Revamping My Groove...

I can admit that I have become so focused on being successful I forgot a couple of things about myself on the way.

1. I appreciate great shoes! Why don't I dress the part?
2. I love to write and create stories that capture my readers minds. Why haven't I created anything new?
3. Networking makes the dream work. Why haven't I gotten out to any events lately?

These things just weigh heavy on my mind and heart. I feel like I have become lazy. However, I know that it's just that I am working so hard trying to do too many things at one time. Therefore, for the remainder of this month I am going to focus on Envisage Publishing and my new diet. Everything else will have to eventually fall into place, right?
Now as part of my committment to Envisage Publishing, I must freewrite daily. Freewriting is something I learned in English Composition. It's like a worm-up exercise for a writer's mind. Freewriting will help declutter my thoughts and allow my creativity to flow. Tomorrow I will challenge myself to first do my physical exercise and then my mental exercise.
We are in the second half of 2012 and rapidly approaching my 36th birthday. It's way past time to get back on track!
Who is ready to Revamp their Groove with me? Let's get on it! Where are we on our goals list? Have you charted your goals? The time is now. Let's do it!

Books, Beauty & Bliss,
Danette Maroney

Living and Learning

Today is one of those days that I am beginning to feel a change coming. I feel this burst of excitement inside that I can explain no other way than God has set me on a new path. Today, I started a new site on Word Press. Feeling really positive about the ideas I have for my blogs and business. Yup, that's right my businesses. I am not giving up. I will continue to pursue my writing and publishing while giving skin beauty and health class and consultation with Mary Kay. I have started these business and intend to see them through these hard times.

I would like to thank all of those that continue to support me and all my dreams. Your encouragement provides my fuel to do what I love and share myself to those that need to be motivated or inspired to live their dreams.

Come check out what I am doing @ http://booksbeautyandbliss.wordpress.com , http://envisagepublishing.yolasite.com & www.marykay.com/d.maroney

Books, Blessings & Bliss

Danette Maroney

Envisage Publishing Presents...

Have you had the chance to catch up with Imani and Quinton, Charisse and Rodney? In Completely Satisfied, Imani and Quinton demonstrate what matters most is not tangible and not often visible but makes the world of difference in this story of love, lust and devotion. Then they reunite with their best friends Charisse and Rodney, respectively, in this suspenseful page turner that defines how much love and sacrifice it takes to keep the ones you love safe in Never Too Much. Then for those that are intrigued by the spicy life of Charisse, read Never Satisfied to uncover the many life choices that made Charisse the tough, sexy and sassy woman she is as she juggles a four-way love affair. It begins right here --->

http://envisagepublishing.yolasite.com/

Books & Blessings

Danette Maroney

Have you heard? Spread the word. Everyone really needs to know.

Good Reads =Brighter Days

Grab a good book today!

Have you had the chance to catch up with Imani and Quinton, Charisse and Rodney? In Completely Satisfied, Imani and Quinton demonstrate what matters most is not tangible and not often visible but makes the world of difference in this story of love, lust and devotion. Then they reunite with their best friends Charisse and Rodney, respectively, in this suspenseful page turner that defines how much love and sacrifice it takes to keep the ones you love safe in Never Too Much. Then for those that are intrigued by the spicy life of Charisse, read Never Satisfied to uncover the many life choices that made Charisse the tough, sexy and sassy woman she is as she juggles a four-way love affair. It begins right here ---> http://envisagepublishing.yolasite.com

Also follow me on Facebook - Envisage Publishing or on Twitter @ladydiva821.

Looking forward to sharing my journey with you.

