Carla J. Curtis

An Anthology for a Worthy Cause

2010-09-08T22:34:00.000-07:00

October is my birthday month and it’s also National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). Breast Cancer -- these two words have invaded and affected the lives of many women along with their family and friends. I, too, heard these words earlier this year when my mother was diagnosed. Although I’ve been through many valleys in my life, this is a journey like none other. Whew! Is all that I can say!!

In spite of it all, I’m honored that my story, “The Power of a Mother’s Love” is in the "Gumbo for the Soul: Women of Honor," an anthology of savory literary offerings honoring women and supporting the fight against breast cancer – benefiting Sister's Network Inc., San Francisco Chapter (A non-profit African American Breast Cancer Survivorship Organization) that is being released in October. I’m blessed to have a story become a part of an anthology with so many talented contributors whereby the proceeds from sales will benefit such a worthy cause.

Attached is more information about the anthology. Preorder your copy today and spread the word!!!

Carla

It's out of control

2010-04-17T22:19:00.000-07:00

The shootings in the Chicago area are out of control. Sometimes I don’t even want to read the newspaper or turn on the news because I know that there will be a breaking news story about the shootings and I’ve had enough of hearing about it. It’s just sad and for everyone involved, I might add. Parents having to bury their children and others sitting through trials to find out what sentence their child will get for being the perpetrator in the crime.

I just pray that there will come a day where shootings won’t be the norm in Chicago or anywhere else for that matter.

Until next time,

Peace!

CJC

Online Chat

2009-12-02T15:03:00.000-08:00

It’s been a minute since I’ve posted a blog post. Although I’m under the weather and have been for the last five days, I'm thankful to God for all that He has done for me and my family. My book, “A Date with Jesus” is getting great reviews and I’m very grateful for that. Speaking of my book “A Date with Jesus,” I’m excited to be having a chat on Thursday, December 3 (tomorrow) from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (EST), so please come and join me. I would also like to thank Calvin and Linda for extending the invitation. Below is information about the chat:

Are you lost under work deadlines and "to do" lists? RSVP to Join
us for A Date With Jesus Chat featuring Carla Curtis on December 3, 2009 @ 9pm EST. Sign Up to RSVP for the Reminder at: http://www.thepluralthing.com.

Until next time, peace.

Carla

Just Sharing My Thoughts

2009-08-05T23:23:00.000-07:00

Whew! This is the word that best describes my life for the last few months. There’s been so much going on -- both good and not so good -- that sometimes when I lay my head down on the pillow at night to go to sleep it only takes a matter of minutes for me to fall into a deep sleep because I’ve simply been worn out. I’m just being honest. I’ve had the desire to write, but writer’s block decided or should I say I let it set in.

Although I’ve been in a wilderness experience of some sort, I can honestly say that God is still good because in spite of it all, I’m truly blessed and recognize this fact daily. I’ve got a roof over my head, car to drive, job, food to eat, daughter, grandkids, other close family members, and friends, etc. You get the picture. In addition, my newest book, “A Date with Jesus: A Woman’s Guide to a Closer Relationship with the Lord” has hit the shelves and is getting great reviews. In fact, a local church recently selected it for their women’s group for reading and discussion. This was exciting to hear. I was also blessed and honored to be one of the guest speaker’s for my church’s women’s conference in May. The conference was a blessing. God showed up and showed out.

Speaking of my book, I had my first book signing at a major bookstore on July 9, 2009. The book signing was at Borders in St. Charles, Illinois. Although I’ve had other book signings over the years at independently owned bookstores, it was really exciting and felt great to have a book signing at a Borders. On the day of the book signing, I must admit that I was sick and running low on energy, but pressed on any how and was truly blessed. I had a great turn out and sold all of the books that the store ordered. I was able to dialogue with some friends, my sister and even met some new friends in the process. All in all, this was a life-changing and memorable experience for me. God truly blessed this book signing and I am forever grateful.

Below are some pictures from this event. As you can see, we were all having a great time. I’d like to thank Ernie Pureza (in the green shirt) for having his digital camera and taking some great pictures. In addition to Ernie, I’d like to thank everyone else for coming out to support me. You all made my day! I'd like to say a special thank you to the staff at Borders. Everyone made me feel so welcomed and were all very nice.

