Chelle Ramsey's Blog, page 25

March Madness, Ann Marie...

When two people know what they want, and they're both longing for the same thing...each other...the decision should be easy, right? It doesn't seem so in today's March Madness post. Join Ann Marie Bryan for another March Madness giveaway. Simply leave a comment on her blog post to be entered.
About A Place For My Heart...
Crushed by heartache and desperate for an escape, he makes a life-changing choice.
 
When Chandler Peynard staggers into Sabrina Benjamin’s life, he is desperate for an escape route. Battling feelings of isolation, he has erected barriers around his heart, often times leaving a trail of broken dreams behind him.
 
Sabrina’s happily-ever-after was ripped away months ago, but she hasn’t given up on finding love. Still, she is caught off guard by her feelings for Chandler, a man who could hardly be described as a model man of God. As an unexpected bond develops between them, she wants more—a lot more than Chandler is prepared to give, because falling in love and putting down roots are not a part of his plan.
 
Touched by Sabrina’s kindness and faith, Chandler makes a life-changing choice; however, complication is inevitable when the past he’d thought was long buried, pushes him to confront matters he would have given anything to forget. As he struggles to release himself from his past and embrace the future, he offers Sabrina a place in his heart, but she demands all of it.
 
In a season that has brought so many changes, Chandler longs for peace in his soul and yearns for love. Will he trust God with all of his heart in order to overcome his past? Will he be able to testify that God’s grace wins every time? Will he find the strength to take a chance at life and love with Sabrina? Excerpt...
She rushed after him, desperation urging her on.
His hand on the door knob, Chandler swallowed hard, attempting to tame his desire. She was now standing behind him…way too close. “You were saying?” he asked, hoping his tone would not betray him.
“I want to-to…” Sabrina pushed out a frustrated sigh as she searched for the right words. “I want to hug you but I can’t. I mean, it’s best that we don’t.” She paused, and then anguish filled her voice. “Could you at least look at me?”
Chandler pushed his hands in his pants pockets and turned to look directly into her eyes, a look he’d perfected for professional settings. “You have my attention.”
She fought hard not to fidget under his gaze. “Don’t make this any more difficult than it is.”
He did not respond, but his eyes dropped to her lips, and he leaned in. 
No-no-no, don’t do that. Then, heat flushed her face. It was she who was on tip-toes.

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About Ann Marie Bryan...
Ann Marie Bryan is a dedicated, graceful, multi-talented leader with a passion for excellence. She is the CEO & Founder of Victorious By Design, an organization committed to providing top quality professional writing services, comprehensive personal and professional development programs and exceptional performing arts services to meet the unique needs of individuals and organizations.
 
A Christian Fiction author, Ann Marie writes to educate, inspire and empower others. She desires to tell great stories with fascinating characters to show the awesome power of God in the lives of people and places. Shades of the Heart is the first book in her bestselling, Encounters of the Heart series. Book 2 - Mirrored Hearts: Sealed By Fire was released February 2016. Her new release, A Place For My Heart, is the highly anticipated third installment in the series.
 
Ann Marie's greatest passion is to empower others to succeed by tapping into their God-given potential. She enjoys writing, reading, dancing, teaching, meeting people and traveling. With all the knowledge and experiences that God has so graciously blessed her with, Ann Marie is determined to make her life a ministry for the Lord.
 
 
LET’S STAY CONNECTED
 
Website: http://www.annmariebryan.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorannmariebryan
Facebook Readers’ group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorannmariebryan
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Newsletter (monthly): http://eepurl.com/bOw6sr
Google+: https://plus.google.com/118441643599687205816
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Ann-Marie-Bryan/e/B008VTK62O
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6448888.Ann_Marie_Bryan
Email: abryan@victoriousbydesign.com
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Undeniably Chelle...
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!

March Madness, John...

It's March Madness Wednesday and we're going deep today. Deep into the meaning of life and death, and what lies beyond. Join us as John Clark takes us on a journey as he and others search for the purpose and meaning of life. Don't forget to reply to be entered into the giveaway.
                About Destination Unknown... Do you know your life's purpose? Are you looking for more meaning in your life? Are you tired of just getting through each day instead of feeling a sense of purpose and direction? Sometimes the answer to a question is best explored in reverse. In order to find more purpose in life, perhaps we need to go to the end -- death -- and work backwards from there. Is it possible that contemplating death can lead to more meaning in life?

What happens to use after we die? Do we see our loved ones who have passed? Do we enter a white tunnel of life? Do we go straight to Heaven or Hell? Or is there simply blackness? Since the dawn of time, human beings have been asking these very questions. The subjects of life, death and purpose are arguably the most important we will every encounter.

John Clark has tackled the weighty subject of life after death in his newest book, Destination Unknown. Through interviews with people all over the globe -- Buddhists, atheists, Christians; men and women; young and old; school teachers, IT professionals, and military personnel -- he has compiled a tapestry of views on death that are as diverse as the people themselves. Some have had near death experiences. But no matter what the beliefs, there is a sense that contemplating the great unknown -- what happens when we die -- creates more meaning to the days we have left on this earth.

Excerpt...


Jean Francois Fejoz
 
“I'm afraid of being afraid of the great departure. I'll have to be brave. It's hard to go to a totally unknown place.”
 
