View towards the Kurfirsten and Lake Walen in the background.
After almost four years, it was yesterday again that I met a blogger friend of WordPress. Erika and I (this is not a mistake, we both are Erikas) have been following each other for about five years. After a while, we found out that we live almost around the corner from each other. So, yesterday we made it happen. It took me only 25 minutes to reach Erika Laufer of Lauferei.com in her beautiful Swiss village close to Lake Walen.
Today is the last holiday of the past Christmas season (Epiphany). Traditionally, it is the last day of the school break, and many companies over here are closed until this day due to the many holidays and weekends between Christmas Eve and January 6th. It is also the day when many remove their Christmas decorations and Christmas trees.
Saying goodbye to a year of big challenges, of overcoming old and new obstacles, of discovering the ability to adjust. Farewell to a year of quite a lot of goodbyes regarding neighbors, relatives, and friends’ relatives.
My vacation is over and since yesterday, I am back at work. As you could tell from my posts, I took a few trips. The rest of the time, I spent catching up and preparing as much as possible because I will be extremely busy in the coming 5 – 6 weeks. That is also the reason why I could only visit you rarely despite my holidays. Unfortunately, it will continue like that for the next time. There are losts of posts scheduled for this and next week. But after that please don’t be surprised if my posts appear irregularly or not at all. By mid-September, at the latest (I hope) everything will slowly return to normal.
Neha published favorite blogs around the world. I am thrilled that my blog is on their list, along with other blogs that are among my favorites. A big thank you for this honor goes to Maria of Ladysag77 who nominated me and to Neha! Hop over and take a look!
Thank you to all who followed the rules and shared your favorite blogs in this around-the-world edition of my fav blog list. I have done this since the beginning of my blogging journey and hope to continue doing it whenever I get time to highlight some of the amazing talents we have here. These bloggers have put in their creative energy to create some wonderful blogs whether in lifestyle, photography, poetry or combination of many. I will list the nominees and the nominators below, sharing their own words (some of them are my personal favs as well!) followed by a few of my favorites both old and new (in no particular order)! I wanted to showcase how connected we all are from around the globe in this journey, especially during these times where many are feeling isolated. You definitely did not disappoint in your nominations…between the nominees and…
… will rule my blog this week. There are two extremely busy weeks and weekends behind me (one of them was another school weekend), and there was no time for scheduling my usual posts. This week, I will sporadically pop-in to see how you guys are doing. Next week, I will share another #HitsByYears week.
… to all the mothers in the world, whether they are celebrating it today or not. Due to the current circumstances, many moms might celebrate without their children this year. Nevertheless, the bond between a mother and her child/children cannot be cut by a stupid virus. I am sure, later this year, a lot of events will be celebrated in combination, and it will be enjoyed and treasured even more.
What an Easter Surprise😃 Without making a big fuss about it, Sylvester published his 8th book today. As he says in his post, it is not just a new poetry book. It is rather a collection of inspirational thoughts about what a soul encounters during its journey down here. Sylvester put it in the form of quotes, texts, and poems too. Curious? Well, I certainly am! That’s why my copy has already been ordered. And what about you?
Please head over to his blog for learning more about his book, how to order, the story behind, and last but not least, to congratulate him!
“If you speak from the heart and spirit, you will touch more than the ears, you will reach the soul.” -Syl
My writing journey has taken a lot of twists and turns. I am so very thankful to be blessed with the gift to write and create with words. I published my first poetry collection eight years ago which was a journey in itself, realizing a dream come true. Since then I have published several other collections.
Now I am thankful to present my latest book Soul Waves. This marks a change in my presentation style. There are poems, thoughts, and quotes sprinkled in. As my writing journey continues I become more aware of the purpose for my writing.
Thank you to all of you here in the WordPress community that have inspired me through your blogs, interactions, the smiles and laughs shared, an all the heartfelt comments.
Most of you who follow my blogs have seen me mention a Global Meditation that is to take place on April 4th and 5th, 2020.
I can tell you in my own words how I perceive the power of thousands of humans coming together at the same time with the same intention of raising the vibration of a planet that is in crisis, but what I want to do instead is share this link as I cannot say it any better than this.
Please join in on the Global Meditation in whatever way it comfortable for you.
I will be lighting candles and incense and meditating at 9:45 PM CST on Saturday, April 4th.
We are all energy and we are all connected by an invisible thread, and together, we can banish this virus and help heal our beautiful planet! Thank you!
Just dropping in quickly with a spontaneous post. It is dedicated to our Gary of bereavedsingledad.blog. He is a big fan of Switzerland and I told him about the view I have from my house towards the mountains. (I am living in Liechtenstein which is right in between Austria and Switzerland.) Gary asked me to share some photos. Since the weather is not so good right now, I decided to dig out some winter photos I took some years ago.
