 You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them. Desmond Tutu Last week I took the opportunity to disconnect from social media a little and spent more time with my family. I was able to enjoy time with my girls (my daughter and two visiting nieces). I engaged in conversations with my sons on a deeper level. And I had a stronger and truer connection with my husband. As the holiday continued on, I had the opportunity to talk with a dear friend. We discussed the broken relationships in our lives and the impact it has on the families. I thought of all the people that are no longer with us, or are estranged from us and I said a prayer for them and for us. What I realize is that we oftentimes take our hurt and pain and turn it on those closest to us. Sometimes, we allow our hurt and pain to take on a twisted reality in our minds of what is right and wrong. We see things from a place of hurt, which causes us to react from what we perceive to be reality. Unfortunately, the enemy causes us to see ourselves as right, when we actually may be wrong. We begin to justify our actions, attitudes and words. We speak from a place of hurt, which creates pain for others, as we continue to allow the pain to turn into something evil and vindictive. We see everyone else as wrong, rather than ourselves. And sometimes, the other person is wrong. But it's not for us to judge them or sentence them. We are to forgive them and love them through all things. What if He didn't forgive us of our sins. I get scared every time that thought passes through my mind. What a saddening fate. I don't believe He meant for this to happen. He wants us to be healed from our brokenness, and strengthened in our weakness. He wants us to grow closer and not separate. Because despite the words falling from our lips, we do need one another. We can't make it without each other and the truth is we all have our faults and flaws. We all fall short of His glory, and need to learn to look at one another with His eyes and not our own flawed and failing vision. I would like to share a simple prayer today. Father, forgive us of all of our iniquities. Help us to forgive one another, as You have chosen to forgive us. Give us sight Lord to see one another through Your eyes and not our own. Teach us to love one another again and appreciate each other, as You have called us to do. And Lord, as we decrease, we pray that You would increase. Let Your will be done. In Jesus' name. For more Motivational Monday Moments, please follow this blog. Simply click the "follow," "subscribe," or "email" links in the upper right corner. Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
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November 18, 2014 November 18, 2015
It's another #throwbackThursday and I'm sharing a blog post from last year on November 18, 2014. I was sharing a nanowrimo update with the readers of my previous blog. I wasn't too thrilled with my progress at that point, but I'm happy to say that as of the writing of this post, I have exceeded the 30k word count! Woohoo! On the other hand, I'm not too happy with the content, as a whole. There are a lot of changes that I will be making...just not yet. Well, here's last year's post...
There you have it ladies and gentlemen, my word count is 11,253. Okay, so I'm not doing so great with my nanowrimo project. But have I given up? Not quite. I've actually reverted to working on another project that I was completing prior to nanowrimo. And that's what I'm going to share with you today. So before you bash me read on...
EXCERPT FROM A WOMAN'S CHOICE:
I was sitting in my husband’s hospital room reading a book early that Sunday morning when the door opened. I sat on the left side of his bed, surrounded by flowers and hidden by the bed, which was lifted high. I couldn’t see the person who entered the room, which was unusual. Whenever anyone walked in I could often see their head and chest above the bed. But as I listened I heard a distinct noise. Suddenly it dawned on me when the squeaking stopped that it was the sound of a wheelchair.
I rose slowly from my seat by his side and walked around the bed. I was still unseen as I stood there with a look of disgust on my face. I took in the light skinned woman, whose skin was the color of creamy coffee. She wore her long, brown hair in a wavy braid down her back. She was bent over in a wheelchair with her head lying on his bed. Her shoulders shook as she cried. I chose not to say a word, not because I wanted to give her a private moment with my husband, but because I needed to gather my thoughts.
I remained that way for almost two minutes and I couldn’t take it anymore. “Kendra?” I had never met her or even seen pictures of her before, but I knew who she was.
She turned her head around, with her eyes widened in surprise.
“I’m Ambiance, Eric’s wife.” I stood with my arms folded across my breasts, my face lined with fury.
She sniffed, wiping her arms on the sleeves of her robe. “I know who you are. Can I just have a moment with him please?” Her voice was somewhat deep, what most would probably call sensual. I couldn’t believe she had the gall to ask me if she, his mistress, could have a moment alone with my husband.
“Don’t you think you’ve had more of them than you were entitled to, Kendra? I always thought about all the things that I would say to you if I ever met you. I wondered what you looked like, what you offered him that I couldn’t, and so many other things. And now that I see you, I’m not impressed at all. Actually I feel sorry for you. A woman who can’t get her own man and has to sink to the level of sharing another woman’s man is no woman at all in my book. You have no self-respect, no love for your fellow sisters, and no self-worth. I pity you because until you’ve learned how to love yourself you can’t truly love anyone else. And don’t tell me you love yourself because if you did you would have placed yourself in a much better situation than this. You have to settle for his leftover love,” I spat out at her in anger.
For more #TBT posts, inspirational posts, writing content, excerpts and more simply follow this blog. Click the "follow," "subscribe," or "email" links in the upper right corner.
There you have it ladies and gentlemen, my word count is 11,253. Okay, so I'm not doing so great with my nanowrimo project. But have I given up? Not quite. I've actually reverted to working on another project that I was completing prior to nanowrimo. And that's what I'm going to share with you today. So before you bash me read on...
EXCERPT FROM A WOMAN'S CHOICE:
I was sitting in my husband’s hospital room reading a book early that Sunday morning when the door opened. I sat on the left side of his bed, surrounded by flowers and hidden by the bed, which was lifted high. I couldn’t see the person who entered the room, which was unusual. Whenever anyone walked in I could often see their head and chest above the bed. But as I listened I heard a distinct noise. Suddenly it dawned on me when the squeaking stopped that it was the sound of a wheelchair.
I rose slowly from my seat by his side and walked around the bed. I was still unseen as I stood there with a look of disgust on my face. I took in the light skinned woman, whose skin was the color of creamy coffee. She wore her long, brown hair in a wavy braid down her back. She was bent over in a wheelchair with her head lying on his bed. Her shoulders shook as she cried. I chose not to say a word, not because I wanted to give her a private moment with my husband, but because I needed to gather my thoughts.
I remained that way for almost two minutes and I couldn’t take it anymore. “Kendra?” I had never met her or even seen pictures of her before, but I knew who she was.
She turned her head around, with her eyes widened in surprise.
“I’m Ambiance, Eric’s wife.” I stood with my arms folded across my breasts, my face lined with fury.
She sniffed, wiping her arms on the sleeves of her robe. “I know who you are. Can I just have a moment with him please?” Her voice was somewhat deep, what most would probably call sensual. I couldn’t believe she had the gall to ask me if she, his mistress, could have a moment alone with my husband.
“Don’t you think you’ve had more of them than you were entitled to, Kendra? I always thought about all the things that I would say to you if I ever met you. I wondered what you looked like, what you offered him that I couldn’t, and so many other things. And now that I see you, I’m not impressed at all. Actually I feel sorry for you. A woman who can’t get her own man and has to sink to the level of sharing another woman’s man is no woman at all in my book. You have no self-respect, no love for your fellow sisters, and no self-worth. I pity you because until you’ve learned how to love yourself you can’t truly love anyone else. And don’t tell me you love yourself because if you did you would have placed yourself in a much better situation than this. You have to settle for his leftover love,” I spat out at her in anger.
For more #TBT posts, inspirational posts, writing content, excerpts and more simply follow this blog. Click the "follow," "subscribe," or "email" links in the upper right corner.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
Book Title: A GENTLEMAN'S AGREEMENT
Publication Date: 10-24-2015
ASIN: B0172YH9XM
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Joy Avery
About The Book
Publication Date: 10-24-2015
ASIN: B0172YH9XM
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Joy Avery
About The Book
When it comes to love, all deals are off!
Blake Farrington knows exactly who to call when he finds himself needing crisis management. Yes, this task is outside Eunice Howard’s usual realm of responsibilities, but he’s willing to make it worth her time. Plus, she’s ideal for the role. Who better to play his pretend lover than the one woman who knows him almost better than he knows himself?
The last thing Eunice Howard expects when summoned to her boss’s office is a request to play the role of his new love interest to appease his mother, restless to marry him off. Foolishly agreeing, she ventures with him to Farrington Estates for the Thanksgiving holiday. She thought she’d seen all sides of Blake Farrington, but the man who emerges is a man she could easily love.
