“Running In Heels” Book Tour 2016
Coming to . . .
Filed under "Running in Heels" Book Signings, Book Tour
“I Always Loved You…”
“I always did love you, just had too many problems.”
Ten words on ink and paper.
Handwritten by her.
Pierces my heart.
Quiet pain.
Does she know I exist? Or care? Or want me?
I love her, look up to her; want to be her.
Unspoken. Forsaken.
Isn’t love also a verb?
Hidden shame.
Grandparents notice. Embrace me. Love me.
They say I am worthy and special.
I am not allowed to stay.
Said I might become spoil.
Wounded heart.
I leave home. Searching for Mr. Right.
Run to him at sixteen. Happily ever after.
Young. Naïve. Taken for granted.
Thinks to mold me into his image.
His way or the highway.
Internal screams.
Motherhood. Baby having babies.
Crawl before walk. Stumble. Fall.
Clinging unto a strand, unraveling.
Faded dreams.
Years overlap. Encumbering.
Emotions are numb.
Hubby seeks greener pastures.
Two-timer. Tosses me to the wolves.
Abandon.
Water not missed until the well is dry.
Alone. They’ve aged. Reaching out.
Across the miles, calling my name.
Vowing eternal devotion.
Hollow words.
Grown children look back.
Open arms. Nostalgic.
Rebuild the fences.
Dying to live.
Forgive.
In times of happiness, embrace your beloved.
In times of calamity, hold them closer.
Love isn’t love until you give it away.
God grants life.
And second chances.
~ Poem written by Mary A. Pérez ~
© M.A. Pérez 2016, All Rights Reserved
Filed under Love, Valentine's Day
Hungry. Please Help. God Bless.
With a six-month-old baby, and my oldest just two-and-a-half, I was pregnant again! At nineteen years of age, I had gotten used to people’s stares of me the young, skinny girl with a round, swollen belly, a baby straddled on her hip, while holding the hand of another toddler. Excerpt from Running in Heels: A Memoir of Grit and Grace
That young, skinny girl was me back then.
Today, rushing out of the grocery store, preoccupied with my list of things yet to be done once I got home, I hear a lady’s faint voice call out to me. I look and read the card in her hand: HUNGRY. PLEASE HELP. GOD BLESS. I mumbled under my breath and continue my pace, but not without glancing at a toddler asleep, bundled up in a stroller.
This poor woman called out to me! But for the grace of God, there go I.
I reflect back to a sad place in my life when I could have been her with my own child.
Today, this woman called out to a high school dropout. She was wearing a beautiful watch purchased from her son, a designer purse from her daughter, and an iPhone in her hand. She was wearing a sparkly diamond wedding band, nice clothes, shoes, manicured nails, and a fresh salon hairstyle, and she was climbing into her shiny SUV.
She called out to me! Lord, you’ve brought me further than I ever thought possible.
I cannot help but think back and see in my mind’s eye a young, insecure teenager who owned only one pair of shoes and hand-me-down clothes, wondering where her wandering-eyed husband was, while she struggled to care for her little ones, listening to the rumbling in her own stomach.
She was me!
Although not necessarily rolling in dough, I now have the comforts of home needed to sustain me, with more than enough food in my fridge, cupboards, and belly. I can enjoy many things I couldn’t before, and I have remarried to a wonderful and faithful guy for almost 22 years now.
I don’t look like I once did.
In my vehicle, I fumble around in my purse and find a $20 bill. I
then drive to where this woman is, roll down my window, and call out to her. Her eyes widen; a smile comes across her face. She gushes, “Thank yous and God bless yous”.
A car honks behind me.
As I drive off, I am left feeling blessed indeed. I whisper a prayer for that young woman and her baby. I am filled with gratitude as I’m reminded of how far God has brought me, knowing He’s not finished with me yet.