Two of our fellow bloggers released their second books lately. And both of their first books were poetry books. Now, with their latest works, they have something else in common: Both fulfilled themselves a dream with their preferred genre.
No, not sit in a drinking establishment and sup a gin or three all day (though that may be quite fun!) but Publication Day.
After all this time, my book baby has finally been delivered!
Yes, Marriage Unarranged is finally out there, in the world, delivered to at least fifty Kindles this morning, and the paperback is also available too.
How am I feeling?
A bag of nerves. The feedback will hopefully start to filter in soon, and I know I love my book baby, but I really want you to love it too!
Described as Chickpea Curry Lit – Chick Lit with an Indian twist! And not just for chicks, you chap(patti)s too!
Graphic made by Kate Rock ❤
‘Chick Pea Curry’ Lit, Chick Lit with an Indian twist
A lot of you know our lovely Lynn. And those who don’t… why? Oh, perhaps because she was not very present for the past year. But you know what? She is back with the best explanation ever about her absence. Silently and humble, as she is, she was working on her cookbook.
A few weeks ago, Irene of IreneDesign2011, posted a pair of Apatite earrings which immediately attracted my attention. The color of those stones was so beautiful and in some way, I felt the energy of the stone coming right through. After asking Irene this and that about the stone regarding its effects and pondering about a fitting necklace I decided to order the earrings.
Our lovely Geoff Le Pard of TanGental is about to publish his latest strike, a sequel of his bookDead Flieswhichwill be free in Kindle for a download between October 30th and November 3rd.
I feel honored to support his new release with a guest post. So let’s let Geoff tell us how he got to write The Last Will of Sven Andersen:Read more ›
Hi, friends, when you are reading this post I am already burying my toes in Egyptian sand, hiding in the shade, reading a book (OMG, I am finally reading a book again🎉), swimming, simply enjoying the sweetness of life. Read more ›
Our friend Rob of Robert M. Goldstein invited his readers to participate. A love the idea about this challenge. We are talking nicely about others and value a lot about them but when it comes to ourselves… So, if you have a few minutes then please write down 10 beautiful things about you.
In honor of the creator of this challenge I will use the original words: Read more ›
My dear blog sister, Ritu of But I Smile Anyway, tagged me to take part in this wonderful challenge. Although, I have not even had time to go for my own regular posts this week, how could I resist a quote challenge? Most of all when invited by my sis. So thank you very much for tagging me, Ritu! Read more ›
I think every one of us is thinking about the change of the year. It has something melancholic and something hopeful and exciting at the same time. Read more ›
My dear blog sister, Ritu, had a series going until Christmas. She gave us very useful and inspiring tips about blogging. The first advice she left was to choose a name for your blog which already gives an idea what your blog is about. Read more ›
Our wonderful artist, Carolina, has a special offer for Christmas. Please head over to her post and don’t miss to read the conversation between her and me because she left some more interesting and important details.
HOLIDAYS ART SPECIAL SERIES
– Open Edition Signed Mini Prints and Sets –
The Shiniest Star – Robin
Hello everyone,
October is almost over, time goes fast! Soon we would be approaching the Holidays Season!
Today post is the special release of my “Holidays ART Collection” including a special offer please read the whole post.
I think this is the best time to release the Winter Holidays Collection which is now available as Open Edition Signed Mini Prints. Last year I have created a series of Holidays themed watercolor paintings. The Series was a success and I had many compliments and requests, but cause timing last year this Series has never been released or sold as prints, because by the time it was completed, was already December and late for selling prints. I decided to plan the release earlier for this year Holidays Season! Right now the time is right…
A few weeks ago I picked up one of Walsch’s books and began to read the first pages. After I read the short list of the 25 core messages to explain the main message (in the title) I stopped reading. It was so inspiring and I my mind started spinning. Before I am reading on I want to share the flow of pictures and thoughts of some of those core messages which immediately filled me. Most of those core messages won’t appear new since we are talking about them over and over again. We all share them with our own words. Isn’t that an amazing proof that we are fully aware of God’s message? If you would like to read the previous parts, you can check out here part 1,part 2,part 3,part 4,part 5and part 6.Read more ›
Yep it’s time to get free and all oozy and generous.
There have been some whispers, little rumours sussurating slowly, hissing in the background like a sack of snakes mainlining salt and vinegar crisps but now, here they are…
Free Books
I’m offering my first three books (Kindle version) for free, nothing, zip, nada… as follows
DEAD FLIES AND SHERRY TRIFLE
From 1st October 2018 to 3rd October 2018
Here is a review
In the summer of 1976 Harry Spittle aged nineteen, heads home for the summer after his first year at university. Harry seems prone to crisis from the beginning – bullying from fellow student Stephen Mc Noble who soon befriends Harry’s ex girlfriend, working in the local hotel with a diverse group of characters, and facing a bullying chef, entering a world of drug dealing, diamond smuggling and petty village gardening competitiveness… However, Harry’s main focus in life…
Look what our wonderful Hugh did here! I have had the honor of being featured in his series “49 Days In 1988”.
