Brenda Baker

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  • A Few Quick Thoughts

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    Well, it’s that time of year again. My brain is officially mush. You could mash it with a plastic spoon at this point. The June by-product of being a (substitute) teacher.

    It’s been a busy school year for me. In addition to work, I’ve spent every available minute from November to February putting my book together and publishing it. Then came marketing, networking, and on and on it goes.

    In reference to the marketing, I did a short online marketing course yesterday, which taught me how poorly I’m promoting my book. When I’m back to myself, I’ll have to see what else I learned and hopefully apply some of that knowledge.

    Although I love my job, I am looking forward to summer vacation. Most summers, I take a road trip with my hubby. We usually plan it out well in advance, but this year we’ve decided to see what happens. It’s just the two of us these days, so planning isn’t as necessary as when we traveled with our children.

    During summer vacation, I’m also hoping to continue writing, of course. With that in mind, I purchased The Elements of Style by Strunk and White. I plan to read it this summer. I know how boring the idea of sitting down to read a grammar book might sound, but I figure if I’m going to commit as a writer, I need to refresh my memory on the rules of writing. It never hurts to review what we know, and this book came recommended by someone I trust. And judging by the preview, the book is written in a highly readable manner. I’ll let you know when I’m done. I’m actually looking forward to reading it. Now there’s something I’d never thought I’d say.

    Because I am tired, I’m keeping this post short and sweet. I should also mention that I’ve updated my privacy page to comply with the new GDPR and you’ll notice the new cookie notification at the top of this site.

    In case you’re wondering what the GDPR is all about, you can check out this link. I’m hoping that I now have everything in order.

    Anyways, before I go, I thought I’d share the wise words of Mahatma Gandhi below. We are the sum of our choices. And while we will continue to make mistakes, we can always try our best.

     

     

    Well, that’s it for this week. Until next time, be kind to yourself.

  • A Look Back to Count My Blessings

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    As we navigate our way through life, we’re bound to make a mistake, maybe two, maybe more. It goes with the territory and it’s called being human. I have to yet to meet someone, anyone, who has never tripped up. Often times, those mistakes teach us our most valuable lessons – etched into our consciousness by way of hard knocks, failed attempts, bruised egos, and the occasional sore spot. What’s an imperfect person suppose to do?

    Also inevitable are the regrets that come with time and age. Not to be downer, but that got me to thinking about my own regrets. I don’t spend time tracking my mistakes because it would prove to be a never ending endeavor. At least my list of regrets is a bit more manageable.

    And to be honest, when I first thought of what regrets I might have, I couldn’t think of any. I don’t tend to dwell in the past. This means that I’ve never really thought about the subject of my own regret.

    But after a slow start, I was able to compile the following list. While it’s not a complete list, it does include the first regrets that come to mind. So, here goes nothing…

    Those Almighty Regrets

    • I didn’t learn to swim or skate. I have a fear of the water, which causes me to hyperventilate if either body of water reaches my waist. An irrational reaction that I’ve never overcome. I did begin learning how to skate, but a friend of a friend, who owned the skates, requested her skates back. I’ve never put on another pair of skates. Those things cost money and now I’m 48 without the inclination to buy or learn.
    • I will always curse the day I started smoking as a teenager. I was seventeen and didn’t know any better. In the 80’s, people still smoked in public buildings and it was the cool thing to do among my peers. I tried to quit once a few years back, but it resulted in six months of severe sleep deprivation, leading to some scary hallucinations. In a desperate need of sleep, I started smoking again. I know what a bad habit it is, so please don’t judge me for it.
    • Oh, how I wish that I’d learned to play the guitar. And although I’m not quite ready to rule out the possibility, the odds get slimmer and slimmer as time goes its merry way.
    • Even though I couldn’t afford to stay in university a day longer, I still regret not getting my Special Education degree. But I needed to get out into the real world and make some money. I had two beautiful daughters counting on me.
    • I would’ve loved to meet my husband sooner. I was 33 when we met in the tiny community I now call home. However, we can’t change the past, so I’m grateful for our future together.

    Like I’ve mentioned, this list is by no means comprehensive, but they’re probably my five biggest regrets ( I could dig deeper, but nah). And as I look back, I’m reminded of my greatest blessings and success stories – for which I’m grateful every day.

    My Shining Stars

    • My two daughters are at the top of the list, of course. I’m so proud of the young ladies they’ve become. And despite my parenting mistakes, they are amazing. So if you have children, don’t knock yourself up over every little blunder. Our children are a lot more resilient then we might think.
    • My husband, proving everything follows its own timeline – including love. Speaking of my husband, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish him, all the other fathers out there, and my own dad who now lives in our hearts and memories, a very happy Father’s Day.

