Did you know there are plenty of fab groups on Facebook that showcase indie authors and their work? Find your next fave read! Every genre for every taste...
(copy & paste from the list below)
Celebrating Authors http://www.facebook.com/groups/157960580960255/265041633585482/?ref=notif¬if_t=like
Go Indie!
http://www.facebook.com/groups/goindie/
The Kindle Hub
http://www.facebook.com/groups/327660353939762/
The Heard - An Author's Voice
http://www.facebook.com/groups/358463560861573/
Author & Book Lovers Discussion Group
http://www.facebook.com/groups/authorspostyourbooks/
Hot Off The Press
http://www.facebook.com/groups/287739331279134/
The Dragon Dimension...
http://www.facebook.com/groups/206315256073749/
Volley View
http://www.facebook.com/groups/174661032606225/
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Friday, January 20, 2012
Saturday, November 26, 2011
INTRO CHAPTER ~ SNEAK PEEK!!
It was as if a freight train had hit me. That's the only feeling I remember. Within a fraction of a second, I felt as if I couldn't breathe, could possibly pass out...or just die.
I was home, killing time upstairs in my room, like your typical teenager. My dad was also home, so it must've been a weekend. My name echoed from the bottom of the stairs, summoning me to the kitchen table. If only I knew then what I would soon come to know, I would've jumped out my bedroom window and never looked back. Caught completely off guard, like a lamb being led to slaughter, totally unaware of the shit storm ahead, I be-bopped down the staircase, as my mom gestured for me to take a seat, which I did voluntarily. Seemingly, out of nowhere, something flew from behind me - over the top of my head, practically grazing my skull. A dull thud diverted my attention as "it" plopped directly in front of me, landing on the kitchen table. Taking a few minutes to focus, I began to digest what I was seeing. I think my heart started pounding a few seconds before my brain told me what I saw.
"It" was my diary. MY f*#*ing diary! My PRIVATE diary! Blood rushed to my head, flushing it beet red, as perspiration instantly broke out from every pore, covering my young, adolescent body. I had never felt this level of fear before in my life - not even while giving an oral report in front of the class. My whole world passed before my eyes, and in a flash, I realized life as I knew it was about to change drastically. If there had ever been a better time to be stricken with a heart-attack and die, it would have been convenient then. I was not that lucky.
The first words spoken were my mother's. "What the hell is this?", she said sternly, in a low voice I hadn't heard before then. I felt the lump in my throat swell, blocking off my ability to speak. My mind was racing. What was I going to say? Desperation took over. In a lame attempt to get out of this tightening noose, I started to laugh. They looked at me as if I were insane, and frankly, at that moment, I truly believe I was. I opened my mouth and started to explain that this was not MY diary, but writings for a play I had been working on for school. It wasn't a true story, or even about me actually. I was abruptly cut off from my babbling web of deceit. Apparently, Peggy had had enough of my deceiving lies and wanted to know the truth. My immature mind raced as I searched my creative lobes for a more convincing route, but there was nothing more I could say. It was all right there in black-and-white, ratting me out like a two-faced friend. My beautiful writings of my incredible journey, my unbelievable love, sitting there on the family table right before my eyes...and theirs.
Funny, they didn't see it like that at all. The words in my diary held no beauty to them. Instead, my own words, the words that gave me so much comfort when I had no one else to talk to, had turned against me, backing me into a corner. A corner in hell!
All they saw was ugliness. The look on their faces told me right away that I was not winning over this crowd. I sat silently for what seemed like hours. My beautiful, perfect world was closing in around me, and there was nothing I could do. I felt as if I were sinking to the bottom of a pool with a concrete block tied to my ankle. The two people that had raised and nurtured me, who supposedly loved me, had suddenly turned on me. I was now their enemy in a matter of mere minutes. Do you know what that feels like? It feels like everything you ever trusted in your life was suddenly a lie, and always had been, you just happened to be the fool that didn't catch on soon enough. I felt abandoned, I felt stupid, I felt so alone - surrounded by my so-called-family.
And that's when my true, "official" introduction to hell would begin.
***********************************************************************************************
Continue the journey with me to discover my fate and the very important message many are taking away from this emotionally charged memoir. They laugh, they cry, they never forget my story...find YOUR meaning. Available on Smashwords and Amazon~Links above.
I was home, killing time upstairs in my room, like your typical teenager. My dad was also home, so it must've been a weekend. My name echoed from the bottom of the stairs, summoning me to the kitchen table. If only I knew then what I would soon come to know, I would've jumped out my bedroom window and never looked back. Caught completely off guard, like a lamb being led to slaughter, totally unaware of the shit storm ahead, I be-bopped down the staircase, as my mom gestured for me to take a seat, which I did voluntarily. Seemingly, out of nowhere, something flew from behind me - over the top of my head, practically grazing my skull. A dull thud diverted my attention as "it" plopped directly in front of me, landing on the kitchen table. Taking a few minutes to focus, I began to digest what I was seeing. I think my heart started pounding a few seconds before my brain told me what I saw.
"It" was my diary. MY f*#*ing diary! My PRIVATE diary! Blood rushed to my head, flushing it beet red, as perspiration instantly broke out from every pore, covering my young, adolescent body. I had never felt this level of fear before in my life - not even while giving an oral report in front of the class. My whole world passed before my eyes, and in a flash, I realized life as I knew it was about to change drastically. If there had ever been a better time to be stricken with a heart-attack and die, it would have been convenient then. I was not that lucky.
The first words spoken were my mother's. "What the hell is this?", she said sternly, in a low voice I hadn't heard before then. I felt the lump in my throat swell, blocking off my ability to speak. My mind was racing. What was I going to say? Desperation took over. In a lame attempt to get out of this tightening noose, I started to laugh. They looked at me as if I were insane, and frankly, at that moment, I truly believe I was. I opened my mouth and started to explain that this was not MY diary, but writings for a play I had been working on for school. It wasn't a true story, or even about me actually. I was abruptly cut off from my babbling web of deceit. Apparently, Peggy had had enough of my deceiving lies and wanted to know the truth. My immature mind raced as I searched my creative lobes for a more convincing route, but there was nothing more I could say. It was all right there in black-and-white, ratting me out like a two-faced friend. My beautiful writings of my incredible journey, my unbelievable love, sitting there on the family table right before my eyes...and theirs.
Funny, they didn't see it like that at all. The words in my diary held no beauty to them. Instead, my own words, the words that gave me so much comfort when I had no one else to talk to, had turned against me, backing me into a corner. A corner in hell!
All they saw was ugliness. The look on their faces told me right away that I was not winning over this crowd. I sat silently for what seemed like hours. My beautiful, perfect world was closing in around me, and there was nothing I could do. I felt as if I were sinking to the bottom of a pool with a concrete block tied to my ankle. The two people that had raised and nurtured me, who supposedly loved me, had suddenly turned on me. I was now their enemy in a matter of mere minutes. Do you know what that feels like? It feels like everything you ever trusted in your life was suddenly a lie, and always had been, you just happened to be the fool that didn't catch on soon enough. I felt abandoned, I felt stupid, I felt so alone - surrounded by my so-called-family.
And that's when my true, "official" introduction to hell would begin.
***********************************************************************************************
Continue the journey with me to discover my fate and the very important message many are taking away from this emotionally charged memoir. They laugh, they cry, they never forget my story...find YOUR meaning. Available on Smashwords and Amazon~Links above.
Friday, November 11, 2011
FridayFeelGood: 10 Things To LOVE About Winter
I know a lot of you count the days till your first snowfall...but not this chick. In fact, I loathe winter, fretting its arrival every year. Even though I live in a tropical climate (Florida) we still see a change in seasons as the northern winds whip down our coastline, and our humidity drops along with the temps - and it seems to be getting worse every year (environmental changes or me just getting older? Who's to say?)
So, as I attempt to catch some rays like a lizard on a rock, I thought up a few 'positives' about the season I loathe to keep me going (and sane) till Spring break arrives:
1. Colder Temps = 'Bulkier' Clothes!
Living in a beach community with 100% humidity means wearing little as possible most of the year, and sucking in your gut a lot! Winter, at least, gives me a chance to let out my breath fully as my flab falls where it may! Where's my sweats & yoga pants? Ahhhh comfort once again! Bye-bye bikini!
2. Hot Tubs & Fires!
Two of my fave things I look forward to - filling the hot tub and our first fire in the fireplace...yes, even in Florida! When the temps hit 70' or below, chances are you'll see us wimps scrambling to 'thaw out' by force of hot water or fire...I know, pathetic.
3. Whole New Wardrobe!
I'm sure everyone looks forward to switching out their summer clothes for a change of pace with long sleeves, fleece, and comfy slippers. I'm no exception - I love the feeling of long sleeves, jeans, and fun jackets...for about a month - then I'm over it.
4. More Grey Days!
The sun still shines, but we do experience more grey days, and sometimes I welcome these days as it gives me an excuse to be:
*be lazy all day *watch movies all day *read all day *eat all day - who doesn't love that?
5. Depression!
Now I know normally this isn't something most people would list as a 'good thing', but for a creative person sometimes it proves to be just that. When I get sad, down or depressed, my creative juices - and my need to express myself - are at their highest levels - so as a result, some of my best work comes from these dark depths when my pendulum swings to the extreme. (Oh, life as a wacky artist!!)