Please head over to Hugh’s for leaving any comments.
Already the last day and I thank you again very much for inviting me to this wonderful challenge, Natasha. Please don’t forget to check out her blog at Explore Yourself.Read more ›
Thank you, dear Natasha, for inviting me to this wonderful challenge. As most of you know, it is my favorite one and so I am happy to participate. Please head over to Natasha’s blog over at Explore Yourself.Read more ›
Are you coming to this year’s Bash? It’s on the 19th May and there are no competing attractions, however keen you are on Royal Weddings and FA Cup finals. I’m mean, seriously? Competition? Pah!
If not, why not?
Here’s where you can get tickets.
If you are booked, then this is what you need to know.
The Bash is held this year at The George IV pub in Chiswick. Here’s a link to said welcoming hostelry. We will take over the Boston Room for our glorious meet up.
The fun starts at 10.30 and runs until 4.30. Here’s a link to the agenda post with details.
Before I get into more details on travel and admin on the day there’s one big thing I’d like help with. As there will be a fair few of us coming and we are in a pub that serves food, the options for lunch…
As I announced a few weeks ago, I need to take a break for a few weeks due to my move and also to the inevitable internet interruption. Probably I won’t be posting until May 7. But whenever I have the chance I will be visiting at least because I’ll miss you guys.
In case you haven’t left your vote for the Annual Bloggers Bash Awards yet please head over and think of me 😘
We are all one – we are all brothers and sister, created by the same source of love!
Please read this moving poem and important message by our wonderful Wendell. It is sad that it is still so timely but that way even more important to spread awareness about it!
My eyes awakened to a world today
That they do not really understand
For this world will not accept me
As the young man that I really am
Society has had a tendency to dictate
A world of hard life for one like me
Because of my skins darker color
Because of what their eyes daily see
Will there ever be hope In my life
Of being more than what they say I am
Why do I have to work ten times as hard
As my brother in God, a Caucasian man
I am a constant victim of a daily outrage
Which has lasted for far too many years
And I wonder if I’ll ever be sheltered
From many of my life’s most proven fears
For there is not a place for me to go to
From this savage land where I was born And I find myself continually an…
My laptop broke down this morning. Thank God, all posts are already scheduled for the coming week. But until I have a new laptop and have it set up my ability to reply to comments and read your posts will be consicerably restricted.
The next Blogger Bash is coming closer and the preparations are already in full swing! Here is something for everyone, either you are joining the Bash or not. Take a look!
I want to thank you all for the kindness, compassion, support, love, comfort, inspiration, wisdom that is shared every single day. Whatever one of us shares is a blessing for everyone. It makes us think, strikes the necessary cords to stand up and get something going, confirms, or unites in the feeling that is created. We find and develop sides in ourselves we had not thought were there or we dare to open up to aspects of ourselves which were hidden for so long. Read more ›
In early December our wonderful and generousGeoff Le Pard(whom I was blessed to meet in person at the UK Blogger Bash in 2016) sent me two of his books. Read here. It took me a bit to start reading since I had a lot on my plate during the past weeks. But I am happy to present a little review. It wouldn’t be me if I did not do it my way. Thank you so much, dear Geoff, I was laughing so hard at times! Read more ›
Today, I received a touching Christmas email from one of our fellow bloggers. Robert Goldsteingifted me with this beautiful photo. Since I am following Robert I admire him for his photographs. Also, you all know how much I love butterflies. Can you imagine how delighted I have been with his thoughtfulness? I am really touched. Robert, I appreciate your kindness to think of me so much! Thank you!!
I wish you all a lovely rest of your days wherever in this world you are and a love-filled Christmas eve tomorrow!
My extremely thoughtful and lovely blog sister Ritu of ButISmileAnyway tagged me. Christmas is my favorite holiday with all the love that is in the air and fills our hearts even more than at any other time of the year. So I am very happy to participate. Thank you, my dearest sister for nominating me. Read more ›
The Christmas tree is up, but something is missing. There are no gifts under it, and I need your help to put that right.
For this year’s Christmas charity appeal, I’m asking you to help me raise up to £365 for The Dogs Trust.
The Dogs Trust, formerly known as the National Canine Defence League, is an animal welfare charity and humane society in the United Kingdom which specialises in the well-being of dogs. Click here to go to their website.
