Sally Ember, Ed.D.

Kids Experiencing Massive Problems with Book Discovery

Sally Ember’s #Crowdfunding Song

12/26/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Watch/listen to Sally singing this song (not very well, including a sneeze, mid-song):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eehr3F0TZzs
OR
http://youtu.be/Eehr3F0TZzs

For more info and to donate:
http://www.patreon.com/sallyember Thanks!

Sally Ember’s #Crowdfunding Song
(lyrics by Sally; based on You’re Gonna Miss me When I’m Gone, or The Cups Song)

I tripped and fell and broke my nose and head
…. About 8 months ago
I also lost my job, had to move and lost my house:
Crowdfunding is the way to go.

Way to go
Way to gooooooo:
PLEEEEEEASE help me meet my goals?
Turn my vids into podcasts,
Fund my other worthy tasks:
I have a long way still to go.

I’m not a super singer or a poet, true:
This video is proof of that;
But I need to catch your eye, wake your urge to open wide:
Pockets, purses: share your stash.

Share your stash
Share your staaaaash:
Convert your good vibes into cash!
Help this writer stay on course,
You will feel no remorse
If you decide to share your stash.

If you help me, I can help you, too:
Edit, proof or entertain.
If you donate just a few
I will give ebooks to you
More dough helps us both and quells my pain.

Ease my pain
Make it raaaaaain
Crowdfunding could relieve my pain.
Buy a cover; do not stint;
Turn my ebooks into print;
Please donate to reach my aims.

I tripped and fell and broke my nose and head
…. About 8 months ago
I also lost my job, had to move and lost my house:
Crowdfunding is the way to go.

Way to go
Way to gooooooo:
PLEEEEEEASE help me met my goals?
Turn my vids into podcasts,
Fund my other worthy tasks:
I have a long way still to go.

The Afternoon Video – An Elderly couple set the dance floor alight!

12/25/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

For all the dancing peeps out there: something to aim for! Amazing, fun, heart-warming, inspiring! Watch all the way through! Thanks for posting, Sally Cronin

No Wasted Ink Writer’s Links

12/23/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Thanks for posting, Wendy, and happy holidays to you and your followers. Remind them to tune in to the first *CHANGES* LIVE conversation, featuring YOU, 1/7/15, 10 – 11 AM EST USA! The URL will be UP on Jan. 1, https://sallyember.com/changes-videocasts-by-sally-ember-ed-d/ , where anyone can learn more about and recommend other #authors to be scheduled as a guest . Watch conversations with my previous *CHANGES* guests any time: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPbfKicwk4dFdeVSAY1tfhtjaEY_clmfq *CHANGES* Google+ HOA (Hangout On Air) occur most Wednesdays.

No Wasted Ink

I must have editing on my mind since I’ve been editing my regency novel this month. Consequently, I am offering up several article links on the editing process in addition to general writing. Plus, as an added bonus, there are a few articles about reading itself! Enjoy!

Writers Are Readers Who Write, Right?

Why Analog?

How To Romance Your Readers – And Sell More Stories

After the First Draft: Max Barry on Editing

Adding and revising scenes in your novel

10 Reasons Why Your Hero Needs Flaws

Why I read

Writing Dialogue

How NOT to Query an Agent

Welcome to infinitefreetime dot com

Questioning My Identity as a Feminist

12/23/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Excited to see a next-gen #feminist proclaim herself so articulately and proudly. Thanks, TK!

“Most-Anticipated” #Films of #2015: Yeah or Nay? And, one look back at 2014 #SciFi and #Fantasy Films

12/23/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

My Predictions and Preferences for the
“Most-Anticipated #Films of #2015: Yeah or Nay?
And, one look back at 2014 #SciFi and #Fantasy Films

Let me start by reminding you (or letting new readers know): I am NOT mainstream. I am almost NO ONE’s “target demographic.” These films, others’ opinions, most TV shows and reviews written by others are not in harmony with my preferences and tastes. Not at all.

If YOU consider yourself “mainstream,” “typical,” “normal” or otherwise “regular,” you probably would be happier watching the video and ignoring this post entirely. Link and embed are below.

If, however, you are somewhat atypical, keep reading. Then, if/when these films become more widely available, you can let me know if your opinions match my predictions or preferences. Deal?

