S.A. Larsen's Blog, page 39
May 14, 2015
Childhood Apraxia of Speech
There are a multiple of valiant causes in today's world. I'm sure we've all been touched by at least one cause in some way. A family member or friend's struggle with a disease. Or maybe an acquaintance through social media drowning in medical debt. They are all worthy.
Today, as I've done before, I'm sharing with you one cause that is near and dear to my mommy heart.
Childhood Apraxia of Speech is a motor speech disorder, where the brain has difficulty sending messages to the parts of the body that are responsible for verbal communication. The child is fully aware of what he or she wants to say, but physically can't. As you can imagine, this poses loads of frustration for the child.
I could go on and give you specifics about signs, false signs, and processes to proper diagnosis and treatments, but I won't. Instead, I'll share with you a piece I wrote for Apraxia - KIDS/CASANA a few years back. For those who've read this piece before, feel free to skim to the end. It's be great if you'd tweet a message to help raise awareness! To the new and/or young parents out there, I hope you find comfort in my family's experience. Finding someone who understands your plight can make all the difference in your world.
As the mother of three young children, I figured I’d seen it all from ADHD, tonsillitis, surgeries, colds, and runny noses. I was wrong.
CJ was born on a crisp November day in 2003, two weeks earlier than expected, and with a true knot in his umbilical cord. He should not have survived.
Feeling tremendously blessed, we took CJ home and, for the next six months, went about the busy life of raising four children. The latter half of his first year was spent with picture books in his hands and puzzle pieces scattered on the floor. He was fanatical about pictures. So much so, that by twelve-months old he had mastered 60-piece puzzles with no aid at all, pointing out objects in the pictures. He figured out how to communicate his wants and needs. I used to joke, calling it our private language. He excelled in every area of growth, except for the normal sounds babies make.
His first birthday came and went, but did not take with it his inability to make sounds other than the grunts and groans we’d grown accustom to. With no improvement in articulating formidable sounds over the next months, I spoke to our pediatrician about my concerns. She set up an appointment for CJ, who was 22 months old at the time, to be evaluated by a speech therapist. Her trust in me as a parent would never be forgotten.
CJ was officially diagnosed with Apraxia of Speech.
As a family, we dedicated ourselves to learning sign language and used amazing DVDs to do so. Once CJ was given his “Picture” book, he could hand us little images of his wants and needs. It was then that I finally understood what he had been telling me all along.Hearing CJ’s diagnosis being described as a neurological disorder could have crippled me. Instead, I collected research and questioned his two therapists on ways I could help him at home in addition to his therapy regiment. I searched magazines, the internet, and any other source to find pictures of everything under the sun.
Shrinking the images and laminating them into a deck of cards made it easy to take to any ice rink or field my older kids were playing at. We would use car rides as therapy by flipping pictures to CJ and encouraging him to form the sounds. My older children helped, too. Slowly we saw improvement.CJ had lots to say. He only needed help finding his voice.
My greatest joy was the first time I heard him say, “Mama.”
The next three years were spent in therapy, where CJ and his therapists developed a fond relationship, one that would unexpectedly follow him into elementary school. There, he entered special services for speech therapy. His original therapist took a job at the school and could keep an eye on CJ, one of her star little guys. We were so blessed.
But soon, it was evident that CJ had met and even surpassed the official state benchmarks to receive services any longer. It was then that an image of a chubby 22-month-old sitting at a lone table in his therapy room and swooning over the mini M&Ms, which had become his expected reward during speech, wafted across my mind. I knew how hard he had worked. I had educated myself enough about Apraxia to know that it could continue to affect him as his vocabulary and the demands on his system increased, especially around third and sixth grades. I could not let his hard work go to waste.
Through my advocacy, CJ was allowed to remain in speech therapy for the remainder of kindergarten, first grade, and the beginning of second grade. He is still in the second grade and was recently discharged from the program; however, I asked for a written agreement, stating that CJ will be allowed back into the program, with ease, if his speech skills backslide when entering third grade. Given that his original therapist is at the school, I am confident she, as his advocate, will insure CJ’s continued care.
The most important message I have through CJ’s story is parental advocacy. There is nothing wrong with standing up for your child’s well-being, as long as it is delivered in a positive manner. Parents can be their child’s voice, until he or she finds their own.
Every child deserves a voice.
For more information, feel free to visit ASHA or CASANA. Please copy and paste a tweet for us! Raising awareness can help in ways you'll never know, but that doesn't lessen the value. Thanks in advance.
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Awareness Day!!! Help give kids a voice! @Apraxia_KIDS #apraxiaawareness http://bit.ly/1REy6V3
What is Childhood Apraxia of Speech? http://bit.ly/1HdFvoy @Apraxia_KIDS #apraxiaawareness
Every child deserves a voice. Childhood Apraxia of Speech Awareness Day!!! @Apraxia_KIDS #apraxiaawareness http://bit.ly/1G6lwtf
Today, as I've done before, I'm sharing with you one cause that is near and dear to my mommy heart. Childhood Apraxia of Speech is a motor speech disorder, where the brain has difficulty sending messages to the parts of the body that are responsible for verbal communication. The child is fully aware of what he or she wants to say, but physically can't. As you can imagine, this poses loads of frustration for the child.
I could go on and give you specifics about signs, false signs, and processes to proper diagnosis and treatments, but I won't. Instead, I'll share with you a piece I wrote for Apraxia - KIDS/CASANA a few years back. For those who've read this piece before, feel free to skim to the end. It's be great if you'd tweet a message to help raise awareness! To the new and/or young parents out there, I hope you find comfort in my family's experience. Finding someone who understands your plight can make all the difference in your world.