Well, let me go now because it’s about 2:00 a.m. and I only have a few more hours before I have to get up and get ready for a full day’s work in corporate America. Writing this blog post has reminded me that I better get back to doing what I love on a more regular basis and that is WRITING! Oh – if there are some spelling errors, please forgive me. This sistah is tired and getting ready to fall out!!!

Until next time,

Peace

Carla

A Great Interview

2009-05-25T18:01:00.000-07:00

Please give me some background – just who is Sharon “Shaye” Gray?

First, on behalf of Style-ology Magazine, I would like to extend my gratitude to you for requesting this interview. I am a huge fan of your work.

You are very welcome. Thanks so much for your support of my work. I really appreciate it. Okay, let’s get back to the interview. Just who is Sharon “Shaye” Gray?

My name is Sharon Stinson Gray (my nickname is Shaye) and I have a Bachelor’s Degree in English and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. I’ve been editing/proofreading for 15 years. I served as the Editor-in-Chief of both of my universities’ Newspapers and Literary Magazines. I took several journalism classes and first started editing professionally with an online magazine entitled Bahiyah Woman Magazine, which was very successful for five years. I love to write so I co-founded an online writing group called Essentially Woman Writing Group, which has been thriving wonderfully for more than five years.

I am co owner of EVE’S LITERARY SERVICES with novelist, Lorraine Elzia. With Eve’s Literary Services, we have been able to work more on an individual basis with the writer.

One of my fondest accomplishments includes working on the editorial staff for the GUMBO FOR THE SOUL Anthologies (http://www.gumboforthesoul.com/).

Since you’ve indicated your involvement in other creative endeavors, what intrigued you about Style-ology Magazine to become Editor-in-Chief?

I love to edit. I love to write. I do work full time as administrator and English Instructor, but I have passion for both jobs so I do not truly see them as ‘jobs’ per say but rather strong hobbies.

This has been one of my goals for a very long time ever since I was the editor of my graduate school’s literary magazine. I feel so blessed that the Creative Director, Michelle Washington reached out to me and offered me this position. Michelle Washington is a terrific and professional woman so I am glad I’m on her team.

As Editor-in-Chief, I realize the intoxicating impression of visuals—that is why I am so proud of Style-ology Magazine. This magazine continues to present unique, creative images and style as well as engaging commentaries and enlightening human-interest stories. We are ‘intelligent fashion’.

With many online magazines being created and published on a regular basis, what differentiates Style-ology Magazine from others?

Style-ology is an INTERNATIONAL high-fashion editorial DIGITAL magazine. A fashion feast for the eyes of fashion art and articles, with compelling content and exclusive interviews for sophisticated culturally aware readers; a showcase of artistic fashion at its best.

Style-ology Magazine is not an average fashion "fluff" publication. Style-ology appeals to both fashion artists and the readers' love of high-end fashion; while appealing to the intelligent desires of its readership. Style-ology also creates value for advertisers – high quality advertising to an average census of 10,000 online readers.

I recently read the April edition (http://issuu.com/styleologymagazine/docs/april09), and I must say that the layout and graphics are phenomenal. The articles also are intriguing. Was there a particular theme in mind when you put together this issue?

Thank you very much. I would like to give thanks to our Creative Director, Michelle Washington for her tireless work. Yes, the themes for the April Edition of Style-ology are flower power and the images of spring. Think of blue skies, bright colors and temperate weather.

Who is your intended audience for Style-ology Magazine? Why was this audience chosen?

The Style-ology Magazine audience is an intelligent readership captivated by high fashion; a desirable demographic of readers that are forward-thinking, vibrant, and design-conscious. Age range 20-30 year-old: agencies, business executives, designers, fashion industry entrepreneurs, high-income consumers, photographers, young professionals, and many more!

Our 10,000-plus readership demographics are as follows:

*Gender (Female: 60%) (Male: 40%)

*Residence (Outside the USA: 60%) (Within the USA: 40%)

*Education (College Degree: 80%) (Graduate Degree:20%)

*Occupation (Business & Fashion Professional:70%) (Owner/Partner:30%)

*Average Income ($80,000)

What do you want readers to walk away from after reading issues of Style-ology Magazine?

