Vanessa Richardson's Blog, page 7

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month!

About Endometriosis

Endometriosis affects an estimated 176 million women worldwide regardless of their ethnic and social background. Many remain undiagnosed and are therefore not treated.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrial stroma and glands, which should only be located inside the uterus) is found elsewhere in the body [1].

It is generally acknowledged that an estimated 10% of all women during their reproductive years (from the onset of menstruation to menopause) are affected by endometriosis [2]. This equates to 176 million women throughout the world, who have to deal with the symptoms of endometriosis during the prime years of their lives [3].

Common locations of endometriosis

Endometriosis lesions can be found anywhere in the pelvic cavity:

on the ovariesthe fallopian tubeson the pelvic side-wall (peritoneum)the uterosacral ligaments,the cul-de-sac,the Pouch of Douglasthe rectal-vaginal septum

Endometriosis lesions*

Endometriosis lesions*

In addition, it can be found in:

caesarian-section scarslaparoscopy/laparotomy scarson the bladderon the bowelon the intestines, colon, appendix, and rectum.

But these locations are not so common. In even more rare cases, endometriosis has been found inside the vagina, inside the bladder, on the skin, in the lung, spine, and brain.

Symptoms of endometriosis

The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain.

The pain often correlates to the menstrual cycle, but a woman with endometriosis may also experience pain that doesn't correlate to her cycle – this is what makes this disease/condition so unpredictable and frustrating.

For many women, the pain of endometriosis is so severe and debilitating that it impacts their lives in significant ways.

Endometriosis can also cause scar tissue and adhesions to develop that can distort a woman's internal anatomy. In advanced stages, internal organs may fuse together, causing a condition known as a "frozen pelvis." This is not common, but it does happen.

It is estimated that 30-40% of women with endometriosis may not be able to have children (if you suspect you suffer from infertility, please see our section on endometriosis and infertility).

If you, or someone you care about, has endometriosis, it is important to research the disease as much as possible. Many myths and misconceptions about endometriosis still persist, even in the medical literature.

For many women, management of this disease may be a long-term process. Therefore, it is important to educate yourself, take the time to find a good doctor, and consider joining a local support group.

http://endometriosis.org/endometriosis/

Whoopi Goldberg speaks at Blossom Ball 2009

A New Year: 2012, Love Found Me Stage Production

Love Found Me, The Stage Production!

I looked around and the 2011, year just zoomed past. I hear the on the lips of others, of how that year was quite difficult for them, in fact they were not too sad to see it go. I certainly can understand. It depends on how an individual view things in life, really.

Starting all over again, can be considered a NEW beginning. An adventure if you will. So, here it is a new year, and another opportunity to create/make. To be given the gift of "today," is a blessing --and should never be taken for granted.

So, what are your goals for 2012? I am not a numerologist, but I do have fun playing around with the significance of numbers. Did a little digging and I come up with some interesting facts about the number 12.





Actor/Model Tamaro Johnson, starring
as Lance Harrison
in Love Found Me.

The Biblical Meaning of the Number 12:

Twelve is a perfect number, signifying perfection of government, or of governmental perfection. It is found as a multiple in all that has to do with rule. The sun which "rules" the day, and the moon and stars which "govern" the night, do so by their passage through the twelve signs of the Zodiac which completes the great circle of the heavens of 360 (12 x 30) degrees or divisions, and thus govern the year. http://www.biblestudy.org/bibleref/me...


Cool, right? I thought so. 2012, I just want to encourage you today. Go for your aspirations. Pursue, what God has chosen you to do and NOT what others to do, -- at the end of the day, you will be spiritually happier and physically healthier. Don't forget to order your tickets to attend our upcoming production, "Love Found Me", March 17th, 2112 the last performance of the year. Go online at lovefoundmeinspirational.eventbrite.com.

Actor/Singer Donta Robinson,
starring as Eric Miller


We have a talented group of actors who are just phenomenal and are working hard to bring forth one of the best performances of 2012. Be sure to order your tickets online and help us in spreading the word. Thank you so much for the support! Happy New Year.
New Beginning. New YOU!


The ladies of "Love Found Me", the stage production.

After This...

