Casi McLean's Blog, page 60

August 27, 2011

Is Chemistry An Addiction?

This may be a controversial blog, but I feel compelled to comment on it. I got an email a few days ago that described a teleseminar posted by a "relationship expert" and when I read the content I began to see why so many relationships fail. It's hard to believe that there are "experts" out there that actually promote toxic information like

this:



You have to be very specific in identifying the physical attributes you want in a partner ie: age,height, weight, hair color, physical build, or any other important physical characteristics that are important to you. Chemistry is everything.
Because men are so visual in nature, they should seek females who are 5-10 years younger than themselves. So that also means women should date men 5-10 years their senior, the exception being once a females reaches 70 years of age.
The more you can pin down exactly what you're looking for the more control you have over the design of your mate.
We need to take better advantage of our circle of friends. We should share with our closest friends what we are looking for, and allow them to duplicate the search effort.
In any social setting or event, we should have "wingman", someone who can introduce us to prospects that we may be looking for, or an additional friend that can identify attendees that match the physical description we are looking for.

Click here to view the embedded video.


I almost gaged when I read that. I mean honestly, chemistry is important to any love connection, but it's not the most important thing. Relationships need more than the visual and lust to survive the inevitable storms and disappointments that can throw boulders in your path. Love based on that initial surge of chemistry may feel amazing, but that high wears off. And think about it––that wave of passion isn't much different from the adrenalin surge of pure terror. Your brain flashes a neon sign like you hit the jackpot in the love lottery. It's like gambling, which has it's perks, but come on, would you really stake your life on a game of chance?


When a relationship evolves out of lust, chances are pretty good that you'll wake up one morning wondering what you ever saw in the person sleeping next to you. So when you set out looking for someone that merely fits the physical criteria for your perfect mate, you're looking for the wrong things. First, your treating your potential mate like a commodity. People are so much more than a body––and physical beauty fades. Remember how a fisherman baits his hook––he baits it based on what he's trying to catch. If you catch someone based on their body or if you 'fish' with yours . . . Well let's just say, as hot as you are now . . . you'll always be looking over your shoulder for someone hotter to catch his/her eye.


Another section made me cringe too! The very idea of saying that because men are visual in nature, they should seek females 5-10 years younger and therefore women should seek men 5-10 years older, is not only demeaning to women, it's demeaning to men as well. Most men aren't that shallow! But hey, we're all visual––hopefully intelligent enough though to make choices based on more than Neanderthal instincts.


The criteria didn't end there either. He then gave instructions for the initial meeting––a list of questions to interview potential prospects to determine their pre-dating qualifications:



1. Are you a happy person? (eliminate those with negative answers)



2. Do you like yourself? ( Listen to the response)


3. Describe yourself in one word? (Awesome icon smile Is Chemistry An Addiction?


4. Are you a good kisser? (watch how people stumble or they may just give you a sample!)


5. Have specific questions ready and be direct – like "can you describe your physical fitness program?"


6. If you settle or compromise your "must haves" you may regret it later.


Now I'm all for having a 'must have and must have not' list. It's important to have things in common like smoking and life style, but if someone I just met interviewed me like that, I'm pretty sure I'd just get up and leave. This 'expert' also advocated suggesting that after the 3rd meeting people should ask their date to date them exclusively for the next 30 days at which time the women should definitely ask if the man was he enjoying her company and ask for long term goals and relationship intentions.


What ever happened to the natural flow of getting to know someone? Women, and men for that matter, are not commodities! If you want the real thing, you have to get real! There can be plenty of sparks without a real connection and immediate gratification may just have consequences. So, if you're looking for more than a booty call, don't get confused by the rush of chemistry or let lust guide your decisions. After the initial rush has settled down, you'll be able to determine if you have similar values and lifestyle. Like Percy Sledge said in the video above, 'Take Time to Know Her' (or him.) If you're looking for a lasting relationship, be authentic––not artificial!! Listen to your heart and make choices for your future based on what you learn about someone over time. That's huge a step toward living your dreams!


