Sandra Kay's Musings

Count Your Blessings

2011-11-23T10:30:00.000-08:00

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!

Sandra Kay's Musings: Walk to End Alzheimer's Disease

2011-08-30T23:26:00.000-07:00

Sandra Kay's Musings: Walk to End Alzheimer's Disease

Walk to End Alzheimer's Disease

2011-08-30T23:16:00.000-07:00

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 Little Things

2010-03-11T00:57:00.000-08:00

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.

K.M. Daughters

2010-01-20T23:28:00.000-08:00

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

Valle Pintado Writing Contest

2009-12-24T22:56:00.000-08:00

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

Subplot: Another Rescue

2009-11-08T15:36:00.000-08:00

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

CRABBY OLD MAN (A Poem)

2009-09-24T23:31:00.000-07:00

I can't verify whether this is a true story or not, but the sentiment is certainly true. Enjoy, and remember to look beyond a wrinkled face to the youth inside.

When an old man died in the geriatric ward of a nursing home in North Platte, Nebraska, it was believed that he had nothing left of any value.

Later, when the nurses were going through his meager possessions, They found this poem. Its quality and content so impressed the staff that copies were made and distributed to every nurse in the hospital.

One nurse took her copy to Missouri . The old man's sole bequest to posterity has since appeared in the Christmas edition of the News Magazine of the St. Louis Association for Mental Health. A slide presentation has also been made based on his simple, but eloquent, poem.

And this little old man, with nothing left to give to the world, is now the author of this 'anonymous' poem winging across the Internet.

Crabby Old Man

What do you see nurses? . . . . . What do you see?
What are you thinking . . . . when you're looking at me?
A crabby old man . . . . . . . not very wise,
Uncertain of habit . . . . . . with faraway eyes?

Who dribbles his food . . . . . . and makes no reply .
When you say in a loud voice . . . . . 'I do wish you'd try!'
Who seems not to notice . . . the things that you do
And forever is losing . . . . . . . . A sock or shoe?

Who, resisting or not . . . . . . . lets you do as you will,
With bathing and feeding. . . . . the long day to fill?
Is that what you're thinking? . . . Is that what you see?
Then open your eyes, nurse . . .. . you're not looking at me .

I'll tell you who I am . .. . . . . As I sit here so still,
As I do at your bidding . . . . . as I eat at your will.
I'm a small child of Ten . . . . . with a father and mother,
Brothers and sisters . . . . .. . . . who love one another.

A young boy of Sixteen . . . . with wings on his feet
Dreaming that soon now . . . . . . . a lover he'll meet..
A groom soon at Twenty . . . my heart gives a leap.
Remembering, the vows . . . . . . that I promised to keep.

At Twenty-Five, now . . . . . . . . I have young of my own.
Who need me to guide . . . . And a secure happy home.
A man of Thirty . . . . . . . . My young now grown fast,
Bound to each other . . . . . .. . With ties that should last.

At Forty, my young sons . . . have grown and are gone,
But my woman's beside me . . . . . to see I don't mourn.
At Fifty, once more . . . babies play 'round my knee,
Again, we know children . . . . . My loved one and me.

Dark days are upon me . . . . my wife is now dead.
I look at the future . . . . . . . . . shudder with dread..
For my young are all rearing . . . . . . young of their own.
And I think of the years . . .. and the love that I've known.

I'm now an old man . . . . . . and nature is cruel.
Tis jest to make old age . . . look like a fool.
The body, it crumbles . . . . . . grace and vigor, depart.
There is now a stone . . . . . . . where I once had a heart.

But inside this old carcass . a young guy still dwells,
And now and again . . . . . . . my battered heart swells.
I remember the joys . . .. . . . . . . I remember the pain.
And I'm loving and living . . . . . . . . . . life over again.

I think of the years, all too few . . . . . gone too fast.
And accept the stark fact .. . . . that nothing can last.
So open your eyes, people . . . . . . open and see.
Not a crabby old man. Look closer . . . see ME!!

Remember this poem when you next meet an older person who you might brush aside without looking at the young soul within . . . . we will all, one day, be there, too!

PLEASE SHARE THIS POEM
The best and most beautiful things of this world can't be seen or touched. They must be felt by the heart.

Isn't the English Language Wonderful?

2009-09-19T23:39:00.000-07:00

This is another tidbit I found that didn't show an author's name. I thought it was clever and wanted to share it with my follow writers and readers. Enjoy!

1) The bandage was wound around the wound.

2) The farm was used to produce produce.

3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.

4) We must polish the Polish furniture.

5) He could lead if he would get the lead out.

6) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.

7) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time
to present the present.

8) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum

9) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.

10) I did not object to the object.

11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.

12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.

13) They were too close to the door to close it.

14) The buck does funny things when the does are present.

15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.

16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.

17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail

18) After a number of injections my jaw got number.

19) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.

20) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.

21) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?

There is no egg in eggplant, nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren't invented in England or French fries in France (Surprise!). Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren't sweet, are meat.

Quicksand works slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.

And why is it that writers write but fingers don't fing, grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham?

If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn't the plural of booth, beeth?

One goose, 2 geese. So one moose, 2 meese?

Doesn't it seem crazy that you can make amends but not one amend.

If you have a bunch of odds and ends, and get rid of all but one of them, what do you call it? Is it an odd, or an end?

If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught?

If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat?

In what language do people recite at a play and play at a recital?

Ship by truck and send cargo by ship?

How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?

You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in which your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out, and in which, an alarm goes off by going on.

English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the creativity of the human race, which, of course, is not a race at all.

That is why, when the stars are out, they are visible, but when the lights are out, they are invisible.

P.S. - Why doesn't "Buick" rhyme with "quick"?

Why Did God Make Lightning Bugs?

2009-09-10T23:18:00.000-07:00

In writing my new Work-in-Progress, I wanted something special to show the season and add ambiance to the scene. My mind went back to a time of innocence. A time when, as a kid, I didn't have a care in the world except to laugh with high-pitched glee at whatever caught my fancy.