As the mother of three young children, I figured I’d seen it all from ADHD, tonsillitis, surgeries, colds, and runny noses. I was wrong.
CJ was born on a crisp November day in 2003, two weeks earlier than expected, and with a true knot in his umbilical cord. He should not have survived.
Feeling tremendously blessed, we took CJ home and, for the next six months, went about the busy life of raising four children. The latter half of his first year was spent with picture books in his hands and puzzle pieces scattered on the floor. He was fanatical about pictures. So much so, that by twelve-months old he had mastered 60-piece puzzles with no aid at all, pointing out objects in the pictures. He figured out how to communicate his wants and needs. I used to joke, calling it our private language. He excelled in every area of growth, except for the normal sounds babies make.
His first birthday came and went, but did not take with it his inability to make sounds other than the grunts and groans we’d grown accustom to. With no improvement in articulating formidable sounds over the next months, I spoke to our pediatrician about my concerns. She set up an appointment for CJ, who was 22 months old at the time, to be evaluated by a speech therapist. Her trust in me as a parent would never be forgotten.
CJ was officially diagnosed with Apraxia of Speech.
As a family, we dedicated ourselves to learning sign language and used amazing DVDs to do so. Once CJ was given his “Picture” book, he could hand us little images of his wants and needs. It was then that I finally understood what he had been telling me all along.Hearing CJ’s diagnosis being described as a neurological disorder could have crippled me. Instead, I collected research and questioned his two therapists on ways I could help him at home in addition to his therapy regiment. I searched magazines, the internet, and any other source to find pictures of everything under the sun.
Shrinking the images and laminating them into a deck of cards made it easy to take to any ice rink or field my older kids were playing at. We would use car rides as therapy by flipping pictures to CJ and encouraging him to form the sounds. My older children helped, too. Slowly we saw improvement.CJ had lots to say. He only needed help finding his voice.
My greatest joy was the first time I heard him say, “Mama.”
The next three years were spent in therapy, where CJ and his therapists developed a fond relationship, one that would unexpectedly follow him into elementary school. There, he entered special services for speech therapy. His original therapist took a job at the school and could keep an eye on CJ, one of her star little guys. We were so blessed.
But soon, it was evident that CJ had met and even surpassed the official state benchmarks to receive services any longer. It was then that an image of a chubby 22-month-old sitting at a lone table in his therapy room and swooning over the mini M&Ms, which had become his expected reward during speech, wafted across my mind. I knew how hard he had worked. I had educated myself enough about Apraxia to know that it could continue to affect him as his vocabulary and the demands on his system increased, especially around third and sixth grades. I could not let his hard work go to waste.
Through my advocacy, CJ was allowed to remain in speech therapy for the remainder of kindergarten, first grade, and the beginning of second grade. He is still in the second grade and was recently discharged from the program; however, I asked for a written agreement, stating that CJ will be allowed back into the program, with ease, if his speech skills backslide when entering third grade. Given that his original therapist is at the school, I am confident she, as his advocate, will insure CJ’s continued care.
The most important message I have through CJ’s story is parental advocacy. There is nothing wrong with standing up for your child’s well-being, as long as it is delivered in a positive manner. Parents can be their child’s voice, until he or she finds their own.
Every child deserves a voice.
For more information, feel free to visit ASHA or CASANA. Please copy and paste a tweet for us! Raising awareness can help in ways you'll never know, but that doesn't lessen the value. Thanks in advance.
Childhood Apraxia of Speech Awareness Day!!! Help give kids a voice! @Apraxia_KIDS #apraxiaawareness http://bit.ly/1REy6V3
What is Childhood Apraxia of Speech? http://bit.ly/1HdFvoy @Apraxia_KIDS #apraxiaawareness
Every child deserves a voice. Childhood Apraxia of Speech Awareness Day!!! @Apraxia_KIDS #apraxiaawareness http://bit.ly/1G6lwtf
May 8, 2015
Reveal YA Team~VESSEL, by Lisa Cresswell
Welcome to this week’s M9B Friday Reveal! It's been a few months since I've participated in a regular Friday reveal, but I'm really excited about this one. Meet this week's featured writer presented by Month9Books! Lisa T. Cresswell, author of Vessel
Be sure to enter the giveaway found at the end of the post!
Meet Lisa T. Cresswell!
Lisa, like most writers, began scribbling silly notes, stories, and poems at a very young age. Born in North Carolina, the South proved fertile ground to her imagination with its beautiful white sand beaches and red earth. In fifth grade, she wrote, directed and starred in a play “The Queen of the Nile” at school, despite the fact that she is decidedly un-Egyptian looking. Perhaps that’s why she went on to become a real life archaeologist?
Unexpectedly transplanted to Idaho as a teenager, Lisa learned to love the desert and the wide open skies out West. This is where her interest in cultures, both ancient and living, really took root, and she became a Great Basin archaeologist. However, the itch to write never did leave for long. Her first books became the middle grade fantasy trilogy, The Storyteller Series. Her first traditionally published work, Hush Puppy, is now available from Featherweight Press.
Lisa still lives in Idaho with her family and a menagerie of furry critters that includes way too many llamas!
Connect with the Author: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads
Lightening Round Questions
Twitter or Facebook? Twitter by far!
Favorite Superhero? HulkOoh, you link green! #winks
Favorite TV show? Um, I don't watch tv anymore.
Sweet or Salty? Sweet
Coke or Pepsi? Pepsi before I gave it up; now its coffee :)Oh yeah... coffee!
Any Phobias? Heights/fear of falling
Song you can’t get enough of right now? They play it way too much, but
I still like Uptown Funk.
