The kASEY GRANTHAM Channel

http://youtu.be/CpmuJ4gK60U

#dream #thinkinginpictures #fear #love #dontforgetyourkindheart #chezelleswag

     I will think of you. In the light of the morning, in the small light of night. I will think of you. We can dream together. We can visit, share our stories, share our fears. A dream is our waking fears played out. These are the stored feelings or fears that lay inside our conscious and subconscious minds. They are existent in all of the waking worlds ideas, pictures and feelings. Really, anything stored inside if your mind. In dreams these things come to life. Sometimes wonderful and sometimes terrible, and sometimes wonderfully terrible. Our minds bring our fears to us in these forms for us to conquer. Our subconscious mind brings the scariest moments to the forefront in our dreams. It has a real purpose. Nothing in our waking life could ever be as bad as our worst dreams, (well at least most of the time there are always exceptions to the rule). These dreams give us the power to succeed in our own lives, they give us the power to face our fear and overcome it. They give us the knowledge to go further than we thought we ever could. To walk the path that boils our anxiety through our veins, the idea that makes us want to run the other way. Most of the time this is the direction we need to go in, the fear ridden choice. I'm not saying unethical actions, and never anything that would ever hurt another soul. But in my experience you cannot grow if you don't try to stretch your soul. Change hurts until it doesn't. You have to be uncomfortable to become the next best you. A leap of faith is the first step then you have to push yourself, especially if your comfortable. Change is not easy, breaking the patterns you live in are definitely painful for all of us. Then again being stuck in a rut is also painful in a different way, of course. It takes courage to genuinely pursue life and reap its great rewards. I have no regrets, yes I know I have said that before. I cannot for the life of me, understand the point of regret. It is a completely foreign word to me. Everything that has happened to me or I have lived through made me a stronger, better person. I refuse to stop growing my spirit. I consciously keep my heart kind and whole. Be sweet, be generous, be courageous, be loving, be strong, all of these things do not have to come with an attitude. Nowadays I see a strong person and they think it gives them the right to be mean because their opinion is right. This also confuses me, if you are right there is no need to be nasty about it. You can help someone else find the way with kindness. I think sometimes we forget this and our ego gets in the way. We are the rulers of this world. We have unlimited power to change how we govern it and how we govern ourselves. I will think of you<3 everthoughtful="" neverending="" p="">

#love #happiness #createyourownyou #yestheyareyourmonkeys #chezelleswag #itsbeenalongfewweeks

     The last few weeks have been long, haven't they? It feels like six months have passed in a mere six weeks. Heightened  emotions have been on the forefront of our daily lives. Sleep or even simply 'checking out' will not help the unresolved feelings you carry inside magically lift away. For example, have you said or heard the phrase, 'not my monkeys, not my circus'? I know I have heard it a handful of times and even seen it posted on Facebook. But here's the thing, they sure are yours and mine. If you love them. You can distance your self from chaos and we all can make better daily choices not involving stress or negativity. We as society need to maintain boundaries and a kind open heart. You do not need to necessarily distance yourself from everyone. Being connected to each other is a primal instinct that that has been with man since the creation of time. We don't always need to have an opinion on every subject. Sometimes it's better to sit and listen. Isolation brings unhappiness. Everyone needs to speak what's in our hearts and minds. If you do not get your thoughts and feelings out, they begin to have a mind of their own. They become real, even if they are non existent in reality. Have you personally lost that spring to your step? That glimmer in your eyes. Did you know that who you are and what you are meant to create is within you? Then take a moment and breathe. Breathe deep from your pelvis, up through your stomach and out through your mouth. Deep and long. Blow out your breath and imagine it going into a bucket for the highest good of all. Breathe it all out. Focus on all of the negativity or stress or heart ache leaving your body dispersing into the bucket. You can give it to any higher power that you believe in. It is always easier to quiet your mind and your heart if you center yourself. And let go of the emotion. You cannot move on from a situation or pattern until you release the emotion of it. Then go to a mirror and  tell yourself, I am wonderful, I am whole, I deserve it. You may ask what is the proverbial 'it'? 'It' means everything, plain and simple. Now this doesn't mean you deserve everything without doing anything, you do have to work hard and make choices with direct action to follow those choices. Of course we need to start a dream by giving ourselves permission to be successful and accepting of success. After all, we cannot truly appreciate anything if we have no skin in the game. Just the other day, a friend told me they didn't know what they were going to be when they grew up. By the way, I know people in their sixties that do not have a clue what they want to be when they grow up (he he). For some reason people think it's some magical experience and you will 'find it'. I think this is another urban legend that we believe in. You create who you are, try things on. Imagine a long hallway of doors, this is your life. Step inside even if you do not think it fits you. It may be something you will need later. There are no small jobs. Experience and experiment! Every experience I have had in my life helped mold me into who I am now.  And no, it never landed on me. Did I dream I would be who I am when I was young? No. Am I proud to be who I am? Yes. I had to become proficient at something so I didn't starve. I became more for my children. As the years went on I realized I had to be more for me also. I realized very young I had to make money. Originally I wanted to be a starving artist with no cares or responsibilities. I thought I could live under bridges and while away the day painting in the french countryside. This plan would have been wonderful if we lived in a utopian world. To this day my children call my childhood plan the troll plan. They said, "so you wanted to be a troll and live under bridges?" I think that is hilarious, and very true, although not as romantic as I thought of it. My life so far has turned out better than my original plan of painting under bridges. (Lol) That my friend is  good old dedication and hard work. Blood, sweat and tears makes dreams real. Don't get me wrong I love being a stylist. But it wasn't my dream. It became my dream because I chose it to be. Create your best life. Create your own you. #everthoughtful #neverendings