Lightning Bugs! Or Fireflies, as they are sometimes called. My sisters and I chased them around the yard with our empty mason jars, our shrieks of joy filling the evening air.

I don't know the author of the following, but it says exactly what I'm feeling....

What is the deal with Lightning bugs?

I mean, here is this rather ordinary looking flying insect,
but wait ... it has a glow-in-the-dark rear end!

What was God thinking?

I'm sure science has all kinds of explanations
about how this fluorescent fanny is useful for mating and other stuff,
but why did God choose to make the lightning bug glow?
I wonder if when God was creating all the animals and everything around us,
he came up with the idea of the Lightning bug and said,

"The kids are gonna love this."

We know that God loves us enough
to create all the things we need to survive,
but does God love us so much
He created some things just to make us smile?

Just seeing Lightning bugs takes me back
to those warm summer nights of my youth.
I'd be running around the back yard with my empty Mason jar,
racing toward the flashing lights all around me.
I can still feel the joy and hear the laughter echoing through my memories.
Lightning bugs were as much a part of summer as fireworks,
fresh tomatoes, and big ice-cold slabs of juicy watermelon.

God created so much diversity in this world,
much more than is needed for mere survival.
He made all of this for us, and He wants us to enjoy it.
We can get so busy surrounding ourselves with man-made goods

that we don't notice the living tapestry God has laid out all around us.

I guess Lightning bugs do have a purpose after all.
They are a reminder of a creative God who loves us so much,
He'd even paint the rear end of a bug ...

Just to see

us smile....

Our Congressmen and Health Care

2009-09-03T00:54:00.000-07:00

I don't usually post my political views, and I'm certainly not trying to sway anyone in one direction or another politically. But this subject is something that I hope all Americans, no matter which party, will come together on.

If we insist that our congressmen be under the same health care plan that they want to force on the rest of us, I'm sure they'll take the time to read it, digest it, and understand it before signing it into law. That's the very least we can expect from them. As you might note from my tone here, I'm a little disgusted with all of them regardless of which party they belong to. :-)

Vote and pass it on, please.

On Tuesday, the Senate health committee voted 12-11 in favor of a two-page amendment, courtesy of Republican Tom Coburn, that would require all Members and their staffs to enroll in any new government-run health plan. Yet all Democrats with the exceptions of acting chairman Chris Dodd, Barbara Mikulski and Ted Kennedy via proxy voted nay.

It took me less than a minute to sign up to require our congressmen and senators to drink at the same trough! Three cheers for Congressman John Fleming of Louisiana! A Louisiana physician, Congressman John Fleming has proposed an amendment that would require congressmen and senators to take the same healthcare plan they force on us (under proposed legislation they are curiously exempt).

Congressman Fleming is encouraging people FROM ANY STATE to go on his Website and sign his petition (very simple - just first, last, and email). I have immediately done just that at:
(http://fleming.house.gov/index.html)

Please urge as many people as you can to do the same! If Congress forces this on the American people, the Congressmen should have to accept the same level of health care for themselves and their families. This is very much like what has happened with social security. For years, U.S. Congressmen have impacted rules for the social security system, yet they have never been forced to contribute as the rest of us are required to do. It makes their buy-in to the system not at all the same as yours and mine.

THEY JUST DON'T GET IT!

2009-08-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

I've read several blogs recently about ebook sharing. I recommend that you visit these sites for some informative views on the subject.

Dayana Knight's August 18 Blog - Sharing and Copying ebooks is WRONG!

Hywela Lyn's August 16th article titled - "No, you may not copy, sell, or loan our work..."

Sharon Maria Bidwell's July 10 article - "To the person who left me a comment…"

Sharon expressed the issue with such clarity that I was compelled to leave a comment on her blog. Like Dayana, I think the average person doesn't understand the meaning of ebook Piracy. And as Lyn stated in her post, the author spends hours "plotting, typing, revising, editing," and is compensated very little for his/her time.

I'm positive the people who share our books with others, whether as a friendly gesture or as a means of earning money for themselves, do so without a thought of the consequences for the author. But there is a difference between the two groups.

A family member or friend may like your book so well, they just want to share it with others. Not being in the writing industry, they don't even think, I'm sure, about what this act costs the author. "After all," they may justify, "it's only this once." Apparently they've never seen that shampoo commercial that goes, "...and so on, and so on, and so on," as word of mouth goes around the world.

The exact same thing can happen with our books. If it's forwarded to one person free of charge, why wouldn't the next person assume it's okay to just send on to his/her email buddies?

I'm convinced these acts by family and friends are innocent mistakes. In fact, they may think they are helping us spread the word about our careers.

The people, who want to make money off of our hard work are another matter entirely. I'm sure they know what they are doing, and that they don't really care. It's the same thing as stealing someone's car and then selling it for profit.

I don't know what the answer is, but we certainly cannot ignore this growing problem.

Spell Checker (Just for Fun)

2009-07-27T19:29:00.000-07:00

We all need a little fun in our busy lives, so I'm posting a "just for fun" blog. Enjoy!

Spelling Chequer!!!!!! Using homonyms!

Eye halve a spelling chequer

It came with my pea sea
It plainly marques four my revue
Miss steaks eye kin knot sea.
Eye strike a key and type a word
And weight four it two say
Weather eye am wrong oar write
It shows me strait a weigh.
As soon as a mist ache is maid
It nose bee fore two long
and eye can put the error rite
It's rare lea ever wrong.
Eye have run this poem threw it
I am shore your pleased two no
It's letter perfect awl the weigh
My chequer tolled me sow.

Now go back and recheck that manuscript that your spell checker said was "just fine!" lol

Interview with Danielle Thorne

2009-07-13T00:30:00.000-07:00

It is my pleasure to welcome multi-published author Danielle Thorne to Sandra Kay's Musings Author Interview this week. Danielle has agreed to answer some questions and tell us a little about the woman behind the books--The Privateer and Turtle Soup.

