.

Using Your Gifts

2011-09-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

I posted this back in 2008. I wanted to revisit it again.

Have you ever thought about what makes you special. I don't mean you being better than the other person, but why God created you in the first place.

Do you love to sew, cook, dance, sing or even draw? Maybe you need to think about your gift. That thing the Lord gave you to use to not only help others, but to glorify him.

Several years ago my mentor/friend/sister Jacquelin Thomas pushed me to see some things she said the Lord told her about me. At first, I wanted to deny it and did. Told her she was crazy and why would God tell her and not me. LOL Funny, huh

I really thought about the things she was saying to me. She is such a loving person and is always concerned about me and my well being.

I prayed about it and began to start to put my efforts into the things she suggested.

In the process I lost my job and couldn't find another one to save my life. I didn't know what to do and she kept saying use your gift. The outcome was Sean D. Young Romance Author/Web/Graphic Designer.

Update 9/2011: I have now found a great job working for a fabulous company. I work in the Digital group which is right up my alley. YAY!! GOD!!!

I am so comfortable now with my gifts and I use them to edify the body and glorify God.

What is your gift and are you using it?

Meet Wedding Planner Ivy Hart - Guest Blogger

2010-06-02T05:47:00.000-07:00

Expert wedding planner Ivy Hart and her sisters Violet, Rose and Lili have been creating memorable events for the Chicagoland/Northwest Indiana area over five years at Hearts and Flowers. These women embody an ethic of personalized service, elegance and fun, while creating beautiful memories that last a lifetime.

Over the next several months as my guest blogger, Ivy will be answering your wedding planning questions as well as posting wedding advice on my blog.

Welcome Ivy.

Finally!!

2010-05-27T08:12:00.001-07:00

I know it's been a while since I posted anything on my blog. I'm not really good at blogging because I think you really need a platform to do it and not just ranting about your personal business!! LOL I think that can get a little off, since some things about your life others really don't need to know.

Anyway, I wanted to post about my upcoming release in January 2011. Finally, I have another novel being released. FROM THIS MOMENT, is the story of Ivy Hart, Wedding Planner and Jonathan Damon, Banquet Owner. Here is the cover. I will try to post the blurb in another post.

What's On Your Valentine's Day CD

2009-02-10T05:04:00.000-08:00

Some friends of mine have been discussing their favorite music for Valentine's Day.
What music do you use to set the mood when you're with your special someone? Here's mine. It's a Double CD.

1. Come Go With Me - Teddy Pendergrass
2. Promise Me - Luther Vandross
3. Til the Cops Come Knocking - Maxwell
4. Share My Love- Magnum Force
5. Other Side of The World - Luther Vandross
6. Darling, Darling Baby - The O'Jays
7. Don't Say Goodnight - The Isley Brothers
8. I Was Made To Love You - Gerald Levert
9. Beautiful Surprise - India Arie
10. Send For Me - Atlantic Starr
11. Come Get To This - Marvin Gaye
12. Sunshine - Alexander O'Neal

CD Two

1. Sunshine - The O'Jays
2. You Bring Me Joy - Anita Baker
3. This Must Be Heaven - Brainstorm
4. For The Love of You - The Isley Brothers
5. Love Is Where You Find It - The Whispers
6. Am I Dreaming - Atlantic Starr
7. Lately - Tyrese
8. Candlelight & You - Chante Moore & Keith Washington
9. Stop, Look, Listen - Will Downing & Gerald Albright
10. I Wanna Be Closer - Switch
11. In You - Glenn Jones
12. When I'm With You - Tony Terry

Now, let's talk about our favorite Valentine's Day Romance Novels. Here's my list:

1. Love Letters Anthology - Rochelle Alers, Donna Hill and Janice Sims
2. Heart To Heart - Jacquelin Thomas from the Cupid's Arrow Anthology
3. Wine & Roses Anthology - Carmen Green, Kayla Perrin and Geri Guillame
4. A Valentine's Kiss Brenda Jackson, Carla Fredd and Felicia Mason
5. I Do Anthology - Gwynne Forester

What's yours?

Kimani Press Authors Celebrate Black History Month

2009-02-06T06:15:00.000-08:00

If you haven't already done so check out the discussion on Kimani Press Forum. There will be 28 authors discussing the topic Dare To Dream, YES WE CAN in celebration of Black History Month.

I must say the posts that I read this morning were both thought provoking and inspiring. Go on over and check out what your favorite Kimani Authors have to say.
YES WE CAN

Have a wonderful weekend.

