As you might’ve guess my portfolio isn’t short on style or personality!  I’ve put up more than a few samples showing a range of projects I’ve worked on over the years.  Select “Samples” under the list of categories to see some of my work.

I understand the need for a linguistic leg up over the “competition,” but there are writers out there with less talent and less education, thriving in their careers because they’ve discovered the simple principle of communicating themselves so thoroughly, that they’re nothing short of a beacon attracting the opportunities to them that suit them most.

So where do we find this principle and use it to our advantage?  It’s well hidden, that’s for sure.  In fact, most people have trouble truly expressing themselves, and think of their own perspective as average and obvious.  As a writer, I have to observe and recognize beauty, have a clear understanding of who I am and what I want to say, because it’s part of what I do.  You too may be doing what you love, but not every career is dependent on soul searching.  Which is why sometimes you may come up blank.  You may find that you know what you want to say, but look grimly on a daunting blank page as if you were at the bottom of Mount Everest.  Or maybe you’ve written respectable pages of copy only to read it over and think, “this is garbage.”  You’d like to get down to the essence of it like a Pulitzer prize winner but what deadline driven professional has that kind of time?  Maybe you’re applying for college and finding that unique voice of yours is crucial to your success.  Do you trust that what you’re saying is really you and not just another cliche trying to compete with thousands of others?  Do you really believe you can stand out among the rest?

Well, believe it or not, you can.  And do.  It’s true that there’s no magic formula for such things, but it can be learned.  Professionals know that successful communication is vital to every industry, and will do whatever it takes to enhance where a piece of writing can be lacking.  Enhancing a piece to its fullest potential take great effort if you’re not accustomed to it– it’s changing your thinking habits, a complete retraining to understand that you do actually have things to say that no one else can, only then does your writing really soar.  I’ve been helping people figure out what they ought to say since I was too young to realize what it was — first friends and family, then fellow students, professionals, now you.  It’s true I could, with some time, do the work for you.  But wouldn’t you rather present yourself… yourself?  I think you as well as everyone else would be far more pleased with the result.

Well, I can help you with that.

See, I’m a writer, but more importantly I teach other people of all kinds how to better express themselves through writing when they need to– for work, school, their goals, or just for themselves.  Like you, I have a voice, as distinct and varied as humanity itself.  I’ve found mine.  And if you’re reading this blog I can only assume you’d like to find yours.

My biggest concern is that in its pursuit of more modern-minded patrons, the restaurant abandons its Japenese identity. With its art deco design planted right next to “it” club Sambuca, Ru San’s strives to be all things to all people in its departure from the traditional, both in menu and decor. The menu boasts hundreds of items, which only suggests to me that the establishment is willing to wear themselves too thin. Gimmicks like “Georgia On My Mind” Roll and “Banana Boat Maki” only diminish Ru San’s credibility to me, but the people seem to enjoy it. The restaurant ends up having to compensate for its poor choice in musical ambience. It’s hard to reconcile the traditional miso soup with some techno version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” blaring overhead. But compensate it definitely does.

What makes up for its shortcomings, you ask? Two words: dollar menu. It doesn’t get any better than the invention of the dollar menu, people. One buck can get you up to three pieces off the dollar menu’s dozen or so selection of sushi types. This makes Ru San’s the perfect bet as a lunch or dinner date for even the most frugal. Not that it’s hard to break the bank. Entree’s can be as much as $12 for a single six pieces, $25 for an assortment box, and dessert up to $10. With a myriad of appetizers arranged by quantity, the options are limitless. From a five spot to fifty for a meal, RuSan’s can boast one of the most extreme price ranges in the city. Luckily they take credit cards. So if you’re in the mood for sushi but also in the mood to be seen, go to Ru San’s and prepare to pay for passable sushi, decent crab cakes, and a spectacle of trendy ambiance.

What Sets Us Apart From Our Competitor is Our Stone
Our stone veneer is painstakingly crafted to recreate the look and feel of the natural stone used in timeless architecture from around the world. We offer up to 50 pattern types ranging in 200 colors. Century stone is considerably lighter than real stone, therefore easier to handle and quicker to install.
Using our patented technology, we chemically treat our stone with an environmentally safe solution to prevent wear from environmental extremes. Yet Century stone veneer still retains all the benefits of natural stone, even its insulation properties. It keeps you cool in the heat of summer and wrapped in natural warmth during those harsh winter months, saving you hundreds of dollars a year in energy bills.