Who is your ultimate Book Boyfriend? That's tough. I'm sure Peta's up
there. I'll get back to you on that one ;)There really are toooooo many good ones to choose from.
What are you reading right now or what's on your TBR? I want to read
the latest Neil Gaiman book. Always!#raiseshand #nodsemphatically
Fall Movie you’re most looking forward to? It's really next winter,
but it's STAR WARS!!
Title: VesselPublication date: May 2015
Publisher: Month9Books, LLC.
Author: Lisa T. Cresswell
Description: The sun exploded on On April 18, 2112 in a Class X solar storm the likes of which humankind had never seen.They had exactly nineteen minutes to decide what to do next.
They had nineteen minutes until a geomagnetic wave washed over the Earth, frying every electrical device created by humans, blacking out entire continents, and every satellite in their sky.
Nineteen minutes to say goodbye to the world they knew, forever, and to prepare for a new Earth, a new Sun.
Generations after solar storms destroyed nearly all human technology on Earth, humans reverted to a middle ages-like existence, books are burned as heresy, and all knowledge of the remaining technology is kept hidden by a privileged few called the Reticents.
Alana, a disfigured slave girl, and Recks, a traveling minstrel and sometimes-thief, join forces to bring knowledge and books back to the human race. But when Alana is chosen against her will to be the Vessel, the living repository for all human knowledge, she must find the strength to be what the world needs even if it’s the last thing she wants.
Lisa, like most writers, began scribbling silly notes, stories, and poems at a very young age. Born in North Carolina, the South proved fertile ground to her imagination with its beautiful white sand beaches and red earth. In fifth grade, she wrote, directed and starred in a play “The Queen of the Nile” at school, despite the fact that she is decidedly un-Egyptian looking. Perhaps that’s why she went on to become a real life archaeologist?
Unexpectedly transplanted to Idaho as a teenager, Lisa learned to love the desert and the wide open skies out West. This is where her interest in cultures, both ancient and living, really took root, and she became a Great Basin archaeologist. However, the itch to write never did leave for long. Her first books became the middle grade fantasy trilogy, The Storyteller Series. Her first traditionally published work, Hush Puppy, is now available from Featherweight Press.
Lisa still lives in Idaho with her family and a menagerie of furry critters that includes way too many llamas!
Complete the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win!The book will be sent upon the titles release.a Rafflecopter giveaway
May 6, 2015
IWSG~#GetYourOwnIdentity
The purpose of the IWSG is to share and encourage, posting on the first Wednesday of each month. You'll find writer doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Support and a common understanding spread throughout the group as many fellow writers can relate. Feel free to JOIN in anytime.
image creditAn online presence has become a way of life. I honestly don't know of anyone who isn't online in some way, either by paying bills, communication via email, or through the ever-expanding highway of social media. There are a bazillion advantages to being online. But there are dangers, too. Keeping our identities our own is one of them.
As writers, our identities are part of our marketing platform, part of what will attract readers. It shows who we are and what we care about. But when you peel those writing layers away, we are people living in the world like everyone else. We are individuals. The fear of having that violated, for whatever reasons, scares the daylights out of me. It's happened to me once, and my identity has been threatened a few other times. Thank the cyber powers that the safeguards set in place worked. I may not have a lot. I might not be much in this world, but what I have and am are mine.
Have any of you had your identities compromised? Do you fear being taken advantage of through your writing identity?
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image creditAn online presence has become a way of life. I honestly don't know of anyone who isn't online in some way, either by paying bills, communication via email, or through the ever-expanding highway of social media. There are a bazillion advantages to being online. But there are dangers, too. Keeping our identities our own is one of them.As writers, our identities are part of our marketing platform, part of what will attract readers. It shows who we are and what we care about. But when you peel those writing layers away, we are people living in the world like everyone else. We are individuals. The fear of having that violated, for whatever reasons, scares the daylights out of me. It's happened to me once, and my identity has been threatened a few other times. Thank the cyber powers that the safeguards set in place worked. I may not have a lot. I might not be much in this world, but what I have and am are mine.
Have any of you had your identities compromised? Do you fear being taken advantage of through your writing identity?
April 15, 2015
The Road To Wisdom
Writerly Wisdom Wednesdays, posted on the third Wednesday of the month, is a regular meme for writers to share lessons they've learned along their path to publication and beyond. I haven't used it in forever. But I noticed that last year was tough on a lot of us, so I decided to bring it back to the forefront. Feel free to join me! The only requirement is that the post be brief.
image creditThere are days when all seems bright and airy. Then again, some are filled with doom and gloom. And with the fast-pace of life today, the two can sometimes blur. The one certain we have is the current moment we're living in. Right now. Yeah, that one. Other than that nothing is assured.
A multitude of variables bombard us each day that influence, affect, and change our activities, goals, attitudes, and motivations. I don't know about you, but every time I think my day is going smoothly WHAM! the unexpected happens. Wisdom: The unexpected really should be expected.
Although this quote could be relative to many people in numerous different walks of life, it is a hard-fast truth for writers. I could spend a dozen posts on methods of deciding whether to remain steadfast with a manuscript or shelf it; that will be for another day. The most valuable lesson I've learned about writing is that loving the craft will not always feel good. It's sacrifice.
So tell me: what's the wisest writing advice you've been given?
image creditThere are days when all seems bright and airy. Then again, some are filled with doom and gloom. And with the fast-pace of life today, the two can sometimes blur. The one certain we have is the current moment we're living in. Right now. Yeah, that one. Other than that nothing is assured. A multitude of variables bombard us each day that influence, affect, and change our activities, goals, attitudes, and motivations. I don't know about you, but every time I think my day is going smoothly WHAM! the unexpected happens. Wisdom: The unexpected really should be expected.