Their agreement blossoms into a connection neither expected—nor are willing to admit. When the lines between make-believe and reality blur, something phenomenal occurs.
Blake Farrington knows exactly who to call when he finds himself needing crisis management. Yes, this task is outside Eunice Howard’s usual realm of responsibilities, but he’s willing to make it worth her time. Plus, she’s ideal for the role. Who better to play his pretend lover than the one woman who knows him almost better than he knows himself?
The last thing Eunice Howard expects when summoned to her boss’s office is a request to play the role of his new love interest to appease his mother, restless to marry him off. Foolishly agreeing, she ventures with him to Farrington Estates for the Thanksgiving holiday. She thought she’d seen all sides of Blake Farrington, but the man who emerges is a man she could easily love.
Their agreement blossoms into a connection neither expected—nor are willing to admit. When the lines between make-believe and reality blur, something phenomenal occurs.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
By day, Joy Avery works as a customer service assistant. By night, the North Carolina native travels to imaginary worlds—creating characters whose romantic journeys invariably end happily ever after.
Since she was a young girl growing up in Garner, Joy knew she wanted to write. Stumbling onto romance novels, she discovered her passion for love stories; instantly, she knew these were the type stories she wanted to pen.
Her first contemporary romance was published in 2014. Her seventh book will release late 2015. Real characters. Real Journeys. Real good love is what you’ll find in a Joy Avery romance.
Joy is married with one child. When not writing, she enjoys reading, cake decorating, pretending to expertly play the piano, driving her husband insane, and playing with her two dogs.
Joy is a member of Romance Writers of America and Heart of Carolina Romance Writers.
Connect Socially
Website: http://www.joyavery.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorjoyavery
Twitter: www.twitter.com/authorjoyavery
Excerpt
The second they rounded the corner, Eunice snatched her hand away. “What the hell was that?” she asked in a whisper.
“What?” He wasn’t truly that clueless, but played so.
She released a heavy sigh and hiked up the stairs. Inside the bedroom, he was on her heels—right until the moment she stormed into the bathroom and slammed the door in his face.
Blake leaned against the door jamb. “Are you upset?”
“Yes. No. I mean—” She cursed under her breath.
He couldn’t understand why she’d gotten so distressed. Okay, maybe he’d gone a little overboard, but…
Eunice continued. “I don’t know. Did you—”
She yelped once the door slung open and he was standing there. He flashed one of his award-winning smiles in hopes of lightening the mood. She pushed him out of the way and moved toward the bed. Her hair was pulled into a high ponytail, and she wore a simple white nightgown shirt. It was sexy as hell.
“Did you have to take it that far?” she said.
“We’re supposed to be a believable couple, right?” She narrowed her eyes at him. Had she been a bull, he had a feeling this was the moment she would have charged. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realize my words would affect you so…deeply. They were pretty poetic, huh?”
Eunice snatched a pillow from the bed and hurled it at him. What was with him and women with pillows?
“Enjoy the floor, Mr. Poetic.”
Blake barked a laugh.
Eunice climbed in bed.
He sobered.
She pulled the covers to her chin.
Blake pulled his hands to his waist. “Eunice?” When she didn’t answer, he rested his hand on the back of his neck. “Come on. You can’t be serious. You’re really making me sleep on the floor?”
“Goodnight, Prat. Sweet dreams.”
There was a hint of laughter in her tone. Frankly, he didn’t find anything funny. “Seriously, that bed is the size of a small island.”
“In that case, you should feel privileged. You have the entire ocean to yourself.”
Every damn body is a comedian in this house. “Okay. I’ll remember this.” This time, humor played in his tone. “See if you get a Christmas bonus.” He escaped into the bathroom, did his before bed rituals, then returned and made a pallet on the floor. Using the remote, he shut off the lights, then attempted to find a comfortable position.
“Blake?”
Ah-ha. I knew she’d feel sorry for me. “Mmm-hmm,” he hummed.
“Your story… This is going to sound strange, but it actually happened to me in Central Park. Weird, huh?”
Not weird at all. Unlike her story, his had been steeped in truth. All except for the approaching her part. Unbeknownst to Eunice, he’d seen her in the park doing exactly what he’d stated. He’d also wanted to ask her out. But before he could, he discovered she’d recently started working for his company. Imagine his surprise when they’d bumped into each other at the annual Spring Fling he threw for his staff.
“Huh. Yeah. That is weird.”
Amazon Link: http://bit.ly/agentlemansagreement
Tour hosted by Write Now Literary Book Tours www.wnlbooktours.com
By day, Joy Avery works as a customer service assistant. By night, the North Carolina native travels to imaginary worlds—creating characters whose romantic journeys invariably end happily ever after.
Since she was a young girl growing up in Garner, Joy knew she wanted to write. Stumbling onto romance novels, she discovered her passion for love stories; instantly, she knew these were the type stories she wanted to pen.
Her first contemporary romance was published in 2014. Her seventh book will release late 2015. Real characters. Real Journeys. Real good love is what you’ll find in a Joy Avery romance.
Joy is married with one child. When not writing, she enjoys reading, cake decorating, pretending to expertly play the piano, driving her husband insane, and playing with her two dogs.
Joy is a member of Romance Writers of America and Heart of Carolina Romance Writers.
Connect Socially
Website: http://www.joyavery.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorjoyavery
Twitter: www.twitter.com/authorjoyavery
Excerpt
The second they rounded the corner, Eunice snatched her hand away. “What the hell was that?” she asked in a whisper.
“What?” He wasn’t truly that clueless, but played so.
She released a heavy sigh and hiked up the stairs. Inside the bedroom, he was on her heels—right until the moment she stormed into the bathroom and slammed the door in his face.
Blake leaned against the door jamb. “Are you upset?”
“Yes. No. I mean—” She cursed under her breath.
He couldn’t understand why she’d gotten so distressed. Okay, maybe he’d gone a little overboard, but…
Eunice continued. “I don’t know. Did you—”
She yelped once the door slung open and he was standing there. He flashed one of his award-winning smiles in hopes of lightening the mood. She pushed him out of the way and moved toward the bed. Her hair was pulled into a high ponytail, and she wore a simple white nightgown shirt. It was sexy as hell.
“Did you have to take it that far?” she said.
“We’re supposed to be a believable couple, right?” She narrowed her eyes at him. Had she been a bull, he had a feeling this was the moment she would have charged. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realize my words would affect you so…deeply. They were pretty poetic, huh?”
Eunice snatched a pillow from the bed and hurled it at him. What was with him and women with pillows?
“Enjoy the floor, Mr. Poetic.”
Blake barked a laugh.
Eunice climbed in bed.
He sobered.
She pulled the covers to her chin.
Blake pulled his hands to his waist. “Eunice?” When she didn’t answer, he rested his hand on the back of his neck. “Come on. You can’t be serious. You’re really making me sleep on the floor?”
“Goodnight, Prat. Sweet dreams.”
There was a hint of laughter in her tone. Frankly, he didn’t find anything funny. “Seriously, that bed is the size of a small island.”
“In that case, you should feel privileged. You have the entire ocean to yourself.”
Every damn body is a comedian in this house. “Okay. I’ll remember this.” This time, humor played in his tone. “See if you get a Christmas bonus.” He escaped into the bathroom, did his before bed rituals, then returned and made a pallet on the floor. Using the remote, he shut off the lights, then attempted to find a comfortable position.
“Blake?”
Ah-ha. I knew she’d feel sorry for me. “Mmm-hmm,” he hummed.
“Your story… This is going to sound strange, but it actually happened to me in Central Park. Weird, huh?”
Not weird at all. Unlike her story, his had been steeped in truth. All except for the approaching her part. Unbeknownst to Eunice, he’d seen her in the park doing exactly what he’d stated. He’d also wanted to ask her out. But before he could, he discovered she’d recently started working for his company. Imagine his surprise when they’d bumped into each other at the annual Spring Fling he threw for his staff.
“Huh. Yeah. That is weird.”
