My Last Post, Here?

Sunset from North Van, BC (photo taken by me)

Dear Readers,

I am truly grateful to all of you who read and especially those of you who read AND comment on my blog posts.

When I first started this blog, it was to feature myself in terms of my to-be children's choir, inspired by Spirit quite a number of years ago (I am embarrassed to say).

Last July I was seriously considering that I would end this blog at the beginning of or early July of this year. One blogger I met early on through one blogging community can testify to that as I had chatted with her online about it.

It came to me today, spontaneously, when I awoke exhausted this morning, that now is the time. Below are some of the main reasons why (as there may be more that I am unaware of: only God/Spirit knows!).

But before I do share that, let me inform you that I so love and appreciate blogging. I LOVE writing, truly!

Over the past five years, I have given voice to subjects such as this choir-to-be in part, many ideas, a poem here and there, a few local and world events, as well as writing short stories as of late. However, it is now time for me to give voice to something else, something bigger than me.

I speak here of one of my missions which is in simplest terms to serve people. I can do that to a certain degree through my blog, though I feel drawn/called to write at least one book - hopefully three that I have in my heart, mind, and soul. All will require devoted time, energy, and resources.

My preference is also to focus on my life's purpose and this will require me to continue pursuing my two primary loves of singing and dancing. In part with that, I just joined a fab(ulous) rockin' choir that I have ever belonged to (having been in a variety over the years) and experienced/witnessed.

The energy created from a recent rehearsal was out-of-the-rental-hall-space huge! Words fail me at the enormity of love and joy that I felt, other than to say it was tremendous and powerful: I was "on Cloud 10" till about mid-morning the following day after my first rehearsal.

I also expect that I will take up drumming again as this came to me out-of-the-blue - one way how Spirit speaks to me - at a recent workshop on loves and life's purpose.

And I need to use not only my voice through singing and/or speaking, but also my hands whether writing, dancing, singing, and drumming as well as for hands-on/energy healing which has been put aside since just before my move in early spring.

I also need to settle into my new home, unpacking the last of my boxes, organizing, and reading all my beloved books on my bookshelf and walls.

Note that I have been very happy as of late, extremely enjoying my summer thus far being outside, listening to various bands, dancing, and singing in various choirs - two that are on a drop-in basis – so I am not making this decision in haste.

I would truly love to hear your sincere heart-felt comments - including those who are worldwide whom I never hear from - you can post anonymously if you wish - in how my blog may have affected you. If not, no worries as I can't please (or aim to please) everyone! ;)

And if any of you bloggers whom I am familiar with would like me to write an occasional guest blog post, I am open to that as (after all) I have many posts in draft form! Otherwise, I may keep them for the day I may return, possibly with another blog name and/or site.

Feel free to touch base with me those of you whom I know via Facebook preferably.

IF I consider doing the latter, I may possibly "go solo" as I did prior to joining a blogging community. Though I realize the pros to this, I also realize the amount of time and effort it takes to maintain the desired readings and commenting subsequently. Time will tell.

Whatever decision I make, know that in my heart I appreciate you all and thanks again for reading my posts and/or commenting. Those whose posts, comments, and faces I have become familiar with, know that you will be in my heart. A special thanks to you bloggers from BAR (Blog-A-Rhythm), especially Shailaja Vishwanath and others who have hosted it.

In the meantime, I wish this for you and for me indicated by the picture below. The first word is "live" by the way!

Sign on side of a food truck (photo by me)

I will see what awaits. In the meantime, I am volunteering for my favourite upcoming summer festival (Harmony Arts Festival, 25th anniversary) as well as at 55+ BC Games, hosted in my North Vancouver community.

Namaste, Elly

P.S. An afterword is coming...soon...stay tuned!

The #Cherished #Blogfest

Directive for the CHERISHED Blogfest, we invite you to talk to us about one of your cherished objects. Tell us what it is, post a picture of it if you like, and tell us why you cherish it.

Keep your post to 500 words. Place the Cherished badge on your sidebar, and help us spread the word on social media. Above all, join us in making new connections, and renewing old ones: visit each other and leave comments, try and follow your co-participants on your blogs and social media so they can follow you back.

Add your name and blog link in this Linky List, sign up for the Cherished Blogfest, and share your cherished memories on 24th, 25th and 26th of July 2015.
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Since others aren't writing about an object necessarily, I will choose not to either. Otherwise, you can read about that in an earlier blog post of mine. I actually need not take a(nother) photo or write as it is all here: http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2015/02/nablopomo-makean-inspired-dance.html in black and white and colour, photos in colour that is!

It took me a few minutes to think about what I most cherish. Objects provide temporary pleasure, but something more of a lasting nature is what I was considering. And then it came to me: But of course! (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2012/02/communications-from-my-dead-twin.html)

Heart mandala (I made from stones & shells)

When it comes to something precious, one thing I most value is the size of a person's heart (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2012/03/perhaps-analogous-to-heart-shaped.html), and yes, mine included! ;)

In keeping with that, friendships are very important to me as friends can be there for me at times when I need support that I think I won't get from my family. Also it's fun to enjoy community events and activities with friends.

Furthermore, I have come to realize the value of friendships having had none at one point in my life. This occurred when I left my entire support system behind, shortly after moving to British Columbia from Ontario. And having no friends is like a vacant room: bare, empty, and boring, lonely even!

I have felt lonely a big part of my life - distant past - and still do occasionally at times, though rather rarely as of late. Loneliness hasn't been an issue for me the past few years for the most part, and in particular this year with new people I have encountered in various networks.

Lucky me, this year it seems that I have been blessed with more friends than usual as I usually have had only one or two close friends at a time in past.

A number of people, primarily friends and some acquaintances live in my neighbourhood and surrounding area. A few in fact moved a few blocks below the highway, whereas I live a few blocks above it.

I am so grateful for that as I cherish their friendships. Hopefully they do likewise! ;)

Sunshine Blogger Award

A kind thanks to Aathira Jim for nominating my blog for the Sunshine Blogger Award on July 13th. (More about her below.)

According to one blogger, "The Sunshine Blogger Award is a way for bloggers to get to know each other and also get other bloggers to link to their website (very good for SEO!)" (That's 'search engine optimization' by the way.)

See the award rules below.