#chezelleswag

#choose #believe #healthychoices #liveyourbestlife #chezellesalon #neverendings #everthoughtful # chezellesalon #chezelleswag #kaseygrantham

     Many times in our lives we feel broken and alone. I think all we need is someone to make the way easier. We are all inter-connected. We are not alone.
People have asked me what could help in our darkest hour of need. And every time, the words that flow into my mind are:
I am right here for you. If we took the time to just stop and tell each other, I am right here, the light would flow through this world like a breaking wave. Crashing into our souls. We can help. We can put ourselves last. And another first.
Every time.
Every time.
We can empathize. We can change this world we call home. We can make it easier for each other. We can stop trying to get--at another's expense. And we can give with no questions, or hope for credit. The smallest miracles are the kindnesses that aren't heard about.
I try every day to be the cornerstone piece that can hold up a skyscraper. We can all be the keystone for each other.
I am right here.
Our internal stories can be changed. Our lives can be brighter.
Do you feel like you deserve it?
Do you feel like your the only one that is in a dark hole at this moment. Your not. We all have dark and light inside of us and in this world. We all have problems. We all make it to where we need to be in our life journeys.
We all will make it to the end. We all will learn in the way we need to. There is no competition. The time limit we set for ourselves is not real.
Especially if we decide to be the best that we can be at this moment. And strive to be better next time. I choose to strive to be my best me every day. I choose to love fully and be available.
I choose to let go. I choose not to live in the past. I choose to live every moment, and be present. I choose to forgive myself. I choose to forgive all the people in my life that were put here to teach me what I need to learn in this world. My prayer for them is that their story is better for having me in it. I hope we all can learn from the choices we make and make better ones for each other.
I don't believe we are broken or alone. Just learning.
I believe we are powerful and loved. If we all tap into our power and love for one another we will change the world.
We can make the world and everyone in it feel loved.
We all deserve it.
Sometimes I look into the mirror and see who I am supposed to be. I tell myself that is who I am--until I believe it. I do this every morning of a transition to become the next level of me. Until I am that person.
You can too. You truly deserve to be what you think you can be.
The only limits of this world are the limits you place in your own mind.
You are the key.
Ever thoughtful, never ending. 

Moving up #chezelleswag

I carried you in my arms for years. There was once upon a time I was alone. Then you creeped Into my soul. You were a perfect little angel. You still are. You have always been the best part of me. My littlest darling girl. Yesterday was a wonderful day. Today was a little more solemn. You have only been away from me a few weeks in your whole life. I'm so proud and humbled by you little star. This is exciting. I can't wait to watch, see what you choose to become. The person you choose to create. It has been nineteen years. Twenty if you count pregnancy. I am so lucky you chose me for your mother. The next chapter is yours. I love you. #everthoughtful #neverending #daughters #love #newbeginings #movingout 

