The Nerd in me is coming out. Yes, I Like SteamPunk!

Hello Dawnettes! Welcome to the world of SteamPunk!!


I needed to discuss a subject that I wanted to know more information about. Especially with all that is happening in the world this week. 

STEAMPUNK! This is a world I think I could live in. A combination of Sci-Fi with an old world feel to it, at the same time with a futuristic overtone. Steampunk reminds me of Medieval times. Periods dating around 1500's. The Medieval Period has always been a time that I found most fascinating. Whether it be a television show or a novel, I've always been intrigued and researched what was going on historically.  This year, I'm planning on attending the Faire. I've even attended several Renaissance Faires in the past.

I visited Portland in 2016 for about a month before moving to Washington for a year. In that time frame, I discovered SteamPunk and wanted to attend an event to get a feel for it. However, I left before I had the chance.😪


Now that I'm back in California and I have an opportunity to see parts of the state I haven't visited before, I think I'm going to see if there is an event near where I live.


I love graphic novels and I would like to delve into or at the very least, explore different genres. I love Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Paranormal, and Horror. I'm lovingly adding on SteamPunk; you have to change it up every now and again.

I would love to get feedback on this subject from people who know more about it. Once this blog is posted, I will reach out via social media and see what happens.

I needed to remind myself of the definition of Steampunk. Here is what I found:

steam·punk

Dictionary result for steampunk

/ˈstēmˌpəNGk/

noun

1. a genre of science fiction that has a historical setting and typically features steam-powered machinery rather than advanced technology.

   
   

   "if you like steampunk, this is a great book for you"

   • a style of design and fashion that combines historical elements with anachronistic technological features inspired by science fiction.

     
     

     "the essence of steampunk is homage to vintage fashion with a modern, sassy twist"

   
   

Thank goodness for Pinterest and Tumblr. These platforms have so much to view

as far as seeing images and connecting with others that share the same interest. Now all I need is to pick up a pair of goggles, a top hat, and a corset!

Hope everyone has a great weekend. 

Be well,

D.

{*I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THESE IMAGE}

What I listened to while making this blog.

{I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THE SONG}

Toni Braxton

Toni Braxton-Long as I live

Book 2 Release Update!!!!!

                               

                                

                  HAPPY RELEASE DAY! 

                                   OMG!!!! 

      The day I've been putting off for 

          two years is finally here!

       

                             

                                                 

Hello Fam & Dawnettes!

One of the main reasons I've put off releasing the book has been I just wasn't ready. Seriously.
I've had to re-adjust my thinking. Bumps and bruises along the way and definitely learned a few lessons. Plus I wanted to make this second release go off without a hitch. And that takes time, patience and humility.

Yes, Ladies & Gentlemen Book 2 is being released on March 1st and I couldn't be happier. Well, that's not true. If my books were being made into a web series or picked up by a cable network I would be ecstatic.
In any case, I'm thrilled beyond measure at the release of Book 2 in my five part series.

Let's start with the premise of the entire series. 

A virus is spreading around the world and killing Human Beings and destroying Vampires. The Vampyirs(pronounced Vampires) are experiencing what they call the Ultimate death. 

Each book is from the main character's viewpoint. Her character will showcase her journey from being Human to being turned into a Vampyir. Along the way you will share her experiences as she tries to navigate through the world as a Vampyir fighting for her kind's survival and how vital her role is during the Plague Years.

HERE SHE IS:

Cover done by Creative Designs Ankh

Alex Races Against the Dawn~ The Vampyir Plague is available for Pre-Order right now!

Once you have purchased the book, it's with great humility that I ask, if you have a moment to leave a review. 😉

And now, a lil synopsis about the current book...

You will be introduced to the world according to Alex (aka Alexis from Book 1). She is second in command in Midnight's coven and Midnight's confidant. The Vampyir Plague is running its course.  In this installment, more will be revealed about the plague itself in this installment and how our UN-dead ladies are dealing with it.

There will be twists and turns. Blood of course. Sex, women, a few men and even a bit of magic.
This book will take you to places around the world and into the dark side of history in the United states from the late 1800's to the mid 2000's.

I hope you will enjoy this latest publication. I put a lot of time and effort ( and promoting!!!!) into this novel.

And while you are in the mood of all things Vampy, Please visit my newly "revamped" website for upcoming events. I have a few surprises in store for ya!

