Posts by Joy Held

BOOKS BY MY FRIENDS

Posted on by Joy Held

This article may contain affiliate links which may result in the author receiving a commission when readers purchase items through the links.

 

Today we’re featuring authors NANCY HAYES KILGORE, KATHIE GIORGIO, & FRAN HAWTHORNE.

 

BOOK: Bitter Magic

AUTHOR: Nancy Hayes Kilgore

GENRE: Historical Fiction

BLURB: Bitter Magic, inspired by the true story of Isobel Gowdie and her witchcraft confession, reveals a little-known corner of history—the lives of both pagan and Protestant women in the Scottish Reformation of the 1600s as witch trials and executions threatened their lives, values, and beliefs.

The story is told by Isobel herself and also by Margaret Hay, a fictionalized seventeen-year-old noble woman. When Margaret stumbles across Isobel one day, it seems as though Isobel is commanding the dolphins in the ocean to dance. Margaret is enchanted. She becomes interested in Isobel’s magic, in fairies, and in herbal remedies; Isobel freely shares her knowledge. While Margaret worries that being around Isobel could be dangerous, she also respects Isobel’s medical successes and comes to believe that acknowledging the efficacy of herbal remedies or believing in fairies does not challenge her Christianity.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nancy Hayes Kilgore, BITTER MAGIC (Sunbury Press, 2021,) is the author of two other novels, WILD MOUNTAIN (Green Writers Press, 2017) and SEA LEVEL (RCWMS, 2011). Her writing has won the Vermont Writers Prize and a ForeWord Reviews Book of the Year Award. Nancy is a graduate of the Radcliffe Writing Seminars and holds a Master of Divinity degree and a Doctorate in Pastoral Counseling. She is a writing coach, psychotherapist, and former parish pastor, and leads workshops on creative writing and spirituality.

 

BOOK: Hope Always Rises

AUTHOR: Kathie Giorgio

GENRE: Literary Magical Realism

BLURB: In Heaven, there is a gated community for those who end their lives. This is a surprise to Hope, who ends her life on the banks of the Fox River in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Hope never knew what caused her sadness. God reassures her he does, but he won’t reveal it. Yet.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Kathie Giorgio is the critically acclaimed author of seven novels, two story collections, an essay collection, and four poetry books. Awards include Pushcart Prizes in fiction and poetry, the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Wisconsin Library Association, the Pencraft Award for Literary Excellence, and the Eric Hoffer Award In Fiction.

 

 

BOOK: I Meant to Tell You

AUTHOR: Fran Hawthorne

GENRE: Contemporary Upmarket Fiction

BLURB: When Miranda Isaac’s fiancé, Russ Steinmann, is being vetted for his once-in-a-lifetime dream job in the U.S. attorney’s office, the couple worries that Miranda’s parents’ history as political activists in the Sixties could jeopardize Russ’ security clearance. But the real threat emerges when Russ’s future boss discovers that Miranda was arrested for felony kidnapping nearly a decade earlier—an arrest she’d never revealed to Russ.

Miranda tries to convince Russ she was only helping her best friend, Ronit—caught up in a nasty custody battle—take her daughter to visit her parents in Israel. As Miranda struggles to prove that she’s not a criminal, she either makes matters worse or stumbles into more secrets. With everything she thought she knew upended, Miranda must face the truth about her family, herself, and her future marriage.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Fran Hawthorne has been writing novels since she was four years old, although she was sidetracked for several decades by journalism. During that award-winning career, she wrote eight nonfiction books and was an editor or regular contributor for The New York Times, Business Week, Fortune, and many other publications. But Fran never abandoned her true love: Her debut novel, “The Heirs,” was published in 2018, and now I MEANT TO TELL YOU (published last November by Stephen F. Austin State University Press) has already won or is a finalist for seven awards. Fran is at work on two new novels and also writes reviews for the New York Journal of Books.

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BOOKS BY MY FRIENDS; TAD CRAWFORD, ZOE TASIA, & CHRIS COURTNEY MARTIN

Posted on by Joy Held

This article may contain affiliate links which may result in the author receiving a commission when readers purchase items through the links.