1. When did you join the blogging world? Did any incident/ person inspire you to do so?

In July 2010: Oh WOW! I forgot to celebrate my fifth blog anniversary! I was inspired to start my blog as I was attempting to initiate a children's co-creative choir. I thought if people google my name, they won't find me! So I thought I would share a bit about me and my choir-to-be (a bit) so people would get a sense of me.

2. What is the best lesson that Life has taught you, till now?

So many of course as I am still learning and re-learning. However, I would say to like, accept, and love myself. This after not one - I needed to really get the lesson! - but two almost "near-death" experiences at the hands of ex-boyfriends. Read a bit about the story here: http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/part-3-suicide-prevention-week.html and the lesson here: http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/part-2-suicide-prevention-week.html.

3. What is the role that blogging plays in your life?

Blogging is an outlet for me. Self-/expression is extremely important to me and creativity. Blogging allows me to do both. It also is a vehicle to write about anything and everything and not be censored; thus, I love this medium. I can write about issues that are dear to my heart or local community or worldwide events as I have on occasion.

4. What would you do if you have all the money in the world?

Sing, dance, play, read, write (three books: children's story, poetry, and part of my life story (to empower others), organic farming for three months at least...

5. Which is your all time favorite book that you can never get tired of reading?

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon.

It is a short read, but brilliantly written about an autistic boy's perspective ...don't wish to give it away now do I?!

6. Name a dream city or location that you want to visit someday and why.

There are several but I would say Alaska first and foremost. I would love to experience the pristine wilderness and see the phenomenol Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis)

Photo from Pixabay

7. Share a hilarious incident of your life.

My two sisters, one brother (at the time), and I used to walk to the bookmobile. No libraries back then I guess! It was close to Christmas time and I was carrying a lot/heavy books. I was struggling to hold them at the same time that I kept rubbing against one side of my pants with my arm to keep my pants up: the waistband was loose. It fell just before I stepped into the bookmobile and Christmas tree vendors noticed and I felt so embarrassed. I was about eight or 10 at the time. It wasn't funny then of course, but now, yes of course! ;)

8. What are your thoughts about my blog?

Aathira writes on her blog titled, Bewitched by words: A place where I dream and let my fingers do the talking (http://awanderingmindofabookaholic.blogspot.ae/2015/07/sunshine-blogger-award.html).

I love your blog's title first of all Aathira. I love your play on words and the word "bewitched" with "witch" in it too! ;) I love the pictures you have on top as I see/collect heart-shaped objects, love chocolate, and books...and is that a reading nook to the far left? ;) I love how your blog is organized in categories on top and easy-to-read font - thank you! - and your profile under the "About Me" tab. And of course, your writings whether fiction or poetry.

Award Rules

1. Thank the person who nominated you.
2. Nominate some other bloggers for this award.
3. Write the same amount of questions for the bloggers you have nominated.
4. Notify the bloggers you have nominated.

I'm nominating the bloggers below for this award (in alphabetical order):

1. Eloquent Mind
2. Parul Kashyap Thakur
3. Rajlakshmi H Boruah

Questions to nominees: no new questions. Just the ones that are mentioned above.

The Versatile Blogger's Award!

A kind thanks to dear Usha Menon for nominating my blog for the Versatile Blogger's Award - oops! on July 1st! (I am definitely running behind, my apologies.)

Versatile means "to adapt" or "able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities" according to a google search. I hope that describes me and my blog! ;)

If you are as curious as I am to know what it is about, here are some facts about this award (copying from Usha'a post as she was recently awarded):

"The Versatile Blogger's Award is given in recognition for great commitment, diverse talents, and generosity shown by bloggers. It is a great motivation and celebration of their work in the blogosphere."

The award comes with rules as follows:

1. Display the award on your blog.
2. Thank the person who has nominated you.
3. Share seven facts about yourself.
4. Nominate up to 15 bloggers.
5. Link your nominees' blogs and let them know.

Ok, here then are seven facts about me. I decided to do some silly ones 'cause after all it's summer and we are supposed to have fun, at least then, right? ;) And besides, since I have been nominated for several awards already, I would likely repeat myself having done this exercise prior.

1. When given a choice between two things, I will usually choose both!
2. I sit on a ball at work and currently on a heart-shaped cushion on top of four big fat phone books (ouch!) at home in front of my (current) desktop computer!
3. I often push elevator buttons with my pinkie, open doors with a scarf or sweater or bottom of my hand, or the side of my hand in a closed fist for other things (and I didn't think I was a germophobic!)
4. I love to do lip trills! It's a fun exercise, especially when tired/bored/frustrated/angry or the like or when waiting in line or at the bus stop, and sometimes just for fun! ;) (It is a great vocal warm-up, especially for choir.)
5. I like to invent words, sometimes with a definition and sometimes not! ;)
6. When I remember I do my body anchor and/or happy dance when really excited about something! The equivalent of "Cowabunga" perhaps?!
7. I used to doodle like crazy when on the phone and/or bored - often - in past. Now, I um, don't have anything exciting to do whilst bored and such. Anyone have any ideas, especially one where I can burn some calories easily? ;)

Ok, now your turn to those whom I nominate (in no particular order, and only five as it could get out of hand being forwarded!):

* Carol Graham whose blog http://batteredhope.blogspot.ca/ provides hope and inspiration to those who are survivors of tragedy
* Parul Kashyap Thakur whose posts seem to advocate for social issues and justice, in particular for women https://happinessandfood.wordpress.com/
* Sanch Vee who blogs at http://www.livingmyimperfectlife.com/ who, at times, questions ethical and moral principles
* Nabanita Dhar who questions life's dilemmas at http://www.nabanitadhar.in/
* Debbie D. Doglady blogs in her amusing tone on dogs, travels, and music http://thedogladysden.com/

NaBloPoMo on Make - a Blog, a List

As the badge implies, the theme for NaBloPoMo for the month of February is make. Interesting prompt, interesting choice of word.

Let me start by defining the word "make": As a verb, according to Google, "make" means to "form (something) by putting parts together or combining substances: construct; create.: Synonyms include the following: construct, build, assemble, put together, manufacture, produce, fabricate, create, form, fashion, model." Now, that's quite a choice of words! ;) It also means (as a verb), "cause (something) to exist or come about; bring about."