    • My job as a substitute teacher and the students I interact with. They hold the future in their hands. It’s up to us as parents and educators to lead them into that future by our best example, ensuring a brighter future for everyone.
    • The self-publishing of my first book. It represents the realization of a once distant dream. Never give up on what makes your soul sing to its favorite song. Now is probably a good time to share the book trailer that I put together last weekend. I’ll admit to being a little surprised by the positive response. And to save file space, I’m simply sharing the link from YouTube.

    Finding Their Way Home

    • Finally, I’m blessed to have a group of family members and friends who support me in my dreams. No one can follow our dreams for us, but it’s always nice to have company as we travel the next highway.

    Well, that’s it for now. Until next time, be kind to yourself.💜

  • Embracing the Unknown

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    Hi everyone! I hope this week’s post sees you well and in good health.

    This week was slow for me on the substitute teaching side of things as the school year begins to wind down. Many teachers will be starting their yearly review soon in preparation for final exams. Teachers want their students to succeed and will go out of their way to make that happen.

    I was in a replacement position last year and went so far as to personally deliver any missed assignments to one student’s home. The completed assignments were passed in with a smile and words of gratitude.

    I went back to substitute teaching this year by choice. I love the challenge and ever changing environment that it provides my nomadic soul. I moved around a lot growing up, which means that I became use to moving from place to place – to place. And as an adult, I now crave the same change.

    During my university years, I’d periodically change around the furniture in my living room. It satisfied that need for a new environment. But I haven’t changed around my living room in years. I don’t need to anymore. I’ve found a profession that provides all the change I need. What’s not to love?

    Writing on the other hand, provides me with an ever changing mental landscape. I’m also noticing less need for change in my physical world as I continue to write. The act of writing gives me a since of inner peace and balance.

    And this week, I was able to write a couple of poems toward my next full-length poetry book. Two themes are beginning to emerge so far. I’ll see where it goes as I continue to follow the words. They’re even more stubborn than I am – and that’s harder than you might think. I’m about as stubborn as you’ll ever find.

    But what’s most exciting is the series I’m now working on. If you followed my first blog, you may remember Autumn. She’s the teenage runaway who received so much positive feedback from readers. I’ve decided to edit her story, fill in the initial blanks, and finish it.

    As I begin work on the series, there’s also some philosophical inclinations creeping in. I can’t say with absolute certainty, but it’s looking like the final product will be a mixture of poetry, story telling, and social commentary – I can only hope it works.

    The series began as an effort to lend my voice to an under represented group of people. And my greatest fear is not doing justice to the issues treated within my series. The reader will be the final judge of course. It always comes down to the reader.

    Anyhow, at this point in the series, I really want to hug Autumn and tell her that it’s going to work out. Although I don’t think she’s ready to hear those words, so I resist the urge. I’m more than happy listening to what she has to say instead.

    Right now, I’m hoping to publish a chapbook which shares the beginning of Autumn’s journey. And I’m hoping to publish at least one more chapbook about this gutsy young girl who refuses to give up. But time remains our greatest source of knowledge. So I’ll see what happens.

    I seem to be in a perpetual state of not knowing. But that’s fine with me. It’s nearly impossible to keep growing if we only stick to what we already know. And I’ve discovered that in addition to coffee and music, I’m also addicted to learning.

    I wanted to keep this post short and sweet, so I’m off to see what Autumn’s up to now. The last time I checked, she was talking to Jimmy.

    Until next time, be kind to yourselves.

     

  • Untimely Death – It’ll Keep You Guessing!

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    Last Sunday, I had the absolute pleasure of reading Untimely Death by C.Yvette Spencer. It was my Mother’s Day gift to myself. And what a wonderful gift it turned out to be!

    Untimely Death begins with Maria who owns her own clothing store. The day starts like any other ordinary day with Maria tending to the store. But by that afternoon, Maria begins to worry. She’s unable to reach Savannah – her assistant manager. When Maria still can’t reach Savannah after several more attempts, that fear becomes a genuine concern for her friend.

    And as it turns out, Maria had every right to be concerned. A phone call brought Maria’s world to an abrupt and heartbreaking stop. Over the course of the book, we’re introduced to Savannah’s other friends and family. We also get to meet two hardworking and very likable detectives.

    As the story unfolds, we’re drawn into the world of these characters. We’re also offered a glimpse into Savannah’s world – proving appearances aren’t always what they seem…

    I read Untimely Death in two sittings. After Maria received that dreaded phone call, I couldn’t take my eyes off the page. I had to know how it was all going to play out. I will admit to being really surprised by the ending. I just didn’t see it coming. I remember staring at the page for a moment and wondering what I missed.

