Writing my life away

Song of the Sea, by Cassandra Curtis

2008-09-11T22:06:00.000-04:00

Song of The Sea
by Cassandra Curtis
ISBN-13: 978-1-60272-379-5 (Electronic)
Available September 14, 2008

Sequel to Amber Heat best-seller Shifting Tides: Beneath A Midnight Sea…

When a mafia don’s bride-to-be goes missing, Peter Varien is hired to find her. Varien, an ex-cop turned private eye, takes the job despite the warning bells going off in his head.

He manages to track down the missing woman to a nightclub in Memphis, where she’s belting out jazzy torch songs with the boys in the band. She’s every man’s desire, with a body born of sin and a voice that enthralls, putting men under a sexual spell.

But it’s a spell under which Peter is determined not to fall.

Vivilyn Ondine is having the time of her life, given the power over human men through the control she wields as a sea siren. She’s never fallen in love, never truly surrendered–until she meets the handsome private investigator.

Soon, Peter and Vivilyn are in a race against time, and must join forces to defeat a dangerous enemy who will stop at nothing, even murder, to capture Viv and force her to reveal the location of the magical pearl known as the Soul of The Sea.

Genres: Shapeshifter / Fantasy / Witchcraft / Magic / BDSM (Light) / Action / Adventure / Mystery / Detective / Romantic Comedy

Heat Level: 3
Length: Novella (26k words)

To purchase go here: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat/SongSea.html

New Website!

2008-08-19T00:35:00.000-04:00

Ok so it's not 'finished'. I seldom wait until it's completely finished before linking. Oh well. One day I may learn patience.
So until patience is my friend ;) I'll just tell ya now!

www.MariaNight.com

Hope you enjoy!

Divas is temporarily down

2008-08-04T13:50:00.001-04:00

Tragic I know, but Divas is down.
A work ticket has been sent out and things should be running smoothly again soon!
So if you've not joined twitter...hmm now would be a good time to do that! ;)

Not Going to RWA Conference??

2008-07-15T16:04:00.001-04:00

The Romance Divas annual Not Going to Conference Conference will make you feel a bit less deprived! Amazing workshops, a star-studded guest list and awesome giveaways, all on the Diva forum! Don't miss it!

Coordinated by Seeley deBorn!

Here's a bit of a schedule update for the Q&As and Workshops...

Wednesday, July 30

Paula Guran, Editor, Juno Books
Q&A on Creating Kick a** Heroines

Laurie Rauch, Editor, Samhain Publishing
Workshop on What Happens After the Contract (aka Editors are People Too!)*

Thursday July 31

Joyce Hart, Hartline Literary
Q&A on Inspirational Romance Stories and the Inspy Market

Sandra Schwab, Historical Romance Author
Workshop on Historical Accuracy and Anachronisms

Friday, August 1

Yolanda Sfetsos, Author of Guarded by Stone
Q&A on Paranormal and Urban Fantasy World Building

Katie MacIver, KatieDidDesign
Workshop on Website Design and Color Selection

Saturday, August 2

Joey W. Hill, Erotica Author
Workshop on Plotting Erotica and Erotic Romance

Rhonda Stapleton, Editor and Author
Workshop on Style and Voice

Excited yet?

How about if I list some door prizes?

What Gwen said" mug donated by Gwen Hayes
3-chapter critique of a YA by Simon Pulse author Rhonda Stapleton
3-chapter critique of a YA, chick lit, or rom com by Golden Heart Finalist Amanda Brice
An ebook of your choice from Nell Dixon's backlist
An ebook of either Second Sight (paranormal romance) or Dragons' Choice (fantasy romance - dragon-shifters) from Debbie Mumford
Ten dollar Amazon gift certificate from Jodi Henley
Lush stuff from Seeley deBorne
e-book copy of Chasing Shadows from Erin Richards
Paperback copy of Iron Horse Rider OR Smiling Eyes from Adelle Laudan
Book thongs from Angeleque Ford
3 chapter critique from Sela Carsen
winner's choice of ebook copy of "Not Quite Dead" or "Heart of the Sea" by Sela Carson
e-book copy of HEATWAVE by Eden Bradley
e-book copy of BREAKING SKYE by Eden Bradley
a box of goodies, trade and paperbacks, bath products candles, etc... All for a fun and relaxing home spa day treat. courtesy of The Midnight Moon Cafe
1 download each of Natasha Moore's Samhain books, The Ride of Her LIfe and The Passion-Minded Professor
a copy of "Painted Soul" by Mary Quast
e-book copy of HER CINDERELLA COMPLEX by Jenna Bayley-Burke - Samhain
e-book copy of PAR FOR THE COURSE by Jenna Bayley-Burke - Samhain
e-book copy of FOUND by Jenna Bayley-Burke - Wild Rose Press
e-book copy of NIGHT OF INSPIRATION by Jenna Allen - Phaze
e-book copy of ON AGAIN by Jenna Allen - Phaze
$10 gc to Amazon from Kendal Corbitt
ebook Vampire Oracle: Harmony by MG Braden

Plus a lovely bar of wonderful Chagrin Valley hand made soap, Caramel Pralines jar candle, handmade jewelry, Tarot readings, a Lush box for European Divas/Dudes, a $10 fictionwise gc and much more!

Featuring Crystal Jordan!

2008-04-23T14:41:00.001-04:00

TREASURED by Crystal Jordan

Graduate student Rebecca Small is so obsessed with the past—especially the Golden Age of Piracy—she doesn’t mind her unglamorous job preparing museum displays. This display is about her favorite subject, James Morrow, a famous pirate who mysteriously disappeared without a trace.

Becca touches the pirate’s antique sword, and finds herself on a ship in the middle of a sword fight, saving the sexy captain from being stabbed in the back—literally. Once the smoke clears, the man who claims he’s her husband is more than eager to reward her for her timely assistance.

James Morrow knows very little about the woman he was forced to marry five years ago, but the woman who saved him doesn’t fit the portrait he’s painted of her in his mind. She’s strong, brave, and submits to his every dark desire. She seems the perfect woman for a pirate, but he makes his living among the dishonest and disreputable—trust isn’t a commodity he trades in.

Find out more here!

Are you ready for some Writing??

2008-01-31T23:08:00.001-05:00

So November has passed, holidays are over and you're missing that thrill that rush from writing
a whole book in a month!!

Romance Divas has the cure!!

We're hosting our own writing month in February!!
So come join us in the first official Romance Divas Writing Month (RoDiWriMo).
Write 50,000 words with us, while you learn industry news, writing technicques and more valuable information.

Join Romance Divas http://www.romancedivas.com today! It's free and so is RoDIWriMo!!

I've been tagged!

2008-01-14T02:08:00.000-05:00

My deepest apologies ahead of time LOL!

The rules:
Link to the person who tagged you;
Leave a comment on their blog so that their readers can visit yours;
Post the rules on your blog;
Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog;
Tag 7 random people at the end of your post;
Include links to their blogs;
Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

OH what will I write about? hmm

1. I often don't know where to start.

2.I took three Wilton's Cake decorating classes. (which is strange I guess because everyone knows I hate to cook! LOL)

3.I'm flighty. I jump from one thing to another quite easily- making it hard to actually FINISH anything.

4.I have a good sense of directions.

5. I hate coffee! AND I can't drink hot chocolate made with water instead of milk.

6.I feel like a failure 99% of everyday.

7. I used to have super curly hair, but now it's straight as a stick!

Ha! I didn't think I could do it, but now for the hard part! Finding 7 people NOT tagged LOL Toni Sue I owe you one! ;) OK here goes! The untagged search!

I'm tagging:

Chrissy Ollinger,
Crystal Jordan
Kristen Painter
Robin Rotham
Selah March
Eva Gale
Rhonda Stapleton

Candace Havens

2007-12-06T00:52:00.000-05:00

It’s difficult for me to believe that I just turned in my fifth book, “The Demon King and I,” in five years, and now “Charmed & Dangerous” is coming out in mass market on Dec. 4. I still remember sitting on my bed at two in the morning, the night before my very first meeting with an editor. Another writer friend told me I needed to have more than one idea to pitch to the editor, and I was frantically trying to make something up.

It was a strange feeling when I finally wrote about a character who had been dancing around in my head for some time. I’d just heard that “Buffy” was going off the air, and I was angry with creator Joss Whedon for not going one more year. In retrospect they ended at the right time, but back then I was mad. What would I do without my weekly dose of “Buffy?”

That night before the meeting I put pen to paper and created a character who had the attitude of Buffy (Sarah Michelle Gellar) but the power of Bad Willow (Alyson Hannigan). She would use that power to protect important people, and to save the world. I can’t remember how I came up with the idea for the prime minister, but I wanted a really powerful, cool leader. So of course I had to make one up. (Smile)

That one-page synopsis became a book just a few months later, and crazy stuff happened along the way. A love triangle between Sam, Bronwyn and Sheik Azir developed out of thin air one day. Azir met the Prime Minister in what was supposed to be an information finding expedition, but as I described Azir, I fell for him. Funny how that happens when we least expect it.

The powerful wizard Garnout came from the need for Bronwyn to have some sort of mentor. I love Garnout. He’s one of my favorite people. I also wanted to create my dream town. A place where magic abounds, but overall people are friendly with one another. And of course, great food can be found on every corner in Sweet, Texas.

Even though I’ve moved on to new characters that crazy witch Bronwyn is still dancing around in my head. I sometimes wonder if I’ll ever run out of stories for her, and I hope to write many more. It still freaks me out a little when I realize these funny stories have turned into very real books. I’m so grateful to Bronwyn and to all the adventures we’ve had together. - Candy Havens

Romance Divas Update

2007-11-25T23:14:00.001-05:00

Romance Divas is experiencing a bit of technical issues.
It's not crashing :D so don't worry. The Admins are on it, and we're working to keep divas up and running. So please, be patient, and just try back later when you get an error.

Use this time to get that Nano finished!! We only have 5 more days!!! WRITE PEOPLE!! LOL

Sagittarians!!

2007-11-25T21:29:00.000-05:00

Wonderful Cassandra Curtis has posted about Sagittarians over at Midnight Maddness.
Go on over and check out the things she has to say!!
She pinned me I do believe LOL

YAY ARCHERS!! Shoot for the heart! ;)

"The one that got away"

2007-09-19T19:03:00.000-04:00

Spring, fall, or anytime, a thorough house cleaning will bring up surprises sometimes.
In the spirit of just plain getting rid of things I've held onto for years (pack rat ya know with 'issues' LOL- it doesn't take a shrink to know I 'guard' things because I'd had my life (house, property and all contents) ripped away from me in a inheritance battle at 14 years old- anyway neither here nor there- kinda.

Back to my story ;)

We're 'fall cleaning'. So Dh runs across an old letter from a friend of mine. You know the kind- passed in school folded in those cutesy designs to have to refold again LOL. Well this one said the whole
crush thing- you know your name with big fat heart under it declaring love of the current crush written below. So the DH sing-songs. "I found something."

yeah ok what?
so I open the letter of say 15-20 years ago! LOL I laugh and say "Ha. Ha." His returning remark is "Is that the one that got away?"

So this had me thinking about how life changes, how past crushes are just that- crushes and how we sometimes learn from what looks good at the time doesn't mean its great for us in the long haul. I thought -but didn't say- I was too good for him then and now. LOL An ill match for sure. I didn't realize my own worth and choose poorly- a lesson to quickly learn for sure.

Which got me thinking about that in reference to how we write our characters.
Are our heroines to good for the men we place in leading roles opposite them? Or do we make the men worthy of our heroines? Some one that can match them strength for strength, idea for idea and lean on each other when needed.

So as writers do we go with the current crush for our heros and heroines? Or do we make them someone dependable, worthy, and exciting for all to cheer on?

Since I'm having a Sarah Jessica Parker moment from Sex in the City, I'd love to know what you think

Meezed!

2007-08-31T01:09:00.001-04:00

Oh CC what have you done to me? :D

Come Play BLINGO with me!!

2007-08-05T11:43:00.000-04:00

So I found something new! Everyone likes prizes right?
So as writer's we're always searching something on the internet. Here is a way of earning something back!
Come play Blingo with me and let's see what prizes we can win!!

Thursday Thirteen

2007-07-19T00:12:00.000-04:00

Wow can't believe it's been a week!!
So the other day I took my mom to her dr.
and there is a woman we've seen there many times.
She's so frail. She's probably in her 30s or 40s but she looks like she's 90 if she's a day.
She is usually in wonderful spirits joking with the nurses and such, but she looked more than tired
this time we saw her.
She has a walker, but her husband pushes her wheelchair for her. So this day in particular
I was close to the door- I opened it for them to go through without henderance cause they both bless their hearts had their hands full.

So my Thursday Thirteen is for her, a nameless face that I hope is having a good day where ever she may be.

Thirteen things we can do for others on any given day.

1. Open or hold doors for others.
2. SMILE how simple and warming yet so few do this
3. Greet someone a simple Hi! as you pass in a cheery voice can make someone feel better
4. Take a plate of cookies to someone. Doesn't even have to be homemade
5. Carry an elderly person's groceries to their car.
6. Offer someone with a smaller amount of purchases to go in the checkout ahead of you
7. Give gifts anonymously
8. Offer to babysit for someone in a bind
9. Pay for a drink for the next person at a restaurant or drive through.
10. Stop in to check on an elderly person in your neighborhood.
11. Thank them for a job well done.
12. Give someone a hug!

Thursday Thirteen

2007-07-12T00:48:00.000-04:00

well I'm at it again :D I'm joining the TT this week :D
Last week I never got to post on others- so sorry! I'll get you this week!

so here are my Thursday Thirteens :D sorry no code this week simply no time!

13 reasons to love pirates

1. Johnny Depp
2. Orlando Bloom
3. The word "Bugger"
4. sexy ships
5. eyeliner on a man (that's not drag)
6. long hair
7. big swords :-D
8. they're rich with loot
9. they'll sail you on the seven seas
10. they work without shirts
11. They are true manly men.
12. you may get wet around a pirate
13. pirates like to plunder

Hope you enjoyed these!

