tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9096934370050174852024-03-05T13:26:31.288-08:00Blame Helena Books and Media BlogWhy Blame Helena? Well, here are a few reasons to do so. Enjoy a dossier of Claudia Ross's adventures, musings and epiphanies experienced while writing her novels, Le Baton Chronicles. LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-75173958267516916632017-02-18T16:12:00.000-08:002017-02-18T16:12:08.024-08:00Happy Birthday Toni MorrisonShe inspired me so much, even before I knew I wished to write. Well, I figured that out by accident actually.<br />
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Happy Birthday Ms. Morrison!<br />
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<br />LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-29510445690256571582017-02-18T16:09:00.001-08:002017-02-18T16:09:49.449-08:00Book Expo and Book Con May 31 - June 4th Visit me! I will exhibit at Book Expo and Book Con, booth #AM67, Javits Center in New York City! I can't wait!<br />
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<br />LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-27454133658271446472016-10-03T12:06:00.000-07:002016-10-03T12:08:05.831-07:00La Rose Book II Le Baton Chronicles Available Now!!!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The next book in the Le Baton Chronicles is now available in paperback on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Rose-Baton-Chronicles-2/dp/0991184254/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">Amazon.com</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />In the shadow of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom telecast in 1963 New Orleans, Louisiana, Lela Chevalier Roberts continues her recount of the Chevalier family history to her great-grandson, Julian Charles Chamberie, with the life of her late husband, James Roberts in 19th Century Louisiana. Assisted by angels and heaven, James escapes annihilation at the hand of his father and flees the war torn American South to France, taking refuge with his cousins Emmanuel and Jonathan. Yet, Mammon the Devil pursues him, destroying the life he has created. Clawing his way out of the madness of Hell, the memory of an ancient love compels James to continue on in spite of Satan ploys. He returns to America at war’s end, finding himself faced with the foretold love he has dreamed, at last uniting with his Rose, Lela. Nevertheless, the devil is busy, and executes his greatest plot to destroy Lela’s and James’ love forever, jeopardizing the lineage and birth of the End Time King, Le Baton.<br /><br />Pick up your copy today!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-81010497882394487272016-07-18T11:52:00.000-07:002016-07-18T11:52:28.071-07:00New Releases: La Rose Le Baton Chronicles And Dorothy Jones A Jazz Age Trip Through Oz<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Rose-Baton-Chronicles-1/dp/0991184246/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1468864995&sr=1-1&keywords=la+rose+le+baton"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-24V9NC1rCs8/V40h0ugMB7I/AAAAAAAAJjo/yxJb1mx_apA69GKa5rKj2tcYVJUjpB6PACK4B/s640/La%2BRose%2B07%2B18%2B16.jpg" width="418" /></a></div>
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It's finally here! As of today, July 18, 2016, <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Rose-Baton-Chronicles-1/dp/0991184246/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1468864995&sr=1-1&keywords=la+rose+le+baton">La Rose Le Baton Chronicles</a></i> is available in paperback on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Rose-Baton-Chronicles-1/dp/0991184246/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1468864995&sr=1-1&keywords=la+rose+le+baton">amazon.com</a>.<br />
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On June 1, 2016, I published <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dorothy-Jones-Jazz-Trip-Through/dp/0991184238/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1466109850&sr=1-1&keywords=dorothy+jones">Dorothy Jones A Jazz Age Trip Through Oz</a></i>, also available in paperback on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dorothy-Jones-Jazz-Trip-Through/dp/0991184238/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1466109850&sr=1-1&keywords=dorothy+jones">amazon.com</a>.<br />
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These past few months have been a crazy time, finalizing publishing details regarding my books. Yet, it has been fulfilling. I am now working towards my goals and making them a reality, instead of just dreaming about them. I can't wait to see what comes next.LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-44632380979454623712016-07-07T17:00:00.000-07:002016-07-07T17:00:29.756-07:00I'm Coming HomeThat wasn't a good idea, so now I'm back.<br />
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Let me explain...<br />
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So I'd decided to add a blog to my website. Typically this is a good idea and folks are encourage to do so. However, my web host isn't great with supporting this feature. I would lose my pictures all the time. It just wasn't working.<br />
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So I'm coming back home.<br />
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I've been pretty busy while I've been gone. I'll tell you about it tomorrow.LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-87883239181119494672016-03-03T18:24:00.003-08:002016-03-03T18:24:54.669-08:00Moving DayAs of March 3, 2016 I am moving my blog. You can find it at:<br />
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<a href="http://www.blamehelenabooks.com/Blog.html">http://www.blamehelenabooks.com/Blog.html</a></div>
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I have been on blogger for many years and have enjoyed my experience. But as I've said, this is the Year of Yes. I am letting go of the old to try something new.<br />
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Thanks for your support! See you soon.<br />
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<img class="irc_mi" height="250" src="http://woodyandsons.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/moving-truck.png" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="400" />LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-27362975790243514702016-03-02T14:13:00.000-08:002016-03-02T14:13:45.883-08:00The Year of YESA wonderful friend of mine, K (to protect her privacy) unexpectedly gave me a gift for Christmas. I was shocked. I felt like a heel because I didn't get her anything. But being such a loving person, she knew exactly what I needed to know...<br />
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Year of Yes<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1476777098/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1476777098&linkCode=as2&tag=blahelbooandm-20&linkId=GLOK3ZI5GJVZUQLE" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1476777098&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=blahelbooandm-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=blahelbooandm-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1476777098" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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That's right, she gave me Shondra Rhimes book. I thanked her and took it home. Since I'm always working on my own novels, I'm don't have much opportunity to read like I once did. Most times, I read a few chapters and then the book is left unfinished, languishing on my nightstand.<br />
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This book is different from what I anticipated.<br />
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I thought it would be more like an Oprah book, be your best self... this it the year were your dreams will come true, the universe is opened to you, just ask.<br />