The 10 “regular” films, the video-maker’s opinions and my predictions, first (stay tuned for more, below):

Fifty Shades Of Grey
“A big money-maker…” Release date: Feb. 13, 2015
The Fantastic Four
“Could be a pleasant surprise…”
Ted 2
“A complete comedy classic…” Release date: June 26, 2015
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2
“It’s gonna look awesome, hopefully…” (He hasn’t seen Part 1 at the time he made this video, though.) Release date: Nov. 20, 2015
Bond 24
“Daniel Craig’s returning with Naomi Harris, not even released the name [title], yet…”
Fast & Furious 7
“The series is getting better and better…everyone wants to see how they put a tribute to Paul Walker [the lead actor who died in real life]…” Release date: April 3, 2015
Terminator: Genesis
“Terminator 2 is one of my favorite movies of all time…and one of the highest-rated movies of all time…Arnie [Arnold Schwartzenegger] is back…A very good time-travel movie is setting up, here…” Release date: July 1, 2015
Jurassic World
“I want them to keep the Jurassic Park feeling but not be a continuation… want to see something new…”
The Avengers: Age Of Ultron
“I want to see something different and not continue Avengers… more story, more twists and turns…” Release date: May 1, 2015
Star Wars Episode 7
“It’s got a chance of getting up there with Avatar on gross…Hopefully it’s a good movie and not like the prequels…” Release date: Dec. 18, 2015

Other “anticipated” movies (my choices are marked with an *):
Blackhat
*Focus
*In the Heart of the Sea
*Jupiter Ascending
*Kingsman: The Secret Service
Mad Max: Fury Road
Outcast
*Predestination
*Seventh Son
Minions
Inside Out
Taken 3

Another list (the ones I KNOW I want to see):
*Friends: the Movie

*The Age of Adaline

*Cinderella

*Annie

Then, we have Jordan Hoffman, from Popular Mechanics, giving his/her 15 “most-anticipated” #Sci-Fi Films of 2015, which are overlapping many of the above.

Most of these are not original (remakes; sequels or expansions of “franchises”; adaptations of books, comic books or T.V. shows), but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying them, if you’re able.

This list even provides release dates, so you can plan your budget, schedule date nights, get your passes in advance, make your costumes.

There are a few from this list I do want to see; most, not interested. Again, I marked my faves with a *.

*Jupiter Ascending, Release Date: February 6
“…this interplanetary adventure featuring Mila Kunis as some sort of unknowing space queen and Channing Tatum as her guide beyond the stars promises to be far-out.”

Furious 7, Release Date: April 3
“The huge international ‘family’ of good guy criminals have returned for a bittersweet chapter in this series.”

Ex Machina, Release Date: April 10
“Oscar Isaac is the genius inventor tucked away in a slick-looking home and Domhnall Gleeson is the young employee summoned to meet Ava (Alicia Vikander) a creepily sexy android….this could be the stand-out mid-budget sci-fi flick of the year.”

Avengers: Age of Ultron, Release Date: May 1
“Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Black Widow, The Hulk, Hawkeye, Nick Fury, and Maria Hill back together again, and this time they’re fighting Ultron, an artificial intelligence designed for peace that (surprise) brings just the opposite. New additions to the mix include Quicksilver, Scarlet Witch, and the Vision, because superhero teamups are awesome.”

Mad Max: Fury Road, Release Date: May 15
“…a bone-cracking ride through a dusty apocalyptic wasteland. The stunts look insane and the high-velocity action promises to reach out from behind the screen, grab you by the back of your neck, and smash your face in the gravel.”

*Tomorrowland, Release Date: May 22
“It may just be one gigantic advertisement for Disney’s Magic Kingdom, or it may be a whiz-bang universe-hopping tale of futurist poptimism. More than likely, it’s a little of both.”

Jurassic World, Release Date: June 12
“…Steven Spielberg isn’t directing and Michael Crichton (obviously) isn’t involved, but in the middle of the summer there’s nothing better than seeing a bunch of dinosaurs stomping around while humans line up as fodder, right?”

Terminator: Genisys, Release Date: July 1
“Arnold himself will return for this one, and he’ll be joined by The Khaleesi from Game of Thrones, Emilia Clarke.”

