Chynna T. Laird's Blog, page 5

Music Mantra Monday ~ Going Back In Time (Chopin Nocturne E Flat Major Op.9 No.2)

As many of you know, my love for music started in utero. We weren't exactly close but one thing I give her credit for was being a brilliant musician. I learned much of my musical abilities and passion for music from her. And today I a powerful memory came to me while simply watching a television show.

I had just taken my medication, which always makes me nauseous, and sat on the couch to calm down my stomach. I don't usually watch a lot of television but I have my "go-to" shows. I enjoy the...

Music Mantra Monday ~ Keep Your Head Above Water

One of the most difficult effects of dealing with a debilitating, chronic and unpredictable illness is making others understand. In a society where judgment and personal conclusions are passed so easily, it makes the sufferer feel as though they must keep silent. It's easier to allow others to believe there really isn't anything wrong or that everything is in your head or you are just being lazy and coming up with excuses not to have to do what you need to. That's one of the reasons I stand...

The Face of Liver Disease ~ Coping With Cirrhosis and Liver Disease

You know, when I added this segment to the blog, I didn't realize how difficult it would be. My main intention was to bring you all on my journey with liver disease and, hopefully, bring some insight and/or offer some tips and advice on living with it. But whenever I sit down, ready to write, I freeze.

This is something I've been dealing with for a very long time but never shared what I go through every day with anyone who isn't in close, daily contact with me. I know there are people out...

Writing Prompt Saturday ~ Using Pictures As Inspiration

I don't know about all of you but my head is filled with story and book ideas for years to come. Many of these ideas come from everyday life events, some simply overhearing conversations or observing how people interact with others or, as with almost all of my books, from dreams. But I do enjoy visual inspiration from time-to-time.

I have several short stories that have bloomed from photographs I come across. Most of them involve water and/or nature. For today's prompt, take a look at this...

Foodie Fridays ~ Easy Baked Avocado Recipe

We, HI!

I know some of you are thinking, "Holy Moly! I thought she fell off the face of the earth!"

Nope. No falling. I had to take some time off for a few months. We'll call it...a Writing Sabbatical. Every time I'd get back into the swing of things, I seemed to take a few steps back so I had to force myself to give up most outside things and focus entirely on my health. I mean, seriously. What can you do for others when you aren't doing well?

Nada. Zero. Zippola.

But I am slowly getting back...

Music Mantra Monday ~ I am A Warrior

Oh, wow. It has been awhile, hasn't it?

I am usually very diligent with my blog and my writing but sometimes...just from time to time...life kicks you in the butt to remind you of the ups and downs it intends for you.

This past week was tough. I mean, I had my kids. I got to enjoy a few outings. But, to be honest, my health has gotten in the way of the things I used to enjoy so very much. For others, a flu bug is awful but after a few days, things can go back to normal. For others, though, it i...

Music Mantra Monday - Keeping Eyes On Old Town Road

Welcome to our Monday segment.

I'm very excited to be able to be back in the running with our posts as most of you know, this is one of my favorite posting days.

Last week, my husband was listening to a song and made me give it a listen too. He came to me during the rap part so I really wasn't interested. It's not that I don't like rap, but more that it just isn't my musical preference. But he said, "Hun...listen to this. Guess who this is."

I listened for a few seconds and responded with, "He s...

In The Spotlight ~ Poetry Day From A Beautiful Youth

Hello and welcome to our Thursday segment. I know it has been a while since we've been on but we've had a lot going on around here. We'll make up for our MIA status today as we have something very special.

My children have started getting very into writing and appreciating the books they read. And my youngest has started getting into writing poetry, which is something I don't do very well so I'm so proud.

So, let's get right to it. Here is my daughter's latest poem.

I hope you all enjoy it and f...

In The Spotlight ~ A Review of The War That Saved My Life

Hi everyone. I know it has been awhile. We've had a lot going on around here but we're still kicking strong.

So, for today, my sweet baby mini-me, Sophie, is doing her own book review of The War That Saved My Life .  I am so proud of her. She has no fear of expressing her feelings and opinions. I truly hope she aspires others to do the same. This is a post about family loyalty...for what it really is...love and respect. I am so proud of my baby girl.

Enjoy!

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The War That Saved My Life...

Foodie Friday ~ Recipe Ideas From An Awesome Teen Chef

Okay, look. I know that we haven't been able to get on the blog as often as we usually do. Not only am I trying to get three books out on the shelves, but I am also trying to finish my double degree in Psychology and Criminology. Why, people, am I doing this to myself?

At any rate, my wonderful children have offered to help me with my blog (with pay, of course) so that I can focus on a few other things. Today, we have my 14-year-old Jordy doing her contribution to our Foodie Friday segment and...