Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2014 Margaret MargaretHappy Halloween
31 Oct
Written By
7 Things I Miss
30 Oct
Written By
This week for the writers workshop I am going to be writing about number 2 : 7 things I miss about being a kid. I didn’t have the best childhood so I am not sure if I can come up with 7 things but I am going to try so let’s get started and see what I can come up with.
- I miss some of the friends I had when I was in school.
- I miss going to school. I am sure some of you are shocked by this one but I really did love & enjoy school.
- I miss having a summer break and/or days off during the school year.
- I miss not having to worry about paying bills or running out of money before the month is over.
- I miss the few years I had when I was a teenager before I got diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. I had a few years where I did get to feel like a normal kid but then I got diagnosed with MS and I felt like I pushed back down.
- I miss the times were easier. I didn’t even get into things on the internet until I was in college and I am so glad for that because I don’t think I would have survived high school if we had Facebook and everything that kids have to deal with today in school.
- I can’t think of a seventh thing that I miss so I am going to write one reason I am glad my childhood is over. I am glad my childhood is over so that I don’t have to go to high school and deal with all the idiots I went to school with.
Those are the 7 things I miss about being a kid. What do you miss about your childhood?
Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2014 Margaret MargaretThe Three Year Lie by Amber Walter
29 Oct
Written By
The Three Year Lie by Amber Walter was an amazing book. I saw a lady on YouTube called Channon Rose do a review on two of Amber Walters books and I knew I had to read them. I have to agree with Channon because in her review she says that she was shocked that someone who is as pretty is Amber is was able to write such a great book. I was skeptical about this book when I ordered it because I have read some books out there that drive me insane because they don’t even seem like they were edited at all. This was a very well written book. It isn’t a super long book so for me it only took a few hours and even it had been longer I know I would have just kept reading until I finished the book because it is a book I couldn’t put down. There are parts of this book that make it 18+ at least for me. It is also so hard to believe but that makes it that more believable because I don’t think anyone could come up with something that far fetched if it hadn’t happened to them. I would recommend this book to just about everyone.
About The Book
The Three Year Lie will rock your perceived world of the sacrosanct elder statesman. With her first novel, albeit the second book of a three book trilogy, Amber Walter has created a riveting fictional tell-all sprinkled with abounding moments of raw, non-fiction. As Brooklynne says - “Presently, there are less than ten people who know the truth of my identity. They include me; both of my parents, my attorney Carson Brewar, Judge James Burke, and Senator Damien Preston and his team of scummy attorneys (I count them all as one). I ask you to judge this for yourself. Believe what you desire, and condemn me for what you must. I am at a place in life where I am no longer settling, or being fallacious. I am exhausted with keeping up with the deceit and mendacity. I’m over it.” The Three Year Lie is the chronicle of a young girl’s life and the powerful and revered Senator’s manipulative and self-serving behavior that came close to destroying her. Brooklyn and Walter ask “By revealing the truth now, shall I eternally be set free? Or will this only further complicate my life? ….. This routine, however, is dreadfully getting old. No pun intended. I am tired of lying, tired of drinking away the truths that want to simply spill out of me at any given weak moment. I am on the verge of combustion ….” First published in 2012, The Three Year Lie has generated interest from Hollywood and New York and is one of the most talked about novels of the year … and one you simply must read!
About The Author
A native Arizonian, Amber Walter was born in Phoenix, educated in Arizona and continues to call the city home. Fascinated with the written word from early childhood, she was the kid that got scolded by teachers for “always having her nose in a book” rather than paying attention, doing assignments, standing quietly in line and even playing during recess.
“The entire process of bringing a story to life had me totally enthralled. I was addicted to the fantasy genre and authors like Tolkien, CS Lewis and Terry Brooks. I loved authors like Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, Sartre, Camus, Steinbeck, Hemingway and others. And, quite honestly, books took me away from my present. Books allowed me to experience a better time and place than the one I was in.”
Viewed with this understanding, her future as an author seems to be not necessarily one of choice, but of an avocation that merged into a concentrated and sustained effort as she matured.
In college Walter studied abnormal and behavioral psychology while taking every available writing class offered. She wrote for the college newspaper, submitted and published articles for local magazines and, above all, wrote simply for own happiness.
After college she modeled for a short time and then began ghostwriting for private individuals as well as writing for numerous local and national companies. Walter wrote everything from corporate communications to How-To manuals. “Technical writing is a bit like taking the creative out of creative writing. Not very stimulating but it paid the bills” is how she describes this time - while openly acknowledging it was the utter boredom of technical writing that set her on a fully committed path to where she is today.