Although this quote could be relative to many people in numerous different walks of life, it is a hard-fast truth for writers. I could spend a dozen posts on methods of deciding whether to remain steadfast with a manuscript or shelf it; that will be for another day. The most valuable lesson I've learned about writing is that loving the craft will not always feel good. It's sacrifice.
So tell me: what's the wisest writing advice you've been given?
April 8, 2015
#The100DayProject
Sometime ago, I came across this site called The Great Disconnect and the fabulous Elle Luna - she's a fabulous artist, designer, and writer! While there I read a post about college kids, the need to commit oneself, etc... And VOILA! #The100DayProject was born.
image creditI won't go into all the logistics of how the project came to be, because you can read about that HERE. And you should. It's quite an intriguing story. My purpose, today, is simply to share its brilliance and how I'm going to participate.
As you can see in my left sidebar I've chosen a logo to cheer myself on - logo totally provided by the project. If you go HERE, you can choose your own too! In a nutshell, the idea is as follows:
- Choose something you're passionate about. Think about what you enjoy, what helps you relax, what you've always wanted to try your hand at or master. It doesn't have to be work related, but it can be. The purpose is to set our goals free from stress and see ourselves grow. I love how Elle mentions in her post that The great surrender is the process; showing up day after day is the goal. How perfect is that?(Seeing how I'm sure I'm speaking to a lot of writers, we all know what that is.) My choice: current revisions on my YA novel & then on my MG novel.
- Commit to interacting with the passion you've chosen at least once every single day for 100 consecutive days, starting on April 6th through June 14th, 2015. (Yes, it's the 8th, but that's okay. You can catch up.)
- Share your daily progress with the world on Instagram (or anywhere, really) by using #The100DayProject and a hashtag you create - #100Daysof... My personal hashtag is #100DaysofPolishing. Follow or check in with The Great Disconnect and Elle Luna on Instagram.
- Lastly, choose one of the designed logos to keep your commitment in the forefront of your mind ... and eyes. Once again, you can go HERE to find them.
If you decide to do this - and why not? We all need a little push now and then - let me know. I'll be cheering you on! I'm on Instagram HERE! I'll follow back, promise.
image creditI won't go into all the logistics of how the project came to be, because you can read about that HERE. And you should. It's quite an intriguing story. My purpose, today, is simply to share its brilliance and how I'm going to participate. As you can see in my left sidebar I've chosen a logo to cheer myself on - logo totally provided by the project. If you go HERE, you can choose your own too! In a nutshell, the idea is as follows:
- Choose something you're passionate about. Think about what you enjoy, what helps you relax, what you've always wanted to try your hand at or master. It doesn't have to be work related, but it can be. The purpose is to set our goals free from stress and see ourselves grow. I love how Elle mentions in her post that The great surrender is the process; showing up day after day is the goal. How perfect is that?(Seeing how I'm sure I'm speaking to a lot of writers, we all know what that is.) My choice: current revisions on my YA novel & then on my MG novel.
- Commit to interacting with the passion you've chosen at least once every single day for 100 consecutive days, starting on April 6th through June 14th, 2015. (Yes, it's the 8th, but that's okay. You can catch up.)
- Share your daily progress with the world on Instagram (or anywhere, really) by using #The100DayProject and a hashtag you create - #100Daysof... My personal hashtag is #100DaysofPolishing. Follow or check in with The Great Disconnect and Elle Luna on Instagram.
- Lastly, choose one of the designed logos to keep your commitment in the forefront of your mind ... and eyes. Once again, you can go HERE to find them.
If you decide to do this - and why not? We all need a little push now and then - let me know. I'll be cheering you on! I'm on Instagram HERE! I'll follow back, promise.
April 1, 2015
IWSG~FB Sharing
The purpose of the IWSG is to share and encourage, posting on the first Wednesday of each month. You'll find writer doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Support and a common understanding spread throughout the group as many fellow writers can relate. Feel free to JOIN in anytime.
image creditSo it seems like feeling insufficient comes naturally to most of us, at least at times. The other day, while surfing through status updates, posts, and shared articles on Facebook, I noticed something. Some of my amazing FB pals share. A lot. And I'm not just talking about I'm at Five Guys or Watching a Movie status updates. I mean wholesome posts and shared articles.
My eyes brushed upon subjects of public education woes to five things you never knew about your teacher to marriage advice. Really good information. Of course I love to see meaningful sharing on social media instead of some of the hate-mongering we've all been subject to read or those horrific animal cruelty videos that now auto-play - which I think is so unfair, BTW.
Whether writers or other work endeavors, I know the majority of those who share great material have children, families, and other responsibilities besides their day jobs. So how in the heck to they find, read, and share so much social media? I can hardly find the time to do what is necessary in my daily life to be able to find all that quality. Sometimes I feel like I owe those FB/Twitter/Tumbler/Pinterest friends a share in return.
Can you relate or am I nuts?
image creditSo it seems like feeling insufficient comes naturally to most of us, at least at times. The other day, while surfing through status updates, posts, and shared articles on Facebook, I noticed something. Some of my amazing FB pals share. A lot. And I'm not just talking about I'm at Five Guys or Watching a Movie status updates. I mean wholesome posts and shared articles. My eyes brushed upon subjects of public education woes to five things you never knew about your teacher to marriage advice. Really good information. Of course I love to see meaningful sharing on social media instead of some of the hate-mongering we've all been subject to read or those horrific animal cruelty videos that now auto-play - which I think is so unfair, BTW.
