Saturday, November 21, 2015

“Love, Animals & Miracles,” by Dr. Bernie Siegel



BOOK DESCRIPTION
Dr. Bernie Siegel has long observed how relationships with animals have helped his patients, alleviating their suffering and heartbreak. Now, he’s gathered many inspiring true stories, including delightful tales from the “Siegel Family Zoo” where “squawks, purrs, chirrups, squeaks, barks, and so on” fill the house. Other stories reveal animals as teachers and messengers, doctors and nurses, healers and miracle workers, and often as guileless clowns. Bernie writes that animals are here to show us how to be nonjudgmental and live better, healthier lives. Let these stories teach you, and apply their lessons to your daily life. If you have an animal, an appreciation for the inspirational, or simply the need for a smile, you’ll treasure this celebration of animals as a source of love, wisdom, and miracles.

A portion of the publisher’s proceeds from this book will aid Ark Angel Society.




AUTHOR DESCRIPTION
Retired surgeon Bernie S. Siegel speaks, writes, and runs support groups in his effort to empower patients. His books include Love, Medicine & Miracles and 365 Prescriptions for the Soul. He lives in Woodbridge, Connecticut. Freelance writer and editor Cynthia J. Hurn cowrote No Buddy Left Behind with Terry Crisp and The Art of Healing with Bernie S. Siegel. She lives in Somerset, England.





MY THOUGHTS

I am more than a little biased for “Love, Animals and Miracles,” because I was one of the contributors. The story of my Basset Hound, Gracie, and how she came to us was included in this anthology. Grace’s story is one of many; how with her big heart and unconditional love, she worked a miracle in all of us. I believe that one of the stories in Dr. Siegel’s book will touch your heart and maybe inspire you to open your life to the love of an animal. It will be one of the greatest loves you’ll ever know. 

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

The Zookeeper's Wife




http://www.stack.com/2015/10/31/jessica-chastain-and-daniel-bruhl-star-in-war-movie-the-zookeepers-wife/

I am so flipping excited! Jessica Chastain is finally in the midst of filming “The Zookeeper’s Wife!” The movie is inspired by the book by Diane Ackerman and the true life story of Antonia and Jan Zabinski. The couple managed the Warsaw Zoo during WWII and hid hundreds of Jews from the Nazis. I have been hearing rumors about this movie for a couple years now and am ecstatic that it is officially in production!!!

I don’t usually watch movies at the theater; too pricey, but I may make an exception for this one!!!



Got a feeling of what my next WIP will be on…

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Strange Fruit




Lyrics: 

Southern trees bear strange fruit
Blood on the leaves and blood at the root
Black bodies swinging in the southern breeze
Strange fruit hanging from the poplar trees

Pastoral scene of the gallant south
The bulging eyes and the twisted mouth
Scent of magnolias, sweet and fresh
Then the sudden smell of burning flesh

Here is fruit for the crows to pluck
For the rain to gather, for the wind to suck
For the sun to rot, for the trees to drop
Here is a strange and bitter crop



Sort of haunting, isn’t it? That is Lady Day herself, Billie Holiday singing a long, forgotten song, called “Strange Fruit.” 




The song – which was originally a poem called “Bitter Fruit” was inspired by the lynching’s of Thomas Shipp and Abram Smith. They were two young African American men who had been accused of murder and rape in 1930. A crowd– men, women and children were all present- took them from their cells; the young men were beaten and hung. A third young man was spared the noose in the nick of time.

This sounds like a story that had taken place in the Deep South, right?

The lynching’s took place right here in Marion, Indiana.



My grandmother used to tell me that when I was researching our genealogy, that when I climbed up the family tree, beware of what might fall out of it. I think the same applies to doing research on your home state.

Indiana has a checkered past.

We Hoosiers, particularly the Quakers, were involved in the Underground Railroad and believed in abolition. Many of our young men fought for the North during the Civil War, my great-great grandfather was one of them. Yet we had some Jim Crow laws here, along with segregation. In 1924, the KKK had its rebirth here in Indiana. There are many sun down towns in Indiana- towns that do not permit African Americans or ones that do not want them around after dark. Growing up, when I watched “To Kill a Mockingbird,” my parents said that some of what went on in that movie, happened in Indiana when they were growing up.



In writing the first draft of my Indiana novel, I didn’t mention racism once. I was aware of what went on in Indiana’s past, but I didn’t think it was my place to write on a subject that I have no concept of. Also, it didn’t really fit in with my story.

Or so I thought.

However, in the last few weeks, I realize that if one writes about Indiana and the 1930’s, the racism can’t be ignored. There had to be a way for me to show what it was like in those days without trying to take advantage of someone else’s pain.

As a fan of “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “The Help,” I have read some critical reviews that implied some irritation that the African American characters of those novels needed help from the white characters.

What if an African American character helps my heroine, or tries to?



As much as I like the song, it won’t be featured in my novel. My story ends in 1936 and the song was sung in 1939. The point is clear: we must confess our sins and try our damnedest not to repeat them. We must do what we can to atone for our mistakes and when we leave behind the world, we must leave it behind a better place.

