Sunday, July 27, 2014

Snippet Sunday - 3.99 Steampunk Romance: A Lady Never Lies #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my steampunk romance: A Lady Never Lies, Book 3 in The Windsor Diaries. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:



This snippet:     Richard discovers what is bothering Jocelyn. 

*****

"How's your father?" Richard asked matter-of-factly.
             "I've never seen him so incapacitated," Jocelyn replied.
             "What happened?"
              She let out a long breath, resolved to tell the truth. "The last week, 
your ring would grow hot, then cold, then hot again. Today it became unbearable. I took it off and when my father went to pick it up, some ash from his cigar caused it to explode." 

****

A Lady Never Lies  is a time traveling steampunk romance and is book three in "The Windsor Diaries." Richard travels back in time to win Jocelyn's heart, but will she leave her ailing father? 

****
Link to You Tube Video for Victorian Scoundrel:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IUYj2d7ZeY

Reviews for A Lady Never Lies:

5 Stars,  Michelle Stanley for Reader's Favorites
"A wonderful book." 

"You've got romance, betrayal, time travel and gadgets. Perfect mix!!! Can't wait for the next book!" The Crafty Cauldron

4.5 Stars, Clue Review
This is a fun series! The author has a huge imagination.

5 Stars,  Michelle Stanley for Reader's Favorites

"A wonderful book."

BUY LINKS:

PUBLISHER'S WEBSITE:
http://www.desertbreezepublishing.com/the-windsor-diaries-book-three-a-lady-never-lies-epub/

AMAZON EBOOK:
http://amzn.com/B00KX6FD12

B&N EBOOK:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-lady-never-lies-stephanie-burkhart/1119712149?ean=2940149360352

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-aladyneverlies-1547037-343.html

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:

TWITTER:

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Goddess Fish Super Book Blast for: More Than Passion #booktour



More Than Passion
by JoMarie DeGioia

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BLURB:

Geoffrey Kane, Earl of Kanewood refuses to feel anything more than passion. Four years ago, his fiancĂ©e betrayed him and he has no desire to experience that again so when he meets the beautiful Rebecca Kingsley, it’s passion at first sight. And only passion.

Rebecca has led a very quiet life working for her father at a small country inn. When she meets Geoffrey she falls in love with him right away. But she’s only the daughter of a baronet and men like Geoffrey never marry country girls like her. Do they?

When Rebecca’s father tries to marry her off to a wealthy old man, Geoffrey intervenes and marries her himself. He wants her very much but he couldn’t possibly love her. Love is for fools. At least that’s what he tells himself. But a sinister enemy soon threatens to destroy all that Geoffrey holds dear, forcing him to face the truth. His marriage depends on it . . . And maybe even Rebecca’s very life.


ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:


The Raven’s Inn was surprisingly elegant. The brick structure was trimmed with dark green, its long windows sparkling in the late afternoon sun. Rebecca Kingsley was straightening the beautifully-appointed parlor of the inn. Her father, Thomas, insisted that all the rooms look fine. His father had been a baronet, but all that was left of the family fortune, as it were, was the inn. As a younger man, he’d traveled in the social circles of the ton and claimed to know what the gentry and lesser folk alike looked for in food and lodging. Many travelers stopped at the inn, and they expected service and accommodations as fine as any in London, or so Rebecca’s father insisted.

At twenty years old, Rebecca had been working at the inn all of her life. Her mother died when Rebecca was just two, leaving no real memories. Thomas refused to speak of her and Rebecca had long since given up asking. The only thing he’d say was that she took after her mother in looks. This he always said in a gruff, affectionate manner that never failed to surprise her. She supposed she inherited her fair skin from her mother, that and her thick raven-black hair. She could never see anything of herself in Thomas.

He never really gave her much notice. She worked as hard as the servants at the inn, keeping her own room as well as half of the rest abovestairs. Mary, the chambermaid, took care of the other rooms as well as seeing to the guests’ personal needs. Rebecca served the morning and evening meals in the dining room, as well, along with Emmy. Emmy was funny and kind and a shameless flirt. She never hesitated to share her experiences with Rebecca, who couldn’t help but blush. She listened, though. Closely.

