Book Review: Before I Forget by Leonard Pitts, Jr.

Before I Forget by Leonard Pitts, Jr.
Review by Tavares S. Carney
Amazon rating: 5 stars
Before I Forget by Leonard Pitts, Jr. is a story about men, their relationships with each other, themselves and their sons, as well as how their past relationships affect their present relationships. This is a novel about James Moses Johnson II, a once famed crooner whose diminishing fame, along with a recent medical diagnosis that threatens his very livelihood, stabs at his ego. Now, James Moses Johnson II sets out on a journey to give much warranted attention to his own son, Trey, as well as his own father. Each of the men, in their own way, have faced or are facing life's challenges that have affected their relationships with each other. Pitts offers dramatic underlying subplots that add steam to the story and also helps readers understand the connection, or lack thereof, between each father and son pair. It is through the main character's recent diagnosis that the emphasis of the story turns to father and son relationships, and hopes of forgiveness and a better life for the future Johnson lineage emerge.

I liked how this story flowed and the awareness brought to the challenges people face as they age and the emotional turmoil a medical diagnosis can bring, not only to the individual but to their family and friends as well.

BEAUTIFUL CHRISTIAN SISTER by Maya Angelou

BEAUTIFUL CHRISTIAN SISTER
By Maya Angelou

'A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ
That a man should have to seek Him first to find her.'

When I say.... 'I am a Christian' I'm not shouting 'I'm clean living,'
I'm whispering 'I was lost, Now I'm found and forgiven.'

When I say... 'I am a Christian' I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say... 'I am a Christian' I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak and need His strength to carry on.

When I say.. 'I am a Christian' I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.

When I say... 'I am a Christian' I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible, but God believes I am worth it.

When I say... 'I am a Christian' I still feel the sting of pain...
I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon His name.

When I say..... 'I am a Christian' I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner Who received God's good grace, somehow!

TODAY IS BEAUTIFUL CHRISTIAN SISTERS DAY - TAG; YOU'RE IT!
I'm supposed to send this to BEAUTIFUL WOMEN, and you are one!!! If you share this with other women, you will boost another woman's self esteem, And she will know that you care about her.

Feature Book and Author: Sins of the Father by Angela Benson

Successful media mogul Abraham Martin has great wealth, an elegant wife, Saralyn, and a rebellious son, Isaac. He also has a secret: a second family that no one knows about. Now, after thirty years—driven by the urging of his long dormant conscience—Abraham is determined to do the right thing by finally bringing his illegitimate children into the light…and into the family fold.
But beautiful, manipulative Saralyn will never accept the proof of her husband’s indiscretions. Isaac the heir, shaken by his father’s revelations, will fight mercilessly when his world is threatened, and may lose everything that matters as a result. And while Abraham’s forgotten daughter Deborah is open to the undreamed-of possibilities suddenly awaiting her, son Michael cannot forgive the man who cruelly abandoned them to near poverty. And he’s driven by only one desire: revenge!

Angela Benson’s Sins of the Father is a powerful story of a house bitterly divided—a rich, multilayered family saga of betrayal and redemption, rage and compassion, faith, forgiveness, and ultimately, of love.

Meet Angela Benson

Award-winning author, Angela Benson, has published many works including The Amen Sisters and Up Pops the Devil, published by HarperCollins (Avon A) in August 2008.

Angela's twelfth novel, Sins of the Father (Avon A), hits bookstores in September 2009.

Angela has a diverse education and work history. She majored in mathematics at Spelman College and Industrial Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), and worked for fifteen years as an engineer in the telecommunications industry. She holds Masters degrees in operations research and human resources development. Her most recent degree is a doctorate in instructional technology from the University of Georgia. Dr. Benson is now an associate professor of educational technology at The University of Alabama.

Follow the blog tour at http://bitly.com/SinsoftheFather.

Be sure to check back for my review!

For more on Angela Benson, please visit AngelaBenson.com.

Venus and Serena Williams join Miami Dolphins as Limited Partners

Stephen M. Ross, Owner and Managing General Partner of the Miami Dolphins, today announced that Venus and Serena Williams, who have 18 Grand Slam singles titles combined and are residents of Palm Beach Gardens, are joining the organization as limited partners of the franchise.