Casi


Sources:


North Point Online


Join the Forum discussion on this post

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on August 27, 2011 18:48

August 19, 2011

Remembering Randy Pausch

Click here to view the embedded video.


Ahhh, the summer sun, beach trips, picnics at the park … What a wonderful time of year, but summer will always remind me of something more than lazy summer days. It brings to my mind the life of a man who to me was a true hero. I never knew him, but Randy Pausch was, without a doubt, the epitome of an eternal optimist. If you haven't heard of him, you are certainly missing an amazing inspirational icon! Randy Pausch died July 25, 2008, but his legacy will live on for generations to come. To keep his spirit alive, each summer I like to take a moment to remind my friends of this amazing man.


If you follow my blog, you know my heart and my passion. Too many people go through the motions of  their lives without ever discovering that spark that ignites the spirit. You have the resources to live your dreams, and re-discovering your childhood passion, may be the key to unlocking the door to your own passion. Perception is reality and when you believe in yourself, you can make the choice to live your life to the fullest. That doesn't mean that every moment will be golden! Life was never meant to be on an even keel and no one can escape the inevitable tragedies and pain that sometimes grip our souls. But living in the adversities or wallowing in those moments sucks you into a smothering quicksand where nothing thrives.


If ever there was a person who could have wallowed in self-pity, it was Randy Pausch, yet despite his diagnosis of terminal pancreatic cancer, he spent his life inspiring millions of people world wide. The first time I heard his "Last Lecture" I realized my problems were so trivial in the scheme of things––and I think that is how it is with most people. We all have our stories . . . the "stuff" that happens to us is hard to go through, but if you are reading this blog post, you're ahead of the game––you are ALIVE, and that means you still have a chance to make a difference in your life––and the lives of others! I'm convinced you don't have to look very far to find  a lot of other people who are worse off than you. So be thankful for all that you do have and reach for the stars.


Please take the time to listen to the words of Randy Pausch. I consider you all friends, and my greatest wish for you is to discover that Life is now. The past is a myriad of old memories and we put so much stock into those memories, we limit our own futures. Hopes and dreams are a glimpse of what could be, but now is where we always are so it is the journey, not the destination that is our lives.


So on this warm August evening, I have to stop for a moment to say, "Thank you Randy . . . you will live in the hearts of the millions you have touched forever!"


Casi


Sources: The Last Lecture, by Randy Pausch, Oprah Winfrey Show, July 25,2008, Youtube

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on August 19, 2011 14:22

August 2, 2011

Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece

I received an email a few days ago that touched me like none I had ever received before. It was from a woman who lives in Greece. Now I don't know where all of you live, but Greece is literally on the other side of the world from me. I was so moved that she would take the time to write to me about the impact my book, Wingless Butterfly, had on her––and I hope she realizes that she and others like her are truly my inspiration!!





Butterfly shoot 3 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece

Share Your Passion With The World



Butterfly shoot 7 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece

Take Flight



Butterfly shoot 4 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece

Live Your Dreams



Butterfly shoot 2 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece

Break Free From Your Cocoon



Butterfly shoot 8 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece

Make A Difference



Butterfly shoot 5 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece

Spread Your Own Wings




Butterfly shoot 2 150x150 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece
Butterfly shoot 7 150x150 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece
Butterfly shoot 4 150x150 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece
Butterfly shoot 8 150x150 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece
Butterfly shoot 3 150x150 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece
Butterfly shoot 5 150x150 Wingless Butterfly Lands In Greece

'The Butterfly Effect' and 'The Starfish Story' appear in my book, and if the message hasn't reached your eyes––or heart yet, you'll find them both on the Taking Flight tab at the top of the page. 'The Starfish story' shows me that we all can make a difference and 'The Butterfly Effect' drives my passion to share that message with the world.


Varvara's letter is proof positive of both! I hope you take the time to read her heart felt note and that it will instill within you the belief that everything you do matters and that you may never know how you touch the lives of others––but be assured that you do! 


