tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3107209355280744242024-03-07T23:31:01.911-05:00Redheads Know BestLisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-81092937545848076252018-10-02T22:39:00.001-04:002018-10-02T23:15:07.284-04:00There is no 'War on Men' Here is some information for you tonight. There is no 'war on men'. Maybe a war on predators, but not men. I will tell you I have been groped, harassed, insulted and had my share of drunken encounters I wish I could take back, but only ONE man raped me. One. Women in general don't want to accuse every man that has crossed the line with them sexually. It's a small percentage of reported rapes that end up being false accusations. With most of them, the charges end up being dropped quickly and they never go to trial. I also know women who were raped that reported their case and were told it was 'her word against his' or that the prosecutor didn't feel there was enough evidence for them to 'win', which I find to be such a poor choice of words, as if anyone wins in a rape case. If you are a man that has never sexually assaulted a woman in any way, I have confidence that you have nothing to worry about. If you are worrying right now, maybe you just need to dig up your old high school calenders and refresh your memory on the things you've done in the past.<br />
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<br />
<br />
NATIONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT HOTLINE<br />
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Free. Confidential. Available 24/7<br />
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800-656-4673<br />
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Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-28335749810998281262017-11-01T23:45:00.000-04:002017-11-01T23:48:50.812-04:00It's not just men harassing women I'm sure this has been addressed already, but there are surely a lot of women in positions of power, using it to sexually abuse people, too.<br />
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This isn't just a 'male' issue, just as it isn't a "Hollywood" issue. This happens EVERYWHERE, in every industry and it has to stop.<br />
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<br />
I'm sure there is going to be a generation of men out there, who are afraid to talk or act a certain way towards women out of PURE FEAR.<br />
<br />
I remember an incident at work that I feel terrible about to this day.<br />
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Once after a laser treatment, I patted a male patient on his butt and said "ok, you're all set!" I cringed almost immediately after.<br />
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I didn't intend for it to be sexually suggestive and I don't think he was even aware of what I did, but it was wrong.<br />
<br />
What if it was reversed and a male tech did it to a female patient. Would she feel it was harassment? Would she say something?<br />
I am sure I've done it before to a female patient as well and that isn't right, either.<br />
I know one thing. I'm definitely more aware of where I put my hands and what I say. He could have easily been offended and just kept quiet.<br />
We must all be aware of what our actions are and try to do better.<br />
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<br />Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-7573224019174806032017-10-19T23:18:00.000-04:002017-10-19T23:48:44.354-04:00Violated all Over Again With all the recent talk about sex abuse and being able to talk more about my own experience, I remembered an incident that happened about 10 or so years ago.<br />
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This is the first time I'm telling anyone about this incident.<br />
It was around the time I finally got the courage to call RAINN (the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) and discuss my rape. I was starting to be comfortable talking about it and knew that I was not to blame for my assault.<br />
I was in a chat room for survivors and people supporting them. There was a young guy taking and he had said someone close to him (girlfriend, I think) was sexually abused by a family member. He said he was writing a book about sexual assault and was looking to talk to anyone willing to discuss their feelings and how it had affected them. He said he needed the POV of a survivor.<br />
I was happy to help him and we spoke a little bit about my assault. Just some basic things like my age at the time, the circumstances, where I was, etc. Nothing too personal. He asked me if I would be comfortable talking on the phone, and offered to give me his number.<br />
So a day or so later, he contacted me via the chat and asked me if it was a good time to call him. I did and he was very nice and comforting. He told me about his friend and his empathy for her. He told me he wished he could better understand what she was feeling so he could help her heal. I told him that in my opinion he should give her time and just be there. When she was comfortable talking, she would. It was then that he turned the conversation back to me. He started asking me about my assault. He wanted more details. I started to question his motives for wanting to know. He had not told me he would be wanting to hear specifics. I then realized that he was actually enjoying hearing me talk about it and possibly was going to get off on it. I then realized that there probably was no book and possibly no friend that was a survivor. I felt really stupid but more so, I felt violated all over again. Can you imagine how vile and disgusting a person you have to be to actually put a sexual assault survivor through something like that? Then I thought about all the other girls in the chat and wondered how many fell for his story. Many of the girls I had been talking to were much younger than me. If he fooled me, I can only imagine what he did to them. I broke contact with him and immediately reported him to a moderator for the group.<br />
Just another reason it is so very hard to open up to people. I'm usually much smarter than that.<br />
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https://www.rainn.org/Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-52006926826971655872017-10-16T14:29:00.000-04:002017-10-16T14:30:36.474-04:00Me Too. Seeing the #MeToo hashtag go viral this weekend has prompted me to write this blog post. It isn't the first time I've considered writing about my assault, it isn't even the first time I've started writing it, but it is the first time I've actually published it.<br />
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I have had 2 major instances which stand out for me. Both happened when I was under 18.<br />
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The first one happened when I was in my early teens. I was at a pool party with friends. It was later, after dark and most of the party attendants had left. I was sitting beside the pool and a few of the boys (boys I called friends) decided it would be fun to chase me around, trying to see my boobs.<br />
This continued, with me fighting them off for a few minutes, until I was pushed to the ground, the boys groping and grabbing at me. There was a point where one of my breasts was pulled out. They put a towel over my head, so I "couldn't see who was touching me and where". I cried, I pushed, and yelled "stop". They laughed and continued, until they no longer found any thrill to it.<br />
I told my friend, who had been in the pool at the time. She yelled at the boys and we called my parents to come get us.<br />
I told my parents what happened and it was reported to police. The detective in charge of my case treated me like a nuisance and as if I should just move on. After all, wasn't I flirting with the boys, earlier? Wasn't I maybe enjoying it even? I started to question and second guess myself and my own actions.<br />
Then I ended up dropping the charges (my parents left the decision to me) because I was becoming to feel more and more ashamed and told that these were young boys, whose future I would be hurting (never mind MY future or what I had already endured).<br />
In the end, it didn't seem worth it anymore.<br />
<br />
The 2nd event was more brutal. I was raped by a 25 year old when I was 17 at a friend's house. He first went after my friend, who poked him in the eye and left the room. Then he took his chance with me. I wasn't as lucky. He tried to force me to give him oral sex and when I refused, saying no many times, he pinned me down, did the job himself and ejaculated all over my face. I ran, crying to the bathroom. The next morning, I awoke to him inside me. Raping me, as I slept. I didn't report it. I was a minor, who had been drinking at a party, surrounded by others who heard my protests and did nothing. How would I possibly convince anyone that I was raped again my will? I wasn't even sure I wasn't somewhat to blame. At that time 'date rape' wasn't something that was widely talked about. So I stayed silent. That doesn't mean that I didn't think about it. The doesn't mean it didn't live in the back of my mind all my life. Years later, I was watching a TV movie about date rape. It was then I realized that what happened to me WAS wrong. It wasn't my fault. I was able to forgive myself for feeling ashamed. I was able to accept that I wasn't to blame. I spoke to counselors at Rinna (The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) and talking helped. I made it a mission of mine to spread support and awareness to others. I spoke out. I healed. In some ways, I'm still healing. Everyday gets better.<br />
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#MeToo<br />
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RAINN - https://www.rainn.org/Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-83456601724262189712016-10-09T16:29:00.001-04:002016-10-09T17:00:38.141-04:00It's Not Always Our Words, But How We Choose To Use ThemIn the past 2 days, I have been reading a lot (and also commenting) on the recently uncovered "Trump Tape" recording from 2005 of Republican Presidential nominee, Donald Trump and interviewer, Billy Bush dicussing Trump's opinion on how he can use his "celebrity status" to get women to do pretty much anything he wants.<br />
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Some comments I have seen and received have been:<br />
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" All guys talk like that."<br />
"It's just locker room banter."<br />
"His opinion of my gender doesn't matter to me."<br />
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and my favorite:<br />
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"If that talk offends you, you should just become a lesbian."<br />
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Now, I know Trump has issued an apology for what he said, but was he sorry he said it? Or just sorry we had to hear it? Trump obviously knew he was being recorded , as he was asked to take off his mic by Bush at the end and he is heard responding "Oh, are we done here?", which kind of rules out "Locker room banter" because he knew he was in a sort of interview situation with a person from the public media.<br />
It obviously didn't bother him (or a laughing Bush) that what he was saying could possibly be released at some point, which kind of begs the question of why hasn't it? Did it get edited out because it obviosly does not paint him in a good light? Of course, he was not running for any office at that time, but I am sure anyone who heard that at any point would agree it is not becoming of a man in the spotlight.<br />
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I'm going to take a minute to consider how also in the past 2 days our current President, Barack Obame, who nobody can deny DOES in fact hold women (and all genders) in a high regard, just signed the Sexual Assault Survivor's Rights Act into law.<br />
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Now think for a bit of any such bill would have even been considered if Trump was our president? I highly doubt it, At the very least, it certainly would not be a priority on his "to do" list.<br />
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Now back to "All guys talk like that." Like what? Like brag about how they can "grab them by the pussy"? It's funny, because when I think of ANY man talking like that, the first person to come to mind, is Brock Turner, the convicted rapist that had he not been caught mid-assault of an unconscious woman, would possible have been making similar claims in HIS locker room the next day or so.<br />
