Beams by DiDi

Perception

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 05 Nov 2014 03:46:00 +0000

I held the rope with all my might,
believing I'd be pulled in safely.

I held on tight with no one in sight,
believing I held a line to safety.

When my strength was gone, I dreamt of home,
trying not to give in to anxiety.

With great determination I gained composure,
holding hope to return to a welcome society.

Holding tight. Holding on.
I put it all behind me.

Once I made it through...once I finally broke loose...
my horror, my truth, my grasp...was on my noose.

DiDi Hendley
02-08-12

Libby and Joe and the Goodreads Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 05 Aug 2014 17:36:00 +0000

Announcing the Whirlwind Love: Libby's Journey giveaway on Goodreads!

Register to get win one of five signed copies of Libby's Journey August 7-31, 2014 below on Goodreads! Be sure and share the link with friends!

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Whirlwind Love

by DiDi Hendley

Giveaway ends August 31, 2014.

See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter to win

Licks & Lines

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 16 Jun 2014 17:52:00 +0000

Licks & Lines

Licks & Lines is a feature column in the fictional magazine THE BACK ROADS OF MUSIC

Feature writer, Melody Muse, keeps up with singers and musicians on the road.

Hey…all you L&L fans! I recently covered the acts of the Oklahoma State Fair and caught up with none other than Joe King, who is rumored to be parting ways with his agent/manager Andrue Holecomb, former partner to the man behind TBK, as some say, Marty Frost. Marty hasn’t been seen in a long while.; Athough that’s another rumor entirely, I hear his health has declined; and he’s pretty much a recluse in his California-mansion-built-by-Kings. Maybe someday, I’ll be over there and can check in with Mr. Frost to scoop some poop for you...my dear readers.

According to their website (which seems to be managed by Holecomb’s staff), The Brothers King have been playing a few state fairs. But I happen to know that TBK--or at least the sibling part of it--have played a few small venues for the last couple months…places I guess we can call their “stompin’ grounds.” Sources who shall remain nameless tell me they’re playin’ for the bread and butter that Holecomb’s been holding out. I hear the parting of their ways has been pretty intense…to say the least.

But, hey…that’s all just scooped poop…RIGHT?

Joe King was backstage and gave me a couple minutes, so here’s: Melody Muse’s The Poop, The Scoop, and The Coda ‘fore The Road-uh.

Melody Muse: Hey, Joe! Got a couple minutes to scoop the poop?

Joe King: I always have time for you, Mel! Thanks!

MM: Rumor [and the TBK website! -mm] has it that your musical career is about to be behind you…any truth?

JK: Nah, man. I’m just shifting gears. This was the last gig I was contractually obligated to do…so now I’m finally free of the baggage of the man who held the helm and wrote the checks. We’ll be taking a break, but the fans seem to remember us, so we’ll be back…sometime…somehow. Don’t count us out, yet. God willing…anyways. [He’s just got the greatest grin! -mm]

MM: So, what are you doing?

JK: Doin’ another movie. Marty lined this up a while back…God bless ‘im. He’s always been good to us…and we miss him more than words can say. I hope he’s feeling better soon. This one’s a western…so I’m heading to South Dakota tomorrow as part of an ensemble cast. I get to shoot guns and ride horses…so that’s not a bad way to earn a paycheck! I’m lookin’ forward to it.

MM: And Chuck?

JK: I guess you’ll need to ask him. He always lands on his feet…like the alley tom-cat he is…heh. He’s around here somewhere…you should go talk to him.

MM: I heard about his accident…he’s okay? And have ya got time for one more?

JK: Shoot! And yeah—he’ll recover...he's teflon.

MM: I hear you’re keepin’ company with a certain redhead…anything serious? Are you about to break some hearts, Joe?

JK: Well…

MM: Oh no! You just crossed your arms! [He’s laughing…and looking at his shoes or over his shoulder…like he’s in trouble, folks! I think I hit a nerve! -mm]

JK: Huh…well, man. I guess I should answer that with ‘I don’t kiss and tell, Mel.’ [Ah! A Joe King blue-eyed wink! I’m melting! -mm] Let’s just say that I met the sweetest woman in the world…with a heart as big as the sky…and the right-sized chariot at just the right time. Who knows where the road leads…right? Ya won’t know ‘til ya get there. I mean…I ain’t dead…yet. Right?

Wow! And there ya have it. Joe is such a down-to-earth guy. So easy on the eyes and [when he’s not ranting…as I’ve heard he’s been doing a lot of that lately,] so nice to talk to. And while you couldn’t see it…dear reader…that was a mighty big grin on his face…talking about Ms. Red. Well…that’s it for now. I might just have to follow that long line of ‘the guitargod’ Chuckles-Chickies and scoop the poop a little more!

