outer trappings of a woman fighting to overcome the stigma of being crushed by unkind words that destroyed my belief of what I could achieve. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It took some doing, but I made the decision to <em><strong>believe</strong></em> everything I told my children about overcoming adversity and negative words. I dared to <em><strong>believe</strong></em> that I could earn a college degree. I dared to <em><strong>believe</strong></em> that by doing so I could be an encouragement and maybe, even a champion for those who have yet to <em><strong>believe</strong></em>. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Today I challenge, encourage and implore you to take the time to discover who you are and <strong><em>believe</em></strong> in yourself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Linda!</strong></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494459510053341021noreply@blogger.com4