Characters

For the last several days, I've been working with my character and scene charts for my Church Doors novels.
Behind Church Doors was published in 2010. Beyond Church Doors was published in 2013. I hope to have the third Church Doors novel published in 2014.
As I review the characters who traveled from the first novel to the second, I have such a sense of familiarity. I can hear the voice of Foster Pace, the wise older Christian man who encourages NikkiMac to leave her old lifestyle and come to church. I can see Cletus transform from a local drunk hustler to a new life in the Lord, not without struggle, but possible with Christ. I hear the laughter of the children as they run and play outside after church services. I sense the darkness under the facade of Darius Muse.
A few new characters talk to me in the second novel. Anna Maria DelGrosso-a new friend to narrator NikkiMac, Lucy Bergamot- the exotic beauty shop owner, Adam Greene-the new assistant minister. So many voices, so many visions of what each character looks like.
Writers' characters come to life. We develop them so precisely that we know what they would or wouldn't say or do. But sometimes, they surprise even us. Well, gotta go, my many characters are clamoring for more attention.
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

The Holding Principle

Recently, an associate came at me in what I consider an aggressive verbal manner. She thought I had done something to insult her, but I had no idea of what she was talking about. My first reaction was to flare up at her in return, but I stopped, kept quiet, and listened to her.  I considered the fact that this type of reaction was unusual for her. I noted that she would not hear my statements or my request for clarity from her. I remembered that she's going through professional and personal stress. I let her finish, and then I replied,"I really don't understand what's going on here between us. I think I'll just walk away and think about how I should respond. I think I'm gonna pray about this before I say anything more." Then, I walked away from her. I held my peace. I prayed.
We saw each other again the next day.  She walked directly up  to me and put her hand on my shoulder. She apologized. I didn't ask for any explanation. Her eyes showed her embarrassment and sincerity. We are fine now. I'm thankful for James 1:19-20 and that I used what one preacher calls The Holding Principle.
Praise Him,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Book Review:THE CIRCLE

I usually read one book at a time, but a review about "The Circle" entices me to try two books at once. "The Circle" is by Dave Eggers. It's about a futuristic major internet company and a woman who's hired by the company. The company's influence really jars her life. In this novel, the idea of privacy is no longer good. Watchful cameras are regular. People are directed to share their lives online. If you think people are on social media sites too regularly now, imagine it being mandatory to share all about yourself with your colleagues. Imagine privacy and alone-time being suspect. It sounds like the novel "1984" for our times, doesn't it?
Decision made. I'm going to order this novel.
Smiles,
Sylvia
Also, thanks to Allan Hoffman @nj/com/business. Great review!

Healing

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made: your works are wonderful, I know that full well.  Psalm 139:14 NIV
This verse came to mind as I watched the thumb on my dominant hand heal last week. The injury was my fault. During a recent book signing event, I pulled my book cart too fast for too long. It was time to pack up and I hustled, ignoring the twitch in my thumb and wrist area. I paid for it two days later with a swollen thumb pad, an inability to rotate the thumb, and a throbbing pain. I used a recommended treatment, but more importantly, I prayed for God to heal my thumb. Meanwhile, I used my left hand to perform the tasks my thumb-immobilized right hand could not. It was awkward.
Each day, I watched the swelling go down and felt the soreness go away. On day three, I held my hands next to each other and saw that my thumbs once again matched in size and performance.
I am thankful. Next time, I 'll be careful to listen to my body parts if they give me a warning signal.
Praise Him,
Sylvia Brown-Roberts

Compassion

"Never look down on a person unless you're reaching down your hand to help pull him up."
I'm quoting a store manager who said this to me today. He said his father used to say these words to him.
I'd earlier witnessed the store manager showing a kindness to a customer ahead of me, so I told him what he did showed compassion to the customer. The quote was his humble response to my praise. What a nice experience.
Take care,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Tea Time

This is a quote from a tea bag container I found. It was peppermint tea.

"There is no trouble so great or grave that cannot be much diminished by a nice cup of tea."
Bernard Paul Heroux
1900's Basque philosopher

When I have a major problem, I pray first, then often enjoy a cup of  hot tea.

Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

10,000 Steps

There's a 10,000 steps per day contest being held at the gym. We have a highway posted on the wall with many city/state markers as destinations on our road trip up the east coast. Each participant has a sneaker with her name on it. The sneaker is moved as we travel the highway with our individual step counts. We get these counts because each player wears a pedometer and tries to walk 10,000 steps per day. Weekly, we email the step count to the contest manager. (I think 1,000 steps equal a mile on the road.) Then, the manager moves each sneaker on the road that travels up the east coast and back. It's fun to see the sneakers move along the road.
I confess that my sneaker is not making maximum progress. First, I misplaced my pedometer. Then, I found it, but dropped it into the toilet. It took a couple of days to dry it out and get it working again. Some days, I forget to wear it.  As of today, I'm the third sneaker away from the start line. I've not made much progress. I think I'll get up now and walk around the house a bit to get a few extra steps on my count. I may not win the race, but I don't plan to quit.
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Broken Mirrors