Danielle, have you always enjoyed reading and writing?

The first book I remember reading was Pippi Longstocking. I started writing stories in elementary school and then poetry. I pursued poetry throughout my school years; it was cathartic for me. Stories came later. My parents gave me a typewriter for a graduation gift. It was like giving me the key to all my dreams.

Was there a defining event that began your writing career?

My writing career has been gradual. I gave up pursuing my BA after getting my Associates degree to have children. I know that being a mother is the most important calling I have in this life, so my writing successes were few and far between. Once the internet evolved, it opened up the universe. I was able to learn, make friends, and to move forward, all without having to work outside the home. It gave my ambition possibilities.

How long have you been writing?

I started writing seriously, with publication in mind, just over ten years ago. Beginning with reviewing and freelancing, I built up a modest resume as I continued to submit my poetry for publication. Meanwhile I studied and worked hard learning how to write short stories and put together novels (and I still do).

Why did you pick the genre/sub-genre you write?

I strongly believe in writing what you love-what inspires you. If you don’t feel passionate about what you are writing about, you will never have the endurance to make it in the business.

Do you write in more than one genre?

Yes! I love history, especially the Age of Sail. I’ve written around both the Caribbean and Regency England eras. Being a genealogist, I am a research junkie. There is nothing like bringing a world to life that existed just a few generations ago.

I also write contemporary romances. My first modern romance will be released in August. Titled TURTLE SOUP, I brought my love of the Caribbean to Georgia and created a couple of stubborn, ambitious characters that want to save the world. He is a sea turtle conservationist. She is a baker who likes to feed the homeless.

How do you plot? Ie: Outline? Pantser? Mood music?

I wrote my first few manuscripts by the seat of my pants. While it helped me to release creatively, I have found that I am an outliner. Traditional plot flow is a challenge for me and something I continue to work at. Outlining really helps me see the arc. My favorite methods are using index cards per scene and creating graphs to measure the action.

As far as mood music? No way. I end up singing. With a lot of distraction, I sometimes turn on a box fan. Box fans work great if you need white noise.

Titles are difficult for some writers. How do you come up with yours?

I love working up titles! That probably makes me the exception. The majority of the time, I have a title come to me first, just as the story ideas hit. I’ve even had titles come to me and worked stories around them. The hardest thing for me is having a story down with no title. Then I’m always at a loss.

Is there anything you’d like your fans to know about you, the person, not the author?

One thing most people outside of my family and friends don’t know about me is that I have four sons, and three of them are teenagers! Every writer I know is balancing something in their life against their writing and for me it is motherhood. I’ve learned a lot raising my boys. I’ve dealt with cardiologists, ADHD, Asperger’s, and even high I.Q.’s beyond my own. I try very hard not to let my marriage and children take a backseat. It isn’t always easy, but keeping perspective on what’s most important in life actually makes me a better writer.

Tell us a little about your latest release.

I am giddy over my new August release, Turtle Soup. It is a 2008 Short Novel winner from Awestruck Publishing. This is my first contemporary romance, a sweet to sensual story about realizing what IS most important in life. I hope everyone who reads it has a good time. My hope is for you to put it down with a smile and think “I need a Caribbean vacation!” or at least want to help save the world. J

Here’s a cover blurb:

· Book Title: TURTLE SOUP

· Author’s Name: Danielle Thorne

· Author’s Website: www.daniellethorne.jimdo.com

· Publisher: Awe-Struck Publishing

· ISBN: Not Available

· Buy Link: The Coming Soon Link is: http://www.awe-struck.net/comingsoon.html

Sea turtles may be endangered but after an encounter with marine biologist, Jack Brandon, nothing will stop Sara Hart from naming her deli, Turtle Soup. When Jack takes a job at the nearby Georgia Aquarium, Sara finds the environmental poster boy at her door, hungry and carrying a chip on his shoulder. Neither thinks the other has what it takes, until a scuba class reveals what lies beneath the surface. It will take food, friends, and a little help from Mother Nature, to help them see that making a difference isn’t all numbers and glory. It must begin with love.

A favorite scene:

A girl blossoming out of the last stages of pubescent awkwardness glanced up from the register. She glowed with innocence and an early tan. Her dark hair and eyes matched his and he felt an instant connection with her even before she opened her mouth.

“You’re Jack Brandon!”

Jack smiled, pleased at the recognition and correct assumption. “I haven’t been blackballed have I?”

“What?”

“I’m still allowed on the premises?”

“Why wouldn’t you be?”

“I’m not a favorite with the owner.”

“Oh. Sara.” The girl grinned. “I know, she’s my aunt.”

“Your aunt?”

“Yep. And she told me to be on the lookout for you.”

“Why’s that?” Jack glanced through the glass counter at homemade biscuits and cornbread. The niece reached underneath and pulled out a basket of free samples.

“She just wants to know if you stop by.”

“Don’t tell her,” Jack teased, and he gave her a covert wink. She held out her hand, adult-like, and shook his. “I’m Carly, and I’m terrible at keeping secrets.”

“Jack,” Jack repeated. He stepped back and raked the goodies with a hungry eye. “I better order something and make a fast getaway.”

Carly giggled. She pointed at the pots of warm soup. “Pumpkin bisque and minestrone, unless you want vegetable stew.”

Jack had already decided. He took a recyclable container of pumpkin soup and a half dozen wheat yeast rolls.

“How about a cookie?”

“Free?”

Carly shook her head. “We’re just trying to break even.”

“I’ll take a couple,” Jack said generously. He craned his neck for a better look. “Make it the oatmeal ones. I thought your place was doing well?”

“It’s going okay, but not good enough. Sara’s kind of a penny pincher.”

“Big surprise,” grumbled Jack. “So who named this place?”

“Sara.” Carly smiled a secret smile that said she wanted to say more.

“I’m flattered.”

The woman herself strode into the room from the back kitchen. Her hair was pulled back into a ponytail and there was a flush on both cheeks. “Don’t be,” she answered curtly. She gave Carly an irate look. “I’ll ring him up.”