Want to get involved? Here’s what you need to do.
In the comments section of this post, leave the name of your blog and a link to it. This can be a link to your ‘about me’ page, a favourite blog post you’ve published, or the home page of your blog.
If you’re an author, you’re also welcome to leave me a link to any books you have published. So, for…
What a day!! I just saw Shreya’s email that she published the interview she kindly invited me to. Please, head over to StarWordsIndia for checking it out and commenting.
I just needed to share my excitement about what I found in my mailbox today! A thousand thanks to our generous Geoff Le Pard. I cannot wait to start reading. I will post a review as soon as possible. Please, check out Geoff’s writings with his fantastic twists and punchlines. Again, thank you very much, dear Geoff!
(Sorry, I am not so good at taking selfies but eventually, I had everything necessary in the picture…lol)
There are no words to describe how deeply Robert’s act of kindness and thoughtfulness touched me. I forward and dedicate Robert’s wonderful lines with the meaningful symbol of that beautiful rose on top to everyone… Love and Light to all 💖
My dear blog sister, Ritu of ButISmileAnywaytagged me and I feel honored that she wanted to know how would answer the 10 questions. Here again, I have to cheat a bit in posting this challenge on a Thursday instead of a Tuesday 😉 Read more ›
My lovely amazingly talented poetry friend Dorinda of dorindaduclos.comtagged me. Thank you very much, Dorinda. You know how much I love music to listen to or to make it! Read more ›
… and probably no posts at all. You may have noticed that I was barely around at the end of last week. I simply can’t handle it right now. I am working overtime and at the same time there is too much going on everywhere. So instead of posting, I will try to read more of your posts again. Read more ›
Now, look at our Rich! Disappearing for weeks and once he shows up he has his first paperback book in his backpack. Because it is him and his new book to celebrate, please head over to his blog.
I Finally did it, after what seems like years of promising and even more years of formatting it’s finally here. My first publicised paperback now available on amazon
Perhaps some of you may have noticed that I don’t do awards anymore. But I want to share this amazing nomination by our wonderful Mr. Negro who celebrated his birthday yesterday. I don’t reblog it because of me but because I want to share his kindness and the amazing effort he made to share his appreciation for our community.
Thank you so much for all your daily support, Mr. Negro!
For today I did not have a particular topic in mind and again I took some inspiration from my Gateway Oracle Cards.Thank you, guidance. These are the cards I picked: Read more ›
When I saw the topic I thought immediately of an older post in which I shared a poem about Letting Go. Letting Go is not only releasing something that weighed heavily and kept you from living. The process itself is a progress in your own development and growth. It means you have already grown bigger than the suffocating cocoon. That’s why you are ready to break its shell. Letting Go is a process of becoming! Read more ›
It is my blog sister’s birthday today! She is such a lovely, thoughtful, and supportive buddy and I am thankful to have her in my life. Last year, I was even blessed to meet her in person at the UK Blogger Bash. Read more ›
My only request… If you do, and you read… please leave a review!
What’s it about? I hear you ask…
Delve into a book of verse exploring different topics and different genres, all with a RITUal twist.
A collection of poetry drawing on the experiences of the writer, ranging from matters of the heart, love for the family, situations in life and some verses written with a humorous twist.
“How can a person overcome the horrible things that often happen in our world?”
This question was asked by my friend Nicodemas, ofNicodemasPlus Three. He asked the question in a comment to my postIGNORANCE – WEAPON AND SURVIVAL TOOL: FEAR. I don’t know if I met your expectations, Nicodemas, but this is what happened to be written:
Every day, many tragedies happen: accidents, diseases are diagnosed, children die, parents die, attacks destroy innocent lives, natural disasters take lives and possessions, child abuse, torture, and much more… a lot of heartbreaking happenings. And with good cause we ask, why does this need to happen or how can people be so cruel? I already wrote a lot about everything happening for a reason and that many good souls play the role of the victim and the offender in order to teach each other and the grieving people. It is important to know that in order to be able to step back and look at the whole situation from a higher perspective. Although it is not the topic today it is part of it.
Now how to deal with the tragedies in the world? We mostly cannot do a lot or even nothing when sad things happen. And this is the crucial point that makes us feel so helpless. But you know what? We can do something! Everything in this world is directed by energy. When something bad happened we can feel like paralyzed, aggressions against injustice can come up, or we feel resentments against the cause of the tragedy. But in aligning with the same energy that caused the tragedy we even strengthen something we don’t want. Thoughts of hatred and revenge cause strong feelings which have an amazingly powerful creative energy. On one hand, it is separating instead of uniting and it causes a counterforce on the other hand.
