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Inspiring the Works of Valerie Jean

  • The Romance of Getting the Word Out

    January 23rd, 2023

    In this day and age of instant gratification and globalization, if you don’t spread the word about events going on, or important happenings, people just do not know. There is too much else going on!

    This can affect event attendance, from a birthday party to a community music festival. A broken-hearted child who doesn’t have friends at his birthday party will feel that sadness for years. A musician who performs for a meager audience won’t return. Politicians who don’t report what’s happening in the courtrooms with laws and regulations don’t get many votes.

    Publicity can also impact how successful businesses and communities are over time. The more people that attend events, the more growth that economy will see. This allows for more resources and opportunities to expand and better the quality of life. More parks. More programs. More benefits for everyone.

    So getting the word out is key. And there are so many ways to do it. I’ve listed several of the most common for you below.

    • Social media channels – Write a simple post, add a picture, create an event, and even invite people digitally through many social media platforms.
    • Email – Sending an email invitation or reminder is never a bad idea!
    • Face-to-face – Don’t forget to talk about what the event or newsworthy item is and what will be happening at it.
    • Radio – A quick announcement over the radio is one way to get the word out to a lot of people. You have to keep it short and sweet though. Including a song or jingle can be helpful.
    • Print – Whether you’re handing them out by hand, or mailing them, a printed announcement, article, or invitation often has the best personal touch.
    • News or media outlets – These folks have amazing resources to help put our your information or event. Utilize them as long as they’ll let you, but be grateful for the space they give you. Sending press releases is another way to get your information to the news and media. 24-7 Press Release can help you get started with that!
    Affiliate Link

    Obviously the audience you’re trying to reach will also help determine how you spread the word and make announcements. But the romance, or the mystery and excitement of trying to get the word out comes with the fun of planning the event, or the hard work of researching to a conclusive announcement. The romantic feeling during this planning and publicizing comes from the old saying, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.” You can send out announcements, or remind people of an event or fact until you’re blue in the face. If they don’t want to hear it, they won’t.

    Getting people to hear you is another article all together, though, so don’t forget to come back for “The Romance of Being Heard.” Until then, keep utilizing multiple ways to spread the word, being aware of your audience and purpose. This will help keep life exciting and romantic!

  • Homecoming

    September 17th, 2022
    If I've ever seemed stand off-ish,
    Or just like I'm lost in space,
    It's because I feel so freaking awkward - 
    Shy, quiet, unsure of my place. 
    
    I don't want to interrupt -
    Don't want to be a burden. 
    Never know what to talk about, 
    Or even quite what world I'm in. 
    
    Unsure how to make or be a real friend, 
    When I feel like I'm always hiding.
    Biting my tongue, trying to fit in. 
    There's a war inside me fighting.
    
    Real me versus who you see. 
    Fun, smiley, bubbly, impetuous.
    Not this stick in the mud,
    Scared and so serious. 
    
    Enjoy life, love a joke, 
    and can laugh at myself.
    More adventurous than most folk,
    But too short to put things on the top shelf!
    
    While I know I'm still here, deep inside,
    Trauma and survival are my ways of life.
    I want to come out, not continue to hide,
    But need to beat my own internal strife. 
    
    Working on finding my real smile again.
  • Rediscovering Hope

    September 12th, 2022

    Just when I start to lose hope and drive,

    I come to this place that’s like paradise.

    Where the humans are perfect just as they are;

    Big, small, quiet, loud, and from near and far.

    Doesn’t matter where we go or what we do,

    As long as we are with this group.

    Showing me there’s love and kindness still,

    Helping me realize it’s okay to feel.

    Shit-talking, fun-loving, rowdy and intense,

    Chill support and open-minded acceptance.

    Talking and teaching, reminiscing about our blessings

    Some of the greatest things I know came from these lessons.

    It feels far too long when we’re apart,

    But I know I’m always in their hearts.