“I already did.”

“She’s completely capable,” Jack said, enjoying the opportunity to interfere. “We were just talking about you naming the shop after me.”

“I didn’t name the shop after you,” Sara said.

Carly looked up in surprise and Jack smoked it.

“For your information,” she returned angrily, “this place has been in the works long before your arrival.”

“Really? I’ve been hanging around for at least half that and I hadn’t noticed.”

“I was waiting for a prime location.”

“This is prime?”

“If you knew anything about business I’d try to explain it to you but I’m not going to waste my time.”

“Right,” Jack grinned. “I don’t know anything about business.”

“I wouldn’t expect you to.” Sara punched something on the register, held her fingers out for the money and shoved it in the drawer. She let Carly dole out the change. “Why don’t you crawl your way back to your tank now?”

“That’s funny,” Jack said. “Ha, ha. I don’t know anything about money. I should stick to amphibians-”

“Sharks, sponges, spineless jellyfish,” Sara finished coldly. She marched back into her inner sanctum leaving him alone again with her niece.

“Lovely relation you have there,” he said.

***********

Turtle Soup, Coming August 14^th, 2009

Bio:

Danielle Thorne published poetry and more for over fifteen years while freelancing the family life market. Her first two novels, THE PRIVATEER, and contemporary romance, TURTLE SOUP, are available at www.Awe-Struck.net. Danielle is a member of Awe-Struck Authors, Epic, Writers and Readers of Distinctive Fiction, Classic Romance Revival, The Sweetest Romance, and is a Long and Short of It anonymous reviewer. She lives south of Atlanta, Georgia, with four boys, a cat with an identity crisis, and the best husband in the world.

I appreciate everyone stopping by for Sandra's interview. I’m going to have a drawing for a free e-book of Turtle Soup for all guests who comment on this interview, today through Friday, July 17^th. The lucky winner will be contacted and then forwarded on a copy of Turtle Soup on release day, which is scheduled for August 14th. Tell all your friends to stop by and say hello! I’ll let our hostess know the winner the day after the contest ends. In the meantime, I hope to see some new visitors at my website www.daniellethorne.jimdo.com. If you enjoy Historicals and are fascinated by real men that might have endured life and piracy in the Caribbean, you’re going to want to check out my current release, THE PRIVATEER (http://www.awe-struck.net/books/the_privateer.html).

Thanks, Sandra!

Response to RWA re EPubs vs Traditional Pubs

2009-06-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

Recently Deidre Knight of the Knight Agency posted an article directed at Romance Writer's of America's stance on the digitally published members of the organization. It was a well thought out statement with many points that I, as an epub with The Wild Rose Press, agreed with.

RWA President, Diane Pershing responded with the typical polital speak that says so very little. To read her response go to: http://espan-rwa.com/rwa-president-pershing-responds/comment-page-5/#comment-533

This is my comment back to Ms. Pershing and RWA:

Thank you, Kristen, for giving us the statements by both Deidre Knight and Diane Pershing. I belonged to the same local RWA chapter as Diane, and always liked and admired her. My issues are not directed at Diane personally, but at RWA’s stance.

Each time the subject of digitally published vs traditionally published arises, RWA’s tone is insulting to those of us who have chosen to go the epub route. Like most of you, I paid my RWA dues, participated in fundraising events, served on the Board of Directors for my local chapter, attended the National Conference, and supported RWA in every way possible. In return, I am considered “less” than published because of my choice to go with a “small publishing house.”

I love my publisher, The Wild Rose Press. I love my editor, who has taught me so much. I am in the process of submitting a sequel to her. I have just submitted a short story to Samhain. I, also, pitched a different book to 3 publishers at a small conference I attended, and have submitted a ms to them–NAL, St. Martin’s Press, and Mira. At the same time I market continuously.

As you can see, Diane, I am working my business. Why shouldn’t RWA support me when I have supported them for so many years?

Yes, all the words are there. But, to me, instead of addressing the point of view of a good portion of RWA’s membership, the statement is “politics speak”–a lot of words, with little substance. I received the same type of letter when I questioned why I could not enter the RITA.

Although I enjoyed my local chapter and most of the members, I did not renew my membership this year in RWA. Hopefully they will come around and support all authors in the future.

SETTINGS - SIMPLY SCENIC OR ‘SPECIALLY SIGNIFICANT?

2009-06-03T15:25:00.000-07:00

I’m thrilled to be a part in the Classic Romance Revival Blog Carnival, which runs for a full week. We have made it very simple to win prizes, and we are offering many chances to win. See the Classic Romance Revival Link at the bottom of this post for details. The theme for this carnival is: Settings - Simply Scenic or Specially Significant? Here’s my take on it…

The settings in my stories are “simply scenic,” not “’specially significant” to me. Although I do paint them from places I’ve been and experiences I’ve had in life.

I set Heart of Stone in Texas because when I think of cowboys the Lone Star State comes to mind. But, that's not the only reason. Both my maternal and paternal family heritage is Texan. I lived there as a child. I can still remember the summer heat. I can still taste the watermelons we ate out on the porch. I can see the shiny spider webs in the bushes down by the lake. I can feel the cockle burrs sticking in my bare feet. I hear the crickets singing in the grass at night. And I can smell my grandma's fried chicken.

What I'm getting at is simple. As a writer, we experience settings with all five senses. Even today, when I go for a walk I’m watching, listening and thinking about what I see. The dog in my neighbor's backyard that charges the gate when I pass. I never fail to jump in startlement. Children laughing at the park--such a happy sound. The fact is, I never know when the impressions I get day by day might fit into a story I’m writing.

I’ll never forget the day I told my husband I was going for a walk along the riverbed. “I won’t be gone long,” I said. I became so engrossed in my surroundings, I lost track of time. The riverbed is part of the flood control in this area and continues all the way to Prado Dam. I stopped along the way to watch the water cascade over the small manmade waterfalls. I absorbed the sound of it splashing and playing along the way.