Our magazine is creating a venue for fashion industry professionals WORLDWIDE to showcase their fashion creativity, giving talented fashion artists high-end exposure, coupled with articles and interviews for an intelligent readership.

We strive to captivate our audience with high-fashion and in-depth articles covering topics such as: human interest, political, and social issues. Simply – Fashion with a Brain!

What are the long-term goals for Style-ology Magazine?

The future will bring more fashions, more titillating articles and sizzling interviews.

Where can you be reached if someone has questions about Style-ology Magazine?

General information/inquiries to: info@styleologymag.com

For more information, please visit:

www.styleologymag.com

www.myspace.com/styleologymagazine

Do you have content ideas for Style-ology Magazine?

Contact the Editor-in-Chief: editor@styleologymag.com

Submissions:

Photo Submissions: photosubmissions@styleologymag.com

Writing Samples: writtensubmissions@styleologymag.com

Advertise With Us!

Send all ad space inquires to: advertisement@styleologymag.com

Do you have any final comments that you would like to share?

Style-ology Magazine aims to capture the ‘style’ in all of us. We advocate creative expression, period. Images have positive impacts on society because they generate hope, desire, strength as well as admiration; style is a form of uniqueness.

I want to thank you Carla for this enchanting opportunity and I look forward to hearing from you all. Please visit Style-ology Magazine and remember style resides in all of us—express yourself, unconditionally and sensationally, every day.

It’s been a pleasure interviewing you. I look forward to reading all of the future issues of Style-ology Magazine on a regular basis. I truly wish you much success as Editor-in-Chief as well as in all of your future endeavors.

My New Book

2009-05-17T17:14:00.000-07:00

It’s amazing because 2009 is almost half gone as June is vastly approaching. Within the last few months, I’ve been extremely busy. But, what else is new. I’m excited to announce that my latest book, “A Date with Jesus: A Woman’s Guide to a Closer Relationship with the Lord" is now available for purchase. Check out my Web site at http://www.carlajcurtis.com/ to find out more information. All in all, God is good and I am blessed and excited about my new book. Below is one of the blurbs that I received:

As we move forward in our daily lives with tasks that seem to overwhelm our minds and never go away, this book will give you a yearning to want to go out on an intimate date with the Love of Your Life. Carla Curtis simply teaches you how to use the tools you may already have in your home and set aside time for Jesus. Carla touches every area of your daily life in her book A Date with Jesus while renewing a thirst and desire in your life that you may have forgotten about. After reading this book, I was ready to make a phone call and set up valuable time to intimately meet with my Lord.

~ Pastor Ava Smith, Co-Pastor of His Cloud of Glory Christian Center, Elgin, IL

This weekend was my church’s women’s conference and I must say that it was indeed a blessing. Yesterday during the all-day event I was one of the four speakers. There were some phenomenal speakers in attendance and I thank God for the opportunity to be one of the speakers as well as to be blessed by listening to others. The whole weekend has been a blessing.

Well, I’ll be back within a few days to post – I promise.

Peace,

Carla

Birthday Wishes

2008-11-18T19:38:00.000-08:00

Today is my daughter, Terra’s, 25th birthday. I can’t believe that it was twenty five years ago today that life changed drastically for me on November 18, 1983. It changed because giving birth at the young age of 18 forced me to grow up and begin making some better life decisions since I now had someone else to think about. And, I must say that these last 25 years have flown by so fast.

Although Terra and I don’t always see eye-to-eye on things, I can honestly say that not only are we mother and daughter, but we’re great friends, which is indeed a blessing. In my eyes, she’ll always be my baby even though she is a mother now of two daughters, Jayden and Laila, who I must say are adorable, but indeed a handful. I’ll write another blog posting soon and share some pictures of my granddaughters.

Speaking of pictures, below are a few old ones from back in the day:

Terra and me – I believe in 1991. This is a Glamour Shots picture.

Terra, Brother Larry and Dad – sometime in 1985. It seems just like yesterday when dad had the curl and Terra was getting on my last nerve because she loved touching his hair and getting the curl activator on her hands. Gross!

Until next time, peace.

Getting my Reading On

2008-03-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

The snow is falling now in Chicago and I’m at home chilling out after spending two hours commuting home even though I left work early. Imagine that? Back in the day, commuting long hours used to make me want to pull out my hair, but now I do my best not to get stressed out about it by listening to the radio and music as well as making a few phone calls. After all, why get stressed about being in traffic anyway? It's a waste of time and energy.