I have a habit of using a hand mirror to check out the back and sides of  my hairstyle in the wall mounted bathroom mirror. However, in the last five  months, I've managed to break four hand mirrors. No, they didn't break because of my appearance. (Heading my fun-loving, good-natured, teasing brothers and friends off at the pass.) The mirrors broke for other reasons:
I had wet hands when I picked up one mirror, so it slipped and fell to the floor.
I placed one mirror on the edge of the bathroom sink. Then, I turned and knocked it off accidentally.
I had scalp oil on my fingers, picked up the mirror, and it slid out of my fingers.
I can't remember how I broke the fourth mirror, but I recall sweeping up the pieces.
When I was in grade school, the saying was that if one broke a mirror, that person would be cursed with seven years of bad luck.
I'm thankful that being in Christ frees us from the bondage of superstition.
Take care,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

EVOO Check

I may be a little late to the party, but I do try to eat a significant amount of pure foods. So, an article about how pure some foods are, according to the food labels, caught my attention. I remember mostly the part about extra virgin olive oil. One test for checking the purity of extra virgin olive oil is mentioned. (It seems that  some olive oil brands have other less expensive oils mixed in, yet are labeled and sold as extra virgin olive oil.) The test: refrigerate the EVOO you purchased. If it thickens, it's pure. If it doesn't, your olive oil may have been joined with a less expensive oil, like corn oil. Don't laugh, but I just bought some EVOO from a 100 pennies store, and I'm going to put it in the fridge right now...
Smiles,
Sylvia

Waiting

For me, waiting is not always an easy thing to do.  However, as I mature, I get better at distracting myself when I have to wait.
When I was much younger, I used to hate to wait for a phone call from a boy I liked. I would sit by the house phone and grab the receiver at the first ring. If the call was for someone else in my family, I'd often dispense of the caller with a polite, "He/she can't come to the phone right now. I'll tell him/her you called."  I needed to have that phone line free so my crush could get through. (Of course, this was before the era of  cell phone and other such communications technology.)
Today, I'm waiting for the post office to redeliver a parcel package. I want to get it in my hands and sign for it because what's inside is a ring that's special to me. The postman didn't leave it here on the first delivery because no one was home to sign for it.  The postal service said it would be redelivered today. I've been inside the house all day, waiting. I don't want to miss the delivery again.  But, it's 3:44 pm, and my package hasn't arrived yet. I'm going to pray for more patience. Then, I'm getting on the phone to see if I can locate my package. Thankfully, I'm growing with the waiting process, so I'm not yet agitated. I do, however, want my package today.
Smiles,
Sylvia

Lottery Ticket

While I waited in a supermarket line this week, I noticed a man walk to the customer service counter. He appeared to be in his early thirties.  He was casually dressed in jeans, tee shirt, sandals, and a cap. He was pleasant, but  his request to the lady at the counter was unusual.
"Is there anything, any work I can do around here to earn a lottery ticket?"
The lady looked puzzled.
He repeated the request.
The lady said, "We don't do that type of thing here at this store."
He replied,"I just thought I'd ask. I just lost my wallet, so..." "Thanks anyway."
Then he walked out. He was still pleasant.
It just seemed odd to me, as well as to the others standing nearby.
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Ladies' Night In

I spent the night with two wonderful senior citizen ladies not long ago.  One  is in her early eighties and the other one is nearing that age, but I don't speak with her too  much about that fact. I've known her long enough to know better. Both of these faithful Christians are widows, one has been for some years and one became a widow recently. I thought it might be fun for us to get together at one house, have some coffee and snacks in our pajamas/nightgowns, relax, and enjoy each the company.
These beloved ladies are both sweet and feisty. They have finely-honed nonsense detectors and have no patience for those who use the Bible inappropriately.  The conversation was lively and fun. We had sound debates while we watched an NFL game. I only remember that Michael Vick was in it, and his team didn't win, but I don't usually watch football. They insisted I stay in the room with them for chatting, so  I did. In between plays, they talked about the old days. They reasoned like righteous sages. Their minds are sharp. They miss their spouses, but they soldier on. They are faithful warriors. I'm thankful to have had the pleasure of a night in their presence.
Living  and learning,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Sister Silly-ahh

Children are so precious. Even in the most trying situations, they can often make you smile and stop taking yourself so seriously. Consider this: It's my turn to teach the Sunday School class of 3 through 5 year-olds. Three of my students are newly 3, and haven't yet mastered the pronunciation of the letter v following the letter l in a word. We adults do it without even thinking about it, but it does require the tip of your tongue to touch the lower inside of your top front teeth. Then,your lower lip must touch the bottom of your upper front teeth. Try it and see for yourself.
Anyway, one little girl always asks my name during class. I reply,"Sister Sylvia."
She  says what sounds like,"Sister Silly-ahh."   She then gives me her biggest smile. 
You gotta love it. Plus, she has it right in the sense that I do feel silly sometimes. Some days, more than others.
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Task List

Sometimes, we run around and try to complete so many tasks each day that we wear ourselves out, yet we try to get that one more task done. That was me yesterday. I handled the writing project, church project, repairman project, housework project. The last task on my list was to buy chicken and sauce fixings  to cook for dinner. At the checkout counter, I chatted with the cashier, paid for the food, and wheeled my cart into the parking lot. It wasn't until I opened the car to unload my groceries that I realized my bag of groceries wasn't in the cart, because I didn't put it in. I rushed back into the store. The cashier smiled and pointed to the customer service area.  I said,"I left my groceries here. I didn't even put them in my cart.  I guess I'm more tired than I thought  I was!"
The ladies at customer service, the cashier, and a couple of female customers laughed with me and nodded. At least three of these ladies remarked, "I've done the same thing before."
I shortened my task list for today.
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Garage Door

The garage door repairman just left, and I'm $300 lighter in the checkbook.  What started out as a rod problem was actually a spring and pulley problem on one side. Of course, one side can't be fixed without fixing the other side, for consistent performance.  The garage door company is a trusted company I've worked with since I purchased the house many years ago.  I know I'm not being ripped off. About every  3 years, something  about the garage needs adjusting.  It makes sense; I use the garage daily. Although I'm not a material girl, I like what I like. When I looked for a home, one of my requirements was off-street parking, with a garage being preferable.  I was blessed to obtain this.  Right now, I think I'll stand in the kitchen and use the remote to make the garage door go up and down smoothly.  It'll remind me of what I just paid for.

