Busy, Busy, Busy

We all lead full lives. When you are very busy it is hard to imagine time for yourself, let alone planning and prioritizing that time. If you do create time to be alone...congratulations! (You're one of the few)

If you don’t, consider this: when you are not taking time out for yourself, you risk living a life that is disconnected from who you are. I'm willing to guess that it's difficult to remember what you did last Tuesday.

By taking time out just for you, to quiet your mind and have peace, you are able to reconnect your head with your heart. When you are disconnected you might find yourself anxious, indecisive and making decisions that please others rather than decisions that serve to create a better life for you. Take a little time to enjoy the simple things; perhaps a glass of wine or a good book (hint, hint)

It doesn’t have to be fancy or elaborate. All you have to do is simply schedule at least 15 minutes everyday for yourself. Choose a comfortable, quiet place—it can be anywhere, in a park, in your room. Take a deep breath, quiet your mind and settle down.

As you make this a daily practice or as often as you can you will begin to notice that you feel more grounded, relaxed and more content with your life.

How often do you feel run by your schedule?
Do you feel like there is not enough time in the day to achieve what you want?
Are you able to find relaxation time?

If you enjoy reading, please take a look at my website: http://www.rltayloronline.com
Perhaps a good book will take your mind to another place. I'm gigving away a FREE 15 Chapter preview of my latest novel. Sign up for your copy by clicking the above link. Enjoy!

Introducing Kyus Philnesta

Kyus Philnesta – Writer, Author & Poet



Bio - Kyus was born and raised in Miami, FL. She now resides in Pembroke Pines with her husband, Broderick, their 4 yr old son and their 15 yr old nephew. Kyus received her Associate Degree in General Studies from Miami Dade Community College. She continued her education at Florida International University where she earned her Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice. She has been working in the criminal justice field for the past 24 yrs.


Kyus selfpublished her first book, To the Heart of Things, A Chapbook of Poetry in 2001. Her depute novel, Because of Love was derived from one of her poems in that book.


What do you want readers to take away from your book?
There are two things I want to bring to light in my books. First I want to focus on issues that changes my protagonist life. I don't want to just write love stories, (although Because of Love is a love story) or write about the drama that goes on in relationships. I want to take issues like rape, death, teenage pregnancy or serious illnesses like cancer and place these issues in their lives. I want to show strong, solid relationships (marriages, friendships, families, couples) being shattered by uncontrollable events and then show how these issues is dealt with.
The second thing I want from my readers is to awaken their moral consciousness. When they find themselves facing a crisis beyond their control and must make a moral decision, do they allow what they have been taught to shape their decision, even if their heart is wrapped up in pain? Or do they allow the pain or anger or hatred or what ever the emotion is, to be the guiding factor on how the crisis is handled.


Are you a believer in outlines or do you write spontaneously?
RL, I do a little of both. In Because of Love I wrote an outline. I needed a way to keep track of time, people ages, events, etc. (besides, it was my first book). But eventually the book just took off. Instead of me taking my characters on a journey, they took me. I just penned the words.


But for the two books I’m writing now (one is a sequel to Because of Love) my outline is in my head. I haven’t written anything down. I just know where I want to go and how I want to get there. Who knows, maybe my characters will take me on another journey.


What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
To answer this question, I cheated. It would be so easy for me to tell you, ‘Oh, my novel is this’ or ‘my novel is that’. ‘It’s filled with this and it’ll make you that.’ But what I did was looked back at some of my reader’s reviews. What was it that kept them turning the pages? Here’s what some of them had to say:


Great 1st Read!!


“The story kept my attention and I wanted to read more. I really got into the characters and had personal emotions about each. It took me away as I wanted it to. I don’t usually read a book in 2 days, but it was hard to put down because I became personally involved with the characters and wanted to see where life took them. I always think a good story, whether a novel, movie, or someone telling it, is one that gives you an unexpected twist and this one did just that.


The mentions of current events and Miami exclusives was intriguing (i.e. Palmetto Espy, Ft. Lauderdale . . . even mentioning TJ morning show, state of real estate and the economy . . .).”
Nicole DuVall


Hi my name is Nicole
I received your book from a co-worker to read. I started reading it on a Tues I was done by Thurs when I say your book was so wonderful to read words just can't explain. My kids call me a slow reader because I like to read but I will have the book for weeks, but when I started your book I couldn't put it down it was so good. I would fall asleep reading this book and wake up still reading it (to funny) that is how much I enjoyed it. There has been only one other author that has caught my attention the way that you have and that is Mary Monroe she is my favorite author. I’m going to recommend your book with my friends and family especially my mother she will love it just as much as I did. There needs to be a part 2 to that book in the future.Thank you,
Nicole


I finally read your book and what a wonderful book it was!!!!! If I could give you an award for your writing (book), I would because I thought it was just that good/great. I think it was well written and could be compared to such writers as Kimberla Lawson Roby and Carl Webber. I enjoyed how easy it was to read, the twists it offered and oh, the illusions. I think it leaves room to a sequel into the lives of Lena and Kyle getting married and their lives thereafter, etc. I like the strong family support that both Kyle and Tony had as well as their true, tried and tested friendship. Oh, and you really did your homework when it came to your research. You provided clear information of symptoms, treatment and it's effects. Oh and the medical terminology and name of medicine was right on target. There were sooo many good parts about the book.


Keep up the good work and don't forget me when.....
Angela


How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
My supporters can reach me via my website: http://www.dauthorkyus.net/, email:  kyusphilnesta@yahoo.com and on Face Book.


RL, thank you for this wonderful opportunity and wonderful exposure!


