Phoenix Rebirth

Short Story Project

2011-08-08T15:10:00.004-04:00

I have a short story project posted on kickstarter.com! Please check out my project page and participate in my project. This is going to be so cool when it's done and I want you to be a part of it!
Thank you!

Is Facebook the Drunken Phone Call of the 2010's?

2011-06-20T22:34:00.001-04:00

It's late. You've been drinking. Your mind wanders to a time when you were not alone. You think about (insert random ex's name here) and decide to give them a call.. but wait! Now, we have facebook! You can just add them to your friends list and let them know you were thinking about them without that awkward, ill-advised, alcohol-flavored phone call of slurred regret.
Am I saying that looking your ex's up on facebook is a bad thing? Hardly. I don't know about most women.. I never seem to know about most women.. but I do know that it's nice to hear from SOME of my ex's on occassion. The recent addition to my facebook friends list made me smile. I had to open my little wooden treasure chest and retrieve this:

Yeah, it's looking a little aged, but I'm surprised I still have it. (And I hope I didn't embarrass John A. too much. There are a few John's on my facebook list anyway, so no one knows who this past sweetheart is.)

To all the guys in my past who treated me decently, thank you. I appreciate that I can look back on some of my past relationships and smile.

Are You Serious?

2010-08-14T00:24:00.000-04:00

I worked on this tween animation in Photoshop and could not figure out why I couldn't change the position of the images. Then, I realized that I had to make duplicate layers of the images for it to work. sigh.
I hate Photoshop. It has a way of making the complicated simple and the simple impossible.

2010-08-07T12:57:00.000-04:00

Here's a collage that I am working on for class. I'm going to include the quote from Paul Gauguin,

"I shut my eyes in order to see."

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2010-05-18T14:06:00.000-04:00

I've been working on several projects. Goalplan.org is coming along nicely. I'm in the process of adding more content to help people who are working on goals such as starting a home business or making money with writing.

As soon as I get a chance, I will be changing the format of my Path from Poverty blog. The step-by-step instructions for making money from websites and related articles are being moved to PathfromPoverty.com. The blog will remain active, but it will be more about my personal experiences true to blog form.

I'm designing a line of graffiti t-shirts. GraffiT shirts will be available soon. I have just begun developing the website- GraffiT.us. I have a photo shoot this weekend to get photos of people in my t-shirts. Within the next couple weeks, the website and t-shirts should be ready.

As you can see, I'm keeping myself busy. I hope you all are doing well and working on your goals...

Watercolor Assignments

2010-04-25T10:37:00.000-04:00

This week in Mixed Media class, we got
an introduction to watercolor. It was a bit difficult for me to get used to a new medium, but I think I have the basic idea. I'll need a lot more practice and it may never be my favorite medium, but I would like to feel more confident in using watercolor.

Publishing Poetry Article

2010-01-16T00:29:00.002-05:00

I wrote an article today about free ways to self-publish poetry:

Publishing Poetry

I hope you enjoy it and learn something you can apply to your own publishing efforts.

Anyone Wanna Race?

2010-01-03T17:43:00.001-05:00

Would anyone want to race with me to see who can write the most HubPages articles in a month? Just a little friendly competition...

What do you think? Anyone game?

-Sheila

Happy New Year!

2009-12-30T23:11:00.001-05:00

I made a little Happy New Year video:

(Video has been removed from youtube.)

Let this serve as an example of one of the many ways to promote your websites for free. YouTube is one medium of promotion. Like you need multiple streams of income, you should also have many sources of promotion working for you. Numerous promotion methods are free. You just need to take the time to put them in place.

Latest HubPage Article

2009-12-23T15:02:00.002-05:00

I wrote an article about the way that the Social Security Administration treats those who cannot work outside the home but try to do what they can by working freelance from home.

A Word of Caution about SSI and Self-employment

Please, give it a read and leave a comment if you have an opinion on the subject.

My Latest Project

2009-12-23T14:57:00.002-05:00

I wanted to share my latest website - Goalplan.org -even though it isn't finished yet. I'm still adding the content, but feel free to check it out and let me know what you think of it so far.

The Parable of the Professor & the Bucket

2009-12-15T17:32:00.001-05:00

"The Parable of the Professor and the Bucket
By Michael Masterson

A philosophy professor and his student stand in a warehouse. A large tin bucket and several boxes are in front of them.

The professor picks up a box that contains large rocks, each one about four inches in diameter, and pours them into the bucket. The stones reach the top of the bucket, and he asks the student if it is full.

'It is,' the student replies.

The professor takes another box, this one containing stones about one inch in diameter, and pours them over the rocks in the bucket. The smaller stones fill in the spaces between the rocks. Again, he asks the student if the bucket is full.

The student looks and says, 'It is.'

The professor then pours in the contents of a third box, this one containing small pebbles. Again, the student looks in and agrees that the bucket is full.

Finally, the professor pours a box of sand on top of the rocks, stones, and pebbles. And once more, for the fourth time, the student has to acknowledge that the bucket is full.

'The lesson,' the professor tells the student, 'is to do the most important thing first, and each lesser thing in order of its priority. In this way, you will be able to fill up your life four times, instead of just once. If you do the unimportant things first, you'll be filling your bucket with sand... and there won't be room for anything else.'"

My Newest Article on HubPages

2009-11-19T08:47:00.000-05:00

I enjoy writing about posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders. I feel that there is a genuine purpose to educating people about these disorders. This is my latest article on PTSD:

What Happens During a Flashback?

HubPages HubNuggets Award

2009-11-14T01:27:00.002-05:00

My article, "How I Raised an Obama," has been nominated for a Hubnuggets award. Basically, ten HubPages are nominated. The readers vote to choose the top five. So, please, take a minute to check it out and vote.

HubNuggets Awards

The voting is towards the bottom of the page. If after reviewing the other articles, you feel compelled to vote for a different article, don't feel obligated to vote for mine. I'd rather if the voting was based on merit.

