A Minute with Author Lori Johnson

What's your name and the title or titles of your books?

My name is Lori Johnson. I also have work (short stories & essays) published under the name Lori D. Johnson. After The Dance (Kensington/Dafina) is the title of my debut novel.






What genre do you normally write in?

Interesting question. Most of the short stories I've published would more than likely be considered "literary." I've heard people describe After The Dance as chick-lit, romance and even urban-lit. Personally, I don't think it belongs in any of those categories (smile). I view After The Dance as a humorous, contemporary love story.

Could you tell us just a little about yourself?

I was born in Memphis, TN and I am the eldest of two children. Thanks to my father's military career, I spent the first seventeen years of my life living in various parts of the United States and a couple of those seventeen in Wiesbaden Germany. Even though I currently reside in Charlotte, North Carolina with my husband and our young son, Memphis, TN is still the one place I call "home."

My love of words dates back to childhood, well before I could even walk or read. My mother likes to tell the story of how she and other relatives would deliberately hand me books (minus pictures and/or photos) turned upside down. Inevitably, I'd cry until someone turned the book right-side up again. They found it amusing that somehow, instinctively, I seemed to know something wasn't quite right. Even now, I still don't like my words turned upside down (smile).

Will you give us a brief overview of your latest, or if you prefer, your favorite book?

After The Dance is a romantic comedy, set in Memphis, and told from both the male and female perspectives. In the story, thirty-four year old Faye Abrahams, a chain-smoking, cynical pharmacist, describes her efforts to resist the charms of her next door neighbor, Carl Tucker, the forty-two year old, financially-strapped, divorced father of three who appears intent on sweet-talking and slow-dancing his way into Faye's heart.

Where are your books available?

After The Dance should be available in all of the major bookstores, retail outlets and via Amazon.



Are you working on anything new at the moment?

I recently finished my second novel, which is tentatively entitled A Natural Woman. In short, A Natural Woman centers upon a young, single college professor whose relationship with her male hairdresser takes a mysterious turn when he disappears shortly after their first night together.

What one statement would you like to make that you think our audience and your readers might benefit from?

As much as I enjoy making readers laugh, giggle and smile, I'd like to think my humor goes a step beyond "mindless" entertainment. In much the manner of a Paul Mooney or a Whoopie Goldberg, I'm also striving to make folks think, question or if nothing else, simply say, "Hmm."

Thanks Peggy for granting me this opportunity to share a bit about myself and my writing with others.

Thank you, Lori! We know you'll have great success with this debut offering!

Peggy

Art Begets Art

Photo Copyright: Peggy Love

Sorry it has been so long since the last post. A great deal has been going on. Wonderful goings on, mind you.

We had so much fun at the doll-making workshop at the Culture House Gallery at the University of Missouri-Kansas City on April 5th! About 25 brave doll-makers showed up. Most were beginners, but some were experienced in some form of sewing (design, quilting, etc.), and the atmosphere was electric with fun and excitement.

The workshop presenter was doll artist Nedra Bonds and I have to give it to her. She was phenomenal!

The reception was so heart-warming for me. The response to my dolls, from my Wee Be Wee Folks to my Bridge Ladies, from my Windsors to my AllenArt Dolls, shook me! The feedback literally just 'blew me away'. I am so encouraged and motivated now. Plus, I received a few new invitations for more exciting opportunities in the near future as a result of this show. I will of course keep you updated.

Make a note, too, that I will be on an artist panel at the Robert Frazier Gallery of Contemporary Art on Thursday, April 17, with a host of extraordinary women artist. Our works are all currently included in the "She-Art" Exhibition at the Gallery which continues through May 3rd.

This lecture/panel is in conjunction with Women in the Arts month and the slated moderator is Sean Kelley. Knowing some of the other artist as I do, the discussion promises to be lively, informative, and provocative! Don't miss it if you are in the city!

My biggest problem now is finding time to go to bed. All of this visual arts foreplay heighten my appetite to write, so I'm once again pecking away at my keyboard into the wee hours of the morning. But, the great thing is that I'm springing from bed in the mornings refreshed and invigorated. Looks like art begets art, and I can think of few things that could be better.

A Minute with Author M. LaVora Perry

This author brings so very much to the literary table! She's a star with a thousand points of light.

What's Your Name and the title or titles of your books?