Whether writers or other work endeavors, I know the majority of those who share great material have children, families, and other responsibilities besides their day jobs. So how in the heck to they find, read, and share so much social media? I can hardly find the time to do what is necessary in my daily life to be able to find all that quality. Sometimes I feel like I owe those FB/Twitter/Tumbler/Pinterest friends a share in return.Can you relate or am I nuts?
March 18, 2015
Wistful YA~RIVAL LOVE Series by Natalie Decker
I love how Writer's Alley has become a stage for fellow writers to share their good news. FYI: if you have good news, book cheer, or advice to share I'd love to host you here. Email me or click on one of my links in the Graffiti Promotions section below.
Welcome to this week’s Swoon Romance YA Wednesdays featuring Rival Love and Rival Hearts by Natalie Decker ~ my long-time critique partner!
Be sure to enter the giveaway found at the end of the post!
Skylar Fletcher is a proud Harris Academy Bulldog! She has everything she’s ever wanted: a perfect boyfriend, great friends, and her dream college waiting for her in the fall. But nothing lasts forever. Skylar's world shatters when her mom decides it is time to move and drags Skylar, kicking and screaming, into Bobcat territory.
At Delmont High School, home of the Bobcats, Skylar has no friends and is often bullied. To make matters worse, her home life sucks thanks to all-star quarterback Caleb Morgan, nephew of her mom's live-in boyfriend.
At first Skylar and Caleb want nothing to do with one another. But they soon discover they're not that different after all--and each is harboring a secret attraction to the other. But can a Bulldog and a Bobcat ever really be more than friends? And are Skylar and Caleb willing to risk everything to find out? Rival Love is a debut young adult contemporary romance from Natalie Decker.
Rival Love (Rival Love #1) by Natalie DeckerPublication Date: August 26, 2014
Publisher: Swoon RomanceAvailable for Purchase:
Caleb is ticked off. Skylar hasn’t answered any of his calls, texts, or emails since her move to New York, virtually cutting him out of her life without warning. So Caleb decides to go after her—and convince her to come back home.
But even when Skylar realizes her heart does belong at home with Caleb, her uncertainty lingers. Is it safe? Have things changed?
After the mysterious vandalism to the pool at Delmont High, everyone is desperate for answers they believe Skylar can provide. At first, she’s determined not to run. But when Caleb’s ex-girlfriend unleashes a vengeful surprise, Sky's love for Caleb is threatened.
Are these two rival hearts ready to fight for their love, or will they have to throw in the towel?
RIVAL HEARTS is the sequel to the bestselling teen romance novel RIVAL LOVE by Natalie Decker.
Rival Hearts (Rival Love #2) by Natalie DeckerPublication Date: December 23, 2015Publisher: Swoon RomanceAvailable for Purchase:
Connect with the Author: Website | Twitter | Facebook | GoodreadsNatalie Decker is the Author of Rival Love series. She loves oceans, sunsets, sand between her toes, and carefree days. Her imagination is always going, which some find odd. But she believes in seeing the world in a different light at all times. Her first passion for writing started at age twelve when she had to write a poem for English class. However, seventh grade wasn’t her favorite time and books were her source of comfort. She took all college prep classes in High school, and attended the University of Akron. Although she studied Mathematics she never lost her passion for writing or her comfort in books. She’s a mean cook in the kitchen, loves her family and friends and her awesome dog infinity times infinity. If she’s not writing, reading, traveling, hanging out with her family and friends, then she’s off having an adventure. Because Natalie believes in a saying: Your life is your own journey, so make it amazing!
A SPLAT from me: I've read both books while in their infancy. Love them! So if you're up for a great contemporary story with loads of snark, tension, and a tumultuous relationship between two fantastic characters, then this is a read for you. :)
Complete the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win!a Rafflecopter giveaway
March 4, 2015
IWSG~Fleeting Time
The purpose of the IWSG is to share and encourage, posting on the first Wednesday of each month. You'll find writer doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Support and a common understanding spread throughout the group as many fellow writers can relate. Feel free to JOIN in anytime.
Amazing image, right? Check out the artist HERE.Time is fleeting.
I'm on a constant crash course with time. When I chase it, it flees from me. When I give up, it dangles itself in my face, smirking and whispering, "Whatchya' gonna do with me?" Bet you can picture what happens in those moments - I reach for it and it says, "Psyche!"
Matters not whether I write up an elaborate digital schedule that chimes each time I'm needed, or whether I post sticky notes all over my house, office, and car. I never can accomplish all I set out to do and the culprit is time.
Bad time. Bad time.
But is it? Could it be that I really don't understand how to live successfully? Take time to focus on the little things in life and let those replenish me. Prioritizing has always been a big deal to me. I'm a list maker. Yeah, one of those people. But the older I get the less my lists help me. Frankly, they stress me out.
Maybe the real lesson here is in recognizing new pathways to accomplish our goals whether how big or small they are and bask in the fact that we're still here to do so.
What are your thoughts on time? Are you better then I am in managing it?
Amazing image, right? Check out the artist HERE.Time is fleeting.I'm on a constant crash course with time. When I chase it, it flees from me. When I give up, it dangles itself in my face, smirking and whispering, "Whatchya' gonna do with me?" Bet you can picture what happens in those moments - I reach for it and it says, "Psyche!"
Matters not whether I write up an elaborate digital schedule that chimes each time I'm needed, or whether I post sticky notes all over my house, office, and car. I never can accomplish all I set out to do and the culprit is time.
Bad time. Bad time.
But is it? Could it be that I really don't understand how to live successfully? Take time to focus on the little things in life and let those replenish me. Prioritizing has always been a big deal to me. I'm a list maker. Yeah, one of those people. But the older I get the less my lists help me. Frankly, they stress me out. Maybe the real lesson here is in recognizing new pathways to accomplish our goals whether how big or small they are and bask in the fact that we're still here to do so.