What I am saying is that is not the kind of talk you hear from "every guy", I'm sorry. I'm just not buying that line of garbage excuses.<br />
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How about "His opininion of my gender doesn't affect me."<br />
Really? Well , actually I do believe that how a man views and talks about women will definitely be reflected in how he operates in office. It's how he will decide on bills to sign off on, laws that are brought forward or considered and who he decides to appoint to the Supreme Court. Don't think it doesn't matter because it absolutely does and will. A person doesn't change the way they feel deep down inside and let's face it, this audio tape only comfirms what most of us already know: Donald Trump is a misogynist and always was. Why would he change now? This recording could have been made in 2005, but it may as well been yesterday. He still talks down to and about women.<br />
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Lastly, I will adress the remark that "If you are offended by this, you might as well become a lesbian because all me talk like this."<br />
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Well I will say first, that if you think the word "PUSSY" offends me then you don't know me at all. I have heard and said worse, myself. It's not always your words, but how you choose to use them.<br />
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Secondly, I do not feel sexually orientation is a choice I can make or change and even if it were, if any of the assholes I have dated or had sex with didn't make me want to become a lesbian, I do not think anything will.<br />
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But what do I know? I'm just a woman. A voter. I not only have a vagina, but I have a voice and a vote. I have already used both in this election, I'm not going to stop now.<br />
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Redheads may not ALWAYS Know Best, we our opinions should count.Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-74260899792041313672015-10-05T12:32:00.001-04:002015-10-05T12:34:28.349-04:00A Return To Covington Cove: My Review of ALL OF ME by Kelly MoranAll Of Me is the second book in the Covington Cove series by Kelly Moran, which began with book one: Return to Me.<br />
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Though characters from book one are a big part of All Of Me, it centers on two new people not in Return To Me, Alec, who is a best-selling writer of horror fiction stuck with a bad case of writer's block, and Faith, a young woman starting a new beginning for herself, away from her home.<br />
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Alec is strong, but sensitive, a quality I very much appreciate seeing in a lead male.<br />
Faith is sweet, shy and a bit vulnerable. I admit at first I was not sure I could see these two as a couple.<br />
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Both Alec and Faith have come to Covington Cove in Wilmington, NC for their own reasons. Alec, for his brother's wedding and Faith to take on a position as a care giver for Mia Covington's younger sister.<br />
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Mia was the heroine of Return to Me and it was nice to see her and Cole again and know their story continues to be a happy one.<br />
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Now back to Alec and Faith. Both of these people have some heavy emotional baggage.<br />
Alec has been through a rough past which has caused him to withdraw from any real emotional connection with a woman. Faith has never felt loved by anyone, including her own parents.<br />
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The connection between the two of them starts out slow, but builds as the story moves forward.<br />
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I'm glad Kelly Moran knows how to write a realistic story and write it well, NO two people like Alec and Faith would come together in real life without some obstacles in their way and Ms Moran shows this in a way that is believable.<br />
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I felt Faith's insecurities as if they were my own and I sympathized with Alec's plight.<br />
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Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet story about letting go of the past, moving on and letting your heart be your guide.<br />
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5 STARS<br />
You can find it here on Amazon in Kindle and paperback http://www.amazon.com/All-Me-Covington-Cove-Novel-ebook/dp/B00SI0B6HU/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1444062698&sr=8-1Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-82908873060654111542015-04-07T18:26:00.001-04:002015-04-13T13:07:25.529-04:00It's Not The Getting Older, It's Getting Older Alone.I recently celebrated my 45th birthday. Yes, I said CELEBRATED. I still celebrate birthdays and I do it as if I was still a little kid. I admit it. I look forward to my birthday. I always have.<br />
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I don't have any real problems with getting older. I never was bothered about it. Maybe because I truly believe you are as young as you feel and I certainly feel younger than I am. Maybe it's because I am still single and have no kids, so I still am living the same life I was at 35 (which is about the same age I currently feel).<br />
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Now one thing that DOES bother me about getting older? It's not the "getting older" part, it's getting older alone. As if dating wasn't hard enough in my thirties, it's now even harder. The amount of men that are single, available, reasonably attractive and in my age range to me gets smaller and smaller as I get older.<br />
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Years ago, this wasn't a big problem. When you are young, there are more people that are single in your age range . I also always went for the younger guys, which was easier when I was younger, as well. Now, I a lot of younger guys seem like kids. But yet, I'm still not attracted to many men my age or older.<br />
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One big problem is that I really hate first dates. It's the whole process of being with someone that knows nothing about you. You have to supply each other with any information and I don't like to ask too much or tell too much straight off. Quite honestly I always feel like I'm on a job interview. (yeah, I hate those, too).<br />
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I still find it hard to believe I'm going to be 50 in 5 years. I'm not afraid of it. I'm just hoping by them I'll find a date for my party.<br />
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<br />Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-43086239898124519172015-03-23T16:36:00.002-04:002015-11-23T18:48:09.084-05:00IT'S NOT ROCKET SCIENCE...Today I was out shopping and remembered I wanted to buy a new under eye concealer. I happened to be in Kohl's and decided to look and see what they had available. I was approached by a very friendly sales associate and she asked what I was looking for and if she could offer any help. I told her what I was currently using ,but that I wanted to try something new . I mentioned that I was an esthetician, but I still didn't know EVERYTHING about makeup and was always open to advice, especially on products I was not familiar with. She told me that she was also an esthetician and jokingly asked if the office where I practiced was looking for anyone , even just to help with product sales. She told me she really loved being a salesperson. I told her I previously worked retail for many years, myself, and how I really didn't practice much skincare because I was also an electrologist and I now specialized in laser hair removal.<br />
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She was very helpful and asked if I had any limits to how much I wanted to spend because there were a few products she would suggest, based on what I explained I was looking for, but she wanted to offer me something I would like that was also in my budget. She showed me two options, and since I wasn't wearing any makeup, I let her apply them to my face so I could compare them. She was fatastic in her product knowledge and definitely a great salesperson, though not pushy at all. I ended up walking away with a concealer that I really liked and though she did ask if there was anything else she could help me add to my purchase, I felt she was just being genuinely helpful-not just looking to make a big sale. I thanked her and asked if she worked on commission. I wanted her to get the credit for the sale she worked so hard and so well for.<br />
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She told me that, no, she did not work on commission and as long as I pay for my purchase, everyone ends up getting credit. I thought that was a pretty cool attitude to have.<br />
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At first I felt a little bad seeing a licensed professional working retail, selling makeup. I remember the years I was in that line of work and how happy I was to get out of it. I felt fortunate that I did work in a clinic and had hours I liked better and was able to use my licensed skills in a "hands on" environment. Then I remembered that if it weren't for this girl and her own skills and experience, I may not have found a concealer that was right for my skin. Hell, I may not have found anything at all. What if I encountered someone who didn't like what they were doing and only cared about earning a paycheck? This girl actually ENJOYED what she was doing and took pride in helping people with their cosmetic needs. She could be working in a clinic, but loving the sales side of the beauty business, was probably right where she belonged.<br />
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Today made me think about how no job is really less important than any other in the overall scheme of things. As long as every person was doing the job they were best suited for, and enjoyed doing it, there were no small jobs. Every job is important in some way. If it weren't, there would be no need for it.<br />
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I know that my job isn't like that of a physician, but it did require a lot of training and certification to aquire the ability to do. I still have to take continuing education classes to maintain my certification. Since regulation varies from state to state, some people outside of Florida could not operate a hair removal laser with the license and certification I have alone. There are some states that require less training. I take great pride in what I do and how far I have come to get here. I also really enjoy what I do. I believe that is a huge factor in how I perform at my job,<br />
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Everyone should have a job that enjoy. If you don't love what you do, you probably aren't going to do well at it, no matter how much training you have. I know my job is important. I feel it when I see how happy I make someone when they tell me how much they appreciate the help I have given them with getting rid of unwanted hair.<br />
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My job may not be "rocket science" but it does fulfill a need. Everyone's job does. It's just different needs for different people. To some people what I do may be more important to them than what a rocket scientist does.<br />
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So when you feel like what you do isn't really that important or requires that much skill, think about this: only an actual Rocket Scientist practices "rocket science".<br />
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Trust me. Redheads know best.Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-58618205560107018922015-03-20T21:35:00.001-04:002015-03-20T21:35:09.369-04:00Thoughts On Moving ForwardIt's been a while since I've posted here. A long while. It's just that I haven't quite felt the desire to write anything. I barely felt the desire to read anything much, either. I think it started when my grandparents passed away last year. It was such a shock to lose both of them in such a short period of time-6 weeks apart. I know it happens. When two people are together as long as they were, if one passes away, it's not uncommon for the other to soon pass as well. I just never heard of it happening so close. I guess it was too much for me.<br />