6. Exercise Excuse!
Don't get me wrong, I like to work out and do it almost every day - in fact, sometimes I should take a break, but I don't. Well colder weather is my perfect excuse to give me 'permission' to take the day off. Riding your bike with double layers of pants, shirt, jackets + gloves and hats seems a tad obsessed, even to me. (picture the kid from 'A Christmas Story' stuffed into his snow suit)
7. Eating Yummies I Normally Would Not!
Like I stated up above, I do take care of myself by working out and eating right...but, for some reason cold temps make it 'okay' to sneak in more junk food, especially around the holidays (even thought I don't even celebrate! ha) Maybe it's due to the fact I know my bulky clothes will cover more, leading me back to reason #1. I can always curb my feed bag habits in time for Spring and that intimidating bikini...eeeekkkk
8. Blankie Pile Up!
Nothing is cozier than a big inviting bed with layers of blankets and a big fat comforter waiting for you to dive underneath - kicking your feet wildly as you attempt to 'warm up' your side in a hurry. Oh, and by the way, partners with cold feet need to keep their distance till they remedy that situation - nothing pisses me off more than cold feet on my toasty body parts! Not funny or cute!
9. Hats Are In Fashion!
I'm a big hat wearer all year long - mainly to keep the sun from baking my face to resemble a raisin before it's time...but with winter's arrival, I get to model my fuzzy ski caps and fun warmer versions - perfect for bad hair days or just plain laziness. ha
10. Days Are Shorter - Bed Time Comes Faster!
Normally, in summer, I'm a night owl - staying up waaaay past my required sleep time - mainly because summertime is full of fun outdoor activities that keep me busy all day and into the night. Winter, however, is the opposite - and 'night' now comes at 5pm when darkness sets in and my jammies are on by 5:01pm! There have honestly been times I've looked at my husband and said, 'Is 7:30 too early to got to bed?' I wouldn't be embarrassed if say, I were 80! But I'm not, and it only makes me feel more tired, more old, and more depressed...and then, like clockwork, I ask that infamous question - 'How many days till Spring?'
So, as I attempt to catch some rays like a lizard on a rock, I thought up a few 'positives' about the season I loathe to keep me going (and sane) till Spring break arrives:
1. Colder Temps = 'Bulkier' Clothes!
Living in a beach community with 100% humidity means wearing little as possible most of the year, and sucking in your gut a lot! Winter, at least, gives me a chance to let out my breath fully as my flab falls where it may! Where's my sweats & yoga pants? Ahhhh comfort once again! Bye-bye bikini!
2. Hot Tubs & Fires!
Two of my fave things I look forward to - filling the hot tub and our first fire in the fireplace...yes, even in Florida! When the temps hit 70' or below, chances are you'll see us wimps scrambling to 'thaw out' by force of hot water or fire...I know, pathetic.
3. Whole New Wardrobe!
I'm sure everyone looks forward to switching out their summer clothes for a change of pace with long sleeves, fleece, and comfy slippers. I'm no exception - I love the feeling of long sleeves, jeans, and fun jackets...for about a month - then I'm over it.
4. More Grey Days!
The sun still shines, but we do experience more grey days, and sometimes I welcome these days as it gives me an excuse to be:
*be lazy all day *watch movies all day *read all day *eat all day - who doesn't love that?
5. Depression!
Now I know normally this isn't something most people would list as a 'good thing', but for a creative person sometimes it proves to be just that. When I get sad, down or depressed, my creative juices - and my need to express myself - are at their highest levels - so as a result, some of my best work comes from these dark depths when my pendulum swings to the extreme. (Oh, life as a wacky artist!!)
6. Exercise Excuse!
Don't get me wrong, I like to work out and do it almost every day - in fact, sometimes I should take a break, but I don't. Well colder weather is my perfect excuse to give me 'permission' to take the day off. Riding your bike with double layers of pants, shirt, jackets + gloves and hats seems a tad obsessed, even to me. (picture the kid from 'A Christmas Story' stuffed into his snow suit)
7. Eating Yummies I Normally Would Not!
Like I stated up above, I do take care of myself by working out and eating right...but, for some reason cold temps make it 'okay' to sneak in more junk food, especially around the holidays (even thought I don't even celebrate! ha) Maybe it's due to the fact I know my bulky clothes will cover more, leading me back to reason #1. I can always curb my feed bag habits in time for Spring and that intimidating bikini...eeeekkkk
8. Blankie Pile Up!
Nothing is cozier than a big inviting bed with layers of blankets and a big fat comforter waiting for you to dive underneath - kicking your feet wildly as you attempt to 'warm up' your side in a hurry. Oh, and by the way, partners with cold feet need to keep their distance till they remedy that situation - nothing pisses me off more than cold feet on my toasty body parts! Not funny or cute!
9. Hats Are In Fashion!
I'm a big hat wearer all year long - mainly to keep the sun from baking my face to resemble a raisin before it's time...but with winter's arrival, I get to model my fuzzy ski caps and fun warmer versions - perfect for bad hair days or just plain laziness. ha
10. Days Are Shorter - Bed Time Comes Faster!
Normally, in summer, I'm a night owl - staying up waaaay past my required sleep time - mainly because summertime is full of fun outdoor activities that keep me busy all day and into the night. Winter, however, is the opposite - and 'night' now comes at 5pm when darkness sets in and my jammies are on by 5:01pm! There have honestly been times I've looked at my husband and said, 'Is 7:30 too early to got to bed?' I wouldn't be embarrassed if say, I were 80! But I'm not, and it only makes me feel more tired, more old, and more depressed...and then, like clockwork, I ask that infamous question - 'How many days till Spring?'
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
The Xmas Marketing Machine - Is It Out Of Control? HoHoHo or NoNoNo?
So there I was, leisurely doing my shopping at Walmart this past weekend, minding my own business, when suddenly I heard IT. Taking a minute to notice - then to verify - yes indeedy, I WAS mindlessly listening to 'It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas' blaring from the overhead system. Had I been in a coma? Lost a week or two somewhere? Nope, it was, in fact, only November 4th! I looked at my husband and we both shook our heads in disgust.
Then to make matters worse, the next evening while scrolling through our T.V. choices for the evening, what pops up? The Grinch Who Stole Christmas! Again, I shouted out #$%&!?
Now I know a lot of you out there are more than overjoyed when Christmas rolls around, you simply love it, I get that - I'm the same about Halloween. But I don't recall seeing Halloween ads and scary movies in August! Has the 'marketing machine' gone a bit haywire over the years, or is it just me?
Remember, back in the day as kids - when the highlight of the day-after-Thanksgiving was watching the BEGINNING of the Christmas specials - Charlie Brown, The Grinch, Frosty...dreaming of the long month ahead, making our wish lists for Santa. I can't even fathom the hell kids go through now, waiting an agonizing two months for the arrival of the 'big day', as the media shoves it down their throats everywhere they look. No wonder kids are coo-coo crazy this time of year!
Yes, I am a tad bias, I know, as I don't 'do' Christmas any longer, but I would think for the people that do (and celebrate for the right reasons, not the commercialized reasons) this early shove-it-down-your-throat-earlier-and-earlier-every-year-approach would piss them off slightly, not to mention the pressure it puts on parents that are handed huge wish lists, while picturing their dwindling checking account balance. Just how DO they do it?
I have to admit, I am SO glad my son is grown, and I do not have to face that pressure any longer. I've long since detached from the crazy merry-go-round of guilt and debt in order to buy other's affection - and just in time too, as I fear the economy would of made that decision for me anyway.
So does this early marketing tactic work? It must to some degree, otherwise, why would they do it? I just think there should be some kind of limit on when we are forced to start humming along mindlessly to 'We wish you a Merry Christmas'...especially while shopping for our Halloween candy!
Even Charles Schultz made fun of the commercialized side of Christmas through his infamous holiday cartoons - and that was in the sixties! Can you imagine what he'd think today? I can almost hear him now, 'Oh GOOD GREIF...Give it a REST already!'
Then to make matters worse, the next evening while scrolling through our T.V. choices for the evening, what pops up? The Grinch Who Stole Christmas! Again, I shouted out #$%&!?
Now I know a lot of you out there are more than overjoyed when Christmas rolls around, you simply love it, I get that - I'm the same about Halloween. But I don't recall seeing Halloween ads and scary movies in August! Has the 'marketing machine' gone a bit haywire over the years, or is it just me?
Remember, back in the day as kids - when the highlight of the day-after-Thanksgiving was watching the BEGINNING of the Christmas specials - Charlie Brown, The Grinch, Frosty...dreaming of the long month ahead, making our wish lists for Santa. I can't even fathom the hell kids go through now, waiting an agonizing two months for the arrival of the 'big day', as the media shoves it down their throats everywhere they look. No wonder kids are coo-coo crazy this time of year!
Yes, I am a tad bias, I know, as I don't 'do' Christmas any longer, but I would think for the people that do (and celebrate for the right reasons, not the commercialized reasons) this early shove-it-down-your-throat-earlier-and-earlier-every-year-approach would piss them off slightly, not to mention the pressure it puts on parents that are handed huge wish lists, while picturing their dwindling checking account balance. Just how DO they do it?
I have to admit, I am SO glad my son is grown, and I do not have to face that pressure any longer. I've long since detached from the crazy merry-go-round of guilt and debt in order to buy other's affection - and just in time too, as I fear the economy would of made that decision for me anyway.
So does this early marketing tactic work? It must to some degree, otherwise, why would they do it? I just think there should be some kind of limit on when we are forced to start humming along mindlessly to 'We wish you a Merry Christmas'...especially while shopping for our Halloween candy!
Even Charles Schultz made fun of the commercialized side of Christmas through his infamous holiday cartoons - and that was in the sixties! Can you imagine what he'd think today? I can almost hear him now, 'Oh GOOD GREIF...Give it a REST already!'
Monday, November 7, 2011
MondayMindset Of A Hippie-Chick: With A Lil Help From My Friends...
Happy Monday all! If you've been here before, chances are you might of caught me ranting about the world going koo-koo or perhaps some kind of negative poo-poo post about society in general...well today I am putting 'Negative Nancy' to bed and focusing on the good in my life, after all, that is what I'm all about at my core - it's just been a bad year...we'll leave it at that.