    Dancers, dreamers, teachers, leaders,

    Athletes, musicians. Everyone we need is here.

  • Not Always a Fight

    September 7th, 2022

    They say some days aren’t your days…
    Well some years aren’t my years,
    And haven’t been for six years straight.
    Drowned by so many worries and fears.

    I want this year to be the one
    I bring myself back to the top.
    I want to learn to love, to have fun,
    And most importantly, never stop.

    Keep being me with what I’ve learned –
    Positive with sass and might.
    Always give back but take my turn
    And know that life isn’t always a fight.

    Thirty- nine and feeling fine!
  • The Romance of Relaxing

    September 5th, 2022

    The search for joy has helped me recently rediscover the romance I was afraid I’d lost. I’m sorry for my long break from here. I thought I’d become too busy to take care of this blog and website. Had too much going on to take the time to relax and decompress. Too many people needed something, or wanted something. But I’m back. And ready to talk romance on a regular basis!

    Why? Because it brings me joy.

    While being busy is what I thrive on, I sometimes find it hard to let go and just do nothing. Relaxing to me is crossing things off my to-do list.

    But is this really relaxing? Or is this just fulfilling the drive for productivity that’s been ingrained within me since before birth. For decades now, Western society has run on the belief that getting things done, effectively and efficiently are key indicators of success. As we search for more and better ways of doing things, are we truly finding joy?

    Do getting these things done really help me to let go of stress and pressure, or do they just keep me in the habit of feeling like I always have to be doing something, even on my days off?

    Me to myself

    I recently watched Marie Kondo’s television series, “Tidying Up,” based on her best-selling book, and realized I had a whole host of commitments, both physical, time, and emotional, that were not bringing me joy. As I’ve slowly begun to purge these, I’ve been able to make time for true relaxing and self-care.

    Marie Kondo’s best-seller, which the show Tidying Up on Netflix is based on.

    So how can you start to find relaxing romantic and rewarding again? It almost seems as if we have to train ourselves to do it, until it becomes a habit, and then eventually an inherent trait. I’ve tried multiple of the strategies below and many have become habits for stages of my life. Then when life’s thrown me curveballs, I’ve had to revise and rediscover other ways of relaxing.

    My top go-tos for relaxing:

    1. Guided meditation from YouTube Channels, preferably on my back porch when it’s nice outside.
      • One of my favorite guided meditations can be found here, from Boho Beautiful Yoga.
    2. I walk outside in the woods. No. Seriously. Did this before it was a thing.
    3. Reading a romance or dirty novel. Trying to find a quiet spot at a time I won’t fall asleep instead is the key to this one.
    4. Purging my house and closets and garage and wherever else I may exist of anything that isn’t necessary or doesn’t bring me a feeling of joy.
    5. Letting go of expectations (others and sometimes my own) and just living the life I’ve been given with joy and thanks.

    There’s no end-all, be-all answer for this one, as everyone finds different activities relaxing. Some might enjoy meditating and having ten minutes to themselves in a day. Others might need a strenuous workout that drains them of their worries and doubts. Others might want to walk outside, or read a book, or write an article.

    The website Mental Floss recommends “11 Scientifically Proven Tips for Relaxing.”

    • Chew gum
    • Surround yourself with plants
    • Mow the lawn
    • Listen to music, specifically Classical
    • Kiss someone
    • Reduce screentime, especially before bed
    • Drink tea
    • Breathe into a brown bag
    • Eat some chocolate
    • Eat something citrusy
    • Have a good laugh

    The key to being in love with the idea of relaxing is to prioritize time for these activities (or non-activities!) You will need to make time to relax, which means something else in your schedule may need to shift. It’s always difficult to give a hobby or chore less time, but ask yourself if this activity is bringing you more joy than taking time to relax.

    Remember, the search for joy has helped me recently rediscover the romance in relaxing. Find your way to relaxation and joy through romance, too!