After the storm, I lingered at the door, not wanting to see the damages it had wrought upon us. It was unbelievable. One minute the sun was shinning, the next minute dark and foreboding clouds had come out of no where. The wind had picked up unexpectedly. The rain had begun to fall in abundance. Sighing, I finally forcing myself to move; I entered the building. I was not prepared for the damages, I was witnessing. Everything was one horrific mess! Water was everywhere, it was overwhelming. I knew that it needed to be cleaned up yet—it 'seemed' too much for me. I didn't know where to begin, the situation felt overwhelming. After the storm; I couldn't help feeling powerless, helpless, and lost.

I didn't want to be there. I am not an avoider at all. But, right then I wanted to run somewhere safe and happy. I wanted to go somewhere and just release my feelings for a moment. To scream out the angst I was feeling. Later I thought. Right now it was time to deal with this present issue. I forced myself to walk further into the room, when I really wanted to run the other way. It took brute strength to hold myself together. I could feel the others watching me, awaiting my reaction from the unexpected storm. They've already had the opportunity to assess the damage done. It was my turn. My predilection for order was sorely being tested. I absolutely detest when things are out of order.

It was the quiet after the storm. Everything was different--never again will things be the same. Around me there was a movement taking place. God's people had a mind to work! I looked their faces trying to discern their mind states. I saw a fierce determination. It was in their movements. I was pleasantly surprised and galvanized.

Though progression was taking place, I was becoming restless with the pace things were going. Why do bad things happen to good people? This question immediately popped in my head. I walked further into the room immediately raw emotions flooded me. My Pastor walked past me, as if oblivious to the damages done. She smiled, looking around and said. "It is looking good." Her words made me speechless. She has a way of always rendering me so. I was immediately humbled. I confess that I couldn't see past the mess.

My teacher was still smiling. I looked again wanting to see what she was seeing. I needed to look beyond the mess to see the good. Looking past the hurts and disappointments, I was finally able to see it! The good. The storm had bought a people together. The flood had caused a determination that wasn't there before. The rain removed old layers to reveal a hidden danger. These walls were new. My teacher walked past me. I could hear her words in passing. "Baby, you got to see the vision. Then work it."

The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year!

It is the most wonderful time of the year! For some the holiday season can be painful, as some has/had suffered the loss of family, friend, health, and/or jobs. Sending out (((waves))) of encouragements to you. Take the love of friends and family and wear it like a warm blanket. Love is the best medicine! Truly, it is amazing- what the power of love can do!!When a person loves something or someone, they become passionate enough to step outside the box and pursue their vision (s) *cough* or someone! *smile*. The love of self, friends, and family; can truly make the world go around. And make our journey smoother. When I wrote the novel and stage production of "Love Found Me." I knew, I wanted to explore the above entities in an unique way. Applying it to paper was the tricky part. The next step was to bring these characters to life, in an believable manner. I want viewers to see themselves or that of someone they knew or know. Sometimes we can be to close to our situations that we just don't see it; for what it is. Thus the stage production of "Love Found Me." Suffice it to say, that I would need strong actors, to bring our leading characters to life. I immediately thought of Tony Grant, star of Tyler Perry's ,"Why Did I Get Married?" and "A Madea Christmas." There is a redemption scene in the "Love Found Me," production in which Tony Grant performs; that will sends chills down your spine. Tony's vocal range is like no other! But, mainly it is what, I hail as "the anointing." So, for Tony's love interest, I had to have someone strong to Sheila's character and would have a strong repoire, with Tony Grant. Trisha Mann, star of "The Clean Up Woman." would be that woman. UPCOMING ARTISTS: Rev. Ishie and Sister Ethel. You have not seen anything until you've seen these two in action!!!!! Be on the look out for these two! HILARIOUS! Thank you so much for all your support, we are looking forward to meeting and greating you. May God bless you! On December 10th-11th/6:00pm. Order tickets online at http://lovefoundmeproduction.eventbrite.com. Synopsis: Mike Montgomery once lived the American dream. Gainfully employed, beautiful home, and a wonderful loving wife. Growing up in a loving family whose faith was unbreakable was his source of strength. Mike's faith would one day be shaken after losing the love of his life in an unexpected tragedy. Mike thought he would never love again until he meets Sheila Lawson. Everything about Sheila made him want to love again. Could he risk his heart again? Sheila Lawson, a woman's health advocate was strong and independent, yet something was missing in her life. Immersing herself in her work, she vowed off any relationships. Sheila would find her self-made decree shaken when she meets tall, dark, and handsome Mike Montgomery. There is an evil lurking in the shadows. Mike and Sheila will have to unite to overcome evil forces trying to keep them apart. Will their love be enough to see them through the testing of their faith?

