I’ve read lots of books, seen tons of movies about kids and adults who become the stuckie for some popular kid. The stuckie usually gets to be the one to give everything to their ‘star friend’ and they always get the short end of the stick. I always wonder if the kid ever grows out of that co-dependency. I like to think that some do.
HOW TO KNOW WHEN GIVING TURNS TO USING
As a kid, I had a serious candy habit. I would buy a pack of Now and Later’s every day after school. They only cost about ten cents a pack and I would use my fifty cent allowance on them most of the time. My favorite flavors were watermelon and green apple. Funny thing was – that was everyone’ favorite flavors too.
The only time I could eat the candy was during recess. I tried all kinds of ways to conceal them as I would sneak one of the twelve pieces into my salivating mouth. I swear to you, each and every time I broke open the package kids across the play yard heard it.
They would come running – kids that laughed at me, teased me, threatened to beat me up and that I frankly didn’t like. They would beg, tell me they would be nice to me, and then snatch my candy.
As I got older things changed. I had friends that were so nice to me, only to find out that behind my back they were making moves on my boyfriends or saying hateful lies to people who were getting to know me. These ‘friends’ would take my kindness and thirsty desire for friendship and twist it to their personal gain.
WHEN YOU KNOW YOU HAVE A TRUE FRIEND AND NOT A USER
True friends – I’ve been blessed by many. In that I’ve been lucky. A true friend gives as much as they take. When you are in a jam and need their help, they try within their power to help you. They support you, and see your successes with pride, knowing that you are truly grateful for their support. They don’t keep taking with the expectations that you give. When you do give, they are sincerely thankful – and they tell you so.
WHEN TO SAY ‘NO MORE!’
If you have a ‘friend’ that has taking your kindness as a form of weakness, and you find that they are using you, take matters in hand. Meaning if you see that you are the only one giving and they never give back, they just take, take, take – then treat you as though you should be happy to give to them, you’ve got a user on your hands. You need to stand up for yourself and let them know what they are doing.
One bit of advice my Nana gave to me that has stuck with me all of my life, “No one can do to you – anything that you don’t allow them too.” Which means when you find that someone have pushed you too far – let them know it – and follow up with actions not just words.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Monday, February 1, 2010
THE RESPONSIBILITY OF A YA WRITER
I am participating in a panel of YA authors to discuss the responsibility of the author in writing for the younger generation. The issue at hand is that YA authors fall into two different camps in reference to what impact their writing has on teens. Issues like bulimia, cutting, sex, and suicidal tendencies to name a few taboo items affect teen thoughts. Therefore, it is believe that authors should write about these topics responsibly.
NO VIOLENCE OR RESPONSIBLE VIOLENCE?
Well, some authors have written books that contain violence that includes hunting and killing other kids, like Hatchet or Lord of the Flies. Was it needed for the story? Well some people believe so.
I believe that in the world we live in (at least the one I grew up in) violence is real and active. Although, some people have never had it invade their personal space, most kids and adults have. Kids, in my opinion, are smart and intuitive to their environment. In most cases have heard news stories that confirm the violent nature of man, and they have become somewhat desensitized to it.
When I wrote my MG book Explorer X – Alpha my 8yr old and 12 yr old beta read it. They told me not to hold back. They wanted the details of the character’s struggles. When parents read Explorer X – Alpha, I got responses like, “All the kids do is fight. How come the kids couldn’t find another way to solve their problems? Why did the kids become so violent when they played the video game simulations?”
My answer to them was…did you ever see a kid play a video game? They have no inhibitions or sympathy for their opponents. Heck, my husband annihilates our kids when playing video games with them, and I feel like a lamb to slaughter when my 6 year old cons me into playing with him.
NO SEX?
Alright, in writing my upper YA novel I struggled with how to write intimate scenes for the young main character. I personally don’t see the point in added sex if it doesn’t progress the story. Yet, when I was a kid, I remember reading stuff that wasn’t YA and I skimmed over the sex parts without embarrassment.
Let’s face it. Some kids are sexually active. Heck, their bodies are revved up on hormones that make them think about the opposite sex all the time. These are issues they don’t mind reading about. However, in a YA book my personal thoughts are – keep it tasteful.
NO TOUCHY SUBJECTS?
Some would ban subjects like suicide, cutting, and drugs. These are real issues that our kids deal with on a daily basis. It doesn’t matter if they are in the inner city or in the suburbs all of these things happen, and they probably know someone that is dealing with these issues.
Should a YA author romanticize these things. My opinion – they should not. But (yes there is a but) in cases where they want to show the perspective of a youth caught up with these activities in order to move the story forward then it makes sense.
For instance, a drug addict, is in love with their drug of choice. If you ask any of them they will talk like that drug is the better than sex or anything. Why do they do that? Well, because they are hooked on it. A writer would want to address this realistically.
MY THOUGHTS
I personally believe that YA authors should write about what kids are struggling with or dealing with. I don’t believe they should be responsible for the censor of books. A parent should censor what they want their kids to read. Also, let’s be honest – most parents don’t care what their kid is reading – just that their kid is reading.
Also, when I was a teen reader – I didn’t just read YA. I also read adult books. I would bet that most teens today do this also.