Actually in the midst of my wallowing, I was suddenly brought back to the 'lighter side' of life, taking note of the GOODness in people - through my social networking contacts, of all things! Those fantastic people out there that don't know me from Adam really, made me realize not everyone is out to take me for everything I'm worth (or not) - some are genuinely just nice people - YES they DO still exist! And I have proof!
My twitter friends are a huge part of this realization - Facebook too. I've slowly been building a sturdy foundation of fabulous authors, artist, fans, and just great people in general, that all help to promote and support my work through whatever means they can. It truly warms my heart to think total strangers are more than willing to pass along word of your book to their friends and contacts, and in turn, that gracious effort mushrooms out to numbers I cannot even fathom. How cool is that? And nothing makes me feel better than to reciprocate - promoting their work as well. It truly is a 'you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours' kind of world in there. Not only has it brought attention to readers that otherwise never would of heard the likes of me, it has shown me a softer side of this hardening world we live in - giving me hope to keep trudging along...wherever it may lead me - who knows? But I do know along the way I've 'met' some awesome people that give me a reason to believe in myself once again, even on days when my tank is running a little low on confidence, they seem to pick up the slack for me, refueling my energy for the fight.
And for that, I am truly grateful and know I couldn't - or wouldn't - be where I am today if not for them.
So to all my twitter followers and facebook friends that I hang out with on a daily basis, I'd like to send out a great big SHOUT OUT and Thank YOU from the bottom of my heart for helping me through this journey we call life - and for promoting my memoir and me, as a person - You are ALL awesome!
And here's an example of that awesomeness! Amelia James (@trashywriter) graciously sought me out for a one-on-one interview on her very 'adult' blog - so if you'd like to see another side of me through the unique questions of our lovely Amelia and her fun 'outside-the-box' questions (that I had a blast answering) please click here and tell us what you think!
http://trashystreasures.wordpress.com/2011/11/07/author-interview-lisa-vaughn/
(Please note: link will be open after 8am EST on Monday ~ And again, it is an 'adult only' site)
Thanks for stopping by! Follow me @thegiftedones - I'd love to have another fab friend to help out! :)
Actually in the midst of my wallowing, I was suddenly brought back to the 'lighter side' of life, taking note of the GOODness in people - through my social networking contacts, of all things! Those fantastic people out there that don't know me from Adam really, made me realize not everyone is out to take me for everything I'm worth (or not) - some are genuinely just nice people - YES they DO still exist! And I have proof!
My twitter friends are a huge part of this realization - Facebook too. I've slowly been building a sturdy foundation of fabulous authors, artist, fans, and just great people in general, that all help to promote and support my work through whatever means they can. It truly warms my heart to think total strangers are more than willing to pass along word of your book to their friends and contacts, and in turn, that gracious effort mushrooms out to numbers I cannot even fathom. How cool is that? And nothing makes me feel better than to reciprocate - promoting their work as well. It truly is a 'you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours' kind of world in there. Not only has it brought attention to readers that otherwise never would of heard the likes of me, it has shown me a softer side of this hardening world we live in - giving me hope to keep trudging along...wherever it may lead me - who knows? But I do know along the way I've 'met' some awesome people that give me a reason to believe in myself once again, even on days when my tank is running a little low on confidence, they seem to pick up the slack for me, refueling my energy for the fight.
And for that, I am truly grateful and know I couldn't - or wouldn't - be where I am today if not for them.
So to all my twitter followers and facebook friends that I hang out with on a daily basis, I'd like to send out a great big SHOUT OUT and Thank YOU from the bottom of my heart for helping me through this journey we call life - and for promoting my memoir and me, as a person - You are ALL awesome!
And here's an example of that awesomeness! Amelia James (@trashywriter) graciously sought me out for a one-on-one interview on her very 'adult' blog - so if you'd like to see another side of me through the unique questions of our lovely Amelia and her fun 'outside-the-box' questions (that I had a blast answering) please click here and tell us what you think!
http://trashystreasures.wordpress.com/2011/11/07/author-interview-lisa-vaughn/
(Please note: link will be open after 8am EST on Monday ~ And again, it is an 'adult only' site)
Thanks for stopping by! Follow me @thegiftedones - I'd love to have another fab friend to help out! :)
Sunday, November 6, 2011
You're NOT Dreaming! It IS SixSentenceSunday! Quick Six From The Gifted Ones
Six Sentences(& 1/2) from Chapter 22: Curtains
Attempting to get me back on track and thinking in a positive light, he wrote three words on an erasable board we kept tacked to the outside of a kitchen cabinet. It read: “WE SHALL OVERCOME”. Three straightforward words. They were just simple words at first, that I would glance at in passing. But over time, they took on significant meaning. Slowly they became my source of strength and motivation on a daily basis. I repeated the phrase every time I passed by, especially before I headed out the back door, out into the world. WE SHALL OVERCOME became my mantra.
***
Thank you for visiting - To find out exactly what I was 'overcoming' please discover my memoir at the links above ~ Print & Ebooks available.
Now go curl up with a good book and enjoy your Sunday!
Attempting to get me back on track and thinking in a positive light, he wrote three words on an erasable board we kept tacked to the outside of a kitchen cabinet. It read: “WE SHALL OVERCOME”. Three straightforward words. They were just simple words at first, that I would glance at in passing. But over time, they took on significant meaning. Slowly they became my source of strength and motivation on a daily basis. I repeated the phrase every time I passed by, especially before I headed out the back door, out into the world. WE SHALL OVERCOME became my mantra.
***
Thank you for visiting - To find out exactly what I was 'overcoming' please discover my memoir at the links above ~ Print & Ebooks available.
Now go curl up with a good book and enjoy your Sunday!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Get Your SaturdaySample HOT Off The Griddle! A Bite From 'The Gifted Ones'
Excerpt From Chapter 22: Curtains
That night I went to a place so dark, very reminiscent of the night my mother ripped Selina's army jacket from my back. And here I was again, alone. My fate unknown. How ironic. One horrific incident caused by my parent's ignorance - forcing me to defend the love of my life - and the most recent incident, caused by the love I had defended. If that doesn't f*%# with your head, I don't know what would.
Every time I closed my eyes to escape my hell, snippets of our lives together would flash through my mind, like a movie trailer. Starting from the day I first laid eyes on her - all the way through our adolescence, and beyond. We had literally taken on the world - just the two of us. And we had won! Against all odds, we had actually won. How sad to let all that effort go. Our special bond, our gift that separated us from the rest of the world, all those years - now useless. We had somehow become just like the rest of the herd. How did that happen? Was it inevitable? I refused to believe that. We were NOT like everyone else! Had the time we spent in THEIR world finally wore us down? Or were we just human, plain and simple? I needed something to blame, something to hate. So many unanswered questions clogged my mind, but not a lot of answers. I reminded myself to continue breathing.
***
Thanks for stopping by...if you want to find out if I continued breathing or not, check out my memoir at the links above - Print is on sale for $9.89 (Amazon) & Ebooks are only $.99 for a limited time.
Make it a great weekend folks!
That night I went to a place so dark, very reminiscent of the night my mother ripped Selina's army jacket from my back. And here I was again, alone. My fate unknown. How ironic. One horrific incident caused by my parent's ignorance - forcing me to defend the love of my life - and the most recent incident, caused by the love I had defended. If that doesn't f*%# with your head, I don't know what would.
Every time I closed my eyes to escape my hell, snippets of our lives together would flash through my mind, like a movie trailer. Starting from the day I first laid eyes on her - all the way through our adolescence, and beyond. We had literally taken on the world - just the two of us. And we had won! Against all odds, we had actually won. How sad to let all that effort go. Our special bond, our gift that separated us from the rest of the world, all those years - now useless. We had somehow become just like the rest of the herd. How did that happen? Was it inevitable? I refused to believe that. We were NOT like everyone else! Had the time we spent in THEIR world finally wore us down? Or were we just human, plain and simple? I needed something to blame, something to hate. So many unanswered questions clogged my mind, but not a lot of answers. I reminded myself to continue breathing.
***
Thanks for stopping by...if you want to find out if I continued breathing or not, check out my memoir at the links above - Print is on sale for $9.89 (Amazon) & Ebooks are only $.99 for a limited time.
Make it a great weekend folks!
Friday, November 4, 2011
FridayFeelGood: 10 Reasons To Love Twitter Friends Over 'Real' Ones
Top 10 Reasons I Love My Twitter Friends Over 'Real' Ones!
1. YOU get to pick how your new friends see you!
Want to be a cartoon character? A symbol (like Prince), a busty blonde, or just a
glamorized enhancement of your true self? It's all possible through the avatar you
pick - suddenly your wildest dreams CAN come true! NO surgery required!!
2. YOU choose when to engage...and when you don't!
No more interrupting phone calls when you least feel like talking to a friend...now YOU
get to choose when you are 'open' for conversation - and when you are 'closed'.
And you can bet if you are having one of those 'insomniac nights' there's always
someone to help pass the hours till the rest of the world comes to life. Like Vegas,
Twitter is open 24/7!
3. No out-of-the-blue drop ins!
Just sat down to a good movie or book? Or just stepped into the shower - when you hear
a car door slam and then...DING DONG...friends are a calling! (As you scramble to hide
last night's dinner plate under your couch and catch a quick glance in the mirror to
discover, yes you DO look like crap today)
4. Come as you are!
I think THIS is one of the best reasons of all! Literally you can be in your holey
sweats, stained shirt, with a zit face-mask on, hair slicked back in a very
unflattering way, and STILL carry on a conversation as you normally would had you been
dressed to the hilt, looking fabulous! Honesly, what can be better than THAT?
