Archive for the ‘Domestic Violence’ Category

2024 October 1, 14:02-23:04 Kuala Lumpur time

Happy Anniversary!

Mother-Daughter Novel LOVE MADE OF HEART debuted in October 2002, now twenty-two years old!

Ten thousand people to thank!  Please accept my gratitude.

book cover of LOVE MADE OF HEART, written by Teresa LeYung-Ryan (Teresa Jade LeYung)

The book Love Made of Heart  was:

*  a 2002 nominee of the Asian American Literary Awards

*  recommended by the California School Library Association

*  recommended by the California Reading Association

*  used by teachers who taught Women in Psychology, First-Year Composition college course, Advanced Composition English-as-a-Second-Language classes

*  read by students at Stanford University, U.C. Berkeley, San Francisco State University, City College of San Francisco, City College of Sacramento, Lowell High School, and many other wonderful institutions

*  available at public libraries

*  and still is… archived at the San Francisco History Center

*  read by thousands of readers, many of whom I never got the chance to thank in person … I thank everyone now and always.

Teresa Jade LeYung (formerlyTeresa LeYung-Ryan) uses her novel Love Made of Heart to:

*  celebrate the courage of immigrants

*  encourage adult children of mentally ill parents to speak openly about the stigmas

*  help survivors of family violence find their own voices

About the book and the folks who helped me craft her and helped her thrive in the publishing world:

https://lovemadeofheart.com/Love-Made-of-Heart-a-Daughter,-a-Mother,-a-Journey-Through-Mental-Illness.html

Reviews and Interviews:

https://lovemadeofheart.com/Reviews-Interviews-Love-Made-of-Heart.html

Readers who posted their reviews on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Made-Heart-Teresa-Leyung/dp/0758202172/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VzaNAlDDKsMS8NPx1G4aCQ.CevWcA9M_SL_K7IrypcIQ7wVZpx2Htg9HaAJ1e6q0aw&qid=1727778688&sr=1-1

Love Made of Heart is listed in Wikipedia when you search: “Chinese Immigration to the United States”

Autobiographies and novels:

• Maxine Hong Kingston, The Woman Warrior: Memoirs of a Girlhood Among Ghosts, Vintage 1989 (Neuausgabe), ISBN 0679721886
• Amy Tan, The Joy Luck Club, Putnam Adult 1989, ISBN 0399134204
• Laurence Yep, Dragonwings. Golden Mountain Chronicles. 1903, (HarperTrophy) 1977, ISBN 0064400859
• Teresa LeYung Ryan, Love Made of Heart, Kensington Publishing Corporation (Neuausgabe), ISBN 0758202172

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_immigration_to_the_United_States

“Teresa LeYung Ryan is so proud that her work is included in the same list as the works of Maxine Hong Kingston, Amy Tan, and Laurence Yep, especially when Maxine Hong Kingston’s The Woman Warrior inspired Teresa to begin writing Love Made of Heart.”

Again, Everyone, please accept my gratitude.

Sincerely,

Teresa Jade LeYung

Published author, blogger, lover of Paris, FRANCE, photo historian, story-theme consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says:

“I wish you and everyone you care about … vibrant health and happiness always!”

Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says:
“I love helping writers identify the themes in their manuscripts to hook readers, and, build and fortify their platforms before and after publication. Reach out, not stress out.”

Love Made Of Heart ®

September 28, 2024, 22:55  Teresa Jade LeYung says:

“Author and Illustrator Maria Kawah Leung uses her children’s book to help communities help families all over the world.”

Happy fourth anniversary to:

Educator, Children’s Book Author and Illustrator, Children’s Advocate MARIA KAWAH LEUNG and Happy Dog and Mia, and their duo-language (English and Chinese), delightfully illustrated children’s book entitled:

LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET: AND HOW THEY STAY STRONG IN AN UNHAPPY HOME

Happy Anniversary to children's book author Maria Kawah Leung and Happy Dog and Mia!

https://www.amazon.com/Little-Heroes-Bay-Street-Simplified/dp/1543759815/ref=sr_1_1?crid=15K4Y481LOH3Z&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EZ627MWriWbxRptr94SE4BtcVRPDV1waqprKg5kOfQCGlihRHkS6-FzE3h1JmvbF6MThVUHKGWjFQfqrvwqlu-OaeK6R97ZYkVh1viRKrFs93F7PbH5ZkvSJz6SvwVOHwXZ_zbdKj8_2LkfgqszkXRYmxR7TYNBXm8d86RoFKS_I90n2rgVdXBJXOpwcQq_L1-yfF62T6k6n3cm5RvNefexj6UugY9KHrE0dQdydVPs.0YOWrBeVH9YvhK_w_Jn0MZB4CMiKdkMCK2QjHs7yXoQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=LITTLE+HEROES+OF+BAY+STREET&qid=1727535609&sprefix=little+heroes+of+bay+stre%2Caps%2C351&sr=8-1

MARIA KAWAH LEUNG shows how a girl named Mia and her loyal companion Happy Dog (he’s much much more than a stuffed animal) use their imagination to cope in an environment they have no control over – domestic violence.

Together, they learn that friends do not have to always like the same things, and, that love means protecting and comforting each other. 

Maria Kawah Leung’s messages help everyone – “When you’re scared or sad, talk to grown-ups you trust.”  and  “It’s not a child’s job to make parents happy.”

Maria Kawah Leung says: “Domestic Violence Awareness is about helping the Families.”

Happy Anniversary to children's book author Maria Kawah Leung and Happy Dog and Mia!

author Maria Kawah Leung reading her delightfully illustrated children’s book

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vivKrfvokkk   13 minutes

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How to get out of Domestic Violence (GET HELP NOW!)

Jamie Ong interviews children’s book author Maria Kawah Leung

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZ4DfNzh0g

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To watch the 39-minute interview – author Maria Kawah Leung in conversation with Kim McMillon, Ph.D.

https://youtu.be/p-YMEPfwp2Q

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LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET is endorsed by Hannah Yeoh who is a Member of Parliament in Malaysia.

Story Time with Hannah Yeoh: LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k8DLcJlvVg  20 minutes

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Happy Anniversary to children's book author Maria Kawah Leung and Happy Dog and Mia!

author Maria Kawah Leung’s facebook page: https://web.facebook.com/maria.kawah

To see my other blog posts that reference Maria Kawah Leung  https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/?s=Maria+Kawah+Leung&search=

Sincerely,

Teresa Jade LeYung

Published author, blogger, lover of Paris, FRANCE, photo historian, Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says:

“I wish for all children everywhere – gentle, kindhearted, easy-going, safety conscious, open-minded guardians/caregivers/teachers, nature’s healing, love and laughter.  Thank you, dear Educator, Children’s Book Author and Illustrator, Children’s Advocate MARIA KAWAH LEUNG and Happy Dog and Mia, and your duo-language (English and Chinese), delightfully illustrated children’s book entitled:  LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET: AND HOW THEY STAY STRONG IN AN UNHAPPY HOME.“

Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says:
“I love helping writers identify the themes in their manuscripts to hook readers, and, build and fortify their platforms before and after publication. Reach out, not stress out.”