Welcome to Books By My Friends (BBMF) where I host various authors and their work.

Today we’re featuring authors TAD CRAWFORD, ZOE TASIA, and CHRIS COURTNEY MARTIN

 

 

BOOK: On Wine-Dark Seas: A Novel of Odysseus and His Fatherless Son Telemachus

AUTHOR: Tad Crawford

GENRE: Historical Fiction

BLURB: Here is a brilliant recounting of the life of Odysseus after his safe return to the island of Ithaca, his wife Penelope, and his son Telemachus. Countless readers and listeners have thrilled to the adventures of Odysseus in The Iliad and The Odyssey, but what further adventures awaited him after his ten years of war and ten years of wandering?

Narrated by Telemachus to the bard Phemios, On Wine-Dark Seas speaks of the human drama of a man gone twenty years from home and family, a man who saw Troy on the night of its destruction, a man who lives the special quest which is his destiny. In probing the inner journeys of a son and father separated twenty years who must come to terms with each other and their ruthless slaughter of the suitors of Penelope, it reveals the doubts and joys of Odysseus, Penelope, and Telemachus.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Tad Crawford is the author of A Floating Life: A Novel as well as The Secret Life of Money and a dozen other nonfiction books. His lectures have brought mythology alive at venues such as the New York Open Center, Wainwright House, and the Analytical Psychology Club of New York. The recipient of a National Endowment for the Arts award, Crawford is the founder and publisher of Allworth Press. He lives in New York City.

 

 

BOOK: Kilts and Catnip (The Shrouded Isle Book 1)

AUTHOR: Zoe Tasia

GENRE: Fantasy

BLURB: Becca Shaw visits a Scottish island where there’s a doorway to a magical world. Local Greg Gillie keeps everyone safe from the fae living there. Since Becca’s arrival, magic attacks have increased. The two must work together to stop the fae as they navigate growing feelings for each other. Note from the author: Kilts and Catnip is a sweet and wholesome fantasy romance.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Zoe Tasia lives in Texas with her understanding Greek husband and a crazy cat where she explores her imagination as a writer. When she’s not giving her imaginary friends full rein, she enjoys the opera, ballet, well-chilled champagne and books, lots and lots of books.

BOOK: THE BOOK OF I.P. (Idle Poems)

AUTHOR: Chris Courtney Martin

GENRE: Poetry/Prose Chapbook

BLURB: ‘THE BOOK OF I.P. (Idle Poems)’ is a hybrid poetry and essay chapbook collection that is “ironic in concept, sincere in content” as it deconstructs prescribed best-practices for getting ideas greenlit as a screenwriter and what it means to possess a producible and worthy story. Note from the author: Some adult language and themes, PG-13

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Chris Courtney Martin is a Black Queer multidisciplinary artist and psychic medium originally from Philadelphia. Martin’s produced screenwriting credits include short independent projects starring talents such as Sheryl Lee Ralph and Niecy Nash, as well as the animated YouTube series ‘SOMETHING SCARY’. After a multi-awarded screenwriting trajectory, the artist pivoted to literature. Their debut poetry/prose chapbook ‘THE BOOK OF I.P. (Idle Poems)’ is available in print on Amazon, via Alien Buddha Press. A second, full-length collection called ‘SLAM POEMS FOR MY BATHROOM MIRROR…And Other Selected Works…’ is due to launch in October of 2023. Martin also releases music under the name KWEAN OONTZ and debuted with the ‘A KWEAN OONTZ NOVEL’ MicroAlbum in June 2023, to positive international critical reception.

 

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BOOKS BY MY FRIENDS

Posted on by Joy Held

This article may contain affiliate links which may result in the author receiving a commission when readers purchase items through the links.

Today we’re featuring authors SARA HOSEY, DEBBIE BURKE, and LAURA SEGAL STEGMAN.