Color Theory Final Project

2009-11-12T23:56:00.001-05:00

This was my final project for Color Theory class. What do you think?

How I Raised an Obama

2009-11-09T19:34:00.001-05:00

Newest article inspired by someone asking me how I raised an Obama...

How I Raised an Obama

Jonas Gerard, Abstract Expressionism, & DIY Art Therapy

2009-10-24T12:34:00.000-04:00

Jonas Gerard, Abstract Expressionism, & DIY Art Therapy

I wrote this article about the method of painting that I use as a coping skill for anxiety and depression. I strongly recommend that people who suffer from mental illness try a creative activity as a coping skill. Unfortunately, art therapy is underutilized due to a lack of insurance coverage. However, I advocate a do-it-yourself art therapy approach for everyone. Even those who do not suffer from mental illness can benefit from creative activities for stress management.

HubPages- A FREE Resource for Writers

2009-10-19T05:13:00.002-04:00

I decided to try HubPages. Apparently, some writers are making decent money with it. One thing that I like about HubPages is the ability to add links, photos, and video to your articles. If you'd like to give it a shot, just sign up- HubPages
It's free and you can write about anything that interests you.

1st Assignment in Color Theory Class

2009-10-10T16:29:00.004-04:00

My color theory class is focused on the properties and role of color in graphic design. Only circles of various sizes were allowed to be used in this assignment. The first image had to feature a gradiant in hues.

This next image was to feature a gradiant in value while maintaining the same hue.

This image had to feature variations in saturation. I was going for portraying motion. What do you think?

Final Project

2009-10-05T13:00:00.003-04:00

Just a quick post to share the charcoal drawing I did for my final project for my drawing class. I call it "Art Therapy."

School Break

2009-09-27T19:50:00.002-04:00

Well, I have slightly over a week off from art classes. My last classes were enjoyable and informative. I had a drawing class and art history. Both instructors were excellent.

The art history class was early art history from pre-historic art to baroque. I asked many questions over the course of the class. My instructor, Melissa Jones, took the time to answer all my questions and we had some great conversations.

The drawing instructor, Elizabeth LeGrone, always offered constructive feedback to improve our drawings. The focus of the drawing class was to draw what we see with a wide value scale with either pencil or charcoal.

My next class is on color. It should be very interesting.

Rough Sketch of Final Project

2009-09-22T03:09:00.003-04:00

Here is the rough sketch of my final project for my drawing class. Obviously, it needs work, but I think I got a pretty good start on it considering I got sick several times while trying to draw it. I'll use sighting to fix the proportions and add the appropriate shading and textures.

...sick

2009-09-21T23:39:00.002-04:00

Sorry about the recent delays in updating my writing contest and poetry contest blogs. I have been sick with bronchitis. It's been horrible. The timing couldn't be worse with my current art classes coming to a close in two weeks. That means it is time for final projects! ugh! LOL

I hope to be adding more articles to PTSD Central soon!

Typical Day of Work & Schoolwork

2009-09-08T20:08:00.003-04:00

More schoolwork, of course..
Do you like my charcoal drawing of the kiwis?

I have been working on PTSD Central. As I get the time, I am going to be adding as many articles about posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and phobias to that website as possible. So, stay tuned for that! Check it out often if it is a subject of interest to you.

More Schoolwork...

2009-09-07T15:57:00.002-04:00

This is a charcoal drawing I did for my drawing class. What I liked was the complex shadow cast by the textured, fluted bowl. For those who draw still lifes, I would recommend the trick I learned in my perspective drawing class and place white paper under the still life arrangement. It makes it very easy to see the shadows.

Well, I have more drawing and writing to do...

Working, Working, Working

2009-09-01T13:51:00.002-04:00

Yes, I am still spending a majority of my time working and doing schoolwork. This picture is a drawing I did this week for my drawing class. I should have indicated the back edge of the table and perhaps added some texture to the objects and background. However, this drawing fits the focus of this particular assignment. Maybe, I'll work on it for my own personal satisfaction.

I am thankful to be writing for my one client who is an SEO expert. Of course, I am thankful for all my freelance writing clients, but I so appreciate the extra knowledge and help I receive from Allan. He took the time last night to make SEO improvements on my PTSD website- http://ptsdcentral.com .

I also get such a kick out of seeing the articles that I have written for him in the top 5 Google search results!

Well, guess what? Time for me to get back to work! LOL

Seascape Color Studies

2009-08-15T22:08:00.004-04:00

I did some color studies of the one seascape. These are the two that the professor likes the most. Do you have a favorite? Now, I have to choose one for the final project.

Art School Assignment

2009-08-12T21:18:00.007-04:00

I'm working on a project for my Fundamentals of Graphic Design class. Feel free to give me feedback on which of these images you prefer.

Sandy Greetings

2009-08-10T08:14:00.002-04:00

I'm on vacation this week. I found this shell on the beach this morning as the sun was rising. Pretty cool, huh?

So,I am trying to relax a bit. Of course, the poet, writer, and artist in me wants to keep "working." I'm not sure those arts constitute work.

Anyone who is an artist, writer, or armchair philosopher probably knows what I'm talking about. Walking along the beach isn't merely walking a long the beach. A walk along the beach becomes a haiku.. then a terzanelle about the tugging of the ocean at your feet.. then, wouldn't that scene make a cool oil painting.. then a fiction story emerges from wondering if the carefree appearance achieved by lying on the beach is a facade for dark secrets or turmoil. The water that washes away my footprints brings thoughts of how temporary our footprints are on this world.

So, what will become of all this? We shall see...

New Website

2009-07-30T09:07:00.002-04:00

After writing so much on topics that I don't really care about for clients, I felt the need to work on something that I am passionate about. One thing that is important to me, through my own experiences and background studying psychology, is passing on information about mental illness that is real and not the twisted ramblings and sensationalism of the media.

