Lila Johnson's Blog, page 2

Busy in the Madness

My full-time job as a nurse has been one of anxiety and constant change. Keeping abreast of what’s going on in the world of COVID-19; the people it affects and how communities have changed in the process of it all, have kept me very busy.

Through it all, I have to stay positive with prayer and a little fun. By fun I mean, wearing funny hats, sunglasses shaped like ice cream cones or flamingos. The patients tell me how they get a kick out of such craziness. It softens the blow of what life is trying to knock us down with. And although we, patients and staff alike, have to wear our face masks from the time we enter the building until we leave the premises while staying on guard, we all need a laugh every now and then to get on with life.

So, to you my readers I want to first say, thank you for reading my newsletters and books and second, remember to stay safe, loving and healthy.

Lila

Staying Tough

COVID-19 has been a part of our lives for several days, weeks and months. Cities are on lockdowns. There are long lines to purchase food and personal items. The search for toilet paper, hand sanitizer and nitrile gloves drive everyone into a panic when we find ourselves staring at empty shelves in grocery and warehouse stores. We’re told to stay six feet apart and stand behind the taped markings on the floor. Protective masks have become a part of our everyday dress as evidenced by people seen in public places, employees at jobs that are still open as well as healthcare professionals’ and on and on it goes.
But no matter what happens, we’re a tough bunch. Americans refuse to go down without a fight and fight we must and have been doing. Staying home has provided new challenges for parents whose children are no longer attending school. Schedules have been modified and new hats are worn, those of the teacher-parent. Office workers have created new spaces in their homes because for eight hours it’s still work as usual. But sadly, there are hundreds that are not working at all. Our favorite restaurants are closed and with it are unemployed hostesses, waitresses, waiters, cooks, chefs and other kitchen staff. We have to use the drive-up windows and curbside service for the foods we love while we try to help small businesses to keep going.
And yet, through all the stress, the frustrations, the disappointments and the unknown, we have witnessed kindness. Food kitchens and banks have fed those who have no idea where their next meal will come from. Children that depended on at least one decent meal at school now have a chance for something to eat. We’ve heard about the businesses that are taking out loans so that they can pay their employees at least one more paycheck. Seamstresses and the novices have revved up their sewing machines and learned how to make a simple face mask to protect so many when so little is available.
You wonderful, beautiful people have rallied around the nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists and EMT’s that are fighting this deadly disease on the front lines during this madness. You have clapped for us, held up signs to show you care while protesting the representatives on the level of city, state and government to give us what is needed; gloves, gowns, N95 masks or any mask what so ever and ventilators so that we can do our jobs.
So, with a grateful heart, this full-time writer who is also a full-time nurse would like to say to all of you, “Thank you for caring.”
Remember, that courage will carry you to the next day, remaining calm will keep your path in focus and remain confident because this too shall pass.

Waiting on Spring

Now that we’re in our third month of the New Year, how are you coming along with those resolutions, promises and goals?
I completed my first 5K this past Saturday after a two-year hiatus. I must admit, it felt great to put all that work from the gym to the test. I tackled a couple inclines by walking backwards, then pushed myself to cross the finish line in the time I allotted for myself. Thumbs up to the organizers and crew for The Liberty Hospital Half Marathon Jewell 5K for the great course, gift bag and medal. Back in the gym I’ll go armed with what worked and didn’t as I prepare for my next race that will take place in October.
A big “Thank You” to Martine Quartey, William King and Laghe, the co-hosts of 95.7 FM The Boss, in Omaha, Nebraska. They invited me to be their guest at 7:30, March 9th to discuss my book series, The Fat Girls Club. What a great experience. I had a fantastic time.
Let’s dance a jig for St. Patrick’s Day! My costume is ready as I prepare to dress up for the day. The patients get tickled when they see the crazy hats, I wear to celebrate each holiday that rolls around. Afterward, I’ll dine on Corned Beef and Cabbage. Finally, congratulations to my February contest winners. Thank you for your participation.
March giveaway-
I’m happy to sponsor jewelry by artist, Devon Findlay. I’m offering two different bracelets and one necklace to three lucky winners. Go to writerontheroadway.com to sign up.

