OPEN MIC, SELF PUBLISHING NEWS, AND AUTHORS PROMOTING AUTHORS-LIFE IS SO GOOD!

Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands!

Psalm 100:1

Here’s the 411 (the scoop) friends, some burning information that I just COULDN'T KEEP TO MYSELF! There’s an opportunity to have your published work receive free publicity, garnering the exposure and an audience that awaits you! Imagine that? There are no hidden charges , fees and hoops to jump through simply reference: Authors Promoting Authors

What a fresh idea one author lifting up the name of another comrade in an effort of support through a Blog aptly titled : Author Promoting Authors. We realize that it’s one thing to write a book but quite another journey to receive an opportunity to promote our beloved work. Kudos to Tina-Sue Ducross who conceived this idea. She's the author of the book No Shadows Left Behind.Let's reach out to this author and also support her work.

Again for Authors Promoting Authors inquires reach Tina at: authorspromotingauthors@gmail.com . Thank you Tina for the genuine consideration and committment shown other authors. God bless you!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thinking about self publishing and bypassing the tradition publishing house maze? Well I believe this resource will clarify some burning questions and provide you with direction on which publishing road you'll venture down. Thanks to Anita Harrell, Public Librarian I received this insightful article that you’ll glean excellent resources and advice from. We appreciate the love shown Anita! May God continue to show you abundantly!

Self-Publishers Flourish as Writers Pay the Tab
By MOTOKO RICH
Published: January 27, 2009
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And for those persons that reside in the Virginia Tidewater Area there's
Word4Word Poets Open Mic Event - HRTownSquare.com at 7 p.m. Tuesday in Aromas Coffee House, 706 Town Center Drive. For more information, call 757-240-4650 or visit www.word4wordpoets.org. ...
https://webmail.hamptonu.edu/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://word4wordpoets.org/about/

Come on friends let's smell the coffee @ Aromas and share a divine word!

This was provided to you in the name of an Agape Love. Lord we thank you for allowing Tina and Anita to have the heart to bless us with their wonderful gifts and resources.

Keep believing and keep moving towards the mark my friends! Doors do open for us and life is good and God does order our steps. Just place one foot in front of the other (God's got your compass) and don't let go of the dreams that have been planted in You! To the most high God, may His majesty and dominion and power rest rule and abide!

With tremendous joy!

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

WE WERE THERE FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION!

His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him

and find him—though he is not far from any one of us.
Acts 17:27

In my tote bag that seems to go wherever I travel that is work related are a number of heavy items, planners, calendars, makeup bag, snacks and several bills (don’t ask)! Tucked into my coverless planner are a few commemorative items from Inauguration weekend. One of the items is the pamphlet entitled “COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE TO: Riding Metro during the Presidential Inauguration Weekend.” I fondly refer to that item and my worn out metro-rail pass with President Obama’s face and inauguration date often. It’s a beautiful reminder that I was in Washington, D.C. Also, it humbles me because I really wanted to celebrate in doors at a brunch with friends and family music and great food. You know the menu: cheddar cheese baked grits, scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, mimosa, fruit salad and danish of couse, yes the whole nine yards. Instead I had eaten a donut and taken my vitamins with a glass of water and off we were into the frigid weather. So I cherish those mementos for many reasons.

That entire day was a reality check. The crowds, the occasion, the journey, the mission and its significance. But honestly I grumbled because I just didn’t want the experience- this awe inspiring day in that way. Heavy coat, hat, boots, leggings, scarfs etc. I would be totally misrepresenting my “sainthood” if I told you that I wanted to be out in the Antarctic air. I even said, “Hey I hear they are inviting people into the Capitol and we can visit our Representatives' Office.” That fell on deaf ears-no takers! My husband retorted”Oh yeah, I bet.”
My husband more than me seemed to have had it all mapped out mentally on how we would get eventually to the National Mall for the inauguration festivities. I gladly reminded him that many of the metro stations that traditionally lead to the National Mall had been cordoned off for security reasons. We rose very early in the morning followed my cousin Camille into Washington, D.C. to park our car at Aunt Juanita’s (I felt that was smart)and then from there we caught the metro rail to get in the vacinity of the mall. Sounds simple enough I know. The metro ride was packed, you could feel the energy of those anticipating a memorable occasion. I smiled but really wondered what awaited us. The police officers along our walking route pointed us in the direction we should travel. When I say I have no idea how many blocks or miles we journeyed, I am not kidding. We even walked through a tunnel, singing, and shouting with the crowd “Obama!” Prior to the tunnel trek we came to an abrupt halt, there were a sea of people everywhere not being allowed to proceed. And suddenly the crowd moved and I was separated for a split second from my folks-that didn't feel too assuring.

