Vanessa Richardson's Blog, page 8

Life is What You Make It Blog Tour with Carl Mathis

Christian author, preacher and motivational speaker Carl Mathis began his work for the ministry in 2005 after a life-altering experience. At that time, the death of Mathis' wife was the reason behind the dramatic turn of events that soon led him to his life's purpose and calling.

Dealing with the loss of his wife and raising three children as a single father while struggling to make ends meet, Mathis had to contend with unbearable feelings of hopelessness and despair. It was during those moments that Mathis cried out for a strategy to overcome his situation. This experience soon pushed him to channel is grief and use its transforming power to change his own life and others as well.

Immediately after getting back on track, Mathis was moved to act on his burning desire to encourage and motivate people, especially those who have shared the same fate as him. It was then Mathis saw the need to reach out to the distressed and the depressed.

In 2010, he came out with his debut work entitled Life is What You Make It – seven steps to moving forward, a 104 page inspirational book drawn from his own personal life experiences and challenges. Filled with messages on how to deal with sorrow and ultimately survive the process of moving on, the book provides readers with the much-needed encouragement and motivation in order to strive better.

A man after God's own heart, Mathis continues his passion today of reaching out to people using his God-given abilities, particularly speaking and writing, and becoming a blessing to others in return.


About the Book
Carl Mathis wasn't prepared for the devastation the loss of his wife would bring to his life. He soon found himself grieving, struggling to make ends meet, and trying to raise his sons, who were also dealing with personal turmoil from the loss of their mother. After months of waiting for someone to rescue him, Carl had to face the inevitable truth–no one was coming. He realized that if he wanted out of the mess his life was becoming, he was going to have to do it himself.

Join new author Carl Mathis in this motivational story about one man's struggle to put his life back together. Life Is What You Make It will teach you how to overcome any crippling situation you find yourself in and stimulate personal and spiritual growth by accepting the situation, taking responsibility, conditioning your mind, choosing to make right decisions, building a team, believing, and defining the new normal.



Book Trailer







PODCAST 1 - About Life is What You Make It



PODCAST 2 – Carl talks about what he wants readers to learn from Life is What You Make It



Purchase the Book Online at:
Amazon.com
BarnesandNoble.com
BooksaMillion.com

Visit the author at CarlMathis.com
Visit the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/LifeisWhatYouMakeIt

Round Table Discussions

She moved deftly around her spacious kitchen like a graceful dancer. A small smile gracing her seasoned face. She was preparing tonight's dinner. Although she lived alone she always cooked healthy servings. She never lacked company. Her children or grandchildren never failed to put in an attendance to her home. Some would stay over for several nights. She didn't mind this; in fact she utterly adored it. It gave her a sense of purpose. It was rewarding to be able to feed and catch up on current events in the lives of her babies'.

She called them her round table discussions. There is something to be said about healthy food and good conversation; it's rejuvenates the soul. She loved all her babies including their pet dogs and cats. They were a family. Family and faith was the foundation is stood on. Material things were fleeting.

"Hey Grandma," The sound of her granddaughters' voice made her pause. So begins the first round table discussion. She offered up a small prayer of guidance and continued to mead her sourdough home made bread. Behind her she heard her refrigerator door open and closing softly. But remained silence. When you lived as long as she had; you're able to discern a person's mood. Right now her grand was in a dour mood.

The octogenarian smiled knowingling; she began humming an old time tune under her breath, all the while kneading her dough. Veronica kissed her grandmother on the cheek. She snagged an apple from the fruit tray; and stood watching her grandmother perform her culinary magic in the kitchen.

"You're making sourdough bread. Yummy, yummy my favorite." Grandma looked up and smiled, still humming. Veronica watched her grandmother knead the dough into formation. Grandma made three short thick loaves; turning she placed them in the oven. She moved on to her next assignment of peeling white potatoes. She sat down with a heavy sigh. Veronica could hear the sound of her grandmother's bones popping in the spatial kitchen.

"I have got to lose me some weight. My knees aren't like they use to be. I use to stand for hours on end with out feeling any type of aches." Veronica silently seated herself next to her petite grandmother. Her granny was 125 pounds soaking and weight.

"You don't need to lose any weight, granny. You're perfect the way you are." Granny eyed Veronica and smiled. Veronica silently joined her granny in peeling the white potatoes. The two working in comfortable silence. Veronica tilted her head, sighing loudly. Grandma lifted one eye brow but remained silent. It wasn't long before Veronica finally spoke.

Swallowing hard Veronica raked a hand through her hair in frustration. "Grandma, I have been feeling funny lately. I can not describe how I feel exactly." She said absently. "I wake up in the morning with this feeling and lie down at night with this feeling." Her large doe eyes filled with tears. "I feel nasty on the inside."

Grandma's heart stilled for several seconds. Veronica's choice words were forming many scenarios in her mind. Experience taught her to never jump to conclusions. Patience was not born or inherited. It was a disciplined act, one must work at it. So she waited and was soon rewarded for her patience.

Veronica stirred, pushing at the many micro braids. She closed her eyes trying to formulate the words in her heart. Tears began coursing down her cheeks.

"I need help. I can not think straight. It is a chore for me to get up in the morning. Of late I have been asking why I am here. What is the purpose of my existence? I feel nasty on the inside." Veronica shook her head pointing at her heart.

