We are happy to announce that we will have a Book Launch for Rebecca N. Herz and her debut poetry chapbook “Homecoming and other poems.” The event will be held on Sunday, January 22 at 2 p.m. EST and will include guests Zaneta Varnado Johns and Jill Sharon Kimmelman, both published poets with international recognition.
After this meetup an open mic was held and from then on it was all systems go to produce this anthology. After the open mic, it became obvious that the next step would be to publish the anthology. With a call for submissions and tremendous response, we worked together to make it happen. We are grateful for all the support, including that of ShugaShuga Publishing LLC, SistersRoc’nRhyme, Garden of Neuro Institute, and Living Poetry.
We offer the utmost gratitude to Zaneta Varnado Johns, who served with dedication as the co-editor. What an honor to have the help of someone so in tune to what needs to be heard. And if anybody has an editor’s eye, it’s Zan.
Contributing authors to Social Justice Inks were:
Bartholomew Barker, Binod Diwadi, C. Miller, Chanah Wizenberg, Christopher D. Sims, Chyrel J. Jackson,
Dan Brook, Doug Stuber, Elliot m rubin, Howard Moon, Indy Samra, Ivor Steven, Jaya Avendel,
Jia-Li Yang, Jill Sharon Kimmelman, Joan McNerney, Joni Caggiano, K. Ann Pennington, Karuna Mistry,
LaVan Robinson, Lisa Bolin, Lyris D. Wallace, Marisela Brazfield, Marjorie Maddox, Nanci Arvizu,
Richard Fireman, Richard O. Ogunmodede, Robin Klammer, Robin Oakman, Rupa Rao, Sarfraz Ahmed,
Steve Anc, Susan Brearley, Susan Hering, Susi Bocks, Timo Schmitz, Yumica P. Thompson,
Zaneta Varnado Johns, Lisa Tomey=Zonneveld, and cover artist Kay Payne.
We are indeed grateful for the heartfelt contributions to this anthology, a true work of art.
Following the publication of Social Justice Inks we held an open mic for the contributors and guests. Today is the first day it has been shown, saving this until the turn of the years.
May 2023 bring us all a year of hope and action to make certain that we use the powers we hold to make a change for justice.
Blessings and Peace to You All.
Lisa Tomey-Zonneveld, Manager, Prolific Pulse Publishing LLC
This incident resulted in a short-lived life because of prejudice. I believe that if a white child had whistled, it would have been laughed off as cute. In 2022 it would have been plastered all over social media as funny.
Therein lies one of many differences. The very most a white child would have gotten was a reprimand, or a talking to, but never a lynching. Never have his life taken.
So, let’s do that fast forward to today. I was talking with a black mother of two yesterday. One is an adult son and the other is an eleven-year-old daughter. I was telling her about The Talk project we are working on in the Garden of Neuro. She thought it was a great idea and offered more input. She informed me that this is about more than a talk but a whole life, day-by-day, when your child is reminded about how to hold up their character in society. When her children walk out the door, they have rules to live by. The rules that black children follow are not the same rules that white people tell their children. I know. I am a white parent.
The white parent says, look people in the eye to show confidence. The black parent says, be cautious about looking white people in the eye as they may say you are threatening to them.
The white parent says, offer your hand to shake a man’s hand. The black parent says, don’t be the one to offer a handshake, but shake the hand if it is offered.
The white parent says, stop by the store on the way to school and pick up a treat. The black parent says, stop by the store on the way to school, get your treat quickly and take it to the register. And be sure to keep your hands where they can be seen.
Emmett Till went into a store and whistled. It cost him his life. It was not his fault.
Flash forward to Trayvon Martin, who is 2012 lost his life at the age of 17. He was walking down the street, an innocent young man— shot because he was walking while black.
What is the difference between these two young men? One death was 77 years ago and the other was ten years ago. Another has and will continue to happen until things change.