Amazon Link: http://bit.ly/agentlemansagreement
Tour hosted by Write Now Literary Book Tours www.wnlbooktours.com
For other blog tours, author interviews and more, simply follow this blog. Click the "follow," "subscribe," or "email" links in the upper right corner.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. - Matthew 11: 28-30
Lately, God has been whispering that Scripture into my heart. On Saturday, I took out time to study it and allow it to minister to me. We all go through situations in life, where we question not only why we're going through it, but how will we come out on the other side.
I have struggled with having inner peace for the last few weeks. Situations bother me more than they typically do, and being an emotional person causes issues to weigh more heavily on me than normal.
As I studied I just sat amazed over the simple fact that He extends to us a personal invitation. He calls us into His Presence with a purpose. And that purpose is to give us rest from the burden of our sins, the burden of our guilt, and the burden of the cares of this world. And it's also to allow us to know Him more, and follow Him.
Entering into His rest gives us peace, calmness, and a new perspective on our situations. I know that when I stopped and prayed in the midst of a situation that upset me, I came out new. As I prayed, I just began to listen and meditate on that one Scripture. I literally felt the burden lift from my shoulders, as I became lighter and felt more at peace. I instantly felt a smile come over my face and joy in my soul.
During this time of rest, He sanctifies us and justifies us, as we unburden our souls to Him. Then He tells us to learn from Him. What does that say? Become His disciple, which is simply a follower or learner of Christ. And as we learn from Him, we can share His teachings and ways with others through our words, actions and behaviors.
Maybe this Scripture was for you this week, or maybe there's another one meant for you. All I know is, when we truly use His word and apply it to our life, it makes our situations more easy to bear. It gives us peace while we're going through. And it causes us to draw closer to Him, as He draws closer to us (James 4:8).
Be inspired, be filled with peace, and be led into His rest on this week.
It's been another Motivational Monday Moment and I hope you're living your life beautifully inspired!
To receive more inspirational posts and other topics, please follow this blog. Simply click the "follow," "subscribe," or "email" links in the upper right corner.
Lately, God has been whispering that Scripture into my heart. On Saturday, I took out time to study it and allow it to minister to me. We all go through situations in life, where we question not only why we're going through it, but how will we come out on the other side.
I have struggled with having inner peace for the last few weeks. Situations bother me more than they typically do, and being an emotional person causes issues to weigh more heavily on me than normal.
As I studied I just sat amazed over the simple fact that He extends to us a personal invitation. He calls us into His Presence with a purpose. And that purpose is to give us rest from the burden of our sins, the burden of our guilt, and the burden of the cares of this world. And it's also to allow us to know Him more, and follow Him.
Entering into His rest gives us peace, calmness, and a new perspective on our situations. I know that when I stopped and prayed in the midst of a situation that upset me, I came out new. As I prayed, I just began to listen and meditate on that one Scripture. I literally felt the burden lift from my shoulders, as I became lighter and felt more at peace. I instantly felt a smile come over my face and joy in my soul.
During this time of rest, He sanctifies us and justifies us, as we unburden our souls to Him. Then He tells us to learn from Him. What does that say? Become His disciple, which is simply a follower or learner of Christ. And as we learn from Him, we can share His teachings and ways with others through our words, actions and behaviors.
Maybe this Scripture was for you this week, or maybe there's another one meant for you. All I know is, when we truly use His word and apply it to our life, it makes our situations more easy to bear. It gives us peace while we're going through. And it causes us to draw closer to Him, as He draws closer to us (James 4:8).
Be inspired, be filled with peace, and be led into His rest on this week.
It's been another Motivational Monday Moment and I hope you're living your life beautifully inspired!
To receive more inspirational posts and other topics, please follow this blog. Simply click the "follow," "subscribe," or "email" links in the upper right corner.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
It's another Fabulous Friday and you know what that means! Yes, I'm featuring another Fab author in the spotlight.
Today, Christina Jones is here to share Inevitable Conclusions, her newest release. And if the cover itself isn't hot enough to warm you up, then the excerpt is. There's nothing more intriguing than friends turned lovers.
About the Book:
Friends?
Lovers?
Both?
For Kora and Tariq, those lines have been blurred for a long time. Every time clarity seems to be within reach, something shifts, and in a single moment, focus is lost. Once again, they’re in limbo.
Between them, there is only one secret, with the power to permanently alter their relationship. For good or bad, neither of them knows – nor are they willing to take that risk.
Through the pain of past tragedies and the pressure of current dramas, they always find solace in each other’s arms. Inescapably connected by the interminable bond of friendship, Tariq and Kora navigate family, life, and love, searching for separate answers to a problem that has only has one, unavoidable solution.
Excerpt:
She closed her eyes and took a big gulp of her wine, and when she opened them again, her gaze landed right on me. Something in her expression seemed so desolate that I took a few steps closer to her in the kitchen.
“Kora,” I said, grabbing her hand. “Are we really good? You’ve been avoiding me a lot, and I don’t know. I’m usually able to figure you out, but lately you’re a mystery to me.”
She laughed. “That’s funny, Tariq, because I feel like you see right through me. Glad to know that’s not the case.”
She lifted her glass, draining the rest of her wine and I shook my head. “What does that even mean? I don’t hide anything from you, Kora. So why would you…? See what I mean? A mystery.”
For a long moment, she held my gaze, but then she blinked, and a gloss of tears coated her eyes. She turned away from me, pulling her hand from mine to pour herself another glass of Syrah as she cleared her throat.
“Kora,” I said, slipping the glass from her hand to put it down on the counter. At first, I entwined my fingers with hers, but even though I was right in her face, she kept her eyes averted. So I released her hands, cupped her chin instead, tipping it up toward me. “Talk to me about what’s going on with us right now. This distance that’s happening, you pulling away from me like this… we don’t do this, Kora. This isn’t us.”
She sucked in a breath, blinking hard as several tears escaped her eyes. “You’re right – it’s not. But Tariq, you can’t possibly have thought that things wouldn’t be different. I mean, we’re making a huge adjustment, saying that we need to keep an appropriate level of intimacy between us. So where I usually would have asked you to come and lay with me right now, hold me… I can’t. We can’t do that anymore, and that’s hard for me, because this is a time that I could damned sure use it. I’m in limbo right now. Changes with me and you, chaos from the play, and now a concern about if my past is going to become tabloid fodder, how that’s going to affect my job, and more importantly, my daughter. So forgive me if I seem withdrawn. I’m not upset with you, I’m just…”
“I get it,” I said, releasing my hold on her face. Instead, I wrapped my arms around her, pulling her close. “I’m sorry for—”
“No! No,” she repeated, looking up to meet my gaze. “There’s nothing to apologize for. Especially not for you. It’s just different. I still love you. You’re still my best friend. I’ll still burn down your entire life before I let anything change that.”
I chuckled, then reached up, swiping tears from her cheeks with my thumbs. “Damn right.” She smiled at me then, and the sudden urge to kiss her was so strong that I licked my lips.
Something in her expression shifted, and I could swear she pushed herself a little closer, subtly raised her mouth closer to mine before she closed her eyes, and shook her head.
“You should probably go.” She maneuvered herself out of my arms, and retrieved her wine, downing half of it in one gulp.
I cleared my throat. “Yeah, you’re probably right. So I’ll see you later?”
“Yeah. Of course, Tariq. We’ll get through this little valley, and we’ll be fine.”
“I know.” I nodded, then approached her again, pressing a kiss against her temple before I backed away. “Bye.”
Kora raised her glass to her mouth, finishing it off as she walked me to the door. “Bye.”
I paused for a minute on the other side of the door, hoping that all those things we’d said were actually true. The last thing I wanted was to lose Kora as a friend, especially when this “just friends” mess wasn’t even my idea.
Purchase the book:
AMAZON
WEBSITE
Today, Christina Jones is here to share Inevitable Conclusions, her newest release. And if the cover itself isn't hot enough to warm you up, then the excerpt is. There's nothing more intriguing than friends turned lovers.
About the Book:
Friends?
Lovers?
Both?
For Kora and Tariq, those lines have been blurred for a long time. Every time clarity seems to be within reach, something shifts, and in a single moment, focus is lost. Once again, they’re in limbo.
Between them, there is only one secret, with the power to permanently alter their relationship. For good or bad, neither of them knows – nor are they willing to take that risk.