Ant-Man, Release Date: July 17
“Paul Rudd is Scott Lang, a small time crook who ends up with scientist Hank Pym‘s technology for getting really really small. Michael Douglas is onboard as Pym, and Peyton Reed, who directed Down With Love, is at the helm.”

The Fantastic Four, Release Date: August 7
“…a somewhat dysfunctional group of scientists and weirdos blessed/cursed with superpowers.”

*The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Release Date: August 14
“Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer as Napoleon Solo and Illya Kuryakin….Guy Ritchie is directing this gadgets-friendly flick, so this will be definitely be one to ogle. …it stands for United Network Command for Law and Enforcement.”

*Spectre, Release Date: November 6
“It’s pretty much the same production team as Skyfall, so there’s not much more to say except ‘shaken, not stirred.'”

*The Martian, Release Date: November 25
“Matt Damon…plays a marooned astronaut on a Martian colony. Of note: the book upon which this is based was originally self-published by its author on Amazon. So keep hope alive, ye amateur novelists!”

*Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Release Date: December 18
“J.J. Abrams is igniting the hyperdrive to a galaxy of new stories. This first one will be a bridge – we’ll get Luke and Han and Leia, but who knows how big their roles will be or if they’ll return again. Chances are this is going to be the most spectacular film of the year…”

Mission Impossible 5, Release Date: December 25
“[4 was]…an exhilarating ride…. Tom Cruise…[in 5] will be just as exciting.”

If you want to view #trailers and read more about from Jordan about each of the above sci-fi films: http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/digital/visual-effects/15-sci-fi-movies-most-anticipated-in-2015#slide-1

For another opinion about some of these ranked differently, annotated, check KIRSTEN ACUNA’s list:
http://uk.businessinsider.com/biggest-movies-2015-2014-12?op=1

Link to original video for above’s Top 10:
http://youtu.be/pVwhiLIksd4

Video to watch here:

In case you missed any already released in 2014, here are:
“The 10 Best and 10 Worst #SciFi and #Fantasy Films of 2014,” according to Charlie Jane Anders
http://io9.com/the-10-best-and-10-worst-science-fiction-and-fantasy-mo-1672135627

Happy Watching!

In which I give #WordPress advice

12/21/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

THANKS! You did a much better, more specific and screen-shot version of my very own rant. WP: TAKE NOTES!

(Note: I typed this in the old editor, too.)

Dear WordPress:

Let’s talk about your new stats screen for a bit. I put up a one-sentence post a few hours ago to confirm that other people feel the same way I do, and it’s amassed eighteen comments and twenty likes in that time, so I’m pretty sure I’m not on my own here. I’ve been actively blogging on your site for about a year and a half, although I’ve had the account for several years longer than that, and I spend a lot of time obsessing about my stats. An unhealthy amount of time, in fact.

You recently changed your stats page, and by a number of indications you seem to be interested in user feedback on it. However, using your feedback form really didn’t give me a chance to explain what I actually dislike about it. It could be…

View original post 634 more words

SF The Spanners Series, Volume III, This Is/Is Not the Way I Want Things to Change, excerpt

12/20/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Welcome to Weekend Writing Warriors Sunday 8 #8Sunday!

The Spanners Series, Volume III, This Is/Is Not the Way I Want Things to Change, by Sally Ember, Ed.D., releasing in April, 2015, excerpt,
from:

CHAPTER ONE

Excerpts from the Chief Communicator’s Occasional Log

Clara Must Confess Her Mistakes
March, 2014

I look up dejectedly to view Led’s bouncing, blue-grey holo and wail inwardly. Outside, the relentlessly sunny day mocks my dismay. I know I have to confess all of my mistakes to get through this Level of the Excellent Skills Program training, but for a moment, I am rebelling. For all the good it will do me: none whatsoever.

I feel about eleven years old within my almost-60-year-old body. I picture myself getting up, hands on hips, stamping my foot, then flouncing out of the office, righteously slamming the door in their holo non-faces, shouting over my shoulder as I escape: “No! I won’t do it!”

Inside my makeshift office, The Band are thronged near and behind Led. There is Ringo’s tall, orange, robotic torso next to Mick’s even taller, stick-figure shape.