Love Made Of Heart ®

2024 August 10, updated August 15, 16

Blog post updated September 9, 2024 by Teresa Jade LeYung, 2018 alumna of A PLACE OF HER OWN

Cynthia Tom, founding director of A PLACE OF HER OWN, says:

Join our Closing Celebration on September 15, 2024 from 12pm-3pm as we lift and are lifted by the collective and individual strength from our PLACE artists! They have wholeheartedly embraced the full spectrum of emotions, from discomfort to joy, fostering new connections and personal growth — all for you to witness in real time through this found-object based art exhibition.

Our close friend and dear supporter of PLACE, Ravi Chandra MD also wrote a great piece about the show titled, “Intergenerational Trauma and Ancestral Pattern Shifting” on Psychology Today you must check out when you have the chance!

That being said, come to our final festivities, invite your friends and family and be inspired with this exhibition one last time!

Sept 15, 2024 Closing Celebration: Gallery 12– 3pm
Location: J-SEI Cultural Center, 1285 66th St, Emeryville, CA 94608 USA

Artists include: Ahran Lee, Amy Lam, AVOTCJA, Christina Yu, Christine Yang, Cueponcaxochitl Moreno Sandoval, Cynthia Tom, Deborah Santana, Emily Yamauchi, Frances Cachapero, Irene Wibawa, Jazz Diaz, Julie Lee Andersen, Katie Quan, Manon Wada with Sanié Bokhari, Martha Zamora, PAZ, Purla Montiel, Reyna Daudian, Shari Arai DeBoer, Tomo Hirai, Yeujin Yoon, Zaina Rose

Intergenerational Trauma and Ancestral Pattern Shifting

Healing intergenerational trauma through art

Ravi Chandra M.D., D.F.A.P.A.

The Pacific Heart

https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/the-pacific-heart/202408/bipoc-people-and-the-art-of-ancestral-pattern-shifting

updated August 21, 2024 Reviewed by Michelle Quirk

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Bonjour everyone!

I cheer for Cynthia Tom and everyone connected to Cynthia’s programs and events !

August 11 – September 15, 2024

A PLACE OF HER OWN

found-object based art Exhibition

Founder of A PLACE OF HER OWN / Teacher / Artist / Curator CYNTHIA TOM   says:

August 11 – September 15, 2024

A PLACE OF HER OWN Exhibition

You are invited to view this found-object based art exhibition. PLACE multi-ethnic, multi-generational alumni artists share their healing journeys and the art created in answer to the question, “If you had a place of your own, what would it be?”

Using found objects, their intuition and self-agency, they create works that speak to their healing journeys, imperfect, messy and gloriously full of epiphanies.

Co-curated by Cynthia Tom and Jillie Andersen

 

August 11. Opening:  Gallery 12-5 pm  Recep 1pm – 4pm
August 18.  Artist Talk: Gallery 12-5 pm/ Talk 1pm – 4pm
Sept 15. Closing Celebration: Gallery 12– 3pm

Location: JSEI at 1285 66th St, Emeryville, CA 94608

Artists include: Ahran Lee, Amy Lam, AVOTCJA, Christina Yu, Christine Yang, Cueponcaxochitl Moreno Sandoval, Cynthia Tom, Deborah Santana, Emily Yamauchi, Frances Cachapero, Irene Wibawa, Jazz Diaz, Julie Lee Andersen, Katie Quan, Manon Wada with Sanié Bokhari, Martha Zamora, PAZ Zamora, Purla Montiel, Reyna Daudian, Shari Arai DeBoer, Tomo Hirai, Yeujin Yoon, Zaina Berger

https://www.aplaceofherown.org/

https://www.aplaceofherown.org/newsevents/save-the-date-a-place-of-her-own-exhibition

Cynthia Tom receives  a 2024 WOMAN WARRIOR Award from Pacific Asian American Women Bay Area Coalition.

Hearty congratulations to Cynthia Tom and all the award recipients.

Ceremony to be held on September 22, 2024 at Hotel Kabuki – JDV by Hyatt,  1625 Post Street San Francisco, CA 94115

Tickets:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-woman-warrior-awards-tickets-949421303677

Pacific Asian American Women Bay Area Coalition says:

“Join us as we honor six local Asian Pacific Islander women for their lasting contributions to the API community and notable career achievements. First bestowed in 1983, PAAWBAC is excited to carry on this tradition of recognizing accomplished API women as modern-day Woman Warriors — talented and courageous — as they distinguish themselves in their respective fields, while giving back to others.”

https://www.paawbac.org/woman-warriors-main

I cheer for Cynthia Tom and everyone connected to Cynthia’s programs, events, exhibitions !!!

Teresa Jade LeYung with her art "My Four Desks" photo by artist Irene Wibawa

A Place of Her Own 2018 Alumna /  Story Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung

wishes Everyone – Beauty, Total Wellness, Peace and Joy!

Published author, blogger, lover of Paris, FRANCE, photo historian, Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says:

“I love helping writers identify the themes in their manuscripts to hook readers, and, build and fortify their platforms before and after publication. Reach out, not stress out.”
https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog

Love Made Of Heart ®

2024 July

I wish for all children everywhere – gentle, kindhearted, easy-going, safety conscious, open-minded guardians/caregivers/teachers, nature’s healing, love and laughter.

I celebrate Educator, Children’s Book Author, Children’s Advocate MARIA KAWAH LEUNG and her duo-language (in English and Chinese), delightfully illustrated children’s book entitled:

LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET: AND HOW THEY STAY STRONG IN AN UNHAPPY HOME

Teresa Jade LeYung took Maria Kawah Leung's delightfully illustrated children's book LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET to City of Light, spring 2024

MARIA KAWAH LEUNG shows how a girl named Mia and her loyal companion Happy Dog (he’s much much more than a stuffed animal) use their imagination to cope in an environment they have no control over – domestic violence.

Together, they learn that friends do not have to always like the same things, and, that love means protecting and comforting each other. 

Maria Kawah Leung’s messages help everyone – “When you’re scared or sad, talk to grown-ups you trust.”  and  “It’s not a child’s job to make parents happy.”

Maria Kawah Leung says: “Domestic Violence Awareness is about helping the Families.”

To watch the 39-minute interview – author Maria Kawah Leung in conversation with Kim McMillon, Ph.D.

https://youtu.be/p-YMEPfwp2Q

LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET is endorsed by Hannah Yeoh who is a Member of Parliament in Malaysia.

Story Time with Hannah Yeoh: LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k8DLcJlvVg  20 minutes

author Maria Kawah Leung reading her delightfully illustrated children’s book

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vivKrfvokkk   13 minutes

Teresa Jade LeYung’s Blog post:

Maria Kawah Leung in conversation with Kim McMillon, Ph.D.

https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/educator-childrens-book-author-childrens-advocate-maria-kawah-leung-says-domestic-violence-awareness-is-about-helping-the-families-2/

Thank you for reading my blog post:

“Author Maria Kawah Leung uses her illustrated children’s book to speak out on behalf of families everywhere”

I wish for all children everywhere – gentle, kindhearted, easy-going, safety conscious, open-minded guardians/caregivers/teachers, nature’s healing, love and laughter.

