Lover of Mysteries: Carolyn’s passion for social justice, human rights, and political freedom shines through her writing, and her books are known for entertaining and creating positive conversation.
Quote of the Day: Fallen leaves lying on the grass in the November sun bring more happiness than the daffodils. Cyril Connolly
November brings a smile to my face. It’s my birthday month and I enjoy celebrating all month long and at my age, it’s a privilege to be alive. Plus, I love getting in the holiday spirit. And, a great start for the upcoming holiday season is showing gratitude to our veterans for their service followed by being thankful for our family and friends on Thanksgiving Day. A monumental event for me was the release of The Long Road Home. I hope you’ll read it and leave a review. I want to know the thinking process of my readers.
Quote of the Day: The only thing a person can ever really do is keep moving forward. Take that big leap forward without hesitation, without once looking back. Simply forget the past and forge toward the future. Alyson Noel
One of my favorite and most enriching social media sites is shutting down following a security breach. The consumer version of Google Pluswill no longer be available as its being phased out over a six month period.
I’ve developed relationships with some cool folks on this social platform. I’ll post alternative sites like Twitter and Facebook for us to connect and of course, my website and am hopeful many will follow. However, right now all I can do is cry!
I’ve enjoyed looking at pictures from around the world and connecting with the photographers (friends) who allowed us a peek into their lives and country.
I’ll be reading a book or watching a movie or TV series and have friends on Google+ post the exact spots where the action took place along with comments. These may be little things too many, but they’re a breath of fresh air for those interested in the variety of topics posted on Google+.
So, I’ll get busy and do my best to stay connected. If you’re following me on Google+, please hit the follow button, I want our relationship to continue. While I’m at it, a special thank you for sharing my post on other social sites. I noticed. And, it’s most appreciated. Hope to see you soon! Carolyn Bowen
I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen
Social Media Hangouts!
These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
The fallback of time from Daylight Savings Time (DST) is a reminder of the fall season and holidays approaching. You’ll have a chance to recoup the hour of sleep you lost March 11th.
What to Do
Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. (EST) on Sunday, November 4th. You’ll need to set your clocks back one hour before going to bed on Saturday night. Remember Spring Forward – Fallback!
Is There a Downside to DST?
Besides some folks just not liking it period, according to Dr. Anthony Komaroff, executive editor of the Harvard Health Letter, there are side effects including problems falling asleep and restless nights. Yes, I wonder what they’re thinking. Children going to bus stops in the dark. Really can’t anyone see the danger in this?
How it started
We’ve got to blame someone for this idea – right? According to the National Geographic, New Zealand’s entomologist George Hudson came up with the idea. Why? He wanted to go bug hunting.
In the U.S., Daylight Savings Time (DST) was signed into law by President Woodrow Wilson in 1918.
In the United States, the idea was pitched as a way to help farmers with crops and harvesting. Growing up on a farm, I can tell you the hands on the clock meant nothing to the farmer/rancher. The grind was from sunrise to sundown and most times during the night for a calf birthing or shooting a possum who had found a way into the chicken coop, invasion by wolfs, bobcats and/or coyotes. In reality, it was department stores behind the push for adjusting clocks, looking for another hour of shopping time in the afternoon and evenings.
Others have argued that DST saves energy. A 1975 study by the U.S. Department of Transportation showed that DST accounted for a savings of about one percent a day in electricity use.
While most of the country and about 40 percent of the world use DST, there are some exceptions. Two states – Arizona and Hawaii – and several territories don’t fall back or spring forward with DST.
Will We Keep It?
Just how important is this in the grand scheme of things? Like it – hate it –until Congress moves and the clock continues to tick on that one, Daylight Savings Time is here to stay.
NOTE: It’s likely that most U.S. states will continue the practice of changing the clock twice a year, though some state legislatures have discussed ending the practice.
Californians will vote Nov. 6 on a proposition to keep Daylight Saving Time year-round. Florida Gov. Rick Scott signed a bill passed overwhelmingly by the Florida Legislature that would keep the Sunshine State on DST year-round.
Bottom Line
Set your clock back an hour this November 4th and enjoy the festivities of the season. Want to make a change? Contact people who can make a difference – your area Congressman/Congresswoman. Remember they serve at your pleasure.
I look forward to learning your preferences about Daylight Savings Time. Thank you for following my blog and reading my books. Hope you’ll check out my “About Page” to learn more about my books and writing life.
I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen
Social Media Hangouts!
These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
Quote of the Day: “Build it, and they will come” only works in the movies. Social Media is a “build it, nurture it, engage them and they may come and stay.” – Seth Godin
Our world is constantly changing and business is no exception to this rule. Marketing strategies are constantly evolving and being made new to reach customers where they live and work with products/services relevant to their wants and needs.
Entrepreneurs are required to become smarter and more resourceful in attracting and maintaining customers’ loyalty. Marketing and advertising play a major role in accomplishing business goals with repeat satisfied customers.
Marketing is not a shush word one is afraid to say out loud. The best made beautifully crafted products or most polished service is unknown unless it is marketed and advertised. But, with the variety of marketing strategies available, it becomes deafening and confusing to most business owners.
