Annette Mori's Blog, page 5
December 20, 2024
The Secret to Better Orgasms…
One word…interoception. What? Yup…that’s what I said…because how many of you know what the heck interoception means. Well…have no fear because I’m going to tell you all about it! I briefly entertained the idea of the title of this blog being, interoception. But then I figured it wasn’t nearly as sexy a title as the one I chose. So let’s delve into this.
Obviously, the article caught my attention as soon as I read the word orgasm. All of my preconceived notions about is behind more frequent and satisfying orgasms was blown out of the water because no it isn’t having female lovers! Instead the research suggests it has to do with this word I was unfamiliar with. So…what is interoception. A UK study by researchers, Emily Dixon, Giulia L. Poerio, Gerulf Rieger, and Megan Klanunde explored how interoceptive awareness was linked to frequency and satisfaction of orgasms. According to the study, “Interoception-the sense of the internal condition of the body-has been conceptualized as a sensory modality similar to other sensations such as hunger, nausea, and the sense of one’s heartbeat.” Apparently this is like another sense with similar pathways to the brain. There are like specific fibers (C-Fibres) associated with the transmission of interoception sensation. But here is where it gets interesting. Apparently interoception is no different from senses that are considered exteroceptive (connected to external stimuli). Interoception is biologically linked in several ways: anatomical sensory and touch related, cognitive and affective, and the vagus nerve. The bottom line is that the key to satisfying and frequent orgasms is a person’s interoception awareness or how much they notice their reactions. Interoception focuses on those senses within one’s body or a person’s skill in recognizing senses in their body like their increased heartbeat, hunger pains, rapid breathing, or even the need to use the bathroom. It was like a skill. If a person was more attune to their body, such as when they are feeling tense and even exactly where that tension resides, or noticing physical changes in their body when they are happy, they experience more frequent and satisfying orgasms. Lesson learned: focus on being attuned to your body and you’ll have better sex! There is a type of therapy called sensate focus therapy that helps couples notice their own sensations and build trust by sharing them. The goal isn’t orgasm, but to get in touch with the sensations and fully explore what each touch feels like. Of course open and honest communication is a big part of getting to know one’s body.
The more I read sapphic romance, the more I notice how those novels rarely talk about shitty sex. Instead, there is often a running monologue from the main characters categorizing their sensations and acute awareness of their body’s reaction to whatever the love interest is doing. Plus a lot of love scenes feature vocal lovers who are not afraid of telling their partners what they want and need. Maybe that is why the sex is described as satisfying and mind blowing. Does this always happen in real life…maybe not, but perhaps it should. We should follow the lessons taught to us in those novels, because the main characters are often self-aware and communicative (at least as a point of view narrative might suggest). Hopefully I do a good job of this in my sex scenes. Want to check out my books, feel free to click the links below.
Pleasure Workers – Audible
Humbug: The Ultimate Lesbian Christmas Carol
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
December 13, 2024
Infidelity, Oh My!