Laters, y’all! -mm

The taste of regret

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 15:06:00 +0000

by DiDi Hendley

© April 4, 2014

Just as his small fingers reached his prize in the bowl, he glanced around the room. He was still alone. He snatched the mushy blue-grey ball swiftly and turned to find a hiding place to devour it...his prize...alone. He smiled at the thought of not having to share it with anybody else. As he stepped off the box that lifted him to the prize, the flaps broke. He fell into the broken box, and his prize landed several feet away.

His mother ran into the room. She frowned at the broken ball and the beige ooze splattered across the floor. Her face wore her disappointment for the tiny lad, crumpled within the broken cardboard.

His eyes reflected a mix of apology and disappointment.

"I told you to leave it alone," she said, crossing the floor to her toddler.

"I'm hungry."

"I guess we found it too late. It's already turned, so it would've tasted bad," she sat cross-legged beside him and leaned against the cabinet door.

She held his hand as he climbed out of the box and snuggled in her lap. She could hear the grumbling complaints of his stomach, and hugged him tightly. She gathered and flattened the broken box with her right hand as she hugged him and stroked his arm with her left. A pecan escaped the folds of the box and rolled toward her, as if a gift from God. In disbelief, they looked at each other, then the nut. She snatched it in her hand, and he wriggled in her lap to get a better look. With a swift clinch, the nut cracked in her palm. She brought her hand to her nose and smelled, then smiled. She waved it across his nose, and the scent of the meat inside wafted across his face. He smiled.

She held the broken nut in her palm, picked out the broken shell, and piled them beside her on the floor. She picked out the largest piece and placed it in his dirty hand.

He devoured it with urgency.

She smiled as she picked another large piece from the opposing side, leaving crumbs and bitter behind. She held it up; and when he tried to grab it, she pulled it away.

"Slow down this time. There aren't any more."

He nodded, and gently took the nut from her fingers. Her stomach barked in protest. He looked at it, guilt on his face. His eyes teared as he looked into hers.

She shook her head and pushed the nut to his lips.

He looked at it with regret and took a nibble. He held the rest to her mouth.

She smiled, eyes brimming with tears. "Yours." She pushed it toward his hungry mouth as he savored his first bite. He reluctantly obliged, and lay his head on her chest as he slowly chewed.

She picked the last crumbs of the meat from the nut with her fingertip and placed them on her tongue. She nibbled at them with her front teeth and sighed.

"Mom?"

She cuddled him, "Yes, son?"

"Why do they call it orange?"

They both glanced at the blue-gray ball with beige ooze splattered on the floor.

"Son, when your grandma was a girl, they were orange. Then scientist believed they could genetically alter them. The government said it was okay. So now…"

Win a Kindle Fire!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 15 Mar 2014 19:41:00 +0000

Win a Kindle Fire HDX, Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash ($229 value)
This is a joint AUTHOR & BLOGGER GIVEAWAY EVENT! Bloggers & Authors have joined together and each chipped in a little money towards a Kindle Fire HDX 7".

All New Kindle Fire HDX 7" Giveaway

The winner will have the option of receiving a 7" Kindle Fire HDX (US Only - $229 Value)

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The Master of Edaun

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 11 Aug 2013 20:51:00 +0000

My brother is a published author! Check out his book:
The Master of Edaun-Blood Brothers by D.E. Hendley, Jr.

The Master of Edaun: Blood of Brothers
The righteous warriors shall prevail!

Three Native Americans meet in the military and discover their lives mirror: Each were taught the artistry of weapons and have visions of medieval warfare.

Each had twisted fathers, and each enjoyed the life as knights and swordsmanship. After their stints in the military, they decide to band together as archaeologist and discover another world. A world where evil rules. As they journey deep into a world where evil reigns, they wonder if their fathers were seers of the future...or do things really connect? Human kind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread within it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together. All things connect.

Available at Amazon.com in paperback or Kindle. Check it out and don't forget to give him a great review! :)

So, for fun, (and because I'm the best little sis he has...) I created a little promo item for him...Thanks, Shutterfly!

Mug

View the entire collection of cards.

Remembering Dad on Father's Day 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 21:53:00 +0000

This Father’s Day…is a most difficult day.

My amazing Dad passed away just a month ago. Just because he’s not here—he still deserves to be honored, because he is and always will be the man by which all other men are measured in my life. He gave me words to aspire to call myself—whether I ever qualify. I will always think of him and reach for the highest aspirations, because he gave me the best foundation.