Did you know that Emmett Till had “The Talk” given to him? Yes, he did. His own cousin spoke about it in the documentary. That’s the point. The talk about how to conduct oneself when walking out the door, and add social media indoors today— It is, as my friend stated yesterday, more than a talk, but a life you have to live and breathe each day.
Some may wonder why this white woman wants to hear about a talk that BIPOC have with their family members and friends. Anyone who truly knows me knows that my life has never been about black and white. It has always been about people. It has always been about my study of people and concern that people learn to get along. It is important – and I will speak from my own sociologist experience – that we understand what is going on in others’ lives, so we can be more compassionate, so we can make this a better place to live, so that we can be a part of the warm, love-filled environment that was meant to be. And if I appear to wear rose-colored glasses, so be it. Give me ones with purple frames.
I want to read these stories that I cannot tell. I want to know what people of color are dealing with day by day. I want to be inclusive in this life. And this is why I want to read these stories.
Do you have a story to tell? Please send it to the Call for Submissions for The Talk. This is open to BIPOC and their families and friends who have experienced the talk, the way of life, the rules for living. We want to hear them.
By the way, my friend also said something that I have been saying for a long time. The young people these days are going to change the world, and it will be a better place where we will get along. Let’s start with the talk and let’s be a part of that change.
If these walls could talk they’d tell mom’s stories of her younger years and the adventures of family and friends throughout our lives
They’d tell of wonders how that first date would go while sister curled my hair and put makeup on my 12 year old face while I perspired in her dress
They’d offer witness of each brother who came home on military leave to celebrate accomplishments and share family life and visits to old buddies
They’d tell of phone calls from far away, from old friends who never forgot relationships were more important than things
These walls would tell of tears laughter, hugs, kisses goodnight and all the life held in between these floral papers, these quiet walls if only, they could talk
Lisa Tomey-Zonneveld (c)
Memories of happy times in our lives are such blessings. I wish there had been a record of all the stories my mother alone would tell. As I am working on recording these, to the best of my memory, tears come and my heart warms. Later in his life, I recorded stories of daddy and his telling of his World War II service. I treasure that tape and the document created.
As I was working on Caring for Souls, what helped me is to look at old photographs of growing up. This has brought up so many memories that I am continuing to work in this process for another book.
Sometimes, we end up being the one who has been involved with caring for others or having others care for us. Mom did not care for having to be cared for, but it happened just the same. It was the love that was shared between and outside the walls that built these kind of relationships.
Are you caring for someone now? Please share in the comments. I want to hear about it, if you are comfortable.
May all your walls be covered with memories via photos, art, and more.
It is so exciting to announce that Caring for Souls is now available at many online retailers. If you go to this link you will be able to see the stores which have this collection, thus far. CARING FOR SOULS
Guess what?! We are having a BOOK LAUNCH for this book of poetry, prose, essays, art projects, activities, and more. You can register on Meetup
It’s TTOT time and although I am two days late and missed last week, I am back today, so let’s hop to it.
Free photos to share. I love the one above. Doesn’t it look like donuts? Now, I bet you want some donuts!
Tax season part two has today and tomorrow and then it is over with for a little while. Well…
My new office space. I rearranged my whole living room so that my office space is now separated from living space. It has helped me feel better and I am closer to the window, so I can watch the birds and enjoy the trees. This may help me with screen health as it diverts my eyes whenever a bird comes to visit.
A community that comes together. I am sure you have heard about the shootings in Raleigh, such a horrible tragedy. People who care swoooped in and started doing such heartfelt things for the community affected.
The handshake. It still exists and may be coming back since the pandemic has somewhat been lifted.
Along with handshakes are hugs. I am not a huge hugger, but I won’t turn one down.
The hard copy proof of Caring for Souls should be here soon. It is supposed to ship on Monday.
Daughter was able to go on a road trip with her friend and enjoy the hot air balloon festival in Statesville. She chose not to go up in a balloon, but her friend went up.