Through the pain of past tragedies and the pressure of current dramas, they always find solace in each other’s arms. Inescapably connected by the interminable bond of friendship, Tariq and Kora navigate family, life, and love, searching for separate answers to a problem that has only has one, unavoidable solution.
Excerpt:
She closed her eyes and took a big gulp of her wine, and when she opened them again, her gaze landed right on me. Something in her expression seemed so desolate that I took a few steps closer to her in the kitchen.
“Kora,” I said, grabbing her hand. “Are we really good? You’ve been avoiding me a lot, and I don’t know. I’m usually able to figure you out, but lately you’re a mystery to me.”
She laughed. “That’s funny, Tariq, because I feel like you see right through me. Glad to know that’s not the case.”
She lifted her glass, draining the rest of her wine and I shook my head. “What does that even mean? I don’t hide anything from you, Kora. So why would you…? See what I mean? A mystery.”
For a long moment, she held my gaze, but then she blinked, and a gloss of tears coated her eyes. She turned away from me, pulling her hand from mine to pour herself another glass of Syrah as she cleared her throat.
“Kora,” I said, slipping the glass from her hand to put it down on the counter. At first, I entwined my fingers with hers, but even though I was right in her face, she kept her eyes averted. So I released her hands, cupped her chin instead, tipping it up toward me. “Talk to me about what’s going on with us right now. This distance that’s happening, you pulling away from me like this… we don’t do this, Kora. This isn’t us.”
She sucked in a breath, blinking hard as several tears escaped her eyes. “You’re right – it’s not. But Tariq, you can’t possibly have thought that things wouldn’t be different. I mean, we’re making a huge adjustment, saying that we need to keep an appropriate level of intimacy between us. So where I usually would have asked you to come and lay with me right now, hold me… I can’t. We can’t do that anymore, and that’s hard for me, because this is a time that I could damned sure use it. I’m in limbo right now. Changes with me and you, chaos from the play, and now a concern about if my past is going to become tabloid fodder, how that’s going to affect my job, and more importantly, my daughter. So forgive me if I seem withdrawn. I’m not upset with you, I’m just…”
“I get it,” I said, releasing my hold on her face. Instead, I wrapped my arms around her, pulling her close. “I’m sorry for—”
“No! No,” she repeated, looking up to meet my gaze. “There’s nothing to apologize for. Especially not for you. It’s just different. I still love you. You’re still my best friend. I’ll still burn down your entire life before I let anything change that.”
I chuckled, then reached up, swiping tears from her cheeks with my thumbs. “Damn right.” She smiled at me then, and the sudden urge to kiss her was so strong that I licked my lips.
Something in her expression shifted, and I could swear she pushed herself a little closer, subtly raised her mouth closer to mine before she closed her eyes, and shook her head.
“You should probably go.” She maneuvered herself out of my arms, and retrieved her wine, downing half of it in one gulp.
I cleared my throat. “Yeah, you’re probably right. So I’ll see you later?”
“Yeah. Of course, Tariq. We’ll get through this little valley, and we’ll be fine.”
“I know.” I nodded, then approached her again, pressing a kiss against her temple before I backed away. “Bye.”
Kora raised her glass to her mouth, finishing it off as she walked me to the door. “Bye.”
I paused for a minute on the other side of the door, hoping that all those things we’d said were actually true. The last thing I wanted was to lose Kora as a friend, especially when this “just friends” mess wasn’t even my idea.
Purchase the book:
AMAZON
WEBSITE
ABOUT CHRISTINA C. JONES:
Christina C. Jones is a modern romance novelist who has penned more than 15 books. She has earned a reputation as a storyteller who seamlessly weaves the complexities of modern life into captivating tales of black romance.
Prior to her work as a full time writer, Christina successfully ran Visual Luxe, a digital creative design studio. Coupling a burning passion to write and the drive to hone her craft, Christina made the transition to writing full-time in 2014.
With more than 17,000 books sold or borrowed, Christina has attracted a community of enthusiastic readers across the globe who continue to read and share her sweet, sexy, and sometimes scandalous stories.
Most recently, two of Christina’s book series have been optioned for film and television projects and are currently in development.
To meet other new authors, or keep updated on your favorite authors, simply follow this blog. Click "follow," "subscribe," or "email" in the upper right corner.
Christina C. Jones is a modern romance novelist who has penned more than 15 books. She has earned a reputation as a storyteller who seamlessly weaves the complexities of modern life into captivating tales of black romance.
Prior to her work as a full time writer, Christina successfully ran Visual Luxe, a digital creative design studio. Coupling a burning passion to write and the drive to hone her craft, Christina made the transition to writing full-time in 2014.
With more than 17,000 books sold or borrowed, Christina has attracted a community of enthusiastic readers across the globe who continue to read and share her sweet, sexy, and sometimes scandalous stories.
Most recently, two of Christina’s book series have been optioned for film and television projects and are currently in development.
To meet other new authors, or keep updated on your favorite authors, simply follow this blog. Click "follow," "subscribe," or "email" in the upper right corner.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
I enjoy writing because for me it is therapeutic. It enables me to create unknown worlds, and dip off into fantasy land whenever I need to. Writing also heals my wounded and broken spirit, as I find encouragement in my own writing.
I first began writing as a form of entertainment and healing at the age of twelve. Later, my husband encouraged me to pursue my dream throughout the years. It is now an amazing blessing that I also get to share with the world what I do, and that people support my dream by buying and reading my art. There is beauty in knowing that others enjoy what I write, as well.
Today, I would like to thank one of my readers for not only taking out time to read the book, but also for leaving a review.
W. Parks Brigham is a new reader that I met in B.R.A.B., an online book club on Facebook. She won the second book in The House of BeJeweled series, in a giveaway that I was doing and she purchased the first book. Here's her review:
"I won book two and was advised to read one first. Needless to say I read both books back to back. Loved them and Chelle Ramsey has a new fan. Great job and a wonderful read. I can't wait to read book three. I want to know who's Nikki's baby's daddy...being messy."
Here's the link to her review: http://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R3OYSASYMMDRWB/ref=cm_cr_pr_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B00JSBQDR6
Ms. Brigham, thank you so much for taking out time to read both books in the series, and leaving an honest review. That is the highest compliment that you can pay to an author. You could have spent time and money on anything other than the purchase of one of my books, or writing the review. However, you chose to bless me, and for that I say Thank You.
Readers, I encourage you to share your reviews of books that you read, and spread the word to someone else who may enjoy the book. It doesn't have to be a big page, just a few simple, honest sentences will do. You'll make an author's day.
To meet other new authors, follow your favorite authors, and my works, simply follow this blog. Click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
I first began writing as a form of entertainment and healing at the age of twelve. Later, my husband encouraged me to pursue my dream throughout the years. It is now an amazing blessing that I also get to share with the world what I do, and that people support my dream by buying and reading my art. There is beauty in knowing that others enjoy what I write, as well.
Today, I would like to thank one of my readers for not only taking out time to read the book, but also for leaving a review.
W. Parks Brigham is a new reader that I met in B.R.A.B., an online book club on Facebook. She won the second book in The House of BeJeweled series, in a giveaway that I was doing and she purchased the first book. Here's her review:
"I won book two and was advised to read one first. Needless to say I read both books back to back. Loved them and Chelle Ramsey has a new fan. Great job and a wonderful read. I can't wait to read book three. I want to know who's Nikki's baby's daddy...being messy."
Here's the link to her review: http://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R3OYSASYMMDRWB/ref=cm_cr_pr_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B00JSBQDR6
Ms. Brigham, thank you so much for taking out time to read both books in the series, and leaving an honest review. That is the highest compliment that you can pay to an author. You could have spent time and money on anything other than the purchase of one of my books, or writing the review. However, you chose to bless me, and for that I say Thank You.
Readers, I encourage you to share your reviews of books that you read, and spread the word to someone else who may enjoy the book. It doesn't have to be a big page, just a few simple, honest sentences will do. You'll make an author's day.
To meet other new authors, follow your favorite authors, and my works, simply follow this blog. Click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
May we never forget those who served our country and fought for our freedom. It was purchased with a price by those who gave their lives, fought, and sacrificed on our behalf.
Thank you.
Happy Veteran's Day!
To receive other inspirational posts, simply follow this blog. Click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
Thank you.