Keeping that in mind, my word of choice today and most likely for this month is create," a synonym for make, as that is the word that came to me immediately upon reading the challenge word for this month. So let's see what creative endeavours, what creations my blog posts will take, hmmm.... ;)

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The following excerpt is inspired by two posts I read recently on the same day. The first one I read was by Laurel Regan, a daily blogger: How has blogging changed your Life?. The second from another blogging friend, Carol Graham, How Can Your Blog Make an Impact? Thus, my brief inspirational post was borne! Thanks ladies! ;)

Why would anyone wish to create (or make) a blog? There are so many reasons; however, I suppose the list below would be some of the most (or more) common ones. In no particular order, any of these items can be included:

* To market a product and/or a business
* To share a trip, recipes, books, information, wisdom ...
* To write because you love to and wish to hone your writing skills
* To express yourself and your imagination through writing
* To write for enjoyment in the hopes of spreading joy to others in doing so
* To meet others worldwide (For sure! That is one reason I absolutely cherish!)
* To receive support and friendship from others, and likewise to do the same
* To be inspired by others writings and/or stories, life stories that is! (I have!)
* To learn lessons from others, so you don’t have to repeat ‘mistakes’ they made
* To learn from others, especially blogging and/or writing tips/techniques/skills
* To keep (or “make”) yourself busy if bored (Ha! That’ll be the day!)

Are there any other reasons you can think of why someone would blog? Tell me, are there reasons other than the above why you blog? I would love to hear!

P.S. I accidentally deleted someone's link to their blog post...I am truly sorry! I had wanted to read your post!

Smorgasbord Saturday: 4th Week of NaBloPoMo

Photo by Roberto Kaplan

Below is a review of my posts this past week which were a potpourri of topics - from blog titles to a social media challenge, to a different perspective on an inspired poem to my future blog, and TV and non-fiction bloggers: such a mishmash as usual! ;)

Monday's post, Favourite Headline/Blog Post Title? featured some of my favourite blog titles as I can't only choose one! Considering some of the comments I received, I think my readers and I were on the same page about that! ;) Check out some of these titles at http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/favourite-headlineblog-post-title.html

Tuesday's post, NaBloPoMo Social Media Challenge was an idea to revolve social media on the theme of kindness: http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/nablopomo-social-media-challenge.html

Wednesday's post was entitled A New Angle on 'You' or is that 'Me?' ;) Yes, a wink is a part of the title and I love how this blog site now can understand or rather take my wink and possibly - sometimes? - heart-shaped symbols! Woohoo! ;) This post was a different take, a reverse, a mirror image of my inspired poem that came to me a number of years ago: http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/a-new-angle-on-you-or-is-that-me.html

Thursday's post, Forecasting my Foggy Bloggy Future was an aim at predicting my future behaviour regarding blogging. I think I would need to look into a crystal ball to determine what fate lies ahead! ;) Read http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/forecasting-my-foggy-bloggy-future.html for some ideals that I have in mind. ;)

Friday's post TV and Non-fiction Bloggers is a take on being a cast member for a TV show, and possibly on bloggers who write non-fiction like I do! ;) OK, well I wanted to tie the latter in somehow! ;) See http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/tv-and-non-fiction-bloggers.html featuring some attractive men! ;)

Thank you again to all of you who read my posts and especially those who commented on my posts this past week.

What post would you most favour of mine this past week, and why?

P.S. Blogging friends, you may be interested in my post tomorrow ...

Forecasting my Foggy Bloggy Future

Photo of fog taken by me

NaBloPoMo's writing prompt today is, "Where do you see your blog in one year? Five years?"

So that means I have to look into a foggy future to forecast my blogging fortune does it? ;)

Okay seriously though, I can only speculate what might occur as life just loves to throw curve balls at times! Did you notice life's circumstances are never linear? ;)

A few years ago, on April 25th 2011 to be exact, or at least when I wrote a brief post entitled, Blogging Switch, http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2011/04/blogging-switch.html, I was considering some changes to my blog.

I had considered changing my blog name from 'Xpress Your Essence' (as 'Express'... was taken) though I was fine with that. At the time, I was playing around with the terms 'express' or 'expression' or 'expressive' for two main reasons: I had graduated from an Expressive Arts Therapy program and love and appreciate the expressive arts, and self-expression is important to me. I think it is for everyone, though may be unbeknownst to various people.

Another possibility I was thinking about at the time was changing my blog site, i.e., from Blogspot (now called Blogger?). Readers, please note that I would love your feedback on this, i.e., those of you who have transferred from Blogspot (or Blogger) to WordPress in particular, and if not, then those who use WordPress or another favourable blogging site. Please keep your comments succinct, perhaps in point form if need be.

Contemplating a different possibility would be a second blog; however, there are pros and cons to this (as with everything in life). ;) For example, one post could be targeted towards my vision (what I used to call 'dream') and anything related to that such as music and similar forms of expression. The other might be a mishmash of topics such as this blog has become.

I may consider a different path, though I enjoy blogging - I had at one point declared that I wanted to be a professional blogger, when I learned what it entailed, I had a slight change of heart. Read Me? Professional Blogger? And You? for details: http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/todays-post-is-nablopomo-prompt-with.html

However, for the reasons listed in Talented Thursday: Blogging AND...?!, I write about my juggling acts, or rather responsibilities: http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/talented-thursday-blogging-and.html...that, well, keep me busy and not necessarily able to post every day ad infinitum! ;)

However, I would love to enjoy the success that fellow blogger Roshan Radhakrishnan experienced. Did he blog daily? I would have to check! ;) However, he stuck at blogging for seven years before he published a few stories and that increased over time.

Godyears, the name of his blog features a post written a few days ago on Year 10 - Happiness is the Path: http://www.godyears.net/2014/11/year-10-happiness-is-path.html

I think he could teach me and others a few tricks or rather tips about blogging. Perhaps I can ask or interview him (if he will allow me the opportunity) so I can pick his brain if I am to keep at this.

On the other hand, I may end up writing a which will take time. One, I have already written - a young children's storybook - and I am looking for either a hybrid publisher or to self-publish it. Another book or two I have yet to write. See Books inside Me? at http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/books-inside-me.html.