To see my other blog posts that reference Maria Kawah Leung  https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/?s=Maria+Kawah+Leung&search=

Sincerely,

Teresa Jade LeYung

Published author, blogger, lover of Paris, FRANCE, photo historian, Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says:
“I love helping writers identify the themes in their manuscripts to hook readers, and, build and fortify their platforms before and after publication. Reach out, not stress out.”

Love Made Of Heart ®

“Celebrating Artist, Curator, Activist, Teacher CYNTHIA  TOM and Everyone Connected to Cynthia’s A Place Of Her Own™”

August 2024 News:

Thank you, Flo Oy Wong of Asian American Women Artists Association https://www.aawaa.net/, for sharing wonderful news:

Cynthia Tom https://www.aplaceofherown.org/ receives  a 2024 WOMAN WARRIOR Award from Pacific Asian American Woman Bay Area Coalition.

Hearty congratulations to Cynthia Tom and all the award recipients.

Ceremony to be held on September 22, 2024 at Hotel Kabuki – JDV by Hyatt,  1625 Post Street San Francisco, CA 94115

Tickets:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-woman-warrior-awards-tickets-949421303677

Pacific Asian American Woman Bay Area Coalition says:

“Join us as we honor six local Asian Pacific Islander women for their lasting contributions to the API community and notable career achievements. First bestowed in 1983, PAAWBAC is excited to carry on this tradition of recognizing accomplished API women as modern-day Woman Warriors — talented and courageous — as they distinguish themselves in their respective fields, while giving back to others.”

https://www.paawbac.org/woman-warriors-main

Cynthia_Tom_photo_by Teresa_Jade_LeYung_2019_Paris,_FRANCE img_8187

Artist Cynthia Tom says:

“My paintings are a form of visual meditations for me and I hope they can do the same for you.

“Each piece is created intuitively. It begins with a spark of an idea and allowed to evolve in its own time, even the title comes to me when its ready. Every work of art has a story to tell.

“Created with intentions for healing, wonder and resilience, I hope to spark for your imagination for a life filled with confidence, calm, delight, and fortitude.”

https://www.cynthiatom.com/

Cynthia_Tom_photo_by_Teresa_Jade_LeYung_2019_Paris,_FRANCE img_7702

Cynthia Tom is:

Cultural Surrealist | Visual Artist |Speaker and Cultural Community and Women focused Curator | Founding Director of A PLACE of HER OWN and Flying Lessons: Inquire Within workshops and lectures | Board President Emeritus – Asian American Women Artists Association

Cynthia_Tom_photo_by_Teresa_Jade_LeYung_2019_Paris,_FRANCE img_8679

A PLACE OF HER OWN™  https://www.aplaceofherown.org/

A PLACE OF HER OWN™ (PLACE) empowers community through its women. We provide trauma-informed art-based tools and thought processes, including a culturally conscious community to foster confidence, leadership, and compassion. We address generational trauma, colonization, and cultural conditioning, while promoting social justice and self-agency. Through workshops, exhibitions and presentations, we provide visibility and creative sanctuary, inviting women to define their aspirations and self-worth through intuitive art, celebrating their authentic selves.

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I thank Linda A. Harris and Tom Swan for encouraging me to see Cynthia Tom’s installation in the autumn of 2016. I thank Sue R. for giving me a ride to meet:

Tales of human trafficking from A Chinese American family’s perspective

I thank Margie Yee Webb for giving me a ride to pick up my first purchase of a Cynthia Tom painting.

I thank Sue R. for encouraging me to enroll in Cynthia’s 2018 A PLACE OF HER OWN™

Cynthia Tom with one section of her triptych 'Accepting The I Am' , Teresa_Jade_LeYung,_Margie_Yee_Webb_2017-11-18 img_4683

Renowned artist/cultural curator Cynthia Tom says: “To imagine a place of your own, for a woman, is an act of rebellion. Whether its physical or a state of mind, this concept drives self-care and love. This exhibition, the culminating phase of a 6-month healing program, is Intended to inspire, excite and ignite. It combines visual storytelling with mixed media and found objects, and insists upon new ways to re-imagine your place in the world.”

I thank Elisa Sasa Southard for helping me craft my artist statement in April 2018 when we were in Paris, FRANCE.

I thank everyone who were/are connected and supported/support and cheered/cheer for Cynthia Tom and A PLACE OF HER OWN™

Teresa_Jade_LeYung,_Cynthia_Tom,_Olga_Malyj_2019_Paris 030b

I thank Cynthia Tom who inspired me to join Asian American Women Artists Association https://www.aawaa.net/ in San Francisco, California, USA

I thank Cynthia Tom who led me to Dr. Amy Grace Lam https://www.vibrationalenergywellness.com/  and   https://www.amygracelam.com/

I thank Dr. Lam who led me to Dr. Jae Reed https://azureskychiro.com/  and   https://azureskychiro.com/meet-the-team/#jae-reed

Linda,_Cynthia,_Sasa Southard__Paris_2019.04.24_photo_by_Teresa_Jade_LeYung IMG_0753

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Here are links to a few of my blog posts that honor Cynthia Tom and everyone involved with A PLACE OF HER OWN™:

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https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/teresa-jade-leyung-celebrates-everyone-connected-to-artist-curator-educator-cynthia-tom-and-a-place-of-her-own/

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https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/theme-consultant-and-writing-coach-teresa-jade-leyung-supports-artists-who-face-hungry-ghosts/

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https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/cynthia-tom-to-teach-artmaking-to-access-your-identity-at-chinese-historical-society-of-america/

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https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/story-theme-consultant-teresa-leyung-ryan-living-beauty-full-life-as-teresa-jade-leyung/

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Thank you for reading my blog post:

“Celebrating Artist, Curator, Activist, Teacher CYNTHIA  TOM and Everyone Connected to Cynthia’s A Place Of Her Own™”

Cynthia_Tom_photo_by_Teresa_Jade_LeYung_2019_Paris,_FRANCE img_7919__

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I wish Cynthia Tom and everyone – peace, vibrant health and happiness always!!!

Teresa Jade LeYung with her art "My Four Desks" photo by artist Irene Wibawa

Sincerely,

Teresa Jade LeYung

Blog post #616

2022 October 1, California;  October 3, 22:22

I, Teresa Jade LeYung (formerly Teresa LeYung Ryan), celebrate the 20th anniversary of my mother-daughter novel LOVE MADE OF HEART.

This is just the first of a series of Thank You as I continue celebrating LOVE MADE OF HEART and the kindhearted souls (teachers, librarians, booksellers, media folks, community leaders, friends and colleagues, mentors, readers and more readers) who have helped me speak up about:

– honoring courageous immigrants 

– inspiring adult children of mentally ill parents to speak openly about the stigmas

– helping survivors of family violence find their own voices

– speaking from the heart

What does “love made of heart” mean?

In the Chinese written language … the word “heart” is inside the words “grace,” “forgiveness,” “perseverance,” “compassion.”

The word “heart” is inside the word “love”…   one of the themes in my mother-daughter novel.