Sunday, October 25, 2015

Hoosier Tales

Somehow, I was able to finish the first draft of my Great Depression novel a couple weeks ago, which is tentatively titled, “Thursday’s Child.” I’m unsure if that is a good fit for the story, but that’s what I am calling it for now. At least until something better comes along. The majority of it is based around Prairieton, Indiana, which is a small little burg off of Terre Haute. Terre Haute does make a couple cameos; how can it not?



As I mentioned in my last post, Indiana literature is pretty non-existent. It wasn’t always like that though. From 1880 to 1920, Indiana went through a Golden Age in literature. There were some big named authors who came from Indiana.



Booth Tarkington wrote “Gentlemen from Indiana,” “Alice Adams” and “The Magnificent Ambersons;” he also won the Pulitzer not once, but twice!



Gene Stratton Porter, best known for “A Girl of the Limberlost,” “Freckles” and my personal favorite, “The Harvester” was from northern Indiana. She was also an environmentalist, a preservationist and an entrepreneur. Two years ago I went to her house in Rome, as mentioned in this entry.



The poet, James Whitcomb Riley was Indiana’s poet and he captured much of the Hoosier spirit and colloquialisms in his works. He wrote a poem called “Little Orphant Annie,” which was the inspiration for that cute little, redheaded orphan as well as the Raggedy Ann doll. Have you ever heard of the gruesome “Who’s Ear” story? That is attributed to him.


The Dreiser/Dresser brothers, Theodore and Paul hailed from Indiana. Theodore Dreiser wrote unconventional literature such as “Sister Carrie” and “An American Tragedy,” scandalizing the Victorian sentiments of the public. His older brother, Paul Dresser was known for penning Indiana’s anthem, “On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away.” If you were forced to learn that song in the 4th grade, you have him to thank for it.















The best known might be Lew Wallace. Yes, the man who wrote the epic Biblical narrative, “Ben Hur: A Tale of Christ,” came from Indiana. After from an illustrious military career, he retired to Crawfordsville, Indiana. Unable to defend his religious beliefs, he did in depth research on the life of Christ and the period, which led to his masterpiece.

There are a few other authors worth mentioning: Jessamyn West, who I only lately discovered thank to my aunts, was the author of “The Friendly Persuasion” and “Cress Delahenty.” Kurt Vonnegut, who I admit to never having read, wrote “Slaughterhouse-Five.” A current author who I have come to appreciate is Amy K. Sorrells, is known for “How Sweet the Sound” and is the only Christian author I like anymore.


Maybe one of these days I’ll be coupled with these great Hoosier men and women. 

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Deep Calls to the Deep



When Truman Capote invited Harper Lee to help him investigate it the murders of a family in Kansas, Lee described her interest by saying, “It was deep calling to deep.” From what I understand, there are a variety of meanings, one of which can mean the calling out of oneself. Sort of an unquenchable yearning. Whenever I hear this phrase I think of home… no matter where I go or how far I wander, for me there is no place like home.

With that being said, it only takes so long before an aspiring writer writes something about her home state. From 2010 to 2013 I attempted it, to write nice little Christian historical romances based in Indiana. It was a nice try and looking back I can see why it didn’t work. Those stories were based in Indiana and entertaining, but there was no realism. The characters were one dimensional and the set up was too silly for words. After that, I tried to write a couple other things, only managing to get short stories published.



But now the deep calls to the deep again… Indiana demands to be written about. These days, the novels out there based in Indiana are a laugh. The characters sound more like they are from Texas than our beloved Hoosier state.

I was lucky; I come from a family of natural-born story tellers. Both sets of my grandparents were part of the Greatest Generation. My one grandma was very open about her life, very detailed too.



So, for my two-or-so readers out there, this is what my new EPIC NOVEL is about: The Great Depression. Indiana. Prohibition. Marriage of convenience. Loss of a child.


More later. Thanks for reading.

Saturday, August 22, 2015

A Day in Auschwitz



In June of 2015, I joined Eva Mozes Kor’s tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau and Krakow in Poland. This was a big step for someone who suffers from severe anxiety attacks. Somehow with much prayer and by only God’s Hand, I was able to board the plane and fly to Eastern Europe. The first full day in Krakow was spent exploring the old city. That night, I was afraid and couldn’t sleep. The following day we were to tour Auschwitz, more specifically Birkenau. In my mind that had to be the darkest, most evil place on the face of the earth. I confided to my sister and mother that I was scared to death. They assured me that they would be in prayer for me and that it might not be as bad as what I imagined.
            
I don’t want to be the one cowering in the corner, sobbing hysterically. I told God.
            
I wanted to be brave.
            
When we reached the camp, and on walking through its entrance, the fear melted away. The clouds had pushed the sun aside and a cold rain fell. My hat did little to keep me dry and I was shivering until one of the directors felt sorry for me and lent me their jacket.
           
I waited and the impact of standing in a former death camp never did hit me. Truth be told, I felt numb. For me going to Auschwitz was like going to a very large museum or memorial. Or maybe a graveyard is a better description.


            
Off and on, Eva, a rabbi and a minister prayed that the weather would improve and that God would send us a little sun. I was a little surprised since rumor had it that she had been an atheist.

This inspired me to ask, “What are your thoughts on God?”
            