Thursday Thirteen

2007-07-05T16:48:00.000-04:00

Thirteen Things about REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN ROMANCE DIVAS


1….

Great unexpected personal titles.

2. You can whine, jump, giggle, holler, and otherwise express your emotions and someone will 'get it'

3. The support for a writer is amazing! We cheer you on, and hold you up when that dreaded 'R' come in.

4. Romance Divas is a wealth of writer information!

5. You can ask any question and it's important. Even the newest questions such as "What does MS stand for?"

6. The Admins and Mods are friendly working hard to make your experience wonderful.

7. We are like family with a kick ass sisterhood. Ya-Yas move over We're the Divas!!

8. Awesome Authors of the Month

9. Challenges to get you through the rough spots of writing.

10. Great industry information. It's an award wimming forum.

11. All this and it's FREE!!

12. Great workshops such as the Not Going to Conference workshops (see post below) lined up for next week! Sign up Now!

13. Last but most important :DIt's the greatest romance writer forum on the net!

Links to other Thursday Thirteens!
1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More  Thursday Thirteen Participants

Not Going to Conference??? Go to Romance Divas!!!

2007-07-05T14:25:00.001-04:00

Not going to Nationals? Don't worry...Romance Divas is doing the next best thing!

Romance Divas announces the first annual "Not Going to Nationals Cyber Conference" from July 11-15, righton the forum. Best of all, it's FREE!

Just register for Romance Divas--membership is free, you just need to sign up! www.romancedivas.com
If you have any trouble getting in email night.diva.maria (at) gmail (dot) com

There will be workshops, Q&As, and giveaways each day. All you have to do is participate!!!!

Schedule:

July 11:
Workshop: PC Cast and Kristin Cast (topic TBA)PCCast.net
Q&A: Erotic romance with Portia da Costa and Madelynne Ellis PortiaDaCosta.com
MadelynneEllis.com

July 12:
Workshop: Book Signing 101: Tips to Help Make your Signing a Success by Jackie Kessler JackieKessler.com
Q&A: Legal Issues for Writers by Amanda Brice AmandaBrice.com

July 13:
Workshop: What to Expect After You Sign the Contract by Marley Gibson MarleyGibson.com
Q&A: TBA (either with an agent from the Larsen-Pomada Agency or a panel on multi-cultural romance)

July 14:
Workshop: Sasha White (topic TBA) http://www.sashawhite.net/
Q&A: How To Write Both YA and Adult Romance by Berta Platas BertaPlatas.com

July 15:
Workshop: Trim That Fatty Writing! by Rhonda Stapleton RhondaStapleton.net>
Q&A: TBA (either with an agent from the Larsen-Pomada Agency or a panel on multi-cultural romance)

We also have loads of great giveaways, including books, critiques, coaching, and more!

Oh Tag :D I'm it. LOL

2007-06-27T14:27:00.001-04:00

Tagged by Jax! Hey chickie!

Here are the rules:

A. Each player lists 8 facts/habits about themselves.
B. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning before those facts/habits are listed.
C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 8 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

1. My daughter is telling me a story- she's better at it than I am. LOL
2. I can work on but not drive a five speed- I know sad huh?
3. I frequently doubt myself- although people say I'm not afraid of anything- HA! are they fooled!
4. I'm struggling to come up with 8 things lol I'm not really observant of myself LOL
5. I sit cross-legged in front of my desktop- hurts my butt and I really want a working laptop LOL
6. I'm pretty clumsy. If I wore high heels (I'd love to get some height!) I'd eat sidewalk with every step LOL
7. I love to drive alone. Some days I could drive from here to California without stopping (provided I didn't need gas or have responsibilites I can't ignore :P ok or bathroom breaks ;) )
8. I don't really want alot of money- just a pre-paid (by someone else) maid and most importantly a cook! The rest I feel like I can deal with. LOL

I'm tagging....
Jennifer Bianco, Toni Sue, Diva Cia, Shawn, Kissa, Christina Cross, Loribelle, Dana

ok off to let them know

My first Thursday Thirteen

2007-06-21T00:36:00.000-04:00

Ok so everyone has been doing this for awhile now, but I alway miss it.
So this week I'm joining in on the Thursday Thirteen and I hope you either
like it or at least think about your own blessing in your own way :D

So I'm doing 13 blessings I'm Thankful for:
(in no particular order)

1. I'm thankful that my mom is recovering from cancer.
2.I'm thankful for my kids and hubby
3. I'm thankful that I have Romance Divas as friends and writers that are there for me.
4. I'm thankful when I can help someone- isn't that what we're all here for? to help one another?
5. I'm thankful when I keep my big mouth out of trouble ;)
6. I'm thankful for this computer :D and all the wonderful things I can do on it.
7. I'm thankful for my family (all of it more than the immediate)
8. I'm thankful for each sunrise and sunset
9. I'm thankful for all my online friends.
10. I'm thankful for my experiences both good and bad and the ability to use them to help or educate someone.
11. I'm thankful for being a SAHM so I can take care of my kids and write without worry of a set work schedule
12. I'm thankful my family supports me in what I do, even when they don't believe I'll get any money for my efforts LOL
and lastly
13. I'm thankful for everything God had done for me, which lately has been a great deal.

Thanks ;) for reading!

other Thursday Thirteen-ers lol

http://adellelaudan.blogspot.com/
http://www.jennabayley-burke.blogspot.com/
http://embercase.com/wpembercase/
http://seeleydeborn.blogspot.com/
http://www.dianacastilleja.blogspot.com/
http://wordtrix.blogspot.com/
http://www.mgbraden.com/blog

One Wicked Winter by CASSIDY KENT!

2007-06-13T10:44:00.000-04:00

Well I started to bore someone to tears and thought- nah :D I'll support my favorite authors from Divas instead! :D
Check out this fabulous author!! BUY HER BOOK! BUY HER BOOK! :D She's superb both as a friend and an author!

ONE WICKED WINTER is now available!

It's a three novella anthology...

Published By: Amber Quill Press
Release Date: April 2007
Written as: Cassidy Kent

A sexy first date, an unexpected encounter, and a torrid reunion. Three smoldering stories of reckless passion stoke the fires of one very wicked winter…

Dear John

In her last year of high school, Dane Harley, a foster kid with no direction, met John Stratton, a Pittsburgh rich kid with a penchant for trouble. She visits him a decade after disappearing from his life, only to discover he’s moved on. Their subsequent affair speaks of the torrent of passion and love that still binds them.

Santa’s Helper

CEO Noel grants a boy’s Christmas wish by escorting sexy single mother Maura around Manhattan on Christmas Eve. The spark between them is immediate, but the distance between Park Avenue and the Jersey suburbs is immense. Are their worlds too dissimilar to merge or can they bridge the distance with love?

What Lies in Winter

Workaholic Hayley vacations in the mountains and meets author, Nicholas. He might be a solitary beast but Hayley is hell-bent on disrupting his peaceful balance. A blizzard makes them share quarters and their fiery personalities melt the ice caps off the mountains.

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood....

2007-04-19T17:52:00.000-04:00

Well a beautiful day anyway :D I'll not discuss the neighborhood!

Many of my friends are doing a Thursday Thirteen. I'd love to join in, but I don't think I will for a while yet.
I'm juggling so many things at once, my mind has sort of given up and started looking for butterflies in grassy fields to play with. Not Good.

I need to be paying close detail to my house- I don't know how long I'll be taking care of my mom, so I"d like to have it in perfect shape so it won't be so bad (hubby + 3 kids - how long can that last?) when I can pay attention to cleaning again. :P

I am worried about leaving RD. I know I'll have time to pop in, but it'll be the first time I can remember that the root admins will not really be there. BUT I'm confident in the other Admin and Mods in place. Divas is in good hands and I'm proud of the staff.

Then there is of course my writing. Oh how I mentally WANT to, and I write crazy little things like this cause my poor little brain is just searching for my outlet! Yet, I can't be creative to save my life at the moment. Go figure.

Well and then my children. I love my children they are bright, wonderful little monsters :D
I love their cute little antics, I just wish they'd not close their ears off when I talk LOL

And confession time. I STILL don't have my story ready to send to Woman's World. I don't understand it.
I get it out many times, and no matter how much I work on it, I still have to change something. I have to find a stopping place and bite the bullet. Wish me luck!

Life and Death: the separation so fragile

2007-04-16T15:29:00.000-04:00

Well while Virginia was getting shot up I was playing nursemaid to four brand new kittens :)
The VA students lives were fragile and timing was everything today for who lived and who died.
It breaks my heart to think of the fear some were in, some maybe didn't know what was happening.
The shooter, an obviously severely troubled soul, caused heartache to spread across the nation.

My little kittens hung in the balance to go either way today as well.
The mother hid (as cats often do) and being a new mother didn't do so well with the afterbirth.
I found the kittens because I happened to be close and heard them crying. So all excited I of course sought them out and found them-- tangled in afterbirth and umbilical cords.

Had this been a stray momma cat I'm sure the kittens would have perished. As it was I got out my trusty tiny scissors, sterilized them and set to work. Disposing of the afterbirth freed one little kittens foot. The circulation was completely cut off and the foot tiny. I feared it may loose it. moments after freeing the foot from someone's umbilical cord (four tangled kittens equal 16 wiggly legs, four tails, and four umbilical cords!) Try saying that five times fast! ;) ) One buy one I separated the little babies from their previous supply of nourishment to a family of smiling faces; my three kids and hubby.

Momma and babies are doing fine. I'm having to watch her to see that she nurses them. So far she hasn't but would you with five faces staring at you? LOL But if she doesn't nurse them or they seem puny I will of course take upon myself to bottle feed. The little ones foot is now swollen from the blood rushing back into place you may can see in this picture.

For anyone that lost someone at VA Tech today: My deepest sympathies, heartfelt sadness and prayers are with you. For those that were in the line of fire and yet you survived: I'm glad for you today the balance swung your way. For whatever reason, some unknown purpose, my kittens survived today. You, too, have a purpose. We don't always know what it is, but it's up to you to find it. May God Bless You and Kept You All The Days Of Your Life.

Life and Death, so fragile and so close it's hard to tell where one ends and the other begins.

Enjoy these kitty pics and thank God for life.

Take the Girl out of Harlan, but Never Harlan out of the girl!

2007-04-13T18:54:00.000-04:00

Well I've took my mom out today. In the car the DH had a Patty Loveless tape (yes I still use cassettes!! so sue me! ;) ) in the deck.
So I was very happy to find that one playing. We bought the tape specifically for "You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive".

Harlan is so rich in history and lore. I miss it terribly at times. I long for the day to go back. Although on some days I suspect I may never get back. The mountains call to my blood like no other place on earth. I remember climbing around the hills as a girl with my dogs and cats. I had a pony too that I rode around the hillside. We had all the water from our pump we needed, but no one else would have it. ROFL it was SULFUR water. And I'll tell anyone anywhere it's the best stuff in the entire world.

The mountains are so dark it's surprising. I think that helps give it the richness that can't be found anywhere else. It's dark because of the coal. The trees are a dark green where anywhere else I look most greens are bright and vibrant. I'm going back soon. It's spring and I need new mountain pictures. Time has lost the many I took before when I lived there, watching the sunset daily. So it's time for new ones I think.

So I'm posting the lyrics to You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive in honor of Spring and a wonderful area of Kentucky. I think it's true, that once touched by those Kentucky Mountains you'll never leave Harlan alive, because once you leave, part of you dies missing it. My dad didn't leave Harlan alive, and deep down neither did I.

(listen to it on this website buy the CD and support our folk singers!
sung by Dave Cantrell
by the way - I've never heard Dave Cantrell until I did a search on the song- He's does a Marvelous job!)

You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive

In the deep dark hills of eastern Kentucky
That's the place where I trace my bloodline
And it's there I read on a hillside gravestone
You will never leave Harlan alive

Oh, my granddad's dad walked down
Katahrins Mountain
And he asked Tillie Helton to be his bride
Said, won't you walk with me out of the mouth
Of this holler
Or we'll never leave Harlan alive

Where the sun comes up about ten in the morning
And the sun goes down about three in the day
And you fill your cup with whatever bitter brew you're drinking
And you spend your life just thinkin' of how to get away

No one ever knew there was coal in them mountains
'Til a man from the Northeast arrived
Waving hundred dollar bills he said I'll pay ya for your minerals
But he never left Harlan alive

Granny sold out cheap and they moved out west
Of Pineville
To a farm where big Richland River winds
I bet they danced them a jig, laughed and sang a new song
Who said we'd never leave Harlan alive

But the times got hard and tobacco wasn't selling
And ole granddad knew what he'd do to survive
He went and dug for Harlan coal
And sent the money back to granny
But he never left Harlan alive

Where the sun comes up about ten in the morning
And the sun goes down about three in the day
And you fill your cup with whatever bitter brew you're drinking
And you spend your life digging coal from the bottom of your grave

In the deep dark hills of eastern Kentucky
That's the place where I trace my bloodline
And it's there I read on a hillside gravestone
You will never leave Harlan alive.

Dolce And Diana By Cassidy Kent!!

2007-03-26T22:18:00.000-04:00

DOLCE & DIANA
by Cassidy Kent
Publisher: Phaze.com
http://www.king-cart.com/Phaze/product=Dol...by+Cassidy+Kent

March, 2006
ISBN 1-59426-524-0

After a quick and painless divorce, fashionista Diana Radford (formerly Simmons) is ready to start over. With a settlement of three million and a resort island off the coast of Grenada, she decides to realize her culinary dreams by taking over the island's restaurant, naming it "Dolce" after her mother. Although not classically educated in the culinary arts, Diana possesses a rare natural ability and puts it to work creating brilliant Italian/Caribbean fusion dishes.

Chance Kohler is a culinary celebrity like no other, with an arrogance to rival his talent. After helming several 5-star restaurants in the States, Chance jumped at the opportunity to host "Fighting Chance", his own reality cooking series. For the past two seasons, he's faced off against the best and the brightest of the cooking world. When Diana is selected as his next opponent, Chance balks at his producer's choice. The former waitress doesn't even have a degree and has only had her restaurant for six months, even if she is some kind of prodigy!