Love Found Me actors Tony Grant and Trisha L. Mann

"Love Found Me" the stage production
coming December 10th-11th|6:00pm est.

We are doing it again. This Christmas we are collecting non-perishable food items, warm clothing, and Toys. We will being giving these items to those who are experiencing economic hardships. Help us in our endeavor to share-- because we care!

Tony Grant: Singer, writer, producer and actor Tony Grant is on a mission and the entertainment industry has taken notice. ....

As the former lead vocalist of the internationally acclaimed, Grammy-nominated group Az Yet (LaFace Records), it was Tony's patented first-tenor voice that dazzled the music world on such hit songs as "Last Night" and "Hard to Say I'm Sorry" following the departure of singer/songwriter Marc Nelson. ....

Tony has either performed or recorded with an array of talented and accomplished artists over the last decade, including Brian McKnight, Dr. Dre, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, Shirley Murdock, Dave Hollister, Stevie Wonder and Ham Conick, Jr., just to name a few.....

While singing has always been Tony's first love, he has proven over and over that he is not just a one-dimensional entertainer. He is also an accomplished stage actor. A North Carolina native currently residing in Los Angeles, Tony has had star billing in the hit national inspirational stage play and now DVDs "Tell Hell I Ain't Comin'", Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married" and "Love Ain't Supposed To Hurt." ....


Trisha L. Mann: Chicagoan, Trisha Mann, attended Roosevelt University for Music Education with a scholarship in Voice Performance. While there, Trisha became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and was crowned Miss Black Chicago. She used her title to reach many students through motivational speaking at graduations and assemblies. While being a positive role model, Trisha was a print model in Ebony and Jet magazines for Raveen and Fashion Fair and toured the country doing hair shows, national billboards and commercials for Luster Hair products.

Ms. Mann then lovingly said farewell to the "Windy City" to pursue her career in acting and writing in L.A., California. Within a month, Trisha booked her first t.v. appearance with the late Lou Rawls and sports talk show host Terry Bradshaw. She then explored the world of theater in The Great Women of Color portraying the Civil rights activist Ida B. Wells. The Drama-logue said, "Trisha's performance was anger-personified". This theatrical experience led to many more including, The Visit, An Evening of Shakespeare with Charles Dutton where Trisha played opposite Mr. Dutton as his Lady Mac Beth, The NAACP award winning Jeffery's Plan in which Trisha was the over-bearing boss of Kellita Smith (Bernie Mac show) and then the wife of soulful, crooner Howard Hewett in Say Amen. Ms. Mann starred in an incredibly written Tracie Dean Ponder production, Souled Out. Trisha shared the stage with Stephanie Mills, Malik Yoba and Tommy Ford (Martin Lawrence Show) in her first National tour of David Talbert's His Woman His Wife. She received noteworthy reviews not only for His Woman His Wife but also for If You Don't Believe: A love story written by NAACP award winner Michael Ajakwe. Enjoying the role as the big sister to Tatyana Ali (Fresh Prince) Trisha also gained recognition from the NAACP with a nomination for Best Supporting Actress in this musically, delightful production produced by singer extraordinaire Denise Williams.

Order tickets at http://lovefoundmeproduction.eventbri...

Tony Grant starring as Mike Montgomery

Mark your calendars! The Stage Production of Love Found Me comes to life! December 10th-11th, 2011.Our special guest artists are the sensational Mr. Tony Grant from Tyler Perry's stage productions "Why Did I Get Married?", and The Marriage Counselor."

Join our cast is actress and Model Tri sha Mann!!!