Amateur #chezelleswag

There is a place I see in my mind. A place I set aside just for me. The world changes with the faults of our own thoughts. I protect my thoughts from the negative plane of this world. I wish the world would be more like the little space in my mind. It could be. Positive thoughts produce positive people. Change comes from enlightenment. I believe the collective souls of this world are ready for the coming changes. The energy feels different. Something is calling. My ears ring with the sound of change. Do you hear it too? My goals are always are based from my heart. Leaving this world someday, I hope it is better. I know it will be. We all have struggles and strife to deal with. But we can choose to handle all things that come our way with love and grace. It always makes things easier. Be sweet, be honest, be loving...I could choose to be complacent. Not question the way things are done. I have never done anything the so-called right way. Somehow it was always the right way for me. Who would it serve if we did not question our place, or our path? We are all servants to this world, in one way or another. It is in the journey that we find our strength, our passion. In the beginning of every dream, I question myself. After all, we are all perfectly imperfect. It is through the struggle and perseverance that we create who we are meant to be. The other day someone told me, "Well, that is good for an amateur." Well, my whole life I have been an "amateur" at everything I have ever tried. Haven't you? The first time is the worst I will ever be. Then the second is better. The third is way better and so on. The longer I believe, investigate, and practice, I become more proficient. Then after a time, I become the expert I knew I could be. Aren't we all "amateur" the first time? It is the Faith in yourself and the Will to never give up that makes the difference between amateur and expert. It turns you into the person you want to become. It strengthens your character. If you are unshakeable in your beliefs, no one can tell you, you are less than. And most of the time, they want you to be less than them because they are scared to follow their dreams, or change their situation. Why not be the support, the servant with love and belief to your fellow man? It is about the work. We are all blessed to have talents, it is the work that makes our dreams real, and our talents grow. The growth of your spirit is never paved with the easiest route. Otherwise, why would we be here? For us to build a better tomorrow, we need to dream and embrace the dreamers. Then brick by brick you can do the impossible. Small goals build big dreams, walls, towers, or the preverbal bridge to a better tomorrow. Don't let someone diminish what you are. Van Gogh was told he was an "amateur". No, he was before his time. Can you remember one name of the naysayers who told him he was not an artist? Off the top of my head, I cannot think of one name. But I see his work in my daily life. To be at the beginning is hard, but always groundbreaking. You and I have the power to become whatever we can dream. You have the power to change into the person you want to be. The possible and impossible begin and end in your own mind. Never listen to someone else's mind. We all can be unstoppable. Build the bridge.
#everthoughtful #neverending #believe #lovethisthingcalledlife #chezelleswag

The Town Among The Clouds

No fears are ever found,
in this town among the clouds.
Where people live on top of trees,
and monsters live way down beneath.

How very dull it was to ponder,
what lay beneath way down under.
Hidden among the dirt and rocks,
to take a peak would be a shock.

No one was allowed to spy
what creatures and wonders hid near by.
Underneath the tree top town,
a mystery so far down.

I always wondered but never attempted,
to see the lower world as I had dreamt it.
Until a Boy in bright blue clothing,
Spoke to me with a sense of knowing.

Lets take a walk, he claimed,
a walk of faith, with dreams untamed,

to feel the wind against my face,

to fierce adventures and hidden disgrace.
We will feel the rush,
and enjoy the chase.

So I followed him down the unknown path,
and saw no monsters with mighty wrath.
No nightmares, or beasts with terrible fleas,
Just a quite world underneath the trees

By Taylor Kimbrough

#chezelleswag

It has been a while.
I saw you today.
On the side of the road.
Was it you?
There was a moment I remembered us.

Was it real?
Do I care?
I feel like my heart has healed then I see you.
Was it real?
Was it you?

Sometimes I catch myself thinking of you.
I wonder if your thinking of me at the same time too.
It could have ended better.
We could have been better people.
But it didn't.
And we weren't.

Was it real?
Do i care?
I feel like my heart has healed then I see you.
Do you care?
Was it real?

We can't go back.
I know it's true.
But I miss what we were.
I remember all the times you made me laugh.
I remember all the times I made you cry.

Maybe it wasn't you standing there.
Maybe it was just a dream.
Did I want to see your face.
Did my heart make my eyes see you.
I wanted it to be you.
I wanted you to see me.

Was it real?
Was it you?
Do you know I used to care?
My heart has healed then I see you.
Do I care?
We can't go back.

The Perfect Crime

He had done it. He had gotten away with the perfect crime. He knew his ins and outs. Performed brilliantly with swift timing and a gentle touch. His execution was unmatched by any before him. Of course it took months upon months of planning, and persistence but he had walked away with exactly what he came for. And the best part? The victim had know idea of how, when or where it happened. All she knew was that the item of great value that had been locked away for years behind closely guarded walls was now missing and she wouldn't dare to take it back. The thief had taken her heart and she knew that it no longer belonged to her. She had never originally planned to let him have it but something inside of her changed. For just a split second she let her guard down and that is when the thief struck. 