So, I search for the word…the one word to define my Dad…but it’s too tough to choose.

Tenacious—is the first word that comes to mind. I’ve never known anybody who had the determination that I saw in him. I remember the story he told of how he came to work at the phone company. He worked in a grocery store, and wanted to work for Southern Bell. Every day he’d stop by and ask if they had any positions. Every day, they would say no. He stopped by so often, as a matter of fact, that they anticipated his question and would say “not today,” before he even asked.

Until one day…

He worked for Southern Bell for 34 years. More than one person told us that they always hoped Gene would answer their call when, at mere minutes before quitting time, they would place a trouble call into the office. Anybody else would let the phone ring. Not Gene. No, he would answer and troubleshoot—didn’t matter how long it took to figure out the problem.

That’s my Dad.

Tenacity was born in him, actually. A 2 lbs, 4 oz. baby boy, born in the early thirties…survived and thrived. He slept on a pillow for a bed and had handkerchiefs for diapers…so the story goes.

He was made from tough stuff.

I must remember...that I am, too.

Parkinsons took so much of him away—his motor skills became worse almost daily. He loved to do woodwork—I recall as a child seeing many things he’d made with his hands—wooden boxes, a little house (complete with flooring used in our very house), stools, baby doll high chairs, and most especially doll houses.

The first dollhouse included Popsicle stick siding—hand cut and placed with glue and pins—until his hands would hurt to the point that he’d have to stop…for a while. The finished house was to be for Mom, but his firstborn grandchild was a girl…so, of course, it was passed on to her on her third birthday. Mom's would come later.

And then another grandbaby girl…

and, then another. More houses—built and passed on to them.

Another house was donated to a charity function, and yet another was made on consignment. In his later years, he built one for Mom—but picked it up wrong. It shifted on the foundation, twisting the house so that it rocked. He decided to salvage it by cutting the top floor off and making an attic from it. This was about twenty-five years after the first one—and by this time Parkinsons had taken away much of his dexterity and reasoning. He started another foundation, cut walls, and painstakingly whittled the columns for a new house—and now it remains unfinished. Parkinsons finally won—but he gave it his all. That’s the first time I ever remember him giving up…it just wasn’t in his nature.

He was always a good sport.

Taking pills and going to appointments was just a way of life. He never complained. The last years, he was taking 14 different meds--multiple times a day. He never complained. Every night, he’d check the calendar to see where we had to go and when.

He had a routine: routines were good.

I pray that I remember Dad before I ever open my mouth to complain. Then I will not open my mouth, but smile instead.

It was around the seventh of May...I came into his hospice room after work, and he asked me, “Where am I going 5:15? It was just after 4pm, and I knew he wasn’t going anywhere. I told him that we didn’t have anywhere to be…but if he needed to go somewhere that was okay.

That was that.

Cowboy-at heart.

Dad read every Louis L’Amour book written. He had a collection of hardbacks and paperbacks. When there were no more L’Amour books, he picked up Johnstone westerns. We had a list and would visit the library, bringing home half-dozen at the time. He loved spending his days in the stories. Sometimes we’d visit the library a couple-times a week. He loved old westerns on TV, too.

Tom and Sam should’ve made more Sacketts movies, because they were the best.

As a writer, I will think...every time I write…is this something someone can appreciate? Is this someone can love? Is this something that can teach someone something they need to learn? If not...stop writing.

Sweet—that’s another word that described him. Dad was kind to everybody. So many folks told me all through my life about “Your Dad is so sweet!” Heck, he even had the nickname “Honey” throughout my childhood. Not just from Mom, either, mind you. At the funeral, I heard an old friend talk about “Honey,” while reminiscing of days gone by. This was from memories that were decades old.

I want to be remembered that way.

We should all aspire to be remembered that way.

Dad was so faithful. My folks were happily married for 55 years. I have to admit, though, that he had many “girlfriends”—of which Mom knew, of course—because you just couldn’t meet my Dad and not love him. Mom shared him with ladies…from church or with friends from the ‘hood from back in the day, or even friends from their younger days. Sundays, birthdays or special occasions, there was usually somebody who would share their admiration for Dad and claim to be his girlfriend…and everybody smiled.

We knew he was a special man. They just don’t make ‘em like that much anymore…sweet, reverent, handy, willing, faithful.

If a neighbor or friend ever needed help, Dad was always there…with tools or hands or whatever was needed. Lord knows how much he helped me throughout the years. He was the kind of man you could count on: a lost breed. He could change out an outlet, or door lock, or a tire…in the pouring rain. He could help build a home, or panel a van.