Be Your Own Valentine

February is seen as the month in regards to love, balloons, valentines’ cards, candy, flowers and the pressure for couples to make a big deal out of the day. Now don’t get me wrong. As a writer of romantic comedies and women’s fiction, I’m all about the love but not the pressure behind it.
From what I’ve observed over the years, we’ve gone from being surprised by the sweet acts of our significant others to badgering them “not to forget” that Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. To avoid disappointment, treat yourself on the special day.
I’ve already purchased my special small heart shaped tin of Dove chocolates. Because I’m scheduled to work the 14th, I have a funny headband with two puffy hearts that I plan to wear along with a wonderful balloon bouquet to take into my job to create some smiles not only with the staff but the patients as well. Afterwards I’ll grab a bite to eat, watch a tearjerker on Turner Classic Movies while I soak in a wonderfully scented fizz bomb bath.
One more thing. This is American Heart Month. Get up and do something special for that incredible muscle that keeps you alive. Let’s get physical and exercise; bike, run, walk or try a yoga class. Check your blood pressure, know your number and keep it in a healthy range according to your doctor.
Happy heart and Valentines Day to you all!

Clarity

Over the past few months I’ve had some major decisions to make and one of them included a major surgery that I could no longer put off. Another decision involved my writing; whether to give it up or continue. In regards to self-publication, it can and at times, is very difficult. You are responsible for everything; the manuscript, the book cover, editing, formatting, publication and promotion.

I had come to the conclusion that working full time in my very stressful job as a dialysis nurse with unsure hours and my writing were pushing me to the edge of a mental mountain, ready to jump off. But then, a stranger from a local church that I visited, gave me some very simple advice. She told me to pray for Clarity.

Clarity! Immediately a smile formed on my face and I looked at her and said, “I like that!” She went on. “Ask for 2020 vision on what you should do for the New Year.” How simple and yet so powerful. For the rest of the day, I allowed her words to soak in as I pondered how to make it my goal for the year.

So, there you have it, my new buzz word-clarity. It will be my reference when I get stuck regarding a decision or before I take a negative statement to heart. I’ll use it as my pause button to seek out meaning and in the pros and cons of any choice I plan to make. What about you? What is your buzz word for this, the start of a New Year?

Goodbye 2019

Can you feel it? There’s a buzz in the air that’s contagious. Not only is it the feel of Christmas but the New Year will be an even number-2020 and a milestone.
Christmas is my favorite time of the year. I needed a little cheering up to get my mind off of my upcoming surgery and decided to decorate my tree before Thanksgiving. I chose a Paris theme and had fun fixing up the 4 ft. rose tone tree with amusing decorations in vintage pinks, reds and champagne colors. I hid miniature ornaments throughout the branches to add some fun and merriment. In the evenings, after work, I enjoy turning on the Christmas lights, watching the tree glow in the dimly lit room. It’s the perfect way to unwind from a stressful day while viewing Turner Classic Movies or a Christmas DVD.
I also want to say “Thank you” to some fantastic people that have helped me during my journey as a self-published author.
The folks at Acclaim Graphics in Evansville, IN, have been with me since 2012. The team may be small in size but their work is as good if not better as the big-name companies. Kelly is a savvy business woman and her husband Joe, is sharp and on point with products produced by them. They are more like a family for me, someone that I can count on and trust. Acclaim Graphics won my heart with the first business card I had produced by them and they have kept me going with bookmarks and promotional products for my book series, The Fat Girls Club.
I found Blue Door Marketing KC, Inc. late one night while searching the web for a company to revamp my old and dated website. When a picture of the owner, Brian, popped up, I read his mission statement and knew right away I wanted to meet him in person to share my thoughts on what I anticipated for my website. Choosing Blue Door Marketing Inc. was the right one after our one-hour appointment. Now my revamped website pops with color, enhances my ideas and displays the energy that I have. Although Brian and I have known each other for a year, his kindness and business approach has made me a friend for life. His wife and business partner, Evie, is a sweetheart and their newest member, Shanice, offers a warm balance to this small business that packs a punch regarding style, affordability and customer care.
I would like to say, Joyce Mochrie, of, One Last Look, was a blessing in disguise. It’s a fact that it doesn’t matter how many times you read and re-read your own manuscript; you can never catch all the mistakes. This is where Joyce steps in. Her expertise as a Certified Copy Editor and Proofreader, has helped my work immensely. With a long and respected list of top clients, Joyce is down to earth and so professional in her work. She has edited two of my books in, The Fat Girls Club series and is scheduled to work on the third. I’m so happy to call her a friend, one that I respect and trust.
Finally, I want to say, “Thank you” to you the readers of my blog post. I appreciate the support you have shown me in the past year. Check out my website for the newest giveaway. I wish all of you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a bright, wonderful New Year.