I think that most people would agree that infidelity is a very bad thing. In fact, in lesbian romance there are a fair number of individuals that will not read a book if a main character, or sometimes, any character, cheats on their lover/girlfriend/wife. Interestingly enough, I read an article recently that talked about the fact that people don’t actually agree about what constitutes infidelity. I suppose the same is true for the definition of a lie. Some are adamant that withholding important information like I kissed another woman isn’t a lie unless the partner asks and the woman doing the kissing doesn’t cop to it. Personally, I am strongly in the camp of “failing to share crucial information” is indeed a lie. So, what does the research say about how people define infidelity…
Benjamin Warach and his team of researchers found 305 studies that included over half a million people in 47 different countries in six different continents. Of course, there were biases, because over half of the studies were conducted in North America, and 20% in Europe. Most of the participants were white and 95% of the participants were heterosexual only one measly study with gay participants. Additionally, most of the participants were married.Thirty percent of the studies left the definition broad, asking participants if they had ever been unfaithful, cheated or had an affair, essentially leaving the definition up to the participant. But, when the definition was more refined, there were vastly different self reports of what might be considered infidelity. For sexual infidelity, 17.45% of people indicated they’d engaged in it; for emotional infidelity it was 27.5%. Then there is the less clear forms of what some consider infidelity like dancing or holding hands with someone else and for that, the figure increases to 35%.Men admitted to a lot more infidelity than women (25% compared to 14%). For emotional infidelity the numbers were higher at 35% for men compared to 29% for women. It seems that most everyone agreed that engaging in sexual intercourse outside of the relationship meets the definition of cheating or infidelity. Additionally, most believed that sexual contact with another person other than your spouse/partner also meets the definition of cheating. But, here’s where it gets a little gray…what consitutes sexual contact? Since only one study included same sex relationships, it’s no wonder there were questions about oral sex or touching of intimate areas? Well, duh, for lesbians, yup that is definitely sexual contact. To be fair most did loop that into the sexual contact definition. Now…here’s where it’s gets even grayer (not gayer….) Does just kissing, or even kissing on the cheek fall within the definition of cheating? Then there was other behavior that grayed things up like holding hands, dancing, flirting, sexting, and finally, providing tender, emotional support to another person of the same sex as their spouse/partner. Finally, where does looking at porn without the spouse/partner fall on the possible infidelity spectrum?
Although I have written about infidelity in a few of my books, because, honestly it is a part of life, I haven’t glorified it, or even made the character likable. To my absolute shock, the one character I believed was despicable because they were the cheater, got a fair amount of sympathy from readers who wanted to see her mend her ways and get her happily even after. I couldn’t bring myself to give her a full-fledged story, but on a lark did write a BDSM light, free short story to appease those readers, making Laura Beck one of the main characters. The only other time I penned a story with infidelity as a major theme was loosely based on my own personal experience (no I was not the cheater, but the cheatee). Guess I just made up a new word again..cheatee…I kind of like it. Anyway, those stories are The Ultimate Betrayal and Artist Free Zone in case you want to check them out or any of my other books (simply click the links below)!
Pleasure Workers – Audible
Humbug: The Ultimate Lesbian Christmas Carol
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
December 6, 2024
Cushioning
As I was sitting on the beach enjoying the sunshine, I read this article that definitely caught my interest. I’d never heard the term before and tried to remember if I’d ever read a book where this particular concept came into play. So…anyway…what is Cushioning for those of you who also have never heard this term before. Basically, it’s a kind of plan B for relationships. A person might be married or have a girlfriend, but develops an emotional bond with someone else. Occasionally, they might take that relationship to the next level, starting an affair, but not necessarily. Many actually wait until their current marriage or relationship falls apart to jump in with both feet with their side friendship. It is also known as backburning. Cushioning can be the next level rebound relationship, and I suspect perhaps might even lead to a new marriage or new lasting relationship. That got me to thinking about how this trend is so aligned with the world we live in. More and more we are a throw away society, always looking to upgrade or buy the next best thing. Apparently, this happens a lot more than we think! For some, cushioning is extremely calculating because those involved are developing those relationships for the sole purpose of having a replacement, once their current relationship falls apart. For others, it happens subconsciously.
In reality, the most important thing I took from this article was that Cushioning often originates from a place of insecurity, or underlying feelings of dissatisfaction in their current relationship. If people are Cushioning it’s good to ask why that outside validation and new emotional relationship is needed. If the person is not getting their needs met and it’s distracting them from acknowledging the disconnect from their partner, then the key question is whether the person wants to refocus on their primary relationship. By focusing on those questions, a person can figure out if they want to remain in that relationship and communicate with their partner versus going outside the boundaries. Successful couples turn their focus inward, not outward. On the other hand, sometimes a relationship should end, especially if the efforts are one-sided or there is abuse.
I got to thinking about my book, Sculpting Her Heart, and wondered if maybe Frankie was engaging in a form of cushioning with Zari…subconsciously, of course. For the record there was definitely no infidelity in play. Plus, the relationship absolutely needed to end with her selfish current girlfriend…so more power to her for cushioning! Feel free to check that book out or any of my other romances! You know the drill, just click the links below.