I shall dedicate the entire month of October to thank everyone who has helped me delivered my first novel into the world and all the readers. Many people have helped me but have never broadcast their kindness; I don’t know who they are; I thank everyone from my heart.

then Teresa LeYung Ryan, co-presenter with Elisa Sasa Southard and Kathi Kamen Goldmark at San Francisco Writers Conference - photo by Cheri Eplin 2004

Love Made of Heart: a Daughter, a Mother, a Journey Through Mental Illness
http://www.lovemadeofheart.com/Love-Made-of-Heart-a-Daughter,-a-Mother,-a-Journey-Through-Mental-Illness.html

I begin my thanks to:

My mother and all family members, and, the characters (Ruby Lin, Vivien Lin, Mrs. Nussbaum, Dr. Thatcher) who inspired my story.

The teachers who taught the 10-week course “Writing Children’s Literature” where I met critique group members Evelyn Miche, Cat (before she moved to Maine), Theresa Stephenson, Olga Malyj (who joined us for a few months).

To Kim McMillon who believed in me … way back when, long before I started writing. Dr. Kim McMillon, poet, activist, with over twenty years of experience producing theatre, is now an author and Black Arts Movement historian.

Everyone who orchestrated the 1997 Jack London Writers’ Conference, members at the California Writers Club and the Women’s National Book Association.

Everyone at East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) where I had a full-time job at headquarters; to my boss at the time – Robert Doyle – who said “yes” to my request for a 6-week leave-of-absence to complete one last rewrite of my manuscript.

Susan Canale (at EBRPD), Luisa Adams (author), Martha Alderson (author) for reading my last rewrite and giving criticism and praise.

Everyone at Regional Parks Botanic Garden when I got a transfer to a part-time position, especially my boss Steve Edward, Ph.D.

To my then spouse Lyle Ryan for supporting my decision to take a part-time position.

To literary super agent Stacey Glick (now VP at Dystel, Goderich & Bourret LLC) who said that my manuscript LOVE MADE OF HEART was the gem she had rescued from the slush pile.

To acquisition editor/director John Scognamiglio, president Steven Zacharius, publisher Laurie Perkin, art director Louis Malcangi, and everyone at Kensington Publishing Corp. in New York

To artist Linda Christensen for giving me a lovely author-photo.

To my sister (author Maria Kawah Leung) and all my friends who gave me courage to NOT hide behind the book.

To everyone who has “pitched” me to folks at their favorite libraries, book stores, groups, clubs, organizations, radio, TV, online programs … so that I could deliver the messages the themes in my book Love Made of Heart.

Thank you, Maria, for making Love Made of Heart birdhouse wind-chime.

Thank you, Claire Lomax, for handcrafting bookmarks that had my book cover and book spine on them.

Thank you, artist Chandra Garsson, for painting your rendition of the book cover onto my bookcase – one of my most cherished treasures. (attention-grabbing book cover that Louis Malcangi at Kensington Publishing Corp in New York had created)

Thank you, dear California Writers Club fellow-member, for gifting me your gorgeous Chinese robe which I have worn to many book events.

Thank you to all California Writers’ Club members!

Thank you to all Women’s National Book Association members!

Thank you, Elisa Sasa Southard, for teaching me how to create talking-points and talking-taglines, attention-grabbing press releases, memorable bios, and, how to have fun in the crazy world of book promoting!

More thanks to Elisa Sasa Southard, Margie Yee Webb, Luisa Adams, Martha Alderson, Angie Choi, Linda Joy Myers, Mary E. Knippel, Lynn Scott, and all the other talented and kindhearted authors who have co-presented with me since 2000.

Thank you, everyone, for reading and also buying Love Made of Heart for your friends, and, inviting your friends to my events, and for going to my events more than once.

Thank you, everyone, for writing reviews.

Thank you to the teachers / educators, including Professors Victor Turks, Miriam Queen, Patricia Costello, Dan Haytin, Sheryl Fairchild and their delightful students.

Thank you to each reader!

Publisher’s description of LOVE MADE OF HEART

The Chinese word for ‘love’ is made up of many brush strokes. In the center of the word ‘love’ is the word ‘heart.’ Love is made of heart…” Twenty-seven-year-old Ruby Lin has what many women envy: a beautiful apartment in one of San Francisco’s best neighborhoods, a busy social life, and a coveted position as manager of special events for the tony St. Mark Hotel. But it’s Ruby’s personal life that’s become unmanageable ever since the day her mother’s emotional breakdown forced Ruby to hospitalize her, shaming the family. Now, Ruby is caught in the crossroads between two vastly different cultures–one in which she is the American girl, raised on kitschy television shows and black-and-white movies, and one in which she is known only as Daughter, the eldest, fulfiller of responsibilities. In putting together the pieces of her mother’s life, Ruby finds herself exploring the wounds of her own past. Starting with a forbidden locked tin box and the yellowing photograph inside, Ruby embarks on a startling journey of self-discovery that takes her through a family history rife with violence, betrayal and loss that reaches back through generations, from China to America, and finally to the secret pain of a mother’s sacrifice. Like the Chinese calligraphy that adorns her walls, Ruby comes to see that “life is not a straight road, ” but a language drawn with many brush strokes, where every misunderstanding must yield to the simple message of the heart. Filled with warmth and wisdom, this luminous debut novel heralds the arrival of an exciting new voice in fiction as it explores the complex bonds between mothers and daughters, the choices that divide us, and the love that brings us home.

The above is book jacket text written by author Libba Bray for Kensington Publishing Corp. New York for my novel LOVE MADE OF HEART

In my blog posts of October 1, 2013 and November 29, 2013, I said:

“Thank you to authors Frank Baldwin, Carol Schaefer, Lydia Kwa, and Gus Lee for writing lovely advance praise for my book cover. I am so grateful!”

“Special thanks to Martha Alderson, Luisa Adams, Susan Canale, Elisa Sasa Southard, Margie Yee Webb, Kim McMillon, Vicki Weiland !”

“I thank powerhouse Stacey Glick (VP at Dystel & Goderich Literary Management) who found insightful acquisition editor John Scognamiglio (at Kensington Publishing Corp. New York) who guided my mother-daughter novel Love Made of Heart to the Sales Team, good-energy publisher Laurie Perkin, president Steven Zacharius, Debbie Tobias was Sales Director, Lou Malcangi was art director, by the way . . . booksellers do judge a book by its cover, Libba Bray, who is now a New York Times bestselling author of young adult books, for book jacket copy, Jacquie Edwards for copy editing, marketing team, production team, Jessica in Sales, Michelle who was Webmaster,and EVERYONE at Kensington and their associates, especially Nancy Suib & Anne Shulenberger, and Kensington Publishing Corp.’s superstars Lydia Kwa, Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston, Mary B. Morrison, Mary Monroe, Carl Weber . . .

If not for these people, I would not have had the opportunity to experience the publishing industry from the author’s perspective . . .  which then gave me the credentials to talk about “who” really is the most qualified person to build the author’s platform and fanbase.

Author’s Note to Reader on the last page of LOVE MADE OF HEART

Thank you for letting me share Ruby Lin’s story with you.  Many readers have asked me what the characters in the novel have done for me.  My answer is this: I’ve learned that behind every face is a compelling story.

Please remember me as a writer who says YES! to compassion for mental illness and NO! to domestic violence and child abuse.

Who is Mrs. Nussbaum?  She lives in all our hearts.  Just as we have the “child within,” we also have the “wise elder within.”  May you always embrace your compelling story and allow your Mrs. Nussbaum to embrace you.