“Well,” Eva said. “I don’t believe that God was there in Auschwitz with us. With all that happened, I can’t believe it.” She turned to the rabbi and the minister for their thoughts and of course they gave the usual explanations.
            
I didn’t mind what she said; she had a right to her beliefs and I would have rather heard more of her opinions than theirs. Still it felt a little ironic that Eva continued to ask God for better weather and speak to Him off and on.
            
As the day wore on, Eva’s prayers were answered and the weather did improve. The clouds parted and the sun began to shine.



            
I don’t know what the others on the tour felt, but for me that was a sign from God, that in the midst of the darkness of that place, He was there watching over us. And that no matter what, with Him there was hope. 

Saturday, June 20, 2015

On My Way



Okay, I said I’d update this blog more often, especially in regards to my trip to Poland and Auschwitz. Well, as usual, life got in the way, just as it so often does. And today is the first day of my grand adventure. We travel to Chicago’s O’Hare airport, then fly to Warsaw and switch planes, then fly to Krakow. All very nerve-wrecking for an anxiety-ridden agoraphobic like me, but exciting none-the-less.



Hopefully I will write a few blog entries about my journey when I get back home. At least a couple. But if you’re really interested (the two of you, LOL!) check out my Facebook page. I’ll be posting pictures and mini-updates there.

I’d like to thank my Mom and sister for helping and supporting me in this. As well as my aunts who rallied behind me and sent me much encouragement. I also thank my cousins and friends who were just as excited as I was. Thank you, I love you all.

Until next time!


Tuesday, May 19, 2015

“Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor,” by Alyson Herzig, Jessica Azar



BOOK DESCRIPTION
If you’re living with a mental illness, you’re in good company. Disease doesn’t discriminate; One in four people suffer from mental illness, and yet the stigma still remains. “Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor” contains stories of hope, despair, and hilarity by writers who are walking the mental health journey, as they discuss their experiences with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Anorexia, Agoraphobia, Panic Disorder and more. While the lows of living with mental illness can be devastating, the disease doesn’t define the lives of these contributors, and it doesn’t have to define yours, either. Some of these essays will make your heart ache, some will make you cry with laughter, but in reading this Anthology you will see that living with mental illness doesn’t equal a life of endless misery. Join us as we ‘laugh stigma into submission’ by growing attitudes of acceptance and compassion.

To purchase “Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor,” click here.

THE AUTHORS




Alyson Herzig
A former Jersey Girl, Alyson has moved to the Midwest but has kept her cynical sarcastic ways. She shares the many disasters and epic fails in her life on her personal blog, TheShitastrophy.com. She helps all her readers realize they could have it a lot worse, they could be her. From family debacles to observational wit she bares it all. Alyson has an essay in the anthology My Other Ex, Women's True Stories of Leaving and Losing Friendships, as well as in the anthology Not Your Mothers Book On Working for a Living. Alyson is also the co-creator of a soon-to-be released anthology titled Surviving Mental Illness with Humor.



Jessica Azar
Jessica Azar, writes while raising four stair-step kids, known affectionately as The Herd, with her husband and college sweetheart in her Alabama hometown. She blogs at Herd Management and humorously details the adventures and mishaps of being a homeschooling, work-at-home-mom. She also happens to like running and Single Malt Scotch a whole lot. Jessica co-edited a mental health anthology entitled Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor, and has had essays published in humor anthologies like Clash of the Couples. She is a Huffington Post Blogger, POPSUGAR Select Blogger, a NickMom Ambassador/Writer and does marketing work for various prominent brands. Her published work can be read on POPSUGAR, Huffington Post, Scary Mommy, NickMom.Com, Venn Magazine, BluntMoms and other online locations.

MY THOUGHTS
Okay, I am a little biased towards this book, because a short story of mine entitled, “The Attack,” was included in this anthology. With that aside, as someone who has suffered from anxiety attacks, depression and at times agoraphobia, I really felt in good company with the other contributors. Ten years ago, I viewed myself as some kind of a freak of nature, unable to break out of the prison I was in. While I am not “cured,” I am taking part in the world again. “Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor,” reminded me that I am not alone in the world. While mental illness is nothing to joke about, those of us who have one form of it or another have learned that laughter is the best medicine. We have shed enough tears, it is time to let out a few laughs.

Not only do I thank Alyson and Jessica for including me, I appreciate their efforts to bring further awareness to the subject.

Thursday, May 7, 2015

“Women Heroes of World War I: 16 Remarkable Resisters, Soldiers, Spies, and Medics,” by Kathryn J. Atwood