This unexpected repair also makes me think about what  my cherished late father used to say to me, "Sis, with a house, there's always something that needs to be fixed. That's just the way it is."

Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Cheesecake Save

The recent Labor Day Family cook-in was held at my house. It was going to be a cookout, but the rainy weather called for an adjustment.  The company was wonderful, as usual. Two of my brothers, my sister, and my mother joined us, and later our college junior and her roomie arrived.

 

 

 

My brother Ray brought this Turtle Cheesecake as one of the desserts.  I salivate now as I think about this delicious concoction. Fortunately, I ate only one slice. However, two slices were left at the end of our gathering. They were reserved for the 2 twenty year-olds, who can afford the calories. However, they wanted to pick the dessert up the next day. So, the 2 slices of Turtle Cheesecake stayed in my refrigerator overnight. Every time I opened the fridge door, they called out to me.
The next day, my twenty year-old came to get some more things from her room here. She was on her way out the door. I thought about the cheesecake, but didn't mention it.  Suddenly,she turned around and said,"Oh, I forgot about the Turtle Cheesecake I left here yesterday!"
As I took the cheesecake out of the fridge and gave it to her, I came to my senses. "Thank you, Baby. I really don't need to eat another slice, but I probably will if it stays here one more night." She smiled knowingly.
Saved by the 2 young ladies with the fast metabolism.
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Yummy

This is one of my writing exercises: I choose a visual that has an impact on me and write several words that come to mind. In this exercise, I use a picture. The photo was taken when a friend and I had lunch at a diner in NJ.  I think it was called a Mediterranean Salad with chicken.

 

COLD, DELICIOUS, CRUNCHY, GREEN, HEALTHY, PROTEIN, COLORFUL, OLIVES, FILLING, PRESENTATION, AROMA, BRIGHT, OIL, LIGHT, RED, YUMMY

 

What words come to your mind?

 

Smiles,

Sylvia

www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Dr. G

At the end of my  routine physical checkup today, I remembered to give my doctor a promised copy of my second novel, Beyond Church Doors. His face lit up, he thanked me, shook my hand, and even gave me a polite hug. "I'm going to read it! I read your first novel, and now I'm going to read this one!"
That made me smile.
Take care,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

40 Ounces of Water

I went to the lab for blood work today, and it was poppin' up in there!
When I gave my doctor's script to the staff member that registers the tests, she mishandled the urine sample part of the procedure. That would have been okay except I went to the restroom before I got in the line to have my blood drawn.  The tech wondered why the lady out front didn't give me a specimen cup, and I couldn't get in the blood draw line. I was then asked to drink more water and return to the waiting room until something happened re: my urine sample. Fortunately, I'd had 20 ounces of water on the way to the lab. (Hey, I couldn't eat  because it was also a fasting test, so the water kind of kept me full for awhile.)
The idea of staying at the lab any longer than necessary prompted me to drink 4 more 5-ounce cups in rapid succession before I returned  to the waiting room. During that time, a patient felt the registration lady had been curt with her, so she told her off and left. An 11 year-old boy showed out during his blood draw. We could hear him screaming bloody murder.  His mom was so embarrassed. We could hear a cute little 3 year-old whimper a little, but came she came out with a lollipop and dried tears. One man said he hadn't heard his name called, so he'd been waiting too long. They let him get into the blood draw line. Ten minutes later, I was ready, so I requested my specimen cup and followed procedure. Soon after, my blood draw was completed and I was ready to leave. On the way out, a young lady with special needs was sitting on the floor, loudly refusing to let her escort take her into the room with the needles.
I didn't make this up, but it would be an interesting scene for one of my writing chapters...
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Another One Gone

Recently, I read another local news article about gun violence and murder. This one had a special impact, because the young man barely in his 20's was one of my former 3rd grade students. This isn't the first time I've read bad news about one of my former students, but each time I do, it hurts. I prefer to see news reports about former students who've been accepted into educational programs/colleges. I smile when I read about former students who announce graduations, marriages, mentoring, and humanitarian efforts. I feel great when former students see me in the city and tell me about their jobs and that their families are doing well. Many teachers and others who work regularly with children develop a sense of : he or she is one of my kids. We know they don't really belong to us, but we also know we are responsible for these students for most of the day for at least 180 days for one school year.
When I read that article about my former 3d grader, I went to my file of old school class pictures and found the photo with the young man in it. There he sits cross legged in the front row, hands folded obediently, eyes gazing intently at the camera lens. Now, he's gone. So sad.
Take care,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Burgers From The Lab

I just saw part of a news report about a hamburger grown in a lab from cow cells. It seems scientists took muscle cells from some organic cows and put them into a solution in a petri dish. The cells grew into strands of meat. It took thousands of these strands, bound together with some flavorings and other ingredients, to form a burger. The burger looked like a regular burger. Experts tasted the burger today. They reported that it didn't taste quite the same as a regular burger, but the consistency was quite similar. I think one taster said it was a little dry. Research is expected to continue.  Much of my beef-eating days are behind me, but I have maybe 2 or 3 burgers a year. However, this concept takes some adjusting for me. Meat grown in a petri dish. I suppose it will save cows.  Science marches on.
Smiles,
Sylvia

I just finished your book.