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Nope, not about that.<br />
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It's about saying yes to situations and opportunities outside your comfort zone. Interacting with and being apart of your world.<br />
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Like leaving your apartment other than to go to work or to go to Mass on occasion. Talking to folks. Going to events.<br />
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Say what?<br />
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Ms Shondra is talking crazy. I'm a writer. I say at home, drink beverages, write and edit my books. I pay bills. I go to work and I come home. It's the weekend. I ain't going anywhere, unless I need to pay my rent or guilt myself into going to Mass. Hey, they're starting to know me at church. They may ask me to participate in a group. I need to cut back on my attendence.<br />
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This book is crazy talk. I'm not reading anymore of it.<br />
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Yet, I'm compelled to read this book. Every night, worn out and over taxed from interacting with people at work, I just want to sleep and forget the world and its demands.<br />
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But I'll read a few pages. My friend thought about me and gave me the book. The least I can do is read it. Damn. It's a passive invitation to engage myself and others. I've been tricked. At last, This book is a mirror, showing me my introverted, loner underbelly. For much like Shondra, I say no to just about everything. I'm reading about me; it's showing me what I overlook when I face myself in the mirror every morning. It's making me face myself and my actions.<br />
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Like when my friend Vickie invited me to Thanksgiving dinner. I said no. Sure I had great excuses...<br />
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It's the holiday. I can't drive because my tags are out. <i>True.</i><br />
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My tires are bald I won't have the money to get the two of them replace (driving on the white meat) until next pay check. <i>True.</i><br />
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I'm have cramps and can't be away from the bathroom for more than five minutes. <i>TRUE TRUE TRUE.</i><br />
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I don't have money for gas. Yeah, that's <i>true</i> too.<br />
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But the real truth...<br />
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I don't want to leave my house. I don't want to share my time. I don't want to interact. I want to be alone.<br />
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And there it is. How insulting to one of my great friends. I want to be alone. I cringed when she asked me. I had already planned my holiday, alone. I'm going to drink plenty of champagne and finish writing my book. Although desperately lonely, I CHOSE to be alone. I understand loneliness. It's my friend. I don't have to try. I'm in my comfort zone, being alone with me.<br />
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It's better to dream of the ideal me than to make it a reality. The reality may fall short of the dream.<br />
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That's why I write, to bring my dreams to life. Living the dream? Well that's no good. It falls short, <i>every time</i>.<br />
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So, I insulted my friend and stayed at home, alone and hungry, eating leftover Indian food. It was good. I didn't have to drive. I didn't challenge myself with the outside world.<br />
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Easy-peasy.<br />
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Yet, Shondra has challenged reclusive writers (and others) everywhere. This is the year of YES. This is the year we say yes to everything, in particular, those things that make us anxious. The things that cause your fingers to turn black and caked with eczema.<br />
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Like Christmas. I went home for Christmas. Five days of alone time with my parents. No out. Just in the house with the loving people who gave birth to me.<br />
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I thought I would lose my mind.<br />
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Why are they talking to me? Why do they want to talk at 6am? Why are you asking me if I'm hungry? No I don't want to cook. We have champagne and beer, won't that do?<br />
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I couldn't sleep. I didn't have my TV and fan to lull me asleep.<br />
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However, the hermit was intrigue. Social interaction. It was fascinating. Persistence. My parents never give up. The make a way out of no way. Unconditional love. They just loved me.<br />
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I'm not accustomed to receiving love anymore. The shields were coming down. I needed to get out. A snow/sleet storm threatened to trap me, but I got out. After one of the worst travel days ever (I once travel for work, I never encountered challenges such as this) I was home.<br />
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I was painfully lonely. I missed my parents, their hell hound, the cat. I missed family. I missed love.<br />
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So, I pulled out the book I'd been re-writing for six months. I finished it. I figured out how to convert it into an EPUB file and published it not only on Amazon, but <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dorothy-jones-a-jazz-age-trip-through-oz-claudia-helena-ross/1123201800?ean=2940157822422" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a> and <a href="https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/dorothy-jones-a-jazz-age-trip-through-oz" target="_blank">Kobo</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BQLVWUO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BQLVWUO&linkCode=as2&tag=blahelbooandm-20&linkId=KRAEH2EVGH7V2GZQ" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00BQLVWUO&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=blahelbooandm-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=blahelbooandm-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00BQLVWUO" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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I've started saying YES.<br />
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This year, I say YES to love and relationships. No matter what the relationship may be or the circumstances surrounding it... Yes honey, I say YES to you.<br />
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Oh, and I say YES to updating my technology. I'm getting a new computer and tablet. I still say no to a smart phone. I guess I must take baby steps in the universe of YES.LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-19474953028143996692015-12-21T12:02:00.000-08:002015-12-21T12:02:59.306-08:00The Grinch Stole My Strongholds2015 has been a challenging a**kicker of the year. It was all I could do to maintain my mental facilities to survive day to day, let alone write. This is my first entry in months. Although I did make it to ComicCon, I never posted the pictures. Everything was a struggle this year. I endured one breakdown after another.<br />
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A breakdown of strongholds.<br />
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These past five years have been a continuous, non-stop breakdown of strongholds for me. I lost a lot. Not sure what I gained.