If we don’t want bad things to happen we need to go into the direction of good things, think good thoughts, act in kind ways, share compassion. When we fight terror with war it causes, even more, acts of violence and terror. We can only break that circle in incorporating the opposite energy. Energies of hatred and revenge nurture hatred and cause more revenge. What we need to create is balance. Again, I am coming to ignoring what I don’t want. We need to ignore the need to fight back and instead turn around and look into the direction where peace and compassion reigns. When sending love instead of hatred the fuel is taken out of the bad energy and the sails are set towards a different direction. The more people stop reacting to the game of terror and retaliation but instead care for the victims, pray for them, or do something good as a balancing act, I swear, we can change and heal the world.
And now here I am: “How can a person overcome the horrible things that often happen in our world?”
Share compassion
But don’t mix it up with pity. Feeling pity weakens. Feeling compassion strengthens. There is an easy way to approach compassion instead of pity:
Refuse to Judge
When you don’t judge you are focused on what can be done and not on what was done!
Ask yourself: What can I do to raise the energy?
It doesn’t matter if you cannot do something which is directly related to the current happening. You can share food, help out a neighbor, make an anonymous gift, donate clothes or money, join a charity, or simply send out love and light. Any act of kindness raises the collective energy.
We cannot change what happened but WE CAN be part of a change. This gives our lives meaning and it unites! There may always be horrible things happening caused by individuals or groups. But nevertheless, we mustn’t be discouraged but keep up the loving attitude with our eyes towards the benefit for those in need. The worse things happen the more important it is. And everyone can do that in their own little world or even in the big world. It is easier to deal with tragedies when we do something that brings balance and which shows the victims and their families that they are not alone.
We have an order to live this life the best way we can and we have to do it for ourselves as well as for everyone else. Be what you want to see and you will have the power to heal yourself and bring healing! We are on a mission!
The U.S. Blogapalooza is coming closer and closer! I can hardly wait to meet more bloggers who already feel like old friends.
For the ones of you who live in the Chicago area or who are able and would love to visit the windy city, hey, don’t think twice! It is still time to register!
Hi everyone! Some bloggers have reached out to me regarding the U.S.Blogapalooza event. The eventwill behappening on Saturday, August 26 in the Chicago area. Thank you to those who signed up and helped pay the deposit over the past few weeks. The money was used to reserve the location. There is still lots ofroom for otherswho maywantto attend. If you have anyquestions, please reach out to me at: amaya587@gmail.com Dinneris $30-40 per person. You are also welcome to bring guests. The meal can be paid for at the restaurant. We will have guest speakers and fun! Althoughthis is a smaller event, I know it’s stillgoing to be a blast! Unfortunately, a few bloggershad to cancel or couldn’t go this year. This will most likely be the last post regarding Blogapalooza. The list of attendeesso farincludes:
What a timing! You are on your day off and finally, have time to go through the post of your blogily. And right then and there a post is published about a new release of one of your favorite bloggers!!
Our Mr. Poetry just published his 6th book (and second only e-book): “The Sevens”
It is a beautiful collection of 30 encouraging, uplifting, inspiring, insightful 7-liners. And the cover itself is an inspiration and supports the message of the content.
I am a bit of a numbers freak… hehe. When you publish a book called “The Sevens”, filled with 7-liners, and you publish it in the 7th month of the year 17 then it is definitely meant to reach the reader at exactly the point he needs it. 7 is the spiritual number. I already found many poems which went straight to my heart and I am sure there is the one meant for you!
Comments are closed here. Please head over to Syl’s post.
This day welcomed me with a thick layer of snow. It already snowed yesterday. It was only from time to time but when it did, it was worse than in winter. I just worry about my poor trees and hope that this was it.
This is my poor willow. Usually, its branches are upright and it truly looks like a big crown.
Anyway, I want to send another big THANK YOU to Holly of House of Heart for nominating me for a great music challenge. It is already the last day and I enjoyed it a lot!! Read more ›
I am very pleased that I was nominated a third time for the Song Challenge. This time by our lovely Queen of poetry, Holly of House of Heart. As you all may know I love music and would never skip a challenge like that. Thank you, Holly, for giving me another opportunity to join in! Read more ›
My sis, Ritu over at ButISmileAnyway has a music challenge going for March. If you would like to participate read more about it here.
I usually don’t post a song on the weekends but due to my sister’s challenge, I cannot resist doing so. I thought I’d pick some songs I would not post on a regular Song-of-the-Day post. Read more ›
A tag started by a blogger/writer called Sarah Brentyn, asking us to revisit our first ever blog posts! When I saw that my dear blog sister Ritutagged me for this challenge I thought what a lovely way of doing a trip down memory lane. It is almost three years ago that I started blogging and it took me a while to remember that first post without checking. Read more ›
My blog sister, Ritu, of But I Smile Anywayhas a beautiful challenge going through this Valentine month. You find more information here!