            Jean Francois Fejoz thinks more and more about death as time goes on. The 65-year-old Frenchman was raised as a Catholic and still retains some of those early beliefs and teachings, but he also eschews a lot of the formal doctrines of organized religions.
                “I do believe in God, and I believe in life after death,” he says. “At home when I was a kid, we had the evening prayer before we went to bed, all together. I received the education of a standard Catholic boy, going to a Catholic school until the age of eighteen. My belief of life after death might come from that education, and I'm glad of it–it gives hope.
            “A life that totally ends after death seems useless and nonsense. My mind cannot imagine a world with living beings who are on Earth just to live and die and that's all. There is no proof, or very little proof, that there are things that happen to the souls once the beings are dead, but in spite of that, there must be something.
            “Being christened, God is automatically to me someone who looks like a mix of Jesus and the Holy Father. But when I spend more time on thinking about it, I realize that probably God is someone very different, a Spirit which we won't know unless we're dead. I think that God is the Spirit of which I am a very tiny part. I see the creation and the world, which is the result of it. It is often chaotic and seems nonsense, but not all the time.
            “Religions are far from my beliefs now. Religious is when you go to church, pray, and have rituals with others. Religions suppose that some people (like priests) know more than me, although it is very obvious that they are as ignorant (on what it's all about and what happens after death) as me. Their organizations even sometimes lead to violence, wars, etc. So don't consider me as religious.
“I think that when I realized that the priests (teachers or not) could be real bastards, and that the Church was an oppression tool, I realized I should look elsewhere, look at life as it is. I read Voltaire and Rousseau a lot, and I liked their freedom of thought.
“Spiritual is someone who has a deep interest in what is above our will, and non-material purposes. He should meditate regularly and have a behavior in which you see improvements every day. That's not me, either. Let's put that I would like to be spiritual. Someday, maybe, who knows?”
Born in 1949 in Chambery, Savoie, in southeastern France, Fejoz grew up in a family with six brothers and one sister. He is married and lives near Vincennes, just east of Paris. He is the father of three children, holds a political science degree, and has worked for the past 14 years as a bilingual guide for museums and tours.
In October 2005, Fejoz learned about the famed pilgrimage across northern Spain, the Camino de Santiago, and decided the historic journey undertaken by millions over the past 1,200 years was something he very much wanted to do. One month earlier, his mother had died, and two months after that, his father passed away.
Instead of traveling to Spain to make his pilgrimage, Fejoz decided to begin across the Pyrenees Mountains in France. He took off from Vezelay, Burgundy in May 2006 and walked through the countryside for nine days. In fall 2007, he picked up where he left off and walked for 21 days. He added another 21 days’ walking in spring 2008, and in summer 2009 completed the pilgrimage by walking another three weeks and arriving at Finisterrae, a small village on the Atlantic Ocean once known as the end of the world.
“In the first years, I did not know what to answer myself on why I walked,” Fejoz said of the grueling effort to walk hundreds of miles from the middle of France, across northern Spain, to the Atlantic. “I just wanted to (and that was a good reason enough). Today, apart from the movie that did provide the start, and the unconscious coincidence with my parents' death, I'm sure that my decision came from two primary motivations.
“First, the absurdity of the world that surrounds us, socially and politically (make money and that's all, have power and that's all–in 2006, the president of France was a disastrous and obnoxious person) and the need for me to get out of it, to get away from it. And, also, my own family life was not what I had dreamt of–my two daughters (I also have an elder son) were living the peak of their adolescence, shall I say. 
            “When I took the decision to try the Camino, I was not aware of the possible connection with my parents’ death. The decision was made after having seen the movie (Saint Jacques la Mecque, a French film by Coline Serreau). It's mainly in 2009 that I dedicated my walk to meditation on death.”
            Among the lessons he learned successfully completing the Camino de Santiago was finding an inner strength—both physical and mental—he did not know existed. It was an emotional experience, and one that left a lasting impression.
“The Camino taught me that I was able to do something on a long distance (beforehand, I thought my will was weak). I found that I could make efforts with a result, and my body with two legs only can lead me to the other side of the continent. I realized that, with time, you can achieve real great things. In a nutshell, the Camino is excellent for your ego (mine, at least!).
            “I discovered a whole new aspect of life: a passion, a center of interest, with connections in all fields. History, legends, geography, literature, films, associations, religion, and above all, close relationships with the other pilgrims–the future, the present, and the past ones. There are many traces of that pilgrimage in France and in Spain! The Camino is one of the founding elements for Europe. Since my second departure, I've been working to someday get the Way of Saint James waymarked on the ground in the streets of Paris. I write a blog about it; I meet people for it. I made it to get the Pilgrim's Bench and Tree in the north of Paris, and I am now working on the project of an albergue (Camino hostel) for pilgrims in the Paris area.”
            With plans underway to walk the Camino once again after he retires, Fejoz says he remains unsure about such things as the meaning of life, the purpose for our existence, and why we are here. Since there is no way of knowing what comes next, it is important to make the most of the life we have now, he says.
“We don't know the purpose; our mind is not powerful enough. There must be one, and I suppose we'll know when we die. Knowing that, we have to make our life meaningful. Violence and aggressivity [sic] doesn't lead to good results. We should do our best to be kind to all–make life better for the others and ourselves–but it is very difficult.
“I don't believe in Heaven and Hell the way they are commonly described. Heaven and Hell are inventions by the humans. Heaven and Hell happen here on earth: short moments of happiness, quick or long times of despair, suffering, misunderstanding, awkwardness, pain, etc. I believe that after death, there is a kind of peaceful atmosphere. And when we're there, we won't even care about Heaven and Hell.
“I sometimes pray. I take it as a good kind of meditation exercise or when I need to overtake a difficult time or when I feel I'm in a bad state of mind. It raises my soul. I rediscovered the ‘Notre Père (Our Father),’ and I realized that the words are very simple, very basic, and could be said by anybody who believes in a superior ‘Being.’

“Yes, I'm afraid of being afraid by the great departure. I’m afraid I might suffer a lot before I die. I’m sixty-five, so I think of it more and more. It’s hard to go to a totally unknown place. I’ll have to be brave. I don't know, but I believe that our spirit gets mixed with a kind of general Spirit. I think and I hope that then I'll understand what all that (life and death, happiness and suffering, fight and rest, love and hate) is about.”