Anyway, while sitting here at my desk, it dawned on me that the last time that I actually wrote a blog was in 2007 and we are now three months in the year 2008. Shame on me!

Over the last few months, I’ve been getting my reading on and I’ve read six great books by five great authors. All six of these books, had me up until the wee hours of the morning reading until I could read no more. And, I HIGHLY recommend all of them. These books include the following:

"Double Platinum"--Author Shelia Goss
"Pushing Pause"--Author Celeste O. Norfleet
"Keysha’s Drama"--Author Earl Sewell
"I Know I’ve Been Changed"--Author ReShonda Tate Billingsley
"Let the Church Say Amen"--Author ReShonda Tate Billingsley
"Become a Better You"--Pastor Joel Osteen

The book that I’m currently reading is, “Wish You Well,” by Author David Baldacci. This book has been good thus far. Actually, I’m excited about being back in the reading mode.

Although I’ve been on the reading craze, I’ve also been doing some writing as well. I hope to be able to share some good news within the next few months.

Until next time, keep the peace!

What's On My Mind...

2007-11-11T17:01:00.000-08:00

I will admit that it’s been some time since I’ve written a blog entry. While my intentions were always to write something on a regular basis, this did not happen. Even though I don’t blog regularly, I am still writing nonetheless and for that I am thankful. Right now, I’m just trying to get myself more organized so that I can write even more than I do now. I’ve realized that being organized is essential to productivity in all aspects of my life.

On another note, the pastor’s sermon topic at this morning's worship service was, “God is not through with you yet” and this was a great message that was right on time for me. The sermon was centered on Philippians 1:6 (NKJV) – Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. I know without a doubt that God intends to do some more awesome things in my life. However, I have to be committed to doing the things that God asks of me in this season of my life in order to prepare me for the next.

As I look back over my life, I know that God has always been with me through the good and the bad times and for that I am forever grateful. If it's God's will, this time next week my daughter will turn 24 years old. And, it seems just like yesterday when I was a frightened and confused teenaged mother. I’m thankful that I knew God then and that I know God now. Most importantly, I’m grateful that “God is not through with ME yet.”

Peace!

Carla J. Curtis

Going to the Concert

2007-01-10T18:03:00.000-08:00

With only six days into the New Year, I’m excited that I got the opportunity to see Jamie Foxx and Fantasia Barrino live in concert at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois, which is right outside Chicago. I went with my two cousins and a mutual friend. We had a great time.

To start the show off, there was a local comedian from Chicago. Unfortunately, I can’t remember his name, but I do know that he was funny. After he did his comedic routine, he then introduced Fantasia and she made her grand appearance. All that I can say is that Fantasia can SING! Whew!! She’s got some vocal chords on her. Although she’s in her early twenties, she truly sounds like a veteran singer. She’s one of those singers that sing good enough for the hairs on the back of your neck to stand up. She’s truly got a long career ahead of her.

After Fantasia graced us with her presence, Jamie came on stage and started doing one of his comedic routines. All that I can say is that Jamie is truly a talented brotha. For real! He’s a creative genius in his own right. He had the crowd cracking up at his jokes and screaming, dancing and swaying to the music while he sang. Towards the end of the concert, Kanye West made his grand appearance and they sang the ever popular song, Gold Digger.

Overall, this was a great concert and I’m glad that I had the opportunity to go. Although I don’t watch American Idol on a consistent basis, I’m glad that in spite of the naysayers that Fantasia pressed her way through the competition. She’s a talented sistah who deserved to win this competition. As for Jamie, I’ve been a fan of his for many years and it’s been exciting to see this Oscar winner’s career blossom.

The Closing of 2006

2006-12-31T14:23:00.000-08:00

As 2006 comes to a close, I’m thankful that God allowed me to live another year. Although I’ve experienced various trials, I now know without a doubt, that what won’t kill you, will make you stronger. I’m truly a living witness. In spite of the valleys, I know that I’m blessed and that no matter what, God has not forsaken me.

