Last weekend I found time to watch the Hollywood film Alice in Wonderland, directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter. I loved it, of course. Well, who couldn’t love a Tim Burton film? I thought it was wonderfully dark and dramatic, a faithful retelling of a classic children’s story, but still contemporary enough to catch the attention of a modern audience.
As I watched the film I began to realise a few things. Firstly, how interesting to see that there are so many popular classic novels that are considered to be written for children and yet are enjoyed by adults. I am thinking books such as Alice in Wonderland, the Chronicles of Narnia, and the more recent popular Harry Potter series. All of these stories are full of fantasy and make believe. That is why they are traditionally associated with a children’s audience.
Embracing the Supernatural Journey: My Adventures in Novel Submissions and Self-Publishing.
The Curious Nature of Fantasy vs Reality
I was intrigued by the theme in Alice in Wonderland. It has been many years since I read the book, and I am thinking I need to return to it. The story began with a little girl and her enterprising entrepreneur father. He was instrumental in developing international trade business at the turn of the Industrial Revolution, and he forged ahead with his ideas and plans despite being considered a dreamer by his colleagues and business partners. We can all see the evidence of his (albeit fictional) endeavours in the 21st Century world.
In Alice in Wonderland, the girl was faced with challenges at the tender age of nineteen. She was expected to marry a young Lord, simply to give herself and her widowed mother a secure domestic life. She was expected to say yes to a surprise engagement request in a very public setting, where she stuck out like a sore thumb. And she was expected to conform because the adults in her life knew what was best and would continue to rule and dominate her actions if she allowed it.
Her rite of passage
I was very happy to see Alice completing her rite of passage as she traversed the upside-down world into which she fell. I liked that she still fulfilled the decree of the oracle, despite taking charge and making her own decisions along the way. I was also pleased when the film concluded with her becoming an apprentice at her father’s former business, and she embarked on an ocean voyage to explore new trade and forge new relationships.
What struck me is that all of the most enterprising people we know of have been considered crazy or dreamers at some point. It didn’t matter. They simply went ahead with their ideas, made them a reality, and reaped the rewards. For me, life is not much fun if you can’t live for yourself. You have to take some risks, no matter how small or insignificant they might seem. Yes, you may upset people that are close to you. Ultimately they will admire you for your strength of mind and your determination. My motto is ‘never give up.’ And once again, I can relate my experiences and ideals to my favourite stories and books!
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green
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Happy Valentine’s Day folks! I couldn’t let the day pass without some acknowledgment, despite the fact that my husband and I have agreed not to celebrate it.
There is still a small part of me that hopes he might do something romantic and spontaneous to surprise me, but that really isn’t in his nature so I should just get on with the day. Besides, he’s at work until silly o’clock tonight!
Anyway, I was compelled to write a short poem in honour of St Valentine. It is called “Love and Marriage.” Tell me if you like it!
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#Poem Love and Marriage by Catherine Green
The sun shines brightly
My heart is light
Today is a day for love
Today is a day for romance.
—–
“I’m married,” you say
“I don’t do romance!”
“Why not?” I reply,
“You must be in love?”
—–
That is the question,
Are you in love?
Is this day special,
Or is romance all gone?
—–
Yes I am in love,
But I show it every day,
Here’s to St Valentine,
For love’s sweet memories.
END
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green
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Yes, I am in that mood again! This time I am not in the mood to feel sorry for the plight of working women in the UK. We all have free will, and we make our choices based on our own experiences, and on what we feel is acceptable or practical in our own lives.
My question is this: Will it ever be equal between men and women?
The Spark Company “Men, Their Rights, And Nothing More; Women, Their Rights, And Nothing Less” T-Shirt
The Difference Between Men and Women
I recently decided to watch a classic movie from 1988 that has been a favourite of mine since I was a teenager. The movie is Working Girl. It features strong female leads played by actresses I admire, and of course, there is the eye candy that is Harrison Ford. I know he is old enough to be my granddad, but I don’t care! He will always be Indiana Jones to me!
Anyway, while I was indulging in the movie the other night, my mind wandered to an experience earlier that day. I had attended a football match with my organisation Girls Out Loud. There were half a dozen women, and a group of teenage girls from the high school where we work. We are the girls’ ‘big sisters,’ offering mentoring and support in helping them transition from school to either further education, or into their careers.