The birds—hawks soared high above me, on the lookout for prey. Majestic white egrets surprised me by flying out of the brush, so beautiful and large. A couple of swans floated on the lake to my left. And the ducks! The males preened in their pretty feathers, while the females looked dowdy in their brown “frocks.”

The leaves on the trees fluttered in the slight breeze. The high grass rippled. Small animals, rodents most likely, scurried in the brush, hiding from the circling hawk. Lizards did pushups on the hot rocks. Small birds scolded me for getting to close to their nest.

Finally, I turned around and headed back, clueless as to how much time had passed. That is until I ran into Bob and a friend, who were scouring the path looking for me. I guess my musings, and scene painting had kept me longer than I thought. After a “gentle” reminder from my worried hubby, I now carry my cell phone with me when I go on my walks. Lol But, I still take time to "smell the roses."

I think you can see how easy it is to absorb your surroundings, and transfer them onto your written pages.

My stories first form in my mind with the character in a particular setting. As in:

She saw him the minute she stepped through the thick strand of trees. He stood in the bed of the old pickup, hefting hay bales onto the dry cattle range. A modern-day Adonis—shirtless, muscles flexing with each movement of his powerful body. Sweat from a hard day’s work in the blistering heat glistened in the hair on his tanned chest.

With that scene in mind, I have my setting—a cattle ranch; conditions—dry, hot; and the beginnings of a character analysis. From this starting point I can go on to develop my story.

Books can be character-driven. They can be plot-driven. Do you ever hear of one being “setting-driven?” Of course not, but yet setting plays an important role in the overall picture a writer paints with words. It is the backbone that holds the story together. If the reader is unable to put themselves into the setting, my thinking is they’ll be confused. A confused reader is one that will soon leave an author. Remember, they don’t have access to what’s going on in our minds. We have to show them what we see.

And if we’re not sure? Research. People do live in the areas we write about, and they really don’t appreciate us painting the wrong picture.

Please visit Classic Romance Revival's Blog Carnival

http://www.classicromancerevival.com/blog/?p=688

I'm late for spring planting!!

2009-05-04T12:49:00.000-07:00

I'm late! I'm late! For a very important date!

Okay, so it's not a matter of grave importance, but, still, my backyard needs desperate help. Where oh where did I put my gardening tools? I know they're here somewhere. Hmmm! Could that rusted pile of desreputable-looking items in the garage really be the clean, sharp tools I used last summer?

I guess you're getting the picture here. I ignored my plants during the winter months. No excuse, because I live in So. California. The weather is always nice, right? The real reason is not weather, though. I don't have a green thumb, so take any opportunity I can find to NOT work in the yard. Especially since our backyard is so big!

But, alas, it must be done. Wish me luck. I'm heading off to Home Depot for those climbing roses I want to plant at the base of my trellis arches. Just think how pretty they'll look. And, is this the year I'll actually plant the avocado tree I've been talking about?

Don't even get me started on the apple tree! My darling husband decided one day to "cut it back" when I wasn't home. That tree is the most pitiful looking thing I've ever seen. It must be embarrassed to be seen by the plum, apricot, tangerine, tangelo, and orange trees! I'm seriously thinking it needs to go. Maybe that's where I'll plant the avocado tree.

I think I'm getting excited about the prospect of facing the backyard now. Wish me luck! I'm going in....

Time~I Need More Time!

2009-03-27T11:55:00.000-07:00

Can anyone relate?

Time is so fleeting. I plan my schedule. I have my goals set. But you know what they say....the best laid plans, etc. This treadmill I'm on has to slow down sometime, or its going to fling me into a gasping heap in the corner.

Writing and promotion are a full time job. My family knows this. They try to be accommodating. But, still....Mom's home right? What will it hurt if she's asked to babysit? Why can't she pick up the grandkids from school? After all, they (my daughters) have real jobs! They go to work. They put in a minimum of eight hours a day away from home, not including the drive to and from.

My youngest daughter and her two children live with us, so it's easy for me to take on some of the tasks. After all--I'm at home! Homework? Sure, I'll help. Soccer practice? Sure, I can take him. Daytime events at school? Okay, I'll go. "Just Say No!" Okay, I know that slogan was for drug use, but if only I had the ability to say no to some of these requests.

And therein lies the problem. It's not my family. They are lovely, responsible adults, who are active in their children's lives and work outside of the home to help in this economy. My oldest daughter is a surgical tech. She works hard, on her feet all day assisting the surgeons in the operating room. (I could never do what she does!) My youngest daughter is the Human Resources, and all around go-to, person at a busy, successful plastic surgeon's office. She leaves the house at 6:30 in the morning and doesn't get home until 7:00 at night, so of course I'm going to help out with homework, etc.

So, you see? I cause my own time problems. I have this inability to say "no" to a request from my children and grandchildren. I will help them to succeed in life. I will cry for them. I will pray for them. I will laugh with them. I will give up my writing for them.....!

What? Not on your life! Writing is mine. Its what I do. I am an author, and I have to have the time to write and promote my book Heart of Stone.

So, I've made a tough decision and I've let everyone know. Next week I'm taking the entire week off of everything except finishing my WIP (Cady's Chance, the sequel to Heart of Stone) and preparing for my booksigning on April 4th. And by everything, I mean....

No walking 3 mornings with my friends.

No going to Curves to workout.

No 2 hour Bible Study Class on Thursday morning (which includes not doing the hours of homework involved.)

But, wait a minute! These are things I do for me. I'm giving up things that help me in my creativity. Am I strong enough to say "no" to homework, soccer practice, etc?

Okay, get back on that treadmill!

Book Signing

2009-03-16T12:38:00.000-07:00

My book signing at Curves on March 2nd was a most wonderful experience. Amy, the owner, and her staff -- Barbara, Stacy, Kerry and Nichole -- couldn't have been nicer or more supportive. My sincere thanks goes out to them!

