9 Tips to End 2019 on a High Note! Reclaim Your Joy

Welcome back, readers!
With the end of the year being at our proverbial doorstep, today's post is about wrapping things up on a high note and making way for a positive, peaceful, prosperous 2020.

IF YOU'RE ON BOARD, LET'S GET STARTED...

How many times has your sanity taken a temporary “sabbatical” due to a stressful gig, drama with your mate, feuding relatives, demanding clients, or the day-to-day demands of trying to be all things to all people?
Or perhaps you’ve been “imprisoned” by feelings of guilt or unworthiness, due to subliminal media messages, or callous comments of others, targeted to convince you that you don‘t quite measure up.

Whatever the source, it’s time to get on course.
It’s time for your emancipation!

Why? Because all around us, more and more, there are everyday signs that tomorrow is not promised, and each day should be lived to the fullest: the untimely death of big celebrities (young and old); the dismantling and disappearance of big businesses and industry giants; the massive, senseless shootings everywhere across the country.
All the more reason why you should stop waiting for permission to be happy, or the ideal circumstances. Or even the “right mate” to complete you.

Let's face it. So many times we put “qualifiers” on our happiness. Qualifiers, that more often than not, put other folks in control of our peace and well-being.
Time for a reality check here. Happiness is a choice. It’s all about perspective and good decisions. Even the Bible states, “I have learned to be content in whatever state I am in.” Phillipians 4:11.

In keeping, here are nine awesome ways to reclaim your joy and live with passion and purpose to end 2019 on a high note.

1). Learn to say “NO”.

It’s a small word with big impact. Stop being overextended and underappreciated. There’s no honor in it. Set boundaries. It’s nice to be kind, but just don’t be a doormat. There’s great truth to Dr. Phil’s motto, “We teach people how to treat us by the things we accept.”

2). Learn to let go.
Say goodbye to relationships that deplete your peace, are toxic in nature, or dishonor who you are and your core values. Remember that some folks are meant for a reason, and some for a season. Even your creative clients.

I have learned to abandon the guilt I once felt when ending long-term friendships that I have outgrown. Last year, I severed a friendship with a woman I had been friends with for over a decade, because even though we had common interests, our “core values” were unfortunately different. Time brought about wisdom. “Connie” thought nothing of promising to do a favor, or agreeing to a “girl’s night out” and then backing out later if her boyfriend called, or she had a bad day at work. And it seemed that while I enjoyed talking about literature and the arts, she was more prone to gossip and celebrity worship. Ultimately we saw eye to eye on very little. I’m convinced that just because you share history with someone doesn‘t mean you should share a future.

3). Pray.
A strong spiritual foundation can provide “grounding” during uncertain times and dark days. Prayer changes things. A case in point-- Pastor Joel Osteen recently shared, during one of his TV sermons, how when his mom was diagnosed with Cancer and a dim prognosis, the power of prayer from family members and friends, (along with deep, abiding faith), restored her and brought her back to health. She has now been living Cancer free for more than a decade.

4). Manage your stress.
Don’t let others’ issues and irrational behavior contribute to high blood pressure, ulcers, and other ailments brought on by unhealthy interaction and dysfunctional mindsets. Understand that most wouldn’t do it for you.

Consider this: according to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than twice as many American women as men are affected by depression.

5). Learn to say “YES”!
To the things that give your heart delight and renew your spirit. Whether it’s Latin dancing, going back to college, Karaoke night, journaling or simply having that decadent dessert at the holiday dinner. As long as your choices do not cause detriment to yourself or others, there’s no reason for remorse or restriction.

6). Stop trying to keep up with the Joneses (or Kardashians) .
Acquiring things in order to compete with family and friends, or to project an “image” you can’t afford can be exhausting, empty, and expensive. Influence is more important than affluence. Never be held hostage by others’ standards of success. In 2019, I still don’t have Cable.

7). Forgive mistakes of the past.
Are you holding a grudge? Bitter with your ex-boyfriend? Unresolved issues with a sibling? A beef with your boss? Anger puts other people in power over you. The sooner you learn the lesson from the experience and decide to get on with your life, the more empowered you’ll feel.

Remember that emotional baggage can weigh you down and prevent you from connecting with quality people in the future.