As I look out the window, I see the most beautful red leaves among the green. I love it!
Attendees who celebrate by attending the Book Launch of “I am fine: don’t read this poem” will have a chance to win an epublication of this prolific work of art. There will be 10 total EPublications given away. You may be the one to get a copy of this book.
Have you signed up to attend this event to be held on Saturday, September 10 at 1 p.m. EST? Here’s the registration link:
Prolific Poet Sita Gaia is presenting a poetry course for poets who don’t even know it and poets who are working on it and poets who know it and want to explore more of it.
Can we really poem enough?
YES, I am partial. Sita is one of my favorite poets. Well, true confession…My press published her chap book Knocking on The Body’s Door:
The cost is $80 for the total class, but Sita will work with you on this fee. It starts September 7 and continues three more Wednesdays.
Happy Friday and TTOT day! Yes, I am back again. I posted earler this week, but I took it down for reasons…don’t ask, please. This one sticks! The above photo is not mine but it kinda reflects my current state, a contrast between warm and mellow. And on the way to something taller.
Happy One Month Wedding Anniversary to my beloved. I am grateful you are in my life.
2. I am gradually feeling better. Yesterday was my big test for running errands much of the day and looking at a condo (no, did not buy). I got through it and was ready for bed early. Grateful I got through the day.
3. I got through and maybe still going through TBH this difficult matter with a person who does not see eye to eye…I consider it a gratitude that I am starting this new day with a fresh perspective.
4. Celebration of the book launch for Elizabeth last weekend and looking for to this weekend’s event with Sarfraz.
5. Having time off for healing gave me plenty of time to read and I am always grateful to read.
6. The Sealey Challenge is coming up in August. I have a whole stack of books to read and re-read. I am grateful.
7. Daughter is rocking her cane and has blinged it up on a regular basis.
8. The “Dear Heart” Call for Submissions is picking up speed.
Years ago, before computers, we wrote letters. My mother’s letters were like little novellas. They sometimes were several pages long. She wrote her family members and friends and they loved to get her “books.” How I wish I had saved my letters from mom. As a witness to her letter writing, I would watch as her pen moved passionately across the pages, sometimes witnessing her eyes well up. Letters were her release. They were her way of expressing herself in ways she could not voice. Sometimes she would write letters to people out of anger and then tear them up. To my knowledge, she never sent one of those angry letters. It could have been politicians, relatives, and those are the ones I knew about. She would express her heart’s desire, open up her soul, and pour out her thoughts.
As a letter writer, I did not have the beautiful penmanship of my mother, but I learned that the pen was my power. I also wrote letters and tore them up. I even wrote one about the need for a doctor in our little town and it was published in the newspaper. I wrote letters to family, friends, old friends found from a long time lost, family who I wanted to see but knew my letters would reach them long before I ever would.
Now, I am a writer and a poet. I write as if my words are letters to the world, at times. Other times, I write to express my desires of the heart. And other times I write to write.
I firmly believe that when we do express our desires within our heart that this has a way of stirring up thoughts and even action plans to make things happen. Sometimes those things that happen are acceptances of things that can’t be changed, but sometimes they are steps to taking up the courage to make something happen in our lives.
What is the desire in your heart? This is my challenge to you. I would like to read about the desires in your heart in the “Dear Heart” anthology of letters, poetry, art, photography, and whatever ways helps you express your passion.
There’s a caveat to this. These are all to be sent to me via good old fashioned snail mail. I will sort through these and select which submissions to publish.
Garden of Neuro Institute has a Call for Submissions for contributors to The Talk.
Personal Essays and/or Poetry submissions are welcome and encouraged. Check out this video for more information. Or skip on over to the Call for Submissions form which is right HERE
We are beyond excited to announce that Social Justice Inks – Anthology of Poetry is available on Amazon and many other online stores, there is also an ePub available via Lulu. Here are the Links:
You see, I was planning to do another anthology for 2022, following the Heart Beats anthology of 2021. It seemed most appropriate to go to these most important topics. And, before we knew it, it became real.