By: Taylor Kimbrough

Today is a good day:) #chezelleswag

So I woke up today thinking I would just go to work as per the norm. Not unlike any other day, I put on my face, threw together an outfit, and styled my hair into a messy updo. To my surprise, my husband lovingly offered to bring me to the Salon. Instantly my day was getting better and better. I love it when he wants to drive me pretty much anywhere. I am one of those people that could have a chauffeur every day. Although I do love to drive a manual sporty car once and a while, my favorite is still when my husband plays the chauffeur and we casually cruise to the salon that we built together. Speaking of the salon, ever since the new year had started my husband and I have been itching for a new project to keep us busy. Today, change is floating in the air and we decided it was time to upgrade my broom closet of an office! As most people know, we both love to remodel just about anything! So today's agenda is a new office for me at the Salon. I couldn't be more excited to tell you the truth. It will be a very nice change considering I've never really had a true office to begin with. Unless a small makeshift laundry room counts as an office. Funny enough, it was my husband's idea for me to have a real office after 8 years of being in business. I guess I never gave a second thought about my office. The size never bothered me and I grew accustomed to shoving my things in my own little corner. But now that I am finally thinking about the new possibilities of my office, the more I am realizing how nice it will be to have a comfortable space to do the Salon books along with other forms of business. As a business owner and full time mother, I've always put my needs last. As it should be.You always share and go out of your way to make people happy and secure. It's all about balance. I know a lot of businesses feel like its about the bottom line and that, in the end, proves to be their fatal flaw. Honestly, I cant imagine my life if I thought like that every day. Of course I do budget, forecast, and obviously have to pay attention to the bottom line. But with that aside, I firmly believe we are all here to make each other's lives a little better in some odd way. I am one of those people that truly believes the world would be better off if we all tried to pay it forward every single day. It's all about the energy you put out there and how you react. It is the individual that makes his or her own heaven or hell. Little miracles every day is what we should be looking for. My husband having the time to be with me and helping me with little projects. That is a miracle. A miracle doesn't have to be a huge life altering occurrence. It can be something tiny, but something tiny is by no means insignificant. The clouds don't have to part. They could, but they don't have too. Sometimes small miracles are the best kind. The ripples in the proverbial pond. You can help someone and it doesn't have to cost a thing. It could be a smile, a hug, or even just a nod. Those small miracles can make all the difference in somebody else's world. You don't have to make a pact to pay it forward. You just have to think more positive. Smile more, hug more, laugh more. Thought and touch are the keys to this world. We can change this world from a negative plane to a positive one. We all just need to be thoughtful and present. We need to believe more, and be skeptical less.
Ever thoughtful, never ending:)          

As My Mind Wonders

As the world turns
My mind simply wonders
Sifting through conscience and fateful ponders
Dreaming of what will and might
Dreaming of Wonders through day and night

To touch the stars that burn so bright
To see my love in candlelight
To leap off the edge of clouds
To see my thoughts and scream out loud

Oh to finally bear no chains!
To live a life free from strains
Limitless in all adventures
And to conjure thoughts no one ventures

Oh what sights to see
To live my dreams in front of me
Like a movie quietly rolling
A secrete story with no one else knowing

And though these dreams are not found in life
They help me through my times of strife
Quietly cooing their songs of hope
I find my dreams can help me cope

By: Taylor Kimbrough                        

Happiness is a warm jacket

I am happiest when I'm warm, I love any kind of jacket, fashion-wise. There are scary jackets we sometimes wear. I'm not talking about the clothing kind.
A jacket by definition could be anything if you think about it.
It could be your personality, a loved one, or your children. Or just the image you portray to the rest of the world.
I'm kinda of shocked sometimes by the shell we choose to show the world. Is there a point to showing people something that is not real? I guess it protects us. Maybe people feel that if you hide inside and people don't like your jacket, its not really your true self so it won't hurt as bad. The problem with this is if you pretend to be someone your not for too long, you will become the person your pretending to be. This world is an illusion. The illusions we choose becomes our reality. So choose wisely. Surround yourself with people who you want to emulate.
I'm a pretty good judge of character. I do however (like most people), choose to see the potential in people rather than the truth. Although I get fooled now and again. When their actions show their true colors, I take them for who they are. I wish potential was exactly what people embraced and became. Not so much. I strive everyday to be real. Even if it isn't the most popular choice. Some may like me or hate me. Pretty much, what you see is what you get. I guess it was built into my DNA. I'm not saying I don't change. I love change. My basic person is who I am. My soul shines through. I think it would be a lot of work to live in a shrouded jacket that is not who you are, or who you want to be. #everthoughtful #neverending #chezelleswag

Just a little glitter #chezelleswag

When your not feeling that great about yourself. There are a couple little things you can do for a quick pick me up.

A. Put on a little sparkle. I know it sounds cliche. Shiny things sparkle. So can you. Or as my literal son says shiny thing reflect.  If your wanting to hide a few wrinkles. Make  sure you use a eye shadow with a little shimmer. Please don't cake it on. A smooth minimal application will give you that little extra.

B. A touch of bronzer around the edges of you hairline and under the apples of your cheeks help to give a healthy glow. Remember Bronzers are used to create shadows. Shadows emphasize highlights.