Thank you so much Fam for your continued support😊

                    I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THESE IMAGES*

Character Inspired Images*

*Music I listened to while writing my novel and my character's theme song: As a reminder~ I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THIS SONG

       Syd- From the album Fin~ Nothing to Somethin

If you would like any information regarding the design of my cover, click on the book cover image! You will be pleasantly surprised.

Happy Black History Month! Let's Celebrate

Hello Fam & Dawnettes,


Diversity is the new word that has woven it's way into our social consciousness. So much so, that it's changing the way we view and think of others that are outside of our culture and race. It's always been there. However, it has become more prevalent in recent times.

 So, I have said in the past when you visit my blog, you will not find anything of a "political" nature. I created this blog for several reasons. I've come to the belief that when someone has a platform, certain subjects should be addressed.

Well, fortunately I created a space where I can speak on this subject. Not only because it's long overdue, but it goes along with my personal motto and I know I'm not alone in my thinking. This will be a particularly long post, so sit tight and read on.👀

Cinematic films have come a long way. Films can transports us to another place and time. It can have an impact on those who want to go into acting, film directing or even be part of the process, for example; the crew. Movies can reach people in places where in many cases people wouldn't even know they existed. They can also educate or give you a different viewpoint from five people all at once. Such as documentaries or give you glimpse into someone personal life. Biopics. You get the jest.
I recently came across a post about a movie with a portrayal of a masculine centered lesbian. I thought, "Yeah, let's see what this is about." And let me say this before I begin. I like all genres. If it's interesting, from foreign to Sci-fi I will watch it.
There are only two reasons that I would pay money to go see a movie at this point. The cast has someone I truly enjoy their work or the subject matter. Back in the day, I loved going to the movies. I loved seeing the previews and the anticipation of what's to come in the next few months or upcoming year. The fragrance of popcorn looming in the air. The stickiness beneath your shoes as you walk on the floor to get your perfect seat.
Now, I'm just annoyed. I get anxiety thinking someone is going to bring their baby into the theatre or answer their cell phone during the movie. I digress. Let me get back on topic.

I understand not everyone's performance is entertainment. There are groups of people that will never see another group of people's work simple because of their race. That's reality.
However, there still should be a reflection of the current times and the landscape in general. I agree there are certain reason's movies become blockbusters or iconic films.
With that being said, I started to delve into my collection of favorite movies from the 1940's ( yes, I love older movies) to recent times.
I understand "we" have come a long way. There are certainly more POC representation in films than when featured cinema were originally created. Quite a few Black Actresses and Actors have paved the way for many to the ability to be able to do they can do now. We have also seen some changes in the way we are represented. The negative stereotypes have somewhat faded away, but not entirely gone.

In 2018, there were a total of 38 movies with People of Color and female in lead roles.
68% of all female characters were white in the top 100 films of 2017. 16% were Black, 7% were Asian, 7% were Latina, and 2% were of another race or ethnicity. Women and Hollywood(Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film)📉

 

There is an amazing documentary about this very subject done by Shudder network called "Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror." It is being showcased across the country, but if you can't make it to the showings you can check it out on Shudder on Feb 7th! Please take a moment and visit  Graveyard Shift Sister's website. 
"Graveyard Shift Sisters is an online resource dedicated to the scholarship surrounding the experiences, representations, achievements, and creative works of Black women and women of color in the horror and science fiction genres." from the about section located on website.*

I watched Viola Davis's Emmy speech in 2015 (and along with various reasons such as the documentary highlights) it forever changed the narrative of why I continue to write they way I do.
I thoroughly enjoy writing as a whole. I love creating my characters, their world, and introducing the chaos that comes with it. Going forward it has purpose for me. It's my choice. It's not only my purpose but my duty as a writer to create these characters with layers and complex personalities and definitely with a defiant and clear, rich cultural background.

Always,

Be well,

D.

                               

I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THIS SONG
Song I listened to while I was writing this blog:Blue Girl by Q-Tip

Learning to Navigate through this journey as a Writer

Hello, Dawnettes and other wonderful individuals who decided to check me out! 

Welcome and please feel free to subscribe to my wacky world of opinions and other interesting tidbits of that cross my path.