Happy Veteran's Day!
To receive other inspirational posts, simply follow this blog. Click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
Hey girlfriends! I hope ya'll had a fab weekend, because yours truly sure did! It's another Tête-à-Tête Tuesday with Tyrone. And honey, don't you just love a smooth talking man? One that can make you feel ohhh so good, after he's been ohhh so bad! Me neither, sugar! He can just take his smooth, trash talking self right on!
But some females so desperate to have a man, they'll go for anything he say. Even if he been saying the same thing year after year, and he ain't neva gon' change. You know it...I'm talking about Black. He's gonna be who he's gonna be, and Angel's praying and wishing ain't gonna change it. Read on...
BEJEWELED: THE FLIGHT OF AN ANGEL
(CHAPTER: THE OTHER SIDE OF ME)
Wrapping his arms underneath her thighs Black didn’t bother to say another word to convince her not to be mad, he had other methods. Methods that she didn’t want him to employ at this moment, she wanted to be mad.
Laying on her back she stared at the ceiling and tried pulling her legs away, but it didn’t work. Frustrated she began swinging on him.
“Hey, stop that, girl!” He grabbed her arms looking at her with anger in his eyes.
“Why, Black? I’ll stop when you stop, okay?”
“Stop what, baby? Why you give me so much hell?”
“Because, Black, you never see the other side of me. You don’t deal with it, I do!” she shouted, as the tears she had been holding back since his arrival poured down her cheeks.
“What’s this other side of you, you talking ‘bout? Sounds like some crazy shit.”
“The other side of me is the one you’ve created, the one you forgot to love and care about. The one you forgot to nurture. The other side of me is a lost little girl, feeling insecure and just needing a hug, a word of affirmation from you saying she will be okay. The other side of me is the one who wishes Black was nothing like her Daddy, the one who sees the beauty that Black truly is, while society says that black is just an ugly color, a pit of negativity. The other side of me is the woman that loves and needs you to be true to wash away her inner fears and secret tears. The other side of me is the one that you’re driving crazy when you stay out late nights. The other side of me is the woman who wonders what could’ve been, what should’ve been. The other side of me is the one that’s calling the hospitals praying you’ve not been hurt; the one that’s going online checking the local jails to see if you’ve been locked up; the one that cringes every time a car door slams praying the police aren’t showing up with a sad tale for me and the little boy in the other room. The other side of me is just a little girl who wants to be loved.”
Black licked full dark brown lips and squinted eyes red from smoking a blunt, “Come here, girl. I’m so damned sorry,” he said, pulling her into his arms. “I don’t mean to hurt you, I really don’t. I need you to feel strong, s’all I meant to do is build you strong, girl. But you gotta learn to trust me. I know what I’m doin’, cuz I’m ‘bout mine. I been doing this game too long and too strong to fuck up now. I won’t let nothing happen to you or that l’ boy in there. Now I know I done did my dirt in the past and now that shit coming back to haunt me, but I ain’t neva meant to hurt you like I did. I know I gotta earn yo’ trust back and that’s all I’m trying to do. But you gotta work with me, too.”
Angel shook her head as she allowed him to flip her over. Pulling her gown up around her waist, Black lowered his head between her legs to take a sample of her fruit. She rubbed little circles around his bald head with her thumbs as her fingers gripped the back of his head. Lifting her waist up to meet his mouth, she knew she was getting lost in the moment. It was her greatest downfall. She always succumbed to the sweet words he had for her, topped off with his sensuous tongue filling her insides, until she exploded in desire and sweet ecstasy.
I told you! She fall for it every damned time. Po' boo-boo the fool. Well, if you want to see how her story turns out, you have to download your copy. And trust me ladies, you want to know.
BEJEWELED: THE FLIGHT OF AN ANGEL
I'll see you ladies next Tuesday. In the meantime, if you need a stylist, my card's below. I've gotta go clock these dollars, baby. And don't forget to follow Chelle and me on this blog. Simply click the "follow," "subscribe," or "email" links in the upper right corner.
But some females so desperate to have a man, they'll go for anything he say. Even if he been saying the same thing year after year, and he ain't neva gon' change. You know it...I'm talking about Black. He's gonna be who he's gonna be, and Angel's praying and wishing ain't gonna change it. Read on...
BEJEWELED: THE FLIGHT OF AN ANGEL
(CHAPTER: THE OTHER SIDE OF ME)
Wrapping his arms underneath her thighs Black didn’t bother to say another word to convince her not to be mad, he had other methods. Methods that she didn’t want him to employ at this moment, she wanted to be mad.
Laying on her back she stared at the ceiling and tried pulling her legs away, but it didn’t work. Frustrated she began swinging on him.
“Hey, stop that, girl!” He grabbed her arms looking at her with anger in his eyes.
“Why, Black? I’ll stop when you stop, okay?”
“Stop what, baby? Why you give me so much hell?”
“Because, Black, you never see the other side of me. You don’t deal with it, I do!” she shouted, as the tears she had been holding back since his arrival poured down her cheeks.
“What’s this other side of you, you talking ‘bout? Sounds like some crazy shit.”
“The other side of me is the one you’ve created, the one you forgot to love and care about. The one you forgot to nurture. The other side of me is a lost little girl, feeling insecure and just needing a hug, a word of affirmation from you saying she will be okay. The other side of me is the one who wishes Black was nothing like her Daddy, the one who sees the beauty that Black truly is, while society says that black is just an ugly color, a pit of negativity. The other side of me is the woman that loves and needs you to be true to wash away her inner fears and secret tears. The other side of me is the one that you’re driving crazy when you stay out late nights. The other side of me is the woman who wonders what could’ve been, what should’ve been. The other side of me is the one that’s calling the hospitals praying you’ve not been hurt; the one that’s going online checking the local jails to see if you’ve been locked up; the one that cringes every time a car door slams praying the police aren’t showing up with a sad tale for me and the little boy in the other room. The other side of me is just a little girl who wants to be loved.”
Black licked full dark brown lips and squinted eyes red from smoking a blunt, “Come here, girl. I’m so damned sorry,” he said, pulling her into his arms. “I don’t mean to hurt you, I really don’t. I need you to feel strong, s’all I meant to do is build you strong, girl. But you gotta learn to trust me. I know what I’m doin’, cuz I’m ‘bout mine. I been doing this game too long and too strong to fuck up now. I won’t let nothing happen to you or that l’ boy in there. Now I know I done did my dirt in the past and now that shit coming back to haunt me, but I ain’t neva meant to hurt you like I did. I know I gotta earn yo’ trust back and that’s all I’m trying to do. But you gotta work with me, too.”
Angel shook her head as she allowed him to flip her over. Pulling her gown up around her waist, Black lowered his head between her legs to take a sample of her fruit. She rubbed little circles around his bald head with her thumbs as her fingers gripped the back of his head. Lifting her waist up to meet his mouth, she knew she was getting lost in the moment. It was her greatest downfall. She always succumbed to the sweet words he had for her, topped off with his sensuous tongue filling her insides, until she exploded in desire and sweet ecstasy.
I told you! She fall for it every damned time. Po' boo-boo the fool. Well, if you want to see how her story turns out, you have to download your copy. And trust me ladies, you want to know.
BEJEWELED: THE FLIGHT OF AN ANGEL
I'll see you ladies next Tuesday. In the meantime, if you need a stylist, my card's below. I've gotta go clock these dollars, baby. And don't forget to follow Chelle and me on this blog. Simply click the "follow," "subscribe," or "email" links in the upper right corner.
TaTa For Now!
Tyrone.
“People who succeed have momentum. The more they succeed, the more they want to succeed, and the more they find a way to succeed. Similarly, when someone is failing, the tendency is to get on a downward spiral that can even become a self-fulfilling prophecy.” -Tony Robbins
This quote reminds me of something my pastor said on yesterday. "Your words will move you in the direction that you are headed." Dr. Richard Leaphart. Therefore, if you don't like the direction that you are headed, you need to change your words.
He guided us back to Proverbs 18:21, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
So, going back to the quote above, if you find yourself failing, or going on a downward spiral, change your thoughts and your words. You might even need to change those who you surround yourself with. It can be difficult to be positive when all you find yourself around are negative people.