These are some ideas that are floating around in my mind right now. Which actions I will pursue and take within one year and five years...well, time will tell. I'll let you know how things go as best I can, or else you will find out for yourself. ;)

However, I am open to ideas and suggestions. Feel free to let me know; however, again keep as succinct as possible. Those of you whom I know, feel free to FB me. Thanks kindly! ;)

Smorgasbord Saturday: 3rd Week of NaBloPoMo

Photo by Roberto Kaplan

Below is a review of my posts this past week which were a potpourri of topics - from controversial kindness from strangers to being (naturally) funny - not! - to helping feed a child in India for one year and writing a book to favourite appliacnes.

Posts of the Controversial Kind! posted on Monday, November 17 answered the prompt question: "What is the most controversial thing you've ever written on your blog? What compelled you to write it?" - http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/posts-of-controversial-kind.html. Self-explanatory!

From the Kindness of Strangers on Tuesday, November 18th was a blog that began from, "Tell us about one time that you benefitted from the kindness of strangers." I loved this theme as I had three stories to share, though two were of me being a recipient of kindness. Can you get what the other one was? ;)

Wednesday, November 19th’s post was my idea of merging two blog prompts into one: I barely mentioned one only to go into another, thus the title: NaBloPoMo Prompt to Feed a Child: Universal Children's Day ;) - http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/nablopomo-prompt-to-feed-child.html

The original prompt was actually as follows: "Are you the funny one in most groups? What kinds of things do you find funniest?" In one line: No, I tend to be serious, quiet, and contemplative generally; however, I do love to tease and have fun (though I have to feel comfortable/safe in order to do that). ;)

Books inside Me? on Thursday, November 20th was in answer to, "Do you have a book in you? Fact or fiction? Related to your blog or totally different?" (http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/books-inside-me.html)

Appliances: My Favourite?! http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/appliance-my-favourite.html was written from this prompt, "What is the one appliance you can't live without?" Otherwise, if I wasn’t so lazy/tired that day, I might have blogged about something else! ;)

What post would you most favour of mine this past week, and why?

Thank you again to all of you who read my posts and especially those who commented on my posts this past week.

Soulful Sunday: Favourite 2nd NaBloPoMo Weekly Posts - Mine and Yours

Photo by Roberto Kaplan

It seems that my post entitled the 11th Hour of the 11th Day of the 11th Month
was favoured this past week with some interesting dialogue initially fuelled by my question:
http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/the-11th-hour-of-11th-day-of-11th-month.html

Another post that brought up some interesting dialogue - forced kindness vs. spontaneous acts of kindness - that followed a few comments behind was my post on Thursday. Envy AND Kindness: What a Combo! was my attempt at writing on two prompts, one on something I admired about other bloggers, and also on the theme of World Kindness Day (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/envy-and-kindness-what-combo.html).

Thank you again to all of you who read my posts and especially those who commented on my posts this past week.

...now, it's my turn to salute some blog posts that I've particularly enjoyed this past week.

I enjoyed reading Mary Burris' post, Sir Duke on Stevie Wonder with some surprising facts about him that I didn't know about. Check out http://jinglejanglejungle.blogspot.ca/2014/11/nov-13-2014-sir-duke.html.

Similarly, Francene Stanley's post, The Cost of a King's Desire, http://511580395457358476.weebly.com/blog/the-cost-of-a-kings-desire had some rather startling news about King Henry VIII in how he changed the course of Christianity.

SanchLivingLife's tribute to her parents on 30 Letter Series: Dear Parents was endearing - http://www.livingmyimperfectlife.com/dear-parents/.

Speaking of parents, Meena Menon's post on A Father's Gift is a lovely tribute to her father and I think men who are like him as well. Read http://meenasspace.blogspot.in/2014/11/a-fathers-gift.html) to find out why.

Sanch again with A Fairy Tale about her real life story fictionalized that may give some women hope: http://www.livingmyimperfectlife.com/a-fairy-tale/.

Shailaja Vishwanath's post, Anything you want- #FridayFictioneers was an unusual twist on a gift of a dream destination (http://shailajav.wordpress.com/2014/11/13/anything-you-want-fridayfictioneers/).

On a more fun note, Whatta Blunderful Day by Rajlakshmi H Boruah on exercising was amusing and made me laugh. http://destinychildosheen.blogspot.com.au/2014/11/whatta-blunderful-day.html

Cat Graham's post on Mannequins was also a fun and unsuspecting read: http://cattitudeandgratitude.blogspot.ca/2014/11/mannequins.html

Did you get a chance to read any of these posts? And did you find them as enjoyable as I did? Have a great blogging and/or reading week!

Smorgasbord Saturday: 2nd Week of NaBloPoMo

Photo by Roberto Kaplan

Monday’s post on Knowledge and Skills was interesting due to the wording of the prompt that day: "What knowledge do you have that others don't? Write a "how to" post about anything you've got skills for, small or large." I actually had a challenge answering that question, even though responses to my post were overwhelmingly in favour of me having tons of experience; perspective is a funny thing. Read more about it at http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/knowledge-and-skills.html.

Tuesday’s post on The 11th Hour of the 11th Day of the 11th Month was my attempt at paying tribute, albeit a small one, to Remembrance Day. However, I actually think I answered the question incorrectly! - "If you could permanently get rid of one worry, what would it be?" What do you think: did I answer okay? - http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/the-11th-hour-of-11th-day-of-11th-month.html

Wednesday’s post on Writer’s Block: Not! was in answer to the prompt, "Have you ever had extended writer's block? How long did it last? What did you do to break out of it, and do you have tips for other bloggers?" which appeared as if I had it, but I hadn’t. Find out why at http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/writers-block-not.html and let me know what you think.

Thursday’s post on Envy AND Kindness: What a Combo! was my aim at combining two prompts in one! One writing prompt from NaBloPoMo on a skill I admired in bloggers, "What is the one skill you see in other bloggers that you wish you had?" and World Kindness Day from Write Tribe Bloggers -
http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/envy-and-kindness-what-combo.html

Friday’s post on Aging Gracefully or Not: That is the Question! was an interesting theme from "Do you enjoy growing old or do you fight against it?" Perhaps because of the way I was feeling that day, for some reason or other, I only (managed to) focus on the negatives, hmmm... (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/aging-gracefully-or-not-that-is-question.html)

What post would you most favour of mine this past week, and why?

Thank you again to all of you who read my posts and especially those who commented on my posts this past week.

Writer's Block: Not?

Today's NaBloPoMo prompt asks, "Have you ever had extended writer's block? How long did it last? What did you do to break out of it, and do you have tips for other bloggers?"

