Alexandra Isobel's Blog

Try some new recipes from Marriage of Inconvenience (SEALs N Sorority Sisters, book 4)

The holiday season is the perfect opportunity to explore new recipes and expand your comfort food repertoire. In Marriage of Inconvenience, the rich Russian culinary traditions woven into Marcus and Samara’s story inspire flavorful dishes that could easily become staples in your home. From savory Gribnoy soup to sweet tea bread, these recipes not only bring warmth and nostalgia but also add a touch of international flair to your celebrations, making every meal a story worth sharing.

Marcus and Samara’s story

He loves having her close, but can’t afford the distraction of letting her in.

Her Guardian. His Burden. Bound by a bond forged in youth, the boy who guarded her wild spirit must now protect her as a man does a wife.

GRIBNOY SOUP

Gribnoy soup, also known as Russian mushroom soup, is a comforting dish that highlights the earthy flavors of mushrooms. Here’s a traditional recipe for Gribnoy soup:

INGREDIENTS:

– 500g (about 1 lb) of mixed fresh mushrooms (such as porcini, chanterelles, or white button mushrooms)

– 1 large onion, finely chopped

– 2 medium carrots, diced

– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

– 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)

– 2 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 bay leaf

– 2 liters (about 8 cups) of vegetable or chicken broth

– 2 tablespoons of butter or vegetable oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Sour cream (optional, for serving)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.  Prepare the Mushrooms:

   – Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and slice them into bite-sized pieces. If using dried mushrooms, rehydrate them in warm water for about 20-30 minutes, then chop.

2.  Cook the Vegetables:

   – In a large pot, heat the butter or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3.  Add the Mushrooms:

   – Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 10 minutes.

4.  Add the Broth and Potatoes:

   – Pour in the broth and add the diced potatoes, bay leaf, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5.  Season the Soup:

   – Remove the bay leaf, then season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.

6.  Serve:

   – Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh dill or parsley, and add a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Enjoy your hearty and aromatic Gribnoy soup!

SUSHKI

Sushki are small, crunchy, bagel-shaped Russian tea biscuits that are mildly sweet and often enjoyed with tea. Here’s a simple recipe to make them at home:

INGREDIENTS:

– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened

– 2 large eggs

– 2 tablespoons sour cream

– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

– Poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

– Water for boiling

 INSTRUCTIONS:

1.  Prepare the Dough:

   – In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   – Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract, if using.

   – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.

2.  Shape the Sushki:

   – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

   – Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a walnut. Roll each portion into a thin rope, about 4-5 inches (10-12 cm) long, and then form a small ring by pinching the ends together.

   – If desired, lightly press one side of each sushka into poppy seeds.

3.  Boil the Sushki:

   – Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the sushki into the boiling water in batches, cooking for about 1 minute or until they float to the surface.

   – Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on a clean kitchen towel.

4.  Bake the Sushki:

   – Place the boiled sushki on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

5.  Cool and Serve:

   – Let the sushki cool completely on a wire rack. They will harden as they cool, becoming crisp and crunchy.

   – Serve the sushki with a cup of tea or coffee. They can be stored in an airtight container for several weeks.

Enjoy your homemade sushki!

KISSEL DESSERT

Kissel is a traditional Eastern European dessert made from fruit juice, sweetened and thickened with potato starch or cornstarch. It’s a versatile dish that can be served warm or cold, as a drink or a dessert. Here’s a basic recipe for kissel:

 INGREDIENTS:

– 4 cups (1 liter) of fruit juice (such as cranberry, raspberry, cherry, or a mixture)

– 1/2 cup (100g) sugar (adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of the fruit juice)

– 3 tablespoons potato starch or cornstarch

– 1/4 cup (60 ml) cold water

– Fresh berries or fruit pieces (optional, for garnish)

– Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

 INSTRUCTIONS:

1.  Prepare the Juice:

   – If you’re using fresh or frozen fruits, start by making the juice. Simmer the fruit with a little water until it releases its juice, then strain it to remove the solids. You should have about 4 cups of juice.