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It took me a while to get back into my normal routine. Work was first, of course. You get the standard, acceptable time frame to grieve. A week. Really though. How can one even put a time stamp on grieving. Everyone grieves in their own way, in their own time. I know I looked like I was fine and able to move on, but inside? No. Inside was a different story. The loss was very difficult for me. Not to say it wasn't for my brother and sister and especially my mother. I just think for me it was extemely hard because I tend to let my emotions stay inside, building up like a volcano, until it erupts into a fury.<br />
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I guess maybe that's my biggest flaw. Ok, not the BIGGEST, but close. I keep things bottled up. Then when I finally do let them out, I'm like a crazy person. I say too much. I say things that can be hurtful. I don't mean it. I just do. I also have a hard time apologizing. Maybe THAT is my biggest flaw.<br />
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Anyway, I've been trying to get back into writing because this is kind of an outlet for me. It's really why I started a blog to begin with. So I can have a way to express my feelings and thoughts in a healthy way. Some may even say a productive way. I certainly have no issues expressing the way I feel in words-just not on paper, or in this case, the internet.<br />
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It's been months since I lost my grandparents. A lot has happened. Thanksgiving, Christmas. I have gotten in touch with my dad and we are rebuilding our relationship. My sister got engaged. I've moved into a new home. I'm trying to get back to normal. Normal. Hahaha. Whatever THAT means.<br />
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Hopefully now I will be able to continue to post more frequently, even if they aren't long posts. If I can tweet all day long, I certainly can write a blog post, right?<br />
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So here we go. A new beginning. I hope it's a good one. So far 2015 has been pretty good to this redhead. Let's hope it continues.Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-54170378012703948832014-06-11T22:36:00.001-04:002014-06-12T23:04:22.299-04:00Treasure Every Moment With Those You LoveWhen I woke up this morning I had no idea that by 5pm, I would be sitting in my dining room, crying to acomplete stranger.<br />
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It was early January this year that I sat in that very same dining room with my mother and brother, talking about how we felt about my grandparents living on their own and that maybe they should consider moving in with my mother and I. Little did we know, that only 5 months later, this wouldn't be an option, but a necessity. Later that month, on an early Sunday morning, my mom got a phone call saying my 85 year old grandfather had fallen in the bedroom of his condo and was being rushed to the emergency room.<br />
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There were tests, tests and more tests. Doctors came and went. Specialists were called in. Each time, someone would come up with an idea of what had happened to cause my grandfather's "collapse",as we had come to call it, and still not one of them could find a medical reason for it.<br />
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After the hospital had agreed there was nothing more they could do for my grandfather and he seemed to be in relatively good health, he was moved to a rehab facility. Though there was no clear medical problems with him, he still was not ready to come home, because he could not eat, stand, walk or do much else on his own.<br />
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At this point, my mother and I had moved my 90 year old grandmother out of their one bedroom condo and into the 3 bedroom house we shared. My grandfather had been caring for her for the past few years and she was unable to care for herself. <br />
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My mom, myself, my younger brother and sister had all discussed what we should do. It was obvious we had no choice but to put the condo on the market, as it was clear my grandparents would never return to it. One of the girls I work with is a licensed realtor, so we began the listing process.<br />
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We moved some of our furniture that wasn't really used to make room for my grandparent's furniture and my mom moved her things to the back bedroom once occupied by my sister so my grandparents would have the master bedroom and their own bathroom.<br />
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As time went on, my grandfather would have good days and bad days, yet not seem to ever get to a point where he was back to himself. As we waited for him to improve, we continued getting more of his personal affairs in order since we weren't sure how much of them he would be able to handle them all on his own.<br />
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Then one afternoon while I was near the end of my workday, I got a call from my mom. She had just arrived at the rehab facility to see my grandfather as usual ,when my grandmother suffered a massive stroke. She was being taken across the street to the hospital ER. I called my brother and sister, and the three of us rushed to meet them there.<br />
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After tests were done, the doctors told us that my grandmother would be ok, but wold have to stay in the hospital for a while. Meanwhile, my grandfather remained in rehab. we never imaged earlier this year that we would have not one, but two grandparents in such poor health.<br />
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Time went on and soon my grandmother was being released from the hospital and over to the rehab, where she would share a room with my grandfather for the time being.<br />
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The doctors and specialists had assessed that there was not much else that could be done for my grandfather and medicare had stopped payments to the facility. If we wanted to keep him there, it would have to be paid out of pocket. We all agreed, including my grandfather, that it was best to do just that. Weeks passed and we started to consider what we should do. At some point both of my grandparents would have to be released from the rehab, but what was the best option for their care? Would we find a nursing home or bring them home to live with my mom and myself, hiring home care assistance. Feeling he would at some point continue to get better and knowing my grandmother would not require much care,we decided to do just that.<br />
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The condo sold, we found a home health care service and things proceeded. Soon, it would be time for my grandparents to be released and be brought home to out care. The hospital would arrange for transportation for them and medicare would provide hospital beds, wheelchairs and some in home visits from nurses, physical therapy and the like.<br />
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It will be two weeks since my grandparents have been home this coming Saturday and things have been harder than my mom and I ever imagined. My grandfather was looking to be getting better and better, but my grandmother, unfortunately seems only to decline in health. This week, we began to talk about if maybe they would be better off in a facility where they could get round the clock care. we finally decided to call in someone from hospice, to talk about our options.<br />
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It turns out hospice care could provide them with home care that was better than what they are receiving now, without having to make them move to a facility. Yesterday we made the call to get them "admitted" into their system.<br />
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Today my mother and I met with our assigned nurse and socialworker. It was explained that we would be able to get a nurse out to us any time, day or night if needed, my grandparents would be able to any medical services provided right here and if at any point, we felt it was no longer needed (though this is doubtful) we could discontinue and find another type of care. <br />
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As the social worker took information, I was asked questions I didn't really think I would be considering so soon. What funeral home would we like to use in case one or both of my grandparents passed? Do we want them to remain at home or be moved to a facility when it looks like "the end" is near?<br />
I stared to feel the tears building and the nurse turned to me and said "it's alright to cry", and cry, I did.<br />
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It all came flooding out. All the emotions I had been holding back for almost 2 weeks. The realization that I would never again have a two sided conversation with my grandmother. That my grandfather, whom I had relied on for the past 20 years of my life for advice and opinion when I had nowhere else to turn, would probably never stand or walk on his own again. It was all so unbelievably REAL. This was the moment I knew wold someday come, I just didn't know it would come now. <br />
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I consider myself so very blessed to have had my grandmother around for so long, knowing friends that are not as fortunate. She is , after all, going to be 91 in September and has lived a long and happy life. My grandparents have been together for over 60 years and have shown me just what the very definition of love is. I have watched my grandmother care for my grandfather for most of their lives and now in the latter ones, seen him in turn care for her. I know soon it will her time to move on from this life and though I want her to stay, I also know it would be selfish if she is suffering. She is no longer living a life that I would want for myself. Bed bound and unable to do anything for herself.<br />
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So as I write these words I try to prepare for the time when she ends her journey here and also wonder if my grandfather will improve or decline further, himself. I have decided to remain optimistic, but realistic.<br />
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As I end this blog post , I can feel the stinging of my red-rimmed eyes and know it will not be the last day I cry over my grandparents conditions. In fact, I fear it will only the the beginning of many tear-filled days and nights. as I look back on the time I shared with them I value ever second of it and want to treasure every second I have left. I don't know how much I have left, but I am going to make the most of it.<br />
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I ask one thing of you, my readers. Please take a moment to consider the ones you love. Then make sure you value every day you have with them. Life is short. Nobody knows what fate has in store for us. Things could turn at a moments notice and nobody wants to regret not having have done or said the things they thought they would always be able to do another day.<br />
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Trust me, because Redheads Know Best.<br />
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<br />Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-21474471601388982452013-11-26T18:06:00.000-05:002014-01-17T22:53:48.180-05:00Meaningful Beauty Crème de Serum- A ReviewI think most of us have seen those late night infomercials where Supermodel Cindy Crawford talks about her skincare line, MEANINGFUL BEAUTY.<br />
You know, that "magical" secret beauty line that keeps her looking so young and fabulous? Yes, THAT one.<br />
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Well, as an esthetician, I am always on the lookout to try new products and see just how well they really work. One night sitting up watching tv, I came across those infomercials. I have to admit, I was intrigued. I mean look at Cindy! She's about 2 years older than I am and she really does look incredible.<br />
