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Sunday, December 20, 2020

Read #Free on Smashwords! Book II Lovers, Players Seducer - The Revenge!

Revenge! Lovers, Players & The Seducer -Book II: Last time, in J. A. Jackson’s steamy, romantic thriller Lovers, Players and The Seducer, the storm came…and went.

Back then, Nicholas La Cour played a very dangerous game of cat and mouse; one in which he involved his childhood friends, Kienan Egan and Quinn Rolandis. Even worse, he put his own sister, Lacey La Cour, right in the middle of that storm.

Everyone got swept away in the torrent of greed, lust and ruthless ambition. All except two ratchet lovers…

Discover as one ratchet lover determined to put the past behind her, believes she’s found true love only to be catapulted into an intriguing world that threatens her life and may shatter her heart.

Another storm is coming, but will the two ratchet lovers survive it?

Book II: Lovers, Players, The Seducer - The REVENGE! http://amzn.to/2eks6Us

Read #FREE

Book II – Lovers Players Seducers – The Revenge!

https://www.draft2digital.com/book/453722

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/985752 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lovers-players-the-revenge-j-a-jackson/1132179969;jsessionid=5541A0B6EFC797C1F0780792F30C67CE.prodny_store01-atgap10?ean=2940156570270

Saturday, December 19, 2020

Sweet Pepper Cajun Cookbook - Christmas Menu - Cooking With Author J. A....

Sunday, November 22, 2020

Cooking Thanksgiving Dinner! Need a Menu? Check out…

Looking for tasty, delicious Magnolia Table Southern Soulful recipes for your Thanksgiving Dinner? Check out… The Sweet Pepper Cajun! Tasty Soulful Food Cookbook!: Southern Family Recipes!

Sunday, November 8, 2020

Healthy Relationships Are A Must!

The happiest relationship is not dominated by a single partner. Relationships are about sharing your life. If creating a loving and long-lasting relationship is one of your goals, you should always be honest and genuine.

The great writer Theodore Dreiser said. “I believe in the compelling power of love. I do not understand it. I believe it to be the most fragrant blossom of all this thorny existence.”

If you don’t want the “thorny existence of love,” one should always give serious thought to what they want in their relationship and to always make sure that they maintain their own self-esteem and confidence while in any relationship as well as the self-esteem and confidence of their partner.

List of things Not to Do in Your Relationships

Give or make hurtful comments

Play the assumption game

Bring up the past

Hold grudges

Snoop on their cell phone

Put other people, not in your relationship first

Giving solutions when the person is really looking for a listening ear

Being judgmental and thinking you are above others

Being defensive to criticism

Telling people what to do

Being aloof; Not being responsive

Thinking you know it all

Being a complainer or a nagger

Cheat Comparing them to others

Losing your sense of self

Taking shots at each other

These are just a few of the not to do things in any relationship. But perhaps the biggest one of them all is remembering to never play the part of being a critic.

Remember even though the critic may be right. The critic will never win. Why? Because the critic may think and believe what they are pointing out, the flaws, in their message of their victim, will find that their message cannot and will not win them any prize in love, because he or she who discerns the flaws of their partners reduces their chances of reaching the goal of being in a compatible relationship, as we journey on the road to finding happiness… etc.,…etc.,… Because the critic makes it hard to reach that point because they are always being too critical. You get the picture.

Still, was you are making your you are doing what is needed to make your relationship work, remember that No relationship can flourish on love alone.

In order for a relationship to survive and thrive, you need a partner who is willing to work at nurturing the relationship. In addition, your partner must be able to be trusted, and respected. As well as they must be attentive, kind, loyal, patience, a good communicator, have empathy, and understanding, and finally the ability to compromise.

Finally, don’t ever forget that self-love is never selfish, and perfection does not exist. We are all doing the best we can with what we know how. All our past loves lost, hurts felt, and betrayals received and or given, where learning tools to help us move forward and focus on the moment at hand.

For this life is a journey that we take one day and one step at a time, on the road to a healthy fulfilling relationship.

Change your thoughts and you can change your world!

Confidence comes from a Latin word fidere' which means "to trust." Confidence is the feeling or belief that one can depend on someone or something. Confidence is relied up on in most every situation we encounter in life. From our friendships, business ventures, love-life, to playing sports. Having confidence in yourself and others can determine the success we will have in everything we do.