*Shameless plug: If you have read my current novel Midnight Comes With the Dawn-The Vampyir Plague, please leave a review. Thanks!👍📝*

Let's begin on the title on this particular blog. I try not to let any personal issues seep through and end up for public view.
However, on this blog, I will have to give a bit of a personal struggle because I feel someone will benefit from it.
Now let's begin.

On April 25, 2015, I had reached a milestone. On that date, I completed my first interview. It took a little tweaking, but rest assured I am very pleased with the outcome. I was so grateful ( and I still am.) that the author chose me to be the first "Author of the month" in their podcast. I was literally crying as I blogged it back then. There are so many dimensions to me and my brand.  I feel like I've only just begun my journey as a human being with many interests. Even though I'm a little older than I look! 😉
I say all this because some people don't understand that it isn't always easy to maintain a balance between writing and have other different things going on in your life.😌

In the past, I have always tried to be a fair-minded individual and give you all that I have. I'm not without flaws or shortcomings and I'm definitely not a selfish person. I have also felt somewhat guilty if I'd take time to do something for myself. That, in turn, translates to me that I'm not giving back to my family or I'm not dealing with a current crisis firsthand.
Over the years, I learned positive and painful lessons. I didn't let myself recharge. I didn't love myself enough to grow as a woman. I needed to come to terms with living my truth and accepting who I was. I'm happy to report that eventually happened. Everything from that point, I have tried to improve my surroundings, develop better relationships with people in my life and set boundaries.

In 2018, I've had to evaluate and make changes. Which I will admit, it was a struggle at first. My mind is always racing and I have so many ideas, it's a little hard to contain all of them. As the weekend draws closer, I'm trying to keep calm and give myself permission to just breathe. There are times that I need personal space. My partner has been working diligently with me on this issue to make sure I take the time I need. What a bumpy road it has been! Trust me!

It's consent struggle to write and be creative. It's not also easy to just sit in front of a computer and write. At least not for me. I need people to understand this.  Writers from all walks of life already know this. They even set up a regiment to complete daily writing tasks.  I get comments from people all the time who don't write for a living telling me, "Why haven't you written anything lately? I thought writing was therapeutic for you?" and other side eyed questions.👀
In addition to writing, I have to check on my social media accounts. I don't post as I have in the past for several reasons. According to most authors and writers, there is a balance and a rhythm you have to juggle if you want viewership, followers or build your fan base. You have to constantly put out content and respond to those who take the time to comment. Yes, I realize there are apps and self-help books that can help me. As I write this, my only thoughts are to have a grilled cheese sandwich and watch Boxtrolls. (I love cartoons.) 

I'm a writer. A published author. A dedicated Partner & Mom. There are many other facets to me. My main objective as a writer is: Writing, blogging and creating new content with POC (People of Color) & LGBTQ+ representation. 

I did accomplish a few goals this week. Important things for my writing career. I'm making strides thanks to my commitment to stay on task and complete my personal goals this year. 

When I put my headphones on and listen to my music, I'm transported into another world. I'm at peace. I can write and be productive. 
"Checks and balances" fam is my motto this year. No rants to report. I'm too busy being thankful.

Until next time loves, stay blessed, positive, and know that every new day is an opportunity. Keep an open door to new ideas and a fresh start

Hugs

Be well...

D.

           
I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THIS SONG*
What I listened to while writing this blog: Liberian Girl- Micheal Jackson

Love...

Hello Dawnettes,

I'm currently in a loving relationship and that's all on that subject.

As you know, I keep my family and friends business off of the internet. Not because of scrutiny, but because there are some things the public will never be privy to if I can help it.


However, love is the subject of this blog. Love is the common denominator and all that comes with loving another human.

There will be a vast of different opinions on what love is and how to keep a loving healthy relationship going. Let's face it folks. Everyone has boundaries and past baggage they bring to the relationship. As a writer, I've seen hundreds of quotes on rules of love, toxic relationships, narcissism and when is it time to let go and walk away.

I believe innately people want to be loved. Almost everyone at some level. What that looks like is in the eye of the beholder. I can only give you my interpretation and at the end of the day what that looks like.

Hey, I'm not an expert by any means. But I can tell you that the kind of love that I'm receiving from my partner and from my kids (both biological & bonus) is immeasurable. I can tell you the love has given me purpose and it's also made me self reflect. In a way I haven't in a while. I can also with certainty that if I hadn't been introduced to my partner, my life would be in a completely different set of circumstances.