 

 

BOOK: Summer People

AUTHOR: Sara Hosey

GENRE: Young adult contemporary mystery

BLURB: Christmas wants to spend the summer hanging with Lexi, the one friend who gets her completely, ADHD and all. But things are strained, and get weirder when the friends stumble on a crime scene, and Christmas is forced to face difficult realities about her her beloved lake community. Author note: A little heat! (Some kissing and flirting.) Also, content warning for homophobic language (a character uses a slur) and substance abuse.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Sara Hosey is the author of three young adult novels: Iphigenia Murphy, Imagining Elsewhere, and Summer People. Her short story collection, Dirty Suburbia, is forthcoming in 2024. A Queens native, she lived for several years in Wisconsin before returning to New York, where she teaches English at a community college.

 

BOOK: Deep Fake Double Down

AUTHOR: Debbie Burke

GENRE: Psychological thriller/women’s adventure

BLURB: What you see with your own eyes is true, right? Not necessarily, when a crooked prison warden slams social media with deep fake videos showing an inmate’s escape helped by his female guard-lover. The guard claims that never happened. No one believes her except investigator Tawny Lindholm.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Debbie Burke is an award-winning journalist, crime novelist, freelance editor, and blogger on The Kill Zone. She writes from her home in Montana where the scenic, rugged Rocky Mountains offer plenty of locations to kill people…on the page, that is!

 

 

BOOK: Ready or Not

AUTHOR: Laura Segal Stegman

GENRE: Middle grade contemporary fantasy

BLURB: Ready or Not, the sequel to Summer of L.U.C.K., features more magical adventures with Darby, Naz, Justin, and the ghost who haunts a magical carnival, but it spotlights thirteen-year-old Justin, who faces a tricky choice: stand up to bigotry or let fear hold him back.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Laura Segal Stegman is a Los Angeles-based author whose middle grade debut novel, Summer of L.U.C.K., and its sequel, Ready or Not (both from Young Dragons Press), are available wherever books are sold. The Chambered Nautilus, third in the L.U.C.K. trilogy, will follow. She serves as a judge for kidlit writer competitions and shares her author journey in engaging visits to schools and libraries. Her popular PR Tips for Authors workshop features a step-by-step guide to building a digital author media kit. Non-fiction credits include collaboration on the travel book Only in New York. A long-time publicity consultant, she owns Laura Segal Stegman Public Relations, LLC. www.LauraStegman.com

 

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BOOKS BY MY FRIENDS

Posted on by Joy Held

This article may contain affiliate links which may result in the author receiving a commission when readers purchase items through the links.

Today we’re featuring authors LAURY A. EGAN, ALLE C. HALL, LYNN SLAUGHTER, and LINDA BALLOU.

BOOK: The Firefly

AUTHOR: Laury A. Egan

GENRE: Romance and coming of age portrait

BLURB: 1964: A dark summer night on a still black lake. A lantern is lit at the end of a dock. A blond girl in white appears and begins to dance, her body illuminated like the fireflies surrounding her. A second girl emerges from a house and is beckoned forward. The two meet, swim, and then kiss, beginning an ethereal romance and a young woman’s journey into adulthood. Robin Bennet, 14, has been abandoned at a lakeside rental. Her parents argue and leave, each believing the other has remained with Robin. Alone, Robin discovers someone has been sleeping in the house and stealing food. A fifteen-year-old, Kieran, the charming intruder, invites himself to dinner. He is the brother of the beautiful girl who magically appeared on the dock the night before. After he departs, the “Firefly” returns, but in the morning she has disappeared, leaving Robin on a quest to find her all the while pursuing her dream of becoming an architect. Heat rating: 2

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Laury A. Egan is the author of eleven novels, The Firefly; Once, Upon an Island; Wave in D Minor; Turnabout; Once, Upon an Island; Double crossed; The Swimmer; The Ungodly Hour; A Bittersweet Tale; Fabulous! An Opera Buffa; The Outcast Oracle; and Jenny Kidd; in addition to a collection, Fog and Other Stories. Four limited-edition poetry volumes have been published: Snow, Shadows, a Stranger; Beneath the Lion’s Paw; The Sea & Beyond; and Presence & Absence. Eighty-five of her stories and poems have appeared in literary journals.