Rebecca was usually free to go about her own business after finishing her chores abovestairs. But this afternoon, she polished the candlesticks and dusted the furniture in the parlor. As usual, she wore her hair plaited in one long braid coiled at the back of her head. Her simple muslin gown was a few seasons old and well-suited to her task. She paused to gaze longingly out the window toward the stables out back. Beyond them, she could see the gently rolling hills over which she so loved to ride. If she didn’t have to see to the parlor today, she’d surely be out riding her black filly.

From her vantage point, Rebecca could see two figures walking out of the stable’s wide doors. One man was slight of stature and fell in step behind the other. The man in the lead was tall with broad shoulders and dressed in a brown coat and tan breeches. He walked with a long, easy stride. Sun glinted off hair she fancied the color of honey. He had a strong profile, and Rebecca couldn’t tear her gaze away from him. What color were his eyes?

“Fool,” she chided herself. She turned back to her work, flicking her dusting cloth in 
frustration.

MY REVIEW:

Book Review for: More Than Passion
Written by: JoMarie Degioia
Lachesis Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-897562-96-3
3.5 Stars

"More Than Passion" is a story full of intrigue set against a historical backdrop. It's England, 1822, and Geoffrey Kate, the Earl of Kanewood, is on his way home when his carriage is damaged. He stops in Oakham to see to the repair where he falls under the spell of Rebecca Kingsley.

Rebecca is a young maid and works at her father's establishment, the Raven's Inn. He's trying to marry her off, but passion ignites between Geoffrey and Rebecca. They're caught in a comprising manner and marry hastily.

Trust hardly has a chance to grow between them when it's tested. There's the mystery of Geoffrey's estate missing money, work not done, but billed for, and jealousy. Is passion all Geoffrey and Rebecca have?

The writing style is easy to read, but there are times when the story tends to "tell" and not "show."  Rebecca is a steadfast heroine. Geoffrey is the more complex character. He struggles with conflicting emotions – wanting to trust Becca, yet allows his jealousy to niggle at his confidence. The supporting cast and dastardly villains also vex Geoffrey, adding to his heightened emotional state.


There are plenty of love scenes between Geoffrey and Rebecca, which capture the passion the two share. If you enjoy historical romances, give "More Than Passion" a try. It's full of intrigue, greed, and betrayal.

GIVEAWAY: 

JoMarie will be awarding winner's choice of an eBook from Lachesis Publishing to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.  Please visit here: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/28e434217/ to sign up for the Rafflecopter Giveaway.

When you follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better your chances of winning. The tour dates can be found here: 






AUTHOR Bio and Links:

I write Historical Romances with a touch of mystery and Contemporary Romances with a touch of home. I'm also working on a Young Adult Dystopian Fantasy/Adventure series and a hot Contemporary New Adult Romance.

I'm a member of Romance Writers of America, Space Coast Authors of Romance and From the Heart Romance Writers.

http://www.jomariedegioia.com/

https://twitter.com/JoMarieDeGioia

https://www.facebook.com/JoMarie.DeGioia.Author

BN http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/more-than-passion-jomarie-degioia/1111327290?ean=9781897562956

Kindle http://www.amazon.com/More-Passion-Dashing-Nobles-Series-ebook/dp/B0082JA4BQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1401151352&sr=8-1&keywords=more+than+passion

Kobo http://store.kobobooks.com/en-CA/ebook/more-than-passion-book-1-dashing-nobles-series

iBooks https://itunes.apple.com/ca/book/more-than-passion/id528445065?mt=11



Sunday, July 20, 2014

Snippet Sunday: 3.99 Steampunk Romance - A Lady Never Lies #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my steampunk romance: A Lady Never Lies, Book 3 in The Windsor Diaries. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:



This snippet:     Jocelyn makes a decision. 

*****

Jocelyn stood, glaring at Richard and Edmund. Richard's face betrayed his anxiety; well, she was anxious, too.
Edmund crossed his arms and looked at Jocelyn. "Do you want me to leave?"
Jocelyn's gaze landed on Richard. His blue eyes blazed with an intensity that burned her and she realized they needed to talk -- alone. She drew in a breath and crossed an arm over her chest resting her hand on her shoulder and rubbed the knot. Deliberately, she turned to face Edmund, "Yes, I think that's best." 