Books, Blessings and Bliss,

Danette E. Maroney

Hugs | Forward this Picture

Another Sneak Peek from Never Satisfied

The smooth sounds of Maxwell’s ‘Til the Cops Come Knocking’ played continuously as we made love. I could not contain the tears that ran freely from the pleasure he provided. Every part of me felt his love and knew I would never feel this way with any one else. As he gently caressed my breast before taking the nipple into his mouth, I fell deeper into his spell. I straddled him, watching his face as his strong hands held my waist and guided me towards the road of ecstasy. With him it wasn’t the typical orgasm, it was an emotional exchange of promises. I promised to be the woman that stood by his side through the good, bad and indifferent and he promised to be the man to love me pass my pain and teach how to trust and believe. As we reached our peak, we sealed the moment with a kiss that spoke volumes. We were designed for each other.

“Good Morning, Sunshine.” He said as he ran his fingers down the length of my arm.

We lay facing each other as the sun illuminated the room through the sheer ivory drapes. I loved the way I felt in his embrace; so safe and adored. I missed this feeling and hated that it would be weeks before I could feel this way again.

“It’s time to get up, Charisse. We are going to miss our flight.”

The unpleasant thought of returning to reality caused my stomach to knot. I love my children more than anything in this world and would die if anything happened to them but it wasn’t them that caused me to feel this angst towards returning home.

“Can’t we catch a later flight?” I asked as I laid against his chest taking in his scent.

“Come on, baby. We go through this every week.” He kissed me gently on the tip of my nose, then on my lips.

“I know.” I replied as I returned his kisses.

I attempted to detangle myself from him but my body and my heart was at war again and I just couldn’t let go. Instead I pulled closer and tighter.

There was a faint buzzing in the background. I turned to find my cell phone vibrating across the nightstand. Ignoring it wasn’t an option. I learned from past experience if I didn’t answer it, he would. Therefore, I reluctantly grabbed the phone from it resting spot and answered.

“Good Morning.” I chimed as if I were in the best of moods.

“Good Morning, Mom.” Christian replied. His smile reached through the phone.

“Hey, Sweetheart. How are you this morning?”

“Fine. Dad wanted me to call to see what time your flight was coming in?”

“I should be in New York by three.” Arrgh. I thought as I was reminded of what waited for me in New York. Rodney.

“Ok. We will be there. LaGuardia, right?”

“Yes. Is your brother and sister awake?”

“Alaire is awake but Dad is giving her a bath. you want me to get Damien?”

I felt a tug on the sheets then turned to find Rahsaun sitting up reaching for his robe.

“No, Baby. I will call you back in a few. Let me get myself together. I love you.”

“Love you, too.”

After we disconnected, I sat up in the bed and watched as Rahsaun collected his toiletries from the dresser and made his way towards the bathroom. Once he was inside, I buried my face into the sheets reminiscing on our love-making and dreading our separation.

The bathroom door re-opened. Rahsaun’s deep voice filled the room as he asked, “Are you going to join me?”

“One minute, I need to make a quick call.”

Once I heard the shower running, I hit the speed dial.

“Hello.” She answered.

“Hey baby, don’t worry about picking me up. Rodney is coming.”

“Am I going to get to see you tonight? I planned something special.” The disappointment in her tone struck my heart.

“I will try, baby. I promise I will try.”

“Charisse, we really need to talk about this.”

Those words…those words never meant any good.

“We will tonight.”

“Are you sure?”

“Positive.” I replied.

“Love you, Reesie.”

“And I love you.”

I did love her. I loved to kiss her, feel her, and taste her sweet lips. She excited me and tempted me to go deeper, emotionally. I treasured the moments we shared together and wished the feelings could last forever. Her smooth skin would beckon me to come closer, kiss that spot between her breasts and inhale her scent. The same scent that drove me crazy whenever we were together and kept me longing to see her again. My love for her is and always will be what keeps me hopeful. Although we both have separate lives, and lovers at home, she will be forever be mine and I am forever hers. First loves last forever.