2.  Sweeten the Juice:

   – Pour the juice into a medium-sized saucepan. Add sugar and stir to dissolve. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.

3.  Thicken the Kissel:

   – In a small bowl, mix the potato starch or cornstarch with cold water to create a smooth slurry.

   – Bring the juice to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Gradually pour in the starch slurry while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

   – Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes glossy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

4.  Serve:

   – Pour the kissel into individual serving bowls or glasses. If you want a thicker consistency, let it cool completely in the refrigerator, where it will set into a more pudding-like texture.

   – Garnish with fresh berries, fruit pieces, or a sprig of mint, if desired.

Kissel can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on your preference. It’s a light and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!

ZAVARKA TEA

Zavarka tea is a traditional Russian tea preparation method where a concentrated tea brew (Zavarka) is made in a small teapot and then diluted with hot water to the desired strength in individual cups. This method allows for a customized tea experience. Here’s how you can make Zavarka tea:

 INGREDIENTS:

– 2-3 tablespoons of loose black tea leaves (such as Russian Caravan, Ceylon, or Assam)

– 2 cups (500 ml) of boiling water

– Additional hot water for dilution

– Sugar, honey, lemon, or jam (optional, for serving)

 EQUIPMENT:

– A small teapot (preferably ceramic or porcelain)

– A kettle for boiling water

– A samovar (optional, for a traditional Russian tea experience)

 INSTRUCTIONS:

1.  Prepare the Teapot:

   – Preheat your teapot by rinsing it with a little boiling water. This helps to maintain the temperature of the tea during brewing.

2.  Add the Tea Leaves:

   – Place 2-3 tablespoons of loose tea leaves into the preheated teapot. The amount of tea leaves can be adjusted based on how strong you prefer your tea.

3.  Brew the Zavarka:

   – Pour about 2 cups (500 ml) of boiling water over the tea leaves in the teapot. Cover the teapot with a lid and let the tea steep for about 10-15 minutes. This creates a very strong, concentrated tea brew, known as zavarka.

4.  Serve the Tea:

   – To serve, pour a small amount of zavarka into a tea cup—typically about 1/4 to 1/3 of the cup. Then, dilute it with hot water from the kettle or samovar to your preferred strength.

   – You can adjust the strength of each cup by adding more or less zavarka.

   – Add sugar, honey, lemon, or jam if desired. In Russian tradition, tea is often enjoyed with a spoonful of jam.

5.  Enjoy:

   – Serve the tea alongside traditional Russian treats like sushki, pryaniki (spiced cookies), or any other tea-time snacks.

Zavarka tea is not just a beverage; it’s a social experience. It’s traditionally enjoyed in the company of family and friends, with multiple cups being poured and savored over long conversations.

SWEET TEA BREAD

Sweet tea bread is a delightful and moist loaf cake that’s infused with the flavor of brewed tea. It’s perfect for serving with a cup of tea or coffee. Here’s a simple recipe to make this aromatic bread:

 INGREDIENTS:

– 1 cup (240 ml) strongly brewed black tea (such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast), cooled

– 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

– 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

– 1/2 cup (75 g) raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts (optional)

 INSTRUCTIONS:

1.  Preheat the Oven:

   – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2.  Prepare the Tea:

   – Brew a strong cup of black tea and allow it to cool to room temperature.

3.  Mix the Dry Ingredients:

   – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

4.  Combine the Wet Ingredients:

   – In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil (or melted butter), egg, vanilla extract, and cooled tea until well combined.

5.  Mix the Batter:

   – Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. If you’re adding raisins, dried cranberries, or nuts, fold them into the batter at this stage.

6.  Bake the Bread:

   – Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7.  Cool and Serve:

   – Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with butter or on its own.

 OPTIONAL GLAZE:

For an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle the cooled loaf with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a little milk or tea.