Writers and Blogs

2009-02-03T06:15:00.000-08:00

When I decided to have a blog on my website, it wasn't because I thought I had so much to say. It was actually because most of the other writers had one. For a long time I didn't even post anything. I do believe that the blog for a writer should promote their work and works of others that they think readers will enjoy.

I have heard some other authors say that you shouldn't have a blog because people are watching and reading the posts.

I've found some wonderful blogs that offer helpful information on just about every subject. I've also found some blogs that beat down and tear up aspiring authors work, enthusiasm and the publishing industry as a whole.

That is not my goal here. I don't want this to be a place where I'm seen as bitter or scorned. I really want to share the good things in life and that's why I talk about family, my love for music and my work. I would write more about my work, but right now I'm still searching for a publisher and don't want to put false information out there.

I am going to find good topics to discuss and fun ways to do it. I do hope you will stay tuned.

WIP - Complete

2009-01-25T05:28:00.000-08:00

Thank you Jesus!!!
I'm so excited about FROM THIS MOMENT
It's completed and submitted.
Now it's time to start on Violet Hart's
story TO LOVE & HONOR.
She will meet hero Garrett Blakemore and
his twin niece and nephew.
This should be a fun story. I can't
wait to get started.

Out With The Old...

2009-01-20T07:43:00.000-08:00

Today America starts a new chapter. My prayer is that Obama will do what he was destined to do with greatness and dedication. The world will be watching and I'm sure he knows that the heat is on so to speak.
God Bless You Mr. President!

Happy Birthday Martin

2009-01-19T08:41:00.000-08:00

Today we celebrate and commemorate the birth of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
We've come a long way and still have a ways to go, but if Martin and others like him hadn't paved the way with their lives, I'm not sure where we would be today.

Old School Friday

2009-01-16T10:13:00.000-08:00

I've been asked numerous times what kind of music do I listen to when I'm writing?

It really depends on what kind of mood I'm in. If I've re-read the chapter I'd written previously. I sometimes listen to alot of Luther Vandross, Atlantic Starr, Teddy Pendergrass and Marvin Gaye. I love R&B ballads and they help me use my imagination to set the tone or the mood of a chapter I'm writing. Sometimes I like it very quiet

In my WIP From This Moment, I had no idea that Ivy and Jonathan would connect on the level that they have. I really love this couple and believe that they love each other. My prayer is that the reader will see, believe and feel the same way I do.

Some of the songs that I've been playing while writing their story are:
The Other Side of The World - Luther Vandross
From This Moment - Shaina Twain
Promise Me - Luther Vandross
Come Get To This - Marvin Gaye
So Amazing - Luther Vandross
They'll Never Be - Switch
Come Share My Love - Mikki Howard

I'm coming to the end of the book and I'm excited about the outcome and pray my readers love it.
Here are my two picks for old school Friday.

Marvin Gaye - Get To This

Luther Vandross - Other Side of the World

Have a wonderful weekend.

Happy New Year

2009-01-05T08:43:00.000-08:00

I pray that you had a wonderful holiday season. I know I did.

Well 2009 is here and we all get a new start of sorts. Really everyday that we wake up is a new opportunity for each of us. Anyway, I'm not one for new year's resolutions. I don't think bad of them, but I just think that we should strive to do better not just because it's a new year, but because we just need to.

I've heard some people say it's going to be fine in 2009. Well, if we don't put any effort into what we're striving to accomplish it won't.

There are areas in my life that I want to improve and I'm going to do my best to do just that. I would like to be more consistent with my writing. I love my stories, but can easily get discouraged when it comes to turning things in or stopping altogether when I get a rejection. I am going to try to keep moving forward when it comes to that.

I'm going to try to be a mother to a grown up son and a teenager. I've had to remind myself during this holiday season that my boys aren't little anymore. I'm accepting it. It's hard because they will always be my babies, but hey I'm still going to be mommy. That will never go away, but the way I treat them has to change.

Here's hoping that with prayer and hardwork 2009 will be fine.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Old School Friday - Merry Christmas

2008-12-19T04:48:00.001-08:00

Christmas is a beautiful time of year and you know how much I love music. So I've decided that Old School Friday would feature tbree Christmas Songs. Two aren't actually videos, but just the music to the songs.

I pray that your Holidays will be all that you desire. Enjoy family and good friends that will make memories that will last a lifetime. We are just a few days away from a new year. I'm so glad that everyday brings new mercies from God. Happy Holidays once again.