BOOK: As Far As You Can Go Before You Have to Come Back: A Novel

AUTHOR: Alle C. Hall

GENRE: Literary fiction

BLURB: As Far as You Can Go Before You Have to Come Back is a-girl-and-her-backpack story with a #MeToo influence: Carlie is a child sexual abuse survivor. As a teen, she runs away to Asia. Falling in with an international crew of Tai chi-practicing backpackers, Carlie’s journey becomes one to find the self-respect torn from her as a child and the healthy sexuality she desires. Trigger warnings for: child sexual abuse, addictions, and suicide.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nominated for The Pacific Northwest Booksellers Book Award, Alle C. Hall’s debut literary novel, As Far as You Can Go Before You Have to Come Back was winning prizes before its publication, including the National League of American Pen Women’s Mary Kennedy Eastham Prize. The novel was also submitted by the publisher for The National Book Award. Hall lived in Asia and traveled there extensively. She has a daily Tai chi practice that spans 35 years.

BOOK: Missed Cue

AUTHOR: Lynn Slaughter

GENRE: Mystery

BLURB: While dealing with her own messy personal life, Lieutenant Caitlin O’Connor investigates the most complicated case of her career, the suspicious onstage death of a revered ballerina.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: After a long career as a professional dancer and dance educator, Lynn earned her MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. MISSED CUE (Melange Books) is her first mystery for adults. She is also the author of four award-winning young adult romantic mysteries: DEADLY SETUP, LEISHA’S SONG, IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN YOU, AND WHILE I DANCED. Lynn lives in Louisville, Kentucky, where she’s at work on her next novel, serves on the board of Louisville Literary Arts, and is an active member and former president of Derby Rotten Scoundrels, the Ohio River Valley chapter of Sisters in Crime.

 

LINDA BALLOU

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER SUBSCRIPTION BOX REVEAL

Posted on by Joy Held

This post may contain affiliate links that may result in a small commission to me if you purchase through the link.

“BACK TO THE BOOKS” SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER BOX REVEAL!

It’s “Back to the Books” in September and October and the first WriteDay bi-monthly box is arriving as we type! Let’s take a look at what’s inside.

 

1. Featured writing craft book: The Idea: the Seven Elements of a Viable Story for Screen, Stage, or Fiction by Emmy and Golden Globe award winning author Erik Bork. Erik’s book is relatively new and packed with super information about coming up with ideas. Who doesn’t need a bit of help there now and then? He was part of the writing team for the hit HBO series “Band of Brothers.” His ideas for coming up with ideas is nothing short of brilliant.

2. Blank journal: Write your own story in the 5 x 7-inch spiral-bound journal with lined pages to collect all the ideas you gather after reading Erik’s book!

3. Literature stickers collection: You don’t have to be a scrap booker to appreciate this cute set of literary stickers. There are no less than 10 stickers in the packet. Use them in your journal, in a scrapbook, or decorate a blank greeting card you’re sending to a writing friend.

4. Healthy snack: These peach flavored gummy rings from Lily’s are sugar-free and tasty as all get-out!

 

5. Decor: When I came across the miniature wooden typewriter, I had to have one. I use it to display my business card on the table at book signings. So stinkin’ cute, if you ask me.

 

6. Jewelry: The Writer zipper pull blows me away with its cuteness factor. I can’t tell you how many zippers I have that the pull has broken off but the garment, purse, whatever still functions. It can also be attached to a key ring without adding bulk or weight, and it would be super adorable hooked into the eyelet or laces of your walking sneakers.

7. Writing tool: There’s a pen in the box from yours truly.

 

8. Jewelry: The collectable enamel pin is off the charts, mine anyway, for being an adorable and understated way to let others know you’re a writer. Plans are to have a different writing/reading book related enamel pin in every box. Wear it on a lapel or attach it to the strap on your laptop case. Collect them all!

9. Something to write about: I’m nuts over Thoughtfulls pop-out greetings. Each one is brilliantly created to be interesting and charming. I keep a few in my journaling tote bag to share or use as a journal prompt. They fit nicely inside greeting cards for a little something extra. Pop it open, copy the words into the blank journal you just received, and write down your thoughts. They’re a little bit addictive.