****

A Lady Never Lies  is a time traveling steampunk romance and is book three in "The Windsor Diaries." Richard travels back in time to win Jocelyn's heart, but will she leave her ailing father? 

****
Link to You Tube Video for Victorian Scoundrel:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IUYj2d7ZeY

Reviews for A Lady Never Lies:
"You've got romance, betrayal, time travel and gadgets. Perfect mix!!! Can't wait for the next book!" The Crafty Cauldron

4.5 Stars, Clue Review
This is a fun series! The author has a huge imagination.

5 Stars,  Michelle Stanley for Reader's Favorites

"A wonderful book."

BUY LINKS:

PUBLISHER'S WEBSITE:
http://www.desertbreezepublishing.com/the-windsor-diaries-book-three-a-lady-never-lies-epub/

AMAZON EBOOK:
http://amzn.com/B00KX6FD12

B&N EBOOK:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-lady-never-lies-stephanie-burkhart/1119712149?ean=2940149360352

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-aladyneverlies-1547037-343.html

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:

TWITTER:

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

Friday, July 18, 2014

Book Review Friday - Hot Six by Janet Evanovich #bookreview



Book Review for: Hot Six
Written by: Janet Evanovich
St. Martin's Press
ISBN: 0-312-976275

4 Stars

Full of action and hijinks

Stephanie Plum is back with a new crew of helpers and old favorites in "Hot Six." Fellow bounty hunter, Ranger, is accused of killing dastardly Homer Ramos, and skips bail. Steph turns down Vinnie's request to find Ranger, but that's where the trouble begins.

Everyone thinks Stephanie can find Ranger. Arturo Stolle has two men trail her. Joyce trails her. Dougie and Mooner sell goods of questionable origin and Steph's stuck with a dog named Bob. The cherry on the top? Grandma Mazur comes to live with her.

Ranger pulls Stephanie into the action when he asks her to do surveillance on Hannibal Ramos' house. Unknown to her, she witnesses several important clues that could wrap up the police case, but can she put them together before she starts getting shot at again?

The writing is crisp and clever. The pacing is spot on, giving the reader a chance to breath before picking up again.

The characters shine. Stephanie's at her best when she listens to her intuition. Lula's loyalty warms the soul. Joe does his level best to deal with his frustration. All the characters expose their faults along with their strengths and that's what ultimately makes "Hot Six" resonate with readers.  


The novel is a cozy mystery with a zig here and a zag there that keeps the readers on the edge of their seat wondering what will happen next. "Hot Six" is full of excitement, action, and laughter.

Question: Who is your favorite character in the Stephanie Plum series? 

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Book Review Tuesday: Killing Kennedy #bookreview



Book Review for: Killing Kennedy
Written by: Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard
Henry Holt LLC
ISBN: 978-0-8050-9666-8
5 Stars

"Killing Kennedy" is a fascinating look into the life and death of President John F. Kennedy. O'Reilly and Dugard put politics aside and ramp up the suspense to tell Kennedy's compelling and inspiring story.

The novel opens with a look at Kennedy's heroics on PT-109 in World War II. At first reluctant to assume leadership, he finally does and the incident is a defining one for Kennedy, framing his leadership style for the rest of his life. There's also an examination of the eerie similarities between Lincoln and Kennedy, which prove fascinating.

As the Kennedy presidency progresses, O'Reilly and Dugard parallel Lee Harvey Oswald's life, painting a downward spiral of a strange, complicated man, detailing the happenings in his life which will lead up to him shooting the president.

O'Reilly and Dugard's writing style is crisp, clear, concise, and engaging. They paint vibrant pictures of all the men and women around Kennedy and Oswald. Taunt and suspenseful, I did not put the book down.

The book deals only with fact and makes a powerful case for Oswald as the lone assailant. I highly recommend this book.

What's your favorite Kennedy movie or book you've read? 



Sunday, July 13, 2014

Snippet Sunday: 3.99 Steampunk Romance - A Lady Never Lies #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my steampunk romance: A Lady Never Lies, Book 3 in The Windsor Diaries. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:



This snippet:    Richard will not be put off.  

*****

Two loud male voices coming from the hall shattered Jocelyn's peace. 
"I want to see her."
             "Let Jocelyn have her space."
              "You don't understand," Richard said.