    A few pics below of who and what bring me joy!

    Source:

    https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/503519/11-scientifically-proven-tips-relaxing

  • The Only One

    March 8th, 2022
    I know I'm not the sole reason
    The sun rises and there are seasons.
    I hear that there are more than a few
    Who know a lot more than I do.
    I haven't read all the books
    Or viewed everything worth a second look.
    There are facts and equations that blow my mind
    And concepts which I am decades behind.
    My synthesis of various information
    Comes from experience and paying attention.

    But how do I find that balance of myself?
    Not buried below but not too high on a shelf?
    With confidence instead of arrogance.
    Weilding bravery instead of building fences.
    Speaking up when I should
    But only to do good.
    Holding my tongue when it harms
    But using it to compliment and warm.
    Knowing I am an important piece
    But not the only one at least.

    The pressure that I fear and feel
    Crushes me until I can't tell what's real.
    Who expects what? And how? And when?
    Will my head ever stop spinning again?
    The grief that weighs on me like heavy water
    For both my darling, strong, amazing daughters
    Forces out tears and angry words.
    All I really want to do is stare at the birds.
    I'm envious that they fly free
    Away from the heaviness my life's turning out to be.
    My reasons to be!
  • Halloween Romance

    October 15th, 2021

    What makes Halloween romantic? Mystery and suspense and a little bit of naughtiness that we all love to love. Whether you love having the shit scared out of you, or eating the candy, or dressing up and being someone else for a day, everyone has a reason to fall in love with this romantic holiday.

    Halloween brings out the witchy fun in all of us!

    So what’s the history of Halloween? The legend of All Hallows Eve says that a thinly veiled boundary between this world and the next allows witches and otherworldly creatures more power on this night. “It’s just a bunch of hocus pocus,” right? Whether you believe this or not, it has become a traditional night for tricks and treats, spooks and sweets.

    If you want to make this holiday romantic with a significant other, there are some perfect Halloween activities. Haunted houses are often fun and a great bonding experience, plus you may end up physically holding onto each other. If being scared isn’t for you, there are hayrack rides and pumpkin patches that can bring excitement and decor to your relationship. It’s also bonfire season, which is an economical, low-key date.

    Carving pumpkins that you find yourself is a rewarding and fun couples, or family activity. To put a twist on it, draw themed ideas from a hat, or make it a contest!

    As the weather gets chilllier, it’s also nice to enjoy indoor pursuits like watching football or movies. Some epic romantic Halloween movies include Hocus Pocus, The Addams Family, Scooby-Doo movies, Warm Bodies, and Blade.

    How to Make a Spooky Haunted House

    One of my favorite things to do with my husband is make a haunted house. We used to do it where he worked. Then we did it in our driveway. I’m not sure how we want to do it this year.

    We start by gathering all the random Halloween decorations my mom has passed down and I’ve collected over the years. (That’s a lot. I mean A LOT a lot.)

    After that, we categorize and pick a theme based on our budget and if we’ll need to buy things. I love to check dollar stores and Goodwill for Halloween things. I also keep an eye out at garage sales. And I do invest in inflatable decorations if they’re adorable or unique enough.

    Then we make sure to incorporate all the senses in whatever design we come up with. There has to be a containment of some kind, whether it’s an event tent or small fencing or lights on the ground… whatever. Something to make people feel trapped or limited.

    Then you add something for audio-sound effects, music, laughter-and put it together with lots of visuals from lots of directions. We tape Halloween ghouls and ghosts to the walls of a tent and street bones and body parts along the ground. Last year we put The Nightmare Before Christmas on a TV with a strobe light.

    Adding an element of touch can be tricky. We’ve used slime and spaghetti in a hidden box you have to reach your hand in. Also hanging draperies that touch people as they walk by. Running a fan randomly can have a literally chilling effect. It also makes things move in interesting ways.