BOOK DESCRIPTION
In time for the 2014 centennial of the start of the Great War, this book brings to life the brave and often surprising exploits of 16 fascinating women from around the world who served their countries at a time when most of them didn’t even have the right to vote. Readers meet 17-year-old Frenchwoman Emilienne Moreau, who assisted the Allies as a guide and set up a first-aid post in her home to attend to the wounded; Russian peasant Maria Bochkareva, who joined the Imperial Russian Army by securing the personal permission of Tsar Nicholas II, was twice wounded in battle and decorated for bravery, and created and led the all-women combat unit the “Women’s Battalion of Death” on the eastern front; and American journalist Madeleine Zabriskie Doty, who risked her life to travel twice to Germany during the war in order to report back the truth, whatever the cost. These and other suspense-filled stories of brave girls and women are told through the use of engaging narrative, dialogue, direct quotes, and document and diary excerpts to lend authenticity and immediacy. Introductory material opens each section to provide solid historical context, and each profile includes informative sidebars and “Learn More” lists of relevant books and websites, making this a fabulous resource for students, teachers, parents, libraries, and homeschoolers.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kathryn J. Atwood is the author of “Women Heroes of World War II,” “Women Heroes of World War I: 16 Remarkable Resisters, Soldiers, Spies, and Medics,” and the editor of “Code Name Pauline: Memoirs of a World War II Special Agent.” She has contributed to War, Literature, and the Arts, PopMatters.com, Midwest Book Review, and Women’s Independent Press. To learn more about her, check out her website at http://kathrynatwood.com.

MY THOUGHTS:
A few weeks ago, I was contacted by author Kathryn J. Atwood and offered a free copy of her first book (Women Heroes of WWII) and in return I would do a book review of it on my blog. Then she asked if I would also do a review on her latest work, “Women Heroes of World War I: Remarkable Resisters, Soldiers, Spies and Medics.” I had some prior knowledge of WWI, although my interest mainly lies with WWII and the Holocaust. The cause of WWI stemmed from various conditions going on in Europe, mostly to do with nationalism. Unlike WWII, there was no definitive good and bad side. After four years of continual fighting, the war came to an end in 1918 and though the Allies were the victors, much of the world was still in chaos. The war spawned revolutions, economical failures and twenty years later a second world war.

During the war, on all sides, while men fought, the women stepped up and not only took on more masculine occupations, they took an active part in the war itself. From rescuing downed pilots, to spying, to nursing, women were determined to prove themselves. Of all the accounts included in this book, I think it was Edith Cavell’s story that resonated with me the most. While I was happy to see the Romanovs, Russia’s royal family, and their contributions were mentioned as well. Though a genuinely good family, they were poor rulers; however they were actively involved in the war effort. The Tsarina and her daughters nursed wounded soldiers. What surprised me was how many Russian women fought alongside the men. It was estimated that at least 1000 women fought.

I love “Women Heroes of World War I: Remarkable Resisters, Soldiers, Spies and Medics,” and may have learned more from it than I did Atwood’s previous book. It is perfect for teens, or anyone really, looking for an introduction to WWI history. Well, and women’s history too. Thank you, Kathryn Atwood for sending this book to me!

Thursday, April 23, 2015

"Women Heroes of World War II," by Kathryn J. Atwood Book Review

"All evil needs to triumph is for good men [and women] to sit and do nothing."- Sir Edmund Burke. 






BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Noor Inayat Khan was the first female radio operator sent into occupied France and transferred crucial messages. Johtje Vos, a Dutch housewife, hid Jews in her home and repeatedly outsmarted the Gestapo. Law student Hannie Schaft became involved in the most dangerous resistance work--sabotage, weapons transference, and assassinations. In these pages, young readers will meet these and many other similarly courageous women and girls who risked their lives to help defeat the Nazis. Twenty-six engaging and suspense-filled stories unfold from across Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, France, Belgium, Denmark, Great Britain, and the United States, providing an inspiring reminder of women and girls’ refusal to sit on the sidelines around the world and throughout history. An overview of World War II and summaries of each country’s entrance and involvement in the war provide a framework for better understanding each woman’s unique circumstances, and resources for further learning follow each profile. Women Heroes of World War II is an invaluable addition to any student’s or history buff’s bookshelf.




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kathryn J. Atwood is the author of “Women Heroes of World War II,” “Women Heroes of World War I: 16 Remarkable Resisters, Soldiers, Spies, and Medics,” and the editor of “Code Name Pauline: Memoirs of a World War II Special Agent.” She has contributed to War, Literature, and the Arts, PopMatters.com, Midwest Book Review, and Women’s Independent Press. To learn more about her and her other books, check out her website at http://kathrynatwood.com.


MY DESCRIPTION:
“Women Heroes of WWII,” is a collection of 26 stories, each containing a tale of an inspiring woman or girl who lived and breathed during WWII. From the four corners of the world, you learn about strong individuals who did what they could to make a difference in the dark world they were living in. Some rescued Jews, others wrote illegal pamphlets, some were spies, some lived to tell their stories and some died for what they believed in. From all walks of life, from various backgrounds, different religions, and separate social classes, these ladies left the mark on the world and are excellent role models for today’s youth. Though these ladies would never think of calling themselves heroes, read their stories and discover what true heroism is.

MY THOUGHTS:
I actually borrowed and read this book a few years ago as research for a WIP of mine and loved it. A couple weeks ago I saw that they were giving it away on Goodreads and signed up for a chance to win. Imagine my surprise when I received a message from the author herself asking if I would be interested in a free copy in exchange for a book review. Not only that, she also sent me her latest book “Women Heroes of World War I: 16 Remarkable Resisters, Soldiers, Spies, and Medics,” to review as well. I give “Women Heroes of WWII” five stars, not only because of the stories of the ladies featured in this book, but because I love the writing itself. The style is easy to read, smooth but very detailed. I learned about different countries and cultures that I knew very little of, and how those places responded to the Nazis and the Holocaust.