Luther Vandross - Every Year, Every Christmas

This Christmas - Donny Hathaway

River - Peter White with Kenny Lattimore

Old School Friday

2008-12-11T13:50:00.000-08:00

This week has been very productive. I'm almost at the finish line with my WIP. I have to remember to update my little progress graphic here on the blog.

Okay, here is my second installment for Old School Friday.

Let's get some dance music going on here.

Tom Brown - Funkin for Jamaica.

Johnny Kemp - Just Got Paid

Enjoy them both.

Have a wonderful weekend. Enjoy yourself this holiday season. Surround yourself with family, good friends and positive people.

Keep praying and I'll keep writing.

Buy Books for the Holidays

2008-12-09T05:20:00.000-08:00

I've always bought books for people for Christmas and birthdays. If you have just started to read romance or introducing a reader to romantic fiction, here are my suggestions. I've started many people off on these authors. If they read these, I'm sure they'll be hooked.

1. Rochelle Alers - Hideaway Series - I believe she's up to book 14.

2. Brenda Jackson - Madaris Family (I loved the first 8 books and the novellas in Cupid's Heart and Trask and Felicia's Story)

3. Francis Ray - Heart of the Falcon is my favorite story.

4. Jacquelin Thomas - Her Ransom Family Series. She is also a wonderful Christian Ficiton Author.

5. Gwyneth Bolton - Hightower Family Series

These are just a few with series books as well as single titles. But there is a long list of AA authors that have wonderful books. You can check out my list on the links page of my website.

On Another Note...

I came across an interesting National Buy a Book by A Black Author and Give it to Somebody not black. The idea was posted on this blog by Careen Brice White Readers Meet Black Authors

Intersting...

RawSistaz Conference 8-13 2008

2008-12-08T11:08:00.000-08:00

My good friend Bettye Griffin posted an announcement about the RawSistaz Event which will take place this week. I decided to post it as well, I don't think any author or reader should miss this event.
It runs from December 8-13. The agenda is below. http://www.rawsistaz-affair.com

Agenda

MONDAY

Event Overview

Meet & Greet

TUESDAY

Book Discussion - What Readers Want

Panel - Self-Publishing vs Mainstream vs POD Renee Flagler, Shelia Goss, Earl Sewell, Tina McKinney, Nakea Murray

Panel - On Writing: From Romance to Christian Fiction to Non-Fiction Michelle Larks, Gwyneth Bolton, Bettye Griffin, Marilyn Griffith, LaConnie Taylor-Jones

Workshop - Creating a Publishing Business Barbara Joe Williams

Workshop - The Road to Getting Published Gwynne Forster

Spotlight - Authors Ana’Gia Wright, Pynk, Trice Hickman, Terra Little, Dyanne Davis

WEDNESDAY

Book Discussion - A Different Kind of Blues by Gwynne Forster

Panel - Books, Book Clubs & Book Reviews aNN Brown/RAWSISTAZ, Renee Williams/All the Buzz, Dee Dee Dalton/Sexy Ebony BBWS, J’me Adams/Passion for Reading, Eraina Tinnin/Piedmont Triad RAWSISTAZ

Panel - Guiding Young Readers Through the Literary Jungle Paula Chase, Varian Johnson, Kelly Starling-Lyons, Carla Sarratt and Don Tate

Panel - Depicting the Black Family in Literature Angela Winters, Swaggie Coleman, Evelyn Palfrey, Carleen Brice, Toschia

Workshop - Focus on the Story Dwight Fryer

Workshop - Blogging for Fun Sheila Goss

Workshop - Fast Books Victor McGlothin

Spotlight - Poetry & Non-Fiction RJ Poet, a. Kai, Ms. T, Vanessa Johnson

THURSDAY

Book Discussion Unexpected Interruptions by Trice Hickman

Panel - On Writing: Why We Write What We Write Allison Hobbs, Rodney Hurst, Rose Beavers, Nikki Rashan, Angeline Bandon-Bibum

Panel - Book Promotion & Publicity Dana Pittman/Nia Promotions, Lissa Woodson/Macro Marketing & Promotions Group , Nakea Murray/Literary Consultants Group

Workshop - Mistakes First Time Authors Make Barbara Joe Williams

Workshop - Structuring Your Novel Dr. Fredrick Williams

Workshop - How to Be Your Own Publicist Ella D. Curry

Spotlight - Authors Robert Greer, Byron Harmon, Nicole Bailey-Williams, T.L. James, M. LaVora Perry