So, I started a new website about PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder) and other anxiety disorders:

ptsdcentral.com

If you do check it out, let me know what you think of it. As I get time, I'll be adding many more articles to it.

I Have to Pass This Along...

2009-07-28T23:00:00.005-04:00

I've been working on starting some new websites. I was afraid I would have to pay a web hosting service fee for each website every monthly. When looking for the cheapest web hosting, I found an incredibly cheap web hosting deal. Unlimited websites for $7.95/month!

Another thing I really like about HostGator is that they have live chat technical help right on their home page. I tried cheap web hosting services before, and it was nearly impossible to get any technical help from them.

2009-07-28T14:10:00.000-04:00

Writing Contests blog has been updated:

http://write4contests.blogspot.com/

There are some free writing contests posted and in upcoming posts. Why not try one?

Poetry Contests

2009-07-27T23:41:00.002-04:00

I have updated my poetry contest blog called Pen Poetry.

I have initiated a schedule to keep my blogs updated more regularly.. look for a fairly constant supply of information on poetry contests, poetry chapbook contests, and any song lyric contests that I can find.

I may have to find a poetry contest to enter myself. It's been awhile since I was published (other than online). I've got way to many projects that are in the beginning phases to concern myself with that now, but it would be a nice goal for next year.

More Fun with Illustrator

2009-07-25T06:30:00.004-04:00

My youngest son helped with my art assignment yesterday. The assignment was to create a symmetrical black and white design. I felt bad because I spent most of the day working on writing for a client, so I let him scan in some of his Pokemon cards and showed him the different filters on Photoshop. He really enjoyed playing with it.

This week, I got some free software- a music production suite. He's anxious to play with that too. My kids and I have always done a lot of creative activities for fun.

New Website Is Ready!

2009-07-20T07:08:00.002-04:00

Well, it's up and working.. but I am still working on it. It is a website dedicated to my interracial erotica and erotic poetry.

EroticSwirl.com

New Blog

2009-07-18T19:07:00.000-04:00

I feel the need to document my journey from SSI recipient to independence. I created a blog to both encourage myself to keep moving forward and to perhaps help others in the same situation.

Some of the topics covered soon will be how to make money from writing and art as well as issues related to working with a disability.

New blog:

Path From Poverty

Fun With Adobe Illustrator

2009-07-17T21:01:00.004-04:00

I had some fun doing this assignment for my Fundamentals of Design class at The Art Institute. Basically, the objective was to create a design using only black and white to create positive and negative space. Pretty cool, right?

Photos from my Art Show

2009-07-06T08:28:00.009-04:00

The turnout was much better than expected
for a holiday weekend. Thank you to everyone who
came to the show.

If I have another solo show next year, I'll probably
show the series of mixed media paintings that I am

working on that depict the homes of famous people in
a way that reflects their contributions.

Venetian Street at Night

2009-06-30T13:18:00.002-04:00

Here is another painting that will be featured at the art show.

Another Piece for the Art Show

2009-06-23T12:30:00.002-04:00

This is a painting of a Venetian farmhouse that I did specifically for the upcoming art show at Cafe Beracah on Friday, July 3rd.

Hope to see you there!

Seascape

2009-06-22T11:51:00.003-04:00

Here is a seascape that will be shown at the art show. The theme for my show is water. Obviously, this painting focuses on the beauty side of water. Wait until you see the other portrayals of water!

Upcoming Art Show

2009-06-21T14:53:00.002-04:00

Isn't it awesome when you see stuff like this?

Lebanon Art Factory Exhibit Schedule
-check out July 3

I'm finishing some pieces for my next show. I decided to focus on water.. reflections.. all kinds of ways that water impacts our lives. Not many things can be so essential, so beautiful, and so devastating..

January's Reader's Choice Awards

2009-06-15T20:57:00.002-04:00

Thank you to all who read and vote or comment on my poetry.

Bound Wrists was chosen as the top illustrated poem for January on Literotica. Poems do not win the monthly contests at Literotica, but it means the poem will be considered for a nomination for the Annual Readers' Choice Awards.

My goal last year was to have 2 entries in the Reader's Choice Awards. I had 3. I think I will try to have 3 entries in next year's contest as well.

New Poems!

2009-06-15T20:46:00.001-04:00

I had some new poems post recently:

Pennsylvania Tornado

Shopping

Neglected Garden Path

I Love Her Still

Loving Art School!

2009-06-06T13:05:00.002-04:00

This is a sketch I did for my perspectives art class. It feels good to be drawing again. The sketch isn't perfect, but I have enjoyed getting back in the habit of drawing. It's been about 20 years since I've drawn.

I'm loving art school. I'm learning so much already. The best part is that I would pay to learn these things even if I didn't have plans to use it in my career.

Tetris Fights PTSD?

2009-06-06T03:20:00.002-04:00

Did you all hear the news that playing Tetris after a traumatic event may prevent PTSD? Now, let's face it, the study was small and had some issues like using undergrads as participants and replicating a trauma instead of using real trauma victims. However, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is no joke. It's well worth a try if you have a traumatic event like a sexual assault, serious car accident, or witness a violent crime. What do you got to lose, right? So, you play Tetris for awhile in hopes that it will help.

I'd like to see the result of future studies on this subject. Unfortunately, playing Tetris only seems to help prevent the symptoms of PTSD, not cure it. Kinda makes me mad that no one handed me a gameboy when I needed it. Do people still use gameboys?

New Limerick!

2009-06-05T19:06:00.001-04:00

A new poem of mine, a limerick, posted today. It's definitely not my best, but kinda fun. I had to write a poem from the perspective of an adult toy for a contest. What do you think?

The Frustrated Vibrator

New Poems!

2009-06-03T09:42:00.001-04:00

I have 3 new poems that posted on Literotica today.

Please check out my illustrated poem:

The Roses

New Poem!

2009-05-20T20:11:00.001-04:00

A new illustrated poem posted. Check out my attempt at a sonnet and let me know what you think!