–  Ingredients for the Glaze:

  – 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar

  – 1-2 tablespoons of brewed tea or milk

  – A few drops of vanilla extract (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE GLAZE:

  – In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and tea or milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf and let it set before slicing.

Enjoy your sweet tea bread with a warm beverage!

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THE HEROES WE LOVE

The Chief

The quintessential alpha hero. He might have been born to lead, or perhaps he conquered his way to the top, but either way, he’s tough, decisive, goal-oriented, so can be overbearing and inflexible.  He’s at the top of his career field: CEO of a major corporation, or a prince. If he’s not already number one, it’s only a matter of time.

The Bad Boy

The boy from the wrong side of the tracks. He’s bitter and volatile, a crushed idealist, but also charismatic and street smart. He hates authority and doesn’t buckle. He’s the perfect outlaw.

The Best Friend

This is the beta hero. He’s kind, responsible, decent, a regular Mr. Nice Guy. He’ll always be there.

We knew him in high school and didn’t appreciate him. If we were smart, we married him because he always put the needs of others first.

The Charmer

Fun, irresistible, a smooth operator, yet not too responsible or dependable. He might be a playboy or a rogue, but he’s doesn’t commit to a woman easily He’s tortured, secretive, brooding, and unforgiving, but also vulnerable. Probably a loner or undercover cop.

The Professor

The first time you meet him, this logical, introverted, and inflexible guy might not be your idea of a hero but take another look. He is genuine about his feelings. At work, he likes cold, hard facts, thank you very much, but he’s also honest and faithful, and won’t let you down.

The Swashbuckler

This guy is action, action, and more action. He’s physical and daring. Fearless, he’s a daredevil, or an explorer. He needs thrills and chills to keep him happy.

The Warrior

He’s noble, tenacious, relentless, and always sticks up for the underdog. If you need a protector, he doesn’t buckle under to rules, and will not go along just to get along.

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THE HEROINES WE LOVE

The Boss

She might be a working girl climbing the corporate ladder, or perhaps she’s always been daddy’s petted princess, but either way, failure never found its way into her vocabulary. This woman never gives up until she’s on top of the heap.

The Survivor

Mysterious and manipulative, she hides a streak of distrust a mile wide and ten miles deep. Cynicism guides her every action, and her tough sense of survival gives her the means to do whatever is necessary to come out ahead. 

The Spunky Kid

You can’t help but root for her. She’s the girl with moxie. She’s not looking to be at the top of the heap; she just wants to be in her own little niche. Supportive and reliable, she hasn’t an enemy in the world, but has plenty of friends. 

The Free Spirit

Playful and fun loving, this heroine travels through life with a hop, skip and a jump, always stopping to smell the flowers and admire the pretty colors. She acts on a whim and follows her heart, not her head.

The Waif

This is the original damsel in distress. She was the star of many fairy tales. Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel. She needs to be rescued, and her child-like innocence evokes a protective urge in the beastliest of heroes.

The Librarian

She’s prim and proper, but underneath that tight bun lurks a passionate woman. She’s learned that her physical charms shouldn’t – or couldn’t – help her get ahead, so she leads with her brain, not her body.

The Crusader

This lady is on a mission, and she marches right over anyone in her way. Tenacious and headstrong, she brushes off any opposition to her goal. Don’t try to calm her down. If you aren’t part of the solution, you are part of the problem, and that makes you fair game.

The Nurturer

She is a wonderful listener, and a joy to have around, this heroine takes care of everyone. She’s serene, capable and optimistic. She cares for her family and friends with steely determination.

Adapted from Tami Cowden's articles. All About Romance.

The post Why We Love Romance appeared first on Alexandra Isobel.

The setting for my book Weekend Warrior is the beautiful and historic Martha’s Vineyard. Thomas Perkins III and Mary-Jane Jones, the hero and heroine of the story, both have a long history with the island. Thomas’s family, originally from Boston, has a summer home on Chappaquiddick, while Mary Jane’s family has lived on the island since the early 1800s.