M. LaVora Perry

Books:

Taneesha Never Disparaging, Middle Grade Novel, Wisdom Publications, September 1, 2008, ISBN: 0-86171-550-0, $8.95, Paperback

Teen Sisters' Health--A Mind, Body, & Spirit Wellness Guide for Girls of Color, coauthored with Linda Bradley, MD, an internationally respected physician of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation whose been quoted in Essence, O, and several other popular and professional publications. Dr. Bradley and I are seeking a publisher for Teen Sisters' Health through our agent, Susan Schulman of New York. These books, I think, are revolutionary because there are no others quite like them.. They give our girls straight facts about sex and more, and can save their lives as well as protect their self-respect and futures. For more information including excerpts, a table of contents, a fact sheet about the books, and more, visit www.teensistershealth.com.

What genre do you normally write in?

I write across genres and for different purposes but I'm most passionate about juvenile fiction right now--middle grade to young adult.

Could you tell us just a little about yourself?

A full bio about me is available at http://www.mlavoraperry.com/bio.htm. And on my blog at http://www.lavoraperry.com/about


Will you give us a brief overview of your latest, or if you prefer, your favorite book?

This would be Taneesha Never Disparaging.
http://www.mlavoraperry.com/books.htm#taneesha
http://www.mlavoraperry.com/taneesha-interview.htm.



Here is Taneesha Never Disparaging summed up in less than 60 words:
What 5th grader bodyguards her limping best friend, runs a loser’s race for president, gets dissed by her parents, called “wimp” by her imaginary, evil twin, stalked by a teen ogre girl, and told she’s hell-bound because she’s Buddhist? Taneesha Bey-Ross, that’s who. And the whole mess just makes her go, “Dang!”

Where are your books available?

On Sept 1, 2008 Taneesha Never Disparaging will be available wherever children's books are sold.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

I am seeking a publisher for my sequel to Taneesha Never Disparaging. The sequel is titled Hidden Jewel and is a young adult book written from the point of view of the 14 year-old girl that bullies Taneesha in Never Disparaging. I am writing a series of books about children and teens set in the fictional northern Ohio urban community in which Taneesha Never Disparaging takes place. The third book is about Taneesha's 17 year-old brother, Randy.

I am also working on a story set in 5th century China. It's titled Dragon Woman's Song and centers on a father and son who are skilled calligraphers and the women with whom they fall in love. In the father's case, love leads to a bittersweet outcome--the death of his beloved and the birth of his only child, his son.

What one statement would you like to make that you think our audience and your readers might benefit from?

As long as you continually self-reflect, put forth your best effort, work hard to strengthen the areas in which you are weak, and stay focused on your destination without giving in to defeat, you can achieve anything you set out to do.

Thank you so much!

Thank you Peggy for requesting an interview. I deeply appreciate it.

LaVora

I thoroughly enjoyed sharing this minute with this exceptional author with all of you!

Serial Novel

I'm going to do a serial novel on a blog. The objective will be simply 'the finish line', so it will be a journey of patience and love for anyone who decides to follow along. I'll fill in the details real soon. The blog will be separate and apart from this one, but there will be a link and ongoing notices of updates or anything else of note regarding the process.

This week I'm working towards the doll exhibit deadline. It will be at the University of Missouri-Kansas City African American Culture House Gallery from March 25 - May 31, 2008. It is simply entitled "Dolls". At the moment, new little dolls are introducing themselves to me on the tip of my needle. Not all will make it into the exhibit, surely, but all are a wonderful venture of exploration for me. This is "Blue Diva" and she is a really cool little doll that I had a lot of fun designing ... last night!

A Minute with Author Shelia M. Goss

Now this author is one of my favorite people, and she is definitely on fire!

What's Your Name and the title or titles of your books?
My name is Shelia M. Goss and I'm the author of four books.

My Invisible Husband is the tale of one woman’s desperate attempt to stop the age-old question posed to all women at some point in their lives: So when are you getting married? To appease her family and friends, 34-year-old Nicolette Montana fakes a Las Vegas wedding. How she handles her web of deceit makes for a dramatic and sometimes comical story.

Roses are Thorns, Violets are True is sibling rivalry at its best. Rose's ultimate goal is to remain in the spotlight; preferable on the silver screen. To her fans, Rose is sincere, glamorous, and charitable; but to Violet, her twin, she's a conniving, manipulative person that starves for constant attention. Violet has always been able to forgive her sister's malicious deeds. Well, that is until Rose does the unthinkable.