Love can awaken, heighten senses, give you strength and make your feel invincible. It can also bring you to your knees, make you grovel, question your life choices ( a saying I love teasing my bonus son with.)

I've had to make some difficult choices throughout my life. I'm sure I will have to make a few more mistakes before I'm done. However, I'm comforted by the thought that I have someone by my side who reassures me that this "choice" has been in my best interest.

And let me add one more note...

You're partner is not your therapist, dump site, fixer of past wounds, replacement of unrequited love. Let me explain.

You need to come fully prepared for love. Fully healed and with receptive arms. Waiting to experience a new love and a level of commitment from her/his perspective. You have a love language all your own. You will need to learn what theirs is. You should have learned from past mistakes and know exactly what you don't want in the next one.
AND LISTEN to what this future partner has to say. Sometimes, believe or not they don't always want an answer. Just an ear and a shoulder. No comparisons. Experience this part of your journey with new eyes and an open mind.

At this time of the year, I sit back and reflect. I must say, I have laughed so much this year. I've doubted myself as well. I've also taken stock and I know what I need to work on in 2019. Thankfully, I have made it this far and hopefully I will be around for another 365 days.

Happy Holidays Fam and Have Prosperous New Year. Thank you for staying on this journey and I look forward to sharing my thoughts and events of 2019.

                            Currently listening to-"All For Your Love by The Good Girls"

                  One of my top ten fav songs of all-time. The beginning of this song kills it!
                                I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THIS SONG!*

Pet Peeve #10~ What is my title in the relationship?

Hello Dawnettes.



As I write this particular blog, I still am contemplating whether or not to address this subject publicly. It's almost annoying at this point. I won't lie, I think there is a deep-rooted chip on my shoulder. I've struggled so long with my sexuality that once I decided to not "hide" in the shadows anymore, I don't tolerate not showing or presenting who I am to anyone.



With that being said, I understand the flip side. I know not everyone will celebrate who I am and what that truly means. I understand that hetros may even see it as I'm shoving my "lifestyle" down their throat. Blah, blah, blah...



That is farthest from the truth. I wish I didn't to explain myself! I hope that my "significant" other doesn't feel awkward (at this point in our relationship) to whether she will introduce me as her "girlfriend" or partner. And let's not even dissect what hetero's usually take as a "girlfriend" title.

First of all, if you know your friend well, you pretty much know she is gay. There is no discriminating or ill will feelings towards one another. Otherwise, you wouldn't be friends. You also realize your friend is in a loving, healthy relationship or least trying to build one.

Professionally, I will give a little leeway. Even I wouldn't go for the jugular doing the first few weeks at a new job. However, I'm not going to hide it either. Especially when I'm beaming about my kids, the first person I will highlight is my partner. If I've been at the job for a while, you pretty much know who I am. Let's no beat around the bush. Grown people here. Again, not putting it in anyone's face, but I'm not avoiding speaking about it.

Second of all, if you're "dating" it's clear that you're not just meeting up as friends. YOUR DATING. Again, annoying to have to break it down. The year is 2018 for goodness sake. It may not be anyone's business. But being gay is not what defines me, it's just a part of who I am.



Which brings me to my pet peeve...


This is for my LGTBQ, friends, and family...


If you have issues about how you're going to address me, then don't.


Seriously.


Just give them my name and let the conversation go where it wants to go. At some point, I will for whatever reason state who I am and how proud of the fact I can say it in mixed company. Again, if you know me, you know this will be a factor. It will be subtle. I won't hold up a sign that says I'm gay. The flavor of my language and the subject matter we will be discussing will make it known.


If this is something you aren't comfortable with, then we don't need to be friends. Period. I pick and choose who I want to be around because I am very open and accepting of others. I wish for that in return. In fact, that's non-negotiable. Life is too short. I don't want that type of energy around me frankly. My circle is tiny. Micro.


I'm going to wrap this up by saying...

I'm in a good space. Every day isn't a party filled with flowers and rainbows. However, I like the reflection looking back at me. I mean, it took me a long time to like her. Love her flaws and insecurities.
I have a special Lady {Ms. A} in my life that reminds me every single day "Don't do it for me, do it for yourself. Be happy with your progression and where you are in your life".
As long as I have that kind of love and reassurance, I can do anything. To have someone that doesn't judge me and wholeheartedly supports me is priceless.
These are sediments that frankly my friends, can resonate with everyone. Gay or not.