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When Mary Jane runs away to Oak Bluffs, she hopes to rediscover herself, but finds that her true spirit is still there, waiting….

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Fealty to family and history

Senior Chief Thomas Perkins comes home from his latest mission, expecting to be hailed as his family’s weekend warrior, instead, his wife tosses him legal papers as she walks out the door.

When Mary Jane Perkins flees to her childhood home in Oak Bluffs, she just starts to rediscover herself when Thomas arrives begging her to come home.

Can she go back to her old life now that she’s found inner peace.

HAPPINESS FROM MARTHA’S VINEYARD, USA[image error]

My 5-Oh! road trip

In the North East corner of Martha’s Vineyard, an island off Massachusetts, USA, is the town of Oak Bluffs, a magical historical and cultural core of living Black American history.

To get there we, my sister and I took a nine hour road trip from Ontario Canada, over the border into the US, through the Adirondack Mountains, down through New York State until we finally reached the tip of Massachusetts.

We arrived in Oak Bluffs via the ferry, and stepped into the most unexpected place of historically charming gingerbread houses, traditional manners and rich culture set in the middle of a diverse population of people from all walks of life.

The island area, known for being one of the wealthiest black resort communities, is bright and alive with charismatic cottage inns and restaurants, most established in the early 1900s and currently run by family members and generations of their descendants. 

Not at all what I expected from the place known as ‘The Kennedy’s Playground.’ 

[image error]ONE MINUTE HISTORY

Oak Bluffs is the place where elite African American families go to vacation and experience their rich history.   It was in the 1600s that the first slaves arrived on Martha’s Vineyard as apart of European households.  Later, after slavery was abolished, through the 1800s to the 1960s, the Oak Bluffs Harbor ushered in fleeing and freed slaves who bought land from the locals and established themselves through churches and businesses and by building summer homes as the area’s population flourished.  Time made it tradition for families to return to the island annually, Oak Bluffs being the only place on the island that welcomed African Americans until the 1960s. The Inkwell, pejoratively named though now a statement of pride, is a stretch of the town beach frequented by the black population since the late nineteenth century.  Along the boardwalk is a collection of benches with carefully crafted and heartfelt engravings that tell the Inkwell’s story.

I am so happy, honoured and humbled to have had the opportunity to visit this incredible place.  The people were delightfully warm and friendly and willing to welcome you to their little corner haven.  From the time you step off of the ferry, the downtown core is alive with a certain kind of magic that just has to be felt and experienced to be believed.

Download these photos from Martha’s Vineyard to use as backgrounds or screensavers for some armchair travel, or when you just want to enjoy a feeling of happy escape.

Photos from: https://vineyardgazette.com/news/2014/08/07/smithsonian-recognizes-african-american-legacy-oak-bluffs. https://hollywoodlife.com/2016/08/04/sasha-obama-summer-job-uniform-nancys-restaurant-marthas-vineyard-pics/

Historical information from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oak_Bluffs,_Massachusetts. https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/inkwell-martha-s-vineyard-1890s/

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First, where exactly is Basque country?

Basque Country lies in the North of Spain near the Bay of Biscay, and in South Western France.  Though it straddles both Spain and France, the people do not consider themselves Spanish or French, and do not say they live in Spain or France, they say they are Basque and live in Basque Country.

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Why are the Basque and their country special?

In short.  The people and the language.

The Basque are thought to be the oldest people (ethnic group) in Europe.  They are closest descendants of the Paleolithic people who established the first settlements in Britain over 10 000 years ago.

Interesting fact:  The Basque are genetic blood-brothers of the Celts, the Welsh and Irish

The Basque have very original DNA. According to The Guardian, notes and queries, The Basques have the highest concentration of type O blood in the world, more than 50% of the population, with an even higher percentage in remote areas where Basque is more widely spoken. Basques also have a higher incidence of Rhesus-negative blood than anyone else in the world.