Lastly, the YA author isn’t the only one that reviews books for distribution. The process of writing a book, getting an agent, then a publisher, and lastly an editor vets the novel before it ever gets to the shelves.
NO VIOLENCE OR RESPONSIBLE VIOLENCE?
Well, some authors have written books that contain violence that includes hunting and killing other kids, like Hatchet or Lord of the Flies. Was it needed for the story? Well some people believe so.
I believe that in the world we live in (at least the one I grew up in) violence is real and active. Although, some people have never had it invade their personal space, most kids and adults have. Kids, in my opinion, are smart and intuitive to their environment. In most cases have heard news stories that confirm the violent nature of man, and they have become somewhat desensitized to it.
When I wrote my MG book Explorer X – Alpha my 8yr old and 12 yr old beta read it. They told me not to hold back. They wanted the details of the character’s struggles. When parents read Explorer X – Alpha, I got responses like, “All the kids do is fight. How come the kids couldn’t find another way to solve their problems? Why did the kids become so violent when they played the video game simulations?”
My answer to them was…did you ever see a kid play a video game? They have no inhibitions or sympathy for their opponents. Heck, my husband annihilates our kids when playing video games with them, and I feel like a lamb to slaughter when my 6 year old cons me into playing with him.
NO SEX?
Alright, in writing my upper YA novel I struggled with how to write intimate scenes for the young main character. I personally don’t see the point in added sex if it doesn’t progress the story. Yet, when I was a kid, I remember reading stuff that wasn’t YA and I skimmed over the sex parts without embarrassment.
Let’s face it. Some kids are sexually active. Heck, their bodies are revved up on hormones that make them think about the opposite sex all the time. These are issues they don’t mind reading about. However, in a YA book my personal thoughts are – keep it tasteful.
NO TOUCHY SUBJECTS?
Some would ban subjects like suicide, cutting, and drugs. These are real issues that our kids deal with on a daily basis. It doesn’t matter if they are in the inner city or in the suburbs all of these things happen, and they probably know someone that is dealing with these issues.
Should a YA author romanticize these things. My opinion – they should not. But (yes there is a but) in cases where they want to show the perspective of a youth caught up with these activities in order to move the story forward then it makes sense.
For instance, a drug addict, is in love with their drug of choice. If you ask any of them they will talk like that drug is the better than sex or anything. Why do they do that? Well, because they are hooked on it. A writer would want to address this realistically.
MY THOUGHTS
I personally believe that YA authors should write about what kids are struggling with or dealing with. I don’t believe they should be responsible for the censor of books. A parent should censor what they want their kids to read. Also, let’s be honest – most parents don’t care what their kid is reading – just that their kid is reading.
Also, when I was a teen reader – I didn’t just read YA. I also read adult books. I would bet that most teens today do this also.
Lastly, the YA author isn’t the only one that reviews books for distribution. The process of writing a book, getting an agent, then a publisher, and lastly an editor vets the novel before it ever gets to the shelves.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Legion (Movie Review)
I am a movie fanatic. Usually go anytime I can. I went to see Legion thinking it was going to be an awesome war scene with the good and bad angels – I was mistaken. I must say I was very disappointed in this movie. It must have been relatively low budget because most of the movie took place in a diner.
Now with that said, I still enjoyed it. It had some good points like the irony between Gabriel and Michael’s purpose. The fact that the girl carrying the baby (who was the hope for the future of mankind) didn’t even want the baby, of course she changed her mind. The movie dropped positive message amid the chaos and attacks of the fallen angels, which showed some depth to the characters. These things kept me in my seat watching.
So, if you are thinking about a movie that you may want to see on video – this one is it. I give this movie 1.5 stars.
Now with that said, I still enjoyed it. It had some good points like the irony between Gabriel and Michael’s purpose. The fact that the girl carrying the baby (who was the hope for the future of mankind) didn’t even want the baby, of course she changed her mind. The movie dropped positive message amid the chaos and attacks of the fallen angels, which showed some depth to the characters. These things kept me in my seat watching.
So, if you are thinking about a movie that you may want to see on video – this one is it. I give this movie 1.5 stars.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Are people pre-destined? Or manipulated by a greater force?
In writing EXPLORER X – Alpha, I touched on this subject, but for a moment. Aadi is faced with a terrible situation; one he really doesn’t know how to fix. He can’t even fight it with the surety that he will be successful, so he takes a moment and prays. Daniel replied to his actions with disgust, but Scott supported him. His call for help didn’t appear to be answered, because things just went from bad to worst. However, he chose to stay true to what he knew about himself. In that final hour of trouble, whether he won, or lost – he was to stand true and not allow the bad things that happened to him to change him for the worst, but to change him for the better.
When I look back at my life, I am like, “Wow!” I used to ask myself time and time again, why did I have the parents I had? Why did I have so many struggles growing up when I was defenseless? However, I always believed in a higher being. I believed in a God that allowed me to make choices, and was conditioning me to be stronger. Who loved me, but made me into a compassionate, survivor, and determined woman I am today. I needed that, because my life as a young person was full of turmoil. A product of teenaged parents, who were still learning about themselves, is a tough way to grow up.