I kept thinking I need to be at Crampton Auditorium at Howard University indoors, possibly other Alum might be present. At any rate my friends we were able to bypass the shoulder to shoulder barricades, we walked many more miles, and even witnessed two elderly women making their way through the crowds, young people carrying-waving flags, vendors with gobs of paraphernalia, and streams of folks moving about, just moving.

A tour guide stood in the middle of the street, clapping for us and encouraging us as though we were in a marathon, “You’re almost there, straight ahead”! I laughed and said, “Yeah that’s what we were told back there.”

We both laughed but I really was sincere.

When we finally arrived near the Washington Monument there lines wrapped around the structure, families running and playing with there children, while people were drawing closer to the massive screens celebrating, cheering, smiling, taking photos and hugging. It was an atmosphere of exuberance, harmony, and love. I felt better, warmer if that were possible. God would have it that there stood a lone tree near the jumbo-trone that we’d remain anchored to. My husband leaned on the tree and I leaned on him and witnessed history in the making! We drank our hot chocolate and chatted with the folks around us. This was remarkable people from all around the world. One woman commented that her husband was grumpy, my husband shared that I had been the same. After the swearing in ceremony we headed to Howard University-our metro stop was the Shaw/Howard University stop.When I was a student there was no metro, we then began a serious sojourn up the hill.

It was a day of many firsts. I am so glad that I can say, “We were there!” Yes my feet were icesicles, but my heart was bursting with joy. My camera wouldn’t cooperate, but thank God for Ricky and Taylor’s cell phone cameras. Also I’ve included photos from Essence Magazine’s Obama watch -some of which we witnessed on the jumbo-trone and at Howard University.

Thank you Jesus for all the stellar photographers and more importantly for an extraordinary day witnessing President-elect Barak Obama becoming our 44th US President Barak Obama. Aretha really sang didn't she!

One final note about this life’s lesson is that when we sulk our way through a moment, an occasion where we ought to be celebrating from start to finish we’re depriving ourselves of some real joy and probably making our loved ones unhappy, not to mention ourselves. Notice I didn't use the word miserable? I realize that's not our intention, but it does happen!) I see it now, but I can only glance at the mementos and photos and wished I had not been so absorbed with my celebrating in the manner I had hoped for. This is an occasion I can not relive.

Next time I promise, I’ll know better. In the meantime I’ll find my Inauguration Button and show it off and gladly share with any one that questions it's origin and announce, “Yep I was there for the presidential inauguration!” In my spirit I'll know I almost missed out and had it not been for my husband's vision I would have not witnessed this day firsthand.

Maybe I’ll see you during one of the White House tours and greet our First Family with pride, wearing my button of course.

Adventure, yes indeed, possibly the many trails and the countless steps needed to arrive at the destination all count for our good! I am sure President Obama and First Lady Michelle would agree!

‘May the Lord bless you and protect you.May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.’
Numbers 6:24-26

We're In His Hands!

Peace & Love,

Linda Mose Meadows, Author
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

TODAY'S PROMISE FROM THE BIBLE

Today's Promise from the Bible


Thou [art] my hiding place and my shield:
I hope in thy word. Psalm 119:114

REFLECTION

The Lord promises to protect us from the attacks of our enemy, the Devil. It is in God's Word that we find the salvation that gives us hope to live.
http://promises.blueletterbible.org/

DAY BY DAY GRACE

The Ongoing Grace of God
I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts... it is good that the heart be established by grace. (Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 13:9)

http://www.blueletterbible.org/devotionals/dbdbg/view.cfm

Shared in Love,

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

ANNIVERSARY BOOKSIGNING AT BARNES & NOBLE NEW TOWN SHOPS IN WILLAMSBURG, VA.

God is so wonderful, I am living out my dream and it's only the beginning!

January 24th, 2009 was the anniversary of my very first booksigning ever!

(Ricky is my beloved photographer)

Barnes & Noble in Williamsburg is where it all started. Great start wouldn't you agree? The managers and staff greeted me with open arms then and this past Saturday was again a delightful atmosphere! There were no exceptions.

I was greatful for the opportunity to return, excited about the possibilities of meeting new book lovers, being able to share my devotional with a transparent heart (a lot less nervous) and prayerfully conveying a sincerity that once the devotional was introduced certainly one would want it to compliment there own inspirational library. I was greeted with enthusiasm but not everyone rushed to the counter to make a purchase. But, I understand that's the nature of a booksigning. I had many well wishers, and some that promised if they could they would purchase it and others agreed to return to the store at a future time. And to my delight there were those that brought my devotional, this really made my heart leap for joy. So my friends it seems to balances out. I just regret not having favors and some yummy desert for everyone.

God does what He does and that's sometimes placing us front and center with the pure motive of sharing his truths and promises ( He simply needs elects a willing vessel)-I hope I fulfilled His mission and didn't disappoint Him? I conversed, commensurated, laughed, talked probably a little too loud when I was really thrilled and listened. Yes, I even silently prayed. It's apparent now as I share this, that God was holding my hand the entire afternoon. I am trusting that I was exactly where he intended me to be a year later after the publication and booksigning of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises!