The Basque language, or Euskera is completely unique and unrelated to any other language, i.e. Latin, French or Greek, in the world.  It is the oldest language in Europe, and can be traced back to the Neolithic period. 

The Basque have a very interesting national sport, pelota, which is a cross between handball and squash but way more fast moving.  The ball is the most lethal of all sports, three quarters the size of a baseball and harder than a golf ball and can be hurtled up to 188mph!

The ‘Running of the Bulls’ is a famous Basque festival held in Pamplona in July.

The Basque are said to live by the vendetta.  If they hate you it is until death.  The same goes for when they love.

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Story excerpt…

“You ran from me last night.” Santiago leaned down to her ear.  “Do not ever do that again.  Always finish what you start with me.”

Raw excitement fueled with mortifying lust raged to life inside of her again.  “I did finish.”  She snapped.  “Wasn’t that enough?” 

A smile spread across his lips and against her skin. “Not even close.”

She struggled away from his grasp and stared up at the lazy satisfaction on his face.

“When you’re on your back, twisted in my sheets and covered in me, that will be just the beginning of enough…”

Eating, for the Basque is a national pastime. 

They have over 1500 secret gourmet societies called txokos (pronounced chokos) where members go for eating entertainment; members eat and cook together, experimenting with new foods and preparation, with lots of singing and dining and socializing.

The Basque also have a very famous wine region – La Rioja, where their most famous drink, txakoli (pronounced chacoli) comes from; a slightly sparkling, dry white wine, which goes well with pintxos.

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Wait, what the Heck are Pintxos??

Basque country has a rich culinary heritage and is best known for Pintxos  – small, composed bites that are not unlike tapas, but are worlds different.

Pintxos, pronounced “pinchos” are a small, savory canapés presented in a myriad of colors, forms and flavor combinations, laid out on giant platters and spread along every counter in town. Twice a day, hundreds of people pour into the streets of San Sebastien for a traditional “pintxos crawl,” moving from bar to bar: tasting, drinking and socializing.

Gildas – White anchovy, olive and pickled pepper skewer (named after 1946 Rita Hayworth role).
Soft Boiled Quail Egg with Black Anchovy and Piquillo Peppers.
Fried Eggplant with Honey and Goat Cheese.
Wood-Fired Chorizo with Pickled Carrots.

One of the easiest ways to spot a good pintxos bar is to look at the floor. If it’s covered in napkins and skewers, it’s worth going in. Those in the know drop everything on the floor after finishing, leaving the waiters to quickly clear the plates (until the bar closes). The bars are lined with plates of different cold pintxos that you help yourself to. Be sure to save room for the hot ones, which are listed on blackboards and cooked to order.

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STORY EXCEPT

Katrin sipped again, the savory liquid coaxing her to relax further, the smooth taste flowing down her throat and unfurling her muscles.  She moved the delicate bundle of flavors through her mouth.  “My Heaven’s this is good.” She closed her eyes and inhaled. 

Santiago smiled and lifted his glass. “To trying new things.”

She sipped and another burst of flavor sprang to life over her tongue. “Definitely time to try new things . . .”

THE BASQUE WERE GREAT TRAVELLERS

and have been deeply affected by Diaspora.  Settlements can be found in Ireland, Quebec Canada and the American Midwest!  Needless to say they were top notch sailors. 

They were also great whalers and have whaling settlements in the North Atlantic, Newfoundland, Canada that date back to the 1500s.

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Blog information and photos from:

http://www.thelondonfoodie.co.uk/2013/08/the-london-foodie-goes-to-spain-san.html. http://compass.coxandkings.co.uk/compass/travel-articles/a-guide-to-pintxos-in-san-sebastian/. Here’s Why You Have To Try Basque Cuisine, According To A Basque Chef.  Alison Spiegel. Huffpost Taste. July, 2014.https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pintxo_de_pulpo_con_alcachofa.jpg

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worl...

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THAT FIRST TIME … we all remember it!