…and he could sing. Daddy sang bass.

Oh how I wish I had that recorded…in video. It would make you smile. Daddy sang with Jacobs Ladder from the late 70’s through part of the 80’s. The group sang a fun version of “Daddy Sang Bass, Mama Sang Tenor,” that you just had to see to appreciate. He enjoyed it so much. As much as he loved southern gospel music…he loved singing it more. Those were his glory days—not because of fans—but because he loved singing for the Lord.

…during his last days on earth—he showed us just how much.

In the last days, in his hospice room, he rarely opened his eyes, but he was “there” with us. He’d let us know…somehow. Mom decided one night that we should sing. Sister read scriptures, and Mom thought up songs for us to sing. We’d begin singing,

and he’d join in, mouthing the words…with the most blissful expression I’ve ever seen in my life.

It was clearly pure joy for him. Sweetest thing I’ve ever seen in my half-century life. There wasn’t a sound—just mouthing the words. We’d laugh occasionally when we’d forget the words—and he’d give us a smile, too. Sometime we’d hear him—a sound that was like a hum—but had no real melody. I’m sure it was a perfect to him. We had to smile.

His last day on earth, a most special hospice nurse, Judy, told Mom that she sang to Dad when she was with him. Mom told her about his love for gospel music. Judy asked, “Why aren’t you playing it for him?” Mom retrieved CDs from her car: Gaithers and Gabriel’s Call. She played them on the TV’s DVD player.

Her church-friend, Harold came to visit and mentioned he had a Jacobs Ladder CD in his truck…that Dad had given him one. He let us play it for Dad.

The third song on this CD, “God Walks the Dark Hills,” Carletha sang out in her beautiful voice.

“…the highways and byways.
He walks in the shadows…”

Dad’s shallow panting suddenly turned into a deep breath.

“…of life’s troubled seas.”

I reached out to him, placing my hand over his heart.

“…He walks in the storms...”

Two more breaths.

“…the rain and the sunshine,”

Dad’s heartbeat faded beneath my fingers.

At high noon, the sweetest, most tenacious man…gave up the fight.

"...God walks the Dark Hills, to guide you and me."

He went home…to be with God.

It was 5/15.

God and Dad shared many miracles and blessings with us, through the many years as well as his last days. I’ll never forget. I can hear him singing…even now.

Honey…Dad…Gene Hendley.

I thank God for his gift to me…the best Dad.

I send him, in Heaven, all my love with a wish for the Happiest Father’s Day…not on earth, but definitely in my heart.

The word for Dad?

Love.

Pure and simple...always.

Like my new Shutterfly Mug?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 04:51:00 +0000

Mug

View the entire collection of cards.

I decided to make an Angel Babies mug...to show off my babies. Haven't done one in a while-but I have some babies that are certainly angel-worthy.

Today, I grieve.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 26 Dec 2012 05:13:00 +0000

For months, fellow Grifters and I endure tease and torture that the fates of all other TNT television shows were decided, less our beloved Leverage. Countless campaigns to convince TNT to renew, even TELL the outcome of their decision were launched...not only through social media, but also via old-school phone calls, postcards and letters. Fans poured their hearts out to the bottom-line: the advertisers. Still, time passed--to no avail. Other TNT shows were renewed…and still no confirmation.

Americans endure all the politics of the US elections, bleak financial situations from job losses and pay cuts, the heartbreak of a superstorm that ravaged the northeastern United States that leaves countless homeless and suffering, not to mention the heinous act against children by a gunman. That doesnt take into account the worldwide situation and what people endure on a daily basis. We all seek refuge--even for an hour. Fans of Leverage are worldwide, and we all feel the same. Christmas holds for us the season finale of our favorite show--with hopes of a sixth season.

Days before Christmas, TNT announced their bah-humbug decision that Leverage is cancelled. This network chose to move time slots day-to-day, hour-to-hour throughout the five seasons; and while viewing numbers drifted up and down, the bottom-line dictated their decision…that millions of faithful viewers are not enough for another season.

I was a fan of TNT. I adored The Closer, so much so that I watched reruns incessantly. But what makes me SO angry about this travesty, is not so much that TNT cancelled (and, yes, I hate that), but that TNT advertised for MONTHS of the final episode of The Closer. Commercials ran ad nauseam. But fans of Leverage are dumped days before Christmas and the final episode--with no warning. I, for one, don’t appreciate their disrespect as a loyal supporter.

