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NECKS, PIPES & BOOKS

karenringalls26 Comments

Where have I been? Why have I not been blogging?

  • A neck injury from an auto accident 40 years ago, has been giving me continual pain for two months, especially when I am on the computer.
  • Injections, medications, acupuncture, exercises, and manipulations have slowed its progress. Now a more aggressive and invasive treatment is on the horizon. What exactly that will entail is yet to be determined.
  • A water pipe broke underneath our house causing damage to two areas of our home. We canceled a two-week vacation trip to New England because of my severe headaches.
  • So, I am grateful for the headaches. Otherwise, we might have lost our home due to water damage!
Life can be a pain in the neck.
The average head weighs 11 pounds
The neck consists of 7 vertebrae
A giraffe with its l-o-n-g neck has the same number of vertebrae.
I wonder if it suffers from headaches?!

The bright side of this two month challenge has been the number of books I have read. One such book published by Fresh Ink Publishing is The Autumn Tree.

The Autumn Tree by Aysha Ehsan

Four young and very different individuals, Amanda, Catherine, Matheus, and Brad lives become intertwined in San Francisco. Spring brings hope and love, but can they survive the challenges of autumn?

My 5-star review: Two of the primary characters, Amanda and Catherine, lives are intertwined. Each young woman has issues that they must face and either learn from or succumb to. There are some disturbing scenes that might be upsetting to some readers. The author presents sexual, drug, discrimination, and family issues that each character needs to deal with. I loved this book, and read it quickly. Congratulations to the author for a well-written novel.

Please give Aysha your support by reading and reviewing her first novel.

SEPTEMBER

karenringalls21 Comments

I originally wrote this blog in late August with the intention of posting it on September 1st. However, health issues changed my energy, concentration, and ability to do my usual activities. I believe I am now truly back.

The month of September symbolizes a time to make changes by improving oneself, finding forgiveness, and doing what is best for the soul. As I reflected on what the month symbolizes, I prayed about the things I needed to change that are obstacles to my growth and well-being.

The colors of autumn are vibrant and up lifting. Red symbolizes passion and desire, orange represents positivity, and yellow means happiness. The season of autumn also represents the impermanence of life. Therefore, it is important and healthy to embrace the present. There will always be changes which challenge us to live life to its fullest every day, every moment.

Thank you for being my fellow traveler in this journey of life. Your support and kind words are uplifting, inspiring, and informative.

LUNAR BOOGIES, TREE FAIRIES…BOOK REVIEWS

karenringalls26 Comments 
What does a werewolf and a tree fairy have in common? 
They are both imaginary beings. One is frightening and a killer, while the tree fairies are kind and loving.

What do full moons and land developers have in common?
They are both real. They both bring out reactions from us mortals. The full moon can affect negative behavior in some people. Our reactions to land developers differ depending on whether the new homes or businesses are to our financial advantage, or if it means destroying our enjoyment of the peaceful nature of our forests.

Lunar Boogies is the fourth book in a series by author, C.S. Boyack. It centers around the escapades of Lizzie St.Laurent and her magical hat. In this story, the pair’s adventure is stopping a serial killer, which turns out to be a werewolf. There is humor, tragedy, and interesting characters. Each of the victims personalities and life styles added to the story. Joe, the policeman and his eternally departed wife, Meg, were a favorite part of the read with their touching dialogue. The various personalities of the band members Lizzie did gigs with added new dimensions to the plot. The relationship with her parents brought a deeper understanding of Lizzie.

My 5-star review:

Lizzie and her magical and trustworthy hat are on a mission to find the serial killer. The murders happen during the full moon which leads them to believe the killer is a werewolf or someone who is impersonating one. The hat changes as occasions arise to help capture the monster. The communications between Lizzie and her hat are sometimes whimsical, serious, or argumentative. The dialogue is as if they were two humans having a conversation.

Tree Fairies and Their Short Stories by D.L. Finn is a serious story told in a heartwarming and informative way. Through the children, Danny and Colette Burns, and their parents the reader learns about the challenges of the forests as mankind continues in its program of deforestation. Though this is a children’s book, it is definitely for any age. It is a book of four short stories, separate but connected through the eyes of the family members and the fairies that live in the forests.

My 4-star review:

If one loves fantasy, tales, magic, and the world of imagination, then this is the book to read. Though it was written as a children’s book, I read it with my 80-year-old eyes and brain, enjoying every page. Are there fairies? I hope so…I want to think so. This story takes place in a redwood forest and is about how two children try to save it from destruction. The message is a powerful one from which we humans can all learn.