Sincerely,

Teresa LeYung Ryan (now Teresa Jade LeYung)

Happy 48th anniversary to Kensington Publishing Corp in New York!

https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/pages/about/ says:

“2022 marks Kensington Publishing Corp’s 48th year in business, and it is one of the last remaining independent U.S. publisher of hardcover, trade and mass market paperback books. From the time our very first book (Appointment in Dallas by Hugh McDonald), became a bestseller, Kensington has been known as an astute and determined David-vs.-Goliath publisher of titles in the full spectrum of categories, from fiction and romance to health and nonfiction. In addition to the close to 500 new books, the company releases through its diverse imprints per year, it has a backlist of more than 5,000 titles. Kensington is considered a leader and innovator in such areas of publishing as African-American, cozy mysteries, westerns, and of course, romance.”

Author and Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung--photo by author Lynn Scott

Love Made of Heart:

– a 2002 nominee of the Asian American Literary Awards

– recommended by the California School Library Association and the California Reading Association

– used in Women in Psychology, First-Year Composition college course, Advanced Composition English-as-a-Second-Language classes

– read by students at Stanford University, U.C. Berkeley, San Francisco State University, City College of San Francisco, City College of Sacramento, Lowell High School, and many other wonderful institutions

– archived at the San Francisco History Center

– available at public libraries

This is just the first of a series of Thank You as I continue celebrating LOVE MADE OF HEART and the kindhearted souls (teachers, librarians, booksellers, media folks, readers and more readers) who have helped me speak up about:

NO to domestic violence and child abuse!

YES to kindness and compassion with mental illness!

YES to speaking from the heart!

I wish everyone wellness, kindness, happiness!

Sincerely,

Teresa_Jade_LeYung__photo_by_Nan_and_MEK_2019

Teresa Jade LeYung

Story Theme Consultant / Photo Historian / Author / Public Library and Public School Advocate

http://www.OurBeautifulBrains.com goes to Teresa’s Blog

Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says: “I love helping writers identify the themes in their manuscripts to hook readers, and, build and fortify their platforms before and after publication. Reach out, not stress out.”

Love Made Of Heart ®

Love Made Of Heart ®

2022 July 31 California                  

Dear Readers,

I wish you and everyone around you – wellness, kindness, happiness.

I celebrate these two women -

Ms. Maria Kawah Leung and Ms. Goldie Hawn

Maria Kawah Leung is the author of a delightfully illustrated children’s book about a serious subject matter – domestic violence.   https://mariakawah.com/

LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET:  And How They Stay Strong In An Unhappy Home

(illustrators:  Maria Kawah Leung, Sandra Elyse Chavez, Maren Sleire Aasgaard)

This book is endorsed by Hannah Yeoh who is a Member of Parliament in Malaysia.

The main characters in LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET are Mia (a little girl) and her Happy Dog (who is much much more than a stuffed animal). Happy Dog is Mia’s best friend and confidant.

Maria Kawah Leung - photo by TL

Maria Kawah Leung says:

“I was born in Hong Kong but my family moved to San Francisco when I was almost two years old. I have happily been a teacher of young children for over 25 years and have taught in the USA (California and Massachusetts), China and Malaysia.

“My most rewarding experiences in life were working with children in pediatric wards, studying Chinese in Beijing, China and studying Spanish in Bogota, Colombia.

“I have also traveled to about 30 countries and all the continents except Antarctica. I have always enjoyed writing. Creating this book to help children feel they are not alone has been a life-long goal.

“Empowering children to overcome obstacles is my passion. This is why I wrote the children’s book Little Heroes of Bay Street and How They Stay Strong in an Unhappy Home.”

Ms. Leung adds: “I’m hoping that through my book… that every teacher would get a copy… and school counselors… nurses… so that they can be aware, and, look out for signs, and reach out to these children.”

Maria’s book is available in English, Chinese, Spanish and Bahasa Malaysia

To watch Maria Kawah Leung interviewed by Kim McMillon, PhD    https://youtu.be/p-YMEPfwp2Q   39 minutes

https://mariakawah.com/

Teresa Jade LeYung here …

As I watch Ms. Goldie Hawn’s keynote speech at Teachers College, Columbia University …  I think about Ms. Maria Kawah Leung as teacher, author,  children’s advocate.

Teachers College – Columbia University – Academic Festival Opening Ceremony Keynote Address: Goldie Hawn on Why Mindfulness in School Matters

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rh5-Pwj9T8E  39 minutes

Ms. Hawn’s foundation is MindUP  https://mindup.org/

Sincerely,

Teresa_Jade_LeYung_wishes_everyone_peace_and_wellness__photo_by_Nan_and_MEK

Teresa Jade LeYung

Proud sister of Maria Kawah Leung and proud auntie of Happy Dog

Story Theme Consultant / Photo Historian / Author / Public Library and Public School Advocate

http://www.OurBeautifulBrains.com goes to Teresa’s Blog

Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says: “I love helping writers identify the themes in their manuscripts to hook readers, and, build and fortify their platforms before and after publication. Reach out, not stress out.”

Love Made Of Heart ®

2022 June 26, 21:18; June 27, 01:00; June 28, 13:00, 23:16 California

Teresa Jade LeYung here saying “Thank you, Kim McMilllon,  Ph.D., for having children’s book author Maria Kawah Leung on your show “Writers On Writing”.  You both are Heroines / Heroes!”

To watch the 39-minute interview  https://youtu.be/p-YMEPfwp2Q

Maria Kawah Leung https://mariakawah.com/ is the author of the delightfully illustrated book

LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET:  And How They Stay Strong In An Unhappy Home

which is endorsed by Hannah Yeoh who is a Member of Parliament in Malaysia.

The main characters in LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET are Mia (a little girl) and her Happy Dog (who is much much more than a stuffed animal)

Happy Dog and Mia are the Little Heroes of Bay Street

children's_book_author_Maria_Kawah_Leung_and_Happy_Dog

Kim McMillon asks: “Maria, why did you write your book?”

At the first words, Maria Kawah Leung shows courage …

Maria: “Kim, I’m very much honored… because I am a behind-the-scenes kind of person, but, because of my book Little Heroes of Bay Street, it’s important for me to get the message out there… about domestic violence.”

Maria: “Happy Dog has been my best friend since I was 6 years old. He helped me survived watching my father abuse my mother. When I was little, and this was happening, I thought that my family was the only one in the entire world that this was happening to. So, it was very scary. And I felt very lonely. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I found out that other families had the same situation….”

Maria:  “I wanted to de-stigmatize this issue [domestic violence], so that people don’t think it’s something that happens ‘to those kinds of people’.  It happens everywhere, all cultures, all social economic statuses.  I want to raise awareness. Especially for the children. And the mothers. That’s why I wrote a children’s book.  Whereas my sister [ Teresa Jade LeYung] wrote an adult novel Love Made Of Heart.”

Kim: “The books you and your sister write help community, families, helping people understand just how prevalent and how dangerous domestic violence is.”

Maria: “I wish I had a book like this when I was little. That’s why I wrote it. For the children. For the teachers to be aware.  No teacher was ever aware that I was going through all this pain. I didn’t act out in school.  It’s not like I brought attention to myself.”

