Dagbøker og memoarer

I grew up on Canvey Island in the 1950s when life back then was very different from today - unhurried and easy going and although times were hard, we got by - we had to. School was no fun for me due to the name calling and mockery I both endured and had to contend with. The 1953 floods too, hold scary memories. I feared stormy weather at night for many years and I really don't enjoy swimming. It wasn't all bad, there were plenty of fun times too.

"Prepare to be enchanted by 'And Buddha Gave Me a Son' by Diane Delos, a captivating tale that explores the transformative power of unexpected connections and the beauty of embracing life's surprises. Join the protagonist on a soul-stirring journey as they navigate the complexities of parenthood, spirituality, and self-discovery. With its evocative storytelling and richly drawn characters, this novel will transport you to a world where love, laughter, and personal growth intertwine. Immerse yourself in the pages of 'And Buddha Gave Me a Son' and experience a heartwarming story that will leave you contemplating the profound mysteries of life."

African Tour Leader's Campfire Tales by Lesley Mukwacha recounts his unforgettable tour of the African national parks. He takes his readers on a journey through his experiences as a guide to tourists and his encounter with African creatures. All of the amusing incidents and escapades will undoubtedly not bore the readers. Read on to discover all the delights of safari parks.

On 12 January, less than three months ago, the coronavirus was confined to China only. But by 13 January, the virus became a global problem. Cases were reported from South Korea, Japan, and Thailand. Soon the US followed. And slowly the numbers swelled across the globe, and it turned into a pandemic.A work four years in the making, Queen Corona Coronation is a poignant attempt to document the COVID-19 pandemic that sent ripples across the entire world. From the ever-increasing tally of new cases and new deaths to the ever-changing, ever-inconsistent guidance for keeping safe, to the ever-elusive hunt for a vaccine, these memoirs offer a unique perspective, chronicling the monotony, fear and uncertainty that gripped the entire world. Recounting both life under lockdown and the realities of life at sea in a slowly recovering world, the author paints a stark picture of dread, isolation and, above all, hope in an unprecedented time.

When your parents move to a foreign country for a new life, there are bound to be struggles. For Edwin, the struggles were exacerbated by growing up in New York in the 1970s, facing crime, racism and gangs and having to overcome all the obstacles in school and the city.Through education and exposure to his culture, Edwin navigates the challenges and starts his journey on the mean streets of New York.

Hi, my name is Owen Williams. Let me take you through a traumatic, thrilling, but sad journey of my childhood and how unfairly and unequally I was treated as a twin. For years I kept things inside was scared to speak out about the abuse and mental torture I've endured... I never knew how to speak out ...until I found my passion for writing, and I was able to use writing as a therapy to speak out and deal with all the traumas I went through from my childhood to my teens. "All I ever wanted was to be loved by those that were supposed to protect me."

Having discovered Welsh folk dancing as a freshman student at University College of Wales, Swansea, in 1960, Tenby-born Mavis Williams-Roberts became hooked for life on this Welsh tradition. She joined Parti Prifysgol Abertawe, the college's Welsh folk dance team, took part in many a noson lawen and competed in folk dance competitions at the Inter-collegiate Eisteddfod, the National Eisteddfod, and the Llangollen International Eisteddfod. Mavis recalls her folk dancing journey in this book, giving details about those who were at the forefront of rediscovering many of these folk dances and setting up the Welsh Folk Dance Society in 1949, such as Englishwoman Löis Blake. Mavis records highlights of her own sixty years in Welsh folk dancing, during which she has traveled widely to dance and taught the discipline in the USA; she explains the history and intricacies of some of the dances; and gives information about dances that she has composed herself. This is a bilingual book, with one color photo section, and diagrams to help with learning the dances.