From the moment Chance sees Diana dicing mangoes in designer couture, she whets his appetite and leaves him craving for second helpings. Diana can't stand his antagonistic edge, but there's no denying the delectable sensuality in his every movement. After all, even if she loses to him, it means press for her resort. But if she wins, Diana will be the series' new host and Chance will suffer the humiliation of losing. Either way, the competition will be fierce but tasty, and the whole world will be watching.

If you miss this book, you might as well stop reading! ;)

One Wild Weekend! by T. Sue VerSteeg

2007-03-22T16:27:00.000-04:00

One Wild Weekend,
by T. Sue VerSteeg
Short Story/$3.25

Melissa Tanner has spent her adult life in search of Mr. Right. After committing herself to a weekend of banking seminars, with her biggest concern being how to stay awake through them, she literally runs into her next prospect at the airport. Can the boring weekend be saved and turned into a wild ride with Mr. Right? Or will he just end up being another Mr. Right-Now?

http://www.freyasbower.com/content/view/191/1/ to order your copy!

Hope you like the cover as much as I'm sure you'll love the book!! Enjoy!!

Romance Diva Ebook Challenge!!

2007-02-14T03:43:00.000-05:00

It's here! Valentines Day! Divas have been working hard to bring you wonderful FREE stories today! So sit back and enjoy! For a complete list of wonderful diva ebooks for both sweet and spicy hot fans go to: Romance Divas ebook challenge Here is my sweet very short story....Right Before My Eyes I hope you enjoy it.
Click either the cover or the title for a free pdf file.
Please take a moment to tell divas if you like their story!

self doubt

2007-02-05T21:22:00.000-05:00

Don't start to doubt yourself, boy! Be confident....Be Confident!

A line from The Neverending Story.

Atreyu is running through the sphinxes, about to be zapped. At the last possible moment, he gains inner strength and jumps to safety while their laser beams burst behind him. The next line from the scientist cheering him on is

He made it! He made it!

So why can't we Be Confident in ourselves? The Neverending Story to me is one of those greatly written stories that leave you thinking "Why didn't I write that?", yet it's already written and is brilliant.

So why is it writers have such a hard time being confident in their own voice? their words? their whole world sometimes?

Is it our genetic makeup? Our sensitivities to the world around us? Why can't we be confident in how others perceive our words?

What makes words our friends and white empty pages our playground? Yet even seasoned professionals sometimes get writer's block or simply freeze at the thought of whether or not someone else thinks we have talent?

Great writer's are said to write in blood, does that mean that bad writer's bleed only ink? How do we go from poor writing to 'great' writing? How do we find the inner strength like Atreyu to jump though the fire and make it to the other side?

Is it a simple matter of learning to "Be Confident"?

A Soldier's Love

2007-01-23T01:14:00.000-05:00

RELEASING JANUARY 1, 2007!

A SOLDIER'S LOVE begins in the fall of 1941 just prior to the attack on Pearl Harbor and America's entry into the second world war.

Ron Miller, an army officer on reserve duty while attending graduate school at the University of Maryland, is nursing a broken heart and cautious about falling in love again. Katie McNeill, a shy but beautiful clerk at the school, harbors a crush on Ron but is bewildered by his apparent lack of interest in her.

Tired of "sitting at home alone on Saturday nights," she becomes involved with a young student named Jimmy Garrett. Jimmy is a spoiled young man from a wealthy, dysfunctional family, who just happens to be sharing an apartment with Ron.

Sunday, December 7 will change all three of their lives forever when innocence is lost and the future becomes uncertain.

Available in trade paperback & ebook. For more information, visit A Soldier's Love Homepage

Plotting Santa's gifts

2006-12-25T05:03:00.000-05:00

ahh here it's 4:45am and Santa's come through. He just had to knock the poor bird's cage down off the wall! So I had to clean the birdseeds up! I just knew I'd wake the kids with the vaccum cleaner!
Heeehee I had a nap earlier, so funny story-
DH woke me for Santa's call, and we were discussing the strategy for the night. (ok two funny stories) He said let me tell you what child number 2 did. He got up out of his bed, came in here (living room) and circled around the side of the tree and stopped, laid down in the floor and fell back to sleep. Heeeehehehee major awwww factor in my head! LOL so cute (been hanging around the cats too long too by the sounds of it ;) )

so second story LOL We'd finished the stockings and Santa's gifts under the tree. The size and shape of the Santa presents had Child 1's present in the back. but not a tall gift. And I didn't want Child 2 to see the Child 1's first (or he'd claim it as his too) but I didn't want Child 1 to think his gift less important for the placement in the back (those with more than one child I'm sure you know what I mean) and since Child 3's gift were a bit smaller in size but not tiny either, I placed them mostly in front.

So I'm debating mentally should I move Child 1's gifts in front of Child 2's gifts? size wise it made more sense, but like I said I didn't want Child 2 to latch onto Child 1's present. So I asked hubby..... his response (lol)
"Stop! No! It's fine."
I'm like "what? What should I do?"
"No, this is not a plot. It's not three POVs (he likes to use my terminology at times LOL) just leave it alone."
So I repeat my concerns of Child 1 possibly having hurt feelings with his presents in the back.
"I repeat Stop. Go to bed. This has been edited. You're done. It's published. Now go to bed!"

LOL
So he thought I overthought the whole thing lol obviously. But that's what we mother's and writer's do, isn't it? :-D

So what's your Santa story?

The Cursed One by Ronda Thompson

2006-12-15T07:57:00.000-05:00

Wed and widowed in one day, stunning socialite Amelia Sinclair's honeymoon is anything but typical. Then again, neither is Amelia--rebellious and impulsive, marrying Robert Collingsworth was the one sensible thing she ever did. Now he's dead and she must escape the vicious creatures stalking her--even if it means relying on a stranger. Well, maybe not a complete stranger. Amelia first glimpsed Gabriel Wulf years ago on the busy streets of London; since then he has haunted her dreams. But in the flesh, Gabriel is much more tantalizing than she ever dreamt, and much more complicated…

Gabriel Wulf, the strong one, the sensible one--the, and the curse that plagued them, were his only priorities; there was little time for women and none for love. Now, he must protect an enticing beauty--and not just from the dangers that prowl the woods around them. Gabriel has secrets, dark ones he's sure Amelia must never know and could never understand. But she has already awakened his heart...and the beast within. Will Amelia be the key to his salvation, or the architect of her own demise?

What reviewers are saying...

"Newest Wild Wulf of London book is intense, sexy and poignant."
Lory Martin, Fresh Fiction on The Cursed One

“Vivid description, wonderful characters, and a story line that holds you tight destine The Cursed One for the keeper shelf. Bravo, Ms. Thompson, bravo.”
5 Kisses, Romance Divas, Kristen Painter

“Though I know I sound like a broken record, I make no excuse for it because the Wild Wulfs Of London are Hot! Hot! Hot!”
Shannon Johnson, Romance Reader At Heart on The Cursed One

“Chills will run up your spine as danger and passion rise, and Thompson works her magic. Succumb to the lure of the Wulf.”
Kathe Robin, Romantic Times Book Reviews
4 ½ stars Top Pick and K.I.S.S. award recipient from Romantic Times

“Ronda Thompson has written a story that will stay with me for a long time. She has put feelings and love into it and came out with a winner.”
Fallen Angels Reviews, Recommended Read

“The latest Wild Wulfs of London (see THE UNTAMED ONE and THE DARK ONE) is a superb werewolf Regency romantic suspense thriller that starts off as a five star howl and never slows down until the final confrontation between beauty and the beast.”
Five stars from Harriet Klausner on The Cursed One

"Author Ronda Thompson has given us a fantastic series about The Wild Wulfs of London and their legendary curse."
A Romance Review (The Cursed One)

The Divas are Back in town!!

2006-12-15T07:31:00.000-05:00

Yipppppeeeeeee!!!
I'm so excited I had to come blog this for everyone!!
Diva's Forum is working!!
Come on in and get your diva fix!! YAY!!
Romance Diva link!!!
to save you time ;)

Romance Divas Temp out of order

2006-12-14T08:04:00.000-05:00

Oh Don't think of it as a tragedy! Think of it as time to finish, edit, or polish your manuscript!!
Hopefully Divas will be up and running soon. They are working on it, so it's just a matter of time before we can log in and go to our favorite virtual comfy chairs to sit down with our favorite virtual hot drink and have our discussion, work on our projects, or kick back and tell a few jokes :-D

Until then, I'll try to keep everyone updated with the blogs, Kristen's blog and the Romance Diva blog is also great places to read for information on the status of the forum.

Attention all divas!

2006-12-13T09:35:00.000-05:00

Yep forum issues. They're working on it and you can read the forum, just not post on it. Hopefully it will be working soon. Kristen Painter's blog is here.

This is kinda good. Gives you a chance to read and catch up on posts!
I'd had this great idea to prune while no one could post (easier to do when you stop hitting the view new posts button ;) ) but HA! it won't let me prune either LOL.

Hopefully it'll be up and running soon. So take care and enjoy your reading!

Days and Nights STRAIGHT?

2006-12-01T12:23:00.000-05:00

yeah another blah day. I'm sick of blah days.
I'm tired and sleepy and grouchy. HEllo I"m NIGHT Diva. LOL
I've been wake ALL day since Thanksgiving and sleeping ALL Night.
OH I'm not talking 10pm til like 6am oh no!! I'm asleep at like 7PM!!
There is something seriously wrong with that! I get up around 4am and my day seems never ending.

I'm SOOOOOO Tired.
OH and DH called three hours before time to pick him up. YIKES!! I'm so not ready and he's an hour away. With three kids to round up I'll be two hours to get to him! adios!

What Lies In Winter!! By Cassidy Kent!

2006-11-07T02:17:00.000-05:00

Did you ever see such a beautiful cover?? I'm in love with this cover!
I hope my designs are someday half that pretty!!
And Jax made it!! how wonderful is that to be soo talented!! WHOOP WHOOP You Go GIRL!

What Lies In Winter
by Cassidy Kent
ISBN-10: 1-59279-628-1 (Electronic)
ISBN-13: 978-1-59279-628-1 (Electronic)

When workaholic Hayley goes on a much-needed holiday to her favorite cabin hideaway tucked deep in the mountains of the Mammoth ski resort, she doesn’t expect to meet the beast of a man occupying her rental.

Bestselling mystery author, Nicholas Rhiordan, happens to have the same plan in mind, vacationing in his luxury cabin. He wants nothing better than to be left alone to finish his next novel, but when Hayley makes a surprise appearance, he discovers she’s hell-bent on disrupting his peaceful balance. Like any feral beast, his only recourse is to throw her out on her ass in a heap of snow and hope that she gets the hint.

When a relentless blizzard forces them to share the same quarters, their fiery personalities and equally combustible attraction could melt the ice caps off the snowy mountains. Once the storm blows over, will their connection fizzle like a snow flurry or will they pen a perfect ending?

Genres: Contemporary / Voyeurism / Interracial
Heat Level: 2 Length: Novella (22k words)

Raleigh in Rio by Cassidy Kent!!!

2006-10-09T01:37:00.000-04:00

It's here! It's here!! The sequel to Sunset Key by Cassidy Kent!!!
GO Get this!! You know you've been DYING to! :D
YAY!!

Raleigh in Rio
eBook ISBN: 1-59426-498-8
Published By: Phaze
Release Date: October 2, 2006
Written by: Cassidy Kent

Raleigh Campbell just learned that her five year marriage was a sham. Not only did she find her husband in their bed with a co-worker, but he has been carrying on the affair for four years! To cheer her up, Raleigh’s friends take her to Rio during Carnivale to celebrate her 30th birthday and pending divorce.

Little does she know that her soon-to-be ex has cheated his company more than her. Private investigator Cristo Santiago has been assigned to watch Raleigh’s every move in search of twelve million dollars of embezzled corporate money and that’s landed him in the hot waters of obsession. His love for Raleigh is sealed under the starry Rio sky, but can he find the missing money without losing Raleigh’s trust?

Isle Of Desire

2006-09-28T06:51:00.000-04:00

Isle of Desire
by Eden Bradley

Is it really possible to fulfill the fantasy of a promise made in the passion of youth? On a beach on the small Venezuelan island of Isla de Margarita, Isabel Asher meets once more the love of her life, Rafael Cruz, the man she left behind twelve years earlier. Desire ignites, but can the sultry tropical nights spent in his bed lead them back to love? She’s about to find out, and maybe to have her heart broken in the process.

Available September 29th from www.Cobblestone-Press.com

Watch this wonderful trailer from Eden Bradley!!

I don't know about you, but I'm ready for an island getaway!!

R.I.Peace

2006-09-11T18:46:00.000-04:00

Thanks Shandalear for the image.

Complete Idiots Guide to Writing Erotic Romance

2006-09-01T19:28:00.000-04:00

Alison Kent’s

Complete Idiots Guide To Writing Erotic Romance

Chapter 8 Putting It All Together.

I received my chapter on Alison Kent’s CIG and I must say I was very excited! I opened it and read it quickly. I had to stop and say WOW!

I must admit some of this I Struggle with. I mean OH! The things you learn when writing! It’s not like you can just pick up a keyboard and dash off a bestseller.

I’ve been writing with publication as my goal a few years now. I’ve learned a great many things, yet a writer can never seem to know enough. I loved that chapter 8 shows you how to put your book in a cohesive manner. Sounds logical you say? I agree, but it can be a difficult task.

Say you have a story, you’re either a panster or a plotter and you’ve written the whole thing. But something just doesn’t work. It could be the way it’s put together. Alison shows us some areas to troubleshoot and has so many wonderful definitions for the beginning writer as well as the experienced.

She explains theme, scenes and what comes after a scene. Best of all for many writers, she talks about the different points of view and how they are different!

Easy to understand examples and exercises throughout the chapter were wonderful. I saw things in a new light, which of course is a great thing! The dreaded “show, don’t tell” is one of those fundamental examples, but Alison makes it so clear and comprehensible.