About John...
John Henry Clark lives in a one-stoplight central Texas town with three females: a half-blind and highly neurotic mini-dachshund; a beautiful and bulimic calico cat; and his wife, the wonderful woman who takes care of it all. A graduate of the University of Houston, Clark is an award-winning journalist, freelance writer, author, photographer, musician, artist, and avid golfer who has eight published non-fiction books, including his best-seller, Camino: Laughter and Tears Along Spain’s 500-mile Camino de Santiago, which chronicles his two backpacking journeys along the historic pilgrimage across northern Spain. A tireless seeker, researcher and questioner, John has written a number of other fascinating books dealing with the human experience, from tragedies to triumphs and more, including his first published title, Finding God: An Exploration of Spirituality in America’s Heartland. Recently, he has taken up painting, as well, and enjoys using acrylics to create abstract scenes from nature. For more on John and his books, visit: johnhenryiii.com, depressionblues.net, johnclarkbooks.com.

CONTACT JOHN:

Twitter: @golfnman13
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnclarkbooks/
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Living Life Beautifully Inspired!

March Madness, Savannah...

It's the final week of March Madness! Don't slow down the steam now. We're just brewing up the drama with Savannah Jackson's Raising Tristan. Today's giveaway is a $10 Starbucks gift card! Drop her a line to be entered into the giveaway.
About Raising Tristan...
Raising Tristan is a story of Shiloh Milner, a gentleman who is involved in a relationship with Angela Pitchard. Their relationship is purely for companionship; she doesn't love him, he doesn't love her.

When Angela who has made it clear she does not want children finds herself pregnant, Shiloh convinces her to have the baby. Twenty-four hours after their son, Tristan is born; Angela checks herself out of the hospital and disappears. With the help of his parents, and his new lady love, the beautiful Moselle Laveau, Shiloh devotes his life to caring for his son. But as time goes on will Moselle turn out to be all Shiloh believes her to be and will she be an asset in Raising Tristan.
Excerpt...
Shiloh gripped Angela's hips pulling them higher, closer to his pelvis. His thrusts became more forceful as he felt himself nearing release. He'd already pleased her twice and now it was his turn.           

Although, Angela was nothing more than a regular booty call, Shiloh made sure she got hers. Shhhhh...he breathed out, as the air was forced from his lungs during his climax.           

When he was finished, he rolled off her and pulled her to his chest. He didn't love her but he loved to cuddle. Since he didn't have a girlfriend, for now, Angela would have to do.           

Shiloh closed his eyes and allowed the sweet euphoric feeling that always followed their intimate moments to wash over him. He was just about to drift off to sleep when Angela's voice pulled him back.           

"I'm pregnant."           

He frowned.

"What did you say?"            

"I said I'm pregnant." Her voice sounded flat to him.           

He took a minute to turn to her. Cupping her chin with his hand, he pulled her face towards his. How far?" He didn't doubt for a second the baby was his.           

"Three months . . . I don't want it." Angela looked him directly in the eyes when she uttered those words.           

Shiloh sat up on the side of the bed; this time he kept his back to her. "What are you saying, Angie? It's a little late to get an abortion, don't you think?"           

"Not if I lie."           

He stood slowly to his feet. His six foot three inch, 200 pound frame seemed to rise in deliberate motion to Angela. She'd never been afraid of or uncomfortable around Shiloh until now.           

"Are you telling me you're going to kill my baby? He has a heartbeat Angela.  His heart is beating . . . How can you do that?" His eyes narrowed as he spoke.           

"I never wanted kids; you know that. And what we have isn't exactly a relationship . . . we're . . "      

"Don't say it," he snapped, cutting her off. Shiloh hated it when she used the 'F' word followed by buddy to describe their relationship. He knew they weren't a couple, but to him they were more than that. Angela stood to her feet as well. She slowly made her way to the bathroom. Although her pregnancy wasn't very far along, the baby still pressed on her bladder. After relieving herself, she turned on the shower.           

When she finished, she dried off and got dressed. She grabbed her purse and car keys and headed down the stairs. Before she could open the door to Shiloh?s home to leave, he placed his hand against it stopping her.           

"This ain't over Angie." He spoke close to her ear. "You hear me? This conversation is far from over."           

"It's over for tonight," she replied softly.           

"Perhaps, that's so. But you better believe I'll be by tomorrow to finish this. You ain't killin' my boy."             

Angela remained quiet. All she wanted to do was go home and lay down. She knew there was no winning this argument at this point. She'd sleep on it and come up with a strategy in the morning to ensure she had her way; even if it meant disappearing. 

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Raising Tristan in paperback: http://amzn.to/2k0sNqd
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About Savannah...
Savannah J. was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware in an Italian neighborhood affectionately referred to as "Little Italy". The unconditional love and support of her family and influence of her environment fostered her love and talents in the Arts. Subsequently, during her college years, she studied music and literature, which fed her passion for writing. She is the author of “Toward the Light” and the sequel “The Prodigal Son,” and “Behind Closed Doors.” She has recently completed two additional titles, “The Drama Don’t Stop Cause a Brotha Turns 50,” and the suspense thriller, “The Prey,” to be released in the summer of 2012. She is also the founder and organizer and co-host of The Annual Authors Literary Festival, which is held yearly in the Richmond Virginia Metro Area.  

  Savannah J. currently resides in Virginia with her son and family. For more information see her website at www.thesavannahjpublications.com or email her at savnhj@aol.com.  For more information on The Annual Authors Literary Festival visit the website at www.theannualauthlitfestival.com  “Toward the Light” is available at www.authorhouse.com  “The Prodigal Son,” and “Behind Closed Doors” are available through Savannah J’s website.
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Undeniably Chelle...
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!

March Madness, Chelle...

About A Woman's Design: Afflictions
Ambiance – Loving her husband, building her brand, and being there for her girls are the only things that matter to her. But she’s quickly learning that her love is not enough to build a strong, stable marriage. Surrounded by family, friends and business constituents should be enough; yet, she’s all alone. When her love isn’t enough to suffice her husband’s needs, Ambiance considers stepping beyond the vows and taking matters into her own hands, and the tragic results will have her running to God.

