It's the day before Thanksgiving, and I'm musing on all the things in my life I have to thank our dear Lord for. He is so good!
My wonderful husband, Bob. So many adjectives come to mind...strong, loyal, calm in the middle of my ongoing stormy personality, stoic in the face of adversity, kind, loving, determined, more will power than the average man. Does he sound perfect? For me, he is. We've been married for 39 years, and our love is as strong as ever. Thank you, Lord, for bringing him into my life!
My children. What can a mother say about her children?
My daughters, Susie and Cathy, are a joy in my life, and I couldn't ask for a better support system. Yes, we have the usual mother/daughter "drama," but when it comes down to loyalty...I can always count on them. That doesn't mean they don't tell me when I'm wrong, that's part of the loving relationship. I hope that I have been successful in showing them the deep love I have in my heart for them.
My stepson, Dennis. A good man! What parent wouldn't want to be able to say that about an adult son? Dennis came into my life when he was 6 years old, so he is my son. He and Bob get together every week to golf, and I'm so happy for that opportunity for them. He is good to his father, and I love him for that alone, but for so many other qualities, as well.
Grandchildren...what is that old saying? If I'd known what a joy grandchildren are, I'd have had them first? lol I have seven in all--6 boys, and 1 girl. Curtis is in Colorado, working and going to school. Kyle, Cody, Kevin and Kenny are at home with their mom. Five sons, Susie had before giving up on having that elusive daughter. Sons and grandsons are good! Cathy gave me a beautiful granddaughter, Caryn, and a grandson, David. Both are dyslexic (words do not appear the same to them as they do to the rest of us), but they have not let that stop them. Being the only girl, Caryn is a true princess. David, being the youngest (although only 6 months younger than Kenny) is destined to always be the baby--much to his dismay!
Great grandchildren...I have one, but his personality is big enough to keep all of us busy! Caryn, my one and only granddaughter, and her husband, Nick, gave us this little bundle of joy 2 years ago. I have the pleasure a babysitting Dimitry 2 days a week, and he is keeping my young! *smile* When he climbs up into my lap with his "blankie," and wants to cuddle...wow, nothing is better than that!
Thank the Lord, too, that we are all in relatively good health. We are surviving in the turbulent economic world we live in today. We live close to each other...except for Curtis, who as I mentioned, is in Colorado. He is always close in our hearts, though. Everyone has a job, which is unexpected in today's unemployment statistics. We are not wealthy, but we are not poor! We are blessed to live in the USA; to be able to attend church when and wherever we want; and for the freedom to worship Jesus Christ.
I have so much to be thankful for!
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Walk to End Alzheimer's Disease
Sandra Kay
The end of Alzheimer’s disease starts here.
=
As some of you may know, my wonderful husband was recently diagnosed with Corticol Basal Ganglia, a progressive, degenerative neurological disorder. It is a rare disorder that may, or may not, lead to Alzheimer's Disease.
I’m walking to help reclaim the future, not only for him, but for millions. By participating in the 2011 Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s™, I’m committed to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer research, care and support.
Currently, more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's and that number is expected to grow to as many as 16 million by 2050. Our future is at risk unless we can find a way to change the course of this disease.
I need your support to do my part! Please make a donation to help the Alzheimer's Association advance research into prevention, treatments and a cure for Alzheimer’s. For the millions already affected by the disease, the Association offers care, education, support and resources in communities nationwide.
Thank you for joining our movement! The end of Alzheimer’s disease starts here.
Please follow this link to give donations:
http://2011walktoendalz.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=460716&lis=0&kntae460716=632436ACF3E44BECBDD5CE7A90393CEF
The end of Alzheimer’s disease starts here.
=
As some of you may know, my wonderful husband was recently diagnosed with Corticol Basal Ganglia, a progressive, degenerative neurological disorder. It is a rare disorder that may, or may not, lead to Alzheimer's Disease.
I’m walking to help reclaim the future, not only for him, but for millions. By participating in the 2011 Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s™, I’m committed to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer research, care and support.
Currently, more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's and that number is expected to grow to as many as 16 million by 2050. Our future is at risk unless we can find a way to change the course of this disease.
I need your support to do my part! Please make a donation to help the Alzheimer's Association advance research into prevention, treatments and a cure for Alzheimer’s. For the millions already affected by the disease, the Association offers care, education, support and resources in communities nationwide.
Thank you for joining our movement! The end of Alzheimer’s disease starts here.
Please follow this link to give donations:
http://2011walktoendalz.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=460716&lis=0&kntae460716=632436ACF3E44BECBDD5CE7A90393CEF
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The Little Things
This isn't an original writing by me, but it is so meaningful, that I wanted to share it with many thanks to the person who wrote the piece.
9/11 ~ THE LITTLE THINGS:
As you might remember, the head of a company survived 9/11...
Because his son started kindergarten.
Another fellow was alive because it was...
His turn to bring donuts.
One woman was late because her...
Alarm clock didn't go off in time.
One was late because of being stuck on the NJ Turnpike...
Because of an auto accident.
One of them...
Missed his bus.
One spilled food on her clothes and had to take...
Time to change.
One's...
Car wouldn't start.
One couldn't...
Get a taxi.
The one that struck me the most was the man...
Who put on a new pair of shoes that morning,
Took his various usual means to get to work...
But before he got there, he developed...
A blister on his foot..
He stopped at a drugstore to buy a Band-Aid...
That is why he is alive today..
Now when I am...
Stuck in traffic,
Miss an elevator,
Turn back to answer a ringing telephone...
All the little things that annoy me...
I think to myself,
This is exactly where
God wants me to be
At this very moment...
Next time your morning seems to be
Going wrong,
The children are slow getting dressed,
You can't seem to find the car keys,
You hit every traffic light,
Don't get mad or frustrated;
It May be just that...
God is at work watching over you.
May God continue to bless you...
With all those annoying little things...
And may you remember their possible purpose.
9/11 ~ THE LITTLE THINGS:
As you might remember, the head of a company survived 9/11...
Because his son started kindergarten.
Another fellow was alive because it was...
His turn to bring donuts.
One woman was late because her...
Alarm clock didn't go off in time.
One was late because of being stuck on the NJ Turnpike...
Because of an auto accident.
One of them...
Missed his bus.
One spilled food on her clothes and had to take...
Time to change.
One's...
Car wouldn't start.
One couldn't...
Get a taxi.
The one that struck me the most was the man...
Who put on a new pair of shoes that morning,
Took his various usual means to get to work...
But before he got there, he developed...
A blister on his foot..
He stopped at a drugstore to buy a Band-Aid...
That is why he is alive today..