FRIDAY

Book Discussion - Our Favorite Books of All Time

Panel - Industry Insider Roundtable Candace K - Web Designer/CanDann.com, Melissa Forbes - Freelance Editor/Carbon Copy Editing, Doug Siebold - Publisher/Agate Publishing, Misherald Brown - Literary Agent/ML Brown & Associates, Chanel Smith/Web Design Presence

Workshop - What You Need to Know Before You Sign on the Dotted Line Pamela Samuels-Young

Workshop - The Inner Self/The Outer Self Dr. Ni

Spotlight - Literary Professionals Marlive Harris - TheGRITS.com Literary Services, Pam Perry - Ministry Marketing Solutions, Ella Curry-EDC Creations, Sylvia Hubbard - Motown Writers Network, LaShaunda Hoffman - SORMAG, 3 Chicks on Lit

SATURDAY

Workshop - So You Want to Write Renee Flagler

Author Spotlights - TBA

Event Wrap-Up

Friday Ramblings

2008-12-05T05:54:00.000-08:00

I think being a music lover is a trait in my family. Every single one of my relatives love music, be it gospel, r&b, blues, jazz, rap, hip-hop, etc. We always
have music at every gathering. You can hear a song and it will take you back to a fond and sometimes even a painful memory. I think music can be healing and fun at the same time.

When I'm writing my stories, I use music to inspire me and the mood of my characters. For example in my WIP FROM THIS MOMENT, I chose the title
from the song FROM THIS MOMENT by Shania Twain. The words are so beautiful
and I felt it was a good fit for Ivy and Jonathan. Now, will the publisher(when
I find one) change the title? We'll see.

Anyway, I've decided to post each Friday some of my favorite songs. Now, that's alot
of music, but I hope you all enjoy them. And, please don't hesitate to post the titles of your favorites.

Several of my friends: Authors Bettye Griffin and Gwyneth Bolton
feature music on their blogs as well so don't forget to check
them out.

Here are my entries for today:

Atlantic Starr: One of my favorite groups.
Send For Me (I love, love, love this song)

Champaign - How 'Bout Us
My Uncle Jesse loved this group. He used to play this song all the time.

Have a wonderful and safe weekend. The holiday season is definitely underway. Take care.

Holiday Recap & Expectation

2008-12-02T02:24:00.000-08:00

Well, Thanksgiving came and went. I hope you had a good time with your friends and loved ones. I know I did.

We always have a good time during the holidays. Eventhough as the years have come and go, we've lost loved ones and it seems each time it's different. But we keep moving forward.

I went to the movies twice this holiday season. I took my youngest son and my two nephews to see BOLT. It was a cute little movie. The kids thought it was good, but didn't comment on it too much. Which meant the movie was just okay to them.

I also went to see THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES. I don't ever have to see this movie again in this lifetime. Now, don't get me wrong, the acting was great, I just don't like films that have racial violence in them. There were many other things in the movie I didn't like, but won't post them here for fear of spoiling the movie.

All that got me to thinking about what the readers expect when they pick up a book by a certain author. I wonder what people expect when they pick up one of my books. I would hope they would expect to get a funny story that would also touch their heart. But I also realized that we are not going to be able to please everyone all of the time.

Creativity is subjective. I have been saying this for the last couple of months. Each person comes to the movie or the book with their own thoughts on what they are about to see or read. Once they've had the experience, sometimes they will feel that the actor, author, writer etc got it right. Then sometimes they might feel they missed it all together. The same way I did with this particular movie.

As for movies, I like romance, some suspense, family drama and comedy in movies. I do have favorites because I'm an avid movie watcher. Just to name a few: THE FIVE HEARTBEATS, THE PRINCESS DIARIES 1&2, LOVE JONES, BAPS, CLAUDINE, POETIC JUSTICE, THE LONG KISS GOODNIGHT, THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION, WHAT A GIRL WANTS, LEAN ON ME, BOOMERANG, COMING TO AMERICA, SEX IN THE CITY, THE FAMILY STONE, BABY BOY, TALK TO ME, DADDY'S LITTLE GIRLS, and many, many more.

Do you have a favorite movie?

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T05:37:00.000-08:00

Oh Give Thanks Unto The Lord for he is Good!!!

I just wanted to drop you a line to say
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones.
Take some time to share with the ones you love
and let them know how thankful you are for their
friendship and love.

I want to thank everyone for all the emails and ecards with words of encouragement. Thanks for the notes saying you loved my books and most of all WHEN IS THE NEXT ONE COMING? I appreciate your kindness.
Have a wonderful holiday.