Naomi – As a teen she made the decision to be a single mother. Choosing to build her life around her daughter has molded and shaped all the decisions she has made until now. Her relationship with her daughter is highly valued and nothing can shake it, not even her daughter’s attempts to grow up. But when her daughter’s so-called “deceased” father comes back, Naomi’s carefully constructed world may begin to crumble. Her efforts to protect her child may be the one thing that pushes her away, and she must decide if she will open herself up to love again.

Paige- running from her inner demons she struggles to build a life vastly different than her mother and aunt’s. With a mindset of use or be used, she takes the concept of “love ‘em and leave ‘em” to a new level, and her promiscuous lifestyle is a cause of concern for all those who love her. She doesn’t care whose heart she’s breaking or whose life she’s ruining, it’s all about her. Until it no longer is.
Three women are on a journey of self-discovery, as they deal with the fallout from choices made from emotion rather than self-awareness.

 A Woman's Design: Afflictions_Excerpt
Ambiance Caldwell...
Speed-walking in my black stilettos with four-inch gold heels, I almost tripped and fell flat on my face when I came to an abrupt stop. This could not be happening to me. My heart was thudding in my chest. What were the chances of running into this man twice in a couple weeks? He must have worked in the area. It was amazing how I had only met him once before but recognized him from the back as if I had known him forever.

“Here she is now,” Nelly stated, pointing over his shoulder in my direction. I tried to get the look of shock off my face before he turned around to face me. At six-four he towered over little Nelly, who was only five-one. He would have towered over my actual height of five-four had it not been for my stilettos. I crossed my arms over my ample breasts that were trying to peek out, since it appeared that was where his eyes were drawn to. That simple gesture made him look back up at me and lick his lips like the cat who swallowed the canary. The look in his eyes sent my mind to twirling again. This was not good. Why was this stranger having this effect on me?

“Ambiance, this is Mr. Jackson. He has a 1:00 P.M. appointment to purchase some gift items. Mr. Jackson, this is Ambiance Caldwell, Vanilla Rose’s personal shopper. She will assist you with ideas, selections, and purchases,” Nelly introduced.

Nick, as he had introduced himself upon our initial meeting, walked up to me and stretched out his hand. I couldn’t believe he was acting like he didn’t know me. I stretched my hand out, prepared to shake his, when he pulled it up to his lips and kissed it. I swear if the butterflies in my stomach were real, they would have come straight out my tummy and up through my mouth.

Naomi Blankenship..
About Chelle...
Women's fiction author and blogger, Chelle Ramsey lives in the metro Atlanta area with her husband and three children, where she is an HR Professional by day. Chelle wants readers to become empowered to rise above life's adversities, with faith in the Almighty God, and belief in themselves. During her “me time,” she becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, Nora Roberts, James Patterson and Stuart Woods.

She hosts the annual 20 Days of Love authors’ blogging campaign, March Madness authors’ giveaways campaign, and showcases other authors on her blog at www.chelleramsey.com/beautifully-inspired-blog. She is a ghostwriter for romance authors. She also blogs for Liyahmore Publishing and Amore Speaks. Her novels can be found online at Chelle Ramsey Amazon.
 
LINKS:
WEB: www.chelleramsey.com
EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com
FACEBOOK: Author Chelle Ramsey
TWITTER: @ChellesBooks
PINTEREST: ChellesBooks
INSTAGRAM: Chelleramseybooks
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Undeniably Chelle...
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!

March Madness, Rose...

Rose Jackson-Beavers is sharing an excerpt from her novel, A Sinner's Cry. All I can say is at the end, she left me with "WHAT?" It's another day of March Madness, and today's post is heating things up and it's getting a bit juicy.

Leave a comment at the end of the post to be entered into Rose's giveaway.
About A Sinner's Cry...
Denise Reese's life seems as if it is on a sure course to perfection until a single phone call crushes her reality and leaves her heartbroken and vulnerable. As she attempts to rebuild her shattered life, Denise seeks solace in the confines of the church that she'd walked out of years ago and swore never to return. As she struggles to gain redemption, the ringing of her phone continues to haunt her and impede her progress. In the midst of her struggles, she receives support from the newly appointed pastor, the handsome James Davis. While the two attempt to walk the right path, they must combat the lies and deception that those closest to them are spreading. Once Denise learns to decipher between lust and love, she realizes, even from a struggling sinner, God hears sincere cries. A Sinner's Cry Excerpt...
Rinnnnnnng. Rinnnnng.
 
The sudden shrill of the phone jarred me awake. Pulling my hand from under the soft bed covers, I fumbled and patted the cherry wood nightstand in search of the sound that annoyed and interrupted my peaceful slumber. My fingers made contact with the hard receiver, as I lifted my head off my satin pillow and put it up to my ear. “Hello,” I groaned as if in pain.
 
The woman on the other end screamed, “Who is this?!”
 
I rubbed the sleep from my eyes while I averted a yawn. “You called this number, so you should know.”  I closed my eyes and lay back down.
 
“This is Jill Tate, you trick.”
 
 My eyes popped open as if a fairy godmother had sprinkled dust in them. All the sleepiness I felt was gone. My body sprung up to attention as I turned on the lamp. The bright light temporarily blinded me. My heart began to pound like little staccato drums being brutally hit. I took a deep breath and released the irritation that threatened to consume me. Finally, I asked, after reeling my voice back into control, “Jill who?”
 
“Tate.”  The woman smacked her lips like she was sampling a sour piece of candy. “You know who I am. I’m tired of you little tricks sleeping with my husband.”
 
“Sorry, but I think you have the wrong number,” I said as I rubbed my right eye.
 
“I don’t think so. I checked my phone bill and your number is all over it. Your trifling ass is sleeping with my husband, Darren.”
 