    I realized after I finished reading that the author had left plenty of breadcrumbs for the reader to follow. So, I’ll be following those breadcrumbs much more closely when I read the other two books in the series. If you do decide to read Untimely Death, you’ll have to let me if you were as surprised by the ending as I was.

    C.Yvette Spencer does a fantastic job weaving this story together. Untimely Death is fast paced and will keep your eyes glued to the page. She has an effortless writing style that engages and propels the reader forward. While this was the first book I read by this super talented author, it won’t be last.

    Because I’m honored to count this talented author among my circle of friends, I asked Connie if she’d mind me asking her a few questions about her book and other things. I was thrilled when Connie so graciously accepted. Here’s what she had to say during our interview.

    My very first author interview!

    Me: Untimely Death is actually part of the Twisted Lessons book series. Are these books connected?

    Connie: Twisted Lessons are a collection of books that all have different storylines but each ends with a twisted lesson (plot).

    Me: What inspired you to write this wonderful book series?

    Connie:  I wanted to bring readers into the stories and elicit their emotions. Give them a crime to solve, like in Untimely Death. Wives with cheating husbands will relate to Nellie in Be Careful What You Pray For, who has her own way of getting even, or like Confessions in the Dark that pulls the reader in several directions. I wanted to give the reader something deep to think about, which is the subtitle of Twisted Lessons.

    Me: In addition to the Twisted Lessons book series, what other books have you written?

    Connie: The Passer, It’s Never Too Late: The Story of Gloria and Sadie, Desperate Struggles Trilogy: Mama Ain’t Dead Yet, By Any Means Necessary, and The Struggle Just Got Real, and for The Twisted Lessons Collection, Devil’s Prey, is due to publish very soon. The Twisted Lessons Collection are short stories, the others are all full-length novels.

    Me: Which book would you consider your favorite and why?

    Connie: It’s Never Too Late, The Story of Gloria and Sadie, my stage play turned novel that is currently being revamped . The elderly sisters are cruel and unpleasant, but it’s what happened to them over their lives that has created their bitterness.  Their story plays out in three stages of their lives, all exploring their dramatic backgrounds and revealing who they will become. Towards the end, their story brings in a little humor to soften the blows of their devastating lives. This story hits home for many and hopefully will detour our judgmental lenses towards one another.

    Me: I love the names of your characters. How do you choose such great names?

    Connie: My character’s names are derived in a variety of ways. I often use family’s and friend’s names. (I always ask first). I’ve invited my readers to help me choose character’s names because I think it’s fun to include them in the story’s process. It helps them to feel connected to the characters, I think. When the storyline is periodically driven or the character is shaped around a cause, I make sure to use names based on that time frame or use names that have special meaning to me, like Gloria and Sadie. Gloria is my deceased mother’s name and “Sadie” Mae is a song my deceased brother would always sing.

    Me: I also love your writing style. How would you describe it?

    Connie: Simplicity, fun, full of drama and spiritually impacted. I like my stories to replicate our daily lives and conversations. We normally don’t speak in descriptive form when describing the scene on the way home from work or use a dictionary to talk to each other. We share stories that make us laugh, angry, cry, or judge each other. Those are the stories I like to create and the style that can be found in each of my books.

    Me: I know what a busy schedule you have, Connie. Is there anything you’re working on right now?

    Connie: Currently, I’m revamping my first two books. I’ve grown as a writer and I want those books to reflect my growth.  I’ve also completed the next installment of Twisted Lessons titled Devil’s Prey, it will release soon and will be the fifth book of the collection. In addition, I have over twenty unfinished stories that are just craving for my attention.

    Me: Not only are you a talented and accomplished author, you also own and operate a publishing business! Could you tell us about Busybee Publication?

    Connie: Busybee Publication was created to help writers on a budget. People who are technology challenged, those who are going at it alone, and who have big publishing needs, but a small bank account. Editing, formatting, book covers, typing service, bios, writing companion, writing coach, marketing posts and marketing consultation are all offered.

    Me: How can you be contacted at Busybee Publication?

    Connie: I only use Facebook because it allows me to be personable with clients and remain connected with them long after they’ve published. I want to know how they are, how their books are doing, and what can I do to help. You can find my page here.

    Me: With so many demands your time, how do you manage to fit everything in?

    Connie: I schedule everything. My working hours start before seven in the morning and more oftentimes than less exceeds twelve midnight. Later, as it continues to grow, I’m hoping to hire people like myself, employment challenged because of age.

    Me: If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

    Connie: Take a moment to discover your passion and pursue it with all of your might. Years later will finally come one day and you will be able to look back over your life without regrets.