Visit other participants on the list and read, critique, and comment on their #8sunday posts. http://www.wewriwa.com/

10 Ways to Thank Your Favorite Indie Author at Christmas or Any Time

12/19/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

AND you may thank THIS Indie Author for Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Solstice, Christmas, New Year’s, birthdays, new moons, full moons, sunshine or cloudy days! Pick one or more of these, please. Many cost NOTHING! Happy Holidays!

1. Mention their name/book when someone asks “What are you reading?”

2. Add their book(s) to Goodreads groups and lists.

3. Buy and give their books as gifts to people on your Christmas list.

4. Request your local library get their books.

5. If children/youth books, tell your child’s teacher/librarian/PTA about the books.

6. Suggest the author/book for your book group.

7. Follow author on Twitter and retweet.

8. Like their author Facebook page and comment occasionally so author knows someone is out there.

9. Write an email to author.

10. Leave a review on Amazon or other site of your choice.

Seriously, these things mean a lot. Thanks for reading!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

S. Smith is the author of the awesome and award-winning middle grade/YA series, Seed Savers. Visit her Facebook and Pinterest pages. Follow her on Twitter. Sign up for the newsletter!

Meet the 2015 class of TED Fellows and Senior Fellows

Even better than MacArthur Fellows, since they’re world-wide! Yeah, TED Fellows!

The tool aims to be something like the Universal Translator from Star Trek: one language goes in and another language comes out, allowing two speakers who know nothing of each others’ tongues to interact in normal, if slightly stunted, conversation.

Oh, this is just fabulous!

In Douglas Adams (and, in his memory, I in “The Spanners Series” ebooks) have the Babel Fish, or simply the ‘fish! Yeah!

A Commonplace Blog

Longform You Have to Read: 2014, Year of the Feminist

Proud to be a feminist since 1958 (I was 4).

PRO: Vital Reading Whether You’re For or Against

Pro: Reclaiming Abortion Rights than Katha Pollitt
Reviewed by Katie Presley

Pro-choice is NOT Pro-abortion: first reclaiming. Thanks, Katha Pollitt!

BookPeople

Few American writers are better suited to author a book like Pro: Reclaiming Abortion Rights than Katha Pollitt. She’s a career feminist with a longstanding column at The Nation, so she’s a master of eloquently and concisely summarizing (and opining on) complicated issues. But she also has public debate on her resumé, which lends Pro its uniquely conversational tone. Pro is written to change the way we talk about abortion, and to investigate what we mean when we say we’re pro-choice or “pro-life.” Large swaths of the book are, in fact, directly addressed to opponents of abortion. Very few authors take this step in their manifestos, to their detriment; Pollitt not only acknowledges key points from anti-abortion activists, she writes from an anti-choice perspective in order to more clearly frame misunderstandings and inconsistencies between the two factions. It…

View original post 260 more words

“Earth Has Shifted” – Inuit Elders Issue Warning To NASA And The World

“The elders all agree, they believe the Earth has shifted, wobbled or tilted to the North.

“In the first video below I go over an article over at The Big Wobble Almanac and in the videos following that, we see some of the extreme weather events being attributed to this ‘wobble.'”

This and That

Below is only an excerpt, to read the full article go to the link under it.
……..”The Inuits are indigenous people that inhabit the arctic regions of Canada, the United States and Greenland and throughout history their very lives have been dependent on being able to correctly forecast weather…. and they are warning NASA and the world that global warming isn’t the cause of what we are seeing with extreme weather, earthquakes and other events.”……
http://www.allnewspipeline.com/Inuits_Issue_Warning_Earth_Has_Shifted.php

WOW!!! – The Most Amazing Science Images Of 2014

Well worth your time, if you love #science.

This and That

Amazing!!! There are many awesome pictures, very short clips/Gifs etc.
Below is only an excerpt from the article, to see all the amazing pictures etc, go to the link below the excerpt.
……..”Let us introduce this collection by stating the obvious: This is not a comprehensive list. What you’ll find here are photos that engaged our minds, and videos that set our pulses racing – a carefully curated collection of the weird, the wonderful, and the truly awesome. Here you’ll find imagery that moved us, inspired us, and shook us to our core, and a few that made us laugh in sheer amazement.”……
http://io9.com/the-most-amazing-science-images-of-2014-1671170711

http://indiewritenet.com/writersguide/2014/05/08/my-writing-process-revealed/

“My Writing Process: Revealed!” Guest Blog Post on The Indie Writer’s Guide

12/17/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Visit The Indie Writer’s Network, The Indie Writer’s Guide (link, below) to read my guest blog post, “My Writing Process: Revealed!” and many other great posts. Check out their other resources as well. Thanks, Amy Joy and the crew at TIWG.