Active and Passive? Cause and Effect? What is that and how does it apply to writing? Sometimes it’s hard to step away from your own work, but Alison’s examples again show us all we need to know about these great writing tools.

Verisimilitude. What the heck is that? I must admit this is the first time I’d seen or heard it. But Ah-ha! Another interesting tool! You’ll just have to get her book and find out just what it is! ;)
Is repetition ever a good thing? Find out how and why to use repetition in your MS!! I was so excited after reading this chapter 8 Putting It Together, that I preordered the book!! And lucky me!! Bookland called me and told me – it’s in!!
Don’t forget to pick yours up too! You’ll be glad you did. This isn’t just for erotic writers, this has the fundamental basics of writing I wish I’d had years ago!

Alison Kent’s
Complete Idiot’s Guide
To Writing Erotic Romance
Buy it today!!

In my world

2006-08-09T20:06:00.000-04:00

Oh in my world there are forty zillion hours a day that you have to accomplish everything! Nothing is needed before you are done with it and happiness abounds.

Yeah I'm dreaming.

There are so many things I need and want to get done. I don't know how other people do it all. (Unless they leave words out of sentences like I did for time management lol)

I have a lot of wasted time, I know that. But it's a Catch 22, I'm too tired to accomplish anything and if I wasn't tired I'd get more done. :P

I'm tired of trying to get things done, telling my family so they can convienently 'sabotage' my plans. I say I need to write. Ok sure honey is the response, but down to the wire and it's 'oh, we have to do x,y, and z

It's frustrating. It's annoying. AND I can't get anything done that way!
How does a writer combat these annoyances and still find time for writing?!
Anyone with the answers? please! let me know!

Can You Keep A Secret?

2006-08-04T05:06:00.000-04:00

Can You Keep A Secret
Rose Middleton
ISBN 1-59578-225-7

Link

Can you keep a secret?
I don’t suppose you can.
I’m your secret Santa.
Resist my wicked plan!

It’s winter in Melbourne, Australia and investigative journalist Jesse Fox doesn’t want to participate in the Christmas in July gimmick his boss has instigated. He’s about to turn in hisI really don’t want to play this game note to the coordinator when he receives a mysterious package, which holds the most enticing dare he can imagine. Can he uncover the identity of his secret Santa before her titillating gifts drive him insane?

As an administrative assistant in the biggest television network in town, Penny Lane should have better things to do than run the secret Santa gift exchange and coordinate a weekend retreat in the snow. Yet the game allows her to indulge in her secret fantasy with hotshot Jesse, and as her inner vixen emerges, Penny needs to keep him from realising plain Jane is behind the salacious gifts.

Penny must decide if the friendship they share is more important than the possibility of spending the weekend retreat in Jesse’s bed. Exactly what will Jesse do once he uncovers the woman behind the red lace garter and the fur-lined handcuffs?

Diva Happenings

2006-08-01T04:51:00.000-04:00

Romance Divas
Author of the Month : Gemma Halliday – Contests workshop from the Golden Heart winner
Aug 5-7: Paranormal Event with Carrie Vaughn, LA Banks, CT Adams/Cathy Clamp, Gena Showalter, and Kelley Armstrong.
Aug 11 Jessica Faust: Bookends-inc agent in the Chatroom. 9 Eastern
August 8-18 :: Getting To Know The Voices in Your Head Workshop with Jo Ann Ferguson/Jocelyn Kelley
Aug 18 :: Theresa Meyers: PR/Promo in the Chatroom.
August 25 :: Ann Christopher, Patricia Sargeant, Maureen Smith and Sophia Shaw Multi-cultural Authors Chat

Charly's Fire Buy it

2006-07-24T18:22:00.000-04:00

Charly's Fire

When Charly Hanson's house catches fire she has no idea that the man sent to dowse the flames will stir up feelings in herself she thought were long dormant.

Wrong Number

For months, firefighter Charlie Farnsworth has been getting late night phone calls from a strange but sensual sounding woman, the only problem is...the calls aren't intended for him. But they could be just the thing he needs to refuel his own fire.

Charly's Fire coming soon to Freya's Bower (http://www.freyasbower.com)

Visit Bella online at

http://www.freewebs.com/bellatyler

http://bellatyler.blogspot.com

http://www.myspace.com/bellatyler

Horoscope for the day

2006-07-06T06:22:00.000-04:00

ok I'll admit it. I read them. Well sometimes. Every now and again it's pretty head on. Like this one for well, the past two months maybe lol
So if you're a Sagittarius (or even if you're not!) read on!!

You may have to sink down into the depths in order to blow off that negative charge that has become an anchor in your life. You could simply cut the emotional ties that bind you and be free, but it's not that simple. This isn't about making an escape; it's about finding a way to put zest back into your life. It's about doing something that makes you feel fully alive. Still, it's always better to consider the consequences before you act on your feelings.

So I'll agree. I need something to pep me up. What that'll be? I don't know. Healthy family would be a great start. Worry drags us Sags down. I've been worried alot lately. I do love the part that says:

This isn't about making an escape; it's about finding a way to put zest back into your life.

That sums it up right there. Pass me the zest!! My container seems to be almost empty at this table.

So how do you add the spice of life? Any suggestions? What's your favorite life flavor?

Are you kidding?!!

2006-06-22T03:00:00.000-04:00

WOW Let me say I'm shocked! LOL
I never click the profiles in blogger, but I tried to upload a pic- which failed I might add LOL
and was shocked at the downloaded profiles!
I never would have dreamed it. over 400 people have looked at mine.
Bored them to tears, I'm sure! But I wouldn't have imagined 1 or 2 people looking ROFL!
So wow- Thanks for looking :D

This is my attempt (while I'm posting anyway) to upload my mug to blogger- sorry if I frightened you :P )

While I posted, DH called from work. He works in a car parts factory and a foot and a half long copperhead came inside the building! Egads! Good thing steel toed boots are a must! I'm glad someone spotted it before anyone was bitten! That could have been tragic!
Be safe everyone, whether at work or play!

Losing It

2006-06-05T15:18:00.000-04:00

Losing It
by Kate Willoughby
ISBN 1-59578-224-9

For months, biochemist Charlotte Gibson has secretly lusted over Ben Hayden while he’s been refurbishing her house. But there’s no way the sexy-as-sin carpenter would ever look twice at a Shrinking Charlotte like her.

Not one to mix business with pleasure, Ben has been trying to hide the fact that, when it comes to Charlotte, he’s got more than just a hammer in his pocket. But now that he’s found out her deepest, darkest secret, Ben’s going to show Charlotte just how happy he is to see her…

Link to buy: http://www.king-cart.com/cgi-bin/cart.cgi?store=linda018&product_name=Losing+It&return_page=&user-id=&password=&exchange=&exact_match=exact

Link for excerpt: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/books/losingitexcerpt.htm

Her website: http://www.kate-willoughby.com/
Her blog: http://www.katewilloughby.blogspot.com/

Enslave Me Sweetly by Gena Showalter!!!

2006-05-28T01:08:00.000-04:00

Enslave Me Sweetly by Gena Showalter

She has the heart of a killer, and the body of an angel. . . Eden Black walks among humans, protecting them from the murderous evil of other-worlders who abduct and enslave. And though she appears to be human herself, Eden is an alien, a Raka, distinguished by her golden hair and skin, and gifted with the ominous ability to kill without remorse – and with total accuracy. That is, until the fateful night she has one shot to eliminate her target, a human slaver – and misses.

“Failure” is not in Eden’s vocabulary. Neither is “partner” – but that’s what she is forcibly assigned after recovering from her disastrous mission. A sexy, steely-nerved human agent, Lucius Adaire enjoys nothing more than sparking the fury – and rousing the desire – of the fiery female assassin to proud to admit defeat. Locked in an assignment they cannot afford to lose, Lucius and Eden find themselves bound in two high-stakes, heart-pounding games: the dangerous web of kill or be killed, and the erotic dance of seduction. . .

Showalter first demonstrated her skill at blending sizzling romance and nail-biting suspense set in a convincing futuristic society in Awaken Me Darkly (2005). She now continues the roller-coaster-like adventure in an equally entertaining tale that will please a wide cross section of readers. *Starred Review* Booklist.

Order your copy from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or BooksAMillion.

For more information, visit Gena’s website at http://www.genashowalter.com and her blog at http://www.genashowalter.blogspot.com

That thing we call life

2006-05-22T19:13:00.000-04:00

We all take it for granted.
I personally sit on the edge of a glass table, ready to topple off at any moment, hung in suspense of taking life for granted and taking it seriously.

I've been running from myself since I was fourteen. Running from life, problems, sometimes responsibilites. Running scared. Left behind to endure the effects of heart disease, I try very hard to avoid my heart. In every sense, in every way, both physical and emotional. The heart hurts. Deeply. When you feel with your heart every breath is noticable. Every beat and flow vibrates throughout every atom of your being.

I was fourteen when my dad died of a heart attack. No warning. No preparation. No Nothing, but heartbreak.

A ghost from the past heart disease seems to be my enemy following me, watching me. A dark shadow in the alley, just waiting for someone to make the wrong turn so it can attack you and take you away.

DH hasn't been himself lately, and I saw signs I never wanted to see again. Signs of sickness, of high blood pressure, of heart disease.

I'm running scared again. I don't want to face this. I don't want to look death in the face and deal with the outcome. I want to turn my back on that shadow and pretend it's not there. But I can't. I have to try and do something about it. I have to take care of all those 'factors' myself for him. I have to make sure he is taken care of, for me. Because, the alternative is not something I'm ready to face.

The heart is strong. and the stronger the heart- the more it hurts.

I guess it's time to stop running. I'm just not sure I'm strong enough to fight the past and the present together.

Sunset Keys By Cassidy Kent

2006-04-28T11:18:00.000-04:00

This is a must have book!!

Sunset Key
Cassidy Kent
ISBN 1-59426-563-1

Freesia Daniels, personnel specialist and consummate planner, wasn't prepared to get the boot from her company for possessing a heart. When she decides to return home from Boston to the sunny beaches of Key West to lick her wounds, she discovers her heartbroken past has finally caught up with her in the form of Zachary Gray, her childhood sweetheart. He lures her to his island getaway and lands them smack in the middle of a raging hurricane. Lightning doesn't often strike twice, but this storm might give them both a second chance at love.

Size: HeatSheet
Rating: Pulsar
Excerpt: http://www.phaze.com/Excerpts/SunsetKeyExcerpt.htm
Product: http://www.phazebooks.com/catalog/product_...?products_id=87

Don't forget the chat today!! Check links on previous post!!

Chat with Beth Orsoff!!

2006-04-27T22:06:00.000-04:00

That's right! We're having a chat at Romance Divas with Beth Orsoff!
So be in the chat room tomorrow night (that's Friday April 28th, 2006) at 9pm EST/6pm PST.
(As always registration is free!)
This is going to be fun while we learn what you need to know on going from book to movie deals!!
Who doesn't want to know that?!

Hope to see you there!

More pics from Iron Furnace

2006-04-25T18:53:00.000-04:00

I wonder what it looks like to day because we've had a cloud burst!! I may get to look again tomorrow- unless I'm too sleepy! LOL I can't stay awake when it rains. I almost couldn't turn the computer back on because the storm knocked the power out. EEEKKKK!
Ok this pic has my boys in it. You can almost see them :D Hubby is letting them dip their toes in the super iceburg cold water. I think this water actually comes from out of the cave above (like a deep cavern inside or something is the source) But this is probably the deepest point (least that I know of) and you can walk in it. The place they are standing is a rock I've stood on for 30 years :D Doesn't it amaze you that one rock could be the sourse of so many (thousands for this rock) families enjoyment? I think it's pretty cool.

This pic is behind the stone Iron Furnace (see other post) and the water splits from the top and circles around it. I love how the water falls off the tree root making the waterfall appearance. The water doesn't always flow on this side. Sometimes this side dries up in the heat of summer.This is above the furnace on the left and......

This is above it on the right -feeding all the other pics. This is where the rocks are closer together and could hurt you if you ventured out onto them before it slows to a calmer creek. I love the white water here. I couldn't resist taking it. It's so pretty. The air at the Iron Furnace is a great deal cooler when the summer heat is on than in the rest of the world. You can actually come here just to cool off about 10 degrees.

Well that's it for today. I'll post a couple more either later in the week or next week. Hope you enjoy!

Dreams - what do they mean?

2006-04-25T05:37:00.000-04:00

So I've done an unusal thing- I slept almost all night instead of the day. That's just odd to start with.
Last night I had dreams of my past. Literal memories while I slept.
It's so weird cause I wonder why This memory. Why after all these years? Maybe I'll never know. Maybe I already know. I can't say either way.

The other night I was reading my Bible and I came across scripture that says for God the Father to forgive us, we must forgive everyone that hurt us in some way or HE can't forgive us.
THIS IS SO HARD FOR ME!!!!

I have a lot of people I have a very hard time forgiving. Forgiving in not well in my nature. Once crossed, I pretty much stay crossed. Not that I don't try. I am trying - For Me. But I really find it hard to do.

The good thing is I don't find it as hard to forgive new people in my life as much as past people who all set out to take away all that I held dear to me. That one incidence creeps up to bite me in the ass more than I care to admit.
So hopefully that's all the dream was about - reminding me of two people in my past that I need to forgive. People I try to forget altogether.

So I'll have to try to find full forgiveness in my heart for these people in my past that I may never even see again.
So let's get it in writing.
I forgive the people that began the roller coaster in my life that led me to where I didn't want to go after my dad died.
The sisters, the thieves, the lawmakers/court people that decide the fates of minors (do they ever get it right? I fear not) the ex-employees (just in case they're not also known as 'the thieves' but I think they're one in the same.
The past thieves (who could still be the same people) who were in my dream last night (but it really happened- not just to me so I know it's true)
and even my mother who tried her best for protecting me the best way she knew how, even though life had other things in mind- (not to be confused with the bad things that happen to a child like molestation or something like that for I was never abused in any way) she did try, I was just always so stubborn I wanted to change the world and be the protector to all that I thought needed it.