My sis already put it so perfectly in her post what I see too in the meaning of devotion. But for some reason, this song came to my mind as soon as I saw the prompt. Happy Sunday to everyone! Read more ›
My sweet friend of grubbsncritterstagged me on the Get To Know Me Tag. It sounds like fun and I thought I give it a go. So thank you, dear, for thinking of me 😊 Just FYI: For some reason the questions between 25 and 100 are missing.
Share your profile picture if you have one.
1. Who are you named after? A former ski star who was actually born as a man but made his career as a woman!
2. Do you like your handwriting? Nope!
3. What is your favorite lunch meat? Chicken
4. Longest relationship? 30 years
5. Do you still have your tonsils? Yes! I am still complete!
6. Would you bungee jump? NEVER EVER!!!!!!!!!
7. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? When they have laces, yes!
8. Favorite ice cream? Hmm…. it depends on my mood but I can always go with pineapple, chocolate, or mango.
9. What is the first thing you notice about people?Their eyes
10. Football or baseball? Uhm, basically none of it. I am more used to soccer. But if I had to decide between the two I would choose football, for sure. I don’t want to offend anyone. But once I watched a baseball game and was bored to death.
11. What color pants are you wearing? Stonewashed blue jeans.
12. Last thing you ate? A tangerine
13. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? A bright orange-red
14. Favorite smell? Rose
15. Who was the last person you spoke to on the phone? My daughter
16. Hair color? brown
17. Eye color? brown
18. Favorite foods to eat? I love food in general… it would be easier to say what I don’t like!
19. Scary movies or happy endings?Happy endings!!!
20. Last movie you watched? Dumb and Dumber. I think if it has a happy ending is a matter of how you look at it…. haha!
21. Favorite Holiday? Christmas!
22. Beer or Wine? Neither. I don’t like alcohol in general!
23. Night owl or early bird? Neither nor… lol. But I rather stay up late then get up early!
24. Favorite day of the week? Difficult. Every day of the week has something I love about. Let’s say, Saturday!
24 1/2. Which three of your favorite bloggers you would like to know more about? Rich,Judy, Ritu(if one of you was tagged already just forget it😁)
My blog sister, Ritu, of But I Smile Anywayhas a beautiful challenge going through this Valentine month. Love is my favorite subject and how could I resist to participate as much as possible. The good thing is there are no real rules. You can choose any prompt that comes to your mind, pick any of Ritu’s suggested prompts, or use them in her order which I do. You find more information here! Read more ›
My blog sister, Ritu, of But I Smile Anywayhas a beautiful challenge going through this Valentine month. Love is my favorite subject and how could I resist to participate as much as possible. The good thing is there are no real rules. You can choose any prompt that comes to your mind, pick any of Ritu’s suggested prompts, or use them in her order which I do. You find more information here!
My dear blog sister, Ritu, of But I Smile Anywayhas a beautiful challenge going through this Valentine month. Love is my favorite subject and how could I resist to participate as much as possible. If you want to check it out you find more information here!
When I read the title of Ritu’s prompt today the following quote immediately was in my mind: Read more ›
My dear blog sister, Ritu, of But I Smile Anywayhas a beautiful challenge going through this Valentine month. Love is my favorite subject and how could I resist to participate as much as possible. If you want to check it out you find more information here!
For today’s prompt, I went a little emotional. The relationship with my father was not an easy one. Don’t get me wrong, he did everything that we never had to miss anything. He was very demanding and dominant. But it taught me a lot and meanwhile I benefit a lot from it. I often hear him inside of me for example when I get cool in difficult situations. But I also know that many of the things I do freely today would have caused a lot of discussions. His life was not easy at all and as his daughter and also chief secretary for many years I got to know him from many sides. Although I did not accept all his behavior I could accept him the ways he was and did not take things personally anymore. It was him not me. When he died unexpectedly from sudden heart death I could not even say goodbye. But I was at peace with him, no score to settle.
It was 4 weeks before he died that I started working on the song below “Wish You Were Here”. I had never thought at that time that I would dedicate it to my father. Here it is:
I know Colleen for more than two years. She always kept me glued with her fairy stories. She even was blessed to take a picture of one of those natural spirits. I was absolutely delighted when she decided to start writing a book about the fairy world. Today I am even more delighted that Colleen shares the magic and background information of her amazing book here on my blog:
I would like to give many thanks to my friend, Erika Kind, for allowing me time to share about my new book and how to use gems, healing stones, and symbolism in your writing.
Calcite is a fairy stone, and it is believed that it bestows upon the wearer, the magical properties of prophecy and healing. It was the perfect gem to feature in my novel, The Heart Stone Chronicles: The Swamp Fairy.