I sat straight up in bed and changed the phone from my left ear to the right one, trying to assure I heard what the woman had said. “Darren is not married, not the one I know.”
 
“Are you serious? Is that it? Really, is that all it takes for a man to get into women’s panties is to say he’s not married?”
 
“Sorry, but the Darren I’m seeing is not married.”  My heart was beating hard inside my chest as my left hand balled up into a fist. I needed more information. I tried to think of what would be a good facial distinction to share with her to assure she had the wrong number and wrong man. “Is the Darren you’re seeing a professor with green eyes?” 
 
“You’re not stupid. Yes, he has green eyes and I’m sure you knew he was married. All you skanks know. You’re just playing a role like you don’t.”
 
Silence.
 

About Rose...
Chief Executive Officer of Prioritybooks Publications grew up in East St. Louis, Illinois and received her Bachelor and Master degrees from Illinois State and Southern Illinois Universities. Rose is an inspirational speaker who is frequently asked to talk to youths and young adults about life issues.

She has worked with many teens throughout her community and has received numerous awards and recognition for her work in youth empowerment and publishing. She has worked as a freelance writer for A-Magazine, a St. Louis Publication, and The Spanish Lake Word Newspaper and as an Opinion Shaper for the North County Journal Newspaper.

Married for thirty-two years to Cedric, they have one daughter, Adeesha. Rose is the author of nine books. Her 2012 book, A Sinner's Cry was a finalist in the Religious Fiction category in, The Next Generation Indie Book Awards 2012. Her newest release through Urban Books is Full Figured 5 with Brenda Hampton remained in the top ten on Black Expressions Bookclub for several months. She has published over thirty authors and more than 100 books with many of the books becoming best sellers and award winning recognition. 


Purchase Books: http://www.amazon.com/ or http://www.barnesandnoble.com
Email: rosbeav03@yahoo.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rose.jackson...
www.prioritybooks.com
www.rosejacksonbeavers.com
www.prioritybooks.blogspot.com
 
Follow me on twitter@rosbeav
Follow me on facebook @ http://facebook.com/rose.jacksonbeavers
Follow me on instagram@rosejacksonbeavers
 


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Undeniably Chelle...
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!

March Madness, Wanda...

Today's March Madness post comes from W Parks Brigham. I love, love, love her stories. They're full of the most real-life, down to earth characters you ever want to meet. She always drops a little sweetness in there to enhance the storyline.

Make sure you drop Ms. Brigham a line at the end of the post to be entered into her giveaway of a signed copy of True Love, and another book from her collection.
About True Love...
Thick and luscious Myra Watson was cute and educated with a great job and beautiful home. Like most of the young ladies her age and older in her hometown, Allanville, she was ready to become a wife and mother. The Matchmakers had already bombed out in matching her with her supposed soul mate. He was nothing but a two-timing lady’s man. Un-huh…she deserved better. Now, she’d solicited the prayers of the saints for her Mr. Right…Black Knight in shining amour.  Was that asking for too much?

Demrick (Rick) Hill had done it all, from hustling on the streets of Oakland to big balling with the best of them. Yeah, he had been labeled a thug, but he could proudly say he had never seen the inside of a jail…not even for a traffic ticket. How was he able to keep his nose clean? It was by the grace of God.  Due to tragedy and a close call, he was now ready to get his life right with a fresh start and a change of scenery by relocating to Allanville, Texas. 

As fate would have it, Myra’s prayers were answered, at least halfway…Thanks to her conniving friend; Myra was awarded three children and became an instant mother in one night.  And guess who came to her rescue? A pest from her past, Rick Hill. 