Dean Devlin, John Rogers, and Chris Downey and all others involved in this awesome show brought us 77 unforgettable, entertaining, creative, mentally challenging, and fun episodes. Tim Hutton, Gina Bellman, Christian Kane, Beth Riesgraf and Aldis Hodge have given us memorable characters that now live in our hearts and memories. The Leverage writers, directors, producers, cast, crew and guests have done an exceptional job and we salute you. As a fan of this great show, I thank you all.

The blowoff network, however, will not survive my lineup.

Get out of your way.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 21:23:00 +0000

Have you ever felt like you just kept getting in your own way? Inspired to remember some of my old shorthand strokes for art, I decided today was a good day to start. My forms may be shaky--or forgotten, but the sentiment is in there.

Words

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:15:00 +0000

Sometimes...
I need to express
Every thought in my head
To free them from restraint
To give them wings.

But the words never leave my mouth.

Sometimes...
Those unexpressed words
Create an implosion:
Their energy cannot be
Contained.

What if its just
One special word
That ignites the
Fire?

One word could prevent
The chain of reactions:
Or maybe its all just an
Abyss
Anyways.

How can words
Unspoken
Create a
Sinkhole
To my soul?

DiDi
12/24/2011

Finding Felicity Still Shots

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 03:37:00 +0000

Thanks to Emily and Sean for these great shots! I had THE BEST crew and cast! They were all troopers, always willing and never complained.

Finding Felicity

still photos

Location for FINDING FELICITY

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 06:12:00 +0000

North Charleston, SC

with

All I Ever Wanted

by Steve Carlson

Finding Bliss

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 01:03:00 +0000

I promised a blogpost when my life changed for the crazy...but it's been so crazy there hasn't been time!

I believe it was in May, I attended another of the SC Film Commission's free workshops, which was held at Trident Technical College in North Charleston, SC, USA. Their marquis displayed the ridiculously low (in tri-county) tuition, and all the way home I thought wonder if. Once home, I researched their Film Production program, and, well, long story short, HERE I AM! It's been insanely crazy, but I love it.

So, for our Film Production I class, we're assigned a Bolex (old film camera) project that will produce under 3 minutes of film. Again, long story short, One of my dear Kaniac friends posted the lyrics to Steve Carlson's All That I Ever Wanted and inspiration struck.

"Student film...sounds fishy..." SC

After a wicked little tweet--Steve blessed me with permission to use his song with my student film.

I've written the script "Finding Felicity," arranged for my leading man, leading lady, video camera folks, and a few production assistants. Today, I made contact with a gentleman in North Charleston for my location. It was yet another thing that just fell into place--I'm in awe and feel extraordinarily blessed!

Scouting in the old city of North Charleston where their is a quaint road with beautiful landscaping, park benches, alfresco dining and much more, the only thing that was scripted but not available was a service station. So...another rewrite and that's not a problem. I meant to take my camera and shoot stills but...well...I didn't so I'll have to post those ASAP.

While walking down the sidewalk, I found the perfect alfresco tables outside Cork NE Bistro. Just a couple doors down, there looked to be two empty businesses. With my creative hat on, I figured a way to overcome my missing service station by using this storefront. Now...if only I knew who to contact for permission...

Just then, the next-door, empty storefront door opened, and out walked Drew, a kind man with beautiful eyes who made my day by saying that he not only worked at Cork, but they also owned the two seemingly empty storefronts!!! AND that the owner appreciated such ventures as my TTC student film, so likely would grant permission for the shoot! I offered, too, that I had a bit part that needed to be filled, if he'd be willing I'd love to include him! SO.... I still have some paperwork and phone calls to manage, but I'm hoping that I can check off location, and just deal with details (along with a script rewrite).

As soon as possible, I'd love to share my STARS with you...so that will be forthcoming. I'm SOOOO excited, please stay tuned and I'll keep you updated!

Sin City Weekend III in Vegas

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 04:10:00 +0000

My submissions for Sin City Weekend contest with Steve Carlson and special guest Christian Kane. I didn't win, but sure wish I did! Thanks so much for the opportunity and I know the folks attending will have a blast!

Animated gif - may need to click to make it work.

Free

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 03:20:00 +0000

Once upon a time...

...the door was shiny, new.
I heard it lead to the path I should take.
I knocked.
No answer.
I turned the knob.
No use.
I turned the key.
No click.

Many times I tried again.
Knocks.
Knobs.
Keys.
No answer.
No passage.
No destiny.

Days creeped into years.
The doorway--an obsession.
I beat.
I pled.
I cried.
The door would not open.

Years turned to decades, creeping by.
Time was unkind...to me, to the door.
Cracked and weathered, we both were worn.
The walls surrounding me were prison.
Lost hope,
Unending expectation,
My companions....
And the door.