This is an excerpt from a note I received from someone who read Beyond Church Doors, my second novel.

Dear Sylvia,
I just finished your book. NikkiMac just cracks me up. She is so human!  There is never a dull moment in her life...My heart goes out to Cletus...I am glad Bro. Pace and Sis. Grace got together. I hope Bro. Adam Greene and NikkiMac will do the same...Be sure and let me know when your next book comes out.
Blanchie B.
July 2013

It's exciting for me when readers discuss NikkiMac, Cletus, Bro.Pace, Sis. Grace, and other characters I create as if the characters are real. I'm thankful that some readers identify with and care for so many of these characters.
Take care,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Two Young Helpful Black Males

In light of current events about young African American  males, let me share something about 2 of them, strangers to me, who came to my rescue.  Last Friday, the outer tie rod on my car broke unexpectedly after an almost two hour, pleasant drive from the shore. Back in town, I had just made a left turn onto a busy street near an intersection. When I moved into the right lane and prepared to stop at the traffic light, I heard and felt a thunk  under my driver's seat. I thought I had run over something, but there was nothing in the road. I tried to go forward and nothing happened with the wheels, but the engine worked. The same thing happened when I tried to reverse. Just a churning sound. I was stuck in a lane of traffic in the midst of a 90 plus degree heatwave, and I was bewildered. I asked God to help me and to calm me so I could think of what to do next, and put on my flashers so other drivers could notice a problem and drive around me. I got out to see what was wrong under the car. Then, I called AAA auto service and the police, so they could direct traffic around me for the safety of all concerned. I prayed some more, and a muscular young African American male stopped his car and offered to push my car off the road into a nearby open lot while I waited for AAA. He couldn't, because we hadn't yet discovered the broken tie rod and that the front wheels were turned toward each other. I thanked him for trying to help me. He was so nice. Sooner than expected, the AAA truck arrived. The driver/tech was a young African American male, who  quickly discovered the broken outer tie rod. I called and canceled the police first, then called my mechanic and relayed this diagnostic info. He knew what parts to get so he could fix my car. The AAA driver efficiently loaded my car onto the flatbed truck and took me and my car home. He was so pleasant and respectful. I didn't get the names of either of the two young Black males, but I'm thankful.
God's protection. Awesome. And two very kind young African American males.
Keep the faith,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

 

A Recent Review

In June 2013, I received this message from a popular author.  Earlier this year, I met a friend of hers who bought a copy of my 2nd novel, Beyond Church Doors.

"Hi, Sylvia Brown-Roberts! One of my friends received a copy from you at the Women's Expo, and she told me how much she loved the story. She felt like the Lord was confirming His love through it. Thank you!"
Carrie T.

This is one of the main reasons I write: to tell about the Lord in a way that touches hearts.

www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Keep the faith...
Sylvia

Approximations

Early in my teacher/staff trainer years, I worked in a program that involved Behavior Analysis techniques. One of them was about shaping desired behaviors in students, and stressed that approximations of  a desired behavior should be observed. Those approximations pointed to the student's success at reaching the desired end behavior. The small improvements were noted and praised. The student was encouraged.
Similarly, when I get too down on myself for not totally meeting a goal, it's helpful to recognize whatever progress I have made toward the end goal. I remind myself to keep going forward. I pray, of course.
I also have a magnet posted in my work room. The words are from an artist/writer named Jodi Hills. I discovered her work by checking out her website after I purchased a magnet that has one of her messages:
She wasn't where she had been.
She wasn't where she was going,
but she was on her way.
jodi hills
Nice...
Take care,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Heritage Days, June 2013

I had a table at the Heritage Days Festival on Sat., June 29, 2013. It was held outdoors in downtown Trenton on a sunny, humid, clear day. I carted my 2 novels (Behind Church Doors and Beyond Church Doors) and set up in my spot. It was good to talk to the people who stopped by. Many of them I knew, many of them I met that day. There was great music, lots of food, exciting activities for the many children, and  useful information available. The other vendors were friendly and helpful. The cultural flavor was varied and warm. People purchased my novels and a couple of young people had me share information about the writing life with them. They want to be authors one day. Good vibrations...
Here are 2 pictures of my table.
Peace,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Encouragement

My primary source of encouragement and direction is scripture. 2 Timothy 3:16-17- these are two verses that many of us church children memorized back in the day when our elder church teachers stressed the memorization of Bible verses.
From  time to time, I come across the words of some

writers that offer positive points to consider. I saw the piece above in a newspaper named Mercer County Woman, a group that sponsors the annual Women's Expo. I've been a featured author in their Book Nook for a few years now. Thought I'd pass it along to you.
Take care,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Coffee, Again