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Of course, as intrigued as I was I was also skeptical. Let's face it (no pun intended) Cindy IS one of the most beautiful women in the world. She has the money and means to have access to anything and everything she can to keep looking that way. So is it <i>really </i>all because of some secret ingredient found in a melon that keeps her youthful glow? I really wanted to know.<br />
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On a personal note, I have been told I look younger than my own 43 years and I chalk that up to good genes as well as my knowledge as a skincare professional that knows how to properly care for my skin. If you have the right tools, and know how to use them correctly, most people can achieve skin that looks great and remains looking that way.<br />
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Now, the facts. Listen carefully. What I am about to say is very important. THERE IS NO MIRACLE IN A JAR THAT WILL MAKE ANYONE LOOK YOUNGER. Yes, I said it. You can try everything out there, but we must face facts, we are going to get older-like it or not.<br />
BUT-and yes, this is a big BUT- there ARE certain ingredients that can and will help us maintain healthy looking skin. we cannot stop the clocks, but we CAN slow them down a bit and look good while doing it.<br />
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Ok, so back to the subject you came here for. MEANINGFUL BEAUTY.<br />
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I just so happen to be a member of a wonderful program called INFLUENSTER. As a member, often I am selected to receive complimentary products from Influenster for testing purposes.<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><i> </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">As my good fortune would have </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">it, I was selected to try...yup, you guess it- a sample of Meaningful Beauty Creme de Serum. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">When I learned of this opportunity, I of course, jumped at the chance. I was finally going to see what all the excitement was about. I immediately started posting on FACEBOOK and TWITTER, telling everyone I knew that I was going to try the fabulous product that Cindy Crawford swears by. My friends were excited, too. Many admitted they also were curious as to the secret to Cindy's great looks. Now they could find out from a source who is unbiased. Anyone who knows me , knows I will never promote or encourage use of something I think is not a good thing. I am honest to a fault and especially when it comes to skin care. It's my profession and people rely on my honesty. So, if I was going to use this product, they knew the information I shared would be 100% true. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">Now, when my serum arrived, I was very excited to try it. I wasn't expecting very much to be honest. It containsa ingredients that are essential to healthy, younger looking skin. Hyaluronic acid (HA)and ant-aging peptides. Oh yeah, and that super antioxidant melon complex. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">Now I have been using a serum with HA and peptides for years, so I knew the benefits I would get from those. The melon complex? Well, I don't too much other than the info I received, but I knew it wasn't going to hurt.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">So by know you must be wondering what I think, right? I mean this is supposed to be a review, not a discussion of my beauty routine. Ok, here it is. MEANINGFUL BEAUTY Creme de Serum is in fact, quite impressive. After just a few days, my skin was significantly softer, silkier and smoother. I kept looking in the mirror and touching my skin. Today I even went to my office without any makeup on. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">I am using it as directed (once a day, either morning or evening-I chose evening before bed) and it's been about a week. Do I look younger? Of course not. But my skin feel incredible. I can say that much. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">I am very happy with my current line of products, so I don't plan on switching at this time, but I would LOVE to try the full line of MEANINGFUL BEAUTY products out to see what kind of results I can achieve. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">I know this product is not going to make me look younger than I do. But it's not full of excess chemicals. It's pretty pure. It does make me feel good about myself. I'm happy with how I look and isn't that really all that matters? Is it worth investing in? I think that would be left up to individuals to see for themselves. It's not the Fountain Of Youth, but it works. I wouldn't tell anyone NOT to use it. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">The only downside I can see is that you do have to sign up for a auto ship program. Those things aren't really something I like, but if you don't mind that, than I say go for it! </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;">For more on MEANINGFUL BEAUTY CREME de SERUM go here: <a href="http://www.meaningfulbeauty.com/products/products,default,pg.html">http://www.meaningfulbeauty.com/products/products,default,pg.html</a></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;">For more on MEANINGFUL BEAUTY purchasing information, you can go here:</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.265625px;"> <a href="http://www.meaningfulbeauty.com/select-a-system/order,default,pg.html" style="font-style: italic;">http://www.meaningfulbeauty.com/select-a-system/order,default,pg.html</a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue;">To find out about INFLUENSTER, go here: </span><a href="http://www.influenster.com/">http://www.influenster.com/</a><br />
Follow on Twitter: <span class="username js-action-profile-name" style="background-color: white; color: #999999; direction: ltr; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px; text-decoration: none; unicode-bidi: embed;"><a class="account-group js-user-profile-link" href="https://twitter.com/MeaningfulBty" style="background-color: white; color: #999999; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px; text-decoration: none;">@MeaningfulBty</a> @Influenster</span><br />
<span class="username js-action-profile-name" style="background-color: white; color: #999999; direction: ltr; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px; text-decoration: none; unicode-bidi: embed;">Find them in Facebook: </span><br />
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Facebook.com/meaningfulbeauty</h4>
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Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-25641754593767753332013-08-09T21:04:00.000-04:002013-08-12T15:01:37.104-04:00Nobody Touches My Sister And Gets Away With ItAt this point in my life, I don't think I have met anyone who hasn't been a affected by cancer in some way. Either, they have had it themselves, or a friend or family member has. My best friend's father died of lung cancer, a good friend was diagnosed with breast cancer last year and my own father fought melanoma. Twice.<br />
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It's sad, but it's true. Cancer is everywhere. Now it's closer than I ever thought it would be. My younger sister has it. Breast Cancer. When I say it out loud, it's still hard to believe.<br />
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I remember when she told me she found something that didn't seem right. I told her what everyone else was telling her. "I'm sure it's nothing. The doctor will check it out and you will be fine." "YOU WILL BE FINE." I was wrong.<br />
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Big sisters are supposed to protect and look out for little sisters. It's part of the job. You assure them the Boogieman is not real. You stand up for them when someone is mistreating them. You love them and keep them safe.<br />
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I remember one night many years ago. My sister was a teenager and in my early twenties. She was outside with friends and came inside because some girl had either punched her in the face or threatened to punch her. I can't remember which, but I remember storming outside and asking "who punched my sister?" I was told who the offender was and grabbing that girl by the throat, pinning her up against the side of my house and yelling at her " Don't you EVER lay a finger on my sister! EVER! Nobody touches my sister and gets away with it." <br />
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Sure we fight and yell at each other. We don't agree on everything and sometimes we say things that we don't mean to each other.<br />
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Little sisters steal clothes and toys and makeup and other stuff from big sisters and big sisters tattle-tale and tease little sisters. It's all part of that special sisterly bond, but the end of the day, no matter what, you always have each other's back.<br />
We can be screaming at each other one minute and storming out of the house, but hours later, we are back to restart and it's like nothing ever happened.<br />
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I would do anything for my little sister. ANYTHING. I would push her out of speeding traffic, keep her deepest secrets, let her cry on my shoulder, lie for her.<br />
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I'd do anything in my power to save my sister, only now I am powerless. Now is the one time I couldn't keep my little sister safe. I couldn't stop this monster from attacking her. I never felt so helpless. I want to take it all away from her. I want to take her place and God help me, I would if I could.<br />
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I know I need to be strong for her. Her battle has just begun. I can't take away the cancer, but I can be there for her. I WILL be there for her. I'm going to stand along side her and pray for her and let her know that I am here for her. Most of all, I will tell her how much I love her, every chance I get. I may be the older sister, but I admire my sister and sometimes she protects ME.<br />
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My sister is strong and she will win. When she does, she will be stronger. I'm proud of her and how positive she is. She's a fighter. She's not going to let this keep her from living her life as she is. I'm going to be right there to make sure she does. It's all I can do.<br />
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I may not be able to push cancer up against the house, but as I said that night years ago, "Nobody touches my sister and gets away with it." So back off, cancer. You've hurt many people, but this time you've messed with the wrong person.<br />
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<br />Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-75812630416284607052013-07-28T18:37:00.000-04:002013-07-28T18:37:02.871-04:00UNHAPPY? Do Something About It!Lately I've been getting a little annoyed with people who are always complaining about how bad their lives are. They are too ugly, too fat, too poor, can't find a guy/girl, don't get enough sex...you get the idea.<br />
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Of course, I am not referring to people who are dying from terminal illnesses or something THAT bad. I'm strictly referring to people who are "Debbie Downers". Those who everytime you make a statement always come back with a complaint about how rough life is to them. Oh, POOR YOU.<br />
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Sorry, but nobody lives a perfect life. NOBODY. Well, maybe Beyonce'.<br />
No, I bet even SHE has bad days. I'm not saying that some people don't have it REALLY bad, but for the most part , if you look at what you dislike in your life, I can bet there is going to be SOMEONE who has it worse.<br />
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Here's the thing. If you are unhappy about something in your life, you can do one of two things.<br />
One: you can start taking steps to changing what you don't like.<br />
Two: you can shut the fuck up.<br />
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I don't mean to be rude, but when I was fat, I didn't walk around saying "man, am I fat".<br />