"Oh, I understand plenty and you've been missing for a while now."
The door flew open and Richard stood in the entranceway, his hair disheveled and his hands fisted. Edmund grabbed his brother's arm. Jocelyn quickly shut the drawer and stared at the brothers. 

****

A Lady Never Lies  is a time traveling steampunk romance and is book three in "The Windsor Diaries." Richard travels back in time to win Jocelyn's heart, but will she leave her ailing father? 

****
Link to You Tube Video for Victorian Scoundrel:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IUYj2d7ZeY

Reviews for A Lady Never Lies:
"You've got romance, betrayal, time travel and gadgets. Perfect mix!!! Can't wait for the next book!" The Crafty Cauldron

4.5 Stars, Clue Review
This is a fun series! The author has a huge imagination.

5 Stars,  Michelle Stanley for Reader's Favorites

"A wonderful book."

BUY LINKS:

PUBLISHER'S WEBSITE:
http://www.desertbreezepublishing.com/the-windsor-diaries-book-three-a-lady-never-lies-epub/

AMAZON EBOOK:
http://amzn.com/B00KX6FD12

B&N EBOOK:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-lady-never-lies-stephanie-burkhart/1119712149?ean=2940149360352

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-aladyneverlies-1547037-343.html

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:

TWITTER:

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

Saturday, July 12, 2014

JUL 2014 Update: Walk to End Alzheimer's Forget Me Nots Team

It's been a busy month for the "Forget Me Nots" Alzheimer's 5K walk team. As I write this, we have 71 days to go until the walk in Santa Clarita, CA on 20 SEP. Let me tell you a little about the team and we hope you consider helping out.



The team consists of my son and 12 co-workers from LAPD's Valley Communications Dispatch Center. We answer 911 for the city of Los Angeles. It's a challenging job, but we find it rewarding to assist those who need help. If anything, that's the glue that keeps us together – that desire to help those who need it. Not only that, all of us have had Alzheimer's touch our lives one way or another.


Fundraising:
June's fundraising consisted of our day watch coffee club and we earned $110.00 the 3rd month for a total of 310.00 from coffee club sales.


WE REACHED GOAL!  Due to the overwhelming support of my co-workers, our families, and friends, we've reached our $2,000.00 goal, earning to date: $2,240.00. We want to thank everyone who has supported us. ((hugs))

We are planning a chili food fundraiser for work and we're looking on holding it on 1 SEP. I'll have more infomation on my August update.


If you'd like to donate to help the team you can follow this link. Any amount is welcomed. http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2014/CA-CaliforniaSouthland?team_id=204372&pg=team&fr_id=4950

My story:
My son (who is also walking) and I know someone who is developing Alzheimer's. The other day we invited her to Easter and she asked for our address. She's been to our house many, many times. It broke my heart. I see the struggle it takes on a family, and I know it's hard. If anyone would like to share their story, please do. Know that you're not alone in your struggles to provide care for your loved one. This is why I walk. To help those family members who care for their loved ones with the disease.

Reading:
I just read a great book that chronicles the challenges caregivers face when helping family members deal with Alzheimer's. It's called Alzheimer's Through My Mother's Eyes by Suzette Brown. If you wold like to suggest or recommend a book for those who support alzheimer's patients, please do so. Here's a link to Suzette's book:  http://amzn.com/B00H5QAY3A

Alzheimer's facts:
In 2013, 15.5 million family and friends provided 17.7 billion hours of unpaid care to those with Alzheimer's valued at 220.2 billion.
Today over 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's.

1 in 3 people over 85 has Alzheimer's. Andrew's grandmother is 83.

How to obtain a diagnosis:

A doctor will need to evaluate a patient's history, conduct a physical exam, and do a comprehensive neurological evaluation that assesses balance, sensory function, reflexes and vision.

If you have concerns or something doesn't seem right, the sooner you involve a medical professional, the better. Early intervention goes a long way in helping you to prepare for quality of life issues.

Please, if you have a story you'd like to share, we'd love to hear it.
All the best
Steph



Friday, July 11, 2014

Book Review Friday - Proof of Heaven #bookreview



Book Review for: Proof of Heaven
Written by: Eben Alexander, MD
Simon and Schuster
ISBN: 978-1-4516-9519-9

4 Stars

A compelling case for life after death

Alexander crafts a dynamic and comprehensive look of the spiritual world with "Proof of Heaven." Diagnosed with E. Coli Meningitis at 54, rare in adults, he's rushed to the hospital. Despite quick treatment, he lapses into a coma. As a neurosurgeon, he knows his brain is inactive, but while he's in a coma, his consciousness has a near death experience in the spiritual plane.