I did experience a bit of a writer’s block that lasted a short period, less than two months and maybe even less than that. From almost mid-November 2010 to almost mid-January in 2011. I actually wrote a post on that, appropriately entitled, "Lost ... and Found."

It was an extremely busy time for me as, at that time, I was searching for a place to live on my own (having moved from a house with roommates) and everything that was associated with that, including moving boxes and stuff from storage, downsizing including donating and selling stuff, and the actual process of moving. On top of that was the Christmas season filled with attending choir concerts, baking my family's traditional European cookie recipe, with my birthday following shortly thereafter.

This is an excerpt from the blog I referred to above:

I have an expression that I made up about myself to describe some of my passions: "If I don’t sing or dance, I’m either sick or depressed."

Similarly, I sometimes can't write. It’s usually a matter of being either really busy and/or not feeling inspired. My preference is to write ‘in the flow’ when words come intuitively to me (as they often do) or through my fingers when I type (or write). When they don't, I prefer not to write.

Unfortunately, not all my writing comes from Spirit, that state of natural flow and grace (though I wish of course! That would be ideal!). Though ideas for my posts flow for the most part, I usually have to 'work' at my writing when I force a deadline upon myself.

Acquiring writer's block (if you can call it that) was the other situation that took place. I was so excited and ready to post a blog, an inspirational piece entitled ‘A Tribute to My Parents.' Not only did the words flow easily and effortlessly across the page (that I know came from Spirit), but also did my tears flow. I really felt what I wrote at such a deep level as I was in an incredible state of deep gratitude to my parents.

Even though I was certain I had saved this writing piece somewhere in a computer file, I realized later that I actually hadn’t because I couldn’t find it anywhere (either on my home or work computer!). Now, how frustrating is that? Have you ever experienced that? If so, you understand what I’m talking about!

Well, since I didn’t feel like rewriting it because it wouldn’t be serving the original script justice, I’ll explain the essence of it and write about something else briefly.

For the full story, read my original post that had an essence of writer's block in it: http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2011/01/lost-and-found.html

Before and after this period, I generally wrote every two weeks with the odd exception of writing an additional weekly post or less frequently by missing a week. I purposely committed to writing biweekly as I felt once a week might be too much, at that time anyway. Now you can see why these daily blog writing challenges are a challenge for me! ;)

Have you ever experienced writer's block? If so, what did you do to get out of it?

I'm linking this to Ultra Blog Challenge.

Soulful Sunday: Favourite Weekly Posts - Mine and Yours

Photo of me by Roberto Kaplan


Hello Readers,

I am leaving off where I continued this weekend series at my last blog post challenge, i.e., Ultra Blog Challenge in September.

It seems that the two favoured of my blog posts I wrote this past week were the following: November is National Novel Writing Month (http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/november-is-national-novel-writing-month.html), followed by my Thursday' post, Me? Professional Blogger? And You? - not a surprise there (http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/todays-post-is-nablopomo-prompt-with.html) and My Blogging Voice (http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/my-blogging-voice.html).

Speaking of surprise, I was rather taken aback about the lack of enthusiasm for my Post-Halloween Photos... post (http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/post-halloween-photos.html). And I'm glad I was able to empower/inspire someone by this posting, Writing when Emotional? Not! - still wonder about the title! - http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/writing-when-emotional-not.html.

What post would you most favour of mine this past week, and why? The feedback is good for me to learn to improve my writing and/or blog!

And my favourite posts that I read this past week, in no particular order:

Carol Graham's post, My Dog Can Talk, http://batteredhope.blogspot.ca/2014/11/my-dog-can-talk.html though sad is one you dog lovers in particular will appreciate!

Rajlakshmi wrote an amusing post, The curious case of Terrifying Typos, http://destinychildosheen.blogspot.ca/. It is a must read in my opinion, especially if you want a good chuckle!

Another fun read and great perspective, one posted by Nabanita, Dear Central Incisors, http://nabanita-blacknwhite.blogspot.ca/2014/11/dear-central-incisors.html#.VF9HbmeVZac.

Meena Menon - you aren't related to Usha Menon are you? ;) - wrote a fun post at Bingo Reading Challenge - An Update!: Take a look as I think you blogger/readers will enjoy it! ;) (http://meenasspace.blogspot.ca/2014/11/bingo-reading-challenge-update.html)

I appreciated Usha Menon's blog about pens, Where is my pen! - http://eccentricgrandmum.blogspot.ca/2014/11/where-is-my-pen.html

Suzy Que's creative post, Playing with Six Words and a Pot of Pretty Flowers: http://suzyspics.blogspot.ca/2014/11/playing-with-six-words-and-pot-of.html.

Eli Z's post - not because of her name! ;) - The World through Expat Eyes has a very interesting take on travelling to another country with a number of really great questions: http://expatliv.blogspot.ca/2014/11/the-world-through-expat-eyes.html.

It seems that the two favoured of my blog posts I wrote this past week were the following: November is National Novel Writing Month with a hit of 11 comments, followed by my Thursday' post, Me? Professional Blogger? And You? - not a surprise there with 10 comments and My Blogging Voice followed as a close second. Speaking of surprise, I was about the lack of enthusiasm for my Post-Halloween Photos... post which garnered only nine responses.

What post would you most favour of mine this past week, and why? The feedback is good for me to learn to improve my writing and/or blog!

Thank you again to all of you who read my posts and especially those who commented on my posts this past week.

Smorgasbord Saturday: 1st Week of NaBloPoMo

Photo: Roberto Kaplan

This past week I started NaBloPoMo (short for National Blog Posting Month) on the first day of this month which was a Saturday, with a post on my new 100% vegan runners. It was National Vegan Month after all! ;) Entitled My New Runners are 100% Vegan! (I Kid You Not!) it featured my bright fuschia running shoes: http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/my-new-runners-are-vegan-i-kid-you-not.html.

Sunday brought Post Halloween Photos... with the purposeful marching dots in the title in the hopes of enticing readers - hahahaha (witch's cackle) - to read the post of one of my favourite days, at least in terms of "dressing up!" (http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/post-halloween-photos.html)

Monday's post should technically have been or could have been Saturday's post, November is National Novel Writing Month which is challenge to write a first draft of a novel within 30 days: http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/november-is-national-novel-writing-month.html

Tuesday's post, Writing when Emotional? Not! spoke about a few matters relating to writing when emotional or not, and writer's block (http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/writing-when-emotional-not.html).