Maria: “I’m hoping that through my book… that every teacher would get a copy… and school counselors… nurses… so that they can be aware, and, look out for signs, and reach out to these children.”

Maria:  “It’s NOT an easy thing. It’s NOT an easy thing for a teacher to approach the parents. Because of feeling ashamed. I felt ashamed when I was abused. I thought people were going to say ‘She must be stupid or uneducated’ or ‘ she brought it onto herself’.  You have to be brave and confront the parents so that they can seek help.’

Kim asks Maria about Happy Dog …

Maria:  I was 6 years old, my brother Vitus was 10.  My brother had asked our parents to get Happy Dog for me…. At the store, my brother saw him [Happy Dog] on the top shelf. One of a kind. No tags.  Nothing. I think he’s an alien from somewhere. There he was, already kind of tattered… people must have played with him. His arm already needed sewing.”

(please watch/listen to the interview to find out who Happy Dog is a successor of)

To watch the 39-minute interview  https://youtu.be/p-YMEPfwp2Q

Maria: “A few years ago, artist Chandra Garsson,  a dear friend of my sister Teresa’s, gave him [Happy Dog] … would you say botox? New lips altogether. Thanks to Chandra, he looks brand new.” 

Maria: “Maybe I didn’t publish the book until now… because I wrote it ten years ago… because I felt ashamed that I grew up in a family with violence and that I also experienced it myself [when I was an adult] … that people might think I’m childish because I still cherish my childhood toy. Now I’m old enough to realize I don’t care what other people think. It’s a healthy thing for children to have somebody or some thing to make them feel safe… to go to their happy place.”

Maria Kawah Leung's children's_book_LITTLE_HEROES_OF_BAY_STREET_Mia_and_Happy_Dog

Kim: “I remember your mother. She was extraordinary beautiful. [ Rita ]  I had great admiration for her.”

Maria:  (holds up photo of herself and Happy Dog with her mother) “My mother was dying of metastasized breast cancer in 1999… Yes, she’s beautiful. Powerful. And she’s a powerful guardian angel now.”

Maria: “I’m not trying to tell happy children in happy homes that they should know about all these horrible things that happen in the world. But if it’s a friend in the classroom… you want to help that friend.”

Maria: (showing audience pages from her book; pages 22 and 23 where Ms. Chavez tells Mia that it is not Mia’s job to make her parents happy. )

Maria talks about the illustration on page 22 – about the pictures of the two people on the classroom wall.  “… my real life fourth grade teacher, I loved her, but she didn’t see any signs that I needed help. But she was a wonderful teacher. And that’s my friend Mayhar A. Amouzegar, provost at University of New Orleans. He has published several novels. And he writes nonfiction for his work.  All these inspirational people in my life.”

Kim: “I found your book so inspirational. I love it. It’s so important. I felt it was healing for you, pouring out that experience, that it could help another person. I thought that was beautiful.”

Maria: “If I can reach as many children as possible and help them heal … when children witness violence at a young age….”

Kim: “When I saw your book was out, I was so proud of you, Maria. I just adore you and I’m so happy that you’re doing so great for the world.  I do believe helping people to overcome issues is one of the greatest things, in service to others, so, thank you for so much service to others.”

Maria: “During lockdown of this pandemic, domestic violence has skyrocketed….  Please reach out to people because it’s scary for everybody, this pandemic. There’s fear, there’s hatred, it’s a scary time. Help the families out there now.”

https://mariakawah.com/ has resources for families in USA and Malaysia

To watch the 39-minute interview  https://youtu.be/p-YMEPfwp2Q

Please help LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET get into all branches of public libraries  https://www.worldcat.org/

Where to purchase Maria’s  book:   LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET:  And How They Stay Strong In An Unhappy Home

The book is available in 3 formats -  Hard cover; paperback; ebook – written in 2 languages – English and Chinese (simplified characters).

Soon the book will also be available in Spanish and Bahasa Malaysia.

Amazon  Paperback edition https://www.amazon.com/Little-Heroes-Bay-Street-Simplified/dp/1543759815/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1610550303&sr=8-1

Amazon E-Book edition https://www.amazon.com/Little-Heroes-Bay-Street-Simplified-ebook/dp/B08L6224B1/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1652110887&sr=1-1

BookDepository Paperback https://www.bookdepository.com/Little-Heroes-Bay-Street-Maria-Kawah-Leung/9781543759815?ref=grid-view&qid=1656449469019&sr=1-2

BookDepository  Hardcover  https://www.bookdepository.com/Little-Heroes-Bay-Street-Maria-Kawah-Leung/9781543759839#

Barnes & Noble  Paperback  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/little-heroes-of-bay-street-maria-kawah-leung/1137780986?ean=9781543759815

Barnes & Noble  NOOK e-book  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/little-heroes-of-bay-street-maria-kawah-leung/1137780986?ean=9781543759822

children's book author Maria_Kawah_Leung_inscribes_Litttle_Heroes_of_Bay_Street_to_her_sister_Teresa

 To watch the 39-minute interview  https://youtu.be/p-YMEPfwp2Q

https://mariakawah.com/

Educator, children’s book author, children’s advocate Maria Kawah Leung says:

“Creating my book LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET to help children feel that they are not alone has been a life-long goal. Empowering children to overcome obstacles is my passion.”

Dr. Kim McMillon, thank you again for having Maria Kawah Leung and Happy Dog on your show.

Maria, Happy Dog and Mia, thank you for being so brave. YOU are all beautiful and mighty Heroes!

Everyone, thank you for reading my blog post:

“Educator, children’s book author, children’s advocate Maria Kawah Leung says “Domestic Violence Awareness is about Helping the Families”

I wish you peace and wellness always!

Teresa_Jade_LeYung_photo_by_Nan_and_MEK

Teresa Jade LeYung

Proud sister of Maria Kawah Leung and proud auntie of Happy Dog

Story Theme Consultant / Photo Historian / Author / Public Library and Public School Advocate

http://www.OurBeautifulBrains.com goes to Teresa Jade LeYung’s Blog

Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says: “I love helping writers identify the themes in their manuscripts to hook readers, and, build and fortify their platforms before and after publication. Reach out, not stress out.”

Love Made Of Heart ®

“MIT new study – Time spent indoors increases risk of COVID at 6 feet or 60 feet…”
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/04/23/mit-researchers-say-youre-no-safer-from-covid-indoors-at-6-feet-or-60-feet-in-new-study.html

2021 March 14, 21:38; March 15, 14:47; March 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27; amended 2021 March 27, 07:44

Teresa Jade LeYung’s Blog Post #604

Last week, I was at a place not far from where I live -  to escape from construction noise (neighbors modifying their house to “age in place”).  While I am happy for anyone who can do that … the persistent noise produced by power tools and hammers reactivated my persistent pain pathways in such a way that I don’t have words to describe the sensations. For sure they are “unpleasant” and “undesirable”.

On March 10, at this place of tranquility, I woke up to the sound of power pruning.  NO!  I thought Am I being tested?

On March 11, another unpleasant incident occupied my thoughts.

On March 12, I read the email from kindhearted mentor author Margaret R. Davis.  Margaret asked: “Teresa, can’t you apply the very same principles you use to reduce pain to block out the irritation of the construction noise?”

