<![CDATA[Stolen Voices By Bonnie Bley

<![CDATA[Stolen Voices By Bonnie Bley - Blog]]>Wed, 15 May 2024 16:13:58 -0500Weebly<![CDATA[Enigmatic Skies: Northern Lights Myths and the Spectacular Show of May 2024]]>Mon, 13 May 2024 17:48:22 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/enigmatic-skies-northern-lights-myths-and-the-spectacular-show-of-may-2024The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, or Lady Aurora have long captivated the human imagination, weaving a tapestry of myths, legends, and superstitions in cultures around the world. The celestial phenomenon reached a new peak in the unforgettable display on the nights of May 10 and 11, 2024, where the skies above northern Ontario and beyond were painted with vibrant strokes of color. This blog post will explore the timeless tales associated with the Northern Lights and recount the majestic light show that graced our skies in May 2024.

For centuries, the Northern Lights have been the subject of awe and wonder. In Norse mythology, they were seen as the Bifröst Bridge, a glowing arch leading fallen warriors to their final resting place in Valhalla. The Sami people believed the lights were the energies of the souls of the departed. Across the Atlantic, the Algonquin tribes thought the lights were their ancestors dancing in the sky.

In Finnish folklore, the Northern Lights were created by a fox sweeping its tail across the snow, sending sparks up into the sky. This whimsical tale reflects the playful nature of the aurora and the enchantment it brings to the winter nights. In Scottish lore, the lights were known as "the merry dancers," believed to be the spirits of the deceased engaging in nocturnal revelry.

Superstitions have also played a role in Northern Lights folklore. Some cultures warned against whistling at the lights, fearing it would summon spirits to take the whistler away. Others believed that the lights were a favorable omen, signifying good fortune or a bountiful harvest.

In some regions, pregnant women were encouraged to look at the Northern Lights, as it was thought to ensure an easy delivery. On the flip side, it was also believed in certain cultures that making fun of the aurora could bring about misfortune or even curse a child to be born cross-eyed.

The display on May 10 and 11, 2024, was a sight to behold. I sat at a semi popular dark sky area closest to me (an hour away) to see this event for the first time in my life. I stayed out and watched Lady Aurora dance in the sky from sun down to sun up. She danced her most dazzling dance the entire time. Within the overhead spectacle I saw many different shapes; an angel, an eagle, the phoenix, a dove, a turtle, a horse, a butterfly, and a kitty angel. All the colors of the aurora were visible to my naked eye, but they really are vibrant in my photos. The whole evening was incredible, especially for a first time experience. I think my favorite part was standing alone in the parking lot of the park with the aurora surrounding in all directions. A full 360 view with the lights surrounding me with all the colors being different in each direction, exploding together as they met at the top of the sky. It was truly magical.

They were the most powerful geomagnetic storm in two decades, the aurora borealis could be seen as far south as Arizona, Alabama, and Georgia. In northern Ontario, viewers were treated to a breathtaking exhibition of light that danced across the night sky, a natural marvel that united stargazers and photography enthusiasts alike.

Amateur astronomers and professional astrophysicists alike gathered in droves, setting up telescopes and cameras to capture the event. Social media was abuzz with live streams and time-lapse videos, allowing even those far removed from the high latitudes to partake in the wonder.

Photographs from the event show the Northern Lights in all their glory, with vibrant hues of green, purple, and pink stretching across the horizon. The lights illuminated landmarks such as St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay, England, offering a backdrop that seemed almost otherworldly.

Photography contests sprang up in the aftermath, celebrating the most stunning captures of the aurora. These images serve not only as a testament to the beauty of the Northern Lights but also as a source of inspiration for artists and creatives around the globe.

While the myths and legends add a layer of mystique to the Northern Lights, the science behind them is equally fascinating. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun interact with Earth's magnetosphere, resulting in the dazzling light show we observe. The event of May 2024 was particularly remarkable due to the intensity of the solar activity.

Recent advancements in space weather forecasting have allowed scientists to predict auroral displays with greater accuracy, providing the public with the opportunity to witness these celestial dances more frequently. Educational programs have also been developed to teach about the interplay between the sun's activity and our planet's magnetic field.

For those inspired to witness the Northern Lights in person, planning is key, although tricky with how unpredictable they are. Patience and perseverance are essential. Along with a willingness for lack of sleep. The best viewing times are typically during the winter months in high-latitude regions such as Scandinavia, Canada, and Alaska. While the event of May 2024 was a rare treat, the aurora borealis continues to be a bucket-list experience for many.

Travel agencies specializing in aurora tourism offer guided tours that include educational talks, photography workshops, and even accommodations in glass igloos or cozy cabins where visitors can gaze at the Northern Lights from the comfort of their beds.