I ceased knocking on the ugly door.
Without expectation to darken the way, peace was delivered.
Tranquility brought me a state of grace.
Grace brought words.
The words made me smile, and laugh, and cry.
Tears of joy, never known.

I look at my walls now, and recognize my sanctuary.
The ugly door no longer matters.
My words are my comfort, my peace, my joy, unending.
The road not traveled is now my home.
The walls cannot contain me.
My mind takes me where I want to go.

I am
Free.

by DiDi Hendley
©6/1/2011

BBDD BOOK REVIEW: Unsavory Delicacies by Russell Brooks

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 03:33:00 +0000

As a member of a Writers group on Facebook, I am exposed to many authors/books, often new (or soon to be) released publications or epubs.

I recently read Russell Brooks' UNSAVORY DELICACIES, and would like to share my review with you! Russell is also the author of Pandora's Succession. Check him out!

UNSAVORY DELICACIES by Russell Brooks contains three short suspense stories.

If a short life does lead one to have dessert first, then Crème Brûlée is most certainly the most delicious place to start. This tale of intrique has more twists than gemelli. Perfectly crusty and cold (in all the right places), it left me craving more.

To The Last Bite is definitely a savory read, and should cause a pause to anyone who might be inclined to rendor public criticism without considering the consequences.

Shashlyk and Morozhenoe, while not my first choice of consumption, smartly tied back to Crème Brûlée. Perhaps I was lost in translation for the final course, but as this easy, 25-page read was wholy filling, I recommend reading UNSAVORY DELICACIES. Just don't read it during your lunch hour.

Russell's books are available on Amazon Kindle Store, Barnes and Noble PubIt Store, Smashwords, XinXii, or on Russell's Website.

I hope you check back in from time to time-there will be more reviews--hopefully you will find a new favorite author among them!

Never Tethered

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 05:44:00 +0000

It's certainly no secret I'm a Kaniac - and proud of it. Kaniacs, for those who don't know, are diehard fans of the band Kane. The first weekend in February, Christian Kane and the band were in North Carolina for two concerts--and it was OUTSTANDING. I'm Still Comin' Down, as a matter of fact. Any true-blue Kaniac knows what I'm talking about. One concert is awesome. Two is...euphoric!

My prized birthday gift of a VIP Meet and Greet with Christian presented me the opportunity to meet Mr. Kane. (Check his website for more info on the VIP M&G. There may still be some available-depending on when you read this.) Once he returns to filming Leverage on TNT, I'm sure concerts in the southeast won't be an option.

I just have to say that Christian seems such a warm and giving person--the two times I've had the pleasure of being personally in his company, he has completely blown my mind by being so genuine and attentive to whomever he is with at that moment. I'll be happy to post about my weekend later in more detail, as has been requested by my new Kaniac friend Sherry. In the meantime, I've been working on writing Whirlwind Love (manuscript for a novel) this past year, which I had hoped to pitch to the inspiring Mr. Kane. That didn't actually happen in the minute that I had his attention. I'm hoping he still has my package and will consider it. If you get the chance, how about tweet him @ChristianKane01 and tell him to take a good look at #WhirlwindLove ... he'll probably not have a clue what you're talking about, but I can tell you this is a love story I've been working on for the last year, inspired by the Christian Kane - Kane Acoustic: Live In London CD. I'll be posting some information about the story later, but...

As I have enjoyed listening to the band this past weekend, and of course, being a professional photographer, I just HAD to shoot...and shoot...and shoot. I've been having a blast posting my photos for fellow Kaniacs (and soon-to-be Kaniacs - if you don't know this band...gas up, buckle up and Let's take a Drive! It's a hell of a ride!) Just, please, remember the House Rules! Photos are also posted on my Facebook page or my Beams by DiDi Flickr stream.

To Christian, Steve, Ryan, Will and Jason: Thanks for an amazing weekend! I hope I have the opportunity to do that again! Special note to Frogger: thanks for the all your effort-while you tried to hide it-there were times when it showed. I will always remember that you put it all aside for us. :DD

Playing with words...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:29:00 +0000

Can you see this?

After a short time, the man picked up his guitar and began tuning it. He was a handsome man with a fit, thin frame. As he fingered the guitar, his expression seemed distant and focused. The roadie turned guitarist, with a confident, cocky stage presence. As he began to pick a tune on the acoustic guitar, Libby became mesmerized at the detailed licks, cords and speed of his agile fingers. After a moment of warming up and tweaking the pitch, the man began to play a song, ripping through strings with the same amazing speed and agility. The expression on his face was almost angelic as he delved into the depths of the melody.