Boost Your Property Values with Our One-of-a-Kind Stone Veneer.
Our elegant stone enhances the surrounding décor of your current property. This simple yet sophisticated upgrade to your home or business is sure to increase its value and curb appeal—and that means more $$! Three-fourths of our clients increased their property values by 20%, which covered their stone and installation costs three times over!!

Pictures are worth a thousand words, but why not see for yourself? Our showroom is 1000 square feet and displays every variation of stone we make. Come by our store on the corner of 6th and Blake in the heart of downtown Arlington, or call us to make an appointment. Experience your new stone up close, browse each color scheme to see which is your favorite. Every stone pattern is designed to be neutral, so don’t worry about our stone clashing with your current decor. Our brochure contains photos and descriptions of each pattern. For a copy, call 1-866-555-0742 to have one mailed to you.

Let Our Expert Craftsman Create a Blueprint for Your New Addition

Century Construction also handles other home improvement projects: siding, doors, new and replacement windows, sunrooms, and gutter protection. Add the peaceful haven of a sunroom, or the vibrant natural light of a picture window for the common area, kitchen, or bathroom. Perhaps a new front door will better complement your newly accented stone. Clients who take advantage from two or more of our services are eligible for additional discounts. Join our mailing list to get the latest info on discounts and services. All new customers will receive a free consultation. Just call our toll free number or e-mail us at info@century-construction.com.

Money is tight these days. You want to invest in your property, but you don’t have a huge budget to completely transform it. A simple addition like a stone fireplace, accent walls, or pillars can bring sophistication to your favorite room. For those of you who know less is more, our consultants will work with your floorplan to find a renovation plan that fits you best. Simply call 1-866-555-0742 to have one of our design professionals give you device on how to smartly enhance your curb appeal while saving money. Still need help with financing? We offer 90 days same as cash, and monthly payment plans up to 36 months. Even short term loans through our partners set at lower interests rates just for doing business with us.

Centurion Construction is Arlington’s #1 Choice for Home Improvement

Founded by G.H. Vaughn, Century Construction consistently provides new construction and project renovation services to a wide variety of clients—from private owners and universities to churches and industrial complexes. Vaughn, now acting as a board member and adviser for Century, believed in bringing superior workmanship to the local landscape at the lowest cost possible to our community. Now, Century has continued its mission to bring affordable, quality products to the northern Virginia area without compromising style or craftsmanship. Now that every project we complete- or have completed- is backed by our 30-year warranty, we can guarantee Century Construction is the best choice to improve your home.

We are a member of the National Association of Home Builders, as well as the Better Business Bureau. We are earning a reputation for excellence in the northern Virginia area, when it comes to customer satisfaction.

But we also know the best things in life are free. How can a spring day, a baby’s laugh, a good friend fulfill a void in us? How can a person have everything they’ve ever wanted and still feel empty? What makes us search for our purpose? What makes us despair at the thought of being useless?

Would you be surprised to know that being happy is not a personality trait, but a skill?

Pastor and author Mike Bickle addresses these topics and more in his book The Seven Longings of the Human Heart. He identifies 7 innate desires we all have as human beings: Fascination, Beauty, Greatness, Intimacy Without Shame, to be Wholehearted, Deep and Lasting Impact, and to be Enjoyed. Through basic yet in-depth language, Bickle explains why we have these desires, how they got there, and practical, specific ways to fulfill them. Seven Longings also details what happens when we attempt to fill the void in inadequate ways, and how to find the most productive methods to tackle the emptiness in our lives.

Mike Bickle is a respected pastor and director of the International House of Prayer headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri. He is also president of Forerunner Schools of Ministry and Music. Forerunner instructor Deborah Hiebert co-authors Seven Longings with Bickle in this 2006 edition.

Imagine yourself being truly happy, no matter what stage of life you’re in. When we recognize our longings, we understand our motives, and we can better direct our energy towards things that will fulfill us most. The Seven Longings of the Human Heart will help you discover your own unique path to life and purpose.

You Only Get One First Impression

Be clean and dressed professionally. No stains, no wrinkles, and bring extra deodorant. With that said, don’t overpower your interview with too much cologne or perfume. Bring any sample portfolio or extra resume copies with you in a proper folder or briefcase. Make eye contact and smile, but be relaxed. And be humble. A lot of people hurt their chances of getting hired just by being overconfident and seeming arrogant.