I like coffee. I have one cup a day, usually in the morning, and I don't drink any in the afternoon or later in the day. I usually brew my own at home. I'm not a coffee expert, so the rare times I do go to a specialty coffee shop, I have a hard time ordering. It has become so complicated. I've been to a popular coffee chain about 3 times lately, because I was out early and didn't want to take the time to brew coffee when I got home. My plan was to buy a cup of coffee, take it home, and add my own sweetener and flavored creamer. All I wanted was a regular sized cup with nothing but the coffee in the cup. It went something like this:
"May I have a regular coffee, please?"
"What size do you want, Miss? Large?"
"I want a regular size, like 8 ounces."
"Oh, you want a medium. And what do you want in your coffee?"
"I want it plain, with no sugar or cream, please."
The worker looked at  me like I was quite special. "Oh, you mean you want it black."
I thought plain coffee meant black coffee, but I was wrong. I know that because the worker wouldn't go off script-plain didn't mean black. Black meant coffee with nothing in it. I think she said that regular means coffee with sugar and cream.  You'd think I'd get this by now, but it's one of those things my brain doesn't want to learn.
Smiles,
Sylvia
www.sylviabrownroberts.com

Oh, you may notice I've changed the website name. It works better for me.

Some Tasks Can Wait

I'm behind schedule in my writing today because I made what I thought was going to be a quick run to the store. There was only one roll of bathroom tissue left in our storage closet, and there are 3 commodes in this house. One roll left is not a good plan. While at the store, I noticed an older man who seemed to move to the opposite end of each aisle I was in. My personal radar didn't indicate danger, and there were others in the store, so I grabbed the bathroom tissue and looked for the other few items on my list. (BTW- we used to call bathroom tissue toilet paper long ago).
The older man caught up with me near the  fruit drinks. I greeted him in a friendly, respectful manner- and the flood gates opened. He walked near me and talked to me about everything from his childhood in Harlem, the value of buying a used car, a fair-minded mechanic in the township, safe and unsafe parts of our city, his lovely wife, the stores in the area with the nicest restrooms, the taxes on the house he and his wife own, and so on. I couldn't get a word in.  After about 5 minutes of smiling and nodding politely in response to his nonstop chatter, I grew a little impatient-this was supposed to be a quick stop for me. My writing task was waiting!
Then, my impatience was checked. This man just wanted someone to talk to while he  did his shopping. This was a social outlet for him. He was harmless, he needed my ear for a little while.  A few minutes more, and he wound down enough for me to say,"Okay, sir. You have a nice day." Then I moved away from him. He smiled warmly.
He's probably somebody's parent, and I wouldn't want someone to be impatient with my elderly parent. Who knows?  I might be in this man's position one day.
Anyway, I'm glad I listened to him.
Smiles,
Sylvia Brown-Roberts
www.nikkimacproductions.com

Do You Remember?

My short term memory situation is becoming amusing to me. I can remember the black and white crinoline dress with the black sash that I wore in my kindergarten class photo. However, I can't remember the details of the conversation I had this morning at 8:15.
 I can remember so many details about my sister and brothers as we were growing up in the family home, but I can't remember what I came upstairs to fetch an hour ago.
I can remember practically all the lyrics to the songs from my teen years, but I have to think hard to recall what I ate for dinner the other night.
The good thing is, when I get quiet and settle down for bed tonight, those elusive thought snippets will find their way to the front of my brain. I'll remember this morning's conversation, why I went upstairs, and also the dinner meal. But then, I have to be prepared for the same memory dance tomorrow. Same dance, different details.
Is it just me? I think not.
Smiles,
Sylvia Brown-Roberts
www.nikkimacproductions.com

Frozen Grapes

I know I'm probably late to the party, but I recently experienced a cool treat. A sister friend gave me a birthday gift: a spa treatment. I really enjoy a good spa, and this was a new place for me. It was quaint, an old mansion with antique fixtures and furniture. So soothing. After our individual treatments, we were led into a parlor with sofas, chairs, and an old piano. We sat at a table and were served large, cold, frozen grapes in a glass!  I never thought to freeze grapes, but what a pleasant visual and taste sensation! Sometimes the simple treats in life  are the best treats.

 

This is  picture of the glass, minus the (eaten) grapes, along with my sister friend Joyce's fingertips, the spa's business card, and the postcard from my latest novel.

Maybe you'll try some frozen grapes!

Smiles and best wishes,

Sylvia Brown-Roberts

Readers' Questions in May 2013

I've been accosted in a friendly way lately by readers who've completed my 2nd novel, Beyond Church Doors (Jan. 2013).  Questions for me:

Is someone really stalking NikkiMac?  If so, who is it and why is it happening?
Who is the mysterious man that NikkiMac noticed at the church building?
Where is the missing ring box?
When is Jacee coming back to Trenton from the graduate education program?
Are Adam and NikkiMac getting married?
When is your 3rd novel going to be ready?
What church is this in your novels?
Don't you think you should get busy writing the next novel?  ("I am," I reply.)