This year was not only filled with trials, but also some great times. One great thing that happened in 2006 that I’m reminded of right now is the birth on January 8 of my second granddaughter, Laila. She’s now walking and saying a few words--mostly shouting the name of her big sister and my oldest granddaughter, Jayden every chance she gets. Speaking of Jayden, I’ve been hanging out with her this weekend. Jayden and I are going to bring in the New Year watching movies and eating popcorn. It’s a blessing to be able to spend quality time with her.

In reference to writing, I've completed a new motivational book, which will be available in February for sale as an eBook. I also became a columnist on Blogging in Black (www.blogginginblack.com), with my posting date being the 21st of each month. I'm honored to be a part of this great blogging community.

On another note, last week, my aunt, cousin and I went to go see Dreamgirls. This movie is awesome! I do agree that Jennifer Hudson did her thing, but I feel that every actor and actress in Dreamgirls did a spectacular job. This movie is indeed a classic and I can’t wait until the DVD is released. I also saw the Pursuit of Happyness recently with my nephew, niece and Jayden. I must say this is a great and thought-provoking movie.

It is my hope and prayer that everyone that reads this blog entry has a Happy New Year.

Peace!

Cherish the Memories

2006-11-18T19:21:00.000-08:00

What are some of your cherished memories? Is there a time in your life that sticks out more than the others? I recently had the pleasure of re-living some cherished memories when I worked on the staff of Senator Alan J. Dixon (D-IL) from 1987 to 1992 in Washington, D.C. The Senator served as a United States Senator for the state of Illinois from 1981 to 1993.

These great memories were rekindled on Friday, September 29, 2006, through an Al’s Pals, as the Senator’s former staff members are affectionately called, reunion held at d.s. Vespers Sports Pub & Eatery (www.at-the-edge.net) in Belleville, Illinois. This business is owned and operated by Mary Dahm-Schell, a former Washington, D.C. staff member, and her husband, Keith Schell. If you’re in the Belleville area, do yourself a favor and check out this fine establishment.

At this event, I engaged in many great conversations with people that I knew and with those whom I met for the very first time. Persons traveled from the Washington, D.C. area, Chicago and Springfield, Illinois, and a few other places within the Midwest to attend this event. There were many hugs, kisses, pictures taken and fond stories shared. The moment the guest of honor, none other than Senator Dixon, and his lovely, kind and sweet-spirited wife, Jody arrived, they were given a standing applause. The Senator and Mrs. Dixon made their way through the crowd and happily greeted everyone.

Some of the highlights of the evening included the Senator’s eloquent speech and the viewing of two tapes. All those in attendance seemed to enjoy these moments as well as the entire reunion just as much as I did. As the evening came to an end, everyone was still in high spirits, and glad to have had the opportunity get together for such a grand occasion.

Although it has been fourteen years since I’ve walked the halls of the Hart Senate Office building, I can honestly say that I’m thankful and blessed to have had the opportunity to work with such dedicated, positive and genuine people in my professional career. I gained a lifetime of knowledge in just five short years. I know for a fact that I wouldn’t be where I am today without having had this opportunity. I will always cherish the memories of my time working on the staff of Senator Alan J. Dixon. The Senator is one of the greatest politicians to have ever graced the halls of Capitol Hill.

Jody Dixon (Senator’s wife), Ann Callahan (Wife of Senator’s former WDC Chief-of-Staff,
Gene Callahan), Me and Britta Brackney (WDC office) in background talking with
Charlie Smith (WDC office)

Jimie Wheeler (Chicago office) in background, Senator Alan J. Dixon and Mark Schell
(Brother-in-law to Mary Dahm-Schell) clapping hands

Joanne Whitley (Former Secretary), Maria Petaros (Chicago and WDC offices),
Me and Barb Buscher Jacobsen (WDC office)

Returning from a Blog Slump

2006-09-23T04:02:00.000-07:00

Hello! Truthfully, I’ve had good intentions to write blog entries on a regular basis and can’t believe that nearly nine months have gone by since I’ve posted an entry. Although I’ve been in a blog writing slump, I’ve continued writing articles, participating in literary events, public speaking and happy to say that I recently completed my third motivational book. This motivational book is for everyone and not geared towards single mothers, as my other books were. Right now, I’m trying to decide which route to take for publishing this book. I’ll continue praying about it and I know that God will reveal soon which route I should take. Also, I’ve been involved with helping put together my church newsletter…so as you see I’ve been doing what I love and that is writing, writing and more writing.