The women, who workout at Curves, treated me so special. Some of them commented on how "honored" they were to meet me. They wanted their picture taken with me as I signed their books. I'm sure you other authors know the thrill of this. I mean, I kept turning around to see who they were talking to! lol I'm just "me," Sandy. No one special!

But, wait. I've written a book. Heart of Stone has received multiple 5-star reviews. That's something, especially in the eyes of other grandmothers. I've embarked on a new career when a lot of women are retiring and taking it easy. So, maybe, I've inspired some of them to look forward to a new goal. That would be nice.

I sold all of the books I had taken with me, and continued to sell -- prepaid orders for autographed copies of Heart of Stone. I sold 33 books total!

Thank you to all of the fans, who so graciously made the signing a success. I appreciate each and every one of them!

Pregnancy Plan by Tina Gayle

2009-03-05T13:46:00.000-08:00

Title: Pregnancy Plan
ISBN: 1-60154 –113 -9
Author: Tina Gayle
At The Wild Rose Press
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=591

Blurb
Pregnant shopkeeper Jillian Wilson prepares for single parenthood until high-risk security specialist Derrick Harris, the baby’s father, is caught in an explosion that changes everything. Confused, Derrick returns to the States with amnesia. Jillian believes she has it all a husband, a baby, a perfect life, to bad that her dreams hang on Derrick’s faulty memory and a lie.

Excerpt
"A pregnancy plan?" Derek’s words came from directly behind her. She could feel his breath on her neck, his eyes boring into her back.

"Yes, a plan on how to get pregnant." The frustration and anger began to build within her. Jillian gathered her shaking hands around her cup and willed them to be still. "Look, Derek, I don’t mean to sound rude, but it really is none of your business what I do. I’m not involved with Jason."

She saw his unwillingness to cooperate by the slight narrowing of his eyes. "You can rest assured that I am not going to break up your brother, Jason and Kelly." Jillian glanced back out the window and took a sip from her drink. "And my plan is none of your concern."

She jumped when she felt Derek’s hand on her shoulder. "What is it you’re afraid of?"

Jillian turned and pushed past him. She didn’t want nor need his sympathy. Out of space with the door in front of her, she pivoted on the heels of her Nikes. "I’m not afraid of anything. I know what I want and I have come up with a plan to get it."

Stop by mywebsite and read the first chapter.

Have an awesome day,

Tina Gayle
Website: http://www.tinagayle.net/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/author_tinagayle
Blogspot: http://www.tinagayle.blogspot.com/
email: tina9561@yahoo.com
Purchase at http://www.thewildrosepress.com/ or http://www.amazon.com/

When is self-promotion too much?

2009-02-27T14:04:00.000-08:00

An interesting question. As professional writers, we know that we have to promote our books. We have to let the readers know that our book is out there and available for their enjoyment. That fact goes without saying. But, really, is there a line? And do some authors cross that line?

Let me relate an experience I had a couple of weeks ago.

I had volunteered at my local RWA chapter to participate in something called "Ask An Author." This is a round table discussion prior to the start of the meeting, where unpubs, or actually anyone, can ask questions of published authors. I was paired with another author, whom I like.

You know, I keep asking myself over and over again -- "How naive can you be, Sandy!?" Obviously, I haven't come up with a good answer, because I was very excited about this opportunity. I arrived at the meeting with a copy of my book (So that I could demonstrate what a professional publisher The Wild Rose Press is), flyers concerning the Sony Reader contest sponsored by The Wild Rose Press, and a good attitude about being able to impart encouraging words to the unpubs.

As I sat down at the table, I greeted my Ask An Author partner and her friend (A very successful multi-published author). Everything was friendly and nice until the unpubs began to show up. Ask An Author quickly turned into promote "....." I don't think it would be fair for me to mention names because this is my perception of what occured.

Her friend talked this author's book up in a blatant show of promotion, until she finally said to the gathered unpubs, "Oh, well you must have some questions for ____, the incomparable ____." I looked at her, and she added, "Oh, and Sandra."

Okay! I'm feeling really good about this event right now. NOT! I smiled at the unpubs, and said, "Yes, I'm here, too."

The friend immediately went back to blatant promotion until another friend showed up, and loudly announced, "Oh, I have a question. How does it feel to be almost #1 on the NY Times List your first week out, ____?" Of course, with all of this build up, the unpubs directed their questions to the other author.

I tried to add comments and direct the conversation back to general questions, but when another friend showed up and sat down, I figured I was fighting a losing battle. Gosh, if only I had know to bring 3 of my own friends to casually throw out comments about Heart of Stone.

To announce that Heart of Stone was #1 at TWRP its first week out.

To say that it had appeared in the top 10 at TWRP for almost two months.

To brag that Heart of Stone is a CAPA Nominee.

To comment that it was up for Favorite Book of the Month in December.

Maybe all of the above doesn't mean much in the face of being on the NY Times list, but to me it shows that I've written a good book that has been read and appreciated by x number of readers. And I'm proud of that!

Anyway, if I had brought three friends, we could have had duelling promos, instead of Ask An Author. We could have filled the table, and the heck with the unpubs. But, that's being snide, and I've been told that I'm just "nice." I sometimes wonder if that's a compliment.

What do you think?

Heart of Stone - 2008 CAPA Nominee

2009-02-13T22:06:00.001-08:00

I'd like to thank The Romance Studio for nominating Heart of Stone for the 2008 CAPA Award. This is such an honor, and I'm thrilled to be considered.

This is my first book, and I've received wonderful feedback from readers. My thanks to them, as well.

Sending all of the nominees good luck!