Now when I am...
Stuck in traffic,
Miss an elevator,
Turn back to answer a ringing telephone...
All the little things that annoy me...
I think to myself,
This is exactly where
God wants me to be
At this very moment...
Next time your morning seems to be
Going wrong,
The children are slow getting dressed,
You can't seem to find the car keys,
You hit every traffic light,
Don't get mad or frustrated;
It May be just that...
God is at work watching over you.
May God continue to bless you...
With all those annoying little things...
And may you remember their possible purpose.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
K.M. Daughters
It is my pleasure to welcome K.M. Daughters. 
K.M. Daughters is the award-winning sister writing team of Pat Casiello and Kathie Clare. Their penname is dedicated to the memory of their parents, Katherine and Michael Lynch, the “K” and “M” in K.M. Daughters.
1. Have you always enjoyed reading and writing?
Vehemently, yes! We wore out library cards and probably wore ruts in the sidewalks with our round trips to the library for “refills” during childhood summers. Story telling came naturally to us, too. While growing up, any event, no matter how ordinary, provided us an opportunity to create a story around it. Writing it down came later.
2. Was there a defining event that began your writing career?
“Divine” inspiration to write together struck us while attending our first Romance Writers of America conference.
3. How long have you been writing?
Separately we’ve been writing for decades. K.M. Daughters has been writing for five and half years.
4. Why did you pick the genre/sub-genre you write?
Romantic suspense is our favorite sub-genre as readers. We choose to write romance exclusively to create satisfying endings, hopeful outcomes, and to celebrate the healing power of love. In these challenging economic times, we need this form of entertainment; we think the world needs it. Note to Oprah – it’s time to give romance literature a try! The Windy City Romance Writers work in your backyard. Susan Elizabeth Phillips is a member!
5. Do you write in more than one genre?
Yes. Our inspirational romances (JEWEL OF THE ADRIATIC, ROSE OF THE ADRIATIC) are published by White Rose Publishing, and our contemporary romance (PAST, PRESENT AND FOREVER) is published in Ebook by Sapphire Blue Publishing.
We write romantic suspense for The Wild Rose Press. The Sullivan Boys series published titles include: AGAINST DOCTORS ORDERS, BEYOND THE CODE OF CONDUCT and this new release, CAPTURING KARMA. Coming soon from TWRP – ALL’S FAIR IN LOVE AND LAW – Book 4 in the series.
6. How do you plot? Ie: Outline? Pantser? Mood music?
We brainstorm plot development verbally for as long as it takes to gel. Then we construct a plot outline. While writing, Kathie prefers background noise – either music or TV drone. Pat likes silence.
7. Titles are difficult for some writers. How do you come up with yours?
Honestly, who knows? Sometimes we have a title before anything else. Sometimes we have a plot premise and we bat titles around to fit it. When we started the Sullivan Boys series we played with alphabet sequence: A-gainst Doctors Orders, B-eyond The Code of Conduct, C-apturing Karma. We “blew” that with the upcoming title All’s Fair In Love And Law!
8. Is there anything you’d like your fans to know about you, the person, not the author?
Becoming authors added a thrilling dimension to our lives. Each tiny success – kind words from a Reader (our favorite), a great review, contest successes, receipt of new book cover art, the unbelievable “ah” moment when holding our book in our hands – never, ever gets old. But our hugest achievement, our most precious life gift, is motherhood.
9. Tell us a little about your latest release.
• CAPTURING KARMA
• K.M. Daughters
• The Wild Rose Press
• 1-60154-721-7
• http://tinyurl.com/yd94znm
CAPTURING KARMA, Book 3, releases 1/13/10.
Blurp: Veterinarian Matty Connors’ visions lead her to homicide detective Brian Sullivan once again despite her resolve to remain anonymous the past four years. Her official work with the police in California resulted in the brutal murder of her fiancé, and since, a recurrent nightmare she barely survives. Brian, the reputed ladies man of the Sullivan family, has yet to give his heart to a woman until Matty lays claim to it. His black-and-white approach to solving crimes doesn’t jibe with Matty’s spooky pronouncements or her reputation for alleged infallibility. A wild goose chase searching for a murder weapon casts doubt on Matty’s “truths” and threatens their smoldering romance. Is Brian her nightmare slayer and ultimate truth? When the puzzle pieces fall in place for Brian, will it be too late to save Matty?
Excerpt:
“Hi,” he said, a single syllable that touched off a concussion of illogical pleasure inside her.
“Hi, Brian,” she responded, tamping down the temptation to hug him hello. “How’s the new baby doing?”
“Great, thanks. How’s that bump on your head?”
Matilda touched an edge of one of the butterfly strips over her eyebrow. “Turning every color of the rainbow, but it’s fine.”
He swiveled his head toward the throaty bark of the wolfhound in the corner of the room, then scanned the other occupants in the lounge: primate, feline, porcine, wolfish and human. “Steve told me you’re a great vet. Looks like you’re pretty swamped here.”
“Shamus and I split the patient load,” she said.
“And Shamus is?”
“My brother. He came for me at the hospital yesterday?”
Brian’s eyes bored into her, a sexy smile twitched the corner of his lips. “Good.”
“And ‘good’ means?”
“The big guy isn’t competition. That’s good.”
“Ah. So we’re clear. What competition would that be?”
The sexy smile twitched again. “For but a smile from sweet Matty,” he lilted in an Irish brogue.
Squelching an impulse to grin, she molded her face serious and parroted a brogue, “Ah but woe to the knave who plies smiles with an untrue heart.”
She grinned now. “What can I do for you, Brian? Did you get an estimate to repair your car?”
“It’s about that letter you brought me. It’s related to a case. We need your help.”
Of course. “I gave you the letter. You know as much as I do. “ Her heart hammered, nothing to do with the pulse acceleration from earlier flirtation. I can’t go further with this case. No matter what I have to stay anonymous.
10. Information on contest you may be running with this blog, and prize info.
“Pick A Book” drawing from posted comments. Leave a comment and tell us which Sullivan Boys book you’d like to win and why! You may also choose the format – digital or autographed paperback.
In addition, we will be giving away charms to randomly drawn commentators-- two sterling Chamilia “Sisters” charms and a Claddagh charm (fitting for a Sullivan Boy) that fit Pandora style bracelets.
Good luck. Thank you for stopping by to “meet” us.