Here's what I think I gained:<br />
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Freedom - There's nothing left I have an emotional attachment to except my writing. That's it.
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Hardened heart - I'm not super sensitive to others and their hardships. I don't feel obligated to get involved in everyone's personal problems. Guess what? Live goes on for all concerned.
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Self-sufficient - I've learned not to depend on others financially and emotionally. I'm ok being alone with me. If I can't afford it, I typically say forget it and skip purchases/extras (unless it involves parents. ugh)<br />
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I kinda sound like the Grinch, huh? Yeah, kinda feel like him too. But it works.<br />
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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-55590376025904719292015-07-23T16:03:00.001-07:002015-07-23T16:03:53.742-07:00Comic Con 2015<span style="font-size: x-large;">ComicCon was a blast this year, as it is every year. I fluffed up my fro and unfurled my petals, anxious to behold the dreams of July in San Diego.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">La Rose from the series <i>La Rose, Book I - III Le Baton Chronicles</i> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/author/claudiaross">www.amazon.com/author/claudiaross</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">ComicCon 2015, San Diego CA</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QNvQnW3Bf_g/VbFuBRIc20I/AAAAAAAAJPM/a8op4V1mDvY/s1600/ComicCon-15-2325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QNvQnW3Bf_g/VbFuBRIc20I/AAAAAAAAJPM/a8op4V1mDvY/s320/ComicCon-15-2325.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Thanks to Jim Poole Photography for the photo. To enjoy more of his photos from Comic Con, visit his site at <a href="https://jimpoolphotography.smugmug.com/ComicCon-San-Diego-2015/">https://jimpoolphotography.smugmug.com/ComicCon-San-Diego-2015/</a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fertilizing my roses at Acqua Al 2</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Taking a break with new friends at Trivoli's, where Wyatt Earp once hung his gun belt</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">My favorite costume - Retired #Spiderman</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Watering and Fertilizing my Roses and Trivoli's</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Alas, adieu to my love, Comic Con. Hold my dreams safe until next year.</span><br />
<br />LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-79647467343259448802015-03-17T16:03:00.001-07:002015-03-28T23:36:59.744-07:00AMI don't have a name for this post. I'm in a transitional phase of my life and have no clear ideals on anything. I'm on a verge of a major shift in my life, but I don't know what it is or when it's coming. I feel it, though. I've let go of some living aids and adopted new ones.<br />
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I'm writing Book IV of La Rose (coming next December). It's going alright. It's ok. It just is.<br />
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I'm throwing out stuff around the house and office. Fixing up a few things. But mostly, I wait.<br />
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Now, Empire is ending. After tomorrow, I will have nothing to do.<br />
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Yet at the same time, I feel like Cookie Lyons when her day had come. My day has come, but I don't know it yet.<br />
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That's it. I'm null inside. </div>
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I'm just AM.</div>
<br />LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-35593640679286992052015-03-05T13:52:00.000-08:002015-03-28T23:40:04.795-07:00Fox's Empire Tackles African-American TaboosAs with most of America, I'm riveted to Empire every Wednesday night on FOX. I start booting up my Tweet Deck at 830pm so that I'm ready to go by 9pm. There is no lolly-gagging with this show. If you're late, you're missing the action. Go to the bathroom and get your glass of wine before the show starts; you won't have enough time to address all of your needs during commercial breaks.<br />
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Empire writers aren't afraid to tackle the tough issues, taking them head on. No concerns about political correctness here. Lucious Lyon, family patriach and founder of Empire Records, has proven to be an unforgiving threshing floor when dealing with taboo family subjects and issues.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">First issue</span></b><br />
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Jamal's gay. It was never a secret; Lucious and Cookie always knew about it. Yet, since no one was talking about Jamal's sexuality, it didn't exist. The boy is straight. Lucious is a 'Type A' Black father whose sons are a reflection of him. Lucious is proud and straight; and his sons had damn well better be too. In Lucious' mind, Jamal needs to get that 'gay s###' out of their mind, straighten up and fly right. Not open for discussion.<br />
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My mouth fell open during the first episode when Lucious threw his young son Jamal in the garbage can. This is how deep the shame runs for some. I felt the pain, outrage, helplessness, vulnerability and hurt from each of the characters involved in the scene. I can't understand how you can throw your child in the garbage can (maybe because I'm a woman). That was one of the all time unforgettable TV/Movie scenes. It ranks with "You told Harpo to beat me" from <i>The Color Purple</i> and "I'm going to make you an offer you can't refuse" from <i>The Godfather</i>. It was raw, brutal, heartbreaking and honest.<br />
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YouTuber LeoStatus811 posted this clip:<br />
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Lucious is beginning to deal with Jamal's homosexuality, a reality he can't change. Lucious is traveling a rough road, but he's dealing. Yet, he still has his moments. However, last night, Jamal stood up to his Lucious' put down. He didn't get emotional or offended; he just told Lucious the facts and to deal with them. Jamal has overcome.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Second Issue</span></b><br />
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Lucious notices Andre is having a few mental issues. The boy seems 'off' to him, or down right crazy at times. Unbeknownst to Lucious, Andre has been having issues for years, but he was taking his meds, suppressing the emotional cancer of his childhood trapped within.<br />
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Andre's off his meds.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Uh Oh</span></div>