On a personal note, I became a grandmother again in January. My new granddaughter’s name is Laila. She’s now eight months and is crawling. And, my oldest granddaughter, Jayden, who is five years old, started kindergarten. I love them both dearly and my daughter too of course.

Well, I wanted to drop in and at least share some words. I’ve made a vow to blog on a more regular basis, so stay tuned. Trust me; I won’t let eight months go by again without posting an entry.

Peace,

Carla

The Ending of 2005

2005-12-31T11:54:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of 2005 and I’ve decided to relax, reflect and of course work on a writing project. I just got back from getting a pedicure and boy do my feet feel good. A pedicure was definitely long overdue. I sat in the chair enjoying every bit of the pedicure while reading, “Some Things I Never Thought I’d Do” by Pearl Cleage. This book is good.

Although I’ve endured some valleys in 2005, through it all, I can say that I’m truly blessed. I’m eagerly looking forward to 2006 and all of the experiences it will bring.

May everyone that reads this blog entry have a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Peace!

Reflections

2005-11-29T18:00:00.000-08:00

Reflections

It’s amazing how time keeps on ticking. While writing this blog entry, I realized that it had been several months since I’ve shared my thoughts. My intentions are to blog more often, but the last few months have been difficult . They’ve been difficult because two people have passed away, within a month of each other – my uncle and an extended family member. Although I know that death is going to happen to us all, when it’s least expected, it often throws you for a loop. In addition to grieving these last few months, I reached a milestone because I turned 40 and in celebration I went to Paris France. Later in this blog entry, I give you the 411 on my Paris trip. Overall, the deaths, milestone of me entering into the 40's club and visiting Paris were life changing and forced me to do some much-needed introspection of my life.

First, I know that I must make it more of a priority to have a more thankful attitude because throughout it all, God has indeed been good to me and my family. Like all families, we’ve had our ups and downs, but by the grace of God we’ve made it. During these last few months of introspection, I’ve also realized that it is not wise for me to continue allowing people in my personal space that clearly don’t have my best interest at heart. The writing is all on the wall, but I’m always giving others the benefit of the doubt. Basically, I only want people in my life that are going to be assets and not liabilities. Like two plus two equals four, it’s that simple. You know, people that say what they really mean and mean what they really say. Not people who say things for the mere fact of saying things and have no problems hurting others for their own self-seeking pleasures. Life is all about growing and maturing and not playing games with others. For most of my life, I’ve been a caring and very giving person and there have been a few people that have taken my kindest for my weakness. That’s okay because we live and we learn.

Writing Life

Let me digress and talk about what’s going on in my writing world. Things are going great for me. I’ve just completed another motivational book. I’m very excited about this book. This is a motivational book for all women and not only for single mothers. After getting this book edited, I then plan to submit it to a few Christian book publishers. Also, I’m putting the finishing touches on a novella for an anthology that I’m working on with three other writers. I should be completed with this novella very soon. In addition, I believe that I now have enough pieces of the puzzle together where I can complete my fiction book very soon. I’ve been working on this book too long in my mind, but I’ve realized that I can’t force the story. Also, timing is about everything. And, obviously it wasn’t the right time before now to complete this book or otherwise the creative juices would have flowed for me to do so. I’m now at a different place in life and realize that I can’t rush anything and that patience is indeed a virtue. I’ve also been writing more articles to be included in various online and print magazines and I’m excited. I have another article that is included in the Fall 2005 print edition of Inspired Living Magazine www.inspiredlivingmag.com. You’ll find my name listed within the Contributing Writers section. I’ve discovered that I really enjoy writing articles.

Trip to France

As I mentioned earlier, I went to Paris France in celebration of my 40th birthday with seven other people, mostly co-workers. We had a blast..This was indeed a fun, thought-provoking and interesting trip. I tried the famous Crepes – one with sugar and the other with eggs and sausage. I enjoyed them both, but let’s just say that a Crepe is nothing more than a huge pancake wrapped in a ice cream cone style with being able to select a variety of things to put in it. I also ate too many pieces of chocolate cake and drank more than enough bottles of lemonade. I also went to the famous Louvre Museum and Eiffel Tower. In addition, I shopped and shopped some more. I did a LOT and I mean a LOT of walking, which was good considering all of the over-eating that I did. I even went to a few clubs to see how the French get their party on, but didn’t stay long because there were entirely too many people and the cigarette smoke was almost suffocating to say the least. One thing that I found interesting is that many persons in Paris are avid smokers and therefore the second hand smoke is way too much for me. We couldn’t go anywhere without seeing persons puffing away. It was amazing!

