Ellie Potts's Blog, page 9

🕯️ 📚 Be a light in the darkness…

What are you most excited about for the future?

Instead of looking at the negatives I want to look forward to good stuff. Watching my little nieces and nephew grow up into adults. I can’t wait to see what choices they choose in life.

In the near future I have some book releases. I have a pet project I have been working on for a while. A Cannabis Grimoire I’m going to be releasing this month. Next month is a sequel to my rockstar romance Rock My Stars, Black Star.

I want to look at the good things because it’s so easy to get stuck on the what ifs of bad things. And that leads to sadness which leads to anger and now I’m on the road to the dark side. When you dwell in that darkness too long it fucks up your mental health. Why spiral when you can focus on the lighter side. Put your energy towards creating, helping, learning, building, and loving. We have too much darkness, let your light shine brightly.

What are some of your awesome short term goals? New art project? New book? Share it!

I just released a small book on the struggles of being a writer and ways you can be better to yourself. Write Well, While Feeling Well is to tell my author friends it’s okay you are not alone.

https://a.co/d/fCPruEp

🌿✨ Intuition in Bloom: How Cannabis and Divination Can Deepen Your Writing Practice

There’s a quiet moment—just before I pull a card, open my journal, or begin a new story—when something inside begins to hum. The logical mind steps back. Something softer moves forward. Cannabis has become a gentle creative ally—less like a muse, more like a soft whisper that helps hear the creative voice more clearly.

This isn’t about chasing visions or forcing inspiration. It’s about inviting stillness, curiosity, and a deeper kind of listening.

Why I Pair Cannabis with Writing and Divination

I’ve always loved making meaning through words—stories, reflections, snippets that lead somewhere unexpected. But there are moments when self-doubt shows up before the first line does. When my inner editor gets loud: Is this any good? Does this make sense? That’s often when I reach for divination, or cannabis—or both.

A simple tarot pull before writing helps me set an emotional tone. A small, mindful dose of cannabis quiets the noise and brings me into the moment. Under its influence, language flows more intuitively. I’m less focused on “doing it right” and more attuned to what wants to be said.

A Ritual of Slowness and Surrender

It’s not about big word counts or polished endings. It’s about presence. My favorite rituals involve:

Setting an intention: “What story am I holding right now?” or “What truth am I ready to name?”Drawing a card: Just one. Not for answers, but for tone. A nudge.Writing with gentleness: No pressure. Just observation, rhythm, breath.

These moments become altars—not of productivity, but of possibility.

What Emerges When I Let Go

Some days I write something jagged and raw. Other days, something dreamy and lyrical blooms out of nowhere. Most days, it’s both. But there’s always this: a sense that I am connected to something larger—my imagination, my intuition, or maybe just the quiet courage to keep showing up.

I don’t use cannabis every time I write, nor do I need a ritual for every sentence. But when I want to return to writing as listening, this pairing reminds me to trust what’s inside. To follow the words, not control them.

If you’re curious about blending intuition and creativity, here’s my invitation:
Start small. Pull a card. Take a breath. Light a candle. See what your writing says when no one is watching—not even you.

Out Now on Kindle Unlimited.

The writer’s life is often romanticized—a solitary figure, fueled by caffeine and inspiration, crafting masterpieces in quiet solitude. Yet, the reality for many writers is far more complex. The creative process, while exhilarating, can be emotionally taxing, leaving many susceptible to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and burnout. This book directly addresses this often-overlooked reality. With tips that might help if you are facing writing issues, even if it is to tell you it is okay if you ask for help.

Write Well, While Feeling Well https://a.co/d/gea0NXq

Music is my love language.

What is your favorite genre of music?

When I’m cleaning, stressed out, writing, or just  need a mood change I put on music. I have hundreds of Spotify playlists favorite bands, book playlists, and more. I dabble in a lot of music but I lean towards rock. It depends how I’m feeling. Do I need aggressive rock, do I need to chill, do I want to sing, or do I just need background music.

On the weekends my mom would put on her records to clean the house, and my dad after working all week enjoyed beers and music on the weekends. That’s were I really learned to enjoy music. Mom was a Cindy Lauper, Fleetwood Mac, and country music . Dad was Jethro Tull, Guns and Roses, and Metallica. Dad liked the newer rock music and we would share CDs. He got the first Disturbed CD and I got the new System of a Down and we would swap.

Favorite bands you will see on my repeat:

Three Days GraceBreaking Benjamin Shinedown Metallica SeetherPapa RoachNothing MoreDisturbed Muse

When the mood hits rite I will play some Salt n Peper, Boyz II Men, Hozier, Teddy Swims, Disney songs, and so many others.

You can follow me here:

https://open.spotify.com/user/126224320?si=MD8pvmD9Q560WYI60In2Cg

Music was such a big thing in my household it would be just a matter of time before I wrote a book with it.

Rock music is my life.