Recovering from the awe and distinction of the guitarist, Libby raised her camera and fired. Each click zooming from full body, three-quarter, and finally headshot. As she zoomed to his face, she lowered the camera. The aura around this man's face was breathtaking as he continued to delve deeper into the melody. The room disappeared into the notes. Libby was equally caught up in the site and sounds. The amazing acoustic melody enveloped her as she watched the man's expression fade from mystical to present, Libby remembered the camera again and fired a few more shots of his face before reality returned.

...excerpt from Whirlwind Love by...me!

South Carolina Screen Writers Group

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 05:07:00 +0000

I'm moving forward--come on along!

I want to write screenplays and to find kindred spirits for the journey, I've created a new South Carolina Screenwriters group. If you live in SC and want to join in, please signup and let's get this party started!

Dates and times for meetings will be decided upon. Philip Rowe has agreed to allow us to meet at the US#1 Flea Market Bookstore/Coffeeshop at 3500 Augusta Road in West Columbia, SC.

Christian Kane - "The House Rules"

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 01:48:00 +0000

Christian Kane - "The House Rules": Checkout the new Video by Christian Kane!

The wait is over! The new Christian Kane video, "The House Rules," directed by none other than Academy Award Winner Timothy Hutton is out! CMT.com has hosted 8 new videos all weekend, with a competition for top spot in the balance, there's a callout for all Kaniacs to launch their votes, comments and tweets to push Kane to the top of the list. Currently hovering at number two, that's just not the place a true Kaniac wants to see Christian: we all know he can't belong in second place! So, with an all-out battle to close the deal and put "The House Rules" on top. Kaniacs...step it up!

DiDi's Art: Bubbles

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 20:13:00 +0000

My little indulgence

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 17:35:00 +0000

I began this blog five months ago with a specific goal. To "put it all out there." To unleash all that was forcibly contained within. Truthfully, I had no plan, no intention. Since the time I originated goal, I have become aware of my intention--to write--to focus on producing. I'm still contemplating and studying vehicles of book, script, or whatever.

I'm not one who needs structure nor schedule. Should the day arrive that I need to produce according to structure or schedule, THEN is when I'll be concerned about those beasts. And to me, they are beasts. For the time being, I wish for more time to write and will be focusing efforts to accommodate that wish. To that end, I have decided to abandon my photography business at the end of this year. (Note...starving artist sale is going on NOW at my fulfillment site -- so anybody who may care, please consider purchasing a print. As sales occur, I may be able to maintain that site for the rest of the year (which would be nice).

So, as I have indulged myself with reading and/or following other blogs, most are so impressive, literate, informative, and/or inspiring, I realize that my little blog is purely my indulgence of self. I am considering presenting a "real" blog, one that would be more suitable to my professional goals. So, if you visit me here, know that this is my beginning, my introduction to this world of expression and sharing, my personal indulgence. When the face I need to project requires more sophistication and professionalism, then I will worry about the content and presentation. For now, you may choose to join my meanderings and my whims, or not.

I often bring up my blog in a background window, insert my earbuds, and work away at whatever project requiring my attention and intention. Sometimes, like now, I even take the time to add a new post on whim. After all, this is my little indulgence. You are welcome to join me...or not. Either way--be blessed.

And thanks for popping in!

A Cozy Corner in Virginia Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 15:30:00 +0000

One of my most cherished Twitter Tutor/Writer/Friend is Lisa Rivero, and her Blog post today mentioned an announcement by writer Michelle Johnson’s journey toward opening a book store!

First and foremost, congratulations Michelle! What a wonderful business venture, and I wish you great success! Your plans sound wonderful--I only wish I lived near Virginia Beach! Many days I could use a cozy corner writing respite -- away from normal distractions, to really let the muse chat me up.

I've only been writing (officially) since April, so I haven't even read 10 books on writing to suggest to you...but I'm currently reading Elizabeth Berg's "Escaping into the Open" and just started The Passionate Writer chapter--which I can tell is going to be a tremendous help to me. Ms. Berg was the keynote for a writer's workshop sponsored by the Hub City Writer's Project in Spartanburg, SC that I recently attended. While her writing style is very different from mine, I am truly enjoying "Escaping into the Open."

In my first WIP Whirlwind Love, a friend shared with me that she felt left behind in the love scenes. I admit that I take the reader there--and then walk away. Feels a lot like peeking into someone's window for me...lol. I'm hoping that the exercises in this chapter might help me move past that issue.