What are your thoughts on time? Are you better then I am in managing it?
February 25, 2015
EBooks & Picture Books~Momma Don't You Worry
Picture books possess a light, energy, and hope for opening the doors of knowledge and life to young children. And their authors have a passion to share just that. Today's picture book author loves creating stories and writing, but not just books. He's also a lyricist, who's work appears in many areas of music from rock to country. So make sure you check out his bio at the end.
AMAZON | SMASHWORDS
MOMMA DON'T YOU WORRYby Louie Lawent
Publisher: Ladybee PublishingRelease Date: January 2015Format: eBookWords: 360Description: This illustrated books tells a poetic story from a six year old's viewpoint. His mother worries too much in his opinion, until they go on a shopping trip and he gets a real appreciation for just how right his mom is. Excerpt: She watches me with eagle eyes Like I’m a treasured jewel She cramps my style, oh man alive “MOM, THIS JUST AIN’T COOL” I'd like to thank the author for supplying me with an eCopy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
BRING ALONG +2My Splats: This story is a sweet exchange between a boy and his mother. He's assuring her that he'll be okay and that he can handle what comes his way. The main character sounds confident and proud that he can tell his momma not to worry. It's quite cute. But when his world takes a turn and his momma's nowhere to be found, he must use a lesson his momma taught him to make things right. The tale is told in rhyme and is accompanied by nicely done illustrations that appropriately advance the tale.
Now, let's meet the author.
Hi Louie! It's great to have you here. Let's begin with an intro to Louie the Younger.
Were you a reader or creator as a young child?
Yes, I read many picture books in my early elementary school years. I recall that in 3rd grade I read this book about this boy who designed Alaska's state flag. I think his name was Benny. I was so taken by that story that I hand-printed the entire book.
Do you think (the answer above) contributed to your desire to create stories as an adult and how?
In 3rd grade a friend and I would write humorous stories about classmates. We wouldn't show them to anyone. In 4th grade we started writing stories about "Gerty the Pig." Our classmates loved them. As an adult, in the 1990s I wrote a more elaborate story and "Gerty the Pig" was published. It's in many schools across the country in the National Accelerated Readers Program. Unfortunately the book didn't have much of a retail presence. I have written 4 more. I would love for a series to develop but that's a long shot. I don't know if reading led to me writing. I would have to guess that it did. I think imagination and the need to be funny played a huge part.
What made you start writing picture books as opposed to older kidlit or adult lit?
I think I'm best at short form. I also write lyrics which is another short form of writing. It's possible I have one long form work in me and I do have the concept but not right now.
We all know about the eBook explosion that started a few years back. Now, MOMMA DON'T YOU WORRY has been released in ebook form. I'm really intrigued about how this differs from traditional picture book releases in paper form. Would you mind explaining the process such as submitting, editing with an ebook editor & illustrator, releasing, marketing, etc...?
Well, I submit my works via email. Many publishers accept them this way. "Momma Don't You Worry" didn't require editing, although I made some last minute changes before release that I think made it even better. Rick Radliff is the illustrator. I live in Wisconsin. He's a childhood friend who lives in Seattle. He illustrated Gerty too. So, I was happy that he did this one too! As far as marketing, this is the tough part.A very tough part. Many reviewers won't review ebooks. However, I am finding reviewers. I want to continue to find more. To me, unless you're an established author or a celebrity, you have a very slim chance of having a successful book unless it gets reviewed. The odds are not with an author that a reader will rummage through stacks of books in a book store and discover your book. Or for that matter, scroll through books online and see it. Of course, I have let my Facebook friends know about it, but of course that's limited. I just hope that people will spread the word. The responses I have received reviewers have been extremely positive. They like the message of the book and the cute rhymes.
Lastly, what are your future writing plans?
Well, I will continue to write lyrics. Some co-written children's songs will be released down the road. I also write rock, hip hop and folk lyrics. The latest was a folk rock song entitled "One More Father's Son" which is about a homeless veteran. I wrote it with DL Byron who sings it. It's on his album "Satori." DL won a Grammy for Pat Benatar's hit "Shadows of the Night." I really enjoy writing. I constantly get stuck but unstick myself quickly.
Thanks you for joining us, Louie! Best of luck with future picture book writing as well as all that song writing. Very cool...
Louie Lawent is the author of the picture book "Gerty The Pig" which is in schools across the United States. The book is part of the National Accelerated Readers Program. He is also a lyricist with his works featured on rock, country and children's releases. His co-written song "One More Father's Son" is on Grammy award-winning D.L. Byron's latest CD "Satori." He co-wrote "Slippery Forces" with Boz Boorer which appears on Boz's CD "Some of the Parts." Louie co-wrote 10 children' songs with Steve Goodie which are featured on Steve's "Refrigerator Art" CD. Also, he co-wrote "Worms In The Can, Wieners On The Bun" on Canadian children's recording artist Erick Traplin's CD "A Little More." Louie is an avid Green Bay Packers fan and enjoys table tennis. You can find Louie on FACEBOOK.
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AMAZON | SMASHWORDS
MOMMA DON'T YOU WORRYby Louie Lawent
Publisher: Ladybee PublishingRelease Date: January 2015Format: eBookWords: 360Description: This illustrated books tells a poetic story from a six year old's viewpoint. His mother worries too much in his opinion, until they go on a shopping trip and he gets a real appreciation for just how right his mom is. Excerpt: She watches me with eagle eyes Like I’m a treasured jewel She cramps my style, oh man alive “MOM, THIS JUST AIN’T COOL” I'd like to thank the author for supplying me with an eCopy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
BRING ALONG +2My Splats: This story is a sweet exchange between a boy and his mother. He's assuring her that he'll be okay and that he can handle what comes his way. The main character sounds confident and proud that he can tell his momma not to worry. It's quite cute. But when his world takes a turn and his momma's nowhere to be found, he must use a lesson his momma taught him to make things right. The tale is told in rhyme and is accompanied by nicely done illustrations that appropriately advance the tale.