Love's Sunrise

Love For My Readers

2009-05-13T00:06:00.002-04:00

I just want to show a little love to my readers. I appreciate them so much! It seems like any time I feel discouraged, I get an email from readers who tell me about how much they enjoy my stories. I'd also like to give a special shout out to the president of the Oklahoma chapter of my fan club- Laconia Hughes!

Literotica's Readers' Choice Awards

2009-05-08T20:09:00.002-04:00

Well.. what an honor! I had the delightful surprise of being nominated for 3 Readers' Choice Awards. In the chain stories category is my twisted fairytale- Little Red Riding in the Hood. I also have a short essay in the How to category. My illustrated poem, Recovery, has also been nominated.

If you haven't already, please take a minute to vote for my stories at
http://www.literotica.com

THANKS!

Art School

2009-04-30T20:39:00.002-04:00

Many of you know that I recently started attending the online degree program of Art Institute of Pittsburgh. I'm studying graphic design. Soon, I'll be able to offer my clients services in addition to the freelance writing projects that I do for them.

So far, I'm finding the Art Institute of Pittsburgh to be impressive. I'm a little overwhelmed by the amount of software that I need to learn including Adobe Design Suite.. including Adobe Photoshop, Dreamweaver, and Illustrator. These are all new to me. There are some quality tutorials from Adobe among others online. Feel free to share if you find some great tutorials.

New Story

2009-04-13T11:44:00.002-04:00

I have a new, erotic story posted on Lit.

The Tribal Threat

Two men live with an African tribe in which the women do a majority of the work. The tribe elder is concerned and uses these newly trusted men as examples of how men should treat women.

(Please vote 5 if you enjoy the story.)

Vick.. What the Hell???

2009-03-26T15:32:00.002-04:00

Vick, can't you just play by the rules? Now, Vick is in trouble for using pension money to pay his court-ordered restitution. Okay, does anyone else see an obvious logic problem with this? If you were going to steal money, would you use that money to pay the court system? LOL The whole situation seems destined for an episode of a dumb criminals show.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-vickbankruptcy&prov=ap&type=lgns

New Story

2009-03-15T11:39:00.001-04:00

Just a fun, little story I wrote for a reader.

John's Turn

Celebs Are People Too

2009-03-06T08:33:00.003-05:00

Chris, Chris, Chris. I'm sure anyone who cares already knows that Chris Brown was charged with 2 felonies stemming from the assault of Rihanna. I've seen news programs treat him like the new posterchild against domestic violence. Of course, what he did was wrong. I still can't help but feel sorry for him and all the celebrities who face public judgment for their mistakes.

Anyone who knows me well enough probably remembers when I took a stand for Vick. I'm not condoning illegal acts. But, DAMN! Can you imagine all your mistakes, breakups, and details of family drama being public domain? Contrary to popular belief, celebs are human. I certainly would not be one to cast a stone.

Some people emphasize that celebs are supposed to be role models. In the age of anorexia and pressure to be perfect, you know what? I don't mind my children having the reminder that people aren't perfect. God forbid that my children should learn that celebs aren't perfect and everyone must pay the consequences for their actions. What a detrimental lesson that is!

Okay, I'll drop the sarcasm. Truth is, I have a special appreciation for celebs. As an artist of a different kind, I admire the tenacity and passion that got them where they are. I appreciate people who share their talent with the world, whether they are celebrities, artists, or writers.

Back to Creation

2009-03-06T01:18:00.002-05:00

I want to apologize to my readers for the delay on my next story. Many have been emailing me and asking when the next story will be posted on Literotica. I got delayed by some freelance work.. paid jobs come first, ya know. Just know that I'm on it. The next story will be an interracial story. After that, I will be working on a few other categories. Hopefully, I will be able to finish a few stories before I start art school on April 6th.

I have a profile on Twitter now, so feel free to stalk.. I mean "follow" me on there. Like at Lit, my username on Twitter is ladynstfreknbed.

Good night and God Bless!
-Sheila

New Poem

2009-03-05T08:55:00.001-05:00

I wrote a new poem. For a challenge, we had to write a poem about ballroom dancing. Considering that I have never been ballroom dancing, I think I did fairly well.

Ballroom Dancing

Let me know what you think.

New Toy

2009-02-04T00:30:00.002-05:00

So, I found a new toy....

not that kind of toy! Get your mind out of the gutter. I found a website that I have been playing with in my spare time... what little of it I have. It's Helium.com. If you have ever written anything on helium or got paid for articles you wrote there, please leave a comment here. Let me know what your experiences with that website have been.

My Helium Profile

I'm in the process of creating a zone on Helium that is dedicated to Edgar Allan Poe. I'll provide the link when it's up and running.

New Poems

2009-01-14T00:52:00.003-05:00

I've had some new poems posted on Literotica recently.

Raw Need- a short, erotic poem with interracial flair

The Eternal Round- a villanelle

New Poems

2009-01-03T21:50:00.002-05:00

I have 2 new poems posted on Literotica:

Death Comes to Dinner

Bound Wrists

Please enjoy them and vote & comment here on under the poems.
Thank you!

New Stories

2009-01-01T19:35:00.002-05:00

I have a couple new stories on Literotica.

Sentora Ch. 01
This is the first chapter of a novella about Sentora, a therapist struggling with voids in her own life.

In Darkness
A woman who suffers from depression learns to trust her boyfriend to help her hrough difficult times.

Enjoy!

Tagged Profile

2008-12-20T17:25:00.001-05:00

For those who are members of Tagged or would like to see my profile, here's the link:

http://www.tagged.com/ladyinstfreakinbed

Have fun!

End of Another Art Show & Looking to 2009

2008-12-20T17:10:00.003-05:00

It's the end of the year and the end of another art show. The next art show will be in February 2009.