I don’t believe that your life is pre-destined. I believe that when you are faced with problems, circumstances that are horrible and out of your control, you still have power of choice. No one can change or harm your inner most self. That part of you that lays hidden within, unless you allow them too. I believe we have choices. The choice to learn from your difficult circumstances, become stronger, and to fight against the temptation to turn into those that tormented you. You know how I know this is possible, because I am a product of this, and so many other people I knew succeeded in spite of circumstances so difficult that most people could never imagine surviving.
Explorer X – Alpha shows the difficult journey of Aadi’s realizing that he has control over one major thing in his life – himself. Although he was created to be a conqueror of worlds, he gets to decide if that is what he will become. Just as we all have a choice in what we become. We can let difficulties make us bitter, sad, hurt ourselves, or we can fight to make those circumstances turn us into heros – that learn from the pain, and help someone else in their difficult journey.
When I look back at my life, I am like, “Wow!” I used to ask myself time and time again, why did I have the parents I had? Why did I have so many struggles growing up when I was defenseless? However, I always believed in a higher being. I believed in a God that allowed me to make choices, and was conditioning me to be stronger. Who loved me, but made me into a compassionate, survivor, and determined woman I am today. I needed that, because my life as a young person was full of turmoil. A product of teenaged parents, who were still learning about themselves, is a tough way to grow up.
I don’t believe that your life is pre-destined. I believe that when you are faced with problems, circumstances that are horrible and out of your control, you still have power of choice. No one can change or harm your inner most self. That part of you that lays hidden within, unless you allow them too. I believe we have choices. The choice to learn from your difficult circumstances, become stronger, and to fight against the temptation to turn into those that tormented you. You know how I know this is possible, because I am a product of this, and so many other people I knew succeeded in spite of circumstances so difficult that most people could never imagine surviving.
Explorer X – Alpha shows the difficult journey of Aadi’s realizing that he has control over one major thing in his life – himself. Although he was created to be a conqueror of worlds, he gets to decide if that is what he will become. Just as we all have a choice in what we become. We can let difficulties make us bitter, sad, hurt ourselves, or we can fight to make those circumstances turn us into heros – that learn from the pain, and help someone else in their difficult journey.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
THE CHILD THIEF, by Brom (Book Review)
Book review by, LM Preston, www.lmpreston.com
(4 out of 5 stars)
Brom’s, THE CHILD THIEF, is a remake of the epic tale of Peter Pan. It’s a dark tale bought to modern day, and delves into the hidden or lightly touched on sinister plot of the tale of Peter Pan.
I picked this book up because the artwork on the cover intrigued me. It was hauntingly beautiful. The boy on the cover enchanted me and innerved me at the same time. When I opened the cover to read the excerpt – I couldn’t put it down. So, I scooped it up and took it home, and fought with my husband to read it first.
Peter Pan was one of my favorite fairy tales when I was younger, and even today I replay the movie even when my kids aren’t there to watch it with me.. The Disney versions of Peter Pan (there were 2 versions, the cartoon and the full length movie) showed the tale as a sort of love story with Peter and Wendy. Yet, I always thought there was something dark about Peter, Neverland, and those Pirates.
Brom’s THE CHILD THIEF digs into the darker aspect of why would any kid want to go away and never grow up. Peter’s darker side, the side that made him desire to steal kids away to come to a land where they were in danger of death or worse. Lastly, whatever became of the ‘lost boys or girls’ that followed Peter? What made those kids so vicious?
From the moment I read the first chapter I was captured, Peter unfolds as a complex likeable character that is also sinister. See, Peter needs the kids just as much as they believe they need him. He purposely selects his victims, stalks them actually. Peter needs kids that are strong, have nothing to lose and that he can train to fight in the war that is waging in Neverland.
This book has a lot of violence, and is not for kids to read. The violence has reason and the characters have depth. The only reason I gave it less than 5 stars was because I cried near the end. See I prefer happier endings. The ending of this tale is good and fitting for the tale. I just wanted a different outcome.
(4 out of 5 stars)
Brom’s, THE CHILD THIEF, is a remake of the epic tale of Peter Pan. It’s a dark tale bought to modern day, and delves into the hidden or lightly touched on sinister plot of the tale of Peter Pan.
I picked this book up because the artwork on the cover intrigued me. It was hauntingly beautiful. The boy on the cover enchanted me and innerved me at the same time. When I opened the cover to read the excerpt – I couldn’t put it down. So, I scooped it up and took it home, and fought with my husband to read it first.
Peter Pan was one of my favorite fairy tales when I was younger, and even today I replay the movie even when my kids aren’t there to watch it with me.. The Disney versions of Peter Pan (there were 2 versions, the cartoon and the full length movie) showed the tale as a sort of love story with Peter and Wendy. Yet, I always thought there was something dark about Peter, Neverland, and those Pirates.
Brom’s THE CHILD THIEF digs into the darker aspect of why would any kid want to go away and never grow up. Peter’s darker side, the side that made him desire to steal kids away to come to a land where they were in danger of death or worse. Lastly, whatever became of the ‘lost boys or girls’ that followed Peter? What made those kids so vicious?
From the moment I read the first chapter I was captured, Peter unfolds as a complex likeable character that is also sinister. See, Peter needs the kids just as much as they believe they need him. He purposely selects his victims, stalks them actually. Peter needs kids that are strong, have nothing to lose and that he can train to fight in the war that is waging in Neverland.