Grandma continued to hum softly. "Something is out of order, little angel of the field," Grandma never looked up. She continued peeling the layers off the potatoes.

Veronica rested her forehead on the table. "I know. I feel there is something I should be doing, but I don't know what. It is as if life is passing me by." She closed her eyes and swallowed. She felt lost and confused. "Grandma, I am 29 years old. I had--have so many goals and it seems that none of them has come to fruition. The more I try the more, I get knocked down. It is too much."

"You see human beings are design rather uniquely and if something on the inside is out of order it throws us all off track." Grandma arrested Veronica's eyes. "You got to get to root cause of the matter. That requires dealing with our situations." Grandma paused. "The good and the bad ones," The potatoes were now peeled. Grandma began to cut them up into small chunks.

"I don't feel like I am good enough, granny. I want this nasty feeling to go away. It clings to me like a spiders clings to its web. What do I do?"

Veronica leaned in close anxious to hear her granny's sage advice. Her grandmother flashed a smile at her. "We have layers in our lives that need peeling away. Hurt, rejections fear and doubts make for a nasty recipe. Nasty. There is a root to everything. We need to get to it. The good water it. The bad. Get rid of it." Veronica averted her eyes some how feeling chastised. She wasn't ready to deal with her issue. It was too painful. She was tired of the nastiness. She wanted to feel like she belonged. She wanted to live not exist. In her mind she knew her granny was right. It was her heart that was rebelling as she'd been hurt too many times.

"It is a nasty feeling being weighted down by negative things. You know what the sad thing about it is?" Grandma scoffed, hitting the table hard with one hand. "We don't have to keep that nasty feeling. Baby, happiness is a choice we make. You just have to make hot pursuit. Go after it." Grandma began to pick up speed as peeled the potatoes. "If you want something bad enough you go after it. No pain no gain. Failure is nasty. Doubt is nasty. Confusion is nasty. All those layers must be peeled away. No one and nothing has the power to make you feel…nasty." Her grandmother smiled stood up placing the potato chunks into the boiling water.

"I have been making meals for many years now. I know the process each meal goes through. If I deviate from the ingredients, I know the outcome will be different. Creation takes a plan and processing. The process is well worth the end results." She went to the oven and pulled out the sourdough bread." The three loaves where perfectly golden brown, the smell aromatic.

"You're feeling the heat now Veronica. You have the ingredients to be successful. Faith and family. Prepare your master piece. If it is ruined try it again, until it comes out just right."

Veronica stood up and hugged her granny. "Thank you, grandma. I know what you're telling me. I am sorry, I can't stay for dinner I have something-- I need to get started on." She broke off a huge chunk of sourdough bread, smiling at her granny she turned and left."

"I have a feeling everything is going to be all right." Granny started humming again. "Hey, grandma." The voice sounded weak. She didn't turn around. It was her grandson Oscar. From the sound of things, he was in a bad way. She smiled offering up a prayer of thanksgiving. It was good to be needed.

Copyright © 2004
The information on this page may not be reproduced or republished on another webpage or website.

Art work is courtesy of WAK

http://www.wak-art.com

About the AuthorMarian L. Thomas graduated Magna Cum Lau...

About the Author

Marian L. Thomas graduated Magna Cum Laude, receiving her Bachelor degree in Business Communication. She began her writing debut as a Sports Editor and as a News Editor for a local Atlanta college paper.

It took over twenty-years for Marian to see her first piece of published fiction in Print─Color Me Jazzmyne, in early 2009. Color Me Jazzmyne went on to become a Amazon Best-selling novel for Marian, reaching #1 in the Rhythm & Blue category, #2 in Inner-Child and #7 in Performance/Voice for her character Naya Moná's, amazing melodious tones that are developed throughout the book.


Color Me Jazzmyne was awarded as one of the "Top 100 Books" for 2010 by the Sankofa Literary Society Review.


While Marian's books are a work of fiction, they touch on the struggles of women, abuse, relationships and friendships, giving each one a hint of reality that readers are looking for in a good, clean and emotional story.


Visit the author online at http://www.marianlthomas.com/

About the Book

Four people will travel on a journey that will lead to one destination.

How do you find a daughter you never knew you gave birth to? That is the question that Naya must answer as she once again finds herself on a journey filled with betrayal, lies and shocking secrets of her past.
How far would one go for love? That is the question that Chris wastes no time answering. He will do whatever it takes to remove his wife's pain, even if it means being the one to cause her the most.

Fame and Fortune have been the determining factor for Misty ever since her father passed away. How far will she go, this time to achieve it?

Carl Thompson has found the love of his life, only she doesn't know it. Green eyes and hazel brown hair fill his dreams for the future. Does he have enough love for the both of them?

Join best-selling author Marian L. Thomas as she takes you through the pages of My Father's Colors. This book is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and get caught in the drama-filled story of a woman's journey to find her voice, again!

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com
BarnesandNoble.com

For More Information

Visit the author online at:
http://www.marianlthomas.com/

View the blog tour schedule at:
http://bit.ly/MyFathersColors

Oprah Winfrey presents The Color Purple (Musical) Actress and Endometriosis Advocate Stephanie St. James

The Color Purple (Musical) Actress and Endometriosis Advocate Stephanie St.