So began her midnight scribbling’s of the first of many rough drafts of her debut novel, The Three Year Lie - a “fictional” graphic memoir of her childhood between the ages of eleven to fifteen.
Just a little over a year later Walter, who has since admitted in television and radio interviews to being the Brooklynne Crown, the main character in her first novel, followed up with her second book, Ingrid’s Prison, the non-fictional prequel.
She is currently working on the final novel of the trilogy, A Precocious Life, intended as the sequel to The Three Year Lie.
In addition to her full time writing career Amber is a dedicated advocate for children and active with a myriad of organizations that work to protect children.
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I bought this book with my own money. I was not compensated in anyway for this review.
Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2014 Margaret MargaretMultiple Sclerosis Tuesday-Updated Treatments Post
28 Oct
Written By
This week’s MS Tuesday post is going to be an update to my post where I talk about the treatments there are for Multiple Sclerosis. If you want to check out the original post you can click here but I am going to copy and paste the old post and updated it with the new treatments that have come out since that post was originally published.
I am going to do a small overview of the different Multiple Sclerosis medications out there right now. I want to start by saying that there is no cure of MS right now. There are a few medications that will hopefully slow the progression on the disease.
The first group of drugs are called Immune modulating drugs. They work by keeping the immune cells from interacting with other cells. This group consists of 3 different drugs they are called Betaseron, Rebif, and Avonex. There is one other drug that is under this type of medication and it is Copaxone. This one is made of amino acids and works differently than the interferon’s.
There is Tysabri that attaches itself to the blood brain barrier and doesn’t let immune cells into the brain. There are several other treatments such as: Novantrone, Cytoxan, Imuran, Rheumatrex, and Trexall. All of those treatments are drugs that will suppress the immune system.
Since I posted the original post they have come out with several pill’s that you can now take. Before you had to have shots and/or an infusion so coming out with pills was huge for people who have MS. The names of the pills are: Gilenya, Tecfidera and Aubagio. I don’t know much about the new drugs out because right now Tysabri is still working for me so I am not in a hurry to try any new medication right now.
They will sometimes give a person steroid treatment if they are having an MS flare up or relapse. I have been given steroids several times and I will always refuse them now. I don’t think they really didn’t anything but make me gain weight and make my eyes see funny colors. I can see why they do them but I would rather have some disability than deal with the side effects of the drugs.
I have taken several different MS medications and if you would like to know which ones I have taken and how they affected me please let me know. There are also medications that we are given to help manage side effects of medications and also to deal with how the disease affects each of us as well. If you would like to know anything else please let me know!
The sites I used to get the information for this post from:
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/understanding_multiple_sclerosis_medications/page6_em.htm#inter (original site I used)
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-sclerosis/basics/treatment/con-20026689 (new treatments info)
Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2014 Margaret MargaretHarriet Beecher Stowe-Quote Of The Week
27 Oct
Written By
This weeks quote is by Harriet Beecher Stowe.
I think this is one of the best quotes that I have read in a long time. I know that the times I feel like giving up and don’t that those things I accomplish are such huge things because I had to work so hard to achieve them. I also have been known to just give up and even today I sit there and wonder if I ever could have finished it and accomplished my goals.
Those are my thoughts on this weeks quote. What do you think of this quote by Harriet Beecher Stowe?
If you missed any of the past quotes you can click here and check them ou!
Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2014 Margaret MargaretThe Promise Kindle HDX Giveaway from @BethWiseman!
26 Oct
Written By
In a daring new novel, Beth Wiseman jumps way outside the box. The Promise will take readers far away from Amish country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by actual events, this is the book Beth has been working toward for a long time.
Curious? Click here to read the reviews, and be sure to enter Beth’s Kindle HDX giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire HDX
- The Promise by Beth Wiseman
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 9th. Winner will be announced November 10th here.
Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2014 Margaret MargaretLosing the Girls and The Road Paved in Pink
24 Oct
Written By
Non Fiction - Memoir - Self Help - Breast Cancer
Date Published: August 2013
Date Published: August 2013
Readers can delve into the breast cancer journey and beyond in Losing the Girls, a unique memoir differentiated by the author’s cutting-edge nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM)—a little-known breast cancer surgery technique that leaves the breast completely whole. Shirley Alarie shares her story to boost awareness of this specialized procedure, which is only offered at select hospitals. She believes that women facing mastectomies deserve to know all of their options.