    Me: Before I let you go, where can people connect with you?

    Connie: Facebook, Twitter, my Amazon author page.

    Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions, Connie!

    Now before I let everyone else go, here’s a preview of Untimely Death and where you can find it on Amazon! Until next time, be kind to yourself.

  • The Post Without a Name

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    First of all, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all the mothers out there a very happy Mother’s Day! And thanks to my own mother, I discovered many years ago that mothers always know best. Here’s to you, Mom!

    In celebration of Mother’s Day, P.D. Workman put together a fantastic list of book ideas for moms. Books are always a great gift idea. I’m honored to say that my book is also included on the list! I’m hoping that you’ll check it out, so here’s the link below. But finish reading this post first! #demanding

    Give yourself books for Mother’s Day!

    Other than that, not much has happened this week. The Winnipeg Jets did make it to the semifinals. So I’m pretty happy about that!

    A few posts back, I mentioned that I sometimes have trouble remembering what day it is. Well, earlier this week, I thanked a fellow indie author for retweeting my book for me. In thanking her, I wished her a beautiful Tuesday. Little did I know that it was actually Wednesday. It was my hubby who pointed out the difference to me.

    Then later on Wednesday, I told my hubby that the final game between the Winnipeg Jets and the Nashville Predators was at 9.00 p.m. (or was it 8.00 p.m. – I don’t remember haha) that night. So we were both excited and waiting for the game to start – only it didn’t. So then we were wondering what happened to the game! Neither of us wanted to miss it.

    Finally, I decided to check google one last time – google it, just a little bit. Anyways, that’s when I realized my mistake. The game was on Thursday night! We were just a day early – that’s my story and I’m sticking to it. 😉

    Needless to say, we didn’t miss it on Thursday night – being a day early and all. It was another fantastic win for the Jets! Now don’t get me wrong, I happen to like and admire the Nashville Predators. They’re a team with speed and skill. And during regular season, I could see me cheering for them – provided they’re not playing against Toronto, Montreal, or Winnipeg. What can I say?

    Some of you may be surprised that I’m talking about hockey. I mean, I’ve never mentioned it until my last post. But I’m still trying this new thing where I share parts of who I am. So here’s a few things about me that you might not know. 🙂 The questions are bolded for increased readability. It’s getting harder and harder for me to read without my glasses.

    •Name 3 celebrities you most admire: Ellen DeGeneres, Oprah Winfrey, Maya Angelou (the first 3 names that came to mind)
    •What’s your favorite thing about one of your grandparents? Both of grandmothers’ cooking. My grandfather Bungay’s pipe as he rocked in his chair. My grandfather Strowbridge’s salt and pepper hat and kind laugh.
    •What is the sound you love the most? The sound of coffee percolating in the mornings.
    •If you could shop for free at one store, which one would you choose? LeChateau
    •Which of the Seven Dwarfs is most like you? Bashful. I’m actually very shy. Although I don’t remember being shy as a young child. I remember the time my bike was stolen. It didn’t go over right with me, so I scoured the neighborhood one dinner hour in search of my beloved bike. I found it and went up to where it was beneath someone’s kitchen window. As I reclaimed my bike, I could see what looked like the entire family at the dinner table . I was fully prepared for a fight, but it never happened. I rode home on my bike for dinner. Then there was the time when my on again/off again friend said something mean to my younger sister. I walked up to her door and politely asked her dad (my beef wasn’t with the dad) if I could speak to his daughter. And when she came outside, I pinned her to the house (no kidding!) and warned her in no uncertain terms to never, ever say anything mean to my sister again. She never.
    •If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I’d be a lot less shy and a lot more like the much younger me.
    •Who’s your favorite superhero? Superman
    •Would you rather live for a week in the past or the future? The future. If I spent a week in the past, I’d just add to my list of mistakes. The list is long enough.
    •What’s your most embarrassing childhood memory? Pulling the fire alarm in Kindergarten. I resisted for weeks before giving in to the sweet temptation. Did I just admit that? I suspect my teacher had an inkling it was me who had pulled the alarm as I slipped in among my classmates who were headed outdoors. But she never said anything. She did question me, but I was five and not about to accept the consequence for my poor choice. In my defense, I did learn from my mistake and never pulled another fire alarm.
    •What’s your favorite holiday? Christmas. And now my daughters blame me for loving Christmas as much as they do. True story!
    •If you could eat only 3 foods for the rest of your life, what would they be? Leafy green salad with loads of fixings, seafood (the question doesn’t say I can’t include an entire group of foods), pasta of any kind.
    •What’s the most courageous thing you’ve ever done? Publish my book. Seriously, publishing your first book is scary stuff.
    •If you could choose your own nickname, what would it be? Awesomeness – just kidding! Some of my nieces call me aunty B. I’ve always loved it.
    •When you’re having a bad day, what do you do to make yourself feel better? Listen to music. I can’t imagine a world without it.
    •What’s your favorite smell in the whole world? Coffee! Coffee!