Abby Forester, my protagonist, inherits from her mother, a calcite pendant which is a piece of a mystical heart shaped stone found on the swampland of her ancestors. The necklace has been handed down for generations in her family from the first-born daughter to her daughter. The pendant responds to Abby and often appears to have a life of its own. I used the calcite pendant as a medium for Abby to channel strength from the collective community of the fairy nymphs.
My research on calcite explained that these fairy stones aid in the channeling process when it is grounded and practical, but not when the work is ungrounded or not for the good of others. In addition, the stones offer protection from evil spirits, offers psychic security, and protects the wearer by helping them to stay connected to the Earth’s center. Fairy stones often adopt the people they wish to help, giving the adoptees the nickname of “little helpers.” Meanings.crystalsandjewelry.com
I portrayed Abby Forester as following the hero’s journey. Since Calcite brings positivity to a person’s mental and emotional life, the gemstone was necessary to the story telling.
At the beginning of the story, Abby is fourteen years old and has left her hometown of Chicago, IL to travel to her Aunt Magnolia’s home in Blackberry Ridge, Florida. Her mother is dead, and her father has disappeared due to drug addiction. Her aunt becomes her legal guardian.
Abby is not a typical teenager, and her family circumstances have aged her. She is used to being on her own and dealing with life head-on. In fact, Abby is quite unusual. She is clairaudient and can communicate and understand the languages of all creatures, birds, and insects. This unique ability allows her to communicate with all the fairy nymph clans, making her a fairy whisperer.
As you can see, the use of a symbol in your writing can become part of your hero’s identity. For Abby, the calcite pendant stands for a tangible connection to her mother and family. Since her mother is dead, the stone brings her comfort when nothing else can. It also represents her connection and responsibility to protect the fairy nymph clans which becomes a symbol of her ability to survive impossible circumstances.
A symbol, like Abby’s calcite pendant, also gives your readers a way to connect with the hero in your novel. I contacted my friend, Irene, from IreneDesign2011, and asked for her help in bringing Abby’s calcite pendant to life. Irene outdid herself!
Symbolism in a YA fantasy/magical realism novel can be powerful to your readers and helps to reinforce your story line. The symbol or branding will live on in the hearts of your readers.
I am a veteran of the United States Air Force, and a retired bookkeeper. When I’m not writing, I enjoy spending time with my husband, dogs, children, and grandchildren. When time permits, I also love gardening, cooking, and crocheting old fashioned doilies into complex works of art.
I live in the mountains of Colorado with my husband, and my two, sweet little-old-lady Pomeranians, Sugar, and Spice. You can stop by and visit me on my website colleenchesebro.com. I’d love hearing from you.
Sugar and Spice
READ MORE ON COLLEEN’S FAIRY WHISPERS
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Although I already have two daily and two weekly series permanently going my blog sister, Ritu, inspired me too much with her new challenge! I won’t participate every day but for sure at times. Her prompt today reminded of a quote I once published.
If you would like to participate in Ritu’s challenge you find more information here
I feel absolutely thankful and honored that our wonderful Sue kindly asked me to write a guest-post for her blog. Her request came out of the blue for me and I am happy and excited! I asked Sue what she would like me to write about. She said, “It would be lovely if you could write a little about your books and what led you to write them… but if something else ‘wants’ to be written, that is fine too.” So, this is what happened 😃:
What is it that makes someone write a book? I believe – no matter what book it is – that behind it is a personal story. It may be a love of communicating, an escape into different worlds or life stories, a wish to experience more which is possible when diving into another reality, or simply our own development which…
We are connecting with each other in various ways daily. More consciously in our jobs, with family or friends, and more unconsciously in the bus, in the supermarket,… But there is something that happens beyond a visible or physical connection. There is something we feel before the first word is said, often even before the first eye contact. It is the radiation we feel about each other. That first impression. It may not give us a clear picture – because how we perceive a person says more about ourselves than about them – but it is very important for the way that encounter continues. It is like extending invisible tentacles in order to scan the other person.
“Love at first sight” is such a mystery! When the radiated energies are strongly matching then the tentacles of each other have already connected before we realize it. That also happens when we “feel” someone near us turn around and there they are! The more a person “shines” the more we can feel their presence without seeing them.
First and foremost those connections are spiritual connections. Our spiritual being is unlimited and not depending on the range of our bodies. Even incarnated its senses overcome the physical limits. Soul mates recognize each other on the spiritual level immediately and feel familiar with each other without any explanation. Modern technology makes it so much easier to connect with our spiritual families or kindred spirits these days.