People who are confident are magnets for success. Perhaps you have been around someone who had confidence in their personal worth. They had an aura around them that seemed to make good things happen for them.

The great writer Mark Twain said. “All you need in life is ignorance and confidence, and then success is sure.”

Anyone can have this feeling of confidence. Confidence can be self-taught. Once you have acquired it, you will find it to be the most beautiful possession that you own. Sabrina Carpenter said. “Confidence is the most beautiful thing you can possess.” Take the time to cloak yourself in confidence. Did you ever year of Norman Vincent Peale? He wrote a book called, “The Power of Positive Thinking.” He had a saying “Change your thoughts and you can change your world!”

Therefore, the first step to building your confidence is to:

1. Think Positive – taking the time to think positive each day should be the first tool you put into your “self-improvement” confidence toolbox.

2. Find something that you like to do and do well and then do it over and over and over…

3. Kill negative thoughts – negative thoughts are what you have about yourself. Don’t let them take over your mind. When a negative thought appears learn to see it for what it is. Then use your self-talk to change the narrative. For example, if your negative thought tells you, you can’t do something. Tell yourself, “There is nothing you cannot do. There is nothing you cannot have. There is nothing you cannot be!”

4. Focus on your potential instead of your limitations.

5. Determine to learn the truth about yourself. You cannot defeat the enemy within, without knowing who he is. Get to know yourself. Start a journal about yourself.

6. Act positive.

7. Speak slowly. Persons in authority speak slowly. It might take practice but do it anyway. Did you know that Margaret Thatcher, (Once the Prime Minister of England) taught herself techniques to make herself sound more authoritative? If Margaret can do it, so can you.

8. Stand Tall – remember like Mother said, “Your posture counts. Stand straight!” Stand up and be admired. Stand tall. 9. Increase your competence.

10. Get prepared. Remember that old saying. “Proper planning prevents poor piss-arse performance.” Add being prepared to your self-confidence toolbox.

11. Be Generous – Be Kind - know that being kind to others, and generous with yourself and your time and what you have, is a tremendous way to improve your self-image.

12. Place fear of failure with a clear picture of yourself succeeding and happy.

13. See Your Positive Self-Image. See yourself as you want to be. Did you know that many people photoshop themselves as holding a winning check made payable by them, by the lottery? Yes, they photoshopped themselves over some else’s picture, and then placed that photo where they can see it each day.

14. Set a small goal and then achieve it.

15. Determine to live above neurotic guilt.

16. Cultivate people who help you grow.

17. Refuse to allow rejection to keep you for taking the initiative with people.

18. Dare to be a little eccentric.

To build your self-confidence be determined to break old habits, to build new positive ones; that develop make your self-confidence stronger. Self-confidence can bring you more happiness. And when you feel better about yourself you have more energy and are more motivated to achieve your goals.

Friday, October 30, 2020

Unabridged Andra: Blog Tour: Lovers, Players, Seducer: The Revenge

Unabridged Andra: Blog Tour: Lovers, Players, Seducer: The Revenge: Title: The Revenge Author: J.A. Jackson Series: Lovers, Players, & Seducers #2  Pages: 179 Format: Kindle Genre: Romance Source:  Goddes...

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Fabulous and Brunette: Lovers, Players, Seducer – The Revenge: Book II by...

Fabulous and Brunette: Lovers, Players, Seducer – The Revenge: Book II by...: Hi, lovelies!  It gives me great pleasure today to host J. A. Jackson aka Jerreece A. Jackson and her new book, “ Lovers, Players, Seducer –...

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

Do You Have An Over Active Mind!

As a writer, some days, my lack of concentration is worst than a two-year old stuck on the word no. Other times, I know it’s just my monkey mind playing whimsical tricks with me that I must enjoy because I find myself restlessly repeating it over and over and over again, throughout the day. It’s like sitting at my desk and being fascinated by the way a pencil rolls to the edge and drops to the floor. Then like a crack addict stuck on it, I pick up the pencil and watch it roll again. Then when I finally get bored instead of starting my writing, I decide that now is the time to go outside and water my plants and see what is growing, but then I happen to look at the clock and it close to the time, the mail truck should be coming through to drop off the mail. So, then I walk to the front of the house to look out the window and down the street to see if I can see the mail truck coming. Or while I am watching and waiting for the mail truck, I start thinking about the bills I need to pay.

Get the picture?