Interestingly, the Northern Lights have found their way into true crime literature and media, often setting the stage for chilling narratives that play out under the ethereal glow of the aurora. The juxtaposition of the Northern Lights' beauty with the dark themes of true crime creates a unique and compelling backdrop for storytelling.
The stark contrast between the serene display of the Northern Lights and the tumultuous nature of criminal investigation adds a layer of depth to the genre. It's not uncommon for detectives in fiction to ponder the mysteries of the cosmos while unraveling the mysteries on the ground.

For the avid stargazer, catching the Northern Lights requires patience and preparation. A clear, dark sky away from city lights is essential, as is monitoring solar activity forecasts. Photography enthusiasts should also come equipped with a tripod and a camera capable of long exposures to capture the lights in all their splendor.

Apps and websites dedicated to aurora forecasting can be invaluable tools for the modern-day aurora chaser. These resources provide real-time updates on geomagnetic activity, cloud cover, and the best times for observation. I use 5 separate apps to track and chase Lady Aurora.

The Northern Lights continue to inspire and intrigue, from ancient myths to modern-day light shows. The event of May 2024 will be remembered as one of the most spectacular displays of the aurora borealis in recent history, a testament to the enduring wonder of this natural phenomenon. Whether you're a true crime aficionado or a stargazing enthusiast, the Northern Lights offer an experience that is truly out of this world.

As we continue to gaze upwards and seek out the stories written in the stars, the Northern Lights stand as a reminder of our eternal quest for understanding and our connection to the vast universe that surrounds us. Here are a few of my favorite photographs from my evening with Lady Aurora.

]]><![CDATA[Red Dress Day: A Call to Remember the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women]]>Wed, 08 May 2024 16:32:53 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/red-dress-day-a-call-to-remember-the-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-women
In the heart of the true crime genre lies not only the intrigue of mystery but also the profound pursuit of justice. Red Dress Day is a solemn reminder of the countless Indigenous women who have vanished or been unjustly taken from their communities. It is a day that calls upon us to wear red, to stand in solidarity, and to raise our voices against the silence that often shrouds these tragic tales.

The Origin of Red Dress DayRed Dress Day, observed on May 5th, originated from the Red Dress Project initiated by Métis artist Jaime Black in 2010. The project, a poignant and impactful narrative, uses the visual symbol of red dresses to represent the Indigenous women who are no longer with us. These dresses, often hung in public spaces, serve as a haunting reminder of the void left behind and the need for awareness and advocacy.

Each red dress tells a story, a narrative that weaves together the threads of loss, hope, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The day honours not only the women and girls but also two-spirit peoples who have been subjected to disproportionate violence. It is a day of heartfelt exploration into the community's struggles and losses, aiming to ignite a flame of change within each of us.
The Power of Community and StorytellingStolen Voices: Missing and Murdered in Big Horn County is more than just a title; it's a testament to the power of community and storytelling. As we delve into the true crime non-fiction narratives, we find ourselves intertwined with the indigenous communities' quest for justice and truth. The stories recounted are not only compelling but also serve as a catalyst for societal transformation.

On Red Dress Day, we are all invited to be part of something larger than ourselves. By donning a red dress or simply a red accessory, we become advocates for those who can no longer speak for themselves. We become part of a narrative that seeks to bring these issues to the forefront, to challenge the status quo, and to demand action.

As true crime enthusiasts, we are no strangers to the complexities of justice. Red Dress Day presents an opportunity to channel our passion for the genre into meaningful advocacy. Order your copy of the award-winning book, Stolen Voices by Bonnie Bley, today to immerse yourself in an intense journey through the heart of Indian Country, where the pursuit of justice for the missing and murdered indigenous women continues.

Murder may seem easy, getting away with it even easier, particularly in Indian Country. However, through our collective efforts on days like Red Dress Day, we bring these stories into the light, ensuring that the voices of the missing and murdered are never silenced.

As we reflect on the stories of those who have been taken too soon, let us find inspiration in their memories to advocate for change. Let us transform our fascination with true crime into a force for good, ensuring that the narrative of every missing and murdered Indigenous woman is heard loud and clear. It is through awareness, justice, and community that we can make an impactful difference.]]><![CDATA[Inside the world of an author - exploring author life]]>Sat, 27 Apr 2024 19:23:33 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/april-27th-2024There is a lot that goes into being an author. It's not just writing a book. That is actually the easiest part! Being an independent author involves so many things and the learning curve is expensive. So what is the process? Well, first you research before you even put pen to paper. Research and development takes time. It varies for the subject and ease of access to information. Sometimes the R&D involves traveling and usually involves many hours in front of a computer. Then your build and organize your book. Then you write. After your first draft, comes the edits, you edit your second draft, you edit your third draft, and by the fourth draft edits you are ready to stab your eyes out and you've got the whole thing memorized that you miss mistakes you've made. You've read this book forwards and backwards so many times that you think you're losing your mind organizing sentence structure, synonyms, over use of a word.
After you think you have a polished manuscript you query publishers and agents which is very daunting. Each one has their own list of submission items, so now you are writing query letters, synopsis, beefing up your outline, market analysis, proposals, two paragraph descriptions. Then come the rejections or you just don't hear back at all. Or you catch their interest with your query letter and/or synopsis, and you get completely filled with excitement but get rejected once the manuscript gets to them. The rejection can be for various reasons. Some will leave you scratching your head. It's definitely a dog eat dog world in the publishing world.