The Williams sisters are the first female African-Americans to hold an ownership stake in a NFL franchise and one of the few African-Americans league-wide to hold this unique distinction.

“We are thrilled to have Venus and Serena join the Dolphins as limited partners,” said Ross. “They are among the most admired athletes in the world and have become global ambassadors for the game of tennis. Their addition to our ownership group further reflects our commitment to connect with aggressively and embrace the great diversity that makes South Florida a multicultural gem,” added Ross.

"I am honored to be a partner in the Miami Dolphins franchise. I admire Stephen Ross' vision for the team and I am thankful to him for allowing Serena and I to be part of Miami Dolphins history,” said Venus.

"I am so excited to be part of such a renowned organization. Having spent so much of my childhood in the area, being involved with a staple of Miami culture is a huge honor. We look forward to many championships and much success together with the Miami Dolphins,” said Serena.

The Williams sisters are among the top professional athletes in the world. Between them, they have 18 Grand Slam singles titles, nine Grand Slam doubles titles, 62 Sony Ericsson WTA Tour titles and three Olympic gold medals. They have been credited with raising the profile of their sport and with bringing the women’s tennis game to a whole new level of power, athleticism and popularity. In addition, they are accomplished businesswomen.

Serena, currently ranked second in the world, has 11 Grand Slam singles titles, including her third Wimbledon title this past July, 28 Tour titles and two Olympic gold medals. She is a four-time ESPY Award winner, and in 2002 was named “Female Athlete of the Year” by the AP and one of People Magazine’s “25 Most Intriguing People.” Serena has her own accessories and clothing line, ANERES, and skin care line, MISSION Skin, which she co-founded. Her book, “On The Line” comes out September 1st.

Venus, currently ranked third in the world, has seven Grand Slam titles and 34 Tour titles. She now joins Marina Navratilova and Steffi Graf as the only ladies in the open era to have won five or more Wimbledon Championships. Venus is also a three-time Olympic gold medalist. She is the founding and global ambassador for the UNESCO/Tour partnership for Gender Equality, which raises awareness for gender equality issues and creates leadership opportunities for women and girls through programs in Camaroon, Liberia, China, Jordan, the Dominican Republic and the United States. In 2007, Venus launched a line of clothes named Eleven. She also owns an interior design company, V Starr Interiors.

Feature Book and Author: Til Debt Do Us Part by Michelle Larks

Making It Work

Review by Tavares S. Carney

‘Til Debt Do Us Part by Michelle Larks is the story of Nichole Baldwin-Singleton, a seemingly once spoiled, little rich girl whose inheritance has not afforded her experiences of financial hardship, and her husband Jeff, whose childhood is a total contrast to that of Nichole’s. Jeff knows all too well about financial hardships and is determined to make sure he, nor his family, ever has to travel that road.

Suffering from a gambling addiction, Nichole and Jeff’s relationship is pushed to the limit when Nichole risks almost everything the couple has to feed her addiction. Jeff, on the other hand, also has a few secrets of his own. When all comes to light and through various tragedies and triumphs, Nichole and Jeff realize that keeping God first, communication and forgiveness are key ingredients to making their marriage last. Supporting characters Eveline Baldwin, Maya and Pastor Dudley add a delightful mix to the story. The girls in the book club were also entertaining.

The author’s story progression worked well for me. I was happy to see that love conquers all in this novel. Positive elements of familial ties and friendship were prevalent throughout. Nichole and Jeff learn how to balance and complement each other, ultimately “making it work.”

Review by Tavares S. Carney

For more on the author: Michelle Larks

Featured Business: Cutie Booty Cakes

After working for over a decade in non-profit management and government, and upon the birth of her son, Renee decided that working from home was the best choice for her. An opportunity presented itself and after being back at work full-time for 3 months, she left her position for a more flexible schedule. A graduate of Spelman College with a Master's Degree from The American University, Renee is very much prepared for the entrepreneurial lifestyle. "I have the full support of my husband who is also an entrepreneur and has been pressing me to venture into my own business forever," she says.

In addition to building her "Cutie Booty Cakes" business, Renee is currently a non-profit management consultant for a national literacy organization. "I am a busy woman but am happy with the flexibility of my schedule and the ability to enjoy quality time with my child."

