Welcome to this week’s Sunday Interview and this week it is author and poet Annette Rochelle Aben who is going to share her top two Ultimate Bucket list items.
I never thought much about having a bucket list. Yet, I recall, a couple years ago, I spent the better part of New Year’s Eve writing down things I wanted to achieve over the coming year.
Feeling rather accomplished, I put the list away and didn’t see it again until I found it quite by accident and was most surprised to realize that there were 3 items I could cross off with flourish and fanfare. So, yeah, I guess I can share a couple of the items that have yet to come to fruition.
Ultimate Bucket List One -Learn to Play the Ukulele
Not that I want to be famous for this ability (I’m no Grace Vanderwaal wannabe)I just find the instrument fascinating. Of course, I find harps fascinating, however ukuleles have captured my heart. I love the sounds they make (when strummed properly) and I believe it might be easy to write songs using a ukulele. Now, I can sing, so I also think it would be fun to learn songs I enjoy singing while being my own accompaniment. Wouldn’t it be great to visit shut ins and play music with my little ukulele?
Yes, there is the fact that they really can’t up and leave… #CaptiveAudience
So first, I need a ukulele and I was gifted one recently. A friend of my sister’s, decided to offer me the use of her son’s ukulele, as he hadn’t touched it in years. I was given the Cinderella admonishment that I would have limited time with it because once he discovered it was missing, I would have to give it back. Oh, and it is missing a string. Still, I would have it to use until I got one of my own.
News Flash!
The son is glad the ukulele found a new home, and I have asked for a new string for my birthday. Considering my birthday is exactly 2 months before Christmas, it is totally possible that by Christmas, I will be serenading kith and kin (and cats) with my stellar ukulele skills! I shall keep you in the loop.
Here you go Annette… my favourite Ukulele artists Jake Shimabukuro – with While My Guitar Gently Weeps.
Perhaps now I need a Go Fund Me campaign to get the dough to record a CD…
Ultimate Bucket List Two – Get My Children’s Book Illustrated
Ages ago, I wrote a short story about an elephant named Ellis, who was bullied and a cat named Claudius who was a bully. Because the story had so much personal meaning, I found it difficult to let anyone else read it, then they might know my personal shame. So, my little rhyming tale, was tucked away in my “I’ll get to it one day” files.
That was until I was coaxed, by another blogger, to share the story, privately, with him and he would offer critique. I swallowed hard, submitted the story, and was met with the offer to post it on his blog. I thought, well, it can’t be illustrated if I never let anyone see it, so why not. The response was overwhelmingly supportive. (doing my best Sally Field) People liked it, they really, really liked it!
Next, I shared it with some close friends and my sister. I mention my sister, specifically, because she is an artist of remarkable talent and yet, only creates when the muse strikes. Within minutes of walking away with my story, she came to me with eyes on fire and stated that she wanted to illustrate the tale of Ellis and Claudius. I was thunderstruck and kept shaking my head YES!
Of course, as I said, she works when the muse strikes. It has been over a year since that moment of excitement. Casually, I have brought the topic up again and have been summarily dismissed. I have even attempted to draw the characters myself (no one needs to see that).
Yes, I have considered having other illustrators take a whack at it but I would LOVE to have my sister do the artwork. Believe me, you would enjoy it as well.
Thank you, Sally, for offering this opportunity to share some of my dreams. I believe that before you know it, I’ll be writing a song about Ellis and Claudius and playing it for captive audiences everywhere on my little ukulele!
My thanks to Annette for sharing her two top Ultimate Bucket list wishes and I do hope that both come true. It would be lovely to see Annette’s children’s books join her others on the shelves.
Annette has been receiving great reviews for her book Perspective including one by Colleen Chesebro this week.
About the book
Everything in this book is designed to lighten the load, uplift the spirit or otherwise aid in shifting one’s perspective on life. Because the only thing we have going for us sometimes is our outlook. May you always believe that something wonderful is about to happen and that something good will come out of every situation you are experiencing. It really IS all about replacing one thought with another!
The most recent review from Colleen Chesebro https://colleenchesebro.com/2017/10/25/colleens-book-reviews-perspective-by-author-annette-rochelle-aben/
Perspective is an uplifting collection of poems, meditations, stream of consciousness prayers, daily affirmations, and photos compiled by an author who possesses the soul of a true spiritualist.
Each selection is loving written, encouraging readers to get in touch with their feelings and to embrace the positive. The message is clear, we define our own reality by the thoughts we choose. When we shift our perceptions our vision clears and we find truth and wisdom.
I’ve read this book twice as it is a short read. Yet, each reading has given me insight into something I didn’t catch the first time around. At times, I felt the author’s words were written primarily for me. What a fantastic connection to experience.
Annette is a prolific author and has published many books of poetry and inspirational books. If you are looking for a bit of magic to help you through some tough days, this book will wrap you in a warm glow.