© M.A. Perez 2016, All Rights Reserved
Filed under Benevolence
Giving Props To A New Tribe of Memoirists
Hello Authors and Happy Friday! So, I popped over to visit my good friend, RODEO CARLSON’s murder & mayhem mystery books site, only to find out she has a new book on the horizon, amid everything else going on over there. There are personal blog insights, pic of mouth-watering culinary eats, online classes forming and free stuff to boot. I downloaded an editorial calendar for authors and plan on putting it to good use 🙂 Rodeo, you rock! Just sayin’
Go here to see what I’m talking about~http://rodeocarlson.com/
Today I’m giving props to a new tribe of memoir writers by celebrating their author status , with a focus being on the memoir. I feel like it takes courage, true grit and a passion for other people to turn your life story or particular slice of your life into a memoir.
Without further ado, here are a few of the…
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Filed under From Clara's Writers Blog, Uncategorized
Remembering the Challenger Crew
From left: Ellison Onizuka, Mike Smith, Christa McAuliffe, Dick Scobee, Greg Jarvis, Ron McNair, and Judith Resnik.
“The crew of the space shuttle Challenger honored us by the manner in which they lived their lives. We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw them, this morning, as they prepared for their journey and waved goodbye and ‘slipped the surly bonds of earth to ‘touch the face of God.’”
“Sometimes, when we reach for the stars, we fall short.
But we must pick ourselves up again and press on despite the pain.”
President Ronald Reagen, Jan. 28, 1986
January 28, 2016 · 10:04 PM
My Story
One of my cousins from across the miles posed a couple of great questions, giving me food for thought. He asked:
Why do you write? And why do you write about the family?
My answer to him:
First of all, I write because I know I have a story to tell. As a kid, eventually, I discovered we were dirt poor. In my teens, looking back, I realized that I was neglected and forced to grow up too fast. I was ashamed of my childhood and bitter for being my mama’s mother. As I “matured,” settled down, married, and had children of my own, along the way, I found I was a stronger person because of some of the things that I endured as a child. Once I embraced the God of my grandparents, I became a much better person, too. NOT that I had it all together; I still had a few things to learn. But I learned it was much better to let go of the bitterness and forgive than to hold onto the junk. I also learned that I didn’t have to be a product of my environment! I could rise above the ashes like a phoenix and become so much better. That was my freedom — still is — and God has called us to liberty, not to be in prison. Sure, I made some mistakes along the way, but I also learned from them. It starts with a made-up mind! While I’ve managed to confront my past, I believe my past hasn’t spoiled me, but has prepared me for the future. I may not be perfect, but I can wipe the crud off and walk on whenever I stumble. I share my story that I might help one person, and if I have done that, then I have done a good thing, and God gets the glory.
I mention family because the little girl growing up — although she may have felt like she was all alone most times — was not an orphan and did not live on an island unto herself. There were others around who helped to nurture her in one fashion or another, even the antagonists in her story. And yes, some were heroes. She cannot tell her story without mentioning those she looked up to. For it to be truthful, she had to address some honest and raw emotions and mention the flaws — the good, the bad, and the ugly.
The story is not fiction. It is written about how she remembers the events that shaped her life as a child, a teenager, and into adulthood. All the memories do not take her to a happy place. She has had to dig deep to find them. To some, those “happy” places may be simple and insignificant, but to her, they were her lifeline.
His response:
I am keeping this to remind me what it takes to be selfless.
Thanks
CD
I did not expect THAT answer 🙂
© M.A. Perez 2014, All Rights Reserved
Filed under Inspirational, Memoir, Running in Heels
Rise to the Occasion
Bucket list. I imagined I would. Some day. Always wanted to. But never really thought I’d actually go through with it.
My posse and I
I’ve been away on a mini-vacation, a road trip to San Marcus and to San Antonio. Not only did I go, but I went on this excursion with some great gal friends of mine. Overall, it was an exhilarating ride!
I learned a few things on this trip.
I learned that if you put your mind to a thing, you can fulfill a task (if you plan ahead). I knew that schedules don’t always go according to plan. You may come across a few bumps and potholes along the way, and the winding roads of life may take a bit longer to get to your destination. And I learned that I don’t always perform well in these situations. (Ahem.)