I sometimes thing it's too bad I couldn't have been an adult first and then a child. I could do anything as a child and I wanted to save the world as a child. But now as an adult, I'm happy to have an uneventful day.

SO
Today's lesson- forgive and forget.
Don't dream about it 16 years later. It's tiresome.

What's in your backyard?

2006-04-22T23:50:00.000-04:00

We went out today and the rain made everything so crisp and bright! Not to mention flooded!
We took some pics at the iron furnace since the creek was so lively! It's a beautiful area!
So here are my Cumberland Gap area pics. This is just a slide shot as the water (normally a small creek) rushes by.

This is a shot upstream toward Cudjos Caverns. Years ago you could drive right by the caves and on the opposite side of the road you bought tickets to go into the caves. Now you have guided tours by the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. There are names inside the caves that date back to the Civil War. (I think it's the Civil one lol ) Cumberland Gap changed hands three times in the war. (That I'm sure of!)

There isn't a road there anymore. I don't like the new way. The old was better.

This is the Iron Furnace.
It's a blurry pic because my daughter was jumping up and down at my side while I tried to hold the camera steady lol. The people who decide what to do with things in a park have changed the area around the Iron Furnace so much over the years, I wonder how they can keep claiming it a 'natural state'. But that's neither here nor there. This is 'almost' the way I remember it from 20 years ago. So I guess they're trying somewhat :D

I have a few more pics I'll try and post later in the week! I plan on going to these places that are in my own backyard alot more this summer.

What's in your backyard?

Can You Read This?

2006-04-22T01:03:00.000-04:00

fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid too
Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe can.

i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt!

Hey I find that very cool! Interesting that it's so readable don't you think?

Not only that, but you know, if you can read any of this...
Thank someone for teaching you!!!
Have a wonderful Spring folks!!

Happy Easter!!

2006-04-16T15:06:00.000-04:00

Ahh easter bunnies, decorated eggs, baskets, new easter clothes, cuteness all around.

But let's remember the real reason we celebrate Easter.
It's the joy and celebration of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour rising from the dead after being crusified on the cross at Calvary. so
Happy Easter!!!! to everyone

and anyone that doesn't believe that I'm sorry. but guess what?

Happy Easter anyway!!!!

Hope you all have a great day!!

and I love those Cadbury Eggs!!!

Bllllaaaahsssss

2006-04-11T14:45:00.000-04:00

Don't ya hate the blahs? I do.
Hate them this week. IT's been a long month.

I had some teeth pulled FINALLY! They were wisdom teeth and were driving me insane!!
They made my sinuses hurt and I already have to much sinus trouble.
THEN
we all got sick.
I hate to be sick and we've all been sick for a long time. (That's why I've not been posting :P )
Some flu going around finally caught up with our family but thankfully we're all just about better now.

The day has been a beautiful day here and it felt so good to get out (withOUT jackets!!!) and roll the windows down and pop that sunroof!!! Yippee!!

I've been trying to play online catch up. I felt so out of the loop while sick and unable to surf the net! LOL
I'd almost missed Gina's article. People you don't want to miss her articles!!! She so ROCKS!
Where is her article you might ask? So glad you did!
You'll never guess! ;) LOL yeah right (if you know me online you know where it is!!)
ROMANCE DIVAS of course!
So here's the link to Resources where her article is.
Really gives you food for thought.
Gina's Article.

SO what's your defining moment? I learned what a defining moment was in 1990.
This article (funny she's just written it) has been my mantra for OMGosh! 16 years now!
Hard to believe it's been that long. That makes me sad.
But I'm changing with age. I've noticed it. I've mellowed out dramatically from what I used to be.
That's defining moments.
Gina nailed it to the wall. the one with all the writing on it. ;)

PLUS! She's helped me with an idea! I started my first MS in 2001. My first real attempt at writing.
I
a.) didn't know what hard work writing for something really was as opposed to writing for pleasure
and
b.) never finished that MS
but through Romance Divas I've learned so much and POW someone helps you in some way- whether intentionally (like you openly ask a question) or accidentally (like Gina's article meant for everyone, but really tapping a vein for a IV of improvement fluids for someone - like me!)

It's like that daily there! Everyone helping everyone else. I love it.
I hope I give as much back.

Thanks Gina!! I needed that!

Ellora's Cave Author Chat!

2006-03-09T15:07:00.001-05:00

Romance Divas will be hosting a chat with several Ellora’s Cave authors on March 10th, from 9-10 pm est in our chat room. (Click the link to go straight to the correct chat room.)

Come with your questions and meet some of your favorite erotic romance authors. Denise A. Agnew, Jaci Burton, Kate Douglas, Kate Hill, and Jory Strong will all be ready to heat up your weekend. Read on for a bit more about these incredible authors.

Denise A. Agnew’s award-winning novels have been described as suspenseful, erotic, edgy, thrilling, romantic, and adventurous. One thing they share is that they are all exciting reads. Romantic Times Bookclub Magazine called her romantic suspense novels “top-notch” and her erotic romance PRIMORDIAL received a TOP PICK from Romantic Times Bookclub Magazine.

Denise has lived in Colorado, Hawaii, and the United Kingdom, giving her a lifetime of ideas. Her experiences with archaeology have crept into her work, as well as her numerous travels through England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. She now lives in Arizona with her real life hero, her husband. You can find out more about her extensive booklist, and Denise herself, at her website - www.deniseagnew.com.

Jaci Burton is a multi published author, with over twenty-five books published by erotic romance publisher Ellora’s Cave. Jaci writes in multiple genres, including paranormal, contemporary, futuristic, fantasy and BDSM. Among her many awards to date are the Cupid and Psyche Award for Best Contemporary Erotic Romance, the Road to Romance Reviewer’s Choice Award and two Reviewers Choice nominations by Romantic Times Bookclub Magazine. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, Romance Writer’s Ink, Passionate Ink and EPIC. Jaci has recently contracted with Bantam Dell for mainstream paranormal romance, and with Berkley HEAT for erotic romance. These books will release sometime in 2007.

Jaci lives in Oklahoma with her husband Charlie who inspires her to create stories about sexy, stubborn alpha males who don’t always do what the heroine wants them to. She has three children-two grown sons and one teenage daughter. She loves animals, has five dogs and one fish who keep her company while she writes. Her favorite activities are travel, reading and long afternoon naps. Find out more about Jaci, and check out her bookshelf, at www.jaciburton.com

Kate Douglas has been privileged to call writing her profession for almost thirty-five years, producing everything from radio copy to news stories to contemporary romances and erotica. With thirteen titles currently in print, numerous ebooks with various publishers, and eight more books in her erotic paranormal Wolf Tales series scheduled through 2008, at least she knows what she’ll be doing for the next couple years!

Kate and her husband are currently dividing time between two homes while they remodel the house in the mountains where they hope to settle when her husband retires. When she’s not loading or unloading the car, Kate’s either writing or playing with the grandkids…and trying to figure out when she can go to Hawaii to see her newest granddaughter, Ella, born Feb. 6. Visit her web site at www.katedouglas.com

Kate Hill is a thirty-something vegetarian New Englander who likes heroes with a touch of something wicked and wild. Her short fiction and poetry have appeared in publications both on and off the Internet, and she has over twenty books available at Ellora’s Cave. When she’s not working on her books, Kate enjoys reading, working out, and researching vampires and Viking history. Visit Kate’s website at www.kate-hill.com

Jory Strong has been writing since childhood and has never outgrown being a daydreamer. She’s written several series for Ellora’s Cave, ranging from romantic suspense, to paranormal, to futuristic. When she’s not hunched over her computer, lost in the muse and conjuring up new heroes and heroines, she can usually be found reading, riding her horses, or hiking with her dogs. Learn more about Jory and see her full book list at www.jorystrong.com.

Our chat on Feb 24th was great fun – you can read the transcript in our forum archives if you missed it. But make sure to mark your calendar, you don’t want to miss this one!

People get on my nerves

2006-03-03T15:03:00.000-05:00

Is it any wonder I'm a SAHM, a homeschooler, and contact people by internet?
I'm so anitsocial sometimes it's not funny. Today started out as an exception.

I'm sure many of you know that I'm under the weather. I had teeth pulled and hoped that would be the end of my lethargic days. I simply don't feel good. I don't even feel like sitting here at the computer, but I'm waiting an hour to make a phone call- that I also don't feel like doing but hopefully it's something to help me. So I'm getting ahead of myself - let's back up.

I had two wisdom teeth pulled that were giving me trouble and hoped I'd be all better generally once that was done. One hurt every single solitary day. I was sick of the pain. I made the appointment and then had to wait over a month to have it done. So Monday those suckers came out. Then I really got sick.

I threw up all that evening (after hours of course) and the next day I thought okay if I can just eat things will be better. Nope. I still felt horrible. Sluggish and tired. Hello I should be better.
I called the dentist yesterday and no one could help me- (eveyone but the receptionist was gone for the day) and Nope not open on Fridays! :P
So I decided I'd go to the doctor today for my whole in my gums and my sinuses with I'm sure are infected (I'm a chronic sinus sufferer) but in my "I don't feel good and can't determine why" state I slept too long (seriously long all week and still don't feel good) so I got up at 1pm showered and started in to the doctor's office and hubby decides to call ahead.

GGGGGGGGGGRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
So they stopped taking people early and I can't get in. Gee, thanks.

I don't understand why doctor's aren't required a full three shift staff. I mean really. Do people only get sick from 8am-3pm? and crap that's not even eight hours and they stop taking people at 2pm. The insanity of it.

My head is swimming right now and I just want to lay down and sleep til Monday. I can't stand this. It's so pretty outside I'd love to feel good enough to go out and enjoy the day.

So I called the doctor's office back. The lady said to call back by 4pm and maybe just maybe she can have a refill sent in for me. Please dear God let her do that!! I hate feeling bad and I want to feel my age. I may be 30 but I'm not over the hill yet for Pete's sake!!

and to add insult to injury. I cut the underneath of my fingernail on one of those dang blisters the sinus medicine comes in. It's like cutting your nails in the quick and hurts worse than a papercut. Throbbing sore.
I need a break please. And I don't mean any bones either!!

30 minutes to go. My head hurts, swims and I'm so tired I can't stand myself. Add one husband, two rambunous boys and one fiesty girl to the mix and you can stick a fork in me - I'm done. Pull back the dirt now and let me crawl in my own grave. Hopefully I'll have some medicine tonight and feel entirely different tomorrow.

Cross you fingers for me and pray - hard.

Build a better mouse trap

2006-02-26T22:55:00.000-05:00

Isn't it amazing what we learn from our kids? I left my oldest own his own and took a quick nap- one I think I'll get back to hopefully before the little ones wake up. So anyway with all those do not open the door instructions and reasons to come immediately wake me up he heard a noise and woke me. No problem :) the local raccoon wildlife decided to come for supper and the sounds coming from the front porch scared him.

So that meant I was awake tooth aching and hungry. I fixed a quick bite to eat and sat down in the chair fasinated with the game he was playing online. Some Tom and Jerry game. So cute. Remember all the blueprints they would draw up for all their sceames? (something is wrong with that spelling and I can't quite put my ha-ha finger on it) oh well back to my story ;)

So on this game you use a blueprint to make a mouse trap for Jerry and then you test it and it plays a cartoon version of the blueprint-- cute huh? If you make mistakes Jerry gets away and Tom gets mad, but if you build the right trap you catch Jerry and Tom has him for lunch.

So this got me thinking-- how in writing can we writers 'build a better mouse trap'?

Think about this. Who is our mouse? Readers are our first desire... to have tons of fans who read and admire our work, but first we have to get our manuscripts out there. So we have to catch a publisher or agent, someone willing to take a risk on us. That's our first mouse. They're smart and ellusive too. So we need a blueprint or a guide to help us in our quest for catching that meal ticket.
Here's the thing-- maybe you have part of the writing that works, then something doesn't fit and it's a no go. On the Tom and Jerry game the trap blows up or something and you have to use the what? Guess. That's right - edit button. To go back and try again. Maybe this time you'll get closer to catching that mouse. My son didn't know that at first. He kept using the "Start over" button. That's all well and good, but startiing from stratch can sometimes be so frustrating.

My advise is this. Take a look at where your going and what worked. Then Change what doesn't work before you clear the slate and start over. It may just be the thing to improve your writing. It's the learning what doesn't work to push you forward more than the beginning again. It's quite simple to begin again, but it takes courage to work on an existing project. :)

Here's a great way to 'see' what I'm talking about. Go play the game. You'll either A.) Get a story idea B.) Understand what I mean in this post or C.) have fun procrastinating on your next story ;)
Tom and Jerry Trap-o-matic

It's snowing in the south!

2006-02-12T13:19:00.000-05:00

Yep. That's what I said. It's Snowing!

My son asked all winter "When is it going to snow?" It's not I kept saying. Global warming, the green house affect, it's too hot yadda yadda yadda and "We're too far south for it to snow." A dozen and one answers to the same repeated question.

I remember when...

Ohh ever hear one of those? Briana has a great post about those stories... We walked to school for miles everyday uphill both ways... yadda yadda. Great post btw-If you've not read it go and be sure you do! I was in stiches at the memories it brought to mind! Which brings me to what I told my son...

I remember when...
It snowed 3 and 4 foot and took weeks to melt. We stayed home from school and whatnot. Once in the 80s it snowed in April! Two foot! (that really happened btw!) With lots of "wow really?" responses. But it's not snowed like that in years. Plus I moved farther south so that means less snow.

Now it's snowing!! a good two days worth! Of course half of it melted yesterday so we still only have a few inches not feet. So what does my son say to me?

"I thought you said it doesn't snow in the south!"

Ya got me. "Well dear, it is now."

Be careful what you say to placate a child. They always remember!

SO It's snowing in the south!

