Lisa Calhoun
Owen
Award winning Children ‘s picture book author, songwriter, poet, storyteller
In the midst of hate, I found there was, within me, an invincible love.
In the midst of tears, I found there was, within me, an invincible smile.
In the midst of chaos, I found there was, within me, an invincible calm.
I realized, through it all, that…
In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.
And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger – something better, pushing right back.
– Albert Camus, The Stranger
About Lisa
Lisa was born and raised in Garner, North Carolina. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology/Criminal Justice from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Additionally, she completed training at the N.C. Justice Academy in Salemburg for Law Enforcement Officer Training and served as an NC Probation/Parole Officer and Guardian Ad Litem.
Motherhood prompted a significant shift in her life plans, leading her to opt for staying at home to raise her children, Matthew and Meghan. Despite this change, her passion for music guided her towards band management, culminating in her standout achievement at The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.
Furthermore, Lisa seized the opportunity to travel extensively, introducing her children to captivating new cultures around the globe.
Lisa’s love of writing blossomed early in her life, influenced by the profound appreciation for words and music instilled by both of her parents. Her writing traverses across all genres, encompassing poetry, music, books, and stories showcasing her innate talent as a true born storyteller. She divides her time between Charlotte and the North Carolina coast treasuring time spent with her daughter, Meghan, and her grandchildren, Jayden and Everley Rose.
jayden scott reilly
Jayden is lisa’s 10 year old grandson. he developed an interest for books at an early age and shares his grandmother’s passion for writing. Jayden crafted his first book, “the magic pocket” and designed the artwork for the cover. he attened summer festivals and holidays markets with lisa selling his books to everyone he met, including santa claus! he is in 4th grade and his interests include his cat, sassy, spending time with his friends, reading, board games, all things harry potter and legos.
jayden enjoys running the technical aspects of the morning news at school and was chosen to be the sound tech assistant in the production of “the little mermaid junior” . The play will be featured as part of a community program in belk theater in charlotte in april. he is currently writing his second book in his series “The Magic Pocket.” Follow his journey through his facebook page, “the magic pocket adventure series.”
MATTHEW SCOTT REILLY
Matthew Scott Reilly is the first child and only son of Lisa and ex husband, Scott Reilly . He hailed from Hickory and Charlotte, embracing life to the fullest extent. He soared through the skies in planes and helicopters, leaping fearlessly from them, rode motorcycles, climbed mountains to skydive and explored the serene waters of Alaska while fishing. His fascination knew no bounds, captivated by the White Tower in London and the Seoul Tower in South Korea. He excelled in Archery and loved to collect coins, comics, cards, knives and currency from his travels. Matthew’s zest for life was intoxicating and his compassion and empathy for people and animals in need brought many opportunities for him to become a volunteer in The Explorer’s Police Program, Hope for All Dogs Rescue and a leadership role in the Naval ROTC Program. He thrived in the military environment thus prompting his decision to join the Army as a Military Police Officer. He served in both Ft. Leonardwood, Missouri, with two tours in South Korea. Matthew was recognized and received an award for saving the life of a fellow soldier. He joined the National Guard at the end of his active service. His goals in life were to publish ”The Moonlight Dancer,” become a local police officer and try his hand in Real Estate. He spent one semester at Appalachian State University in Boone prior to making the decision to move to the beach with his mom. It was Memorial Day weekend, May 27th. 2017, when he was tragically killed, at the age of 24, on his motorcycle while traveling to Oak Island, North Carolina. Matthew’s legacy lives on through his brotherhood of friends cultivated in all walks of his life, his legendary sense of humor and his contagious laughter. We remember his love of music and spending as much time as he could with friends and family. He is sorely missed by all who had the pleasure to meet him. He is survived by his best friend and sister, Meghan, her two children, Jayden and Everley Rose as well as mom, dad and too many relatives and friends to name. You can visit his Facebook page to read about his life and accomplishments.
LISA‘S LATEST
Exciting News! A groundbreaking children's picture book, offering young hearts a personalized journey through grief, is set to be released soon! Stay tuned for more details!