Paige's Web tackles the subject of commitment phobia from a woman’s perspective by taking readers on a journey with character Paige Christine Webb. As a professional event planner, Paige decides to use her organizational skills in her personal life. Although meeting men has never been an issue for Paige, it's the 'ever after' that has her scared of commitment. Paige devises a fool proof plan to juggle three men which ultimately catches up with her.

Double Platinum is my most recent release. It was released this month. Double Platinum is about R & B mega star Parris Mitchell. To the world, it seems like she has it all. But with a declining career, she has nothing left but disappointed fans and growing depression. Hit Maker and Playboy Casper "CJ The Hitmaker" Johnson is looking for a new sound. He needs her voice. She needs her career back. Their drama from groupies and people from their past becomes the source of plenty of print for the paparazzi.

What genre do you normally write in?
I write in several genres; however only my books that are in the women's fiction genre have been published.

Could you tell us just a little about yourself?
I'll try to tell you something that you can't find in my bio :) Besides books, music is one of my favorite passions. Prince is one of my all time favorite artists. Paradise Island, Bahamas is my favorite vacation spot. Any Southern Jags out there(smile)---Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA is my alma mater. Sprite is my drink of choice. Why Did I Get Married is my favorite Tyler Perry movie. I enjoy blogging, playing online spades and dominoes.

Where are your books available?
Double Platinum, since it's a new release, is currently on the shelves at Wal-Mart, Barnes and Noble, Borders, etc. Readers can also order it from one of the online retailers such as Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, etc.



My Invisible Husband is also available in hard cover at BlackExpressions.com, in addition to the stores and other online retailers.

All of my books are available at the stores or online. If you don't see it on the shelf, ask the manager to order it for you.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?
I am always working on something new. Once I know when the new manuscripts will be published, I can go into more details. It's challenging me as a writer and I look forward to jumping into new territory.


What one statement would you like to make that you think our audience and your readers might benefit from?
It's a cliche, but it's true--LIFE IS TOO SHORT. That statement to me means, do not let your life go by without expressing love to those you care about; do not let your life go by without pursuing your dreams; do not let life go by without doing things that make you happy. Life is too short not to live in "the now."

Thank you so much!

Peggy, I appreciate you letting me share my thoughts with your readers.


So glad you could take the time to share with us today, Shelia. The very best to you in your career!

A Minute with Author Linda Dominique Grosvenor

Here's a minute with genuine royalty!

What's Your Name and the title or titles of your books?

My name is Linda Dominique Grosvenor and my latest book is an inspirational non-fiction relationship book titled The Plural Thing: Spiritually Preparing for Your Soul Mate.


What genre do you normally write in?

I normally write in contemporary fiction however now I'm leaning more towards suspense or rather I'm incorporating the suspense aspect into my fiction books more. Non-fiction is becoming more of a growing fascination for me too.


Could you tell us just a little about yourself?


I'm a seasoned woman with a poetic soul who loves words and the ability to craft stories from my vivid imagination. I currently live in New Jersey and am on the cusp of finishing off my eighth novel. To stir my creativity I love to walk hand in hand with my husband on the beaches of Sandy Hook.


Will you give us a brief overview of your latest, or if you prefer, your favorite book?


My latest book just happens to be my favorite book. It is a powerful book on learning how to love yourself better in order to boost self esteem and become content rather than beating the bushes to find that special someone. It also snatches away the excuses that people give as to why they can't maintain a viable relationship and has tools to aid couples in learning to love each other better. The Plural Thing definitely prepares readers to walk into their God-given blessing when it comes to acquiring and maintaining a mate.


Where are your books available?

You can log on to www.ThePluralThing.com to purchase a copy of The Plural Thing through your favorite retailers or request that your local independent bookseller stock copies too. Contact me to ask me how.




Are you working on anything new at the moment?

I just completed my eighth novel. It took everything in me to get this story out of me. It's the first novel I've completed since 2004 and I'm extremely proud of it. I've also just launched the LoveBetterCamp.com. Love Better Camp is the non-profit (pending) that was created to teach the principles found in The Plural Thing: Spiritually Preparing for Your Soul Mate directly to men and women of faith. We'll be hosting group seminars, weekend retreats for couples and singles as well as launch the inaugural Love Better Camp Conference in 2009, and there is a forthcoming non-fiction title of the same name. If you want your life and relationships to have a fighting chance, you'll log on and begin browsing today. Love is too precious to wing it!


