tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3620484292915558142024-02-18T20:58:01.747-08:00Strange WorldThis blog consists of travel essay's and info on my five books, Behind the Closet Door, Through the Cane Fields, Blood Brothers, Wyatt and The Secret Lives of the Harvested. I'm also a certified Reiki Master/Teacher. sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-64411584831863838792018-07-26T14:37:00.000-07:002018-07-26T14:37:25.702-07:00New Designs Coming Soon! I'm busy working on a bunch of new sterling and gemstone jewellery. I'll post photos as soon as they are ready for sale! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLZy4JbxhtQOA2GYFK7ofKIVD0_k_ftQ5_nabVKCvKC_crOkeSF9WmWBEQsVWAAc3W_NwwrHlz1AbPEfLZFGbEMqdxyKHc0c3iZGeG1GhwVflwZCVkJWifafP15nb-rYTx7HkPQlUpMR1g/s1600/IMG_20180724_225115_391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLZy4JbxhtQOA2GYFK7ofKIVD0_k_ftQ5_nabVKCvKC_crOkeSF9WmWBEQsVWAAc3W_NwwrHlz1AbPEfLZFGbEMqdxyKHc0c3iZGeG1GhwVflwZCVkJWifafP15nb-rYTx7HkPQlUpMR1g/s400/IMG_20180724_225115_391.jpg" width="400" height="310" data-original-width="650" data-original-height="504" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONq6rsZ87JV_4kcc7U6e3yvBm-HKAlu9PYpytTJ1gD4SoM_7oV8YRhn-J41kRp71-s53SJPGmlnL1z_LrvDCn88w9WGfLTAKQMwFUfCjpKFijUKPw9XO8oN-OgxNODvcpc7NC9kHYAOUS/s1600/IMG_20180725_214553_089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONq6rsZ87JV_4kcc7U6e3yvBm-HKAlu9PYpytTJ1gD4SoM_7oV8YRhn-J41kRp71-s53SJPGmlnL1z_LrvDCn88w9WGfLTAKQMwFUfCjpKFijUKPw9XO8oN-OgxNODvcpc7NC9kHYAOUS/s400/IMG_20180725_214553_089.jpg" width="400" height="400" data-original-width="380" data-original-height="380" /></a></div><br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-67855649443403993822018-07-22T20:17:00.000-07:002018-07-22T20:17:45.155-07:00Liscensed Massage Therapist (LMT)If you are in the Virginia area, I am now offering Swedish Massage along with Cranial Sacral, Accupressure, Reiki Combo and Relaxation massage. I also offer aromatherapy with every treatment. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4kw-WFkmuk_XCnZ-3Gu-uiCTykWiBL_Mi5CaNzHw6aofTJJ9w2I7RsWsl7Yf1QkygI2PRnp7rCPl9MxZfZd2hZc75Y0qqsEzYDEMuXTB_GFE4qny7faO_lgaDgg8rMh2HgBvpPxtqJqa/s1600/20180716_135747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4kw-WFkmuk_XCnZ-3Gu-uiCTykWiBL_Mi5CaNzHw6aofTJJ9w2I7RsWsl7Yf1QkygI2PRnp7rCPl9MxZfZd2hZc75Y0qqsEzYDEMuXTB_GFE4qny7faO_lgaDgg8rMh2HgBvpPxtqJqa/s320/20180716_135747.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div><br />
Also, we make the best tattoo balm and salve in the world. Use the good stuff! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm_y0QcOZNw1-KMUYXaCZtftnO-1Hcqj2jA1fI4K7WS2F7PZjXe0ubZHx45N8iP1qjep63OYwdAly_DMidLkWKO6tqWZyTNB4ImuiLR8Bz1RUekOmdBBcHt1jyAu2cEc5r32y_YVpIsnMF/s1600/FB_IMG_1532312827598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm_y0QcOZNw1-KMUYXaCZtftnO-1Hcqj2jA1fI4K7WS2F7PZjXe0ubZHx45N8iP1qjep63OYwdAly_DMidLkWKO6tqWZyTNB4ImuiLR8Bz1RUekOmdBBcHt1jyAu2cEc5r32y_YVpIsnMF/s320/FB_IMG_1532312827598.jpg" width="320" height="187" data-original-width="521" data-original-height="305" /></a></div><br />
I also offer distance healing Reiki sessions for those farther away. Text or email for info.<br />
Now, here are some glorious summer shots. Have a wonderful August! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIPy08QP_gagNrFsRne-RsdnEjeU-jT_cqw7rMLSwDfOY7byStrjndqNcMnprVTRCsenqSNSIe6SwYSVn44w2uWbB39PLzYrezryDUZs8Fo-1Md8OuPk8aXl5SodaNCuz45bevk8xR48kg/s1600/photo%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIPy08QP_gagNrFsRne-RsdnEjeU-jT_cqw7rMLSwDfOY7byStrjndqNcMnprVTRCsenqSNSIe6SwYSVn44w2uWbB39PLzYrezryDUZs8Fo-1Md8OuPk8aXl5SodaNCuz45bevk8xR48kg/s320/photo%25288%2529.JPG" width="239" height="320" data-original-width="478" data-original-height="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0IXNM63-JCS94gJpCG6-j0lQHvsnrLMh7LHk5kGukeIMNzwUujh_cZnwAcNpwn49VFoyOiEeRFvXBcFt2MV1J6V16gLGPwc7pDAuptSpOY5dzgPnNuo4fZ6MC75p9X8T8c9pYQvGf29PE/s1600/2017+-+1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0IXNM63-JCS94gJpCG6-j0lQHvsnrLMh7LHk5kGukeIMNzwUujh_cZnwAcNpwn49VFoyOiEeRFvXBcFt2MV1J6V16gLGPwc7pDAuptSpOY5dzgPnNuo4fZ6MC75p9X8T8c9pYQvGf29PE/s320/2017+-+1" width="320" height="320" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfEtCwTZO1BrUivVX2gjGuiI-RqII_whJXWdq1cAJj94TCOM_ci1M-OOnAKIoRqVpzi-_utsiM5pHoPzBNahIfSHgrkQaIwXpV75vl71yQr_Z8oW1jT0LWxOHhPzEUG6mdX1VL-oc635o/s1600/20180414_161717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfEtCwTZO1BrUivVX2gjGuiI-RqII_whJXWdq1cAJj94TCOM_ci1M-OOnAKIoRqVpzi-_utsiM5pHoPzBNahIfSHgrkQaIwXpV75vl71yQr_Z8oW1jT0LWxOHhPzEUG6mdX1VL-oc635o/s320/20180414_161717.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7u5Nk9YmMqQ2k90OKF57g6TNF2RDChsSA3nQGFUlm5iza6aJRiCz-M-aCxCOPe22do-dzVZ6EmGX1Iv1w9bltiJNeZrLUUXcF7FzfZxdUXIN_SrPkmfHVN8gx7bAkNwWgbWTVzy7O9lM/s1600/20180414_155311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7u5Nk9YmMqQ2k90OKF57g6TNF2RDChsSA3nQGFUlm5iza6aJRiCz-M-aCxCOPe22do-dzVZ6EmGX1Iv1w9bltiJNeZrLUUXcF7FzfZxdUXIN_SrPkmfHVN8gx7bAkNwWgbWTVzy7O9lM/s320/20180414_155311.jpg" width="240" height="320" data-original-width="1200" data-original-height="1600" /></a></div><br />
cheers! sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-36906876659027074362017-07-19T07:44:00.001-07:002017-07-19T07:44:31.583-07:00New Article on Tuning Forks and Sound Healing Hi all, I hope everyone is having a fantastic summer. I love summer, mostly because I have access to a pool where I live. Yes I know it's been in the 90's most days but I still love it. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kz9jz0czTs9GwN3N60T2vobsWd0MoQQkD2ZPj8DJShz59oNygsJ07k8d7t2-Bp3XnPwNUrr9o5reCWQon3IsmAKdVdkCquaLcIBYR36hagxpL0Ht82y3XSLdsMN86dL_CzB8NgAbmfVh/s1600/294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kz9jz0czTs9GwN3N60T2vobsWd0MoQQkD2ZPj8DJShz59oNygsJ07k8d7t2-Bp3XnPwNUrr9o5reCWQon3IsmAKdVdkCquaLcIBYR36hagxpL0Ht82y3XSLdsMN86dL_CzB8NgAbmfVh/s320/294.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div><br />
So, I wanted to share the latest article I wrote about Tuning Forks and their uses in sound healing. I am a Reiki practitioner and I have been using tuning forks in my sessions for awhile now. <br />
<br />
Here is the link for the article. <br />
<br />
http://www.theechoworld.com/Magazine/magazine.html<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWut2zEjWiHGoSBecNnYLjSU0PRqx30gQm7xGxwqNjHrwwphmgHeA8cBVuWJVF3NEwQPqnJN1gfdn46WWKDMMrmt69i6_JnxpjTXJSDTkjhH1ymlwb9Fza1riYO9u0E12CnZynWt3zbH56/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWut2zEjWiHGoSBecNnYLjSU0PRqx30gQm7xGxwqNjHrwwphmgHeA8cBVuWJVF3NEwQPqnJN1gfdn46WWKDMMrmt69i6_JnxpjTXJSDTkjhH1ymlwb9Fza1riYO9u0E12CnZynWt3zbH56/s320/images.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="259" data-original-height="194" /></a></div><br />
The set I use most is a color-coded chakra set of body tuners. There is a weight on the end of each tuner that makes the sound resonate and go into the body. Check out the article to see how these can help with stress, sleep and other issues. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEks6C0q8Iou67ehyR9oZlEZGOZcgURlua3OlH_V0OQck8T3puh1w4Xenv_Ip9ee8P_-7q_teDKxBTtWoqU1XXMT1D6fqUiQPr57KWaR04iIGuZ8zYvhFRBWt9Rhc-hvyWF_RtvdXXyAnT/s1600/reikiinfo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEks6C0q8Iou67ehyR9oZlEZGOZcgURlua3OlH_V0OQck8T3puh1w4Xenv_Ip9ee8P_-7q_teDKxBTtWoqU1XXMT1D6fqUiQPr57KWaR04iIGuZ8zYvhFRBWt9Rhc-hvyWF_RtvdXXyAnT/s320/reikiinfo.jpg" width="320" height="187" data-original-width="521" data-original-height="305" /></a></div><br />
As always, please email if you'd like to come see me for an in person Reiki treatment or a distance session. <br />
<br />
Have a wonderful summer! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc0Ew30bo1Gjtxl2-eErWhiI0a02g-thW3z5GWauLbAJ0P-_DS9N9yP21bVnyYF6-FQUKrILxEFn6hZ7oL7V_3xoU971av45KRwRvlNV_wtyNg8b03aWJdSQ144kU86WqfADxw7N0M3cd9/s1600/sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc0Ew30bo1Gjtxl2-eErWhiI0a02g-thW3z5GWauLbAJ0P-_DS9N9yP21bVnyYF6-FQUKrILxEFn6hZ7oL7V_3xoU971av45KRwRvlNV_wtyNg8b03aWJdSQ144kU86WqfADxw7N0M3cd9/s320/sunset.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a></div>sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-52253746084272188692017-05-01T08:01:00.000-07:002017-05-01T08:05:13.492-07:00New Article on Handmade SalveHi all! I have just had an article published in the May 2017 edition of The Echo World. It's about how to make your own salve. Check it out. <a href="http://www.theechoworld.com/Magazine/magazine.html"></a><br />
http://www.theechoworld.com/Magazine/magazine.html<br />
<br />
I also sell it if you'd rather buy it. It's all natural and made with olive oil, coconut oil, cocoa butter and other healthy, natural ingredients. I infuse the finished product with Reiki energy which really helps. <br />
<br />
I know that salve seems more like a winter product but I use it year round. I have dry skin but also it's great for tattoos. It keeps the skin soft and brings out the colors without being greasy. <br />
<br />
Here is a photo of the salve before it cools. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGefUs3MEvKYtanPrMAG3E5N_SAkjH87Zunxng1CaR68PAmShOPCeokxTd5BY72HcJX_zms8WPvjZ2QAWsOvYhL_ZYgkTrukCPc3hotR1vQz139qPOW99ZQviYNeWiAeszH56HwlCrPMy/s1600/20160225_135608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGefUs3MEvKYtanPrMAG3E5N_SAkjH87Zunxng1CaR68PAmShOPCeokxTd5BY72HcJX_zms8WPvjZ2QAWsOvYhL_ZYgkTrukCPc3hotR1vQz139qPOW99ZQviYNeWiAeszH56HwlCrPMy/s320/20160225_135608.jpg" width="320" height="240" /></a></div><br />
It's almost cool here. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKXc7AbgIZBH3rIMWMu4tjV2hSMRR3UvPb1dGyEqaNzEg56Y9EvOq62mBnFR9tbdrTjQZ7epOjVJ5JOYuXhmh_dz4FDy5ozkcJK_ynbSBjI4c1aCB0DuesFSk7T_y4GwunEzpF6KeiWgc/s1600/20160311_145347-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtKXc7AbgIZBH3rIMWMu4tjV2hSMRR3UvPb1dGyEqaNzEg56Y9EvOq62mBnFR9tbdrTjQZ7epOjVJ5JOYuXhmh_dz4FDy5ozkcJK_ynbSBjI4c1aCB0DuesFSk7T_y4GwunEzpF6KeiWgc/s320/20160311_145347-1.jpg" width="320" height="180" /></a></div><br />
The finished product. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8nCJ88V5rbxfoOteqMgmdOlXb7TS72pqAyN4w1sVTYw4BcnHh-dEyDHicE8GrBedLwVQzOAoKrZ4Y2kan3R-237Pwcv_LgRtODSWpMeeZLAQOLrmLgc4exwqig5kvM65bS-bTqEq0IvYY/s1600/20160313_105206-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8nCJ88V5rbxfoOteqMgmdOlXb7TS72pqAyN4w1sVTYw4BcnHh-dEyDHicE8GrBedLwVQzOAoKrZ4Y2kan3R-237Pwcv_LgRtODSWpMeeZLAQOLrmLgc4exwqig5kvM65bS-bTqEq0IvYY/s320/20160313_105206-1.jpg" width="320" height="262" /></a></div><br />
My contact info. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dMQqAet7qQPjq2YAqIADiAHwQM8esNxRhjTzMS5n770yevfFiR82pfgPVRBU293oRNmj_bBQr8agQsKNtBhShkCNGD0TCzPX_9wEX5smlWsVn_zRavrF5f-NRHk0cuR4mRxKp5BXk-P7/s1600/reikiinfo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dMQqAet7qQPjq2YAqIADiAHwQM8esNxRhjTzMS5n770yevfFiR82pfgPVRBU293oRNmj_bBQr8agQsKNtBhShkCNGD0TCzPX_9wEX5smlWsVn_zRavrF5f-NRHk0cuR4mRxKp5BXk-P7/s320/reikiinfo.jpg" width="320" height="187" /></a></div><br />
I hope everyone is having a nice spring. It's gorgeous today, moody and windy but also warm. Have a wonderful week! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMqVsforN8iYiddzCgLi3uCyO3j7I8Cwjgb4hyphenhyphensUl02o3-oSfn9PPRE5KyooK2jhFZcGyJBTG7cQYAOa3hKWu7AJaLOlkbe2nO1GyR0r3-Wfw0PzNRenGBefU1vut3NfLMnw_5vxSHDbs/s1600/136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMqVsforN8iYiddzCgLi3uCyO3j7I8Cwjgb4hyphenhyphensUl02o3-oSfn9PPRE5KyooK2jhFZcGyJBTG7cQYAOa3hKWu7AJaLOlkbe2nO1GyR0r3-Wfw0PzNRenGBefU1vut3NfLMnw_5vxSHDbs/s320/136.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-57571586766838009122017-03-06T09:07:00.000-08:002017-03-06T09:13:42.368-08:00ReikiI’ve probably talked about this before but I am a Reiki practitioner. I got into Reiki when I was trying to heal from an autoimmune condition and I had amazing results. I ended up taking classes and over a period of four years, did all the required work for all levels including master/teacher.<br />
<br />
I’ve just been featured in a local magazine with an article I co-wrote on Tandem Reiki with a fellow practitioner.<br />
<br />
Check out the article here if you’d like to know more about Tandem Reiki.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.theechoworld.com/Magazine/magazine.html"></a><br />
<br />
http://www.theechoworld.com/Magazine/magazine.html<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2z9tmXQ7d5YVh8CGOH2WKlomCmKLpy-pO9q-LxNFWaCcM0yCjYOmUZ0kmnmazXBKWnLQUvw1Ftu3zFTHvfSzPNdS7GsWbRUF6CHbzhSOSNor6jns65WnnMeTPVhrbkREBFrOa6aTNexJo/s1600/Reiki-hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2z9tmXQ7d5YVh8CGOH2WKlomCmKLpy-pO9q-LxNFWaCcM0yCjYOmUZ0kmnmazXBKWnLQUvw1Ftu3zFTHvfSzPNdS7GsWbRUF6CHbzhSOSNor6jns65WnnMeTPVhrbkREBFrOa6aTNexJo/s320/Reiki-hands.jpg" width="320" height="231" /></a></div><br />