Is the foster parent a narcissist, psychopath, sociopath, or just a grieving mother who has excusable strict behaviours? Is it wrong to not let a mental illness define you? Does it prolong the healing process? Kate reaches out with her own experience to better individualise mental health therapy. Deepening society's understanding of mental illness through her life.Kate's lived experience is told in its raw form through the eyes of the abused. She is not afraid to provide an insightful view, with unflinching honesty, speaking the truth of her emotional survival destructions.There is a genuine fear of rejection, an anxiety about disclosing her prejudiced childhood, and the effects of not healing throughout her adulthood.Kate's foster family inflicted physical and mental manipulation during infancy into adulthood. She has experienced sexual abuse by a priest and her employers. An exploration of Kate's complex multiple traumas from childhood to adulthood. The effects of prejudicial childhood from the 1970s through to the 2000s. Inclusive of foster care, authentic transcripts of police interviews, court cases, and correspondences. Also, interactions between district welfare officers, foster family, and Kate's natural family.She bravely exposes the potential flaws in foster care and mental health systems, sharing a raw and honest memoir about the consequences of neglecting a child's voice from parental alienation.

"Bad Blood: A Life without Consequence" chronicles one adoptee's search and journey to discover his birth parents and his roots in the new world of DNA testing, data aggregation, and social media. What began with a simple inquiry to hopefully find his biological roots led one adoptee down a rabbit hole of intrigue, secrets, dark deeds, infidelity, and organized crime.Tracing his birth parents' origins from Detroit, Michigan, and on to their subsequent movements to Southern California, northward to Montana, and then on to Washington, and later to Oregon, he uncovered secrets and exposed many of the lies they told along the way. The trail of abuse and damage led to a man who lived a life without consequence.A search begun in the early 90's was abandoned but was revived when he caught a TV show on adoption by chance and submitted the information he had to a "Search Angel". This led to the discovery of his birth parents, several half-siblings, infidelities, organized crime, drug use, abuse, and attempted murder.Both a how-to and a cautionary tale of navigating the world of complex social media hurdles, sifting through massive quantities of data and dealing with an often unhelpful and obstructive legal system.

In the vein of Margaret Renkl and Terry Tempest Williams comes an engaging new memoir exploring different notions of ritual--from the literary to the theological, from childhood to adulthood, and from the everyday to the extraordinary.Using experiences, objects, and practices, Wendy A. Horwitz weaves personal stories with reflections on rituals that might provide solace, celebration, and transition at different points in life. Rather than a chronology, the chapters in Milkweed and Honey Cake create a collage of memories that are linked by themes. Some are more impressionistic while others are more narrative, but they all raise questions about searching for and creating meaning through different stages of life. Through these stories and vignettes, Horwitz examines the limits of ritual: the extent to which we can share each other's practices or create new ones, and the times when rituals fall short.Intending to inspire and provide rather than prescribe, Milkweed and Honey Cake is an accessible, enriching memoir that searches the religious, secular, and natural worlds that fill our lives with meaning.

Imagine living in a time and place where lawlessness and violence flood the streets like a raging river. It's a time of rebellion, uncertainty, and chaos. This story is about a man raised in that world, in 1960s China. As a child living in an atheist country immersed in turmoil, he witnesses atrocities and suffering most of us could never imagine. Hoping to get away from the horrors, the man flees to America with limited financial resources and minimal English skills to be educated as a psychologist. Though he physically escapes the clutches of the country where he was raised, the traumas of his childhood remain with him as a dark cloud of depression and despair. Crossroads provides a glimpse into a time in China's history most of us never knew. This man, a survivor of that tumultuous period, spends thirty years of his life seeking peace and understanding. His travels take him across the world as he explores dozens of faiths. When traditional religion fails him, he seeks hope through shamans, mystics, and the supernatural. Crossroads is not as much about one man's struggles as it is a testament to God's love and commitment to remain with each of us throughout the storms of our lives.

No one expects parents to be perfect - except their children.