Currently touring as Squeak in the Broadway production of "Oprah Winfrey Presents: The Color Purple," Stephanie St. James doesn't bear a Jewish-sounding name or resemble a traditional-looking Russian. But she is both with roots in Israel and Guyana as well. The granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, St. James fiercely defends the State of Israel and her Jewish upbringing even when it makes for awkward conversation.


Join me for a special edition of The Certain Ones Blog Talk Radio Show Saturday, March 31st|6:00pm est. Click on link of call in live at Call-in Number:(917)932-1607.


What is endometriosis?Endometriosis is the abnormal growth of cells (endometrial cells) similar to those that form the inside of the uterus, but in a location outside of the uterus. Endometrial cells are cells that are shed each month during menstruation. The cells of endometriosis attach themselves to tissue outside the uterus and are called endometriosis implants. These implants are most commonly found on the ovaries, the Fallopian tubes, outer surfaces of the uterus or intestines, and on the surface lining of the pelvic cavity. They can also be found in the vagina, cervix, and bladder, although less commonly than other locations in the pelvis. Rarely, endometriosis implants can occur outside the pelvis, on the liver, in old surgery scars, and even in or around the lung or brain. Endometrial implants, while they can cause problems, are benign (not cancerous).


Who is affected by endometriosis?
Endometriosis affects women in their reproductive years. The exact prevalence of endometriosis is not known, since many women may have the condition and have no symptoms. Endometriosis is estimated to affect over one million women (estimates range from 3% to 18% of women) in the United States. It is one of the leading causes of pelvic pain and reasons for laparoscopic surgery and hysterectomy in this country. Estimates suggest that between 20% to 50% of women being treated for infertility have endometriosis, and up to 80% of women with chronic pelvic pain may be affected.


Listen to internet radio with The Certain Ones on Blog Talk Radio

Endometriosis: Stephanie St. James on iVillage Live


James.HELP STEPHANIE GET 10,000 SIGNATURES FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESShttp://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/opra...

Endometriosis Support Groups:http://endometriosis.org/support/supp...
www.endometriosisassn.org/supportgrou...

Poetic Elixir For Your Soul!

Saturday, February 5th, 2011|6:00pm on The Certain Ones Blog Talk Show:Poetic Elixir For Your Soul!

Poet and Author Acholam Birago:Truths lie dormant at the core of our character, suppressed by life's daily journey, repressed by fear's false declaration of power. Their dormancy causes our spirit to sleep in the bed of deception with restlessness as a detriment to the heart. Awakened by God through trial and admonition, Acholam Birago travels through the tunnels of the soul unearthing the purpose planted by the Husbandman in the hearts of His people.

Acholam Birago, a name of stability, humility, and victory. A name derived from the lands of Africa, kissed by the Nigerian sun, defined by the tribe of Ibo. A name tagged with a charge to deliver a message to love's vacant territory.
Wisconsin-born, Birago spent the first twelve years of his life in the projects of Milwaukee with his mother and siblings. Chicago became a second home as frequent visits to his grandmother, "Ma" warmed his heart with aged wisdom and meals that could only be cooked by the ol' school. Relocation to his father‟s house gave parental rights to the streets of Los Angeles which instilled its own wisdom into his thirteen year old mind. With the Word as his guide, love as his landscape, and poetry as his vehicle, Birago delivers a message of restoration. His poetry motivates men to move in God, inspires them to proceed in purpose, and empowers them to enrich the lives of others. Inspired by the blossom of character in children, motivated by their struggle under the roofs of conflicted custodians, he strives to restore the love into the hearts of others as God intended. Reaching men and women within their respective roles, Birago pierces the heart, exposing the wounds, so that God may heal.

poeticsoulprovider.blogspot.com


DuEwa Frazier: Her first two names, mean Black Beauty-The One In Whom the Sun Rises in the African, Swahili language. Although raised in St. Louis, Missouri, her life didn't begin there!

Born in Brooklyn, New York on a hot, August morning, to educator/artist/activist parents, in the same year poet and playwright Ntozake Shange launched the acclaimed "For Colored Girls" play- DuEwa seemed destined to take part in the rich tradition of arts and pride from her community and share her creative spirit with others.

Poetry, dramatic performance, dance, playwriting and teaching is a part of the creative world DuEwa lives in. At age 5, this ,'Lady of Words', first stepped on stage, playing activist Rosa Parks in a play called "We Shall Overcome." In grade school DuEwa began keeping journals and writing creatively.

DuEwa took dance training in jazz, modern and African forms as a child and adult. Her most memorable dance performance and training experiences were at: The Katherine Dunham School of Dance, Elegba Folklore Society, Dance St. Louis and as a dancer in high school in Kinesis Dance Company.

Book Description: "Ten Marbles and a Bag to Put Them In: Poems for Children." By DuEwa Frazier.
Ten Marbles is a collection of poems for children. The poems cover themes ranging from love for nature and animals to summertime fun and more! The book features writing and drawing activities, in addition to comprehension questions after selected poems. This collection is perfect for bedtime storytelling, classroom literacy activities, and inspiring children to write creatively.Other Books: Check the Rhyme and Stardust Tracks on the Road / duewa_frazier@litnoirepublishing.com




Poet Muyiwa Babalola
Muyiwa Babalola was born and raised in Ibadan, Nigeria. He was the President of the Debate Club in High School. He won the best speaker honors during the Jaycees organized school debate competition at the University of Ibadan.