Friday Ramblings

2008-11-21T04:42:00.000-08:00

It's Friday. It's seems like I blinked on Monday and now it's already Friday.
I've been cruising the net this morning and came across another wonderful blog from a literary agent Rachelle Gardner.

Rachelle is a Christian Literary Agent who uses her Rants and Ramblings Blog to share her experiences and other important things with the world. I love her post from Monday Your Calling As A Writer When I read it, it confirmed to me that I'm not the only person that has wondered if God really called me to write or if it was just a season. She received some wonderful responses.

One woman's thoughts mimicked mine exactly. It's amazing how the Lord works. I was just feeling a little down after receiving a rejection. I love God for his mercy and his grace. This is not an easy business and now with the economy on a downward slope it is getting more and more competitive.

I also found this awesome blog called So You Want To Be Published. Check it out.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy Rachelle's offering and you have a successful weekend.

Sean

Article Worth Reading by Author Jane Porter

2008-11-18T06:59:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to drop a line to tell you about an article I found on popular fiction novelist Jane Porter's blog. Her book Flirty with Forty is a lifetime movie starring Heather Locklear. I really like Jane's personality and go to her site frequently. I thought I'd post the link to an article she wrote titled: A WRITER'S PERSPECTIVE: ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING
Check it out.

The Weekend/Writing

2008-11-17T10:41:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a great weekend. I didn't get much writing done, but it was a great weekend. Our church celebrated our Pastor & First Lady's Anniversary. My mom was chairperson, so of course I had lots of work to do.

Anyway, I am proud to say that I am getting ready to start Chapter 15 of my novel FROM THIS MOMENT. This story has been the easiest to write thus far. I am hoping the readers will enjoy it as much I've enjoyed writing it. Jonathan and Ivy are definitely a great match for each other. Looking forward to typing the words THE END. After I complete FROM THIS MOMENT, I will start work right away on Lili Hart's story I THEE WED.

Keep praying and I'll keep writing.

Sean

This is The Day That The Lord Has Made

2008-11-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

...I will rejoice and be glad in it.
Barack Obama is now our 44th President.
The jubilation and passion of the American
people really touched my heart.

The first thing I thought about was
all the people that paved the way for him
to get where he is. I also thought about
those people who were blessed enough to have
experienced the change that some never
thought they'd see in their lifetime.

I know there is a long road ahead, but this
makes the road a bit easier to travel.
Congratulations Mr. President.

You Never Know What's In Store For You

2008-11-04T07:13:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, my son Gerold won Duke of the Sophmore college class.
Mind you, he fought me on the fact that he didn't even want to go to
Wilberforce University.

I really like his school because it's a small campus and the staff are
excellent people. They really care for the kids and look out for them.
I kept telling him that everything would be okay. He just had to work
hard and make it what he wanted it to be.

I'm so very proud of his achievements and I believe if he keeps his trust in
the Lord, he will do greater things.

Congratulations to my baby!! (I know, I know he's not a baby anymore!) LOL

Don't forget to vote!!!

Obama '08

November Desktop Freebie

2008-10-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!

I was searching one of my favorite freebie sites and came across this one.
Girl Talk
She had this cool Desktop Freebie for november. Click on her name to go to the site.
This is what I did with mine. Me and my childhood friend National Bestselling Author Alethea Pascascio.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. Enjoy the weather while it lasts. I think the time falls back an hour. Hooray! We get an extra hours sleep.

The Writing Life

2008-10-29T08:45:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased with my progress on my WIP FROM THIS MOMENT.
Ivy and Jonathan's story is flowing so well. I can't type fast enough. Oh what a blessing. I've given myself until Thanksgiving to have the manuscript completed. Right now I'm on chapter 10.

Every morning I get up and write for an hour and a half. The past two weekends I've had the opportunity to write for several hours. I'm going to try to get as much writing in as I can in the morning because I'll be busy with several events my mother is coordinating.

Keep praying and I'll keep writing.

Mountain Experiences

2008-10-22T04:27:00.000-07:00

I know you've heard me say it before about how very deeply the emails I receive concerning my books touch my heart. Words can not express the way those emails make me feel. It brings me up when I'm down about my writing.

See, the road to publishing was interesting to me. I only finished the first manuscript to prove my friend Jacquie wrong. Turns out I was the one that was wrong and got a two book contract in the process.

Then after my first book was published the editor left. After that things started to change and by the time my second book came out, I started to wonder if this was what God really wanted for me to do.

We have to all look at ourselves and our abilities. When rejection hits, I think doubt creeps in and plunges our self-esteem into the deep. But that's when we have to dig in deep into our faith and keep moving forward.