It's hard to believe that I've written Volume 2 of My Pandemic Paradox, A Memoir, of over 71,000 words. If you had told me when I turned 85 that this was about to happen, I would have responded simply, "Never!" But solitude and idleness can work wonders on one's creative instincts. It's more fun to have a project than a day of watching TV. So, like taking the first step toward any goal is always followed by Step 2, I continued writing even after the publishing of Volume 1 was underway. Volume 2 is now at the publisher's. I'm approaching 92, and thinking about switching to writing fiction.There are 92 blogs, by coincidence the same number as my age, in this book, divided into three sections. The divisions are based on different times in my life. First" UnderPinnings," my youth-related years, then "Livin' the Life", stories about adulthood, and finally, "Aging and Moving Forward." Other than that, there is no particular order. One is free to read any interesting title such as, "THE MYSTERIOUS EFFECTS OF A NEW SHOWER CURTAIN," "THE TYRANNY of PARENTHOOD" or "A LITTLE SCOTCH MAKES MY DAY." I hope my experiences match some of yours and will motivate you to delve into memories, the painful, and the joyous. All to enrich your lives.One of my precious topics is about what happens next, the future.I was born in NYC, went to P.S.187, then Music & Art High School (now part of LaGuardia High School), where I was a music student, Syracuse University, majoring in Economics, and finally Fairleigh Dickinson University for a Master's degree in General and Experimental Psychology.Besides, I became a certified Life Coach, studied dance, played the flute, took acting lessons, volunteered with dementia patients, and took lessons in Chinese cooking, figure skating, and Japanese Flower Arranging. I had two husbands, three children, ten grandchildren, and a growing number of great-grandchildren.

From Hamas to America is a gripping memoir that follows the son of Hamas founder, Mosab Hassan, as he breaks away from his culture's practice of terrorism to becoming a double-agent for Israel to finally fleeing to America and becoming a US citizen, and ultimately finding peace. "This is my opportunity to share my journey with others, to let go of both the traumas and the triumphs, to find freedom, to proclaim my truth." Mosab Hassan Yousef has worn many labels: Hamas terrorist, Green Prince, spy, traitor, hero, Hollywood player, Muslim, Christian, yogi, stateless, refugee, deportee, citizen. But all these labels have one thing in common: they serve someone else's agenda. Now, for the first time, the New York Times bestselling author of Son of Hamas tells the full truth of his story. In it we see him growing up as the son of one of the founders of Hamas, being imprisoned and tortured by the Israelis, growing to hate the Hamas tactics of rape and violence, working with the Israeli intelligence to expose suicide bombers and save lives, seeking asylum in the US, fighting with Homeland Security to avoid deportation, rejecting Islam and converting to Christianity and making international headlines for it, becoming a top speaker in pro-Israel and conservative Christian circles, working with Hollywood to tell his story, and obtaining US citizenship and discovering the life-saving discipline of yoga. This is the inspiring story of someone who has been under threat of assassination or imprisonment for most of his life, but who somehow finds the path to freedom and peace. Few will walk in his shoes, but everyone can follow his example and make their own journey to find redemption and peace.

The day after she and her husband moved into their first home, Stacey Wempe's simple, ideal life in Saskatchewan was shattered. At daybreak, her aunt and uncle arrived at her new home to tell her that her twenty-two-year-old brother, Clinton, had been killed in a tragic accident a few hours earlier. Driving in thick fog to rescue his stranded girlfriend, he drove his truck into the side of a freight train traveling on a rarely used track. This random, tragic event propelled Stacey into a downward spiral of depression and anxiety that lasted years. Prolonged grief extended to postpartum depression after the birth of her son and daughter. Her despair led to marital stress, intensified by her mother and father losing their battles with cancer. In the face of overwhelming sorrow, she struggled to move on but knew she had no alternative. A Million Times We Cry is Stacey's uplifting story of her fight to regain control of her life, find hope and joy, and move past her anguish. Seeking therapeutic intervention and subsequently displaying bravery and persistence, she embarked on a journey to become a Fearless Living life coach. Ultimately, Stacey confronted the very things she had evaded--her fears, anguish, and insecurities--and embraced herself and her existence. Drawing upon her life's lessons and life-coach training, Stacey reveals her raw and poignant emotional healing journey that led to a life filled with hope and happiness. Her concluding insights into how others can start their journey to discover healing, hope, and joy are profoundly inspiring.