Be well...

D.

Music that fueled me during this soap box- Me'Shell NdegeOcello- Soul Searching (From the original soundtrack Higher Learning
*I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THIS SONG

Moving on, Leaving Toxicity Behind, & New Years Resolutions! Again???

Hey Dawnettes,



As the year draws to a close, we all reflect on what the past year has brought us. Examples made include but not limited to:

Quitting a much-hated job, saying goodbye to people we've lost{whether it's a friend or a family member} or ending a relationship with your significant other.
Which brings me to the subject of this blog.


Moving on is hard. It's not something that's instantaneous. It's gradual demise of the relationship once it reaches a point of no return. Two people come together and then for reasons (if both parties have had an honest conversation with themselves) have to face their responsibilities in what happened over the course of the relationship. Break-ups once they crash and burn, have a way of either making you take a mental note of what you want in the future with someone else or live happily single for the rest of your days.

However you choose to move forward, please consider some time to be comfortable with being alone and give yourself time to grieve the loss of the relationship. And let's be clear. Your timetable may not be reflective of anyone else's schedule of healing and moving on. Some people heal quicker than others. Especially if you were in a relationship and that only one person had been present mind, body, and soul.


Leaving toxicity behind. I've made it one of my favorite hashtags. You can apply this statement to every facet of your life. From bad jobs to interacting with people who you don't care for, but are forced to be connected to. Family members that seem to have the best of intentions, but are secretly plotting against you. Toxicity seeps in and erodes from within.

You look up one day and realize, "Have I been sleeping this whole time with my eyes wide shut?" Removing toxicity clears a pathway for becoming healthy and moving in a positive direction. Allow the single life to get to know you. Let it gently blanket over you and keep you balanced. Yes, that's the Libra in me talking. Haha. But seriously, life is too short to be unhappy and unstable. To romanticize wanting to hang on to something or someone that has made it clear you're not needed, or they don't want you in their life. Harsh, hurtful truths.


Now we move onto my final topic. New Years Resolution.

Look.

We all make resolutions. New year, new me. Weight loss goals. Relationship goals. Health, wealth and whatever.

I equate New Year's resolutions to promises. We try put our best foot forward. We make every effort to be better than last year. We genuinely have good intentions. But have we really put in the work? Have we been truthful with ourselves and our limitations? Are we really on the path of enlightenment and change or is it all BS? Following a trend that isn't what we are about.

Again, change is unavoidable. Life is ever changing. Some people fear change. Fear can be a driving force if you let it. It grapples and takes hold in every decision you make. Which ( in my opinion) is never a positive thing. Some people welcome change. Change is good. It shakes things up, and it forces you to face certain truths.



This is what I promise or want to resolve:


*Procrastination-This means giving myself realistic goals that I can meet with confidence.

* Relationship with my friends- Reaching out more and just checking up on them. I mean really checking up and being genuine. I want to know what's going on and plan meet-ups.

*Financial-I know what I need to do. No need to put myself on blast here!!😏

*Relationship with a significant other- Learn from the previous and leave the bags at the door. Walk into a new situation with no expectations. Be a better life partner by having my own goals and a life outside of the relationship.


I will end on this note.

Life is fluid and what you make of it. Surround yourself with like-minded people. Make realistic goals for yourself. And for goodness sakes, take time to enjoy your life. You only have one, and then it's gone.





Be well...



D.


                                      Happy New Year!!!

                                      

           
                                         What I was listening to while writing this blog:
                                         The Internet~ Something's Missing & SWV - Use your Heart
                                         *I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THIS SONG

           

                                               Holidays, Traditions, and Goals for 2018

Ahhhh...It's that time of the year.

Most companies call this the last quarter before taxes are due in January. To see where their profits are. Do they need to clean house before or after the holidays or lovingly give bonuses? ( Which I think most companies have done away with because they don't invest in their employees anymore.)

Most people from all types of religions and pagan based faith are celebrating the holidays from their perspective versions of Christmas, Hanukkah and the Winter Solstice.