Also, while eating at a little French café, I looked up and saw a patron with a dog in his arms licking on his face. Now, this was quite the experience since I had never seen anything like this before. Although I don’t have anything against pets, it’s just something about being in a restaurant eating with animals being able to be in the same place that just doesn’t sit right with me. But, perhaps I am old fashioned and need to join those in the 21st century.

Overall, I’m blessed and am thankful that I was given the opportunity to visit another country. This was my first time going out of the country and it certainly won’t be my last. I truly enjoyed myself.

Thanksgiving Holiday

At the time of completing this blog entry, I’m at home spending time with my family for the Thanksgiving Holiday. I’ve had a great time hanging out with family and friends and have eaten enough to not eat for a few more days. In addition to eating and socializing, I took some time out to go and work out at the YMCA. I’m just thankful to God for allowing me to live to enjoy another Thanksgiving.

This concludes the end of this blog and I promise that I’ll write another entry before the new year. It is my hope that everyone that reads this blog entry enjoys this holiday season.

Peace!

Time Sure Does Fly By...

2005-07-13T16:58:00.000-07:00

Time sure does fly by. The month of June has come and gone and we’re now in the middle of July. I’ve been meaning to write a few blog entries in between time but you know how life can be sometimes.

Right now, I am on vacation from my full-time job and have been for the last two weeks. It feels great to get up when I please and having the opportunity to focus more on my writing and doing some reading as well. And, just the thought of not having to commute 34 miles each way to and from work is simply wonderful.

Over the weekend, my dad’s family had our annual family reunion and I must say that we had a great time. This year we decided to move our cheese and have the reunion at a hotel and resort in the Chicagoland area. The resort was only 10 minutes from my home so I was more than happy. It’s always a blessing to see family members. Next year I’ll be looking forward to the reunion which will be held in Phoenix.

Since I’ve last written in my blog, I’ve been working on my fiction novel and it’s been very exciting. This novel has taken a different twist and I’m just letting my creative juices flow. My goal is to have this novel completed by the middle of August. When I’m not writing, then I’m reading and the following are the books that I’ve recently completed:

"Acting Out" by author, Benilde Little. This was a thought-provoking and interesting read. "The Hamptons" by author, Linda Dominque Grosvenor. This was a wonderful and entertaining book. "The Preacher’s Son" by author, Carl Weber. This was a great and entertaining read.

On another note, I’m excited because an article that I wrote titled, “A Sistah’s Perspective: Journeying through the Season of Singleness” is featured in the Spring 2005 printed edition of the Inspired Living Magazine (Inspiring Women to Embrace God’s Best, Everyday!) The article was first included on the online version (http://www.inspiredlivingmag.com/) of the magazine and then to my surprise was reprinted in the hard edition. I’m thankful that this article has been a blessing to others. And, I thank the staff at Inspired Living Magazine for giving me the opportunity to share my work. This is a wonderful and empowering magazine. Check it out!

Until next time, peace.

Carla

One project down many to go...

2005-06-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

Hello,

I'm so excited because the CD for my book "Grip the Rope: Prayers for Single Mothers" is now completed. I'll soon be sending out a press release announcing this great news. I didn't realize how much work being in a recording studio would be. Even so, I learned a lot and am grateful for this experience.

As for writing, I've been working hard at completing my fiction book and am making some great progress. On the reading tip, I just finished, "Can't Get Enough" by author Connie Briscoe. This was a great book. This was the sequel to "P.G. County." I'm now reading "The Hamptons" by author, Linda Dominique Grosvenor. I'm enjoying reading this wonderful book and probably will be completed within a day or so.

Well, that's all that I have for now.

Peace,

Carla

Mother's Day Weekend

2005-05-09T17:06:00.000-07:00

Wow! I can't believe that it's been over a month since I've written in my blog. Boy, the time sure does fly by fast. I'm going to have to make more of an effort to write consistently in my blog. Right now, I'm just extremely busy with so many things on my plate. But, it's all good!