Margaret is referring to what I have learned and what I continue to learn from Dr. Norman Doidge, Dr. Michael Moskowitz, Dr. Marla Golden, Dr. Danielle Rosenman, Professor Lorimer Moseley about retraining my brain / practicing neuroplasticity.

Thank you, Margaret! Thank you to ALL the dear hearts in my life who care about my well-being.  I am most grateful!

Soothing thoughts. I thought about LaH who delivered me to this lovely place and how MT, SS, NN individually visited me and brought delicious foods, and, everyone who sent cards, emails, text-messages, voicemail, thoughts, prayers.

On the evening of  March 13,  2021, I wanted to watch the movie PRIVATE BENJAMIN (starring Goldie Hawn) again.

Well, not only did I find clips on YouTube, but also, I was rewarded with https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZsGZZA3LNM  Ms. Goldie Hawn’s inspiring presentation  “Importance of Mindfulness” 

I was overjoyed listening to Ms. Goldie Hawn’s sharing stories of children learning about how their brains work, and talking about their amygdala, prefrontal cortex … what is neuroplasticity, practicing “Brain Breaks” (meditation) with their teachers three times a day in school, using soothing thoughts to quiet their hardworking brains, and, the children going home to share their knowledge with their parents and other family members.

At 19 minutes Ms. Hawn shows the audience a film on MindUP – the signature program for children of the Goldie Hawn Foundation.

At 39 minutes  Ms. Hawn talks about intentions; to witness thoughts, and not get attached to them.

[ Teresa Jade LeYung here…

“Wow, witness my thoughts but not get attached to them. I thought about my lineage….  If as children my grandparents on both sides were given the opportunities to practice this skill, then, as adults they would have passed it onto their children (my parents), and my parents would have passed it onto me and my siblings.

“My parents were young people during World War II; my mother was orphaned; my father had to leave home to find work and send money to support his mother and siblings; then, they experienced colonization . . . such chaotic lives . . . and no one to teach them how to create peace for their beautiful brains.

“Last week, while I was at that lovely place that turned out to be not so tranquil, I said to my pals ‘I am what I think.’  If I am to truly heal from persistent pain and unpleasant sensations (all produced by Beautiful Brain), I must practice detaching myself from worrisome thoughts, and, use soothing thoughts to create pleasant sensations.” ]

 * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * *

Above graphics of the brain is from TRANSFORMING THE BRAIN IN PAIN: NEUROPLASTIC TRANSFORMATION workbook

by Michael H. Moskowitz, MD & Marla D. Golden, DO

http://www.neuroplastix.com 

https://shop.neuroplastix.com/Neuroplastic-Transformation-Workbook-92-W8PZ-LIIY.htm

 [ Teresa Jade LeYung here…

“I wonder if Dr. Moskowitz, Dr. Golden or Dr. Danielle Rosenman know about Ms. Hawn’s foundation and that the children in the MindUP program know what their Amygdala, Prefrontal Cortex and other parts of their brains do and how they (the children) learn to develop mental fitness.

“In our family, no one taught us anything resembling mental fitness.

“The adults were inept. In the 1970s, my escape was watching movies from the 1940′s, but, many of the characters in those films were lost souls. Our brother turned to music. Our little sister relied on her imagination; her stuffed animal companion Happy Dog was her loyal and gentle confidant.

“As an adult, my sister always chose careers that involved helping children.  She is Maria Kawah Leung – author of LITTLE HEROES OF BAY STREET: And How They Stay Strong in an Unhappy Home.  The protagonists in her illustrated book are Mia and Happy Dog.   To hear a reading of Maria Kawah Leung’s book by Hannah Yeoh, a member of Parliament in Malaysia, and to hear Happy Dog’s message to children, and Maria’s comforting words to children and adults … watch on Youtube  https://youtu.be/9k8DLcJlvVg

“If MindUP had existed during our childhood . . . I can just see my little sister coming home to show our parents how to “quiet their hardworking brains” ]

* * * * * * *

 https://mindup.org/

The heroes at MindUP announce:  “We are happy to announce MindUP will now be rebranded to MindUP For Life.  Evolving the visual identity to embody its new holistic direction.

We are thrilled to unveil our new brand identity and share with you that MindUP is evolving to become MindUP for Life. After many years as a school-based program for educators, MindUP for Life will now also be available to parents, families, and adults. This rebranding marks an exciting time in MindUP’s history, as we are launching the 2nd edition of our curriculum as well as an interactive online platform projected to launch this spring to support our growing audience. Over the last few months, we have worked with the amazing team at Le Parc Design to create a new image that would accurately depict our growth and helps us impact as many individuals as possible.

 * * * * * * *

Dear Readers,

Thank you for reading this blog post:  Author and Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says: “Everywhere I go, I learn about our beautiful brains. This week, MindUP, Ms. Goldie Hawn’s foundation”

I wish you and your beautiful brains – safety, kindness, excellent health, clear water, blue sky, delicious eats, smiles, sweet laughter, soothing thoughts and more soothing thoughts!

Sincerely,

photo of Teresa Jade LeYung by Sasa Southard, world adventurer

Teresa Jade LeYung

Theme Consultant / Platform-Building Coach

Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says: “I love helping writers identify the themes in their manuscripts to hook readers, and, build and fortify their platforms before and after publication.  Reach out, not stress out.”
www.TeresaJadeLeYung.com

Coach Teresa’s workbook -
Build Your Writer’s Platform & Fanbase In 22 Days: Attract Agents, Editors, Publishers, Readers, and Media Attention NOW  — print edition and ebook

author Teresa Jade LeYung (mask and photo by Emily)

http://www.OurBeautifulBrains.com   takes you to Story Continuity / Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung’s blog - resources regarding our beautiful  brains  / persistent pain / depression  / wellness

Love Made Of Heart ®

Teresa Jade LeYung says “Be kind to our beautiful brains.”

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung’s Blog Post Number 600; Part 3 of first trilogy on our Beautiful Brains -

2021 January 11, 22:55 — January 12, 00:10; January 12, 22:18–23:28;  January 13, 14:14–15:10; 17:44–19:27; 19:56–22:36

California USA

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says: “Look what happens when persistent (chronic) pain pathways take over the other brain functions – impacting my emotions, problem-solving, memory, creativity, and …”

 **

All graphics in this blog post are from Michael H. Moskowitz, MD & Marla D. Golden, DO

**

When Beautiful Brain is not producing pain -

 **

When Beautiful Brain is producing acute pain –

 **

When Beautiful Brain is producing persistent (chronic) pain -

 **

According to Dr. Michael Moskowitz, Dr. Marla Golden, Dr. Norman Doidge, Dr. Danielle Rosenman -

There are 9 areas in the thinking brain (actually a few more, because some are on both sides of the brain) that control our personal experience of pain and discomfort. This is where pain signals are received.  Normally, only 5% of the nerve cells in the brain process pain.  In persistent pain, 15-25% of the cells of the entire brain are involved! The actual map of the brain has changed, with an increased part of the map given to pain.  This is because the pain areas get bigger, stealing nerves and synapses (connections) from the rest of the brain.