Lawd, what I’ma do? Mmm-uhm, be careful for what you ask for! ♥

True Love Excerpt...
 Myra was running late for worship service and had no excuse; she scolded herself as she pulled into the church parking lot.  It wasn’t like she hadn’t picked out what she was going to wear this Sunday.  Since she wasn’t doing nursery duty, she wanted to look extra special.  Okay, the real reason?  The two men she once upon a time had been engaged to would be at Allanville COC this morning.  Tommy Mitchell, her first love, had returned to Allanville to make it his home with his wife and family.  His cousin said he had even purchased a home in her subdivision.  Now, if that wasn’t a slap in the face!  And then there was Kane Atkins, who already lived in Allanville. She broke up with him six months ago, due to his infidelity. He even had the audacity to want her back after he was caught more than once with a different woman.  If the truth be told, she loved flaunting her new five-five curvy figure in Kane’s face.  Tommy, however, was a different story. 
             Yep, admiring her reflection in the mirror, she was now looking her DIVA self, if she had to say so.  Myra knew she was lacking in the natural beauty department, and had to work with what God had blessed her with. Make-up, the right hairstyle, and wardrobe were essential for her to be pretty; she was all right with that.  Her positive nature and easy-going personality were her drawing cards and strength.  She pulled her curls out around the brown and peach stretch headbands.  Although her natural hair was a snap to do, she still had to work with the side she slept on.  Getting out of the car, Myra adjusted the long-sleeve brown and peach vibrant print tunic she wore over the matching, side slits skirt.  The bold colors complemented her flawless and smooth silky dark butterscotch complexion. To complete her outfit, she chose a pair of brown, gladiator three-inch crisscross shoes, two kinds of long beaded necklaces of the same colors in her outfit, and peach buttoned earrings.
            “Good morning, Sis. Myra,” greeted Shelly and Cornelius, who were part of the welcoming committee for the month of October.  They made a striking couple in coordinating suits of taupe and black.  Shelly was one bold sister in her dress and hair style, in spite of her plus size figure and height.  She was every big girl’s role model and the envy of the thin sisters.  And Lord ha’ mercy, she had a husband who spelled the word f-i-n-e and adored every inch of her to no end.
            Myra knew there was someone out there for her.  She just needed to be patient and not latch on to the next man that was put in her path.  Moreover, she knew she shouldn’t be so easily conned by a little attention, or compliments for her dimpled smile.  Myra stepped inside the auditorium, and yes, the first person she saw was Kane Atkins.  She spoke to him and other members as she made her way to sit by her mother.  No sooner than she took her seat, Betsy Watson pointed discreetly to Tommy and his little family.  Naturally, they were sitting with his parents.  Although Myra had that nonchalant attitude working, she still stole a quick peek.♥
            What else could happen on this glorious Sunday? Myra asked herself as she pulled her jacquard animal print comforter back.  It was pretty with raised satiny stripes of light taupe over a strawberry background and a light solid taupe top.  Although she spent more money for it than she should have, she was glad she did.  It gave her dark walnut sleigh bed life while adding pizazz to her bedroom décor.  Removing the decorative pillows and shams, she said her prayers and got in bed.
             Still wide awake, Myra thought about the surprise she had when she went by her parents’.  The Mitchells had also been invited for dinner, Tommy and his family included.  She was polite and on her best behavior when he introduced her to his wife and children.  Myra had to admit, his wife seemed to be a very nice person whom she could really get to like.  His children were just adorable, especially the little girl.  She was already a daddy’s girl.  Maybe she could put the past behind her, and they could become friends again.  After all, it had been eight years, and she was certainly not in love with him.  At any rate, she participated in a little conversation and excused herself.
            Ring!
Myra looked at her caller ID and rolled her eyes to the ceiling.  It was Kane.  “Why are you calling me at this late hour?”
            “Myra, we need to talk,” said Kane, attempting to sound pitiful.
            She wasn’t falling for his innocent act and snapped, “About what?”
            “I miss you, Myra.  Can’t you find it in your heart to forgive me and give us another chance?”
            That was the problem with him.  Once she gave their relationship some serious thought, he never said the words I love you.  It’d always been I adore you, I want you, I need you, etc.  What was she thinking to accept his proposal? “No, Kane.  We’ve been through this before.  It’s over.”
            “That’s whatcha say,” Kane spat out.  “It’s not like you have brothers knocking at your door.”
            “What’s that supposed to mean?”
            “It means all men don’t appreciate a thick curvy sister, Myra.”
            “Kane, if I recall correctly, you did nothing but complain about my size.”
            “You’re right, I knew you could lose some of that weight and firm yourself up.  And you should thank me for the new and improved Myra.”
“You’re really full of yourself, Kane Atkins!”  Give me a break!  “I want you to make this the last time you dial my number with this foolishness.  Good night!”
            Myra pissed him off with her I’m all that attitude since she dropped a few pounds; he fumed as he listened to the dial tone.  One thing he’d never been able to do, and that was prey upon Myra Watson’s self-esteem.  Her father raised her to think she was beautiful and someone special. She didn’t need any man to stroke her ego.  That was one thing they had in common, inflated egos.  She was just the right size now and would look great on his arm.  Dang, he hated he didn’t handle her better than he did… With a smile, he voiced his thoughts aloud.  Just give her a little time, and she’ll be all yours.  After all, you are Kane Atkins. ♥
            “Hello, hello,” moaned Myra.  All she could hear was small children and a woman crying.  She looked at her caller ID, Tamia Travis.  “Tamia, stop crying.  I can’t understand a word you’re saying.  What has happened?  Are the babies all right?  Please tell me what’s wrong?” 
            Myra Watson was now sitting up in her bed with her feet dangling on the side.  She hadn’t seen or heard from her wayward friend and old college roommate with all her drama in two years.  Tamia Travis was awarded the title of being number one drama queen while they attended PVA&MU, and still was.  Tam, as she was called back then, had lived a reckless, unstable life.
Myra held the phone for what seemed like hours as she listened to Tamia rant through sobs.  All she could make out was…I can’t take anymore…I’m done.  But done with what? That was the question.  “Tam, I need you to pull yourself together and tell me what is wrong.”
            “Myra, I need you to come pick me up.”
            “Pick you up where?”
            “I’m in Hempstead at the truck stop.  I need your help!”
            “Momma, I eat,” whined one of her babies.
            “Shut up,” she shouted harshly.  Myra could have sworn she heard another different cry.  “I’ma whup yo azz.  I mean it.”
            “Tam, don’t, that’s not necessary!  Give me fifteen minutes, I’ll be right there.  Stay calm and please don’t hit him.”  Myra stuck her feet in a pair of shoes, grabbed her keys and purse, and was out the door with her cell phone.  She didn’t take time to change from her navy blue pajamas.  The cotton print bottoms and solid top with the same trim around the sleeves could pass for street clothes.  Her shawl would cover up her braless top, she thought as she pulled a cap down over her head.  Myra was shocked when she looked at the time.  It was almost twelve midnight and Tamia’s child was hungry.  She said a silent prayer before quickly backing out of her drive.  Myra headed straight toward the interstate as she begged God to protect the little fellow and give Tamia patience…
            That must be where the children are, Myra thought.
            “Tamia,” shouted the dude she was with.  “The baby is crying now.” Baby…
“Myra, I don’t have any stuff.  All we have are the clothes on our backs.  I had to leave in a hurry.”  She started to cry again.
            “No diapers?” exclaimed Myra. 
She shook her head no.
“Okay Tam, don’t cry.  We can stop by Wally World and pick up a few items for now.  You get the baby.”  It was just a sad ridiculous mess, thought Myra as she lifted the boys and walked over to her small compact car. She strapped the toddlers in the best she could, and shook her head in total disgust.  Minutes later, Tamia got in the back seat with the baby, her big purse, and a small grocery bag. Myra didn’t make a comment; she was just glad Tamia had enough sense to sit with the children.  There were no baby seats for any of them.  How did things get this bad? ♥
             Rick pulled into the parking lot of Wally World, but not before the sky released booming claps of thunder followed by streaks of lightening.  The rain would be next, he thought as he jumped out of his truck and rushed to the door.  One of the store managers stood outside to inform customers who were trying to grab their last minute supplies that the store was closed due to power outage. As soon as the power was restored, it would reopen.  Rick decided to sit in his truck and nap until then, since he was already out.  Another deafening burst of thunder; the sky lit completely up, causing him to have second thoughts like the others who were already leaving.  He would have to make out with what he had until tomorrow.  While he jogged to his truck to keep from being drenched, Rick noticed a sister in distress.  She was struggling with two large baskets.  Where were the attendants?      
            “Ma’am, can I help?”
Myra gasped when a man spoke from behind her.  The cashier told her they didn’t have anyone available for the moment and she didn’t have time to wait.  Turning around with pepper spray in her hand, she let go of the basket. 
He threw up his hands.  “I didn’t mean to scare you.  I just thought you could use some help, that’s all.”  He kept his hands up so she could see he was harmless, although his cap was pulled down over his head. ♥
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About W. Parks Brigham...
W Parks Brigham lives in Houston, Texas and has two adult daughters. She’s spent her adult life teaching small children and loved every minute of it. She is now a retired (Halleluiah) teacher of thirty plus years and loves every minute of that for sure. Her main interest and hobbies includes active participation in her church, listening to her own radio station designed especially for her, playing spider solitaire, working bent and wiggly word search and Sudoku puzzles. She is an avid reader of every genre in the AA Romance category which has prompted her to write and self-publish her own with plus size women as the heroine.