Changing your thought pattern and the words in which you speak are not easy. However, it can be done. You just need to make up your mind today whether you want to be successful, or if you want to continue going in the same pattern you always have. Free your mind, free your words, free yourself, and everything else will follow.
For more inspirational posts and Monday Motivational Moments, simply follow this blog. Click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
This quote reminds me of something my pastor said on yesterday. "Your words will move you in the direction that you are headed." Dr. Richard Leaphart. Therefore, if you don't like the direction that you are headed, you need to change your words.
He guided us back to Proverbs 18:21, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
So, going back to the quote above, if you find yourself failing, or going on a downward spiral, change your thoughts and your words. You might even need to change those who you surround yourself with. It can be difficult to be positive when all you find yourself around are negative people.
Changing your thought pattern and the words in which you speak are not easy. However, it can be done. You just need to make up your mind today whether you want to be successful, or if you want to continue going in the same pattern you always have. Free your mind, free your words, free yourself, and everything else will follow.
For more inspirational posts and Monday Motivational Moments, simply follow this blog. Click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
Today's #writerwednesday, features a new, yet very talented author. She's definitely has a way with words, and she's a member of my reading group, Chelle's Page Riders, on Facebook.
I'm very honored to share her works with you today. Please extend a warm welcome, for the gifted Ms. C. Lynette.
And without further ado, here's an excerpt from her book, Ebony Articles: Vol. II...
“Officer Spectacular” excerpt from Ebony Articles: Volume 2
(EMCEE) “Ladies and gentle cats, welcome to the fifth annual poetry slam. I’m your host, your dee-jay and your emcee, Lady Nique. Without any further hesitations, we’re going to get this thing started. Up to the mic first we have a real treat for y'all. One of our city’s finest coming to the stage. Welcome JT Smooth.”
Everyone, including myself, applauded as I looked around for the poet. Justin let go of my arm and headed to the stage. I was immediately flustered yet intrigued. I loved poetry and a man who could use his words majestically. I moved the people in front of me out of the way so that I could have a front row spot to see what Justin was really capable of.
After all the applause, and by the amount and the snaps from the audience, I could tell he’d been doing this for a while. “Thank you,” he softly responded in a smooth jazz baritone voice. “I wrote this piece a few weeks ago. It was inspired by my date tonight.” All eyes immediately turned to me as I looked onward blushing.
He began:
I entered into my favorite coffee shop and sat in my regular spot
Watching all the patrons talk or browser the internet
When this magnificent mahogany colored cutie walked in the store
Cautiously approaching the cashier, while gazing up at the order boards
I admired her shapely frame, short, thick with her hair in a French bun
Succulent lips and I made eye contact with those almond shaped eyes
She smiled at me, with a slight invitation in her gaze
That’s when I made my approach.
I wouldn’t spit game at her, no she needed something smoother.
Introducing myself would be easy, but getting to know her is what I wanted
I told her I was Justin and that I wrote poetry
She said she heard those words before but entertain her anyway
So I began
All I want to do is write poems all over your body with my lips
Tangle your legs in word play, as your body dances from the rhythm of my tongue
Watch as you respond to the highs and the lows
When the words flow slowly and suddenly pick up
Let me slowly kiss your mind and make your thoughts squirt everywhere
Then let me know, if you’ve heard it all before.
He finished to the sound of multiple finger snaps, whistles and applause. I was impressed, but I couldn’t help but feel like he was subliminally hinting at me. As he walked off the stage, he headed to the bar. I wasn’t sure if I should stay where I was or meet him over there. I just assumed that he needed a minute to himself. Within ten minutes, he was by my side with a drink for each of us.
We sipped on our drinks and enjoyed the rest of the slam. He didn’t say a word to me, so I just let the rest of the night go on. Some people recited more poetry and there was even a woman who got up and sang. After a few more hours, the place winded down and it was time to go.
He still hadn’t said a word to me so I broke the proverbial ice.
“I didn’t know you had such a way with words. I’m very impressed.”
He looked me in the eye like he was searching for a hint of sarcasm. When he didn’t find it, he exhaled and responded, “Thank you. I thought it was too soon to say something like that.”
“No, but don’t think something like that’s going to happen… unless you really think you can make my thoughts squirt everywhere,” I teased. “You’re a very cunning linguist.”
He snickered until he realized my play on words. His eyes widened with shock and he looked at me with an inquisitive stare.
“What? You thought you were the only one who had a way with words?”
Purchase your copies:
http://amzn.com/B014KELG36 (EA 2)
http://amzn.com/B00UPMY9OG (EA 1)
(EMCEE) “Ladies and gentle cats, welcome to the fifth annual poetry slam. I’m your host, your dee-jay and your emcee, Lady Nique. Without any further hesitations, we’re going to get this thing started. Up to the mic first we have a real treat for y'all. One of our city’s finest coming to the stage. Welcome JT Smooth.”
Everyone, including myself, applauded as I looked around for the poet. Justin let go of my arm and headed to the stage. I was immediately flustered yet intrigued. I loved poetry and a man who could use his words majestically. I moved the people in front of me out of the way so that I could have a front row spot to see what Justin was really capable of.
After all the applause, and by the amount and the snaps from the audience, I could tell he’d been doing this for a while. “Thank you,” he softly responded in a smooth jazz baritone voice. “I wrote this piece a few weeks ago. It was inspired by my date tonight.” All eyes immediately turned to me as I looked onward blushing.
He began:
I entered into my favorite coffee shop and sat in my regular spot
Watching all the patrons talk or browser the internet
When this magnificent mahogany colored cutie walked in the store
Cautiously approaching the cashier, while gazing up at the order boards
I admired her shapely frame, short, thick with her hair in a French bun
Succulent lips and I made eye contact with those almond shaped eyes
She smiled at me, with a slight invitation in her gaze
That’s when I made my approach.
I wouldn’t spit game at her, no she needed something smoother.
Introducing myself would be easy, but getting to know her is what I wanted
I told her I was Justin and that I wrote poetry
She said she heard those words before but entertain her anyway
So I began
All I want to do is write poems all over your body with my lips
Tangle your legs in word play, as your body dances from the rhythm of my tongue
Watch as you respond to the highs and the lows
When the words flow slowly and suddenly pick up
Let me slowly kiss your mind and make your thoughts squirt everywhere
Then let me know, if you’ve heard it all before.
He finished to the sound of multiple finger snaps, whistles and applause. I was impressed, but I couldn’t help but feel like he was subliminally hinting at me. As he walked off the stage, he headed to the bar. I wasn’t sure if I should stay where I was or meet him over there. I just assumed that he needed a minute to himself. Within ten minutes, he was by my side with a drink for each of us.
We sipped on our drinks and enjoyed the rest of the slam. He didn’t say a word to me, so I just let the rest of the night go on. Some people recited more poetry and there was even a woman who got up and sang. After a few more hours, the place winded down and it was time to go.
He still hadn’t said a word to me so I broke the proverbial ice.
“I didn’t know you had such a way with words. I’m very impressed.”
He looked me in the eye like he was searching for a hint of sarcasm. When he didn’t find it, he exhaled and responded, “Thank you. I thought it was too soon to say something like that.”
“No, but don’t think something like that’s going to happen… unless you really think you can make my thoughts squirt everywhere,” I teased. “You’re a very cunning linguist.”
He snickered until he realized my play on words. His eyes widened with shock and he looked at me with an inquisitive stare.
“What? You thought you were the only one who had a way with words?”
Purchase your copies:
http://amzn.com/B014KELG36 (EA 2)
http://amzn.com/B00UPMY9OG (EA 1)
C. Lynette's Bio:
"I was born by the river, in a little tent. And just like the river I been running, ever since. It's been a long. A long time coming but I know, a change's gon' come!" That opening line from Sam Cooke describes her life perfectly. C. Lynette was born in Northwest Indiana but raised in Southeast Michigan. She knew she was destined to write from the age of 9 when she was just submitting short stories to her elementary school newspaper. Upon graduating from high school, C. Lynette turned her attentions to Journalism. She has had 17 articles published in various Michigan newspapers and even in the South Bend Tribune. It took 8 years, but she finally took a leap of faith and decided to write, with some encouragement from her friends and family.