You see, my expectations may be to do thus and so, and once my mind is made up, I am in a wee bit of a hurry to get there. But I also learned that it’s best to stop and smell the roses and make every second count. Because if you don’t, you’ll regret not doing better when you could have. I learned (and I sometimes forget) to choose my battles, and not all hiccups mean the end of the world! I learned that making each moment count is what makes every memory cherished. I learned that, despite my strengths, I still have weaknesses that need improvement. Egads! I learned that growing older doesn’t necessarily mean you stop learning. I learned that no matter what, there is always something to be grateful for. And I learn (sort of already knew) that I have the bestest of friends! We love and accept one another–flaws and all–and if feeling down, we lift the other up!
So what did we do, you ask? You mean besides the driving, shopping, dining, visiting my in-laws, and shopping some more?
We went Up, Up and Away in My Beautiful Balloon!
Now, those who know me know that I have acrophobia (not to be confused with arachnophobia, which I also happen to have, but that’s another topic). Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I have a fear of heights. Or is it a fear of falling? Either way, I tend to get the heebie-jeebies. I discovered I wasn’t the only one among us determined to face this fear. And so, face it, we did; we rose to the occasion. In fact, I was so busy taking photos on my phone that I didn’t have much time for that nervousness to take over.
Before takeoff, once the pilot said to hop in, we (about fifteen total in all) scrambled up inside that basket (with a bit of assistance from the crew), albeit somewhat clumsily, with one of our legs unable to lower from the ledge of the basket down in our tight space. So much for dignity.
To Deborah, Judy, and my new friend, LeAnn: Thanks for the memories. What’s next?
For your enjoyment, here are a few photos of our adventure.
Deborah & Judy
LeAnn and myself
Just about ready for takeoff.
All for one and one for all!
Up, up, and away!
The Adventure-etts: 3100 feet up!
Beautiful Sunset
© M.A. Pérez 2016, All Rights Reserved
Your life is like a balloon…if you never let yourself go, you will never know how far you can rise.
January 16, 2016 · 9:10 PM
Our Queen Elizabeth
Remember Elizabeth? We still care for her. My husband and daughter are in the construction business together. Whenever all three of us have to work, Amy then steps in and cares for her while we’re gone.
Elizabeth loves people. She’s always been full of life, charm, and plenty of spirit. Although frailer than before, she still believes in 90% attitude and 10% circumstance. Her favorite song: No matter what the circumstances, what I feel or see – the Word of God is working mightily in me.
Elizabeth loves to laugh, crack jokes, watch the Kentucky Derby, and cackle at America’s Funniest Videos. She loves The Lawrence Welk Show and would go right on dancing if only she could.
I’ve known her for over thirty-five years. She may be unable to walk anymore, have limitations, or forget what day it is, or if it’s morning or night. But her heart continues to beat. Her wit is still sharp, as well as her tongue.
They say the Lord sometimes works in mysterious ways. A few years back, due to circumstances beyond our control, we needed a place to call home. Elizabeth needed someone reliable and dependable to care for her. She pointed out the obvious and insisted upon the arrangement. Bonds were sealed. Hearts were mended.
While we attend to Elizabeth’s daily necessities, she is grateful and cannot express enough how much she appreciates us. But believe me when I say: She has enriched our lives, and we are grateful for her.
Once upon a time, a horse and buggy rushed a mother to the hospital to give birth to a little girl. The year was 1911. It is a fact that Elizabeth was one year old during the Titanic. Yes, she will be 105 years young on January 6th.
As the Lord continues to give us the grace needed daily in performing this important task, He reminds us how much sweet Elizabeth is teaching us about life.
To know our Queen Elizabeth is to love her!
As I age, may I emulate her God-giving longevity and passion for living life to its fullest.
Elizabeth, 40 yrs.
“Lord, teach me to number my days so that I may apply my heart unto wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
Filed under Centenarian, Elderly Care
3rd Year Anniversary w/ WordPress
A few more months will mark my 3rd year anniversary with WordPress. Things have picked up quite a bit since 2013 when I first started! Matter of fact, I feel as if I’m on a roller coaster traveling faster and farther with my hair blowing in the wind and the sun shining on my face! It’s been an exhilarating ride.