When my time comes

2006-01-25T21:17:00.000-05:00

Death is never easy. I guess it's not meant to be. But I notice repeatedly something that I beg and plead- Don't let that happen to me--
I lost two aunts to cancer. I don't like and will never enjoy that. But my heart constricts and screams at being doped up on morphine at the time of death.

I feel so weird about that. I don't know why, but I feel more like it's an overdose on morphine that does the killing. Which logically I know that's wrong- or at least supposed to be wrong in my way of thinking. (Hope that wasn't confusing) So rewording. Logically I know it's the cancer not the morphine that kills people under care. Better? hope so.

Doesn't help me any. No matter what logic tells me. If I'm ever in that shape please somebody, don't let anyone give me morphine. I want to cry just thinking about it.

Well That's my rant/ fear/ wacko thoughts for the day.
Take care and be healthy.

Jewels Of Atlantis by Gena Showalter

2006-01-20T17:20:00.000-05:00

All Atlantis seeks the Jewel of Dunamis, which legend claims can overcome any enemy. Grayson James, human agent of the ultra-secret Otherworld Bureau of Investigation has orders to keep it from the wrong hands -- or destroy it. What he doesn't know is that Jewel is a woman, not a stone! But once he meets this precious gem, destroying her is the last thing on his mind....

Jewel, part goddess, part prophet, is a pawn in Atlantis's constant power struggles. She needs Gray's help to win freedom and uncover the secrets of her mysterious origins. Gray needs her wisdom to navigate monster-ridden Atlantis. But need blossoms into passionate love as they fight demons, dragons, vampires -- and a prophecy that says the bond between them could destroy them both.

If you haven't ordered this yet, all I can say is...why not?

I hate January

2006-01-14T16:42:00.000-05:00

Plain and simple I hate January.
This month sucks. I am so depressed. I can't get any cooperation out of DH. Kiss my ass. Trouble maker that he is.
I can't finish my entry for Amber Quill Press for arguing with him. I had my heart set on it and anything I set my heart on he seems determined to ruin. This is not the first time. He's classic for ruining things for me. I shouldn't have told him I was trying to enter I suppose. I'd have been better off.

It's January, the full moon is tonight. My kids go crazy when the moon is full and today is no exception with DH and I at each other's throats. I want to scream, but it would do me no good.
So we were talking about going to the RWA Conference and it gets worse. Plus the hotel says it's full so I can't get a room (everyone would be coming with me but do their own thing while I did the conference stuff).
I guess I can forget the whole thing before I get to hopeful at going. I might can swing a day down there and just socialize. We'll have ot just wait and see.

Leaving 2005

2005-12-31T06:59:00.000-05:00

Wow I can't believe another year has passed. Of course when you think of it every day that passes is another year passed the last time you were on that day.

Wow! How wordy was that?!

So anyway I'm looking at the numbers for next year -- 2006.
Doesnt' that just look funny? And just think we'll all spend the better part of six months trying to remember to write the six instead of the five on checks!! Ah the joys of a new year! LOL

hehee ok so tomorrow (err... that would be today! I just noticed the time.) I'm going to add up all the score sheets to the Diva Best Opening Scene and find out our winner! That's always exciting!

I wish all the entrants the best of luck and I know they have skill! Hopefully we'll have more requests out of the contest (we're getting really good for that!! YAY that's super exciting! But as Forrest Gump says, "That's all I'm going to say about that." :D
Why? because I can't tell you all I'm writing up for the BOS contest here! You'll have to go to the Romance Diva blog for that! Well it' s 7am and I've not been to bed yet!! So off I go! Wish me some sleep!

Happy New Year everyone!! May your writing become published with large royality checks quickly attached!!

I call it off!!!

2005-12-25T22:18:00.000-05:00

It's 10:19pm est here on Christmas day and I officially call it off!!
So how did you far this Christmas?
I've run the usual of sticking my foot in my mouth, getting upset at something done or said by aunt so-and-so,
annoying other family members, giving sucky gifts, receiving some pretty good gifts for a change, and getting embarrassed at other's rude behavior. hmm does that cover it all?

Ahh well Merry Christmas!!!

Used Tea Bags

2005-12-19T15:36:00.000-05:00

I'm afraid that's what I feel like today. Convientent since my son busted a bag I'd left out for a minute before throwing away. Made a mess of course. Which he's done all day. One mess after another. I'm so not a happy camper today.
I'm sad, depressed and been close to tears all day. I have a monster tooth ache. I've not been to a dentist in years. They terrify me. Completely. I dread going, but I will eventually have to give in and go. Much to my chargin.

I'm not ready for Christmas . I never am anymore. I thought the years would be easier since my dad's passing, but really they just get worse. I used to be so tough. I could handle anything. I could take on the world and always be on top. Not today. Today I'm a pathetic bleeding heart. My heart bleeds for all the things I could have been and I'm not. I bleed for all the happiness I used to feel and don't. Where is my armor? Where is my strong will and independent ways that saw me through my hard times? I'm getting old and soft. I've lost my edge.

Gee it's only my birthday. How will I get through Christmas and mostly January? I dread January more than words can say.

Happy Birthday to me.

edited to add:
It's no wonder I love to write. I seem to be able to purge my sorrow in writing and move on to more enjoyable things. I already feel better just getting all that written and out of my system. Which leaves me seriously considering deleting the whole post, but I figure somehow I'll cheat someone or myself if I do. I haven't a clue. So indeceiciveness (sp?) leaves it up -- at least for now. :P

It's Cold!!

2005-12-11T11:46:00.000-05:00

It's finally cold in the south!!
A few very very sparse round pebbles of snow (not the fluffy flaky kind), not even long enough to hit the ground.
White Christmas-es are hard to come by in the south. I remember when we had real White Christmas-es. My kids don't even remember the snows we had the last couple of years (of course the oldest is only 7 :D )

We were supposed to go to a Christmas Party last night and one today, but we're not at either. Hubby had a call from a friend and helped him yesterday. He made it back home in plenty of time for the party, but he must have caught a flu bug. He was sick all night long. I'm talking sick. He is normally a pretty healthy person, and even when he gets colds he keeps on a going, but today and last night we're talking so sick what time he wasn't hugging the throne, he was completely asleep from exhaustion. I hope he gets better soon. :(

Normally he feeds our dogs :) but since he is sick I'm going out to feed them (I always work harder at it lol) but it's so cold!!! Ick the only time I don't want to feed the dogs is when it's this cold! BRRRRRRR! I'll have to wash water bowls and food bowls and freeze my @ss off! LOL So off I go!

BRRRBRRRBBRBRRBBRBBRBRRBRRRRRBRRRRRBRRRRR!

I'm posting! :D

2005-11-30T04:37:00.000-05:00

heeehee ok so I've negected my blog recently! Here I am! :P
My days and nights are all weird. I'm up *gasp* in the day!! WEIRD!
Hubby may possible take a third shift job where he works. He's on second now, which is pure heaven!
He's worked a first shift job for 14 or more years at a funiture factory. They kept cutting everyone's pay until hubby decided to get out. Now he works at a car parts plant and the relief of the first shift job has been unreal for me!!! He seems to like it too cause he gets more rest ;)
If he goes on to third shift we'll start sleeping in the evenings to wake up around 9pm. Then we'll stay up all day daily things done in daylight LOL and go to bed around 2 or 3pm! That's really different even for this night owl, but I think we'll enjoy it!

In other news...

It's November 29th (like you didn't know that already if you're reading this today) and :( I haven't even neared finishing my nano. *pout* My fault entirely. I realize that. A friend of mine suggested ADD medicine to stay on one story at a time LOL! But it's true I have a hard time "finishing" a story unless its short. It's taken some doing to "reteach" myself long works of writting. I even with my failed nano, I feel like I have at least improved. The reminders from each writer in Divas go a long way to help me keep on target too. I've never had encouragement to "waste' my time with constant writing. Don't get me wrong -- no one has ever minded my writing-- just never encouraged me to write CONSTANTLY. So I think little by little my mind and body are tempering for sitting still longer to get those words down.
heehee kinda like now-- I got a little wordy :D Can this count on my nano? LOL

If you havent' been by to see our NEW FORUM at Romance Divas, please come check it out!!!

OH and I'll be changing my website very soon! Christmas is almost here!! Well as soon as I can decide which of my beautiful Christmas templates to use- I have some gorgeous ones to pick from!!

Merry Christmas!!!

Attention Romance Writers!

2005-11-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

Would you like to get a free shirt? :D

Then be the 800th person to become a member of Romance Divas!! We are celebrating a new forum coming up! If you sign up on Friday November 11, 2005, you can use this URL Please tell them that I sent you along! I'd love a hat! :D Tell 'em Night Diva Maria sent you! :D

Now if you wait until Saturday November 12, 2005 then you'll have to use the main website for Romance Divas because I don't know what the URL will be to the NEW Forum. Either way, and any number, please come join Romance Divas! We have a new We All Win contest coming up AND this weekend is the High Noon Challenge!! you don't want to miss it!!

Letter From Divas

2005-11-02T15:50:00.000-05:00

From our fearless Diva Leaders! Don't panic Divas is ok, just a little tummy ache! :D I'm sure Jax will have it in full working order in no time! Hey think of it as extra NANO writing time!! :-D
Dont' forget the chat this Saturday!! It'll be a blast!!

Dear Divas-

As some of you probably already know,we are experiencing technical difficulties on the forum-as of this morning we can read the forum but cannot post. Meanwhile, please visit the Diva blog at: http://romancedivas.com/divablog/

for messages and to keep in touch. You are also welcome to e-mail me here.

The steamy contemporary chat this Saturday, November 5th with Bronwyn Jameson, Nancy Warren and Lucy Monroe is still on! It's at 9PM EST and should last about an hour and a half. Please come by and chat with these fabulous authors!

Following is the message Jax posted today on the Diva blog:

Romance Divas is 1 year old this month!

Thank you for your support as a member of our award winning website and forum. Without your membership and participation Romance Divas would not be where it is today.

With this new year we plan on implementing more changes that may benefit our members. One of the major steps is to improve our forum software. We are happy to announce that we’re upgrading to a new forum which will be implemented this weekend. This new board should alleviate the issues that we face with our current board. As a way to have a stable forum for our increased membership we decided to do what is best for the site and we apologize for any inconveniences. I know some of you divas may go through withdrawal, but be strong. We’ll be up and running in no time at all.

Please be aware our forum will be down this weekend, November 5th, and may not be up and running until the end of the next week since we will need to ge acquainted and troubleshoot the implementation. We want to make sure the forum starts off on an excellent footing.

Again, we value your membership and thank you for your continued support as we enter into our second year. Please utilize our website by reading the book reviews, articles, etc. There is more to Romane Divas than just the forums. We also have our blog at www.romancedivas.com/divablog.

We will be posting updates on our main website, www.romancedivas.com, and will announce our new official forum launch from there.

Please feel free to contact us if you should have any questions. admin@romancedivas.com

Thank you!

Jax, Kristen & Lisa
The Romance Divas

Frustrating day

2005-10-21T18:42:00.000-04:00

Well I finished a wonderful Ebook for RD and I'm trying to write the review. My DD is in a bad mood and keeps gettting between me and the computer. Blah. I was on a creative review writing role too. Ha ha say that five time fast! :-D so I'm at least please with my first paragraph, but now I can't get to the meat of the review cause my brain's all cloudy. Grrr, I don't mind her being whiny (well ues, I do, but I can deal with it) UNTIL it's when I'm writing. It's no wonder I can't finsh writing a book! Geez it's a review! just a few small minutes of my time, that I would enjoy writing. Oh, well, maybe later.

I have had an idea that may or may not fly. I think I'll post short stories here (since I can't think to just blog everyday LOL) and see how that goes. I'm working on an idea for the Amber Heat Contest. That is so Major leagues to me I don't know if I'll enter. We'll see.

NANO is coming up folks!! Are you ready? Coffee stocked? Pop refrigerated? I"m a pop drinker myself- not a coffee drinker, but to each their own. :-D Every Tuesday night until Nano the Romance Divas are having a brainstorming session. Care to join us? Go to Romance Divas and click Diva Chat! hope to see you there!

Which sign are you?

2005-10-11T04:54:00.000-04:00

.:Neptune:.

"You are a very passionate person, however,
this passion often remains hidden below the
surface. You have a great deal of compassion
for others and are always willing to help those
in need. You have a great generosity, sometimes
so great that you neglect yourself while giving
to others. You also have a stubborn side,
though, which serves to protect you from being
taken advantage of by those you help."

. : : Which Astrological Planet are You? : : . [10 Gorgeous Pics!]
brought to you by Quizilla

Finishing Up

2005-10-03T22:43:00.000-04:00

Well, I'm excited about this story I'm targeting Woman's World with. I have finished it and need to edit and cut some words- I went over. But Hey It's FINISHED! I'd rather have too many words than not enough. I have a good feeling about this story line. It's plain, it's simple. Now if they will just like my voice! I really hope they will take this one. But if not-- That will still be okay. I'm new at this so I don't exactly expect to sell anything right off. I just take for granted I won't. But if I do! Well That would be FANTASTIC! I'm letting it set for a day or two more before I edit it so I can be objective once I read it again, but I'm not going to spend forever editing. I'm going to make it the best I can and throw that sucker out the door and hopefully into the arms of a happy editor! :-D

Hey Check out my Q&A with ePublisher Linden Bay Romance on my website. I'm all ready for Halloween with spiders galore! Hope it doesn't creep you out to much!

Happy Writing everyone!

Blogshares

2005-09-30T21:40:00.000-04:00

hee hee Kristen's hooked me on this! I sold some shares and have quite a bit of "money" to play with now! LOL this is cool. Now if only I could do that on the real stock market!

Okay people -- go buy!!

Did someone say PIZZA?

2005-09-26T22:28:00.000-04:00

hee hee okay my hubby delivers pizza part time so after seeing this on the wonderful Kristen's blog, I couldnt' resist Here is the type of pizza I am-- hope it comes out right.

Cheese Pizza

Traditional and comforting.
You focus on living a quality life.
You're not easily impressed with novelty.
Yet, you easily impress others.

What's Your Pizza Personality?

