Quote for Today: “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” Lao Tzu
A simple definition for Valentine’s Day: A holiday for expressing love to the one you have an intense feeling of deep affection. This translates to one of the busiest days of the year for restaurants, florists, and chocolate companies.
History of Valentine’s Day
The auspicious beginning of this holiday has been filtered through the ages. The lasting legacy is about Saint Valentine. It is the story about a romantic priest who defied Roman Emperor Claudius II’s order that all marriages and engagements be canceled so he could fill his army.
The ruler believed the difficulty in recruiting soldiers was because the men were married. When he discovered that Valentine was secretly marrying couples, he was beaten and put to death on February 14 (circa 270 A.D.).
Through the ages, Valentine’s Day celebrations have changed and some would argue its luster has been lost. Yet, love never fails. Share your love with someone special this Valentine’s Day.
Quote of the Day: “One day I will find the right words, and they will be simple.” Jack Kerouac, The Dharma Bums
I believe every writer’s dream is to find the right words to connect with readers. I know that’s my mission and feedback/reviews from you make a difference for connecting the dots.
I’ve been busy preparing the launch for my new mystery-thriller, Primed For Revenge, Sydney Jones Series Book 1. The Kindle version is available for preorder ONLY on Amazon and will be added to other sites upon the official release date of April 2, 2019.
At that time bookstores across the world will have the paperback in stock and available for purchase. There are NO official online options for purchasing the paperback until April 2nd. Just in case you’ve seen some – not official!
Here’s a short book trailer announcing the book. I hope you will preorder at this low early bird offering. You can thank me later! Keep reading for a giveaway now in progress.
Thank you for being an important part of my author’s journey. I’m continuing to make changes to my website and social sites. Stay tuned for the best is yet to come! Thank you, Carolyn Bowen
I love having fun especially when it involves meeting people who love reading my books. Finding my own special tribe is an ongoing pursuit that most times put me out of my comfort zone. And, this is one of those moments.
I was recently invited to participate in the “The Hourglass Elite Author of 2019 Tournament” presented by Jason E. Foss. In doing so, I’ve contacted fans to encourage their support for winning this title. I love awards – all types and especially those related to writing and bestselling books. I want to win this award in a BIG way!
After a lifetime of being protected and sheltered by her parents, Kate is thrown into a state of turmoil after their sudden death. With nowhere else to turn, she finds herself living with her fiancé, a conniving businessman who is well on his way to becoming a corrupt super-lawyer. At the same time, Kate’s father’s law firm houses more secrets than a politician’s hard drive. Later, she receives a shocking surprise when a long-lost half-brother enters her life. Can Kate rise to these challenges, discover the truth and re-emerge as a stronger, smarter version of herself?
Do you want to help me win the tourney? Here are the instructions!
1) Email or message me your email address. You’ll be emailed by the presenter about the tournament.
2) Purchase a kindle/paperback of The Long Road Home, my mystery novel.
3) Make a screenshot of your purchase and email it to me or the presenter.
4) Supporters will be entered into a drawing this December 2019 for a signed copy of my new 2019 mystery series – Book 1. The drawing will be held live on YouTube 12-31-19.
Thank you for supporting my writing. I look forward to your comments and reviews. Carolyn M. Bowen
Let’s Connect on Social Media!
These are a few of my favorite social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
Quote of the Day: It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation. Herman Melville
Photo credit: Pixabay
I was reflecting on my self-help personal development book,Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success, and decided to lower the paperback price to $7.99 as a limited offer.
I realized early on there are many people who aren’t computer savvy or just prefer a book in their hands. This is the reason it’s offered as a paperback. For ebook readers, it’s availableFREE with Kindle Unlimited and just $2.99 to download and read.
This bite-sized personal development book was originally conceptualized as an e-book but shortly after beginning the dedication, I realized the person referred to would prefer to hold the book. And, come to find out, many more people would enjoy the same privilege. And, unfortunately, these people aren’t reviewers but they let me know on a personal level how much the book meant to them. Thank you!
Although reviews help sell books, personal comments are more than welcome and keep me energized for writing more. Changing lives one step at a time for the better is my goal for writing personal development books.