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And he's showing out.</div>
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Unacceptable. Lucious doesn't have sons who are nuts anymore than he has sons who are gay.<br />
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After a meltdown in the elevator with his brothers, Andre returns to boardroom. He can no longer hold the heartache.<br />
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It will be interesting to see how Lucious deals with Andre's mental collapse next week. Based on his dealings with Jamal, I think I have a pretty good ideal.<br />
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Empire has done an excellent job in presenting these issues within the Black community (and others I'm sure) as they are. They haven't glamorized or glorified them, instead confronting these challenges as we all do - filled with courage, fear, trepidation and resistance.<br />
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Empire has demonstrated we must deal with our stuff sooner or later. And it's going to hurt. Bad. But once we go through, we come out stronger on the other side. We grow. The secrets, humiliation and shame that once crippled our spirits has now become new weapons in arsenal. Can't nothing mess with us anymore.<br />
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The troubles we have overcome while living with folks and life have become bricks in our road to realizing ourselves as the supreme beings God created us to be.LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-78914984500188145342015-02-22T17:04:00.001-08:002015-02-22T17:07:37.985-08:00Oscar DreamsAs many around the world, I'm watching the Oscar's Red Carpet ceremony. I can't help but to dream of one day 'walking the line' in a glamorous yellow dress, chatting about the screenplay of one of my works up for nomination, jaw-jabbing with other celebrities, and charming the press while answering the daunting question of 'what are you wearing?'<br />
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Then I sigh and return to my work as an assistant. It's a great job, but we all dream dreams. One day last year, and not a particularly good day, I sat at my desk, discouraged. And then I remembered something. digging through my bag-o-files, I pulled out an old copy of Fortune Magazine, with Miss Oprah Winfrey on the cover. My co-worker Jessica had given it to me, having pasted my name over Miss Oprah's.<br />
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Inspired, I designed the following cover that evening:<br />
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The next day, I placed this picture on my bulletin board at work. I look at it all day, every day. When I feel inadequate and discouraged, I look at my picture to remind myself of who I am and my purpose in life. My current situation is a step towards my destiny. I remind myself I'm a great writer and my break will come. A person will read my books and say, 'We need to talk. This is great.' </div>
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As artists, writers, actors, musicians, dancers, performers, and athletes, we must constantly remind ourselves of our greatness and our tremendous talent, whether sitting at the Oscars, Grammy's, Lou's Bar, the library, or on the sofa. We all have a great gift and talent to share with the world, and it is our duty to continue to do so, no matter what.</div>
<br />LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-14427340136109591362015-02-17T11:05:00.000-08:002015-02-17T11:05:10.579-08:00Valentine BlunderFear is a motherf$cker. I think I blew it. In fact, I know I did. I became terrified and scared and impatient and panicked. I think the fact he may love me too, and planned to see me, became too much. It was too much. I just don't deal with this stuff well. That's why I write books.<br />
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I'm sorry.<br />
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What do I do now? I guess there is nothing to do. I just need to let it go and move on.<br />
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Unbelievable. My one shot and I blow it. BAD.LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-39253384798597291432015-02-13T19:00:00.004-08:002015-02-13T19:00:54.518-08:00Another Valentine's Day Bites the DustIf you're looking for a Valentine miracle here, push on. There is none.<br />
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I had such high hopes. Guarded, but high hopes.<br />
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It's nearly 7pm, but still no word. The time has come to face facts; I will spend this weekend wading the cold depths of Knob Creek. Manhattans for the broken hearts! Dreams of spending time with the love of a life have come to an end. My love walked away from me today, never looking back.<br />
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I want to cry, but why? What will it change? When a man wants you, there is nothing to stop him. When he doesn't, well there is no force in the Universe to compel him to do otherwise. Why would a woman want him to do so anyway? Who wants a love who doesn't love you enough to pursue you?<br />
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I'm going to my swimming lessons in the creek. I'm going to float.LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-42160184443996170722015-02-03T14:02:00.000-08:002015-02-03T15:27:14.102-08:00Fantasy Valentine's DayOnce again, Single Awareness Day (SAD) is upon us, when those of us looking for love can ponder the idiosyncrasies of our personalities and the state of singleness.<br />
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Sigh.<br />
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Being single isn't bad. In fact, it's pretty cool. I do what I want when I want to. No shorties, no man to nag and tie me down. I'm a free spirit. I sleep in on the weekends. I go to my nerdy events, or I hang out at night. I write books and don't clean my house if I hit a hot streak. In fact, the more I think about it, the more ideal my marital status becomes.<br />
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Then this happens.<br />
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Now I'm depressed. My stomach churns just thinking about it. Every February 14th I get to experience the joy of watching all of the couples going out to their expensive dinners and receive trinkets of affection from their lovely ones. Some may even receive a proposal of one sort or another. Maybe the happy couples will decide instead to curl up on the sofa at home, watch a movie, order a pizza, have some drinks, and then some fun in the midnight hour.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 60pt;">Whatever</span></div>