Cutie Booty specializes in "diaper cakes", cakes that are not edible but are loaded with the essential ingredients all new mommies need - Diapers!!! Cutie Booty diaper cakes are designed to look like real cakes and are great gifts for new parents. They can be given as baby shower gifts, at the hospital, anytime - because every Cutie Booty needs covering!

The diaper cakes are designed with the discerning customer in mind. Each diaper cake is meticulously handcrafted and made to order. All of the diaper cakes are created with materials of the highest quality - Pampers Swaddlers, silk flowers and top of the line ribbons and decorations. All diaper cakes are wrapped in tulle with a matching bow.

CONTACT RENEE @ Cutiebootycakes@gmail.com

Victorious Enterprises Launches Victorious Magazine!

The Pleasing Spoon is happy to wrap-up the blog tour for Victorious Magazine's premiere. We spoke with the founder and editor, Brooks J. Young, to discuss what her plans are now that she has "birthed her baby."

As mothers plan and hope for their new children, now that you've birthed Victorious, what do you plan to do to shape and mold her into what you hope she becomes?

As a new "mom" I have given my "baby" back to God. That was my first assignment...MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! I've planned so many things for Victorious but I've also looked at how mothers have to adjust due to what may happen. In saying that, I'm going to take it one day at a time before I announce any news. I will say that, Victorious is a FREE print publication that will be in your mailbox September 2009.

What types of influences/views will she be exposed to, in this case exposing? For example, who are your staff members and contributing writers and what are their platforms?

Victorious' Staff and Contributing Writers are work-at-home moms, authors, pastors, attorneys, financial planners and entrepreneurs.

Are you planning or do you have any extensions of the magazine? For example, is it only the magazine or do you have a newsletter, blog, radio show, Twitter, Myspace, Facebook,etc.? Also, are you looking for writers, blogger, reviewer, etc.?

Victorious Voice Radio Show is our interactive outlet which allows us to hear the voice of our readers and in turn share the voice of our vision. On the radio show, we will feature various authors, ministry leaders, entrepreneurs, book club hosts, musicians, and other public figures as a means of spotlighting women who are living victoriously in order to inspire our listeners to overcome the obstacles they are facing and turn their adversities into avenues for success. Victorious Voice Radio Show's interviews are hosted by BlogTalkRadio.

Victorious Café is the hot spot for those looking to connect with and learn more about others in the writing industry. We will provide a feature spotlight in the Cafe each week for authors, musicians, ministry leaders, and various entrepreneurs. We will also post book reviews and blog tour schedules as well. Don’t miss the latest industry news - it’s all right here presented in a practical format in our personal and interactive Café!

Are you planning to expand topic areas (in addition to the topics already covered). What are the topics/sections of the magazine as well - what's covered in each?

At this time, I am only doing what God has given me. When He adds more then I will. I believe, I must perfect what He has given before I add more.

1. Destiny & Purpose

Victorious Magazine exists to provide opportunities and instill confidence that all women possess the ability to reach their personal goals for success. Our goal is to motivate women of all backgrounds to develop skills and gain information through our resources to help them be the best and most prosperous woman they can be ... These articles will help women learn about entrepreneurship and find out how to research ways to begin on your path to becoming an author. The featured moguls will help you get connected in your industry of interest by networking with others in similar careers and get you educated on the necessary steps to start your own business! We all have a destiny and God designed each of us with a Purpose - the knowledge you need to succeed in your dreams is only as far as the vision God set forth in Victorious Magazine! Our priority is YOU! Our purpose is to be a vessel for God to open doors for all women...


2. Inspiration & Empowerment

We all need an extra boost of encouragement now and then. Inspiration is the first step to EMPOWERMENT! What are the gifts that you were blessed with? What is your passion? The talents God placed within you are the tools He intended for you to use to touch the masses. Victorious Magazine is determined to help you find ways to use your God-given gifts for your personal advancement! Why? Because when God's people are elevated, the Kingdom thrives and it brings Glory to His name! Through these articles, we will touch on all the topics vital to every woman's spirit so that each one of us are able to reach our potential for growth and maturation.


3. Style & Grace

The modern woman who concerns herself with fashion is presented with many worldly options of apparel. Here, you will find modest, yet sleek, alternatives to the revealing, suggestive styles out there. Want to learn how to look like a diva while remaining pleasing to God and not appealing to lustful eyes? Our goal in Style & Grace is to present you with material that enables you to be confident, respectable, trendy and professional in the clothing choices you make!