In addition. while he studied law at the University of Ife, he developed a natural interest in public speaking which was well received. To mention a few, he hosted the Tudmont Show, and was the public relations officer of Primus Inter-pares Club at the Faculty of law.

He was also the editors of Rockshock and Pebbles Magazines, where he developed the passion for writing and publishing. He proceeded to the Nigerian Law School at Victoria Island in Lagos, where he obtained his B.L and was called to the Bar as an attorney licensed to practice at the Supreme Court in Nigeria.

Due to convergence of computers and the practice of law, he shifted his focus to Computer science and qualified as a Microsoft certified systems Engineer (M.C.S.E), Cisco certified Network associate (C.C.N.A), Cisco Certified Design Associate (C.C.D.A) and Video Conferencing Engineer and certified instructor.

While working at I.S.S (International Systems Strategies) as a Network Engineer, he facilitated several networking courses as an instructor for organizations, such as A.T & T, Bell south, and Scientific Atlanta. He also participated in the Work force development program at the Albany State University in Georgia in conjunction with the Department of Labor.

His gifting and love of Poetry was developed and encouraged by his Mother Rachel Olabisi Babalola at an early age. She enrolled him in acting classes, piano and art, which culminated in his abiding love for poetry. He has published several poems and uses a concept called "Poeteducation" to act as a teaching aid for several educational projects.

Muyiwa Babalola served as the Youth minister at a local branch of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Atlanta for 6 years and contributed to the growth and development of the Children's Department. He published several poems in the church bulletin and organized several Vacation Bible Schools for the Kids.

He presently works in the hospitality industry as Director of Parking Operations at the Sheraton Hotel in Downtown Atlanta. He also conducts service excellence training classes at various sites and locations in the United States. He is blissfully married and blessed with children.

http://bablofest.com

Click on link to listen in!
Listen to internet radio with The Certain Ones on Blog Talk Radio

Author Valerie J. Lewis Coleman | Author of "The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box".

V. Richardson: Hello, Valerie! I am delighted to chat with you about your novel "The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box".

V. Coleman: Hi, Vanessa. And thanks for the opportunity.

V. Richardson: Interesting title! How did the concept and name come about?

V. Coleman: The concept for "The Goody Box" book was twofold. At this phase in my life (about midlife-ish), I have experienced significant changes—relationally, emotionally, physically and mentally. Almost without warning, my marriage was in chaos, my body was transitioning. (My goody box took on a mind and voice of its own. I still say that I could audibly hear her crying out for attention) and my twenty-six-year career as an engineer ended. (People often said, "I'm so sorry that you lost your job." With my hands on my hips, I said, "I didn't lose it. I know exactly where it is: Mexico!")

So about three years ago, I spoke into the atmosphere that I wanted to write a book to help prepare women for this collage of life transitions. My philosophy is best described by Lao Tzu who said, "Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime." (No sense watching a sister go through the same mess that I went through, if I can do something to prevent it.) The second part of the concept came from my cousin, confidante and co-author, Christopher "Doc" Reid. Every morning, as I tried to walk off the stress, we talked. He counseled, encouraged and enlightened me about marriage dynamics and re-engineering my career. He gave me sound, unbiased advice without a hidden agenda or motive. With his guidance and inside knowledge of men (in case I didn't mention it, Christopher is a man), he helped—and continues to help—me navigate through the storms of marriage and life in general. One October morning, he said that he had talked to many women who just didn't understand men.

"We're quite simple actually," he said. Yeah, right. Men are the most complicated, confusing—Sorry, I digressed. Anyway, he said that relationships are his passion and he wanted to write a book to help women understand men, avoid broken hearts and maintain some semblance of sanity. Ding! Ding! Ding! We combined our passions to create a solidified purpose: help women understand men to master the forbidden secrets of the goody box.
Sidebar: I assume that you know what I mean by "goody box." You know, she's been with me all my life. I never leave home without her. I can put up the pictures, if necessary.
Together, we developed the objectives and scenarios. I did all of the writing and publishing. Doc Reid provided the content that pertained to how and why men do what they do.

Creating the title was as challenging as writing. We tossed around several tit les, disagreed, separated to our respective corners, came back for a truce, surveyed friends and fans for feedback and then settled on the one that had the most kick: "The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box". It speaks volumes to the content of the book and serves as a great marketing tool. The catchy title attracts both men and women. Who doesn't want to know the forbidden? What person wants to be left out of a great secret? And can you name one person who doesn't have some connection to the goody box? From the cradle to the grave, the goody box affects every living soul and comes equipped with an unlimited supply of power. As if the title wasn't enough, we use the catch phrase "What your father didn't tell you and your mother didn't know" to emphasize the magnitude of this well-kept secret.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from your book?