A special shout out to Zaneta Varnado Johns for her dedication as Co-Editor for this anthology. It made a huge difference to have this assistance.
We hope to see you on June 20, the dedicated date to recognize Juneteenth.
I was reading this article on NPR It’s about the talk that black mothers have with their sons. It came to me while I was working on an announcement – or a fresh announcement about The Talk – which is the name for the anthology of poetry and essays by mothers of color & possibly fathers, too.
As a white woman, I have had talks with my now adult child, but nothing compared to what people of color have to have, MUST have with their children. None of us wants to have our children’s names or adult children’s names associated with a hashtag. What do you think the chances are for this to happen with a person of color vs a white person?
Even with The Talk, there’s still a chance that something could happen, but we are not, as parents, going to let our children into society without caution. The Talk and many other measures has to happen.
What is the talk as a white parent? What is the talk as a parent of color? Just think about that and let it sit for a few moments.
This picture depicts the happiness I want to see for people of color. And I want to hear about The Talk that is had. It keeps those of us who don’t have this experience, mindful. And it keeps us heart-full. How I wish that in this world, we did not have the adversity, the hatred, the assumptions… And I don’t want to hear about how that’s just the way it is. That is not good enough, nor acceptable to me and I hope it is not acceptable to others, but I know. I don’t have blinders on, but I also don’t have dark skin which causes people to scowl, distrust, look the other way, accuse me, to make my name a hashtag.
Are you a person of color? Would you feel comfortable sharing the talk you have had to have with your children? There’s a Call for Submissions for your story, your essays, your poetry… Would you consider sharing Your Talk with others?
Here is the link if your answer is “yes” or if you want more information:
It is with great pleasure that we announce the release of Two Time-International Best-Selling Author Zaneta Varnado Johns latest book of poetry “After the Rainbow: Golden Poems.” A celebration was held on Sunday, February 27 at 4 p.m. EST
If you would like an autographed copy you can purchase on ZanExpressions
Prolific Pulse Press LLC is conducting a call for submissions. Details are as follows:
Prolific Pulse Press LLC needs 3 essays and 3 poems about what it is like to be a caregiver of a family member or close friend who has become ill.
We also needs 3 essays and 3 poems about what it is like to be given care by a family member or close friend.
All entries must be speaking from their own firsthand experiences.
Essays should be no longer than 5000 words. Poems should not be longer than 600 words.
Previously published essays and/or poems will be accepted for consideration with the exception of already being published in anthologies or other books.
The 12 winning essays and poems will receive an award of $20 each.
All entries must be in 12 point Times New Roman or Book Antiqua font.
Send entries as attachments to your email.
Deadline: March 31, 2022
A 50 word Bio will be needed with the entries, not after the fact.
What will happen to these?
These are to go into a book by Lisa Tomey and it will be published in August 2022
Releases will be requested for the essay and poem writers to enable publication.
No royalties will be paid, but your names and bios will be included in the book.
There will be an optional open mic for this book event for which any winning entries will be invited to attend and read.
I am happy to report that You Are the Poem has been released as of TODAY!
What is You Are the Poem?
From the Author, Jill Sharon Kimmelman:Welcome to You Are the Poem, a three-themed collection of poetry, Timeless Love, An Eclectic Mix & Looking Back: inspiration & wisdom gained from my poetic journey.
A gift of my heart, poems of celebration, joy, hope, bonds of precious friendship & sisterhood, bridges built with our love language, a treasure for passionate foodies & photographers!
What are others saying?