What Alexander learns shatters his Earth-based beliefs. He's met by a young girl with butterfly wings, then he experiences the Creator who assures him he is loved. Alexander learns that the "consciousness" is more than a physical manifestation in the brain. His insights and observations will test a person's own beliefs.


This book is written in a conversational style and most terms were explained so the reader could understand them. One feels like a member of Alexander's family keeping vigil at his bedside. His personal story sheds light on the deeper meaning of life. For those searching for answers about life after death, Alexander's story will astound you. A genuine page turner. I couldn't put the book down.

Question: Have you had a Near Death Experience? Did it have a profound effect on you?

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Book Review Tuesday: Daughter of Sherwood #bookreview



Book Review for: Daughter of Sherwood
Written by: Laura Strickland
Wild Rose Press
ISBN: 978-1-617-9186
Avail: as an ebook and in print

4 Stars

A suspenseful story

Strickland pens a story full of action, adventure, and romance with "Daughter of Sherwood." Wren is the daughter of the legendary Robin Hood and Marion. When both parents die, she goes to live with Lil at Nottingham Castle as a scullery maid. When the triad that protects the forest is broken, Wren, now a young woman, must assume her role in the next one.

Wren is hesitant to leave her home and move to the forest, but she must, as Lambert, the Sheriff's enforcer, is on the hunt for her after a slight. Wren soon learns the other members of the triad are Sparrow Little and Martin Scarlet, two very different men who are in competition for her affections.

Wren must draw on all her courage, strength, and endurance to assume her new role all while sorting out her conflicting feelings for the two men. When Sherwood's very existence is threatened by Lambert, can Wren inspire those she leads like her father did?

Strickland's use of accents is well done, making the story easy to understand and it doesn't slow down the reading. The plot engages the reader, keeping them turning the pages.

Wren, Sparrow, and Martin prove interesting characters. Wren struggles with her identity and her role in Sherwood, which includes choosing a man to wed – Sparrow or Martin. Sparrow is quiet, yet honorable to a fault. Martin is loud and too quick to rush into action.

The story contains several tasteful mainstream love scenes. The historical background gives way to an intriguing story. Strickland does a great job giving life to Sherwood Forest, making the setting its own unique character full of life, challenges, and magic.


While a part of a series, you don't have to read the other books in the series to understand the dynamic and back story of this one. I would definitely read other books in the series. "Daughter of Sherwood" will leave you wanting more.

Question for you: What's your favorite Robin Hood movie?  

Sunday, July 6, 2014

Snippet Sunday: 3.99 Steampunk Romance: A Lady Never Lies #snippetsunday

Hi all, I'm participating in the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday. This month, I'll be taking snippets from my steampunk romance: A Lady Never Lies, Book 3 in The Windsor Diaries. You can find the Weekend Warriors Snippet Sunday list at:



This snippet:    Jocelyn meets Richard under not-so-good circumstances. 

*****

"You're limping--" Richard began.
              "My father's worse off."
               "Jocelyn, please, stop and talk to me -- just for a minute. I need to know you'll be all right." His voice was thick and unsteady.

Jocelyn glanced at Keira. Her friend's expression narrowed with apprehension. Jocelyn couldn't accommodate his request, "I can't - My father needs to go home and I have to look after him." 

****

A Lady Never Lies  is a time traveling steampunk romance and is book three in "The Windsor Diaries." Richard travels back in time to win Jocelyn's heart, but will she leave her ailing father? 

****
Link to You Tube Video for Victorian Scoundrel:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IUYj2d7ZeY

Reviews for A Lady Never Lies:
"You've got romance, betrayal, time travel and gadgets. Perfect mix!!! Can't wait for the next book!" The Crafty Cauldron

4.5 Stars, Clue Review
This is a fun series! The author has a huge imagination.

5 Stars,  Michelle Stanley for Reader's Favorites

"A wonderful book."