What I don't understand is the lack of respect. I mean as people have  become "woke" they suddenly realize that what they believed in is now a lie and can no longer participate. Those who have continued tradition, press upon those that if they don't celebrate they will lose out in the end. Those who don't believe in anything, continue to not be phased. Although, if asked will certainly give their viewpoint on the grounds of science and common sense.

I'm not going to bore you will a long stretched out story. I will keep it simple. I was raised in Catholicism and denounced it after a brief encounter at my Grandmother's Baptist church. I still celebrated Christmas because it brought joy and my family together. The real family gathering where you know which pie to not eat, but still thank Aunt Creatta for making it. Where the kids were outside waiting to eat, while the grow-ups are playing cards and cussing each other out. Sitting in flowered color chairs and small drinks with brown liquid give courage to my Uncles at the table. "Don't come to this table if you ain't ready to play!" While my Aunts are drinking in the living room, eying each other, while my Grandmother was in the kitchen making sure no one started eating before saying grace.
Everyone has a different story. A different family that may not have the same experience as my own but yet can relate to what I'm talking about. Different countries around the world celebrate the holiday season with lights and traditions that are deeply rooted and go back as far as the 5th Century.

Respect.

The respect I'm trying to convey is even if you don't believe in tradition, Christmas, Winter Solstice, etc...don't ruin it for everybody else. There is something magical and wonderous when you see a child's eyes light up when they see a  Christmas tree lit up. The smells in the malls and the smell in my own kitchen from cooking a very fattening feast. (Ask my oldest adult son!)If you respect mine, I will respect yours. In this climate we are living in, we are forgetting the very fundamentals of what the season was always supposed to mean. The one time of the year when we act a little nicer. A little kinder. Give a little more of ourselves and connect with those we haven't seen in ages. Grieve together for those they are no longer living among us. I won't shame or condemn your holiday practices and expect you to do the same for me. If you want to "enlighten" me there is a simple way to do it. AFTER THE HOLIDAYS!!! If you are compelled to have a discussion, let's reconvene next year. In a non-threatening and healthy discussion. Not while I'm eating my Mama's yams. Beat it!

That's my two cents. I will try to release one more blog post before the end of December. Planning and trying to make sure I start the New Year off on the right foot.

Thank you for following my journey thus far and there is more in store.

Be well...

D.


                                        Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Happy Kwanzaa
                                                              Happy Winter Solstice
                                                
                     Click to listen to:Charlie Brown Christmas
                               
                                 Happy Holidays Everyone!

Etiquette and just plain manners~ It's all about energy

Recently I was reminded about etiquette. Phone, text, or just simply being aware that I'm living in a different time. When it comes to greeting someone when reaching out to have a conversation, I open with a good morning, good afternoon, or how about hello? Yes. I lived in a time where when you walked up to someone or reached out to them via telephone, you opened with a greeting or salutations at the very least. Hi, hello, good day, good morning? You get the jest. Am I getting through? Okay, let's move on.
Nowadays, it's as if simple manners have flown the coop. People go for the jugular. Hey you busy? Hey, I have a quick question? It's almost as if people don't care about waiting until you respond. Maybe I don't feel like talking right now. I have issues going on of my own. I just can't take on your energy or drama at this time. But at least with a greeting you have a chance to say, "Hey good morning to you too. I'm really not in a good space. Can we continue this later?" Naw, people just go right on in and start with whatever is going on with them.

Don't get me wrong. I'm a great listener. I love exchanging ideas, sharing memories, laughing at jokes or calmly being in the moment so you can vent. Oh yeah, I'm that lady. I welcome you with open arms. To heal your wounds, dry your tears, or just be your personal cheerleader.

However, I get full too. I get depressed and overwhelmed with my own drama. My reaction? I retreat. I go underground. I take a day to not speak. Well I try to. But somehow I'm sucked in and I want to be that shoulder to cry on. Because let's face it. I'm sure there were days my friends or family didn't want to take on my energy. And yet they did because they loved me and genuinely cared.

All I'm saying is, give me a greeting and let me tell you if I'm in a space where I can be beneficial. Otherwise, I will put you on what my Daddy calls "the do not call list" And trust me, you don't get removed quickly.

On to a more uplifting and positive mode, I believe on my last blog posting I shared a snippet of my dear friend's current project. Well Fam, she has just given me the exclusive to showcase her newest creation.