I'm glad folks are interested enough to approach me about this!
Take care,
Sylvia
www.nikkimacproductions.com
"Author Sylvia Brown-Roberts" on Facebook

Bugs

A few weeks ago, I went to a place to take care of some business. While in the building's parking lot, I noticed a truck parked there with lettering on the side that advertised pest removal, specifically bedbugs. I admit that this did give me pause, but I wanted to complete this business task, so I went inside the building.  While waiting, I inquired about the truck outside and was told that there had been some of these critters sighted, and that's why the pest removal staff was there.  I completed my business in that building, but I didn't place anything of mine down on the chairs, or the tables, or on the floor. I held my coat and my purse the entire time, and for good reason. Years ago, I returned from a bus trip  to the South where we stayed in at least 2 hotels on the way and back. Once back home, I discovered that German roaches had traveled back with me via my luggage.  An exterminator said this was how they got here, because these roaches are not common to the area in which I live.
Anyway, you can imagine that if I didn't welcome the hitchhiker pests from my trip, I truly wouldn't want to bring bedbugs to my home!
The writer in me says there's a story in this somewhere. Hmmm...
Take care,
Sylvia
www.nikkimacproductions.com

Alarming

I had an unusual experience earlier this week. I was in Atlantic City at the mall on the Boardwalk when I saw one of my favorite shoe stores. I gave in to the urge to look around inside, and soon was busily trying on 2 pairs of shoes. I was the only customer in the store. So happy.
Suddenly, an alarm went off!  It reminded me of those alarms we had at elementary school when I was teaching. The salesperson recognized it as a true fire alarm, and told me that all people had to evacuate the mall. A public address system alerted us that there was a fire emergency. The salesperson went to lock up the store, I guess, and l walked into the mall with one pants leg rolled up and my own shoes hastily put on without my socks. I joined the other salespersons and customers and staff who mostly looked startled to be forced from the mall. It was kind of strange. I was pretty lighthearted about it because I thought it was a false alarm of some sort. We got outside, the firemen came and checked out some smoke from some building construction at the mall site, and we were allowed to return in about 20 minutes.
Here's the really thought-provoking part of this experience: I remarked how strange this evacuation was to a lady next to me while we were leaving the mall, and she said, "I just arrived here from Boston, so I am terrified by this!"  She was referring, of course, to the recent bombings at the Boston Marathon. A sobering thought...
Take care,
Sylvia

View From a Teen Girl

I attended a Ladies Day event at church this past Saturday. There were 3 guest speakers, and one was a 17 year old young lady. All 3 speakers were interesting, but there was something special about hearing a message of faith's perseverance from a teenager. I was impressed with her because of her poise, sincerity, and because of the way her message came through.
She spoke of how she faces life's temptations and how she repents when she falls short. She told us of how she prays for strength and asks for forgiveness when she needs to do so. She encouraged the young ladies  in the audience to listen to their parents because they really DO know what they're talking about, since they have more experience with life. Her spirit was humble and her message was clear. She was refreshing. It was wonderful to see a positive view of life from a teen girl's eyes.  I pray that God will continue to bless her and all of our children.
Thanks, Miss G!
Take care,
Sylvia Brown-Roberts
http://www.nikkimacproductions.com

A Conversation

I'm trying to take more advantage of opportunities to do good to others. This includes sharing the Good News. You may know some people who do not have an active religious life, but they notice  that you worship regularly and attempt to live a faithful life, by grace. Have any of these people asked you questions about your faith and the Bible? Did you feel comfortable enough to answer the questions?
I had a surprise conversation with a business contact recently. He brought up the topic of religion and asked me questions. I prayed silently that I would answer the questions in the right manner. He seemed interested, so we talked for about 30 minutes before his next appointment. The next day, I decided to mail him more information about our topic: a couple of religious tracts and a sheet with the location of some congregations in his area. The following week, I received the business packet he'd prepared for me in the mail. The tracts I sent him were attached to the work  he'd done for me, but not the church addresses. I thought,"Maybe I did too much by sending him the tracts. Maybe I offended him."
Two more weeks went by before I heard that he'd been hospitalized in critical condition, unable to communicate. He's still hospitalized.
I'm thankful he and I had that conversation about faith and salvation, and I continue to pray for him.
Keep the Faith,
Sylvia

Channel Change

Have you ever noticed that something changed when you entered and/or left a room? I'm not talking about being  paranoid or overly sensitive. I'm talking about a simple fact.
When I went to the dentist this morning, I entered the foyer and noticed that the television in the adjoining waiting room was tuned to the show called Cheaters, and a male patient was watching it. (Cheaters is a type of reality show where unsuspecting, unfaithful partners are exposed on camera. A while ago, at the urging of a young person, I watched it to see why it appealed to the young person. Of course, we had a long conversation about the concept of cheating, but that's another story for another day.)
I signed in at the desk in the foyer and headed for the waiting room. When the man saw me come into the room, he immediately changed the channel to a show that had religious songs and people in robes on the screen. I don't know if he didn't want me to see he was watching Cheaters or if he thought the religious music was more appropriate for me. I wasn't dressed for church; I had on my gym clothes because I was going to the gym afterwards. Maybe he was just being considerate. Maybe it was a coincidence. But, when the hygienist called me and I followed her out of the waiting room, I heard the Cheaters music again. Interesting, huh?
Smiles,
Sylvia

Delayed Gratification

Okay. This is my confession.
I waited until the day after the recent holiday. Then, I went to one of the finest chocolate shops in this area and bought 2 medium-sized boxed chocolate covered eggs. I waited because I knew they would be half price the Monday after the holiday. I bought one that had a coconut cream filling. I bought another that had a fruit and nut filling. I ate them both, one piece a day until they were gone.  They were delicious.
I added two extra days to my gym workouts during this chocolate-eating phase.
You see, I can delay chocolate gratification until it's on sale for half price.
Smiles,
Sylvia Brown-Roberts
Visit me at www.nikkimacproductions.com