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Instead of spending the next 11 days anticipating another evening of fun with my boys, Jack and Jim, skinny dipping in Knob Creek, I'm doing something new this year.<br />
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Folks have Fantasy Football and Basketball, so why shouldn't I enjoy Fantasy Valentine's Day? Over the next week, I will post my own Fantasy Valentine's day scenarios with my Fantasy Man. Sure, I have one. Be sure to follow my blog so you don't miss anything.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Classic Fantasy - The Roux of Love</span></b></h2>
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Every good gumbo starts with a nice dark brown roux. It's the building block of flavor and substance. Once you have it place, you can create any type of gumbo you like.<br />
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The same rules apply for Fantasy Valentine's Day.<br />
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<b>The Day Before Valentine's Day</b><br />
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I'm spending all day at the Lodge Torrey Pines Spa, getting buffed and fluffed. I'm getting the works too: full body scrub, facial, mani/pedi, steam, body wrap and anything else they may have to offer. I'm staying overnight because I don't want to spoil my pampered high by driving home.<br />
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<b><u>Valentines Day</u></b><br />
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<i>Morning</i><br />
I begrudgingly leave my oh so comfy bed and depart the lodge for home. On the way, I stop and pick up my dress from my designer. I guess I must have ordered it weeks before and now it's ready.<br />
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<i>Midday</i><br />
I make it home and have a few mimosas. My make-up artist arrives to hook me up and help me dress for my big evening.<br />
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<i>Evening</i><br />
Fantasy Man is at the door. I look incredible. He looks fantastic, all big and fine. Wow, he put on a tux? He's right on time too. He looks too good. Maybe we should stay home and play some indoor sports. He gives me the eye, because he knows what I'm thinking. He shrugs off my subliminal invite and hands me gifts.<br />
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Wow, what a beautiful bouquet of flowers!<br />
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My favorite champagne? Thank you Fantasy Man.</div>
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We're going to Flemings Steak House and Wine Bar. How did he know I wanted steak?<br />
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After three bottles of wine and ingesting a steak big enough for two people, I need to lay down. My dress is tight and I probably need to burp. I suddenly hate Fantasy Man because I can't be brazen and am forced to act like a lady. But ohhh no! I'm the one who wanted Fantasy Man to take me out, now I must be Fantasy Lady. I excuse myself and go to the ladies room to get myself together.<br />
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<i>Later that evening</i><br />
I'm tired, ready to go home, take of my girdle, have some more wine and go asleep. Nevertheless I can't because I wanted to be a 'couple' for Valentine's Day. Fantasy Man has made reservations at the La Valencia. So what if he just dropped $700 on din din and my tab? How can he assume I'm going to spend the evening anywhere with him? Alas, he is Fantasy Man. To be honest, I can't say I'm totally opposed to the naughty idea. He knows what I like.<br />
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We head out to the patio and sit in an empty settee. Under the stars, seduced by the lullaby of the sea crashing into the shore, I lean into Fantasy Man's big chest and love him. I'm so grateful he's finally here with me. I want to cry, but I decide not to be a sap. Maybe one tear of joy falls. I could sit here in Fantasy Man's arms forever.</div>
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Fantasy Man removes a red box from his breast pocket. </div>
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OMG, Cartier? My all time favorite jeweler? Two hearts entwined as one on a gold chain. Wow, I didn't know he had bank like that. Well he is Fantasy Man. It's nothing like a little trinket, dinner and wine to make a girl feel friendly. If I didn't want to be nice to him before, I certainly do now (who am I fooling, I was going to be nice to him anyway). I notice the look of pride and haughtiness on his face. Yup, he knows he's been a good boy and he waiting for me to pat him on his head and scratch him behind his ears. He knows I have some treats for him too. He extends his hand, inviting me to come with him. I accept his hand.<br />
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Funny thing, he didn't have too do all of this. We could have sat on the sofa, drank IPA's, and watched TV. For truth be told, I love Fantasy Man. Spending time with him is the most precious gift of all. However, I love it when Fantasy Man impresses me and blows my mind. It makes me love him all the more. He doesn't leave a stone un-turned either. Fantasy Man brought his A-Game tonight.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Who's yo' Daddy or Mommy?</span></h2>
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Send your favorite photos of you Fantasy Man/Woman and I will post your pics to my site (no explicit pics, we only talk dirty here).<br />
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Send clean pictures, </div>
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<b>(DO NOT SEND X-RATED/NUDE, SEXUALLY EXPLICIT MATERIALS) </b></div>
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TO: </div>
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blamehelenabooks at gmail dot com</div>
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<br />LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-76412497226378913322015-01-29T13:41:00.001-08:002015-01-29T13:41:19.850-08:00Blame Helena In the Kitchen: Ginger Fried Catfish with Potatoes, Carrots and RosemaryToday was a challenging day. After the party shot from dentist wore off and I regained feeling in the right side of my face, my stomach was in an uproar. Of course, I didn't eat this morning. My first inclination was to order out, Dominoes extra thin crispy pizza with slice Italian sausage (Run Will Robinson. Run!) but then I thought twice. Eureka. I have catfish in the freezer.<br />
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I thawed it out and the magic began. I nuked a russet potato in the microwave for about three minutes, until soft but not cooked through. I thinly sliced some carrots, onions and green peppers, along with the over-sized potato. My catfish had almost thawed by this time. I seasoned the fish with salt, pepper, cayenne, and then rubbed in the ginger. Ah the ginger; God's gift to man.<br />