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/k-m-daughters-team-m-417.html
On Barnes and Noble: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/e/9781601547217/?itm=1&USRI=Capturing+Karma
On Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Capturing-Karma-K-M-Daughters/dp/1601547218/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1261585395&sr=8-1
And drum roll: Complete Review not yet posted, but we garnered Four Stars on RT Book Review: http://www.rtbookreviews.com/books_review.php?book=40788
K.M. Daughters is the award-winning sister writing team of Pat Casiello and Kathie Clare. Their penname is dedicated to the memory of their parents, Katherine and Michael Lynch, the “K” and “M” in K.M. Daughters.
1. Have you always enjoyed reading and writing?
Vehemently, yes! We wore out library cards and probably wore ruts in the sidewalks with our round trips to the library for “refills” during childhood summers. Story telling came naturally to us, too. While growing up, any event, no matter how ordinary, provided us an opportunity to create a story around it. Writing it down came later.
2. Was there a defining event that began your writing career?
“Divine” inspiration to write together struck us while attending our first Romance Writers of America conference.
3. How long have you been writing?
Separately we’ve been writing for decades. K.M. Daughters has been writing for five and half years.
4. Why did you pick the genre/sub-genre you write?
Romantic suspense is our favorite sub-genre as readers. We choose to write romance exclusively to create satisfying endings, hopeful outcomes, and to celebrate the healing power of love. In these challenging economic times, we need this form of entertainment; we think the world needs it. Note to Oprah – it’s time to give romance literature a try! The Windy City Romance Writers work in your backyard. Susan Elizabeth Phillips is a member!
5. Do you write in more than one genre?
Yes. Our inspirational romances (JEWEL OF THE ADRIATIC, ROSE OF THE ADRIATIC) are published by White Rose Publishing, and our contemporary romance (PAST, PRESENT AND FOREVER) is published in Ebook by Sapphire Blue Publishing.
We write romantic suspense for The Wild Rose Press. The Sullivan Boys series published titles include: AGAINST DOCTORS ORDERS, BEYOND THE CODE OF CONDUCT and this new release, CAPTURING KARMA. Coming soon from TWRP – ALL’S FAIR IN LOVE AND LAW – Book 4 in the series.
6. How do you plot? Ie: Outline? Pantser? Mood music?
We brainstorm plot development verbally for as long as it takes to gel. Then we construct a plot outline. While writing, Kathie prefers background noise – either music or TV drone. Pat likes silence.
7. Titles are difficult for some writers. How do you come up with yours?
Honestly, who knows? Sometimes we have a title before anything else. Sometimes we have a plot premise and we bat titles around to fit it. When we started the Sullivan Boys series we played with alphabet sequence: A-gainst Doctors Orders, B-eyond The Code of Conduct, C-apturing Karma. We “blew” that with the upcoming title All’s Fair In Love And Law!
8. Is there anything you’d like your fans to know about you, the person, not the author?
Becoming authors added a thrilling dimension to our lives. Each tiny success – kind words from a Reader (our favorite), a great review, contest successes, receipt of new book cover art, the unbelievable “ah” moment when holding our book in our hands – never, ever gets old. But our hugest achievement, our most precious life gift, is motherhood.
9. Tell us a little about your latest release.
• CAPTURING KARMA
• K.M. Daughters
• The Wild Rose Press
• 1-60154-721-7
• http://tinyurl.com/yd94znm
CAPTURING KARMA, Book 3, releases 1/13/10.
Blurp: Veterinarian Matty Connors’ visions lead her to homicide detective Brian Sullivan once again despite her resolve to remain anonymous the past four years. Her official work with the police in California resulted in the brutal murder of her fiancé, and since, a recurrent nightmare she barely survives. Brian, the reputed ladies man of the Sullivan family, has yet to give his heart to a woman until Matty lays claim to it. His black-and-white approach to solving crimes doesn’t jibe with Matty’s spooky pronouncements or her reputation for alleged infallibility. A wild goose chase searching for a murder weapon casts doubt on Matty’s “truths” and threatens their smoldering romance. Is Brian her nightmare slayer and ultimate truth? When the puzzle pieces fall in place for Brian, will it be too late to save Matty?
Excerpt:
“Hi,” he said, a single syllable that touched off a concussion of illogical pleasure inside her.
“Hi, Brian,” she responded, tamping down the temptation to hug him hello. “How’s the new baby doing?”
“Great, thanks. How’s that bump on your head?”
Matilda touched an edge of one of the butterfly strips over her eyebrow. “Turning every color of the rainbow, but it’s fine.”
He swiveled his head toward the throaty bark of the wolfhound in the corner of the room, then scanned the other occupants in the lounge: primate, feline, porcine, wolfish and human. “Steve told me you’re a great vet. Looks like you’re pretty swamped here.”
“Shamus and I split the patient load,” she said.
“And Shamus is?”
“My brother. He came for me at the hospital yesterday?”
Brian’s eyes bored into her, a sexy smile twitched the corner of his lips. “Good.”
“And ‘good’ means?”
“The big guy isn’t competition. That’s good.”
“Ah. So we’re clear. What competition would that be?”
The sexy smile twitched again. “For but a smile from sweet Matty,” he lilted in an Irish brogue.
Squelching an impulse to grin, she molded her face serious and parroted a brogue, “Ah but woe to the knave who plies smiles with an untrue heart.”
She grinned now. “What can I do for you, Brian? Did you get an estimate to repair your car?”
“It’s about that letter you brought me. It’s related to a case. We need your help.”
Of course. “I gave you the letter. You know as much as I do. “ Her heart hammered, nothing to do with the pulse acceleration from earlier flirtation. I can’t go further with this case. No matter what I have to stay anonymous.
10. Information on contest you may be running with this blog, and prize info.
“Pick A Book” drawing from posted comments. Leave a comment and tell us which Sullivan Boys book you’d like to win and why! You may also choose the format – digital or autographed paperback.
In addition, we will be giving away charms to randomly drawn commentators-- two sterling Chamilia “Sisters” charms and a Claddagh charm (fitting for a Sullivan Boy) that fit Pandora style bracelets.
Good luck. Thank you for stopping by to “meet” us.
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/k-m-daughters-team-m-417.html
On Barnes and Noble: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/e/9781601547217/?itm=1&USRI=Capturing+Karma
On Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Capturing-Karma-K-M-Daughters/dp/1601547218/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1261585395&sr=8-1
And drum roll: Complete Review not yet posted, but we garnered Four Stars on RT Book Review: http://www.rtbookreviews.com/books_review.php?book=40788
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Valle Pintado Writing Contest
I'm proud to be a sponsor of the Valle Pintado Writing Contest. Below are the results of the First Visual Arts Junction Writing Contest.
Valle Pintado Writing Contest is a Tie
Our First Visual Arts Junction Writing Contest is a Tie.