V. Coleman: The overall theme is to empower women to recognize the men who only want to play games and identify the men who are relationship-ready. However, the book is full of so much wit and wisdom that we actually have multiple demographics:
For women,
· Three things that lead you to make terrible relationship decisions
· Every man's private marriage checklist
· A simple two-letter word that makes him want to pop the question
· How to break a toxic love pattern
· Why he just won't propose
· Little signs that tell you he's the one
· Advice from men you'd be crazy not to take
For young ladies (teens and tweens),
· Your beauty shines from the inside and radiates outwardly despite what he says or does
· Love yourself more than you "love" him
· If he really "loves" you, he'll wait until he marries you
For fathers,
· You are the first protector of your daughter's goody box
· Learn what makes your daughter feel loved and then fill her heart until it overflows
· What she doesn't get from you, she'll spend the rest of her life trying to find in another man, or worse yet, men

V. Richardson: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

V. Coleman: I enjoyed writing this book and watching the characters come alive. Of the three books I've written, it's my favorite by far; however, the readers want more. I have received phone calls, emails, texts and death threats from ladies wanting to know when the second book in "The Goody Series" releases.

V. Richardson: How has "The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box" been received so far?

V. Coleman: The response has been overwhelming. Women have told me that the book is life-changing because they are no longer the wounded doe standing in the crosshairs of the hunter's bow. Averting the snares and traps is easy because they can spot the hunter and his tactics from a distance. Time out for settling for he'll-do-because-some-man-is-better-than-no-man. These women are now empowered, in control and finding relational fulfillment.
We anticipated a favorable response, but we didn't expect colleges, high schools and even elementary schools to contact us to conduct workshops for girls and women. So we're taking the message to the masses with "Why He Married Her Instead of You", "Why He Left You for Her" and "Daddy, Look at Me" workshops.

V. Richardson: Who are/were your literary influences? And what books have most influenced your life?

V. Coleman: After the Bible and my own titles (Get ready for a shameless plug… "Blended Families An Anthology" is an Amazon.com Top 100 Bestseller in Stepfamily category, a Black Christian Book Distributors Top 50 Bestselling Nonfiction and the Christian Small Publishers Association's 2008 Nonfiction of the Year. "Tainted Mirror An Anthology" has inspired readers to stop making excuses and walk in destiny. And of course, "The Goody Box" book), my favorite book is "The Old Man and the Sea" by Ernest Hemingway. The read was a requirement for high-school English. I fell in love with his vivid description of the emerging marlin. I read that passage multiple times. He made me feel like I was in the boat. I also love "The Outsiders" by S. E. Hinton which my sixth-grade teacher read to the class over several months. The plot and characters intrigued me so that I couldn't wait to get to class. Now that I think about it, after she finished reading the book, I jotted my first notes for a book (I didn't follow through with it because it was a slight variation of Hinton's book). I also like the work of Christian-fiction author, Vanessa Miller. I helped her self-publish her first four books—"The Rain Series"—and now she's an Essence-bestselling author writing for three different publishing houses.
By far, the Bible most influences my life.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

V. Coleman: Specific to "The Goody Box" book, I learned that I'm not in this thing alone. Other women have experienced and are experiencing many of the same challenges and struggles; however, out of shame, embarrassment or pride, we suffer in silence. In addition, I knew that I didn't have an in-depth understanding of men; however, I discovered that I didn't know much of anything about men and how they think about women. Regarding publication; I have learned that I am tenacious, resilient, skilled and teachable.

V. Richardson: There is always a story behind the author's works. How do/did you handle rejection?

V. Coleman: As a self-published author content with putting in hard work and keeping all the money, I don't submit proposals to traditional publishing houses. As a result, I don't get rejection letters. I once had a distributor reject me—well, not me, but my title. Instead of quitting, I used the denial to fuel my fervor. I researched more distributors and now my books are available through Ingram and Baker and Taylor. Readers can go into any bookstore or library and request my titles.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

V. Coleman: I've been in the publishing business for almost ten years. As an author and publisher (in addition to my three titles, I have published about fifteen books for other authors through www.QueenVPublishing.net), I travel the nation presenting "Self-Publishing Made Easy Cash Machine" workshops (I love to teach. Remember "teach a man to fish"?) and find that most authors do not have a good understanding of the publishing process or marketing. Although it may have taken years to complete the manuscript, writing is still the easiest part of the process. My advice:
· Research the industry. Attend workshops and conferences. Know the true cost of publishing. Figure out how to price your book to make a profit. Find reputable printers. Study the components of a quality book. Establish your marketing strategy. Interview authors.
· Understand the different types of publishers (many of them prey on unlearned writers like vultures circling a weary desert nomad). They steal your dreams, invade your peace of mind and deplete your bank account. Several of my Queen V Publishing clients have been duped by publishers and came to me to make things right.
· Build a team. You cannot do it alone. Invest in a publicist, attorney, accountant and a sales team of devoted fans, friends and family.
The demands of publishing can be overwhelming especially for a neophyte. Over the years, I have saved clients thousands of dollars, tons of frustration and a plethora of disappointment. They begged me to clone myself, but since I'm not a biological engineer, I did the next best thing. I packed my knowledge and experience into a multi-DVD set to steer writers in the right direction. And if that's not enough, I coach and publish.