This has me beginning to think about my goals for 2009. For those who know me, you know I'm goal-oriented. You probably also know that I'm working on several goals right now. Not a single day goes by that I don't do at least one activity to bring me closer to accomplishing my goals.

What do I see for myself for 2009?

- more poetry
- even more art
- more prayer
- making an effort to remain true to myself
- healthy lifestyle changes
- love? maybe. We shall see...

What are you going to include in your life in 2009?

Upcoming Art Projects

2008-11-30T12:21:00.002-05:00

I did this fun, simple winter scene the other day. I took some photos after each stage of the painting. I'll be posting these photos and easy-to-follow instructions for anyone who would like to paint it.

These photos & instructions will be posted on my blo dedicated to teaching others about acrylic paints, Painting with Acrylics.

Happy painting!

Bipolar Disorder Website

2008-11-19T22:51:00.003-05:00

I want to remind everyone that I have a bipolar disorder website:

Living With Bipolar Disorder

It contains general information about bipolar disorder and tips on living with bipolar disorder.

Thank you.

New Blogs

2008-11-17T10:17:00.003-05:00

I am passionate about using creativity. Creativity is a powerful tool. I have some new blogs that focus on ways to use creativity. I hope you will take the time to check out:

Painting With Acrylics -a beginner's guide to painting with acrylic paints

How to Paint with Oils -a beginner's guide to painting with oil paints

Tonal Color -tips for using creativity to cope with stress or trauma

Poetic Forms -an introduction to forms of poetry

December Art Show

2008-10-25T11:59:00.000-04:00

My next art show is Friday, December 5th at Cafe Beracah on N. 9th St in Lebanon. This show will feature some new, small works of mine along with those of other artists.

New Stories

2008-10-21T08:30:00.000-04:00

I've added a few more titles to my list of stories. Some of the new stories are a bit darker than my usual work.

The Untold Story of Hell series- Katya has used sex to manipulate men and their wallets. When she ends up in hell, the tables are turned.

The Contessa- A lonely contessa seeks pleasure in the arms of the stable boy. This action does not turn out well for either of them.

I've received numerous story ideas from readers. As in the past, I try to write stories for my readers when I have the time. Keep the ideas coming, but please be patient. Several people have asked for 2nd chapters to some of my stories from last year. I may indulge a few of those requests, but most of the single chapter stories were meant to be complete stories. Instead of adding a chapter to an already complete story, I'd rather write the idea for a 2nd chapter as a new story with similar, but new characters.

Solo Art Show!

2008-09-04T23:06:00.000-04:00

Rocky Landscape in Blue & Gray

I'm having my first solo art show tomorrow night (Friday, Sept. 5th) at Higher Ground Cafe & Sushi Bar on Cumberland St. in Lebanon, PA. These are two new pieces that will be shown.

Roses

I Am Not Fiction, But My Stories Are.

2008-08-06T14:53:00.000-04:00

It never fails. After a new story posts, I receive numerous emails from readers who mistake my fiction for a true story. I have learned to take it as a compliment. If I write well enough that readers think it's real, then I am doing my job as a writer.

I have to laugh at the illusion that my stories are true. What would I be if they were true? I'd be a gay male/ lesbian/ straight and bisexual female who is an artist, nurse, car salesman, slave, and secretary who works third shift and day shift. I'd have a foot fetish or not and in a serious relationship or not. And, those are only a fraction of the characters.

So, when enjoying my stories, just remember that they are fiction. Some were completely my own creation. Some were written by request from readers.

Sometimes, I get comments or email from people who are confused about why I write for so many different categories. That's easy to explain. The website that posts my stories hosts a Survivor contest every year. The goal of the Survivor contest is to write as many stories as you can in as many different categories as you can. Therefore, I try my hand at as many different categories as I can.

Poetry

2008-08-02T12:19:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I started a 30 in 30 challenge in a poetry forum. Yes, a challenge to write 30 poems in 30 days! I kicked off the challenge with this as my first day's poem:

Self-image

Reflection stuck
replaying early wrongs-
mistakes of innocence,
dusty images of humanity.
Polish clears the image
until streaks remind me
of imperfections.
Darkness assigned
to beige experience-
a sense of “less than”

A new poem of mine posted on Literotica:
Summons to Growth

It's a terzanalle.. which varies from my favorite form, the villanelle. If you read this poem and one of my villanelles, such as "A Dream from Grandpa," you'll see the difference in the rhyme and repetition.

Still Life with Wine & Fruit

2008-06-19T02:52:00.000-04:00

This is a painting I made a few months ago. It's simply called "Still Life with Wine & Fruit." It's in my living room now. It will probably be included in my next art show.

I used it for a background for an illustrated poem that has been submitted to Literotica. It's a rather serious poem called "Discrimination." I hope you enjoy it.

2008-06-17T13:34:00.000-04:00

I shut my eyes in order to see."

-Paul Gauguin

Recovery

2008-06-14T16:39:00.000-04:00

Here's what I painted today. It's called "Recovery." I don't currently have a digital camera right now. The picture is from my cell phone, so it isn't the best quality.

The painting is a 24"x36" oil painting. It will not be included in my upcoming art shows due to the size. Since it is an oil painting, it will take a few months until it is ready to show anyway.

Attending University of Phoenix

2008-06-01T21:31:00.000-04:00

As many of you know, I am taking classes online at the University of Phoenix. I'm finishing up my bachelor's of science in psychology. I don't intend to seek employment in that field any more. At this point, I just want to finish my degree before my daughter gets her degree.

If you ever consider getting your degree online, you should be aware that there is a lot of writing involved. I have an individual or team research paper due every week beginning with the very first week of each class.

Overall, I think the classes are easy. My final grade for my last class was 99%. There really isn't a valid excuse any more to not have a degree or at least be working towards one.

Kelsey,

2008-05-06T18:17:00.000-04:00

I'm telling your dad! Is he hot? LOL

-Sheila

Art Show

2008-03-31T17:35:00.000-04:00

My next art show is this Friday, April 4th, 5:00-8:00 at Cafe Beracah in Lebanon.
I hope to see you there!