Read the reviews and buy the collection: https://www.amazon.com/Perspective-about-replacing-thought-another-ebook/dp/B00S9TC44E
And Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Perspective-about-replacing-thought-another-ebook/dp/B00S9TC44E
Also by Annette Rochelle Aben
Read all the reviews and buy the books: https://www.amazon.com/Annette-Rochelle-Aben/e/B00MSQTGUY
And Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Annette-Rochelle-Aben/e/B00MSQTGUY
Find more reviews at Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8262554.Annette_Rochelle_Aben
Connect to Annette via her blog: https://annetterochelleaben.wordpress.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouAreTheExpert
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annetterochelle.aben
My thanks to Annette for sharing her two top wishes and please help put it out there and perhaps pave the way for them to come true.
If you would like to participate in this series or any other of the book promotions, you will find everything in this link: https://smorgasbordinvitation.wordpress.com/sallys-cafe-and-bookstore/
That is awesome Annette! At our school, we have ukelele classes for the 10 – 11-year olds!
And I have a poetic children’s story I’d love to get illustrated and published, but I can’t work out what to do with it… needs illustrations, it would be a picture book too!
Your story about Ellis the elephant intrigues me!
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Ah, ha, I’d look a bit out of place with the wee ones, but I am thinking of scouring You Tube for some tutorials. And best of luck on getting your children’s book illustrated. I should email you the Ellis story… Isn’t being a writer, grand? ❤
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Oh it truly is!!!!
And my son says it is really easy to pick up!
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Thank you, Sally for allowing me this space, so share my hopes and dreams. Oh, and the video you posted, gives me hope. He is so talented and that is one of my favorite songs. I shall aspire to heights higher than Twinkle Twinkle Little Star now.. ❤
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Great Annette. and I have just mentioned in Micki’s comment that on one of my books I had some artwork done by an art student who was happy to help for a mention in the book and to put on her resume as experience. If you have an art college close by they might be interested in this as a project. Get on it girl.. hugs xxxxx♥
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Thanks Ritu… hope it works out for you too.. hugs xx
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Here’s Hoping! Thank you Sally xx
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Annette, nice bucket list items. I taught myself to lay guitar in my twenties but could only go so far, then taught my 5 year old daughter who surpassed me and is a talented musician. I am also looking for kid’s books illustrators which is annoying when I have talented artists among my family but all busy. Sigh I can only draw stick figures.
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Thank you Micki.. You might approach your local art college and see if there is a student who would be a happy to collaborate on a book with something to put on their resume. hugs xx
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Everyone in my immediate family (and my ex-husband) can play the guitar. My siblings can play at least 3 different instruments each! So good on you and your daughter, I wish her a lifetime of joy with her talent. You know, in a heart beat I would go to another illustrator if not for the fact that it would hurt my sister deeply, as she DID approach me with her excitement to do the work. I am praying for guidance on this one and I know it will all come together at exactly the right time and in the perfect way. ❤ Best of luck with your book. 🙂
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Annette, we are two peas in a pod. I played the ukulele in junior high. Very popular to play Peter Paul and Mary. I also have a children’s book written. I love your bucket list!
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Thanks Jennie.. I can see a band forming.. xxx
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This could be something. 😀
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Ooh, PP & M tunes would be great to learn to play! We could even toss in some Dylan and I’d be flashing back to my formative years! Happy to learn I have a kindred here. ❤
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The feeling is mutual, Annette. ❤️
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What a lovely bucket list…..I tinkle the ivories a little and I am sure your wish will come true a truly lovely bucket list Annette …Micki the monkey is my foray into a child’s story but alas not in print only in my memory and each telling was slightly different but always requested( every night)…lol..
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Thanks Carol and sounds like Micki the Monkey would make an amazing story book.. and plenty of stories by the sound of it. We now have guitar, ukulele and piano… good start… hugs xx
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Now that would be the party of all parties wouldn’t it? Hugs xxx
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Thanks, Carol! It is exciting to have dreams and hopes. I know that by letting go, the ukulele came to me, so I shall allow the book to come to life the same way. I have faith (it’s patience that’s the more elusive energy at times) ❤
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Wow, Annette, fabulous Ultimate Bucket list items! I enjoy your fiction writing and would LOVE to see your children’s book illustrated and published. And who knows … you might see me walking up your drive one day, guitar in hand, excited about the duet you and I will play and sing. You rock, girlfriend 🙂 ❤
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I agree Tina..I hope Annette gets her book done too.. hugs xx
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Holy Crow Tina! What fun would we have. I can see my neighbors standing around on the sidewalk, wondering what’s up with all the beautiful music, so let me know and I’ll put on the kettle. And I promise an autographed copy of my book when it’s ready! ❤
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Wouldn’t that just beat all? Earl Grey tea with honey, please… and a little pizza on the side 🙂 I will treasure your book, my lovely ❤
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A lovely post, Annette. I read your story and it was lovely. If you ever decide you fancy fondant illustrations, keep me in mind. Hugs.