Pleasure Workers – Audible
Humbug: The Ultimate Lesbian Christmas Carol
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
November 29, 2024
Is This Normal…
Since I’ve done blogs on both Thanksgiving and Black Friday over the years, I thought I would change things up. This past week as I was scrolling through the news, I came across this really interesting article (yup, although I vowed not to torment myself after the election, that vow quickly dissipated). Apparently, I am not the only person who wonders about certain sensitive things related to body parts and sexuality. The very first question caught my attention because I could sooooo relate. So to help all of you push out a big sigh of relief…here are the top questions brought forward in this article to help us with the facts that support we are normal, even with these embarrassing situations.
For those of us who were not savvy enough to purchase work out clothing that hides that sweat patch in our crotch, yes it is normal to look like you’ve just peed yourself because a sweaty gym vagina is caused by a higher density of sweat glands than anywhere else on the body except the armpits. It’s also an area insulated by thick fat, so once double-coated in fabric, it’s almost inevitable that you’re going to sweat profusely during intense exercise. To help with this, make sure you either shave or have short pubic hair, wear dark colored lycra shorts like bike shorts, and shower ASAP after your work out.Needing to urgently pee certainly increases as one gets older, but in reality it can happen to anyone. Studies in the UK have determined that overactive bladder impacts 1 in 6 women. Women with an overactive bladder have muscles that contract involuntarily, making a person ‘urgently’ need the toilet. It can also lead to leaking. This issue can start in childhood or develop at any time. Apparently, there is no ‘normal’ number of times to pee during the day, but OAB is diagnosed when a person ‘goes more often than they think they should’. We don’t fully understand what causes it, but theories suggest that changes to the muscles might be the culprit. My wife and I often tease one another whenever one of us rushes to the toilet to avoid peeing our pants.Often, no matter how much I’ve had to eat, I’ve found room for a bite or two of dessert. I am pleased to announce this is normal! It’s entirely normal to feel like you have room for something sweet after a meal, even if you feel full. This phenomenon is often referred to jokingly as having a ‘second stomach’ for dessert, but it’s linked to how our brains and bodies process food. Several reasons for this include: after eating a savory or heavily flavored meal, your body may signal fullness for those particular flavors or textures, but the desire for a contrasting taste (like something sweet) remains, as your brain seeks variety and balance in flavors; routine can play a role – if you’re used to having a sweet treat after meals, it can become a learned behavior (your brain starts expecting dessert); addiction versus craving – cravings for sweet foods are normal, they are not typically the same as addiction. Sugar stimulates the brain’s reward system, making it pleasurable, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re addicted. It’s more likely a combination of enjoying the taste and a habitual response.A low cervix can be perfectly normal. The position and sensitivity of the cervix can vary significantly among women. Additionally, it’s not uncommon for some to feel their cervix lower, especially during certain times of the month. Hormonal shifts cause the cervix to move slightly higher or lower and become softer or firmer. For many women, the cervix sits lower and may even feel more prominent close to their menstrual period, and in that position, it can be easier to feel and become more sensitive during intimate activities.Some women wonder if they’ve ever had an orgasm because it doesn’t match what’s written about in our lovely romance novels. Well…the truth is that orgasms can feel different for everyone – there’s no ‘one way’ that they should feel. For many, it’s less about fireworks and more about a deep, satisfying release or even just a shift in sensation. Okay…the older I get, the more acceptable it is to discuss bathroom habits, so this next one may not be comfortable for everyone…When talking about defecation…anything from three times a day to three times a week is considered ‘normal’, and poo should be soft, bulky and easy to pass. 
So…when you’re reading different books and you ask why is this experience so different from my own…remember that there’s a lot more normal out there than what’s represented in books, especially when talking about intimacy and intimate response! Sometimes, I like to push the boundaries and remind us that not everyone is the same. Hopefully some of my characters breach the concept of normality. If you want to check out my work, you know the drill, just click the links below. Also…reminder that hot off the press is a brand new audible book option for Book 2 in the Trophy Wives Club series, Pleasure Workers.