What one statement would you like to make that you think our audience and your readers might benefit from?


Whatever your occupation do it solely because you love it. Life is too short to toil away doing something you all out despise and offers you no real joy. Looking forward to each day with a smile is the best gift you can ever give yourself.


Thank you so much!

Peggy I must thank you for this opportunity. I absolutely LOVE what you are doing!

The pleasure was all mine! The best of everything to you!

Wearing Another Hat

Peggy Eldridge-Love Jewelry Designer
Photo Copyright Peggy Love

I'm wearing one of my other hats tonight as there is the opening reception of the 'She-Art' Exhibit, Celebrating Women in the Arts, at the Robert Frazier Gallery of Contemporary Art in Kansas City and I'm one of the artist exhibiting. In this instance I'm exhibiting my jewelry!

The list of artist is impressive and includes installation artist Richie Kaye, internationally celebrated quilter Charlotte O'Neal, painter Philomene Bennette, quilter and doll maker Nedra Bonds, watercolor artist Michelle Beasley, and a few more! The gallery director is the renown fabric artist Sonie Ruffin. The exhibit is up from March 7 through May 7, 2008!

I have another exhibit coming up right behind this one - a doll exhibit that I'm preparing for, but I am continuing to write. Honest.

If Kansas City is on your agenda over the next two months I hope you'll stop in and look at 'She-Art.' I believe you'll enjoy it immensely.

A Minute with Author Jackie Young

Here she is! You're going to enjoy this very special scribe!




What's Your Name and the title or titles of your books?

I'm Jackie Young – poet, writer, and all-around creative catalyst. My first published offering is a poetry collection entitled "Love's Reparations: the Learning Curve between Heartache & Healing".


What genre do you normally write in?

I guess you could say that poetry is "home base" for me. It's truly where I found I had a "voice". Ever the overachiever, I'm also dabbling in some fiction as well as non-fiction.


Could you tell us just a little about yourself?

Hmmm…what's to tell? I'm a native Virginian, the world's most favorite Aunt, a lover of art in all forms (writing, music, painting, dance, etc.). Overall, I'd say that I'm a true lover of life, love and learning.


Will you give us a brief overview of your latest, or if you prefer, your favorite book?

"Love's Reparations" is about growing through whatever barriers, pain, or fears we have to get to the best part of our relationships – be that relationship with God, self, significant other, family/friends. I like to think of it as a "deep tissue massage for the soul".

I have far too many "favorites" to single out one but I will tell you what they all have in common: definitely an engaging storyline. When I curl up to read them, I do so with highlighter in hand or pen/paper so that I can note those passages or phrases that just take me over the top. I love a story that teaches me something or challenges me. Along those lines, some of the books falling into that category would be anything by Pearl Cleage, JD Mason, Linda Dominique Grosvenor, Jenoyne Adams and of course Peggy Eldridge Love.


Where are your books available?

My books are primarily available via my website (www.jackieyoungwrites.com) and Amazon. Barnes & Noble, and Borders will order if for you if requested.


Are you working on anything new at the moment?

Not as fast as I'd like to be but yes. I'm actually juggling multiple writing projects right now. I'm working on a non-fiction offering that I hope to publish in December 08. I'm also trying to corral the characters for my first fiction offering for a Fall 2009 release. And of course there's more poetry on tap – I actually pushed back my publication date for my follow-up collection so hopefully we'll see that in the second quarter of 2009. You'll notice that I didn't name titles. LOL Not being cagey – it's just that my muse likes to shuffle the deck on me so I'm waiting until we're further into the writing process to "name names" so to speak.


What one statement would you like to make that you think our audience and your readers might benefit from?


LIVE life out loud, on purpose - dream so big, so beautiful, so bold that only God can answer.


Wow, thanks Jackie! What a pleasure!

Review: 'A Raisin in the Sun'

Photo: Copyright Broadcasting Companies, Inc.
Review Written by Peggy Eldridge-Love

I saw what I wanted last night. I saw the ultimate in raw emotion spew up like an inferno and scorch an emotional trail that will leave an eternal imprint on my mind. I saw art at its absolute best, at least for me. I saw what I, as an artist - whether visual or written - ache to achieve every time I make an effort. I saw two moments in the 2008 presentation of 'Raisin in the Sun' on ABC that are my reason for blubbering like this here and now.