    And if you’d like to compile your own list of fun questions, all (but the superhero question) were compiled from this site. The answers are all mine.

    Well, that’s it for this week! Until next time, be kind to yourself. And don’t forget to check that list of book gift ideas! #superdemanding 

  • Taking Time for Me Without Apology

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    The other day, I was talking to a friend about how time seems to speed up as you get older. It’s kind of ironic if you ask me – just when we want time to slow down so as to enjoy the many gifts it’s given us, it speeds up instead.

    After a spring snowfall this week, a student said to me that Mother Nature has a strange sense of humor. I’m inclined to think time shares a similar sense of humor. Here we are, already into May, while just yesterday it was September.

    This has been the fastest year to date for me. I’m hoping it isn’t the new trend. And I have a sneaky suspicion the jump had something to do with the amount of hours devoted to my book. But given that I plan to keep writing and publishing, I don’t see things slowing down any time soon.

    The best I can do is make the most of each day – which doesn’t mean that I spend all my time in busy mode. I think it’s equally important to take some time to care for our bodies and minds. I know it’s not always possible, but as long as we find a balance there somewhere, it’s all good.

    Personally, I set aside thirty minutes every evening for a relaxing bath. It tells my body and mind that it’s time to wind down for the day. After my bath, I love to spend time with my other half. I started my bath ritual while on vacation last summer and just kept it up after that. I suffer from insomnia, but since starting my evening baths, I sleep so much better. I still have the scatter sleepless night, but those nights are fewer and further between these days.

    I also take the time to work out every other day. I’ve been working out since my teens, so it’s become a lifestyle choice. And the closer I get to my nifty fifties, the more determined I am to keep working out. Those workouts give me strength and energy – neither of which I’m willing to give up just because I might be getting a little older. Age is never an excuse.

    This blog is another form of me time. I love writing down my thoughts to share with readers – more or less successfully. My blog is meant to be informal and fun. I have no notions of it ever being a well-crafted body of information – nor is that my intent.

    Rather, each post is organic and imperfect. I’m hoping my blog will grow along with me as a writer. Whereby I continue to share bits of my writing/publishing journey – in addition to bits of who I am as a person. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I like to mix things up.

    And as you might recall, I’ve recently picked up reading again. The past number of weeks have been so busy that I’ve fallen off the reading band wagon – again. Ah well. I’ll hop back on as soon as my schedule allows me. What more can I do?

    A couple posts back, I mentioned how I haven’t take the time to get my hair done in eight (or nine) months due to the hours spent on my book – leading to me feeling like a shaggy dog. Something had to give, right? Well, my appointment was on Friday evening. I now feel like a brand new woman. I promised that I’d share an updated selfie – and because I believe in keeping my word, here’s how I look now. 😉

    As you can see, my hair is lighter and you can finally see my face. I’m also having fun and exercising my sense of humor with this photo . Fun is another thing that we need to take the time for whenever possible.

    Before I let you go, I’d like to share a funny story with you. As I mentioned earlier, I like to spend time with my hubby in the evenings. Lately, we’ve been enjoying the NHL playoffs. I’m a Toronto Maple Leafs fan, so I’m always excited when they make the playoffs. I usually lose interest when they’re eliminated. I should also point out that I don’t consider myself a big hockey fan. I can’t remember the last time I watched a game during the regular season.

    So after the Toronto Maple Leafs were eliminated this year, I lost any real interest in the playoffs – as per my usual. When my other half suggested we watch the first game between the Winnipeg Jets and the Nashville Predators, I said sure – why not. But I had no investment in the game whatsoever.

    I started that first game by dividing my attention between what was happening on the T.V. screen and what was happening on my phone screen. Around halfway through that first period, I couldn’t help but notice how well the Winnipeg Jets were playing.

    By second period, I was cheering them on. By third period, I was a full fledged fan. I couldn’t wait to see the second game! And by the second game, I was following the Winnipeg Jets on Twitter and Facebook. I wanted to see everything they were up to. At some point, my husband joked that I’ll be wearing the jersey next.

    I’ll always be a Toronto Maple Leafs fan first and foremost, but I now have a new team that I love cheering for. The Winnipeg Jets rock! And what a game last night!

    Well, that’s it for this week! Until next time, be kind to yourself. And as always, if you have any thoughts that you’d like to share, I love hearing from you.