Shirley found that the biggest challenge of her life began with a convoluted breast cancer diagnosis; and then there was the overwhelming array of surgery options. Mastectomy or lumpectomy? Single mastectomy or double? Reconstruction or no reconstruction? She worried about making the right choice and how her decision would affect her both in the short and long term. How would it affect her marriage? W as it crazy to choose a hospital three hours from home?
After the surgery, Shirley’s determination to beat the cancer triggered a lifestyle transformation that resulted in a stronger, more empowered woman. Her deep faith in God and her peace with the afterlife helped shape her response to this life-changing ordeal with cancer—and the love and support of an amazing posse of family and friends, along with a liberal dose of humor and hope, pulled her through the darkness and back into the warm, sunny light.
Losing the Girls is a powerful and uplifting book for every woman—and the people who love them—to read.
What others have said:
As I read ‘Losing the Girls- My Journey Through Nipple Sparring Mastectomy and Beyond’, I was touched by Ms. Alarie’s honesty, humor and spirit that shone through her written words. I cried, laughed and at times held my breath as she took the necessary steps to face her fears and come out the other side of the journey, strong and healthy. Ms. Alarie faced the gut wrenching reality of hearing - you have breast cancer, and now she is a survivor sharing her story with the world. A must read. Lucinda Race
What a fantastic read! From the very first pages Shirley opens up and gives honest glimpses of her life to her readers. Knowing she has a family history does little to take the sting out of her diagnosis. The way she deals with her tests, results, doctor visits and eventual surgery is truly an inspiration for any woman dealing with this disease. Along with writing about her emotional journey, Shirley shares with her readers all the information she has gained from researching breast cancer and what she has learned through her support system of Drs., nurses and the like. Great knowledge for anyone who many deal with breast cancer themselves or have a family member go through it. I found her reliance on God through her ordeal comforting and inspiring. Any reader will feel that they’ve gained a friend by the end. P Walker
Non Fiction - Memoir - Self Help - Breast Cancer
Date Published: July 2014
Date Published: July 2014
Lovey’s nightmare has begun. She’s been thrust into a terrifying and confusing journey, joining the nearly 250,000 women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. If Lovey is fortunate, she has an excellent support team, also known as Angels. The Road Paved in Pink: A Practical and Personal Guide for Breast Cancer Patients and Their Loved Ones offers Lovey and her Angels the comprehensive guidance needed to withstand the challenges ahead.
Readers will be empowered by the love and support of the many others who have already traveled the same bumpy road.
The Road Paved in Pink is offered with a unique “Pay it Forward” program designed to reach as many people in need as possible. By request via her website, Shirley Alarie will provide a free book to people recently affected by breast cancer, with the stipulation that they forward it to someone else in need when they are finished with it, and so on.
If someone agrees to take a booklet from the Pay it Forward program, they will be asked to sign in to the website and log their first name and location, so we can watch the books travel around the country - and hopefully, the world!
Request a copy of The Road Paved in Pink - Pay it Forward Program at the following link: http://shirleyalarie.com/2014/08/road-paved-pink-pay-forward-program/
What others have said:
This is a very worthwhile read. The author does an excellent job of giving useful information that is very understandable, which doesn’t always happen in the medical field. She is able to tell her story as well as provide the reader with an understanding of the many choices available for their own journey. Also a great guide for families and friends to help them be helpful in what can be a truly difficult time. P Walker
A moving and to the point awesome guide. If you don’t know someone with breast cancer odds are in your lifetime you will. Have this book on hand, everyone involved will need it, as will you. Twenty seven years ago my mother had her first breast removed only to have the other one worked on seven years later. I was there, so wish I had this guide. I have it now and have already highlighted my “talking points”, when I’m faced with being an angel for someone. Marion Brenan
About the Author
I spent the first twenty years of my career in an industrial manufacturing environment, running around the hamster wheel as fast as my legs would carry me. My breast cancer diagnosis jammed on the brakes and forced me to put life in perspective. My journey since breast cancer has been focused on making a positive difference in the world. Stepping off the hamster wheel has brought greater harmony to me and my home. My husband and furry baby appreciate that the “Crazy Lady” of the house is gone and a more “Mellow Mama” has taken her place.
My writing adventure began with Losing the Girls: My Journey Through Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Beyond, my memoir, written with the intention to entertain as well as spread awareness of nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM). My website identifies some of the hospitals that perform this surgery, through the “What is NSM?” and “Where is NSM?” links.
My follow-up, The Road Paved in Pink: A Practical and Personal Guide for Breast Cancer Patients and Their Loved Ones serves to heighten awareness of reconstruction options, among other key topics specific to a breast cancer challenge. I am thrilled to offer the “Pay it Forward” program in conjunction with this book promotion.