 


Hi Casi,


I have been meaning to write to you after reading your book "Wingless Butterfly". I can't begin to tell you how heartfelt and moving it was. I felt I was there watching all these events take place in your life and I couldn't help feeling so sad for what you had gone through.


It truly was one of the most remarkable books I have ever read. It spoke volumes to me and was so relevant to my life and the lives of many others. I am so pleased you could use your life's experiences to touch other people and bring wholeness and healing into their lives.


I was moved to tears all the way through and it caused me to further analyse many things throughout my own life and certain behavioral patterns, understanding and recognizing where certain feelings of insignificance and low self-worth were derived from, and why I have allowed people to walk over me. I could pin point certain things in my life that I need to change and where more healing is required.


It is such a tremendous story of discovering yourself, letting go, and being healed of the past; never giving up, but persisting to accomplish your goals and dreams while moving forward to an amazing bright future. Not allowing any circumstances to rule, govern or control your life, and knowing that they DO NOT define who you are.  Any rejection or insignificance you may have felt through unfortunate experiences in life, deep down you knew your true worth and purpose!


You never gave up regardless of what you endured, persevering until goals became a reality. You knew what you truly deserved and managed to break through every hindrance and barrier to accomplish your hearts desires and make a huge impact in the lives of others; never losing sight of your dream, though the journey was long and hard, it eventually came to fruition. You rose above every challenge to become the beautiful magnificent butterfly WITH wings you were created to be; flying and soaring in freedom, fulfilment, joy and happiness.


This is really an AWESOME TESTIMONY, a story of hope, strength, character, endurance, a positive attitude and perseverance. It was ever so gripping and was hard to put down. You talk of so many truths and are enriched with so much wisdom and knowledge. You really do have incredible insight to life.


I was surprised to read you had also suffered with Anxiety and Panic Attacks. I could completely empathise with you as this is something I have also struggled with for many years and know how very limiting, horrendous and disabling it can be, stealing your true abilities. It can really make your life unbearable and miserable, making you feel hopeless and holding you back from your goals, dreams, aspirations and purpose. Your story was a real encouragement to me and will be to many others, knowing we can finally conquer and overcome. I can very much identify with you, regardless of what has come up against me in life through no fault of my own; all the heartaches, tragedies, pain and suffering, and I will not accept or receive it. I shall not give it authority or power over my life, but will persevere with drive and determination; and will to fulfil my destiny and make a difference in other people's lives. I'll never give up hope just like you.


I really pray that someday I shall also be able to write my own life story to inspire, help and encourage others. This has also been a life ambition and dream of mine. 




It was so wonderful to read that you turned everything around for good, and have used your life's experiences to impact and empower others. Throughout your story I could see what a beautiful heart you have. Though you were so wronged with many unfortunate circumstances, you always saw deeper and showed love, compassion and mercy. This is so admirable. You really are an incredible inspiration and example!


I have found that in this day and age the majority of people I know or come across are broken and hurting. They will identify with your story in someway and would benefit greatly from it therefore I would STRONGLY encourage and recommend everyone to read it!! It is a resource that is so valuable and I want to see it get into their hands and touch their hearts and lives.


May God bless you and reward you richly, over and above all you could ever hope and wish for.


Kind regards,

Varvara


Varvara's letter truly touched me! She let me know that I made a difference in her life, thus proving 'The Starfish Story,' and she wants to pass that strength to others through not only my story, but hers as well––a vivid example of 'The Butterfly Effect.' We can all make a difference. If only by touching one person at a time, and through perseverance, we can change the world!


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on August 02, 2011 06:15

July 20, 2011

Healing The Broken Child Within

I had such a wonderful time talking today with, Jory Fisher, my high school friend and host of the popular Internet talk show Heart & Soul. Jory's BlogTalkRadio show focuses on making a meaningful difference in the world. You all know how passionate I am about pursuing dreams––and Jory inspires me. I'm adamant that surrounding one's self with positive, uplifting people is a key to finding passion so if you've never heard Jory's show, this is the perfect opportunity. It's never too late to lead a purposeful, passionate and prosperous life! This is today's interview:


\"Healing the Broken Child Within\" (Casi McLean)


jpeg 300x147 Healing The Broken Child Within


Some of the 'Success Tips' I mentioned in the interview:

1) You can't more forward with one foot stuck in the past.