Pleasure Workers – Audible
Humbug: The Ultimate Lesbian Christmas Carol
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
November 22, 2024
Advent Calendar
I’m pleased to participate in this year’s Advent Calendar, which Jae is sponsoring. No, I won’t tell you which books will be offered on which days (even if I knew the answers). Here’s the thing…I’m embarrassed to admit that I don’t really know much about an Advent Calendar other than it happens around Christmas. Since my father was a committed Atheist married to a good Catholic girl, my mother’s influence on our upbringing related to spirituality was hidden and limited. As an adult, I chose to become confirmed, mostly because I had a crush on a Catholic girl and probably wanted to impress her. But that is a whole other story. Anyway, I am now a reformed Catholic and would probably classify myself as an agnostic-leaning atheist. So…of course, I had to do some research on the whole Advent Calendar thingy!
According to the German company Sellmer Advents-Kallender, advent calendars date back to the 19th century. Apparently, German families would mark their doors or walls with a tally mark in chalk to count the days until Christmas.In the 1920s, the calendar evolved to include little cardboard doors that could be opened daily. The brainstorm for this was a German printer named Gerhard Lang.President Dwight D. Eisenhower is credited for bringing popularity to the USA when a photo of his grandchildren holding one appeared in Newsweek.My favorite evolution happened in 1958 when the Advent Calendar’s little doors began to have a small piece of chocolate, thanks to British chocolatier Cadbury. Now, how did I not know this? I love chocolate. I certainly would have paid more attention if I’d known chocolate was involved.Today, people can enjoy many different versions of an Advent Calendar, including: Alcoholic – 24 mini bottles of wine to enjoy (red, white, and rose). Beauty – Includes shea butter hand cream, hair care, and other favorites.Chocolate – Handcrafted using Colombia’s award-winning “Fino de Aroma” cocoa. Flavors include Golden Berries, Cookie Chunks, and Salted Caramel chocolates.Coffee – Nespresso offers coffee drinkers a mystery brew for the month and, on the last day, a limited-edition porcelain mug.Daily Devotions – An ebook by Charity Goodwin contains daily readings for Christians.For Pets – Dog treats by Wufers in fun, holiday-themed shapes.For Kids – A sensory experience with Thinking Putty to open each day.Jewelry – Kendra Scott offers 12 of the brand’s bestselling pieces in either silver or gold.Reusable – For the environmentally conscious sorts, you can fill the pockets with your own surprises and treats and reuse the calendar year after year.Toys – LEGO Friends has lots of fun builds for kids ages 6 and up. TUnique – Moon & Stone aims to “help protect your peace and manage stress” during the holiday season.Voice Calendar – FREE. Simply ask, “Alexa, Ask Advent Calendar what my surprise is for today” to hear a Christmas-themed joke.Jae’s Advent Calendar – From December 1 to 25, you’ll get to open a new door every day, revealing a free ebook, a book giveaway (ebook, paperback, or audiobook), or a book on sale. During the big finale on December 24 and 25, there will even be 30 amazing sapphic books waiting for you behind each door!
Here’s a link for all the details to sign up for the amazing Sapphic Advent Calendar: https://jae-fiction.com/sapphic-book-advent-calendar/ Don’t forget to check out the novella that Ali Spooner and I wrote just for the holiday season. It’s a fun little adaptation of the Dickens classic with a great ice queen. You can also check out my latest series, The Next Generation. I promise it’s a satisfying ride, especially now as we continue to lick our wounds after the election and brace for the next four years. Don’t forget the Lesbian Fiction Campfire readings tomorrow…I’ll read from the series!
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
November 15, 2024
Be Careful What You Ask For….