Well, there were a lot of curious stares from fellow football fans at the stadium. It probably added to the confusion when we were allowed to stand on the pitch and take some photos, and we were able to meet the club manager, who just happened to be the brother of one of the women from the school who is involved with our group. I overheard a few muttered comments from people sitting behind us, and one that stuck in my mind came from a middle-aged man. I heard him say to his companion, “Must be a school trip or something; maybe a girls’ football team.”
Nobody came over to speak with us; nobody dared ask us outright what we were doing there. But for some reason, we did not fit in with their League 1 football club. It’s not that it is a largely male environment, although I find that football in the UK is still very much male dominated. It is simply this idea of ‘fitting in’ with society.
Do women fit-in with men?
Later that afternoon, when we were in the lounge area waiting to meet the footballers after the game, we received another comment from a male supporter. The man was older, probably retired, and he came over and said to my friend, “It’s nice to see some dolly birds in here for a change.” I had to laugh! Fortunately he didn’t offend any of us, because we are not that way inclined, but the comment stuck in my mind when I was watching Working Girl.
How has human society improved since the Suffragette movement and the rise in feminism and women’s rights? I am not sure. I still find myself faced with prejudice, and it doesn’t all come from the men. We are simply wired differently. Some women are very unsympathetic towards their own kind, particularly when it comes to business. What bothers me is that even now, in the 21st century, women are being forced out of the business arena simply because we are the ones who produce and nurture our children. How do we change this? I don’t know. I will continue to think about it…
#RedcliffeNovels LGBT Fantasy Book Series for Adults
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I just finished reading an inspirational book written by Iyanla Vanzant. The book is called “Tapping the Power Within: A Path to Self-Empowerment for Women.”
Read my blog post to see the review and how it relates to my personal life experiences.
“Tapping the Power Within A Path to Self-Empowerment for Women” by Iyanla Vanzant
#BookReview: “Tapping the Power Within: A Path to Self-Empowerment for Women” by Iyanla Vanzant
I had never heard of this book before, and I had not heard of Iyanla Vanzant. Apparently she is very popular over in America. She is a Yoruba priestess and an ordained minister in Christian New Thought. Interesting that I should be reading and enjoying her book at the same that I discovered social and business connections with my local community churches.
Tapping the Power Within was a gift from my Soul Sister. She is a friend who I only met late last year, but who already feels like a life-long friend. We definitely have past life connections, and we both agree on that point. It is something we can instinctively feel, and we are so comfortable in each other’s company that our friendship simply seemed to continue where we left off, rather that being a new relationship that was developing.
I have read lots of other books published by Hay House, who published Tapping the Power Within. Somehow this one seemed much more accessible to people like me. By that I mean people who are consciously following their spiritual journey, but who still experience confusion and doubt along the way. I am very impressed with everything produced by Hay House, and indeed by its founder Louise L Hay. It was her book “You Can Heal Your Life” that set me on my journey probably around 10 years ago.
I lived a sheltered life
I have lived a sheltered life. My divorced parents continue to love and support me, and I am in a stable and loving relationship with my husband. My upbringing was such that I learned to be meek and shy, and I completely lacked in self-confidence when I was younger. I was simply a product of my culture. You keep your head down, you work hard, and you don’t question anything that is beyond your control. I have learned to move beyond that model of behaviour, and am still learning from it.
Recently I have doubted my own spiritual journey, lessons and intentions. Tapping the Power Within reaffirmed that I am on the right path. Our human lives are unique. Our spiritual lives are eternal. We continue to develop and grow, and we should move away from this obsession with linear time, and the need to constantly have a plan of action and a busy work schedule.
Life is a learning process
Yes, we make mistakes. Yes, we often repeat those mistakes. Life is a learning process. It is not a bad thing to make mistakes. We are all divine beings, ruled by our human egos. Even our spiritual teachers are flawed in different ways. It is part of what makes us unique individuals. The difference is that people on a spiritual path can recognize their quirks, and if they choose to, can move on from them. Life is about being an individual. Make your own decisions, based on your own ideals.
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green
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Ha ha, that got your attention! Those who know my blog understand that as a pagan I do not attend a Christian church any more. It doesn’t mean I am not Christian, or that I don’t believe in God. Far from it. But this isn’t about religion. This is about business.
I am currently in the process of setting up a freelance writing services business. Working from home, I offer professional copy editing, proofreading, manuscript critique and even ghost writing to those who are in need. I will also begin writing articles for print magazines once I settle into the new routine of having my daughter in preschool three days per week.