Sure, I wasn't happy, but for a while I didn't really mind it enough to keep telling everyone about it. When I finally DID get to the point that I WAS really unhappy, guess what I did? I DID SOMETHING ABOUT IT.<br />
Guess what? If you start eating healthy and start exercising , it turns out you will lose weight and become fit.<br />
Now maybe that is an easy example of how to make changes in your life for the better.<br />
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Here is another example. You aren't happy at your job. Now I know with the current economy, not everyone can just quit their job and find another they like that pays the same, but you can make other changes. Maybe you can go back to school and further your degree. Maybe you can look into what it is that is making you miserable. Is it the pay? Is it the people? You can always make small changes that will help make it just a bit more pleasant or at least tolerable for the time being until you CAN make bigger changes.<br />
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Some people may argue that they can't change the way things are. I have a word for those people: "LAZY". There is ALWAYS something, no matter how small, that can be done to make things a little bit better. The important thing is to TRY. If you aren't willing to at least do that, than you need to just stop complaining. If you try and fail then you at least made the effort. Not trying is just good enough.<br />
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One thing I know for sure, before you change anything, you might want to consider changing your ATTITUDE. Maybe the reason you are so unhappy is because you never think about the GOOD things in your life. There are challenges everyday, but there are also many good things we all have to be thankful for.<br />
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I will leave you with this famous quote from a very wise woman:<br />
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Trust me. Redheads know best.<br />
<br />Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-78054788336768253862013-05-02T22:44:00.000-04:002013-12-16T01:20:23.117-05:00Single (And Happy) White Female So I was on Twitter a few minutes ago and somehow the subject of being married vs. single came up with a few of my followers.<br />
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Someone said they have been single for a long time and would like someone to "do things with". Another person noted that being single is surely better than feeling like you "settled" or being a "boring housewife".<br />
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I myself have been single for what some people may find far too long. After my last long term relationship broke up, I didn't rush out back into the dating pool, and I admit I got very comfortable living that way. It's easy to fall into a routine of working, coming home, doing my own thing and mostly not having to worry about what another person is doing. I really do value my alone time. Some may say that's selfish. But isn't that better than being with someone just because it's what society feels is right? Should I have settled for a lifetime of being with someone I really don't love and doesn't love me just to avoid being alone. Hell no.<br />
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Now don't get me wrong, I am not saying I am happier being single. I do like having a person to do things with. I enjoy lots of activities that are much more fun when you have another person with you. But do I feel like less of a person because I'm single? Not at all.<br />
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I feel like I do live a full life as a single woman. I have a fantastic career that I love. I have a great family and wonderful friends. Sure, I don't have any children, but I don't need to be married for that. So why do people look at me like they feel sorry for me when they hear I'm single. Why do they ask what is wrong? It's as if it's not a choice, but a situation I got stuck in.<br />
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I know lots of married people who are very happy. I also know single people who have no intention of ever getting married. They don't feel the need to have another person to "complete" them.<br />
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I don't believe that there is really any proof that either being single or married is better. I think it really is dependent on the individual. Some people just like the whole family setup. House, spouse, kids, pets, etc.<br />
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When I was a little girl, it was always just an assumption that I would grow up, meet the "perfect" person , get married, have kids, and live "happily ever after". Even though I thought about it, I was never one of those girls that "planned" her wedding. I didn't read bridal magazines, or pick out colors for my bridal party to wear. I didn't have a "song" for my first dance, or honeymoon destination picked out.<br />
I have been a bridesmaid twice. Neither time was I jealous of the bride.<br />
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I have seen numerous friends and family members get married and have children. I get the Christmas cards and see the Facebook posts. I am happy for them all. Do I think they have a better or more fulfilling life? Not really.<br />
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I have also seen people who got married in their 20's and ended up getting divorced. I know of people on their second marriage and even some on their second divorce.<br />
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I have recently started to think about getting back into the dating "scene". The most recent experiences were not that great and made me see I may not be missing out on much after all. I do know I haven't exactly been looking for a partner. It's not that easy to meet quality people. The older I get, the harder it becomes. Most of my friends are married. I'm not a fan of online dating. I don't really go to clubs anymore. Honestly, I don't really look for dates.<br />
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I'm not saying I wouldn't get married. There was a time when I was sure the man I was with would eventually propose. It didn't happen. I lived. Yes, I think about having a companion for life. Someone that I can cook for, tell all my secrets, desires and dreams to. Someone to share funny stories with. Someone to make memories with. It's just that it's not my goal in life.<br />
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My brother would say "you can't meet anyone if you don't leave the house." While this is very true, it remains that I'm just not in any rush. If I met someone I found attractive that I had common interests with and they asked me out I would say yes. It's just not a priority. If people can't understand that, it's fine by me.<br />
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There may very well be a Mr. Right out there somewhere. I'm sure there are plenty of quality men. Maybe I'm just not meant to be committed to one person. Sometimes knowing you are available is kind of fun. There is a little bit of satisfaction in listening to my married friends complain and thinking I don't have to deal with some of those issues. Other times, I think about what my life would be like if I were married. Would I be better off? Who really knows? <br />
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For now, my life is good. Having a spouse or partner wouldn't guarantee my life would be better. As for a child? Let's just say my biological clock hasn't run out yet, but THAT is topic for a different blog post.<br />
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<br />Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-11635110470420823242012-11-18T13:37:00.003-05:002012-11-18T13:41:38.100-05:00Rated M for MaturePardon my rant, but this is a subject that been eating at me for several days and I can no longer keep my mouth shut. If you know me, you know how difficult it is for me to not voice my opinion on subjects that matter to me.<br />
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Like most people these days, I have a Facebook account and a Twitter account. My Facebook account is filled with family and friends and some people I have met along my journey there. I usually keep my statuses and comments pretty "clean". Sure, there is an occasional sexual innuendo, or an "Fbomb" used here and there, (it IS my favorite word after all) but overall I know who's reading and I keep that in mind.<br />
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Twitter, on the other hand, is whole different story. If my Facebook is PG-13, well, then my Twitter is NC-17. It's my place to be myself. I don't concern myself with my followers. You chose to follow me. If you did, it's probably because you read one of my tweets and either 1. thought it was funny, 2. know we have several people we follow or follow us in common, 3. we have similar interests or 4. you want to share you work (books, movies, music) with me.<br />
See, on Twitter, I can be a PR tornado, slamming through people's timelines, spreading information about the latest and greatest I have seen, heard, or read. I follow several authors, some (ok, a lot) of whom are writers of erotic fiction (what can I say, I'm a horny gal).<br />
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Getting back to my point, a lot of what I post on Twitter may not be suitable for everyone. That not only applies to the real conservative, who may gasp at my comment about a sexual position or cringe at a review I post of a sexy erotic novel I just finished. I will "Retweet" a post or picture I find especially hilarious and want to share and it may be sexually explicit or use the work "Fuck". I may use it myself-in fact, I guarantee I will. Several times a day. So if you don't like that shit, I suggest you don't follow. I can't keep track of every person that decides to follow me, but if I happen to catch it, I will check out their little bio sometimes. I have warned a few people I have come across, that I may not the best choice of a follow. I have blocked any kids under 18. I even got to the point where I posted a "18+ please" disclaimer on my home page.<br />
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Now, I feel that I should not have to censor myself for the benefit of others. I am, afterall, a grown woman. I think it's my right to post whatever the hell I choose. Nobody makes someone follow them. I don't ASK people to follow me (well, except for Adam Levine, but that's a separate blog post on it's own).<br />
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So what do you think? How do you handle these things? Let me know (or don't). It doesn't matter anyway because I have my opinion and Redheads Know Best.<br />
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<br />Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-6756002810075958322012-11-12T00:57:00.000-05:002012-11-13T02:49:29.972-05:00HEAVEN SENT COVER REVEALWhen author E. Van Lowe decided to do the cover reveal for his upcoming novel, <i>HEAVEN SENT</i>, he wanted a few bloggers to help him spread the word. As a "Fran" (that's friend and fan) of E's work, I am proud to be one of those participating.<br />
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Before I get to the reveal, I'd like to tell you a bit about the author, E. Van Lowe and the book itself.<br />
For those that don't know, E is a young adult author that has written for award-winning television shows such as <i>The Cosby Show</i> and <i>Even Stevens. </i>His first YA novel was <i>Never Slow Dance With A Zombie </i>and most recently, he has released <i>The Zombie Always Knocks Twice</i>, which is book number one in his HOLLYWEIRD SERIES.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Heaven Sent</i> is book three in the Falling Angels Saga. The first two, <i>Boyfriend From Hell </i>and <i>Earth Angel </i> have spent several months on Amazon's top 100 sellers list and both were listed among the Top 10 Children's books on Amazon in March of 2012.<br />
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<br />