Punctuality is Crucial

Be on time. No exceptions. With so many candidates, you’ve already given your potential employer a reason to count a strike against you, before you’ve even had a chance to speak. Of course, things do happen, so if you’re going to be late, call ahead within fifteen minutes of your scheduled appointment to someone who can relay the message promptly to the interviewer. Apologize again once you arrive, and again before you leave, if necessary.

Do Your Homework

It’s a sign of a good potential employee if you’ve researched the company and position before arriving at your interview. Not only is it helpful for you to be prepared and confident, it saves times and diminishes the chances of confusion. It’s an easy way to demonstrate your enthusiasm and shows that you use initiative, a trait any reputable company values.

Practice your Pitch

After you’ve researched the company, use the information to practice your “pitch.” Your pitch is basically the details of you and your work experience that you plan to utilize in your interview. You must put together a pitch for optimal interview success. Think of your accomplishments, your primary personality traits, goals and experience. What are your strengths? Your weaknesses? Most importantly, why do you want to work for this company? The more you contemplate questions like these, the clearer and more concise your answers will be upon interviewing. If you have trouble with public speaking or nerves, practice in the mirror or role play with a friend.

Honesty Really is Best

If you know you’ve had less than flattering work history moments, don’t lie. That could ruin any future chances you may have to earn a living. Companies do not want to be held responsible for a dishonest employee. If you’re asked about quitting or being fired, or any gaps in your employment, just be honest. It might help to practice this in addition to your pitch. Think of the most straightforward explanation, and if it’s a mistake you made, show that you’ve since learned from it. For example, if you and your boss hated each other, you could say something like, “I should’ve had a more creative solution to counteract our opposing personalities.” Turn it into a positive, and don’t place blame on anyone else.

Following these steps will take you further than any shortcomings you may have. Not having them will set you back more than any fancy credentials can save you. All in all, companies want decent, responsible employees. If you enter with common sense, all the rest can be easily taught.

Located on Jefferson Street near one of Nashville’s most burgeoning urban areas, Farmer’s market gets high marks not only for egalitarian charm but cultural diversity. From barbecue to baklava, sample any of the market’s local-owned establishments for authentic cuisine. Find clothing, crafts, jewelry, accessories, art, home dcor, herbs and flowers from any of the local vendors. Prices vary from a stretch to a steal, but generally are just what you’d expect for home grown organic produce–fair and sometimes negotiable. Restaurants like community favorite Swett’s boast nearly twice the price for the same fare you could get across the street at KFC, but also with twice the portion and soul food sensibility.

Whether you’re in the mood for Chinese, Greek, Mexican, or just a burger, all can be accommodated within the market’s walls, which is why it’s one of downtown Nashville’s favorite places to go for lunch. Right now, farmer’s market is reaching its annual resurgence, a weekend hotspot with Spring on the way. So bring your cash or just take advantage of a free sample, or inherit an age-old cooking tip. While I was there I bought a gallon jar of local honey for $20 bucks! Good for the allergies you know. For more information check out www.nashvillefarmersmarket.com

With E=MC2, Mimi seems to feel safe fully emerging out of her urban closet without much fuss, parading her unique rapport with the urban world. She doesn’t get much credit for the mastery of retaining one’s identity amid a room full of hard-nosed hip hop company. Never short of glittery, girly and glamorous, Mariah doesn’t overthink her T-Pain, Young Jeezy, Damien Marley, Swizz Beats, and Scott Storch collaborations, and no party overpowers the other. Long time collaborator Jermaine Dupri returns for a few hip-hop infused ballads, and Brian Michael-Cox might be replacing JD as Mariah’s most edifying muse.

Though always the people pleaser, she takes a few risks lyrically, stylistically, and even vocally. And with Mariah, when we say “vocal risks,” we mean restraint. Some have implied that “the voice” is losing some of its vigor. It’s a bit hypocritical to bash her for over-embellishing pipes one moment and then propagate the idea that she’s lost it once she complies. Mariah’s showcasing the same focused, discerning energy she discovered on “Mimi,” yet elaborating more on her full alto range and exploring the genius of a single note rather than a milieu, a conspicuous and pleasant diversion. Her nearly 40 year old instrument has gained notable character and color that makes one eager for the future, and the high note has become as informative and dependable as speaking. The acrobatics may have diminished but E=MCs exhibits the possibilities still being explored.