8). Don’t just survive, thrive!
Sadly, some people go from day to day on autopilot. Don’t be one of them. No matter what your age or circumstance, each day represents unlimited opportunities for growth, renewal and new discoveries. Stay open to this.
Pursue work that you enjoy. Surround yourself with positive people. Appreciate life’s simple pleasures. Recognize that each day is a blessing and embrace it.

9). Strive for excellence, not perfection.
Though I often try to maintain meticulous standards, sometimes I will revisit a previous post or pitch to an editor that has a minor error; it drives me nuts. But the truth is, nobody is perfect 100% of the time. And we shouldn't demand that of ourselves.

AND HERE'S A BONUS TIP...

Get your financial house in order!
Doing so will allow you more freedom, flexibility, stability and fun! Here’s a helpful site I found via Inkwell Editorial to put you on the right track:

https://www.makingsenseofcents.com/

Follow these sage tips in 2019 and discover the difference they’ll make. Live the life you deserve and desire! Step into your season. The Good life awaits!

Speaking of year end, just a friendly reminder here that Pen & Prosper will have a reduced posting schedule moving forward...

Your turn.
Any of the above tips resonate with you? Anything you'd like to add?

Image credits: Pixabay.com 

Here's What's Hot! Sexy Celebrity Chefs and the Writing Lessons They Impart...

 

“People eat with their eyes first,” according to a popular quote in the culinary industry. If this sentiment is true, you’ll experience a very satisfying “visual feast” provided by the hot hunks on today’s cooking scene!
These kitchen experts come in all sizes, shapes, colors and specialties.
No matter what your individual preference, there’s something suited for every taste.

And I should know. I am an avid food fan and amateur home chef!

Every week, I’m glued to the tube checking out recipes, reviews and industry tips to expand my horizons. The sex appeal of these cooking show hosts definitely adds a little proverbial “icing on the cake” in terms of my loyal viewing.
Not only are these fellas skilled in preparing delicious meals, many of them impart important lessons on discipline, entrepreneurship, and overcoming obstacles, through their cooking shows, tutorials, interviews and books.
Click on each chef's name for additional info and related sites.

Let’s take a look at the most popular foodie cuties and just why they sizzle!

 

 

 

GORDON RAMSEY

Besides doing some serious justice to a pair of jeans, Ramsey is authoritative, worldly, sexy and has a wicked tongue. The ultimate “bad boy,” he gives cooking contestants real hell in “Hell’s Kitchen!”

INTERESTING FACT:
Ramsey has a Black Belt in Karate.

HOW HE HAS INFORMED/INSPIRED MY WRITING:
Ramsey is synonymous with service excellence. He’s won numerous awards for his creativity and uncompromising standards. I seek to do the same.

AARON SANCHEZ

Adorned with an array of tattoos and a rugged physique, this Mexican, award-winning chef is as hot as Jalapeno peppers. Additionally, he comes across as very caring and helpful as a mentor to those aspiring to follow in his footsteps.

INTERESTING FACT:
Sanchez has a twin brother who is an attorney. Aaron also writes poetry.

HOW HE HAS INFORMED/INSPIRED MY WRITING:
From his slew of tattoos to his style of cooking, he’s unique in his branding and his image. He’s a non-conformist. When I started my blog many years ago, people predicted failure because I opted to blog on a free platform (as opposed to following everyone else). I’ve outlasted many of my former critics.

JOE BASTIANICH

Though for me his arrogance can be a bit off putting, there’s no denying that Joe B. has animal magnetism, as a member of the bald and beautiful club.

INTERESTING FACT:
He’s the son of famous Chef, author and TV personality, Lidia Bastianich.

HOW HE HAS INFORMED/INSPIRED MY WRITING:
His family has created a cooking empire with many restaurants, books and products.
This mirrors my belief that collaborations can often make us stronger creatively and enhance our offerings (and bottom line).

NICK STELLINO
Nick is easy on the eyes and very engaging to watch. He’s like a gentle giant. And you gotta’ love that macho mustache.

INTERESTING FACT:
He was formerly a Wall Street stock broker.

HOW HE HAS INFORMED/INSPIRED MY WRITING:
Stellino used his humble background as a stepping stone, as opposed to viewing it as an obstacle.

CHEF IRIE (HUGH A. SINCLAIR)

Hugh hails originally from Jamaica. This brother man can take me back to the motherland! Suave, charismatic, dashing, with a sexy accent and million dollar smile. Chef Irie’s as spicy as his recipes.

INTERESTING FACT:
He originally studied architecture and has a B.A. degree in this discipline.