The worst part of being in love is when you lose focus of the struggle and sacrifice endured to make it work. I was in love with Rahsaun because he was everything Rodney was not and still I loved Rodney for everything he promised to be. However, she always had my heart. Rahsaun may not be the same person years from now and may not be what’s best for me then but my future looked cloudy with or without him. Rodney and I had history and over that time our imagined picture-perfect future has became tattered and tarnished. We were a family. He is my husband and the father of my kids however time does not always heal old wounds. She was my first true love. What she and I shared was pure. Yet, it was still so hard to stay and much harder to leave. How did I end up in love with possibilities?

Happy New Year - No More Resolutions!

Another year, another chance to get it right. We all say, "My resolutions for the new year are...". However, how many of us actually follow through with what we have planned. I have decided a long time ago that I am over making resolutions. What I have done is created a goal chart.

My goal chart list the things I plan to get accomplish in a reasonable time frame in priority order. I start with the things I need to accomplish within the next 6 months. Those are considered my short term goals. These can sometimes be just a simple list of smaller things we tend to overlook such as cleaning up or rearranging your workspace, balancing your checkbook or updating your business website. I normally choose to give myself a set of task to complete between the 1st and the 15th then a separate set for the 16th to the 30th (28th or 31st). As you complete each task, leave yourself a little note of how and when you completed the task.

Now, here is where it changes a bit. In the 3rd month, my task would be to double check the tasks for the 1st and 2nd month to assure they are complete and there are no necessary updates. When I set a set date to complete a task, I DO NOT beat myself up if I have not completed it before moving on to the next set of tasks. I leave myself a note and when the 3rd month comes around I review my notes and complete tasks I have yet to finish. How about that?!

Now, I challenge all of you to start today. Create a goal chart. We will start with short term goals. Start by making a list of things you tend to overlook but need to get done. Prioritize them and then break them done into 8 groups. The first group will go on your chart for January 15 through the 31st. Devote 2 hours everyday to this goal chart. Review what you have to do, Note what you have done so far, Plan your attack (how do you plan to complete this)!

Feel free to email me with any questions, comments and/or advice. I look forward to seeing all of you succeed. Let's make 2012 bigger and better than any year in our past. Never to0 late for change or too late to learn something new.

New Year Blessings to you and yours,

Danette

Achieving My Goal

Good Morning,

You guys are FANTASTIC!!!
We are so close to reaching my goal! Still need your help. Asking all of you to help me achieve my goal to sell just 50 books by 12/25. Please visit http://​envisagepublishing.yolasite.com​ to purchase any of my titles. All books are discounted now for just $11 for 1 & $38 for all 4 (s/h & tax included). Buy the 4 book combo and receive a free thank you gift with your order.

Thank you for your support. Please pass this along.

Books & Blessings,
Danette

What I Know For Sure...

Inspired by Oprah, I have decided to dedicate a blog to my readers sharing my knowledge with those seeking direction and wishes for the future.

What I Know For Sure...

I always knew what I wanted to accomplish in life and where I would be in 5, 10, 15 years. I allowed too many non-factors to cause me to deviate from my path. So, what I know for sure is that you should never let anyone ever stand in the way of your true desires.

My goal in life was to help my young sisters and brothers avoid some of the rocky roads that I have traveled and climb the mountain to success. I have been told many times that my stories of trials and triumph could be motivational to someone who may not see the light at the end of the tunnel. In writing my novels, I felt that I was providing hope and encouragement to my fellow sisters who have been abused, homeless, abandoned and still struggling. Still there is so much more I can do to reach so many more women.

I have been that sister that has lived in an abusive relationship for over 7 years. I know the feeling all too well, feeling like you have to stay because there is no place left to go and after a while to try to rationalize the beatings. However, what I must share with my sisters is that it is never permissible for a man or other partner for that matter to physical, mentally or emotional abuse you. We owe it to ourselves and our children to want better for ourselves. Recognize your self-worth and live to see bigger and brighter days. Yes, the days ahead may look scary, to some the fear is being alone but if and when you truly love yourself, you are never alone.