You can also check out my website to see what I offer in terms of treatments and services.<br />
<br />
https://www.facebook.com/shariroodreiki<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigXol_S6Ye3rTN68iFR7MGTFSBrC6-UtznB3PCfB8Z3tFzB8TJ3pXtAuy28RfU4X7bjW1n1GpU7TGR23ButFb59-I-3TmIktkUZFyC_xhAq95N3kxiSaIjwSjYNbruSWjNMvemKX15kF3y/s1600/12717902_959667620791418_529289884579700575_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigXol_S6Ye3rTN68iFR7MGTFSBrC6-UtznB3PCfB8Z3tFzB8TJ3pXtAuy28RfU4X7bjW1n1GpU7TGR23ButFb59-I-3TmIktkUZFyC_xhAq95N3kxiSaIjwSjYNbruSWjNMvemKX15kF3y/s320/12717902_959667620791418_529289884579700575_n.jpg" width="224" height="320" /></a></div><br />
Reiki is great for stress management and helping your body to heal itself. I’m posting my information below. Feel free to contact me if you’d like to know more about Reiki. I have a short document I can email you that goes over the basics. If you are in the Virginia area, I’m taking new clients so feel free to email, text or even ‘gasp’ call on the phone.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwLXvSXQjzOr0dPFe2yHRD-IaiDm40LAh6hBcRCowAqvvLaJ464au02XhoxgqT-ssit1yp7vgZhMsgHJnONwcSbhylzBe5EE9T8aFYDDhQ00IrAKMYyq_E0UxtNShnPUXnK8KKJyfQMj-K/s1600/reikiinfo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwLXvSXQjzOr0dPFe2yHRD-IaiDm40LAh6hBcRCowAqvvLaJ464au02XhoxgqT-ssit1yp7vgZhMsgHJnONwcSbhylzBe5EE9T8aFYDDhQ00IrAKMYyq_E0UxtNShnPUXnK8KKJyfQMj-K/s320/reikiinfo.jpg" width="320" height="187" /></a></div><br />
Have a wonderful week! Spring is right around the corner!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_OArFy5xcl43to8KMbrDiOSNbJK81rlrKvZbEAwvRb2ACvnmzxzZ81OnBLNNC0dv_UVvjB7MgjnD5Odvd3SSLpgB6cjorDA0ZG4rgxrbuotH2sYP8EjYu38KZs5Wma4Lwxi5duWgIrlR/s1600/136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_OArFy5xcl43to8KMbrDiOSNbJK81rlrKvZbEAwvRb2ACvnmzxzZ81OnBLNNC0dv_UVvjB7MgjnD5Odvd3SSLpgB6cjorDA0ZG4rgxrbuotH2sYP8EjYu38KZs5Wma4Lwxi5duWgIrlR/s320/136.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-6076920030708938532016-08-05T06:21:00.001-07:002016-08-05T09:42:46.184-07:00Writers Block?<br />
<br />
<br />
I have been “working” on the latest book in the Closet Door series for two years. At first I blamed it on moving to South Africa and having that fantastic view. People told me to turn my computer away from the ocean view. As if I could do such a thing…<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EDN5xTZMe5bfNfyTz0SuqMubUSutKgD17aIoOPupMfJ35adlSb7PsVe3pPSzEAPASIwfWHtxTnVRYozKFcswINha_Q0BDiflf_Cun7JMSHm-8NGy0Vib5x2vMLhB_ylLldHn7WGx8U2A/s1600/017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EDN5xTZMe5bfNfyTz0SuqMubUSutKgD17aIoOPupMfJ35adlSb7PsVe3pPSzEAPASIwfWHtxTnVRYozKFcswINha_Q0BDiflf_Cun7JMSHm-8NGy0Vib5x2vMLhB_ylLldHn7WGx8U2A/s320/017.jpg" width="320" height="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
But now we are back. First we went to New Mexico for a few months. I wanted so much to like it. I really tried. It was beautiful, just expensive. We ended up in a one room Casita which was nice but I couldn’t concentrate on writing at all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilwoueUxHtBpIb-s1qPvww3EWgW1_KYGm3zuQbpv8aHyit-zBg8xQ-ewIfManvPHV5WX3qLv1IaW8S73raXD1Iow9tIhNKy2FZt4aICKrOJF_RebCzA3rg4JZUDtpaLRw11L2PAYK4R0p/s1600/IMG_20150709_220932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjilwoueUxHtBpIb-s1qPvww3EWgW1_KYGm3zuQbpv8aHyit-zBg8xQ-ewIfManvPHV5WX3qLv1IaW8S73raXD1Iow9tIhNKy2FZt4aICKrOJF_RebCzA3rg4JZUDtpaLRw11L2PAYK4R0p/s320/IMG_20150709_220932.jpg" width="320" height="320" /></a></div><br />
Everyone said that it was one of the rainiest springs ever. All the wild cactus were in bloom. That was pretty spectacular. I’m from Virginia so even the rainiest weather there is still dry as hell to me. I watched as the rainstorms would end and the water would just evaporate instantly. A mist would rise up and the pavement, tables, chairs, anything outside would be completely dry again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUaOjltsh0xwwL0s1lSNhizwbm6SiLD6Ya7Gik9hFpUikuOfC_kACSVvK5aMF4A3R_mqWkJP2CnPMqTwZhzLvR8dwFbwmD9hV6cVMjK_7M1FKi4B5kt8O_TnaRjrZzHp6U25he2rEQOQM/s1600/IMG_20150708_000225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUaOjltsh0xwwL0s1lSNhizwbm6SiLD6Ya7Gik9hFpUikuOfC_kACSVvK5aMF4A3R_mqWkJP2CnPMqTwZhzLvR8dwFbwmD9hV6cVMjK_7M1FKi4B5kt8O_TnaRjrZzHp6U25he2rEQOQM/s320/IMG_20150708_000225.jpg" width="320" height="320" /></a></div><br />
So the contrast from the beach to the desert was too strange and harsh to acclimate to. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwVxJ92mqPR5aBkwmUdxOHWmZDAbtEbgz78kmm4UlN-QMdPO3AkU1eK4nxnjZauBB-0Oq5rZZwQyGAkfaHxBtCldMvDwu7VCCSRzAEVHghG6Eqrmx1CjgNx-wM4CoY4l-YyoU1Hv_nKF-u/s1600/IMG_20150818_232856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwVxJ92mqPR5aBkwmUdxOHWmZDAbtEbgz78kmm4UlN-QMdPO3AkU1eK4nxnjZauBB-0Oq5rZZwQyGAkfaHxBtCldMvDwu7VCCSRzAEVHghG6Eqrmx1CjgNx-wM4CoY4l-YyoU1Hv_nKF-u/s320/IMG_20150818_232856.jpg" width="320" height="320" /></a></div><br />
So we came back to Virginia. I have no excuse not to write but I have not been able to write like I used to.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQX-kbUKLvcVfGyVVNC2UdyzCJY0l_vMAoIRY-9HWCN3hQRG5tR3amL4ExpfkGht3hoaSC7bUtQxx2M1eFI3yJtwwGwPp5dGRUQLn3ioLEtQq19wZVVXBD-aCP0RzmnKsTIms853qrDjcS/s1600/IMG_20150911_233648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQX-kbUKLvcVfGyVVNC2UdyzCJY0l_vMAoIRY-9HWCN3hQRG5tR3amL4ExpfkGht3hoaSC7bUtQxx2M1eFI3yJtwwGwPp5dGRUQLn3ioLEtQq19wZVVXBD-aCP0RzmnKsTIms853qrDjcS/s320/IMG_20150911_233648.jpg" width="320" height="320" /></a></div><br />
I am still processing the time in South Africa. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NPPr4wEaHpGw8Tlt4_Smr2gJ3fh98TL2wvD_oe4_xFu3xNQQ0tL0klh84BZzgmD53_U12PEblkBq_EXIVbsUKJ1nOEUwutHOU8ndRy6w2FmOfJIbsc5B27GcVD7VJXscZ2W7oWca9FJe/s1600/IMG_20150726_002730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NPPr4wEaHpGw8Tlt4_Smr2gJ3fh98TL2wvD_oe4_xFu3xNQQ0tL0klh84BZzgmD53_U12PEblkBq_EXIVbsUKJ1nOEUwutHOU8ndRy6w2FmOfJIbsc5B27GcVD7VJXscZ2W7oWca9FJe/s320/IMG_20150726_002730.jpg" width="320" height="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7uZC64iWKC20Cz4z_4H3E-0ruSF9YJNWu8rlCyPZZLs8jj_F348MDILx0DLgajuyE4f0mwk3BXMFuNMfOXqp1n57CKsCawarA2tEWmVbMUZRruVBZnH9T4Ox1cVLyeYLW4wpRRjwZ4O_/s1600/IMG_20150721_210745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7uZC64iWKC20Cz4z_4H3E-0ruSF9YJNWu8rlCyPZZLs8jj_F348MDILx0DLgajuyE4f0mwk3BXMFuNMfOXqp1n57CKsCawarA2tEWmVbMUZRruVBZnH9T4Ox1cVLyeYLW4wpRRjwZ4O_/s320/IMG_20150721_210745.jpg" width="320" height="320" /></a></div><br />
Hopefully I'll be able to write again soon. At least I've been working on a Level One Reiki manual so that I can teach classes. I'm almost finished. It's a different type of writing but it still counts. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qNf0WPP44i6-4J7s3gpIFAByCbB9OV0qHyggTWwwKNXtSrMXofsq35EDYNL2fFR_JFSiDse6lhCRSlJbGAFrQJM__naDXCkmJYqbZgAdgx1SjTY7yesbhKZZC4p-zXLp_Bbd_RDZsTqy/s1600/IMG_20150718_200350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qNf0WPP44i6-4J7s3gpIFAByCbB9OV0qHyggTWwwKNXtSrMXofsq35EDYNL2fFR_JFSiDse6lhCRSlJbGAFrQJM__naDXCkmJYqbZgAdgx1SjTY7yesbhKZZC4p-zXLp_Bbd_RDZsTqy/s320/IMG_20150718_200350.jpg" width="320" height="320" /></a></div>sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-43953786241097584312016-07-20T05:54:00.001-07:002016-07-20T05:54:05.782-07:00Guess What? Behind the Closet Door is Free! Hi there! My book Behind the Closet Door is FREE at Smashwords right now. It's the first time my publisher has ever done this kind of promotion so I am chuffed! All you have to do is enter the code sfree at checkout and your free copy will be yours forever! Get this deal, man. Free is great!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPrUXssVJ_Cvcfhd_415I-pv7zx1rr_p6nwhJNp0-hAgdIcyo407RHLvqFldps_tO8AmcG3lg4dRfHdKO2wE7NFlzyAAsZe2nK15wNr2NDrP1dx5yrTxZMEBvI0iBThE0dc4TB7TkeqZq/s1600/BehindThe+ClosetDoor-WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPrUXssVJ_Cvcfhd_415I-pv7zx1rr_p6nwhJNp0-hAgdIcyo407RHLvqFldps_tO8AmcG3lg4dRfHdKO2wE7NFlzyAAsZe2nK15wNr2NDrP1dx5yrTxZMEBvI0iBThE0dc4TB7TkeqZq/s320/BehindThe+ClosetDoor-WEB.jpg" width="213" height="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/396504#/download"></a>sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-2540899763508638292016-06-22T13:06:00.002-07:002017-05-01T08:04:24.159-07:00Awesome Pottery Studio For SaleUPDATE: The pottery is sold. Thanks for your interest! Have an awesome day! <br />
<br />
Hey guys, I wanted to tell you that we are selling our pottery studio. It's a very cool building located in a very cool place. Ever heard of Yogaville? If not, go to www.YogaVille.org<br />
<br />
It's a spiritual community located in Buckingham Virginia. About an hour from Charlottesville which is known for Monticello, UVA, Dave Matthews and other things. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2GJHBbWzFFVCjG24mrlekOQI6pvf_Arh7Qa0-WYMfN0Hb2jT2_RGmGkVpVH9J1274UzJ-j-AX1iRwYS_kXdlgNPZg6Y-CBv2bZVeRxdw4RBbtfYYwiknz33VolizG3pV_eCpoWAKZ6RH/s1600/IMG_9460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG2GJHBbWzFFVCjG24mrlekOQI6pvf_Arh7Qa0-WYMfN0Hb2jT2_RGmGkVpVH9J1274UzJ-j-AX1iRwYS_kXdlgNPZg6Y-CBv2bZVeRxdw4RBbtfYYwiknz33VolizG3pV_eCpoWAKZ6RH/s320/IMG_9460.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Beautifully built Studio on over three acres of land<br />
<br />
This lovely studio is situated in the heart of Yogaville. It offers privacy, surrounded by woods but is also walking distance to all the venues at Yogaville.<br />
<br />
This property is unique and will take the right person to make it a home. The building is stick built, slab construction. However, there is no well and septic. When we built it, we lived in the house nearby. <br />
<br />
It has been perked for a septic system and there is also another building site on the property. This is perfect for someone who knows construction and can add a bathroom and the well and septic or for someone who wants to get creative by installing composting toilets and other off the grid measures.<br />
<br />
<br />
There is electric. The building is fully wired and lighted. There is also a woodstove and propane heat.<br />
<br />
We are selling it because we have moved to Charlottesville and it's a bit far to commute. We are ready for this wonderful roomy studio to have a brand new chapter with a new artist or someone who wants to live creatively. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzb5Q9kLDz-ZoCCKufahtlXWVjcun5EbvDOFZ-gvISdqAIkE7YPC_a7bXrJ-7-8aCExbuY4x7x2xyAD3VMVPZooS_MENewgsrM5-hHCJzrm7D7e3Ndy7kiRH71YalIe-UGnMlkRWzKKIT/s1600/IMG_9477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzb5Q9kLDz-ZoCCKufahtlXWVjcun5EbvDOFZ-gvISdqAIkE7YPC_a7bXrJ-7-8aCExbuY4x7x2xyAD3VMVPZooS_MENewgsrM5-hHCJzrm7D7e3Ndy7kiRH71YalIe-UGnMlkRWzKKIT/s320/IMG_9477.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZN67CNFHpsUSso_chkkF7ox9UnGZoe-Vy0vi2tkaC1FwBM0P_qnSLHsyQQs2KspVQdiazAHbY5c1zLwvqXNrdQnqkQ4UnVNO2073PQoZXHpPyZYvNNLvoKdz_ubWfg7VmYR728kdUUTv/s1600/IMG_9420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZN67CNFHpsUSso_chkkF7ox9UnGZoe-Vy0vi2tkaC1FwBM0P_qnSLHsyQQs2KspVQdiazAHbY5c1zLwvqXNrdQnqkQ4UnVNO2073PQoZXHpPyZYvNNLvoKdz_ubWfg7VmYR728kdUUTv/s320/IMG_9420.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtDu3CgwWzvR19KZOKLT2fNSumMCR0SOUGfSqarzEG3YbM7drXSS3Fl19kAyaMT774nh8Oq78Tib34k_SidCES_itTJfWgORKVBEBQoEk48fbEdGQf4u_ZHnOFx0mXUgrWnlIdtbyaknp/s1600/IMG_9475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKtDu3CgwWzvR19KZOKLT2fNSumMCR0SOUGfSqarzEG3YbM7drXSS3Fl19kAyaMT774nh8Oq78Tib34k_SidCES_itTJfWgORKVBEBQoEk48fbEdGQf4u_ZHnOFx0mXUgrWnlIdtbyaknp/s320/IMG_9475.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3cxHcs60_IkqH10BIlVh-9k1Ne2pQ3jAN6fIZFfwqKXiFHgDfE8q5MWCcWt01IB7E_e2sazlgkVnyKNC48x8s_85URHPJVahKnGQz8IIOizDntRUj8NcI-IT7TIjG7Xsg_iyTBjUpk15/s1600/IMG_9446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3cxHcs60_IkqH10BIlVh-9k1Ne2pQ3jAN6fIZFfwqKXiFHgDfE8q5MWCcWt01IB7E_e2sazlgkVnyKNC48x8s_85URHPJVahKnGQz8IIOizDntRUj8NcI-IT7TIjG7Xsg_iyTBjUpk15/s320/IMG_9446.JPG" /></a></div><br />
So, if you have any interest, please email me at shariandbodie@gmail.com and I can give you the price and all the pertinant details. It can be bought with or without the equipment. If you are a potter, the equipment is a steal. The kilns are amazing. Also, you can see a video of the property at https://www.facebook.com/shariwriter<br />
<br />
Alright folks, have a fantastic day! Cheers from Virginia! <br />
<br />