This book has a lot of violence, and is not for kids to read. The violence has reason and the characters have depth. The only reason I gave it less than 5 stars was because I cried near the end. See I prefer happier endings. The ending of this tale is good and fitting for the tale. I just wanted a different outcome.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Tease from THE PACK (Fall, 2010)
To read more check it out @ www.lmpreston.com
Shamira, the main character is blind, and a vigilante on the prowl to get answers about the missing kids on Mars.
“Looks like you made out pretty good today,” she said and walked toward him. She didn’t give him a chance to reply as she punched him with enough power to smash his back and head against the wall.
Cracking his neck to the side, he licked his lips. His voice filled with lust as he said, “Hey! You like it rough, don’t ya? I do too, you fine young thing.”
She grinned at him, and with lightening speed she gripped his neck. He gulped when she tightened her grip and her knee jabbed into his groin with force.
“Don’t try to sweet talk me. I want information. You know where the kids are being held, don’t you? Tell me, and I’ll let you go with memories of Earth,” she said. She held his neck with her clawed glove. Using her other hand, she reached into her pocket to pull out a truth tick that she pierced into his neck. She waited for the flat mini computerized bug to do its job. It sharp legs sunk into the Lenny’s skin and the biological replica of many species, inserted a poison into Lenny that forced him to tell the truth.
“I’m not talking. I ain’t getting killed for no one, sweetness,” Lenny said with a wince from the tick’s deepening claws. His speech slurred while the tick started to do its dirty work.
“We’ll see about that. Just give it a moment, sweetness,” she said and promptly spit in his face. He disgusted her. His kind had no morals.
The scent in the air changed, and she heard someone approaching. One of Lenny’s sidekicks, she could smell Lenny’s scent on him. She swiftly took the metal ball out of her pocket, waited for the guy to come closer, and without turning from her captive, tossed the ball at him while she faced Lenny as he weakened. The metal web burst from the ball and slammed its running victim against a wall of the buildings they were sandwiched between. She heard him gurgle while the web drew tightly to strangle its victim within an inch of his life. It allowed only enough air into his lungs for him to stay alive.
“Now, where were we? Oh yeah, you were telling me about where those kids are being held—and as a matter of fact, where Security Force Leader McCann of Sector Three may be,” Shamira said.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
MOVIE MADNESS (Avatar, Sherlock Holmes, Daybreakers)
I went to see 3 movies in the last two weekends. Because I am an action and thrill junkie, I went to see movies that I thought would give me a rush. All of them delivered.
Now I will forwarn you, I am not the type of critic that looks at a movie for plot and all that. I go to the movies strictly to be entertained. So, with that said, you know my expectations aren’t that high.
AVATAR (4 out of 5 stars)
Okay, I have to be honest. When I first heard of this movie I thought it was The Last Airbender (Avatar).The Last Airbender (Avatar). You see, my kids and I watch this cartoon all the time – and I love, love, love it. Now, once I realized that AVATAR the movie was about this guy who’s brain is placed in this being who he controls from another location, I was still intrigued. I went to see this at the IMAX movie, in 3D and I was truly impressed. The storyline was decent, and the scenery was downright amazing – especially when you see it in 3D. There was a sprinkle of love, lots of action, and a world that I would love to live in. My husband said it was like, Dancing with wolves, but in SciFi.
SHERLOCK HOLMES (3 out of 5 stars)
I actually liked this movie. It was visually interesting, dark, and the chemistry between the leading men was entertaining. Sherlock was intelligent, strong, and eclectic. Holmes was the sane one – or sort of the co-dependent one. Throw in a fake supernatural element that gets despoiled and you have a fun movie.
DAYBREAKERS (3 out of 5 stars)
This movie was a pleasant surprise. It had an okay story line. Vampires are running low on blood, and need to find a substitute or harvest humans to survive. Humans are on the run, and a miraculous cure for vampirism is found – but no one wants it. There was suspense, gore, attraction, and more suspense. Kind of quirky, but still a fun ride.
Now I will forwarn you, I am not the type of critic that looks at a movie for plot and all that. I go to the movies strictly to be entertained. So, with that said, you know my expectations aren’t that high.
AVATAR (4 out of 5 stars)
Okay, I have to be honest. When I first heard of this movie I thought it was The Last Airbender (Avatar).The Last Airbender (Avatar). You see, my kids and I watch this cartoon all the time – and I love, love, love it. Now, once I realized that AVATAR the movie was about this guy who’s brain is placed in this being who he controls from another location, I was still intrigued. I went to see this at the IMAX movie, in 3D and I was truly impressed. The storyline was decent, and the scenery was downright amazing – especially when you see it in 3D. There was a sprinkle of love, lots of action, and a world that I would love to live in. My husband said it was like, Dancing with wolves, but in SciFi.
SHERLOCK HOLMES (3 out of 5 stars)
I actually liked this movie. It was visually interesting, dark, and the chemistry between the leading men was entertaining. Sherlock was intelligent, strong, and eclectic. Holmes was the sane one – or sort of the co-dependent one. Throw in a fake supernatural element that gets despoiled and you have a fun movie.