Trailblazer is the remakable and inspiring story of Cheryl Tyler, a Black woman who defied all odds and shattered barriers in her quest to protect the highest office in the land. This captivating memoir transports readers into Tyler's world as she embarks on an extraordinary journey to become the first Black female agent assigned to the Presidential Protective Division of the United States Secret Service (USSS).Her dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her duty shine through as she serves as a top agent, safeguarding not only Presidents George H.W. Bush and William Jefferson Clinton but also world leaders and renowned celebrities. Those accomplishments earned her well-deserved accolades, but this book uncovers the untold story of the challenges she faced as a woman of color in a predominantly male all-white profession.With emotional depth and gripping detail, Tyler's memoir delves into the heart-wrenching struggles she endured during an eighteen-year class action lawsuit against the USSS. Alongside other Black agents, she fought relentlessly to eradicate racial slurs, workplace discrimination, and unfair employment practices within the Agency. As plaintiffs, they emerged victorious, securing a historic $24 million compensation for themselves and other agents who had faced discrimination.Readers will be captivated by Tyler's resilience and her ultimate triumph as she shines a light on one woman's fight for equality and her extraordinary journey to make a lasting impact.

Seen through the eyes of an Asperger's female - who can be harder to detect - this immersive memoir shares a fascinating, absorbing, and emotive coming-of-age story. Struggling to appear 'normal' amid a dysfunctional family life, the protagonist's inspirational tale highlights the strengths found in diversity. Experience compelling adventures and experiences that follow her childhood and adolescent journey of self-discovery. With cohesive storytelling that leaves you longing for more, this must-read offers a perspective rarely portrayed in literature, one that both enlightens and entertains. It's an inside look at success despite adversity as well as a valuable glimpse into the rarely portrayed mind of an Asperger's girl pushing back against social norms in her quest to thrive as her true self.

Lifestyle pioneer and bestselling author Debbie Travis is back with a book of ridiculously funny, touching and true stories drawn from her own life and dedicated to everyone in desperate need of a good laugh. A decade ago, Debbie Travis gave up her hectic life as the producer and star of several hit TV shows to move to a 13th-century crumbling farmhouse and vast olive orchard in Tuscany, which she and her husband then turned into the boutique hotel and wellness retreat. That was a big change in direction--and Debbie's shared the best of what she learned on that journey in two bestselling books full of humane, heartfelt and sensible advice on pursuing your true passion (Design Your Next Chapter) and making room for happiness, health and connection (Joy: Life Lessons from a Tuscan Villa). Now, in Laugh More, Debbie digs down to what really keeps her going, especially when the going gets tough: her talent for telling a good story and sharing a good laugh. Organizing them around the passing of the seasons at the Villa Reniella, Debbie gathers up a brilliant mix of stories from her daily life and from her past--growing up headstrong in a struggling family in northern England (her mum perfected dog-food shepherd's pie), travelling the world as a model (not so glamorous), becoming one of the first home renovation TV stars (by the seat of her overalls) and encountering the famous and the delightful (especially her wicked and wonderful grandmother, Joyce). Snortingly funny, poignant, inspirational and full of the human foibles Debbie loves so much, Laugh More is a warm and cozy book to curl up with, and even better to read aloud. And since memories are so often ignited by great eating, Debbie has added a bonus: fifteen of her favourite, seasonal recipes.

Judith, no stranger to the paranormal, never anticipated that her extraordinary experiences would unlock the door to a budding romance. With an entrepreneurial spirit that cannot be tamed, she plunges into fresh ventures, embarking on a rollercoaster journey that tests her resilience to its limits. As Judith navigates the challenges of her business endeavours, her life becomes increasingly intertwined with a series of paranormal events and a blossoming romantic relationship. This compelling combination makes When Phoebe Dances a truly captivating read.