There were many, many moments throughout the production that I thought were wonderful theatre. Each actor carried their role and made their character a part of my life. I was intrigued with the excellent adaption of this production for today's television. Nothing was lost; both the feel of the stage and the film set were preserved for whichever of the two you, the viewer, were most comfortable with. It all worked.

I was deeply moved by Audra McDonald's delivery of Ruth, the peacemaker, and under appreciated wife. Saana Lathan was an interesting Beneatha, and, Sean Combs was a very welcome surprise in the role of Walter. The authenticity of Phylicia Rashad's Lena was quietly riveting for me. I knew Lena, a hundred Lena's, and I knew without question that so too did Phylicia and that it was that irrevocable memory of our personal Lena's that drove this production straight to that place of immorality.

So, I cut to the chase and name the two moments that I refer to. The first was that moment of self-truth, self-knowledge in which Walter (Sean Combs)collided with his unalterable reality and it was such a physical blow after twising and turning every way he possibly could to try to avoid its acceptance that he finally threw himself onto the steps and collapsed. What he was experiencing was a death and Sean's portrayal of that moment was that moment of learning of a death your soul does not believe it can bear. His performance was profound!

The next such moment was Lean's when she too was forced to accept the reality of not Walter's betrayal or poor judgement, but of how fleeting our worth can be regardless of the cost, how easily it can be dissolved in a split second, and how, no matter what she might do or say to preserve her deceased husband's tangible worth or even spiritual worth that she ultimately had no control over that whatsoever. It was the agony of surrender - of relinquishing that role of control to a higher authority - that I thought I heard and saw and felt in her near animal bellow of anguish. Letting go can be more painful than giving birth, and her letting go ripped the moon from its bed. I will never forget how she made me feel in that moment's performance - ever.

This production may not win an award of any kind, and it may be debated and compared to the original, and we may all have our varying opinions as to the degree of its worth. That is to be expected. But those moments are my "Play it Again Sam" and my "Frankly, Scarlett, I don't give a Damn" cinematic moments and I assure you, I'm keeping them!

A Minute with Author E. Joyce Moore

Gettin' to the Good Wood


What's Your Name and the title or titles of your books?

E. Joyce Moore

Gettin' to the Good Wood, Non-fiction
Ramblings Through the Attic of Thought, Poetry
I Like Brown, Illustrated Children's Book
Jahzzara, Illustrated Children's Book, Multimedia project

What genre do you normally write in?

I write primarily in non-fiction, however I enjoy the creativity of children's books, poetry and I've started an adult novel. I have also written two scripts for television and am working on a screenplay.

Could you tell us just a little about yourself?

I am a mid-career person, who has the opportunity to pursue her passion in the arts, both visual and literary. I am focused on some specific creative projects, in both my writing and in the promotion of fine artists of color and African descent. It is my goal in 2008 to shoot my first film short and initiate my multimedia project and get two of my books published.

Will you give us a brief overview of your latest, or if you prefer, your favorite book?

I love my book of poetry, Ramblings Through the Attic of Thought, which has many pieces that many resonate with. I plan to load it onto Kindle soon. I am also fond of the children's book I Like Brown which is being illustrated by fine artist Charlotte Riley-Webb and will include a piece of children's art by Jourdan Toliver -- a piece that will go in the back of all of my children's books.

Where are your books available?

Gettin' to the Good Wood is available on Amazon, all others are not yet published.


Thanks for taking time out to share with us and the best of luck to you, Joyce!

Literary Road Trips

The beaten path is cool. Matter of fact it is normally safe and comfortable, predictable and, more often than we want to acknowledge, pretty darn boring. I'm stepping off my beaten path and venturing into byways and new avenues, back roads and some rocky trails.

One area of exploration is taking a closer look at the literature that is right around me, that in some instances is just starting to surface, while perhaps in some other cases it may be literature that should have - in my humble opinion - ripped through the stars that has gotten pushed to a back, dusty shelf. A lot of it will be the best of the best of new contemporary works, and I'll also be taking "A Minute With..." to share short interviews with authors I believe you need to know!

So, off I go in search of some literary excitement. Hope you plan to come along.

A Minute with Author Vanessa A. Johnson

Here's an author you really should get to know!

What's your name and the title or titles of your books?
Vanessa A Johnson
Book Title: When Death Comes a Knockin'



What genre do you normally write in?
My first book was non-fiction, right now I'm writing fiction.