Congratulations Ed Leonard & Jacki Donnelly
A picture is worth a thousand words, as they say, and that was your assignment. Well, more accurately, 500 — 600 words. And writing about the above photo art, Valle Pintado by Aggie Villanueva, was the subject.
Our six judges returned a split decision, so without further ado Visual Arts Junction, and our many contest sponsors, take pride in introducing you to our two winners, and their winning entries. Click on the links below to see the entries on sponsors' sites.
Life in the Valle Pintado
by Ed Leonard (Papa Ed)
Ankles tucked and breathing slowed, I feel the tree dance, my wood platform sways and rocks in the hot southern trade winds. My sad, burnt, drought-stunted valley stretches before me. My humble ranch home swelters in a dry, coarse bunchweed field surrounded by stunted agreste woods that threaten to become caatinga.
Death menaces life like a Samhain specter. Gnarled stick trees grasp each other for desperate support. Their life juices drawn deep to survive the uncommon warm, dry winter. Earth spirits have driven the Numida fowl and the high plains antelope down the Tocantins to richer lands. The loss of precious water and the increased heat are taking a horrendous toll on animal and plant habitats in the Valle Pintado.
I have barely survived another winter. Spring has arrived with little promise, and my energy and will are suffering. I call out to the spirits of the jaguar and of the ocelot who once roamed here. But, they do not hear me.
I close my eyes, intent on escape. I release my saddened spirit. Hawk spirit enfolds me and I soar to a better time. I stroke the heavens and relish a gentle wind with a smooth glide. I alight to proudly perch atop a tall post and search the autumn grass for my choice of scampering breakfast.
The Valle Pintado proudly displays a dappled Autumn abstract quilt with primary colors blended and fused like fresh oils on nature’s canvas. My well-tended red adobe brick home blends quietly and comfortably before a large sugary wave of Palo Verde, Box Elder, and Hop Trees in full glory. My harvested corn patch glows golden yellow and my second growth wheat field rusty red.
A warm wind whispers, flicks leaves loose to float and flip their way to rich soil, and bathes my feathers in ripples. A hazy gray cooking fire screen rises among the trees with the rich smell of mesquite fired meat.
Two distant sandstone buttes, glimmer and flash with life, shrouded in milky early morning light. My world is balanced, healthy, and harmonious. I know now that the natural cycle of seasons will return my ranch to glorious life.
I spot a striped field mouse and launch, flapping lightly, then diving fast to my target. I dive and dive, but my prey remains distant. I linger, but the inevitable change reaches me. My spirit snaps back to my earth-bound body. Hawk has brought me hope and reminded me of the potential of my life in the Valle Pintado.
I resolve to exercise patience, to go back and seal my roof against the rain that must come again, to mend my fence against the predators that will return, to plant my corn and wheat knowing they will be nourished and watered. I resolve to hike to the top of the distant butte blessing all earth along the way. I resolve to come often to my tree platform and to meditate with the spirit of my totem animal, the hawk.
My sadness is gone.
Ed Leonard:
My online name is papaed. I've been a compulsive reader and writer for nearly 50 years. I prefer poetry and have over 100 poems posted online. I've never tried to publish a book or articles in a magazine although I've done journalistic reporting freelance for several newspapers. I chose to place the Valle Pintado in the Tocantins watershed of Brazil and researched the habitat, geography, watershed, language, and native animals so that my 500 word piece reflects a possible mystical scenario there. I advocate meditation and peace issues in many of my writings and found your picture inspirational along those lines.
http://www.writerscafe.org/writers/edleonard/
http://papaed.multiply.com/
http://www.ipeace.me/profile/papaed
http://coldcoffee.ning.com/profile/papaed
http://nolan-ruizbooks.ning.com/profile/papaed
Judges Comments for Ed's Entry
What I liked: You made the what and why of your transformations clear without actually saying it. I liked that you didn’t insult our intelligence as readers. That’s good storytelling. I empathized with your transformations; physical, spiritual and emotional, that produced a trust in, and ultimately a submission to, the Great Spirit through nature – a trust that transforms despair into hope restored, and then finally seeing things as they really are.
What could be improved: I know you had a word limit, but I’d like to see it more developed.
What I liked: What an intriguing story of hope. Beautifully painted images; excellent use of the first person POV. Thank you for your contribution to the contest and good luck with your writing career.
What could be improved: My only criticism pertains to the structure of one sentence: Two distant sandstone buttes, glimmer and flash with life, shrouded in milky early morning light. I don’t understand the comma after buttes or the switch from present to past tense (glimmer, flash, shrouded). I wish my own writing problems were so small.
What I liked: The imagery of the story is good and the writer's effort to paint a story with apt descriptions works well.
What could be improved: The story reads like a synopsis for a much longer story. The grammar needs a little attention -- split infinitives and occasional change of verb tense.
A Painted Mountain Life
by Jacki Donnelly
It was almost a month since I resigned as Editor in Chief of New York’s most popular fashion magazine “Moda”, but my mental alarm clock was still sounding off promptly at 6 a.m. For the past 29 days this annoyed me, but today was different. Today I started my new life- I left my upscale life and the chaos in NYC. I traded it all in for what I hoped would be a more peaceful and meaningful life.
***
My dearest friend lost a life long battle with cancer. During her last few months I didn’t spend as much time with her as I should have. I didn’t have the time, you know, with being successful and all. Luckily I made it to her before she died. She reminded me to enjoy the life’s little things, and not always focus on money and work. “You are only what you let yourself become.” she gently whispered. And with that I gently embraced her frail hand for the last time.
I finally understood the meaning behind her unsolicited suggestions. She always wanted me to take time off work, to go on a date or read a book, which I refused. I always justified my disregard by her not having or wanting the lavish lifestyle I was accustomed to. I was wrong. Now I sat humbled and dissatisfied.
At that moment I decided to change. I resigned from my job, sold my apartment and packed only the necessities, which included a book I had been working on for over twenty years. I searched the internet for a cabin to retreat to in the mountains. Finally I found a quaint cabin rental nestled in the Apache-Sitgreaves Forest. After a short telephone call with the owner I packed up my car and headed west.
***
I slowly got out of bed letting my feet touch the cold wooden floor. The sunrise was creeping over the mountains and into the cabins’ windows. The fall air had a slight chill with a sweet smell to it. I managed a fire in the ancient woodstove, the only heat source for the small cabin. I walked to the kitchen and poured me a cup of coffee in my only mug. I grabbed a sweater from the pile of clothes on the floor and wrote a few items on a box lid I needed from the market. My chores today were to unpack, set up a space to begin writing again, and groceries.