Kind Words:
Jill Sharon Kimmelman is an outstanding poet & writer. I respect her writing skills so much. Her poetry style has motivated me to give more than my best to my reading audience. On the other hand, Jill & Tim are a blessing as members of our extended family over the seas in Africa, Nigeria. The world & poetry communities are about to welcome a gift from the heart of this noble poet.
Richard O. Ogunmodede, Author of Dual Existence & Poet … Poetries are powerful spoken words, often sound like enchantment, they have the power to bring people closer together.
I’m proud to be a noble poet. It is the bond that connected me to my dear mentor, Jill Sharon Kimmelman. Her wealth of experience has enriched my poetry. Age, color, distance is never a consideration in our unique relationship.
Elizabeth O. Ogunmodede, Nigerian teen author of two books & poet.
To you, the reader of You Are the Poem:
May you find inspiration, joy, love, laughter, & words that resonate with the soul. For Jill Sharon Kimmelman writes from a place in which even the deepest abyss can feel. Touching on subjects that enlighten, strengthen, & embrace the core being within… Her words always bring sincere smiles to the heart. I am honored to know her not only as a poet sister, but as my friend.
Lynn Long Internationally Award-Winning Poet & Photographer, Founder of Poetic Musings Ezine … To the author: Jill, in my humble opinion, you can sit beside Amanda Gorman & the other greats—same height & stature without a doubt! Your expressions are second to none.
The literary world is in for a treat with Jill Sharon Kimmelman’s You Are the Poem. Jill’s authentic voice had me at Hello! The first time I heard Jill recite one of her poems, I was moved to tears. Jill Sharon Kimmelman opens her soul & takes you on a three-dimensional journey. Every delightful poem is a story that you willingly embrace. Whether happy or sad, every expression is uplifting in its own way. Your senses will rejoice when you experience the voice of Jill Sharon Kimmelman & see her beautiful pictures serve as perfect complements. In my humble opinion, You Are the Poem is a masterpiece. Zaneta Varnado Johns Zaneta Varnado Johns is a 2-time bestselling author & poet with her publications, Poetic Forecast & Voices of the 21st Century; Her poems appear in international anthologies & poetry publications. … When Jill Sharon Kimmelman writes she wields her magic pen producing some of the finest poetry I have ever had the pleasure to read. She never fails to mollify all my senses capturing in me the lover, the protector of family, the great admirer of life with her extraordinary visuals & use of language. She has a grand view of life, & it shows in her works. She is nothing short of inspiring!
To Jill: Your language is symphonic! Your visuals are elegant! I absolutely LOVE everything about this!
Tammy Hendrix, a former poetry editor for Mind’s Eye magazine & is, along with her administrators, the force behind Dreamer’s Café on Facebook. She is currently working on her first book titled: Throne of the Dead King.
It is with my great pleasure, on behalf of Prolific Pulse Press LLC, to announce the debut poetry book “You Are the Poem” with be available November 13. I interviewed Jill recently for my podcast & YouTube channel:
Would like to attend the virtual Book Launch for You Are the Poem? Register below to get your tickets. The event with be on Zoom.
I am pleased with what the Garden of Neuro offers for empowerment, connections, support and more.
Recently, I participated in the Garden of Neuro Anthology of Poetry and Art, called “A Safe and Brave Space.” It will be available soon. We worked as a team to bring this anthology to life. It’s been an amazing adventure. I even received a badge.
Are you feeling the need to connect with others in a Safe and Brave Space? Come check out the Garden of Neuro.
It’s Friday and school is back in session and it’s TTOT time! What a way to bring in September.
Let’s get started!
We got moved!
We had water, plenty of water for the move and yay because it was HOT!
Found muscles. Whew, because I was wondering…
Office view. I can see the trees. Weeee
Project Book Launches galore!
Podcasts are back in session, welp, in the planning phase…
I have space to do art for which I am Extremely Grateful! It makes me cranky if I don’t get my art fix.
