Tuesday 22 July 2014

Mad Pride

On Saturday, July 19th, I partook in a Mad Pride event which is the gathering of people who suffer from mental illness in the Hamilton area. Tables were set up so people could sell their wares; such as, me who made my books available, a woman selling homemade bracelets, a man selling framed pictures, another woman set out blocks of painted wood, etc.

In addition, the event held an open mic where people could read poetry, play music, and I read from Locker Rooms. A succession of 14 people made their way up to the mic to announce their appreciation for the Mad Pride event which allowed them to express themselves to people who understood their suffering.

"Mad Pride Hamilton is an annual madness arts, culture, and heritage celebration organized by Mad people for members of the local consumer/survivor/Mad community. We have a right to be proud of our survival, experiences, ideas, identities, creativity, accomplishments, contributions and communities."

Mad Pride began in England in the 1970s. Then continued in New York in the 1980s. It came to Toronto in the 1990s. Now its in Hamilton.

It was a wonderful affair where everyone felt at home. It was a very happy and relaxed atmosphere. I was able to talk to many people about my books and just generally about living with mental illness. It was fantastic to be able to talk about things most people don't want to hear and share similarities. I was so glad I participated and can't wait until next year's event.

Finally, I have completed my third novel, The Nuts. Its a thriller about five poker buddies who uncover a conspiracy. It has been sent off to the editor who will require approximately three weeks to complete his administrations. Once novel is returned, I will need some time to make the corrections. After which, it will be published on Amazon and will be made available to everyone.

Hope you are enjoying this wonderful summer.

Have fun,
patty
www.pattylesser.com
@PattyLesser



Tuesday 1 July 2014

The Exciting World Cup

How exciting is the World Cup?? As you know, I love sports but haven't watched much soccer in years. But it's on and decided to give it a try. The Toronto CBC is telecasting the whole World Cup without commercials. Well, now I'm hooked and watching every match. I find it exhilarating. I'm on the edge of my seat watching these extraordinary men. You know, they run about 7-8 kilometres in each match?

Of course, all those handsome, physically fit men are running around with sweat soaked shirts resembling contestants in a wet t-shirt contest. Lovely to watch!

No, I have no favourite team. I just enjoy watching each match hoping that the best team wins. I hope for a good, fair game where everyone plays their best. Goals are few so they are always exciting when they come about.

The only thing I hate about soccer is the way the players fall to the ground writhing in pain hoping for a penalty. After the referee has made his decision, the player gets up and runs around showing no sign of pain. These types of falls are really silly and detracts from the game but I guess it is part of the game. But then look at football where the players bash each other so hard yet they all get up and carry on playing without complaint.

So, enjoy the World Cup as it only takes place only once every four years. That length of time assists in the pleasure of the game.

The best part of any world competition is the peaceful and safe experience players from every country in the world feel. The teams may not speak the same language but they all know soccer. It's wonderful to see that the world can come together in peace. If only wars could become a sport's competition and settle it that way.

Please come and attend my signing at the Indigo at Bay and Bloor on Saturday, July 5, 2014, from 1 to 4 p.m.

HAPPY CANADA DAY,
patty
www.pattylesser.com
@PattyLesser