These are two books quite different yet also similar. They will challenge your imagination, bring a smile to your face, and even a frown or grimace. Each book is well worth your time to sit back, relax, and enjoy a good read. Your reviews will be appreciated by the authors.

MAGNIFYING GLASSES, EYES, AND AUTISM

karenringalls11 Comments

The magic of a magnifying glass brings blurred words to sizes that I can see. My macular degeneration is the reason that I now carry a smaller magnifying glass in my purse, and I keep the larger one on my desk. Even though my physical eyesight is deteriorating, my ability to “see” people and my world is as great as ever.

There is the saying that the eyes are the windows to your soul. This has been attributed to the Bible, Shakespeare, DaVinci, and others, but where the quote comes from is irrelevant. Its message is powerful and I believe accurate. When we look someone in the eye with our hearts open, we truly see them.

Upon meeting Justin Tucker, I saw in his eyes a very special person. There is far more to this young man than his physical body shows. He came to this earth with all odds against him. Upon meeting the Tucker’s for the first time, he “saw” two people who he was meant to learn from. He also would teach them. Yes, he opened their eyes to a world of adoption, cerebral palsy, and autism.

Here is the link to the book launch presentation for Learning About Autism: One Mother’s Journey of Discovery & Love. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NoOkmck59M

I invite you to share how you “see” people and the world you live in. Do you see the real person when you look in his/her eyes? Have your eyes been opened to a better understanding of people, events, or causes?

EINSTEIN, DICKINSON, AND AYKROYD…

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What do these three famous people have in common?

They are just a few of MANY who have or had autism. The symptoms vary and each individual adapts to their condition differently. Their education, the parent’s acceptance and understanding, the type and severity of symptoms, and society’s reaction are all important in how those with autism adjust and adapt.

According to the DSM-V, this condition is now called Autism Spectrum Disorder, though many of us just say autism. It has clearly been determined that it is NOT related to schizophrenia.

The symptoms are poor eye contact, repetitive behaviors, and poor social interaction skills. Some have few or no spoken words, while others do not respond to their names when called.

Famous people who have been diagnosed with ASD:

  • Steve Jobs
  • Susan Boyle
  • Andy Warhol
  • Jerry Seinfeld
  • Sir Anthony Hopkins
  • Hans Christian Anderson
  • and many more.

The cause(s) of ASD has not been scientifically proven. Through MRI’s it has been determined that certain areas of the brain are different for those with autism versus the general population.

  • DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE?
  • INTERESTED IN LEARNING HOW ONE WOMAN HELPED START THE FIRST CHARTER SCHOOL FOR AUTISM IN FLORIDA?
  • DO YOU KNOW WHAT ARE CONSIDERED THE BEST TEACHING METHODS?

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND INSIGHT INTO THE WORLD OF AUTISM, EDUCATING AND RAISING A CHILD WITH AUTISM, AND WHAT ARE SOME RESOURCES, LISTEN TO THE PODCAST FROM FRESH INK GROUP ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4 AT 8:00 PM ET.

LEARNING ABOUT AUTISM

karenringalls4 Comments

My recently published book, “Learning About Autism: One Mother’s Journey of Discovery and Love” taught me about a world I knew little about. My research, interviews, and observing those with autism, opened my eyes, heart, and mind to an incredible group of people.

Listen to my interview on the Voice of Indie podcast, Wednesday, August 4 at 8 pm ET. Just click here: Voice of Indie! 

Pre-release sale in various formats (jacketed hardcover, softcover, Kindle, Nook, Kobo, GooglePlay, iTunes, and more) at retailers around the world for August 17th release.

Check out my you tube video. : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePHdWyAYDJ Hit the like and subscribe buttons. Thank you for your support.

BALLOONS AND JUSTIN!

karenringalls3 Comments

EVERYONE LOVES BALLOONS!

JUSTIN TUCKER has a deep fascination about balloons. He smiles, points up towards them, and sometimes laughter comes from his speechless voice.

In my new book, “Learning About Autism: One Mother’s Journey of Discovery and Love,” the reader will meet Justin whose life has been one challenge after another. Yet, the more love was given to him, the more he rose above the limitations of autism and cerebral palsy.

My tribute to Justin:

Preorder your copy of “Learning About Autism: One Mother’s Journey of Discovery and Love” from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Nook, GooglePlay, iTunes, and more. Release date is August 17.

Watch the new book-trailer video and be sure to hit the lie and subscribe buttons on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePHdWyAYDJs

Thank you for your support. The more we learn about Autism Spectrum Disorder, the more understanding, acceptance, and resources will come about.