Could you tell us just a little about yourself?
I'm 49, a lifelong Louisianan, married 29 years, mom and grandmother.

Will you give us a brief overview of your latest, or if you prefer, your favorite book?
My book is a self-help, inspirational book about loss and grief. It chronicles my journey through the grief process after the untimely deaths of my mother and son in August & September 1994.

Where are your books available?
www.lulu.com/vanessaajohnson, amazon.com, bn.com, or from me directly.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?
Yes, I'm doing edits and rewrites on Sacrifices In The Name of Love, a coming of age, multicultural story about two teenagers who will ultimately learn that there are consequences to your actions, that sometimes dictate sacrifices to be made under the guise of love that's painful, but necessary.

What one statement would you like to make that you think our audience and your readers might benefit from?
Whatever your passion or your dream is, be persistent, even when others don't believe in you, believe in yourself.

Thanks Vanessa for sharing with us!

Fears that Startle

I'm in a few excellent writing groups. There is one where we have the freedom and pleasure of just flying from the cuff and the beauty and magic that often flows there is beyond expressing. I'm in a few others where varying levels of critique are exercised. Some are rigid and exacting, while I think of another that is blunt, filled with exceptional craftsmen, and overflowing with an energy that can't help but spark new creative fires.

I shared this poem in a couple of them a few days ago and it was the response to the poem, not its structure, but its content, that I found intriguing. It was someone they knew, someone they loved, someone they distrusted, someone they ...

That isn't that extraordinary. Poetry should do that, but for some reason it was that little something extra that seemed to be between the lines in some of the messages and responses that piqued my intrigue. So, I thought I'd share the poem with you:

SEEING THROUGH TO THE OTHER SIDE

Seeing through to his hollowness,
I ache. He doesn't want me to,
see him, that is. Others don't.
They want him to be who he dreams
of being, but isn't.

I taste the fears that startle
him awake when truth
slips between the artificial
layers even he
has grown to believe.

Why should I feel such guilt
knowing there is no one to tell,
even if I want to. I don't.
I wish instead to be snagged,
converted by his glow.

I have been wrong I think
somewhere some time, but not
about this. Ever. He doesn't want
me to, see him, that is. And,
perhaps in reality, I don't.

©Peggy Eldridge-Love -2008 – All Rights Reserved



That deep tortured person some folk described as preceiving in the poem brought to mind this tiny little sculpture I created, too. The human experience is truly a mysterious journey.

A Little More "Bought Sense"

Have you ever had someone hit a raw nerve that you had no idea was raw? It is an excruciating pain, not at all unlike that first instance when you bite down on something and a pain shoots through your mind, body, and soul and you realize the pain is actually in your mouth, in a tooth you had no reason to think might crack. I had one of those riveting experiences recently and it left me with much to think about and consider.

I was in a setting not at all conducive to anything but civility, and civil we all were as we politely exchanged our thoughts and ideas, but there was one person who kept dropping hints of dissatisfaction, deep sighs of frustration, and a good reason why anything anyone else thought promising was anything but. I found myself empathizing with that person, assuming they might have had a long, unpleasant day and that session with us was the time they finally decided it was okay to start to let the built up tensions go. Heck, I've had bad days, too.

I was feeling magnanimous for being so silently understanding when suddenly a few words were said that hit me in the mid-section like a bowling ball. Nothing big. Nothing overtly insulting or inflammatory, but the underlining ramifications were so vile and mean-spirited it was breathtaking. I almost started to hyperventilate.

What did I do? Very briefly I determined that I needed to set the perpetrator straight and with the breath I was about to exhale I was well on my way to accomplishing that when suddenly it dawned on me! This is so, so rich and so, so prime for my novel "Bought Sense!" This is exactly what I've been needing to bring out the true negative, mean-spirited nature in a character I've been toiling with developing that is such a wonderful little actress that she's been hiding her venom even from me - the writer who made her up!

I couldn't wait to get out of that setting and to my notebook! I was civil in that hour of civility which meant I didn't lose anything other than a quick, hot breath. Best of all I won another priceless glance into one of those extra special human natures that we only get an opportunity to glance ever now and again. It was all I could do not to run up and give them a great big hug, an extra little squeeze and a truly exuberant thank you for opening this perfect little door!

Essence...

Great new things are happening! First, check out our brand new look! Blue, not pink! Feels really good.

Plus, I want to announce that Living on the Tip of My Pen is now a member of the Essence Ad Network! That is sure to add a wonderful dash of ongoing excitement.

