Starting Your Dreams Later In Life and Embracing the Detour

Jenee Darden speaking at Creative Mornings I know it's been a while since I've posted anything but that's because of my job. I'm working as a reporter covering Oakland and I host an arts segment on the radio where I get to interview amazing artists from around the Bay Area. Plus I'm publicizing my book  and building my speaking career!  You know what's funny? I thought this would all happen by the time I was 27-30.  Nope. That wasn't God's plan for me. I'm finally beginning to do the things I've wanted to do and I'm almost 40 years old. Some people reading this who are 40 will say 40 is still young. But some younger people reading may think 40 is nearly ancient. But I'm writing this post for those who like me, thought their career and personal dreams would come true much early in life. I'm here to tell you not to give up.  You know, death inspires life. A number of my relatives and friends have passed away, ranging in
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Unleashing at Beast Crawl, Getting in Formation & Going Naked: My Past and Upcoming Live Performances


Jenee Darden aka Cocoa Fly performs
at Beast Craw.

This past weekend I began my birthday celebrations with friends and powerful womanist/feminist prose. It was truly a blessing to perform at Beast Crawl, one of the largest literary festivals in Oakland. Thank you to Liminal for inviting me to join their troupe. The spot was small, many were standing but people stayed. Thank you to those who came out to support us. Thank you to those who stood for the entire hour.  Each of us shared our stories of our experience with femininity. The event was filmed. When I get the video I will post and share with you. It was truly an honor to read with such passionate, strong and talented women. By the way, people loved my dress. I got it at Salvation Army for $5!

The Liminal Troupe


If you missed my Beast Crawl performance, there's more to come. This Wednesday, July 20th I'm reading at Pegasus Books in Berkeley for the monthly Lyrics and Dirges. I haven't seen these writers perform but I've heard of how great they are. Come out, support a local business and local talent. When host/AMAZING writer Mk Chavez  told me the theme is Formation, I couldn't turn down the invitation to read.  I've been seriously feeling Beyonce's Lemonade and it has inspired some of my writing.





Then on Thursday night I take on the challenge of a story slam at Books Inc. in Alameda. It's hosted by the To Live and Write in Alameda. The theme is Naked and the stories are all non-fiction. This is their first story slam where they challenge writers not to use notes. Which is common at slams. I will be clothed. Although I think reading from notes in the nude sounds easier. LOL 
I'm excited to be sharing my story. Come out. These events are free and the writers are amazing. Again, it's a great way to support independent bookstores. The flyers have all of the information you need. 






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