<br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-47079584827234492532016-04-16T11:52:00.000-07:002016-04-16T11:52:25.303-07:00Reiki and Juicing and Healthy Stuff Today I wanted to talk about a few things that are going on in my life besides writing. I love writing and will continue to do so but I also wanted to share my Reiki website. I got into Reiki several years ago when I was looking for something to help with an autoimmune condition. After a few months and doing levels one and two I was able to go off the immune suppressing drugs I was on. I went on to take the advanced level of Reiki and then a couple years later, the master and teacher level. Here's the link to my fb Reiki page www.facebook.com/shariroodreiki I'll also add an image that has my Reiki website address if you want to take a look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxaKSEKImgS1UaQg1ukrvvyMBvL-AyqryY6cDJvF4ty5ik0UaM04jak1FLvwwu02tp7P_gOMM5gZhawgqfbNGaXQRRonC9XBXDtPjlZr_BYpuZ-VyK3iSMlKd094299ttXKwMBiecZZbj6/s1600/12jvx6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxaKSEKImgS1UaQg1ukrvvyMBvL-AyqryY6cDJvF4ty5ik0UaM04jak1FLvwwu02tp7P_gOMM5gZhawgqfbNGaXQRRonC9XBXDtPjlZr_BYpuZ-VyK3iSMlKd094299ttXKwMBiecZZbj6/s320/12jvx6.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The other thing I am excited about is juicing. I live in Virginia where the climate is beautiful but spring and fall can be tough because of the crazy high pollen count here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJU7p3-bQWcC18fS2jJNqgqQXJPpbd-S60sgVGau2z7IVxVk4S8Q5rZP4m_1rij2nfP4kPk4jS3Yd9GVjLHlYJWaRu2SGcp_ZhdAfYgq4SaJ4AMzYi-lo1laXICDTTt3dc1aBLSWJsN_u/s1600/IMG_4174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJU7p3-bQWcC18fS2jJNqgqQXJPpbd-S60sgVGau2z7IVxVk4S8Q5rZP4m_1rij2nfP4kPk4jS3Yd9GVjLHlYJWaRu2SGcp_ZhdAfYgq4SaJ4AMzYi-lo1laXICDTTt3dc1aBLSWJsN_u/s320/IMG_4174.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
I get bronchitis almost every spring and this year is no exception. When we were living in South Africa, I didn't get sick at all so I really do think it's the climate. Still, there are things I can do to help myself heal. I've been giving myself Reiki which helps a lot but so does drinking fresh juice. I'm not talking about the awful bottled stuff you get from the store but using a juicer and making your own.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWUCLOjytcnB60nKF9TPNis7R8SPABKwhNfT2Ch0EILGfe5tuaHqarmRQQaL0spgpKWsuZnsBfJAN2Oe7C_NZExqXfaDZwcWeVVqB5F0ymynfsvafHc9bUHvU9q6VdI_98mgufyOiQ8oU/s1600/20160414_082750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWUCLOjytcnB60nKF9TPNis7R8SPABKwhNfT2Ch0EILGfe5tuaHqarmRQQaL0spgpKWsuZnsBfJAN2Oe7C_NZExqXfaDZwcWeVVqB5F0ymynfsvafHc9bUHvU9q6VdI_98mgufyOiQ8oU/s320/20160414_082750.jpg" /></a></div><br />
My favorite is pineapple, carrot, apple with a small amount of ginger. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2WS5xwLaWfJv_h_WbhvTm8RECG3YeJAlx-FEzKUAAWlLoqWgPQ6RGmeLm1sQ1LKQb9VFHDFYPDx3MnVHcnoy7h1brkx4FdjEi_YmDjy2l2w0mdBXefs_dgGXh5m5vtlMGVeZJ6IzuDMj/s1600/20160415_090955-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2WS5xwLaWfJv_h_WbhvTm8RECG3YeJAlx-FEzKUAAWlLoqWgPQ6RGmeLm1sQ1LKQb9VFHDFYPDx3MnVHcnoy7h1brkx4FdjEi_YmDjy2l2w0mdBXefs_dgGXh5m5vtlMGVeZJ6IzuDMj/s320/20160415_090955-1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Today I made a more veggie based juice with cabbage, carrot, ginger, celery and apple. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5TEezU6NGRD962ql2E3_ByeAGQOOJF86C9hrDCb8poR7xUfkS5byg6lT7p30P_aJFsL_HQLDm9O86gzvX8B7mFr8UgUvol_7LKF0IRPxTu0lxLZ91fQoV7Gyl9SvvfgaHQxQTz7hzi80/s1600/20160416_125300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5TEezU6NGRD962ql2E3_ByeAGQOOJF86C9hrDCb8poR7xUfkS5byg6lT7p30P_aJFsL_HQLDm9O86gzvX8B7mFr8UgUvol_7LKF0IRPxTu0lxLZ91fQoV7Gyl9SvvfgaHQxQTz7hzi80/s320/20160416_125300.jpg" /></a></div><br />
It was delicious, oh so delicious. It's helping me feel better too. I've known about juicing for years but got re-inspired by Joe Cross. He was the guy that did that fantastic documentary called Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead. It's on Netflix if you want to watch it. <br />
<br />
So, check out my website if you want to learn about Reiki or book a treatment. <br />
<br />
Cheers from Virginia<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KZohET2eT2O_6CPnn5agkyj1zDEk_YbvTMMJz4vfM1HJzJ9yseGN6byhnJWqa8By6kUNcUcnFhTB89GbdomPn2kGFekAkAtxCPCshc9gbfzGLJ-vEts5S76dF-Z5Ici1p1wiuKP1uZe_/s1600/Shari+Rood+Reiki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KZohET2eT2O_6CPnn5agkyj1zDEk_YbvTMMJz4vfM1HJzJ9yseGN6byhnJWqa8By6kUNcUcnFhTB89GbdomPn2kGFekAkAtxCPCshc9gbfzGLJ-vEts5S76dF-Z5Ici1p1wiuKP1uZe_/s320/Shari+Rood+Reiki.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-56514260748943759322016-01-19T09:00:00.001-08:002016-01-19T09:00:17.718-08:00Winter Feel Good Blog Hi, all. Winter is my least favorite time of year. That's why last year I enjoyed skipping the whole thing by staying in a place where the temperature doesn't go below fifty degrees (most of the time). That being said, I am here and it's cold as all hell but it's okay. First of all, I wanted to mention that my publisher has a brand spanking new website. They haven't put up all the books yet but a couple of mine are up there. They are all still available on Amazon and Barnes&Noble as usual. Here's the link. http://www.books-by-wings-epress.com/#!blood-brothers/ebf2h<br />
<br />
I thought it might be fun to post some pictures that just take you straight to summer. (Photo taken in South Africa last year) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEileP3hR285yHm7Ck-9jfUMXgb5dI1wA9ECKrdsh7vOJe2cXqBEvxpOp-9O9iTDuyqCEfpqU-CBIOttHBsQb8oB2HKQPZ2xgRDqs54UpR88Ls4TwD67w8N2yQmb107n2yttesOBy5qxft2v/s1600/umdloti1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEileP3hR285yHm7Ck-9jfUMXgb5dI1wA9ECKrdsh7vOJe2cXqBEvxpOp-9O9iTDuyqCEfpqU-CBIOttHBsQb8oB2HKQPZ2xgRDqs54UpR88Ls4TwD67w8N2yQmb107n2yttesOBy5qxft2v/s320/umdloti1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Ah, can you feel it? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwzo9izFhjPH8Ot6vCfmz1MBZ17UMr_uFRvPLE9PkhDV6STWSdfl-XCT06dEgsxKYKV8YirMBuCfhWdSptOX-EYFnPHXBMVIRQfbFhB5dBpMmwRNOsXnWG3-rVHiQv8b69yEHyspXAPnvg/s1600/bodie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwzo9izFhjPH8Ot6vCfmz1MBZ17UMr_uFRvPLE9PkhDV6STWSdfl-XCT06dEgsxKYKV8YirMBuCfhWdSptOX-EYFnPHXBMVIRQfbFhB5dBpMmwRNOsXnWG3-rVHiQv8b69yEHyspXAPnvg/s320/bodie.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Just imagine all that green! (Photo taken in Charlottesville Virginia)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUugjs_38lFYn_3kN2DPVwikeVwg7Iwxdqa-wv1vGZS08lOJxcXlvEFHe06iHRvL-jEYVByTC3rH2-YAU1dCJOMvOM0S54E3iCiADFlSLvsx09s5qYsXZFHKyEcrg4I0DEYowWPM5KfNfv/s1600/399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUugjs_38lFYn_3kN2DPVwikeVwg7Iwxdqa-wv1vGZS08lOJxcXlvEFHe06iHRvL-jEYVByTC3rH2-YAU1dCJOMvOM0S54E3iCiADFlSLvsx09s5qYsXZFHKyEcrg4I0DEYowWPM5KfNfv/s320/399.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Ah, yellow flowers. Does it get more Summery than that? (Photo taken in South Africa last year)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3y9N1DUZe2cMstSrK9ObhxarchX-DqOfzq4CQCmr8xJJoajtDPxIZ3yRorGW4pzKuFHuM_WlP8uEHd31GnOQzVAfrN4Ud_13R6C4Kw7YnNrA88zkRpIgMmhZU1DSdF_7C8de9cVMYyS5/s1600/mbestagain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3y9N1DUZe2cMstSrK9ObhxarchX-DqOfzq4CQCmr8xJJoajtDPxIZ3yRorGW4pzKuFHuM_WlP8uEHd31GnOQzVAfrN4Ud_13R6C4Kw7YnNrA88zkRpIgMmhZU1DSdF_7C8de9cVMYyS5/s320/mbestagain.jpg" /></a></div><br />
If squash growing doesn't make you think of summer, nothing will! (Photo taken in South Africa last year) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVRA8LRxu1O4SGLU6fPEK0_HsvvE8tnUfVbeJIN21bNsD51TU8LGMIKWUH9zevkgh1JnWoTlH8l17pE_-bnP8MSNJCz1QaqsCwfWKDP1Al5yE4pJ17-eAYdMf4qBR3zOdCsl-PD6-WTZbg/s1600/20150954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVRA8LRxu1O4SGLU6fPEK0_HsvvE8tnUfVbeJIN21bNsD51TU8LGMIKWUH9zevkgh1JnWoTlH8l17pE_-bnP8MSNJCz1QaqsCwfWKDP1Al5yE4pJ17-eAYdMf4qBR3zOdCsl-PD6-WTZbg/s320/20150954.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Hollyhocks in Santa Fe. (Taken this last summer)<br />
<br />
So, I hope you are all getting through Winter the best you can. I know some people actually like winter. I can't help those people... <br />
<br />
If you haven't been here for awhile, you might enjoy the articles I've been writing for Aneis de Vida magazine. It's a fantastic free on-line magazine. Here's a link to my latest article called Breakfast Sisters. http://issuu.com/aneisdevida/docs/january_issue2016?e=13670524/32433901<br />
<br />
Have a great week and dream of summer! sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-84343912531618508872015-10-13T19:35:00.001-07:002015-10-13T19:36:29.988-07:00Fall is in the air<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRWmJEolvuBpv354FYvV_gkcoEeBbf30lCHjKlsiewY2nRcYZLAuWQ_8mWvmUmd1CGQjOyoRQ2QOrLNbA_0RaUjGygMhqXChWe5403eB-g79Hg5y9V8tm6vXZjrqC_s39rH5fyyyMIhBXs/s1600/blood+brothers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRWmJEolvuBpv354FYvV_gkcoEeBbf30lCHjKlsiewY2nRcYZLAuWQ_8mWvmUmd1CGQjOyoRQ2QOrLNbA_0RaUjGygMhqXChWe5403eB-g79Hg5y9V8tm6vXZjrqC_s39rH5fyyyMIhBXs/s320/blood+brothers.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Hi all. I hope you are having a glorious fall. I love this time of year. Who doesn't? The leaves are falling slowly off the trees as they turn exquisite shades of orange,red and yellow. I always love writing at this time of year and many of my books take place around this time. I thought it would be fun to have a giveaway. One thing I've noticed is how often people tell me they've enjoyed one of my books but they haven't reviewed it on Amazon. I know it's a busy world out there but those reviews help attract new readers. Also, Amazon is more likely to feature my books the more reviews they have. With that in mind, I am having a contest for the fall season. To enter simply click the link at the bottom of this blog and choose any of my five books to leave a review. If you review more than one, you will be entered for every book you review one time. The winner will be chosen at random and will be announced on this blog. If you win, you can choose one of any of my five e-books. I hope you'll join in the fun and also help your friendly neighborhood indie author get some review action happening. I hope you all have a wonderful fall! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=shari+roodsharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-89688124860611586992015-09-21T09:18:00.002-07:002015-09-21T09:18:38.731-07:00WyattSo glad that Wyatt is finished and published. If you haven't read the series, start with Behind the Closet Door. The second is called Blood Brothers and the third is Wyatt. All are available on Amazon.com <br />
<br />
Here is an excerpt from Wyatt.<br />
<br />
Wyatt sat by the edge of the creek on a large boulder<br />
watching the trout. They were just out of reach, their<br />
spotty sides shimmering in the afternoon sunlight. He was<br />
distracted and a bit disappointed that his work had<br />
followed him out here, and on such a beautiful day. <br />
Wyatt was thinking about his name at the moment. He<br />
realized that he didn’t hate it the way he used to. A leaf<br />
fell into the water and circled around like a little boat<br />
caught in a storm. He cast his line and the fish scattered.<br />
He chuckled and went back to his thoughts. <br />
His name had been difficult for him to accept because<br />
of where it came from. When he was a boy, he’d gone on<br />
a search for the truth about his past. It seemed strange to<br />
dislike something that was such an integral part of who he<br />
was. “What’s in a name?” he said and looked thoughtfully<br />
at the water. If not for his past, he probably wouldn’t have<br />
given it a second thought. It defined him, even though<br />
most new age gospel would have said you shouldn’t let it.<br />
Wyatt figured anyone who ate tofu couldn’t be trusted<br />
anyway. <br />
He was working on a new case and it wasn’t going<br />
well. He’d had three recent successes and at twenty-three,<br />
he had been gearing up for a promotion. Instead he got a<br />
transfer. He learned a hard life lesson. Sometimes, if you<br />
rise up too quickly, someone will beat you back down. He<br />
never saw it coming. He hadn’t meant to be a threat to<br />
anyone’s position, but Rob Harrison seemed to feel <br />
otherwise. The transfer was hard and the new case was<br />
proving to be slow and unrewarding. An unsolved murder<br />
that was now classified as a cold case. He watched the<br />
spinning leaf, wondering if that would be his career. <br />
He tried to shake it off and he pulled in his line and set<br />
down the pole. He took out an energy bar and ate it,<br />
although it tasted like sawdust and peanut butter. The sky<br />
was completely clear, not a wisp of cloud and Wyatt<br />
sighed. It was a shame to waste this beautiful day<br />