2) Remembering your childhood dreams may help you find your passion.

3) The greatest thing about dreams is they don't expire. They can lay dormant for years and when you pull them out and dust them off, they shine like new.


4) When you let go of past pain, believe in yourself, and follow your dreams—you can find true happiness!


Jory also requested I share a few of my favorite quotes. As most of you already know, it's pretty hard for me to narrow down the quotes that have carried me through the turbulent moments of my life and raised me up higher in the best of times. Below are the three quotes I decided to share today. May they work with the conversation between Jory and me to ignite a spark in all of your hearts.

'When you have come to the edge of all light that you know, and are about to drop off into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing one of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on or you will be taught to fly.' ~Patrick Overton

'Whether you believe you can, or whether you believe you can't, you're absolutely right.' ~Henry Ford


'In everyone's life, at some point, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.' ~Albert Schweitzer


Thanks for listening to our show!!


Casi


Source: http://womenfindpurpose.com/healing-t...

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on July 20, 2011 12:40

July 12, 2011

The History Of Failed Relationships, Part Deux.

You'd never dive into a shallow pool, right? No one would consciously do that, but people dive right into new relationships every day––without testing the waters first. It's no wonder so many break their 'buts' (yes I meant to spell it that way) But he said . . . But she was . . . But we have . . . Moving too fast, is a sure way to add to your 'but' list and chalk up another failed relationship––so if you missed part one in this series, check it out before reading on, because today I'm adding to the top five reasons relationships fail with: The History of Failed Relationships, Part Deux.


How many times have we all heard the cliches, "men are all alike" or "Women! I'll never understand them?" Maybe we do speak different languages, but honestly people, it's our differences that keep things interesting.


 


Click here to view the embedded video.


 


Men (or women for that matter) aren't all the same and if you have that attitude or experience, then it's time you look at the common denominator––YOU!

If your relationships continually end the same way, the conclusion you need to come to is not that all men are jerks, it's that the men YOU date are all jerks. And all women aren't needy or possessive, it's the women YOU date that fit that mold. Add your own adjectives, but the point is, you virtually date the same person over and over again. Isn't that the definition of insanity––to do the same things over and over, but expect different results? No, you're not really insane, but it's time to look at your own patterns.


Case in point, I've known too many women who want to date only successful, driven men. They continually repeat the same patterns and never understand why they always end up feeling neglected and hurt. They think these men offer security and stability, and in many ways they do. The problem is the women don't see that these men are so financially secure and have such successful careers because they are driven, and that part of their personality won't change. If you need to constantly be the center of your man's attention, don't get involved with an ambitious, motivated man and run the other way when a workaholic enters your radar.


Another idea to consider is one I actually heard in church, during Andy Stanley's Love, Sex and Dating series. Have you ever been fishing? A fisherman determines his bait by what he's trying to catch. Ladies if you fish with your body, you're going to catch body snatchers! Don't dress like a commodity to catch a guy's attention, or you'll likely be treated like one––like a disposable sponge that's used and then thrown away. You are so much more than a physical stimulus. When you bait a man with your body, don't be surprised when he expects you to keep him with it!  Not only that, keep in mind that you may be cute and sexy now, but a few years down the road . . . I'm just sayin!


And gentlemen, I don't want to forget about you. If you keep dating the same women with disastrous results, what is your criteria and where are you looking? Don't search for women in all the wrong places, like the song from the old 80′s movie, Urban Cowboy talks about in my video today. Don't look in a body shop to find your soul mate. You're not likely to find a health conscious woman at The Hamburger Hut, so what ever your lifestyle is, if you want a compatible partner, look in the right places. Just do the things YOU like to do, like hiking, golf or skiing––whatever your interests are, chances are you'll run across a lot of women with similar interests and lifestyle.