Discovering My Inner Con Where do I find it? for Yeah Write Poetry Challenge #192

12/16/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Discovering My Inner Con

I’ve been deceiving myself.

I find the lie

When eyed spam from psychics

Caused my stomach’s flip.

Please, Sister Charlatan,

Tell my bunko bosom

What it wants to hear.

—Sally Ember, Ed.D.
12/14/14

Happy Holidays Ebook Giveaway: Movie Line Attribution Contest!

12/16/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

For Chanukah, Christmas, Kwaanza, Winter Solstice or whatever you celebrate, Happy Holidays!

I will give a coupon for a free copy of Volume II in The Spanners Series

This Changes My Family and My Life Forever (usually $3.99),

for the right answers to any of the following movie quotes. Must give the responses demanded to win.

Answers must appear in the comments section of my WordPress Site: http://www.sallyember.com/blog on this post only.
Provide your answer and your email address and the number of your question in the COMMENTS section
One coupon per person only.
First three correct answers given will be declared winners.

Contest ENDS at midnight USA CST on December 26, 2014.

So, to be sporting, even if you know more than one answer, please only give one! Unless you’re not sure; in that case, fire away! One may be correct!

I will email winners the link and the coupon code for Smashwords, which has every ebook format and you can choose the one you want.

Sorry; ebooks only. No hard copies or paperbacks available.

Reminder: Volume I, This Changes Everything, is PERMANENTLY FREE everywhere and you will enjoy Volume II a lot more if you read Volume I first.

Whether or not you win (or even play), PLEASE consider writing and posting your reactions or a full review of either or both ebooks on Amazon and other sites ANY TIME! WRITERS need REVIEWS! Thanks!

Question 1: “We’re gonna need a bigger boat.” What movie is this from AND what character says it OR what actor plays that character (best-known name of the character OR first and last name of the actor required; full name of movie required) HINT: this is a vast understatement.

Question 2: “Yeah; you blend!” What movie is this from AND what character says it OR what actor plays that character (best-known name of the character OR first and last name of the actor required; full name of movie required) HINT: this is said sarcastically.

Question 3: “Here it is… Here it is…. Lactose intolerance!” What movie is this from AND what character says it OR what actor plays that character (best-known name of the character OR first and last name of the actor required; full name of movie required) HINT: this is shouted on a moving train.

Question 4: “That ain’t it, Kid; that ain’t it.” What movie is this from AND what character says it OR what actor plays that character (best-known name of the character OR first and last name of the actor required; full name of movie required) HINT: the line is not spoken, exactly.

Good luck! Have fun! If you’re feeling “flush” and would like to donate (any amount is welcomed!) to support my writing, please use the PayPal-linked DONATE button on my homepage: http://www.sallyember.com

Thanks for visiting and Happy Holidays!

Scarletta Press Submissions

12/15/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

MG, Picture Book and other #authors, opp here.

Writing and Illustrating

ScarlettaLogo380 SCARLETTA PRESS accept submissions ONLY during their reading period (September 1 to June 1).

SUBMISSIONS ARE CURRENTLY OPEN.

They use Submittable.

While they seek to publish new voices missing from the literary world, they also want to make sure your manuscript will fit their genre community. The books they choose to publish are intellectually stimulating, adding relevant knowledge to readers’ minds. Their Junior Readers and Kids imprints focus on literature and picture books with educational twists, exciting illustrations, and engaging plots.

Genres they focus on include:

Children’s Fiction
Middle-grade Fiction
Educational Fiction/Nonfiction
Picture Books

They do not publish plays, screenplays, short story collections, or poetry.

With your cover letter, please submit a synopsis of your book and one or two chapters, no more than 30 pages. They accept both agented and unagented manuscripts.

Illustrators: Don’t forget that picture book publishers need you, too.