BOOK LAUNCH!

karenringalls16 Comments

INTRODUCING MY MOST RECENT PUBLICATION…LEARNING ABOUT AUTISM: ONE MOTHER’S JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY AND LOVE. A CHARTER SCHOOL, TEACHING METHODS, & RESOURCES.

Carol Tucker travels the road of autism and cerebral palsy with her adopted son, Justin, now a young man who has routinely astounded physicians with his achievements. She is a special education teacher, recognized leader and children’s advocate, and one of the founders of Florida’s first charter school for autism, where she served as director. Through photos and stories, bestselling author Karen Ingalls shares Carol’s journey, then offers a wealth of resources, teaching methods, school choices, financial-aid options, and unique insights into how one very determined mother and her family continue to rise above many daunting challenges to thrive and find happiness.

Pre-order your copies now at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, and other major book distributors.

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO GYNECOLOGIC CANCER RESEARCH.

FIREWORKS

karenringalls14 Comments

WHEN SOMEONE IN THE U.S.A. THINKS OF FIREWORKS, ONE THINKS OF INDEPENDENCE DAY…THE FOURTH OF JULY. THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS COURTESY OF https://www.fireworkscrazy.co.uk/fireworks-around-the-world/

IN JAPAN, THERE IS THE SUMIDAGAWA FESTIVAL WHICH CAN BE DATED BACK TO 1732. IT IS A PYROTECHNIC COMPETITION.

THERE IS THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS IN INDIA, WHICH LASTS 4 DAYS AND DATES BACK TO 500 TO 1000 AD. FOR THE HINDUS IT IS CELEBRATING LIGHT OVER DARKNESS.

IN PERU, AND OTHER SOUTH AMERICAN COUNTRIES, FIREWORKS ARE DISPLAYED ON CHRISTMAS DAY.

FIREWORKS ARE DISPLAYED AT THE END OF RAMADAN IN DUBAI AND SOME SURROUNDING COUNTRIES.

FIREWORKS SYMBOLIZE HAPPINESS, CELEBRATION, AND NEWS OF WEALTH (http://weknowyourdreams.com/fireworks.html)

We were married on the 4th of July because we wanted it to be a day of joy and celebration…and news of wealth in the form of love. Happy Anniversary to my wonderful husband, best friend, and soul-mate.

WISHING YOU EAC A SAFE AND JOYOUS 4TH OF JULY!

TEARS: SADNESS OR JOY

karenringalls23 Comments 
Tears trickle downward
Good-byes are never easy
Some tears come from joy
When great news is shared by all
Tears are cleansing and healing.

A teardrop is a salty fluid made up of protein, water, mucus, and oil released by the lacrimal gland. It is 1% liquid and 99% feelings.

Two books I have read recently brought tears to my eyes.

The first one is titled: “The Curse of Dead Horse Canyon” by Marcha J. Fox and Pete Risingsun. It is a story of love, hate, greed, ancient traditions, respect of nature, and murder.

A 5-star review:

The book may be long, but the fascinating story kept me turning the pages. The storyline centers around the murder of Sara's husband, her search for answers, and the traditions, and beliefs of the Cheyenne people. Capitalistic greed and environmental issues are central parts of the plot.
It is well-written with beautiful landscape descriptions, believable characters, and historical facts. I often was totally immersed in the characters, Sara and Charlie, experiencing all their emotions.
I am looking forward to the next book from these two fine authors.

Award-winning author, Jan Sikes, wrote a charming and touching story with a powerful message. I love horses and have had the honor and pleasure of having them to ride and care for in my younger years. They are majestic, strong, smart, and faithful to those who treat them well. Satin and Cinders is a tender love story brought tears of sadness, hope, and joy. 

A 5-star review:

This short story about two horses is one that any human can relate to. The main two messages are: love knows no boundaries and the lessons to be learned are not always easy.
The author, Jan Sikes, has beautifully written a story about two horses. They are different, yet their love is deep.
This short story touched me deeply. It brought forth memories about love, finding my soulmate, and finding my soulmate.

No matter the reason one might shed tears it is healthy to release them. The tears are beneficial physically, emotionally, and spiritually. There are 3 types of tears: the reflex which brings forth a tear when a dust particle or insect flies into the eye. The eye reacts by producing water to flush out the unwanted particle or insect. A basal tear is what protects our eyes from dryness. The third type is the emotional tear which is released during stress. Traces of the stress-releasing hormone, endorphin, is found in minute amounts.

So, as Julie London sang many years ago, Cry Me a River, then I also encourage you to feel free to let your emotions be released through tears.