  • An Ode to Friends and Books

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    As an indie author (me, an author? – whoa!), I’ve joined a number of writers’ Facebook groups over the past few months. Self-publishing can sometimes be a difficult and lonely road, so I’m always grateful for the support that these groups offer.

    Then a few days ago, as I was checking out a post inside one such group, I stumbled across another author who just so happens to live right here in my little town! What were the odds? And as it turns out, she’s already published three books of historical fiction.

    Now you know how much I love reading works by fellow indie authors, so I soon found her on Goodreads and quickly added the first book in Tanya’s series to my bookshelf. I can’t wait to read it!

    It just goes to show how small the world has become. And you never know who you’re going to meet. I’ve met so many amazing people through blogging and online communities of like-minded people. Chances are, I’ll never meet these people offline, but I definitely count them among my friends.

    When I started blogging, I had no idea what I was doing (nothing new there), or that I would eventually be part of a wonderful blogging community. If you had asked me back then what a blogging community was, I wouldn’t have been able to answer your question.

    It wasn’t until a few bloggers began liking my posts that I ventured outside my own small blog to see what was happening in the blogospere – a term I quickly learned when I began interacting with other bloggers.

    Through those interactions, I met so many great people. Bloggers rock – just sayin’. 🙂 I also noticed that many of these bloggers were published authors. I was impressed to say the least. Eventually it got me to thinking about publishing my own book. Why not, right?

    Fellow bloggers have been an invaluable source of support and encouragement since my very first blog. This is actually my second – created when I was looking for a new learning curve. I have no intention of starting a third blog, so this one should be here to stay.

    In my early days of blogging, I was interviewed by the very talented Jacqueline Oby-Ikocha. As coincidence would have it, Jacqueline is also a poetry writer who now has two books published. Way to go, Jacqueline!

    At the time of the interview, Jacqueline had published her first book and publishing was but an emerging dream for me. I managed to find that interview, so I’m including a link in case you’d like to check it out. You can check out the rest of Jacqueline’s blog while you’re there – should you so desire. She truly is an amazing lady. And you gotta love the name of her blog.

    A Cooking Pot and Twisted Tales

    If you don’t mind, I’d like to switch gears a bit here now and share a fun little poem about books that I whipped up this weekend. After all, books are like friends too, don’t you think?

    An Ode to Books

    Lore and other stories abound
    here, there, and everywhere.
    Worlds of mystery and fantasy
    upstairs, downstairs –
    another one under my bed!
    Bookshelves filled all three
    with elves, knights,
    and lost souls alike.
    Heroes and villains
    (side by side)
    are calling my name
    on a Sunday afternoon
    as the rain pitter-patters
    to the rhythm  of a new season.
    And a new story begins!

    ©Brenda Baker ~ Caffeinated Ramblings 2018

    Well, that’s it for this week. Until next time, be kind to yourself.

     

     

  • Shaggy Hair and Other Caffeinated News

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    I should warn you that this week’s post has no particular point or direction. So once again, it’ll probably end up being one of my caffeinated rambles – hence the name of this blog. 🙂

    First of all, I’d like to share that I’ve begun writing poetry again! Since publishing my book (I couldn’t resist sharing the above image), I’ve spent so much time learning everything I can about the publishing industry that I haven’t had much time or head space to pursue my love of poetry.

    Instead, I’ve been editing a previously written poetic series and entertaining a novel idea. Then one evening this week, as I was cleaning up after supper, I heard a gentle knock at the door. The words were back. And they couldn’t wait to share what they had to say!

    I immediately picked up my pencil and notebook. Later that night I celebrated with my usual dance in the kitchen. I had forgotten how good it felt to follow the words. A new journey had begun! I don’t know if you can tell, but I’m pretty gosh darn excited!

    Shaggy Dogs

    Speaking of my first book, as you know, I’ve  devoted most or all of my spare time to working on it up until about now. So I never really noticed my hair was slowly growing out of hand. And when I did notice sometime in January, I still didn’t care enough to take the couple hours required to have it trimmed and colored. This came to an abrupt halt yesterday as I glanced in the bathroom mirror. I thought I’d give you some idea of what I look like right now.

    Yup. This is what happens when I go eight months without getting my hair done. I promptly called the salon for an appointment. I’m all set to go for May 4th at 6 p.m! I’ll be sure to share an updated photo when it looks much, much tamer. Now my memory isn’t what it use to be, so if I forget, feel free to give me a holler. Seriously, some days I can’t remember what day of the week it is.