Many folks considered elderly by some standards are no different than as any other segment of our society. They can begin again. My life experiences have shown you’re alive for a reason. So, never give up! You’ll find in Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success examples of many who didn’t find their true purpose in life until their later years. Don’t let age be a detriment. Hit the refresh button and begin again!
For the youthful readers, thank you for letting me be on the sidelines of your personal journey. I’m cheering for you! Finding your place in this world seems overwhelming at times, but if you break it down to the basics you’ll find your way. Having made more mistakes than a few in finding my path, forgive yourself when you blunder – that’s life. Just think how exciting your memoirs will be!
I’m considering writing a sequel to Cross-Stepping and would appreciate knowing the problems you’re facing and the successes you’ve experienced. What seems to be the problem (s) for your experiencing your best life now? Fill in the contact form below to start the discussions. I can’t wait to commence this dialog.
Thank you for reading and sharing Cross-Stepping Your Way To Success! In developing this transformation book, I thought if just one life was changed from reading it, I was a part of a breakthrough for that individual. This is truly a happy place to be!
When surfers hit the waters, they use a technique called cross-stepping or moving their weight forward and backward to stay standing. Cross-stepping isn’t just a good idea for surfers, though – you, too, can metaphorically use the same strategy of zig-zagging motions to achieve success.
In “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” career coach Carolyn Bowen shows you how to zig-zag your way to success one step at a time. She examines grieving, life planning, owning your power, becoming health conscious, learning to love again, and more.
With “Cross-Stepping Your Way to Success,” you’ll discover how to maintain your balance on the choppy waters of life!
CAROLYN BOWEN was into life planning and career development before it was cool! With extensive advanced studies in psychology, adult learning, and career development, she has the background to guide you in becoming the best possible you! She’s not only walked the walk but perhaps can save you a few steps in finding your niche – your purpose in life. She knows how to master cross-stepping as a surfer and life coach. She can guide you in avoiding wipe-outs while discovering your niche – your purpose in life. She’s a well-read and beloved mystery author who calls on her life escapades and an adventurous imaginative spirit to create entertaining novels. Her writing credits include “Cross-Ties,” a historical romance, and “The Long Road Home,” a contemporary crime fiction mystery.
Thank you for following my blogand connecting on social media. I appreciate your support. Carolyn M. Bowen
Let’s Connect on Social Media!
These are a few of my favorite social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
Quote of the Day: Social media is changing the way we communicate and the way we are perceived, both positively and negatively. Every time you post a photo or update your status, you are contributing to your own digital footprints and personal brand. – Amy Jo Martin
Today I’ve reviewed an excellent book by Matt Bertramabout building and maintaining your brand. He provides the big picture and the blueprint for attracting your ideal customer over time.
We need to understand and welcome the idea that everyone doesn’t fit into your fan base. Those who do will become a supporter and potential customer. And, that’s not all!
Now, with the right online tools and resources, you can monitor your brand and quickly take action to keep your brand in good standing without hurting yourself in the long run. This isn’t the time for “going to the mattresses” in godfather terms.
“Conversations among the members of your marketplace happen whether you like it or not. Good marketing encourages the right sort of conversations.” Seth Godin, Seth’s Blog
Note: There are many excellent monitoring sites on the Internet. For a start, you can Google your own and your business name and see what’s on the net about you. In addition, I personally use and recommend the monitoring provided by Mentionand Google Alerts. Remember, to use your own name and keywords associated with your brand.
Bertram provides a step-by-step guide for developing an authoritative brand on the world-wide-web. His in-depth explanation provides a way to attract your ideal customer. You’ll learn how to filter out what doesn’t fit your business objectives. The end results will be the development of a cohesive plan to reach people interested in your offerings.
How do you handle unfavorable comments online? First, you need the best tools, and online resources to track communications about your brand. This seasoned digital marketer integrates the answers for what to do when confronted with the negativity that’ll soften the blow to your image.
If you want to become a trusted advisor or go-to person for a specific product or service, I highly recommend reading Brand Mania.
