Storycomic Weekly Newsletter: December 7th
ALWAYS POSTED A WEEK EARLIER ON PATREON
Podcast Updates
Mariah Dawn’s "Dragon In You": Conquering PTSD and Domestic Violence
In the poignant memoir "Dragon In You," Mariah Dawn shares the harrowing yet ultimately empowering journey of her first 32 years, marked by deep-rooted faith, devastating domestic violence, and a profound spiritual rebirth. Raised in a devout Mormon family, Mariah's life took a tumultuous turn after marrying a military veteran whose struggles with PTSD and addiction led to cycles of abuse.
"Dragon In You" goes beyond the recounting of physical and emotional pain; it is a testament to Mariah's indomitable spirit to reclaim her life and identity. The memoir delicately navigates the complexities of love, betrayal, and the difficult decisions she faced in leaving her husband for the safety of herself and her children. Mariah's story does not end with her escape; it delves into the aftermath, highlighting her relentless advocacy for her husband, her grappling with her faith, and her ultimate departure from the Mormon Church.
As an EMT and survivor, Mariah brings a unique perspective to the dialogue on domestic violence, mental health, and spiritual healing. "Dragon In You" serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar battles, emphasizing the possibility of healing and empowerment after abuse. This story is not just about surviving; it’s about thriving, making it a profound narrative of resilience and renewal that resonates deeply with those who have faced their dragons and emerged stronger.
The Spiritual Side of Alejandra Brady: Feng Shui, Family, and Beyond!
Alejandra G. Brady's journey from a prominent interior designer to a spiritually awakened Feng Shui consultant is nothing short of remarkable. In her enthralling memoir, "I Just Can’t Make This Sh!t Up," Alejandra offers an intimate look into the pivotal moments that shaped her spiritual path. Raised in a strict Mormon household, her life took a drastic turn upon encountering severe challenges within her marriage, catalyzed by her husband's PTSD and subsequent abusive behavior. These hardships, although excruciating, led her towards a profound spiritual reawakening.
Alejandra's narrative is punctuated by eerie spiritual encounters and meaningful synchronicities that steered her towards embracing her inherent spiritual gifts. The incorporation of Feng Shui into her life brought about significant transformations, not only in her physical surroundings but also in her personal wellbeing and spiritual awareness. Moreover, the sudden introduction of her biological family opened new avenues of understanding her abilities, further enriching her spiritual journey.
Her memoir doesn't just recount her trials and triumphs; it serves as a compelling guide for anyone on the brink of their spiritual discovery. Alejandra’s story resonates with anyone facing their shadows, encouraging a fearless pursuit of truth and self-realization. Her experiences, filled with both mystic encounters and practical life lessons, illustrate the beautiful tapestry of a life fully embraced through spiritual guidance and self-acceptance.
Project Update: Steady as We Go
Not much new to report this week, but progress is still happening! Daddest Jokes continues to move forward at a slow and steady pace, with editing tweaks and polishing still underway. Each small update brings the project closer to completion, even if it’s inching along.
Appliance remains on hold for now, as other priorities take the lead. It’s still on my mind, and I’m looking forward to circling back to it when the time is right.
While it’s been another week of gradual movement, the projects are still moving in the right direction. Slow and steady wins the race!
Review of Searching for the Wild Asparagus: 23 (or 22) Acres in Newbury, Vermont by Glenn Reed
Searching for the Wild Asparagus by Glenn Reed is not merely a book; it is a heartfelt journey into the essence of New England's verdant landscapes. Glenn Reed graced our podcast with his presence, sharing the inspirations behind his work. His passion for the land, deeply rooted in his family's legacy in Newbury, Vermont, resonates profoundly throughout the book's pages. This work seamlessly integrates a series of reflective essays and evocative photographs that invite readers into a world rich with tradition and natural beauty.
The narrative is a tribute to the 23 (or 22) acres of land that have shaped generations, detailed with stories of joy, introspection, and the everyday wonders of nature—like the smell of ripening corn or the sight of a dog joyously bounding through fields. Reed's writing not only honors his familial bonds but also highlights his dedication to preserving these cherished memories.
For those who value deep connections to place and heritage, Reed's book offers a compelling glimpse into the importance of home and history. It is an authentic exploration of the places that define us, rendered with the genuine affection and commitment of someone who has not just observed, but lived and loved the land he describes. This book is a profound reminder of the indelible mark that family and home imprint on our lives, making it an essential read for anyone who cherishes the intersections of family, history, and the natural world.
Personal Update: A Week of Traditions, Challenges, and Fun
This past week was filled with productivity, family time, and a bit of excitement. We celebrated Thanksgiving at my parents' house, and in true New England fashion, we had a snowstorm to mark the occasion. It added a cozy charm to the holiday, even if it made travel a bit tricky.
One cherished radio station tradition I brought back this year was playing Alice’s Restaurant on Thanksgiving. It was slated to air at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., but by the time the second airing rolled around, a power outage at the station threw a wrench into those plans.
On Saturday, we kept the momentum going with a live remote broadcast in Bradford for Small Business Saturday. It was a chilly day, but it was fun to connect with the community and support local businesses. The station’s internet was out all weekend, which added a layer of complexity, but I managed to find workarounds to keep the weather updates flowing.
At home, the kids and I got into the holiday spirit with some baking—pies and other goodies. On Saturday night, we kicked off the Christmas movie season by watching Gremlins. It was a fun way to end a busy week and share some laughs with the family.
I am growing my Patreon and offering an excellent way for my independent creative community to sustainably advertise their work!
The website of your choice will be featured in the show notes of all of our podcasts for as long as you are a member of the Storycomic Patreon. The Founders Club offer is only for the first 15 subscribers. This is at any Patreon Subscription level.
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/
https://mrfuzzyears.com/
Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!