Drumsticks and Thanks

The last few months, August until now, have come and gone so fast that I think they were part of a half marathon.
Children went back to school, high school graduates started their first year of college and I thought I was losing my mind when my 11 year-old grandson said he was starting sixth grade!
I returned to Maui, Hawaii in September. How wonderful it was to see my former co-workers and hangout and talk and-cry. I completed the research for my new book, The Fat Girls Club Hawaii Five-NO, due out March of 2020. I also had a chance to spend time with my best friend, Martha. I've known her since the eighth grade. I showed her Maui from a non-tourist side since I lived there for nine months, six years ago. She loved it.
Halloween has come and gone. I've raked the leaves in my dads yard and with the help of his next door neighbor, we helped the elderly couple across the street, rake and bag their leaves also. It felt good. It felt right.
Now, in a matter of a few days, Thanksgiving will be upon us. I won't have the opportunity to go home because I have to work, but it will not keep me from saying a few words of "Thanks" for the blessings I have received from those who have supported my writing and the great doctors that have cared for me during my jaw dropping diagnosis, a brain tumor. I have a pending surgery scheduled for something totally different in December, before Christmas. And still, I give thanks.
So, to all of you, the readers of my blog posts and book series, I want to say thank you for your support and I wish you and yours a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving.

Fall, Pumpkins and Early Evenings

Anyone that knows me, knows that I’m a spring and summer type of girl. As the weather changes, I find that I’m more like a bear that looks forward to hibernation. I listen to people all around me talk of how they love the change of the leaves, look forward to Halloween and preparing for the start of the holiday season with Thanksgiving.
During all these changes, one thing we should remember is that an estimated ten million Americans suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. It’s a type of depression that’s related to seasonal changes, usually fall through winter until the first signs of spring. Some of the signs are low energy, sluggishness, agitation or loss in activities that use to bring joy. People have also reported an increased craving for carbohydrates.
If you or someone you know, battle with extended periods of insomnia or oversleeping for example, don’t brush it off as the “winter blues.” Speak to your medical doctor.
Why is this topic so important to me? It’s because I’m one of the ten million.

No More Words

When people tell me that they want to write a book, my answer is, "It's hard work." I don't want them to think its a game, or something to take lightly because it isn't. Self-publishing is even harder. When you haven't enough support and all the work; writing, editing, publishing, setting up book signings and promoting, falls on your shoulders and back, the weight makes you think twice.
Recently, I faced a one, two punch when someone who was suppose to assist with the formatting process of the book, backed out, I threw up my hands and said, "I give up!" You see, I'm exhausted. My health has taken a few punches. I work full time, write full time and must hire people who are tops in their field to maintain my website, or professionally edit my work or design my covers. It all takes money and time.
Yes, I'm exhausted. After I debut my fifth book, I will shut down for awhile. My friends say that it won't last long. "Writing is in your blood," they say, "You can't stay away from the creative process."
Maybe that's true but for now, I'm a little beaten and broken. For now, I need to retreat into a few books and my Turner Classic Movies with a little popcorn on the side. For now, I just need to breathe.

All is Well

Things haven't changed much since I posted of my brain tumor.
I continue to travel all over the country with my work as a travel nurse. I'm in my twentieth year and I still love it. My work as an author keeps me up until the wee hours of the morning, like now at one a.m. as I try to get my characters, Angela, Nicki and Sissy under control in my new novel, The Fat Girls Club Hawaii Five-NO!
A return trip to Maui, Hawaii has been paid for and next month I depart to celebrate and enjoy my belated birthday gift to myself and conduct the research for the new book. I look forward to seeing my former co-workers as I revisit my old stomping grounds.
My heart has mourned the loss of my maternal grandmother whom I loved dearly. I can't be sad because she is where she has always wanted to be, with her Lord, Jesus Christ. Just a few days ago my dear aunt died suddenly. I can't shed any tears for her because she lived her life to the fullest and for that, I applaud her.
I continue to exercise although at times I question myself-why? I take in all the warmth of the days of summer knowing they will soon end. I eat ice cream and frozen custard with abandon.
So you see, nothing much has changed. I celebrate life, all the good and bad of it. I celebrate living because like a child, I want it all.