Please take a moment and visit her website and discover what I'd like to call "The Morasco Perspective!" Check it out Fam...

And as always...

Be well.

D.

New cover reveal!!!!!!!

                          Currently on repeat... RIP Michael

Music & Books~ A journey into the soul of Darlene B. the Author

     


                                                            

      Music has always been a gateway for me to open up and take in every note. It's as if I was at the engineering board, orchestrating every note along with the artist or producer. Every syllable that vibrates over a beat or a melody, seems captures my attention and propels me into another orbit. Not just another world. Another galaxy.

From a young age, I've been exposed to all types music genres. From Country to R&B. Classical to Punk Rock. From Jazz to Contemporary. If it had a label and a hole in the middle ( for you youngins' I grew up with albums!) it was in my collection. I long for a record player. I think I will treat myself this Christmas!

Once everything started to go digital, it seemed like music was becoming less authentic. Not as rich and inviting as it once was. And yet, there on the horizon an abundance of new artists emerged and suddenly I got the pleasure of my favorite artist dropping a new collection of music for all of us to enjoy. Music can break racial barriers, teach the unteachable and bring people together that wouldn't normally even look at each other on the street. 

As I became a Mother, I shared my love for music with my children. Even now, their taste differs from their peers. Of course, they like some of the current "music". However, they know the history of certain genres and appreciate the previous generation's contributions to the music industry. Every now and again, my middle son will hear a song and text me. "Hey Ma, have you heard this?" My oldest will share a past moment in music he knows I will enjoy. The youngest of the siblings, my daughter just enjoys my collection and wants to mimic it somehow. I've told her this collection took years. My collection was put on my iPod which was stolen recently. It broke my heart to the point it's still difficult to talk about. They didn't just take a small device to sell in a pawn shop or on Instagram, they took my history and joy of adding to my library of memories that filled my ears with peace of mind and serenity. 

I will recover. I don't have a choice. Writing has the same effect on me. Reading and writing give me genuine satisfaction. I can deflect and become engrossed in my current project or the latest Stephen King novel.  I've never needed an escape from the real world full of despair, heartbreak, wonder, mystery, fear and a whole crop of emotions and events. Book and writing contain the same elements, just in a controlled environment. You can stop (if you can) whenever you want. Start when you want. There isn't a set timetable and yet the eagerness to write or read always gnaws at me. 

After a major setback, I can confidently say I'm on the mend. Thankfully and gratefully. 

As part of my comeback, I will introduce new projects from my close friends and start to carve out the pathway to re-energizing my projects and bring my characters back to life.

This week's feature is by my good friend Diane Morasco. Please take a moment to check out her website and explore her past and current projects. You won't be disappointed. 


Here is an example of her work...

Please click on the link below:

The lovely & talented Ms. Diane Morasco

October

My current obsession...Syd

Interview with Van Johnson on the Breakfast club

Levels and Rules to being a Friend

Hello, Dawnettes!

Today I'm going to talk a little bit about friendships and what it means to me.

Remember this is my blog and life according to my experience. Catch this.

So, I recently ( in the few months) reconnected with my childhood friend. Whom I love dearly. We share a mutual childhood friend. Of whom I feel like I've chased her friendship my whole life.

Here is my definition of friends and how to act accordingly...while listening to Friends by Whodini ( if you don't know who that is, go to Youtube or click the video below (insert video when posting*)

Ride or die- Whether its 2 pm or 2 am they have your back

Club Friend- Brunch hang out, social friends

Network- Professional won't embarrass you in public

Co-workers- could lead to friend outside of work but not really

And Friends who you thought were but they clearly are not-

I say all of that to say this. You get what you give. Sometimes it's not how much time and effort you put into the relationship but how that is received. People have boundaries and sometimes your load is too much for them to carry. It doesn't make you a bad person. Some people need drama to fulfill their lives. Others just really need an ear and shoulder. Handle your friends according to how they perceive you. If you feel like you need to have a one on one and have an honest conversation to clear the air? Then do that. If you feel your words will be wasted and fall on deafs ears, then move the fuck on.
Believe me, if you have a ride or die friend who does deeply care about you they will only want what's best for you. Invest in those relationships. Nurture and appreciate them. Life is too short to play dumb and chase after people who don't want you in their lives.

Love ya.

Be well...
D