. . . And then there's the whole SEX issue, so be sure to watch for the next segment, part 3 in my series, The 5 Top Reasons Relationships Fail.


Casi


Source: Wingless Butterfly by Casi McLean & "The new Rules For Love, Sex, & Dating" by Andy Stanley

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on July 12, 2011 17:35

July 6, 2011

Belief In Yourself Is Contagious!

I had every intention of adding to my 'Top 5 Reasons Relationships Fail' today, and totally plan on continuing it, but I was side tracked this morning when I took a moment out of my busy schedule to take a closer look at a friend. Patty was my student a hundred years ago. Well, not a hundred, but certainly in another lifetime. She was in 8th grade and I was her 26 year old English teacher.


 


Click here to view the embedded video.


 


Patty was the most amazing young teen, smart, talented, compassionate and beautiful inside and out. I never had any doubt she'd be a great success at what ever she chose to do in life, despite the fact that at 11 years old, she was in a terrible accident that had ripped apart the right side of her face—a lifetime scar that had wounded her soul along with her flesh. But her beauty of spirit radiated through and I felt a connection to her. I encouraged her that year and hoped she would find her passion and use the amazing gifts she possessed to pursue her dreams.


 


Eighth grade dissolved into high school, then college and I lost track of Patty over the years, but she had touched my heart and I often wondered what had become of her. Last year she 'friended' me on Facebook with an incredible email of how I had impacted her life and inspired her to go into journalism. We reminisced and she was so excited I was writing a book, she offered to help me in any way she could. Patty pulled together a photo shoot and is completely responsible for the beautiful pictures of the young woman on the beach surrounded by butterflies and starfish that I use on my website. She continued to tell me how I still inspired her with my passion and purpose and she took time away from her family and career to help me reach out and encourage others. I was so wrapped up in my own life, overwhelmed with trying to survive a relentless economy while working feverishly on book editing, unraveling the black hole of marketing, tweeting and social media, and struggling to find the courage to enter a world completely foreign to me, that I somehow missed the depth of trauma hidden under Patty's cheerful emails and phone calls. Yesterday, when I read her FB post, I cringed at the thought of how I could have missed her hidden pain. This is what she said:


It's funny how life is…One day you're bankrupt, overweight, struggling to stay afloat, considering suicide b/c you don't think you can take anymore…But you take a step forward, then another, and another…And you wake up on a beautiful Sunday with a job, a roof over your head, 31 lbs lighter…


I always saw Patty as strong, resilient and an inspiration to everyone around her. Despite her tragic past, it had never occurred to me that she struggled. It was hard for me to admit to her how damaged I had been when our paths had first crossed––especially when she told me how much I had meant to her.


 


But today my student is my shooting star! Not only is Patty an inspired writer, she is an amazing inspiration to every one she meets. The courage it took to share her intimate life with strangers exemplifies what I write about, and my own passion and purpose. Patty's courage laced with humility is a page in society's saga that spearheads the power of the 'Butterfly Effect'. The very story she so humbly portrayed through her photo shoot. So today I share with all all my friends, Patty's story, excerpts I hope she won't mind that I pulled from her blog. And I will keep her story on my website as a reminder to never be so wrapped up in my own 'stuff' that the haze distorts my view of those around me. I encourage all of you to follow her new blog. She started it to chronicle her weight loss story, but it is truly so much more!! Patty is a shining star who makes a difference in this world and her passion is contagious. Never forget that courage is not an attribute, it is a choice to move forward despite the fears that try to limit you. If you believe in yourself, you can live your dreams.


Casi

PS. Be sure to watch today's video . . . another inspiration who followed his dreams!


 


Source:  http://www.pattysmmcjourney.com

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on July 06, 2011 14:22

July 4, 2011

Happy July 4th Everyone!