Be Blessed,
Kyus Philnesta

Kyrus... Thank you
-RL Taylor, author of The Last Ms. Understanding and Champagne, Jellybeans, and Chocolate

Leave a comment and be entered in a drawing to receive a FREE e-book of The Last Ms. Understanding

Keep Your Head Up

Sometimes the person we show to our mate is a mask. The mask says that we are confident. But behind the mask, tells the real story....
Many people have low self esteem and fear rejection.
You can only attract to you what you believe about yourself.
In other words, most times, you will get what you think you deserve. Only you know how you feel about yourself. So often, we want to be swept off our feet as we see on the movie screen or in a book. The term, "soul mate". Is that even possible, or realistic?
Soul Mate is defined as a strong magnetic ffinity to another person.It's easy to become attracted to the wrong person for what we need to fill in ourselves.Sometimes people falsely fill this hole looking outside of themselves. It doesn't work.Today, be courageous and look at your self esteem.
What connection is there between your self esteem and how you are being treated in your relationship?
When you improve your self esteem, you will attract the love you truly desire...
How important is self esteem in a relationship?
What can you do to build your loved one up?

For more information on RL Taylor and/or to recieve a FREE 15 Chapter preview of his latest novel; Champagne, Jellybeans, and Chocolate click here
To listen to RL read excerpts from his books click here

Disturbing Facts?

Can we believe these statistics?
They were posted online and I questioned their authenticity...
How can each of us help create positive change?
Are authors and entertainers instrumental in influencing societal behavoir?
What types of storylines are you most interested in?
Is this propaganda?

RL Taylor reads several chapters from his books. Listen by clicking here

-70% of all black children are born out of wedlock.
-62% of black families with children are headed by a single parent.
-85% of black children do not live in a home with their fathers.
-Only 15-20% of black children born today will grow up with 2 parents until age 16.
-70% of African-American boys in the criminal justice system come from single-parent homes.
-50% of all new AIDS cases are in the Black community which comprises only 12% of the population.
-85% of all AIDS cases in Atlanta are black women.
-African-Americans are 20 times more likely than other races to have gonorrhea.
-AIDS is now the #1 killer of black women, age 25-44.
-67% of black women with AIDS contracted HIV thru heterosexual sex.
-Black men in America engage in polygamous relationships, 3 1/2 times that of White or Hispanics.
-Nearly 2 million black males are either currently in a state or federal prison or have been in one.
-By age 30, only 52% of black women will marry compared to 81% of white women, 77% of Hispanics and Asians.

Can this be true? What can each of us do to help if it is?

RL Taylor hopes to create positivity through his writing.
To listen to RL reading excerpts from his novels click here

For a free 15 Chapter preview of his latest novel Champagne, Jellybeans, and Chocolate visit the official website at: http://www.rltayloronline.com/

Another review for The Last Ms. Understanding

Review written by Poeticsoul "Ginae" (Texas)

I see a sequel coming on..., October 24, 2009

4 out of 5 stars

The Last Ms. Understanding is a book that anyone can relate to. One cannot help but become engrossed in the story line from beginning to end. The book never becomes stagnant and will keep your interest throughout. The author does a great job of showing both sides of the story, but still keeping you guessing and wondering at what might happen next. Hold onto your seat as Rita and Lee ride one emotional rollercoaster ride after another...see what happens as two people try and keep secrets while sinking further and further into their web of deceit. Not only will you not be dissapointed, but you'll find yourself anxiously wanting more...yes, I see a sequel coming and can only hope that the author does as well...

Order your copy today! Now available as an e-book ($4) To order click here

Post Traumatic Stress + Relationships

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a recurrent emotional reaction to a terrifying, uncontrollable or life-threatening event. It is a real illness and treatment can help. The onset of anxiety and other post traumatic stress disorders is directly linked to any terrifying and violent event that threatens the life of an individual or the family. It doesn't necessarily mean the individual was directly threatened.This disorder is a very common problem that affects individuals after going through a horrifying experience.

In my new novel Champagne, Jellybeans, and Chocolate the main character Royce Tyler suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. He has recently suffered a major tragedy and loss in his life. This has sent him spiraling out of control and homeless. At this low point in life he is reaquainted with his college girlfriend Paula Daniels. He is very interested in reconnecting with her. Should he tell her the truth about his mental state? Is it any of her business? What would you do?

Read on to learn a little more about what PTSD is and what Royce is facing?

Maybe you or someone you know has battled this illness as well...

Symptoms of PTSD such as profound shock, anxiety and despair are often manifested in victims. Also common are avoidance, anxiety, nightmares, irritability and detachment. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks of the traumatic event, nightmares of the traumatic event, emotional numbness, poor sleeping patterns depression and/or irritability or outbursts of anger. After the terrifying ordeal, the person who develops post traumatic stress disorder or a related symptom will become emotionally numb, lose interest in things they previously enjoyed, become irritable, more aggressive, startle easily or perhaps become violent.

Depression is a common product of this inability to resolve painful feelings. Disassociation, or other mental health problems can develop as a result of this terrifying experience. Alcohol or other substance abuse, or other anxiety disorders frequently co-occur with PTSD.

It is imperative this help be obtained quickly through contacting your family doctor, hospitals, private clinics, local psychiatric societies, mental health specialists such as psychologists and social workers or your local victims of crime association. The police and social service agencies will be able to provide you with this contact information if you cannot locate it in your phone book.

For further information visit the National Institute of Mental Health site at http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml

For a free 15 chapter preview of author RL Taylor's Champagne, Jellybeans, and Chocolate or to learn more about other books please visit http://www.rltayloronline.com