The idea of simplicity is a favorite go-to for me. Just give me the facts, nothing fancy, like I’d have to stand on my head to accomplish and I’m happy. The 1- Page Marketing Plan by Allan Dibmade sense for me. Here is my review from Goodreads. Check it out and see if his marketing ideas will work for you.
No hype here. This marketing book is straightforward about its offerings. Allan Dib provides a step-by-step plan for developing and executing a marketing plan along with a sample one page worksheet to download. Simple instructions making the complexities of marketing easier and more customers oriented are at your fingertips. I’d also recommend buying the paperback to have on hand as a resource. This is one of the best marketing books available right now.
I look forward to learning about your successes. Thank you for following my blog and reading my books. Hope you’ll check out my “About Page” to learn more about my books and writing life.
I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen
Social Media Hangouts!
These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
Quote of the Day: Life isn’t about maneuvering in a straight upward line. It’s about negotiating the dips, twists, and turns encountered in everyday life thereby removing obstacles standing in your path to claim your noble calling. CMBowen Author
Now available in the Timeless Edition.
The first sentence in M. Scott Peck’s book, The Road Less Traveled, says “Life is difficult.” What a downer or surprise for those who believe failure is not an option.
Many years ago with the first edition, I wanted to quit reading after the first sentence. My definition of life was the direct opposite. Yet, I continued reading and joined a book study group to get the full force of the meaning and basis for the book. I’ll add here the end results enlarged my thinking to transcend difficulty and surrounded me with lots of warm, fuzzy feelings.
Struggle too many is unacceptable. If it becomes too hard they quit. But, the question comes to mind, how long should you struggle, sometimes leaving a trail of brokenness in your wake? Perhaps, you’re barking up the wrong tree decoded means this business/career is not for you. Highlight: There is a special way for you to showcase your talents. Go back to square one!
The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting different results.
If you’re repeating previous failures, stop now and get some help before your upside down peeking out a mouse hole.
Question for Today
How long do you think you should attempt to accomplish a goal? For example, building a business, before quitting?
I look forward to reading your comments. Thank you, Carolyn Bowen
As always, I appreciate your following my blog and reading my books. Hope you’ll check out my “About Page” to learn more about my books and writing life.
I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen
Social Media Hangouts!
These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
Quote for Today:It is only in sorrow bad weather masters us; in joy, we face the storm and defy it. Amelia Barr
Panama City Beach before Hurricane Michael
Recently I’ve decided to put my education to good use and help others by writing in the mental health area also. I’m a mystery-crime fiction author with a background in psychology and communication. I look forward to sharing personal development and inspirational tips from time to time on my blog.
When storms blow your way
I had a feeling this hurricane season would be bad and the worst isn’t over until the end of November. (See the previous post) I just didn’t know how close it would hit to home – my community.
Many folks are still reeling from the devastation of Hurricane Michael. The far-reaching effects inland are beyond comprehension. This is a look at Marianna, FL located 60 miles from the direct hit on Mexico Beach.
Photo/Brendan Farrington)
How do you deal with this mess?
My family and friends in Panama City FL and Marianna FL are still without power, gas, water, ice….
A feeling of being overwhelmed is normal. One day you have a residence and the next you don’t. My Granny comes to mind, 90 years old and displaced by the hurricane. No home to return to and years of memories gone. She’s a fighter who left her home when it was engulfed during the hurricane and sought a safe place. No one expected the Hurricane Michael to reap damage 60 miles inland, maybe some rain and wind but nothing traumatic.
As Granny says, “The next time there’s a mention of a hurricane in NW FL, I’m gone.” Like I said, she’s a smart woman.
My sister and family in Panama City, FL experienced the brunt of the hurricane force. She and her family survived a harrowing experience. They’re alive – residence totaled.
Well, my place appears to have survived the worst. Besides needing a new roof and major road clearing up my driveway all seems good. Yet, I’ve not been able to get to the property for the trees in the lane leading to the house. Yet, looking at NOAA images, the damages may not be so bad. I’ll know next Wednesday when a path is cleared.
Family First
Check in with family as soon as possible and let them know your situation.
Make your request – what do you need? Food, medical supplies, lodging…
In times like this cash and supplies work best. Send cash and if possible deliver food, gas, ice and other needs. Gas is a premium for running generators for homes still intact and for getting out of town.
You are a survivor
You made it through this ordeal and you will be able to start over. This experience doesn’t define you. It will motivate you to become a more authentic person. You are more than a survivalist for this is just one part in your story. The next chapter will be a result of your rebuilding and claiming your destiny of goodness and prosperity.
To all those affected by Hurricane Michael, I wish you peace!
As always, I appreciate your following my blog and reading my books. Carolyn M. Bowen
I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen
Social Media Hangouts!