That would have to wait I wanted to enjoy my first cup of coffee of my new life. I walked out onto the porch and sat down in a rickety, wooden rocking chair. The warmth of my coffee felt good as it trickled down my throat to the pit of my stomach. The scenery took my breath away.
I was overwhelmed with a feeling of awe and tranquility, foreign feelings to me. Such beauty greeted me with open arms on that porch. I listened to the sweet melody of the Mountain Chickadees’ and the Western Meadowlarks’ coming from the forest that surrounded me. The wind was swooshing gently through the Locoweed and Indian Paintbrush wildflowers that outlined the small wooden cabins land. The trees adorning the mountains were reflecting shades of crimson, wheat and amber down to me.
I sat captivated. At that moment, with that warm cup of coffee in my hands, I knew I had made the right choice. Today would mark the day I started to “live” life. A Painted Mountain Life - one I could only dream.
Jacki Donnelly:
I currently live in the tropical state of Florida. I am new to writing and am currently discovering my talents. Any commentary on the attached piece would be greatly appreciated. This will be my first piece entered for review! I am very excited and look forward to continuing my path of writing. I am 30 years old, married to a wonderful husband and have a wonderful Boxer puppy named Baxter.
This picture reminded me of a trip we took recently to the Appalachian mountains - Life is so much different in a quiet country setting. I have recently returned to college in pursuit of a degree in English with a Creative Writing emphasis, and so far I am loving every minute of it. I hope to one day become an editor for a small press!
Judges Comments for Jacki's Entry
What I liked: I thought the story was well written and had a great story line. If the Author wished she could make this into a novel.
What could be improved: The one thing I would change would be to describe the picture more in depth.
What I liked: BROUGHT TEARS to my eyes. She obviously was drawn into the picture and let the emotions of it be real in her story.
What could be improved:
What I liked: I chose Jacki's story because of the creativeness of her story and how well it went with the picture. It showed a lot of imagination. That's a good thing! Keep up the good work!
What could be improved: The one thing I would've changed in the story, was that it was told in the first person, a pet peeve of mine. First person should be left for non-fiction stories, in my opinion, such as the author's biography in his/her own words or a memoir. Otherwise, it was great!
The Fine Print: Entries are judged on storytelling quality only. We do not judge on editing, manuscript prep, etc. Congratulations winners.
Sponsors:
Your winning entry will also appear at each of the sites below ~
Aggie Villanueva Visual Arts Junction: http://www.visualartsjunction.com
Rightfully Mine http://www.aggiev.org/rightfullymine/
Carol Langstroth The Frontpage http://www.carollangstroth.com
Author Meeting Place http://www.authormeetingplace.com/mindfogreviews.html
Linda Yezak 777 Peppermint Place http://lindayezak.wordpress.com/
AuthorCulture http://authorculture.blogspot.com/
Cindy Bauer Cindy Bauer Bookshttp://www.cindybauerbooks.com/
Reviews by Cindy http://reviewsbycindy.blogspot.com/
Nanci Arvizu Page Readers http://pagereaders.com/
Nanci’s Thoughts www.nanciarvizu.com
Shelagh Watkins http://shelaghs.blogspot.com
http://shelaghwatkins.wordpress.com
Kim McDougall Blazing Trailers Blazing Trailers http://www.blazingtrailers.com/
Melinda Elmore Melinda’s Blog Spot: Pen to Paper www.melinda.essentialwriters.com
Fran Lewis Fran’s Website www.gabina.49.webs.com
Fran’s Blog www.gabina49@wordpress.com
Bertha 160 xanga.com bookmarketing.ning.com/profile/FranLewis
www.myspace.com/hotauntiebertha
www.franifashionista.blogspot.com
http://writing4all.ning.com/profile/FranLewis
http://thewritespot.ning.com/profile/FranLewis
Amber Rigby Grosjean Amber Rigby Grosjean blog http://amberrigbygrosjean.blogspot.com/
D.K. Christi D.K. Christi , Consultant and Author www.dkchristi.com
Jhonny Thermidor Unexplored Oceans of Wisdom www.JhonnyT.wordpress.com
Johnny Thermidor www.JhonnyThermidor.webs.com
Robert Appleton Mercurial Times http://robertbappleton.blogspot.com/
Chelle Cordero Chelle Cordero’s Promo Page http://cce613.xanga.com/
Abe F. March Abe F. March http://www.abemarch.com/apps/blog/
Paidra Delayno Paidra’s Pen http://paidraspen.blogspot.com/
Sandra Kay Sandra Kay's Musings http://www.sandrakayauthor.blogspot.com/
Jo Fulkerson Writer’s Life http://www.freewebs.com/thedesertwriter/
Elena Dorothy Bowman Elena Dorothy Bowman’s Book Blog http://elenadorothybowmansbooks.blogspot.com/
Hank Quense Blog, the writing blog of Hank Quense http://hankquense.com/blog/
Mark Stephen Levy Overland http://authormarklevy.blogspot.com/
Jay Heinlein Publishing Professional http://heinleinpubservices.blogspot.com
J. Michael Orenduff author of the Pot Thief series www.ThePotThief.blogspot.com
Yolanthaiti Harrison-Pace YOLANTHAITI yolanthaiti.blogspot.com
Valle Pintado Writing Contest is a Tie
Our First Visual Arts Junction Writing Contest is a Tie.
Congratulations Ed Leonard & Jacki Donnelly
A picture is worth a thousand words, as they say, and that was your assignment. Well, more accurately, 500 — 600 words. And writing about the above photo art, Valle Pintado by Aggie Villanueva, was the subject.
Our six judges returned a split decision, so without further ado Visual Arts Junction, and our many contest sponsors, take pride in introducing you to our two winners, and their winning entries. Click on the links below to see the entries on sponsors' sites.
Life in the Valle Pintado
by Ed Leonard (Papa Ed)
Ankles tucked and breathing slowed, I feel the tree dance, my wood platform sways and rocks in the hot southern trade winds. My sad, burnt, drought-stunted valley stretches before me. My humble ranch home swelters in a dry, coarse bunchweed field surrounded by stunted agreste woods that threaten to become caatinga.
Death menaces life like a Samhain specter. Gnarled stick trees grasp each other for desperate support. Their life juices drawn deep to survive the uncommon warm, dry winter. Earth spirits have driven the Numida fowl and the high plains antelope down the Tocantins to richer lands. The loss of precious water and the increased heat are taking a horrendous toll on animal and plant habitats in the Valle Pintado.
I have barely survived another winter. Spring has arrived with little promise, and my energy and will are suffering. I call out to the spirits of the jaguar and of the ocelot who once roamed here. But, they do not hear me.