DAYBREAKERS (3 out of 5 stars)
This movie was a pleasant surprise. It had an okay story line. Vampires are running low on blood, and need to find a substitute or harvest humans to survive. Humans are on the run, and a miraculous cure for vampirism is found – but no one wants it. There was suspense, gore, attraction, and more suspense. Kind of quirky, but still a fun ride.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
FOLLOW YOUR GUT
Trusting your own gut feelings is one of the best gifts of being a human or an intelligent being. We all get that little ‘twinge’ when something just isn’t right. When that happens…LISTEN TO IT! Trust yourself or your ‘gut’ some call it. Trust it at all times, it will never steer you wrong.
When I was young I lived in the inner-city of Washington , DC . The neighborhood I called home, had gangs, drugs, muggers, killers, and lots of kids and family nearby. However, with all of these things present, I didn’t realize that my gut instincts were strengthening with each day I played outside, walked to school, to the bus, or traveled the city alone.
I never understood why my grandmother, affectionately named NaNa, didn’t want me to leave my block to go to the store alone. Or why, I wasn’t allowed to cut through the alleys to get to my cousin’s house, and the numerous list of things I was told to watch out for.
My main character in EXPLORER X – Alpha realizes that something isn’t quite right with the immunization he is given. Aadi takes the initiative as asks the Doctor why it is being given to him. In addition to this finding, Aadi confirms his concerns with others.
Here are some steps to take in trusting yourself in all things;
LISTEN TO THAT ‘TWINGE’ IN YOUR GUT
When you are in a situation with a friend or an adult, and you get that feeling that something isn’t quite right, then you are most likely correct. Learn yourself, and test this ability.
If your friend tells you that you should sneak out to go to that great party that so-and-so is going to, then you feel this tickle in your tummy, and you hesitate. This is your gut talking to you. It’s telling you … hold on … don’t jump into this.
Listen to it. Find out how your gut talks to you. Think of all those times you got into major trouble, and ponder over what you felt just before you did the deed that got you into that mess. That’s how you learn how your psyche talks to you.
TAKE A STEP BACK, AND ASK QUESTIONS
Never, ever, feel like you don’t have the right to ask a question. Asking a question only gets you in trouble when it hasn’t been asked, or the person of whom you are asking the question doesn’t want to give you an answer.
Don’t think I’m right on this? Test it, and think back to times when the person of whom you asked a question reacted negatively. In most cases, it is because they don’t want to give you an answer.
Asking the question is never, ever wrong. You have the right. So use it when you are in those situations where your gut is telling you that something is just not adding up.
IF IT DOESN’T ADD UP THEN IT DOESN’T ADD UP
When something doesn’t make sense, or the story just sounds down right disjointed, and your gut is telling you that something is off. Then trust your gut, something is off.
This is a saying my Nana used to tell me when I would give her a scenario of what a friend told me, or did to me.
“Honey, if it don’t add up, it won’t add up. Something is definitely not right with that story.”
Do you know in each instance she said this, she was absolutely correct.
TAKE ACTION
If you get that feeling something isn’t right take action.
In EXPLORER X – Alpha Aadi and Eirena, his co-pilot investigate their gut feeling that something is off about their camp with their team. They find that terrible things have been done to them.
There are several ways to take action. Here are some;
- Just tuck the knowledge away, and wait for the truth to reveal itself. Believe it or not this happens a lot in life. The truth has a way of coming out. Sometimes it happens quickly, and sometimes it takes a long, long time.
- Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to ask questions in order to get the answers you want. You can ask anyone questions, and that may solve the mystery.
- Run away or stay away. If you are in a situation where an adult or a peer appears to be leading you in a direction that you feel is not safe. Run. There is no harm in running away from or staying away from someone.
GUESS WHO's In Control? -- You are!
Realize that you have control of your destiny. No matter what happens to you in your life, you can learn from it all and become a better person. Making the same mistakes will become harder the more you learn to trust your gut instincts, and yourself.
When I was young I lived in the inner-city of Washington , DC . The neighborhood I called home, had gangs, drugs, muggers, killers, and lots of kids and family nearby. However, with all of these things present, I didn’t realize that my gut instincts were strengthening with each day I played outside, walked to school, to the bus, or traveled the city alone.
I never understood why my grandmother, affectionately named NaNa, didn’t want me to leave my block to go to the store alone. Or why, I wasn’t allowed to cut through the alleys to get to my cousin’s house, and the numerous list of things I was told to watch out for.
My main character in EXPLORER X – Alpha realizes that something isn’t quite right with the immunization he is given. Aadi takes the initiative as asks the Doctor why it is being given to him. In addition to this finding, Aadi confirms his concerns with others.
Here are some steps to take in trusting yourself in all things;
LISTEN TO THAT ‘TWINGE’ IN YOUR GUT
When you are in a situation with a friend or an adult, and you get that feeling that something isn’t quite right, then you are most likely correct. Learn yourself, and test this ability.
If your friend tells you that you should sneak out to go to that great party that so-and-so is going to, then you feel this tickle in your tummy, and you hesitate. This is your gut talking to you. It’s telling you … hold on … don’t jump into this.
Listen to it. Find out how your gut talks to you. Think of all those times you got into major trouble, and ponder over what you felt just before you did the deed that got you into that mess. That’s how you learn how your psyche talks to you.
TAKE A STEP BACK, AND ASK QUESTIONS
Never, ever, feel like you don’t have the right to ask a question. Asking a question only gets you in trouble when it hasn’t been asked, or the person of whom you are asking the question doesn’t want to give you an answer.