V. Richardson: Are there any upcoming and/or future projects readers should be made aware of?

V. Coleman: On March 26, 2011, I'm conducting the sixth annual Write On! Workshop in Dayton, Ohio. The event includes sessions on writing, publishing and marketing. On April 30, 2011, we're hosting the second annual Dayton Book Expo (www.DaytonBookExpo.com). Our inaugural event drew fifty authors and almost 500 book lovers. I have signing and speaking engagements in numerous cities. A complete calendar of events is available at www.PenOfTheWriter.com.
My friend and Queen V Publishing client, Dr. Karen M.R. Townsend, releases her first book: "It All Started When I Stopped Using Lotion – One Woman's Journey from Chaos to Calm" (www.AboutMySisters.com)
As for "The Goody Box" book, we're developing additional workshops to fulfill the influx of requests. Several churches have contracted with us to conduct a series of workshops geared toward unmarried, youth and now married couples. I finished the e-book last year (2010) and the audio book will be ready later this year (2011). Doc Reid and I have talked about hosting a conference for the women of the Goody Box Club at an exotic location. We'll be in negotiations soon for a stage play and eventually a movie. Woo hoo!

V. Richardson: How can readers contact you?

V. Coleman: Doc Reid is at www.ChristopherReid.org.
Everything I do is associated to my publishing company, Pen of the Writer.
www.PenOfTheWriter.com
www.Twitter.com/PenOfTheWriter
www.FaceBook.com/PenOfTheWriter
www.YouTube.com/PenOfTheWriter
www.ShoutLife.com/PenOfTheWriter
www.BlogTalkRadio.com/PenOfTheWriter
Email: Info@PenOfTheWriter.com
Phone: 937.307.0760


Bonus Question
From The Heart:

V. Richardson: When life gets a little hectic and you are feeling a little dismayed, how do you find peace in the storm?

V. Coleman: Does life ever have a time when it's not hectic? Prayer is first on the list. I may not break into a full sermon, but I can holler, "HELP!" with the best of them. And while I'm waiting on the reinforcements, I may take a long walk, eat some chocolate, call a friend, cry or take a nap. My action depends upon the magnitude of the "disruption."

V. Richardson: Valerie, thank you for an awesome chat! Thank you for sharing yourself and your works with our viewing audience. Much success to you! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

God knows my name and He knows yours, too!

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 embe dded in her, refusing her release. The pain was enough to cause a normal person to lose their insanity.

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 role of the helpless victim, she raised her chin. It was time for a change, yet she needed answers. What was the right answer? What do I do? How could this 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 my knees. However, the unction to get lower was strong. You see, some people have to dig a little deeper, 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: I 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 by WAK
http://www.wak-art.com/

Author Dolapo Babalola | Author of "My God: Even in the Last Minute."

V.Richardson: Hello Dolapo! I am happy to chat with you.

Dolapo Babalola:I'm delighted to chat with you. Thanks for this opportunity to reach your readers.

V.Richardson: It's indeed my pleasure! When did you first consider yourself a writer? And Why the impress to write this particular story?

Dolapo Babalola:I guess "a writer is one who writes" in which case I considered myself a writer when I realized that my writing was making a difference first and foremost in my life, and subsequently in the lives of others. I recall way back in my formative years, I enjoyed writing in my diary, most importantly while I was in a foreign country studying medicine. It was always comforting to express my thoughts down on paper; such clarity I experienced while doing so.

To answer the second question, I originally wrote my book to keep my mind focused on other activities in spite of my current challenges. I gradually matured through the process and had a keen appreciation of the omnipotence of God. Life is a journey; my experiences have shown me that it is a continuous learning curve. How we react to the situation is what makes the difference; this is when I decided to share my story with the world.

V. Richardson: My God: Even in the Last Minute is your new release. What is it about and how did the title come about?

Dolapo Babalola:My God: Even in the Last Minute (MyGelm) is an inspirational book that narrates my journey as a young aspiring physician who, in the pursuit of a permanent residency in the United States, faced multiple obstacles and challenges. Each day through this ongoing ordeal, I experienced God in a way that I never would have imagined. God showed up in the most unexpected places, in the last minute, and always with a life-changing lesson. It speaks on how the greatest lesson in our darkest hours of uncertainty is that God is close by, quietly working behind the scenes, bolstering our faith for a miracle.

The title of my book came about as I experienced my "Ah-Ha moment." While writing my text, it dawned on me that every bit of my journey was like a road race, some situation was always approaching its deadline or I was hitting rock bottom. I would try to figure out how and when a problem would be solved, and in the process I would doubt God's ability to handle the problem. God kept showing up in the most unexpected places to make a way for me, even when it seemed naturally impossible, even if it was in the last minute.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from your book?

Dolapo Babalola: I am excited to say that the kind of influence I was hoping for with my book started with me. While writing, I realized I can have peace of mind in my current position or any storm. I am assured that God can show up in the most unexpected place. This is the same influence, I hope to achieve with my readers through my book. The propagation of my message is to serve as a reminder that God's plans, purposes, and pursuits can be expressed through our lives if we lay down our plans, purposes, and pursuits to Him. I learnt various life-changing lessons, which I discussed in each chapter, with the hope it would make a positive impact on someone's life.