Now, let's meet the author.
Hi Louie! It's great to have you here. Let's begin with an intro to Louie the Younger.
Were you a reader or creator as a young child?
Yes, I read many picture books in my early elementary school years. I recall that in 3rd grade I read this book about this boy who designed Alaska's state flag. I think his name was Benny. I was so taken by that story that I hand-printed the entire book.
Do you think (the answer above) contributed to your desire to create stories as an adult and how?
In 3rd grade a friend and I would write humorous stories about classmates. We wouldn't show them to anyone. In 4th grade we started writing stories about "Gerty the Pig." Our classmates loved them. As an adult, in the 1990s I wrote a more elaborate story and "Gerty the Pig" was published. It's in many schools across the country in the National Accelerated Readers Program. Unfortunately the book didn't have much of a retail presence. I have written 4 more. I would love for a series to develop but that's a long shot. I don't know if reading led to me writing. I would have to guess that it did. I think imagination and the need to be funny played a huge part.
What made you start writing picture books as opposed to older kidlit or adult lit?
I think I'm best at short form. I also write lyrics which is another short form of writing. It's possible I have one long form work in me and I do have the concept but not right now.
We all know about the eBook explosion that started a few years back. Now, MOMMA DON'T YOU WORRY has been released in ebook form. I'm really intrigued about how this differs from traditional picture book releases in paper form. Would you mind explaining the process such as submitting, editing with an ebook editor & illustrator, releasing, marketing, etc...?
Well, I submit my works via email. Many publishers accept them this way. "Momma Don't You Worry" didn't require editing, although I made some last minute changes before release that I think made it even better. Rick Radliff is the illustrator. I live in Wisconsin. He's a childhood friend who lives in Seattle. He illustrated Gerty too. So, I was happy that he did this one too! As far as marketing, this is the tough part.A very tough part. Many reviewers won't review ebooks. However, I am finding reviewers. I want to continue to find more. To me, unless you're an established author or a celebrity, you have a very slim chance of having a successful book unless it gets reviewed. The odds are not with an author that a reader will rummage through stacks of books in a book store and discover your book. Or for that matter, scroll through books online and see it. Of course, I have let my Facebook friends know about it, but of course that's limited. I just hope that people will spread the word. The responses I have received reviewers have been extremely positive. They like the message of the book and the cute rhymes.
Lastly, what are your future writing plans?
Well, I will continue to write lyrics. Some co-written children's songs will be released down the road. I also write rock, hip hop and folk lyrics. The latest was a folk rock song entitled "One More Father's Son" which is about a homeless veteran. I wrote it with DL Byron who sings it. It's on his album "Satori." DL won a Grammy for Pat Benatar's hit "Shadows of the Night." I really enjoy writing. I constantly get stuck but unstick myself quickly.Thanks you for joining us, Louie! Best of luck with future picture book writing as well as all that song writing. Very cool...
Louie Lawent is the author of the picture book "Gerty The Pig" which is in schools across the United States. The book is part of the National Accelerated Readers Program. He is also a lyricist with his works featured on rock, country and children's releases. His co-written song "One More Father's Son" is on Grammy award-winning D.L. Byron's latest CD "Satori." He co-wrote "Slippery Forces" with Boz Boorer which appears on Boz's CD "Some of the Parts." Louie co-wrote 10 children' songs with Steve Goodie which are featured on Steve's "Refrigerator Art" CD. Also, he co-wrote "Worms In The Can, Wieners On The Bun" on Canadian children's recording artist Erick Traplin's CD "A Little More." Louie is an avid Green Bay Packers fan and enjoys table tennis. You can find Louie on FACEBOOK.
February 23, 2015
Wistful YA~FINGERS IN THE MIST & Giveaway!
Wistful YA is my reoccurring spotlight, giving young adult literature center stage.
TOUR SCHEDULEIf you like creepy, then you're in the right place. But honestly, even if you're not a huge fan of all that's chilling and shrilling I think you'd enjoy my next YA spotlight.
AMAZON | GOODREADS | B&N | KOBO | TBDFINGERS IN THE MISTby O'dell Hutchison
Publisher: Month9Books, LLC.Release Date: February 24, 2015Pages: 280
I'd like to thank the publisher for supplying me with an eCopy in exchange for an unbiased review.
Favorite Line/Passage: I turn to see Mason lying on the ground, his entire body wracked with convulsions. His back arches until the top of his head sits on the road. His hands hover above the ground, shaking as if he'd been electrocuted. All at once, his body goes flaccid, collapsing into silence. His blue eyes stare at the sky, unblinking against the huge drops of rain that spatter them. Black gunk seeps from the corner of his mouth and blood streams from his nose. (page 3)
Description: Sixteen-year-old Caitlyn Foster never believed in the legend of the Redeemers. That was before the trees started to whisper her name. Before a murder of crows attacked the town. Before she and her family came home to find a bloody handprint on their front door, marking one of them as a sacrifice. As Caitlyn’s friends are ripped from their homes, she knows it’s only a matter of time before the Redeemers come for her. Caitlyn has the power to stop the terror, but she’ll have to decide if she’s willing to sacrifice herself to save those she loves.
NIGHTSTAND WORTHY!
My Splats: a super eerie tale of a town living complacently under the blanket of invisible fear.