If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you have say to the mountain (MOUNTAIN GET OUT OF MY WAY). I believe we all have mountain experiences, some larger than others. I believe writing is a mountain for me.

Rejection is a part of life, but sometimes I feel that I don't want to subject myself to rejection that's not really necessary. Meaning, why should I keep on trying to write when I can't find a publisher. I should because I have all these stories in my belly and from the response from the readers they believe I have something to say as well. Almost every week I have someone who joins my newsletter mailing list. I haven't sent out a newsletter in forever, because I don't have anything to tell them. They are so sweet in dropping me an email asking how I'm doing and when is Ivy Hart's story going to be released. (LOL)

To everything there is a season, a time and purpose.... Yes, Lord, I do believe that is true. When is the time? I guess that's where faith steps in yet again. You've got to trust God.

I want my readers to experience the joy of Ivy, Lili and Violet Hart finally finding love. I want them to meet Victoria and James, Shante and Richard, Regina and Miles, Desiree and Xavier and all the others.

I am going to work hard to keep pushing through even when I feel defeated. PUSH - Pray Until Something Happens and while I'm praying I'm going to be writing. Pray for me will you?

Creating Your Own Christmas Card

2008-10-19T17:20:00.000-07:00

Well, the holidays are fast approaching. I need to get started designing this years' card. I want to share with you some of my Christmas Card designs from last year. These are 4x6 cards printed on professional Kodak Photo paper. I created them in photoshop CS.

Soon there will be more sites offering freebie digi scrap holiday card downloads and I'll try to post them here. But in the meantime check out Shutterfly's free downloads from 2007. Happy Scrapping

Shutterfly

Friday Ramblings

2008-10-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a productive week. I'm starting to get used to blogging. I'm having a lot of fun and I appreciate those of you who stop by.

Anyway....

It's funny how fast your children grow. It seems like yesterday that I had my oldest and now next month he will be 20. A sophmore in college and his own man.

My baby boy is 15 now and I am so proud of how much he's grown. He used to get beat up all the time. It was sickening, so I decided to put him in karate. He had some struggles when he first started because it take serious discipline. I love his instructors because they are good God-fearing people. Marvin Clark Karate Academy nurture and assist their students in the knowledge of Sho Ryn Ru Karate as well as the word of God. Now, my son is a first degree black belt.

Here are a few pics from my son Brandon's karate demonstration team.

Here is Brandon and Kendrick praying before it's their turn when we went to Kentucky in June for a tournament. Kendrick is a third degree black belt.

Next week, I'm going to post some more digital scrapbooking resources. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. Remember to show some love to your people.

Digital Scrapbooking

2008-10-15T05:31:00.001-07:00

I love creating things on my computer. One day I stumbled upon a digital scrapbooking site. To say that I was hooked is an understatement. I've been creating all kinds of things from some of the templates and free graphics shared on these sites. I would like to share with you some of my designs as well as share links to some of my favorite scrapbooking and graphic sites.

Here are some of my designs I created for my son's graduation party. I put these in picture frames and used them as a table centerpiece.

These are some of the sites I visit:

Scrapping Ikeagoddess She's the freebie guru. She finds the most beautiful scrapbooking templates and graphics.
Pay It Forward Pay It Forward Photography

Misty Cato Designs
Lindsay Jane Designs
Paper and Ink
Jen Caputo
Digital Scrapbooking Freebies
Faith Sisters

I'll post some others later in the week.

What a Hectic Weekend

2008-10-13T07:40:00.000-07:00

This weekend seemed like I was in a cyclone. I had several projects that I needed to finish, plus a wedding that I had to assist my mother with.

First, on Friday I had to attend my bosses grandmother's funeral. I will have to say I've never met her, but from all the things people said about her, she was an awesome woman of God. I hope that I will have touched or helped somebody all this way. I will know that my living will not be in vain.

Anyway, Friday evening I had to get a funeral program approved for a member of my church, then go to the church and print them along with being there for a wedding rehearsal that my mom and I were coordinating on Sunday afternoon.

Everything was going fine until I ran out of ink and had to stop until I could get some more. I couldn't believe that we had run out. Satuday, I picked up the ink and went home to complete some thank cards and bookmarks for another project I was working on.

Sunday morning, I dropped my son off at my mother's so he could go to church with her. He sings in the choir and she's their director while I went to look for some frames for the candy buffet table we were having for the reception.