C. Another trick is to use a lightening/brightening cream or powder. These are meant for under the eyes and apples of the cheeks. You can also dust the powders softly through you 'T' zone. FYI a little goes a long way. There are many on the market that are amazing. My personal favs are Uplight Face Luminizer Gel, Compact Shine On, and the Shine On Powder all made by the most amazing product line. Make Up For Ever. Super looovvee!

D. A fab piece of jewelry. If you are used to wearing large pieces or any at all, by all means start out small. This is not a time to go big or go home. A little glimmer on the ears goes a long way. Especially if you have your hair up. If your new to accessorizing with jewels, you can pick one area to wear an item. You don't need to overwhelm yourself and wear bracelets, rings, necklaces and earrings. Pick one area to showcase. Now If you are like me, Ignore everything I just said. I am a jewelry disciple. I wear my fav things everyday. Of course diamonds always sparkle. And they are a girls best friend. Yup, yup. But if it is a night out, I wear one giant piece. And leave the other areas bare. It makes a statement.  

E. You can never go wrong with a purse. It is the easiest accessory to complement your outfit. You can take the guesswork out of purse buying if you know what your 'colors' are. If you have your colors done you will always know what suits you best. Plus make sure its a color you gravitate towards. Even if it works make sure its something you love. Personally I Loooovve any purse that is gold. It has shimmer, love, love, love. Since I always buy gold, the choices I have at any store are limited. This equals easy.

F. Shoes! Need I say more?

G. Last but not least...Hair;) Okay so hair is the best accessory. If your hair looks bad you feel bad. This is not vain or vanity. This is the way you see yourself. Everyday you look in the mirror. This is the person you are, that you reflect to the world. For me, if I am having a bad hair day (my color needs to be done because I am bleach blonde and I have serious outgrowth. I feel like Shakira, but not in a good way), nothing works. It doesn't matter how cute my shoes are. I feel frumpy. Yuck. A little gold in your hair color creates shine. Warm tones reflect. Matt tones absorb. Just ask your stylist to add a touch of gold to your base color, or your lowlights. Or if you have darker hair a soft honey highlight is not only natural and grows out well, it can soften your color and add dimension. I add adornments to my hair, daily. My newest addiction is Color Rebel Glitter Spray by Redken. It is a flexible hairspray with the added benefit of large mica flecks. The mica is the largest I have seen in a Glitter Hair Spray. This makes my hair super happy;) You can also use a sparkly clip or glittery flower. A little glitter, no matter what it is always makes my style feel finished. #hairlove #hairisthebestaccessory #happyhair #chezelleswag #chezellesalon #chezellesalon&spa #neverendings #everthoughtful

Fun:)) INTERVIEW QUESTIONS WITH SMASHWORDS:) #chezelleswag

Interview with Kasey Grantham

Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?

I grew up in Golden, Colorado. I haven't strayed too far considering I now reside in Arvada. And my salon is in Lakewood. If your not from around here they are all the 'burbs' of Denver. Lol. Golden was a quaint tiny gold mining town when I was a kid. Just like in my book. Sometimes Cassie is me, and sometimes she is my beautiful daughter. She holds shades of both of us.

When did you first start writing?

When I was a fourteen, the words in my head would stir me from my slumbers. Not that I slept much during the night, but when I did, the sentences or thoughts would invade my sleep. I would wake abruptly and write until the words disappeared from my minds eye.I never though they would be much more than a poem or short little blurb. Now I have one book finished and two more slowly seeping out of my consciousness dripping from my fingers. It's strange where creative passion can take you if you let it. Writing like everything else in my life is just for fun. Evolving as I learn. After all, if it isn't fun, why do it? And if it isn't fun, make it fun. :)

What's the story behind your latest book?

It's a story about being flawed. Perfectly imperfect. We all can choose to unlock our inner powers. It,s about getting out of your personal story and choosing someone before yourself. If we all could do this in just a small way, every day the world, and all of us in it, would be better for it. We can change the world. What we believe is real.

What motivated you to become an indie author?

I had a dream. The manuscript was stuffed in a "All You Need is Love" Beatles bag. The second book laying in wait for me. I'm sure Jared's wondering when I would be back to help him along. He appears here and there completely beside himself, begging for another chapter. Desperate to move on from the last place I left him. Back to my dream, Sylvia Brown told me to publish the book, She said,"You will email it to me after it's published." The next day, all I could think about was finding the manuscript that I hadn't touched or even seen for years. If you don't know me, my word is my bond. If I say it, I do it. After a stirring dream (which doesn't happen often, dreaming I mean), I have a muse that won't let me go until the chore is over. I never expected to write a book, but the relentless dreams every night procured a book in three months. I had never really thought it would see the light of day. It was easy to post it. Not that it was supposed to be real, it wasn't to be honest. I never thought anyone would ever read it. I was wrong. As with everything I have ever done, it's never under the covers. It's always out loud. Now it is a much better version. Isn't that what life is about? Honing your craft? Trying things on and seeing if they fit? Redefining ourselves? Practicing and failing and studying and learning until you get it right? If I can do it, anyone can. I believe in a world where the only limits we have are the ones we place on ourselves. I can be everything and so can you.