So now without further delay, I present the cover of HEAVEN SENT by E. Van Lowe<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cEwMwx_3wU8/UKB89I3puqI/AAAAAAAAAZw/uP1jvOFniCw/s1600/Heaven_Sent_Front_Cover+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cEwMwx_3wU8/UKB89I3puqI/AAAAAAAAAZw/uP1jvOFniCw/s320/Heaven_Sent_Front_Cover+(1).jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Isn't it beautiful? I think so. I also wouldn't feel right if I didn't give credit to Adara Rosalie, who designed the cover as well as the covers for the first two books. Adara has done an outstanding job and has helped E land on several Goodreads lists, including Best Book Covers of 2011 and Favorite Book Covers of 2011.<br />
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Here is a look at all three covers:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zhV3xb7iCZY/UKCJW_sRZkI/AAAAAAAAAaA/FgmXLOHIke0/s1600/BFF_&_EA_&_HS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zhV3xb7iCZY/UKCJW_sRZkI/AAAAAAAAAaA/FgmXLOHIke0/s320/BFF_&_EA_&_HS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As an extra special treat, E has let me present you with the back cover blurb, so you can have a little tease of what it's about.<br />
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<br />
WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?<br />
<br />
Readers who devoured <i>Boyfriend From Hell</i> and <i>Earth Angel</i> will be captivated by the third book in the <i>Falling Angels</i> series.<br />
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As Summer break for Glendale Union high begins, heartsick Megan awaits Guy's return while struggling to control her emerging abilities. Love is in the air, but can the new loves in Megan, Maudrina, Suze and Aunt Jaz's life be trusted?<br />
<br />
Nothing is what it seems. Meanwhile, the Satanists are set to hatch their most diabolical scheme ever, and if it comes to pass, Satan may finally win out.<br />
<br />
Megan has precious little time to unravel the cryptic message hidden in the riddle she received at the end of Earth Angel. If she doesn't, the life of someone most dear to her will be lost forever and Megan may yet find herself living in HELL.<br />
<br />
"The third book in E. Van Lowe's Falling Angels Saga is his most thrilling yet."<br />
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<i>HEAVEN SENT</i> is due to be released in December 2012.Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-41792507532540354522012-11-11T12:45:00.004-05:002012-11-11T12:47:16.853-05:00Heaven Sent Cover TeaserI am pleased to announce that tomorrow I will be included in a a group on bloggers that will be revealing the new cover for E.Van Lowe's upcoming book Heaven Sent.<br />
Just to tease you a bit (I am a teaser) I have this little hint at what it looks like.<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IT3wNyiGZb8/UJ_kFCPceFI/AAAAAAAAAZg/3F0EzKB5Kg0/s1600/Sneak_Peek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IT3wNyiGZb8/UJ_kFCPceFI/AAAAAAAAAZg/3F0EzKB5Kg0/s320/Sneak_Peek.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Enjoy and please comeback tomorrow to see the full cover. I think it's absolutely stunning, as are all the book covers in this series.Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-88882890929915755042012-11-08T20:39:00.002-05:002014-04-08T19:50:33.723-04:00Just What ARE The Benefits to being "friends with benefits"Earlier today, a friend of mine on Facebook posted about how even though a girl may agree to a "friends with benefits" relationship, she still doesn't want to be treated like a whore.<br />
<br />
This, of course, caused many comments on the subject to emerge. One guy said if she expects you to wine and dine her, she's a whore. Another commenter said if she is fine with just sex alone, she is a slut, but if she wants to be given gifts, she's a whore.<br />
<br />
Me, being me, had to put my own 2 cents in. I stated that I happened to agree with the original post. If 2 people can mutually agree to a sex-only situation, there is nothing wrong with it. I have had them in the past but was always treated with respect. One guy I was <strike>dating</strike> sleeping with was a good friend. We didn't exactly click romantically on a date, so we agreed to be friends. With benefits. But it wasn't just about the sex.<br />
<br />
We would do things all friends do. See a movie, have dinner, hang out. I even checked up on his dog when he was out of town. We just happened to sometimes end up having sex as well. I didn't have a problem with it. We were both single and not sleeping with anyone else. We agreed that if we ever were to sleep with another person, we would tell each other. We even gave each other dating advice.<br />
I didn't have any fantasies that we would some day fall madly in love and neither did he.<br />
<br />
He even set me up with one of his good friends and I ended up dating him for a while. Eventually, we both found significant others and the sex ended. After a while, we lost touch. It was fun while it lasted, and I don't feel sad or upset because of it.<br />
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One girl read my post and told me that she had tried a similar situation with her EX and it was just like when they were dating. Only thing was they didn't see each other as much. Oh yeah, and he didn't LOVE her. She said that after 1 year and 1/2 he couldn't love her.<br />
Um, sweetie? that is why you don't make this kind of arrangement with an ex. It will never work. You can't have a "fuck buddy" you were once in a relationship with. One of you most likely still has feelings for the other (probably the one who got dumped) and at some point will end up getting hurt. All.Over.Again. Why would you even put yourself through that?<br />
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I explained this to her and said how I didn't LOVE this guy and he didn't LOVE me. Not before the friendship and not after. That is the point of the whole thing. To have someone to enjoy the benefits of a sexual relationship and friendship without the complications of a romantic one. She asked if I could "control love". I said that I could not, but I didn't at any point love this guy, nor did I want to. If for some reason I did find myself falling for him, I would have ended it. Not to mention that I would never even try to be "friends with benefits" with any of my exes. Believe me-there would be NO benefits to that.<br />
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I guess she didn't get the point. In my situation, I was having a good time with Mr. Right Now, until Mr. Right came along. With her, she was trying to win back her ex. Not the same thing.<br />
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So in conclusion, there is nothing wrong with 2 consenting adults having a relationship based solely on sexual activity. If you also are inclined to enjoy dinner, movies, and other friendly adventures, that makes it better. It doesn't make you a whore. If the guy is treating you like a whore, then you shouldn't stay in that situation. Unless, of course, you like being a whore. Then by all means, keep on with it.<br />
The important thing is not to try this with your ex. It will only end in heartache. Unless your ex is really cool and you are still on a talking basis and just on rare occasions get together for a good shag. But if you are thinking the "friends with benefits" thing will get him to take you back, you are wrong. Clearly, if you are broken up, there was a reason and that reason still exists. Don't lower your self esteem only to get your heart broken all over again. This advice can also work for guys.<br />
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Trust me because Redheads Know Best.<br />
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<br />Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-55643172205974242602012-10-16T13:49:00.000-04:002012-10-16T15:11:38.507-04:00Join Authors Against Bullying on Friday Oct 19thBy now most everyone knows who Amanda Todd is.<br />
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If you have not heard of her, she is the Canadian teen who committed suicide because of bullying. Sadly, we all know that Amanda is not the first teen to end her life due to bullying.<br />
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Several authors have decided it's time to take a stand against bullying. They have gathered as a group of to participate in AUTHORS AGAINST BULLYING DAY on Friday, October 19th.<br />
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You do not have to be an author to participate, and this event is FREE. All anyone is asking is for you to join in and let the victims of bullying know they are not alone and that THERE IS HOPE. We need to let the world know we are not ok with bullying.<br />
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So please join in and help spread the word. You can post to your Facebook, Twitter, Blog or anywhere else you want. Please read the posts, stories and comments. You can share your own stories if you like.<br />
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October is National Bullying Awareness Month. Let's join together and take a stand against bullying.<br />
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Visit www.mandyroth.com/blog on October 19th, 2012. There will be links to all the authors participating. Below is a list of just some of these amazing people, who are giving their time to this cause.<br />
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Thank You!<br />
Lisa<br />
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AUTHORS PARTICIPATING (click on name to be taken to their blog)<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://mandyroth.com/blog/2012/10/19/authors-against-bullying/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Mandy M. Roth</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.galenorn.com/Blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Yasmine Galenorn</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.laurendane.com/blog%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Lauren Dane</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.michellepillow.com/blog%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Michelle M. Pillow</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.aphrodisiaauthors.com/blog/2012/10/15/it-really-does-get-better/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Kate Douglas</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://shawntellemadison.blogspot.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Shawntelle Madison</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://leahbraemel.com/2012/10/19/authors-against-bullying/" target="”_blank”">Leah Braemel</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://blog.aaroncrocco.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Aaron Crocco</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.njwalters.blogspot.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">NJ Walters</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.shellistevens.com/blog/2012/10/19/authors-against-bullying-shellis-story/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Shelli Stevens</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://melissaschroeder.net/blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Melissa Schroeder</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.jayceeclark.com/blog/" target="”_blank”">Jaycee Clark</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://authorshawnathomas.blogspot.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Shawna Thomas</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://elladrake.blogspot.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Ella Drake</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.fromtheshadows.info%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">E.J. Stevens</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://jezzeb.blogspot.ca%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Ashley Shaw</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://jeanienefrost.com/blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Jeaniene Frost</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://officialmorganvillevampires.tumblr.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Rachel Caine</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://katerothwell.blogspot.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Kate Rothwell</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.jackiemorsekessler.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Jackie Morse Kessler</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://jayewells.