Another tool I’ve created to help further the awareness of breast cancer surgery options is a free 11-minute video that describes and shows the various options. Since studies have shown women undergoing treatment for breast cancer aren’t always informed of all of their options, I’m striving to ensure women facing this challenge are able to make fully informed choices. I invite all women to become educated on this topic, as this information might make a huge difference for someone they love. The video can be found on my website: http://shirleyalarie.com/2014/08/breast-cancer-surgery-options-video/
I’d love to have you join me in my journey to making a positive difference in the world!
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Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2014 Margaret MargaretHi My Name Is. . .
23 Oct
Written By
This week for the writers workshop I am going to write about number 2 : Hi, my name is ______ and I am a _______. There are so many ways that I could answer that question so I just put the first thing that came to my mind. I think this came to my mind the first because I have been really struggling with being a birth mom. I am sure the thing that triggered my feelings now has watched my nephew grow up over the past year. It has made me see first hand everything that I missed out on when it comes to my daughter. It has also made start to ask the what if type questions. I haven’t ever really asked myself those types of questions because I know it was the right choice and know that those questions never get you anywhere in the long run.
I feel like I always have to say that just because I am asking myself the what if’s that I don’t regret my choice. I know that I did the right thing for both of us but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t still hurt from time to time. Just because I hurt doesn’t mean I regret my choice. I can’t help but wonder where I would be and what my life would be like had I made different choices.
I do now know without a doubt that I don’t want kids and I am 100% okay with that choice. People tell me I will change my mind when I meet the right person and I can honestly say that they are wrong. I know I don’t have the patience let alone the energy that it takes to raise kids. I am glad I know this before I had anymore kids because it isn’t fair to have kids and not be able to take care of them and be there for them.
I got a little bit off topic but that happens in my world. If you are new here and want to know about my story you can click here and check it out.
How would you answer this sentence?
Just a quick note: I was looking through my archives looking for another post and I saw that I had already done a post like this back in November of 2013 you can click here if you want to check out that post as well!
Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2014 Margaret MargaretThe Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky
22 Oct
Written By
The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky was an okay book. I am not sure what it was about this book I had a hard time getting into the story. For some reason this book didn’t grab my attention. The author did a great job writing this story it just personally wasn’t the story for me. I think part of the problem is that I have read so many historical fiction books lately that I am just burnt out. That being said if you love historical fiction make sure you don’t miss this book because it was a sweet story just not the story for me.
About The Book
The Daughter of Highland Hall || Book 2, Edwardian Brides (Waterbrook Multnomah, October 2014)
What if the title, the estate, the life of security and splendor . . . what if it isn’t enough?
Strong-willed and beautiful, debutante Katherine Ramsey feels ready to take the London social season by storm, and she must. Her family estate, Highland Hall, has been passed to older male cousin Sir William Ramsey, and her only means of securing her future is to make a strong debut and find a proper husband. With her all-knowing and meddling aunt as a guide, Katherine is certain to attract suitors at the lavish gatherings, sparkling with Great Britain’s elite.
When a shocking family scandal sidelines Katherine, forcing her out of the social spotlight, she keeps a low profile, volunteering with the poor in London’s East End. Here Katherine feels free from her predictable future, and even more so as a friendship with medical student Jonathan Foster deepens and her faith in God grows. But when Katherine is courted anew by a man of wealth and position, dreams of the life she always thought she wanted surface again. Torn between tradition and the stirrings in her heart for a different path, she must decide whom she can trust and love—and if she will choose a life serving others over one where she is served.
About The Author
Carrie Turansky is an award-winning author of more than a dozen novels and novellas. She has written contemporary and historical romances, women’s fiction, short stories, articles, and devotionals. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, Scott, and they have five adult children and four grandchildren.
Find Carrie online: website, Facebook, Twitter
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Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2014 Margaret MargaretAgatha Christie-Quote Of The Week
21 Oct
Written By
This weeks quote is another one by Agatha Christie. If you missed the first one you can check it out here.
I loved this quote because I know quite a few people who ask for advice and then don’t take it. What makes me even more frustrated is when they then complain that they made the wrong choice. I am always want to say well if you had listened to me then you wouldn’t be in the situation you are in now. I am not saying that I always know the right answers but it does upset me when I do end up being right and the person always does the exact opposite of what I say and then complain about their choices.
What do you think of this weeks quote by Agatha Christie? What quotes are you loving right now?
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