How has Smashwords contributed to your success?

Smashwords has given my husband tools he would not have had. It's been fun to watch him become a book editor. Not because he loves books, mind you, but because he loves me. And I him.

What is the greatest joy of writing for you?

It's just plain fun. Mindless fun. It's about getting it out of my mind, like when you have a song stuck in your head, and it plays on the radio. It is a release from my subconscious. As with any art form, it ebbs and flows.

What are you working on next?

I'm about 25,000 words into the second in the Thalo trilogy. Out of the blue, the letters of a paragraph formed in my mind, it became 7,000 words in a few hours. This wasn't a dream, but a waking character. From some other book world that is forming. This was a first for me. Cassie and Jared were friends that bothered me every night until I awoke. But this new character is forming out of a haze of sunlight. I'm not sure of where it will take me, but I know I'll enjoy the ride.

Who are your favorite authors?

Pretty much anyone that writes a book and puts it into the world. I'll read and enjoy almost anything. I love fantasy, and more than that, I love perspective. Reality, suspense, business, you name it. Although I do have a squeamish side, I just cannot do horror or anything too graphic. My mind stores words and pictures. So I choose to only store things I want to recall.

What inspires you to get out of bed each day?

The promise of a new day. Enjoying my life. Finding a new goal to strive for. The idea of spending time with my favorite people. I feel blessed to work with my best friends everyday.After all, "behind every beautiful woman is a hairstylist that loves her." So true. There is always a new reason to be happy. I choose to love everything that I do. When someone asks me, "How are you?" I am always fabulous. Not good or okay (mediocre), fabulous. Happiness is a choice. 

How do you approach cover design?

Lol. Trial and major errors. bahahaha:) Then you buy one. There are amazing designs and designers out there. I felt bad dropping another project on my sweet husband, especially since this is my deal, not his. But it was fun to make the first couple. You just never know what you'll learn, if you're open to learning.

Describe your desk

This is kinda a funny question. I do have a few. I don't know if I'm alone in this, but I write in my bedroom, propped up with six stiff pillows on my sleep number bed. My number is 80. Lol. I grab my laptop, and have a Netflix movie going as background noise. Most of the time, my kids are watching the movie next to me as I write. Or if it's during the day, I settle into the family sectional in the great room. Camped out with snacks, water, and some sort of 'trash talk, lie detector, not the father' television show. You never have to pay attention with those shows, but they are sure entertaining.

What do your fans mean to you?

You can never have too many friends. I love to meet new people.
Personally, I have about 1400 clients at the Salon yearly. I love them. I have been a Master stylist for years. I can't tell you how many people I have had the honor to work with. I am blessed to share the happy and sad moments with them. There is always room for more friends, I do not believe there is a limit to the abundance of this world. We all can have it. Together we can change the collective consciousness. We can leave the world a little better than we found it.

When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?

I am the president and Master Colorist, Senior Stylist at Chez Elle Salon & Spa in Lakewood, Colorado. I love making people feel relaxed and pampered. There is nothing like #happyhair or #chezelleswag and of course #hairlove ;) I am also a devoted wife and mother to 3 kiddos, and 2 extra kiddos. Making 5 in all. We adore them all. i don't mind being adopted by extra kids. Love it! Wouldn't have it any other way. The more the merrier.

How do you discover the ebooks you read?

Mostly, the clients from the salon suggest the books I tend to buy. If I hear a title three times, I know that it will be my next purchase. Although, I do have an amazing client that is on the best sellers list for her cookbook. And boy is she amazing! The Paleo Kitchen: Finding Primal Joy in Modern Cooking by Juli Bauer.

Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?

I wrote about my family. I was probably 5 or 6 at the time. It was cute and of course fully illustrated. I have been an artist since I can remember. My mom says as soon as I could hold something. I love painting and drawing, pretty much any medium. I've always been creative. I originally thought I would be an starving artist and barely make ends meet. As long as I was creating, I felt like I wouldn't care. Well all to often, life comes up with better ideas for us. I went to Cosmetology school and had an a-ha moment. Hair was art. A craft to hone. An art with the power to make you feel beautiful. To help when you want to become someone else. A moment just for yourself. A gift of love when life knocks you down. For me, I will always be a servant to my fellow man. To be a shoulder to cry on, or a guiding light in the dark.