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Jaye Wells</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.kateangell.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Kate Angell</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.melissacutler.net/?page_id=567%E2%80%B3" target="”_blank”">Melissa Cutler</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.ptmichelle.com/blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">PT Michelle</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.patricemichelle.net/" target="”_blank”">Patrice Michelle</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.plotmonkeys.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Julie Leto</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.kazmahoney.com/blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Kaz Mahoney</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://cynthiadalba.wordpress.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Cynthia D’Alba</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://zombiegoat.livejournal.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Jesse L. Cairns</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.tjmichaels.com/2012/10/19/yeah-im-empowered/" target="”_blank”">TJ Michaels</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://jesshaines.com/blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Jess Haines</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.facebook.com/phoebe.conn.9%E2%80%B3" target="”_blank”">Phoebe Conn</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://jessaslade.wordpress.com/2012/10/19/anti-bullying/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Jessa Slade</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.kate-davies.blogspot.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Kate Davies</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.lynnesilver.com/blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Lynne Silver</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.tarynblackthorne.blogspot.ca/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Taryn Blackthorne</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.margaretdaley.com/margarets-blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Margaret Daley</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://alyssaday.blogspot.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Alyssa Day</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.aarondries.com/apps/blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Aaron Dries</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://lisawhitefern.wordpress.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Lisa Whitefern</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.facebook.com/RhyannonByrd%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Rhyannon Byrd</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.plotmonkeys.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Carly Phillips</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.plotmonkeys.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Leslie Kelly</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.plotmonkeys.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Janelle Denison</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.graylinfox.com/blog" target="”_blank”">Graylin Fox</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.leemckenzie.com/thewritersideoflife/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Lee McKenzie</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.barbarawinkes.blogspot.ca/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Barbara Winkes</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.harmonyevans.com/blog%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Harmony Evans</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.maryeason.com%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Mary Eason</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.annaguirre.com/news/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Ann Aguirre</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://lucymonroeblog.blogspot.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Lucy Monroe</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://nikkiduncan.com/blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Nikki Duncan</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://kerryschafer.com/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Kerry Schafer</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.rflong.com/blog/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”">Ruth Frances Long</a>Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-29780175443943282562012-10-15T01:56:00.001-04:002012-10-15T02:56:05.623-04:00Some Like It HotI have always been a fan of erotica romance, but since I read <i>Fifty Shades Of Grey, </i>I have a renewed interest in the genre. Here a few of the titles steaming up my Kindle Fire.<br />
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<u>HOLLYWOOD SPANK by SHOSHANNA EVERS</u><br />
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<u><br /></u>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">When Andrea Langley takes a job as personal assistant to hot action hero, Mark Cannon, she finds out the beloved movie star has some kinky habits in the bedroom. She decides this would be the perfect opportunity to write an expose' on him and finally get promoted from secretary to reporter at the tabloid she works for.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">What Andrea didn't expect is that she would start falling for her dominant boss and must face the decision to either tell Mark the truth or keep her secret cover. Either way, Andrea could end up losing more than her job. She could end up losing the man is she falling in love with.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Hollywood Spanked is more than just an erotic romance. Sure it has some pretty hot BDSM scenes, but it also has a great storyline. It kept me reading with anticpation. I couldn't wait to find out if mark owuld find out Andrea's secret and if so, where that would leave them in their relationship.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Shoshanna Evers has once again mixed the perfect blend of eroticism and romance to keep readers wanting more.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.63636302947998px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><u>THE WINGMAN CHRONICLES by JAMES HOLEVA</u></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ok, I'll be honest. I had not heard of James "The Wingman" Holeva until several weeks ago when he started following me on Twitter, plugging this very book and telling dirty jokes. I decided to check out the link to the book's Amazon page and was intrigued.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Now this is not exactly what most people who refer to as erotic romance, but I included it because I really enjoyed it and besides, It's my blog, so my choice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">James Holeva is a comedian, writer and actor who has an uncanny ability to charm the panties off of just about any woman. He's good-oh, he's good. I have seen his flirty banter with the ladies on Twitter and Facebook and even will admit that I have been taken in by his good looks and outgoing personality. Obviously I had to buy his book. (See? It worked.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Wingman Chronicles is a semi-autobiographical account of the many sexual encounters Holeva has had with women in just about anyplace. Hotels, bathroom stalls, cars, even his own grandfather's funeral. No place is off-limits.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I wasn't sure what to expect from this book but found myself laughing one minute and getting turned on the next. At one point I had to put my Kindle down just to catch my breath.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">James can be crude at times (ok, most times) but he is honest and entertaining. I feel like I even saw a softer side of him near the end.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Filled with down and dirty tales that will entertain men and women alike, The Wingman Chronicles is a sexy, funny read that will keep you entertained and wanting more.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><u><br /></u></span><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><u>THE QUICKIE by KITTY FINE</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Although this hot little story definitely fits it's title, it was still enjoyable on a day where I needed something to get me through a rough morning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">A short story about two high school seniors who cut class to go off for a "quickie", what it lacked in length, kit fully compensated for in content.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Pick it up while it's free-there's nothing to lose and only pleasure to be gained. After all, most times it's not the size but the content that really matters.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">All of the above are available to download on Amazon.com and The Wingman Chronicles is now also available in paperback as well.</span><br />
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Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-87848083586572832842012-09-22T20:10:00.000-04:002012-10-04T20:33:21.043-04:006 SURE-FIRE WAYS TO KEEP YOUR MAN SATISFIED*Ok, so now that I have your attention, I'll let you in on a secret. I really don't know 6 sure-fire ways to keep a man satisfied. I may know 2 or 3. At best I know 2 that will keep him satisfied on a temporary basis and 1 that will satisfy his immediate needs. I definitely know a few that will send him running in the wrong direction. I do not, however, know any that will keep him forever.<br />
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I am not sure anyone really does, yet here we are, nearly four months away from the year 2013 and I am still seeing articles telling us how to get a man, please a man, keep a man.<br />
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Are we as women, so desperate to find a soul mate that we are still relying on these types of articles to us get there?<br />
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Here is a thought- how about being ourselves? Is it wrong to want to be accepted for the women we are? I am in no way saying that finding a love match is easy and we should all be laying about waiting for Mr Right to come knocking on our doors.<br />
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Obviously, we have to put some effort into finding "The One". I am simply stating that it does not need to be a research project.<br />
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I recently read an online article that said women should learn to speak a man's "love language" and then when we knew exactly what it was that kept him happy and were able to make our actions fit his needs, we could then be assured he would be satisfied.<br />
That after all, we girls aren't as perfect as he thought on that first date, therefore, we need to make sure he is willing to accept us now that our true selves are revealed.<br />
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See, my point is, if we were just honest and not tried to fit an "image" of what we think men want, then maybe-just maybe, once we were in a relationship, we wouldn't have to work so hard to keep him around.<br />
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I don't believe that any one woman-or man for that matter- should have to take quizzes and listen to the advice provided by so-called "experts" on the subject so that we can keep a man as if he were a caged animal. Why in the world would we want a man that was only staying with us because of who he BELIEVED us to be and not because of who we actually are? Aren't we the ones who are always complaining that guys aren't honest with US? So really, is it fair that we come up with an elaborate scheme to snag and bag a man? I don't think so.<br />
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Now I am not about to turn around and try to teach anyone the skills of dating, but I have done my own personal research (and by research, I mean gone on lots of dates) and I have come to my own conclusions on the subject. Now remember, these are MY formulas and may not apply to everyone.<br />