4. Victorious Living

Have you ever had the desire to get things done around the house on your own, but weren't sure where to start? Women are victorious in ALL areas of life... We will put together articles that will get you going on your next home improvement, decorating, gardening, or Mrs. Fix It project on your own!! We will get your in touch with the resources and tips you need to make your next project successful and affordable!


5. Victorious Wellness

As a temple for the Holy Spirit, our bodies should be a very high priority for us. Our health affects everything in our lives. If we don't feel good, we don't function well and we don't operate in our calling effectively. Victorious Magazine provides its readers with the latest news on health from foods to fads, diet do's and don'ts, as well as tips for healthy lifestyle changes such as working a practical exercise routine into a busy schedule, simple eating habits that make a BIG difference, and vitamin supplements that pack the most punch as well as information on the ones that aren't worth the trouble. The most important key of obtaining and maintaining good health is knowing what is helpful and what is harmful. You'll find all of that and more, right here!


6. Stewardship

Are you a good steward over your finances? Are you falling scarce to the "recession"? Victorious provides tips and resources on how to live a life of luxury while investing for your future. We have the best Financial Planners and Penny Pinching Divas to show you how to live like Queen Esther and work like Martha.


7. Victorious Book Club

Victorious Magazine features a book every month for which purchase information is provided and the book is discussed in depth. We believe that we can never get too much literary familiarity and encourage our readers to support established and up-and-coming authors' original works. You will find a plethora of resources here for your leisure and welcome you to join us in an enriching conversation through which we will all be able to consider the perspectives of others and look at things in ways we wouldn't otherwise see them.


For more information about the magazine and Victorious Enterprises, please contact:

Brooks J. Young
Founder & Editor
Website: www.victoriousmagazine.com
Twitter: www.tweetme.victoriousvoice.com
Facebook: www.facebook.victoriousvoice.com
General Information: info@victoriousmagazine.com

Where are you now . . .

. . . compared to where you thought you'd be?

I had a very interesting conversation with some online girlfriends of
mine last month. Where are you now compared to where you want to be?
Where are you now compared to where you wanted to be at an earlier age
(i.e., elementary, high school, college)?

As for me, when I was in elementary school I'd say, "When I grow up I want to be a news anchor or an airline pilot." Then, as I got older and throughout high school, developing a love for Math, I started saying,"I'm majoring in Accounting when I go to college." I got to college and realized I didn't like Accounting so much. That's when it hit me - Business. I want to be an entrepreneur. Thus, I changed my major to Business Management and earned an Honors BBA. Somewhere along the line, I fell into the legal industry and have become a 10-year vet of the legal administration industry, having specialized in corporate law, medical malpractice, estate planning and intellectual property law, and some areas of probate law. I'm hopeful that the business background, the legal foundations learned and now my quest to obtain a Masters degree, and experience will afford me the credentialing and opportunity to one day found, own and successfully operate a community activity and educational training center.

With all being said, I believe I am right where God wants me to be but definitely not where I thought I'd be ;-)

~Tavares

Where are you now - compared to where you thought you'd be?

Book Review: Secret Daughter by June Cross

This memoir is a very interesting look into what it was like growing up for June Cross, daughter of aspiring white actress, Norma Booth, and well known black comedian, James "Stump" Cross. Secret Daughter delves into what is was like for a young June growing up, sometimes in two completely different worlds, and trying to find herself and more about herself and her parents. This novel takes us through June's adolescence and college years, on into adulthood and the present. June learns some lessons on her own, but is often persuaded to make choices other children or people do not have to make. Although June started out sometimes having to deny herself and even her kinships, I was happy to see that she fully accepts who she is now. I was happy June got all the answers she searched for for a lifetime, and especially the fact that she was able to reconcile her emotions with her mother and her father.

Nurses Week Ends Tomorrow!

National Nurses Week is ends tomorrow!

Nurses Week is celebrated from May 6-12th. Join TPS and the American Nurses Association (ANA) in saluting nurses across the U.S. this year. The ANA's theme is "Nurses: Building a Healthy America". This theme reflects the commitment nurses make every day for their patients, their communities and their country.

TPS thanks all the nurses who have ever cared for any of our family and friends.

Send an e-card to a special nurse: ANA e-card