I actually didn't think I had a blogging voice per se on Wednesday's post, My Blogging Voice http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/my-blogging-voice.html with a 'cheeky' picture to boot! ;) You blessed readers assured that I indeed did have a voice and a unique one at that! Thanks for your feedback! :)

Thursday's post initially was untitled as I was struggling with it, http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/todays-post-is-nablopomo-prompt-with.html, contemplating what would be most appropriate; sometimes I get titles intuitively, but not that day! I ended up with Me? Professional Blogger? And You? - you can let me know of a better one along the same lines if you wish - which spoke about the difference between a professional blogger and a hobbyist one. Me: definitely the latter, though who knows, that could change one day...never say "never!" ;)

Friday brought forth Vacation Spot: Not with some countries I have no interest whatsoever to explore and others I do as I am curious about them for different reasons which I mention, http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/11/vacation-spot-not.html.

Thank you to all my wonderful robust readers, faithful followers, and courageous commenters! Love you all!

P.S. Blogging friends, you may be interested in my post tomorrow ...

I am linking this to NaBloPoMo and Write Tribe Bloggers.

Me? Professional Blogger? And You?

Today's post is a NaBloPoMo* prompt with the following questions, "Do you consider yourself a "professional" blogger? Why or why not? What does that mean to you?"

My immediate response is "No, I am not" as firstly I do not write frequently - daily? (is that required?!) - enough, except for when I partake in blogging challenges due to various reasons. For some of my reasons, read my post as follows: http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/talented-thursday-blogging-and.html.

And secondly, my interpretation of a professional blogger is one who is either a professional and/or an expert in a particular field to blog about.

For better or worse, I consider myself a generalist as you can probably tell from the nature of my blog as I am familiar, slightly more or less than others on numerous topics. I think this is due to a friend I admired years ago who possessed this trait and I so admired that quality in her. Though I imagine it also has a lot to do with being interested in a wide array of subjects, as my profile to the right of my blog post testifies. No wonder: I have a sense of curiosity like a cat and wonder like a child! ;)

I have explored various subjects through formal and informal courses including school, workshops, research, i.e., reading, volunteer work, and the like. Also, in meeting friends with different backgrounds opens up a whole new world of discoveries.

And essentially, I love to learn and grow. I believe this is the underlying reason as I know that if I don't, I feel dead inside. Don't you? I think our soul is meant to blossom, not stagnate!

But hey, wait a minute! Am I not getting ahead of myself (here)? What is a professional blogger anyway?!

When I google it, Wikipedia of course does not have a direct definition. Other blog sites do though. When I type, "What is a professional blogger" I get John's post with some detailed ideas of what it means: http://john.do/professional-blogger/. He states: "A Professional Blogger is a person who blogs for a living." Essentially, one who blogs full-time.

Here's another great post with an idea I had mentioned as #1 on this guest blogger's list, and also with three recommended posts on blogging: http://www.problogger.net/?s=professional+blogger.

And lastly, the story of a former part-time software engineer who became a professional blogger along with his story and helpful tips based on his experiences: http://www.shoutmeloud.com/how-to-become-a-full-time-professional-blogger.html.

A professional blogger posts on a consistent basis once or more per day or even once a week, though as referred to above, there are other layers to that position.

I know, for example, that I am not a professional blogger though before these challenges I did write generally consistently, although usually once every two weeks. And, after reading the blogging links above, I am not sure I want to be one, at least not at this time: my life is too full with other commitments...did you read my somewhat amusing post that I mentioned near the top of this post? ;)

Now your turn: After perusing some of the sites above on professional blogging, would you consider yourself a professional blogger or a hobbyist blogger? There is no right or wrong here or better than in this regard. It is whatever works best for you based on your aspirations, values, and time commitment.

I am linking this to NaBloPoMo, Write Tribe, and Ultra Blog Challenge.

Writing when Emotional? Not!

Photos by Roberto Kaplan

On a Write Tribe blog prompt, "November Challenges and Motivation" right at the end of the post was a link to a non-fiction writer's blog, Ollin Morales. He posted "10 Tricks To Motivate Yourself To Write–Right NOW" on his blog, Courage to Create (http://ollinmorales.wordpress.com/2011/09/02/motivation-2/).

Point #7 especially appealed to me: Work Through Emotions (bolding below is mine for emphasis):

When we are highly emotional or under a lot stress these are the most challenging moments to get motivated to write. After all, if our boyfriend or girlfriend doesn’t love us, or our parents are judging us, or our boss hates us, how can we possibly feel good enough about ourselves to do what we love to do?

Now, generally writers and other artists get their greatest inspiration from their pain and anguish, so in those cases making the art is easy. But that’s not the situation I’m talking about. I’m talking about when what you are planning to write either is not congruent with your emotions or the emotion acts as a wall to your creativity.

To work through these emotions, first write all of your emotions down. Just listen to what your mind is ranting about and write it all down, let it all out, everything. If you’re writing it on your laptop then as soon as you’re done, trash that document. If you wrote it on a piece of paper, throw that paper away or burn it if you’re into dramatic displays.

For the moment at least, you’ll wash away that emotion and you should be able to move forward with your work.

My apologies for this lengthy copying of (blog) text above; however (1) it is a late hour and I require a post today and (2) it encapsulates a blogger’s question and ensuing comments from supportive 'tribe' bloggers that inspired me to expand on this, today as she is planning to post an emotional piece tomorrow.

Writer's block is a common phenomenon and feeling particularly emotional can at times stifle creativity. It can also make for some rather incongruent writing in which you and most likely your readers will experience.

I believe I experienced this recently or at least I think I did! Since the beginning of this month, I feel like I have been feeling somewhat uninspired to write which is unusual. This could be attributed to physical pain which makes me emotional - grumpy and/or sad at times - and makes it challenging to focus at times. And I know there is one post recently that I wrote where I felt my heart wasn't into it and the emotions seemed lacking and incongruous to the post though I can't seem to find it.

Perhaps being a passionate, i.e., emotional person, Ollin’s blog post really appealed to me. However, do I heed his advice? I admit rarely, the odd time though not often enough. I say that because I stop myself, usually putting other things, namely work as a priority, and myself last. I do this often.