Saving Blueberries

I have rediscovered a taste for breakfast oatmeal. While I haven't graduated to the steel cut oats version, I like the instant and the basic versions. My favorite flavor right now is the reduced sugar with apples. Coincidentally, I found that I like to add blueberries to this oatmeal, and I discovered this when I saw some blueberries in the fridge that my husband must have purchased and forgotten. Some of  the blueberries were starting to lose their plumpness. Some were wrinkled. Some looked like raisins. I felt sorry for the forgotten berries, so I counted out ten of the less pretty ones, rinsed them, and put them in my oatmeal. Delicious!
I've done this every day this week, and as yet, my husband hasn't seemed to notice. When he does, I'll gladly admit to this practice. He'll likely shake his head. Meanwhile, the nicest-looking blueberries remain in the container. I'll probably rescue them next week.
As for me, I'm getting antioxidants and a sweet taste while saving blueberries from mold and the waste can.
Smiles,
Sylvia

No You Didn't!

I wasn't planning to blog about this today. I had a totally different piece in mind, but I got distracted by something I saw in a no-frills food store today. You know, the kind of store where you bring your own grocery bags and bag your own food. (Please don't judge me because I like a good bargain.)
Anyway, as I pushed my shopping cart down the aisle and tried to decide on pretzel rods or low fat chips for my snack tonight, I noticed a neatly-dressed man hovering by the cookies. He kept moving back and forth near the cookies and looking around. Well, as soon as I see a person looking around, I automatically pay attention, because maybe there's something about to go down that I need to know about.
The man mumbled to no one in particular, opened a bag of chocolate chip cookies a little bit, slid a cookie out, and ate the cookie!  He carefully replaced the bag on the shelf. He looked around some more, walked away, walked back, and did the same thing again!
My first impulse was to say,"You're not supposed to do that."  But, something kept me quiet. Then, he noticed me looking at him and moved on to another part of the store. I heard him later speaking to a store worker in a very intelligent manner, asking where some other product was in the store. He even had money, I saw later at the checkout.
I'm not usually caught off guard, but today I was.  I would feel so guilty if I opened packaging and ate food I didn't pay for, but this guy was totally at ease.
What would you have done?
Take care,
Sylvia

Hoops Found

I found my hoop earrings! Yay! In fact, I'm wearing them right now. I wrote about this in a 3/6/13 post called Hoops, and it worked out just like I wrote. I stopped searching for them, and they turned up. Not like magic, of course. They were in a small purse that I often use when I go to the gym. I grabbed this purse last week after not using it for awhile, stuck my hand into a side pocket, and there were my 14K hoop earrings. I did a little dance when I saw them.
I said I'd keep you posted, and now I have. Hope you find the objects you're looking for, too.
Smiles,
Sylvia

Aspirin

I was in a dollar discount store a couple of weeks ago. When I got in line to check out, I noticed a young lady who looked to be between 15 and 18 years old. Sometimes it's hard to tell, but her conversation sounded more young than old. She was buying a home pregnancy test and I think she was telling the 2  older male workers  at the cash register how nervous she was about the possible results of the test. One of the men appeared to offer comfort by saying she'd be okay. Since I came in on the tail end of this conversation, I wasn't sure about all that was going on. Then, the young lady took her purchase and walked out of the store. The two men looked at me and shook their heads, like they felt sorry for her. One of them said, "I told her to take an aspirin for that in the future. Take an aspirin, place it between her knees and keep it there the next time she feels tempted. That way, she won't have to go through this nervousness about getting pregnant."  
I don't think he meant any harm, but I felt some kind of way about his statement to me. By the time I paid for my purchases and left the store to catch her, the young lady was gone. 
Take care,
Sylvia

Bad Files

As I work at my computer, my phone rings. I usually let the caller leave a message when I'm working, but this time I  answer the phone.
"Hello?"
"Yes, this is ---- from XXX Computer Services, and we've discovered that you just  had harmful files downloaded to your computer. These files can give your computer a virus or can make your computer run slowly."
"Who are you, and where did you say you're calling from?"
"I'm calling from XXX Computer Services, and I want to help you clean these bad files from your computer. If you'll just turn your computer on, I'll tell you how to remove these bad files from your computer. Please turn on your computer at this time."
I can hear many other people talking in the background, and the person who called me is trying to keep to a script. I envision a room full of cubicles, with a person in each cubicle trying to sell something or scam someone. I think, "If this person doesn't know that my computer is already on, she is probably up to no good. Not today."  I end the call, and shake my head.
As the old folks say, "I didn't just fall off the turnip truck."
Smiles,
Sylvia

Hoops

Like many of us, I have my casual go-to items that  I wear often. I get a lot of mileage out of  a certain pair of jeans, a couple of tee shirts, a certain coat or hat, a certain house coat, some favorite socks. You know, the items you reach for when you're hanging out at home or running to the store right quick, as they say. I have a pair of 14K hoop earrings that I wear almost daily when I'm out and about. They are just the right size, they stay hooked, they don't snag on my coat collar. I like the way they look on my earlobes.Well, I had these hoops, until a few weeks ago. I haven't been able to find them, and I miss them. I have a habit of taking my earrings off when I talk on the phone, but I usually place the earrings in the same spot when I do this. I must have put them in a different spot, because I've searched for several days and can't find them. Maybe I'll do what people used to say when I was small. "Stop looking for them, and they'll turn up when you're least thinking about them." I'll keep you posted...
Smiles,
Sylvia

Writing Inspiration

Many people I meet provide the inspiration for characters in my writing. Today I spoke with a woman whose flavor is recreated in a scene from Beyond Church Doors.  She is reading this, my second novel, and paid special attention to one character's traits and conversations about her hobby.

