Blog Archives

Soft Hugs for Mommy

Soft Hugs for Mommy is a heartfelt exploration of living with fibromyalgia, wrapped in a narrative that combines raw vulnerability and an educational touch. Through poignant anecdotes and empathetic storytelling, the book brings to light the realities of chronic illness. It’s more than just a guide; it’s an emotional support system, a conversation with a friend who truly understands. From explaining the “invisible” nature of pain to depicting the strain on family and relationships, it’s a deeply personal yet universally relatable read.

The writing is what struck me first because it’s conversational and deeply honest. The section where the author, Mandy Farmer, describes the metaphor of “soft hugs” as gentle comfort for a hurting body was incredibly moving. The imagery was simple but hit home. At times, though, the casual tone made some sections feel a bit repetitive, like the book was circling back to the same ideas. That said, these repetitions felt less like oversights and more like reminders of the ongoing, cyclical nature of chronic illness—a clever, intentional choice. I loved how the author took time to focus on family dynamics, especially the chapter where a child tries to understand why “mommy can’t always play.” That scene brought tears to my eyes. The way children’s innocence clashed with the parent’s frustration and guilt was beautifully handled. It reminded me of how illness doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it affects everyone in its orbit. The final chapters, which encourage readers to open up and share their struggles, resonated deeply. The emphasis on community and solidarity gave the book a hopeful note, even in the midst of heavy topics. The inclusion of Melissa’s own story (featured toward the end) tied everything together beautifully. It’s rare to read something so intimate that also feels empowering.

Soft Hugs for Mommy is a touching read for anyone grappling with chronic pain or supporting someone who is. It’s perfect for parents, partners, and friends looking for insight into what it’s like to live with fibromyalgia. Its emotional depth and gentle honesty make it worth picking up. If you need a book that feels like a comforting chat over tea, this one’s for you.

Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0D7SGSJ48

Buy Now From Amazon

Peace, Comfort, and Joy

Marcia McGee Ashford Author Interview

I Will Dance Across The Morning Sky is a moving collection of poems that invites readers into a world of introspection, longing, and raw emotion. Why was this an important book for you to write?

I wanted to write something to give comfort to those who have lost family members, friends, and pets.

The art in this book is beautiful and perfectly complements the poetry. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Sudipita Dasgupta?

I prayed for the right illustrator and looked for several weeks before finding a children’s book cover created by Sudipita. His style was exactly what I wanted and immediately knew it was just what the book needed.

Studipita in India and I in the states, went back and forth via messenger and email discussing what to put on each page.

Every page is an individual work of art that gives vision to the words.

What was the most challenging part of writing this collection of poetry and what was the most rewarding?

As with every writer the challenge in poetry is to keep it short, use the right words in the right order, and create flow

Rewarding? To see how many lives have been touched with I Will Dance Across the Morning Sky

What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your poetry?

Moments of peace, comfort, and joy

Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook Heartstring Productions  | Facebook Author Page | Website | LinkedIn | Book Review

A beautiful grief and celebration of life picture book for adults and children. Have you lost someone you love? Is your heart aching? Celebrate their life with a comforting poem by noted author, Marcia McGee Ashford, and inspiring, original art by Sudipita Dasgupta.
There comes a time in everyone’s life that a close friend, relative or pet passes to the other side. Children and adults are in need of comfort. This book was created to inspire and raise the spirit of all who read it. Great imagery for children as well as adults. Where do we go? What do we do? Oh, imagine the fun we will have! As you read let your imagination soar!
I Will Dance Across the Morning Sky is a perfect keepsake gift to treasure to celebrate a life well lived, for those who have lost loved ones, friends, and their pet babies.

I Will Dance Across the Morning Sky

I Will Dance Across the Morning Sky is a moving collection of poems that invites readers into a world of introspection, longing, and raw emotion. The book’s essence lies in its exploration of human connection, loss, and the quest for meaning in moments of despair. Each poem in this book weaves together imagery and sentiment in a way that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable, creating a tapestry of experiences that resonate with the soul.

Simplicity masks complexity here. The language, deceptively straightforward, acts as a vessel for profound emotion. A simple line can explode with meaning. Take, for example, the image of “a heart dancing across broken glass.” It’s a vivid portrayal of pain mingling with hope, resilience intertwined with fragility. This line alone haunts us, refusing to leave our thoughts, much like the struggles we all face. The poems tackle heavy subjects such as grief and loneliness, yet they do so with a sincerity that feels unforced, making the experience refreshingly authentic.

Connection, or its painful absence, sits at the core of this book. A particular poem lingers in the mind, depicting two people sitting together in silence, yet a chasm exists between them. That stark portrayal of isolation, even in company, strikes a nerve. It’s not just about what’s written; it’s about what isn’t. The spaces, the silences, resonate as loudly as the words themselves. The themes are beautifully rendered, and the exploration of love and loss treads familiar ground. It is worth noting that there were times I yearned for a twist or a fresh perspective. The steady tone and consistent themes offer exactly the kind of solace some readers seek, a stable anchor in a turbulent world.

I Will Dance Across The Morning Sky leaves its mark. It’s a collection that reaches out to those of all ages who need a voice in the silence, a companion in their pain. For anyone grappling with life’s hardships, or simply searching for a piece of writing that speaks to the heart, this book offers solace. It’s easy to consume, but its impact lingers, making it not just a collection of poems, but an experience to be felt deeply.

Pages: 42 | ASIN : B08RTYMPG3

Buy Now From B&N.com