I don’t play any instrument. I can kinda sing, but I’m not one for being the center of attention. I love being in the crowd. Music connects everyone-the nerds, the jocks, the disillusioned, and the broken. To show my love to the rock gods on stage, I rave about them with my somewhat popular blog, Rockin with Tabby.

During the concert of the year, Summer Fest, I have a chance encounter with my music crush, Spencer Tate, head singer of my second favorite band, Suspected Tragedy. He radiates sexy with his silver eyes, growly voice, and giant tattooed arms. And when a drunken kiss turns into more, he offers me a vacation of a lifetime. I might be slightly broken, but as I learn more about the true Spencer, I discover so is he. Maybe together we can fix each other. Until I receive a crushing call that tears me back to real life and the friends I left behind.

Book 2 Black Star will be out I hope next month.

https://a.co/d/7WTlwBW

✨ When I Don’t Know What I’m Doing (and That’s the Best Part)

This is going off the prompt of a few days ago. On what subject do you have authority on.

There’s a strange kind of pressure that sneaks into creativity. This sense that we’re only allowed to share our work when we’re “good enough,” or speak on a topic when we have it all figured out. But here’s the honest truth: half the time, I have no clue what I’m doing. And I think that’s actually the most exciting part.

We think creativity is about arriving at something brilliant. But honestly, I think it’s more about getting lost. When you’re not aiming to impress, you’re free to notice. To try. To play. Sometimes, the mess leads somewhere magic. Other times? Not so much. And that’s okay too. There’s a quiet kind of power in simply making without expecting perfection.

If you ever feel stuck because you’re not “an expert,” I want to tell you: curiosity is enough. You are allowed to create things even when you’re unsure. Especially when you’re unsure. That’s how you find your voice—not by knowing everything, but by showing up anyway.

So here’s my gentle invitation:
Make something this week that you don’t know how to finish. Let it be messy. Let it teach you something. You never know what you’ll discover by not knowing. And if you feel brave share it here or on your own blog.

Fireworks & Furry Friends: Keeping Your Dog Safe on the Fourth of July

For many of us, Independence Day means backyard BBQs, parades, and dazzling fireworks. But while we’re enjoying the celebration, our dogs might be having a very different experience—one filled with fear, anxiety, and unexpected danger.

Here’s how you can make the Fourth of July safer (and less stressful) for your four-legged companion:

1. Prepare a Safe, Quiet Space

Set up a cozy hideaway in your home where your dog can retreat. A crate with soft bedding, a favorite toy, and calming background sounds (like a white noise machine or soothing music) can work wonders.

2. Secure Your Home

Before the fireworks start, double-check that all windows, doors, and fences are secure. Dogs have been known to bolt from fear—even jumping through screens or digging under fences to escape.

3. ID Tags and Microchips Are a Must

Ensure your dog is wearing up-to-date ID tags and is microchipped. In case they do escape, this dramatically increases your chances of being reunited.

4. Watch the Table Scraps

Backyard feasts can be tempting for dogs, but be mindful—grilled bones, onions, alcohol, and many desserts are dangerous for pups. Keep human food out of reach, and offer safe dog treats instead.

5. Never Bring Dogs to Fireworks Displays

No matter how social your pup usually is, crowded, noisy events can be overwhelming and even traumatic. It’s best to leave them at home in a calm environment.

6. Consider Calming Aids

If your dog gets especially anxious, talk to your vet ahead of time. From compression wraps to vet-approved calming treats or medications, there are options to help keep them comfortable.

What Truly Is Romantic? Beyond the Roses and Chocolates

What’s your definition of romantic?

When you hear the word “romantic,” what comes to mind? Is it candlelight dinners, grand gestures, or a dozen red roses? While these can certainly be part of it, the truth is, romance is far more nuanced, personal, and often, much simpler than the movies lead us to believe.

At its heart, romance is about connection, intention, and making someone feel seen, cherished, and desired. It’s not a one-size-fits-all concept, and what feels deeply romantic to one person might be entirely different for another. So, let’s explore some facets of what “romantic” truly means.

The Everyday Kind of Romantic
Often, the most profound romance isn’t found in elaborate displays, but in the quiet, everyday moments.

Thoughtfulness: It’s remembering their favorite coffee order, picking up that book they mentioned months ago, or leaving a sweet note on their pillow. It’s about showing you listen, you care, and you think of them even when they’re not around.

Presence: In our hyper-connected world, truly being present with someone is a powerful act of love. Putting away your phone, making eye contact, and genuinely listening to what they have to say – that’s romantic.

Shared Laughter and Inside Jokes: Building a world together, filled with shared humor and unique experiences, fosters a deep sense of intimacy and connection.

Support and Understanding: Being someone’s rock, offering a listening ear without judgment, and celebrating their successes while comforting them in their struggles – this deep, unwavering support is incredibly romantic.

The Grand, Yet Personal, Gestures
While everyday romance is vital, there’s still a place for those “grand” gestures. But perhaps they aren’t always what we imagine.