I'm in the new Cafe Cafe issue of Mipoesias Magazine! Click on my photo once you get there and it will take you to my poetic contribution. Also, be sure to check out the Mipoesias Art Gallery while you are exploring, too. Cafe Cafe touts some of today's most gifted and celebrated contemporary poets, so be prepared for the profound! You'll find it in this issue at every turn.

Enough already! It is the wee hour of a new morning and I had promised myself I wouldn't keep pulling all nighters at the computer. It is time to rest so that as soon as the sun peeks through the clouds I'll be fresh and ready! I'm going to keep that promise!

Need to Pull Your Coattail

This is a situation in which I really got taken for a ride! This just occurred a few days ago.

Recently I've been researching ways to "make a few extra dollars" on line with ad clicks and so forth for web sites and blogs and I fell for what seemed a very legit opportunity. In a flash I had been snake bitten!

Turns out that "legit opportunity" was about to become a very costly mistake - but, a little fast thinking allowed me to get myself out of the quagmire. That's what I wrote about in this article "Ignoring the Fine Print Can Cost You a Mint".

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/590203/ignoring_the_fine_print_can_cost_you.html

Please check it out when your time permits and please, please share it! It could probably benefit someone you know!

Thanks!

Some Tacky Fun

I got adventurous today. I made a video and uploaded it to YouTube. It was about my "muse" and how h/she has been on a roll lately, spicing up my creative life with all manner of creative exploration.

I can be shameless when it comes to art - to creativity - much like a child really. I'm like "looky, see, see, look what I've done!" I think that is because in my home, as a child, the creative side of us was so encouraged, and every little thing we did was a big event. I still expect it to be a big event, and so, even if no one else gets excited with me, I get excited all by my doggone self!

Since I was just playing with this movie maker thing on my computer I put all kind of self-serving stuff in the video. I didn't remember doing that until I played it back and thought, how tacky! Tacky or not, this is my first step into the world of MyTube, oops, I mean YourTube, ah, I mean YouTube.

Lights! Curtain!

Who Cracked the Door and Let in the Light?

When I've gone to family reunions in recent years I've been reminded of the reality of the history of the civil rights struggles in the middle of the last century as sitting amongst us is one of our family members who was a central figure in that struggle.

His right, in 1962, to attend the southern university of his choice required then President John F. Kennedy to have to call out federal troops and U.S. Marshals. That simple right was violently opposed and challenged by the state's governor and its people, and resulted in some of the most tumultuous, riotous days of this nation's history as the struggles for his rights played out.

In 1967, a photograph of this same relative being shot in 1966 as he led the civil rights march entitled "March Against Fear" from Memphis, Tennessee to Jackson, Mississippi won the Pulitzer Prize for photography (Photographer, Jack R. Thornell of Associated Press).

That this family member, James Meredith, opened doors for those of us coming behind him in search of the educations not only of our ability, but also our choice, goes without saying. That this family member has continually reached out to us individually and collectively to encourage our efforts as we reach for our own goals and objectives is unrelenting. One of the first letters of support and encouragement I received when my first book was published was from James. One of my greatest treasures will always be that letter as it reassured me that "I had a lot to say that the world needed to hear". I believed him and as a part of that belief I have never stopped trying.

But before civil rights there was Reconstruction and my husband's family played a key role in that lofty endeavor.

His great, great grandfather was a member of the 1866 Constitutional Convention and a number of successive legislatures, but it was his son, born in 1859, who took the new possibilities for freed black people and maximized on them and built a legacy of success that still resonates from Atlanta to Los Angeles for its ferocity.

Lieutenant-Colonel Floyd Henry Crumbly, a member of the Tenth U.S. Calvary, and honored veteran of the Spanish-American War, followed his military career with a thirst for business that in the mid 1880's turned a $300 line of credit into one of Atlanta's first black-owned grocery stores and him into one of the founders of Atlanta's prestigious Wheat Street business center.

Within months Floyd Henry (after whom my husband is named) had paid off his loan and initiated purchase of the building he operated out of. A year and a half later he paid that building off and purchased the one next door. It was a momentum that he didn't believe was just for himself, and as his prosperity increased, so did his commitment to his fellow man.