Happy 4th of July! It's Independence Day—the perfect time to take a good look at your own independence. If you've ever thought you might be a jerk-magnet, then maybe it's time to break free from some destructive dating patterns that attract jerks. So ask yourself these questions and be honest.
Who are you attracted to and why?
Do your relationships thrive, or are they a struggle?
Do you compromise your values out of desperation to hold on to someone?
Do you mold yourself into who you think he or she wants you to be?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might just need to make some adjustments or you may never find real happiness.

Click here to view the embedded video.


First of all, it still amazes me that so many people struggle to hold on to someone who doesn't even make them happy—but I was one of them for a long time! Don't make that same mistake. Believe that there really is someone better out there, let go and move on.


One of the biggest mistakes I made was bending my life around everyone else. Don't make yourself into someone you're not! If you are looking for true love, don't settle for less than someone who fits what you want in your life, someone who has the same eating habits, has the same life style and has similar interests. That way you will encourage each other, relax together and always have a support system. 

Obviously there is no perfect person, but I believe there is someone perfect for each of us. Trust that when the right one comes along you will make your own fireworks—feel electricity, an energy when you touch and passion when you kiss. Beyond chemistry, your lives will feel comfortable and in sync. You will complement each other and the relationship will give you a sense of calm in your storm.


When someone truly loves you, they will cherish you, which means you will become a major priority in their life. That doesn't mean that they drop everything and devote every minute of their time to you. It just means that you are important to them and that they consider you and your feelings when they make decisions.


I don't believe that love should be hard. There are a lot of good men–and women are out there, but sometimes we just overlook the good ones–like the girl who is your best friend, always there when you need her, or the the "big brother" you call when your love-life takes a nose dive–maybe even someone you knew from your past.


Celebrate your own independence this year and make your own fireworks. Don't be deceived by hollow romance or fading beauty. Look for someone who makes you laugh, who you feel comfortable with, who supports you and makes you feel good about yourself–and if the chemistry is there too, you just might find the love of your life!


Happy 4th of July everyone!


Casi

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on July 04, 2011 08:55

June 29, 2011

Top 5 Reasons Relationships fail

You know how great it feels when you enter into a new relationship? It's like you're on a high––the world suddenly glows through rose-colored glasses and you feel an energy that's exhilarating. When chemistry clicks, the tendrils of love lure you into a fantasy world and you think maybe––just maybe you've found your soul mate. So what happens down the road to mess things up? How could love so right turn out to be so wrong? Sound familiar?


Click here to view the embedded video.


Well, for those who've already read Wingless Butterfly, you know I've had a lot of experience with love gone wrong, but the good news is I've learned from my mistakes! Over the next few weeks, I'm going to fill you in on the top 5 reasons relationships fail. You don't have to take my word for it, do your homework and check out the secrets I'm about to share. You'll be amazed at how successful your relationships can be if you just change a few things in your life––and if you are already in a relationship, you just might discover some pointers that can make it better or maybe even give you good reasons to rethink your position.


The first thing you have to recognize is that the chemical attraction that feels so great, totally messes with your head and can turn you into a blithering idiot. Your common sense goes out the window. When lust is in the driver's seat it's hard to see through the intoxicating haze, so remember this: Past behavior is the best gauge of future performance. People don't change without a lot of self-searching and hard work, so habits and patterns they've shown in the past are a pretty good indicator of what they'll do in the future.


A leopard doesn't change his spots––even when he has good intentions. People often make promises they can't keep . . . If they drink too much, smoke, or indulge in activities you find objectionable, or if they have bad habits you just don't like, they can promise to change until the cows come home, but don't invest in their intentions. You may be familiar with Comedian Ron White's famous statement, "I had the right to remain silent, but I did not have the ability."  Saying they want to do something may hold them accountable, but it doesn't make them capable. And if they've cheated before . . . need I say more?


Now I'd be the first one to testify that people CAN change, but it isn't easy––just don't be fooled into believing that you're the one person who could change them! It has to come from within them and a proven track record is worth it's weight in gold! They say love is blind so take off those rose colored glasses. It's okay to let your heart direct you, but use your head to reign in the urge to dive in head first––and you'll avoid shallow water!


Casi


If you want to learn more about todays blog, click on the sites below!