Tailored Experiences: Instead of a generic expensive gift, a truly romantic gesture is one that’s specifically tailored to their interests. Planning a surprise weekend getaway to a place they’ve always dreamed of visiting, or securing tickets to see their favorite band, shows you understand and prioritize their happiness.

Reliving Memories: Recreating your first date, revisiting a significant place, or compiling a photo album of your shared journey can be incredibly sentimental and romantic, reminding you both of the foundation of your connection.

Acts of Service: For some, romance is about someone taking a burden off their shoulders. Doing a chore they dread, cooking their favorite meal after a long day, or helping them with a big project demonstrates care and partnership.

The Intimate and Vulnerable Kind
Romance also thrives in vulnerability and deep emotional intimacy.

Open Communication: Being able to share your deepest fears, hopes, and dreams with someone and feeling truly heard and accepted is profoundly romantic.

Physical Affection (Beyond the Bedroom): Holding hands, a comforting hug, a gentle touch on the arm – these small physical gestures reaffirm connection and affection.

Mutual Respect: Recognizing and valuing your partner’s individuality, their opinions, and their boundaries is a cornerstone of any truly romantic relationship.

Why Does “Romantic” Feel Different for Everyone?
Ultimately, what constitutes “romantic” is shaped by our individual experiences, love languages, and personal preferences. Some people crave words of affirmation, others thrive on quality time, while others feel most loved through acts of service or physical touch.

The key to true romance lies in understanding your partner’s unique language of love and speaking it with intention. It’s about paying attention, asking questions, and genuinely wanting to make them feel cherished.

So, the next time you think about romance, broaden your horizons beyond the stereotypical. Look for it in the quiet moments, the thoughtful gestures, and the deep, unwavering connection you share. Because sometimes, the most romantic thing of all is simply knowing you are loved, understood, and truly seen for who you are.

The art of Gratitude

How do you express your gratitude?

In a world that often moves at lightning speed, it’s easy to overlook the subtle gifts around us. But when we pause, just for a moment, to recognize the people, moments, and the little moments that shape our lives we invite JOY.

Gratitude is not just a polite gesture. It’s a mindset. A way to see the world through different lenses. Whether it’s a smile or unwavering support of a loved one.

I find certain acts of gratitude uncomfortable when it’s turned to me. I am trying to fix that. Baby steps. But I love making people feel happy. Even if it’s just words or encouragement or small thoughtful gifts to cheer someone up. It’s the small things that have lasting effects.

Today I want to say thank you if you read this.

Thank you to those who have created something I’ve enjoyed reading or watching or looking at

Thank you to the setbacks, the teachers I didn’t know I needed.

Thank you to kindness, in whatever form it comes in.

Gratitude rewires how we experience life. It softens the edges, strengthens our relationships, and brings peace of mind in the midst of chaos.

What are you grateful for today?

Worry, why?

What are you most worried about for the future?

Tea Break!

Maybe I should be worried for the future, but I’m not. Why worry when things are in constant flux. I want to tackle the here and now and worry about that. Worry about my goals as I work on them. But I have no time to worry about what can happen. We’ve made it through plagues and crazy weather and wars. Who knows what’s going to happen tomorrow. Focus on today.  I’ll worry like  how I live paycheck to paycheck.

Audiobook Review: Wasteland Warlords by James A Hunter and Eden Hudson

This post apocalyptic LitRPG is on Audible plus. I had originally got it for the hubby, who loved it and took out the series pretty quickly. I’m having a Dungeon Crawler Carl withdrawal so thought I would give it a shot. It’s pretty funny. I find it funny it takes place in Bakersfield. The Narrator does a good job with the characters, but pronouncing Visalia, where I live, was a little off. lol. Gotta love Lumberjack Joe, his Bertha, and now he has a mech raccoon pet.

“You keep what you kill. That’s one law everybody out here respects.”

Twenty years ago, the Merge brought armies of monsters flooding into the West Coast. Dungeons popped up in shopping malls, airports, and Starbucks. Walls were built to contain the spread, but the promise of priceless loot dropped by the creatures inspired a new type of gold rush. Magical weapons, powerful gear, potions to cure every ill… If you survive long enough to kill the mob, whatever they drop belongs to you.

Clay Jaeger has nothing left outside the walls. Civilization took everything he worked for, chewed it up, and spat it out. Now Clay, his wife Alex, and his beer-loving, chainsaw-toting brother Joe are going west to try their hand at monster killing. The loot from the low-level mobs is enticing, but it isn’t the real reason they risked the Infested Zone. They need to kill a Dungeon Lord. Only one in ten thousand hunters pull it off. The rest become fertilizer for the wasteland. But the few who beat the odds gain riches, glory, and most importantly, the Dungeon Lord’s magical powers.

They have nothing left to lose, and everything to gain. If they survive.

Want more epic adventures inside the Rogue Dungeon universe? Check out the Wasteland Warlords Series, narrated by Travis Baldree, and unlock a whole new world of awesome monsters, killer dungeons, and unforgettable characters. See what life is like after The Merge!