5. Bad moods don't exist!
Even if you are in a bad mood, you can easily fake a positive attitude for 160
characters! And no ones the wiser! (You can save your bitchiness for your own
family! Yay)
6. SO easy to please!
You can make someones day simply by retweeting their post or promo! A couple clicks
and you are rewarded with virtual hugs, kisses, praises, and feel-goods! OR you could
slave all day cleaning the house, making a fab dinner, or going out of your way for
someone - however you attempt to please - only to be ignored or get a weak 'oh
thanks'...
7. NO travel needed!
Hell, you don't even have to leave your couch to engage in the most interesting '160
character' conversations! Think of all the gas money you'll save!
8. CHEAP friendships!
Twitter friends never want to have a 'girls night out' or explore a fancy new
restaurant that's a tad out of your budget...or go on an insane shopping spree
that only puts you further into the black hole of debt - nope, twitter friends are
FREE! Never costs you a dime to hang with virtual buds.
9. Need support or reassurance?
Get all the benefits of a supporting friendship without the drama! If you are feeling
down, doubtful, or going through a rough patch, you can just give a shout out (160 of
em) and an army of support is on your screen, without the messy deets or hours of
hashing out every single 'he said, she said' - Support in the express lane! In no time
you feel better and you forgot why you were such a Debbie-Downer in the first place.
10. IF you don't like the attitude, just unfollow!
I saved the best for last! Got a whiny butt or a troublemaker on your timeline? No
problem! Click...Unfollow! *Poof* High maintenance friend gone!
Now, if only it were that easy in real life!
And 'they' wonder why we spend so much time online in twitterland...duh, with friends like these, how could you not?
Have a Fab Friday ~ I'll see ya on the timeline @thegiftedones!
Thanks for stopping by! #grateful
1. YOU get to pick how your new friends see you!
Want to be a cartoon character? A symbol (like Prince), a busty blonde, or just a
glamorized enhancement of your true self? It's all possible through the avatar you
pick - suddenly your wildest dreams CAN come true! NO surgery required!!
2. YOU choose when to engage...and when you don't!
No more interrupting phone calls when you least feel like talking to a friend...now YOU
get to choose when you are 'open' for conversation - and when you are 'closed'.
And you can bet if you are having one of those 'insomniac nights' there's always
someone to help pass the hours till the rest of the world comes to life. Like Vegas,
Twitter is open 24/7!
3. No out-of-the-blue drop ins!
Just sat down to a good movie or book? Or just stepped into the shower - when you hear
a car door slam and then...DING DONG...friends are a calling! (As you scramble to hide
last night's dinner plate under your couch and catch a quick glance in the mirror to
discover, yes you DO look like crap today)
4. Come as you are!
I think THIS is one of the best reasons of all! Literally you can be in your holey
sweats, stained shirt, with a zit face-mask on, hair slicked back in a very
unflattering way, and STILL carry on a conversation as you normally would had you been
dressed to the hilt, looking fabulous! Honesly, what can be better than THAT?
5. Bad moods don't exist!
Even if you are in a bad mood, you can easily fake a positive attitude for 160
characters! And no ones the wiser! (You can save your bitchiness for your own
family! Yay)
6. SO easy to please!
You can make someones day simply by retweeting their post or promo! A couple clicks
and you are rewarded with virtual hugs, kisses, praises, and feel-goods! OR you could
slave all day cleaning the house, making a fab dinner, or going out of your way for
someone - however you attempt to please - only to be ignored or get a weak 'oh
thanks'...
7. NO travel needed!
Hell, you don't even have to leave your couch to engage in the most interesting '160
character' conversations! Think of all the gas money you'll save!
8. CHEAP friendships!
Twitter friends never want to have a 'girls night out' or explore a fancy new
restaurant that's a tad out of your budget...or go on an insane shopping spree
that only puts you further into the black hole of debt - nope, twitter friends are
FREE! Never costs you a dime to hang with virtual buds.
9. Need support or reassurance?
Get all the benefits of a supporting friendship without the drama! If you are feeling
down, doubtful, or going through a rough patch, you can just give a shout out (160 of
em) and an army of support is on your screen, without the messy deets or hours of
hashing out every single 'he said, she said' - Support in the express lane! In no time
you feel better and you forgot why you were such a Debbie-Downer in the first place.
10. IF you don't like the attitude, just unfollow!
I saved the best for last! Got a whiny butt or a troublemaker on your timeline? No
problem! Click...Unfollow! *Poof* High maintenance friend gone!
Now, if only it were that easy in real life!
And 'they' wonder why we spend so much time online in twitterland...duh, with friends like these, how could you not?
Have a Fab Friday ~ I'll see ya on the timeline @thegiftedones!
Thanks for stopping by! #grateful
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Think Outside The Box~Get Your Indie On! Links to find undiscovered reads!
Being a long time lover of indie reads and movies, plus an indie author/artist myself, I'd like to share a few links you might not know about. Browse hundreds of authors in all genres for your next fave read! But before you rush off, be sure to check out my memoir, 'The Gifted Ones' ~ if it sounds like your kind of read, please see purchase links for Amazon or Smashwords. And always, thank you for supporting indie authors...without them, the world would be quite a vanilla place!
Independent Authors Network: Book Directory
http://www.independentauthornetwork.com/book-directory.html
Celebrating Authors Facebook Group - Open to readers to browse posts made by authors
http://www.facebook.com/groups/157960580960255/
Goodreads - search for books and read reviews
http://www.goodreads.com/
Kindle Mojo - hundreds of kindle books by genre
http://www.kindlemojo.com/2011/09/13/gifted/
Indie Snippets - A fun site to view little samples from your next indie read
http://indiesnippets.blogspot.com/2011/08/from-gifted-ones-by-lisa-vaughn.html
Independent Authors Network: Book Directory
http://www.independentauthornetwork.com/book-directory.html
Celebrating Authors Facebook Group - Open to readers to browse posts made by authors
http://www.facebook.com/groups/157960580960255/
Goodreads - search for books and read reviews
http://www.goodreads.com/
Kindle Mojo - hundreds of kindle books by genre
http://www.kindlemojo.com/2011/09/13/gifted/
Indie Snippets - A fun site to view little samples from your next indie read
http://indiesnippets.blogspot.com/2011/08/from-gifted-ones-by-lisa-vaughn.html
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Has The World Truly Gone Mad?
You know, normally I'm a 'glass half full' kinda gal, but lately, I swear this world in which we live has been pushing me, and I feel my glass slowly tipping!
And apparently, I'm not the only one.
My family, friends - even people I chat with on twitter and facebook - are experiencing the same BS it seems. I know times are tough, believe me - my husband has been unemployed for over a year from construction - but really people, how far is this craziness going to go? Has this world gone mad? Do people, like cows, simply GO mad?
What craziness do I speak of, you ask?
Seems in just this year alone I have personally experienced and/or witnessed many negative human actions: theft and vandalism, people taking advantage of me - or my family - clearly for monetary reasons, lying, cheating, kick em while their down attitudes...just plain old disregard for fellow human beings with a 'take-all-you-can-get-regardless-of-who-you-hurt-in-the-process' approach. Where did basic conscience go? Does no one feel guilt anymore? Has everyone lost morals and scruples simply because times are tough and the economy is in the toilet? Apparently some have.
Frankly I'm so sick of this behavior I'm on the verge of liquidating my life as I know it and going into seclusion from society - living in the wilderness like a crazy mountain woman or something! (And I think I truly would IF I could still get internet access - as I can still deal with virtual people! ha)
What IS going on?
I know life ebbs and flows - and I've pretty much been flowing nicely since I simplified my life, living it authentically - and all would be peachy if I could stay within my cocoon of pureness that I've created - but alas, that is only a fantasy, as it seems society and I DO have to cross paths on occasion, and that usually means someone dragging me into unwanted drama of some sort - there is only so much of life you can control, I realize, and I do my best to keep drama and negativity out of my world, but boy, is it getting harder and harder!
Seems the 'good guy' truly does finish last in this day and age. My only recourse is to continue believing in karma, and that what goes around comes around...I surely hope it does...I HAVE to believe it does, or it would be almost impossible to face some recent days.
You know, I used to balk at blogs, not understanding who would want to write one or read others - and look at me now. Freedom of speech IS a beautiful thing, isn't it? At least we still have THAT! (for now anyways) An awesome way to connect and to vent. Thank you for allowing me to spew my emotions - if I couldn't I just might explode! I promise the clouds will lift eventually and I won't be such a 'Debbie-Downer', but for now I have to go with what I live and what I know...
Ok, back to the fight! I will not give up, I will NOT give up - good guys HAVE to win in the end! We just have to.
Again, thank you for stopping by and bending an ear! :)
And apparently, I'm not the only one.
My family, friends - even people I chat with on twitter and facebook - are experiencing the same BS it seems. I know times are tough, believe me - my husband has been unemployed for over a year from construction - but really people, how far is this craziness going to go? Has this world gone mad? Do people, like cows, simply GO mad?
What craziness do I speak of, you ask?
Seems in just this year alone I have personally experienced and/or witnessed many negative human actions: theft and vandalism, people taking advantage of me - or my family - clearly for monetary reasons, lying, cheating, kick em while their down attitudes...just plain old disregard for fellow human beings with a 'take-all-you-can-get-regardless-of-who-you-hurt-in-the-process' approach. Where did basic conscience go? Does no one feel guilt anymore? Has everyone lost morals and scruples simply because times are tough and the economy is in the toilet? Apparently some have.
Frankly I'm so sick of this behavior I'm on the verge of liquidating my life as I know it and going into seclusion from society - living in the wilderness like a crazy mountain woman or something! (And I think I truly would IF I could still get internet access - as I can still deal with virtual people! ha)
What IS going on?