Paranormal Author Catherine Green
Setting Up in Business with your Local Church!
Well, I have a business idea. I am a competent writer, with an excellent grasp of English language, and I am a published author to boot. I do not, however, have the confidence or knowledge of how to efficiently run a business. I intend to change that. I am currently beginning a support program with a company called Blue Orchid, under referral from a UK government scheme that I had previously not heard of. They will show me how to create a business plan, how to secure and manage my funds, and give me free training sessions on the necessary aspects of being a small business owner.
A couple of weeks ago I came across an article in my local newspaper, the Middlewich Guardian. It said there was a free business course coming up in the nearby town of Winsford. I was intrigued. Then I read that it was being run by the Storehouse Church, and I got a little uneasy. Surely it was simply a ploy to grow their congregation and bring more people over to the following of God? But I read the article, I was interested, and I contacted the organizers.
Get the bus to business school
I am so glad I did! The first session took place on Tuesday evening this week, and it was a lovely event. I was able to get the bus up to Winsford, since my husband was working late and had our car. My neighbours very kindly took care of our daughter, freeing me up to pursue some business networking. Unfortunately I couldn’t stay as late as I would have liked, because I had to run out when my husband came to collect me, complete with toddler and dog in the car!
There was no pressure to join the church. The meeting room was very professional and very welcoming, as were the organizers. I felt at ease the moment I stepped through the door and was offered a hot drink and a piece of cake. The speakers were inspirational, positive, and came from businesses in the local area. All in all I was very impressed. I came away with a specially prepared file in which to put my business plan and paperwork, and I look forward to our next session where we will meet a representative from NatWest bank, advising us about securing finance and how to develop a healthy business bank account. I could definitely make use of some of that!
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green
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Phew! It has been a whirlwind of a weekend, and I’m not even sure why or how.
I planned to write about Imbolc on Saturday, which was the official date for Imbolc. Instead I hardly even glanced at my computer all weekend. But it’s all good. It was meant to be that way.
Last year I spent most of Imbolc immersed in meditation by candlelight as I stepped forward on my spiritual journey. I learned a lot things about humans, about life, and about the world around us during 2012. I also learned that I do not have to adhere to a specific and rigid structure or set of rules in order to be a pagan and celebrate the festivals of the year. There is no right or wrong way. There is only the natural way.
Decorating Ideas for Imbolc
Spending time with family and friends for Imbolc
What was natural for me this weekend, was to spend time with family and friends. On Saturday I attended a football game (soccer for my international followers). Most people are aware that I do not follow ‘the beautiful game’ or even actively promote or support it. My reason for attending was in a nurturing capacity for a social enterprise called Girls Out Loud, of which I am a mentor and surrogate ‘big sister.’ Actually, I enjoyed the football, although that was largely attributed to the people I was with.
On Sunday I spent time with my daughter, my younger sister and my spiritual brother. We had planned to do some official Imbolc celebrating, or maybe go for a walk in the woods. As it turned out, we were all fairly lethargic. Instead we spent time at home enjoying each other’s company and discussing things that are important to us. It was a lovely weekend, and I understand that this is the way it should have been. No structure. No ritual. Simply enjoying life and the opportunities around me. Thank you, Goddess.
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green
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Today is the return to work after a week off. For me it is a more casual affair, since my work hours won’t start back officially until my daughter starts at playschool next week. My husband returned to work today after a week off to celebrate our birthdays.
We had a lovely relaxing time, but now I have to get my business head back on. Oh, and my house cleaning head (not so good!).
#WitchyWednesday Cloudy Sky over Rocks in the Sea
My Spiritual Journey: Growing into Maturity
It will still be a strange week. I have to attend the Manchester Eye Hospital on Wednesday for surgery. It is only a minor procedure, and the doctors won’t even call it an operation. I will be having electrolysis to remove ingrowing eyelashes from both eyes, under local anaesthetic. It is not a pleasant experience, and the last time I had this procedure was about 6 years ago, so I am little anxious. But, it needs to be done, and I will feel better afterwards.
Moving on from that, I have been feeling especially spiritual this past weekend. It always amazes me how we can experience very profound spiritual changes within ourselves during very routine and boring activities. Here is my latest experience: I was standing in my kitchen washing dishes in the sink and preparing to cook food for tea (or dinner if you prefer). I was listening to Real XS radio, formerly known as Rock Radio that broadcasts from Manchester. A song came on that I hadn’t heard for a long time. It was Unforgiven by Metallica.