Ended up going to several places and found what I wanted. When I got back in my car, it wouldn't start. ....I didn't panic. I know that I'm growing, cause I used to freak out at the littlest things. I called my sister and told her to come and get me. I finally got back to the church finished the programs and helped my mom with the wedding. It was beautiful. My mom took me to where my car was and I tried to start it and thank God it did. I took it home and this morning I went and got a new battery.

Wow, what a weekend. I hope you had a great one.

Using Your Gifts

2008-10-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought about what makes you special. I don't mean you being better than the other person, but why God created you in the first place.

Do you love to sew, cook, dance, sing or even draw? Maybe you need to think about your gift. That thing the Lord gave you to use to not only help others, but to glorify him.

Several years ago my mentor/friend/sister Jacquelin Thomas pushed me to see some things she said the Lord told her about me. At first, I wanted to deny it and did. Told her she was crazy and why would God tell her and not me. LOL Funny, huh

I really thought about the things she was saying to me. She is such a loving person and is always concerned about me and my well being.

I prayed about it and began to start to put my efforts into the things she suggested.

In the process I lost my job and couldn't find another one to save my life. I didn't know what to do and she kept saying use your gift. The outcome was Sean D. Young Romance Author/Web/Graphic Designer.

I am so comfortable now with my gifts and I use them to edify the body and glorify God.

What is your gift and are you using it?

The Power of Books

2008-10-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

The email that I continue to get regarding both my books TOTAL BLISS and WITH THIS RING is amazing. I get all kinds of reader email telling me stories about their own personal quest to find their prince charming.

I really get alot of email about Rose Hart the heroine of WITH THIS RING. Some of the emails bring tears to my eyes. I can't believe how much Rose's personality, physical appearance mirrors many of my readers.

I hadn't realized how much the words we authors write touch the lives of others. I guess that's part of the ministry of a writer. To tell the story that is so vivid that the reader relates.

How awesome is that. Can you think of a book that reminds you of a situation in your life or a person. Tell me your thoughts.

Healing

2008-10-07T06:56:00.001-07:00

October used to be kindof a hard month for me. You see my father passed away in October. What a painful time in my life. My father never had been sick and suddenly he had problems with his heart. I found out later that it wasn't sudden, it had been a progression from the smoking he had done all those years. Anyway, it seemed like he was here then he wasn't.

The leaves start to change in October and on the Monday after we'd buried him, I walked outside onto my mother's porch and looked at the trees and realized that the world seemed so different. I felt different. I finally came to the conclusion that it was because my father was no longer here. I mean, he wasn't just on vacation or at work, he was never coming back. How sad that made me.

He has missed so much. He never got the chance to see my sisters boys and barely knew mine. There were many more celebrations like my first book launch and signing, he wasn't there. It seemed like he should have been, but that's the way it is.

As the years went by, I've learned to trust God and know that death is a part of life and that our relationships are gifts from God. We will miss the relationship we had with the person, but the memories that were created will last as long as you can remember them. That brings a smile to my face. I still miss my daddy, but I'm better in dealing with his absence.

October is also my sisters birth month. She even had her first child in October, so we have two birthdays in our immediate family to celebrate in this month. Happy Birthday, Shirlonda and Jaeden.

Romance Books

2008-10-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading Bette Ford's CAN'T SAY NO, (Thanks Michele)
I must say I haven't read a romance in a while since I've been so busy with my own stuff and life getting in the way. Anyway, I loved this story. Bette Ford is a gifted writer anyway, but she really put her foot in this one. LOL

She is such a great storyteller and the this story was so vivid, I could see each scene as it unfolded. It was like a breath of fresh air.

Great Job Bette!

If you haven't read CAN'T SAY NO, you've got to do yourself a favor and go and get it.

Sean

A Lot of Time Has Passed

2008-09-30T09:59:00.000-07:00

Well,

A lot of time has passed since I posted anything. There has been alot of things going on in life that has caused me not to write.

First, the question, what do I say. You really do have to be careful what you write on the net. You don't want your words to be taken the wrong way.

I visit several peoples websites everyday, my good friend Bettye Griffin, Gwyneth Bolton, Super Agent Kristin Nelson and last but certainly not least Patricia Woodside.
Each of these ladies always has something new and exciting to say or source for you to seek out.

There are several things I want to talk about and I believe in the coming months I will delve into them. I'm going to start today by talking about family.

I love my family and this past weekend my mother and I journey to Michigan to help my aunt and uncle celebrate their retirement. They both retired from their jobs and decided to celebrate together.