What I have learned is that at that moment I am suffering from acute monkey mind. A mind so freewheelingly scattered it jumps from subject to subject. This feeling is so intensely fierce it controls my ability to focus or concentrate on my writing.

When my monkey mind is active, there is so much chaos happening inside my head that I can’t focus. Some folks may not like the term monkey mind or feel that is what they have. Another term for monkey mind is one that you probably already know, and that term is “the overactive mind.”

What I have learned to be the real reason behind an overactive mind/monkey mind is that it is being caused by stress. Yes, stress. A word we so often hear in today’s world but don’t think affects us, is the real reason for our overactive mind. However, there is hope. Because there are many great things to do to help with your lack of focus and believe it or not many of them start with the letter “M”.

Here are a few things you can do to calm an overactive mind.

1. Minimize multitasking. Start making a list of things you need to do and then prioritize that list. Be determine to first, “focus on and finish an item, before moving on to the next.”

2. Music – you can play music to calm your monkey mind. Perhaps you didn’t know that you can use music to harness energy to help with performance goals and to soothe the nervous system.

3. Massage – getting a massage at your local massage parlor, could be just what the doctor ordered. Healing touch has long been known as a great way to soothe the nervous system. Remember when anxiety resides in your body it can trigger your monkey mind.

4. Mirth- seek out something funny. Listening to something funny can also calm the monkey mind. Get in touch with comedy videos, you can find them on demand on your cable broadcast, or on YouTube or your XM radio stations.

5. Meditation — you may find getting started doing meditation to be challenging at first, slowing down your breathing and quieting the mind is one of the best ways to train the brain to be still and get calm.

6. Meaning – finding meaning in the daily challenges we face, can go a long way in developing the ability to calm the mind.

7. Movement – Do you like to dance? I know I do. Movement of the body can aid in releasing endorphins in the brain. Yes, it has been found by scientist that movement of the body through dance, exercise, and any physical activity can help relax the muscles and relieve tension.

There you have simple great steps to incorporate in your daily habits to have your calm your overactive monkey mind.

Remember you are a valuable member of society and you deserve to calm your monkey mind.

The Secret to Reaching Deep Relaxation during the Election & this Pandemic World!

Stress does more bad then good for “anybody’s body.

In today’s world we are stressed more than ever with our on-going fight with the Pandemic known as COVID-19 and with this year’s 2020 Election.

Stress causes your body to produce cortisol. Chronic high levels of this stress hormone can torpedo your immune system. And if stress hangs around long enough it can boost our risk for infection and slow the healing process in the body. So, what are we to do?

Well, first up we can lower our cortisol levels several ways. Using positive visualization along with deep relaxation and exercise.

First up. To lower cortisol levels start by exercising at least twenty minutes or more once a day or twice a day if you can handle more exercise time. Walking twenty minutes a day can go a long way to relax you and give you the exercise you need. Can’t go for a walk outside because of weather? Watch You-Tube 20-minute walking video on your cellphone or smart TV and follow alone. The walks are listed for levels ranging from beginners and to advance speed walking. Take you pick, but do so, after you consult with your family doctor.

Don’t like to walk? Well meditation might be your thing. Sit comfortably or lie down and close your eyes and mediate by focusing on relaxing your body from head to toe. You do this by focusing on any muscle in your body that is tense and commanding them to relax.

Even speeding twenty minutes visualizing positive thoughts can help you reduce your stress. Because during periods of deep relaxation our minds our highly suggestible and we can use this time to provide ourselves with highly desirable life outcomes. Did you know that research has shown that patients who visualize fast healing, healed faster after surgery? How do you do this?

Well it has been said that spending time each day seeing your body healed or seeing the desired result you like to have, will bring it into being. Taking as little as five minutes a day several times a day seeing what you want to happen, will make it happen.

This leads us to the Secret to reaching deep relaxation throughout your day. It has been said that if you focus on a positive time when you strongly felt love for a loved one and you received love in return… Well if you hold that “good positive memory” and treat it as a reality and you master this throughout your day you will be able to have deep healing relaxation all day. To make my point, I’ll leave you with this. Do you recall the “Harry Potter movie,” the one where Harry sees his mother and father in the mirror, and he goes to that mirror every day? Why because the mirror gives him a “deep state of happiness,” then if you did, you get the picture of why mastering your daily thought process can bring you a deep healing relaxation all day. Good luck to you on mastering your daily thoughts.