I’ve specifically avoided saying the words…”I told you so.” However, a very similar phrase has the same level of cathartic impact…”Be careful what you ask for because you just might get it.” It’s been more than a week since the disastrous outcome of the election, and there are already a number of stories from Trump supporters regretting their choice. Buzzfeed is currently collecting and reporting on those stories. There was a 700% increase in the number of searches on how to change your vote. The dipshits who voted for him actually thought that was possible. SMDH. However, my most favorite movement is the 4B movement. For the single ladies out there, pay attention because we could actually experience a massive increase in the number of women converting to our tribe. Toasters for everyone! Just kidding…However, for those who don’t know about this, here’s a condensed explanation and history of this movement.
The 4B movement originated in South Korea in mid-2010s. It is defined by its “4 Nos”. Bihon – No marriage; Bichulsan – No childbirth; Biyeonae – No Dating; and Bisekseu – No sex. Just to be clear it is a feminist movement, so the no only applies to men!The movement gained traction in 2015 or 2016 during a time of significant social and economic transformation where a huge gender pay gap existed. The pivotal moment occurred in 2016 with the murder of a woman in a Seoul public bathroom, highlighting the pervasive gender violence in South KoreaThe movement inspired a similar movement in China called 6B4T.By 2019, there were approximately 4,000 members.Right after the election, 4b trended on social media with nearly 500,000 searches.The origin of this movement may go back as far as the Greek play Lysistrata, by Aristophanes, which persuades the women of the warring cities to withhold sexual privileges from their husbands and lovers as a means of forcing the men to negotiate peace—a strategy that inflames the battle between the sexes.In the 1600s, Iroquois women in North America withheld sex and childbearing to gain decision making power over warfare.Many other countries including, Kenya, Liberia, South Sudan, Togo, Columbia, Italy (Naples), Ukraine and the Phillipines, have engaged in sex strikes.The women’s suffrage movement considered this as a tactic, but ultimately decided against using it.As recent as 2019, Alyssa Milano called for a sex strike to protest the bill that Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed to ban abortions if a fetal heartbeat could be detected.
Will this movement really catch on? Who knows? However, the fact that this story made it into mainstream media might mean that at the very least, it will bring women’s issues more into focus. Recently, I came across a social media post questioning whether, and I quote, “Be honest. Can a woman enjoy her life to the fullest without a man in her life.” Of course, I had to respond with, “Of course. Very stupid question for a lesbian.” I assume this was a post in response to the viral interest in the 4B movement. Anyhow, I can assure you that most of my books have lesbian main characters who are quite content without having sex with men, marrying men, or dating men. As for childbirth, perhaps there will come a day when it isn’t necessary to use sperm to create a life. Ironically, I am currently writing a time-travel novel featuring a brilliant scientist who does just that! If you want to check out my books, you know the drill, just click the links below. I very much appreciate your support, especially now in these times when Project 2025 puts at risk our work by classifying it as pornography.
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
November 8, 2024
A Fluffy Blog
In light of the terrible, horrible, no-good week we’ve all had, I decided to write a blog that contains no doom and gloom or political hand-wringing. I’ve probably done too much of that since reading the news. So…instead, I’ve researched the benefits of cat ownership to our health and well-being. I’m going to cite the most relevant research on the topic for y’all. There is actually such a thing as the Human Animal Bond Research Institute. Damn, wish I’d known that when I was working. I would have tried to get a job there!
So gather your fuzzy companion and read on!