I close my eyes, intent on escape. I release my saddened spirit. Hawk spirit enfolds me and I soar to a better time. I stroke the heavens and relish a gentle wind with a smooth glide. I alight to proudly perch atop a tall post and search the autumn grass for my choice of scampering breakfast.
The Valle Pintado proudly displays a dappled Autumn abstract quilt with primary colors blended and fused like fresh oils on nature’s canvas. My well-tended red adobe brick home blends quietly and comfortably before a large sugary wave of Palo Verde, Box Elder, and Hop Trees in full glory. My harvested corn patch glows golden yellow and my second growth wheat field rusty red.
A warm wind whispers, flicks leaves loose to float and flip their way to rich soil, and bathes my feathers in ripples. A hazy gray cooking fire screen rises among the trees with the rich smell of mesquite fired meat.
Two distant sandstone buttes, glimmer and flash with life, shrouded in milky early morning light. My world is balanced, healthy, and harmonious. I know now that the natural cycle of seasons will return my ranch to glorious life.
I spot a striped field mouse and launch, flapping lightly, then diving fast to my target. I dive and dive, but my prey remains distant. I linger, but the inevitable change reaches me. My spirit snaps back to my earth-bound body. Hawk has brought me hope and reminded me of the potential of my life in the Valle Pintado.
I resolve to exercise patience, to go back and seal my roof against the rain that must come again, to mend my fence against the predators that will return, to plant my corn and wheat knowing they will be nourished and watered. I resolve to hike to the top of the distant butte blessing all earth along the way. I resolve to come often to my tree platform and to meditate with the spirit of my totem animal, the hawk.
My sadness is gone.
Ed Leonard:
My online name is papaed. I've been a compulsive reader and writer for nearly 50 years. I prefer poetry and have over 100 poems posted online. I've never tried to publish a book or articles in a magazine although I've done journalistic reporting freelance for several newspapers. I chose to place the Valle Pintado in the Tocantins watershed of Brazil and researched the habitat, geography, watershed, language, and native animals so that my 500 word piece reflects a possible mystical scenario there. I advocate meditation and peace issues in many of my writings and found your picture inspirational along those lines.
http://www.writerscafe.org/writers/edleonard/
http://papaed.multiply.com/
http://www.ipeace.me/profile/papaed
http://coldcoffee.ning.com/profile/papaed
http://nolan-ruizbooks.ning.com/profile/papaed
Judges Comments for Ed's Entry
What I liked: You made the what and why of your transformations clear without actually saying it. I liked that you didn’t insult our intelligence as readers. That’s good storytelling. I empathized with your transformations; physical, spiritual and emotional, that produced a trust in, and ultimately a submission to, the Great Spirit through nature – a trust that transforms despair into hope restored, and then finally seeing things as they really are.
What could be improved: I know you had a word limit, but I’d like to see it more developed.
What I liked: What an intriguing story of hope. Beautifully painted images; excellent use of the first person POV. Thank you for your contribution to the contest and good luck with your writing career.
What could be improved: My only criticism pertains to the structure of one sentence: Two distant sandstone buttes, glimmer and flash with life, shrouded in milky early morning light. I don’t understand the comma after buttes or the switch from present to past tense (glimmer, flash, shrouded). I wish my own writing problems were so small.
What I liked: The imagery of the story is good and the writer's effort to paint a story with apt descriptions works well.
What could be improved: The story reads like a synopsis for a much longer story. The grammar needs a little attention -- split infinitives and occasional change of verb tense.
A Painted Mountain Life
by Jacki Donnelly
It was almost a month since I resigned as Editor in Chief of New York’s most popular fashion magazine “Moda”, but my mental alarm clock was still sounding off promptly at 6 a.m. For the past 29 days this annoyed me, but today was different. Today I started my new life- I left my upscale life and the chaos in NYC. I traded it all in for what I hoped would be a more peaceful and meaningful life.
***
My dearest friend lost a life long battle with cancer. During her last few months I didn’t spend as much time with her as I should have. I didn’t have the time, you know, with being successful and all. Luckily I made it to her before she died. She reminded me to enjoy the life’s little things, and not always focus on money and work. “You are only what you let yourself become.” she gently whispered. And with that I gently embraced her frail hand for the last time.
I finally understood the meaning behind her unsolicited suggestions. She always wanted me to take time off work, to go on a date or read a book, which I refused. I always justified my disregard by her not having or wanting the lavish lifestyle I was accustomed to. I was wrong. Now I sat humbled and dissatisfied.
At that moment I decided to change. I resigned from my job, sold my apartment and packed only the necessities, which included a book I had been working on for over twenty years. I searched the internet for a cabin to retreat to in the mountains. Finally I found a quaint cabin rental nestled in the Apache-Sitgreaves Forest. After a short telephone call with the owner I packed up my car and headed west.
***
I slowly got out of bed letting my feet touch the cold wooden floor. The sunrise was creeping over the mountains and into the cabins’ windows. The fall air had a slight chill with a sweet smell to it. I managed a fire in the ancient woodstove, the only heat source for the small cabin. I walked to the kitchen and poured me a cup of coffee in my only mug. I grabbed a sweater from the pile of clothes on the floor and wrote a few items on a box lid I needed from the market. My chores today were to unpack, set up a space to begin writing again, and groceries.
That would have to wait I wanted to enjoy my first cup of coffee of my new life. I walked out onto the porch and sat down in a rickety, wooden rocking chair. The warmth of my coffee felt good as it trickled down my throat to the pit of my stomach. The scenery took my breath away.
I was overwhelmed with a feeling of awe and tranquility, foreign feelings to me. Such beauty greeted me with open arms on that porch. I listened to the sweet melody of the Mountain Chickadees’ and the Western Meadowlarks’ coming from the forest that surrounded me. The wind was swooshing gently through the Locoweed and Indian Paintbrush wildflowers that outlined the small wooden cabins land. The trees adorning the mountains were reflecting shades of crimson, wheat and amber down to me.
I sat captivated. At that moment, with that warm cup of coffee in my hands, I knew I had made the right choice. Today would mark the day I started to “live” life. A Painted Mountain Life - one I could only dream.
Jacki Donnelly:
I currently live in the tropical state of Florida. I am new to writing and am currently discovering my talents. Any commentary on the attached piece would be greatly appreciated. This will be my first piece entered for review! I am very excited and look forward to continuing my path of writing. I am 30 years old, married to a wonderful husband and have a wonderful Boxer puppy named Baxter.
This picture reminded me of a trip we took recently to the Appalachian mountains - Life is so much different in a quiet country setting. I have recently returned to college in pursuit of a degree in English with a Creative Writing emphasis, and so far I am loving every minute of it. I hope to one day become an editor for a small press!