Here's what Sandra of The Romance Studio had to say about Heart of Stone:

Sandra Kay has written a great story that draws the reader in from the beginning and keeps them there with her ability to bring her characters to life. She makes this a keeper. The banter and arguments between Amber and Stone are at times so funny. The story is definitely never boring. Stone is such a sweet caring man, but at times I found myself wanting to shake him, to make him see what is right in front of his face. And Amber is such a strong little person who is determined to succeed no matter what. But the secondary characters play such an intricate part of this story, it just wouldn't be the same without each of them to add the layers that brings this family to life. I would recommend this one to anyone who loves a great romance and I hope there will be more to come from this family as they all deserve their happily ever after.
Overall rating: 5 Stars

Sensuality rating: Mildly sensual

Reviewer: Sandra

HEART OF STONE is a contemporary romance taking place in the Hill Country of Texas. It is a story of love and betrayal, with elements that will resonate with today’s readers.

Blurb:

A marriage in name only. A secret past. Can love be found amid the tangle of distrust and betrayal?

Alone and pregnant with twins, Amber Wilson has only a fuzzy memory of how she got that way. One thing she knows for sure—no man will ever get near enough to hurt her again. But when she meets Stone Brandon, the attraction is too great to ignore. Stone’s ex-fiancée’s betrayal has hardened his heart. Though he is drawn to Amber, he knows he can never fall in love again. Still, with her help, the dreams he has for the expansion of his family’s ranch can become a reality. A platonic marriage seems like the logical answer for both of them—until he realizes that a marriage in name only with Amber is a hell of his own making.

Excerpt:

Dust billowed behind Amber Wilson’s beat-up Mustang. Gravel pinged against the undercarriage. She refused to let the dismal condition of the Green Monster, as she called her car, get her down today. A new adventure, filled with hope, waited for her at the end of the tree-lined drive.

The open window offered some relief from the sizzling heat of summer in the hill country of Texas. Still, the humidity-laden air lay heavy on her face, clogging pores that struggled to breath and plastering tendrils of curly blonde hair to her moist cheeks.

“Whoa,” she whispered at her first glimpse of the sprawling ranch house. “I didn’t expect anything like this.” Her foot let off on the gas pedal, indecision running rampant through her system.

Even so, the welcome shade of a live oak beckoned. She parked under the spreading branches and turned off the loud grumblings of her car engine. Emitting a groan of her own, she brushed a hand over her rounded belly and hefted her cumbersome body off the ripped seat. The car door grated on its hinges before finally clunking back into place.

“Whew.” The word came out on a sigh when the warm breeze lifted her damp skirt and actually felt cool against her heated skin. The brief spate of relief fled on the coattails of renewed anxiety when she again stared at the house and the surrounding ranch land.

Intimidated, she cranked the side mirror around to check out her reflection. Big mistake. Limp, wet curls stuck to her cheeks and neck. Perspiration left dark patches of smeared mascara under both eyes.

“Lord,” she murmured, licking the tip of her finger and swiping at the smudges. “They’ll think twice about ever hiring someone over the phone again when they open the door and see a short, pregnant raccoon on the porch.” A giggle burst out at the image and she put a hand over her mouth, looking around for listeners.

Amber’s gaze returned to the mirror. She jammed fingers swollen from the heat into her hair, trying to rearrange the shiny mass of tangled ringlets circling her head. Finally deciding the heavy mane tucked behind her ears tamed it best, she turned and climbed the porch steps.

“Well, here we go,” she said on a heavy breath. “Another new chapter in my life.”

Her fingers hesitated around the plain brass knocker on the door. Whether to delay meeting her new employer or just for a breather, she couldn’t say. Glancing over her shoulder, she gnawed her lips uncertainly at the dented heap of car parked in full view.

“Hmmm. Not a great first impression. Maybe I should move the Green Monster out of sight— ”

The door swung open abruptly. With a yelp of surprise, Amber toppled into the house.
Fighting for balance against a center of gravity that was way off kilter with her growing abdomen, she pitched forward. Strong hands caught her under the arms. Her fingers locked on the muscular biceps of the stranger holding her up as she grappled for firm footing.

“What’s this?” a deep, amused voice asked from somewhere above her head.

She cuddled her abdomen with a protective hand, while clinging to the man with the other.Heart pounding, still reeling from the unexpected tumble, she stared up into the most startling blue eyes she’d ever seen. Time ceased to exist as Amber lost her balance again— this time with a sensation of sinking into the depths of those indigo pools.

Traveling by Air

2009-02-06T11:15:00.000-08:00

I can remember the excitement of my very first trip by airplane. Bob and I were flying to Hawaii for a work conference that he had qualified for. We were young, and neither one of us had flown before, much less been to Hawaii. Wow, the thrill of packing and arrivng at the airport!

Back then, security wasn't so tight. No one could even imagine something like 9/11 happening on our soil. Family and friends were allowed to go to the boarding gate with you. They could walk through and have a bite to eat with you while waiting for the boarding announcement. It was so relaxed and easy.

But, that was another time!

My recent experience is a sign of new times, I think. What can we do, except turn the little glitches in travel these days into laughable experiences. That's what I've done regarding my flight to and from the wonderful FRW Conference Cruise. Of course, when you're going through it, the laughing doesn't come so easy. I'll just say, that I was not a happy camper! (Camping would have been a much more enjoyable time! But that's for another blog!)

My flight to Ft. Lauderdale was actually good. From California to Houston, Texas we were served cereal for breakfast. As you know most airlines don't serve food any longer--not included in your fare, anyway. On the 2nd leg of the trip, from Houston to Ft. Lauderdale, we were served a turkey sandwich and chips. It was all good!

Until I arrived at the hotel and noticed that my suitcase was unzipped at the top. Upon further investigation, I found that my camera was gone. What was I thinking? I always put my camera in my carry on. But, no, this time I had tossed it into my checked bag. So, darn, I wasn't able to take pictures while on the beautiful Navigator of the Seas.

When I left the ship, tired, but happy, I got a shuttle to the airport. There, I had to get new flight arrangements for 6:05 am the following morning, because my 3:05 pm flight had been canceled. I received hotel and meal vouchers for the Holiday Inn. Then I was referred to the baggage claim office to report my camera theft. Why did I have to go that extra step to be told that camera's aren't covered under their warrantee? At this point, I'm too tired to argue, so whatever! I'll deal with it when I get home.