In the HABRI’s latest survey in 2021, these are their key findings based on a survey of pet owners:76% report that their personal health has improved as a result of owning a pet87% say that they have experienced mental health improvements 22% have had a pet recommended for their health by a doctor or therapist69% would have a more favorable view of a doctor who discussed the health benefits of the human-animal bond 89% agree that doctors should recommend pets to patients for healthier living97% are aware of at least one scientifically documented health benefit of the human-animal bond87% say they would be more likely to buy products or services from pet-friendly businesses92% agree that hospitals, schools, etc., should welcome/have therapy animal programs 92% agree that the government should provide service animals to qualifying veterans suffering from PTSD90% agree that emergency and temporary housing should accommodate pets84% agree that there should be fewer restrictions on pets in rental housing82% agree the government should encourage pet ownership for a healthier societyThe Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology did a 20-year study of 4435 participants. It concluded that there was a significantly lower risk for death due to myocardial infarction (MI), and all cardiovascular diseases (including stroke) among persons with cats. In the European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, a research study found that exposure to cats from the first year of life to school entry was associated with a reduced prevalence of atopic asthma if cats were allowed to be in the child’s bedroom.The American Psychiatric Association (APA) conducted a poll that revealed that cat owners were more likely than dog owners to say their pets offer companionship, provide a calming presence, and help reduce stress and anxiety. I couldn’t find the actual study, and some studies seemed counter to this claim, but many sites included this claim: A primary benefit of owning a cat is stress reduction. Petting a cat has a calming effect, triggering the release of oxytocin, commonly known as the “love hormone.” Studies have shown that cat owners have lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. Studies have confirmed that purring falls between 25 – 240 Hz, which happens to be the frequency known to speed up the healing process of wounds, broken bones, and tendon and joint injuries.Our cats give us a reason to get up and out of bed. Whether they wake us with a gentle nudge, persistent meow, or coughing up a hairball in the middle of your bed, not a morning goes by that your cat won’t remind you it’s time to get up and fill their bowl. It’s safe to say that cats have a special way of keeping us on track.
I am sure there is much more to explore in defending the belief that owning a cat (or rather, the cat owning you, as is the case for most of us) benefits our health. So…in these stressful times, my advice to you is to rescue or adopt a cat. Your health will thank you! My other advice is to get lost in a good book. The opposites have worked for me…either a book with ass-kicking women prevailing over evil (very satisfying) or a nice fluffy romance to go with your fluffy little companion. Obviously, I’m going to suggest one of my books. I have both varieties to offer, so dig in! Click one of the links below and enter into healthy escapism.
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
November 1, 2024
Vote…Vote…Vote!
We are four days away from the most consequential election in my lifetime. What’s at stake? Our fundamental rights. Think that’s hyperbole? Consider several far-right politicians not even trying to hide from their dangerous rhetoric. Mark Robinson, the North Carolina GOP candidate for Senator, said, and I quote, “I absolutely do want to go back to the America where women couldn’t vote.” Very recently, John McEntee, a political adviser who served in the Trump administration, posted a video on X, “So I guess they misunderstood. When we said we wanted mail-only voting, we meant male—’M-A-L-E.'” He added in the caption, “Sorry we want MALE only voting. The 19th might have to go.” Christian pastor Dale Partridge argued in a series of tweets that “in a Christian marriage, a wife should vote according to her husband’s direction.” Jesse Walters, Fox News sycophant, argued that if he found out his wife “was going into the voting booth and pulling the lever for Harris, that’s the same thing as having an affair.” And finally, rightwing agitator Charlie Kirk was upset by the idea women might vote according to their agenda and not their husband’s. Nobody thought Roe versus Wade would be overturned since it would take us back in time fifty years. And we were wrong. What makes us so arrogant to believe we won’t let them take us back one hundred years to when women could not vote? Consider what’s happened in Afghanistan. Afghan women earned the right to vote before us. Yup, they won the right to vote in 1919. So, I wanted to remind everyone how hard women fought for our right to vote. Don’t waste your vote. Get out there and make your voice heard. Here’s the timeline for women’s voting rights in the US:
In 1948, the inaugural women’s rights convention at Seneca Falls, led by Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton adopted the Declaration of Sentiments, calling for equality for women, including a resolution that women should seek the right to vote.In 1869, Wyoming, of all places, passed the Women’s Suffrage Law. Then, in 1890, when Wyoming was admitted to the Union, it became the first state to grant women the right to vote.In 1872, Susan B Anthony and a dozen other suffragists were arrested for voting in New York.In 1878, the California Senate drafted the amendment that allowed women to vote, which was adopted 41 years later.In 1890, the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) is formed.In 1896, Harriet Tubman, Frances E.W. Harper, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, and Mary Church Terrell formed the National Association of Colored Women Clubs (NACWC). In 1901 and 1903, the NAWSA conventions in Atlanta and New Orleans bar Black suffragists from attending. Despite the need to honor the women suffragists for their efforts to help women gain the right to vote, shame on them!In 1913, Alice Paul and Lucy Burns broke from NAWSA and founded the Congressional Union for Woman Suffrage (later the National Woman’s Party) to press for federal action versus the previous state-by-state approach. Paul leads a protest march of some 5,000 to 10,000 women in Washington, D.C., on the day of Woodrow Wilson’s inauguration.In 1916-17, Jeanette Rankin of Montana, a former NAWSA lobbyist, became the first woman elected to Congress. NAWSA president Carrie Chapman Catt commits the organization to working toward the war effort. Paul and others take a different approach, holding peaceful protests outside the White House, calling for Wilson to support women’s suffrage. Many protesters are arrested and jailed for obstructing sidewalk traffic; Paul and others undertake hunger strikes to bring attention to their cause. On November 14, 1917, the infamous “Night of Terror” happened, where the guards at Occoquan Workhouse in Virginia beat and terrorized 33 women who were arrested for picketing.In January 1919, President Woodrow Wilson changed his position after the House voted in favor of women’s suffrage, but the Senate failed in the Senate, which required a 2/3rds majority.In June 1919, the amendment finally passed the House and Senate, and the ratification process started. Since ratification required 36 states…it took a while. Georgia was the first state to vote against ratification and didn’t ratify until 1970. Alabama was the second state to vote against ratification. By June of 1920, they only needed one more state for ratification, but they didn’t get it, because Delaware shocked everyone by voting against the amendment.In August 1920, Tennessee provided the final state needed for ratification, and women finally won the right to vote.
I hope you all join me in saying loudly, “We won’t go back!” I try not to write too many political blogs, but I felt it was important to make an exception as we are on the cusp of another historical moment. One that will define us as a nation. Will we follow in the footsteps of Afghanistan or reverse our path and win back the rights we’ve recently lost? For those who have read my books, you know I don’t hold back on my political views. Many of my books reveal where I stand. Feel free to check them out. You know the drill, click the links below. Of course, I also write fluffy little romances, and my collaboration with my good pal Ali Spooner offers a fun little Christmas Novella that is now on preorder.
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
October 25, 2024
Pumpkin Facts: More Than Just Halloween
It’s that time of year when pumpkins take center stage. I could talk about pumpkin spice, which is an alarmingly controversial topic…people either hate it or love it. I say live and let live, or as Walz would say…’mind your own damn business.’ All joking aside, I am not going to talk about pumpkin spice. Instead, I want to broaden the topic and tell you all about pumpkins. In my research, here’s what I learned:
Scientists believe that pumpkins originated in North America as long ago as 9,000 years. Well, possibly, because the oldest pumpkin seeds were discovered in Mexico, and they put the timeframe somewhere between 7,000 and 9,000 years ago. Apparently, they were a vital food source for the people of Central and North America.The French introduced pumpkins to Tudor England. In addition to becoming a staple food, it was also used for medicinal purposes because all parts of the plant were believed to possess healing properties.Irish immigrants brought us the tradition of carving pumpkins. In Ireland, they used to carve demonic faces out of turnips to scare away the wandering soul of Stingy Jack. Since pumpkins were easier to carve, the immigrants made the switch from turnips to pumpkins.The word pumpkin comes from the Greek word “peopin,” which translated, means large melon. The word evolved to “pompon” in French and “pumpion” in Britain. Americans were the ones to change it to pumpkin.Over 45 different varieties of pumpkin exist today, with a wide variety of colors, including orange, red, yellow, and green. It is technically a fruit but is considered a winter squash.Pumpkins are a bit like watermelon in that they are 92% water.Pumpkins are used in a variety of foods, from desserts to salads. They are an excellent source of potassium, Vitamin A, and beta-carotene.Finally, an astounding 1.5 billion pounds, yes billion with a B, are produced each year. That’s a whole heck of a lot to eat, carve, smash, and set out as decorations.