It looks like it’s all about me, but nope…it is also about others as I am most thankful for the power of prayer and a prayerful attitude, ’cause ya know that if we put thoughts into things, they can becomes possibilities and when we put energy behind possibilities, they become things accomplished, and that’s the cycle I like to call later, rinse, repeat. But – hey – don’t forget to dry, because we all need a little rest.
And that #8 has been poured out in multitudes for those affected by the actual storms.
YOU and YOU and especially YOU – What’s your thankful today?
It is getting to the end of the month already and I am grateful for air conditioning. Yup – that’s right good ole A/C Would you believe there are people who don’t have this luxury? I remember…yes, I am just that old…when we lived in Texas when Daddy was stationed at Randolph AFB in San Antonio, and we did not have A/C. The heat was, well, hot. We are talking about even this barefooted kid had to wear her flip flops because her feet would make impressions in the hot tar. Ask me how I know… Can we say, “holy hot stickers!” The A/C problem was somewhat resolved by these devices called air coolers. These were cube like devices which were like when a fan marries cold water and blows it out in soothing air. We would congregate in the living room where my parents placed their mattress on the floor and us kids who wanted to cool off would make pallets on the floor. It was like camping in the living room, only with cool air.
We are moving tomorrow and have been packing. I am grateful that moving day is soon.
Helpers. Daughter enlisted her church folks to help move her things since she’s not moving too well these days. My back is also appreciative of these kind people. We have movers hired, but many hands make light work. Daughter had the job of pointing people where to go with things. I think she will have fun with that.
Sharpies because when you move, you need to mark those boxes.
Liquor stores. These are the best places to get boxes. I like these boxes because they are clean. They have not had produce with gnats in them. They have compartments which are great for breakables.
Good shoes. When you are walking around and sorting and climbing and figuring things out, those feet want to be happy. Good shoes are your friends.
Water. We stocked up on water the other day. Hydration is so important and with the heat, woooo weeeee better sip up a bit.
Kind people. They sure make the world a better place.
Life is busy but in a good kind of way.
YOU – what are your thankfuls? I think after this weekend I will be thankful for a nap.
On Sunday, August 15, we brought together these amazing, prolific poets for the first Social Justice Inks – Poetry on Point session. There will be more, so stayed tuned for announcements.
Happy Friday and TTOT Day – Can you believe we are already at the end of July! That’s just peachy!
Let’s slice up a bowl of peachy thoughts!
Daughter received injections and is gradually improving.
Daughter is having fun with her art class.
– 6. Air Conditioning! Ceiling Fans! Ice! Ice Cream! That is four thankfuls!
My back treatment on Monday seems to have helped and I have my last one next week.
The nurse for the back treatment is a sweetheart and I will miss her, but not the ouchy procedures.
I have a place to sleep each night.
Sisterhood of the Garden of Neuro group. I feel so much better from interactions with these lovely folks who are about the good vibes of the world. We had a lovely poetry workshop last night. I will probably share more about it later. You can check out the group Garden of Neuro
Books. I know I say that a lot, but I am grateful for books. AND in August it will be time for the Sealey Challenge where you can read one poetry book per day. I did that last year and it was fun. This year, I am moving and may have to make some adjustments. I want to finish some books I have started and post reviews. If I can do that for August, I may call it a success.
Building a better boat. I am not a sailor nor a shipmate in the for reals world, but I am working on an ongoing effort to make this part of my world a better place. I notice there is a stir of people who are also looking at ways to create positive change. I am grateful for the support.
YOU! What kinda jam will you be making with your harvest? Let’s hear about your week!
I was so fortunate to interview the wonderful poet and gentleness ambassador Bingz Huang for the podcast. Here is the PODCAST LINK, which is the audio of this video.
I met Bingz via the Garden of Neuro and I read her book.
This book is one to read! It is about nurturing. It is about gentleness. It is about being gentle with yourself.