    Using smell can be something as simple as candles or garbage, depending on the aroma you’re going for. A fog machine hits smell, straw has an odor, and dirt are all things we’ve used to create distinct smells in areas like a creepy dock, or a graveyard.

    We used to make it a lot scarier. But then we had kids and it’s gone more family friendly. It adds excitement, teamwork, and brings the romance into the holiday.

    So enjoy the romance of Halloween, as it brings mystery, excitement, and many things we love to fear to life!

  • Love at First Listen

    August 3rd, 2021

    By John Zakour

    A brief technology romantic comedy!

    There are a few things Helena was sure she’d never do: Date again and trust her home digital assistant, Genie, for personal advice. Now her marriage is not going well. Every day her husband and two kids would wake up late as usual, Helena would cook breakfast that would be gobbled down on the run. Then her husband would take the kids to school, and come home from work late. She was not happy but her kids were. Will she find happiness during her day? Will they stay together for the kids? Will she listen to Genie for personal advice? This romance captures the communication between a digital assistant and a Mom as she tries to find happiness.

    Click here to order Love at First Listen!

  • Daddy’s Little Girl Series

    August 1st, 2021

    by Scott Wylder

    Check out the Daddy's Little Girl Series, by Scott Wylder, already available on Amazon!
    COMING SOON!
    The Vegas Daddies Series, an explicit, age play romance series with suspense, mystery, love, and romance. 

  • The Romance of Selling Cell Phones

    April 13th, 2021

    I have never been considered a techie. I am of that generation who wrote things using pen and paper, but took a computer class in high school; one who knows the effort of researching without the internet and appreciates the amount of information we now have at our fingertips. I have witnessed a bag phone in my grandpa’s truck and remember when cell towers first started going up around my hometown.

    The advancements that have been made in the last 50 years have changed the way we live as individuals, as a society, and as a planet. You can be an ocean away and communicate with the device in your pocket. You can pay with it like it’s a debit or credit card. You can order food using it without talking to anyone! You can set reminders for yourself, share important dates with family and friends, and capture important memories with cameras and videos. All from a cell phone.

    As I start this new adventure of selling phones and accessories to the small town I grew up in, I wonder how I can bring mystery, excitement, and love in a healthy way to this industry.

    The nervous feeling I get as someone comes to the door isn’t unpleasant. I’m excited to interact and fill a customer’s need, but I’m nervous about misquoting a price, or giving the wrong information about a phone. Not knowing everything wreaks havoc with my self- confidence!

    However, the mystery of technology has made me realize that I’ll never know it all because it’s constantly evolving and changing. Even when we are in control of these changes (like a new device is released from Apple or Samsung) unexpected, unexplainable things can happen. Devices, just like people, all have different quirks. However, the mystery of technology has made me realize that I’ll never know it all because it’s constantly evolving and changing. Even when we are in control of these changes (like a new device is released from Apple or Samsung) unexpected, unexplainable things can happen. Devices, just like people, all have different quirks.

    I’m becoming an expert at either avoiding those quirks or making individualized suggestions based on these differences. Have a ton of videos or photos stored? I can suggest a phone with more storage space or give a tutorial on the digital clouds that are out there. Play one game in particular? We’ll make sure it’s secure and up- to- date. Getting to know my customers does come with the risk of awkward moments. Knowing how much to ask but not asking too much is a fine balance to find with each individual customer. I’m becoming an expert at either avoiding those quirks or making individualized suggestions based on these differences. Have a ton of videos or photos stored? I can suggest a phone with more storage space or give a tutorial on the digital clouds that are out there. Play one game in particular? We’ll make sure it’s secure and up- to- date. Getting to know my customers does come with the risk of awkward moments. Knowing how much to ask but not asking too much is a fine balance to find with each individual customer.

    Understanding what motivates their romance with their cell phone helps me meet their needs and wants. Encouraging customers to choose a phone that they understand can decrease stress, streamline and organize life, and bring back a happy customer.

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