What is your writing process?

The muse has to bite me. It needs to be organic. It needs to flow through me. It can't be forced.

Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?

I have read since I was four or five. In third grade, I read 'The Castle in the Attic.' It was amazing. It was the first time I was part of the story. It was a magical book in so many ways. I fell into that book and was lost. It was fantasy, but it was all the sudden my story. I was there, sucked into a world that my imagination formed through the words the author spoke.The words blurred and the story became real. It was the beginning with my love affair with books.

What are your five favorite books, and why?

That's a no-brainer, Pick any five of the Harry Potter books. I love Harry. Better question, who doesn't? Or four of them and 'The Castle in the Attic'.

What do you read for pleasure?

Whatever is sitting on my night stand. At the current moment it is 'Walden' by Thoreau.

What is your e-reading device of choice?

Whatever device that is next to me. I do have to say the ease of devices and the storing of books is a creature comfort. I still have fond memories and a place in my heart for old fashioned books. The warm oaky smell and the feel of the dry crackling paper rubbing the tips of my fingers as I flip the page, eager to read the next line..

What book marketing techniques have been most effective for you?

I would imagine twitter.This book is a fun thing. A baby bird if you will, nurturing helps, but it will be what it will be. You can't change a bird if its a bird, lol. I have a lot of other irons in the fire. I'm always looking for new ways to market our Chez Elle Salon & Spa. Building relationships with new clients and building the Salon Family is always a constant goal.

Published 2014-11-14.

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Books by This Author

The Grail Court

By Kasey Grantham
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 50,590. Language: English. Published: February 20, 2014. Category:Fiction » Young adult or teen » Fantasy

Would you choose the road less traveled? What if you could escape your high school existence just by closing your eyes? Would you? What if evil and the fate of the rest of the world was waiting for you on the other side of your eyelids? Would you choose: The ordinary...or extraordinary?

We are not broken #chezelleswag

Many times in our lives we feel broken and alone. I think all we need is someone to make the way easier. We are all inter-connected. We are not alone.
People have asked me what could help in our darkest hour of need. And every time, the words that flow into my mind are:
I am right here for you. If we took the time to just stop and tell each other, I am right here, the light would flow through this world like a breaking wave. Crashing into our souls. We can help. We can put ourselves last. And another first.
Every time.
Every time.
We can empathize. We can change this world we call home. We can make it easier for each other. We can stop trying to get--at an other's expense. And we can give with no questions, or hope for credit. The smallest miracles are the kindnesses that aren't heard about.
I try every day to be the cornerstone piece that can hold up a skyscraper. We can all be the keystone for each other.
I am right here.
Our internal stories can be changed. Our lives can be brighter.
Do you feel like you deserve it?
Do you feel like your the only one that is in a dark hole at this moment. Your not. We all have dark and light inside of us and in this world. We all have problems. We all make it to where we need to be in our life journeys.
We all will make it to the end. We all will learn in the way we need to. There is no competition. The time limit we set for ourselves is not real.
Especially if we decide to be the best that we can be at this moment. And strive to be better next time. I choose to strive to be my best me every day. I choose to love fully and be available.
I choose to let go. I choose not to live in the past. I choose to live every moment, and be present. I choose to forgive myself. I choose to forgive all the people in my life that were put here to teach me what I need to learn in this world. My prayer for them is that their story is better for having me in it. I hope we all can learn from the choices we make and make better ones for each other.
I don't believe we are broken or alone. Just learning.
I believe we are powerful and loved. If we all tap into our power and love for one another we will change the world.
We can make the world and everyone in it feel loved.
We all deserve it.
Sometimes I look into the mirror and see who I am supposed to be. I tell myself that is who I am--until I believe it. I do this every morning of a transition to become the next level of me. Until I am that person.
You can too. You truly deserve to be what you think you can be.
The only limits of this world are the limits you place in your own mind.
You are the key.
Ever thoughtful, never ending. 

"tHANKFUL bLESSINGS" 

These past few weeks have been a blessing. I am so thankful to have so much love and support.

Sometimes I feel as though we don't stop to smell the proverbial roses enough, Thanksgiving is always a great reminder. To live in gratitude all year. 

We had a smaller event this year, but it was welcomed. Just our immediate family of ten. lol. Too much food, too many giggles, always a plate full of love. My husband, Mother, children and couple extra kiddos and friend Bob were warm and had full bellies, that's all anyone can ask for. Hands down this is always my favorite holiday. I am thankful daily for my better half, the man that eases my life, and I his. I am thankful for my amazing mother who chooses family time and again, (without credit mind you).