I was thrilled to find many of my own personal heroines featured in there: Sophie Scholl, Irena Sendler and Sophia Podgorska. I was also introduced to many others that I was not too familiar with: Noor Inayat Khan (fun fact, there is a PBS documentary out about her called, “Enemy of the Reich: The Noor Inayat Khan Story”), Josephine Baker (had heard of her, of course, but had not realized all that she had done) and Martha Gellhorn (one of the greatest war correspondents of the 20th century).
I hope to lend this book to my sister that way she can write a review too. She was particularly excited to hear that Noor Inayat Khan was included, since that is a heroine of hers. But I’m selfish and plan to keep it for myself for future reference and enjoyment. Thank you, Kathryn Atwood for sending this to me.

Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor



Book Description: 

If you’re living with a mental illness, you’re in good company. Disease doesn’t discriminate; One in four people suffer from mental illness, and yet the stigma still remains. Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor contains stories of hope, despair, and hilarity by writers who are walking the mental health journey, as they discuss their experiences with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Anorexia, Agoraphobia, Panic Disorder and more.
While the lows of living with mental illness can be devastating, the disease doesn’t define the lives of these contributors, and it doesn’t have to define yours, either. Some of these essays will make your heart ache, some will make you cry with laughter, but in reading this Anthology you will see that living with mental illness doesn’t equal a life of endless misery. Join us as we ‘laugh stigma into submission’ by growing attitudes of acceptance and compassion.

To purchase this anthology, click here.

About the Authors: 
A former Jersey Girl, Alyson Herzig has moved to the Midwest but has kept her cynical sarcastic ways. She shares the many disasters and epic fails in her life on her personal blog, TheShitastrophy.com. She helps all her readers realize they could have it a lot worse, they could be her. From family debacles to observational wit she bares it all. Alyson has an essay in the anthology My Other Ex, Women's True Stories of Leaving and Losing Friendships, as well as in the anthology Not Your Mothers Book On Working for a Living. Alyson is also the co-creator of a soon-to-be released anthology titled Surviving Mental Illness with Humor.

Jessica Azar, writes while raising four stair-step kids, known affectionately as The Herd, with her husband and college sweetheart in her Alabama hometown. She blogs at Herd Management and humorously details the adventures and mishaps of being a homeschooling, work-at-home-mom. She also happens to like running and Single Malt Scotch a whole lot. Jessica co-edited a mental health anthology entitled Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor, and has had essays published in humor anthologies like Clash of the Couples. She is a Huffington Post Blogger, POPSUGAR Select Blogger, a NickMom Ambassador/Writer and does marketing work for various prominent brands. Her published work can be read on POPSUGAR, Huffington Post, Scary Mommy, NickMom.Com, Venn Magazine, BluntMoms and other online locations.


My Thoughts: 

Okay, naturally I am totally biased about this anthology because I have a short story included in it. Entitled, "The Attack," my little section gives my tongue-in-cheek take on anxiety attacks and how I cope when one strikes. 



"Surviving Mental Illness Through Humor," is for anyone who has suffered, endured and triumphed over their mental illnesses. Through this collection of stories, you will find that you are not alone and despite the darkest of times, there is always hope. 



Special thanks to Alyson Herzig and Jessica Azar for including my tale in their book. I wish them every success and hope that I can do my part to help them promote this dynamic book. 

Friday, April 3, 2015

FEMNISTA: MARCH / APRIL 2015



The latest issue of Femnista has been released, featuring stories and tales from ancient times. Yours truly has an article in there on the Maccabees, a Jewish group that rallied against the Seleucid's. Discover their connection to the eight day holiday Chanukah and how this ancient resistance group continues to inspire those today.

Monday, March 16, 2015

Passport to Poland

Okay, so I’ve talked a little about it and hinted around here and there. But I’ve postponed making any official declarations until it was 100% certain. Here it is:

I am going to Poland.



I received my passport a few weeks ago and the money has been put down.



I am to join Eva Mozes Kor and the C.A.N.D.L.E.S. Museum on their tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the city of Krakow. Eva Mozes Kor and her sister Miriam were Mengele twins, meaning Dr. Joseph Mengele ran experiments on them as little girls. The C.A.N.D.L.E.S. Museum is the only Holocaust museum worldwide that advocates forgiveness against the Nazis and every other perpetrator of genocide. As a Christian I believe in forgiving my enemies, but what Eva and the museum practices is beyond my comprehension. Such love and forgiveness can only come from God. 



Not only is this a dream come true for me, visiting the country I am writing about (WIP “Hidden Places”), I am taking a big step. As a former (or continual, depends on what’s going on in my life) agoraphobic, it is an extraordinary thing for me to go out on my own in an unfamiliar place. Maybe on this trip, I can learn from Eva and the other Holocaust survivors. Not only is this an adventure for me, I am viewing this as a spiritual journey. I think I’ll come back a different person, a better person.

It is barely three months until I head off. At times I can hardly believe it, but then I feel something that helps me admit that this is reality.