Ebony Articles: Volume 1 was her debut book and was released on April 1, 2015 and was heavily dripped in erotica. The date itself has held significance to her for over 9 years and counting. The follow-up, Ebony Articles: Volume 2, was released on September 7, 2015. She was also given the opportunity to be apart of the Tyranny of Evil: Hearts of Men anthology (suspense, mystery, thriller), in which she wrote the short story Deadly Games.
C. Lynette lives in Indianapolis with her 4-year old son and works for the State of Indiana. She is the quintessential and epitomical definition of a true Aquarius. She has several books coming out including expansion on several short stories that were included in the EA series, a third Ebony Articles, a standalone untitled short, "The Curse" - a psychological urban thriller and "Deadly Games: Revisited."
To meet other new authors, follow your favorite authors, and my works, simply follow this blog. Click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
"I was born by the river, in a little tent. And just like the river I been running, ever since. It's been a long. A long time coming but I know, a change's gon' come!" That opening line from Sam Cooke describes her life perfectly. C. Lynette was born in Northwest Indiana but raised in Southeast Michigan. She knew she was destined to write from the age of 9 when she was just submitting short stories to her elementary school newspaper. Upon graduating from high school, C. Lynette turned her attentions to Journalism. She has had 17 articles published in various Michigan newspapers and even in the South Bend Tribune. It took 8 years, but she finally took a leap of faith and decided to write, with some encouragement from her friends and family.
Ebony Articles: Volume 1 was her debut book and was released on April 1, 2015 and was heavily dripped in erotica. The date itself has held significance to her for over 9 years and counting. The follow-up, Ebony Articles: Volume 2, was released on September 7, 2015. She was also given the opportunity to be apart of the Tyranny of Evil: Hearts of Men anthology (suspense, mystery, thriller), in which she wrote the short story Deadly Games.
C. Lynette lives in Indianapolis with her 4-year old son and works for the State of Indiana. She is the quintessential and epitomical definition of a true Aquarius. She has several books coming out including expansion on several short stories that were included in the EA series, a third Ebony Articles, a standalone untitled short, "The Curse" - a psychological urban thriller and "Deadly Games: Revisited."
To meet other new authors, follow your favorite authors, and my works, simply follow this blog. Click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
It's that wonderful time of year again! Nope, I'm not talking about Thanksgiving, although that's around the corner, too. And I can't wait. But I'm talking about #Nanowrimo2015. Today, I'm sharing a #TBT post from November 5, 2014. It's all about the writing baby. Check it out!
NANOWRIMO_WRITER WEDNESDAY_NOVEMBER 5, 2014
As many of you may already know, November 1 kicked off the official start of Nanowrimo, or National Novel Writing Month, as it's known in author circles. The entire purpose of the movement is to get people writing and the goal is to write 50,000 words in 30 days.
DEADLINES:
No sweat you say? Yeah, that's the same thing I always say until I have an actual deadline and goal in
front of me. Why is it that when we set goals it's so difficult to achieve? Yet, when we just sit down and do it with no plan or deadline ahead of us, it's the easiest feat in the world to accomplish.
If I plan to sit and write, that's when my children have projects to complete such as, "Solving World Hunger," or "Determining the Genius of Einstein." That's also when my husband needs my help in finding world peace. So of course writing gets put on the back burner, and I become cranky. Not this month...or at least we shall see.
NANOWRIMO_WRITER WEDNESDAY_NOVEMBER 5, 2014
As many of you may already know, November 1 kicked off the official start of Nanowrimo, or National Novel Writing Month, as it's known in author circles. The entire purpose of the movement is to get people writing and the goal is to write 50,000 words in 30 days.
DEADLINES:
No sweat you say? Yeah, that's the same thing I always say until I have an actual deadline and goal in
front of me. Why is it that when we set goals it's so difficult to achieve? Yet, when we just sit down and do it with no plan or deadline ahead of us, it's the easiest feat in the world to accomplish.
If I plan to sit and write, that's when my children have projects to complete such as, "Solving World Hunger," or "Determining the Genius of Einstein." That's also when my husband needs my help in finding world peace. So of course writing gets put on the back burner, and I become cranky. Not this month...or at least we shall see.
I can sit down and write 50,000 words in no time on any given month. Until that actually becomes a goal. So this month I am doing Nanowrimo for the sole purpose of learning to discipline myself. It takes a lot of discipline to be able to schedule out times to write and adhere to. This is a difficult goal in normal times, but it's even more difficult since my family has been going through a new challenge. But we shall survive! I am such a spontaneous person that if I can accomplish this and stay organized, I'll be able to accomplish anything else I want to. And hopefully make the hubby proud.
OUTLINE OR NOT TO OUTLINE:
The other difficult part of my task is that I am a bona fide pantser! Yes, I admit I'm a self-professed, fly by the seat of my pants "pantser" at heart. In my last couple of novels I have attempted to use an outline, but it doesn't come out anything like the traditional outline. My outline serves the purpose of keeping in mind whose personality is what, who likes coffee, and who is a die-hard soda freak, and whose zooming whom.
Other than that, the story always takes on a life of its own and I never know how it's going to end, until it ends. So with that being said, I definitely have to let my characters' personalities take over for the next 30 days to accomplish this mission. I'll pray that my family's feelings won't get hurt if I look up from the computer and it's not mom that they see, but super freak, or psycho girl.
I'll try to keep you updated on my writing status. But I can't promise anything. Remember at the point of writing this I am neither organized or disciplined. So maybe I'll remember to throw in how many words I've written each day and how on track I am to my 50,000 word goal in 30 days. And maybe I won't. You'll just have to tune in and see.
To read more posts, simply follow this blog by clicking "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" in the upper right corner.
The other difficult part of my task is that I am a bona fide pantser! Yes, I admit I'm a self-professed, fly by the seat of my pants "pantser" at heart. In my last couple of novels I have attempted to use an outline, but it doesn't come out anything like the traditional outline. My outline serves the purpose of keeping in mind whose personality is what, who likes coffee, and who is a die-hard soda freak, and whose zooming whom.
Other than that, the story always takes on a life of its own and I never know how it's going to end, until it ends. So with that being said, I definitely have to let my characters' personalities take over for the next 30 days to accomplish this mission. I'll pray that my family's feelings won't get hurt if I look up from the computer and it's not mom that they see, but super freak, or psycho girl.
I'll try to keep you updated on my writing status. But I can't promise anything. Remember at the point of writing this I am neither organized or disciplined. So maybe I'll remember to throw in how many words I've written each day and how on track I am to my 50,000 word goal in 30 days. And maybe I won't. You'll just have to tune in and see.
To read more posts, simply follow this blog by clicking "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" in the upper right corner.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
As most of you know it's Nanowrimo. What is that? It's National Novel Writing Month throughout the month of November. You can find out all about it by clicking here. If you're looking for a writing partner, join me at Nanowrimo or inbox me on FB here.
For those of you who have procrastinated about your writing journal I have a few simple tips that keep me on track.
1.) SOLITUDE - Find a place of solitude to write. Someplace that is quiet and distraction free if at all possible. However, if you can't find that place, don't allow that to stop you. You'll just have to get creative and disappear into your inner quiet world, to gain the isolation you need. I can pretty much write anywhere, and I don't have to find that quiet space all the time. But there are times where the distractions become overwhelming and I have to escape to a quiet zone, like my home office.
2.) SNACKS - I personally love to have a snack or two on hand. Whether it's yogurt, snack bars, nuts, or whatever, I always like to munch at some point in the writing process. I have found that if I have it close at hand, getting up to find one when I become hungry does not become a distraction. I keep a small refrigerator in my home office for this purpose.
3.) MUSIC - Most writers love to have their writing music. This may or may not be true for you. But if it helps you get into the mood of whatever you're writing, take time out to build personalized stations on Pandora. Or you could slip in your favorite CD, turn to your favorite radio station, or whatever floats your boat. I prefer Pandora over everything else. As a matter-of-fact, I'm listening to Pandora as I write this. My personally crafted Anita Baker station is on, and Teddy is blowing through my speakers. ;)
4.) FLOW - Don't worry about the editing process, you can always go back later to review what you have written, and make the necessary edits. If you're a pantser like me, you just have to get it out. I take notes here and there, and I do create outlines to help me keep things in perspective, such as my timelines and character personalities. I do not use outlines to direct my story. It flows from the heart.