Busy busy busy!

2005-09-22T20:14:00.000-04:00

what a week! I've not been online since about Monday like I usually am. I've been driving my life away... looking for a better way oohhhooohhh meeee..... sorry song flashback. hee hee

So I'm totally missing out on the Fast Draft workshop at Romance Divas and I don't like that part, but I love the time out. It's so pretty to of the day even though it's hot. I watch the sun come up in the morning since I face East on my way home and it's beautiful watching it rise over the Appalachian mountains. Driving is so freeing and since that stretch of road has few cops and is straight as can be I can floor that little car and go! hee hee no I'm not confessing how fast I was driving. What is someone read my posts?! LOL So probably only one more day of this crazy schedule and I'll be back to staying home, but it's been fun and enjoyable if not tiresome. Course I'm not in bed before 7am usually anyway what's one more hour?

Write all you can today, who knows what sunrise you want to see tomorrow :-D

Reviews are up!

2005-09-20T21:34:00.000-04:00

Alright people! My words are golden! NOT. (grin) Okay so my words are not golden, but hey I can tell you about some books I've read recently! Go to Romance Divas Book Reviews to read all the Diva reviews. Here's the hightlight on mine :-D Click the Title for my reviews and click the author names for their websites!

Check this one out. This book is already at Walmart so I suggest you run out and grab a copy! :-D
To The Limit By Cindy Gerard

Have you been to Phaze.com lately? Check out these ebooks I enjoyed.
MacDougal's Rule by Adriana Dane
Diet Another Day by Pamela Downs

Have a great reading day!!

coming soon: Wanna Get To Know Ya by Reon Laudat

Year to date accomplishments!

2005-09-16T22:06:00.000-04:00

Ok so I posted on my other blog about Romance Divas. I forgot the URL so I pop back over to it and huh, I've already got two comments? Seemed weird, but I'm thinking I'm gonna check. Hit with that spam blog first thing! I'd forgotten to set the verification on it. Well it's done now. :-D

Well Romance Divas are busy this coming week!! We're talking Candace Haven AND Deidre Knight both starting Sept. 18th. So get your butt on over there!! It's a free workshop curtesy of Candace Haven and Q&A with Deidre Knight. It's promising to be an exciting week!! Go on get (right after you read the rest of what I have to say! :D)

Gee what do I have to say? hee hee I can be windy. I entered the Blaze! It will be October 15 before I hear anything. which I don't expecting anything LOL But hey cool I entered for real! There were times that I didn't think I'd make the deadline, but I did!! Yay me! Plus I'm fine that they won't call me up and say hey we want to buy your book! (heck it's not even finished!) but it was experience I was aiming for so I got some and will (assumingly) get more.
Now if I could just get the MS finished! Isn't that a huge draw back? Oh well onward and upward!
So I'm going to finish this MS, write about three stories for Woman's World (I have one current rejection, I think five rejections is the going perfection rate LOL), and I'm seriously thinking about the Writer's Digest Short Shorts Story Competition. I've been "planning" for about three years to enter that sucker, and I've found courage in my writing at Romance Divas I didn't have before. So this year may be the year!! hee hee nope not a plug, but just one reason I love being a part of Divas. I am so happy with the writing I'm accomplishing everyday I get in there and read what everyone else is doing. I'm inspired to write. I'm inspired to work harder than I did before. I'm inspired to try harder! Thanks Divas!!

L.A. Power outages and Romance Divas

2005-09-12T18:49:00.000-04:00

Hi all. Spreading the word. Since Los Angelos is having a Power failure, I'm afraid Romance Divas is currently offline. At the moment no one can contact Jax either, but hopefully once power is restored contact with Jax and Romance Divas will be back on track.

Take Care in California Gals!!! Be Safe.

Gee this is like the Harlequin Blazes-- 24 Blackout books. I have and read two of the three. Hopefully our Divas are doing fine, maybe just as good as the books ;-)

Hugs!

RD Spotlight On

2005-08-13T04:17:00.000-04:00

What an exciting month!! The divas (and others) have returned from Reno, Nevada after attending the RWA Conference there. I hate to report the sad news of Marianne Mancusi arriving back to her home to find it had burned. Writers are such wonderful people!! A lot of them have pulled together and there is an auction going on for Marianne at Ebay so here is the link be sure you go and bid on something!! Marianne Fire Fund Lots of Critiques for sale and lots of books to- something for readers and writers alike!!

Romance Divas has a new SPOTLIGHT ON this month with Candace Havens. So be sure you click her name to read the wonderful interview with her!!

Don't forget the AUTHOR OF THE MONTH!! Denise Jefferies is going to teach us how to manage our STRESS!
Well I don't know about you, but I have to be there for this one!!! So mark your calendars for August 22-26, 2005!

Attention Writers and Readers

2005-08-07T12:47:00.000-04:00

Marianne Mancusi came back from Reno to find everything gone. Lightening struck her house and it burned down.
Here's a letter to pass along. Let's help all we can!!

From Lani Diane Rich:

As many of you know, author Marianne Mancusi (A CONNECTICUT FASHIONISTA IN KING ARTHUR'S COURT) returned home from the RWA national conference to discover that she had no home - it and all her belongings had burned to the ground while she was in Reno. While we're grateful that neither Marianne nor her dog were hurt, the loss of everything she owned - including childhood photos and mementos, things she can never replace - was simply devastating. Now there's a single girl in Boston who needs absolutely everything, so the girls here at Literary Chicks (http://www.literarychicks.com) are circling the wagons, and the writing community has come out like gangbusters to show their support by helping us set up this AMAZING auction to benefit Marianne.

http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZmariannefirefund

Items include signed books from...

Jennifer Crusie
Mary Jo Putney
Alesia Holliday
Michelle Cunnah
Lani Diane Rich
Dierdre Martin
Melissa Senate
Toni Blake
Gena Showalter
Lori Avocato
Joshilyn Jackson
And many, many more...

Also, critiques (NOT submissions, but who doesn't want to get their name in front of these people?) from...

Chris Keeslar, Sr. Editor, Dorchester
The Knight Agency
Stephanie Kip Rostan, agent, Levine-Greenberg
Beth de Guzman, Editorial Director - Mass Market, Warner Books
Kelly Harms, former Avon editor, now an agent with the Jane Rotrosen Agency
Brianna St. James, editor for Ellora's Cave and Cerridwen Press
Steve Axelrod - agent representing authors Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Alesia Holliday and more top hitters
And many more...

Not to mention critiques from authors...

Jenny Crusie
Alesia Holliday
Michelle Cunnah
Lani Diane Rich
Karen Rose
Lori Avocato
Joshilyn Jackson
Natalie Collins
And more...

Anyone who would like to donate to Marianne independently of the auction can find out how to do so at http://www.literarychicks.com.

This could quite easily be among the best opportunity this year for aspiring writers to get their name in front of big hitters, and it's definitely a great opportunity for readers to get signed books from their faves. So if you can promote, we'll really appreciate it, and if you can't but would like to forward this e-mail to people you think might be interested, that would be fantastic.

Thanks so much for your time. We appreciate you beyond the telling of it.

J Lani

High Noon Challenge

2005-08-05T04:44:00.000-04:00

Yep It's Words at 20 paces at the Diva Corral.
If you've been reading my blog or are a Romance Diva, I'm sure you've heard about our newest fun writing exercise. But if you haven't let me tell you about it!!
Just to tell you how fun the Divas are let me tell you how it all started on this particular challenge. I was reading the threads (as usual) and Diva Laura was enjoying her writing frenzy. (that girl can write fast lemme tell ya!) And jokingly said she take anyone on. heee hee then Jax said if she wasn't so busy she would (!!!! I want to know where she'd get the time!! That girl has more going on than the Pentagon!!! LOL)

Well, as I read this amusing thread, I mentally heard the theme from the Good the Bad and the Ugly! Spurs jingling and all. LOL So I challenged them to start writing on 6pm Friday and finish by HIGH NOON Sunday. LOL I didn't know what I was doing but it sort of took hold. Now there are a bunch of us using this weekend (starting on Friday August 5 at 6pm until Sunday, August 7 at High Noon (12pm) to write as much as we can in that length of time.

Are you ready to take the High Noon Challenge? Join us in the FORUM and post your word counts for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It's sure to be a blast!!
If you haven't joined the forum yet, IT'S FREE and wonderfully FUN so what ARE you waiting for??
Plus we have new workshops about to start! So come on and join us!!

More Reviews!!

2005-08-01T05:27:00.000-04:00

Wow! I'm loving this! It's just the greatest to do something you love! I'm reviewing books on occassion for Romance Divas and I love it. I am reading some great books I normally wouldn't even know about. I just read Reon Laudat's Wanna Get to Know Ya. Let me tell you it was fabulous!!! I loved it.
As soon as the review is up at Romance Divas I will post a link. Don't miss this book in October!!
But while you wait go check out all the other reviews at Romance Divas! Lots of great reviews posted to keep you busy!! So check it out!!
Romance Diva Book Reviews

Golden Heart Awards

2005-07-31T18:19:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to my hubby! He turned 33 yesterday!! (I wasn't blogging then so I didn't post it LOL)

Ahh it's been a busy week! I can't imagine how busy it's been for the Golden Heart and Rita finalists.
Most of our divas have been to Reno this week so the forum has been quieter than usual. I say quieter not completely quiet. LOL It's been hoping pretty good even with everyone in Reno. I hear the Divas booth did very well and I'm not surprised!! How could it not be one of the most happening places to be?
I'm sad to say our dear Kristen didn't win a Golden Heart, but she her Heart is made of Gold and we don't need an award to know that!
There was a Diva that did win the Golden Heart and that was Gemma! Way to go Gemma!! Great job!
Divas everywhere are proud of you both!!

Think things will slow down now that the conference is over? Not at Romance Divas! This week we have a new writing challenge! This one is called HIGH NOON CHALLENGE and it's quite doable! Starting this Friday at 6pm (everyone can start once they get off from work-- no excuses!!) start writing your heart out!! Write all day Saturday and part of Sunday. BUT you have to stop at HIGH NOON (12pm your time) on Sunday and turn in your word count. The highest word count wins and gets to choose the new challenge!!
It's a word showdown at Romance Divas! Come and join us!! It will be fun!

Internet Withdrawal ;-)

2005-07-23T04:11:00.000-04:00

Ah yes, my internet service had problems that kept me offline for a few days. Very upsetting I'm sure you'll agree. :-) But things seem to be working now. :-D Of course I had to play catch- up on the internet so I'm up till the wee hours of morning when I should have gone to bed hours ago!

I have read the 6th Harry Potter book! I read it within 48 hours of buying it. :-D Slow I know, but I do have three children demanding attention! LOL I will not put spoilers up for those who didn't get/read the book, however I'm not as please with it as I was the first five books. I hope J.K. Rowling pulls it together in the last book or I'll be sorely disappointed. I've heard she gave and interview where she said she was tired of writing.
Yeah ok. I can understand. She needs a break. However she (unlike me) has developed a fan base-- a huge one!! So I don't really think (money excluded) she can afford to NOT satisfy the masses. LOL

I have so much to do. The Blaze contest is sneaking up on me and I'm still avoiding that synop! Oh, Ouch did I really just admit that? okay two book reviews and I'll do it!

Night all, errr, Morning that is!

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

2005-07-13T02:23:00.000-04:00

Ahhh it's almost here.
okay so 14 people already have it/read it. So raspberry to them.
I've enjoyed the first five books and look forward to the next. I know I know, some people can't stand the books, love the movies. Some people can't stand any of it.
That's okay. It's what makes the world go around.

Oh, new thought. I forgot to look and see how many pages are in HBP. Well, now I have to check.

Book excitement everywhere! I'm also waiting to review more for Romance Divas. I'll keep you posted.

My entry for Blaze is coming along. Good thing too. Deadline is closing in on me. :-D

Book Reviews

2005-07-09T03:23:00.000-04:00

Silly that I am, I forget half of what I want to blog about. Well, today I'm gonna crow (just a little).
I wrote a review for Romance Divas for the ebook Blazing Sun, Burning Hearts by Samantha Sommersby.
That was my first ever review. (Maybe I shouldn't admit that LOL) I enjoyed the book and look forward to more ebooks from Linden Bay Romance . I'm sure they will grow as the ebook industry grows.

Just this weekend I received another book for review also for Romance Divas. Great romantic suspence to keep you on your toes! Cindy Gerard does a wonderful job in her upcoming book "To The Limit".
And Ha ha lucky me! I have another of her books waiting on my shelf already! Black Tie Seduction from Silhouette Desire New release for July 2005. So you'll want to be sure and get it now. While you're waiting on To The Limit due out in September.

Happy reading!!!!!!

Romance Divas Workshops

2005-07-01T23:58:00.000-04:00

Just to name a couple of great workshops at RD.
since the RD crash of '05, there have been wonderful workshops by Judi McCoy, Yolonda Greggs, Morgan Leigh, and Sasha White. If you ever get a chance to have workshops with these ladies, whatever you do don't pass it up!
I especially loved the one on Writing Steamy with Sasha. I believe my writing has improved a great deal! Thanks again Sasha!!

I'm sure July will be no different on the level of greatness!!
Romance Divas will be running another great FREE workshop this month. Author Jess Michaels will be hosting her "So I Wrote This Book...Now What?"workshop in the Forum. Just register to become a member and you're eligible for the workshop and the montly giveaway. The workshop starts July 18th.

Hope to see you there!!

competent? hmm

2005-06-25T12:30:00.000-04:00

ok I'm in a lot of writing groups. Really. So in one I send in some of my writing for some feedback. I got it. Competent, but bland. Huh, okay. I understand that. I feel bland about the comment, I'm thinking hey this must be good that I understand so completely. I mean I think the comment was competent, but bland which is what they thought about my writing-which means that my understanding by feeling the same can only improve my writing. Yes? Well, I hope so. I can use it to strive for the interesting, can't put it down type of writing.
Competent, yet bland. Okay got it--Hey they didn't say it sucked! That's great!