HOW HE HAS INFORMED/INSPIRED MY WRITING:
Chef Irie exudes passion in the kitchen. For me, passion is an integral ingredient to a successful writing career. Without it, you cheat your readers and yourself.

RICK BAYLESS

He’s a lean, mean cooking machine who has the features of a male model. His stylish glasses also make him look like a sexy nerd. What chick doesn‘t love a smart guy?

INTERESTING FACT:
His guilty pleasure is doughnuts.

HOW HE HAS INFORMED/INSPIRED MY WRITING:
Though Rick is versed in many types of cooking, his specialty is Mexican cuisine. Quite often, having a “specialty” or niche area saves time; helps branding and marketing efforts; and enables bloggers to “work smarter, not harder.”

SIMPLY MING (MING TSAI)

Ming Tsai is quite a dish! With those dreamy eyes, thick hair, warm smile and gorgeous hands.

INTERESTING FACT:
He was a squash player at Yale.

HOW HE HAS INFORMED/INSPIRED MY WRITING:
Ming is a teacher at heart. His cooking instructions and helpful tips are typically simple, clever and easy to follow. I believe that good writing should be too.

　
IN CONCLUSION…

Even if you’re not seeking to improve your food aptitude, you’ll want to tune into the weekly shows of these gorgeous guys, who give new meaning to the expression, “turning up the heat!” While providing great (unexpected) lessons and take-aways on writing and branding.

　

Your turn.
　
Agree or disagree? Who's your favorite celebrity chef (male or female)?


Image credits: Pixabay.com

8Qs With Author & Trainer Dr. Marlene Caroselli

Thank you for joining us today, Marlene. We appreciate your time, creative input and expertise here at Pen and Prosper.

Q Can you tell readers a little about your background and how you began your career as a writer?

 I began my career as an English teacher; so, the love of words was a given. When one of my students asked—in all seriousness—“Was General Electric an American?” I knew I had an article to write. An educational journal accepted it, my first published piece. When I left high school teaching and began adjuncting at UCLA and National University (which led to teaching in corporate America), I began submitting curricula I’d written to publishers. My first query, to HRD Press, was based on a course I was teaching. It examined the language used by prominent individuals in various walks of life. The Language of Leadership was my first book and was actually chosen a main selection by a major book club.

Q What do you enjoy most about being a writer?

I love the creativity of it all, the ability to string ideas together into a cohesive whole. Picasso once asked, “Why do two colors, placed side by side, sing?” I like exploring the corollary, “Why do two words (or phrases or sentences), placed side by side, sing?” The songs fascinate me on a daily basis.
Everyone has a story and I love uncovering, via words, the wonderful anecdotes and experiences they may never have shared before. For example, in the pool yesterday,

A young man and I began chatting. I asked him if it was a job that had brought him to my home town.“No,” he explained, “I run for a living.” “I run for a living”! Are you not intrigued by the story behind those words? His parents had apparently invested a quarter of a million dollars in his education, planning to see him become an electrical engineer.
But, he gave it all up because…..he only wants to run.

His story is not unlike Kris Kristofferson’s. (I’ve been watching Ken Burns’ documentary on country music.) His background is peppered with words like “summa cum laude,” “Phi Beta Kappa,”Rhodes scholar,” “Oxford University,” “Army captain,” “helicopter pilot,” “West Point instructor.” But, like the runner above, another force was moving him away from what he was “supposed” to be and moving him toward an unlikely choice. In Kristofferson’s case, music was his singular love. He gave up a promising military career and became a janitor in Nashville. His parents disowned him.
Events conspire for writers. And the intersection of the swimmer and the janitor is an article atop my pile of others waiting to be written.

Q. What challenges you the most about it?

For me, the challenge is finding time. I’m semi-retired and don’t get things done as quickly as I once did.

Q. What would it surprise others to know about you?

I’ve discovered my artwork sells, mostly at charity fundraisers. I’m really not that talented, but I include quotations with my drawings and I think the combination attracts buyers.

Q. If you could have one literary “super power”what would it be?

I wish I could write fiction as easily as I write non-fiction—specifically, the “soft side” of business. For 20 years, while working six days a week as a corporate trainer, I averaged three books a year. When I tried writing a fictionalized memoir to honor my father, I found I struggled with single every word. I was pleased with the end result, but what a struggle it turned out to be.