2007-10-05T21:23:00.000-04:00

Landscape at Dusk--
Here's a cropped image of the largest oil painting that I've done. Again, I apologize for the quality of the photo. I'll need to work on that.
In this painting, I played with color a bit.. and I do mean played. This painting was a lot of fun to do. First, I underpainted the entire canvas in blue.. the same as the sky. When doing the grass and flowers, I allowed some of the blue to remain visible.What would I change? There are more orange tones than I would like. I may go back and adjust that. But, that's merely a personal judgement of the final result.
Should I be concerned about what my painting looks like in the end? Not so much. That may surprise you. After all, isn't the goal of art to end up with a work of art that is everything you want it to be? I don't think so. I think that the process of creating is much more important. Art keeps me sane. It's not the paintings hanging on my walls that soothes my soul, although it is nice to be surrounded by art. What's important to me is to take the time to allow myself to create- whether it be in the form of a painting, poetry, or a story. When I create, I am free.. free to purge my thoughts and feelings on paper, canvas, or the computer screen. If I am focused on the end result, I'll be censoring my efforts through the entire creative process, which would not be helpful at all.
Freeing yourself to create without boundaries or expectations is a way of accepting yourself without judgment.

Abstract Self-Portrait

2007-10-01T09:23:00.000-04:00

I realize that I haven't previously posted any of my artwork, which is a real shame. This painting is my abstract self-portrait. This picture is slightly dark. (I never claim to be a photographer, although I have worked as one.) The painting is somewhat lighter. This acrylic painting is an image that reflects on my struggle with bipolar disorder. I treasure it, and it is currently hanging above my bed. Basically, it is an abstract blue flower flowing on lava. It's much different than my usual works.. which lean towards post impressionism. I'll be posting some more of my paintings and theory on art soon.

Johnson & Johnson Sues the American Red Cross

2007-08-10T10:19:00.000-04:00

Did you hear that Johnson & Johnson is suing the American Red Cross for using the red cross symbol?
Johnson & Johnson Files Lawsuit Against the American Red Cross

After I read that news, I wondered if Johnson & Johnson or the Red Cross used the red cross symbol first. My suspicion that the Red Cross was first is actually correct.

The symbol was he Official ICRC (International Commitee of the Red Cross) symbol since 1864.
Geneva convention concerning the Red Cross ratified by the US in 1882.
Johnson & Johnson trademark in the US since 1905, which it should never have been.

I hope the Red Cross files a countersuit against Johnson & Johnson and wins.

I smell a boycott. I absolutely refuse to buy any Johnson & Johnson product from this day forward. They've really gone out off the way to show their heartless nature.

Oh, Mike Vick...

2007-07-24T18:28:00.000-04:00

As a diehard Falcons fan, I feel the need to briefly discuss Vick's indictment for dog-fighting. First of all, I wholeheartedly support the team's careful consideration of their options at this time. I am glad that they did not act hastily to either end.

Here is the link to a letter to fans regarding the matter:
Letter from Arthur Blank

I encourage all Falcons fans to try to be patient. I know that with only 17 more days until the first pre-season game, patience is not an easily-obtainable virtue.
Remember that the Atlanta Falcons do not equal Vick. Vick is only one player, albeit an important one. Even if Vick will not be playing this season, do not give up hope of rallying to become Superbowl contenders. If there is one thing that the Falcons have been known to do, it is to rally from a disadvantage and take the world by surprise!

Friend's New Website

2007-07-22T11:50:00.000-04:00

A dear friend of mine has a new website:
http://ask-josh.com

Please take a moment to check it out. He offers his down-to-earth advice to anyone in need. He is also a very talented free-verse poet. My two favorite poems of his are featured on his website.

2007-07-07T07:45:00.000-04:00

"When you buy your first tube of paint, it comes with an artist's license that says that you can do anything that makes you happy."
-Bob Ross

Having Fun With Poetry

2007-07-02T16:18:00.000-04:00

The clerihew is a whimsical form of poetry. It is biographical, with the first line consisting of the name of the person who the poem is about. The following 3 lines are of varied lengths. The first two lines rhyme, as do the second two lines.

Vincent van Gogh
Cut off his ear, as you know
His vibrant colors and thick strokes
are lesser known to the folks.

They are fun and easy. Try to write one!

Disturbing Headline

2007-06-26T15:58:00.000-04:00

LEVITTOWN, Pa. -- Animal control officers caught an alligator in a Bucks County creek over the weekend, just days after netting a 5-foot gator in the same area. The second alligator, caught Sunday afternoon near Bryn Athyn, is about 2 feet long.

Alligators in Pennsylvania? wtf?
Do you think some idiot had a couple pet alligators and released them? It's quite likely. Think public safety and the ecosystem, people!

Sometimes, people just don't realize the impact that their actions have on others and the world around them. Many ecosystems around the world have been upset by animals that people have introduced to the area. Now, commonly, exotic species are introduced into bays by way of ballast water from ships. This accidential displacement of organisms from one country to another is the price we pay for international trade. You would think that by now someone would have designed a filter system or something to prevent this from happening. Maybe there already is such a device being used.. I don't know.

But, the introduction of exotic pets in areas where they just don't belong by careless or apathetic owners is just not right. When someone buys an exotic pet, they should be prepared to take on the responsibilty for that animal.

Okay, I'll get off my soapbox now.

Thank You!

2007-06-25T23:15:00.000-04:00

I just want to take a minute to thank everyone for taking the time to read and vote on my stories. I appreciate all the feedback that I have received. And for those of you who are rushing me to write more stories... There are more on the way!

New Story!