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I love coconut oil. I can't stop talking about it. If you go and play a hand of Spades, it won't burn while you're away. Hell, it may not burn while you run a Boston on your opponents. I threw the veggies in the oil, along with a tablespoon of butter for flavor. The butter won't burn in the coconut oil either, unless of course you get caught up in your card game.<br />
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While my veggies were doing their thing, I battered my catfish in flour and cornmeal, bathed it in an egg and milk bath, and then repeated the process twice. My fishies were looking pretty. I allowed them to rest while my oil heated. Once nice and hot, I submersed my fishies in the oil. I didn't even cook it 10 minutes, maybe five on each side? I removed my fishies from the oil and allowed it to rest, while finishing up the veggies. I had to throw the lid on a for a few minutes, allowing the potatoes to steam. I can't stand under-cooked potatoes.<br />
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All was done.<br />
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It was great. I garnished it with some aged Louisiana Hot Sauce, lemon wedges and washed it down with a Sierra Nevada Torpedo Extra IPA.<br />
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My only complaint: I didn't put enough salt in the flour and cornmeal mixture. I'm always afraid of over-salting my food. But in any case it was good.<br />
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I rate my meal an arm fracture (from patting myself on the back). If I'd put more salt in the batter, it would have scored an arm break.<br />
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It took me about 45 minutes to one hour to prepare the meal (without thawing time), about the same time for my pizza to get here.<br />
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I'm ready to watch Empire and go asleep.<br />
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The meal was easy on my sore teeth too.<br />
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Bon appetite!LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-30633235197956250052015-01-26T13:27:00.000-08:002015-01-26T13:27:21.440-08:00First stepsFor weeks, I've been saying I'm going to do it. I'm gonna. I'm gonna.<br />
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Well, yesterday I did it.<br />
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I went for a walk.<br />
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And look what I saw! It was one of the most beautiful sunsets ever. Beachcombers clogged the shoreline of Tourmaline Beach clicking photos. Some even brought out their professional cameras to capture to showy sunset. The mist clung to the shoreline foreshadowing our impending rain shower (not sure if you can see it in the pictures). It's strange to experience humidity here.<br />
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Now, I want to get out and walk around every day. Great start to a new year!<br />
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<br />LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-11480809843490097072015-01-23T14:44:00.000-08:002015-01-23T14:44:39.988-08:00South Sound Arts etc. - Alec Clayton: August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson at the Seattle Rep<br />
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<a href="http://alecclayton.blogspot.com/2015/01/august-wilsons-piano-lesson-at-seattle.html">South Sound Arts etc. - Alec Clayton: August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson at the Seattle Rep</a><br />
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Be sure to check out Alec Clayton's review of August Wilson's The Piano Lesson at the<a href="http://www.seattlerep.org/"> Seattle Repertory Theatre</a>, 155 Mercer Street, Seattle through February 8th.LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-82046135496044178852015-01-22T17:39:00.001-08:002015-01-22T17:39:20.865-08:00NBC Thursdays vs TGITWhat the Hell???<br />
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Blame Helena runs a tight ship on Thursday nights with my TV line up. I watch reruns of Big Bang Theory from 7-8pm. Then I watch Big Bang again at 8pm. Moms at 830pm. Then it's...<br />
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<span style="font-size: 60pt;">TGIT BABY</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-21sLKtc7ppw/VLlxnKyM6AI/AAAAAAAAIg0/7pu1WAy2ihE/s1600/tgit%2Bcast.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-21sLKtc7ppw/VLlxnKyM6AI/AAAAAAAAIg0/7pu1WAy2ihE/s1600/tgit%2Bcast.JPG" height="141" width="400" /></a></div>
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That's right. Don't call me or talk to me between 9-11pm on Thursday nights because I'm watching and tweeting about Scandal and How To Get Away With Murder.<br />
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Then I watch the local news and go to bed.<br />
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But now NBC is creating discord in my world by moving Blacklist to Thursday's.<br />
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Don't play. I watch Red on Monday nights, not Thursday. They cannot be serious. Why is NBC trying to compete on Thursdays? Why not own Monday nights? Be a boss on Mondays. There's enough room in the TV schedule so the viewing public can watch their fav shows without missing another fav on another Network.<br />
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The Networks wonder why people are watching their fav's Netflix or are streaming shows. Here's a clue.<br />
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Maybe they should divvy up the week like the big grocers divvied up the nation in the 70's. That way everyone will have their blockbuster nights. The networks are happy, Viewers like me are happy. Everyone is happy.<br />
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It's no fun to tweet about your fav shows when the only one watching is you.<br />
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I'm so pissed I don't know what to do. Gee whiz.<br />
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Want to Blame Helena on Twitter? <a href="http://www.twitter.com/lafleur2009">@lafleur2009</a>LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-35015596265813251552015-01-19T16:18:00.002-08:002015-01-19T16:18:25.942-08:00Reverend King<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: 20pt;">Thanks for everything. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 30pt;">Happy Birthday!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 30pt;"><br /></span></div>
LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-4635311971841580142015-01-12T21:45:00.001-08:002015-01-12T22:03:05.333-08:00Blame Helena In the Kitchen: Pork Shoulder Bone In With Sweet Potatoes and CarrotsAfter 11 hours, it was finally ready. And was good. Really good. Ouch, I just broke my arm.<br />
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I must give <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/chefs/aaron-mccargo-jr.html">Aaron McCargo Jr.</a> of the <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/">Food Network</a> credit for providing me with the basic guidelines on roasting my pork shoulder to perfection. First, I prepared a rub comprised of garlic, salt, pepper, minced onions and extra virgin olive oil, mixing all together, and then bathing my pork shoulder with it. I let it sit for about 45 minutes. While allowing the meat to enjoy its marinade, I plopped a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil into my cast iron dutch oven and placed it into a 425 degree Fahrenheit oven. I love coconut oil. A gentleman named Bob at <a href="https://www.sprouts.com/">Sprouts</a> in Clairemont turned me onto it. Coconut oil seems to have many health and practical benefits, but I haven't tested them so don't take my word as gospel. You can research it benefits on <a href="http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/11/18/coconut-oil-uses.aspx">www.mercola.com </a>and judge for yourself. However, I can testify coconut oil is a great cooking medium, for it is slow to burn at high temperatures during the cooking process.<br />
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It was time. I placed my roast in the hot oil and then put it in the oven, allowing the 'fat cap' (facing up) to get all crispy and good. After about 45 minutes, I reduced the temperature to 285 degree Fahrenheit, allowing the low heat to work it's magic. It was about 11:30am. I took a nap.<br />
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Dangit! It was 4:30pm and I'd overslept. I jumped up and went to the kitchen to prep my sweet potatoes, carrots and celery. I added the veggies to my dutch over and covered it. I returned to the living room, lied down and snuggled beneath the covers. At 5:30pm, I checked on my meal. The meat looked good, the veggies were a little tender, but it wasn't cooking as it should. I turned up the heat to 350 degree Fahrenheit and returned to my perch on the sofa to watch the Golden Globe Awards.<br />
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Within 15 minutes, my apartment filled with the smell of porky goodness. I resisted the urge to go and check on it. At 7pm, I checked and found pork magic happening before my eyes. The meat was sizzling, the veggies had softened and cooked down. I spooned out some oil (I need a turkey baster).<br />
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By 8pm I was going nuts. It smelled so good! I prodded the roast with my spoon. Could it be? It was starting to pull apart. I accepted the fact that I wasn't going to eat at a decent hour. I decided I would take it out at 10pm.<br />
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At 1030pm, I took the roast out of the oven.<br />
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Heaven.<br />
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The meat was falling off the bone. Although I don't normally eat so late, I couldn't resist. I tried to slice it, but the meat fell apart. I gave up and spooned some out, along with sweet potatoes, carrots, and a bit of celery. I didn't need my teeth, but went through the motions of chewing anyway, allowing the savory meat to fill and comfort me, soothing my soul.<br />
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I should have made a pot greens to go along with it.<br />
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Tips<br />
<ul>
<li>Prepare your meat the day before to allow it time to marinate</li>
<li>Slow cook it overnight at 200 degrees (you know your oven, use your own discretion. I don't want you burn down your place)</li>
<li>In the morning, turn it up to at least 325 degree Fahrenheit to finish cooking</li>
<li>Enjoy a nice IPA as you while away the hours awaiting porky perfection. My pick: Iron Fire The Devil Within DIPA, checking in at a sinfully hoppy ALC 9.5.</li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioRGOiURcf93Zvz41irFlTwMm9uBfIhtbntP5cXMd1TxVLRQtOHcPgwQRtGdnj1iJRv6pBlJU7OCQEdB4ZUI7NJCbduna4jANDRx8gSIXTZJw-SInKxbCljlxElBIr5q0A7tP2zK3deD4/s1600/Ironfire.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioRGOiURcf93Zvz41irFlTwMm9uBfIhtbntP5cXMd1TxVLRQtOHcPgwQRtGdnj1iJRv6pBlJU7OCQEdB4ZUI7NJCbduna4jANDRx8gSIXTZJw-SInKxbCljlxElBIr5q0A7tP2zK3deD4/s1600/Ironfire.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ironfirebrewing.com/">http://ironfirebrewing.com/</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Keep on ridin' your pork high. Porky dreams!<br />
<br />LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-74614917297889100362015-01-08T21:50:00.000-08:002015-01-08T21:53:12.409-08:00IPA LivingBeing a leopard at heart, I like to shuffle my spots around from time to time to keep things interesting. So needless to say, I had become bored with my traditional libations. At the end of 2014, I began to delve into the world of IPA's.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 40pt;">O M G</span></div>
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This is the best thing since martini's. Each one is different, with it's own personality and sass. And there are so many to try. IPA's aren't cheap, but they're worth the $$$.</div>
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So as a public service, I will try a new IPA every weekend and let you know what I think. I will post my reviews on my new page, What's Helena Drinking. After sampling a few IPA's over the past months, I've found I enjoy IPA's with a strong citrus note. Here are a couple of my fav's so far.</div>
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<a href="http://www.firestonebeer.com/">Firestone Walker Double Jack</a></h2>
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http://www.firestonebeer.com/</div>
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<a href="http://www.firestonebeer.com/"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U9APThl0IcI/VK7PbBDUgRI/AAAAAAAAIdU/-8gHx41AXxc/s1600/FirestoneDoubleJack.JPG" height="320" width="183" /></a></div>
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Checking in at a sexy ALC 9.5, this IPA is fresh and fruity. I enjoyed this last weekend. If the taste bud brain cells are still with me, it was a nice hoppsy brew. I welcome your thoughts.<br />
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<a href="http://bit.ly/KismetIPA">Mother Earth Kismet IPA</a></h2>
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http://bit.ly/KismetIPA
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<a href="http://www.motherearthbrewco.com/on-tap/kismet-ipa"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZC8WuS-4EVU/VK7PbS6n--I/AAAAAAAAIdY/9WjEeyJ3fCE/s1600/Kismet.JPG" height="320" width="251" /></a></div>