These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
Quote of the Day: Courage is the act of putting one foot in front of the other in the bleak of disaster not knowing the final outcome. Carolyn M. Bowen, Author
Mexico Beach – Before Hurricane Michael
Hurricane Michael blows through and for many, it’s over, but for those living in the region devastated by the blow at zero points, it’s significant. The hurricane’s landfall and surrounding areas have experienced the wretched aftermath and it’s not a quick fix. And, the news cycle goes on to the next big story while residents try to make sense of their losses and rebuild from nothing and I’m talking about 60 miles inland.
For many, including myself, we are unsure of the property damage or even if there’s property remaining. The ocean may have sucked in the land and perhaps created another island. This brings to point. We have no news yet, about St. George Island. Does it still exist?
St. George Island is the coastal getaway for many folks living in Tallahassee and surrounding areas plus a destination getaway for the rich and famous.
These places are my stomping grounds and have been for decades. The historic homes along the old coast are gone forever. My favorite oyster bar and shipping company were completely underwater. What’s going to happen to our gulf oysters this year? And, yes, I order them by the case for my personal consumption when out of Florida!
I love the Gulf of Mexico seafood. Some refer to the area as the Panhandle, me personally, I like the title Emerald Coast of Florida. For if you saw it, you’d know there’s nothing like it in the world.
You can see I have more questions than answers. My writing about Hurricane Michael is nostalgic, yet I already know my family members have suffered significant losses. I’m still waiting until the path can be cleared to my homestead or maybe not.
As always, I appreciate your following my blog and reading my books. Carolyn Bowen
I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen
Social Media Hangouts!
These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
Quote of the Day: “In times of stress, the best thing we can do for each other is to listen with our ears and our hearts and to be assured that our questions are just as important as our answers.” Fred Rogers, The World According to Mister Rogers: Important Things to Remember
World Mental Health Day
Today is World Mental Health Day and a worthy awareness cause to celebrate. However, concerns for friends and family’s mental health and our own should be something we recognize daily.
Recently I was told about a woman who was in the midst of the worst and best days of her life. The events happened in threes with some planned and others unplanned. The occurrences hiked her normal stress levels to new heights.
The first was the unexpected death of a parent, immediately followed by her daughter’s planned wedding, then a car accident where she was at fault. You’re probably thinking – how in the world was she coping? It seemed she was attempting to put one foot in front of the other and carry on until she could find a place and time to personally make peace with life events.
Stresses can build up over time if not resolved and can destroy your mental and physical health. We don’t think about it often, but good happenings like weddings, new job, partner, home, financial windfall, and others add to our stress level. Then when the boom falls caused by death, divorce, job or business loss, home disaster, and other life problems we find ourselves staring at the bottom of a dark hole.
We feel debilitating stress when the good and bad experiences make an impact acting as a vortex spinning our world out of control.
When you’re feeling you’re being swallowed up by things out of your control, seek help. Don’t wait for things to get better on their own. There is qualified help to get you back on a wellness path. For immediate free help, call theNational Suicide PreventionLifeline.
Today through the end of the year, December 31st, 2018 I’m offering new subscribers a free Kindle version of my personal transformation book, Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success! Act Now! Limited Offer – Fill in the information below for emailing your gift code to redeem your book.
Quote of the Day: “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” – T.S. Elliot
Today’s topic is courage for I can’t think of a more pertinent quality and conduct for achieving success.
Courage Defined
Courage, bravery, valor, bravado refer to qualities of spirit and conduct. Courage permits one to face extreme dangers and difficulties without fear: to take (or lose) courage. Bravery implies true courage with daring and an intrepid boldness: bravery in a battle.
To step into your destiny and live your dreams for the future, courage or a lack thereof plays an important role. When you’re feeling courageous it seems the world is your template to create the lifestyle of your choosing.
When doubt intervenes in your thought processes, you become stuck in your tracks unable or fearful for making a decision that changes the status quo. Calculated change to your present circumstances can bring about the results you’re seeking. A shift in your mindset toward the idea of success and accomplishing your goals is the first step.
“We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.” ― Joseph Campbell
What’s impeding your steps toward achieving your goals?
Fear of judgment or being ridiculed
The embarrassment of falling on your face in public
Unsure of your capabilities for achieving your goals
Not having a clear plan and strategy for success
The above are all possibilities if you focus on the downside. Some of the most successful people in history have failed, more than once, but they didn’t stop trying or believing in their goals.
“Worrying about something you can’t change will forever be the biggest waste of your time.” — Unknown
Fear of the unknown has caused many to stop in their tracks, don’t let that be your downfall. People who judge you most likely don’t know you. They’re likely acting out of jealousy, greed and/or shortcomings of their own. Don’t let anyone influence your life goals. Even those close to you, don’t know everything about you. Listen, and then make your own judgment calls.
Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear. Mark Twain
First, you’ve got to believe in yourself and your plans for the future. Then, have clearly defined goals and strategies for accomplishing your dreams or ideas for the future. Lastly, follow through on your plans and revise as needed to hit your mark.
What are your plans for success? Begin taking action today one step at the time. I’m looking forward to learning about your courageous leaps of faith to realize your dreams. Carolyn Bowen
Launching “Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success! ” has been a wonderful experience. Helping others live their best life now is rewarding. I’m looking forward to reading your reviews and comments about this potentially life-changing book.