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First, you need a strong heart. Let's face it, you are going to encounter some guys that are just plain jerks. They will make you think they have the qualities you are looking for in a partner and then turn around and say "HAHA! GOTCHA! I was just <i>pretending</i> to like horror movies all this time so you would sleep with me". (yes, I have had that happen to me)<br />
Personally, I want a guy to be himself, too. If we aren't compatible, I am cool with that and we both can move forward. Just because he is not the guy I want to marry, doesn't mean I can't see him at all. I would much prefer a guy be open and honest with me from the start. If a guy says "Hey, I think you are cool and I find you attractive, but I really just want to sleep with you", it is much better than him stringing me along for several dates only to end up confessing he just wanted to get laid.<br />
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Another important thing to remember on the search for love is to have fun. You should enjoy dating. It shouldn't have to be a means to an end. If all you are focused on is finding a husband, you will miss out on a lot of chances to have a good time. I am not saying you should be a slut, but there is nothing wrong with casual dating.<br />
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At the end of the day there is no power you can achieve that will make you find, get and keep a man. Nobody is perfect and we all need to just relax and have fun. If we stop trying so hard, we may be surprised at what we find.<br />
The again, what do I know? I'm still single.<br />
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* or JUST BE YOURSELF.<br />
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<br />Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-69649578322439862212012-06-26T17:27:00.001-04:002012-10-04T20:59:31.309-04:00Find Your Nail Polish "Treasures" HereThere are only a few things in life I really am a hoarder of. One of them is nail polish. I have so many polishes, it's like my own personal mini-salon.<br />
When it comes to purchases, those close to me know I am VERY loyal to where I shop. If I am happy with my sales and service, I will keep coming back and I will shout your name from the roof tops. One lady who definitely deserves a shout out is Lynn from Billy's Treasure Box on ebay.<br />
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Lynn sells OPI and China Glaze. I found her several years ago when I did a search for OPI's Lincoln Park After Dark. Nobody had it, and those who did were so overpriced.<br />
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Lynn's prices are very reasonable. In fact, right now she has free shipping on all orders.<br />
She even turned me into a China Glaze lover. I was an OPI girl all the way. Lynn kept suggesting and suggesting I try it out. Finally, she "gifted" a color she knew I would like and she was right. I love it and I was hooked!<br />
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Lynn is always sneaking little goodies into my order (toe separators, buffers, emery boards) All at no extra cost. I think she now knows my color preferences better than I do!<br />
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Also, every time I order, she is quick to e-mail me a thank you and ask how I am doing and what's new down in Florida. Lynn lives in California and we have never met in person but after all these years, she feels like an old friend.<br />
I can ask her about colors and she will help me find the perfect shade or steer me away from one she knows is not my type.<br />
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She will ask how my cats are doing and I ask about hers.(Billy-as in Billy's Treasure Box)<br />
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She knows what colors I like best, but will also suggest shades she loves and thinks I will, too. I trust her on this ALL THE TIME.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">One such shade is OPI's Charmed By A Snake from the India Collection. I was ordering Black Cherry Chutney and asked what else was new. She suggested this light gold with micro glitter. Well, I gave it a shot and I do love it. It looks great on a summer tan!</span><br />
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Charmed by a Snake:<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Here is the link to her ebay store:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"> http://stores.ebay.com/Billys-Treasure-Box</span><br />
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I think you will be pleased. Tell her Lisa sent you.<br />
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Trust me because "Redheads Know Best"<br />
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LisaLisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-51270042614412236092012-06-18T13:48:00.000-04:002014-09-29T13:04:22.695-04:00GONE, BABY, GONE. My Review of GONE GIRL by GILLIAN FLYNNI had the luxury of receiving an advanced reader's copy (ARC)* of the hot new novel GONE GIRL by Gillian Flynn to read and review for the AMAZON VINE program.<br />
This review first appeared there.<br />
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How do you review a book such as this without giving too much away? Well, let's start with the basics.<br />
It is the morning of Nick and Amy's 5th wedding anniversary. Nick gets up, and heads out to the bar he co-owns with his twin sister, Margo, known to everyone as "GO". Several hours later, Nick gets a call from his neighbor that his front door is open and his indoor cat is outside. Nick goes home to find Amy gone.. He sees what could be considered signs of a struggle and calls the police.<br />
Now, with most stories of this type, the spouse is always the first suspect, so I expected at some point the investigation would turn to Nick. It did seem that everyone around him was fully supportive. Amy's parents, the police, his sister. I found myself liking Nick in the beginning and hoped there was some other explanation for Amy's disappearance.<br />
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I immediately started speculating about how it would all turn out. Did Nick kill Amy? Was she even dead? Would it turn out that someone else was involved? Would Amy be found,and if so, how would it affect the relationship between her and Nick. Would I piece it all together and know who the real "villain" was? I thought so. I WAS WRONG. So very, very wrong.<br />
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I really should have known better. I have read Gillian Flynn's previous 2 novels and I know how dark they can be. But Gone Girl wasn't just dark. It was REALLY DARK. I mean REALLY, REALLY DARK. Some other words I would use to describe it are twisted, crazy and even scary.<br />
The novel is told partly from Nick's point of view and also through Amy's diary entries, so you are aware of Nick's thoughts as well as get an idea of who Amy is. Nick is an admitted liar,Amy has some issues of her own and that is only the beginning. It becomes clear this was not a perfect marriage-heck, not even a typical marriage. I am afraid to say much more without spoiling it for those who have not read it. I don't mind spoilers at times, but I will say that if I knew anymore than I did about this novel before reading it, it would have completely ruined the experience. I don't think I would ever have guessed that half way through I would be throwing the book in the air and saying out loud "NO F-ing WAY".<br />
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I will say Ms Flynn had me from casually reading a few pages a day to staying up all night trying to finish this book. If you are a fan of her work, you need to read this. If you are not, you will be after you do. I just can't wait to see what she has in store for us in the future.<br />
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In my opinion, this is the MUST READ of the Summer.<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"> You can buy it on amazon.com here:</span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/030758836X/ref=cm_cr_thx_view">http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/030758836X/ref=cm_cr_thx_view</a>Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-69802693568534495362012-06-18T13:28:00.000-04:002012-06-18T13:29:04.899-04:00DR. SCHOLL'S FOR HER, BALL OF FOOT CUSHIONS REVIEWLove wearing sexy high heels? Hate the pain in the ball of your feet? Well, now there's help, so you can dance the night away without worrying about ball of foot pain!
DR Scholl's has introduced a new product that I was given to try test and try compliments of the INFLUENSTER SRING VOXBOX program.
If you read my blog, you know I was sent a box of wonderful products to test and try and then EVERYONE about my experiences with them.
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Dr Scholl's has created something EVERY woman that loves her high heel will love and benefit from.
These are the ONLY product to have FabuSTEP gel that massages your feet to help prevent ball of foot pain, so you can have confidence to wear your sexiest high heels and not worry about any pain later on. They stay in place and do not have to be trimmed because they are one size fits all and discreetly fit ANY pair of shoes!
All you do it place on top of your current insole and you are ready to go. They will not damage your shoes, so whether you wear Manolos or PayLess, your shoes will stay good as new. Just replace every 6 months or when your start to see wear and tear.
I personally, love a great pair of heels, the higher, the better. Perhaps this is because of height (or lack there of) but I used them with my wedge heels and I was very pleased with how comfy they are. My feet are happy!
So make YOUR feet happy, too!
For more information and a money saving coupon, visit Dr Scholl's Product page here: http://www.drscholls.com/drscholls/products/ForHerBallofFootCushions.jspa#tab-link1
Trust me because REDHEADS KNOW BEST!
LisaLisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310720935528074424.post-61755669284916200672012-06-03T13:13:00.003-04:002012-06-03T13:13:42.685-04:00SALLY HANSEN SALON EFFECTSRecently, I had blogged about receiving the INFLUENSTER SPRING VOX BOX and listed all the products I received complimentary to test out and review. Today I am blogging about another of those products. <b>SALLY HANSEN SALON EFFECTS REAL NAIL POLISH STRIPS</b>.
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Now I know some people have seen similar products like these, but believe me, these are so much different!
First, they are made with real nail polish. This makes a huge difference because unlike a sticker, they do NOT peel off. In fact, they can last up to 10 days! They don't peel off like a sticker, you remove them with nail polish remover.
Now I wasn't sure what to expect. They did appear like a sticker. I thought I would try them out for a week or so and then just peel them off. Well, no.
Here is my experience. I chose the correct sizes for my nails and set them out. I followed all the instructions. You want to start with clean , dry nails. I pushed back my cuticles. I have tiny nail beds, so I wasn't even sure how these would look, but I liked the glitter shade they sent, so I wanted to see for myself. Applying was very easy. after pressing them onto the nail, you file off the excess and you are done! NO DRY TIME! Fast and easy. THAT I love!
Here is what my finished nails looked like:
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Now I was very happy with them, and even though I have shorter nails, I still liked it. I hate waiting for my nails to dry and this eliminates that entirely. They really do last long,too.
Now, as for removal, I was sure I could just peel them off but again-NO. I had to use nail polish remover. That is how good these strips are! They will not peel or tear off.
They come in 40 awesome styles. Some plain, some really cool glitter or designs. I am going to buy some for the Kiss and Motley Crue concert in July. There is a really cool "tattoo" style.
These come at a suggested retail of $9.99 (less than a manicure in a salon) and are available at chain drug stores, food stores and mass market retailers.
I urge you to check them out. For more information visit www.sallyhansen.com
Trust me because REDHEADS KNOW BEST!Lisa Masonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07659213671681147330noreply@blogger.com0