Source: Wingless Butterfly by Casi McLean & "The new Rules For Love, Sex, & Dating" by Andy Stanley


 


 

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 29, 2011 15:14

June 16, 2011

Positive Power-Contest Winners

Life has a way of throwing curveballs at us that can derail the best of plans, but instead of wallowing in Murphy's Law, try looking at the silver linings along the way. I used to wonder why some people attain amazing goals despite adversity, while others cringe and complain at the slightest bump in the road. Now I realize that attitude is everything and the perspective and perseverance of these positive people inspire me.


Click here to view the embedded video.




Wingless Butterfly hit a few speed bumps on the road to publication too. Formatting issues kept pushing back the launch date. I had great plans, but the schedule I had so neatly set in place had to continually change. Book signings were rescheduled, and my contest winners were left in limbo, but Wingless Butterfly is finally published and it's time to show the wings of some amazing people.


I did have a problem though, the entries were so compelling, it was difficult to choose the winners––and I finally had to split first prize between two people. Their stories are both filled with incredible strength and determination and their inspiring attitude will touch your hearts. I featured their stories on the 'Taking Flight' section of my website so please read about the incredible strength and courage of these two special women.


I'm honored to announce winners who will share first place in my contest! Congratulations to:  Barbara Tsouklas and Alice Shapiro.


Click here to read their stories:


Barbara's Story


Alice's Story

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 16, 2011 08:38

June 11, 2011

Dale's Challenge & Patty's Post

This blog post is an expression of special thanks to my wonderful and creative friends. So many of you have asked me what you can do to help me promote Wingless Butterfly, and honestly, marketing is a whole new world for me. I'm trying to learn and think outside the box, but my friends are coming up with some fabulous ideas. Obviously they are more creative than me, ingenious and truly amazing too, for taking the time and effort to encourage their friends to read my book! Dale and Patty were the first to come up with some great ideas. Dale has been a great friend since high school, and she posted a challenge on Facebook to all of her friends and attached a link to my book trailer to it. This is what it said:

Hey Facebook Friends — I want to see how many of you read this book and figure out which character I am! Casi did not use our real names. Whoever figures it out first gets taken to lunch by me!


44306 1570651184551 1183624624 31612738 2220560 n Dales Challenge & Pattys Post


She has gotten a page of comments on her post. Thanks Dale for such a great idea! I hope the other people in my book will do the same thing!


I taught Patty when she was in 8th grade––too many years ago, but now an adult with children of her own, she is a wonderful friend. Patty posted an email to all of her friends:


Patty Hess Miller 250x300 Dales Challenge & Pattys Post


To All:

Please check out the link below detailing my close friend, Casi McLean's, new book, "Wingless Butterfly".  The reviews are phenomenal!!!

Casi, was in fact, my "favorite" teacher.  I don't know if any of you were fortunate enough to have a teacher that believed in your abilities and inspired you as Casi did for me.  Casi was my 7th grade English teacher.  She saw something in me which made me feel confident & proud.  Because of her, I pursued a degree in Journalism/Public Relations at the University of GA (where she attended college).  I can't express how much this woman influenced my life.

I kept in contact with her after middle school and she trusted me in babysitting her son (now married).  When I went away to college, we lost touch.  About a year ago, we reconnected through Facebook.  It was then that she told me that she had left teaching to pursue other dreams, which landed her into becoming an author.

Through writing this book, which is a memoir of her past, she has become an Inspirational Speaker throughout Atlanta & nationwide.  Her message is simple…"No matter what happened in your past, believe in yourself and know that YOU make a difference in this world".

It would mean a great deal to me if you would click on the link below.  If her message doesn't apply to you, maybe you have a friend where her message would make a difference.


You know me…I'm ALL ABOUT friends helping friends…But I truly believe she has a message that could help many others.  Thanks in advance for you help in spreading her "message"! www.Casi-mclean.com


I am so blessed to have such amazing friends!!! Thank you all for your support, encouragement and ever-lasting friendship!!!!!

Casi

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 11, 2011 05:47