Until next time…


Wednesday, March 4, 2015

100 Questions & Answers





My sister Seanna at https://seannaacey.wordpress.com/ did this, so I stole it from her.
1} What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?
That I’m like my grandmother. She is/was my hero, so to be compared to her is an honor for me.

2} What’s one thing you’re deeply proud of — but would never put on your résumé?
That I’m learning how to drive. May not sound like much but for an agoraphobic, it’s a great stride.

3} What’s the most out-of-character choice you’ve ever made?
I consider myself a truthful person, but I do tend to tell white lies to avoid conflict and hurt feelings.

4} If a mysterious benefactor wrote you a check for $5,000 and said, “Help me solve a problem — any problem!”, what would you do with him or her?
Depends on the problem.

5} What’s going to be carved on your (hypothetical) tombstone?
“All dressed up with no place to go.” ::wink, wink::

6} What are you FREAKISHLY good at?
Uh, I’m pretty limited in the talent department. I’ll say that I’m good with animals. They tend to like me.

7} What’s one dream that you’ve tucked away, for the moment? How come?
It’s a dream of mine to take my family on a big, long vacation. We’ve never been on one together, so that’d be nice.

8} What are you STARVING for?
Success and chocolate. Mostly chocolate.

9} If you could have tea with one fictional character, who would it be?
I’m not a tea drinker, I’m a coffee/milkshake/soda kind of girl. But I’d like to have one of those with a Jane Austen hero. Either Darcy, Knightley or Brandon.

10} Do you have a morning ritual?
Roll out of bed, play with my phone, drink coffee and read the Bible.

11} Do you believe in magic? When have you felt it?
No, not magic. But I do believe in miracles. For me every day is a small miracle.

12} Is there something that people consistently ask for your advice on? What is it?
Usually it is advice on dating/marriage, though I don’t know why. I’ve never done either.

13} Have you ever fantasized about changing your first name? To what?
When I was a girl, I hated my name because it was unique. I was obsessed with the move “Sister Act” and wanted to be named Dolores. Then when I was 13 someone told me that “Veronica” was exotic. I’ve loved it ever since.

14} When was the last time you astonished yourself?
I astonish myself whenever I overcome a fear/phobia. Or try a certain food that I have been repulsed by.

15} What’s your personal anthem or theme song?
“Who I Am,” by Jessica Andrews.

16} Do you ever yearn for your life before Facebook?
No. It helps me keep in touch with my loved ones.

17} What’s your definition of an ideal house guest?
Someone who cleans up after themselves.

18} If you had an extra $100 to spend on yourself every week, what would you do?  
Buy books or go to Nancy’s Downtown Mall.

19} If you could sit down with your 15-year old self, what would you tell him or her?
You’re a size 5/6, enjoy it while it lasts.

21} What are you BORED of?
Seeing the same stuff published again and again. Actually, I’m more annoyed that bored.

21} What’s the best birthday cake you’ve ever ate?
My grandma used to make my birthday cakes, with her special homemade icing. She would decorate it just the way I wanted it. Loved it. Good times.

22} How do you engage with panhandlers on the street?
I avoid looking them in the eye. They view that as a challenge and go on the attack.

23} Do you think LOVE is chemical, intellectual, spiritual — or completely undefinable?
I think that: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”- 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

24} Have you ever dreamed about starting a business? (Or if you’ve already got one — a new business?)
An a little bookstore/antique bookshop would be awesome. But I probably wouldn’t make a profit because I’d want to keep all the books.

25} Are you afraid of flying in airplanes? (How come?)
Yeah, but only because I’ve never done it before and I could not get off of it whenever I wanted.

26} What’s your most urgent priority for the rest of the year?
Publish one of my novels.

27} If you could master any instrument on earth, what would it be?
The guitar, I guess. Not really interested though.

28} Have you ever been genuinely afraid for your physical safety?
We have meth heads/drug pushers living next door, so yeah.

29} What are you an expert on? Is it because of training, lived experience, or both?
I am an expert on chocolate. Gosh, I’ve consumed more chocolate in my twenty-odd years than most do in their entire lives.

30} Has a teacher ever changed your life? How so?
I was homeschooled for most of my youth, so my parents were both very influential in regards to my education.

31} Are there any household chores you secretly enjoy? Which ones — and why?
I actually like to wash dishes by hand. Before we had a dish washer, I did dishes the old fashioned way so I kind of miss it now and then.

32} How do you reign in self-critical voices?
The same way I reign in the other voices in my head- I silence them with chocolate.

33} If you could custom blend a perfume or cologne, what would it include?
Vanilla lilacs.

34} What does FEAR feel like, in your body?
Dizziness.

35} Do you think you’re currently operating at 100% capacity?
No. I’m about 50% off.

36} What do you value most: free time, recognition, or money?
Money. We see it so rarely.

37} If you could save one endangered species from extinction, which would you choose?
The babies that are aborted. Every life is precious.

38} Are there any laws or social rules that completely baffle you?
The punishments for sex offenders/child molesters. Why do they get only a few years in jail? They ought to be imprisoned, castrated and branded for life.

39} Would you like to write a book? (About what?)
Working on it. Currently the Holocaust, and soon to be Nazi Germany.