Don’t think I’m right on this? Test it, and think back to times when the person of whom you asked a question reacted negatively. In most cases, it is because they don’t want to give you an answer.
Asking the question is never, ever wrong. You have the right. So use it when you are in those situations where your gut is telling you that something is just not adding up.
IF IT DOESN’T ADD UP THEN IT DOESN’T ADD UP
When something doesn’t make sense, or the story just sounds down right disjointed, and your gut is telling you that something is off. Then trust your gut, something is off.
This is a saying my Nana used to tell me when I would give her a scenario of what a friend told me, or did to me.
“Honey, if it don’t add up, it won’t add up. Something is definitely not right with that story.”
Do you know in each instance she said this, she was absolutely correct.
TAKE ACTION
If you get that feeling something isn’t right take action.
In EXPLORER X – Alpha Aadi and Eirena, his co-pilot investigate their gut feeling that something is off about their camp with their team. They find that terrible things have been done to them.
There are several ways to take action. Here are some;
- Just tuck the knowledge away, and wait for the truth to reveal itself. Believe it or not this happens a lot in life. The truth has a way of coming out. Sometimes it happens quickly, and sometimes it takes a long, long time.
- Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to ask questions in order to get the answers you want. You can ask anyone questions, and that may solve the mystery.
- Run away or stay away. If you are in a situation where an adult or a peer appears to be leading you in a direction that you feel is not safe. Run. There is no harm in running away from or staying away from someone.
GUESS WHO's In Control? -- You are!
Realize that you have control of your destiny. No matter what happens to you in your life, you can learn from it all and become a better person. Making the same mistakes will become harder the more you learn to trust your gut instincts, and yourself.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Do more than Hope this New Year – Achieve your dreams!
Every New Year, you hear about resolutions. I used to do them and never achieve them. One day my husband and I were talking and we came up with the idea of goal planning for the New Year.
Wouldn’t you know it – when we planned our goals – we achieved them (or most of them).
PLAN YOUR DREAM LIST
Sit down and set realistic possibilities for meeting your dreams. Write your dreams down, and map out how you plan on reaching them. Be realistic, and only plan for the year. Remember, anything you do consistently for 6 weeks you will achieve it.
TRICK YOURSELF TO DO THE MOST DIFFICULT ACHIEVEMENTS
Here are some ways to trick yourself into being successful at the most common goals for the New Year;
Trick Yourself into Saving Money
Okay, let’s say you want to save more money. Well trick yourself into meeting this goal by setting up an account or direct deposit to take the money directly from your paycheck. Don’t have an atm card for this account, or a check book. Make it really difficult to get the money.
Trick Yourself into Losing Weight
Get friends to join with you in your endeavor to lose weight (chose a friend who is already achieved the goal you desire to achieve). Then sign up for a walk a thon within four months of your goal. You can also join a gym. Make a promise to yourself that you can’t go to sleep without doing some exercise (even walking up the stairs 10 times will work).
Trick Yourself into finishing that novel you always wanted to write
Join a critique group. Yep, force yourself work with other authors who desire to finish their books by the end of the year. Accountability goes a long way.
TREAT YOURSELF
What good is planning if you don’t give yourself a reward? I treat myself with a vacation. I book a cruise or an apple vacation that I can pay on monthly. Then when it’s paid off – I get my reward.
DON'T make a resolution
Make a Plan, and a promise to do something awesome for yourself!
Wouldn’t you know it – when we planned our goals – we achieved them (or most of them).
PLAN YOUR DREAM LIST
Sit down and set realistic possibilities for meeting your dreams. Write your dreams down, and map out how you plan on reaching them. Be realistic, and only plan for the year. Remember, anything you do consistently for 6 weeks you will achieve it.
TRICK YOURSELF TO DO THE MOST DIFFICULT ACHIEVEMENTS
Here are some ways to trick yourself into being successful at the most common goals for the New Year;
Trick Yourself into Saving Money
Okay, let’s say you want to save more money. Well trick yourself into meeting this goal by setting up an account or direct deposit to take the money directly from your paycheck. Don’t have an atm card for this account, or a check book. Make it really difficult to get the money.
Trick Yourself into Losing Weight
Get friends to join with you in your endeavor to lose weight (chose a friend who is already achieved the goal you desire to achieve). Then sign up for a walk a thon within four months of your goal. You can also join a gym. Make a promise to yourself that you can’t go to sleep without doing some exercise (even walking up the stairs 10 times will work).
Trick Yourself into finishing that novel you always wanted to write
Join a critique group. Yep, force yourself work with other authors who desire to finish their books by the end of the year. Accountability goes a long way.
TREAT YOURSELF
What good is planning if you don’t give yourself a reward? I treat myself with a vacation. I book a cruise or an apple vacation that I can pay on monthly. Then when it’s paid off – I get my reward.
DON'T make a resolution
Make a Plan, and a promise to do something awesome for yourself!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
What do I think of when I think of Winter
Winter, I actually have a love and hate relationship with winter. I love taking my kids snowboarding, to ski resorts, and playing in the snow. I hate driving in ice and snow. Absolutely, hate it.