Monday, October 12, 2020

Two Ends of the Pen: #Excerpt: THE REVENGE by J.A. Jackson

Two Ends of the Pen: #Excerpt: THE REVENGE by J.A. Jackson: This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions . J. A. Jackson will be awarding a $15 Amazon or Barnes and ...

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

The Fig is an Aphrodisiac!

 


From the time of the great Cleopatra, and through out ancient Greece the fig has been considered the symbol of love. Yet this sweet fruit has a complicated relationship with being known as an aphrodisiac.

Figs look sexy. Just cut one in half and take a look. It is even believed that the inside of a fig resembles the female sex organ. The many seeds in a fig represent fertility and their leaves are associated with modesty. (Think Adam and Eve, we’ll come back to that one later.)

In ancient Greece the Dionysian orgies used the fig as their offerings to Priapus, the phallic god of love (physical-sexual-love).

Ancient Chinese wedding feast had figs on their menu.

Fig leaves were said to be the leaves worn by Adam and Eve, just think about it, figs have historically been associated with sex and sin.

There you have it a short brief history of the fig as an aphrodisiac. Next time you have a chance try a nice ripe fig cut in half and drizzled with a touch of honey, and taste and discover a sensational aphrodisiac sensation.  Get it?  Sin-sation.”

Apple is Natural Aphrodisiac

 

Just as honey was known in many cultures as an aphrodisiac. So too was the apple.  The apple was the fruit Eve used to temp Adam, in the Garden of Eden.

Yes, the Apple is perhaps the oldest known aphrodisiac and it has been likened unto the nectar of the Gods for this delicious fruit is rich in not only mythology and symbolism, but also in the fact that it is rich in vitamin c and other minerals.

Apples, like wine and chocolate, contain polyphenols and antioxidants that can stimulate blood flow to the genitalia, helping with arousal.

During the middle ages Europeans used the apple in “love magic” rituals. And it was said that if a woman slept with an apple under her arm or some other private part of her body, and then when she awaken, and she presented the apple to a man to eat, she would become the apple of his eye.

It has also  been said that foods that resemble male or female genitalia were believed to increase desire which brings us to the old ancient folk saying that said if you cut an apple from the top to the bottom  you will have revealed to you the temptation which Eve offered to Adam. I have never tried this experiment but the old  folk saying said that many an unsuspecting maidens, after doing this experiment,  must have blushed after they completed the experiment and realized after doing so that they were looking at the shape of their own vulva.  Picture that one for a moment.

Today modern researchers have done studies and found that eating one apple a day can improve the sex lives of women. The researches believe the reason for this may be due to the compound called “phloridzin” that is found in apples.  This compound is similar to the female sex hormone estradiol. Estradiol plays a large role in sexual arousal.

Well there you have it. Eve knew the benefits of eating an apple, old European folk lore knew the benefit of eating apples and now even modern scientific research has shown, eating apples can benefit your sex life. 

Next time you need a nature aphrodisiac? Grab an apple!

Tuesday, October 6, 2020

Spinach & Bacon Salad with Strawberry

 

Spinach & Bacon Salad with Strawberry

Ingredients

·                  1 cup olive oil

·                  1/3 cup cider vinegar

·                  1/4 cup sugar

·                  1 teaspoon celery seed

·                  1 teaspoon ground mustard

·                  1/2 teaspoon salt- optional* Slap Yo Mamma Cajun Seasoning

·                  SALAD:

·                  6 cups fresh baby spinach (about 6 ounces)

·                  2 medium peaches, sliced

·                  3 large hard-boiled large eggs, halved and sliced

·                  1/2-pound bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

·                  1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced

·                  1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted

·                  Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Place the first 6 ingredients in a blender: cover and process until blended. In a large bowl, combine spinach, peaches, eggs, bacon, onion and almonds. Serve with dressing and cheese.



 

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Two Ends of the Pen: #Excerpt: LOVERS, PLAYERS AND THE SEDUCER by J.A. ...

Two Ends of the Pen: #Excerpt: LOVERS, PLAYERS AND THE SEDUCER by J.A. ...: This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions . J. A. Jackson will be awarding a $15 Amazon or Barnes an...

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Got Honey! It’s an Aphrodisiac!

 

The word Honey stands for a golden sweet food substance made by the honeybee. The honeybee is an insect.

But do you know that in many cultures honey has been known as an aphrodisiac?