2007-06-24T02:16:00.000-04:00

I just had a new story posted on Literotica.com for their National Nude Day Contest. New nude story.. say that 10 times fast. LOL
Check it out and please let me know what you think! I appreciate constructive criticism as well as superficial praise! I'm not going to lie. LOL
Again, you must be 18 or older to read this story. By clicking this link, you are verifying that you are at least 18 years old.
Vegas Road Trip Ch. 01

Live With Enthusiasm

2007-06-23T07:46:00.000-04:00

I am watching Bob Ross "The Joy of Painting" on public television. My daughter and I love Bob Ross. I have a t-shirt with his picture on it that says "Happy Trees." And, though you have to wonder what he was smoking before taping his shows, you just have to applaud his enthusiasm. As he paints the carefree clouds that just "play in the sky all day," I wonder if he views life that way as well. We all get caught up in the hassles of everyday life. That's why we each gotta have our thing. Painting was Bob Ross's thing. I love to paint and write. Those are my things. What's your thing?

Having a hobby or art helps us stay in touch with ourselves. When I paint, I'm not worried about bills or my ever-lasting To Do list. If I go too long without painting or writing, I tend to feel overwhelmed by the stress of everyday life. If you don't have a hobby, craft, or art, I strongly suggest you find one that suits you. Try new things until you find something that makes you feel good.

Here are links to my short stories that are published on Literotica.com. You must be at least 18 years old to visit Literotica and read these stories. By clicking the following links, you are verifying that you are 18 years old or older.

A Realtor's Surprise - A Realtor & client get naughty with a stranger
2007 Sex Olympics - a humorous piece just for fun

Motivate Yourself

2007-06-19T22:00:00.000-04:00

Only you know what will truly motivate you. What I find helpful may not have any benefit to you. Don't be afraid to try new things.
I believe that personal growth should be its own motivation. I love to learn new things. Reading books such as Robert Allen's One Minute Millionaire or Robert Kiyosaki's Rich Dad, Poor Dad series help you to see success from a different, and hopefully an attainable perspective.
Educating yourself is not only a first step, but it should be an integral part of the ongoing journey of life.
It's easy to let what you learn fall from your priorities when dealing with the daily grind. I find it helpful to post motivational quotes in my bedroom. They help me remember what my goals are, even when I'm faced with the laundry, homeschooling the kids, and so forth. Not that those daily activities should ever be neglected! Hopefully, part of the motivation for your goal is to free up time to spend with your family and friends. Life is a balancing act, and someone keeps changing the weights! Keep your eyes on your goal, while enjoying your life where you are right now. Being content and being goal-oriented are not necessarily contradictory.

Words of Wisdom

2007-06-19T21:58:00.000-04:00

We are all inventors, each sailing out on a voyage of discovery, guided each by a private chart, of which there is no duplicate. The world is all gates, all opportunities.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Erotic Short Stories To Come..No Pun Intended

2007-06-10T23:46:00.000-04:00

I've been focusing on freelance writing assignments, and not doing any writing for fun. Though I will continue to write for one client, I will also be doing more on my own. Anyone who writes would appreciate the necessity of this change. Therefore, I have entered a very interesting contest at literotica.com. I have written erotica before, but never for a contest. And, really, what could be more fun? So, expect to see some of my short stories there soon.

Is Stupid A Medical Condition?

2007-06-08T02:43:00.000-04:00

So, Paris Hilton was released from prison after serving a tiny fraction of her sentence. Why? The excuse given was that the release is due to a medical condition. I was not aware that stupid is a medical condition.
Even if there is a legitimate health concern, would a non-celeb be released because of it? Hardly. You tell me if a poor black woman was serving a sentence, what chance would she have of being released due to a medical condition?
How could anyone have faith in the American justice system?

Home Improvement Time

2007-06-02T13:54:00.000-04:00

If you are a home owner, like myself, what time isn't home improvement time. Am I right? It seems like there is always something demanding my attention. Of course, as a Realtor, I chose this house for a reason. I bought this house three years ago for $47K. The house needed a lot of work, but has a lot of potential. Houses in this neighborhood are now selling for $70K.
Now, here is where the work comes in..
I already put in a new furnace, got new appliances, and did some interior painting. The house still has a long way to go! The kitchen is a disaster area! Being that the kitchen is tiny, approximately 8'x8', it does not make sense to invest a couple thousand dollars into a total remodel job in that tiny space.
Instead, I am converting the dining room into an eat-in kitchen. The house has two living rooms, so after I sell this house, the new owners could use one as a dining room if they so desired. The old kitchen will be converted to a 1st floor laundry room.
Other home improvement jobs that are demanding my attention: the downstairs bathroom needs a major overhaul.. new tile floor, new sink. the foyer is currently without walls LOL The old plaster has been removed, and it is being prepped for new panelling. The upstairs bathroom is in fairly good condition. I bought the paint for it.. a new sink and mirror would be excellent.
Today's task: landscaping! As a single, working mom, I resent having to take time to mow the grass. I have a small yard, typical for this neighborhood. I am getting rid of most of the grass. This is a local landscaping trend. More patio, rock garden, fountains, raised flowerbeds, and other relatively maintenance-free accents.. less grass!
Wish me luck! It's going to be hard work, but I look forward to the end result.

Goals- Evaluate & Reach

2007-06-01T22:55:00.000-04:00

Today, I took a look at my goals.. personal and family goals. I realized that I need to remind myself to work towards these goals everyday. Taking time everyday is the only way that I will reach my prized destination. I find that if I go too many days without actively working towards a goal, I tend to feel uninspired at best. I begin to feel depressed and unfulfilled.
When working towards a goal, I think it's important to take time to visualize obtaining that specific goal. This should include all the senses, not just what it would look like.. The visualization should be as detailed as possible.
After visualizing the goal, it helps me to break the goal down into steps. What do I need to do everyday in order to reach that goal? Without action, a goal isn't a goal- it's a daydream.
So, if you read this, take some time to shape a goal for yourself.. whether it's working towards a specific personal accomplishment or a family goal, such as buying a new house. (Did I mention that I'm a Realtor?)
Forever moving forward....