I’d love to know about your experiences while branding your business. Leave a comment at the bottom of the post. Thank you!
Shopping for a special someone in your life? Whoever it is, we’re guessing they’d love a good book, because who doesn’t? Look no further than action-packed books byCarolyn Bowen!
Social Media Hangouts!
These are a few of my favorite social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
Quote of the Day: “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Photo credit: Pixabay
Yes, I’m hyper anticipating my new mystery novel coming out soon. So – I read – and read more to make my jittery nerves relax.
This book got my attention – maybe because I love Hemi trucks – they can pull a boat so I can ski on any lake/river/ocean accessible by land. I think you get it – crazy about water sports. And, I love knowing the latest marketing news! But, can I do what’s recommended? Stay-tuned.
Today’s book world is about learning and using the right communication and tools to reach your audience. The creative process and techniques for delivering the best marketing campaign to boost book/s to the bestseller list is a long and curvy road. I have been fortunate – just plain lucky in some instances in the past. However, going forward I will be on a steep learning curve to develop innovative ways to get my stories to be read and reviewed.
I’m old school with Hemingway influence where if you write a great novel everyone should want to read it – right? Times have changed and my writing reflects the current state of affairs in the criminal world. I think people still want to know the interworking of a character’s mind. And, that I can deliver. Maybe market – we’ll see.
Back your Hemi right on back and fill your truck bed with the best information for promoting your book. This book gives you the nitty-gritty about marketing both fiction and non-fiction.
It’s the equivalent of having your personal marketing expert working for you. The downside – you’ve got to learn the ropes and do it yourself.
I’d love an app that embodies everything this book describes but we all know advertising isn’t stagnant, always moving forward. Yet, you can benefit today from using these carefully researched and proven marketing techniques. Get ready for a mind-blowing experience! Follow this author to keep abreast of the changing marketing environment. Thanks, Penny!
If you’d like to be an advance reader for my upcoming new mystery, complete the information below and an ebook will be made available for your reading pleasure. Thank you!
Quote of the Day: Remember This December, that love weighs more than gold! Josephine Dodge Daskam Bacon, American Writer
The holiday season is here and I’m counting down the days to Christmas. Everywhere I look, there’s a reminder of the coming of winter bliss.
This is the perfect time to spread good cheer and begin making plans for the New Year. What are your holiday plans?
Photo credit: Pixabay
Family gatherings come to mind and sitting beside the fireplace in the still of the night with a great book and cup of cocoa are in my forethoughts. I hope you’ll make time for yourself this season to unwind and capture the precious moments that’ll never be again.
You’ve probably noticed from my blogging that I’m doing a lot of reading during this month. As I mentioned in earlier blogs, I read to learn more about the craft of writing, and marketing. I have a rotation going and share my reviews here and Goodreadsprimarily.
Author Updates
Mynext mystery novel is going through the final stages for publishing. If you’d like to be an advance reader, join my launch (street) teamhere. I look forward to your reviews.
As you go through the paces of preparing for and participating in the fascinating adventure of the Christmas holidays, I hope you’ll share love and kindness to all! Happy Holidays – Carolyn Bowen
Photo Credit: Pixabay
I share on social media daily. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen
Social Media Hangouts!
These are a few of my favorite social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!
Quote of the Day: Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. Norman Vincent Peale
I can’t believe it! I’m in the Christmas spirit right after the Thanksgiving holiday. Go Figure! This is early for me. The first of December is when I normally get in gear for the holiday celebrations. What about you? What sights, sounds, and aromas draw you into the holiday season?
Here’s a new recording made by singer-songwriter and business leaderDiane Michelfor Christmas this year! In her own words: “My thanks to my long-time friend Chip Martin for producing this and bringing it all together! And special thanks to Shay Watson for asking me to write it with him for the Hallmark Channel a few years ago. We got a good one that day. It felt really good to sing again today….been a long time. Merry Christmas everybody!”
From my home to yours – Happy Holidays!Carolyn Bowen
I hope you’ll follow my blogand connect on social media where I post daily. Here are a few of my favorites places. 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: “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.
Carolyn M. Bowen, Author 