Q. What are your thoughts on blogging and social media---do you feel it’s a necessity these days?

It may not be a necessity for all, but it is a necessity for all writers, I believe. The publishing protocol has changed radically since I wrote my first book. Then, publishers marketed. Now, publishers expect writers to share a large part of the marketing burden. Many care more about your following than your manuscript…at least initially. To illustrate, I recently sent a query to a publisher, in which I described a book I wanted to write. Instead of asking for further details, they asked how large was my social media following. My following? I don’t even have a cell phone! I’ve never tweeted or twittered. “Hashtag” sounds like a note I might make to shop for breakfast food. I don’t do Facebook or Linked In. Needless to say, I have no following, but would encourage younger writers to build theirs. The age of electronics has passed me by.

Q. I see you’ve written several books on leadership and business. What one piece of advice can you share with us on managing our freelance businesses more profitably?

Nearly every city has a SCORE group…Service Corps of Retired Executives. They can provide excellent (and free) advice for growing one’s business. If your city doesn’t have such a group, read about other entrepreneurs and the methods they have used to expand their client list. Or, how other writers have managed to develop a cadre of devoted readers.
 
Q. Any suggestions on how today’s writer can build a “platform” solid enough to garner publication by a traditional publisher, given such fierce competition?

Making your presence known is the best thing you can do. As mentioned before, you need to build your social media following. You can also make appearances at bookstores or writers groups. When I spoke at a large secretarial conference years ago, I subsequently sold hundreds of my book The Quality Secretary. Call local radio and television stations and tell them you’d like to be interviewed. (Be sure to prepare a really good hook.) Contact your local newspaper, especially if your book coincides with local or national events. Blog everywhere you can. Write articles in national publications. Include a business card that promotes your book in every bill you pay, every letter that leaves your house and heads to the post office. Build a network, attend networking events, and hand out your book/business card. Have an elevator speech ready for chance encounters.

AUTHOR BIO:

MARLENE CAROSELLI

After earning her doctorate in education at the University of Rochester, Marlene Caroselli left the public classroom and her native New York State in 1980 and headed to the West Coast. She soon began working as a manager for Trizec Properties, Inc. and as an adjunct professor for UCLA and National University. (She has also conducted programs for Clemson University, University of Rochester, Michigan State University, and Southwest Missouri State University.) Her university work led to training contracts with the Department of Defense and with such Fortune 100 firms as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, TRW, Hughes Aircraft, and Allied-Signal.

In 1984, she founded the Center for Professional Development and began adding books to her list of professional achievements. Her first book, The Language of Leadership, was chosen a main selection by Newbridge's Executive Development book club. Since that publication, she has written fifty-four additional books. (See Amazon.com.) A recent book, Principled Persuasion: Influence with Integrity, Sell with Standards, was named a Director's Choice by Doubleday Book Club. Her latest book, One-to-One for Managers, has been selected by Barnes and Noble for an on-line course.

In addition to books, Dr. Caroselli writes frequently for Stephen Covey's Executive Excellence, for Lakewood’s many LPR publications, and for the National Business Employment Weekly, as well as for numerous other print and electronic publications.



Image credits: Pixabay.com

10 Commandments to Keeping the Holidays Holy!

It's that time again. The time of year that strikes both joy and terror in the hearts of many. Already, retailers have elaborate displays of both turkey dinners and decorated reindeers in stores galore.
They're positioning themselves for this busy, festive season. You should too.

In fact, for writers the "plot thickens" in the upcoming months. The reason?
Most of us are constantly juggling and struggling as a way of life; in order to handle daily demands and pursue our creative dreams. True?
While adding to the equation during the holiday season is entertaining guests; cooking fancy feasts; shopping; church activities; etc.

Which is why, if not handled properly, for some, the holidays can become more hellish than holy.
Lucky for you, I've got you covered with tips and hacks to manage the madness with greater joy and less stress.

10 COMMANDMENTS FOR HOLIDAY SURVIVAL...

1. THOU SHALL REMEMBER THE REASON FOR THE SEASON.

Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years should be a time of reflection; a time to honor God and family; a time of gratitude; a time of peace. Keep this in mind when you receive a Xmas gift from the Dollar Tree Store or someone criticizes your Pumpkin Pie. "Don't sweat the small stuff."