My father has a big family. There were 12 children in all. One child died at birth and then my father passed away in 1994. So now there are 11 children left. My father passed away even before his parents did. I hadn't realized the void it left not only in my life, but his parents and siblings as well. I don't care if they have a barbeque, there will be a picture of my father and my grandparents somewhere near.

My aunts were crazy about my dad and they always have a story to tell about him as well as repeating things that he said.

It doesn't usually bother me when we go to these family functions and they have a picture of him there, but this time it was different. My aunt included several of my family members who have since gone on to be with the Lord and she wanted my mother and I to light a candle that had been placed in front of my dad's picture. It really unnerved me for some reason. My mother however, lit the candle. Don't ask me why suddenly I felt sad, because it was however a joyous occasion. Maybe it was because my father didn't live long enough to retire or maybe it was just the overwhelming since of love the family had for him that got to me. Whatever the reason, I quickly rebounded and we had a ball.

I believe that family is a very important part of who we are. We lean on them in times of joy and sorrow. I love my family and am happy to be apart of them.

Standing For What's Right

2007-03-03T13:46:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been in a serious situation where there were alot of other people involved, some bad and some good? Everyone knows what's happening is wrong, but nobody will stand or speak up for what is right?

I'm really not sure why, but more often than not, people are afraid to speak out for many different reasons. One, I think there are thoughts of what others will think of them that hinder them for doing so. But, at some point in our lives we just have to let go of what other people think. You can't control someone else's thoughts.

I have been in a situation like that many times myself. But, now I'm proud to be able to say that I've decided not to be silent, but to speak out for right.

In getting to this point, it takes a lot of prayer and seeking the Lord for guidance. My granny used to say, "Baby, let the Lord lead you, 'cause He's a mighty good leader." I'm a witness to that.

Growing Up

2007-02-28T04:23:00.000-08:00

It seems that when we are children/teenagers, we say "I can't wait until I'm grown, then I can do whatever I want to do."

I'm trying to teach my children that being an adult is not easy. We have so much responsibility and it seems that sometimes we don't know what to do about the situations that arise in our life.

I think the life they see on television gives them the misconception that it is all fun and games. Not I think we should enjoy our lives, but at the same time being a responsible adult is far more serious.

Depending and trusting in the Lord is a good foundation. I believe my children will grow up to be strong individuals who love God. I pray they take strength in knowing that God is able to do whatever it is they need him to do and beyond.

I appreciate God for that myself. (smile)

Encourage Yourself

2007-02-23T07:28:00.000-08:00

There is a song by Donald Lawrence and The Tri-City Singers titled "Encourage Yourself". Oh what a beautiful song.

The ministry at my church called Ministry With Purpose is going to attempt this song on this coming Sunday. This song really means alot to all of us because there are only about six members in this group. We have been encouraging each other to keep going despite the fact that there are only a few of us. God will get the Glory!

As we practiced this song, it really touched me. We've got to believe what the word of the Lord speaks about us and our lives. And that the devil is a liar.

Life is good. We feel like we're soaring above the clouds. Nothing can bring us down, then something unexpected happens and we fall to the ground. I believe we have to get up and dust ourselves off and keep going. Never quit, never give up. It can be hard because it may seem it's impossible and can't be overcome. But I say to you and to myself (I definitely have to remind myself). God will meet us at the point of our impossibility.

Remember, even when others try to encourage and lift us up, sometimes we have to do it for ourselves.

If you're going through something today, just be encouraged. Even if nobody else says a word of encouragement, ENCOURAGE YOURSELF!!!

Sticks and Stones

2007-02-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

I know you've heard of the saying: "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." I used to hear that phrase and say it myself when I was a young girl. I've experienced alot of things in life now and I believe this phrase is completely FALSE.

I have found that people love to fight with words. See, there is no physical weapon and it takes little effort. The results, however can be more harmful than if you hit someone. I believe when you are hurt physically, after the wound heals you don't feel the hurt anymore. But, if someone hurts you with the words they spoke to you,sometimes that kind of wound never heals.

To me negative, hurtful, uncaring words can cut deeper than any knife. The words do more than sting, they can be destructive. Even after we've apologized to the person we've hurt with our words, it can't erase the person's feelings. It can take a person a long time if ever to get past the negative words to see your I'M SORRY.

The bible speaks of our tongue having the power of life and death. I believe that. Relationships are destroyed by negative words. I want to speak life not death. I want to encourage, not discourage. I want to build up, not tear down. I want to help people, not hurt them.

I try to be very careful about what I say to people. I know that once I've said them, there is no taking them back, even if I do say I'm sorry.