I am excited that tonight in the Garden of Neuro, Bingz will be presenting a workshop with one of her poems from the book. It is a workshop for women at the Garden of Neuro, a #Save and Brave Space for women.
We have one answer for what is causing health issues for daughter and a treatment is in place.
We had some cooling rain this week.
My niece’s birthday was the 17th. My Goddaughter’s birthday was yesterday.
Coffee.
The pool has reopened and we have been in every night since.
Reading lots of books and being enriched.
A new client contract was sent.
Back treatments are scheduled.
I found a movie on YouTube about Jackie Gleason from the 2002 TV movie and started watching it. So far, I am finding it very interesting. I like to know the story behind some people and his is quite complex.
YOU! Tell us how your week has been. I am sure that once you start pondering that you will be counting yourself in as thankful.
Welcome to another great week to be thankful! Let’s get this started!
As you can see in the photo above, this is of my sister Paula and little me. It was New Year’s Eve starting into 1956, which means I was 2 and she was 6. I know it’s always a good idea to remember people on the day they were born, but 4 years ago this month, my sister was interred. It has been an emotionally tough week for me, yet I know her spirit is close by. My dreams have been vivid. And while she wasn’t in them, that I know of, I think she was stirring things up for me as a way to get through sadness. I am grateful that people can reach us even after they have passed this world. This is not up for challenge, but an experience of my own.
Celebrating my other daughter’s upcoming birthday. This is my goddaughter from another mother. She has adopted me. She calls my “Mumply” and that is a term of endearment. I am grateful to have been adopted by her and her husband.
Daughter has appointments to resolve what has turned into mysteries of the body, but I am confident we will find answers. I am grateful for the resources to make this happen.
While it is hot, hot, and did I mention HOT?! it is nice enough for lots of plant growth in the herb pots my daughter planted.
I don’t think I mentioned that there was a fire a couple levels above us. We had a water shower in our place, but it could have been worse. We pray to recoup our losses, but it could be worse. Nobody was hurt anywhere in this incident.
Someone sent me a book I wanted soooo much, but have been putting off as a financial thing. Squeeee!!!
Virtual opps. The pandemic may have pushed the videos but in my world, they won’t stop. I interviewed someone last night who is from another country. How could I do THAT in person? I am grateful for international influences in my life.
People who step up to the plate. I have had so many will people to help me in my business. Often, I hold virtual meetings to help other writers and I love it when I ask someone to do something and they are so willing.
The pool. Yes, I will say it! I am grateful for our community pool. It has been out of use since the 4th and I think it will be back tomorrow.
I had the pleasure of interviewing these two lovely women for my podcast and YouTube and, as you can see, above is the YouTube and below is the podcast link.
Good Morning and happy Friday and happy June!! Let’s get started.
I like this sky picture because it is beautiful with the various colors and designs, just like people, we are all different, but look whatever a majestic presence we represent. I am thankful for this and that all people have a place in the grand scheme of things.
I like the rain, despite it cutting into play time at the pool, it is watering the many gardens of life and while it’s coming down, we can take the time to do other things and be creative.
It’s June, which – like the last couple of months – is getting a new name “Majun” I am wondering if the rest of the year will be like this. I do like cooler weather, so I won’t complain.
Berries – they are sweeter and I love it!
I am in this book which is from the Triangle Association of Freelancers. It’s essays and poetry about books which have made a difference in our lives. I am happy to be among those accepted for this book.
6. It is First Friday and it is usually when the artists and musicians and foodies celebrate in and outdoors in Raleigh and many of the venues for art are free to enjoy. We have gone several times and particularly enjoy the variety of art and seeing artists in their studios. If the weather is decent, you will likely see dancing in the streets by performing groups, perhaps a drum formation and whatever is ever whatever on the agenda.