You may submit electronic submissions through Submittable. If you are including images–no more…

View original post 125 more words

Part IV: Letter to my Earlier Self about #Blog #Hops and #Virtual #Book #Tours, Guest Blogger Post on The Book Cove Reviews

12/15/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Part IV: Letter to my Earlier Self about #Blog #Hops and #Virtual #Book #Tours

This is Letter IV of four of my “open letter to my earlier self” series that first appeared on The Book Cove Reviews, http://www.thebookcove.com/2014/12/author-sally-ember-edd-letter-to-my_15.html, late November – December, 2014.
Letter One appeared on my site, http://www.sallyember.com/blog, on 3/26/15.
Letter One posted on 3/26/15; Letter Two appeared on 4/4/15 and Letter Three on 4/11/15.

image from http://phyllisiturner.com

Part IV: Letter to my Earlier Self about #Blog #Hops and #Virtual #Book #Tours, Guest Blogger Post on The Book Cove Reviews

12/15/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Part IV: Letter to my Earlier Self about #Blog #Hops and #Virtual #Book #Tours

This is Letter IV of four of my “open letter to my earlier self” series that first appeared on The Book Cove Reviews, http://www.thebookcove.com/2014/12/author-sally-ember-edd-letter-to-my_15.html, late November – December, 2014.
Letter One appeared on my site, http://www.sallyember.com/blog, on 3/26/15.
Letter One posted on 3/26/15; Letter Two appeared on 4/4/15 and Letter Three on 4/11/15.

image from http://phyllisiturner.com

Linda Ronstadt’s Rendition of Desperado Burst my Grief Dam

12/13/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Some of you know I that in April recently suffered a concussion and broken nose and am still recovering. The injury impacted my frontal lobe and deeper parts of my brain were also affected. One ongoing issue has been that, except for brief, mostly mild occurrences (often apropos of nothing), I have been unable to experience much beyond irritation or fatigue.

Mostly, I feel upbeat, sunnily similar, day after day. I’m not apathetic or depressed, but the variety of emotions I experience has been vastly curtailed, as have their intensity.

If you knew me before this, you’d be shocked by my lack of affect, particularly by my lack of sadness or other reactions to the series of shocking (to my life, system, and existence) events, Lemony Snicket -style, I have endured because of and directly after this accident, including a forced cross-country move in August.

About a week ago, during a discussion that became more of an argument with my son (a more frequent occurrence, he believes, since my fall), I heard him say how “different” I am, now, and I cried. Hard. That’s the first actual cry I had had in more than eight months.

To his surprise, I thanked him for upsetting me “enough.” I explained how important this was, that he and I had a strong enough connection that his criticism could penetrate my blandness, piercing all the way to the fear and loss beneath the façade. He was gallant and supportive (great young man).

Since then, I’ve been waiting for what I thought would be inevitable crying jags or other bouts of sadness, but nothing. Until yesterday, at the pool.

There I am, swimming laps in the “cold” pool next to the warmer “walking” pool, which was simultaneously having a water aerobics class to music. Usually I ignore the music, meditating and getting into the lap rhythm, glad when I can’t even hear it as my ears go beneath the water at every stroke. I was turning to go back for one last length when the strains of Linda Ronstadt’s cover of the Eagles’ Desperado pierced my meditative trance and got my attention, bringing my momentum to a dead stop, at the wall.

Linda Ronstadt’s Desperado in Atlanta, 1977

I stood up (luckily, this was the shallow end) and realized I was trembling. I listened to the song, transfixed by my reaction. I began to cry, then to sob. I happened to be in a corner of the aqua center that no one was inhabiting at the moment; two other lap swimmers continued, unaware of my sudden catharsis.

I let it happen. I could hardly have stopped it, anyway.

A kaleidoscope of images and concomitant emotions captured my inner eye: a young Linda juxtaposed with her now-Parkinson’s Disease-ridden, no-longer-singing older self; my former California cottages, in locations I sorely missed; my younger self and some of my former loves, particularly the ones this song reminded me of, unrequited (luckily, as it turns out, but heartbreaking, nonetheless); my former spiritual community’s center and its pond, also a place I missed tremendously; my spiritual teacher, whom I missed most of all. People, places, inchoate yearning and losses spun by, each one intensifying my sobs.