            Therefore, it’s her honor and pleasure to invite you into her world of l women fiction with a contemporary Christian romance flavor.  She has penned twelve of the sweetest tales with plus size women as the heroine, touching your every emotion. Her heroines are beautiful, educated, and sophisticated with high self-esteem. They are not looking for a man to validate their worth…just love them for who they are.  Drama, the element of surprise with twists and turns, romance, and love are featured in each story. She considers her AA Romance stories in a class all by themselves with the Christian elements she tries to project in a positive way.
 
W Parks Brigham Author Page: www.amazon.com./-/e/B00G4IPAMU
 Website: http://www.wparksbrigham.com/.
 FB Author W Parks Brigham
 Email: wparksbrigham@writeme.com
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Living Life Beautifully Inspired!

March Madness, Keith...

It's another inspirational day of March Madness. Today's author, Keith Taylor II, is helping our readers deal with rejection and overcoming the pain of a broken relationship. Leave your comment at the end of the post to be entered into the giveaway of a free copy of his book, and a $10 Amazon gift card.
Rejected but Still Prevailing will entirely change the way you view rejection. It will motivate you in ways you never thought possible. It will also provide some insight on where rejection starts and how to handle rejection from a girlfriend or boyfriend. Rejection will be shown from a biblical viewpoint also. You will laugh at different chapters seeing yourself in some of my experiences. You will learn and grow and be able to deal with rejection like never before. Your entire perception about dealing with rejection will be changed.

Purchase link: Amazon.com
Keith Taylor II, has been dubbed “Mr. Inspiration”, in his hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana, with over 8 years of experience speaking to the youth. Taylor received a Bachelor's in Leadership where he developed a mentoring program for at risk youth. Taylor spends his free time offering one on one coaching on goal setting, financial accountability, and leadership. He is the author of “Rejected, but Still Prevailing” and has appeared on “Inside Indy with Kelly Vaughn”, various radio shows across the country, and has featured in “Writer’s Life Magazine”, and “Pen' Ashe Magazine”. Taylor continues to be sought after for articles and speaking engagements across the world.

Social Links:

Email: keithtspeaks@gmail.com
Website: www.keithtspeaks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Keith-Taylor-II-1488605568022325/
Twitter: @Taylor_made1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keith_taylorii/
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Living Life Beautifully Inspired!

March Madness, Carla...

Carla Youngblood is kicking off our week with a bit of inspiration and empowering us to live victoriously by changing our mindset. It's another March Madness week. Reply at the end of this post to be entered into her giveaway!
About Emotions of The Mind...
is the 1st Book in the Simple Carla Series. In this book, Carla shares the journey of understanding how to overcome unhealthy thinking. Carla believes everyone’s path is different but by sharing her personal journey she hopes others will see the need to embrace their own.
Emotions of The Mind Excerpt...
Fragile minds exist because we struggle with trying to tell the mind what it already knows. The renewed mind is one that is accepting of the finished work of Christ. The fragility of our minds is necessary to push us to easily embracing the truth of our minds. Part of my own journey to this place of renewal, was being able to keep the process free of struggle. The work was to not give in to my thoughts that were contrary to what was already true about me.

Every day I was tested with thoughts which tried to persuade me to think differently. It meant that when the contrary thoughts came I had to search for another thought to think instead. I spent a lot of time reading Philippians 4:8. I had to allow my thoughts to go to my divine nature’s way of thinking and being. The work was for me to decide to come to a place called rest. We will talk more about this in another chapter.

A wondering mind will think about anything, it is subject to those 60,000 thoughts. I believe we are all just one thought away from victory or defeat depending on what you choose to think. If you want to renew your mind, the thought process must become intentional. You cannot afford to allow the mind to drift into places unguarded. The mind is so powerful, it will create whatever it wants.
 
Buy your copy:  http://www.designingwithcarla.com/products
About Releasing Relationship Baggage...
Releasing Relationship Baggage is the 2nd book in the Simply Carla series. Carla shares how it is our responsibility to take action for things which no longer working in our relationships. Our family patterns are indicators of our style of relating to others. We can keep, revamp or change our style at any time, by letting go of the things which no longer serve a purpose in our relationships.

Buy your copy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0986199516

About Carla...
Carla D. Youngblood is a master life coach, speaker, and author of three books. She is an expert at teaching women how to bring order and structure to their lives and build a life in preparation to meet life’s challenges. As a coach she works with women leaders in business and ministry, who need a place where they can share openly, without fear of retribution. As a preacher’s daughter she knows first-hand the necessity for leaders to honestly be able to share their stories. Carla believes that when women are able to care themselves they are better able to care of others; it is a philosophy she practices daily.