V. Richardson: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Dolapo Babalola:You know, I haven't thought about what I would like to change in my book at its current state. Though, I did think of changes on multiple occasions, even after the release of "MyGelm" to the market world, which led to me withdrawing my book to make further corrections. I must confess; it was exhausting! But I trusted God to guide me and He did. So, at this point, I can now say "To God be the Glory, I am pleased."

V. Richardson: Who are/were your literary influences? And what books have most influenced your life most?

Dolapo Babalola:So many but to mention a few; Rev Tai Ikomi has influenced my life especially in her book titled "The Art of Inspirational writing. It is an amazing book! It teaches readers to release themselves and deliver the message indoctrinated. I can say that my life never remained the same after I read Mike Murdock's book "The Uncommon Leader." I could read it over and over again. I just love the part that says we should focus on possibilities instead of problems. And lastly; Gifted Hands by Dr. Ben Carson. I remember reading this book in college with tears in my eyes, knowing that I can overcome any obstacle if I can only believe in myself. The message is clearly that "Champions keep playing until they get it right" words from Billie Jean King.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

Dolapo Babalola: So much, it's unbelievable. I love the fact that I have discovered myself to be more God-fearing, Adventurous, Seizing every opportunity and a Constant learner.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

Dolapo Babalola: I would like to leave these words with aspiring authors. First and foremost, please at this junction, tell yourself you can do it, you have what it takes to achieve you goals, and by the grace and wisdom of God, you will attain your goals. In addition to this, I recently heard of the key for success in an acronym called "REFS," which stands for Respect, Effort, Focus, and Self-control." Making it in life and scaling through challenges is by trusting God and seeking his guidance, but also having respect for self and others, making an effort, staying focused on the ultimate goal and maintaining self-control. So get to it; don't waste the talents and gifts, because someone out there needs to hear and read about it.

V. Richardson: Are there any up coming and/or future projects readers should be made aware of?

Dolapo Babalola: My husband and I recently started MyGelm blog; we love to aspire to our maximum potential by using the talents that God has blessed us with. The goal is to inspire others positively by having monthly inspirational poems on my blog, which would be opened for discussion. We invite your readers to join us and contribute to these inspirational nuggets.
Readers can stay abreast of my ongoing efforts by visiting my website and blog; http://www.mygelm.com/ and http://www.mygelm.wordpress.com/. I welcome your comments, discussion or your 2 cents on different topics.

V. Richardson: Sounds delicious! How can readers contact you?

Dolapo Babalola: I would love to hear from your readers. The best way to contact me will be via email; mygelm@gmail.com or facebook; www.facebook.com/584879119




Bonus Question

From The Heart:

V. Richardson: When life can get a little hectic and you are feeling a little dismayed. How do you find peace in the storm?

Dolapo Babalola: Wow, when my life gets hectic, I simply go on a "self-retreat." This is a retreat away from everyone, including my husband, children, family, etc. I spend this time re-evaluating my steps, watching movies, DANCING, just being quiet in my own world. When I am confident that I have grabbed my peace again, I come out ready to cope with life.

V. Richardson: Dolapo, thank you for an awesome chat! Thank you for sharing yourself and your works with our viewing audience. Much success to you! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

Dolapo Babalola:Thank you! The pleasure is mine. I love the remarkable mission on "The Certain One," which is "To Inspire as you Aspire." Keep up the great work!

Video for My God: Even in the Last Minute.

Author Dolapo Bablola | Author of "My God: Even in the Last Minute."

V.Richardson: Hello Dolapo! I am happy to chat with you.

Dolapo Babalola:I'm delighted to chat with you. Thanks for this opportunity to reach your readers.

V.Richardson: It's indeed my pleasure! When did you first consider yourself a writer? And Why the impress to write this particular story?

Dolapo Babalola:I guess "a writer is one who writes" in which case I considered myself a writer when I realized that my writing was making a difference first and foremost in my life, and subsequently in the lives of others. I recall way back in my formative years, I enjoyed writing in my diary, most importantly while I was in a foreign country studying medicine. It was always comforting to express my thoughts down on paper; such clarity I experienced while doing so.

To answer the second question, I originally wrote my book to keep my mind focused on other activities in spite of my current challenges. I gradually matured through the process and had a keen appreciation of the omnipotence of God. Life is a journey; my experiences have shown me that it is a continuous learning curve. How we react to the situation is what makes the difference; this is when I decided to share my story with the world.

V. Richardson: My God: Even in the Last Minute is your new release. What is it about and how did the title come about?

Dolapo Babalola:My God: Even in the Last Minute (MyGelm) is an inspirational book that narrates my journey as a young aspiring physician who, in the pursuit of a permanent residency in the United States, faced multiple obstacles and challenges. Each day through this ongoing ordeal, I experienced God in a way that I never would have imagined. God showed up in the most unexpected places, in the last minute, and always with a life-changing lesson. It speaks on how the greatest lesson in our darkest hours of uncertainty is that God is close by, quietly working behind the scenes, bolstering our faith for a miracle.

The title of my book came about as I experienced my "Ah-Ha moment." While writing my text, it dawned on me that every bit of my journey was like a road race, some situation was always approaching its deadline or I was hitting rock bottom. I would try to figure out how and when a problem would be solved, and in the process I would doubt God's ability to handle the problem. God kept showing up in the most unexpected places to make a way for me, even when it seemed naturally impossible, even if it was in the last minute.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from your book?