2. THOU SHALL LEARN AND PRACTICE THE SERENITY PRAYER.
"God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference."

3. THOU SHALL SHOW GRACE. GIVE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT.
Have you ever had a friend or family member doubt your intentions? Accuse you of something of which you were not guilty?  Misunderstand an innocent comment or request?  Hold ill will without good reason?  I have. Many times we judge people or situations too quickly or without all the facts.
A friend did this with me recently, and I was totally shocked. Instead of this person looking at our long relationship from a historical perspective, and viewing my total character, past interaction and personality, she took one statement I made out of context and thought I was purposely being demanding. But, I don't hold it against her. This is a common tendency, unfortunately.
Ironically, some of the most generous people I know fail to give benefit of the doubt; which is totally free. Go figure. Don't let it be you.

4. THOU SHALL DELEGATE.
I'm a "do-gooder" by nature. As a result, I often take on more than I reasonably should. But, as I get older, I'm learning the importance of self-preservation. Not a bad idea for you as well.
Assign tasks to the kids; have relatives bring their favorite dish; have some of the activities catered.
Learn to "work smarter, not harder."

5. THOU SHALL NOT OFFER CRITICISM, IF NOT OFFERING HELP.
This is an Achilles Heel for me in particular. So often, folks try to force suggestions, reviews, dictates, on the person hosting, with no offers of real help or monetary contributions. Please don't. Unless of course, the person requests input.

6. THOU SHALL FIND THE FUNNY IN FAMILY.
It can be challenging at times, but if we frame our thoughts properly and keep an open mind, we can keep our sense of humor amid these trying times. Humor can help diffuse potentially volatile situations, and it's therapeutic. According to Helpguide.org: "Shared laughter is one of the most effective tools for keeping relationships fresh and exciting. All emotional sharing builds strong and lasting relationship bonds, but sharing laughter also adds joy, vitality, and resilience. And humor is a powerful and effective way to heal resentments, disagreements, and hurts. Laughter unites people during difficult times."

7. THOU SHALL PLAN AHEAD.
There's great validity to the expression, "Those who fail to plan, plan to fail."

8. THOU SHALL TAKE A DRINK AS NEEDED.
No judgment here. If spiking that Eggnog helps to improve your attitude and stay in the groove, go for it.

9. THOU SHALL NOT BE THE HOUSE GUEST FROM HELL!
As much as we may love them, we all have them. You know: guests that drink too much and have too little discretion. Or those that overstay their welcome. Or those with so many dietary restrictions that they are one step away from living in a bubble. Or those that always need to borrow. Or those that don't tidy up after themselves. Or those that like to bring up hurts and old wounds from the past. Or folks who are perpetually pessimistic. Or those who eat up the last bowl of your Captain Crunch.
Or those who routinely fail to replace the toilet paper and ice trays.
Did I miss anybody here? Consider this a public service message: Please stop the madness. I repeat, please stop the madness!

10. THOU SHALL KEEP A JOURNAL HANDY.

Writing is therapeutic. Journaling during the holidays can help decrease stress; keep your writing skills sharp; and help to chronicle ideas, memories, recipes and events for future publication.

There you have it, readers.

Remember...
"If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem."

Have a great week ahead.


Thoughts? How do you avoid holiday stress?
Any special plans this year?


Image credits: Pixabay.com

Rediscovering Lost Loves ...

Lately, I've been re-discovering lost loves. You know: the simple things that make your soul sing.Things that give you peace...make you pause. Pleasures that don't require a lot of money or resources.
Perhaps it's the slower pace of the fall season. Or the reflective nature of getting older and the desire to live a life of greater meaning and better choices.

It's a timeline and journey that began with my brother's unexpected death. Since then, each month, year, each opportunity I can, I try to simplify and modify, so that I have fewer regrets and more memories worth cherishing.

Taking baby steps. The other day, while going through my vast music collection, I stumbled upon one of my former "loves".  A Norah Jones  CD. Her "Feels like home" feels like heaven!
Norah's music is soothing, sultry, transformative. It's like music therapy.

My passion for music has also inspired me recently to perform karaoke as a co-host of a local event.
(Incidentally, it's the same one that I initially bombed at. Remember?)

In September, I started writing commentary for a local magazine; which believe it or not, I found on Craigslist.
Adding to this list is a poetry collection (and a possible cookbook). I hope to have these projects completed by the end of this year.

The moral of the story here? The purpose of today's post?
In continuing my journey of re-discovering lost loves and pursuing new paths, the posting schedule at Pen and Prosper will change.