McDonald's New Caramel Iced Coffee

2007-06-01T22:47:00.000-04:00

Well, tonight I tried McDonald's new caramel iced coffee. I am a fan of their hazelnut iced coffee, so why not? Much to my dismay, I find the caramel flavoring in this coffee to be overpowering.. I'll stick to the hazelnut.
Overall, I find the consistency of the quality of McDonald's iced coffee to be non-existent. One time you buy it, the coffee is sickeningly sweet. The next time, it's almost bitter.
I think McDonald's needs to take another look at this. After all, their trademark is consistency. A cheeseburger here in the States tastes the same as a cheeseburger you get in London.

Raising A Child With Asperger's

2007-05-29T12:00:00.000-04:00

My 14 yo daughter has been recently diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, which is a form of autism. I thought that her age is a bit late to be diagnosed with autism, but I did a little research and discovered that Asperger's is often diagnosed in early adolescence.
My daughter completed a program at a local mental health facility. She had been getting violent with me. Once they effectively medicated her migraines with Topamax, her behavior drastically improved!
I spoke to her counselor about the symptoms of Asperger's. It really seems to fit. My daughter does not like people. She and I are close, but even in our relationship, she refuses to call me "mom." She calls me "The Woman." She refers to her brothers as "The Boy" and "The Other One." Her eating habits are very ritualistic. She has always been oversensitive to sound and smell. She gets obsessively attached to certain objects.. right now, that is her hoodie, which she wears 24/7 no matter what the temperature.
She never tells me that she loves me. My daughter has told me that she will never have children. She has no interest in getting close to others, not even boys. Only time will tell how her aversion to relationships will play out.
She is highly intelligent. She starts taking college classes this fall. I have no doubt that intellectually nothing could stop her from attaining any career goal. However, she has certain behaviors, which before I always dismissed as stubborness. She has to do things her way in her time. I explained to her that once she goes to college, if a professor asks her to write a certain way or do an assignment in a way she wouldn't normally do, she has to follow the instructions. But, she tends to put up a wall, saying that she "can't" do it that way. Recently, I gave her a freewriting assignment. Well, the very nature of freewriting is that there is no "wrong." When you freewrite, you don't edit yourself at all. Well, she absolutely refused to do the assignment, saying that she can't freewrite..that it doesn't work for her. I explained to her that there is no such thing as "can't" when it comes to freewriting. I had to punish her by confiscating her stereo in order for her to eventually do the assignment. So many struggles all the time!
So, where do I go from here? Well, if a friend came to me for advice, I would suggest that her daughter receive counselling. I wish I could force my daughter to attend counselling, but she is refusing treatment. In Pennsylvania, the legal age of consent for treatment is 14. Therefore, if she doesn't consent for treatment, I can't force her to get treatment. sigh.

Neuropsychological Effects on Peronality & the Soul

2006-10-08T13:15:00.000-04:00

So, I was reading from one of my favorite books, "The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat" by Oliver Sacks. And, if you've never read it, and you are interested in neuropsychology, I strongly recommend it. It can be dry and technical at times, but I consider it to be interesting and quite thought-provoking. But, enough of the book report...

I began to think about people who have suffered damage to the brain that altered their personality and behavior. Remember the story of Phineas Gage from Psych 101? He worked on the railroad. He was a responsible and dependable guy. Then, one fateful day, an accident caused a rod to shoot through his skull. He survived...or did he? His personality became so altered, one could say that Phineas Gage was no longer there. He became aggressive and irresponsible, emotional and impulsive. So, who now was the real Phineas Gage? Was his soul too altered by the accident? One would think not, or hope not. One would hope that his soul was unaltered and unharmed, but could no longer express itself in the damaged body.

I think of the soul as the essence of who we are. It's our motivations. I believe that neurological impairments can affect our ability to express ourselves and our behavior may become warped. The judgement that all suicides go to hell is faulty in my opinion. For if someone is deeply disturbed by depression or bipolar disorder, they may have a psychotic episode that cuts them off from all sense of reason. Even without the psychosis, a depressive episode may impair judgement to the extent that the person is no longer in touch with their own soul. Now, if a person has a depressive episode and is contemplating suicide, that is a whole other matter. For the very act of contemplation is judging the act against their beliefs and motivations. They are making a conscious decision, even if they are in a world of pain.

I hope this has given you some food for thought. I will post more on this topic soon. What are your thoughts on the subject?

New Website

2006-10-03T21:09:00.000-04:00

I have a new website! woohoo!
Check this out and feel free to give me some feedback. Please?

Living with Bipolar Disorder

Asthma Attack + Crazy Cat = Pitiful Sleep

2006-10-02T22:13:00.000-04:00

As night arrives, I hope that this night will be uneventful, unlike last night. Both of my sons have asthma. Last night around 2:30 am, my 9 yo son, Ryan, entered my bedroom. I heard his wheezing before he had an opportunity to tell me what was wrong. He also had a barking cough, reminiscent of his many previous bouts of croup. I followed him to his nebulizer. He proceeded to set up the nebulizer and begin a breathing treatment. At the end of his nebulizer treatment, his breathing did not seem to have improved. At least, it was not markedly improved. I would expect more from a nebulizer. We returned to my bedroom, where I resolved to do some watchful waiting. I knew he could use his inhaler in a while if his asthma attack didn’t improve. Within the half hour, his breathing quieted down and he was able to sleep, which meant that I was able to sleep too..
That is, until my 7 yo son, Baby Bear, popped into my room. Whining and sniffling, my Baby Bear told me that apparently the cat was mistaking him for a scratching post. Hmmm.. I’m not sure what is going on there. The cat he was referring to is declawed. But, anyway, Baby Bear climbed into my bed between his brother and me. Now, if you have ever tried to get a decent night’s sleep while sharing a bed with two children, then you won’t be surprised to hear that I woke up about as exhausted as I was when I went to bed.