It started with an accidental touch, or one less innocent but that feeling down there suddenly feels so wonderful and strange until …

“I was 6 … using the hose thingies next to the toilet that you can wash your “parts” with. “

“I was 10 … rolled over onto my stomach, bunched the blankets up in between my legs …”

“I was 24 … finally learned how to have orgasms during sex.”

“I was16 … it was from mutual masturbation. We didn’t know what we were doing but fumbled through it, until I actually had an orgasm.”

“16! It was a total accident and scared me pretty badly before I realized what it was, lol.”

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“I think I was 9 or 10 … found out rubbing myself and feeling pretty good, so continued to do it and then bam!”

“I was 16 and masturbating. I had tried it several times already but I remember the first orgasm vividly. I went to the bathroom afterwards and looked into the mirror to check if anything had changed…

“I was 11, using my fingers after reading a dirty scene in a book I found whilst I was staying at my grandparents.”

“I was 6 years old and was watching the Backstreet Boys ‘Larger Than Life’ music video, when I started to feel a tingly sensation in my pants.”

“It was an accident. I was like 10, riding around my grandma’s pool on a pool noodle, using it like a horse.”

“I was in preschool … I found that when I climbed the pole on the playground, it ‘tickled my tummy’ in the most delicious way.” 

“I was 21 … figured it out by myself. I’d been active with my partner and faking it for over 4 years.”

“I wanted to write a story about the ‘bad thing’ little girls aren’t supposed to like, but learn to love anyway.”Alexandra

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“IT’S ALL IN THE DESCRIPTION”

Vagina by so many names…

twat, cooter, beaver, fish lips, taco, camel toe, muff, snatch, garage, oven, love button, penis glove, cock sock, hoohah, bajingo, goop chute, slit, trim, quim, pooter, love rug, poontang, poonanie, cooch, tunnel of love, vertical bacon sandwich, bearded clam, cookie, nookie, the pink, honey pot, meat curtains, hatchet wound, fur burger, kitty, minge, snapper, vertical smile, lovebox, love canal, black hole, whisker biscuit, slice of heaven, the great divide, cherry, tongue depressor, fuzzy wuzzy, glory hole, man in the boat, mud flaps, mound, peach, wizard’s sleeve, split dick, bikini bizkit, cock holster, cockpit, snooch, kitty kat, poody tat, grassy knoll, cold cut combo, curly curtains, furry furnace, altar of love, cupid’s cupboard, bird’s nest, bucket, love glove, serpent socket, hairy doughnut, fun hatch, spasm chasm, sugar basin, sweet briar, breakfast of champions, Wookie, fish mitten, hump hole, scrambled eggs between the legs, juice box, Golden Palace, sausage wallet, Holiest of Holies, sugar hole, home plate, Golden Arches, Mumbler, Brakepads, Wagon Ruts, Beaver Teeth, kitty cage, Chicken’s tongue, Conch shell, Crack of heaven, Dog’s mouth, Door of life, Fly catcher, Fruit cup, Jelly roll, Lobster pot, bunny tuft, knish, her asshole neighbor, lotus, nappy dugout, moneymaker, women’s weapon, tackle box, bone hider, red sea, snake charmer, Enchilada of love, penalty box, ground zero, pound cake, hamper of goodies, man’s charity bash, south mouth, penis parking,  the promised land, the vegan store, bag pipe, lick n’ stick, the unmentionable, man’s ruin, hairy potter, Pandora’s box, mystical fold

[image error]The QUIRKS and Ohs! of going over the edge

Sometimes, it can happen in the strangest places and at the most inopportune times. 

“I was on my Pilates ball, IN CLASS!”

“My SO had tied me up and gone down on me.  It was so intense I was lightheaded after.”

“It was in my sleep.  I don’t remember what I was dreaming about but woke up to the sweet waves washing over my body.”

 “On the massage table.  I was so relaxed and when the MT started some deep tissue massage near my lower back I was just triggered.  Mortified but so soooo triggered.