I know life ebbs and flows - and I've pretty much been flowing nicely since I simplified my life, living it authentically - and all would be peachy if I could stay within my cocoon of pureness that I've created - but alas, that is only a fantasy, as it seems society and I DO have to cross paths on occasion, and that usually means someone dragging me into unwanted drama of some sort - there is only so much of life you can control, I realize, and I do my best to keep drama and negativity out of my world, but boy, is it getting harder and harder!
Seems the 'good guy' truly does finish last in this day and age. My only recourse is to continue believing in karma, and that what goes around comes around...I surely hope it does...I HAVE to believe it does, or it would be almost impossible to face some recent days.
You know, I used to balk at blogs, not understanding who would want to write one or read others - and look at me now. Freedom of speech IS a beautiful thing, isn't it? At least we still have THAT! (for now anyways) An awesome way to connect and to vent. Thank you for allowing me to spew my emotions - if I couldn't I just might explode! I promise the clouds will lift eventually and I won't be such a 'Debbie-Downer', but for now I have to go with what I live and what I know...
Ok, back to the fight! I will not give up, I will NOT give up - good guys HAVE to win in the end! We just have to.
Again, thank you for stopping by and bending an ear! :)
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Just How Far SHOULD A Mother's Loyalty Go?
I don't know about you, but in my book, liars and thieves are the scum of the earth.
But apparently not everyone follows this line of thinking.
So here's my question of the day: When is it WRONG to stand up for your child?
But first, a quick look into why I ask this question.
I won't bore you with the 'Jerry Springer' details, but let's just say our weekend was abruptly interrupted with vandalism and thievery of an extensive nature - Our Halloween display, which we've set up every year for the past ten years - without incident I might add - was violated beyond repair, with much of it stolen, on 3 separate occasions - 2 of which happened Saturday night. But luckily, much to the surprise of our criminals, we were poised and ready for them on the third attack, literally catching them in the act. Of course it turned out to be 3 older teens - high school seniors as we found out - using mommy's SUV as the getaway as we chased them down the street, memorizing the tag number.
Fast Forward: I'm the one (NOT the cops) that located said guilty party by way of fate, no less - pulling up behind the Jeep Cherokee at a stop sign in front of my house. BUSTED!
Police were called once again - 'altercations' between our families ensued, with the mother of the teen insisting her 'angelic football playing son' was innocent beyond doubt, not ever questioning him for the 'facts', and making it even worse by lying for him, posing as his alibi - and if that wasn't bad enough, she made US out to be the criminals for 'harassing and detaining' them on their property while awaiting the police. (Which by the way, she conveniently urged her son and his accomplices to leave before the police arrived because they had a 'movie' to catch.)
I couldn't help but shake my head in disbelief! Was this for real?
Back in my day, I do believe my parents would agree the movie would wait, and my ass would be sitting there explaining my side of the story - first to the accusing neighbor, then to the police. I guarantee my parents would not of let me flee the scene - in the accused vehicle - to fulfill a movie date of all things! Well hello, apparently this mother does not 'parent' in that manner. Instead she stood her ground, calling us every name in the book and accusing us of harassment. Oh how times have changed! Is this what a loyal mother does?
Trust me, I know the pull of a 'mother's loyalty' as I have a 25 year old son myself. But I also know boys do stupid things - and my first priority was always to find out the truth, not to cover up for my guilty offspring. Just what is she teaching these young men? That you CAN do the crime and get away with it, if you just know how to work the system - Jerry Springer style? Well, apparently it works.
Sadly, I am more than aware of this protocol. In my experience with the police, they are 'johnny-on-the-spot' to bust you for something, but never there in the same way when you need their protection or justice. And they wonder why people take the law into their own hands! So of course this case quickly turned into a 'their word against yours' with the victim coming out short changed...hum. Once again 'the man' fails me. Why was I even surprised?
(Spoken like a true hippie, huh?) Uh, sorry, that's another post for another day...back to the question:
So again I ask, where DOES a mother's loyalty lie? Is it all about covering up for your child's behavior or is it about teaching your child right from wrong, even if it stings a little?
In my day the motto was simple: Don't do the crime if ya can't do the time. Where are our children heading if they never know this simple rule?
So to that 'mother' of which I speak of in my neighborhood - If you think you're doing your kid a favor now by covering up these petty shenanigans, what are you going to do when the crime involves something a little more serious, like a weapon or someone's life? And oh, when all the little kids ask why we are no longer putting on our yearly Halloween display, I'll give them your address and tell them to go ask the innocent football players.
But apparently not everyone follows this line of thinking.
So here's my question of the day: When is it WRONG to stand up for your child?
But first, a quick look into why I ask this question.
I won't bore you with the 'Jerry Springer' details, but let's just say our weekend was abruptly interrupted with vandalism and thievery of an extensive nature - Our Halloween display, which we've set up every year for the past ten years - without incident I might add - was violated beyond repair, with much of it stolen, on 3 separate occasions - 2 of which happened Saturday night. But luckily, much to the surprise of our criminals, we were poised and ready for them on the third attack, literally catching them in the act. Of course it turned out to be 3 older teens - high school seniors as we found out - using mommy's SUV as the getaway as we chased them down the street, memorizing the tag number.
Fast Forward: I'm the one (NOT the cops) that located said guilty party by way of fate, no less - pulling up behind the Jeep Cherokee at a stop sign in front of my house. BUSTED!
Police were called once again - 'altercations' between our families ensued, with the mother of the teen insisting her 'angelic football playing son' was innocent beyond doubt, not ever questioning him for the 'facts', and making it even worse by lying for him, posing as his alibi - and if that wasn't bad enough, she made US out to be the criminals for 'harassing and detaining' them on their property while awaiting the police. (Which by the way, she conveniently urged her son and his accomplices to leave before the police arrived because they had a 'movie' to catch.)
I couldn't help but shake my head in disbelief! Was this for real?
Back in my day, I do believe my parents would agree the movie would wait, and my ass would be sitting there explaining my side of the story - first to the accusing neighbor, then to the police. I guarantee my parents would not of let me flee the scene - in the accused vehicle - to fulfill a movie date of all things! Well hello, apparently this mother does not 'parent' in that manner. Instead she stood her ground, calling us every name in the book and accusing us of harassment. Oh how times have changed! Is this what a loyal mother does?
Trust me, I know the pull of a 'mother's loyalty' as I have a 25 year old son myself. But I also know boys do stupid things - and my first priority was always to find out the truth, not to cover up for my guilty offspring. Just what is she teaching these young men? That you CAN do the crime and get away with it, if you just know how to work the system - Jerry Springer style? Well, apparently it works.
Sadly, I am more than aware of this protocol. In my experience with the police, they are 'johnny-on-the-spot' to bust you for something, but never there in the same way when you need their protection or justice. And they wonder why people take the law into their own hands! So of course this case quickly turned into a 'their word against yours' with the victim coming out short changed...hum. Once again 'the man' fails me. Why was I even surprised?
(Spoken like a true hippie, huh?) Uh, sorry, that's another post for another day...back to the question:
So again I ask, where DOES a mother's loyalty lie? Is it all about covering up for your child's behavior or is it about teaching your child right from wrong, even if it stings a little?
In my day the motto was simple: Don't do the crime if ya can't do the time. Where are our children heading if they never know this simple rule?
So to that 'mother' of which I speak of in my neighborhood - If you think you're doing your kid a favor now by covering up these petty shenanigans, what are you going to do when the crime involves something a little more serious, like a weapon or someone's life? And oh, when all the little kids ask why we are no longer putting on our yearly Halloween display, I'll give them your address and tell them to go ask the innocent football players.
Monday, October 31, 2011
MondayMindset of a hippie-chick: The Scariest Thing I've Ever Done!
In keeping with the Halloween theme of spooks, ghouls, and things that go bump in the night, here's another way to get your 'scare' on...Publish a book!
No wait, let me make it even more scary for you...publish your MEMOIR! Oh yeah, now it's even more personal - adding yet another layer of fear! For those of us who have been there, I'm sure you can relate, especially the indie authors that have chosen to go the route that I took - the self publish route. That dark, lonely corridor where you are completely alone and on your own - no agent, no publisher. No one to fall back on, bounce ideas off of, or point the finger at when potential failure comes your way. Nope, it's just you dangling solo without any kind of safety net to catch you...yep, that's the decision I made. Oh, and did I mention I'm not even a 'writer' by design? Oh yeah, I've never written anything professionally in my life...I'm an artist, not a writer!
I can see you shaking your head as you read this, and I know what you're saying, 'What the hell was she thinking? Who'd sign up for that...on purpose?' A masochist?
Let me introduce myself, I'm Lisa Vaughn, and yes, I'm that crazy! Or should I say, I'm that determined when I have a project I feel this passionate about. And that is what it boiled down to. I have a story - and a message - that I've held inside my head for thirty-plus years, and it was high time I let it out. It all started one bizarre afternoon, about two years ago, when I confided my tale to a friend for the first time in my life, and she convinced me the world needed to hear my unique story. After realizing the potential opportunity to spread my message, I agreed - it WAS time, in fact it was long overdue. The problem is, I'm not the most patient person in the world, nor am I one that likes to follow 'protocol' - that's where the hippie in me comes out. So I approached this project like any other piece of self-expression that I create, I jumped in head first and started, well, creating! After two years of honing my very 'indie' story, and getting that dreaded rejection letter a few times, I decided to take this matter into my own hands - like I do everything else in my life. I switched direction - I'd self-publish. Problem solved. Or was it?