Galen – the Greek physician of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius recommended that honey be taken at bedtime as a sexual stimulant.

European folklore says that an old French wives tale, believes a bee sting was supposedly like being given a shot of pure aphrodisiac. 

Since honey is easily digested and a source of immediate energy this must be the reason the doctor ordered it.

Honey contains boron, which may regulate hormone levels, and nitric oxide, which is released in the blood during arousal. It's also a symbol of fertility and procreation in some cultures.

However, I am sure the main reason honey is considered an aphrodisiac is because it has been used as a sort of sexual anointment used in oral sexual practices.  Use your imagination, you’ll soon get the picture.

It has been said that the best honey comes from Hymettus, a mountain near Athens. Honey has been collected here since ancient times.

And finally, we all know that the word honeymoon stems from the hope for a sweet marriage. 

Now there you have it honey, a strange but sweet natural aphrodisiac!

 


 

Published Your First Book? Now What?





So, you just published your book, now what?

Trying to remember your friend’s number… The one who said that they knew how to get your book featured on Oprah’s Book Club.

Ahhh… Didn’t your cousin Pookie say that friend was in jail? So much for getting on Oprah’s Book Club.
What else have you got? Well you could just see what kind of marketing you can do yourself… Really?
How To Get Started
Make sure your book cover is Eye Candy Catching Nice! Big Time!

Focus on being discovered! Think Press Releases

Submit your press release to free press release distribution sites.



eBook promotion- “Where to Start:
· +Market and Promote Your Book Yourself 100 eBook promotion sites
· List of 100 more promotion sites

· +127 Top Free and Paid Book Promotion Sites


Make sure you have your Author’s Platform set up:

Author’s Platform:

Use two on-line social media - To establish your author’s platform.

For example: You can use Facebook and LinkedIn or any other two social media platforms you like.

However - With Facebook you can set up “Pages”

Your Facebook pages could be for each of your books or just your author’s platform.



Here is a Link to help you set up your Facebook Author’s Page.

https://www.helpingauthorsonline.com/step-by-step-guide-to-creating-your-facebook-author-page/

Here’s another link to help you build your author’s platform.

https://self-publishingschool.com/author-platform/

https://booklaunch.com/programs/author-platform-101-bootcamp/



Next: On Facebook you can find groups, communities, people, and other pages to promote your book too. Or to blog too.

Post and engage with your Author’s Platform or Page daily for at least 30 minutes.

How do you post or engage? By creating text, videos, audio, images, etc. to post to build your fans and followers.

Next Build an email list. Don’t know how to build your email list. “Google” how to:

How To Build An Email List In Gmail Using Labels

1. Log in to your Gmail account and click Google Contacts from the Google App drop-down menu.

2. Go through the list of emails that are displayed and select the contacts you want.

3. Click on the label icon to create a new group of contacts.



Don’t like gmail or don’t use gmail… Still want to build an email list?

Check out!
How to Build an Email List from Scratch: 10 Incredibly Effective Strategies at blog.hubspot



https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/list-building

Next Blog… Blog… & Blog! Yes, blogging is engaging.

Next Do a Contest Giveaway! Great place to start check out via Goodreads. Or try a member giveaway at LibraryThing.

Next Create a readers guide at the end of your book. Use your book’s description to let people know that your book contains a helpful discussion guide at the end.



Next Create a promo kit. Include graphics, images, links, excerpts, and sample Facebook shares and Tweets, which can be sent to bloggers upon request.



Next, remember that eBook publishing is ever evolving. It changes daily. You must stay up on that change. Googling to research updates is a monthly “must”.



Otherwise use websites you know you can trust.



Here is one website I can count on for being updated on all things “self-publishing” it is Reedsy.com.

Connect with Reedsy.com today and they will become your “go-to” for your publishing needs.

Also, Reedsy has a fantastic website that keeps you up-to-date on ebook promotions, formatting, and a host of other topics that matter to authors.



https://blog.reedsy.com/book-promotion-services/



Finally, start working on your next novel. Creating a series is the way to build your audience of loyal fans and keep them coming back for more.

Saturday, September 26, 2020

Discover The Saga of The La Cour Family Sept 27-2020

Discover The Saga of The La Cour Family Sept 27-2020

Friday, September 18, 2020

Books to Light Your Fire: Lovers, Players, and the Seducer by J.A. Jackson

Books to Light Your Fire: Lovers, Players, and the Seducer by J.A. Jackson:   Are you looking for something to light your fire this weekend? Check out this excerpt from Lovers, Players, and the Seducer  by J.A. Jacks...