The dam had burst.

My shoulders shaking and my face wet, I climbed out and began to make my way to the locker room. I hadn’t realized how much the silencing of Linda Ronstadt’s amazing voice had upset me and I was overcome by the magnitude of my heretofore unexpressed grief for the rest.

I had to stop walking because I couldn’t see through my tears. Leaning on the back of the water slide, hidden by its bulk from the exercisers, sobs took me over again. I felt grateful even amidst this onslaught, knowing this uncontrollable crying was a great sign of healing even as my knees buckled from the pain of my grief and loss. There wasn’t anyone walking by, so I could have my bawl without having to explain or have some well-meaning person try to quell it, erroneously believing that the cessation of my tears would be a better outcome.

I let them flow, heaving and shuddering until they subsided. As my feelings ebbed, I thought of how fortunate I am that mine are the types of injuries I am likely to recover from completely. Many are not so lucky.

I walked on shaky legs into the locker room, hiccuping and smiling. Having a wet face in that part of the locker room is unremarkable; even red eyes can be explained by being in the pool. I smiled murkily at a few fellow showerers and stepped into a stall.

As soon as I turned on the water, more tears came with the spray. “Good,” I thought. “Let ’em come.”

By my suffering and through my relief, may all beings benefit, becoming as healed and happy as possible.

For more information about Traumatic Brain Injuries, my experiences and research, check many other post on my blog: http://www.sallyember.com/blog

Linda Ronstadt’s Rendition of Desperado Burst my Grief Dam

12/13/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

Mostly, I feel upbeat, sunnily similar, day after day. I’m not apathetic or depressed, but the variety of emotions I experience has been vastly curtailed, as have their intensity.

Since then, I’ve been waiting for what I thought would be inevitable crying jags or other bouts of sadness, but nothing. Until yesterday, at the pool.

Linda Ronstadt’s Desperado in Atlanta, 1977

I let it happen. I could hardly have stopped it, anyway.

The dam had burst.

As soon as I turned on the water, more tears came with the spray. “Good,” I thought. “Let ’em come.”

By my suffering and through my relief, may all beings benefit, becoming as healed and happy as possible.

For more information about Traumatic Brain Injuries, my experiences and research, check many other post on my blog: http://www.sallyember.com/blog

Welcoming “SPOTLIGHT” Author …

12/13/2014 by Sally Ember, EdD

I WAS RUDELY INTERRUPTED. As I was saying, John Howell really is EVERYWHERE! Want to know even more? Watch/listen to our great LIVE conversation from earlier this month, Episode 14 of *CHANGES*: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPbfKicwk4dFdeVSAY1tfhtjaEY_clmfq
#Authors: Learn more about and get yourself on or, #readers, recommend someone to be scheduled as a guest: *CHANGES* G+ HOA https://sallyember.com/changes-videocasts-by-sally-ember-ed-d/

Good morning, bloggers!!

I am SO excited to welcome this very special guest today, John Howell!! John is a very talented writer, an incredible supporter of Indie Authors and an awesome member of Rave Reviews Book Club. When I heard the exciting news that John was selected as a “SPOTLIGHT” Author, I jumped at the chance to host him!! 🙂

So, without further ado, I present Author John Howell ………

This is the ninth stop on what has been a fantastic tour as a Rave Reviews Spotlight Author. If you would like to be chosen for this honor you need to be a member. To find out how, go to the website http://ravereviewsbynonniejules.wordpress.com/ and read all about it. You can also see all my tour stops listed under Spotlight Authors.

I would like to give your readers some information about the main characters in My…

View original post 1,139 more words

John Howell in “WHO’S ON THE SHELF WITH NONNIE JULES?”

That John Howell is getting around! Get to know him better, watch us converse on *CHANGES* Episode 14: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPbfKicwk4dFdeVSAY1tfhtjaEY_clmfq
#Authors: Learn more about and get yourself on or, #readers, recommend someone to be scheduled as a guest: *CHANGES* G+ HOA https://sallyember.com/changes-videocasts-by-sally-ember-ed-d/

Hold the Press: Runaway Smile is out!