Trisha shared the stage with Stephanie Mills, Malik Yoba and Tommy Ford (Martin Lawrence Show) in her first National tour of David Talbert's His Woman His Wife. She received noteworthy reviews not only for His Woman His Wife but also for If You Don't Believe: A love story written by NAACP award winner Michael Ajakwe. Enjoying the role as the big sister to Tatyana Ali (Fresh Prince) Trisha also gained recognition from the NAACP with a nomination for Best Supporting Actress in this musically, delightful production produced by singer extraordinaire Denise Williams. Trisha produced one of her very own written and God-inspired plays, Mama's Will, in which she also made her Directing debut, soon to be a film, and she wrote the lyrics and melody to each song.

You don't want to miss this one showing only performance. Purchase tickets today! Hurry as tickets are going fast!

Tony Grant in "Save Me From My Secrets."

The Unexpexted!

Suddenly, she was hit hard. The unexpected impact sent her sprawling to her knees. She could hear the sound of the rain pelting against the large window. It was all a strange phenomenon, to her. Dark billowy clouds had gathered hovering and intimidating. It was a remarkable sight. The howling winds were a frightening thing to hear, the ominous sound causing chills to dance over the lone woman's slight frame.



The forcefulness of the blow was numbing. There on her knees, stunned with disbelief, she watched the hands of time move. The clock on the mantle revealed that only minutes had passed. To her the moments seemed an eternity; hurt can make you feel that way. Hurt painful claws were fiercely embedded in her, refusing her release. The pain was enough to cause a normal person to lose their sanity.



A glance around the room revealed nothing had changes. Her bed nicely made up, her mass of pillows was still in order. Her Bible was on the right side of her nightstand. Her slippers were by her armoire. Nothing had changed. Yet, for her everything had changed in a moment's time. She could not breathe. She felt as though she were in a movie; cast in the wrong role. Enough! Deciding that she would no longer play the role of the helpless victim, she raised her chin. It was time for a change, yet she needed answers. What was the right answers? What to do? How could this had happen?



Her kneeled position would be the beginning of her transition. For it was there on her knees, she began to pray. Normally words would fail her, (hurt can do that to a person) today was different. She encompassed with words begging for release and she obliged them with out restriction. With the winds howling ferociously and the rain continuing to fall, still on her knees, her words flowed, as did her tears. It was ugly but necessary. She was in the right position, there on her knees. However, the unction to get lower was strong. You see, some people have to dig a little deeper and stretch a little wider than others do.



Stretching out on her stomach, the words continued to flow. Startled, she looked around the room in question; for a brief moment, she thought she heard the faint call of her name. There in her humbled prayer position, she made a self-conscious decision (and it was a decision) to be free.



Praying not out of defeat but belief, she fought past the pain and called God's name. Time lapsed, how much she may never know, but what she did know is this--prayer works.



She prayed in the storm and God guided her through it. She prayed the necessary prayer of the ugly and God made her feel like new. This was the process: she prayed, believed, and received. Then she got up! Smiling, she dried her eyes assured that everything was going to be all right. As if consenting, in agreement, the rain had suddenly stopped and the wind had calmed. What a phenomenal display of authority! At this, she was reassured; that she is never forgotten nor forsaken. God knows her name and he knows yours, too!











Picture courtesy of WAK

Master of Disguises Author James Benjamin

About the Author



James Benjamin was born and raised as a Christian in Winston-Salem, NC. While growing up, James succumbed to the street life and was lured by the many faces of the enemy. Through his trials and tribulations, his faith in God ended up saving his life and provided an impactful testimony to share with others in his shoes. James has dedicated his life to spreading God's word through his unique prospective and hopes to help change others lives as He did for him. He is also enrolled at the University of Phoenix, acquiring his associate's degree. James Benjamin is also a student at Apostle Fredrick Price Ministry Training School class of 2013.



Visit the author at http://www.masterofdisguises.com OR http://masterofdisguises.wordpress.com





Visit the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/MasterofDisguises





James Benjamin is a living miracle. He was on a path towards destruction, and through his faith in God, was saved. In his first, self-published book titled "Master of Disguises," James guides readers through his compelling story of struggling in the street life, and finding sanctuary through The Lord. Most importantly, he unveils the enemy, and the many disguises the enemy has. He provides inspiration where many feel hopeless, and educates individuals who are lost as he once was. James lives to tell his story to help keep young men and women off the streets and away from the grips of the enemy.