"Do you think, Sir, that Ireland should have joined the war against Germany?" "I mean, Sir, that the married women in Ireland, like me Ma, and lots of other fellas' mothers have loads of babies and are always having to go into hospital to have them or have to feed them and wash them. The mothers have stacks of work to do all the time and they're always carrying babies around in their bellies or in their arms." Patsy Fagan, growing up in Dublin in the 1950s, asks awkward questions of his schoolteacher, Mr Bambrick. A reflective memoir that touches on the impact of history, war, death of a young sister, religion, and schooling on the lives of the characters. Patsy, falling in love as a teenager, facing the uncertainty of having to leave Dublin to live in England. This tender, amusing, sharp and gloriously sparkling work will appeal to a wide audience who enjoy engaging with the full range of human emotions. Striking, thoughtful, funny; guaranteed to keep you reading - a book to relish.

Australians love the sun - our outdoor lifestyle is part our trademark appeal. It's also the reason that every thirty minutes someone is diagnosed with melanoma. Why skin cancer is called Australia's National Cancer, and two out of three Australians are likely to be diagnosed with it before turning 70. "It's a powerfully honest journey of survival...and you're one hell of a brave woman!" Deborah Hutton. Media personality and skin cancer survivor.After living an average Aussie life playing sport, spending languid days on the beach, and falling in love with ocean swimming, Anne Gately received unwelcome news. She had Stage IV melanoma. Yet Anne is one of the lucky ones. After a dire prognosis, she dug deep to face the clear and present prospect of death, head-on. In Sunburnt, her revealing memoir, Anne recounts the emotions and challenges of her life-saving immunotherapy treatment under the care of Professor Georgina Long (2024 Australian of the Year), to come through the other side. Not only has Anne survived, she is issuing a clarion call for a change to the bronzed Aussie culture. In Sunburnt Anne combines a nostalgic view of a charmed Aussie childhood, a jolting review of Australia's sun-worshipping norms, and enough scientific research to encourage us all to redefine our relationship with the sun. 'Anne's story is more than that of just a cancer patient... it is illuminating a path of change ahead for not only Australia, but the world.' Prof Georgina Long AO. 2024 Australian of the Year

Join a talented chef as he embarks on a life-changing journey to Antarctica. From grueling recruitment to months-long expeditions, experience the challenges and triumphs of living and working in one of the most remote places on Earth. With breathtaking landscapes, unexpected connections, and a newfound sense of purpose, this is a story you won't want to miss. Get ready to be captivated by the adventure, resilience, and inspiration of this unforgettable tale.

Reed invites you into his journey of healing and the pursuit of justice.With raw vulnerability, Reed delves into the depths of his trauma, offering glimpses into the psychological impact on his life while also offering a powerful message of hope and resilience. His story highlights the indomitable spirit that can arise from even the darkest of circumstances.The Day My Mother Never Came Home is not simply a true crime tale; it is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the importance of shedding light on the truth. With each turn of the page, you will find yourself captivated by the narrative. Follow Reed's journey as he grapples with raw emotions and questions the complexities of true justice. This book will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind, compelling you to reflect on the fragility of life and the strength it takes to overcome tragedy.If you seek a gripping story that will remain with you long after you have finished reading, The Day My Mother Never Came Home is a must-read. Join Reed on this transformative journey as he reclaims his voice and sheds light on the darkest corners of his life.

There are more than 42 million survivors of sexual abuse in America. 90% of child sexual abuse victims know the perpetrator in some way.Missing Pieces is a true story about the effects of leaving trauma unhealed and finding the courage to fight for your life.At five-years-old, author Andi Hunt was changed forever. It would take three decades to understand why she struggled constantly with the darkness that had entered her world at such a young and vulnerable age. PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, depression, and addiction: all side effects of a time in her life that she thought was long forgotten. Within these pages, we will follow Andi's brave journey to find the missing pieces in her life, and finally heal.Ultimately, Missing Pieces inspires reflection and fruitful dialogue with pressing questions like: Is it possible to heal my inner child?Am I too damaged to get better?Where do I start?Missing Pieces aims to encourage others to persevere and get the help they need to become whole again and have the peace-filled life they've dreamed of.