Don't miss Jayden's Book Tour! Join Lisa and her 10-year-old grandson, Jayden, as he embarks on his first official book signing tour. Summer is approaching and Jayden will be hitting the road to visit a bookstore near you! grab a copy of his debut book, "The Magic pocket," available now on Amazon.
lisa is currently working on two new books:
Introducing a hilarious new comedy featuring two middle-aged women who stumble into an unexpected career,
promising endless laughter and adventures!
and
A compelling fictional narrative of veterans' experiences, co-authored by Retired Gunnery Sergeant USMC Rick Stewart, offering an insightful look into the minds of those who have endured the realities of war."
Step into the world of Lisa's transformative journey with our new podcast/YouTube series. Delve into the depths of her life as she shares how her unwavering attitude towards change has shaped her remarkable story. From navigating the devastating loss of her son to facing the upheaval of divorce, Lisa's tale is a testament to the power of embracing life's challenges with resilience and a willingness to evolve. "Becoming Lisa" is not just about overcoming adversity; it's a celebration of her remarkable ability to harness life's chaos and turn it into a catalyst for growth and personal triumph. Join us as Lisa shares her inspiring narrative of resilience, transformation, and the profound impact of choosing to embrace life's journey with courage and grace. First show to be aired in early April. Stay tuned!
2023 Summer/Holiday Markets
The
Magic
Pocket
THE MAGIC POCKET
Join Jacob Wilson, his best friend Taylor and his dog, Snoopers, as they discover the secrets within Grandpa’s magical coat. Watch as they transform into detectives, eagerly following clues that propel them into an exhilarating adventure. The first book in the series of “The Magic Pocket” Adventures is the brainchild of 10 year old Jayden, conveyed through the storytelling lens of his grandmother, Lisa.
When
Grief
Kills
A rare look inside the daily struggles of a woman so lost in the grief of losing her son, her mother and 11 other friends and family members within a six-year period, that she almost lost her own life. Lisa opens her heart and speaks frankly, honestly and with raw emotion as she learns to navigate the many changes she faces daily that continue to wreak havoc on her mind and body. She shares the secrets of her challenges and how she has managed to forge a new life “Living in Grief.”
the moonlight dancer
When the daylight ends and the moonlight sun rises, one tiny creature is ready to boogie! Join a mouse and his animal friends as they dance and play in this cuddly story written with love by a mother and son duo.
the feel-good alphabet book
Children and parents alike will get a hefty dose of warm fuzzies from this sweet book by award-winning author Lisa Calhoun Owen. With an uplifting affirmation for each letter of the alphabet, kids will build their confidence as they learn their ABCs.
The TALE OF THE moonlight dancer
This book was written by my son, Matthew, and me when he was 5 years old. Matthew had the incredible opportunity to meet Nicholas Sparks at our local Barnes and Noble, and he was absolutely thrilled. Meeting him ignited a deep admiration in Matthew, who expressed a strong desire to be like him. Mr. Sparks encouraged Matthew to “go home and write a book” inspiring him to follow in his footsteps. So we did. We found a blank scrapbook in our art box and decided to use it to illustrate the story ourselves, loosely basing our pictures in Eric Carle’s style. We created our illustrations by hand, cutting them out of foam paper. Matthew decided the story should evolve around a little mouse, emphasizing the importance of simplicity in life. The narrative would focus on everyday activities like chores, spending time with friends, practicing gratitude and embracing solitude. The story itself took 2 months to write but the illustrations evolved over time as Matthew grew older, spanning 14 years within this book. We intended to pursue publication despite facing skepticism from family members who doubted our endeavor, and waited until Matthew’s active duty service as a Military Police Officer in the Army was completed. We remained determined, believing in our story and pressed forward with our dream, however, life is sometimes interrupted, and Matthew was killed in a motorcycle accident on Memorial Day weekend, 2017 . He was an active member of the National Guard and 24 years old at the time of his death.
Warren Publishing in Charlotte published our little story and to date it has won four National Children’s book awards – The Silver Medal in the IBPA Benjamin Franklin Presidential Awards, Bronze Medal in the Moonbeam National Children’s Book Awards, First Place through StoryMonstersInk- Scholastic and CNA Goodreads/Gold Medal Top Honor Literary Classic Children’s Books. Matthew would be immensely proud of the success he achieved and the impact it has had on children’s lives. His dream of being an author in Barnes and Noble came true!