40} If you could choose your own life obstacles, would you keep the ones you have?
Yeah. Everyone has a cross to bear and I’m used to mine own.

41} Have you ever SCREAMED at someone? (What did they do?)
No. That’s just not my nature.

42} Do you think there’s going to be an anti-technology whiplash, in our lifetime?
If so, I wouldn’t care less.

43} Where + when do you get your BEST IDEAS?
Usually doing chores or household projects. My mind is then free to wander.

44} Have you ever met one of your HEROES?
Yeah, three of them. My grandparents.

45} What’s in your fridge, right this moment?
The hamburgers that I fried up for dinner.

46} Can you tell when someone is lying?
At times.

47} Can you tell when someone is telling the TRUTH?
At times.

48} Have you ever pushed your body further than you dreamed possible?
Yeah, I’m doing that now.

49} Are you living your LIFE PURPOSE — or still searching?
Still searching. Sometimes I don’t think we realize our life’s purpose until we meet our Maker and He tells us what it was all about.

50} Have you ever had to make a public apology? (How come?)
No, thank God.

51} What’s the WORST piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Follow your heart. I hear that all the time, but the heart can be a fallible organ.

52} Do you think we’re designed for monogamy? (Why or why not?)
I think that was God’s plan in the beginning and it is His wish for us all. But we are imperfect people and we abuse the seeds of love that He has planted inside of us. Only some are lucky enough to find that one person they can stay committed to.

53} How do you CELEBRATE your victories?
With food.

54} Would you consider yourself an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert?
Introvert.

55} Do you ever hunt for answers or omens in dreams?
My dreams are too looney to be taken seriously.

56} Do you think everyone has the capacity to be a LEADER?
No. I think too often people try to lead and end up causing more harm than good.

57} Is WAR a necessary EVIL?
Depends on the war. But more importantly, I support our military. Period.

58} Are YOU a starter, a finisher, or an implementer?
I try to finish what I start, but that doesn’t always work out.

59} Have you ever unplugged from the Internet for more than a week?
I was without it for three days with it in October when I went on a Christian retreat. And I’m as big of addict as I ever was.

60} Do you think we should live like we’re dying?
Yes. Tomorrow is no garuntee.

61} Do you have any habits or quirks you wish you could ERASE?
Uh, too many too list.

62} What was the most AGONIZING hour of your life?
Rather not discuss this now.

63} Have you ever dramatically changed a habit, or gotten yourself out of a rut? How’d you do it?
Yeah. I’ve been lower than low and have had to rise up out of it. It’s not easy, but you just take one day at a time.

64} Would you rather be a lonely genius, or a sociable idiot?
I’ve already got the lonely part down pat; currently waiting for the genius part to kick in.

65} How would YOU fix the economy?
Fire all the losers in office and vote in new ones, and not pay them. Holding office is a public service, not a sevven figure luxury job. Then I’d stop giving money to the countries that hate us. I’d cut funding to Planned Parenthood.

66} What was your very first job?
Cleaning houses.

67} What brings you SHEER DELIGHT?
Discovering a new favorite book. I reread the same ones over and over again and am always ecstatic to add another to my "favorite" collection.

68} Are you highly useful in a CRISIS?
Yes, I can usually remain calm and then when the crisis is over, I have my melt down.

69} Do you like to be SAVED — or do the saving?
I don't mind being saved, as long as I can return the favor.

70} What’s one mistake you keep repeating (and repeating)?
Writing duds.

71} If you were heading out on a ROAD TRIP right this minute, what would you pack?
Clothes, medicines, food, books, writing supplies, computer.

72} Do you have any irrational fears?
Yes, but there are just too many to list.

73} When you see peers + competitors getting things you want, how do you react?
Sit and pout, then eat chocolate.

74} If you were to die three hours from now, what would you regret most?
Not spending enough time with the ones I love.

75} What’s something you’ve tried, that you’ll never, ever try again?
Cooked spinache. Eww.

76} If you could enroll in a PhD program, with your tuition paid in full by a mysterious benefactor, what would you study — and why?
Probably literature. I love to read. Unfortunately I'm persnickety about my books. I hate poetry, Shakespeare, Dickens and two out of the three Brontes.

77} Have you ever had a complete + total nervous breakdown? (How did you recuperate?)
Yes, I think I've had a few actually. Once I hit rock bottom, with the support of my family, I slowly rise back up. Just the way I am.

78} Have you ever set two friends up on a date? (How did it go?)
No, I like my friends too well to put them through that torture.

79} Have you ever questioned your FAITH — or lack thereof?
Yes. I think ever believer comes to that point some time in their walk with Christ.

80} What’s your recipe for recuperating from extreme heartbreak?
I think heartbreak is different for everyone. What works for one person won't always work for another. I never grieve right away, but when it does come my grief lasts a long while.

81} Have you ever had a psychic reading? Did you believe it? Was it accurate?
Nope.

82} Have you ever (actually) kept a New Year’s Resolution?
Uh, for maybe a month or two.

83} Have you ever met someone who was genuinely EVIL?
Maybe.

84} Do you believe that everyone deserves redemption + forgiveness?
For the most part, I'd say yes. I am a Christian, after all. But child molestors, rapists, murderers... I'll leave that up to God.