    Across the Miles

    While I was washing my hair, which led to me glancing in the mirror and my subsequent hair appointment, I heard the phone ringing. And for whatever reason (daughter’s intuition maybe?), I knew it was Mom on the other end. I couldn’t answer due to a head full of shampoo, but I could hear Mom’s voice coming in from the living room.

    This led to an afternoon chat of almost three hours. As always, we talked about everything and nothing in particular. We have another phone date set for next Saturday.

    It was my first time actually talking to Mom in way too long. Sure, we text and message each other almost every day, but it isn’t the same – you know what I mean?

    For starters, you can’t cover as much ground or hear each other’s voices through text messages – regardless of how many. And I love hearing my mother’s voice. It always does me a world of good. So why don’t we talk more often? I think we’re guilty (like many others) of becoming so caught up in the day to day, that we forget to take time out for what’s really important – things like family and friends.

    OK, I’m way, way more guilty than Mom of this. I’m sure Mom would call every day if it were possible. Every time we do talk, Mom makes me feel as though there’s absolutely nothing else she’d rather be doing. And even after a three hour conversation, I could hear the sadness in my mother’s voice as we hung up. I plan to keep our phone date.

    As I type, I’m reminded of the time I sent Mom this selfie – a face only a mother could love. I’m not sure why I look so bloody contrary. It probably had something to do with the snow waiting for me in the driveway. But man, I look awful – another “ah well’ moment. Those moments seem to be occurring more often as I get older.

    Unfazed, this was Mom’s response to my selfie. My mother has a great sense of humor with a laugh to match. And as you can see, we’re wearing matching hats, no make-up, and absolutely no regard for how we look. The point is that we both had fun. And sometimes, that’s all that really matters. Life shouldn’t always be taken seriously. And we shouldn’t take ourselves seriously all the time, either. Wouldn’t you agree?

    Until next time, be kind to yourself. And as always, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below. I love hearing from you. 🙂

  • Do We Have Room for One More?

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    Our world population has now reached a little over 7.6 billion people and continues to grow. If you would like to see just how quickly, check out this cool link. 

    Global Neighbors

    The majority of us will never meet. However, I like to consider all of us as neighbors. And like all good neighbors, we need to get along. A nice sentiment, but what does it mean exactly? Does it really mean that we need to get along with 7.6 billion other people. Well, it kind of does.

    The question is how can we be good neighbors with someone who lives on the other side of the planet? In my humblest of opinions, it comes down to respect for each other, for our shared space, and for Mother Earth.

    We’re all in this together. This being the lives in which we actively participate, including our mistakes and successes. This being our daily experiences from the mundane to the extraordinary. This being our fears and aspirations. This being our failed dreams, broken hearts, and the hope that inspires our future. 

    Things like job titles, salaries, etc, create divisions between us in terms of affluence and lifestyle. While these divisions can be seen and felt, they are superficial – sometimes hiding a fundamental truth. We are all human beings. No more, no less.

    A Single Humanity

    Our humanity, our struggles, and our desire to succeed make us equal. We need to remember that which unites us and forget the things we allow to divide us. This isn’t a new idea, and yet we continue to focus on our division, instead of our unity.

    We need to accept that regardless of our superficial differences, we are all equal participants in a global community. Reason enough to respect each other, don’t you think?

    Once we’re able to respect each other and our global neighbors, perhaps then, we can also accept that humanity is full of diversity, continuously shaping and painting our global mosaic in a multitude of beautiful colors. It’s time to celebrate that diversity. This is possible once mutual respect becomes intrinsic to our individual and global interactions.

    A Beautiful Hostess

    We interact globally within the shared space of our beautiful planet. Mother Earth, who acts much the same as a den mother, is the greatest hostess I know. She simultaneously provides for the basic and other needs of over 7 billion people. This designates her as the queen of multitasking.

    She provides us with food, shelter, water and medicine through her natural resources. Scientists are still discovering the wealth of our planet’s natural resources and their benefits. Needless to say, Mother Earth has thought of everything, making her a first-rate caregiver as well.

    Although Mother Earth is more than capable of providing for us, we need to cooperate with her. We need to stop being so egocentric, and realize that in addition to our shared humanity, we also have a shared responsibility.

    As global neighbors, we need to care for our “den mother” as she cares for us. A mutually beneficial relationship based on our respect for her and for each other. According to scientists, the Earth is 4.5 billion years old. So, I don’t think we need to worry about the permanence of our hostess, at least not for several more billion years. A more immediate concern would be her continued ability to provide for our well-being.

    Respecting everyone’s right to have their needs met, whereby citizenship is synonymous with global stewardship, we need to become more responsible about managing our planetary resources. There’s plenty to go around if we act responsibly. Problems arise when we take our abundant resources for granted, misuse and destroy them with no regard to the consequences. 