5.) KEEP IT 100! - Book sales? Of course you want them. We all want them, but that should not be the driving force behind your writing if you're a true writer. Don't get caught up in what people will and won't like. Simply write what you want to read, and write from your heart. Do not allow trends to drive your writing either. Be authentic, be you!
I hope that those simple tips helped you if you're struggling with getting started. Put something on paper. Even if it's the name of the character and their description. That'll start your imagination flowing. Now go write! We've got 26 more days to go!
Happy Nanowrimo!
To meet other new authors or stay updated on your favorite ones, follow this blog. Simply click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right panel.
For those of you who have procrastinated about your writing journal I have a few simple tips that keep me on track.
1.) SOLITUDE - Find a place of solitude to write. Someplace that is quiet and distraction free if at all possible. However, if you can't find that place, don't allow that to stop you. You'll just have to get creative and disappear into your inner quiet world, to gain the isolation you need. I can pretty much write anywhere, and I don't have to find that quiet space all the time. But there are times where the distractions become overwhelming and I have to escape to a quiet zone, like my home office.
2.) SNACKS - I personally love to have a snack or two on hand. Whether it's yogurt, snack bars, nuts, or whatever, I always like to munch at some point in the writing process. I have found that if I have it close at hand, getting up to find one when I become hungry does not become a distraction. I keep a small refrigerator in my home office for this purpose.
3.) MUSIC - Most writers love to have their writing music. This may or may not be true for you. But if it helps you get into the mood of whatever you're writing, take time out to build personalized stations on Pandora. Or you could slip in your favorite CD, turn to your favorite radio station, or whatever floats your boat. I prefer Pandora over everything else. As a matter-of-fact, I'm listening to Pandora as I write this. My personally crafted Anita Baker station is on, and Teddy is blowing through my speakers. ;)
4.) FLOW - Don't worry about the editing process, you can always go back later to review what you have written, and make the necessary edits. If you're a pantser like me, you just have to get it out. I take notes here and there, and I do create outlines to help me keep things in perspective, such as my timelines and character personalities. I do not use outlines to direct my story. It flows from the heart.
5.) KEEP IT 100! - Book sales? Of course you want them. We all want them, but that should not be the driving force behind your writing if you're a true writer. Don't get caught up in what people will and won't like. Simply write what you want to read, and write from your heart. Do not allow trends to drive your writing either. Be authentic, be you!
I hope that those simple tips helped you if you're struggling with getting started. Put something on paper. Even if it's the name of the character and their description. That'll start your imagination flowing. Now go write! We've got 26 more days to go!
Happy Nanowrimo!
To meet other new authors or stay updated on your favorite ones, follow this blog. Simply click the "Follow," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right panel.
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey
Heeeeyyy! You know what it is! Tyrone is here, girlfriends! I know you've been waiting on me all week long. Honey, I was out clubbing this weekend. Darla and Belinda and me went out with Rory and Roxy to celebrate their birthday. And we took a few of my diva clientele from the shop. Those hookers know how to party! Whew!
Anyway, we stopped by a few spots on Saturday night. We went to the Cosmopolitan Club, baby that wasn't my cup of tea. So, we left and went downtown to Compound. We hung out there for just over an hour, before heading over to the Cheetah Club.
Talking 'bout drama. Honey, I've told you once and I've told you twice, I don't do drama. I ran into an old flame there and things got a bit heated. He was with his boys, so he was playing it cool. Do you know he had the nerve to act like he didn't know me? I mean, I wasn't trying to out him, but he could've spoke. I can't stand them DL brothers. Uh-uh.
Then his friends started calling me out my name, and if anyone knows me, or knows Rory and Roxy, you know we don't play. I was ready to square it off, but then him and his boys started calling my girls out their name. Needless to say, it escalated to the point that the bouncers put us all out.
I was a bit put out by then and ready to head home with these size 15 feet, squeezed into some stilettos. But it was Rory and Roxy's night, so we kept it moving. Belinda and Darla suggested we stop by Satin and Lace. We partied the rest of the night away at that spot alone. I can't show you the pics we took, and the things we did that night...but I will say we all ended up in church with Mrs. O, the next morning repenting. Woo! Honey!!!
But, on to my point. My point was, I stopped at Walmart on Sunday evening. Why in the hell do folks think it's okay to go out in their pajamas? They be looking a hot, funky mess!
And if I'm stepping on your toes...boo, I'm sorry, pick up your feet and keep moving. Anyhoo, it don't take you nothing, but ten minutes to get dressed and look halfway decent. If I catch anybody I know out there like that I. Am.Gon.Check.You.Boo! Trust!
Wearing pajamas outside look like you ain't put one drop of water on your butt. Half the time the people ain't combed their hair, brushed their teeth, or washed their faces, so I know they ain't put no water on their funky butts.
Wearing pajamas outside look like you ain't got no class. Some folks say that's hood mess, or ghetto. Baby, I'm ghetto, proud of my hood roots, and I don't do no mess like that. Matter-of-fact, no one I know does stuff like that. That's straight ratchet stuff!
Wearing pajamas outside look like you come from nothing, ain't got nothing, and got no hopes for nothing. Baby, get yourself some dreams and respect about yourself. You have no idea who you'll meet when you step out the doors. You have no idea when an opportunity for better might be waiting on the other side of your door. But, it won't open up for you looking like that. I promise you that.
Well, nuff said, I think you got my point. I'm gonna share a few pics in case you didn't.
Anyway, we stopped by a few spots on Saturday night. We went to the Cosmopolitan Club, baby that wasn't my cup of tea. So, we left and went downtown to Compound. We hung out there for just over an hour, before heading over to the Cheetah Club.
Talking 'bout drama. Honey, I've told you once and I've told you twice, I don't do drama. I ran into an old flame there and things got a bit heated. He was with his boys, so he was playing it cool. Do you know he had the nerve to act like he didn't know me? I mean, I wasn't trying to out him, but he could've spoke. I can't stand them DL brothers. Uh-uh.
Then his friends started calling me out my name, and if anyone knows me, or knows Rory and Roxy, you know we don't play. I was ready to square it off, but then him and his boys started calling my girls out their name. Needless to say, it escalated to the point that the bouncers put us all out.
I was a bit put out by then and ready to head home with these size 15 feet, squeezed into some stilettos. But it was Rory and Roxy's night, so we kept it moving. Belinda and Darla suggested we stop by Satin and Lace. We partied the rest of the night away at that spot alone. I can't show you the pics we took, and the things we did that night...but I will say we all ended up in church with Mrs. O, the next morning repenting. Woo! Honey!!!
But, on to my point. My point was, I stopped at Walmart on Sunday evening. Why in the hell do folks think it's okay to go out in their pajamas? They be looking a hot, funky mess!
And if I'm stepping on your toes...boo, I'm sorry, pick up your feet and keep moving. Anyhoo, it don't take you nothing, but ten minutes to get dressed and look halfway decent. If I catch anybody I know out there like that I. Am.Gon.Check.You.Boo! Trust!
Wearing pajamas outside look like you ain't put one drop of water on your butt. Half the time the people ain't combed their hair, brushed their teeth, or washed their faces, so I know they ain't put no water on their funky butts.
Wearing pajamas outside look like you ain't got no class. Some folks say that's hood mess, or ghetto. Baby, I'm ghetto, proud of my hood roots, and I don't do no mess like that. Matter-of-fact, no one I know does stuff like that. That's straight ratchet stuff!
Wearing pajamas outside look like you come from nothing, ain't got nothing, and got no hopes for nothing. Baby, get yourself some dreams and respect about yourself. You have no idea who you'll meet when you step out the doors. You have no idea when an opportunity for better might be waiting on the other side of your door. But, it won't open up for you looking like that. I promise you that.
Well, nuff said, I think you got my point. I'm gonna share a few pics in case you didn't.
Alright divas. I've had fun with ya'll. Tyrone has got to do some hair now, cuz I gotta make these dollars. If you need your 'do did, you know where to find me. Oh...and instead of leaving my card today, I'ma leave you with something to think about, and it ain't cute...
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Inspirational women's fiction author, writing the script to my beautifully inspired life!
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