It is my hope that in this upcoming year we all achieve those goals we set out for ourselves. In this coming year, I am going to open myself to give a little more. Not financially, for sure. I want to be inspirational to someone that may not realize how beautiful life is when we learn to appreciate the cards we were dealt as a life guide. Sometimes we must go through the bad to understand the good. Life is never going to be easy. I learn with each obstacles to appreciate something new in the world and something new in me.

Next year, 2012, I claim it for myself and those around me as the year to value ourselves. We are going to to learn how to put ourselves first and prioritize our lives (home, work, etc.). Set ourselves up for success and not let the troubles of our past dictate our futures. I invite you all to challenge yourself to be different than your usual. Reach out to someone and offer words of encouragement and praise. You will see that it will change you both, lifting your spirit and filling you with a joy that no one can ever take away.

What I Know For Sure is that for every one of us that takes the time to get to know ourselves we will in turn motivate someone else to find that peace within themselves by discovering that special person eager to come out. We keep so much of ourselves bottled up after each hurt that we wind up closing ourselves off from possibilities. What I Know For Sure is that everything happens for a reason and it is always best to find the brighter side to every setback.

I am ending this year with a special blessing for all of my sisters and brothers that feel that life has let them down. Life has only just begun and I will be here with you to make the best of every day to come.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

Books, Blessings and Bliss,

Danette Maroney

Learning How to Reintroduce Myself

Over 8 years ago, I was in the center of every Networking circle in the NY area. No matter what I made it my business to show up and show out. In doing this I was able to get my name out there and a few copies of my books in the hands of some very good people. My sales reflected my hard work and dedication. Two years later, I was recouperating from heart surgery and have not been able to get myself or my focus back to where I once stood.

Even though I tried to maintain communication with alot of my readers, network friends and business affiliates, it is extremely hard to break into the new business network circles. For the most part, I am unfamiliar with a lot of the events in Atlanta. It is not as easy as searching Google. Then when I do find something where I can begin my fresh start, reality kicks in and reminds me I am not ready (financially). However, I will not become discouraged and I will not sweep my dreams or desires under the rug anymore.

When building a business we have to keep in mind that every minute of our day is an opportunity to make a new business contact. Therefore, it is crucial to remain professional because you never know when you are making that "first" impression. Part of learning how to reintroduce myself is to practice my lines. Not that I have a script that I read from but I must remember that I must use each meeting as a chance to acquire a new contact. Have a personal and professional resume about myself that I can ease into casual conversation. When someone asks, "So, tell me something about yourself.", this is the time to make it POP! Never look down on yourself or your achievements. Even if your career is at a stand still, be exciting!

I would say, "For the last 8 years I have been working very hard at beoming an Essence best selling author." After all this is my dream. "I have written and published 4 novels that have been well received by readers of all ages, races, and genders. Currently, I am in the process of finding a way to merge my passion for writing with my love for giving back to my community. I see myself becoming a Motivational Speaker in the near future and have already started college courses to obtain a degree in Communication."

If you are genuine and passionate about your work than your listener will be interested in you and your work. Passion is what binds us as a group, unit or couple. Sharing the same drive to become successful, break into a specific line of work or even just improving ourselves draws us closer as we support each other.

These are not things I learned over night. I had to look deep and figure out what was holding me back. I found that it was me. I was my own worst enemy. Passing up on many opportunities because I always felt like I was not ready. My fear of failure is what was keeping me from soaring to my success. I had to stop doubting myself and my skills. I have already broke the barrier, it is just a matter of finding the right audience. The only way for me to do this is putting myself on display and making a GREAT first impression.

When looking for ways to break into your market do not look down on the use of Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and so many other social networking forums. We are in the technology era. Everyone finds comfort in the ease of online marketing and networking. Become a fan to some markets familiar to your line of work to meet and network with business affiliates and future clients/customers/fans.