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Thanks Robbie.. now there is an idea..hugs xx
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Oh wow, that would be amazing. And I promise to not lick the pages… ❤
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Ha ha, you joke, Annette. One of my work colleagues who has my books told me the other day that his daughter does lick the pages. I was very flattered.
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Reblogged this on anita dawes and jaye marie.
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Thanks for sharing Anita and Jaye.. hugs xx
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Thank you for the sharing! ❤
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❤
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My day was looking decidedly grey, until I watched this video. I never knew someone could play a ukelele so beautifully! Thank you for making my day better!
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I have one of his CD’s and he is amazing.. my previous experience was George Formby.. love Jake and his interpretations. xx
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I never thought a ukelele could sound so beautiful…
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Jake is amazing and could listen to him for hours.. and do..hugs xx
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Annette, love your bucket list and hope you will be showing us the vid of YOU playing away soon. And showing us your book too xxx
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Thanks for dropping in Shey… I am looking forward to both too.. hugs xxx
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Pleasure as aye to come by and the song is a real treat to listen to too.
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Thanks, Shehanne! I should learn a song I could play with the Hamstahs! After all, they are stars and I am certain they might have some great advice for me. Here’s to everything falling right into place! ❤
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Look at it this way they will eat the ukulele if you don’t manage to play it. They are very useful that way. x
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Ah ha – my son plays ukelele – we have tenor and a baritone as well as the usual one and he writes and performs his own songs. Much more versatile and pretty instrument that people realise, and ideal if you have small hands.https://www.facebook.com/bobmunton1994/ Looking forward to your video Annette!
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Hi Jessica.. your son is brilliant.. popped over to soundcloud.. great he has a permanent residency.. hugs xxx
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That’s very kind of you. Actually it’s a bit grand to call it a residency, but yes, he’s written some good songs. Concentrating a bit more on his studies now though (I hope). He always appreciates likes on his page if you liked it though!
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I did Jessica.. he is great.. husx
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Wow, I am finding out about so many great role models here. I have a lot of work ahead of me and I am excited to be about it. I will give your son’s music a listen, thank you.
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My son a role model? I must have done something right as a parent then! Enjoy your playing and if you get the chance have ago on tenor instrument which to my mind is a richer sound.
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Reblogged this on Die Erste Eslarner Zeitung – Aus und über Eslarn, sowie die bayerisch-tschechische Region!.
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Thanks for sharing Michael..
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Thank you for your kindness, Michael!
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Many thanks to you, Sally for including my review of Annette’s excellent book. This is a fun feature and I enjoy it greatly. ❤
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Great thanks Colleen and your reviews are always excellent. hugs x
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Thanks, Sally. Much appreciated. ❤
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Annette, I will certainly give your Ukelele uploads to you-tube a go…. And good luck with getting your sister to illustrate your book. They say faith can move mountains… but no one mentioned a sister!
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Well now, I shall have to make you the President of my fan club! And yes, I agree, moving my sister, will take faith. I shall be the shouting from the mountain top when this happens! ❤
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The mountain top you have moved no doubt!!!!! Px
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Great bucket list, Annette, which sounds achievable. Maybe if you let your sister see this blog post and she understands how important it is for you that she does the illustrations it will encourage her muse to visit. The story of Ellis the bullied elephant is intriguing.
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Thanks Mary.. xxx
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Yes, Mary, this may do the trick. One never knows. Yes, an elephant taking the hit for being the size he is was easier than telling my own personal story. ❤
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And the bullying cat?
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Ah, the bullying cat makes it easier to understand that bullies are often acting out because they, themselves have been or are being bullied. In reality, it’s a cry for acceptance. ^–^
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Good luck, Annette. I have no musical or drawing talents but I’m sure you’ll get there.
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Thanks Olga. I believe we are all being called to produce something amazing and I am thinking that is precisely what will happen once I learn to play that ukelele. ❤
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Well it sounds like you’re getting your Ukulele wish and maybe somebody will step up sooner to get your children’s book illustrated. It sounds like an important book for kids. Oh, and loved that song played by the ukulele in the video. ❤ xxx
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Thanks Debby.. and Jake is amazing. hugs xx
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Yes, fabulous!!! 🙂 xx
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Thanks, Deb. An important book for kids and all of us who are still holding the kid within us, tightly ❤
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Absolutely Annette. Now go forth and get illustrated! ❤
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Reblogged this on Author Don Massenzio.
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Thank you for sharing Don..
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You’re welcome.
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Most appreciated, Don! 🙂
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My pleasure.
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I’ve never been musically inclined and my very last art teacher told me that I draw like a three-year-old child, so I would never have been any help to you, Annette. However, so pleased to hear that you have accomplished those two items on your bucket list. Ellis and Claudius sound so cute. I look forward to seeing them in hardback.
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