It’s not too late to get your WriteDay Sept./Oct. subscription box while supplies last.

 

My WriteDay Subscribe Here

“Holiday Hoopla” November/December box will begin shipping November 25. Know anyone who would appreciate receiving a gift subscription to My WriteDay? Visit the website to get that in the works.

I hope your WriteDay is fantastic!

Joy

 

 

Is It the Yoga Mat or Is It You?

Posted on by Joy Held

This article may contain affiliate links which may result in the author receiving a commission when readers purchase items through the links.

My ideas are not ever meant as a substitute for consulting with a qualified health professional

Is It the Yoga Mat or Is It You?

Remedies for stopping the slide.

People from all walks of life can enjoy hatha yoga because of its accessibility and availability. I recommend it to writers because the whole-body practice combined with breathing and meditation is an all-in-one fitness method that addresses many of the issues writers face. But many yoga devotees complain about their hands and feet slipping and sliding on the mat. There are two ways to end this problem, and it is a problem because it interferes with achieving good alignment. It’s just plain frustrating to not be able to hold a downward facing dog pose and enjoy the great stretch it offers because your hands won’t stay in place! Is it the yoga mat causing the problem or is it you? It’s a combination of things.

The phrase is not as prevalent now as in the past, but yoga mats are technically called “sticky mats.” When a young yoga teacher named Angela Farmer was leading classes in Germany, she wanted something soft, supportive, and that wouldn’t slide underneath the asanas. She took a piece of carpet padding, cut it to the size of a towel, and the modern sticky yoga mat was born.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga_mat

Since then, manufacturers have constructed yoga mats from materials such as plastic, latex, cork, and rubber that do provide more stability. Some yoga students, me included, need an extra layer of dryness to keep from losing grip on even the “stickiest” mat. Slipping while holding a yoga pose leads to several problems. One of them is misalignment and poor technique. Poor technique or not modifying a pose with props like blocks, blankets, and straps is the primary cause of injury.

Here, let me remind you that yoga doesn’t do anything to anyone. People do yoga and in a variety of ways to accommodate their abilities and needs. This is one of the hallmarks of yoga: it’s accessible to so many people and body types. Accessibility aside, guidance from a good hatha yoga teacher and knowing one’s own physical boundaries are essential. Always remember that yoga doesn’t do anything. YOU DO YOGA. What you do with yoga determines the results.

Stopping the slide on your yoga mat is essentially a matter of proper technique while doing the poses. However, yogis quickly discover that exercise is a cleansing tool and sweaty palms and feet can make that all-important alignment difficult to maintain. Even practicing on the iconic yoga mat that claims to stop the slipping, sweat (a good thing) can be frustrating. Rubbing alcohol and towels can’t keep up once the sweat begins a serious trickle down your arms and legs. I’ve studied and taught yoga for 40 years. I’ve tried different ways to keep my hands and feet dry during practice, and of the methods and products I’ve used, Carpe brand lotions work amazingly well.

Carpe products include antiperspirant lotions designed to stop sweat from coming through the pores. They also make sweat-absorbing powders, but that substance doesn’t work the same for me as the antiperspirant line. I’ve used the hand and foot lotions for several years. They help considerably. The only issue I’ve ever had is washing the lotion off!

Remedies to stop the slide during yoga include investing in a good quality yoga mat, practicing proper alignment techniques, seeking the guidance of a trained instructor, modifying poses with props, and using products like Carpe to stop the sweat in its tracks.

No more “Slip, Sliding Away”! Nail that yoga pose.

XXX

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every month includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

My WRITEDAY subscription box launches in August! Stay tuned for your opportunity to be an Early Bird subscriber and receive a special gift in your first box.

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WRITER’S FALL SURVIVAL GUIDE

Posted on by Joy Held

 

At first glance, the title could indicate that this is a piece about surviving a literal fall, as in down the steps, goddess forbid! The “fall” is seasonal in this case. Here are some tips for writers and readers for getting the most out of this time of year filled with so many colors, activities, and opportunities.