I love living in a state that has all of the seasons. However, winter causes me to cozy up and do hot cocoa every night. A secret treat I love to give myself every night before bed. I also tend to gain the most weight in the winter. If I lived in a cold and rainy state I would be a lot bigger than I am, and trust me I fight to stay the size I am now.
SLEEP, I do more of this in the winter
You ever notice that because it gets darker earlier, and lighter later that you tend to sleep more in the winter? Well I do. I am not much of a sleeper. Typically 6 hours is all I require, but in the summer time, I am up in 4 hours like I am excited to start my day. The winter time requires the entire 6 hours of sleep, and I even would like to take a nap here and there.
SWEETS, I definitely eat more of these in the winter
Okay, most people gain more weight in the winter time than summer. You know why? Comfort foods are the culprit. Firstly, I definitely up my warm drink from tea to cocoa. I desire more coffee, and exercise less. There is something about cozying up with a warm blanket and watching TV while drinking cocoa that seems to be the best winter treat possible.
EAT TIL U DROP, two holidays that require a lot of eating.
Thanksgiving followed by Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanza and parties. Okay, let’s be honest, how many of you gorge yourself for Thanksgiving? *slowly raised hand* Well, then in December, all the holiday parties where you eat and drink come along. I have four to go to this year alone. You have to dig into to cookies, cakes, drinks, pies, yummy meats and treats – why? Because they only come along one time of year.
SHOP TIL U R Broke – AND YOUR CREDIT CARD GETS DENIED
For most people, the day after Thanksgiving marks, “BLACK FRIDAY” and the start of the marathon Christmas shopping spree of the year. I used to stand in line on the day after Thanksgiving in hopes of the great deals, but now I don’t do that. I will admit to getting a rush at having my pockets filled with money to spend (I would take cash so that I wouldn’t overspend – however, I always ended up pulling out my credit card in the end).
For the last six years though, I stopped doing the “BLACK FRIDAY” sales and the shopping marathons. Funny thing is, my kids ask for less now because we travel during the holidays. Usually, they are asking to go to the pool, snowboarding or do the family games we do when traveling. We only exchange a handful of presents, and as soon as they are opened the kids want to go to the pool. Go figure.
THE COLD REALITIES OF WINTER
Some of the cold realities of winter where I live is snow, freezing rain, and accidents. I have had my share, and wouldn’t trade the change of seasons for anything. There is just something about winter that makes the waiting for spring and summer all the sweeter.
I love living in a state that has all of the seasons. However, winter causes me to cozy up and do hot cocoa every night. A secret treat I love to give myself every night before bed. I also tend to gain the most weight in the winter. If I lived in a cold and rainy state I would be a lot bigger than I am, and trust me I fight to stay the size I am now.
SLEEP, I do more of this in the winter
You ever notice that because it gets darker earlier, and lighter later that you tend to sleep more in the winter? Well I do. I am not much of a sleeper. Typically 6 hours is all I require, but in the summer time, I am up in 4 hours like I am excited to start my day. The winter time requires the entire 6 hours of sleep, and I even would like to take a nap here and there.
SWEETS, I definitely eat more of these in the winter
Okay, most people gain more weight in the winter time than summer. You know why? Comfort foods are the culprit. Firstly, I definitely up my warm drink from tea to cocoa. I desire more coffee, and exercise less. There is something about cozying up with a warm blanket and watching TV while drinking cocoa that seems to be the best winter treat possible.
EAT TIL U DROP, two holidays that require a lot of eating.
Thanksgiving followed by Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanza and parties. Okay, let’s be honest, how many of you gorge yourself for Thanksgiving? *slowly raised hand* Well, then in December, all the holiday parties where you eat and drink come along. I have four to go to this year alone. You have to dig into to cookies, cakes, drinks, pies, yummy meats and treats – why? Because they only come along one time of year.
SHOP TIL U R Broke – AND YOUR CREDIT CARD GETS DENIED
For most people, the day after Thanksgiving marks, “BLACK FRIDAY” and the start of the marathon Christmas shopping spree of the year. I used to stand in line on the day after Thanksgiving in hopes of the great deals, but now I don’t do that. I will admit to getting a rush at having my pockets filled with money to spend (I would take cash so that I wouldn’t overspend – however, I always ended up pulling out my credit card in the end).
For the last six years though, I stopped doing the “BLACK FRIDAY” sales and the shopping marathons. Funny thing is, my kids ask for less now because we travel during the holidays. Usually, they are asking to go to the pool, snowboarding or do the family games we do when traveling. We only exchange a handful of presents, and as soon as they are opened the kids want to go to the pool. Go figure.
THE COLD REALITIES OF WINTER
Some of the cold realities of winter where I live is snow, freezing rain, and accidents. I have had my share, and wouldn’t trade the change of seasons for anything. There is just something about winter that makes the waiting for spring and summer all the sweeter.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
WHY I LOVE KARATE FLICKS
I have always, always, always had a passion for karate flicks. I grew up when Bruce Lee was the hottest action star smoking. Everyone wanted to be in one of his movies. I even took martial arts because of my obsession with his movies. You would think I would have outgrown him and flicks like that, but I haven’t.
One of my hobbies or obsessions, is to go to the local flea market and purchase karate flicks. I talk the vendor down to 4 for $25 because I go so often.