All profits will be donated to PanCAN. PanCAN was the first organization dedicated to fighting pancreatic cancer. Their mission is to improve the lives of everyone impacted by pancreatic cancer by advancing scientific research building community, sharing knowledge, and advocating for patients."Hal was the guy no one would look at twice. I looked once and knew he was going to be mine." Joanne has been a devout Catholic her entire life, but she didn't marry a Catholic man. She married a Jewish saint. Hal was a lonely, badly dressed, underemployed genius-in-his-late-twenties when she met him. His goal in life was to be a family man, but he could not get a date. The last time he had a girlfriend was in third grade. Joanne made it possible for him to fulfill his dreams. In turn, Hal enabled Joanne to find sanity. Joanne's bipolar symptoms, which run in her family, subsided when, at Hal's insistence, she started taking medication. Joanne was able to stop the cycle of bad parenting that had plagued her relatives for generations. Hal and Joanne lovingly raised their four children, two by birth and two by adoption. At age sixty-six, Hal died of pancreatic cancer. And yet, even after his death, he continues to fill Joanne's life with unconditional love. By reading this memoir you will discover that the kind of marriage you thought only existed in novels is, in fact, attainable.Bio: Joanne Groshardt, after many career attempts, combined writing skills with a computer background and was a technical writer for over twenty-five years. Her current career is writing books ("Holly Blossums" available on Amazon) and writing screenplays (checkout IMDB.com). Contact her at bigheart353@yahoo.com.

Randy and Me and other stories is a collection of stories in chronological order about Tom Manchester's adventures with a fellow named Randy Renfrow, who was a colleague, a good friend, and an amazing guy who had an exceptional talent as a motorcycle racer, and the Yamaha RD 350 from his youth, a motorcycle that led a double life as a serious race bike and as daily street transportation. The stories contained within are either funny, exciting, or poignant - and sometimes all of the above.

Living in the shadow of legends like Stevie Wonder, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Malcolm X creates pressure for anyone. In Named After Legends, we witness how Stevland Martin Malcolm Polite transforms this pressure into a beacon of light.Stevland's fearless vulnerability sets an inspiring example. He reminds us of the importance of documenting our journeys and sharing our stories loudly as we navigate them. While part of his story tragically mirrors the realities of Black death, another part demands greater attention-his ambition, self-motivation, perpetual learning, and adventurous spirit. He navigates a world not designed for his survival, facing giants like poverty, racism, and grief. From pursuing education at the world's top institutions to embarking on solo journeys through Japanese shrines in search of peace, he demonstrates how a "by any means necessary" mindset can help us not just survive but heal and thrive.This is a story of resilience and empowerment. By delving into the depths of his experiences, Stevland gains the strength and knowledge to conquer any giant that obstructs his path. His unwavering self-belief, coupled with his timely and refreshing insights, will undoubtedly inspire readers to embark on their own journey toward self-mastery. Named After Legends is an invitation to become the giant slayers of our own lives and unlock our full potential.

In February 2020, the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) began spreading across the world. Lieutenant David Kyrie, an experienced RN, expected the virus to cause minor medical problems for many and major problems for a few, assuming it would soon be forgotten. Then schools shut down, and the hospital he worked in adapted policies to accommodate the expected influx of patients. Wondering if the virus was even an emergency, Kyrie's uncertainty grew when the Army called him to serve in relief for the national emergency. Kyrie recounts the dramatic true experiences of the team of soldiers he was a part of as they fought a unique battle against the largest viral pandemic to attack our nation in over a century.

When you wake up in the morning, you feel that it is just another ordinary day, but someday, it could be a very special day that could change your life.February 1, 2022, was that day in my life. I quit my job after arriving at my office without thinking twice. A spur of the moment decision, but I haven't regretted it. I started to look at the bucket list of things that I wanted to do before dying, and the voice of the Camino de Santiago started calling me. Two weeks later, I was on this old-fashioned pilgrimage trail with my backpack.

Writing has always been my emotional support and spiritual comfort. Being able to verbalize how I'm feeling through writing has always been an amazing experience for me and will continue to be. Not having many friends, I would just sit and write as a child and later as an adult, which has kept me at a level of emotional stability. I praise God for my gift of loving to write in my own way.