"That sounds like the way I think about crocheting, Sylvia. How did you capture the feeling and the details so clearly?"

"I listened to you when you spoke to me about your crochet pieces and how carefully you work them. I just listened."

"No, you did more than that, Sylvia. You really heard me and got me! In this character, you show how important these crocheting projects are to me. Thank you."
I was both thankful for and humbled by her reaction.
Take care,
Sylvia

Bingo

In a conversation today with a female acquaintance, the topic turned to things we do for recreation. She told me she likes to play Bingo once a week. I think she said the games are held in a community or church hall. I used to play Bingo as a child, and my students enjoyed the game. With the students, sometimes the winner would win a small treat (pretzels, small bag of fruit snacks, cookie, etc.). Other than playing Bingo with children, I rarely play it anymore. However, many adults I know say they have fun doing so, and Bingo prizes  now include designer purses and considerable sums of money. So why was I surprised when my acquaintance today said if people are not in the hall/game room by a certain time, they can't enter? The doors are locked at the start of the game and no one can enter until the game is over. She said this is a security measure because the winnings are "cash money" and, in an urban area, this measure keeps certain uninvited people from taking what does not belong to them. (I'm writing this in a politically correct way.) Wow...I guess I'm being naive. I never connected Bingo with getting jacked. (I did not write that in a politically correct way.)
Take care,
Sylvia

Rescue

The last day I was able to use my laptop was January 29, 2012. On January 30, it would not start, no  matter how many corrective measures I tried. I realized this was far beyond my limited computer repair expertise, so I called my tech-savvy brother and tried to fit myself into his repair schedule. A few years ago, it would not have mattered too much to me not to have daily access to my laptop, but  my life has changed.  I'm a writer/author, a blogger, and at the start of a marketing campaign for my 2nd novel, BEYOND CHURCH DOORS- and no working computer?!?
While I waited for my brother to get to my laptop, I borrowed my significant other's a couple of days, but he needed it himself most days. I used my small tablet, but it doesn't have all the capacity I need for my work. I was tempted to go to the local library, to a friend's house, or to a corner  of some facility's computer lab. However, my brother came through yesterday, traveled more than an hour and  half one way,  picked up my sick laptop, and left me a loaner. Yay! It's not the same as having my own- the one I'm so used to I can work it with one eye open- but it's the next best thing!  
Hooray for rescuers!
Take care,
Sylvia

Returns

I'm one of those women who carries a large purse for some outings and a smaller, more casual purse for other outings. For example, if I'm about to  zip out to the grocery store, I put my wallet in a small purse and head out the door. Conversely, if I'm about to attend a business meeting, I pack a larger and more chic purse.
On Saturday, I purchased a replacement small purse that was on sale. I didn't take the paper stuffing out of it until today, right before I left to run errands. I unzipped an inside pocket and found a new dime inside. This made me smile and think of an old tradition. Long ago, I was told to put a new coin inside a gift wallet or handbag before I gave the gift. This was to wish prosperity to the recipient. Now, I don't say that this worked, but it was a kind gesture.
Anyway, I'll keep the dime until I return to the local shop where I bought the purse. I'll even offer to return the dime to the shop owner, and we'll likely share a laugh about it.
I wonder if I'd offer the money to the shop owner if it was a 100 dollar bill instead of a dime. Would you? Something to think about.
Smiles,
Sylvia

Kitchen Floor

Here's a real quick tip.
If you want your roommate, children, spouse, or any other member of your household to abruptly return home, all you have to do is mop and wax the kitchen floor. Gone are the dirt and grit from shoe soles, the old spills  and stains that appear to be visible only to you, because your floor is now clean! It is almost a guarantee that once you finish the floor and admire it while it dries, one or more of your people will come home. And of course, they will have to go into the kitchen because they need to go  to the  refrigerator or the cabinet or any other place in the kitchen.  As you watch them track up your clean floor, smile, and remember how much you love them...
Smiles,
Sylvia

Bathroom Tissue

I'm still trying to figure out what to think about this one.
I saw promotional bathroom tissue paper for the first time last week. It looked like regular tissue, but it had a message repeated on one side of each square. The message was from a group that apparently believes humans should go vegan.
The text indicated that slaughterhouses are unclean and that certain bacteria contaminates half of all meat from slaughterhouses.
It seems like a strange place to put information. I've heard of reading while in the bathroom, but reading the tissue?...
Smiles,
Sylvia

The Finish Line

Happy New Year 2013!  Sending out good wishes to all.
True story. As I was leaving the gym today, a fellow member I hadn't seen in a few weeks entered. We exchanged hugs and greetings, then she exclaimed, "Hey Sylvia, I'm still reading your book! For real, want to see?" She pulled Behind Church Doors from her tote bag and flipped through the pages to show me how far she was into the novel.  I was impressed, because she's told me that it takes her forever to finish a book. Then she said, " I really like NikkiMac!"  She was referring to the main character in my first and second novels. I'm fine tuning the second novel, which is coming out in a few weeks.
The lady at the gym encouraged me today, and I want to encourage anyone who is currently working on a positive project. Keep at it.  Pray about it.  Go for the finish line.  Give God thanks for your talent and energy.
Keep the faith,
Sylvia