worrying. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2qGcNaE2GSF7bK_ul2k1H61kNT-DJ3FMj7dABSFmz5FGQQGve8ltGPE8L5oB6Zdljaa51vGv8s2s2X4kU4HluNV5UmLthNxGySJPZQMqgSWayiGJgU2LPidpskb_v1zFKJKPZvitjjRB/s1600/Wyatt_WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2qGcNaE2GSF7bK_ul2k1H61kNT-DJ3FMj7dABSFmz5FGQQGve8ltGPE8L5oB6Zdljaa51vGv8s2s2X4kU4HluNV5UmLthNxGySJPZQMqgSWayiGJgU2LPidpskb_v1zFKJKPZvitjjRB/s320/Wyatt_WEB.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZfqNcXBwS0c-HghfAyA5gBp1XW_YKyr-oeJj_lHQQzY8N8HhuqS_s_cJWjncFswb7fUORqdOX0CBg_y9woIhlrGw3mnydLoT4xvac6fMp1J6YkPCLulrB3WTxGIcICaiSAllASXdszuS/s1600/Wyatt_BACKsmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZfqNcXBwS0c-HghfAyA5gBp1XW_YKyr-oeJj_lHQQzY8N8HhuqS_s_cJWjncFswb7fUORqdOX0CBg_y9woIhlrGw3mnydLoT4xvac6fMp1J6YkPCLulrB3WTxGIcICaiSAllASXdszuS/s320/Wyatt_BACKsmall.jpg" /></a></div>sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-61189589296949974122015-08-10T11:16:00.000-07:002015-08-10T11:16:48.746-07:00Long way gone. New book out in September! Well I was gone for quite a long time. We enjoyed the rest of our year in South Africa and we then took off to New Mexico. Specifically Santa Fe. It was stark and beautiful and quite the contrast to the lush tropical Indian Ocean. I had a hard time adjusting but the upside is that I left South Africa feeling like I could go back out there again. My home sickness subsided and I made a lot of wonderful friends. Santa Fe is beautiful but very expensive and we quickly realized that we'd not likely be able to afford an adobe house for half a million dollars. As lovely as the architecture is, it's overpriced. So, after seventeen different stops from South Africa back to Virginia we are at last back in my old stomping ground. <br />
<br />
In other news, I have a new book coming out. If you haven't read the Closet Door series, what are you waiting for? Books one and two have been available on Amazon for a while now. Check them out and look for the third installment in September. <br />
<br />
Well, now that monkeys aren't always trying to steal my bananas I'll have to find something new to write about. Squirrels in the back yard? Nope, doesn't have the same exotic appeal. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VHgYL-oHR3PB3_cfzL7y1ZU9VWc5EeB-NH6XZPOv6zeOWAvbeyDPKIbFVcpDgGYPugUk_zBoVM34lTOU0A91LtgAE1LgQsm_NBAsUmVEBuWXKSF2P0ognsPzXEjd9iqV98InArml7BAe/s1600/BehindThe+ClosetDoor-WEB+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VHgYL-oHR3PB3_cfzL7y1ZU9VWc5EeB-NH6XZPOv6zeOWAvbeyDPKIbFVcpDgGYPugUk_zBoVM34lTOU0A91LtgAE1LgQsm_NBAsUmVEBuWXKSF2P0ognsPzXEjd9iqV98InArml7BAe/s320/BehindThe+ClosetDoor-WEB+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_F7Nkou4maGDRxBW3esBmSYpRz8zVVQQam7P_-ug-MbjsVOSRoYJx9UUPTPtkX4hXIPDYCFPufwuTfzeW4asQ8DhFLiYsb814b_8HSqiW3v2FtsOTH7_viDLuNWHSYwp4DqSzj8AczWaP/s1600/BloodBrothers-WEB+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_F7Nkou4maGDRxBW3esBmSYpRz8zVVQQam7P_-ug-MbjsVOSRoYJx9UUPTPtkX4hXIPDYCFPufwuTfzeW4asQ8DhFLiYsb814b_8HSqiW3v2FtsOTH7_viDLuNWHSYwp4DqSzj8AczWaP/s320/BloodBrothers-WEB+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></div>sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-65993357197692372792014-11-06T02:52:00.000-08:002014-11-06T02:55:02.411-08:00Searching for animals in ZululandAs I sit here trying to write while workers in the downstairs apartment drill into the concrete ceiling making noises that sound like two elephants mating, I am trying to think of something positive to say about South Africa. God knows I've whined enough about what I don't like. The head splitting noise at present is not helping. <br />
<br />
So, I'm going to talk about four glorious days that made this trip worthwhile. A couple of months ago we decided to take a road trip to Zululand and stay at one of the parks board places. A huge game reserve where you can see the big five if you're lucky. We spent two nights at Hluhluwe which was my idea of heaven. We saw a herd of elephants (not mating) but they were eating leaves. You'd be surprised how enthralling that is to see in real life. One large female used her tusks to push down a whole tree and her family gathered around to eat the green leaves. Sigh... It was beautiful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCD8B2K_VqTb8KO31RdRG_YoboGjmO6HNOA8HKUqJbNjVr8NUnpeWSPQI4jlMST93ATerlBSjQbtTG9bv01zNG9Xg5oXp9ARim52-i1C4kVvkdc79LxGuJQZfxXbqRHozhueifzSDQku40/s1600/ears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCD8B2K_VqTb8KO31RdRG_YoboGjmO6HNOA8HKUqJbNjVr8NUnpeWSPQI4jlMST93ATerlBSjQbtTG9bv01zNG9Xg5oXp9ARim52-i1C4kVvkdc79LxGuJQZfxXbqRHozhueifzSDQku40/s320/ears.jpg" /></a></div><br />
We also saw giraffe, all types of buck, Rhino, the list goes on. Zululand is such a magical place and it's really not that far from where we are living. Three hours and you are surrounded by wilderness and wild animals. What could be better? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYnN1CfY_DdbTda38HTH9WGKdfxZbCuvWPzMupfkssadBr2af7MLeATJfRsxaVG1Ekq6j7iyZtkjCdKljYdEextgFfOnSxL55MU2J1TUMivCqTTNlzZkIlFTMD8jiLihPysUQ_fjsPNXag/s1600/baby+giraffe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYnN1CfY_DdbTda38HTH9WGKdfxZbCuvWPzMupfkssadBr2af7MLeATJfRsxaVG1Ekq6j7iyZtkjCdKljYdEextgFfOnSxL55MU2J1TUMivCqTTNlzZkIlFTMD8jiLihPysUQ_fjsPNXag/s320/baby+giraffe.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Plus there were BABY animals. It's spring here so all the animals have babies now and I'm telling you, if that doesn't warm your heart, you are a robot. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCf2yIOUMaNIH7WcGBU9hJlVcOIAzWCTdx024-8RxmAg30FMPK0zo7RbpvLjV4jrhWMuWKXK_2gxPJCCdA5oF5CP0zQgf3E8jbfwIXddIRBRFUzIQ6vjZZjw11t9RycccKJy1YnF92kJn9/s1600/rhinoandbaby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCf2yIOUMaNIH7WcGBU9hJlVcOIAzWCTdx024-8RxmAg30FMPK0zo7RbpvLjV4jrhWMuWKXK_2gxPJCCdA5oF5CP0zQgf3E8jbfwIXddIRBRFUzIQ6vjZZjw11t9RycccKJy1YnF92kJn9/s320/rhinoandbaby.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So I came back from that trip filled with goodwill toward everyone and that lasted a day or two. As soon as I saw the trash piled up on the beach where we live I started hating again but I'm trying to be philosophical about it and do what I can and not worry about the rest. So about a month ago we went back to Zululand. This time we drove farther into the wilderness to a place called mkuze. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfkjvqGEPbYhpMS7J5KbToZE-Lv0W-gPS7UuPCjCcAS5XhlCABuNmRCdJsvpZsXQTHhsu4StI19AN1lN6INnqixO6w88MfeexZLVNDXnbEqL7Q0xG-jfefwSlKBzXkTLySpV3Et43asd3/s1600/sky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDfkjvqGEPbYhpMS7J5KbToZE-Lv0W-gPS7UuPCjCcAS5XhlCABuNmRCdJsvpZsXQTHhsu4StI19AN1lN6INnqixO6w88MfeexZLVNDXnbEqL7Q0xG-jfefwSlKBzXkTLySpV3Et43asd3/s320/sky.jpg" /></a></div><br />
As you can see from the picture it's a glorious dirt road to nowhere and that is a good thing. We spent two nights in a tent that was kind of permanent in the sense that there was a wood floor and a shower and bathroom which was awesome. We even had an outdoor kitchen. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx7y6KMXF-wAnoYjhDI-AJmihHb-joWyjg-Pg5krJMm0NUwHFgbrFRsn7KU9dM74-AI6zkc8sy6bY3k5-DjPIn4__xds2EOrqCv6SVOfiqXU7dUwx_atOME-dI9ZyqAl0SW0WLj__VG1Zp/s1600/tent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx7y6KMXF-wAnoYjhDI-AJmihHb-joWyjg-Pg5krJMm0NUwHFgbrFRsn7KU9dM74-AI6zkc8sy6bY3k5-DjPIn4__xds2EOrqCv6SVOfiqXU7dUwx_atOME-dI9ZyqAl0SW0WLj__VG1Zp/s320/tent.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Our routine was to get up around five am and have a nice hot cup of tea and go out driving looking for animals to gaze at. There are thousands of acres of wilderness so it's not always so easy to see the animals which are sometimes hidden in the bush. Sometimes you drive for hours before you see anything interesting. On our second day my husband and I saw something that I've never seen on any of my trips to Zululand, a wild cheetah. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSojU8VznZxBjXVtTFkCfb6OhDzZ3Lrry5NsDIXDODrQ38yT1yjREcgl8z984EoOOk75xm2-sWza4MznBzcSWl0EjJblex1O6z2x6UHcpa949zkRmB5lxP8mp5GDYwaZR4AGxdrkI6L1X/s1600/cheetah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSojU8VznZxBjXVtTFkCfb6OhDzZ3Lrry5NsDIXDODrQ38yT1yjREcgl8z984EoOOk75xm2-sWza4MznBzcSWl0EjJblex1O6z2x6UHcpa949zkRmB5lxP8mp5GDYwaZR4AGxdrkI6L1X/s320/cheetah.jpg" /></a></div><br />
As you can see, he is exquisite. We were so excited and watched him for about half an hour stalking through the bush, scaring birds and swishing his tail. It was a moment I'll never forget and one that reminds me to be thankful that I'm here in a place where it's still possible to see a cheetah in the wild. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RSBvwdMOj2cIZi0Nd6g7KKjlCpS_vf8hOnFkGFluXEL8MYHeUy5AJjC6RCZR1yJoiVwsJYILaUHlyW8EAhfraTjKx6qxpzx-eJIyk2b4_z_YSILUB_E-aFIPusl5fPI-B6jqv__NgpPt/s1600/chettah3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RSBvwdMOj2cIZi0Nd6g7KKjlCpS_vf8hOnFkGFluXEL8MYHeUy5AJjC6RCZR1yJoiVwsJYILaUHlyW8EAhfraTjKx6qxpzx-eJIyk2b4_z_YSILUB_E-aFIPusl5fPI-B6jqv__NgpPt/s320/chettah3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
He crossed the road in front of us twice. We were snapping pictures like crazy people and then finally I just put the camera down and enjoyed watching him. He really was a true thing of beauty. <br />
<br />
So, I just have to remind myself that there is much to be thankful for still in this world and that I'm blessed to have this unique experience. <br />
<br />
My new book just came out today and I want to talk about that as well but I might put it in another post. It's called The Secret Lives of the Harvested and is a drama. It's on Amazon. Okay, cheers from South Africa! <br />
<br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-90581846568642369172014-09-27T02:08:00.000-07:002014-09-27T02:23:03.593-07:00You Always Take the Weather With You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIL2tCsM5nYGGCzrv1_VngUHhVpn-tN35ddiOfpvcWnNAGz-jeFwF9OpCbkjrS_CC3Y8-2D9QeGSoNPk8AuuUzF8ftpgMmxTRPFl5KHTdSkIT7wpw6P7dO-Lp7hLMYxW5JlT19MOutJFTh/s1600/411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIL2tCsM5nYGGCzrv1_VngUHhVpn-tN35ddiOfpvcWnNAGz-jeFwF9OpCbkjrS_CC3Y8-2D9QeGSoNPk8AuuUzF8ftpgMmxTRPFl5KHTdSkIT7wpw6P7dO-Lp7hLMYxW5JlT19MOutJFTh/s320/411.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So part of this trip is learning how to accept things as they are. I posted a photo album on facebook the other day and to look at it, you’d think my trip was this magical fairyland of beautiful sunrises, sunsets, walks on the beach and loving life. <br />
<br />
If I were someone else that might be my experience but as I am me, I carry all my baggage along with me. There are moments I’ve enjoyed, don’t get me wrong. I’m not ungrateful. There are also many moments that I’ve been homesick, missing my sister, missing my dog, missing my house and all my stuff. I’ve been wishing for a long time now that I could get back to work. Start another shop and do something rewarding and useful. <br />
For a long time my identity was tied up with being sick. I was diagnosed with an auto-immune disease eight years ago and my world imploded. I lost my business and bounced between anxiety and depression. I discovered Reiki and it changed my life in ways that are still unfolding. I have been fortunate to find a Reiki teacher here who can give me the rest of my training and it has given me a sense of purpose, a feeling that this year isn’t for nothing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KX-ajANrtWF4kkzz2f3yv1-3BpuuSgv3w-qagyOUuUJfB03B6QcElL53pNiolsfSMv4eRLyuLyJOzpTjDfE5S_zzHB_pgNdTkyRWqfhL1EecVeIFBq11t0Yys9Df1GFkgX93_WQfb2Ee/s1600/beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1KX-ajANrtWF4kkzz2f3yv1-3BpuuSgv3w-qagyOUuUJfB03B6QcElL53pNiolsfSMv4eRLyuLyJOzpTjDfE5S_zzHB_pgNdTkyRWqfhL1EecVeIFBq11t0Yys9Df1GFkgX93_WQfb2Ee/s320/beach.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
As I’ve gotten older, I have gotten better at accepting things but sometimes it seems harder than usual. I was doing alright in Charlottesville. I enjoyed my home and my books and my office. When you’re married, it can’t be all about what you want and for the last few years my husband has been feeling pulled to spend more time in South Africa with his family.<br />
<br />
The upside of that is getting to see beautiful places and travelling. The downside is the upheaval of everything that I find comfortable and safe. I’ve decided that this is the last trip for awhile. I want to work on getting my life back and playing to my strengths instead of hurling myself into these situations where I feel like I’m being thrashed about by a washing machine (which matches today’s weather by the way. I walked out on the beach and it’s blowing a gale and the sea is churning and the sand is blowing across the beach pelting anyone who dares to walk near with tiny grains of sand.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ZCfvsf1ccm3QhG8k3A3slM8MGg2U-Zh1BFXNzIrqD-TpYnH9dfRj4ux7diNlmJbnbjtYISvmHOOyl-TXRHd-v4XgVlnRhYU-fMABep7SovHKPvXzdopwS80rc36vWIN7UWhSR_fB8s8K/s1600/todayweather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ZCfvsf1ccm3QhG8k3A3slM8MGg2U-Zh1BFXNzIrqD-TpYnH9dfRj4ux7diNlmJbnbjtYISvmHOOyl-TXRHd-v4XgVlnRhYU-fMABep7SovHKPvXzdopwS80rc36vWIN7UWhSR_fB8s8K/s320/todayweather.jpg" /></a></div><br />