JOURNAL

Survival is one thing, but thriving is another. Surviving makes me think of living through a tough time and finally being rescued. I feel a bit fatigued by the idea of survival. Conversely, thriving makes me feel powerful and energized, ready for life’s curve balls. Here are three journaling prompts to bring the pen and paper to a meeting of the minds (or the keyboard clacking!)

  1. Write about a school memory set during the autumn. Did you love the coloring sheets in elementary school with falling leaves, pumpkins, and turkeys on them? Did fall sports mean anything to you during junior or high school?
  2. All the seasons involve transitions. Whether it’s environmental or physical, write about a transition memory that still impresses who you are today.
  3. What do you love (or not) about the autumn season and why?

EXERCISE

With the cooler temperatures, fall is a good time to get outside for regular exercise. Walking is a favorite of mine. It makes me feel better and relax because I’m moving and not at the computer. If walking or yoga outside aren’t possible, open a window wherever you workout and enjoy the crisp air and the flapping curtains cheering you on.

MEDITATE

Many things change about our northern hemisphere lifestyle in the fall. Five minutes of stillness, eyes closed, and counting breaths can do wonders for appreciating the transitions of the seasons and our lives.

EAT

While summer brings its bountiful harvest of fresh, local produce and flowers, autumn offers its particular flavors and scents. The onset of every new season is a good time to reset your body’s systems. Everyone should do a mild detox or cleanse at the start of every new season. If for no other reason than to feel open and spacious for the coming months. The simplest and safest way to detox is to increase your daily water intake. There is no formula. Adjust as needed.

CREATE

I believe we’re all natural born creators. Some people play to that strength more than others. One reason some folks don’t consider themselves creative is that they never had the opportunity to make something. And they may have “expectations syndrome” which I invented to mark the times when I feel less than capable. For example, I can’t draw more than stick figures, hearts, and chakra symbols. I’m a good doodler. I like journal pages to be illustrated and colorful so I cut images from magazines and create collages. I can embellish as I see fit and feel satisfied that I lived up to my belief that art, all forms of art, are interpretations of how we see the world.

How do you plan to thrive this fall?

I hope your WRITEDAY is fantastic.

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books. ~Joy E. Held

Connect with me!

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The September/October My WRITEDAY subscription box “Back to the Books” ships September 20! Sign up now to be an Early Bird subscriber and receive a surprise free gift with your first box.

$59.00 plus tax includes shipping.

 

My WRITEDAY Subscribe

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every box includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

Crave Chocolate but Want Less Sugar?

Posted on by Joy Held

This article may contain affiliate links which may result in the author receiving a commission when readers purchase items through the links.

Crave chocolate but want less sugar? Lily’s to the Rescue.

Lily’s brand chocolate bars and products are decent options when you’ve decided to reduce or cut your sugar consumption AND improve your brain and heart health by eating dark chocolate (cacao). But why make these dietary changes in the first place?

Chocolate contains some decent vitamins and minerals that our bodies are happy to make use of. Cacao itself without “a spoonful of sugar” to help the medicine go down tastes downright nasty. Consequently, eating chocolate generally interferes with any desire to watch one’s sugar intake because the first thing the Spanish conquistadors did was add something sweet to the brew they discovered in Central America way back when. Sweetener of choice was and is sugar. Sugar turns to fat in the body. The kind of fat that’s difficult to purge. Choosing good-for-you chocolate means eating dark varieties that contain more of the components such as flavonoids AND is produced with healthier sweetener alternatives such as stevia or monk fruit. Bear with me. This is the good part of the story.

I’m no Sheldon, but I can understand that flavonoids, like those in chocolate, are chemicals, good ones, found in plants and vegetables that help cells do their thing like function the way they are supposed to. This is according to multiple studies on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. There are indications that flavonoids help reduce inflammation and plaque buildup which are problems associated with heart disease as well. Cacao is loaded with the good flavonoids as are many other foods and beverages. Eating healthy chocolate with less sugar or sweetener alternatives is good for your heart, head, and belt size. After much experimentation, I’ve found Lily’s brand products a satisfying choice for cooking (I put it in my chili,) baking (the chips are divine,) and for an everyday dessert (just a few squares does the trick.)