The Salon and all our valued guests have been an exuberant bunch. I feel so 

blessed to have each and every person there be part of my family, (blood or not). 

My beautiful daughter will be eighteen in a week, a milestone that she is contemplating. A young woman deciding the path she will take. I think I may be more nervous than she is. I am thankful all the same. My middle son is charting the waters of  teenage obscurity, mapping out relationships, and  trying on hats of who he will become. I don't envy his age--fifteen--is not an age I want to revisit. What am I saying this is my last incarnation here. Ha.

My littlest will be double-digits, if anyone out there has kids they know how important this is to a little one. My first child is always the hardest because it's a new experience. My middle is a little easier the second time around. My youngest always leaves me melancholy; the last time.

I am in awe that the holidays are upon us...

This year has been a whirl-wind. The energy is definitely shifting.  

2014 a hopeful year of abundance, not to say 2013 wasn't, but I can feel it's going to be note worthy, or blog worthy. However you want to spin it.

Chapters come to a close. Though, I am excited about the chapters ahead of me. Speaking of chapters and books...

My second book "Satires" will be finished in the new year. 

My first book: The Grail Court, was published on November 20th, 2013. The day Sylvia Browne left us. 

        "Let love light the lamp to your soul.""--Sylvia Browne--  

Love and light to you.

My book will be in print in the next few weeks, after it is reformatted and edited for the traditional book form. New beginnings and fun adventures are on the horizon.

Happy Thanksgiving
Ever thoughtful, never endings.

"mY bOOK" THE GRAIL Court

http://www.amazon.com/The-Grail-Court-Thalo-Series-ebook/dp/B00GTD2P8C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385093948&sr=8-1&keywords=Kasey+Grantham


http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GTD2P8C/ref=pe_245070_24466410_M1T1DP

"fOR tHE lOVE oF sOMETHING"

Ten million miles away,

   I dream...

When my mind won't stop thinking, I quiet my soul.

   Just breathe...

In the wee hours of the morning I reflect on who I am. Who I eternally wish to be.

   I have no regrets...

I live every day to the fullest, and strive to leave this world a little better than I found it.

   I could make more money...
   I could be ruthless...
   I could choose myself over others...
   I could live in pity...
   I could believe in a world where personal gain rules the day...
   I could blame others for my lot in life...
   I could cry, and bury myself in self doubt.
   I could let others change me...

But as I've always believed I am the creator of my own reality.

I choose to create small ripples in the pond. Hoping someday they will be giant waves.

I give everyone the benefit of the doubt. Even if the writing is on the wall.

I have hope for humanity as a whole.

We are all on our own path.

Sometimes I have to coach people onward. I always have the best intentions at heart.

We all belong somewhere.

At daylight when the morning birds chirp,
   I choose to love...
   I choose to be happy...
   I choose smile at every soul I come in contact with...
   I choose to be my best self...
   I choose to love every aspect of my job...
                    My life...
And I feel grateful to be part of  the world.

Ever thoughtful, never endings....

"tALK aBOUT tHE fLIP sIDE"

It's funny how life throws you curve balls. At least I am maliable enough to bend and curve along with the sudden ups and downs.
My love for humanity as a whole is not shaken. Every day I'm reminded to try harder to be the person I will be proud of when I make it to the finish line of my life.
Could people choose another way? Of course... I choose, as they say the proverbial road less traveled.
I watch my friends make decisions. Believe they are the ones behind the wheel of their life. Funny some things are predetermined. Our choices make the impact we perceive in our lives.
I watch things unfold, always holding the truth accountable.
We all have different truths to hold. Whether we choose to admit them or not.
For me sleeping soundly at night is enough. I can rest my head on my pillow, and say today you were accountable for who you are, and what you believe.
It would be nice if every person, could look deep enough to see how their actions effect the people around them. This is my daily goal. To impact a difference.
Mind set is a difficult thing to change. There really are people out there that really want to help. I can't believe,(or won't believe) that everyone is only concerned about themselves. After all aren't we all in this together?
Just food for thought...
Ever thoughtful, never endings....

"tHE bOTTOM oF tHE bUCKET"

My bucket list grows shorter and shorter.

There are just a few loose ends to tie up before I feel secure in what my life has been. (Not that I'm going anywhere mind you:))

~~~LAST WORRY~~~
I would love to know my mother is well taken care of.

~~~KNOWN TRUTH~~~
My children will definitely stand on their own two feet, with my loving husband to be the soft pillow to land on.

~~~HAPPY HOPES~~~
A trip to Paris, then to Ireland, and the birth of my youngest sisters' son. That is what a happy life is made of (to me).

Only 4 things left to set to rights, albeit four life altering occasions. My goal list is finally countable on one hand.