There I sat, hovering over my keyboard, staring at the most intimidating icon I've ever come across...the 'PUBLISH NOW' button on Createspace at Amazon. My index finger twitched in anticipation, as beads of sweat broke out all over my body, and once again, I'd lose my nerve, taking another lap around the house - grabbing another glass of tea or checking on something, anything! Anything to give me another minute to think, another day to stall. What was I about to embark upon? By pushing that button, my naked soul would be exposed for all to see. My secret story of my secret teenage life - my forbidden love! And if that weren't bad enough, my talent as a writer - or lack thereof - would also be up for critique! Seasoned authors, avid readers, english majors would all be scrutinizing every detail - every word, every grammar mistake, and punctuation error. Would I look like a complete idiot? Was I really ready? Was I truly out of my mind? Not to mention, would they accept my controversial story? Or would I be catapulted back to the days from which I wrote about - my 'unaccepted' days? It truly was like high school all over again. And once again, I'd shut down my computer, telling myself, TOMORROW. Tomorrow I WILL do it. I knew another read through was futile, I'd already ordered ten plus proofs - how many times could I rework this thing before I'd totally lose my voice, my style? I knew the only answer was to take the leap...it was time to JUMP, or put my dream of publishing to bed, and back in the drawer where it would sit for future generations to discover as they clean out my belongings after my death. But I knew deep in my heart that I had worked too hard and too long to let that happen...I knew what I HAD to do.
In the same way I approached my first tattoo, I sucked it up and just did it. I finally hit the damn button. PUBLISH NOW became 'Thank you for your submittal! Your memoir, The Gifted Ones, is now live on Amazon! Congratulations, you are now a published author!' OMG! What I dreamed about for the last two years as being one of the most exhilarating, exciting times in my life, became the WORST moment in my life. I immediately took to the couch (with my favorite blanket and a feeling like someone just sucker-punched me in the gut) and that's where I remained for the next few weeks - frozen in fear. What had I done? I truly needed to have my head examined I determined. Sure, I was a ballsy chick, but this was taking it way too far. I'd really done it THIS time!
Fast forward: Slowly I convinced bloggers to review my little memoir, and again, I took to the couch to lose even more weight and time, as sheer terror took me over.
And then the reviews started trickling in...gulp.
Much to my surprise, they were GOOD! In fact, many were GREAT! Had I pulled this off? Were they really digging my story? Turns out, yes! In fact, many were praising my 'unique' writing style and honesty. Wow...Really? Who knew!
And here I sit today with a good little crop of 4 and 5 star reviews under my belt, and praises of thanks from people that needed to hear a story like mine, many connecting in their own ways to fit their own unique situations. Now that's not to say I haven't been criticized by the formal rule-followers, as I knew I would be, but surprisingly they are far and few in-between. I think my message is so important, and my voice so strong, readers overlook the occasional faux pas, and accept my expressive style to get my point across. After all, isn't that what indie is all about? Your own voice, your own style?
That's how I approach my art, so why wouldn't I approach my book in the same manner? A book, especially a memoir, is a very personal extension of the author. If we all wrote the same way, the world of literature would be a very boring place, I think.
So I'll leave you with this: Don't ever be scared to be yourself...after all, it's all you can ever be. If you strongly believe in a project, throw yourself into it and see it to the end - whatever route you have to take. Trust me, someone out there will appreciate your efforts, most importantly, YOU. Did I ever think in a million years I would publish a book, let alone a memoir of the most intimate details of my life? Hell no. But now that I've witnessed what a little courage can do to enrich someone else going through the same thing, or perhaps open a mind or two, then trust me, it was more than worth the trip!
Next time you're looking for a read, perhaps something 'outside the box', may I suggest 'The Gifted Ones', my very raw, very real memoir. At the very least it will entertain you, and maybe, just maybe, you'll learn a little something about yourself too. If we all share our stories of adversities, and how we overcame them, the world suddenly becomes a little less scary.
Happy Halloween Everyone! Thanks for stopping by!
No wait, let me make it even more scary for you...publish your MEMOIR! Oh yeah, now it's even more personal - adding yet another layer of fear! For those of us who have been there, I'm sure you can relate, especially the indie authors that have chosen to go the route that I took - the self publish route. That dark, lonely corridor where you are completely alone and on your own - no agent, no publisher. No one to fall back on, bounce ideas off of, or point the finger at when potential failure comes your way. Nope, it's just you dangling solo without any kind of safety net to catch you...yep, that's the decision I made. Oh, and did I mention I'm not even a 'writer' by design? Oh yeah, I've never written anything professionally in my life...I'm an artist, not a writer!
I can see you shaking your head as you read this, and I know what you're saying, 'What the hell was she thinking? Who'd sign up for that...on purpose?' A masochist?
Let me introduce myself, I'm Lisa Vaughn, and yes, I'm that crazy! Or should I say, I'm that determined when I have a project I feel this passionate about. And that is what it boiled down to. I have a story - and a message - that I've held inside my head for thirty-plus years, and it was high time I let it out. It all started one bizarre afternoon, about two years ago, when I confided my tale to a friend for the first time in my life, and she convinced me the world needed to hear my unique story. After realizing the potential opportunity to spread my message, I agreed - it WAS time, in fact it was long overdue. The problem is, I'm not the most patient person in the world, nor am I one that likes to follow 'protocol' - that's where the hippie in me comes out. So I approached this project like any other piece of self-expression that I create, I jumped in head first and started, well, creating! After two years of honing my very 'indie' story, and getting that dreaded rejection letter a few times, I decided to take this matter into my own hands - like I do everything else in my life. I switched direction - I'd self-publish. Problem solved. Or was it?
There I sat, hovering over my keyboard, staring at the most intimidating icon I've ever come across...the 'PUBLISH NOW' button on Createspace at Amazon. My index finger twitched in anticipation, as beads of sweat broke out all over my body, and once again, I'd lose my nerve, taking another lap around the house - grabbing another glass of tea or checking on something, anything! Anything to give me another minute to think, another day to stall. What was I about to embark upon? By pushing that button, my naked soul would be exposed for all to see. My secret story of my secret teenage life - my forbidden love! And if that weren't bad enough, my talent as a writer - or lack thereof - would also be up for critique! Seasoned authors, avid readers, english majors would all be scrutinizing every detail - every word, every grammar mistake, and punctuation error. Would I look like a complete idiot? Was I really ready? Was I truly out of my mind? Not to mention, would they accept my controversial story? Or would I be catapulted back to the days from which I wrote about - my 'unaccepted' days? It truly was like high school all over again. And once again, I'd shut down my computer, telling myself, TOMORROW. Tomorrow I WILL do it. I knew another read through was futile, I'd already ordered ten plus proofs - how many times could I rework this thing before I'd totally lose my voice, my style? I knew the only answer was to take the leap...it was time to JUMP, or put my dream of publishing to bed, and back in the drawer where it would sit for future generations to discover as they clean out my belongings after my death. But I knew deep in my heart that I had worked too hard and too long to let that happen...I knew what I HAD to do.
In the same way I approached my first tattoo, I sucked it up and just did it. I finally hit the damn button. PUBLISH NOW became 'Thank you for your submittal! Your memoir, The Gifted Ones, is now live on Amazon! Congratulations, you are now a published author!' OMG! What I dreamed about for the last two years as being one of the most exhilarating, exciting times in my life, became the WORST moment in my life. I immediately took to the couch (with my favorite blanket and a feeling like someone just sucker-punched me in the gut) and that's where I remained for the next few weeks - frozen in fear. What had I done? I truly needed to have my head examined I determined. Sure, I was a ballsy chick, but this was taking it way too far. I'd really done it THIS time!
Fast forward: Slowly I convinced bloggers to review my little memoir, and again, I took to the couch to lose even more weight and time, as sheer terror took me over.
And then the reviews started trickling in...gulp.
Much to my surprise, they were GOOD! In fact, many were GREAT! Had I pulled this off? Were they really digging my story? Turns out, yes! In fact, many were praising my 'unique' writing style and honesty. Wow...Really? Who knew!
And here I sit today with a good little crop of 4 and 5 star reviews under my belt, and praises of thanks from people that needed to hear a story like mine, many connecting in their own ways to fit their own unique situations. Now that's not to say I haven't been criticized by the formal rule-followers, as I knew I would be, but surprisingly they are far and few in-between. I think my message is so important, and my voice so strong, readers overlook the occasional faux pas, and accept my expressive style to get my point across. After all, isn't that what indie is all about? Your own voice, your own style?
That's how I approach my art, so why wouldn't I approach my book in the same manner? A book, especially a memoir, is a very personal extension of the author. If we all wrote the same way, the world of literature would be a very boring place, I think.
So I'll leave you with this: Don't ever be scared to be yourself...after all, it's all you can ever be. If you strongly believe in a project, throw yourself into it and see it to the end - whatever route you have to take. Trust me, someone out there will appreciate your efforts, most importantly, YOU. Did I ever think in a million years I would publish a book, let alone a memoir of the most intimate details of my life? Hell no. But now that I've witnessed what a little courage can do to enrich someone else going through the same thing, or perhaps open a mind or two, then trust me, it was more than worth the trip!
Next time you're looking for a read, perhaps something 'outside the box', may I suggest 'The Gifted Ones', my very raw, very real memoir. At the very least it will entertain you, and maybe, just maybe, you'll learn a little something about yourself too. If we all share our stories of adversities, and how we overcame them, the world suddenly becomes a little less scary.
Happy Halloween Everyone! Thanks for stopping by!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
SpeedReaders Delight! SixSentenceSunday is here from 'The Gifted Ones'
Taken from Chapter 21: Crash
There I was, alone in my darkness. This was it. My world had just ended. The one thing I had fought for, practically my whole life, had just walked out the door. All those years, all those triumphs, all that pure love...gone. “Lost” doesn't even come close to describing the blackness I had entered. Who was I if I didn't have her? How could I even fathom going on? I was completely, utterly, unprepared for this tragedy, although all the signs were there - glowing neon, in fact. I didn't know how to live without my other half. Was it even possible? I didn't see how.
I died inside that night.
***
Ok, I gave you a few more than six...hope you enjoyed!