I'm happy to say that I've been working on my fiction novel and it's coming along fine. Not sure when I'll have it completed yet, but for me the main thing is that I've been working on it. And with that, I'm patting myself on the back. As a procrastantor, it's sometimes hard for me to get back into the groove of letting my creative juices flow.

As for this past Mother's Day weekend, I must tell you that I had a blessed weekend. I was the keynote speaker at a Mother's Day Brunch sponsored by the National Council of Negro Women Champaign-Section on Saturday in Champaign, Illinois. This was indeed an awesome event and my message was very well received. The theme for this event was, "Mothers: Empowered and Destined to Make a Difference." And, the title of my speech was, "Mothers: Overcoming Obstacles on the Road to Empowerment." This event was attended by over 100 people. I sold some books and met some great people. I'm blessed to have gotten the opportunity to be a part of such a great event.

On Mother's Day, I primarily chilled out and just enjoyed the peace. Now, I will admit that I was a little lazy, as I didn't go to church. I enjoyed the day spending it with my daughter and granddaughter and other members of my family.

Incidentally, I'm in the process of getting my website redesigned and I'll let you know when it's completed. Also, the CD for my book, "Grip the Rope: Prayers for Single Mothers" is completed and will be available for sale within the next week or so. I'm SO excited. So, stay tuned!

Well, let me go now so that I can prop my feet up and watch a little TV until it's time for me to make the necessary changes to a family reunion letter that needs to be sent out this week.

Peace,

Carla

Chilling Out

2005-04-09T11:29:00.000-07:00

Over the last few months, I've been wondering why I have not been in the "creative" mode as I had been in the past. Today I realized, or you could say I had an Ah ha moment, that I had not been able to be creative -- do more writing -- because I've been totally stressed and mentally exhausted. For real! Yes, my plate is more than full and I'll admit that I had been stressing about any and everything. But, today I can actually say that I'm "chilling out" and being still long enough to simply enjoy the peace that I am feeling. Although my plate is full, I've decided for sanity's sake and for health reasons, that I have to TRULY let go and let God. And, it feels great to do so. I'm feeling great and in the mood to write...so let me go now and get to it!!

Getting Some Reading Done

2005-04-01T14:53:00.000-08:00

Although my goal is to complete my fiction book fairly soon, since I am an avid reader I decided to take some time within the last few weeks to do some reading. Well, I read "Too Much of a Good Thing," by Kimberla Lawson Roby, which is the sequel to "Casting the First Stone." This was an excellent and entertaining book. I must say that I enjoy reading this author's books. I've now started reading two other books, "the devil wears prada," by Lauren Weisberger and "Selah's Bed," by Jenoyne Adams. Both of these have been good thus far. For sanity sake, I'm going to finish reading one of them and then move on to the next. Speaking of the reading, I even had the nerve to start reading, "Your Best Life Now," by Joel Osteen, this past weekend while in Oklahoma City hanging out with my uncle and aunt. In fact, my uncle gave me this book as a gift. This is a great book as well.

I guess that I better get my butt in gear and get down to business with working on writing my own book. Yea, I know. But, since I love to read and have gotten a hold of some excellent books, it's a little hard to think about my own story at this moment. I must say that I did do some writing in my journal this week and am excited about this because I hadn't be journaling as frequently as I had in the past. And, journaling always is food for my soul. So, as you see, I have done some writing.

Well, let me get off this computer and pick up one of the three books that I am currently reading to finish it and then move on to the next one as I said earlier in this blog entry. Or better yet, let me watch one of the three DVD's that I rented from the video store. Yea, I'm sure you are wondering, why is she making life so difficult -- reading three books and then going to rent three videos, as she only can read and/or watch one movie at a time. I don't even know myself.

My Fiction Book

2005-03-28T15:49:00.000-08:00

While sitting here at this computer, I realized that I need to complete the fiction novel that I started a while ago. Being a procrastinator does me no good. I'm going to make it a priority to complete my fiction novel by May or at the latest June 2005. Right now, I'm in limbo about the name for my book but once I make a decision, I will post it here on my blog. Thanks to everyone who has supported me in my writing and public speaking endeavors. I truly appreciate everything that you do.