The first reading of “The Moonlight Dancer” took place in Barnes and Noble, Hickory, North Carolina, with his best friend, Josh, and Mrs. Yount, his Kindergarten Teacher, by my side. Matthew’s plans to be buried in Conover were honored as he wanted to be buried near the city of his birth. His father, Scott Reilly, resides close by and is District Attorney in the area.
To make the book interactive I give each child mouse ears purchased online, paint their noses and whiskers with makeup, and play the song written just for the book. We sing and dance like the little mouse and his friends in the story and everyone receives a sticker and a big congratulations in becoming a Moonlight Dancer! Check out LCO Productions Soundcloud for a version of the song.
The original moonlight dancer manuscript and illustrations
The feEl-good alphabet book GENESIS
This little story started in 2016. My mother, Bonnie, was a retired Kindergarten Teacher deep in Dementia. She was often confused and had severe mood changes but I noticed she recalled bits and pieces of things. Once I realized she remembered her alphabet , I came up with a game using the letters with words denoting feelings to evoke positive change. I would ask her, “If you were an A and you felt really good – what word would you use that begins with an A to describe how you feel?” Mama immediately yelled “Amazing!” I was shocked and surprised as she grasped the concept and we swiftly moved down the alphabet to explore what other revelations she could uncover. With words such as Beautiful, Calm and Delightful her demeanor underwent a dramatic transformation. I kept a list of the words and each time she felt out of sorts – we played again. She loved the game! During the pandemic lockdown I was surrounded by children and we often played the Alphabet Game which, in turn, led to it becoming a book. I incorporated new words kids don’t hear every day to engage them in learning. Jordan Wray, my illustrator, also added a little blue bird on every page for the kids to search and find! The simple act of utilizing something you are already familiar with, the alphabet, can profoundly alter your emotions through the power of imagination. Pictured is my mama on her last Christmas. She passed away January 3rd, 2017.
Music:
behind the scenes
This is the first song I wrote both the words and music and was written in honor of my son, Matthew Scott Reilly. At the time of Matthews accident, he was on his way to Myrtle Beach Biker week to receive a leather vest he had earned for volunteer service with his motorcycle club, the Hi-Rollers of Charlotte. He and his friend, JJ , were travelling East on Highway 74 to Oak Island to stay with me and then on to Myrtle Beach. A 17-year-old Honor Student, Noah, didn’t see Matthew and JJ, and pulled into the intersection. Matthew was driving his motorcycle at the posted speed limit and in the heavy holiday traffic noticed Noah coming into the intersection but moved into the empty lane beside him thinking Noah’s truck had cleared. Unfortunately, he drove directly into the truck and was air lifted to McLeod Trauma Center in Florence, SC. He was placed on life support and declared dead at 2:50 pm the next day. Matthew donated 7 organs and saved the lives of 2 active military personnel as well as 5 civilians. Meghan, Jayden, Everley and I have had the honor to have met or had contact with some of the organ recipients.
The idea for the song emerged as I was traveling back and forth from the beach to Charlotte in support of my daughter and grandchildren during this traumatic time in our lives. I had to pass the wreck site so many times I began to think about Matthew’s last moments, how and what he felt. As an avid lover of Motorcycles myself and as his mother, I began to put into words the grief I felt in my heart . The song took root and turned into a beautiful ode to bikers, military and our Veterans. It’s a song that encompasses love, loss, tragedy, forgiveness, healing and honoring a fallen soldier. It is a mothers’ song written for my son.
The late Michael Smith, of LHGPS Music, produced “The Last Ride” and it is performed by Matt Bowlin, a Marine Veteran. Background vocals feature Christy Holder-McCraight and in the video the guitar soloist is Michael. The video for the song is available on YouTube and features The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Club from Jacksonville, NC and The Honor Hike Foundation from Washington, DC. It was directed by WECT Retired News Anchor Bob Townsend and was filmed in North Topsail Beach. A special thanks to Brian and Kelly Wills of The Crab Pot in Surf City for their unwavering support as well as the Town of Surf City, NC for hosting the best release party ever! All proceeds of this song are donated to Paddle4Troops, a group that houses and supports our Veterans. Visit Matthew’s Facebook page for more about his life.(listed under contacts)
THE CREATION OF A SONG: The Last Ride
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Contact Us
Lisa@LisaCalhounOwen.com
or owenlisa@gmail.com
Lisa calhoun owen
lco productions