Please visit my other posts or check out the full synopsis above with purchase links to Amazon and Smashwords!
Enjoy your Sunday! Come back soon!
There I was, alone in my darkness. This was it. My world had just ended. The one thing I had fought for, practically my whole life, had just walked out the door. All those years, all those triumphs, all that pure love...gone. “Lost” doesn't even come close to describing the blackness I had entered. Who was I if I didn't have her? How could I even fathom going on? I was completely, utterly, unprepared for this tragedy, although all the signs were there - glowing neon, in fact. I didn't know how to live without my other half. Was it even possible? I didn't see how.
I died inside that night.
***
Ok, I gave you a few more than six...hope you enjoyed!
Please visit my other posts or check out the full synopsis above with purchase links to Amazon and Smashwords!
Enjoy your Sunday! Come back soon!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Get Your Samples Here! SaturdaySamples for 'The Gifted Ones' ~ A Memoir
Excerpt taken from Chapter 21: Crash
On one particular evening, a Thursday to be exact, we came home from work - like any other day. The particulars aren't clear to me today, but I know we got into some kind of tiff, which led Selina out the door to cool off. I don't remember what the fight was about, but you could palpably feel tension in the air, which had been building over time. Another lover's quarrel, figuring she'd go have a beer, or whatever, and be back later to make-up. All would be fine as usual...cat-and-mouse.
Well think again.
Sometimes in life we don't get what we want, we get what we need. Didn't The Rolling Stones teach us that? And what does that mean, exactly? I'd soon find out.
The evening gradually turned into night, with no signs of Selina. Keep in mind, there were no cell phones, so I was forced to sit and wait. And wait. And wait. Not knowing where she was or what had happened. Every hour that ticked by, I'd freak out a little more. My range of emotions went from being scared something awful had happened to her - Car wreck? Rape? Dead in a ditch? To anger - Out partying? At the bar? WITH HER? My skin crawled as I broke out in a sweat. I was nauseas. I was sick. I was sinking. Was this IT? She had never, ever left all night like this before, and this certainly wasn't our first rodeo. We'd had our share of fights in the past, but we always seemed to work them out together. She always ran toward me, not away! Cat-and-mouse.
WHERE WAS SHE? But more importantly, what was she doing?
My mind would not let me rest. I sat up all night teetering on a step leading down to our sunken living room, overlooking a huge picture window. Just sitting and staring...all night...waiting.
Holding myself in a fetal position...as I waited.
Tears soaked my face...as I waited.
My worst fears screamed at me...as I waited.
My world crashed...as I waited.
***
Thank you for visiting! Hope you enjoyed your snippet this week - for a full synopsis, please see above! Purchase links up there too!
Enjoy your weekend!
On one particular evening, a Thursday to be exact, we came home from work - like any other day. The particulars aren't clear to me today, but I know we got into some kind of tiff, which led Selina out the door to cool off. I don't remember what the fight was about, but you could palpably feel tension in the air, which had been building over time. Another lover's quarrel, figuring she'd go have a beer, or whatever, and be back later to make-up. All would be fine as usual...cat-and-mouse.
Well think again.
Sometimes in life we don't get what we want, we get what we need. Didn't The Rolling Stones teach us that? And what does that mean, exactly? I'd soon find out.
The evening gradually turned into night, with no signs of Selina. Keep in mind, there were no cell phones, so I was forced to sit and wait. And wait. And wait. Not knowing where she was or what had happened. Every hour that ticked by, I'd freak out a little more. My range of emotions went from being scared something awful had happened to her - Car wreck? Rape? Dead in a ditch? To anger - Out partying? At the bar? WITH HER? My skin crawled as I broke out in a sweat. I was nauseas. I was sick. I was sinking. Was this IT? She had never, ever left all night like this before, and this certainly wasn't our first rodeo. We'd had our share of fights in the past, but we always seemed to work them out together. She always ran toward me, not away! Cat-and-mouse.
WHERE WAS SHE? But more importantly, what was she doing?
My mind would not let me rest. I sat up all night teetering on a step leading down to our sunken living room, overlooking a huge picture window. Just sitting and staring...all night...waiting.
Holding myself in a fetal position...as I waited.
Tears soaked my face...as I waited.
My worst fears screamed at me...as I waited.
My world crashed...as I waited.
***
Thank you for visiting! Hope you enjoyed your snippet this week - for a full synopsis, please see above! Purchase links up there too!
Enjoy your weekend!
Friday, October 28, 2011
FridayFeelGood: What are YOU afraid to lose?
What are you afraid to lose? Your iphone, your bank card?
I'll have to sheepishly admit my first knee-jerk reaction is my teeth (my biggest fear of ALL time) or my ipad...something of that nature. And then I say it out loud and realize how silly and superficial that really is. Those 'things' can all be replaced - yes, even teeth can be bought pretty easily if you think about it (although I'm not tempting fate you understand!)
The REAL thing we should all be afraid of first and foremost, is losing OURSELVES.
Oh, believe me, it happens pretty easily. One day you wake up and the life you are living is no longer recognizable as anything you would purposely sign up for. Been there? Are you there now? I sure have, and it's the worst feeling in the world - like being suffocated one minute at a time. Tick tock, tick tock.
The day I found true happiness, is the day I was completely honest with myself...my authentic self. No more would I live a life based on what others expected or wanted me to be.
Wow, pretty simple isn't it? Yes, it's THAT simple!
Easy to put into action? Well, not so much sometimes...that's where the work comes in, depending on your situation. But like we've always been taught, nothing in life worth having comes easily, so why should this be any different? But the good news is, once you get your life aligned to meet your authentic requirements, you're basically there - from then on all it takes is maintenance to keep your environment clean of unwanted 'debris' so that you may continue to live your authentic life.
Ask yourself one simple question: Am I living as the TRUE me? Or am I posing ? Wearing a mask all the time - even after Halloween?
My life came full circle when I finally figured out this simple equation: Being true to your authentic self = True happiness. Put that into action and I guarantee you cannot be anything BUT happy! After all, we are who we are - all originals in our own ways...why in the world would you ever want to be anything else? You can't!
Thanks for stopping by! If you get a chance, check out my memoir - The Gifted Ones. I've had a lot of experience experimenting with finding out exactly WHO my authentic self really is - and this book is proof of my journey!
Make it an awesome day folks!
I'll have to sheepishly admit my first knee-jerk reaction is my teeth (my biggest fear of ALL time) or my ipad...something of that nature. And then I say it out loud and realize how silly and superficial that really is. Those 'things' can all be replaced - yes, even teeth can be bought pretty easily if you think about it (although I'm not tempting fate you understand!)
The REAL thing we should all be afraid of first and foremost, is losing OURSELVES.
Oh, believe me, it happens pretty easily. One day you wake up and the life you are living is no longer recognizable as anything you would purposely sign up for. Been there? Are you there now? I sure have, and it's the worst feeling in the world - like being suffocated one minute at a time. Tick tock, tick tock.
The day I found true happiness, is the day I was completely honest with myself...my authentic self. No more would I live a life based on what others expected or wanted me to be.
Wow, pretty simple isn't it? Yes, it's THAT simple!
Easy to put into action? Well, not so much sometimes...that's where the work comes in, depending on your situation. But like we've always been taught, nothing in life worth having comes easily, so why should this be any different? But the good news is, once you get your life aligned to meet your authentic requirements, you're basically there - from then on all it takes is maintenance to keep your environment clean of unwanted 'debris' so that you may continue to live your authentic life.
Ask yourself one simple question: Am I living as the TRUE me? Or am I posing ? Wearing a mask all the time - even after Halloween?
My life came full circle when I finally figured out this simple equation: Being true to your authentic self = True happiness. Put that into action and I guarantee you cannot be anything BUT happy! After all, we are who we are - all originals in our own ways...why in the world would you ever want to be anything else? You can't!
Thanks for stopping by! If you get a chance, check out my memoir - The Gifted Ones. I've had a lot of experience experimenting with finding out exactly WHO my authentic self really is - and this book is proof of my journey!
Make it an awesome day folks!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Why DO People Write Anyway?
Ask that question to 100 writer's, and I'm sure you'll get that many different answers, as writing truly is a personal form of self-expression at its core. And I'm sure each and every piece is unique for the author in it's own way, as well. Of course I can only speculate, as I've only published one book so far.
My memoir, The Gifted Ones, started out solely as a selfish way to deal with unfinished business concerning my deceased mother. Writing, I found, truly is a great therapeutic tool - just as my art is when I need to express myself - writing can be just as healing and expressive, maybe even more so - in a more direct manner.
I found out just how healing writing truly was as I was spewing out the words that needed to be bled from my soul. During this purging release, I realized IF and WHEN those words ever became an organized work, there were really only three people for which I wrote my words for, and only three that truly needed to read them.
*First, and foremost - myself. I needed this outlet to purge my pent up anger and frustration for my mother, family, society as a whole. I needed to see my story in black & white, so I could justify my actions, and confirm I was not crazy or wrong at all.
*Second - my husband. We had been together for well over a decade at the time, and this was the only snippet of my life he knew nothing about - the missing puzzle piece. Not that I didn't want to tell him, mind you, as I have never been ashamed or embarrassed of my story - or hid anything from him. No, it was more out of respect for him, as he does not like to hear of any past relationships- quite the jealous guy I have here, turns out. But I knew deep in my heart to love me wholly, is to know me wholly - even if it might bruise his ego a tad. It was time he knew my past and how I became who I am today.
*Third - the 'other-half' in my book - my first love - Selina. I realized after she left and we went our separate ways, she never really heard 'my side' of the story, or probably never realized the impact her short presence in my life truly made. I deeply wanted to reconnect with her and make sure she knew just what she had meant to me, and how I didn't hold a grudge or any ill feelings whatsoever, in fact, quite the opposite.