Caitlyn has a distinct voice, real and tangible. Her past mistakes are upfront from the opening of the story. Her strong will is a nice touch and it bounces nicely off her judgmental stepmother. Her risk-taking quality adds tension and suspense throughout the tale. I'm sure young people will either relate to her verve or secretly wish they had a bit of it for themselves. As far as the opening of the story, what I liked the most is the mystery of Cait feeling as though she's being watched and why it makes her tense to sudden anger. It's obvious to her and the reader that the town is different.
At a few points, the townsfolk seem too accepting of the legend of these Redeemers and living under their threat. But I believe that was a tactic used by the author to rattle the reader. It actually brought me deeper into the story, thinking how I would get out of this if most around me believed it to be true. Like they had no choice.
The story began to feel similar to the film The Village, which made me nervous that it wouldn't be original. Then Caitlyn, three of her old friends, and a baby do something (no spoilers here), which turns the tale into its own. The dynamics of the four former now reacquainted friends, their hardships and pains, longings and regrets goes a long way to carry this tale toward the climax.
Creepy! Towards the climax, I kept getting the image of a Stephen King town--dank darkness, eerie stillness, a controlling force beneath the surface, and figures in the shadows. Very cool. And then a mystery about her mother and family tosses Caitlyn for a loop, adding even more strain and pulling in the guilt from her past mistakes mentioned at the beginning. There's conflict right up until the ending scenes, where she must choose right from wrong, only those lines are so blurred the reader is never quite sure what she'll do.
The only misgiving I can sight is that spells are often mentioned but never really explained or shown. I would have loved a little description or scene showing that.
I'd recommend this story to young adult and adult readers, who have a special love for the creepy, but also for those who like a good mystery.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
About the Author:
O’Dell was born in a small rural town in Idaho. There were no Redeemers living there (that he knows of). After attending college in the Pacific Northwest, he found his way to the Houston area. By day, he is a Business Systems Analyst and at night you can either find him sitting at home, dreaming of random super powers he wishes he had, or directing plays and musicals at various theaters around Houston.
Do you like creepy reads? What's the last one you read?
TOUR SCHEDULEIf you like creepy, then you're in the right place. But honestly, even if you're not a huge fan of all that's chilling and shrilling I think you'd enjoy my next YA spotlight.
AMAZON | GOODREADS | B&N | KOBO | TBDFINGERS IN THE MISTby O'dell Hutchison
Publisher: Month9Books, LLC.Release Date: February 24, 2015Pages: 280
I'd like to thank the publisher for supplying me with an eCopy in exchange for an unbiased review.
Favorite Line/Passage: I turn to see Mason lying on the ground, his entire body wracked with convulsions. His back arches until the top of his head sits on the road. His hands hover above the ground, shaking as if he'd been electrocuted. All at once, his body goes flaccid, collapsing into silence. His blue eyes stare at the sky, unblinking against the huge drops of rain that spatter them. Black gunk seeps from the corner of his mouth and blood streams from his nose. (page 3)
Description: Sixteen-year-old Caitlyn Foster never believed in the legend of the Redeemers. That was before the trees started to whisper her name. Before a murder of crows attacked the town. Before she and her family came home to find a bloody handprint on their front door, marking one of them as a sacrifice. As Caitlyn’s friends are ripped from their homes, she knows it’s only a matter of time before the Redeemers come for her. Caitlyn has the power to stop the terror, but she’ll have to decide if she’s willing to sacrifice herself to save those she loves.
NIGHTSTAND WORTHY!
My Splats: a super eerie tale of a town living complacently under the blanket of invisible fear.
Caitlyn has a distinct voice, real and tangible. Her past mistakes are upfront from the opening of the story. Her strong will is a nice touch and it bounces nicely off her judgmental stepmother. Her risk-taking quality adds tension and suspense throughout the tale. I'm sure young people will either relate to her verve or secretly wish they had a bit of it for themselves. As far as the opening of the story, what I liked the most is the mystery of Cait feeling as though she's being watched and why it makes her tense to sudden anger. It's obvious to her and the reader that the town is different.
At a few points, the townsfolk seem too accepting of the legend of these Redeemers and living under their threat. But I believe that was a tactic used by the author to rattle the reader. It actually brought me deeper into the story, thinking how I would get out of this if most around me believed it to be true. Like they had no choice.
The story began to feel similar to the film The Village, which made me nervous that it wouldn't be original. Then Caitlyn, three of her old friends, and a baby do something (no spoilers here), which turns the tale into its own. The dynamics of the four former now reacquainted friends, their hardships and pains, longings and regrets goes a long way to carry this tale toward the climax.
Creepy! Towards the climax, I kept getting the image of a Stephen King town--dank darkness, eerie stillness, a controlling force beneath the surface, and figures in the shadows. Very cool. And then a mystery about her mother and family tosses Caitlyn for a loop, adding even more strain and pulling in the guilt from her past mistakes mentioned at the beginning. There's conflict right up until the ending scenes, where she must choose right from wrong, only those lines are so blurred the reader is never quite sure what she'll do.
The only misgiving I can sight is that spells are often mentioned but never really explained or shown. I would have loved a little description or scene showing that.
I'd recommend this story to young adult and adult readers, who have a special love for the creepy, but also for those who like a good mystery.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
About the Author:
O’Dell was born in a small rural town in Idaho. There were no Redeemers living there (that he knows of). After attending college in the Pacific Northwest, he found his way to the Houston area. By day, he is a Business Systems Analyst and at night you can either find him sitting at home, dreaming of random super powers he wishes he had, or directing plays and musicals at various theaters around Houston.Do you like creepy reads? What's the last one you read?