Friday, August 14, 2020

The Grand Hotel - 2020

Thursday, August 6, 2020

Discover BOOK III Lovers Players Seducer The Betrayal of Nicholas La Co...

Wednesday, August 5, 2020

Discover BOOK III Lovers Players Seducer The Betrayal of Nicholas La Cou...

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

Books by J. A. Jackson - July 2020

Monday, July 13, 2020

The Children Know What Love is...

Have you ever watched little children at play? 

Have you ever seen a friend bring over their new baby and watch as a toddle vie to hold the baby? Asking repeatedly, “I want to hold the baby? I want to hold the baby!”

I have, and they are all beautiful sights to see. Watch the little children for they will show you what love is.

What is love? The dictionary say it is an intense feeling of deep affection and it can encompass a range from a strong and positive emotion to a deep powerful affection that defies all reason.

What is racism? Racism is defined as prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against a person or people on the basis of their membership of a particular racial or ethnic group, typically one that is a minority or marginalized.

Nelson Mandela said…

“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin or his background or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” Nelson Mandela — 1994, from his autobiography, “Long Walk to Freedom”

And Maya Angelou said…

“Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future, and renders the present inaccessible.” Maya Angelou

And the bible says Love is…

Paul’s great hymn to love: “Love — agape — is patient and kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. … Love never ends” (1 Cor. 13:4–8a).

Why do I say all of this? Because love to me seems to be there from birth, yet racism is something that seems to me, to be taught by those who’s plane of existence rides on the wave of fear, of others.

Little children know what love is.

If young children are born with so much love, why are the observations, associations and education of our children ingrained with so much racism?

For if you want to really know what love is, watch a young child ask to hold a baby and watch while that child holds that baby and stares at that baby with love and ask yourself, why in the world would we want to change that?


Thursday, July 9, 2020

Learning New Things Is Crucial for Happiness!

Every day at my job, I learn how to write better, edit better and publish better.

To me, I believe learning new things is crucial for happiness and it wards off memory loss.

That being said my job or position is that I am a writer. Yes, I get to totally stay home and write each day.

The total number of books I have written and published are eleven (11).

Yes, I have a couple of book series. And how these books series and stand-alone books came to be, is because I learned something new each day.

I believe that learning can give us a range of perspectives and I love to apply this to my writing.

For example, I get inspirations for my books and for living this life, through “what-if” moments throughout the day. Each new situation I encounter, read, or watch on TV can inspire my “what if moments” for characters, plots, etc., in my writing.

Visiting new places can be a learning moment for me also, that inspires ideas for my books, new cooking recipes, ideas to spice up my bedroom exercise (code word for sex) or even redecorating my home.

Learning something new each day can gives us all a range of perspectives to call on, it helps us to better adapt to new situations, or emergencies in our life. Learning new things can also help you socially.

Another big example on the benefits of learning new things, is the new learning we all have had to do, daily, with the COVID-19 Pandemic we all have been subjected too.

We each have learned about the importance of washing our hands, wearing masks and social distancing, to name a few.

All of this, to me, show how beneficial learning new things can be.

And if you don’t believe me. Think of it this way. If you and I had not taken the time to learn about what we could do to protect ourselves from COVID-19, you wouldn’t be here to read my article, and I wouldn’t be here to write it. Ponder that one…



Saturday, July 4, 2020

Happy 4th of July! O, let America be America again— from Let America Be America Again (1938)





O, let America be America again—
The land that never has been yet—
And yet must be—the land where every man is free.
The land that’s mine—the poor man’s, Indian’s, Negro’s, ME—
Who made America, Whose sweat and blood, whose faith and pain,
Whose hand at the foundry, whose plow in the rain,
Must bring back our mighty dream again.

— from Let America Be America Again (1938)

Saturday, June 27, 2020

Feeling Stressed? Pandemics can be stressful…What You Can Do!

We are living in a frightening time. The coronavirus is holding everyone hostage. One day cities and states are saying they are reopening and the next day, all chaos breaks loose, and they are closing down again.

If you turn on the television news, their numbers scare the living daylights out of you as you watch the number of deaths from the coronavirus go up. (It is now over 125,000 deaths in the United States.)