Everything is a learning experience. Everything. Thanks for my comment. That did help. It will help me to improve and it won't be bland. :-D

I've been tagged again!! :-)

2005-06-09T21:30:00.000-04:00

Ok on the

The Rules
Remove the #1 item from the following list, bump everyone up one place and add your blog's name in the #5 spot. You need to actually link to each of the blogs for the link-whorage aspect of this fiendish meme-age to kick in *g*.
Here we go:

1. Teresa
2. Kat (The SoapBox)
3. Lynn Daniels
4. Jax
5. Maria Shanti

...and then you choose 4 unsuspecting victims...

1. Lisa Bradley
2. L.K. Campbell
3. Gina Welborn
4. Kristen Painter

And now for Memory Lane:
5 Things I Miss From My Childhood

1. My dad
2. My grandparents
3. living on my mountain side overlooking the world ;-)
4. my pony
5. childhood trust in people

Whew!
have fun!!

Yeeee Haaawwww!

2005-06-06T02:38:00.000-04:00

DukeFest 2005!!
I made it!!
And darn it I forgot a tee shirt!!
They wrecked a General Lee and a Roscoe P. Coltrane's police car. Ouch that hurt!!
Luckily no one was hurt.
I came pretty close to John Schneider (Bo Duke)!! and my kids got their picture with James Best (Roscoe)!!
Heck I even got a pat on the back from Cletus Hog! It was a wonderful day for us and the kids!!

Sonny Shroyer (Enos Straight) wasn't there (I hope everything is fine with him). We saw him a few months back at Cooter's Place in Gatlinburg. Such a relaxed atmosphere there. He and his wife talked to us like old friends. I'd love to see them again. Such a lovely set of people is very hard to find.

In case you didn't guess I love THE DUKES OF HAZZARD!
It occurred to me today that I was four years old when the first show aired. My middle child turns four this year and he had his picture taken with his favorite person from the Dukes.. Roscoe. What a circle life is....

whole lotta nuthin

2005-05-24T00:23:00.000-04:00

Well, I am taking time out to add to my sidebar tomorrow. At least that's the plan ;-)
We buzzed through Knoxville tonight, it's a full moon and better than chocolate- my goddaughter is in recovery and doing great. I'm more relieved than words can say about that.

I'm also 99.9% sure I'll get a rejection from Woman's World in just a couple more weeks, so I'm wondering if I can get out another short story for them AND write my Blaze book. I may give it a try. I haven't gotten my first rejection, but I'm already planning my next move to improve my chances for a pubbed short with them. Why them? I'm not sure. But hey you have to start somewhere.

toodles.

Firemen Firemen everywhere

2005-05-20T23:24:00.000-04:00

Well, what an interesting night I had. I'm a fly by my pants type of person and sometimes it pays to be.
Hubby was going to go into town without all of us (three kids and me). Suddenly (I say suddenly because that's when I usually decide I want to go-all of a sudden) we all decided to go. So we hop in the car and go (at 11pm or so-I'm a late nighter) We get a few streets away from our house and smell smoke (first son, then hubby, then me) so naturally we begin looking for the source. We are still driving and following the smoke when we see it coming from the roof of a tire/muffler shop. It's 11pm there isn't any traffic so when the light turns green we zip across the road to the gas station and tell them to call the fire dept. This empty road stays empty for the next four minutes and then bursts with all the town. Where the heck did all these people come from? The cops block off the main road, then the firetrucks are everywhere, the elecric company arrives shutting off the power to the muffler shop. It's organized chaos, but I'm wondering why all these other people are there. Where did they come from- did they jump out of bed (LOL) and run out to see the only excitement probably to happen in this place for months? Well, ok good stuff to listen to while I write. Yep I'm writing the scene as it unfolds. :-)
My current WIP just happens to have a fireman hero!! I somehow happened to grab my folder on the way out the door and have it with me when everything happens!!! Yay!! That was lucky! I feel good about this book :-).

So after the excitement (there has been a dark storm moving in the whole time-- I include the dark sky in my notes) we go on to pay a bill which is why we were out to begin with. I tell hubby, Look at the wind- trees will be knocked down we'd better get home. So, we head home and it begins pouring down rain. I mean like pouring out a bucket of water type rain. He decides to take a different road because the other is so slick when it rains you always spin. Hea Hea. Not likely. There is a HUGE tree across the road! If anyone took the curve quickly they would hit it before they realized it was there. So we turn around and go up the slick road -- very carefully and we spin most of the way. But thank the Lord we made it home safe and sound! That's all the excitement I want :-)

Except for this. Hubby just came home from work and brought me beautiful 'crazy daisies'. Such beautiful colors!! Wow that was nice!! They're so bright! I'm going to go thank him. :-)

been gone awhile

2005-05-19T17:10:00.000-04:00

well, okay.
I have pretty much a whole lot of nothing to say. I stayed at the back yard today waiting on the hubby to get home because my silly (but lovable) dog wouldn't stay in the fence. I got all hot and sweaty. Blech.

I enjoyed staying up til 5am this morning writing a review for Romance Divas. I dont' know how it was received yet. But hey I enjoyed the reading and I'm always up late. I hope they like it.

Spice is a new line for Harlequin (or maybe Sil). They have the guidelines up over at www.eharlequin.com Sounds like Ellora's Cave in print to me. They won't be on shelves until 2006 so I guess we'll find out. :-)

I bought the book Wifey by Judy Blume because it's in the guidelines for Spice to reference by on what they want. Sounds like a promising book. ;-)

Blaze is running a contest. (Can you tell I read Harlequin books?) First 25 pages and synopsis. You need to have a completed MS before sending in an entry. I'm trying, I'm trying. I seem stuck on the beginning. (How can I send in the first 25 pages if I can't type them out???!!!!!)
With that said -- I'm going to go and work on it.
My hero is a firefighter. yumm.
Dinner anyone? It's barbeque ;-)

Later!

hee hee I've been Diva Tagged!

2005-05-06T00:37:00.000-04:00

Briana tagged me so here goes… J

If I could be a scientist...
If I could be a farmer...
If I could be a musician...
If I could be a doctor...
If I could be a painter...
If I could be a gardener...
If I could be a missionary...
If I could be a chef...
If I could be an architect...
If I could be a linguist...
If I could be a psychologist...
If I could be a librarian...
If I could be an athlete...
If I could be a lawyer...
If I could be an innkeeper...
If I could be a professor...
If I could be a writer...
If I could be a backup dancer...
If I could be a llama-rider...
If I could be a bonnie pirate...
If I could be a midget stripper...
If I could be a proctologist...
If I could be a TV-Chat Show host...
If I could be an actor...
If I could be a judge...
If I could be a Jedi...
If I could be a mob boss...
If I could be a backup singer...
If I could be a CEO...
If I could be a movie reviewer....

If I could be a scientist… I’d cure all cancers and heart diseases because those diseases took most of my family.
If I could be a farmer... I’d eat from the garden like I did at my mamaw’s and feel like an energetic kid again. I’d feel the joy of working the land with my hands and feel that long lost connection.
If I could be a musician... I’d play beautiful music that filled every heart in song.
If I could be a painter... I’d paint the way things used to be, because I don’t like the way they are now.
If I could be a gardener... I’d grow lavendar to calm everyone for miles. J

If I could be a bonnie pirate… I’d steal from the people who stole away everything from me.

hee hee that was fun. I do seem to have a revenge theme going though. :-/

So now I'm going to tag Lynn, Gina, Lucinda, and Sheri
*rubbs hands together fiendishly*

First Submissions

2005-04-23T21:31:00.000-04:00

Well, I did it. I sent in my first submission. April 20, 2005 I sent a story to Woman's World. Whether or not someone will even read it is another story. :-)
I will keep posts on how long it takes to hear back from them, so come back in about six months, LOL.
I'm eating pizza while typing, so when I finish it I suppose I'll give a tell all account on mailing my submission. ;-)

Okay here goes, I'm a night person so while hubby sleeps, I put on the finishing touches on my query and ms short story, fill out addresses and so forth, then place the huge envelope by the alarm clock to make sure hubby remembers to take it with him to the post office for stamps and mailing. I finally go to bed, then when I wake up to three demanding children the next morning what do I see? A big white envelope! Ok no sweat. It's just a few hours, no big deal.
Hubby gets home quite early from work, and after I tweak the ms and query/cover letter some more (why waste a good opportunity?) I give in and bite the bullet. We load the kids up, and drive out to the post office.

Hubby being the good hubby he is, goes in and has it weighed and all that. He comes back to the car and gets in. So there, it's mailed. I'm nervous, but I believe myself to be fine. After all, it's paper and ink. It may not be the grandest words ever written, but people use words everyday. Nothing to get excited over.

"Go back and get it!" I laugh and cry, as panic takes over. "I can't let someone read that!"
Hubby is busy laughing at his now hysterical wife.
"I can't. It's now federal property. I'd be breaking the law."
He is enjoying my torcher. I see that through my dewy eyes. My face is wet with emotions that I'm not sure are good or bad. But very emotional.
he breaks into my personal thoughts of stupidity at crying. "Why don't you want anyone to read it?"
"Because," I sputter, "it came out of my head and it's stupid!"
"No, it's not." he says in a surprisingly gentle way. "Your writing is very good."
I groan at this. He is king of one liners. "I think it's very good." Top on his list to use when he has nothing else to say.
I'm still wiping tears that are streaming down my face uncontrollably and we're both still laughing. (Did I forget to mention I never shut up with the nervous laughter.)
He sees someone he knows as he pulls into a grocery parking lot, pretending like he's going to hit the guy. I start swatting his arm, both for pretending to hit a person with the car, and for drawing attention to us with my face streaked with fresh tears. The nerve of that man! LOL

We soon came home where I instantly logged in to Romance Divas and reread the kind words from the girls there. I came back to earth on a feather pillow, because I've discovered that's what they do. Supply you with a soft landing on planet earth. You're not on a pedistal, you're on earth to face the trials here in the publishing world, but at least it's a soft, safe landing. Thanks, gals.

So even when I get the rejection letter I'm sure will follow, it will be okay. Just the first I hope, may not be the last, but there's no way to become published without a rejection or acceptance. 50 -50. But unless we send in a request for one or the other it's a 100% garantee we will not be published. I'll take my chances. :-)

Happy Writing!

Website

2005-04-15T18:33:00.000-04:00

well, I never blog about my website, so here goes:

I recently began learning how to make my own website. I have some free space so I figure why not use it? Great procastination tool for writing let me tell ya. I love making new pages and learning new special features to put up. So I put some up. I put one of my stories on there too.

Then I had an email from one of my writing groups asking ME (as if I'm a good writer and not the flop I feel like!) if she can email the story to children in her family. YES I say. She says the nicest things and wonders where I'm published. I'm not, I say. But what a compliment!!!!! She likes my story and thinks I'm pubbed! Thank you thank you!!! I needed that lift today. I've been down and out. So if you (and you know who you are) read my blog at any point after sending me the email ---Thank you. I hope everything is wonderful with you and yours.

oh, yeah anyone who wants to go to my website there are two.

http://geocities.com/nightprowlersdaughter
http://home.centurytel.net/writinghappy

Happy blogging everyone!

The Phoenix

2005-04-12T22:50:00.000-04:00

One of the Romance Divas made a comparison of Romance Divas to the phoenix so I thought I'd post this for others wondering where the forums are...

The phoenix. A legendary creature.

This extraordinary bird, rises up from the ashes, reborn.

Many themes have been written about this ability to overcome hardships. Few actually earn it like....

Romance Divas! Live on!!

And we thought the signature color red was for romance....
We burn up the net!!!!

Glad to see the forums up and running girls! I knew you could do it!

Anyone that was previously a member needs to re-register for the new improved site!
www.romancedivas.com

Sorry I can't remember the Diva who first said Romance Divas were like the Phoenix, but let me know who it was, and I'll fill it in proper! :-)

The Great Diva Crash of 2005!

2005-04-11T14:35:00.000-04:00

Well, folks, this is it! I've heard of the stock market crashes, plane crashes, 9/11, many website crashes etc., But this one affects a targeted group of people...
Romance Divas!!
Those ladies are working hard on getting the Romance Divas site back up. Be patient they are pumping life back into their baby and I'm sure we will all be clapping and cheering when that baby is up, running and can come out to play with us again!
Great going girls!
We'll be waiting on ya!

Drive up memory lane

2005-04-04T02:12:00.000-04:00

The time changed for daylight savings time. I crawled into bed sometime around daybreak and after two days of wet, dark dreary weather the sky burst into a brilliant shade of blue. I awoke to glorious hurtful sunshine begging me to come out and play. I plan things to do most everyday and rarely follow the list. This morning (midday?) the sun beaconed me to go home to the place I grew up. I have felt as dreary as the weather but my trip and the sun cheered me up so much. I went through my usual burst of tears when I can to the property that once was mine. Kids were playing in one of my favorite spots and joy and sorrow spiked through me. A true turning point for me I think.

My husband and children were with me on this journey but I'm always alone too. I am alone in the memories. I can share stories with them and reminisce my times there, but they can never fully 'see' the pictures in my mind. They can never live the life I lived. Which also makes me sad and also glad. Many things I'd never want them to go through, while others I think gee how much they missed out. Like riding in the back of pickup trucks. That was so much fun. Now so many states (with mostly good reason) outlawed it. Not that I even have a pickup for my kids to ride in, but still...

So anyway, I had this idea for a paranormal twist to my newest WIP and wanted a certain 'ghost story', but when I stopped at an old friend's house, she was unable to remember the details. Of course that can be fun in writing also having to make new things up as I go along. Who knows where my new information will go. I have some wonderful luck with just winging it, so I guess I'm a panster when it comes to book writing. For example, I don't even remember typing the previous sentence: Who knows where my new information will go.

On the way home, with the kids asleep, hubby and I were able to joke, laugh, and travel down our own memory lane, as we passed our own 'old stomping grounds' that just happens to be in between my childhood home and where we live. The lightheartedness followed us all the way home.

When life gets you down or just bored, take a drive up or down memory lane and see where it takes you.