The relationship between pain (or discomfort) and mood (includes anxiety and depression):

Remember that the brain has different areas for different functions? It’s actually more complicated than that! Many brain functions are located in the same areas or are very close together, and there are some shared connections. (Review: “Nerves that fire together wire together.”)

Dr. Moskowitz and Dr. Golden say to “flood” the brain map, interrupt pain signals with pleasurable –

- THOUGHTS

- IMAGES

- SENSATIONS

- MEMORIES

- SOOTHING EMOTIONS

- MOVEMENT

- BELIEFS

Dr. Danielle Rosenman adds: “Smile for yourself and talk out loud to your Brain.”

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says:

“I refuse to let pain pathways hijack other Brain functions. Some days I win the steering wheel/control panel. Other days Pain/Depression win. The more consistent I give my Beautiful Brain pleasure, the more winning days I shall have.

“Dr. Danielle Rosenman (via ZOOM sessions) has guided and coached me (with techniques from Dr. Moskowitz and Dr. Golden) in creating my unique ‘bag of tricks’ to interrupt pain, depression and other unpleasant signals.”

Dr. Norman Doidge and Professor Lorimer Moseley say: “MOVEMENT is critical in retraining the nervous system. Even imagining movement will retrain the system!”

https://www.normandoidge.com/

https://www.neura.edu.au/staff/prof-lorimer-moseley/

How do I create Pleasure for my Brain? How do I communicate with / give feedback to my Brain?

My evolving “Bag of Tricks” (with the 7 modalities) to give my Beautiful Brain pleasure:

“Imagining” any of these modalities when I can’t access the physical form (especially during COVID-19 Stay At Home order) serves me well.

THOUGHTS -

When pain or depression signals (including unpleasant thoughts) pop up, I have to interrupt them with pleasurable thoughts.

Pleasurable Thoughts this month include:  candied wintermelon pastry (thanks to MT’s selecting); sweet persimmons (thanks to EO); Nan’s signature pesto; Linda’s signature pear Clafoutis; Sasa’s signature salads; Pad Thai with fresh ingredients.

IMAGES -

Because our brains store all experiences (including what we see in movies. read about, and hear about…), I have to stay away from all unpleasant images (even some of my favorite movies, details of sensational news) while I am retraining Beautiful Brain

Pleasurable images include looking at – my photos taken in Paris; postcards of paintings by  Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Marc Chagall; photos from MT of her hikes; photos from Marie-Christine (she’s in France);  photos of nature and kids (2-legged and 4-legged ones) from all my friends; art by Chandra Garsson, Cynthia Tom, Cris Matos, Sharon Leong;  photos of Happy Dog (my sister Maria Kawah Leung’s hero in her book Little Heroes Of Bay Street);  seeing Linda’s little Gracie; the montage (of me and “Brain-no-pain”) at the end of this blog post.

SENSATIONS -

Some sensations I liked (before persistent pain began) aren’t pleasurable right now – drinking hot tea fuels pain right now.

While I am happy for neighbors who are modifying their house for “Aging In Place”, the construction noise (hammering, drilling) also fuels pain and depression right now.

Pleasurable sensations include -  cool and cold water on skin; seeing green plants, blue sky, squirrels and hummingbirds in our patio and neighbor’s; laughing at GOMER PYLE USMC episodes (especially Season 3, Episode 6); smiling for myself; listening to “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy; tasting sweet fruit on tongue; smelling roses; firm and soothing touch to the body part that is feeling pain.

MEMORIES -

Because our brains store all memories … when unpleasant memories pop up, I have to interrupt them with pleasant ones.

Pleasurable memories:

- Being with people I care about.

- Eating breads and quiches, buying postcards, and walking and gawking at buildings in Paris

- Living sans clutter

SOOTHING EMOTIONS – this is most difficult for me

When my reaction to someone’s behavior brings on pain and other unpleasant signals, I send my thoughts to what the person means to me.

Remember what the good doctors said about “the relationship between pain (or discomfort) and mood (includes anxiety and depression)?

Please see Dr. Moskowitz’s and Dr. Golden’s workbook TRANSFORMING THE BRAIN IN PAIN: NEUROPLASTIC TRANSFORMATION page 35 through page 75.  And, I hope you’ll find someone like Dr. Danielle Rosenman to coach you.

MOVEMENT -

Walking in the neighborhood (when my Brain is occupied with looking, listening, smelling… I feel no pain); dancing with Ms. Sophia Loren, Ms. Rita Hayworth, and Ms. Cyd Charisse (thanks to Youtube clips) ; imagining flying (ballet) over Paris; and running on dirt tracks and fields of wildflowers!

BELIEFS -

That I hold the power to be pain-free and depression-free; that every task can be accomplished with ease; that wellness is reality

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung at Place des Vosges, Paris.(photo by Margie Yee Webb et Sasa Southard 2016)

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Thank you, Dr. Norman Doidge, Dr. Michael Moskowitz, Dr. Marla Golden, and Professor Lorimer Moseley!

Thank you, Naomi Schaeffer Draper, M.S. Physical Therapist, for teaching me Feldenkrais techniques! Thank you, mentor Lynn Scott, for the referral!

Thank you, Dr. Danielle Rosenman!

https://www.medicalcounseling.net/   Danielle Rosenman, M.D. uses neuroplasticity, imagery, meditation, psychotherapy, and other techniques in her Medical Counseling practice and in her innovative “Tools for Healing” groups.

Thank you, Dr. Amy Grace Lam !  vibrational energy healer

http://amygracelam.com/

Thank you, all dear hearts who care about me and have helped/are helping me on this journey !!!!!

My next blog post will be about what I continue to learn from: “Getting a grip on pain and the brain – Professor Lorimer Moseley – Successful Ageing Seminar 2013″  https://youtu.be/5p6sbi_0lLc  41 minutes

For other posts in my blog, please go to: https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog   If you look at right side of screen, you’ll see the category “Beautiful Brains Neuroplasticity”. Please click on that category to get all my blog posts pertaining to our our Beautiful Brains and Neuroplasticity.

I wish you, dear Reader and your Beautiful Brain, wellness!

Sincerely,

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung, photo by Emily O. on Nov 8, 2020

Love Made Of Heart ®

To read Part 1 of my trilogy on our Beautiful Brains:

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says: “Scarecrow in THE WIZARD OF OZ would feel NO pain” http://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/story-theme-consultant-teresa-jade-leyung-says-scarecrow-in-the-wizard-of-oz-would-feel-no-pain/

To read Part 2 of my trilogy on our Beautiful Brains:

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says: “Adaptable Brain, Let Quiet Enter.” http://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/storytheme-consultant-teresa-jade-leyung-says-adaptable-brain-let-quiet-enter/

Teresa Jade LeYung, an American naturalized citizen of Chinese ancestry, is a story continuity/theme consultant, author of LOVE MADE OF HEART (daughter-mother novel archived at the San Francisco History Center and used by college professors), BUILD YOUR WRITER’S PLATFORM & FANBASE IN 22 DAYS (a workbook), and TALKING TO MY DEAD MOM Monologues (the first monologue received an award from Redwood Writers Ten-Minute Play Festival), an advocate for public libraries and public schools, creator of http://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/ , and, admirer of City of Light. Composing Haiku poems is a new love for LeYung.