My experience in South Africa is always mixed. On the one hand you have incredible beauty. The plants alone make my heart sing. I’ve never seen such variety of flowers and palms and indigenous plants as I see here on a daily basis. There is also the open friendliness of the people and the beautiful climate and the ocean.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-Xm088_LmTmvyzGlEmhKTcCrjZRrwLo0nEk04v2D8wE3t8RLL5OPys63YEKmOjH1dQX7mUOq6enCR8usfIYiPELl1XfPNU1VbbqppijwxG4ucxlHoWSMBWl0hjZ-gsG-z9CJY4ShgJJ9/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-Xm088_LmTmvyzGlEmhKTcCrjZRrwLo0nEk04v2D8wE3t8RLL5OPys63YEKmOjH1dQX7mUOq6enCR8usfIYiPELl1XfPNU1VbbqppijwxG4ucxlHoWSMBWl0hjZ-gsG-z9CJY4ShgJJ9/s320/7.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqwDsL2xzj4MQSQDEv-PjQl8zFDq3-n_-6Mub8Lixtus4dIsqRxuFXQ1jX75Vfy8R96GYA55NvHJVwFn0x-yTxop4taFhnEO2tU9Gr2c3g4AJjxZUNoCsO6XTT_zhkJzjaAMOBVhyphenhyphenVL_N/s1600/lifet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqwDsL2xzj4MQSQDEv-PjQl8zFDq3-n_-6Mub8Lixtus4dIsqRxuFXQ1jX75Vfy8R96GYA55NvHJVwFn0x-yTxop4taFhnEO2tU9Gr2c3g4AJjxZUNoCsO6XTT_zhkJzjaAMOBVhyphenhyphenVL_N/s320/lifet.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
On the other hand this is a place with a lot of suffering. The crime rate is high, the poverty rate equally high. Some days the beach is filled with trash and it’s hard not to hate people for behaving like pigs. Other days, people gather to pick up trash or maybe I do and then I feel better about the way things are.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45fiRBJveMrwxB9lqz2VYCbVO7ftuKKsShlc4Xv5rpbZ8L4_6Zos06afTlBobm9B7nIxLm1MJNUGeBCm6k2pgdC63ffT88JanaLqunyA0aXv4dQM2lcLbOtsL79Pv0iM7-ztjH5Wj1-3Q/s1600/lifeguard+tower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45fiRBJveMrwxB9lqz2VYCbVO7ftuKKsShlc4Xv5rpbZ8L4_6Zos06afTlBobm9B7nIxLm1MJNUGeBCm6k2pgdC63ffT88JanaLqunyA0aXv4dQM2lcLbOtsL79Pv0iM7-ztjH5Wj1-3Q/s320/lifeguard+tower.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Another example of the way things are here is the slowly failing infrastructure. As the years go on and funds get scarce you see things starting to fall apart. The life guard tower has been shedding glass windows and parts of its roof since we’ve lived here and with the high wind, there is always a sense that it’s going to fall on someone. The inside of this huge building is held up by makeshift beams. The lifeguards are probably taking a chance with their lives by staying in this building. There is also the regular practice of illegal dumping of sewage into the rivers that join the sea. The air quality is poor due to the lack of simple things like catalytic converters on cars. It’s a third world country and I guess these things are to be expected.<br />
<br />
To be fair, looking at the other side, I have probably seen more happy people here than I see back home. Almost everyone seems to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There is less complaining here than in the States. People make the most of what’s here and I admire that. When there is a holiday, people have fun.<br />
<br />
There is also a thriving artist community here. Many creative people know each other and there is a love of art and craft here that I used to see back home before the recession and the wars made everyone more cautious and less likely and able to spend money. Hopefully that’s changing because I want to go back to my art and jewelry making and all the things I love to do.<br />
<br />
I know there are lessons for me to learn here and I am trying. I’m sitting here looking out to sea. It’s wild but beautiful. I’d never be able to afford to have a view like this back home. I’m trying not to make missing home a reason not to enjoy what this place has to offer. Today I’ve made fresh juice with carrot, celery, cucumber, apple and lemon. It’s delicious and just that is something to be grateful for.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRD_g6uI8ZXsWnbpm5YyFjNaXu07_4QmtOOcCGGAKwcYW2u_jUaAWFv6n8XzlT5AKbM-vnC6KhPuyRuCMgYsXnwHKC8CqXS15XanlNU4lvsrrgWu1Gt8pC6ZEG2T1eMrdTYdgJGC45O8dT/s1600/todays+juice.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRD_g6uI8ZXsWnbpm5YyFjNaXu07_4QmtOOcCGGAKwcYW2u_jUaAWFv6n8XzlT5AKbM-vnC6KhPuyRuCMgYsXnwHKC8CqXS15XanlNU4lvsrrgWu1Gt8pC6ZEG2T1eMrdTYdgJGC45O8dT/s320/todays+juice.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I also just found out that my latest manuscript has been accepted by my publisher which is also a big reason to celebrate. It gives me something to work on and I feel a sense of accomplishment that helps when I feel overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. I’m trying to practice acceptance. That’s really all I can do since all I have is this moment right here. <br />
<br />
Cheers from South Africa <br />
<br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-49278917420517978332014-09-26T11:47:00.002-07:002014-09-26T11:47:20.416-07:00Blood Brothers If you read Behind the Closet Door and enjoyed it, check out Blood Brothers, the sequel. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPs9zWrtowtipzPUUlYxaiHFc6ttrVIRD8adgnQFEVzMjTH5Hm2JGem1BF7hfiviB99BSUbdBFXgunzjKbiJtA4d1muGzsWutxBDKZQz5WC5XohWc4U23sWm9AJ0lBu9CXUEJ1TtrH3Fb/s1600/BehindThe+ClosetDoor-WEB+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPs9zWrtowtipzPUUlYxaiHFc6ttrVIRD8adgnQFEVzMjTH5Hm2JGem1BF7hfiviB99BSUbdBFXgunzjKbiJtA4d1muGzsWutxBDKZQz5WC5XohWc4U23sWm9AJ0lBu9CXUEJ1TtrH3Fb/s320/BehindThe+ClosetDoor-WEB+(1).jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLDEaSnTHQGp7zylW0HHr8arn5cDC6voWzgmTKdFjcAdz-_wCzBesooPoi9y8YVEM5t1B0-_umJbVhyphenhyphenANoAF2MVs9GoEBIoTTHuIo_ox-qo3IoqfmoEdxbf4TbZd4mb-pDCyq7lRZ2RXvi/s1600/BloodBrothers-WEB+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLDEaSnTHQGp7zylW0HHr8arn5cDC6voWzgmTKdFjcAdz-_wCzBesooPoi9y8YVEM5t1B0-_umJbVhyphenhyphenANoAF2MVs9GoEBIoTTHuIo_ox-qo3IoqfmoEdxbf4TbZd4mb-pDCyq7lRZ2RXvi/s320/BloodBrothers-WEB+(1).jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
http://www.amazon.com/Blood-Brothers-Shari-Rood-ebook/dp/B00KVQZNDM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411647099&sr=8-1&keywords=shari+rood<br />
<br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-70242653151525025052014-08-25T05:26:00.001-07:002014-08-25T07:26:19.714-07:00South Africa sucks when it comes to used carsSo Rog and I are trying to find a car. Four months with no car is getting old. Real old. Sure, walking is good for me. Yes, I know I'm at the beach and I'm blessed and blah, blah, blah but it's been windy as hell for the last two weeks and walking to the store is like some kind of endurance test. In some ways, this whole trip is. Yes it's beautiful here and there are many things to be thankful for but I miss my dog and my sister and my home and my stuff and wah... <br />
<br />
So, back to the car situation. We sold our Subaru back home before we moved. I loved that car. We figured that we might be able to get something similar here. Not as nice but just a decent little car to get us around. Easier said than done. For starters, a lot of the cars are little foreign rust buckets. A stiff breeze might blow them away. Still, those little rust buckets are expensive. The rust bucket we are looking at now is a brand called a Toyota Tazz. It's a Toyota-lite but still a Toyota and that's the only reason I'm considering one of them. We've called about a couple of them and they have either been sold or they are hours away. Ironically it's hard to go car shopping with no car.<br />
<br />
Some other little rust buckets available to us are, Fiat, the Mazda Drifter (free homeless person with purchase) Opel, the Ford Icon, Renault, The Ford Bantam, (yes, here there is a Ford named after a chicken...) the Toyota conquest (with an extra large back seat), the Chevrolet Spark, (Insert joke about car going up in flames here ___________)the Citron (which has lemon built right into the name) and so on...<br />
<br />
Here is a picture of a white Kia. Probably one of the most common rust buckets available here. I hate Kia's. Still, I'd buy one if it were affordable.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsbkHdfCwLUZ4x7mVKU-AcAk2mdMYjs6Dla0g7vxDegoiDLOstC09SxHpeNN6c8LfcViUMpX4v3zI9O4Gtdv2XWoZ0s0h95l3o64R8hmhQViiPK5cUcWTKbN2b3Z6WDCCtBKuaspHFCZ5Y/s1600/kia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsbkHdfCwLUZ4x7mVKU-AcAk2mdMYjs6Dla0g7vxDegoiDLOstC09SxHpeNN6c8LfcViUMpX4v3zI9O4Gtdv2XWoZ0s0h95l3o64R8hmhQViiPK5cUcWTKbN2b3Z6WDCCtBKuaspHFCZ5Y/s320/kia.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Couple the lack of familiar brands with the high prices and also the high scam factor and it's enough to make me take the bus. If only our town had a bus. It doesn't. You'd think I would have researched that before we moved here, right? I did not.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
What about this little beauty? Makes me think of Breaking Bad. You could cook meth in this, right? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnf0MRJZtUocWDuVXtmp7O3xUXgWEoHbuk0_FP20IVZBLdkUrkRPOu5570IlBJwP_U4HB-0pKLvlq8DQRsoL-m6lnYiDDfjAm0LeVv3C2YGMv-Pd9sAiiZenIonuCvggbzMJu8U_t7Gbpk/s1600/caravan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnf0MRJZtUocWDuVXtmp7O3xUXgWEoHbuk0_FP20IVZBLdkUrkRPOu5570IlBJwP_U4HB-0pKLvlq8DQRsoL-m6lnYiDDfjAm0LeVv3C2YGMv-Pd9sAiiZenIonuCvggbzMJu8U_t7Gbpk/s320/caravan.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This hideous little Ford Fiesta, a brand that I owned when I was nineteen, is selling for $25,000. Can you believe it? Why does this souped up version of a Fiesta even exist? Who would buy this? I spit on you, $25,000 Fiesta. You and your little bow too...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPQ0DpLWM1Jb4Rmc7ofB56hWrg_fyd8gBLf90SKMoJMX0aUBkOxL4rMbCFDStNXILzrUncLER8XnKjOqG1qNMp9V70FMhitMcpW8ygSJYdjj0n5_ONq78fGtpJScFDjrkkmEe5Qf-8jyF/s1600/boss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPQ0DpLWM1Jb4Rmc7ofB56hWrg_fyd8gBLf90SKMoJMX0aUBkOxL4rMbCFDStNXILzrUncLER8XnKjOqG1qNMp9V70FMhitMcpW8ygSJYdjj0n5_ONq78fGtpJScFDjrkkmEe5Qf-8jyF/s320/boss.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
At last, something in our price range.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFso4_SPxQlXgR394AZ9VkDAx62-opm1-DwL3KIz3eXxrdEpag3X0VbTUnvn5C3Rxpp_9OSFpCaM8b5wRhiwjwQs10K5btZCt_ewXQvYwhkfk5dZkPNtHFzyNvLU22HzVBd63WzJQWG28/s1600/car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFso4_SPxQlXgR394AZ9VkDAx62-opm1-DwL3KIz3eXxrdEpag3X0VbTUnvn5C3Rxpp_9OSFpCaM8b5wRhiwjwQs10K5btZCt_ewXQvYwhkfk5dZkPNtHFzyNvLU22HzVBd63WzJQWG28/s320/car.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Well, this was not a productive day. We tried to walk on the beach but the wind has brought in an unusual amount of trash and debris and there is a sewage leak in the Umlanga River which has blown down to our town. There is a couple we see on the beach each morning and we pet their lovely Staffie dogs and the husband said that he thinks South Africa has been downgraded to a fourth world country. Today I might just agree. Tomorrow will be better. Tomorrow is full of possibilities. And, once we do get a rust bucket of our very own, there is an even higher possibility that one of the tomorrows in my near future might include an elephant in it or a Rhino or a baby giraffe. So there is hope. Hope springs eternal, just like sewage... <br />
<br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-47234014740548099822014-08-11T05:12:00.002-07:002014-08-11T05:15:44.427-07:00The death of Otis and my sanity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgeAvlMMlRDqFlqoxQbZSMj-oEHxA0PYtu5OSUhxyac0JvpxQmC6MHjmZdpFZrhYn56XbiwZkBH7fQ0jtqCgtjCUhpvYvK4AEVJnfkfhn2ojJk-AJZzz9aXXXo4piT8AoQjEYHPMYNVOKp/s1600/mo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgeAvlMMlRDqFlqoxQbZSMj-oEHxA0PYtu5OSUhxyac0JvpxQmC6MHjmZdpFZrhYn56XbiwZkBH7fQ0jtqCgtjCUhpvYvK4AEVJnfkfhn2ojJk-AJZzz9aXXXo4piT8AoQjEYHPMYNVOKp/s320/mo.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I'll start this with a photo Rog took of last nights so called Super moon. I think that might have something to do with my more than usual jumpiness. This is going to sound more like a rant than a blog but so be it. I'm feeling homesick and the death of Otis isn't helping. <br />
<br />