And so by the time I have the time, say during a break to pour out my heart in written (or typed) words, the immediate emotional intensity and its accompanying thoughts and feelings are gone: vanished! Or liquefied at least. It seems hardly worthwhile after that to write. The emotional anguish, pain, intensity that I experienced now seems or is superfluous. (I didn’t think so except that word came to me intuitively right now as I’m typing this, so I trust that. And yes, it could work here actually!)

For example, there was a title that came to mind in an incident that made me get rather upset about two weeks ago, "Plastic Faces, Plastic Voices" or was it the reverse "Plastic Voices, Plastic Faces?" Though I really do wish I had expressed it, released the angst I felt at the time by writing about it (in the form of a poem, prose or otherwise), by the time I put me at the forefront to do so, it hardly mattered. In fact, I couldn’t even be bothered. I neither had the interest – not as much as it had waned – nor the time. And in a way, that was just as much or perhaps even more frustrating!

Do any of you experience this? If so, what do you do and/or how do you handle the situation? How do you (best) express your emotional pain/anger/angst/frustration?

I am linking this to NaBloPoMo and Write Tribe Bloggers.

Soulful Sunday: Fave Posts - Mine and Yours

Photo I took of smarties (candies): see the heart-shaped one? ;)

It seems that the top favourite post of 'mine' was....drum roll please...

"No, I do NOT Speak Indian!" by my guest blogger and friend, Vinodini Iyer! Woohoo! It's no wonder as her writing is brilliant. With replies from both myself and Vinodini to the people who commented, it added up to a lot of comments. And it seemed a bit heated. It made for an interesting post, just with the responses themselves! ;) So thank you Vinodini Iyer for provoking controversial discussion.

Here is a video entitled, "I M Indian" - thanks to Corinne Rodriges - that perfectly illustrates the point Vinodini was attempting to make in her guest post, though I do suggest you read that as well.

Post by Manisha Chaubal-Menon.

I have met quite a number of other brilliant Indian writers through my blogging challenges. They amaze me with their language and some of the words they use. Their writing is so captivating! I find quite a number of them who have twisted storylines. Please understand that this is a compliment. You all surprise me with your superb writing...yes, that includes some of you male bloggers too: Anmol Rawat, Shashank Tiwari or Shanx, etc. (I don't have your names memorized yet, though actually I have with a number of Indian bloggers which rather amazes me. Must be my chanting in Sanskrit! ;))

The second most favourite post was World Gratitude Day: Part 2 (#MicroblogMonday) inspired by the writing of another blogger, Nabanita Dhar - thanks again dear! The post featured remarks that were uplifting, positive, joyful, and well happy, just like the song! I highly recommend listening to the video at http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/world-gratitude-day-part-2.html. ;)

Though the In Honour of National Tree Day post didn't receive as many replies, it did however bring forth rather unusual and intriguing ones. For that in and of itself is worth a read! (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/in-honour-of-national-tree-day.html)

My own writing favourites were World Gratitude Day: Part 2 because I love that song: Read the post! (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/world-gratitude-day-part-2.html) ;) Also, though I loved receiving two awards that I wrote about last Friday, it was fun to figure out what I wanted to write about in terms of 17 points about myself.

And some of my favourite posts that I read this past week:

Shailaja Vishwanath wrote a brilliant piece that I just love as sometimes it can be a challenge to always be happy. It reminded me of a poem I "should" have written when upset about an incident that I experienced this past week. The phrase, "Plastic Voices, Plastic Faces" came to mind and I knew intuitively that that was the title of a poem (the one I should have written)! Maybe I will, later. ;) See http://shailajav.wordpress.com/2014/09/27/unreasonable-amwriting/.

I loved Nabanita Dhar's theory on gratitude which inspired my post early in the week (see above). Check our her blog at http://nabanita-blacknwhite.blogspot.in/2014/09/a-theory-and-some-gratitude.html#.VB-37ldGiQE.

Judy Yaron's posts usually make me laugh. These two are guaranteed to do the same for you: http://www.cutthecrapsolutions.com/#!Actually-I-wanted-to-write-about-SEX-/clxq/B71C3993-506C-40C7-949C-3DE4BAD7127B as well as http://www.cutthecrapsolutions.com/#!I-used-to-be-a-maleperson/clxq/D50DE852-4FDC-4505-8DDD-C1933E83AEF8.

What post would you most favour of mine this past week (other than Vinodini's which we know you all love)? And why? (The feedback is good for me to learn to improve my writing and/or blog!) ;)

World Gratitude Day (Part 1): Fave Posts of Mine and Others

It seems that the two favoured of my blog posts I wrote this past week were the video on Frolicking Fun Friday: Painting with Fire Part 2, though Talented Thursday: Walkie-talkie You! brought in a lot of "Oh no. That's me" type of remarks. I wasn't judging anyone, only sharing information, educating others if you will.

However, I also received some rather creative captions for my picture that I posted on Wordless Wednesday: Caption Wanted. I was rather surprised and somewhat disappointed that the Michael Jackson impersonator didn't garner more views and/or comments in Tantalizing Tuesday: Child MJ Impersonator. (By the way, if anyone finds the video from 'China's Got Talent' with Canadian subtitles, please DO let me know so I can post it!) One of my shortest posts this week, "100 Words: Write to Change the World" brought more comments than I expected.

What post(s) would you most favour of mine this past week (Monday to Friday)? And why?

************************************************************************************

In terms of other blog posts I read this past week which were many, these are a few that I really liked:

Usha (as in Usha Menon) whose name I love as well as her nickname 'eccentricgrandmum' posted Haiku and Humour which I found quite amusing! :) (http://eccentricgrandmum.blogspot.ca/2014/09/carpe-diem-ghot-writer-27-haiku-and.html

Penny McDaniel again wrote a lovely post, Bee Here Now. I appreciated the creativity and colourfulness of the words and images: (http://pennymcdaniel.com/bee-here-now/#comment-1471)

Has there ever been a Mrs. B in Your Life? by Judy Yaron as she shares story with wit and humour: a delightful read (http://www.cutthecrapsolutions.com/#!Has-there-ever-been-a-Mrs-B-in-your-life/clxq/450AA109-FAC8-46DB-BED7-1419661EAA9B).