Benjamin's story is one that attracts the groups that are hard to communicate to: teens and their parents, prisoners, people living the street life and their families, and the African American street community. Those that are experiencing hardships can easily listen to James as he used to be in their shoes. His prospective is inviting, as he leaves no secrets and lays out his life for the readers. James exposes the many faces of the enemy that he experienced to help the next individual detect and defeat them. As he learned through his own struggles, James finds it essential that Christians be aware of the enemy's disguises. In his case, it almost cost him his life.









Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com



BarnesandNoble.com



BooksaMillion.com





BOOK TRAILER for Master of Disguises

Love Found MeBy Vanessa RichardsonHello! Did you get your...

Love Found Me

By Vanessa Richardson


Hello! Did you get your copies of my inspirational suspense "Love Found Me?" If you have thank you so much! And if you have not, what are you waiting on!

Mike Montgomery once lived the American dream. Gainfully employed, beautiful home, and a wonderful loving wife. Growing up in a loving family whose faith was unbreakable was his source of strength. Mike's faith would one day be shaken after losing the love of his life in an unexpected tragedy. Mike thought he would never love again until he meets Sheila Lawson. Everything about Sheila made him want to love again. Could he risk his heart again?



Sheila Lawson, a woman's health advocate was strong and independent, yet something was missing in her life. Immersing herself in her work, she vowed off any relationships. Sheila would find her self-made decree shaken when she meets tall, dark, and handsome Mike Montgomery. There is an evil lurking in the shadows. Mike and Sheila will have to unite to overcome evil forces trying to keep them apart. Will their love be enough to see them through the testing of their faith?








Book Trailer for Love Found Me





Order your Ebook of "Love Found Me", www.smashwords.com for $4.99! Whoo hoo!
Order discounted copies here by clicking on Paypal link on side-bar.

Brian L. Thompson, Great Nation Publishing's President/Ow...

Brian L. Thompson, Great Nation Publishing's President/Owner and author of The Lost Testament, is a licensed educator, and former professional journalist.

He showed an early interest in classical literature and the arts, particularly after his poem, "Black Sunday," received an honorable mention in Gwynedd-Mercy College's literary contest for high school students in 1993.

A 1994 North Penn High School graduate, he continued his education at Morehouse College in Atlanta. While there, Thompson wrote for the Maroon Tiger newspaper; moving up the ranks from staff writer, to Sports Editor, and finally to Editor-in Chief.

After earning his Bachelor's of Arts Degree in English in 1998, he transitioned to a staff writer position at Montgomery Newspapers.

In 2000, his second as a professional journalist, he returned to the field of academics at Temple University, earning a Master's Degree in secondary education in 2001.

Thompson then turned to education at West Charlotte High and Newton High schools respectively while simultaneously researching and writing his first Christian fiction novel, The Lost Testament – a project self-described as a "faith-based tale with every day characters engaged in a thrilling plot."

During this time, he also helped edit author Sabra Robinson's anthology of inspirational stories entitled The Lost Sheep: How I Got (And AM Still Getting) Over the Hump – A Personal Account of God's Restoration After Doubting His Purpose, the Church, and Human Existence.

About the Book

After 800 years of oppression, the Uché abandon all hope of liberation – until a bo y with unbreakable bones emerges from the wilderness. . .

For centuries, Uché seers foretold the birth of a deliverer called Mkombozi – one fated to enter The Revelation Gate and lead them to freedom.

Knowing this, the king of the barbarous Otī does his best to eliminate the lone threat to his dominion. When his best efforts fail, he allies himself with a self-proclaimed emperor who reveals the true natures of The Revelation Gate and the Uché hero.

Meanwhile, as Mkombozi's mother wavers between feelings of abandonment and crises of faith, her people ready themselves to wage an unwinnable war – minus faith in their deliverer, whose fate ushers him to an uncertain destination.

Merging elements of political intrigue and social class relations together in an allegorical, character-driven plot, The Revelation Gate confronts issues of doubt, star-crossed love, and the power of the individual.

Brain and his family reside in Georgia. Visit Brian at http://www.brianlthompson.co/

Purchase the Book Online at:

http://www.brianlthompson.co/Books.html

For More Information

Visit the author at http://www.greatnationpublishing.com

Visit blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/TheRevelationGate