The Romance of Chocolate

No denying at this point that human beings have had an extended, romantic affair with chocolate. What we like about it, as far as I’m concerned, is the sweetness, the smooth, melty sensation, and the aftereffects. It is a consumable drug, after all. There is also the emotional factor associated with chocolate as in romantic holidays or anytime you want to say, “I love you.” A chocolate bar speaks louder than words alone. How did this happen?

This less than five-minute TedEd video written by educator Deanna Pucciarelli lays out a history of chocolate. Not only is it a decent introduction to the cacao bean’s checkered past, but it also doesn’t hurt one’s research as a writer to know details about the things we put in our books. The video provides some social commentary in the sense of unsavory practices involved in growing and harvesting the magic beans. Here’s the low-down. Cacao beans are grown mostly near the Earth’s equator in primarily rain forest regions because it needs high humidity, lots of rain, steady warm temperatures, and protection from the wind blowing it off the branches too soon.

And it’s been cultivated for thousands of years beginning in Central America and spreading to other countries along the rain forest belt of the planet. It was a spicy, stimulating drink for rulers and soldiers in Mesoamerica, used as currency in the exchange of goods and services, and available mostly to wealthy people. At first. As I said, the Spanish got a hold of it and added sugar (or honey, etc., again something available only to the elite,) and the rest of the story is what we stare at while waiting in line at the grocery store and fight with our kids about over eating too much. Too much what? The chocolate or the sugar? Both.

My mother said, “Anything in excess usually results in a problem.” But sometimes, the only thing that will calm the twitch is chocolate. Do the diligence and read the labels on commercially available chocolate candy. Besides the history and the benefits, know that quality cacao products containing better for you sweeteners have a magic about them that only testing will bear out. I can’t explain it, but you will eat less candy by choosing brands such as Lily’s. The company isn’t suffering because of this. They are a mission-driven group that source ingredients with a consciousness good for you, the company, and the globe.

When you subscribe to My WriteDay, you’ll undoubtedly find a Lily’s product in the box from time to time.

I hope your WRITEDAY is fantastic.

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books. ~Joy E. Held

Connect with me:

LinkTree

My ideas are not ever meant as a substitute for consulting with a qualified health professional.

The September/October My WRITEDAY subscription box “Back to the Books” ships September 20!

Subscribe to My WRITEDAY HERE

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every box includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

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SHAKE, SHAKE, SHAKE.

Posted on by Joy Held
Not a protein drink.

 

Years ago, when I was teaching six hatha yoga classes a week, I wasn’t eating well because time was my enemy. Most of my classes were scheduled for the five o’clock hour and interfered with eating on a regular schedule. They say don’t eat after 8:00 P. M. but that’s when I got home from class.

Starving, I would eat and have trouble sleeping. My nutritional coach recommended adding a protein shake to my food intake. It helped battle my fatigue and muscle recovery immensely, but it took a lot of trial and error to find one that I liked the taste of and that fell in line with my overall food program of Eat Right 4 Your Type. Another blog on that program later.

 

The “blood type diet” as it’s nicknamed suggests that my O blood type avoid wheat and whey. Many protein drinks contain whey and drinking them made me feel bloated rather than satisfied. The brand that eventually hit the spot is Premier Protein. When I wanted to reduce the amount of sugar in my diet, this brand helped since it generally contains only one gram. Does it help control my weight? Yes, but I don’t use it for that purpose. I drink it for the protein benefits as I’ve come to dislike the taste of many meat products and vegetable protein doesn’t fill me up. I also appreciate that Premier Protein is low on sodium content. It’s not crazy expensive and typically easy to find in stores and online. Winning!

The general key to losing weight is to cut calories and exercise regularly. A protein drink as a meal replacement is perfectly fine but not on a long-term basis. Whole foods and plenty of water are mandatory to a healthy food program. I don’t say “diet” because the first three letters spell “die.”

Do you drink a protein shake on a regular basis? Why or why not? Which one works for you? Recipes to share?

I hope your WRITEDAY is fantastic.

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books. ~Joy E. Held

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My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every box includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.

Must We Read to Write?