Network with me. Find me on Facebook @

1. Envisage Publishing: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/pages/Envisage-Publishing/134267513289794 or
2. Mary Kay & Me: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/pages/Mary-Kay-Me/119443978162333

I can also be found on Twitter @ladydiva821 and on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/danettemaroney.

As always, I wish you all success ad prosperity for the many years to come.

Books, Beauty and Bliss,

Danett Maroney
http://envisagepublishing.yolasite.com

Great sale on "Never Satisfied" by Danette Maroney

For the next 24 hours I am offering 30% off Never Satisfied.

Never Satisfied Is based on the life of Charisse, Imani's best friend in Completely Satisfied. Charisse shares her stories of love, lust and life as she faces alienation after coming out to her family at just 16, the heart break of loving her first, her desires for the one she can't have and the drama of having them ALL! In Never Satisfied, Charisse demonstrates that having too many unfinished chapters will only leave you longing for the what ifs and doing any and every thing to satisfy that craving.

Get your copy today at http://envisagepublishing.yolasite.com/ or contact me@ envisagepub1@gmail.com

Envisage Publishing Cyber Sale

Cyber Sale: At Lulu.com, use coupon code BUYMYBOOK305 at checkout and receive 25% off your order. The maximum savings with this promotion is $50. You can only use the code once per account, and you can't use this coupon in combination with other coupon codes. This great offer ends on December 14, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST. Get your copy of Never Satisfied, Completely Satisfied, or Never Too Much today! Ebooks just $5.00!!!

http://www.lulu.com/product/paperback/never-satisfied/17797612?productTrackingContext=search_results/search_shelf/center/2

Get your autograph copy today!

Books And Blessings,

Danette Maroney

My latest book, Never Satisfied is on its way. Release date: 9/15/11

It has been a long wait but the time has finally arrived. Never Satisfied will be available to the public on September 15th, 2011. I am thinking about having a virtual book signing/ Book Release. Sounds interesting? I am super excited! I men I have 3 other books but something feels different about this one. Completely Satisfied will always be my my baby because it was my first and still captures readers hearts almost 10 years later. Yes, Completely Satisfied will be turning 10 years old (by publication date). Wow, I am veteran author, lol. Soon my day will come when I will be able to note my many accolades. Until then I am satisfied with the compliments from the fans of Completely Satisfied, its sequel Never Too Much and lastly, the More Things Change.

Here is a brief synopsis for Never Too Much (shortened from the original):

Charisse Nettles better known to her friends and family as Reese knew early in life that she was going to have her share of bad days. Unlike most teenage girls when she was growing up, her insecurities had nothing to do with her looks or popularity. Charisse’s struggles were deeper. She could not fi ght the urges,sexual fantasies and identity confl ict. As she came into her womanhood, she became a diva with an attitude that commanded attention. Her urges were satisfied, her sexual fantasies were lived and her identity...she was CHARISSE...nothing else needed to be said.

However, living the glamorous life would cause a massive storm to send her spiraling into a new life, new love and new drama. As she continues to live head strong and strong willed, she buries unresolved issues deep within and finds new and sometimes dangerous ways to get over the past.

Fire ignites as lovers become possesive and the others compete for their place in her life. Can Charisse’s insatiable appetite lead to her decline?

In Never Satisfied, Charisse learns that not facing her inner demons of alienation, adandonment, fear and hate she will continue on a path of destruction. Charissse’s obsession with perfection may lead to her demise. She must learn to accept herself, flaws and all in order to learn the true meaning of loving herself and being whole.

So what do you think? I really put alot of myself into this book. With each book, I give a little more of myself to my readers. Allowing them to peek into my world and know who I truly am and what makes me, Danette. However, in Never Satisfied I discuss topics and situations I dont think I was ready to come face to face with again. Sometimes it is best to leave the past in the past but this time I believe my past may help change someone's future.