By 1890 he became the chief organizer of the Georgia Real Estate Loan and Trust Company, along with a hand full of other successful black Atlanta entrepreneurs of the time. He is credited with bringing into reality and serving on the board of trustees for The Carrie Steele Logan Orphanage which focused on the needs of African-American orphanaged and abandoned children who previously had been left to forge for themselves. In 1892 he was selected as a director of The Penny Savings Bank of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and, based on his outstanding military career, was appointed and Adjutant of the staff of Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Grant by the Governor of the State of Georgia.

Floyd Henry Crumbly founded the Negro Historical Society of Atlanta, and, eventually he moved to Los Angeles, California. His contributions in California were many as well as noted in F.H. Crumbly, "A Los Angeles Citizen," The Colored American Magazine (September 1905). Some of his letters to co-harts such as Fredrick Douglass and Booker T. Washington are also a part of their collections in the Library of Congress.

It is a pleasure to be able to point our children and grandchildren to the accomplishments and contributions of their bloodlines - particularly these two - and to remind them that none of us arrive at our destination alone. We are there because of the efforts, the thrusts, the sacrifices, and the tenacity of others who cracked open the doors and let in a little light to shine upon our path.

This knowledge is particularly poignant on this celebration of Martin Luther King's birthday.

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Note: Books by and about James Meredith and FH Crumbly are available from many sources online.

5000 Words a Day

Today I need to make sure I write my 5000 words if I hope to meet the deadline I committed to earlier this week. And tomorrow, and the next day, the next day, and the next. It shouldn't be an issue since I've taken a lot of time to reorganize and schedule. I've made sure too that I don't over commit, or set unrealistic goals for myself because what I seek from here until eternity is balance and peace in my world.

As far as the visual arts are concerned, I've been invited to exhibit in a couple of gallery shows in the early spring. One I'll be exhibiting my jewelry and the other I'll be exhibiting my dolls. Several of my paintings were also included on the Mipoesias Art cover recently, which was really a good thing. So, I'm also busy designing a host of new jewelry pieces and dolls, but, for the moment, I've put my paints and pencils down.

I moved my studio/workshop up to the third floor where the light (especially the north light) is awesome. Once upon a time the third floor was a ballroom and another room was said to have been the original owner's children's classroom - this house is over 100 years old - so, on occasion, I let my imagination loose and imagine the parties, the people in their high spirits and finery, and the children who were once occupants. The energy sometimes is almost palatable!

I'm making sure I give back more too. I've added a couple of civic activities and I'm trying to keep both my eyes and my heart peeled for real people in need that I can somehow assist. It's time.

There are one or two areas I'm weighing - activities that it may well be time to relinquish, but that have been very meaningful to me in the past. I'm trying to listen closely to my spirit in these regards, and, whatever that final spirit led conclusion is I'll follow.

All in all it is good. All in all I am blessed.

Oops! Hubris!

I deleted and edited my year end blog entry! Seems I might be have been guilty of a wee bit of hubris. I stand corrected!

The New Year has been exceptionally kind! Much to be thankful for. Hope yours is beginning that way too!



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WHAT A YEAR! (EDITED!!!)

Oh, my goodness! What a year this has been for me. That I am here, on this last day of 2007, with my head up and my heart in tact is a miraculous, miraculous thing! It is testament that there is a good and merciful God, a power beyond my comprehension, who has cradled me, rocked me, sustained me, and restored me through valleys as bleak and opaque as India ink.

I lost my brother Leroy in 2007, and close family members Helen, Albert, Joan, and several other friends near and dear. There were days I thought I could not possibly make it through, but I did! I did!

And, there was a major literary disappointment that seemed so unnecessary because the professional involved was so unethical. But, then, maybe, rather than be disappointed I should be rejoicing. All relationships are not meant to be. I wish her well. I wish goodness and success for her in everything she does just as I wish those blessings for myself in all I do.

But life has its balances too, at least in the literary world. Another professional has been such a pleasure - running with a project I thought was lifeless, and landing it in the lap of one of the major players at one of Hollywood's top three talent agencies! He shocked us both with his desire to pitch it! And though he admits it is a difficult project, he still wants to hold on to it. Who would have ever thunk it??? Thank you!!! You go girl!

So, I release 2007 for the unknowns of 2008. I enter this new year with respect and awe and the reality that every moment will hold its own mysteries and I will just be along for its unfoldings and its journeys - if I'm blessed.

I thank you all for your friendship, for your kinship, for your love, and for your support. And above all I lift you high in my prayers this coming year. Get ready! Here it comes!

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