Website:  www.designingwithcarla.com
Fb Public Official page https://www.facebook.com/carladspeaks
Women Leaders page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leaderswhoarewomen

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Living Life Beautifully Inspired!

March Madness, A.D.

Today's March Madness brings a little suspense to the game! In today's lineup, we're showcasing an author who's new to The Beautifully Inspired Blog. Welcome A.D., and don't forget to reply to her post to be entered into the giveaway.
About Untold...
.To make recompense for her past, Renee Williams has devoted her attention to God, prayer, and the kids in her stead as a social worker. She'd like to keep quiet about her past, but there's just one problem with that—Andrew Dodson. His consuming presence is prompting her to take actions in regards to the looming shadow of her past, but that’s just it, she doesn’t know what to do. 

Andrew Dodson can’t help but to like Renee. She’s everything he never knew he wanted in a woman. He’s pulled away from his family and has found refuge in her friendship, but will his futile attempts to keep his interest for her at bay, while avoiding his family, blow up in his face? 

What's done in the dark always comes to the light, but the light of day may not shine the way Renee and Andrew want it to in Untold.
Untold Excerpt...
“Oh enough about me. What about that sister of mine?” Kim said.

They all looked down the shore at Renee sitting by herself.

The sounds of the waves and music blaring in the distance from a nearby midday pool party at the resort accompanied them as they stood and headed toward Renee who was constantly wiping at her face as if she were trying to free it of tears.

About A. D.
A.D. is a former elementary teacher born and raised in Chicago. Although she wrote short stories much of her childhood, she did not unlock and cultivate her passion as a writer until she became a writing teacher for middle school students. The more she had to create sample writings for her students, the more she realized her passion and ability to tell stories in the written form. She decided to hone her craft as a writer by completing her Masters of Creative Writing via National University. She now pursues writing books most of her time, in addition to being a flight attendant and substitute teacher.

www.theauthorad.com
theauthorad@gmail.com
twitter and instagram @theauthorad
https://www.facebook.com/theauthorad/

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Living Life Beautifully Inspired!

March Madness, Paulette...

We all make choices in life that we will change our flow and vibe. Sometimes, others make choices that impact our lives. It's our decision whether we choose to forgive or forget. Paulette Jones shows us a love that has been tested by "choices."

It's March Madness and we're celebrating all month long. Leave a reply at the end of the post to be entered into her giveaway.
Taylor and Brandon give you the foundation that the entire series is built on. Young love, Pure love, Unstoppable love mixed with incredible Passion, just enough Drama, Family, and Friends. All those things come together to ask, Where Does Your Heart Belong?

When I finally woke I didn’t want to open my eyes. I wanted to stay in his arms forever but I knew we were going to have to talk about what had happened. I didn’t know if that was the plan he had when he invited me over but I knew it was not in my plans. Then as if he was reading my mind I felt his lips on the top of my head and his arms tighten yet again around my waist.

“You know this is not what I asked you over here for right?” I stretched my arms above my head and pulled the blanket up to my chest so I could sit up relieved he said the words to answer my thoughts.

“Yea, I guess we just well I’m not really sure what to say.”

“Taye, I never meant to hurt you. And since we never truly talked about the situation and after that day we argued you completely shut me out I just figured you didn’t want anything to do with me anymore.”

“But how could you have that impression Brandon you never called, you never tried.”

“I know I didn’t I just I keep listening to all the wrong people who got in my head and it got crazy so part of me felt like you were just better off without me.”

“How?”

“I don’t know you seemed that way when I came home for Christmas break you didn’t even seem like you were affected in any way.” After that statement, I was fully paying attention to him and looking directly into his eyes.

“How, I didn’t even leave my house during my Christmas break. Me and Casey even went shopping for our gifts at night so I wouldn’t have to run into people.”

“I know I saw you two in the store. I think maybe you were getting something for your dad and brother because you were in the men’s section of Clearfield’s. You were holding up shirts and stuff laughing and you just looked happy. I wanted to come over to you but I thought since you were happy I shouldn’t so I just went the other way and got out of there as quick as possible.” There was sadness on his face that I had never experienced before.

“I don’t even really remember being in there, I’m sure I was I just know Casey was doing so much to keep my mind off everything and I was so grateful to her I think she was the one that suggested we go in there since they had those crazy Hawaiian shirts my dad always has on in the summer. Brandon, I have to ask you something I have wanted to know for so long and part of me even now is still scared to know the answer…but I had to take a deep breath to get myself together. What made you sleep with her, I guess the better question is why didn’t you use protection or think about me and stop yourself. How could you not think of me was there something better about her than me?” The words spilled out of me like a waterfall and I couldn’t seem to stop them. But if I was being honest with myself I felt a full sense of relief wash over me after they were out. I could see he was processing his thoughts and what he would say in response to my question. But I couldn’t help but think back to last October. 

About Paulette...
The me I am is the me I was born to be. It's my thing it's also how I live if I wasn't born to be this person then I wouldn't be here. It's that simple and it makes life so much more fun to live. It even drives my writing and the things I actually develop and released.

My specs are simple really, graduated high school, got my degree, found a job and started figuring out life. The realization that thirty-five was knocking on my door led me to sit down with my laptop and get out all the thoughts running through my head. For years like many others, I'm sure I found every reason not to write and now I can't seem to find a reason to stop. I'm a positive mind even when life isn't headed down a positive road anyone that knows me would agree with that. I genuinely love escaping into the world of words. May they be the ones of a new or favorite author or my very own I love the entire process.

Contact Info

Social Networks:

Facebook: @wordsbyladyp /Author Paulette Jones
Twitter: pjjones618
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www.wordsbyladyp.weebly.com
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Undeniably Chelle...
Living Life Beautifully Inspired!