Judges Comments for Jacki's Entry
What I liked: I thought the story was well written and had a great story line. If the Author wished she could make this into a novel.
What could be improved: The one thing I would change would be to describe the picture more in depth.
What I liked: BROUGHT TEARS to my eyes. She obviously was drawn into the picture and let the emotions of it be real in her story.
What could be improved:
What I liked: I chose Jacki's story because of the creativeness of her story and how well it went with the picture. It showed a lot of imagination. That's a good thing! Keep up the good work!
What could be improved: The one thing I would've changed in the story, was that it was told in the first person, a pet peeve of mine. First person should be left for non-fiction stories, in my opinion, such as the author's biography in his/her own words or a memoir. Otherwise, it was great!
The Fine Print: Entries are judged on storytelling quality only. We do not judge on editing, manuscript prep, etc. Congratulations winners.
Sponsors:
Your winning entry will also appear at each of the sites below ~
Aggie Villanueva Visual Arts Junction: http://www.visualartsjunction.com
Rightfully Mine http://www.aggiev.org/rightfullymine/
Carol Langstroth The Frontpage http://www.carollangstroth.com
Author Meeting Place http://www.authormeetingplace.com/mindfogreviews.html
Linda Yezak 777 Peppermint Place http://lindayezak.wordpress.com/
AuthorCulture http://authorculture.blogspot.com/
Cindy Bauer Cindy Bauer Bookshttp://www.cindybauerbooks.com/
Reviews by Cindy http://reviewsbycindy.blogspot.com/
Nanci Arvizu Page Readers http://pagereaders.com/
Nanci’s Thoughts www.nanciarvizu.com
Shelagh Watkins http://shelaghs.blogspot.com
http://shelaghwatkins.wordpress.com
Kim McDougall Blazing Trailers Blazing Trailers http://www.blazingtrailers.com/
Melinda Elmore Melinda’s Blog Spot: Pen to Paper www.melinda.essentialwriters.com
Fran Lewis Fran’s Website www.gabina.49.webs.com
Fran’s Blog www.gabina49@wordpress.com
Bertha 160 xanga.com bookmarketing.ning.com/profile/FranLewis
www.myspace.com/hotauntiebertha
www.franifashionista.blogspot.com
http://writing4all.ning.com/profile/FranLewis
http://thewritespot.ning.com/profile/FranLewis
Amber Rigby Grosjean Amber Rigby Grosjean blog http://amberrigbygrosjean.blogspot.com/
D.K. Christi D.K. Christi , Consultant and Author www.dkchristi.com
Jhonny Thermidor Unexplored Oceans of Wisdom www.JhonnyT.wordpress.com
Johnny Thermidor www.JhonnyThermidor.webs.com
Robert Appleton Mercurial Times http://robertbappleton.blogspot.com/
Chelle Cordero Chelle Cordero’s Promo Page http://cce613.xanga.com/
Abe F. March Abe F. March http://www.abemarch.com/apps/blog/
Paidra Delayno Paidra’s Pen http://paidraspen.blogspot.com/
Sandra Kay Sandra Kay's Musings http://www.sandrakayauthor.blogspot.com/
Jo Fulkerson Writer’s Life http://www.freewebs.com/thedesertwriter/
Elena Dorothy Bowman Elena Dorothy Bowman’s Book Blog http://elenadorothybowmansbooks.blogspot.com/
Hank Quense Blog, the writing blog of Hank Quense http://hankquense.com/blog/
Mark Stephen Levy Overland http://authormarklevy.blogspot.com/
Jay Heinlein Publishing Professional http://heinleinpubservices.blogspot.com
J. Michael Orenduff author of the Pot Thief series www.ThePotThief.blogspot.com
Yolanthaiti Harrison-Pace YOLANTHAITI yolanthaiti.blogspot.com
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Subplot: Another Rescue
It's my pleasure to introduce multi-published author LK Hunsaker to my readers. Ms. Hunsaker writes what she likes to call "reality fiction." In reading her books, you get to know her main characters inside-out and feel like you could run into them on the streets of your own town. Sounds like fun, doesn't it? But she doesn't write fluff. Her novels explore social/cultural aspects, psychological facets, and deep characterization, plus strong romantic elements.
Welcome, LK. Thank you for being with us today. Tell us a little about yourself and your book OFF THE MOON.
Hi Sandra! It’s nice to be here today to chat with you and your readers!
I see you have a “yappy” Pomeranian. We’re animal lovers, also, and have a couple of dogs that like to make plenty of noise. They’re wonderful, aren’t they? Maybe the noise isn’t wonderful, but animals are. It’s nice during times of stress to be able to sit with or play with your pets and let them soothe your nerves. The unconditional love they give is soul-soothing.
Today, I’d like to talk a bit about Subplot and Rescue. The main plot of Off The Moon involves a rather self-centered young man who helps rescue a young woman desperately in need of unconditional love. But there’s another story in the background that involves a rescued dog. Ryan’s brother is an animal lover. Throughout his life, he’s taken in stray animals that need help, sometimes to Ryan’s consternation. His most recent is a large and intimidating dog that’s unfriendly in general. Will expects she’d been abused and does what he can to soothe her and prepare her for adoption. He has some luck, but it’s not until Kaitlyn comes to visit that the dog shows potential of rescue.
Why do writers use subplot in a story? I tend to use it to add depth. Nothing happens in a vacuum. Whatever we’re doing throughout life, there are a myriad of things going on around us, sometimes in the background, other times in the midst of things. What we do affects more than the most obvious situation or people. It also makes waves far beyond that. One of the biggest themes that runs through all of my stories is that ripple effect. We often don’t realize how much impact we have on others, but it’s there. Always. Subplots are a way to bring out this notion of “yes, but there’s more to the story” and I often use more than one.
The major subplot in Off The Moon is Kaitlyn and Chewy, the girl Ryan rescues and the dog Will rescued. A lot of parallels are drawn between them and it not only adds depth, but it also adds possibility for character growth. Ryan isn’t much of a dog lover. Part of that comes from Will’s rescues when they were kids but also because pets take attention. Ryan doesn’t want to be bothered. Of course, what generally happens when someone extends a hand to another who needs it is that the helper ends up with a true gift. A question arises from the two rescues: do we avoid things because we honestly don’t want them or because our longing for them is too intense?
Kaitlyn understands Chewy’s aggression, although her own abusive situation had the opposite result. She withdraws. Like a magnet, Ryan is attracted to Kaitlyn but repelled by Chewy, even though he sees the “why” behind each of their personalities, and their situations are much the same. As he understands Kaitlyn more, though, and as she stands up for Chewy, Ryan has a hard time not buying into her feelings about the animal.