So after a few years of rejections you give up and go with hybrid or self publishing. This is an investment in yourself. Depending on how much you want to bank roll yourself as to what services you receive. There is a sea of self publishing companies and a sea of services offered. There are also scam operations, so you must choose wisely.

You've chosen your publishing house and package and you submit your manuscript. Now comes the official editing process. The back and forth hashing out of words. This process takes a few months. The book cover is designed. The author bio and description of the book is created. This process is all very exciting.

The book is complete. It's the best version of itself and now it goes out into the world. It goes onto Amazon and other online retailers and depending on the package you purchased as to the platforms and the countries it reaches.

So you got your book on Amazon and Ingram Spark. Now what? New books are released every minute. There are millions of books on Amazon to compete with. Your book isn't going to sell itself. It doesn't get posted to Amazon and become an instant success. Not unless you are Stephen King, Craig Johnson, James Patterson or a celebrity, but even they have to have a solid marketing plan to let people know they've written a new book.

Here is where the real fun begins. Here's where you jump outside your comfort zone and here is where the real work begins. How do you get people to find your book and then buy your book. You've come this far and want to see your book take off. So, you become a social media creator, designer, and manager. Facebook, Instagram, X, Tik Tok, you have to learn them all. You need a website. You now become a website designer, but how will people find you on Google? Now, you must become an SEO expert. What is SEO? Search Engine Optimization, and it's a beast all in it's own. There are people who's full time job is SEO. That's what they do for a living, but in the indy author life, it's just a fraction of what you have to do to get seen on the interweb. Keep in mind indy authors do not have the backing a major traditional publishing house, so everything is paid for by the author. There are a lot of people and companies who are willing to help but all for a price. How deep are your pockets and how much are you willing to invest. It can quickly become a money pit.

With the money you are spending and the royalities you earn, you have to keep this all straight, so now you put on your accounting hat. How are you filing taxes? Are you filing as and individual or did you set up a company to run all the finances through? If you set up an LLC now you have a whole new can of worms. Filing for an EIN with the state, getting business filings with the state, becoming your own CEO. So now your book is a business. Even the most famous authors, their books and their brand is their business. So now that you have a business you have a long list of things to do to stay compliant with the IRS.

Indy Authors and even traditionally published authors often hold down a full time job, so now we have 2 full time jobs. We are working from when we wake up to when we go to bed. We're working on weekends, we're working on vacation.

But when all is said and done there is very little I would change except for how I spent my marketing budget, but those are lessons learned and hopefully tax write offs. At the end of the day I take pride that I stepped outside of my comfort zone and got a book published because no matter what route you take it's no easy task.

If you made it to the end of this post, thank you for reading. I'm off do some more SEO, financial tracking, and social media marketing.

]]><![CDATA[Spring 2024 bookfest award winner]]>Tue, 09 Apr 2024 23:23:19 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/spring-2024-bookfest-award-winnerI'm proud and excited to announce that Stolen Voices: Missing and Murdered in Big Horn County is a recipient of the Spring 2024 BookFest Awards.

From The Book Fest Awards:
We're thrilled to honor you with a BookFest Award, recognizing your exceptional literary achievement. Your submission was meticulously evaluated by The BookFest judging team, passing through multiple stages of review. Plus, many of the esteemed BookFest Bellwethers lent their expertise to ensure the integrity and thoroughness of the judging process.

The caliber of entries received this season was truly impressive, making your win all the more noteworthy. We're deeply appreciative of your contribution to the literary world. At The BookFest, we hold a strong belief in the transformative power of storytellers. Your award underscores your significant impact on readers across the globe.

]]><![CDATA[Stolen voices has launched!]]>Tue, 13 Feb 2024 15:52:29 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/stolen-voices-has-launchedI'm excited to announce that after 4 years of research, writing, editing, hard work, and persaverance that Stolen Voices: Missing and Murdered in Big Horn County is now available! Go to the Merch tab to secure your copy. It is currently available on Kindle, Hard Cover, and Paperback. An Audio Book is currently in production.

If you love the book, please make sure to leave your 5 star review on Amazon.

The past couple months have been a whirlwind with everything coming together on this important project.