85} What was the BEST KISS of your entire life?
Still waiting on it.

86} Do you secretly miss Polaroid cameras?
Not really. Those Polaroid photos smell funny.

87} Do you have any physical features that you try to cloak or hide? How come?
My acne. Yeah, here I am in my late 20's and I'm as pimply as a 13 year old girl.

88} What makes YOU so special, anyway? (No, really.)
Have no clue, other than I'm generally a nice person.

89} What’s in your pocket (or purse, or man-purse) right now?
Lint.

90} Ever fantasize about being in a rock band? What would your group be called?
Not a rock band, though I think it'd be cool to have a 40's inspired band that sings swing, jazz and old ballads.

91} What’s your guiltiest of guilty pleasures?
Chocolate, except I feel no guilt about it.

92} Who’s on your panel of imaginary mentors? First are these people real or fictitious? And how many am I allowed?
Sophie Scholl, Harper Lee, Jane Austen.

91} Are these people I make up or people in the past who I would love to have as mentors?
All three are real, however Sophie Scholl and Jane Austen are deceased. As for Harper Lee, she is very much alive and I am very much stalking her.

93} Have you ever stolen anything? (Money, candy, hearts, time?)
Yes, but it was really dumb though. When I was a little girl, I was playing with my cousins' toys and came across a little token that had my favorite cartoon character on it. I slipped it into my jeans pocket. A couple hours later, I felt guilty and told my Grandma that I "forgot" I had it. Yeah, she could read between the lines.

94} When was the last time you saw an animal in the wild?
When we went to visit my Dad's grave last year. He is buried out in the country, so we encountered squirrells, a turtle, deer and bunnies.

95} What’s the hardest thing you ever had to write — and why?
A letter explaining why we were leaving a church.

96} Who’s the last person that deeply disappointed you? (What happened?)
Rather not get into it. Still not quite over it.

97} Have you ever won an award? What was it for?
Nope.

98} How long can you (comfortably) go without checking your emails or texts? How do you feel about that?
A few hours. Gosh, I'm such an addict.

99} What do you deserve + get to receive, no matter what?
Chocolate. Okay, seriously, respect.

100} What are you ready to set into motion, today?
My body. I am going to exercise later today.

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Go Set the Watchman


“For thus hath the Lord said unto me, Go, set a watchman, let him declare what he seeth.”- Isaiah 21:6. 



This post is not about the Bible, so why post this verse? Because it features the title of an upcoming book.





Harper Lee, the author of the Pulitzer prize winning novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” is publishing a second novel. Rumors have circulated for years that Lee had written another novel, yet after the success of her masterpiece, nothing had ever appeared in print. Lee retreated to her private life, rarely making an appearance. In a quiet meeting with Oprah Winfrey, the illusive author confessed that she was Boo Radley.


Yesterday, news broke that Lee was releasing a new novel entitled, “Go Set the Watchman” which features an adult Scout Finch leaving the big city and returning to her home in Maycombe, Alabama. Per Harper Lee and her representatives, “Watchman” had been lost and recently discovered. Interestingly enough, it was written before “Mockingbird,” but due to the persuasion of editors, it had been set aside in favor of what became one of the Great American novels.



On July 14, 2015, “Go Set the Watchman” will make its debut. I rarely buy new books, and when I do, I never pay full price. I usually wait until it comes to the library or buy it discounted. If it is possible, I am going out the day it is released to buy this book, that way I can have a first edition of what I hope is a new American classic. 

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

Still Around…

Gosh, I should really do something with this blog. Just too darn lazy, I guess. Okay, here are the list of updates of my life.


 We had to say good-bye to two of our little darling furbabies: Bingley and Darcy. They were two grey-striped tabby cats, ten years old. Each were failing and suffering. It dawned on us a few days before Christmas how unfair we were being to them and had them put to sleep. Strange as it may seem, for them both to go together was right. They came into this world together, came to our house together, lived and loved only each other, and now went to heaven together. Yes, I believe animals go to heaven. I mean, why not? Animals are far more innocent than mankind. The house seems empty without Bing and Darcy, even though we still have four other furbabies.


 

I had a birthday. Not saying which though. I generally dread birthdays and look upon them as yet another reminder that I have accomplished absolutely nothing. But that was an especially good day. I think I wore a smile for most of it. 




In June of 2015, I am going along with the C.A.N.D.L.E.S. Museum on their tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau and of the city of Krakow. Holocaust survivor and Mengele twin Eva Mozes-Kor will lead us. Her tour groups are the only ones with access to the infamous Block 10, where Mengele and the other Nazi doctors conducted their experiments. OH. MY. GOSH. So psyched. Words cannot do justice to my enthusiasm. I applied for my passport and have made a couple of down payments. Cannot believe a dream of mine is finally coming true. A part of me fears that I’ll wake up and it will fall through or something bad will happen.


Don’t forget, the 27th of January is the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. No doubt there will be numerous documentaries and interviews on TV, but keep your eye out for Wolf Blitzer’s special interview with Eva Mozes-Kor.

That’s all for now. But I am sure I’ll be back with more information on the trip to Poland in the coming weeks. All for now!