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IT CAN BE ELUSIVE, but know thyself and learn how to rock your own world.  MASTURBATE.  A LOT.  Get to know your own body.  Are you a clit or g-spot girl?  Knowledge is power ladies.

Alexandra

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Vanessa, the heroine from my book Church Mouse on his Motorcycle, has always had wild hair. because her mother, having zero experience with black hair care, and a bad experience that involved her grandmother and too tight braids, she became a self-taught natural hair diva from an early age.

And what have the years taught Vanessa?

Moisturize!  That’s her number one (and mine) when it comes to natural hair care.  She tries to explain this to Spike, the hero of the story, but he still insists she wear a helmet and ditch all the jars of ‘hair stuff’ behind.

Spike just doesn’t get it.  So, she ignores him and stuffs every possible bottle of moisturizer she has into his motorcycle saddle bags anyway. 

A girls gotta do what a girls gotta do. 

Sorry Spike, but you’re dealing with a black woman and her hair. You’ll get used to it by the end of the book.

Vanessa’s character inspired me to love my natural hair; we’ve always had a love hate relationship.  Covid forced me to grow out my hair and lockdown has reminded me how to love and take care of it. I started following all the natural hair pages and profiles on social media and have come to re-appreciate all that defines me and my hair.

Now I remember why my mother used to call me sugar head. Beneath all that colour and now gray, my natural colour is actually a rusty kind of brown!

My nieces have always rocked their natural hair and are more than happy to help ‘aunty’  

Thanks, ladies you are a true inspiration.

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The Inkwell, as one of Martha’s Vineyard’s famed beaches is known, stretches hardly 100 yards between jetties on the north shore of the island. To see it, it amounts to just a sliver of sand, but on a sunny day, the sea is vast and the precise color of jade, beckoning swimmers whose families have descended on the island in the summertime for generations.

Since the 1800s, Martha’s Vineyard has been a renowned getaway for Black families, and Oak Bluffs, a captivating haven nestled on Martha’s Vineyard, is where you’ll find The Inkwell.

Picture The Inkwell, a renowned beach, a mere sliver of sand that transforms into a vast sea of jade on sunny days, enticing generations of families to bask in the island’s summertime magic.

Amidst the elite and the middle class, former President Barack Obama is rumored to have celebrated his birthday in a mansion overlooking the azure waters. In this haven, luminaries like Henry Louis Gates Jr. and the late Vernon Jordan find solace. Maya Angelou once painted Oak Bluffs as “a safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned,” echoing the sentiments of those who have embraced this enchanting town.

“I don’t have to catch my breath here,” says Skip Finley, an author and former broadcaster whose family has vacationed on the island for five generations. “It’s the freest place I’ve ever been.”

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I recently had a reader ask me two questions: where I get my ideas for heroines, and how much my heroines are like me. The questions reminded me of about twenty years ago when, after meeting my critique partner in person for the first time and having an hours long chat (we had previously only edited books online), she remarked, “Your heroines make so much more sense now.”

Insert grimace face emoji here. We’re still writing partners and the best of friends.

But in response to both my reader’s questions and my writing partner’s initial observations, here’s how my heroines are very much like me:

1.  Daria (Mercury, Warrior Lover Father): I am a total dyed-in-the-wool introvert, like Daria, and know what it’s like to have major panic attacks before having to speak in public.

2.  Vanessa (Church Mouse on his Motorcycle): Like Vanessa, I too have a list of unconventional and quirky things I want to do in life. I’ve long since graduated from school but now try to tick off one thing a year.

3.  Savannah (Russian Swirl): Similar to Savannah, I (ahem) have been rumored to go on (totally justified) angry rampages.

4.  Evie (Her SEAL to Slay Dragons): Yup, I can relate to all of Evie’s sexual hang-ups. I learned them from growing up in a strict Caribbean culture. Nuff said.

5.  Mary Jane (Weekend Warrior): I have a temperament like MJ and have had that moment when I got so fed up with the people in my house, I got up and left. Apparently, I get that from my mother who would do the same. One day my sisters and I woke up, to find she’d gone back to Trinidad for two weeks: leaving us at the mercy of our father and grandmother.