With doom and gloom on the television every day, no wonder we are stressed. Not to mention this virus impacts each of us differently.  Some of us are worried about our own health, or the health of a loved one. Some of us are worried about our financial situation. Some of us are worried about a job or the support system or services that we may rely on.

Whatever form your stress or anxiety takes there are things you can do to take control over your stress and anxiety.

First up. Set limits on how much television you watch and place special emphasis to the news. Watching too much news can be a bad thing. Take a break from watching the news. It can be upsetting to hear about the crisis and see images repeatedly. If nightmares are stalking, you. Some health official suggests turning off the television or not watching the news at least one hour before you go to bed. Relax and or meditate if possible, to ensure a good night sleep before going to bed. Try to do enjoyable activities and return to normal life as much as possible.

Take care of your body. Exercise regularly. Watch what you eat. Drink plenty of water.

Take care of your mental health.  Connect with others like minded souls such as yourself. Remember that “emotions are contagious,” so be wise about who you turn to for support.  Remember Mother’s wise words. “Everybody ain’t your friend.”

Be kind to yourself.

Maintain a routine. Get regular nightly sleep, whenever possible. If you are in school or have online classes, maintain those routines. The same with your meals, keep your mealtime a regular routine also. By doing these things it can help you maintain a sense of normalcy.

Maintain healthy relationships and build a strong support system.

Take a break. Take time to yourself throughout the day.  Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help renew your sense of self.  

Take time out for activities you enjoy. Read a good book, watch a comedy, play a fun board or video game, make something—try a new recipe, a craft, or a piece of art. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as it takes you out of your worries.

Get out in nature, if possible. Sunshine and fresh air will do you good. Even a walk around your neighborhood can make you feel better. Just be sure to avoid crowds, keep your distance from people you encounter, and wear a mask, if you have one. Better to be safe, than sorry.

Avoid self-medicating. Be careful that you’re not using alcohol or other substances to deal with anxiety or depression.

Are you in crisis?  Here are some audio meditations that can help you relieve stress. 

For audio meditations that can help you relieve anxiety and regain inner calm, click here.



Cajun Spaghetti Supreme!

Got to cook for the family for the 4th of July? Need a crowd pleaser? Try Cajun Spaghetti Supreme. This scrumptious delicious recipe is an old-time favorite with a touch of Cajun spice. You can make it mild or extra spicy. Just add or decrease your cayenne pepper. Always add you spices “little by little” and taste. By starting little, by little, you control the spice. You can always add more spice if you need it. But you can’t take away spice once you add it. So always think, add spice. “Little, by little,” and you can’t go wrong. Enjoy! 

 

Cajun Spaghetti Supreme!

Ingredients:

·1 package (1 pound) spaghetti, broken into 4-inch pieces

·1 bottle (16 ounces) zesty Italian salad dressing

·1 large cucumber, diced

·1 large tomato, seeded and diced (or 20 small cherry tomatoes cut in half)

·1/2 cup diced black olives

·2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

·1 teaspoon Salad Supreme Seasoning

·½ teaspoon Slap Ya Momma Cajun Seasoning Salt (season to taste)

·Pinch of cayenne pepper to taste

Directions:

·Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and rinse in cold water. Place spaghetti in a large serving bowl. Add the remaining Ingredients, toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes.




Chapter 7 When A Taker Dreams!

ENZO RAWLINS hadn’t a care in the world as he laid back as Kalita Lopez worked magic with her tongue.

The sun crept up against the windowpane just as he screamed her name. “Kalita, baby! Kalita. Damn that was good.”

Kalita Lopez was a mesmerizing beauty.  The kind of woman who knew how to use her sex as a weapon, an instrument of pure pleasure, and a way to support herself.

“Enzo,” she purred. “Kalita likes you. But you don’t pay the rent. It’s time for you to go. I must meet a diplomat at two o’clock today. I need my rest. By the way, pick up those empty champagne bottles and put them outside in the recycle bin for me when you leave.”

“What?” Enzo stared at her with hurt dark eyes and realized he hadn’t seen that coming.

“Look Enzo don’t be hurt. Everyone has to earn a living. You’ve been with me almost four days now. The money Ryker gave me was good, but I’ve been handling you on charity for the last two days and that’s because you’re pretty good with that weapon you’re stroking right now.”

“So, you’re not one of Ryker’s old flames?” He asked but didn’t wait for an answer. “You’re a hooker.”

“Hell no!” she said in perfect English.