In case you don't know, Otis is the elevator in our building. We rented an apartment as close to the Indian ocean as humanly possible. Thinking back, it would have been better to be a few streets off the main beach and have a nicer place. The view is spectacular but the apartment is ancient and fragile, like my nerves. Not to mention that the sea is surprisingly loud. I often wake up thinking we are in the middle of the biggest rainstorm ever and then I remember that I'm living at the beach. <br />
<br />
When we moved in, I blogged about the elevator and the fact that it was acting weird. Somehow I didn't have the good sense to realize that it might actually die, cease to be, finito. We don't have a car either so what used to be a simple walk to the store is now more difficult. <br />
<br />
Rog and I are on the fourth floor and we hardly see anyone in this ghost ship of a building. There is a handyman who doesn't speak much English but he told us enough to let us know we won't be getting a new Otis any time soon. <br />
<br />
We contacted our real estate agent who rented the place to us. He's been less than forthcoming and distracted with other clients I guess. So, fighting this homesickness just got harder because every time I leave my house it's 77 steps to the outside world. It's beautiful here but I want to make a point of saying that a beautiful place alone isn't enough to make a life fulfilling. <br />
<br />
I think what I really want is to go back to having a shop again. Shop keeping was what I was best at and I miss it. So, at the end of our stay in South Africa, I will be anxious to get back to America and start doing something productive. I want to start painting again and making jewelry and I want Rog to get back to making his pottery. <br />
<br />
On a positive note, I am making the most of my time here. I am trying to get the third book in the Closet Door series finished and I'm also going to be taking a master level Reiki class to round out my education in that area. After the course, I'll be able to teach if I want to. <br />
<br />
Cheers from South Africa sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-1623533418048842362014-07-08T03:29:00.000-07:002014-07-08T03:29:59.591-07:00African Adventures volume 8. Siberian South Africa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyu-QM-akwD-cTQq0XWUnH1AX2Qs0Y-aK4yJHOFChGpKCa-Msxy08MoF2c7fkJ6M8ILUzP9mhjn_wbkVXgLCiRoQMSE1Or-L-nri1xK03DOSuCG5ho0NejTFSh0SMP-Zn90_9aY_QQwHw7/s1600/022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyu-QM-akwD-cTQq0XWUnH1AX2Qs0Y-aK4yJHOFChGpKCa-Msxy08MoF2c7fkJ6M8ILUzP9mhjn_wbkVXgLCiRoQMSE1Or-L-nri1xK03DOSuCG5ho0NejTFSh0SMP-Zn90_9aY_QQwHw7/s320/022.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
You can’t really complain about the weather in South Africa. No, most days the sun shines over the amazingly diverse landscape filling me with awe at the natural beauty of the place. <br />
The houses however are a different story. I really think the South Africans could learn a thing or two from American building techniques. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJtv_HK33V26ORfzF06D22GNg-2YkTFC9x2oEMd9jpVILApHEm8aOWgatbvvd-w9LPdh3xbzO1OQBmdIAtdr4sWHIeJTLRh-NqJuiMLuHF1PZfmV5mDprv0R4r2Q4F2CLiCa0OFtOcpC9/s1600/pic-r-1398164513609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJtv_HK33V26ORfzF06D22GNg-2YkTFC9x2oEMd9jpVILApHEm8aOWgatbvvd-w9LPdh3xbzO1OQBmdIAtdr4sWHIeJTLRh-NqJuiMLuHF1PZfmV5mDprv0R4r2Q4F2CLiCa0OFtOcpC9/s320/pic-r-1398164513609.jpg" /></a></div>It’s not that the houses aren’t beautiful, just woefully impractical. Made with heavy concrete, stone and brick, most of the houses are designed with no insulation. The thick walls, reminiscent of Adobe are fairly good at keeping the cool in. That’s great when it’s ninety degrees. The fact is that most days it isn’t.<br />
<br />
Most of the time the temperature seems to fall in the 70’s 80’s in summertime and drop to the 50’s and 60’s in fall and winter. That all seems very pleasant until they have what they call a berg wind which is a hot dry wind that feels awesome, like warm weather is moving in but it actually means the opposite. A cold front usually follows that can last anywhere from a day to a week. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj8rHoMODr8Tu89Wtyt-32U7thME2hVbJ9CAe9nnKWeW0xqOQ3Ti4o6JjmIADX03Bb5TMCr2bIvq_HOqbSBqI6a_uVZCQL7tPbXWU3Bs7oSHa81jLUDzIJj0q4xASrhGXDL0reVbaRw_h0/s1600/IMG_0268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj8rHoMODr8Tu89Wtyt-32U7thME2hVbJ9CAe9nnKWeW0xqOQ3Ti4o6JjmIADX03Bb5TMCr2bIvq_HOqbSBqI6a_uVZCQL7tPbXWU3Bs7oSHa81jLUDzIJj0q4xASrhGXDL0reVbaRw_h0/s320/IMG_0268.JPG" /></a></div>We are in the middle of one now. We stayed with Roger’s mom for a few days and the cold weather blew in and there was no respite. The tile floors were like ice blocks, the walls have air bricks. You know, like actual holes in the wall in which air comes in. You stare at it watching birds fly by outside wondering who thought that was a good idea?<br />
<br />
Coupled with the fact that no one seems to have much in the way of heat, it’s weird. His mom has one little heater in the living room and I stood by it as much as I could. During the day it warmed up outside but the house was as cold as ever. I started to feel like Elsa from Frozen. Everything I touched seemed to be made of ice.<br />
<br />
We’re home now and there is a second cold front assaulting us. It’s about 50 degrees I’d say and the sea is whipping furiously against the rocks. The wind is blowing with such force that when I tried to walk on the beach this morning I got pelted with sand until I was forced to run home. <br />
<br />
So, that’s all fine. What’s the big deal you say? It gets much colder in America in winter. Yes, but in America we have central heating and insulation. Our little apartment by the sea has neither. I’m shivering as I type this. I can feel air currents moving around the house as if I was sitting outside. <br />
<br />
I just got up to put a sweatshirt on over the layers I’m already wearing. As soon as I can get a ride to Hillcrest I’m buying a big-ass heater! The biggest I can fit into our apartment. <br />
<br />
Cheers from chilly South Africa! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoC3Fa-1OKIFsQY3khJtiLnEK5EVBszLOxhLLvT4wnqkO4895s7B-ptKXfRKwjhOOvz7mQ9bJ4yo6L0Rh_RyEWnVFhl6H_Syoi7yEtV7VsiKikeDuNSzVPpfhb9yMSRrkp6DkjnJx9B9c/s1600/house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoC3Fa-1OKIFsQY3khJtiLnEK5EVBszLOxhLLvT4wnqkO4895s7B-ptKXfRKwjhOOvz7mQ9bJ4yo6L0Rh_RyEWnVFhl6H_Syoi7yEtV7VsiKikeDuNSzVPpfhb9yMSRrkp6DkjnJx9B9c/s320/house.jpg" /></a></div>(Note the all tile floor. Ice cubes for your feet...)<br />
<br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-19347620175442671332014-07-05T08:50:00.000-07:002014-07-05T08:50:19.273-07:00African Adventures volume 7. Fed a strange baby an orange.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrPinVN6rbBgy-PFBwcHk9I8mZ20Kh2278uVfG5iQDPQIKHWMHOaSzA37NsWNI657SSTgj5mFUkesOKGQC6cnNVjh6k6GPhaG3l5k990nFA2Dtp1h30O2yRRYWBpxITQt4qlxjCv6VaAT2/s1600/023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrPinVN6rbBgy-PFBwcHk9I8mZ20Kh2278uVfG5iQDPQIKHWMHOaSzA37NsWNI657SSTgj5mFUkesOKGQC6cnNVjh6k6GPhaG3l5k990nFA2Dtp1h30O2yRRYWBpxITQt4qlxjCv6VaAT2/s320/023.jpg" /></a></div>It was a beautiful morning on the beach. Rog and I had heard that bad weather was coming in later this afternoon so we went on our usual pre-breakfast walk. <br />
<br />
I had to walk to the pharmacy to pick up a prescription. The no car thing is getting old but at least it was another hour of exercise under my belt.<br />
<br />
When I got home we decided to go set up camp on the beach while the good weather lasted. A cold front is moving in and already Cape Town has been hit with freezing temps. It was in the eighties here though so we set up our mat and umbrella and I lay in the sun soaking in the rays like an iguana. <br />
<br />
I took off to go swim, Rog wasn’t ready yet so he stayed behind. I jumped into the brisk yet beautifully clear water and stayed in almost an hour. I think my skin was nearly blue by the time I got out but it was worth it. <br />
<br />
When I got back to our camp I noticed the addition of a little person. She was sitting on our mat next to Rog. I smiled at him and said, “What’s this?”<br />
<br />
“A visitor,” he said. “She toddled over here and sat down and doesn’t seem to want to leave.”<br />
<br />
I sat down next to her and said, “Do you speak English?”<br />
<br />
“I think she’s too young,” Rog said.<br />
<br />
“Oh.” I looked at her, she was really cute. She had hello kitty slippers and pink over-alls and a pink shirt on. She was really fascinated by the sand and kept scooping up handfuls and studying it as if it contained some hidden mystery to the key to life, which it probably does. <br />
<br />
“Where’s her Mom?”<br />
<br />
Rog pointed to a young girl who appeared to be about thirteen although I’m sure she was older. She was swimming and playing with a young boy, presumably her son. The son came out of the water and walked up to the child. I figured he’d take her away. He tugged at her and but she shook her head and wouldn’t budge.<br />
<br />
“Hi,” I said to the boy who looked to be about six. “Do you speak English?”<br />
<br />
He shook his head no. “Ah,” I said. He smiled and darted back to the water.<br />
<br />
The mom came back up and I was sure she was coming to fetch her little one. She patted her on the head, said something in Zulu to her, smiled at us and took off down the beach. <br />
<br />
I looked at Rog in alarm. He, as usual was totally chilled out. “Um, is she coming back, do you think?”<br />
<br />
He shrugged, “I think she’s probably going to get her some chips or a snack.”<br />
<br />
“Do you know if that’s what she said?”<br />
<br />
“Not really,” he said.<br />
<br />
The girl continued to study the mysteries of the sand and I said, “You think the mom thought, Hey, these two middle aged people are just sitting here doing nothing, maybe they can just babysit for the day?”<br />
<br />
“Probably,” he said.<br />
<br />
I sat watching the ocean as the tide went out. More swimmers arrived and the beach steadily filled up. The Zulu woman who walks up and down the beach heavily laden with hats, buckets and shovels and other assorted beach stuff that she sells to the tourists gave me a quizzical look as I sat there with the strange baby by my side. <br />
<br />
After awhile the mom came back. She dropped an orange and a bag of cheese puffs in the sand and ran off down the beach to play soccer with some guys. “Okay, now I know we’ve been had. Right? This baby can’t peel an orange by herself and she can’t open a bag of snacks. We’re the babysitters, right?”<br />
<br />
“Looks like,” Rog said.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhais1ucQs4DfojqYqViDe26Kn2m1CuSm2oXcTFloLF-ROA7bM3E41WFwAjDHg46MMdkxEpJL3p6zx6SG6gXSDAylwTsIcBQGoBuQb8dKakmO6z1xCZXOKmjaPAoJhT2NCFQf9WzZfHMSJ4/s1600/IMG_0259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhais1ucQs4DfojqYqViDe26Kn2m1CuSm2oXcTFloLF-ROA7bM3E41WFwAjDHg46MMdkxEpJL3p6zx6SG6gXSDAylwTsIcBQGoBuQb8dKakmO6z1xCZXOKmjaPAoJhT2NCFQf9WzZfHMSJ4/s320/IMG_0259.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I opened the cheese puffs and she opened her mouth obediently as I put one near her face and I popped it into her mouth. She ate a few but looked longingly at the orange. <br />
<br />
I peeled it and broke each segment into two pieces. Her little hands were covered in sand so I popped the segments into her mouth one bit at a time. She seemed to like this and every now and then if I wasn’t fast enough, she’d turn her head and open her mouth and I’d pop another orange slice into her little face. <br />
<br />
I was kind of ready to go have another swim eventually. Almost an hour had passed and while I was enjoying the company of this little person, I really did want to get up. Rog and I agreed that when she was finished with the orange, we’d go find the mother and hand her back. <br />
<br />
Right as I was giving her the last segment, her mom came back. Rog and I got up and said, “We’re going to swim now, okay?”<br />
She nodded and smiled and took the baby whose name I still do not know away.<br />
<br />
We had our swim and as predicted as if a switch was turned on, the bad weather moved in. A howling gale swept the beach and the sand started pelting us and families everywhere folded their umbrellas and tents, gathered their things and quickly made their way off the beach. <br />
<br />
I’m sitting inside now watching as the stormy weather approaches. The clouds have been soaring by at high speed shifting and changing into the most amazing creatures. Dragons, turtles, monkey heads. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4L-Vverc8apMco0pNKdzbMOZImutfHGYq8wYoLStlypMiH9V80oWhbti2ATTgki6g4LHwcYsBJCtQh-45KrrNhdsu8HOu2ke8yQaVlLISRUm5cEnQ9y019V4DUbMF4W8tLoXms3zJIeKc/s1600/012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4L-Vverc8apMco0pNKdzbMOZImutfHGYq8wYoLStlypMiH9V80oWhbti2ATTgki6g4LHwcYsBJCtQh-45KrrNhdsu8HOu2ke8yQaVlLISRUm5cEnQ9y019V4DUbMF4W8tLoXms3zJIeKc/s320/012.jpg" /></a></div>So, it’s been a good day here. Cheers from South Africa <br />