I could say this one is in a league of its own: The Creep by Vinodini Iyer as her posts are, well, read them and you'll find out! ;) (http://vinodinii.blogspot.in/2014/09/the-creep.html)

Other posts of a serious and courageous kind were Francene Stanley's - can't seem to find it - and Amy Bovaird's Climbing Mountains: My Passion - Pursuing a “Can Do” Mindset (http://amybovaird.com/pursuing-a-can-do-mindset/), the latter about her dogged determination to climb a mountain no matter what, that is, with a lack of night vision!

As today is World Gratitude Day, what are you most grateful for? For me today: blogging community of friends around the world! :)

Soulful Sunday: Favourite Weekly Posts - Mine and Others!

Photo by Roberto Kaplan

It seems that the two favoured of my blog posts I wrote this past week were the following: my Tuesday posting about the Supermoon (http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/tantalizing-tuesday-supermoon-no-5-in.html) which garnered some interesting commentary as well as the last in a series on Robin William's death (http://www.xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/part-3-aftermath-of-brilliant-comics.html), the latter on the stigma of mental illness and how I overcome it.

Friday's post, "LOA: Suicide, Homicide, and Me," was somewhat unusual in that I reversed Thursday's and Friday's posts and also I had forgotten to ask a question on both days. I did so later. Thus, the remarks on Friday's post reflected around my courage for telling my tale online (http://xpressyouressence.blogspot.ca/2014/09/part-3-suicide-prevention-week.html).

Was I justified initially in feeling upset and angry about not receiving comments hours after posting? This in response to my raw exposure of my soul and in observation that some fiction writers received lots of replies on their themes of suicide? That is, they didn't pour their heart out like me, leaving it raw, open, exposed, and vulnerable. However, I later realized that it was Friday night, the start of a weekend here and a Saturday on the side of the globe. Maybe that was the reason?!

All but one of my postings this past week ended up being on the topic of suicide. And I read some great posts too, though I didn't have as much time nor record them with an exceptionally busy week:

Vinodini Iyer’s scintillating writing on the theme of 'darkness' –
http://vinodinii.blogspot.ca/2014/09/the-power-of-black.html. Her blog post inspired me to want to write on that about the circles under my eyes - LOL - which could be a due to a lack of sleep and/or allergies. ;)

Penny McDaniel’s post on water which sounded so poetic. I wished she had written poetry instead to counter the photos she posted (http://pennymcdaniel.com/lessons-we-can-learn-from-water/#comment-1435).

What post would you most favour of mine this past week, Monday to Friday? And why?

Smorgasbord Saturday: 2nd Week of Ultra Blog Challenge

Photo I took of an artistically swirled latte

After this week, especially yesterday's post, I feel like I could use a break - a cup of coffee (espresso-type) drink or rather, a BIG cup of soothing Earl Grey Tea please!

This week was rather interesting with me discovering that it was World Suicide Prevention Day which I never heard of before. The following is a really great and simple, easy-to-read site with some startling facts and stats: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Suicide_Prevention_Day. This year the theme was "One World." Suicide Prevention Week was also this week.

My posts were as follows: Here’s a recap of my week’s posts starting with Monday, September 8th:

I had originally intended to title this post as "Mental Health Monday..." but it would have been too long a title and it was long enough already. I felt and wanted it to be part of this series that I had started after the death of Robin Williams, a beloved American actor and comedian.

Instead, the post became "Part 3: Aftermath of a Brilliant Comic’s Death: Funnyman AKA Robin Williams" which was about the stigma of mental illness. I know and have known a number of people with mental health issues, primarily depression, but also PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), bipolar disorder, etc. They are still people, still humans, just like you and I!

Me and my love of the moon and stars at night prompted my second(?) posting on the sensational Supermoon, "Tantalizing Tuesday: Supermoon No. 5 in 2014" where I – with that beautiful photo I wish I took – wrote about the relationship to the Law of Attraction (LOA) which was another theme of mine this week in part, as well as a phenomena known as the "observer effect" which thrilled me when I first read it a few years ago.

My original "Word-less" Wednesday was transformed to "World Suicide Prevention Day & Suicide Prevention Week" as I had just discovered that they were the themes for that day and the week. I was astounded by some of the mind-blowing stats, sad to hear.

This with a photo I took which I absolutely love – the same is hanging at my workplace for now - touched ever so slightly on the three main criteria for suicide, then onto a brief story about my life on one of the factors, followed by a brief mention of two potential lifesaving supports (though one may not be apparent generally under certain circumstances).

I changed Thursday’s post title to "Self-Love: Suicide Prevention". This post was actually meant to be part 3 with Friday’s post as Part 2; however, I switched them around for some reason though can't recall now. (I'm sure I had a good reason though.) I spoke about why I wanted to die most of my life, until a certain point.

Friday’s post and title was changed as well. Instead of Part 3, I changed it to LOA: - short for Law of Attraction - Suicide, Homicide, and Me. This posting was relatively easy to write physically, but I was surprised, shocked even, that I still had emotion come up at the end after I posted it. I thought I had forgiven, dealt with the situation, and moved on with a clean slate. After all, it happened years ago!

I realized I didn’t add questions to Thursday's and Friday's Part 2 and 3 so added those before I post this one!

Again, thank you to my robust readers, faithful followers, and courageous commenters! Love you all! :) <3 (There may be better words to describe my readers and commenters, but that's what came to my mind immediately and I can't seem to think of any others. If you have better descriptors, let me know and I may consider changing it!) ;)

Soulful Sunday: Favourite Weekly Posts

"Inspired Elly" photo taken by Roberto Kaplan

Again, as Kathy Hadley suggested in an email about the Ultra Blog Challenge, I am recapping with my favourite post and the posting that was most commented on this past week.

My post on "Frolicking Fun Friday: Painting with Fire" would have been my favourite if I was able to download (or upload?) the videos. Since that was unsuccessful, I would say my favourite post this past week is a tie:

"Word-less" Wednesday was not only easy to post as it was such a short posting, but it also can require some creative thinking on the part of the reader.

My tied favourite was "Talented Thursday: Blogging AND...?!" as it featured a fun and potential interactive video, and an animated photo that depicts me perfectly: LOL. ;)

However, my blog post that came with the most comments this past week (that was meant for Monday) was not surprising a commentary about mental health, featuring in part Robin Williams who committed suicide about a month ago. A touchy, sensitive yet important topic.

Thank you again to all of you who read my posts and especially those who commented on my posts this past week. :)