If you would like to get your copy of Never Satisfied or any of my other titles, please feel free to contact me by email: envisagepub1@gmail.com.

Never Satisfied - (juice from the gut of my new story)

Here is my holiday gift to all of you. A snippet from my new book Never Satisfied. You know the rules. If you like it, pass it around, if not write me. Smile.

Books & Blessings,

Never Satisfied - Chapter 14

That night when Rahsaun walked through the door with another piece of luggage, I was waiting for him in the family room. Dressed in my sweats and sneakers, I was prepared for a fight. I fought against the urge to attack him. I remained calm as I watched him place his bag on the floor and remove his coat. He headed towards the kitchen without acknowledging me and started rummaging through the refrigerator.
“Do you feel like chicken or steak for dinner?” He shouted from the kitchen.
“Neither. Just a salad.” I replied.
“You can’t keep starving yourself, Charisse. It’s not good for the baby.”
My heart dropped. I could not believe what I had just heard.
“What baby?” I stammered as I walked towards the kitchen.
“I am not stupid! I know you are pregnant. I followed you and Nadia to the doctor’s office. Why else would you need to see an OB/GYN? Why would you hide this from me? Were you planning to kill my baby?”
“Your baby?”
“Why are you trying to get me upset? Stop with the stupid act. I know you are carrying our baby. Listen, I promise to get help if you promise to keep the baby. Please, Charisse. I know you are not happy and I know it’s my fault. I will do whatever you want if you promise me you will not kill my baby.”
An abortion was the last thing on my mind especially since this was not his baby. Still, my heart wanted to chance his words and actions. Maybe, he would change. But, what about Nadia and Rodney? I made a promise to Rodney that we would be friends and I broke that one. I also promise Nadia that I would end this relationship with Rahsaun. Besides all that, this was not his baby. How would he react when he found out the truth. I could not deal with that.
“Rahsaun, I understand that you gave up your whole life for the kids and me but this is not what I wanted. We need to take a step back. I don’t want what happened to Rodney and me to happen to us.”
I was lying through my teeth but I figured he would handle rejection better if I made it seem like I was doing it for us.
“Charisse, I don’t think that’s the solution. We need to work through our issues instead of running away. Especially now.”
“What about now? Children should be raised in a loving home. There is no love in this home. You have my kids scared to be kids. Dammit, this is their house and they are scared to walk outside their rooms. No, Rahsaun this is not working. Now or ever.”
“Are you kicking me out?” He asked as he stepped closer to me.
“I think it would be best for both of us.”
“I see! Now that the business is rolling and I own nothing you feel you don’t need me! What about how I feel? I need you, Charisse. I am not going anywhere. Do you hear me?”
“Rahsaun, you have to go. I will give you until the end of this week….”
“I don’t give a damn if you give me until the end of the month. I am not leaving and you are going to have to just deal with that.”
“Alright, well if you don’t want to leave, I will.”
Swiftly, Rahsaun stood before me and grabbed my arm.
“You are not leaving this house either!” He demanded as he stared into my eyes.
“Rahsaun, this is what I am talking about.”
“You brought this on yourself. Now, call Rodney and tell him to keep the kids. You and I are going to start a new life.”
“The hell we are! Rahsaun you are crazy if you think that I am going to let you control me another day.”
“As I see it Charisse, you have no other choice.”
Rahsaun went into his bag, dragging me along the way and retrieved a shiny black 9mm and placed the cold steel against my neck.
“Now we can continue living the rest of our lives like a happy family or …”
Rahsaun never finished his sentence but I understood completely.
“Rahsaun, what are you doing?”
He never answered. Rahsaun retreated to the kitchen and continued fixing dinner with the gun sitting on his waist.
I thought about bolting out of the door but fear kept me captive.
“Steak or chicken?” His deep voice startled me.
“Chicken.” I replied.


Never Satisfied Copyright©2009 - Danette Maroney