I also wanted to mention that it's because of music that I'm writing. So perhaps music is something to add as a secondary goal--it can be very inspirational to a writer. At the aforementioned conference, Jeremy L. C. Jones presented a session on Music and Writing--I could've sat in that session for the entire day, it was so fascinating. I thought about the ability to be introduced to music for inspiration based on other people's recommendations would be amazing. For instance, writing a scene of hard-hitting action--what music would inspire you? A love scene? I might choose the same music, but having a recommendation from another author on what inspires them could make an entirely different scene. Just a thought.

Looking forward to hearing more about your venture!

Hub City Writers Project - Writing in Place 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 02:56:00 +0000

Link to Hub City Writers Project - Writing in Place 2010

Class assignment-Day 2

Write a paragraph to a page with this as the first sentence:
“My Mother broke every dish in the house.“

My Mother broke every dish in the house. There was no discernment of linoleum underneath the shattered glass and porcelain. As I stepped carefully into the kitchen, the shock washed through my core. Had I not known of the problem, I would have believed a tornado blew through the room. But the roof was intact...the episode was contained. My Father sat in the doorway to the dining room, desperately trying to sweep the pieces into the dustpan...to hide the pain. He had not yet seen me enter the room.

“Dad, I'll get that...” I tried to distract him, to ease his pain. With no acknowledgement, I repeated, “DAD, let me...” His pained expression told me what he could not.
“I didn't hear you come in,” he said softly. Struggling to stand, the determination of his effort was apparent. I looked around for something to clear a pathway through the chards, something to help me reach him...to comfort him. I grabbed an old mop that was hidden in the corner of the washroom. By the time I returned to push the shattered pieces aside, he had managed to pull himself to his feet. Instinctively I put my arms around his bent shoulders. When had he shrunk so? Why had I not noticed this before?

“Dad, let's go sit down for a bit. This mess will wait.”

Reluctantly, he leaned the broom against the door and walked into the den. Mom sat in her chair, chin against her chest as she slept. Dad watched her as we sat on the sofa. After a long while, he turned to me. “She said she didn't want anybody else's dishes in her house. I'm sorry, I know that your Grandmother's china was in the will for you. Mom really wanted you to have it.”
Dad lowered his head as the sorrow became overwhelming.

Looking painfully into my eyes, Dad added, “I think it's time. I've tried to avoid it, you know. Will you call....that place?” The tears that appeared in his eyes shattered my heart like the chards on the kitchen floor.

“Sure Dad, I'll take care of it. I'll take care of all of it.” I took his hand as we both turned to face Mom, soundly sleeping and unaware.

Unaware that she would never again have an afternoon nap in her recliner.

Never again sleep in the bed she shared with Dad for over sixty years.

Never again to live with the only man she'd ever loved.

# # #

This assignment wasn't read and didn't get a critique. Comment...if you'd like!

Beams by DiDi

Perception

Libby and Joe and the Goodreads Giveaway

Announcing the Whirlwind Love: Libby's Journey giveaway on Goodreads!

Goodreads reviews for Whirlwind Love: Libby's Journey

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Whirlwind Love

by DiDi Hendley

Licks & Lines

Licks & Lines is a feature column in the fictional magazine THE BACK ROADS OF MUSIC

Melody Muse: Hey, Joe! Got a couple minutes to scoop the poop?

Joe King: I always have time for you, Mel! Thanks!

MM: Rumor [and the TBK website! -mm] has it that your musical career is about to be behind you…any truth?

MM: So, what are you doing?

MM: And Chuck?

JK: I guess you’ll need to ask him. He always lands on his feet…like the alley tom-cat he is…heh. He’s around here somewhere…you should go talk to him.

MM: I heard about his accident…he’s okay? And have ya got time for one more?

JK: Shoot! And yeah—he’ll recover...he's teflon.

MM: I hear you’re keepin’ company with a certain redhead…anything serious? Are you about to break some hearts, Joe?

JK: Well…

MM: Oh no! You just crossed your arms! [He’s laughing…and looking at his shoes or over his shoulder…like he’s in trouble, folks! I think I hit a nerve! -mm]

The taste of regret

by DiDi Hendley

© April 4, 2014

Win a Kindle Fire!

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Like my new Shutterfly Mug?

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Words

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Location for FINDING FELICITY

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Sin City Weekend III in Vegas

Free

BBDD BOOK REVIEW: Unsavory Delicacies by Russell Brooks

Never Tethered

Playing with words...

South Carolina Screen Writers Group

Christian Kane - "The House Rules"

DiDi's Art: Bubbles

My little indulgence

A Cozy Corner in Virginia Beach

Hub City Writers Project - Writing in Place 2010