Of course, pumpkins are closely associated with Halloween, and I certainly have several Halloween short stories, in addition to a Thanksgiving novella. To be honest, I may not have ever given pumpkins the respect they deserve in these stories, but at least I used pumpkins on the cover in this free short story that I offer to all of you to make up for this travesty of completely ignoring them in my stories: https://www.wattpad.com/story/336645266-vampire-pussy-cat I hope that will not stop you from checking out my work. You know the drill…just click on the links below. Don’t forget that hot off the press is Love Sins on Audible!
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
October 18, 2024
To Wipe or Not to Wipe…That is the question…
My wife knows how much I love to write about weird and unusual topics, so last week, she blurted something like, “Hey, there’s an article on the right way to wipe your butt.” Of course, I was interested. But could I actually write an entire blog on that? Yup, I sure could! Here’s the riveting information I learned because I know you all want to hear about this oddly fascinating topic:
First, the article asks, “Do you always need to wipe?” The answer is yup. Sorry, no drip dry on the side of the road or in the middle of the night while tent camping. Wiping improperly can increase the risk of a UTI (urinary tract infection) and vaginitis. And yes, there is a proper wiping technique to avoid infection.There are a variety of different ways that people hold their toilet paper: Folding: A method generally preferred by men, folders fold the toilet paper into neat squares before wiping. Fifty-four percent of people claim to be a folder.Crumpling: Crumplers press the toilet paper into a loosely shaped ball before wiping. Twenty-six percent of people cite using this method, and it is heavily skewed to women.Hand Wrapping: The remaining nine percent are wrappers. They wrap the toilet paper around their hand to form a rudimentary glove they then use to wipe with.Combination: Combo folks use a combination of techniques, starting with one and then switching to another on subsequent wipes.Wetters: Wetting toilet paper before wiping. Some folks opt to wet their toilet paper for a more thorough cleaning. The disadvantage to this technique is that the paper will start to break down and then it doesn’t work. Side note: my mother had pretty significant OCD, and it manifested itself in her need for cleanliness. She would literally wash herself with a washcloth every time she went. I believe she was in a category all her own.Recommendation on wiping front to back or back to front. If a person has no physical limitations preventing them from reaching around their body to wipe from front to back, this is considered the preferred and safer route. Why? Because you’ll be moving feces away from your more delicate parts and lowering the risk of infection (sorry for the ick factor). This also helps prevent an itchy bum.Now the real fun…how to properly clean your butt…Honest, there are several things you should know about this, like how many times you wipe after number two and what to do if, after several wipes, there is still poo. Unfortunately, there’s no hard and fast rule regarding how many times you should wipe, as every bowel movement differs. The best rule of thumb is to continue to use additional sheets of toilet paper until you feel clean. A quick glance at the paper can reveal the answer (it’s okay, we all look.) Be sure to pat, never scrub, and be gentle when wiping. Don’t use too much force when wiping, and never use a scrubbing motion. It can cause microtears, and then bacteria can enter. If you’ve wiped multiple times but still aren’t clean, you might have an underlying health concern. But don’t worry if this happens only occasionally.
Now, I don’t know how any of this information is helpful with writing a scene in a book. Most of us avoid describing in detail any of those everyday bathroom scenes, mainly including eliminating waste. The one exception, of course, is the infamous sex in the shower scene-harder than it looks without drowning-but very popular with readers! Of course, I have books with the shower sex scene but never scenes describing proper wiping techniques. Perhaps I could include a discussion of the topic for comic relief. I have been prone to do that before! You all know the drill. If you want to read any of my books, just click the links below!
Hot Off the Press…
I’m about to send out my newsletter and will be offering a link to my most favorite short story for Free….Rainstorm! If you want the link, be sure to sign up for my mailing list: Join Mailing List. The newsletter comes out tomorrow, so don’t miss out!
Love Sins Available Now!
The Final Chapter in the original Organization series is now in Audible
Catch up with Books 1 and 2 in The Next Generation Series
Where it all began….
Buy the audible of The Organization Buy the audible of Asset Management
Books in Audible:
Books In Kindle Unlimited (KU)
Proud to be an Affinity Rainbow Publications author!