Nevertheless I am continually with You;

You hold me by my right hand.

Psalm 73:23

It's another year my friends and I am delighted to be an author on a divine misssion. (Instead of writing another post I just thought why not place this entry with the inital invitation. Hope you didn't mind?) I am greatful for those the Lord sent my way and the wonderful Saturday afternoon spent at my favorite bookstore-Barnes & Nobles. Hope to see you there again in the near future. Maybe next time we can share some wonderful chocolate chunk cookies and some icey drinks when we celebrate your milestones. Blessings to you!

YOU ARE INVITED TO COME AND MEET

LINDA MOSE MEADOWS

INSPIRATIONAL AUTHOR OF :

January 2008 ~This was a dream come true for me!

My first booksigning!

THE BLESSEDNESSOF BELIEVING

A DEVOTIONAL JOURNEY OF LIFE'S LESSONS AND GOD'S PROMISES

Time: January 24, 2009 from 2pm to 4pm

Location: Street: 5101 Main St.

City/Town: Williamsburg, VA 23188

Website or Map: http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Contact Info: 757-564-0687

Event Type: Book, Signing

Organized By: Tate Publishing

With Great JOY!

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

DON'T LET THE FIRE GO OUT

"Do not let your fire go out, spark by irreplaceable spark, in the hopeless swamps of the approximate, the not-quite, the not-yet, the not-at-all. Do not let the hero in your soul perish, in lonely frustration for the life you deserved, but have never been able to reach. Check your road and the nature of your battle. The world you desired can be won. It exists, it is real, it is possible, it is yours.”
—Ayn Rand (1905-1982); novelist, screenwriter

I just love these photos of my young cousin. She makes me smile, she makes my heart flutter with joy She has the joy of the Lord, it’s evident. This is a happy child. While I enjoyed laughter and conversation in her Gradmother’s kitchen- out of the corner of my eye I saw, her leap through the air with a dancer’s precision. My Aunt said, “Linda this is all the time!” It warmed my heart and made me smile ! Immediately I thought of the Dancer Theatre of Harlem’s beautiful and accomplished dancers. The founders Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook surely they’d light up like Christmas trees to see this energetic, alive , enthusiastic child embrace her heart’s yearning gleefully! The founders strongly believe in their motto:

“Using the arts to ignite the mind”

It’s apparent my young cousin is thinking, compassionate and intuitive about many things. Her family has closely observed and they are in tune with her calling.

They gotten her involved in artistic, scholastic enriching , positive self esteem building activities.

And sure enough one of the Christmas gifts presented to to her was Dancer Theatre of Harlem’s Anniversary Barbie!!

Her folks sees greatness all over her. Perfect gift for this graceful dancer. Every year I get a glimpse of her maturity during my home for the holiday visit. My family is doing a great job lovingly nurturing her and ushering her through this life. I applaud her Mommie for being so attentive to her child’s cultural, social and spiritual development My young cousin’s household has creatively ignited an inferno, these flames are bold, bright and receptive for being what God has called her to be. They won’t be extinguished. She’s an honor student, a regular in the Nutcracker and also a budding violinist with a community music school.

Oh the possibilities that await her! They are endless! And God reminds me that great possibilities await all of us even in the autum years! What's key is not to let the fire go out on our dreams and aspirations, not for our children and definetly not for ourselves!

Think for just a moment the flame that flickers in your spirit, are there embers alighting? Has the flame been doused? Is there anything smoldering in your spirit or are there simply old ashes and wet embers from the residue of life’s anguish?

Are the flames that reside in the young at heart individual that lives within your spirit, leaping?
I bet they are! What accomplishments are you aching to achieve? What dreams are you dreaming? What are you passionate about? And if given the opportunity what would you erect ?

Close your eyes for a moment and visualize and imagine yourself doing a new thing! Yes, we can conceive what we see in our hearts and minds. Yes, a new symphonic piece can be birthed. Yes, we can dance and twirl to new music allowing ourselves of letting go of past hurts, and present frustrations. Let a new you unfold as you move, breathe, leap, soar, and reach. Ask God for a new vision, call him in prayer, “Jesus” trust Him totally! Don’t let the fire go out God is whispering in our ears, “Come, come it will be just fine!”

Friends I realize that often it’s easier said than done, but I urge you to trust, place doubt on the shelf, lock and close that mental cabinet. Ask God for direction, deliverance, joy, a breakthrough, and believe it is done! The creator of the universe can be your wings and He’ll not let your fire go out! Come on let leap and dance for joy!!

With God all things are possible.~ Matthew 19:26

How Great Is Our God! We're In His Hands!

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises (Tate Publishing, Nov 2007)
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/