Here are a few stats from the last 12 months:
- 71 new posts
- 2,038 faithful followers – WordPress, Facebook, Bloglovin’, Twitter
- 12,818 views to date—the U.S. is number one, followed by Brazil, China, United Kingdom, Canada, Philippines, Australia, Italy, France, India, Japan, Spain, Netherlands, Mexico, Portugal, Russia, Puerto Rico, Germany, Czech Republic, United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Argentina, Singapore, Ireland, Pakistan, Indonesia, Greece, Peru, Norway, New Zealand…
Tied for the most viewed posts besides the
ABOUT ME page
SHARK BAIT
WHEN IT HURTS TO NO END
and
The 2nd most viewed post is
BEAUTY FOR ASHES
And the 3rd most viewed post is
WHAT DOES CO-DEPENDENT LOOK LIKE
with
THE BATTLE IS REAL
in 4th place
Most commented was
THE LITTLE GREEN DRESS
- Most popular topics were: family, memoir, amusing, personal, prayer
- My top commenter: Sandra DiGiovanni
My followers know I recently published my first book, “RUNNING IN HEELS: A MEMOIR OF GRIT AND GRACE.” The “experts” said that a newbie (yours truly) should have a writer’s platform. So I started a FACEBOOK WRITERS’ FAN PAGE, and three years ago, I began blogging about past and current events.
I’ve been especially happy since signing up with WordPress.com for its user-friendly and easy navigation.
From time to time, I include short excerpts from my book, and to my delight, you, the readers, want and ask for more. This is good! Since I started blogging, I have reconnected with friends, acquaintances, and yes, family members from across the miles. I have made many new friends and fellow bloggers who not only take the time to read but also leave positive comments and inspiring feedback. This is great!
Image from http://www.planwallpaper.com
Bottom line: I feel blessed beyond measure. And I appreciate every one of you for visiting my site–newcomers and old–and sticking with me throughout this journey to the finish line.
I’m constantly being asked, “WHAT’S NEXT?” The more I hear of other ladies’ stories of survival, the more I feel their voices need to be heard. My plan is to interview some of these survivors of domestic violence and abuse and have their stories heard. I am desiring women (or men) who have healed and moved on to a better place in spite of what they’ve been through, from those who are not bitter but better. Stories that will inspire and help others who may be going through a difficult situation and feel hopeless.
Feel free to leave a comment about topics that interest you most.
Thank you again for your support and for following this blog!
~ FROM MY HEART TO YOURS ~
Filed under Blogging, Reflections From the Heart, Stories, Wordpress Anniversary
When You’re Down – Look Up
“Touch the Sky” by Hillsong
What fortune lies beyond the stars
Those dazzling heights too vast to climb
I got so high to fall so far
But I found heaven as love swept low
My heart beating, my soul breathing
I found my life when I laid it down
Upward falling, spirit soaring
I touch the sky when my knees hit the ground
What treasure waits within Your scars
This gift of freedom gold can’t buy
I bought the world and sold my heart
You traded heaven to have me again
My heart beating, my soul breathing
I found my life when I laid it down
Upward falling, spirit soaring
I touch the sky when my knees hit the ground
Find me here at Your feet again
Everything I am, reaching out, I surrender
Come sweep me up in Your love again
And my soul will dance
On the wings of forever
Find me here at Your feet again
Everything I am, reaching out, I surrender
Come sweep me up in Your love again
And my soul will dance
On the wings of forever
My heart beating, my soul breathing
I found my life when I laid it down
Upward falling, spirit soaring
I touch the sky when my knees hit the ground
My heart beating, my soul breathing
I found my life when I laid it down
Upward falling, spirit soaring
I touch the sky when my knees hit the ground
Find me here at Your feet again
Everything I am, reaching out I surrender
Come sweep me up in Your love again
And my soul will dance
On the wings of forever
For many, this has been a difficult and challenging year. As we come to the end of 2015 and soon enter a new year, my prayer is that with every new dawn and in every new challenge, may we find inner strength and peace from the One above who promises to never leave us or forsake us.
Nobody said life would be easy, but nothing worth having ever is.
Hold onto the memories.
December 27, 2015 · 1:23 PM
From Heart to Heritage
Reflections From the Heart 