It’s no mystery that Mariah writes for the radio. She strikes me as a person who grew up in front of that fast evolving medium night and day, and waiting for that one song to come on that would complete her mix tape. It would be no surprise, then, that just about every song on her albums sounds like a single. E=MC2 is no exception, with particular up tempo stand-outs Migrate, I’ll Be Lovin’ You Long Time, and of course, Touch My Body. There isn’t a weak number in the bunch yet it creates a strange sensation of uniformity, not really any sense of storytelling or dimensions like an album in the classic sense. I appreciate Mimi’s sense of life as a party, but even parties go through phases. In that regard, the album seems more like a compilation, and less like an artists’ journey through their current phase of life. As much as we love the music maker, we’d much rather see the person. It only gives us more reason to believe maybe there’s nothing else there. “I Wish You Well” is the single most triumphant moment on the album. Mariah’s at the peak of her artistic expression with this stripped, gospel-tinged confessional. She harkens back to her debut album’s track “Vanishing” with a single piano to accompany her impassioned plea to anonymous transgressors. The marriage of Mariah’s soulful tendencies to scripture is almost too much take in yet worth the effort, the usually cryptic songwriter reserves the last track for one of only a few rare occasions to show instead of just tell. The track is sure to have fans peeing on themselves, and passers by putting a renewed faith in Mariah’s might.

The mark of a true artist is the distinction of their voice. Audibly, Mariah has never had trouble being heard, emulated, or recognized. But with E=MC2, she makes a continued effort to introduce her unique point of view into the public sphere, caring less and less who comes and who goes. The party keeps Mariah young, while the maturity rests within her stylistic evolution and the charming rasp from decades of laboring love. What keeps Mariah relevant is the perception of herself as a viable artist still discovering her powers. This album’s been in Mariah from the start, but I personally can’t wait til she’s done having fun and getting down to business. I predict the more she fully embraces what she is first, before what she’s known for, the more she’ll convince us to do the same.

Lyrics/Content: 3

Mariah gets points for playfulness. Following in the tradition of Emancipation’s “Get Your Number,” Carey pokes fun at the serious matter of her high profile lifestyle on this record, prefacing the occasion with fodder such as “I better not catch this on YouTube,” and threatening to hunt the anonymous lover down. Further straying from the broader, less threatening topics of love found on earlier material. Mimi loses points however for unflattering explicitness, decidedly out of character and usually reserved for the “flash in the pan” type single. Worse than that, it’s not even believable. A self-proclaimed novice when it comes to promiscuity, one can hardly picture Mimi making such a request with confidence, let alone “put me on the floor” or any of that other mess. Awkward to hear and even more awkward to sing along to. And the “white tee” reference is a little excruciating.

Catchiness: 4

The “hook” seems to remain loyal to the current trend of commercial hip hop, with trademark Mariah Carey smoothness that makes it palatable enough to pry open the market of listeners slightly wider than could a native hip hop artist. Fellow lambs will eat it up, of course, however it’s unlikely the track will garner any new fans. Though, innocuous, it ensures hours of listening stamina, meaning it could withstand the potentially hundreds of times it will be played a day.

Melody: 3

Though it’s true Mariah learned a lesson with “We Belong Together” that less is more, but perhaps she’s gone to the other extreme thinking more less is more more. The song itself explores probably less than ten notes throughout, no more than three at a time mimicking a popular sing songy rap style on which fellow producer “Dream” is known for capitalizing. Fine for a cameo-ridden hip hop producer, a little insulting coming from the four octave diva that rewrote the American songbook and influenced a generation of singers.

Vocals: 4

Critics who often cry “too much melisma” with Mariah ought to be appeased. Carey continues to explore the possibilities when it comes to delivery, jumping into the tone and attitude of the lyrics, rhythm, and melody like a seasoned double dutcher. But she keeps it just above a flirty whisper. Carey again reserves the end of the song to improvise, casually blowing for a few bars but keeps it calm and reserves the whistle register for another track. What results is an intriguing and nuanced interpretation that will still delight existing fans, and invites a second listen for newcomers. Mimi’s more than through with trying to prove herself.

Creativity: 3

Forgive me for not being partial to the current “lean and/or rock with it” trend of music leaking into the mainstream. It’s no secret Mimi breathes hip hop, with that a few of us who can’t let go (excuse the pun) of the top 40 friendly 90′s still take issue. Mariah seamlessly and comfortably marries herself to urban influence on this song, for better or worse. And it’s one of the more organic sounding derivatives out of the genre. Though don’t expect Talib Kweli to be making a guest appearance, he may be in her CD player but won’t make it past Mariah’s laser beam eye for the commercial.

Overall rating 3.5 out of 5