7. I have been doing some videos with David Martin, Founder and Chief Editor of Fine Lines. These are fun to do and I always learn something new. Summer Camp is coming up, too. Here’s the last video we did about journaling:
8. Summer Camp is coming soon! I hope to see you there.
9. I saved the best for last: Daughter appears to be moving a little bit better. Baby steps, but I think that PT is helping. It’s a slow process, but eventually she will be back to her old, feisty self.
10. YOU! What’s up with your life? I saw some geese and their babies walking alongside the road the other day and they were adorable. How can we not smile at nature’s new offspring! Please do share your thankfuls.
Fluttering about fairy gardens, vivid colors and purposeful lives, butterflies know their calling.
Eat until they are filled and full, build a protective crysalis, until they emerge as butterflies.
An artist and storyteller by the name of Eric Carle brought a hungry caterpillar into the homes of many families. School teachers brought the story into classrooms and inspired children.
That’s what happens when a seed is planted in a book, in art, in voice—
It lasts forever in the artfulness, in the Imaginations of humankind.
Butterflies live on when the world keeps feeding them with fairy gardens, simple garden paths, massive wildflower fields, all this by caring for the lands.
Help butterflies live whatever length of time they can as they are called to be, as we are called to support.
Learn more about butterflies from this link to the Smithsonian.
Writing down ideas, what is that? I know most of us rely on electronics to keep up with our ideas, schedules, contacts, basically our lives.
Call me old fashioned, but there is something about writing down ideas that helps me stay organized. I always have a little notebook that I carry with me so that I can write down any ideas I have while I am out and about, pertaining to the book I am writing or project I am working on. You never know when an idea will come to you. If you don’t have a notebook handy, by all means, make a note on your phone. But be sure to transfer the info to your notebook later. Having all of your book information together in one place will benefit you in the long run. You can refer back to it or add on to it as needed.
Have you ever played Scrabble? It is one of my favorite games! My sister and I love to play it and then when Words With Friends came out, we played that often. I miss her and the many discussions we had. As well as the sister movies. But it is time to move to TTOT, but it is AOK if I start with how I am thankful to have has a big sister and I know she isn’t far away, she is in my heart.
I am thankful for my sweetheart and we are celebrating his birthday! He asked me to cook him a prime rib and I am glad to do so.
Get this! I already completed my tax accounting and gave it to my sweetheart. I may have broken a new record!
Daughter created a cool holster/sling for her water bottle. She did it completely out of her imagination and we were WOWED at the end result.
Since I had some time over the holidays, I focused on some reading outside of my usual readings. Also, I am working on an art project. This is always a great way to get to my other happy place. When I get an idea, my brain keeps conjuring up ways to make it happen. It is great to have a shot of enthusiasm and time for what makes me happy.
Daughter has been furnishing me with supplies to help me with my project. And a friend is helping with feedback. It is all coming together.
It has turned into some lovely, warmer weather and the repairs of the sprinkler system has been completed. Just have drywall folks to wrap it up. I suppose that will be next week. Given the demand, I am grateful it was resolved.
I hope you all have many thankfuls this week. Feel free to join us each week as we share how ever many thankfuls we want to share. Ten is just a number, not a demand. Here is the link to join us:
It’s TTOT time and FriYAY! I hope your week was awesome as you may have shared with family and friends for the holiday season. I like to call it a season of joy and peace. Let’s see what this week was like…
Gratitude for family who love me.
Gratitude for six months of marriage to my love.
Gratitude that daughter woke up early with enthusiasm about her Friday Fun Day today!
Gratitude that daughter found some great deals at the place where she volunteers and had a gift card to pay for them.
Gratitude that we were not flooded out when the sprinkler system burst. (We had an intital spraying, but my fast moving team saved the electronics which were under the vent.) Just an FYI…if the sprinkler system did not give out, throwing the bottom board to the ground, we would have been fully flooded and had to evacuate.
Gratitude that those who were not so fortunate as we were have a place to go while their apartments are repaired.
Gratitude for the fire department for coming quickly to shut off the system and the alarm.
YOU 
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