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I love this IPA. ALC 7.2, it is a psychodelic journey into IPA's. Great whether you're just beginning your IPA journey or Highlander.</div>
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Check back soon to find out the latest IPA libation to Blame Helena for. </div>
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IPA's are a perfect beverage to enjoy while reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/author/claudiaross">Le Baton Chronicles</a>. Trust me, you're going to need a drink.</div>
LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-58614510003752059032014-12-15T15:42:00.000-08:002014-12-15T15:42:58.026-08:00Merry ChristmasAs 2014 comes to an end, I look back and consider the challenges I overcame and the blessings I received this year. I am thankful for all of it, strengthening me for the next phase of my life.<br />
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Completing <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rose-Book-III-Baton-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B00QEZ3Z4S/ref=asap_B00C0FT9P0?ie=UTF8">Book III of La Rose</a> was a challenge, that's for sure. I think the greatest barrier was me. I had to get past me to finish it. Get past the negative tapes playing in my head. Let go of the past. So many spiritual adversaries challenged me. But I came through. By the grace of God came through.<br />
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Now I'm am enjoying one of the most successful and controversial books of my career.<br />
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I thank all of you for the success of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rose-Book-III-Baton-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B00QEZ3Z4S/ref=asap_B00C0FT9P0?ie=UTF8">La Rose Book III Le Baton Chronicles</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Claudia-Helena-Ross/e/B00C0FT9P0"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PzuDpZBFwoA/VI9Tydg6uII/AAAAAAAAIbA/Z8IONTRsBeI/s1600/SantaBaby.jpg" height="288" width="400" /></a></div>
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Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Fabulous New Year to all. Live our Dreams in 2015.<br />
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Claudia Helena RossLaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-13575823124976915032014-12-01T12:49:00.000-08:002014-12-01T12:49:06.785-08:00La Rose Book III Le Baton Chronicles - December 1, 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://astore.amazon.com/blahelbooandm-20/detail/B00QEZ3Z4S"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP49VlSIxgF3136yXi43bdpGb3m8d_6TGoU_b2iM8HhVAEoRwI39KwTzVPBQO0M52PSToQtcxnKYSQ2idfUdRwL5ODzGo4VE-rt-wIyGPktI4hwCsVDGsFvxJY_qdkFr7DrNcbiTpPxXY/s1600/LaRose+Book+III+07+10+14+v2.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">June 30, 2014</span></div>
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August 1, 2014</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 24pt;">November 1,2014</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 30pt;">December 1, 2014</span></div>
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After three delays, I have finally completed and released Book III of Le Baton Chronicles. A huge THANK YOU to all my fans who patiently awaited the release. I hope you will enjoy it, becoming outraged, enticed, intrigued, and tantalized with every twist and turn.<br />
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<i><a href="http://astore.amazon.com/blahelbooandm-20/detail/B00QEZ3Z4S">La Rose Book III Le Baton Chronicles</a></i> by Claudia Helena Ross</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">New
Orleans smolders with the heat, civil unrest, and passion of the 1963 American
South. In the Chevalier family’s Garden District mansion, 116 year old Lela
Chevalier Roberts presses on with her narration of the family history to her incorrigible
great-grandson Julian Charles Chamberie. Julian defies Hell and requests to
return to the land of his testing and heartache, the palatial French estate in
the mist of Floridian Louisiana, La Rose Plantation. Much to his
great-grandmother’s joy and trepidation, the pair returns and Lela narrates to
Julian the life of her protector, Toussaint Bailey, who traverses the perilous
path from slavery on La Rose Plantation to the life of a prominent mortician in
late 19<sup>th</sup> century New Orleans. With the help of his patron,
Archangel Barachiel, and his mother, Sarah the Slave, Toussaint receives his
supernatural powers and uses them to combat the evil forces seeking to destroy
the Chevalier family and the people who love them. Julian’s soul is tormented
by his grandmother’s stories, finding himself caught between the tyranny of his
past life and the liberty available to him in the present. Resolving all within
his heart, Julian comes one step closer to spiritual emancipation, enabling him
to continue his quest to hold the hand of the End Time King, Le Baton. </span><span style="font-family: Courier New;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-909693437005017485.post-82370041195491005632014-11-14T11:38:00.000-08:002014-11-14T11:48:00.539-08:00Scandal - The Last Supper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yM36i9Z9S88/VGZcWoKceQI/AAAAAAAAIYI/VOubpF1WalE/s1600/LastSupper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yM36i9Z9S88/VGZcWoKceQI/AAAAAAAAIYI/VOubpF1WalE/s1600/LastSupper.jpg" height="325" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><br /></i>
<i>The Last Supper</i> was the most heartbreaking exchange I've seen on TV in a long time. <i>Scandal</i> blew it out the water with Olivia Pope's betrayal of her father Rowan Pope, or as I affectionately call him - Papa-san Pope. He discovers Olivia's plot with Fitz and Jake to kill him.<br />
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Rowan doesn't retaliate against his daughter. He's emotionless for Olivia's had cut him on a level so deep, to experience it could have catastrophic results. Instead, Rowan tells her how much he loves her. In fact, Rowan reveals to Olivia she's pretty much the only person he'd ever loved in the world.<br />
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It was all for her.<br />
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Olivia was her father's heart. Rowan tells Olivia he's done and walks away. I watched my television in disbelief. My heart broke for Papa-san Pope.<br />
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I can't talk about it anymore. Just watch the video. Rowan can tell it better than I can.<br />
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See you next week.LaFleur2009http://www.blogger.com/profile/08923030992428975322noreply@blogger.com0