HOW IT’S INFLUENCED MY WRITING
I remember a beta reader, an older guy, telling me that he absolutely loved my fight scences. He commented on how real they seemed. He wasn’t the only one. Many of my beta’s said they loved my descriptions and the defensive moves my smaller characters made.
Well I get a lot of my material from all of those years watching those Karate movies and wishing I was in them. Hey, some of the moves I even tried out on my baby brother (shhhhh…. Don’t tell him I told you that).
NINJA ASSASINS – the most recent Karate movie I went to see
Now that you know all about my obsession, then you know why I went to see this movie. This movie had it all. Cool moves, blood, a little romance, and fighting. However, even for me – a gore queen – it was a bit over the top on the blood. I would have preferred more fighting without so much cutting or slicing. This movie made KILL BILL look like a walk in the park.
With that said, I still enjoyed it. I admit it, I have a tough stomach and I couldn’t stop watching it. I did notice though that some of the ladies in the theatre got out of there. When I did go to the bathroom, one lady asked me, “Oh my, it was too much for me! What about you?” and I looked at her and said, “Oh it’s violent, but I can handle it.” We both laughed and I went back to join my husband who has the same obsession.
My recommendations for this movie is, don’t expect it to win an award. If you like gore, fighting, skimpy romance with just a chaste kiss, then you just may enjoy this movie. If I was to rate it, I’d give it a 2 stars only because I’ve seen much better karate flicks than this one.
One of my hobbies or obsessions, is to go to the local flea market and purchase karate flicks. I talk the vendor down to 4 for $25 because I go so often.
HOW IT’S INFLUENCED MY WRITING
I remember a beta reader, an older guy, telling me that he absolutely loved my fight scences. He commented on how real they seemed. He wasn’t the only one. Many of my beta’s said they loved my descriptions and the defensive moves my smaller characters made.
Well I get a lot of my material from all of those years watching those Karate movies and wishing I was in them. Hey, some of the moves I even tried out on my baby brother (shhhhh…. Don’t tell him I told you that).
NINJA ASSASINS – the most recent Karate movie I went to see
Now that you know all about my obsession, then you know why I went to see this movie. This movie had it all. Cool moves, blood, a little romance, and fighting. However, even for me – a gore queen – it was a bit over the top on the blood. I would have preferred more fighting without so much cutting or slicing. This movie made KILL BILL look like a walk in the park.
With that said, I still enjoyed it. I admit it, I have a tough stomach and I couldn’t stop watching it. I did notice though that some of the ladies in the theatre got out of there. When I did go to the bathroom, one lady asked me, “Oh my, it was too much for me! What about you?” and I looked at her and said, “Oh it’s violent, but I can handle it.” We both laughed and I went back to join my husband who has the same obsession.
My recommendations for this movie is, don’t expect it to win an award. If you like gore, fighting, skimpy romance with just a chaste kiss, then you just may enjoy this movie. If I was to rate it, I’d give it a 2 stars only because I’ve seen much better karate flicks than this one.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS?
When I was growing up, I had many presents in excess for Christmas. My mother would start purchasing Christmas gifts as early as spring so that she could give my brother and me all the things she thought we wanted. As a teenaged mother, this was a great feat for her.
I totally took that for granted. I was never really a materialistic person, and the things she bought me I considered were a poor excuse for her not being around. As a single mother she usually was working all of the time and I spent my time taking care of my brother and our tiny apartment in the seedy part of town in which we lived.
However, every Christmas I would awaken to a living room full of more toys than I could have ever imagined.
You would have thought that I would have learned to be more conservative with my gift giving for my own children. Well, you are wrong. I started out doing the same thing. My husband didn’t help much both because he was adopted and felt as though he wanted to give his kids the Christmas that he never had.
After several years of this excessive gift giving, my son looked at me and said, “Mommy, it’s too much. I don’t know what I want to play with.” I was jolted back to my childhood and realized that I forgot the true meaning of the season.
Now, we travel for the holidays. We take a few small gifts that we exchange. We talk about what we are grateful for and what we hope for the New Year. Over the years I am more and more surprised when I ask my older kids what they want for Christmas and they say…”Oh, not much. I’ve got everything I need.” Wow, who’d a thunk it? Christmas, about us spending time together and appreciating the gift we have of a loving family.
I totally took that for granted. I was never really a materialistic person, and the things she bought me I considered were a poor excuse for her not being around. As a single mother she usually was working all of the time and I spent my time taking care of my brother and our tiny apartment in the seedy part of town in which we lived.
However, every Christmas I would awaken to a living room full of more toys than I could have ever imagined.
You would have thought that I would have learned to be more conservative with my gift giving for my own children. Well, you are wrong. I started out doing the same thing. My husband didn’t help much both because he was adopted and felt as though he wanted to give his kids the Christmas that he never had.
After several years of this excessive gift giving, my son looked at me and said, “Mommy, it’s too much. I don’t know what I want to play with.” I was jolted back to my childhood and realized that I forgot the true meaning of the season.
Now, we travel for the holidays. We take a few small gifts that we exchange. We talk about what we are grateful for and what we hope for the New Year. Over the years I am more and more surprised when I ask my older kids what they want for Christmas and they say…”Oh, not much. I’ve got everything I need.” Wow, who’d a thunk it? Christmas, about us spending time together and appreciating the gift we have of a loving family.
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