It took about two years, but I am happy to say I accomplished my main goals. My husband accepted my story with grace and total acceptance. He had always loved me unconditionally, and this 'surprise' certainly did not change that - if anything it brought us closer. To understand someone's past is to know them at their core, and who wouldn't welcome that in a partner?
I've also since reconnected with Selina - making this project more than worth it. She is, and will always remain my BFF - I can't imagine my life without her in it now. We shared a special time that can never be denied. And deep down we both know we are still 'gifted' as we share our special soul-sister bond, hopefully till the day one of us takes our last breath.
And lastly...myself. To say this book changed my life would be an understatement. It has aligned me with myself, my environment, and those around me who truly matter - allowing me to discover my purpose in life - and that purpose, I believe, is to live an authentic life, living each day being true to who I really am, and also to spread the message from which my story was born from - the message of acceptance. It truly is what drives me to push and promote my book on a daily basis.
I personally didn't write to become famous, make a living, or get rich. I wrote because I HAD to, and now I realize I HAVE to share my story, as that is my true purpose for publishing. As they say, if reading my words can help one person or open a closed-mind, then I've done my job.
And THAT is why 'I' write.
Thank you for stopping by, and if you'd like to check out exactly what I speak of - my synopsis and purchase links are all above!
And again, thank you for supporting indie authors & artists!
Make it an awesome day!
My memoir, The Gifted Ones, started out solely as a selfish way to deal with unfinished business concerning my deceased mother. Writing, I found, truly is a great therapeutic tool - just as my art is when I need to express myself - writing can be just as healing and expressive, maybe even more so - in a more direct manner.
I found out just how healing writing truly was as I was spewing out the words that needed to be bled from my soul. During this purging release, I realized IF and WHEN those words ever became an organized work, there were really only three people for which I wrote my words for, and only three that truly needed to read them.
*First, and foremost - myself. I needed this outlet to purge my pent up anger and frustration for my mother, family, society as a whole. I needed to see my story in black & white, so I could justify my actions, and confirm I was not crazy or wrong at all.
*Second - my husband. We had been together for well over a decade at the time, and this was the only snippet of my life he knew nothing about - the missing puzzle piece. Not that I didn't want to tell him, mind you, as I have never been ashamed or embarrassed of my story - or hid anything from him. No, it was more out of respect for him, as he does not like to hear of any past relationships- quite the jealous guy I have here, turns out. But I knew deep in my heart to love me wholly, is to know me wholly - even if it might bruise his ego a tad. It was time he knew my past and how I became who I am today.
*Third - the 'other-half' in my book - my first love - Selina. I realized after she left and we went our separate ways, she never really heard 'my side' of the story, or probably never realized the impact her short presence in my life truly made. I deeply wanted to reconnect with her and make sure she knew just what she had meant to me, and how I didn't hold a grudge or any ill feelings whatsoever, in fact, quite the opposite.
It took about two years, but I am happy to say I accomplished my main goals. My husband accepted my story with grace and total acceptance. He had always loved me unconditionally, and this 'surprise' certainly did not change that - if anything it brought us closer. To understand someone's past is to know them at their core, and who wouldn't welcome that in a partner?
I've also since reconnected with Selina - making this project more than worth it. She is, and will always remain my BFF - I can't imagine my life without her in it now. We shared a special time that can never be denied. And deep down we both know we are still 'gifted' as we share our special soul-sister bond, hopefully till the day one of us takes our last breath.
And lastly...myself. To say this book changed my life would be an understatement. It has aligned me with myself, my environment, and those around me who truly matter - allowing me to discover my purpose in life - and that purpose, I believe, is to live an authentic life, living each day being true to who I really am, and also to spread the message from which my story was born from - the message of acceptance. It truly is what drives me to push and promote my book on a daily basis.
I personally didn't write to become famous, make a living, or get rich. I wrote because I HAD to, and now I realize I HAVE to share my story, as that is my true purpose for publishing. As they say, if reading my words can help one person or open a closed-mind, then I've done my job.
And THAT is why 'I' write.
Thank you for stopping by, and if you'd like to check out exactly what I speak of - my synopsis and purchase links are all above!
And again, thank you for supporting indie authors & artists!
Make it an awesome day!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Store Bought Pumpkin Pies-Ever Wonder How They're Made? #WordlessWednesday
Happy Halloween everyone!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Lucky Spoon/Burnt Plate~Memories of a Childhood Game..What?
Long before Nintendos, X-boxes, and i-whatevers, there was a period where imagination was your toy of choice, in fact, you had no choice, as that was really it in the toy department...remember those days? If you're a child of the seventies or before, you know exactly what I speak of - when a pile of bricks in the backyard magically 'became' a bat-mobile and tinker-toys ruled.
This year a lot has changed in my life, as the passing of one generation (my parents) gives way to the next (mine). I've had many private 'reflective' moments here recently, and one is so simple and so expressive of the times I speak of, I thought I would share it with you.
It's a game my sister and I played called 'Lucky Spoon/Burnt Plate'.
The rules of this game were simple, and only known between the two of us.
In our cupboards housed two pieces of kitchenware that made up the game. An odd-ball spoon that did not match the rest of the patterned cutlery, and a melmac plate that had a burned edge on it - probably absentmindedly left by the gas stove too long one day. Each day at 3:30pm sharp our small family of four gathered around our round kitchen table for dinner, as my father worked the nightshift and this was our only opportunity for 'family' time. We each had assigned seating, with my sister and I facing each other, my parents on either side. My mother would always set the table beforehand, as we listened to the clanking of dishes from upstairs in our bedroom, anxiously wondering if we would be a 'winner' or 'loser' that day. Of course my mother was not privy to this game, as that would put a biased spin on it, which we didn't need. When we heard her calling out 'Dinner's ready!' we'd race downstairs to check our standings...if your place setting included lucky spoon:You WIN! Burned plate:LOSER! Or worse, 'the combo' - lucky spoon AND burned plate..still a loser, as burned plate trumped everything, but more painful, as you HAD lucky spoon and could of won.
I laugh now at the simplicity of this daily routine, but we really took this seriously, as if reading our horoscope or tea leaves to discover our fate for the rest of the day.
It truly was an era when you really used your mind to discover and develop unique creativity - merely through boredom, if nothing else.
While I was up north this past year helping out with my ailing father, I took the liberty of cleaning out some drawers - discarding useless items, and guess what I came across? There it was, tangled within a bunch of junk, but sitting pretty in the drawer after all these years...lucky spoon! My heart skipped a beat, and a smile instantly came to me as I snatched up my long-lost friend - no way was this treasure going to the landfill, oh no! It went straight into my suitcase to travel home with me, where I envisioned it safe within MY cutlery drawer, living out the rest of it's life with ME.
And now, back with me where it belongs, I smile every time I reach in and pull it out (randomly of course, as searching for it would be cheating). That silly spoon still holds the same magic for me today, somehow making me feel a little more 'lucky' the days I get to use it.
I only wish I could of saved 'burnt plate' too, but I think he met his fate long ago. And really, of the two, I think I'd rather have lucky spoon, but don't tell burnt plate if you see him, as I don't want his bad karma on me ever again!
What were your kooky childhood games?
THE highly sought-after 'lucky' spoon
This year a lot has changed in my life, as the passing of one generation (my parents) gives way to the next (mine). I've had many private 'reflective' moments here recently, and one is so simple and so expressive of the times I speak of, I thought I would share it with you.
It's a game my sister and I played called 'Lucky Spoon/Burnt Plate'.
The rules of this game were simple, and only known between the two of us.
In our cupboards housed two pieces of kitchenware that made up the game. An odd-ball spoon that did not match the rest of the patterned cutlery, and a melmac plate that had a burned edge on it - probably absentmindedly left by the gas stove too long one day. Each day at 3:30pm sharp our small family of four gathered around our round kitchen table for dinner, as my father worked the nightshift and this was our only opportunity for 'family' time. We each had assigned seating, with my sister and I facing each other, my parents on either side. My mother would always set the table beforehand, as we listened to the clanking of dishes from upstairs in our bedroom, anxiously wondering if we would be a 'winner' or 'loser' that day. Of course my mother was not privy to this game, as that would put a biased spin on it, which we didn't need. When we heard her calling out 'Dinner's ready!' we'd race downstairs to check our standings...if your place setting included lucky spoon:You WIN! Burned plate:LOSER! Or worse, 'the combo' - lucky spoon AND burned plate..still a loser, as burned plate trumped everything, but more painful, as you HAD lucky spoon and could of won.
I laugh now at the simplicity of this daily routine, but we really took this seriously, as if reading our horoscope or tea leaves to discover our fate for the rest of the day.
It truly was an era when you really used your mind to discover and develop unique creativity - merely through boredom, if nothing else.
While I was up north this past year helping out with my ailing father, I took the liberty of cleaning out some drawers - discarding useless items, and guess what I came across? There it was, tangled within a bunch of junk, but sitting pretty in the drawer after all these years...lucky spoon! My heart skipped a beat, and a smile instantly came to me as I snatched up my long-lost friend - no way was this treasure going to the landfill, oh no! It went straight into my suitcase to travel home with me, where I envisioned it safe within MY cutlery drawer, living out the rest of it's life with ME.
And now, back with me where it belongs, I smile every time I reach in and pull it out (randomly of course, as searching for it would be cheating). That silly spoon still holds the same magic for me today, somehow making me feel a little more 'lucky' the days I get to use it.
I only wish I could of saved 'burnt plate' too, but I think he met his fate long ago. And really, of the two, I think I'd rather have lucky spoon, but don't tell burnt plate if you see him, as I don't want his bad karma on me ever again!
What were your kooky childhood games?
THE highly sought-after 'lucky' spoon
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