One of my dogs was a rescue. I had this book fully in process before we rescued him, but I have been interested in the comparison, how it happened to work as it did. We didn’t set out to find a dog that needed to be rescued. It simply happened that way, and what a gift he’s become. He isn’t like Chewy. He’s more like Kaitlyn. And our dog who had recently lost her older friend was so very glad to take him under her wing, just as Ryan was. She’s in charge, but not always. As it turns out, the rescuee has less natural fear than the rescuer in many ways. Human and animal nature are really very similar.
--------
Buy Link for Off the Moon preorders:
http://www.elucidatepublishing.net/books.html
Also, be sure to check my blog this month for Off The Moon related interviews. http://lkhunsaker.blogspot.com
Find my website for more info, plus a free download of the beginnings of each of my novels:
http://www.lkhunsaker.com
Off The Moon
LK Hunsaker
"Riveting" Ryan Reynauld is immersed in a world of music, parties, and temporary companionship. Having risen to the top of the pop charts, his biggest concern is objecting to the way his music is produced. That is, until he finds a young woman standing on a window ledge. Against the advice of family and friends, and through media attacks and fan protests, Ryan determines to care for her himself, making a promise that threatens to destroy his career.
Convincing the skittish girl she can learn to trust again comes with a steep price. Sometimes the path to recovery begins by allowing your world to implode.
Elucidate Publishing
November 2009
Print ISBN 978-0-9825299-0-4
Ebook ISBN 978-0-9825299-1-1
Thanks for having me today, Sandra!
Don't forget to leave your comments! One person from each blog will be drawn to receive a signed, mailed copy of the short story LK has written as a bit of a prequel to Off The Moon, called Toward The Sky, plus there will be a signed print book drawing for anyone who comments on at least 8 blogs!
Next up: Behind the Scenes – An Army Brat, hosted by Liana Laverentz, Nov. 11
http://lianalaverentz.blogspot.com/
The full itinerary for the CRR Blog Tour is available at http://www.classicromancerevival.com
Welcome, LK. Thank you for being with us today. Tell us a little about yourself and your book OFF THE MOON.
Hi Sandra! It’s nice to be here today to chat with you and your readers!
I see you have a “yappy” Pomeranian. We’re animal lovers, also, and have a couple of dogs that like to make plenty of noise. They’re wonderful, aren’t they? Maybe the noise isn’t wonderful, but animals are. It’s nice during times of stress to be able to sit with or play with your pets and let them soothe your nerves. The unconditional love they give is soul-soothing.
Today, I’d like to talk a bit about Subplot and Rescue. The main plot of Off The Moon involves a rather self-centered young man who helps rescue a young woman desperately in need of unconditional love. But there’s another story in the background that involves a rescued dog. Ryan’s brother is an animal lover. Throughout his life, he’s taken in stray animals that need help, sometimes to Ryan’s consternation. His most recent is a large and intimidating dog that’s unfriendly in general. Will expects she’d been abused and does what he can to soothe her and prepare her for adoption. He has some luck, but it’s not until Kaitlyn comes to visit that the dog shows potential of rescue.
Why do writers use subplot in a story? I tend to use it to add depth. Nothing happens in a vacuum. Whatever we’re doing throughout life, there are a myriad of things going on around us, sometimes in the background, other times in the midst of things. What we do affects more than the most obvious situation or people. It also makes waves far beyond that. One of the biggest themes that runs through all of my stories is that ripple effect. We often don’t realize how much impact we have on others, but it’s there. Always. Subplots are a way to bring out this notion of “yes, but there’s more to the story” and I often use more than one.
The major subplot in Off The Moon is Kaitlyn and Chewy, the girl Ryan rescues and the dog Will rescued. A lot of parallels are drawn between them and it not only adds depth, but it also adds possibility for character growth. Ryan isn’t much of a dog lover. Part of that comes from Will’s rescues when they were kids but also because pets take attention. Ryan doesn’t want to be bothered. Of course, what generally happens when someone extends a hand to another who needs it is that the helper ends up with a true gift. A question arises from the two rescues: do we avoid things because we honestly don’t want them or because our longing for them is too intense?
Kaitlyn understands Chewy’s aggression, although her own abusive situation had the opposite result. She withdraws. Like a magnet, Ryan is attracted to Kaitlyn but repelled by Chewy, even though he sees the “why” behind each of their personalities, and their situations are much the same. As he understands Kaitlyn more, though, and as she stands up for Chewy, Ryan has a hard time not buying into her feelings about the animal.
One of my dogs was a rescue. I had this book fully in process before we rescued him, but I have been interested in the comparison, how it happened to work as it did. We didn’t set out to find a dog that needed to be rescued. It simply happened that way, and what a gift he’s become. He isn’t like Chewy. He’s more like Kaitlyn. And our dog who had recently lost her older friend was so very glad to take him under her wing, just as Ryan was. She’s in charge, but not always. As it turns out, the rescuee has less natural fear than the rescuer in many ways. Human and animal nature are really very similar.
--------
Buy Link for Off the Moon preorders:
http://www.elucidatepublishing.net/books.html
Also, be sure to check my blog this month for Off The Moon related interviews. http://lkhunsaker.blogspot.com
Find my website for more info, plus a free download of the beginnings of each of my novels:
http://www.lkhunsaker.com
Off The Moon
LK Hunsaker
"Riveting" Ryan Reynauld is immersed in a world of music, parties, and temporary companionship. Having risen to the top of the pop charts, his biggest concern is objecting to the way his music is produced. That is, until he finds a young woman standing on a window ledge. Against the advice of family and friends, and through media attacks and fan protests, Ryan determines to care for her himself, making a promise that threatens to destroy his career.
Convincing the skittish girl she can learn to trust again comes with a steep price. Sometimes the path to recovery begins by allowing your world to implode.
Elucidate Publishing
November 2009
Print ISBN 978-0-9825299-0-4
Ebook ISBN 978-0-9825299-1-1
Thanks for having me today, Sandra!
Don't forget to leave your comments! One person from each blog will be drawn to receive a signed, mailed copy of the short story LK has written as a bit of a prequel to Off The Moon, called Toward The Sky, plus there will be a signed print book drawing for anyone who comments on at least 8 blogs!
Next up: Behind the Scenes – An Army Brat, hosted by Liana Laverentz, Nov. 11
http://lianalaverentz.blogspot.com/
The full itinerary for the CRR Blog Tour is available at http://www.classicromancerevival.com
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