Posted on by Joy Held

“Good readers make good leaders.”

Spine Poetry

 

“Reading is like breathing in, writing is like breathing out.”

~Pam Allyn, Author and literacy advocate

Reading is essential to being a writer. Regardless of level or number of published books, writing depends on reading. Not every reader becomes a writer, although you probably know it happens quite often. Do a search on fan fiction for an eye-opening experience about readers who write. Heck, reading may very well be the reason you became a writer. If you had to look back and trace your path to becoming a writer, what would the journey look like?

“Stepping Stones” is a journaling favorite of mine that I do with my college English students to help them “see” a concrete example of how they became writers or came to dislike writing. It’s a multi-step project that starts with answering some questions about their reading history followed by a hands-on poster and ending with writing an essay.

The majority of my Freshman Composition students raise their hands when I ask who doesn’t like to write. I always feel a bit sorry for the minority of souls brave enough to raise their pencils when I ask for a show of those who LIKE TO WRITE. Those same haters don’t like to read either.

Surprisingly, I encounter aspiring writers in my editing and book coaching business with similar sour attitudes toward reading. However, every student/client is able to answer the following five questions about their reading history. This is my secret, back door tactic to getting them to write a personal essay about their reading journey.

“My Reading Journey Essay”

  1. Were you read to as a child? Where? By whom?
  2. Do you remember the title of one book from grade school? Middle school? High school? What is it?
  3. As a child, did you go to the library regularly? Why or why not? Who took you? What do you remember about going to the library? When was the last time you were in one?
  4. If you have a good relationship with reading, can you point to a person, place, or thing that contributed to that?
  5. If you have a not-so-good relationship with reading, can you point to a person, place, or thing that contributed to that?

With the answers to these questions, boom, students (and you) have the outline for an essay about your storied history with reading and maybe how that history impressed your current love/hate party with writing.

In the article “Reading: A Writer’s Best and Most Constant Muse,” agent and author Paula Munier says, “We writers have to stay where we are to write—and good reading is our gateway to good writing.” There are studies galore about the value of reading, and you probably know how it contributes to your writing. Even though the effects are sometimes subtle, reading in and out of your genre undoubtedly has an effect on your writing. Munier reminds us that writing requires us to be stationary but that reading is a way to move about in mind and soul. Of course, we must not forget to be physically active in between reading and writing sessions.

I will return to this topic in the future as it has many layers of discussion associated with it. Such as the pitfalls of reading for writers, how much or how little to read is good for a writer, and books about the topic of reading like a writer.

For now, try answering the five questions above and write your own essay or blog about how reading impresses your writing. I’d love to READ it!

Have any quick comments about how reading affects your writing?

I hope your WRITEDAY is fantastic.

Joy

Women with clean houses do not have finished books.

~Joy E. Held

Connect with me:

LinkTree

Advertisement

 

Please note that this site may contain affiliates links. I may earn a small commission if you click through the link and make a purchase. Thanks for all the support!

 

The September/October My WRITEDAY subscription box “Back to the Books” ships September 20! Sign up now to be an Early Bird subscriber and receive a surprise free gift with your first box.

$59.00 plus tax includes shipping.

Click here to subscribe!

MyWriteDay Subscribe

My WRITEDAY is a subscription box program that delivers curated products from authors, creators, and small businesses to writers and readers in the US. It’s unique in that many products are sourced from writers who are also crafters and artisans. Each box delivers a writing craft book of the month and 3-7 items associated with the key concepts (journaling, fitness, relaxation, nutrition, and creative play) of Writer Wellness, my flagship program and book (Headline Books, Inc. 2020.)

Each box is inspired by literary themes, genres, and holidays. Every box includes access to My WRITEDAY digital magazine filled with writing and publishing tips, writer wellness ideas, fiction excerpts, poetry, special offers, social media options such as live virtual meetings, and more.

The idea behind My WRITEDAY is to help writers spend more time creating stories, engaging with like-minded book friends, and enjoying the juicy, creative life they deserve. From craft books to office supplies to fun, writing/reading inspired décor, subscribers will discover an experience designed to offer a healthful plan for living your best writing life.