Effective November, 2019 (until further notice) I will update maybe once or twice a month.
During this time, I will be monitoring blog comments; the level of engagement; the number of page views; to determine our future journey here.

For in the words of Plato:"The unexamined life is not worth living."
Thanks for reading.

Your turn.

Thoughts? Any Norah Jones fans out there?
What lost loves are you re-discovering these days?
How do you feel about the new schedule?


Image credits: Pixabay.com
CD cover: Amazon.com

Food For Thought Friday* Motivational Quotes

JEN'S BANANA CREME PIE

If you love quotes, you'll love today's post. A collection of an array of philosophies, principles and words of wisdom from writers, leaders and thought influencers.

So, grab a cup of your favorite brew and let's begin...

MOTIVATIONAL QUOTES TO NOTE

 

"There is great power in letting go, and there is great freedom in moving on."

 

"Try not to become a person of success, but rather try to become a person of value."

 

"Poor companions are like the buttons on an elevator. They will either take you up or take you down."

"Handle them carefully, for words have more power than an atom bomb."

 

"When things go wrong, don't go wrong with them."

 

"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."--Eleanor Roosevelt

"Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened."--Dr. Seuss

"Why fit in, when you were born to stand out."--Dr. Seuss

"Being more is better than buying more."

 

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt.”
― Charles M. Schulz

 

“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien

 

Thoughts? Your favorite quote or one you live by? Do tell.

Web Reads, Creative Leads, Reviews* The 3Rs Series

 

RECOMMENDED READS ACROSS THE WEB

8 TIPS TO GET CLIENTS
https://www.makealivingwriting.com/freelance-writing-for-beginners-jump-start/#more-23272

7 SIDE HUSTLES FOR SINGLE MOMS
https://richsinglemomma.com/7-side-hustles-for-single-moms

TAKING THE “PO” OUT OF POETRY
https://trishhopkinson.com/2019/09/01/taking-the-po-out-of-poetry-guest-blog-post-by-jennifer-brown-banks/

　
HOW WRITERS CAN LEARN FROM THE BUSINESS WORLD
https://twodropsofink.com/2019/09/28/how-writers-can-learn-from-the-business-world/

HOW TO RELAUNCH A DORMANT BLOG

https://problogger.com/relaunch-your-blog/

THE 311 ON HIRING A PERSONAL CHEF

https://bluntlymag.com/dinner-is-served-the-311-on-hiring-a-personal-chef/

 

RESOURCES

10 INVOICING SOFTWARE TOOLS FOR FREELANCERS
 https://thewritelife.com/invoicing-systems/

 

THE ARTICLE WRITER'S TOOLKIT

 

https://www.articlewriterstoolkit.com/toolkit/

 

CREATIVE LEADS/CALLS FOR SUBMISSIONS

 

SUBMIT A QUOTATION CONTEST

https://www.embracingourdifferences.org/submit-a-quotation/

 

ENTER CWA'S FIRST CHAPTER CONTEST 

https://www.chicagowrites.org/first_chapter

 

ANTHOLOGY ON ACTIVISM

MUSE WRITE
http://www.musewrite.com/call-for-submissions.html

 

CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL UPCOMING THEMES

https://www.chickensoup.com/story-submissions/possible-book-topics

 

WRITERS WEEKLY SEEKS MARKETING TIPS

https://writersweekly.com/writersweekly-com-writers-guidelines#marketing

 

 

REVIEW

One of my favorite things to score from the Dollar Tree Store are the movies.

Many times I'm pleasantly surprised and delighted with the vast selection and variety of genres available for just a buck. What I dig too, is that these often "undiscovered gems" may not be "box office hits" but provide great entertainment value, compelling stories, and ideas for future writing projects.





STUCK

 

 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuck_(2007_film)

 

Based upon a true story, this is a psychological thriller that chronicles the life events of a nurse who accidentally hits a homeless man and the attempted cover up that unfolds.

Stuck, starring Russell Hornsby, Stephen Rea, and Mena Suvari is riveting, intriguing, well-crafted and unexpectedly humorous at times.

 

Be forewarned: this movie can be a bit graphic and there's a considerable amount of blood and violence. If you can stomach it, it will definitely be worth the view.

I give STUCK **** 4 stars out of 5 for the O.M.G. (oh my God) factor!

It will "stick" with you long after you've watched it.

 

 

Thoughts? Seen any good movies lately?

 

Image credit: Pixabay.com