<br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-13127331859714573502014-06-20T02:13:00.000-07:002014-06-20T02:13:04.991-07:00African Adventures Volume 6. Finding out that I can indeed do it, just like Nike said. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ZaBvg3qdgUwMa4bNQ_Gm9s_c-IyrtmEJoK2Wkc8jekodqI8gNy-uH7ijV1Ubs8fpQf0NDWPDtrgiuMQj5J5CcIS2Zu2JW_KvNfB58y67FrorIW7GMTgqzn8ovM-sMhws7171ol6jADVs/s1600/juice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ZaBvg3qdgUwMa4bNQ_Gm9s_c-IyrtmEJoK2Wkc8jekodqI8gNy-uH7ijV1Ubs8fpQf0NDWPDtrgiuMQj5J5CcIS2Zu2JW_KvNfB58y67FrorIW7GMTgqzn8ovM-sMhws7171ol6jADVs/s320/juice.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Today is day seven of a juice and salad diet that I want to do for ten days as a re-boot for my system. It’s been a challenge adjusting to living in a foreign country, even one I know so well.<br />
<br />
It’s really beautiful here and I love being at the ocean. The hardest part for me right now is being alone while Rog does his GT climb. It lasts over two weeks and he’s been training for months. He left a week ago and is now almost half-way through it. He has managed to send a few texts to let me know he’s alright but most of the time there isn’t a signal.<br />
<br />
I admire him for being able to do it and I’m trying to use him as an example for myself. I’ve lost 35 pounds over the last year so I feel good about that. Being here helps with that because we have no car so if I want something, I have to walk to go get it. <br />
I have this weird thing when I’m alone where I wake up in the morning literally shaking with fear. I’ve always had an anxiety disorder so I get it but that only happens when I’m alone. I don’t know what I’m so afraid of. Usually once I’m up and moving the shaking subsides.<br />
<br />
I keep thinking that at the age of forty seven I’d get over it. Sometimes we all have to spend time alone. My mother has lived alone for over twenty years. So, even though I have yet to conquer my fear, apparent by the crazy morning trembling, I still manage to talk myself into getting on with my day. <br />
<br />
I sometimes think I’ve lead a very sheltered life. I’ve been a recluse for most of it only having a few close friends but having my husband around has always been the soothing balm that helps me deal with life’s problems. A good thing for sure but I also have to learn how to cope on my own. That’s what this time is all about.<br />
<br />
When Rog is here he carries the groceries, no problem. I think over the years I’ve gotten spoiled. We always had two cars and drove anywhere we wanted. I didn’t even give it a thought. I even drove to the gym which was only half a mile away from my house. <br />
Having the perspective of being here with much less makes me see how much I took for granted. Things like TV and cable. We didn’t use 80 percent of the channels but I felt like we had to have them. Here we have no TV and I don't miss it so it’s not an issue.<br />
<br />
So, the biggest challenge with trying to do a juicing diet is that you have to have a juicer and stuff to juice. My mother-in-law was kind enough to lend me hers. When Rog left there was enough stuff in the fridge to juice for three days. When the fruit and veggies ran out I took the one mile trek to the store. I battled trying to walk home with the grocery bags. It wasn’t really the smartest plan. It occurred to me that I can do two things. I can carry a few things at a time, ant style, or I can use Roger’s extra backpack. <br />
<br />
I’ve never carried a backpack before in my life. I know that seems weird but I don’t remember ever carrying one, not even for school.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi8BZ1EGMeUWHDifN64QEyn80VQ8xcc33MchRpmgq0kkwHK94DOk91LpCJjYqjTjzb-2eL33oQaOnmeCbhZrIx-5JYVFpDYL0T_Yjm2pHWSItdHAseWA-LWbbKFgYSith6TAbXVmokCb3Y/s1600/033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi8BZ1EGMeUWHDifN64QEyn80VQ8xcc33MchRpmgq0kkwHK94DOk91LpCJjYqjTjzb-2eL33oQaOnmeCbhZrIx-5JYVFpDYL0T_Yjm2pHWSItdHAseWA-LWbbKFgYSith6TAbXVmokCb3Y/s320/033.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I got it out this morning and spent about a half hour figuring out how to put the thing on. It’s got straps everywhere. Eventually I got the straps adjusted. I had to widen them quite a bit because Rog has the waist of a pre-pubescent girl… Anyway, I suddenly felt empowered. I had been feeling down, lonely, pitiful. Suddenly the backpack made me feel strong.<br />
<br />
I got my money and my keys and I headed out into the world. Down the cranky elevator and the twenty five steps that greet you at the front of our apartment complex. Then down the sidewalk and all the way along the beach until you get to a turning circle. Up the hill, around the blind corner of doom where oncoming traffic threatens to squash you like a grape but there is no sidewalk, then up, up, up to the store. Whew. I made it. Then I remembered the backpack was still empty.<br />
<br />
I went inside and thought hard about my list. Apples, carrot, celery, cucumber, pineapple. These things are all heavy but are a necessity if I am to complete this juice diet.<br />
<br />
I bought my things and I went to a quiet corner of the store and I packed my backpack. I couldn’t believe that everything fit in. I zipped it up and managed to get it on my back and buckled in place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6D3SF_TV7lSm-4m9gxFf2RZgQaLSwC-fPoDd9SLQ2QDUkukrT66bgIb6x_EUvv68raUihU0r4ZP3XYg-hHoU46nuoNMx_5U6cmSWdhVyhZGsc7qOKeO6yv713C-e4pk00nw3PqXEKZ0U/s1600/034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6D3SF_TV7lSm-4m9gxFf2RZgQaLSwC-fPoDd9SLQ2QDUkukrT66bgIb6x_EUvv68raUihU0r4ZP3XYg-hHoU46nuoNMx_5U6cmSWdhVyhZGsc7qOKeO6yv713C-e4pk00nw3PqXEKZ0U/s320/034.jpg" /></a></div> <br />
I made the trek back feeling great. Yes I was carrying ten pounds of fruit on my back but so what? That is the mood I am trying to cultivate. The old Nike slogan, Just Do It. That’s really what it’s about whether it’s learning to spend some time alone or walking to the store or carrying a boat load of fruit on my back or dieting for that matter. It’s the doing that makes it all okay. <br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-58111839145306982602014-06-14T05:27:00.001-07:002014-06-14T05:48:05.841-07:00African Adventures Volume 5. Otis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLpWITFzZ1MgUFWLylxIjCOYZCEJqXRWUr842A04wxrjzF28l8klC-7GG3rS3aSjD32PXF41xwE8rpyyuJ8GiPp2w1e7Aw4PTEVrghNvyWUP1YrnD9PSCIWRkKZq2_HK5MoHwqPiyAFM0/s1600/otis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLpWITFzZ1MgUFWLylxIjCOYZCEJqXRWUr842A04wxrjzF28l8klC-7GG3rS3aSjD32PXF41xwE8rpyyuJ8GiPp2w1e7Aw4PTEVrghNvyWUP1YrnD9PSCIWRkKZq2_HK5MoHwqPiyAFM0/s320/otis.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So the thing is, when you want to live at the beach cheaply, some sacrifices must be made. Our little place is really cute. It’s got some nice touches and a stunning ocean view and it’s really inexpensive. There are downsides such an only being able to turn on a couple of lights in the house or the circuit breaker will overload. It’s okay, I’m too busy looking at the ocean to care. It’s too beautiful here to complain but there is one thing that does cause me a tiny smidgen of anxiety.<br />
<br />
His name is Otis or the Otis 2000 to be exact and he is our elevator. It says so right on the sign. We live on the fourth floor so it was important that we got on the right footing with Otis from the start.<br />
<br />
When we moved in we were warned that Otis is temperamental. Sometimes he goes where you need him too and other times he just opens and closes his doors over and over again. On those days we take the stairs. All four flights of them. It’s okay, I need the exercise anyway.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrHbO3yvpogHiyPGnAvgkPCgMQV5qcPHMcE4dFjCgg8TvsodRAk5FkTxPQ94WZmiS2PCvnkk0_AQiWALG4adWg5jIOpX3TkwN17yY56kHsBaGCPMwERD5U_pCg7ogWpN7tJaoYDrnJvPB/s1600/otis+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrHbO3yvpogHiyPGnAvgkPCgMQV5qcPHMcE4dFjCgg8TvsodRAk5FkTxPQ94WZmiS2PCvnkk0_AQiWALG4adWg5jIOpX3TkwN17yY56kHsBaGCPMwERD5U_pCg7ogWpN7tJaoYDrnJvPB/s320/otis+2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
My only fear is getting stuck inside of Otis. The other day the power went out unexpectedly. We were using the toaster and the stove so at first I just assumed the breaker was outraged at my audacity, trying to use two appliances at once but it turns out it was just a typical South African power outage. I looked out of my door at Otis and saw that the light was off. I looked at Rog. “You know, if we’d been inside that elevator we’d be stuck right now.”<br />
<br />
He shrugged it off like most things and I said, “Seriously, can you imagine being stuck in there? Possibly for hours?”<br />
<br />
“Yeah but it probably won’t happen.”<br />
<br />
Somehow I didn’t find that a comforting thought. I ran into a fellow tenant a few days later who gave me some advice. “Don’t press any buttons until the lift (they call everything by the wrong name here. EVERYTHING) closes and only then press the number for the floor you want."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-xT-kHbh1UUTGOhyphenhyphenc7f8p7QjvQ_im0kQhwy1UgkYM_OktMxaysb36cpXM46xdfqcR6dEmHVqJaAZQy_63IAO4xkzmTUatSNnEirARpXBHHG61rZLmLtD62BZ8JF-dwwFsjRzS7Jj5n-zd/s1600/otis+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-xT-kHbh1UUTGOhyphenhyphenc7f8p7QjvQ_im0kQhwy1UgkYM_OktMxaysb36cpXM46xdfqcR6dEmHVqJaAZQy_63IAO4xkzmTUatSNnEirARpXBHHG61rZLmLtD62BZ8JF-dwwFsjRzS7Jj5n-zd/s320/otis+3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I tried it and it does work. I get in Otis every morning and greet him sweetly, as if he were the family dog. “Good boy, Otis, good job, you got me there, good for you.” On the days it doesn’t work I don’t wish him any harm. I’m not using up any karma points by being angry at Otis. The stairs are just fine.<br />
<br />
The other thing about Otis is that for a brief moment when you get where you’re going there is a kind of mechanical wheezing and then suddenly the floor drops out from under you about a foot as Otis comes to a halt. The first time it happened I nearly fell over but now I merely brace myself for the impact and shrug it off.<br />
<br />
One day Otis was clearly in a bad mood. I saw that he was up on level three so I pushed the button. It took awhile but he finally showed up. The doors flew open as they tend to do and then suddenly shut. I managed to get the door open again but when I pushed the button for my floor nothing happened. I wondered if it really was the smartest thing to do, standing there inside a temperamental elevator that might close its doors and still go nowhere and perhaps decide today is the day that nobody gets out... I decided to exit and take the stairs.<br />
<br />
This morning Otis ignored my impatient taps on the button. I didn’t hear the familiar rumble or the crazed squeak that he does just before he opens the door. There was only silence. Fine, s’ok. Another trek down four flights of stairs won’t hurt me. <br />
When I came back off the beach I noticed that Otis was on level two which was unusual because he likes to hang out at three unless summoned. I called him and he finally arrived but his door wildly opened and closed faster than usual as if he was having a nervous breakdown and didn’t know if he could handle giving me a ride or not. Usually this is the point where I sigh and go to the stairs but I was determined. I shoved my hand in to keep Otis from snapping shut and I got in. I pressed number three and he took me to one, opened the door and tried to shoo me out but I stayed put.<br />
<br />
The door closed and then we went to two and it opened again. I folded my arms and waited. This time when the doors closed I thought, <i>listen, you are really dumb. Is it worth getting stuck in this steel death trap just to save a few minutes of walking? </i>By then Otis was ambling up to my stop. He did his usual lurch and then drop and I picked my stomach off the floor and then got out.<br />
<br />
So I know it’s a bit of a Russian roulette situation with Otis. There may come a day when he decides to stop working completely, a day when he’ll say, “Enough is enough, no more rides for you or any of your kind!” That day might come but it’s not this day, at least not yet. So wish me luck as I get myself ready to take my afternoon walk.<br />
<br />