BUY LINKS:

PUBLISHER'S WEBSITE:
http://www.desertbreezepublishing.com/the-windsor-diaries-book-three-a-lady-never-lies-epub/

AMAZON EBOOK:
http://amzn.com/B00KX6FD12

B&N EBOOK:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-lady-never-lies-stephanie-burkhart/1119712149?ean=2940149360352

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:
https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-aladyneverlies-1547037-343.html

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:

TWITTER:

FACEBOOK: 
https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:
http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee
PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

Thursday, July 3, 2014

1st Lady of Independence #4thofjuly


Planet of the Apes

I've never seen the Statue of Liberty up close. I'd love to, and I will one day, but right now my chances are slim.

Truth be told, I don't know if I need to see her up close. She's on coins, postcards, and stamps. She's been in several iconic movies. For me, the most chilling representation of what she stands for is in the "Planet of the Apes" – Lady Liberty half buried in sand is a poignant statement. Freedom and Liberty as we knew it has died an ugly death (in the movie.) Thank goodness, that is only a movie and the real Lady Liberty still stands tall and proud in New York Harbor.

What does the Statue of Liberty mean to me? It embodies the high ideals that the founding fathers strived for: freedom, liberty, the pursuit of happiness, equality, and justice. Some of these lofty ideals we still struggle with 244 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed. For me, I look to the Statue of Liberty and I believe that American spirit will never die.

Have a great 4th of July. May it be filled with fun, BBQ, and fireworks – and a toast to liberty.

Enjoy these fun facts about the statue:

--The Statue was a gift to the United States from the people of France.

--Lady Liberty was dedicated on 28 Oct 1886 by President Grover Cleveland.

--Frederic Bartholdi designed the statue. Gustav Eiffel built it.

--The US faced great economic challenges raising money to build the pedestal. (The French did the rest) Joseph Pulitzer spearheaded a fundraising drive. Soon, 102,000.00 dollars were raised from 120,000 donors. 80% of the total had been 1.00 or less.


--Emma Lazarus initially declined to write a poem for the statue. When she observed the living conditions of refugees in New York from Eastern Europe, she expressed her empathy by writing "The Colossus." The poem's most iconic lines: "Give me your tired/your poor/your huddled masses/yearning to breathe free."

--No one in the US died during the construction.

--On 28 Oct 1886, New York had a parade. The stock exchange threw ticker tape from the windows. It was the 1st ticker tape parade.

--On D-Day, 6 Jun 1944, the lights on Lady Liberty flashed "dot, dot, dot, dash," morse code for "V" for victory.

Question: What does Lady Liberty mean to you? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Me? I have to work at the call center for LAPD from 6 am to 2 pm. Then I'm off to BBQ at Castaic Lake with the boys and then Magic Mountain for the light show. How do you plan to spend your 4th?


Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Book Review: Alzheimer's Through My Mother's Eyes by Suzette Brown #bookreview



Book Review for: Alzheimer's Through My Mother's Eyes
Written By: Suzette Brown
ISBN: 978-1494389062
Avail as: an ebook

5 Stars

Emotional and Poignant

Brown shares her emotional story about Alzheimer's and how it takes a toll on a family physically and mentally. Dementia/Alzheimer's is a disease that progressively gets worse, destroying the brain's memories, making it hard for the person afflicted to do basic care for themselves or do upkeep on their living space. It becomes difficult for the afflicted person to feed themselves or remember family members. Brown's heartbreaking story relates how challenging it is not only for those afflicted, but for those who provide care.

Brown details how important it is to have support already in place before Alzheimer's begins to present. She explains the relevance of having a DPOA (Durable Power of Attorney), a good elder care attorney, and the role that Adult Protective Services play. She also discusses the role of the convalescence center and care facility.

Brown's inner strength and courage shines as she shares her personal story with honesty.  Her writing style is easy to read and her voice hooks the reader with heartbreaking sincerity. I read this book in a matter of days, eager to know what was going to happen next regarding her mother's care.

"Alzheimer's Through My Mother's Eyes" should be read by anyone whose family has been touched by the disease. I couldn't put the book down. It will offer guidance, honesty, and provide one with a realistic look on how this disease takes its toll. I highly recommend this book.

Question for you: Have you been touched by Alzheimer's?  Would you like to share your story?