“And you’ve got a phony accent too? What next?”

Kalita got up out of the bed and picked up Enzo’s cloths and threw them at him. “Look Enzo, this is Silicon Valley in case you haven’t noticed. Rents and mortgages aren’t cheap. Now don’t you have a job or something to go to?”

Enzo shook his head and then thought about it. Why not tell the truth for a change? “No, I’m sort of in between jobs,” he said. “Hell, I should get paid to do what you do. I could use some fast money.”

Kalita studied him slowly. His naked male form was sexy to behold. Her mind raced. Enzo was good at wielding that penis of his, like a gallant Knight on a mission. But was he sincere, she wondered? 

She knew what social skills were needed to handle a job like she had.  Enzo had those skills. Plus, he was good at laying down some really classy, sexy, sweet talk on a moment’s notice. Not to mention that sexy thing he did with his tongue.

Kalita was good at judging people. And then she made a decision and flashed Enzo a grin. “Well…Well …Well,” she said thoughtfully. “Are you just looking for a hobby to do when you get bored? Or are you serious about that making some fast money?”

“And how,” Enzo said with a lascivious grin.

“You know you are a sexy stud muffin and I do know a few wealthy elderly ladies who would just get a kick out of letting you use that weapon you call a penis on them.”

Enzo grew silent.

Kalita decided to sweeten the pot. “I know a company that is hiring, and all you have to do is be nice to a few women and let them see how capable you are in the bedroom,” she hesitated, smiling wickedly.

She let her words sink in watching his brain digest the information.

“Are you serious Enzo?  I mean about making some fast money,” she finally asked.

“Hell yeah, I’m serious. Who do I have to fuck?”

Kalita spoke clearly. “Are you really serious enough that you are willing to put yourself out there, for money I mean?”

Enzo’s brow shot up as the lips on his face curled up. “You are the one telling me that you know a company that is hiring. Paying steady money, and all that I have to do is, do something that I love to do, fucking?” He considered how much pleasure it would be.

“Screwing for money isn’t as easy as it seems,” she said. “You have to do whatever it takes. It’s a business you know. You’ll have overhead cost. The boss has to get paid.”

He gave a smirk.  “So, you’re in the Ye Ode House of Prostitution business? And you’d be my pimp?”

Kalita let out a breath. “I don’t like the word pimp. I wouldn’t mind you calling me the Pimptress, but I prefer Madame.”

“Funny, I didn’t know I had agreed yet,” he replied. “How much money are you talking about?”

“Lots…And I could make sure that they threw in a bottle of that Gayot Rosé Champagne you like to drink.”

“Lot’s ain’t a number,” he said lowing his brow. “You’ve got to interest me with actually dollars.”

“Hump,” she shot back. “As your Madame I would be expecting my cut, since I’m the one with the hook-up for the prominent wealthy women that are willing to pay.”

“I figured as much. So, what are we talking here?”

“During the week, I’m thinking our deluxe escort services can make five thousand dollars an evening. Who knows maybe you’d become in such demand we can have morning and evening sessions?  The weekends will bring our premium prices. We can have you available for those women willing to pay extra for that much needed boyfriend experience to attend events with.  You have a handsome hunky presence that I’m sure will fill out a tuxedo just right.”

 “Wait a minute, you’re talking twenty thousand dollars? Who’s going to want to pay that?” Enzo asked.

Kalita giggled. “Women who want to be discreet,” she said giving him a piercing look. “That will be minus my cut of course for hooking you up. You would be amazed at how much money woman give to charity.”

Enzo thought back. He’d heard her say that word before. “Charity? What do you mean?”

Kalita only pressed her lips together and shook her head.

 “I won’t tell you another thing, unless you want to take this job. So, Enzo. Are you working for Kalita the Madame or do you want to go home?”

“You know I want to make some fast money,” he grinned. “I’m in.”

Kalita didn’t believe in wasting time.  “Good! I have the prefect client for your first job. She lives on Oak View in Alamden.  Do you know that area?”

“Yeah that’s a pretty high-end real estate area.”

She giggled with her thoughts. “Good, because I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable on your first assignment. Here write your cell phone number down. I’ll call you once I have everything set up for tonight. Why don’t you go home and take a shower and get some rest and be ready to be at your first assignment by say nine o’clock tonight. Oh, and expect to be there over-night.”

Enzo licked his lips. “Sure, that sounds like a plan.”