That is what astounds most of us about social media and most of all about blogging. I believe that thousands of miles apart we are connecting through our hearts in the first place and the mind cannot help it but follows the heart! The law of attraction works even better on this platform where our minds are not able to judge anyone by their outer appearance due to the physical absence!
I am here on WordPress for more than 2 1/2 years and I have experienced often from the first interaction with someone if this is going to be a friendship and closer connection. We are more open here in a place where we feel safer to share our thoughts, experiences, and feelings. That makes us transparent and the real being shines through a lot more. We feel with each other and we are accompanying each other. We inspire and encourage each other. Perhaps we are not always understood and we have different opinions but what counts much more is that we are heard and taken serious! This is what so many are missing in real life! We are there for each other when someone is not doing well and that got proved several times!
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I have never been afraid of meeting my blogger friends. I know there are some who are skeptic about that: “What if they are not who I thought they were?” I dare to say that those who are not afraid of meeting each other definitely are the way they are on their blogs. I feel blessed that I met several bloggers over time and it was like meeting old friends I just haven’t seen for a long time. It felt like a family gathering and the mind got confirmed what the heart already knew!
Connecting by the heart and creating like-minded groups is such a wonderful thing when it is happening in the way we are experiencing it here on WordPress. And as I always say: Our community is a role model for the world out there!
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In addition to my usual Monday posts, this is my take on Connecting regarding the Blogger Bash 2017 in the UK. I have to announce that I cannot meet you wonderful people this year due to a family event on the same weekend. But I don’t want to miss at least joining in this way!
This is the day of the year again when we all reflect. We look back to where we were and where we are today, to the things we wanted to accomplish and perhaps didn’t but also to those achievements we did not expect to develop or happen one year ago. But however, this year was surely filled with so many aspects that make life life: ups and downs, insights, endings and beginnings, success and … less successful results. But whatever happened throughout the year, it all made us more complete. Our development progressed and we are further and wiser than ever before! Read more ›
Not even a month ago one of our most amazing poets here on WordPress released his 4th book! Sylvester’s poetry has been deep and profound no matter which one I ever read – may it be on his blog or in his books. Read more ›
My dear motherly friend, Linda of Nutsrok, published her first book this year. She wrote the memoirs of her mother Kathleen. I have to confess that I am not through it yet. But I read enough to finally give Linda’s book a shout out. Read more ›
That may sound strange but I am talking about Carolina’s beautiful painting Broken from her InkTober 2016 collection. I ordered her artwork from day 9 and it is simply beautiful. But it is not only the painting itself which made me smile and warmed my heart. It is her way of creating a lovely energy around it. As you see it on the picture, she packed it surrounded with beautiful messages, an official certificate, a thoughtful card, and a lovely dedication on the backside of the painting. This is typically Carolina. Whatever she does, she does with all her heart and that is what we feel when we see any of her creations. If you don’t know her blog yet then please head over to YesterdayAfter.
Thank you so much for your lovely way and for your friendship, Carolina!
My dear blog sister, Ritu of But I Smile Anyway, tagged me to take part in this wonderful challenge. Although, I have not even had time to go for my own regular posts this week, how could I resist a quote challenge? Most of all when invited by my sis. So thank you very much for tagging me, Ritu! Read more ›
The Shiniest Star – Robin 
I Finally did it, after what seems like years of promising and even more years of formatting it’s finally here. My first publicised paperback now available on amazon
![Poetic RITUals by [Bhathal, Ritu]](https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51aCRIpXDlL.jpg)
Hi everyone! Some bloggers have reached out to me regarding the U.S.Blogapalooza event. The eventwill behappening on Saturday, August 26 in the Chicago area. Thank you to those who signed up and helped pay the deposit over the past few weeks. The money was used to reserve the location. There is still lots ofroom for otherswho maywantto attend. If you have anyquestions, please reach out to me at: amaya587@gmail.com Dinneris $30-40 per person. You are also welcome to bring guests. The meal can be paid for at the restaurant. We will have guest speakers and fun! Althoughthis is a smaller event, I know it’s stillgoing to be a blast! Unfortunately, a few bloggershad to cancel or couldn’t go this year. This will most likely be the last post regarding Blogapalooza. The list of attendeesso farincludes:
This is my poor willow. Usually, its branches are upright and it truly looks like a big crown.
Abby Forester, my protagonist, inherits from her mother, a calcite pendant which is a piece of a mystical heart shaped stone found on the swampland of her ancestors. The necklace has been handed down for generations in her family from the first-born daughter to her daughter. The pendant responds to Abby and often appears to have a life of its own. I used the calcite pendant as a medium for Abby to channel strength from the collective community of the fairy nymphs.
Abby Forester (Image courtesy of Pixabay.com)
Green calcite: Image credit: TheChakraDiva.com
Image: Sue Vincent
