Tag: #DRC

Review of Ella Gets the D by Tanvier Peart: A Heartfelt and Hilarious Romance Novel

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Synopsis: The end of my marriage was the beginning of my happily ever after.
What happens when you hear your husband putting dents in your mattress with another woman?
Leave and never look back!
Easier said than done when you’re a stay-at-home mom, share two kids with the no-good cheater, and have a savings account that laughs in your face on the daily.

I want out and agree to an outrageous separation agreement to avoid a showdown in court with a man standing on his wallet, waiting for me to fall. The mission is next to impossible, but I would rather attempt a full split on a hibachi grill after a Brazilian wax than stay in a marriage I should’ve ended years ago.
Morgan, my best friend, offers a gorgeous townhouse her family owns to get me back on my feet. Eight months rent-free equals one step closer to Divorced AF.
I didn’t expect moms gone wild at my divorce party, but one fruity cocktail led to me staying out past my bedtime and the steamiest dream with a man straight from fantasies.
Every kiss, every caress, made me feel worshipped. Adored.
When Morgan offered this Georgetown home, she failed to mention it belongs to her younger brother, one of DC’s most eligible bachelors. He’s very fine, not a dream, and back early from time away in London.
Now, we’re staring at each other, dumbfounded and turned on.
Ella Gets the D is a standalone divorce romantic comedy perfect for lovers of cinnamon roll heroes, a tired mom getting her groove back, tacos, and lots of spice (we kick the door wide open). This isn’t your fluffy rom-com. Somebody might catch a case.

Book Review:

Now out in the world, Ella Gets the D by Tanvier Peart is a funny, fresh, emotional, heart-felt, realistic, engrossing story of a 30-something wife and mother who is forced to uproot her and her children’s lives after discovering her husband cheating on her in their home. The narrative captures the struggles and triumphs of Ella Greene, who represents countless women dedicated to their families, often at the expense of their own needs and aspirations. This book is a refreshing dive into the journey of self-rediscovery and empowerment, resonating deeply with readers through its relatable characters and scenarios.

Ella’s character is a testament to many women who prioritize their families above all else, neglecting their own needs, goals, and feelings. Her journey begins with the painful yet liberating separation from her egotistic, rude, and misogynistic soon-to-be-ex-husband Charles. As Ella navigates the turbulent waters of separation and single motherhood, she embodies the strength and resilience that many women can identify with, despite their personal circumstances.

Although I am not a mother of human children, I am familiar with the pressure of having to provide, manage, and take care of family members, often losing myself in the process. Being younger than Ella’s character and closer in age to the male lead in this book, Julian, I found myself relating to different aspects of their lives. However, it is Ella who stands out as the character that readers will connect with the most. Her authenticity, vulnerability, and strength are portrayed so vividly that it’s hard not to root for her at every turn.

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Supporting the DRC: Key Organizations Making a Difference

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I admit it. There are so many things about Africa that I just do not understand. I feel that may be deliberate, based on the United States education system and the format of the US’s version of history and current politics.

However, the things that I have learned about Africa recently have proven that the continent and diaspora have a very rich history, but even more complex government and political systems. And most of that complexity has to do with interference and the stealing of its valuable resources by the US, UK, France, and other westernized countries.

Understanding the Situation in the DRC

Focusing in on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the primary resource that is being illegally mined–by women, men and children–is cobalt, a substance used in most, if not all, tech. From laptops to electric and hybrid cars, from cellphones to video game consoles, cobalt is essential. There has been an increase in awareness of the treatment and conditions children and families in the DRC face because of forced mining. But there just isn’t enough mainstream media coverage. This leaves everyday individuals who read, listen, and watch what is really happening around our world to post about it.

In terms of finding legitimate places that source and collect resources for the people in the DRC, I have only found a few. I am still looking into other places for Sudan. The most challenging aspect of these humanitarian crises is that a lot of the western organizations that claim to raise money for these countries do not actually give the money and aid to the people.

There seem to be countless cases over the decades of organizations stealing donations. And in light of recent months, there have been even more individuals stealing funds, donations, and aid from the DRC, Sudan, and Palestine.

Organizations Making a Difference

The best I can do at this moment in time is to elevate the organizations and voices of those actually trying to help these individuals. Even small donations can make a difference. My aim was to focus on Congo-related accounts that are on the ground in the DRC and providing regular updates and information. Here are the most consistent sources that I’ve come across:

Focus Congo: An organization that invests in young people and leaders in the Congo to build partnerships with local grassroots organizations. It creates access to resources necessary for survival. This organization promotes a vision of justice and peace for the country.

Get Involved
Focus Congo’s website.

Friends of Congo: An organization established in 2004 to work in partnership with the Congolese to bring about peaceful and lasting change in the DRC. Their mission is to raise the consciousness of the world community about the challenges of the Congo and support Congolese institutions in bringing about peaceful and lasting change. Their goal is to eventually have a peaceful and prosperous Congo wherein Congolese are able to fulfill their rightful human and natural potential.

Raising Consciousness About the Challenge of the Congo
Friends of Congo website.

Juice Bae in the Wild: A volunteer nurse living in the heart of the DRC’s refugee camps, providing aid and medical care to its residents.

Video featuring Juice Bae in the Wild (Joy).

Pappy Orion: An activist and Congolese filmmaker who spreads awareness and uplifts the voices of the people living in the DRC. He is also the founder of Focus Congo.

Re-post on instagram by Pappy Orion

It is crucial to support these organizations and individuals who are making a real difference on the ground. By spreading awareness and donating, even a small amount, we can collectively contribute to the welfare and future of the DRC and its people. Likewise, consider buying refurbished electronics and having your tech fixed rather than buying new ones.

What steps can you take today to support the organizations making a difference in the DRC, and how can we collectively raise more awareness about the humanitarian crises in Congo?

Please comment down below.

Until the next time,

Gia