A wash of pure energy
All of a sudden I felt a wash of pure energy flow over me. I can only describe it as being similar to pins and needles mixed with cold shivers. It is a very specific sensation that I know from experience tells me I am communicating or connecting with Spirit. I turned away from the sink and looked at the dark kitchen window where I had not yet drawn the blind after sunset. I saw my reflection, and I was drying my hands on a tea towel.
Then I saw my shadow self. She looks exactly like me, but she seems younger, more immature. Her expression was dark and full of angst. She detached from my physical body and stood beside me, glowering like a grumpy teenager. I had to laugh! Apparently I had finally done something to remove the deeply rooted emotions and moods of my teenage years. Throughout my twenties I would veer between extreme mood swings. I always identified with Goth culture, although I never overtly displayed it. I was confused about my identity and my place in the world. I was angry because I never achieved the status of fame and fortune that I dreamed about when I was sixteen.
Let go of teenage angst
Now, finally, I am free of those emotions. I no longer need hold on to the anger, frustration and self pity that I wallowed in for so long. Last night signified a huge change in myself as a person and a spiritual being. I am happy and comfortable with myself, my life and my situation. When we can reach that stage in our lives, I feel it is something to be proud of. Have a wonderful week my friends!
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green
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Last night I went to the theatre. This was a special evening for several reasons, including my birthday and the fact that I haven’t been to the theatre for over a year!
Probably the main reason was to celebrate that I am pregnant for the second time, and our baby is due towards the end of July. Oh yes, that is one my secrets finally revealed!
Dr Haze Circus of Horrors with vampire writer Catherine Green
Circus of Horrors: A Macabre Theatre Show
Anyway, back to the show. Courtesy of a text message from Orange fun finder, I went to see Circus of Horrors with a close friend last night. We absolutely loved the show. It was brilliant! We hadn’t heard of it, or at least were not sure what to expect. I thought perhaps it might include a few acrobatics and maybe some burlesque dancing with glamorous costumes and sets. It was far more than that. It made us laugh. It made us cringe. It made our mouths drop open in amazement at almost every turn.
I won’t give too much detail because that will spoil the secret of the show. Take a look at their website if you are interested. I saw the show in Stoke-on-Trent. They will now be touring Wolverhampton, Buxton, Stafford and Warrington, to name but a few. If you like things of a bizarre and horrific nature, then this is the show for you. If you have a nervous disposition, it is most certainly not the show for you!
We saw acrobats, fire eaters, sword swallowers, a scary evil doll, and a few vampires. The band was brilliant. The sound track was rocking! It was a great night!
Sinister Sisters Circus of Horrors with vampire writer Catherine Green
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Good morning! I am just leaving a quick post because I might be a little scarce during the next week. Tomorrow is my daughter’s second birthday.
Wow, that came around fast! She is now a proper little girl and no longer a baby, and I am getting increasingly nostalgic for those ‘good old days.’ Bless! I had told my husband we wouldn’t do a big birthday party like we ended up with last year. It was a wonderful time, but we seriously crammed way too many people into our tiny terraced house!
#MummyMondy Happy Birthday
Busy Birthday Weekend
Well, I found myself still inviting all of our daughter’s friends from our local coffee group, although I refrained from inviting everyone from the other social groups we attend. Phew! I really don’t think we’ll have too many visitors, what with the snow and various other circumstances, but she should have just enough friends and family for a nice little party.
I had planned to bake a birthday cake, but I just didn’t get round to it. I am not the most domestically blessed of women. I am certainly no Stepford wife, and much as I would love to be able to whip up delicious cakes and puddings at the click of a finger, it just does not happen. So today I will be hurrying to the shops and purchasing a cake (oops!). I do intend to bake some cookies, however, and I will still prepare a nice little buffet of snack foods.
Still a busy week
Once the birthday party is over we still have a busy week. There are various official appointments that seem to have arrived together. And it is my birthday on Tuesay. We had planned a day trip to Chester Zoo, but we may have to reschedule that if the snow hasn’t melted. I wonder where else we could go for a family day out in the North West?
Well, gotta dash. I have an eye test to attend, shopping to do, and a birthday feast to prepare. Speak to you soon! Have a lovely weekend everybody!
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green
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