A big HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who made this possible. There were definitely times during the last few years that I felt totally defeated and wondering if this project was ever going to launch. Here we are 4 years after it all started. The sleepless nights, the emotional interviews, the daunting task of finding the right publisher (being excited one day that a publisher/agent wants your project, and the letdown when they tell you they can't take it on), the many rounds of edits. Honestly, I wouldn't change a thing. For reasons unknown to me this is the journey I was meant to take with it.
]]><![CDATA[cOMING SOON]]>Wed, 27 Dec 2023 17:52:58 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/coming-soonI'm pleased to announce that my book Stolen Voices; Missing and Murdered in Big Horn County has found a publishing home! The last few months I have been working with NY Publishers on getting my manuscript fully edited and ready to hit the book market. I'm thrilled to say the least. It has been a very exciting past few months.  ]]><![CDATA[Time for submissions]]>Sat, 28 Jan 2023 01:56:45 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/time-for-submissionsIt's hard to believe that two years have passed since my last blog. Wow, how time flies. My book has taken on new life in 2022. I met a couple of really incredible women. One wrote a forward for my book and the other became a chapter in my book. My book has taken on more editing, a forward, and a new chapter. Today I completed all of the editing that I can do at this point. Now it is time to find this book a home and have it come to life. I am hopeful that this is the year for it. It's become so much more than when I first started.  ]]><![CDATA[It's a new year]]>Sun, 10 Jan 2021 21:09:38 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/its-a-new-yearIt's a new day and it's a new year. Time stops for no one. With the year we just had I'm hoping this new year is a brighter one for all. I think this new year will also be a good year for reflection. Reflect upon our pasts and reflect upon our futures. Ask ourselves how we will choose to move forward and heal ourselves from the past. 2020 brought many of us loss of loved ones, isolation, depression, a battle with our own demons, and so much uncertainty. It was not a healthy year even if you managed not getting COVID. We must always remember that from darkness comes light and there is always calm and beauty after the storm. We must push forward and not get stuck in the here and the now. We must shut out the noise that is beyond our control and focus on our own inner peace and work on the things we can control. We must make change within ourselves before we start trying to make change in others.
Peace and Love to everyone as we begin the New Year.
]]><![CDATA[Cheyenne Truth]]>Sun, 29 Nov 2020 04:10:41 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/cheyenne-truthCheyenne Truth is a newly created facebook group created by a woman by the name of Jenny Pipe. Jenny is a true warrior. She's a person who has seen what's been going on on the reservation and has said enough is enough, it's time to act. She wants to see a change and she's doing something about it. She created the facebook group and does live feeds which she calls 'The Jenny Shitshow" to start the conversation in her community that needs to be started. A conversation to get people engaged in stopping the corruption, the drug use, the abuse, and all things bad on the northern Cheyenne Reservation. Jenny is speaking the truth and Jenny is making a call to action. This has the bad guys on the defensive and Jenny has paid a price for speaking out.

A couple weeks ago, Jenny was ambushed by a group of people that were taking some heat for their actions that Jenny helped shed some light upon. They kicked her, gave her two black eyes, a very scratched up face, and one of the people beating her up tried to bite her thumb off and required stitches to mend. The police were called to the altercation, and guess who was arrested? Jenny... the victim. The victim of a crime was the only one who was arrested.

But Jenny came out smiling. She doesn't label herself as a victim. Jenny is tough. Jenny is a true warrior. So many people on the reservations are afraid to come forward and name the names of their predators or perpetrators because they are afraid what happened to Jenny for speaking out will happen to them. Many are not willing to risk their lives or the lives of their loved ones for speaking out.

This isn't something that's happening in the movies or back in the areas that John Gotti controlled. This is happening in tiny little Lame Deer, Montana.
]]><![CDATA[Completed Manuscript]]>Fri, 20 Nov 2020 01:52:25 GMThttp://bonniebley.com/blog/completed-manuscriptI am pleased to announced that my manuscript is complete. The editing process is always interesting and challenging. It usually involves over thinking and reading the same sentence out loud in different ways at least six times. Thoughtful and careful sentence reframing is not for the faint of heart. It's always fun to compare the first draft, to the second draft, to the third draft, and sometimes even more in order to have the best version for you, the reader. The manuscript evolution is fascinating. I always have to remind myself that I'm not writing a book for myself to read, but for others. To edit this book I turned to an expert in the writing field. He gave me some great advice for writing for today's reader. He told me to channel my inner Hemmingway. Hemmingway's writing is classic and has withstood the test of time. My first round of edits were ones my high school literature teachers would have been proud of, but long gone are the days of long thought provoking complex compound sentences (well not completely, but for the most part). I now have a completed manuscript that I think Hemmginway would approve of, and I certainly hope you do too. ]]>