6.  Martha (Campus SEAL): I am no stranger to imposter syndrome and constantly struggle with it.

7.  Samara (Marriage of Inconvenience): I must admit, on more than one occasion, out of financial desperation, I came up with some completely ridiculous ideas on how to make some fast money. And no, they never worked. At least not for long anyway. 

Hannah (Marriage of Inconvenience): My struggle with online dating sites was real. See Georgia for all the reasons why I ventured into online dating in the first place.

8.  Georgia (Her Moment with the King): I have lived through Georgia’s fall from grace due to ageism and divorce humiliation. Ugh.

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Imagine a kaleidoscope of love stories swirling around the world, each one more enchanting than the last.
In Italy, couples exchange vows amidst ancient olive groves, their promises whispered amid the sweet scent of blossoming citrus trees. In Brazil, the air is electric with samba rhythms as newlyweds sway under a cascade of colorful ribbons, their hearts beating to the pulse of carnival.
From the sun-kissed beaches of Hawaii, where lovers exchange leis and promises as gentle waves serenade their commitment, to the cobblestone streets of Spain, where flamenco dancers spin around fiery courtyards, every tradition is a love letter to passion and romance, painting the world with the hues of eternal devotion.

Let’s have a deep romantic sigh at some of these marriage ceremony practices from around the world.

CHINESE TEA CEREMONY: In Chinese culture, the tea ceremony is an essential part of the wedding. The couple serves tea to their parents and other elders as a sign of respect and to seek their blessings.

HINDU WEDDING: Hindu weddings are rich in traditions and rituals. They typically include the exchange of garlands, the circling of the sacred fire (agni), and the application of sindoor (vermillion) on the bride’s forehead.

JEWISH CHUPPAH: In a Jewish wedding, the couple stands under a chuppah (canopy) symbolizing their new home together. The ceremony includes the exchange of rings and breaking a glass to remember the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

SCOTTISH HANDFASTING: Handfasting is a Scottish and Celtic tradition where the couple’s hands are bound together with a ribbon or cord, symbolizing their commitment. It’s the origin of the term “tying the knot.”

JAPANESE SAKE CEREMONY: In a traditional Japanese wedding, the couple drinks sake from three different-sized cups, symbolizing the bond between them and their families.

FILIPINO COINS: In the Philippines, it is customary to have a “coins ceremony” where the groom gives 13 coins to the bride, symbolizing his promise to support her and their future family.

POLISH BREAD AND SALT: In Polish weddings, the bride and groom are presented with bread and salt by their parents. The bread represents prosperity, and the salt represents the difficulties in life.

YORUBA JUMPING THE BROOM: In African-American and Yoruba culture, couples “jump the broom” together to symbolize their entrance into a new phase of life.

MAORI HAKA: In Maori weddings, a haka dance is sometimes performed by the groom, bride, and guests as a way to celebrate the union and show their commitment.

SWEDISH WEDDING COINS: Swedish tradition involves the bride receiving three gold coins from her groom, symbolizing his commitment and providing for her.

KOREAN PYEBAEK: After a Korean wedding ceremony, a pyebaek is held, where the newlyweds bow to their parents and offer them dates and chestnuts to symbolize fertility.

MEXICAN LASSO CEREMONY: In Mexican weddings, a “lazo” or wedding lasso is placed around the couple’s shoulders in the form of an “8” to symbolize eternity.

RUSSIAN BREAD AND SALT: In Russian weddings, bread and salt are presented to the couple. The bread symbolizes prosperity, and the salt represents the difficulties they may face.

NAVAJO WEDDING BASKET: In Navajo culture, a wedding basket is used to carry important items during the ceremony, and it symbolizes the support of the community.

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Welcome to the whimsical world of mid-summer enjoyment, where time saunters like a lazy contented cat and the art of slow living reigns supreme.