    The Way Forward

    We’ve destroyed half of Earth’s trees since we’ve been here. That’s just one example of our irresponsibility. Either one of us could compile an entire list of examples. The consequences impact me, you, and our neighbor on the other side of the planet.

    I’m not an environmental expert, but at the rate we’re abusing our resources, we will eventually destroy Mother Earth’s ability to provide for us. We need to act more responsibly as her guests. Something I think we can all agree on. Another point of unity.

    And I have faith in us. We exist in a constant state of change, learning as we go. Hopefully, we can learn from our mistakes. Time will let us know definitively. Until then, I’m optimistic. My cup is always half full.

    While as a species, we may still be experiencing growing pains, we will eventually learn to be good neighbors and stewards. It’s the only outcome that makes sense to me. We’re hard-wired to survive. We can’t survive without the resources so generously offered to us by our Earth Mother. So, we need to be better caretakers and learn how to share, insuring that there is always room for one more.

     

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    I wrote this very early on as an aspiring writer. Reading it now, I realize that it may have actually inspired my debut poetry book. In my book, I attempt to break down the walls that divide us to explore our common humanity.

    I wrote this long before my first poem, so it just goes to show that we never know where our journey will take us.

    Until next time, be kind to yourself.

  • Covers, Reviews, and Marketing

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    I finally took the plunge and reached out to a very talented lady for help with my book cover. I mentioned her a few posts back. She can be found on  Facebook and Twitter.

    Anyways, thanks to Connie’s patience and expertise, I finally have a Kindle cover image and book jacket that I can be proud of. I was never quite happy with my own efforts. If you follow my blog, you may remember that I said I’d be begging Connie to design my next book cover. Well, I decided not to wait so long. You know what they say. There’s no time like the present.

    Which more or less brings me to my next point. You’ve probably read this elsewhere, but if you decide to self-publish, find yourself a professional cover designer – unless you absolutely know you’re doing. I figured I could get by on my own (I can hear Joe Cocker singing in my head) – only to end up unhappy with the final design. I tried tweaking the cover, and I was much happier with it. But I didn’t love it. I couldn’t stand by my book with pride. And now I can. See for yourself. 🙂

    And we all know how important book covers are. The first thing a potential reader sees is the cover. If they like the cover, there’s a much greater chance that a potential reader will take a closer look to see if it’s a book for them. We all have different tastes and reading preferences. And some stories will resonate with us more than others.

    We also need great quality of course – the same is true for any product. Otherwise, those much needed reviews may not be what we had hoped. Although I have yet to read a self-published book that didn’t impress me with its superb content.

    There’s something so honest in the stories written by self-published authors. The voices of their characters ring true. I don’t mind admitting that I’m hooked. Please don’t get me wrong, I’m not knocking traditionally published books. I just think indie authors deserve their day in the sun as well.

    Now if you don’t mind, I’d like to get back to the subject of reviews for a quick second. I’ve probably mentioned time and time again by now how important reviews are and why, so I’ll spare you having to read the same thing again. But if you’re on Goodreads and you’re interested in honest reviews for your book(s), there’s a great group that you can check out. It hasn’t work very well for me (poetry is a harder sell), but I’ve seen books receive loads of review requests. It’s worth a try, right?

    Then there’s the required marketing of our self-published books. Unless you’re fortunate enough to have a fan base waiting to buy your books, it’s up to us to find those readers. Otherwise we run the risk of having our books lost somewhere in cyberspace. And is that what we envision for our books? I didn’t think so.

    The million dollar question is how do we find readers? Lord knows there’s an awful lot of them out there. And how do we get our books in front of the right readers? By that, I mean readers who enjoy the genre our books fit into. I certainly don’t want someone who dislikes poetry to read my book.

    For that reason, I don’t market my book to friends and family. I have no reason to believe they like poetry, so why try putting my book in front of a reluctant audience? I do have a sister whose support is relentless. I’m lucky to have her in my corner.

    I’ve also been fortunate enough to have a few authors on Twitter who continuously support my book by retweeting my posts. I’m more than happy to support other authors in the same manner, and I do.

    I should mention that I discovered a couple of online services to help me with my marketing efforts as well. Although I don’t have enough helpful information to share just yet. But I will as soon as I can.

    Like many of us, I’m learning as I go. So I’d appreciate any marketing tips that you might like to share with me and other writers/authors. I’d also love to read your opinion on book covers and reader reviews.

    Before I go, remember that I mentioned I could hear Joe Cocker singing? I thought I’d share the song with you. I love music as you know. Until next time, be kind to yourself.

    With a Little Help From My Friends