Dolapo Babalola: I am excited to say that the kind of influence I was hoping for with my book started with me. While writing, I realized I can have peace of mind in my current position or any storm. I am assured that God can show up in the most unexpected place. This is the same influence, I hope to achieve with my readers through my book. The propagation of my message is to serve as a reminder that God's plans, purposes, and pursuits can be expressed through our lives if we lay down our plans, purposes, and pursuits to Him. I learnt various life-changing lessons, which I discussed in each chapter, with the hope it would make a positive impact on someone's life.

V. Richardson: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Dolapo Babalola:You know, I haven't thought about what I would like to change in my book at its current state. Though, I did think of changes on multiple occasions, even after the release of "MyGelm" to the market world, which led to me withdrawing my book to make further corrections. I must confess; it was exhausting! But I trusted God to guide me and He did. So, at this point, I can now say "To God be the Glory, I am pleased."

V. Richardson: Who are/were your literary influences? And what books have most influenced your life most?

Dolapo Babalola:So many but to mention a few; Rev Tai Ikomi has influenced my life especially in her book titled "The Art of Inspirational writing. It is an amazing book! It teaches readers to release themselves and deliver the message indoctrinated. I can say that my life never remained the same after I read Mike Murdock's book "The Uncommon Leader." I could read it over and over again. I just love the part that says we should focus on possibilities instead of problems. And lastly; Gifted Hands by Dr. Ben Carson. I remember reading this book in college with tears in my eyes, knowing that I can overcome any obstacle if I can only believe in myself. The message is clearly that "Champions keep playing until they get it right" words from Billie Jean King.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

Dolapo Babalola: So much, it's unbelievable. I love the fact that I have discovered myself to be more God-fearing, Adventurous, Seizing every opportunity and a Constant learner.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

Dolapo Babalola: I would like to leave these words with aspiring authors. First and foremost, please at this junction, tell yourself you can do it, you have what it takes to achieve you goals, and by the grace and wisdom of God, you will attain your goals. In addition to this, I recently heard of the key for success in an acronym called "REFS," which stands for Respect, Effort, Focus, and Self-control." Making it in life and scaling through challenges is by trusting God and seeking his guidance, but also having respect for self and others, making an effort, staying focused on the ultimate goal and maintaining self-control. So get to it; don't waste the talents and gifts, because someone out there needs to hear and read about it.

V. Richardson: Are there any up coming and/or future projects readers should be made aware of?

Dolapo Babalola: My husband and I recently started MyGelm blog; we love to aspire to our maximum potential by using the talents that God has blessed us with. The goal is to inspire others positively by having monthly inspirational poems on my blog, which would be opened for discussion. We invite your readers to join us and contribute to these inspirational nuggets.
Readers can stay abreast of my ongoing efforts by visiting my website and blog; http://www.mygelm.com/ and http://www.mygelm.wordpress.com/. I welcome your comments, discussion or your 2 cents on different topics.

V. Richardson: Sounds delicious! How can readers contact you?

Dolapo Babalola: I would love to hear from your readers. The best way to contact me will be via email; mygelm@gmail.com or facebook; www.facebook.com/584879119




Bonus Question

From The Heart:

V. Richardson: When life can get a little hectic and you are feeling a little dismayed. How do you find peace in the storm?

Dolapo Babalola: Wow, when my life gets hectic, I simply go on a "self-retreat." This is a retreat away from everyone, including my husband, children, family, etc. I spend this time re-evaluating my steps, watching movies, DANCING, just being quiet in my own world. When I am confident that I have grabbed my peace again, I come out ready to cope with life.

V. Richardson: Dolapo, thank you for an awesome chat! Thank you for sharing yourself and your works with our viewing audience. Much success to you! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

Dolapo Babalola:Thank you! The pleasure is mine. I love the remarkable mission on "The Certain One," which is "To Inspire as you Aspire." Keep up the great work!

Video for My God: Even in the Last Minute.

COMING SOON! Love Found Me Stage Production

LOVE FOUND ME
The Stage Production

Mark your calendars! Saturday, January 8th, 2011|6:00pm. The Stage Production of Love Found Me comes to life! Our special guest artist is the sensational Mr. Tony Grant from Tyler Perry's stage productions "Why Did I Get Married?", and The Marriage Counselor." You don't want to miss this one showing only performance. Purchase tickets today! Hurry as tickets are going fast!






About Tony Grant
Tony Grant, a native of North Carolina, is an American R&B singer, writer, producer and stage play actor. Grant replaced Marc Nelson as lead singer for R&B group Az Yet following Marc's departure in 1997 to pursue his solo career. Included in Grant's brief tenure with Az Yet is the popular remake of "You're The Inspiration" with Chicago's Peter Cetera.

Grant had star billing in the stage play and DVDs Tell Hell I Ain't Comin', Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married and Love Ain't Supposed To Hurt. In the earlier part his entertainment career, Tony was cast for the lead role in the stage play "A Good Man is Hard to Find" in 1991. From there he has become one of the most popular leading men in the stage play industry. In January 2008, Grant began touring with the Tyler Perry stage production The Marriage Counselor.

Tony Grant in Love Ain't Supposed To Hurt