Reblogged this on Sally Ember, Ed.D. and commented:
Mazel Tov, Nicholas! AND, to get to know Charles better, watch us converse on *CHANGES* Episode 7: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPbfKicwk4dFdeVSAY1tfhtjaEY_clmfq
#Authors: Learn more about and get yourself on or, #readers, recommend someone to be scheduled as a guest: *CHANGES* G+ HOA https://sallyember.com/changes-videocasts-by-sally-ember-ed-d/

Nicholas C. Rossis

You may remember how Runaway Smile is published in Greece under the auspices of a traditional publisher, George Vasdekis. He kindly arranged for Electra and me to visit the printers today, for a sneak peak behind the scenes. We arrived there just as the still-hot-from-the-presses books were shipped to bookstores.

Now, I know I’m a big fan of ebooks, but I have to confess that my eyes watered when I entered the factory. They dried up again when I got used to the chemicals, of course, which was nice as I wanted to take some pictures. :b

Seriously though, there’s nothing quite like the smell or the sound of a press. I found myself drawing deep breaths to take it all in, and even taking random pictures of printing machines. In fact, I thought you might enjoy to share these, so here are the exciting photos!

You may read my children’s book, Runaway Smile, online for…

View original post 69 more words

I’d Like to Introduce You to… Charles E. Yallowitz #author #fantasy #amreading

Reblogged this on Sally Ember, Ed.D. and commented:
Mazel Tov, Charles! AND, to get to know Charles better, watch us converse on *CHANGES* Episode 9: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPbfKicwk4dFdeVSAY1tfhtjaEY_clmfq
#Authors: Learn more about and get yourself on or, #readers, recommend someone to be scheduled as a guest: *CHANGES* G+ HOA https://sallyember.com/changes-videocasts-by-sally-ember-ed-d/

LEGENDS OF WINDEMERE: CURSE OF THE DARK WIND IS LIVE!!! #fantasy #Kindle #epicfantasy #magic #dragons

Reblogged this on Sally Ember, Ed.D. and commented:
Mazel Tov, Charles! AND, to get to know Charles better, watch us converse on *CHANGES* Episode 9: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPbfKicwk4dFdeVSAY1tfhtjaEY_clmfq
#Authors: Learn more about and get yourself on or, #readers, recommend someone to be scheduled as a guest: *CHANGES* G+ HOA https://sallyember.com/changes-videocasts-by-sally-ember-ed-d/

Legends of Windemere

Dive into the newest adventure of Luke Callindor, Nyx, Fizzle, & all their friends.
LEGENDS OF WINDEMERE: CURSE OF THE DARK WIND
IS LIVE!

Cover Art by Jason Pedersen

What’s the Story?

After their battles in Gaia and surviving the Island of Pallice, the champions of Windemere are off on their next adventure.

In his quest to be a hero and help others, Luke Callindor has jumped into danger countless times and would do so again without hesitation. So when he is infected by the toxic Dark Wind, it is up to his friends to find a cure and keep his courage alive. With time running out and their enemies in the shadows, one ally will make the decision to share in Luke’s suffering and forge a bond that runs thicker than blood. Such a sacrifice might not be enough when the truth behind this living curse comes to light.

View original post 225 more words

LEGENDS OF WINDEMERE: CURSE OF THE DARK WIND IS LIVE!!! #fantasy #Kindle #epicfantasy #magic #dragons

Reblogged this on Sally Ember, Ed.D. and commented:
Mazel Tov, Charles! AND, to get to know Charles better, watch us converse on *CHANGES* Episode 9: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPbfKicwk4dFdeVSAY1tfhtjaEY_clmfq
#Authors: Learn more about and get yourself on or, #readers, recommend someone to be scheduled as a guest: *CHANGES* G+ HOA https://sallyember.com/changes-videocasts-by-sally-ember-ed-d/

Legends of Windemere

Dive into the newest adventure of Luke Callindor, Nyx, Fizzle, & all their friends.
LEGENDS OF WINDEMERE: CURSE OF THE DARK WIND
IS LIVE!

Cover Art by Jason Pedersen

What’s the Story?

After their battles in Gaia and surviving the Island of Pallice, the champions of Windemere are off on their next adventure.

View original post 225 more words

#Fantasy #Readers – Legends of Windemere: Curse of the Dark Wind Now Live!