P.S I have to admit I felt quite guilty taking the pictures of Otis because I had to press the button. When he opened and I didn't get in I could feel his palpable disappointment. The thought <i>here's a taste of your own medicine</i> came to mind but I didn't say anything. <br />
<br />
Cheers from South Africa <br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-22965201035950567212014-06-11T02:02:00.000-07:002014-06-11T02:02:33.323-07:00African Adventures volume 4. The beach comber is back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw7NtV4GP8dqxL5aOapE2KZKTVv88qXe5_MEQUJ57k3FzHx_OHGD5ZWzjA056LJGl1ttHWIGDfOBMF4398bzFqiw1FWxfO9zCsdYd0PaF3UtVJAn7vlHnq_O1ZSDihuIstnrFHr83pGbxh/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw7NtV4GP8dqxL5aOapE2KZKTVv88qXe5_MEQUJ57k3FzHx_OHGD5ZWzjA056LJGl1ttHWIGDfOBMF4398bzFqiw1FWxfO9zCsdYd0PaF3UtVJAn7vlHnq_O1ZSDihuIstnrFHr83pGbxh/s320/007.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Hi all. After a very pleasant few days away spending time with Roger's wonderful family, we are back. Yesterday was vile. Freezing cold weather (high of 63, I'm being dramatic) and gale force winds. I took a walk anyway but when I got down to the beach the sand was pelleting my legs and I literally had to run off the beach.<br />
<br />
I've been a bit melancholy because Rog is leaving soon to do a two week intense climb in the Berg. It's called the Grand Traverse and I know he's going to love it but I'll miss him. I'm trying not to mope too much. Think of all the time I'll have to write. Yes, that's the way to look at it. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGToBveqM1niiLIaFxKHtaW6ePfwHsiY89rGihQVyCS3HxuXLGeH1D42qn6cz7FvEsB5RrsHpeuvnpHFUfnaqtl9F4POibzzIXSJJRbxvwc__yyW8UAiHPEGMp0DVdIgI6C8os-8qTZs7j/s1600/IMG_0269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGToBveqM1niiLIaFxKHtaW6ePfwHsiY89rGihQVyCS3HxuXLGeH1D42qn6cz7FvEsB5RrsHpeuvnpHFUfnaqtl9F4POibzzIXSJJRbxvwc__yyW8UAiHPEGMp0DVdIgI6C8os-8qTZs7j/s320/IMG_0269.JPG" /></a></div><br />
This morning I awoke to blue skies and pristine beaches. I took a walk and meandered around the rock pools. I love it when it's low tide. You see all kinds of fish, anemones, types of seaweed and best of all, shells. <br />
<br />
After the stormy weather yesterday the beach was littered with shells and trash. I took out a bag and started collecting plastic bottles, fishing line, broken glass and among those I found three beautiful little cowrie shells which promptly got put into my cowrie pocket. <br />
<br />
I walked toward the lagoon that lies on the left of Umdloti toward the next beach town called La Mercy. I love that name. Kind of like French kindness. Anyway, I found another cowrie glittering like a gem in a rock pool. It is solid white. Then I walked back towards our swimming beach. There is a natural rock formation that surrounds it making it a very safe place to swim. When the tide is out it's a great place to climb around and see what creatures are hanging out in the tidal pools. <br />
<br />
There is a place that I call the natural aquarium. It's an odd shaped rock and behind it is a recessed area that fills with water. When the tide is out it's full of little fish of all shapes and colors. Stripey, spotted and solid. There is also a type of plant or algae that is a brilliant blue and another that is bright red. The water is crystal clear and it's mesmerizing to watch the fish swim around, darting here and there.<br />
<br />
I found another cowrie on that beach. It is pink with orange sides. It's too chilly to swim now but South Africa is weird like that. It'll get cold for a few days <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMlOT04MDC_AGzwtaP2J7HyKbRyQ4hLD1GXtRLjs0fI2Vz6b__q2oRr97Z187PzhLWKIlmdX56tNx-3Oxu3GYbQuLSSc5z7r3oAtCM6CAteM2t-KdCjJRnJmOgSxFVGbtvrjQcNymhqQ_r/s1600/IMG_0261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMlOT04MDC_AGzwtaP2J7HyKbRyQ4hLD1GXtRLjs0fI2Vz6b__q2oRr97Z187PzhLWKIlmdX56tNx-3Oxu3GYbQuLSSc5z7r3oAtCM6CAteM2t-KdCjJRnJmOgSxFVGbtvrjQcNymhqQ_r/s320/IMG_0261.JPG" /></a></div>and then suddenly warm up again. <br />
<br />
In other news, my new book Blood Brothers is now available on Amazon.com. I don't know why but seeing it on Amazon always makes it seem more official to me somehow. Now I just have to market it. It's not really my strong suit but that's okay. I'm better suited for beachcombing anyway. <br />
<br />
Cheers from South Africa. sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-28528503616468204422014-06-01T08:40:00.001-07:002014-06-01T08:42:59.084-07:00New book available and African adventures volume 3. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU1jlbpbaSB7y0774qKiaHET4f31XViqaByl8r24rpoVC23mcAf39kJ7YHi2-ldsBwVlX75giY8BnRgYPZO1pKkAeX1fx6QWNBM_M0Eo37ozzM2uO9trCqfvLvHBC4QHRTxcWGKrmgyCUw/s1600/052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU1jlbpbaSB7y0774qKiaHET4f31XViqaByl8r24rpoVC23mcAf39kJ7YHi2-ldsBwVlX75giY8BnRgYPZO1pKkAeX1fx6QWNBM_M0Eo37ozzM2uO9trCqfvLvHBC4QHRTxcWGKrmgyCUw/s320/052.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBefV_ZwI9oGdsPpYHr9Dg5pxt5ZF66k0uhXw1drHuvvUOagdroYeRGRTH4Ap3Y-7ihm8zFcFo0Lbu1aQijY2gl03hEpO6sT2n46eFHTrk2MWsed31IpACI3G-07k21IJcYpAZvoNEjh0W/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBefV_ZwI9oGdsPpYHr9Dg5pxt5ZF66k0uhXw1drHuvvUOagdroYeRGRTH4Ap3Y-7ihm8zFcFo0Lbu1aQijY2gl03hEpO6sT2n46eFHTrk2MWsed31IpACI3G-07k21IJcYpAZvoNEjh0W/s320/007.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAWiMkRStWhVH0ui8Xrwb0GUdzgwD5u_xesI1zLwTvnLoA-VANokZEfH7ZQSYAQERm8znMzkwNhN4gMDQK4GqcE0Pfmm7Cp-YhU73W1eaXOiBh4emyybO1zZA2KjGe3uVuxiwP69ytZdo/s1600/459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAWiMkRStWhVH0ui8Xrwb0GUdzgwD5u_xesI1zLwTvnLoA-VANokZEfH7ZQSYAQERm8znMzkwNhN4gMDQK4GqcE0Pfmm7Cp-YhU73W1eaXOiBh4emyybO1zZA2KjGe3uVuxiwP69ytZdo/s320/459.jpg" /></a></div><br />
My new book, Blood Brothers is available now from my publisher at wingsepress.com<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to finishing the third sequel this spring. Let me know what you think of the series. <br />
<br />
Today was a beautiful day. I still find the time difference so weird. It's six hours ahead here. So, the day is winding down while back in Virginia, it's just getting going. <br />
<br />
This morning we walked down to the South Side of town for the Quicksilver 'Takes one to know one' surfing competition. It was really fun and the waves were huge. I'm no expert as far as surfing goes but it all looked good to me. <br />
<br />
There was no wind all day which is a real treat. We walked back and picked up a few groceries at the tiny grocery store under the stairs. We don't have a car so we are learning to combine errands when we are out and about. <br />
<br />
We had a fantastic swim at the main swimming beach here on the North side where we live. It's awesome because there is a natural rock formation that creates a kind of mega swimming pool. It stays quite safe until the tide comes in and then it merges once again with the great ocean. <br />
<br />
I'm still getting used to hearing the sea all time. Right now the wind has picked up and the tide is in so it sounds like a hurricane out there. It's warm so I have the door open and the wind is blowing that amazing smell of sea air into our tiny apartment. At night there is this sense that I'm sleeping on a ship. The sound of the surf is so loud. When I look outside I can see the cargo ships with their lights twinkling in the distance as they wait to go into the Durban Harbor. <br />
<br />
Well, buy my book if you feel like it. If you don't, that's cool. It will be up on Amazon soon and there will be a free sample. Paperbacks will be available at the end of the month and it will also be available for Nook. <br />
<br />
Cheers from South Africa! sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-362048429291555814.post-55304183209528697212014-05-31T07:16:00.002-07:002014-05-31T07:16:41.875-07:00Book Launch! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-PN1rGlRFkhI_JvfE3LxDzbO4_YFIW8dLJ4YOTH2UsJy3CW4NV_rTzYaBA59IDzrfKfXI_AQXRGX9g4_CnqSLGig2bPDUASX72pZ6vFq5CKRym9odD_TfkJ4maPT74pTQaeONvm7SNhjY/s1600/460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-PN1rGlRFkhI_JvfE3LxDzbO4_YFIW8dLJ4YOTH2UsJy3CW4NV_rTzYaBA59IDzrfKfXI_AQXRGX9g4_CnqSLGig2bPDUASX72pZ6vFq5CKRym9odD_TfkJ4maPT74pTQaeONvm7SNhjY/s320/460.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Tomorrow is the day the sequel to my thriller, Behind the Closet Door has it's first launch. It's called Blood Brothers and will be available from my publisher wingsepress.com in e-book format. <br />
<br />
Paperbacks and listing on Amazon and Nook will come later in the month but my publisher will have it tomorrow! <br />
<br />
What is the sequel about you say? Here's a blurb:<br />
<br />
Henry Peterson is trying to change his ways. After his escape from the nightmare he created in Virginia, He is turning over a new leaf. After committing one last crime as a favor to Rex Roland, he heads to Florida.<br />
He meets a pretty girl named Shelby and they hit it off. He’s happy for the first time in ages and relieved that his tortured past is staying in the basement where it belongs. The sunny weather, Shelby’s friendship and her dog Misty, all seem to help Henry become a better person and keep his inner demons at bay. The voices have stopped as well as most of the nightmares. <br />
<br />
Wyatt Courtland is an eleven year old boy on the run. He’s on a quest to find the brother that doesn’t even know he exists. Wyatt has always carried the burden of rumors and speculation that his Dad is somehow tied up with Tom Willin who later changed his name to Henry Peterson. Finally his Dad admits that Henry and Wyatt are brothers. Wyatt is an extraordinary boy whose lucid dreams sometimes predict the future. He uses these dreams to help him find the person he thinks will lead him to Henry, ex-cop Rex Roland.<br />
<br />
Here's a review from Behind the Closet Door in case you haven't read the first book yet. <br />
<br />
Behind the Closet Door<br />
<br />
Henry wants to be with someone. That someone doesn't want to be with him. That's a problem. Under the backdrop of a never-ending rainfall, Henry takes matters into his own hands, imprisoning the love of his life, Michelle, inside a closet and spending every second afterwards, contemplating what to do next.<br />
<br />
When I first read the premise, I wasn't sure how the author was going to get an entire story out of this and keep me interested for the duration. After reading the story however, I can say that I was blown away. The author really allowed her imagination to run wild and as a result, we not only descend into Henry's mania with him, we actually become Henry. We see what he sees. We hear what he hears. We suspect what he suspects. That connection allowed me to share Henry's fears and apprehension. It was uncomfortable: knowing there was something, eating away, both pushing us away from the closet door and pulling us towards it. The author did a great job of using time as a character. You could feel the clock ticking with each scene, barreling toward a conclusion you were never really sure you were ready for.<br />
<br />
The descriptions in this book were alive and written with smartly chosen language. I felt that it was important for this type of story to have stunning details, and I wasn't disappointed. When the author takes us inside Henry's mind, it's a wild, chilling journey. The dark places she took us to, are rarely touched on without being overly gratuitous. Ms. Rood is a writer that knows when to push, when to tease and when to yell "cut!"<br />
<br />
The book was also written from the POV of a small town deputy named Rex. To be honest, I could have used a bit more of Rex. I liked his character and either by sheer volume of words or by stylistic choice, Henry's narrative overshadowed Rex's so much that it sort of made it hard for me to get back into Rex's storyline and left me with a feeling of overall imbalance. I think there was more for Rex to do and tell.<br />
<br />
As the story thunders toward the climax, you get the sense that nothing is what it seems and that the tension is about to boil over. The author leads us right up to several possibilities and keeps us guessing as to exactly how Henry's ordeal is going to play out. There was nothing predictable about this story. All at once, it was intriguing, inviting and uncomfortable. And if you love good dialogue, the exchanges between Henry and his captive, Michelle from the other side of the door, will be appreciated.<br />
<br />
Overall, I'd recommend this book to any fan of the genre. Author Shari Rood is quickly becoming one of my favorite writers. (Larey Batz, author, reviewer) <br />
<br />
So grab a copy tomorrow and enjoy it! I'm busy working on the third sequel. <br />
<br />
Cheers from South Africa. <br />
sharihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15629952967310374876noreply@blogger.com0