I call for the shuttle and go out to the curb to wait. Finally arriving at the Holiday Inn--a very nice hotel, BTW--I'm told their won't be any rooms available until noon. It's around 9:00 - 9:30 am. Okay, I sit down in the lobby, watch TV, read, talk to a couple who are waiting for a shuttle to take them to the docks for the cruise, nod off, walk around, etc. until noon.

"I'm back," I cheerfully announce to the desk clerk. "Do you have a room for me now?"

"Oh, no," she answers, not quite so cheerfully. "There won't be any rooms available until 2:00.

My smile slipped somewhat. "You have got to be kidding me!" I exclaim. "I am very tired," I say, trying to look pitiful.

She sighs. "Give me your voucher, and I'll see what I can do."

This woman performed a miracle! It couldn't have been 10 minutes before she had found a perfect non-smoking room for me. How did she do it? And with that room sitting there vacant, was she really going to make me wait until 2:00? I crawled under the covers and slept for two hours. When I awaken, I realize that the airlines did right by me as far as a room goes. Very nice!

Shower, wash my hair--I'm feeling like a new woman! A glass of wine, though, will make me feel even better. Out on the patio, I sip a glass of white zinfadel while talking to my husband on the phone. Ah, peaceful! But, what's this? Two men walk right up behind me to have a very loud conversation. It's a huge patio for goodness sake! So, I get up and move.

Dinner time, and I have vouchers! The cobb salad sounded good, though, so the airline got off light on that one. Another glass of wine went very well with the salad, however.

I go to the desk to make arrangements for a morning shuttle to the airport. "At 4:00 am, please," I tell the same woman.

"Oh, no," she says. "Our first shuttle is at 5:00."

"What? My flight is at 6:00, and the airline promised me you had shuttle service."

"Not before five, but that should give you plenty of time."

Am I completely stupid? Must be, because I believed her. Needless to say, the airport security line was loooong. I am getting panicky. Finally, they call all passengers with a 6:00 flight out of line and put us in a "supposedly" express line. I have to ask. Is it really that difficult to have your boarding pass and a photo ID in your hand? As I watched people in line ahead of me reach the security officer and fumble for these documents, I had to conclude that, yes, for some people that is a hard request.

I finally reach the boarding gate, and find it empty. Then, I hear last call for my flight. Whew! I just made it. And, what a surprise, there's still room in the overhead for my carry on. But, all the seats are occupied. I look around. Yes, this is where I'm supposed to be. I look at the woman in the center seat. She's staring at me, desperation in her eyes. "14D?" I question.

With a look of defeat, she picks up the child that's sitting in my aisle seat. Okay, she was a beautiful, curly-haired little girl, but 22 months old! This woman in the middle seat, holds this child kicking and squirming for the entire trip to Houston.

In Houston, as I'm waiting in line to board my flight to Orange County Airport in California I witness another pet peeve. Why won't the airlines enforce the carry on rules. I see a family of four hauling 7 bags into this plane. In addition, they are all carrying coats. I board right behind them, and everyone has to wait while this man is shoving all 7 bags and the coats into the overhead bins. I lift my one little bag to place next to his in the overhead, and he looks at me like I'm using too much space!

But, when I get off the plane at home, Bob is waiting for me. I'm so happy to see him, and we hold hands and chatter away on our walk to baggage claim. But, where's my bag? Sure, there is one on the carousel that is the same color as mine, but my bag was new and this one is disreputable looking.

"That's not mine," I keep insisting.

On the third time around, though, Bob grabs it off the carousel to check the id tag. Oh yes, its my bag! The fabric is torn, one of the feet has been ripped off, and when I open it up its full of wood chips because the entire frame is broken.

"Can it be fixed," I ask Bob.

He gives me an incredulous look, and laughs.

Cruise With Your Muse

2009-01-30T11:12:00.000-08:00

Three cheers for the FRW, Florida Romance Writer's, for putting together a fabulous conference cruise! The conference committee, lead by Aleka Nakis, worked hard to make sure we all had a good time. A big thank you to all of them for their tireless efforts.

The workshops were many and varied, with moderaters such as: Leanne Banks, Cherry Adair, Nancy Cohen, and so many other authors who took their time to pass on their expertise. New York Times bestselling author, Christina Dodd, was our keynote speaker. Her 36 novels have been translated into fifteen different languages. I first heard her speak at the RWA National Conference in Atlanta.

Over 30 authors participated in the book signing that was held on the main promenade. Although most people just stopped by to pick up one of the almond candy kisses I had put out, I enjoyed meeting them. This was my first book signing, and I have to admit it was thrilling to sign that first book.

The ship, Navigator of the Seas, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, was beautiful. The food was fantastic. Our stewardess (is that the correct title?) was so nice and friendly. She was from Macedonia, I think, and she and her husband both worked on the ship. We stopped at a private island. Coco Cay in the Bahamas is a beautiful little sandy stretch of beach forming a half circle. We had to take a "tender" to shore where you could participate in snorkling, para-sailing, a water slide, or just walking around and shopping at the Straw Market. I bought a tee shirt.

I am published with The Wild Rose Press, and met with Rhonda Penders, co-founder of TWRP. She visited Coco Cay with me and my critique partner, Tina Gayle. It was a great opportunity to get to know Rhonda on a personal basis.

It was, also, fun to put faces to names I'd seen on so many of the networking sites. Maggie Toussaint, Patrice Wilton, Traci Hall, Linda Caroll-Bradd, Nancy Cohen, Liana Laverentz, Aleka Nakis, Linnea Sinclair, and many more. Sorry to anyone I may be leaving out.

Editors and Agents on hand for pitches were, Kerry Donovan, NAL/Penguin; Raelene Gorlinsky, Ellora's Cave; Rose Hilliard, St. Martin's Press; Miriam Kriss, Irene Goodman Literary Agency; Rhonda Penders, The Wild Rose Press, Holly Root, The Waxman Agency; and Adam Wilson, MIRA Books. I thought I was only going to have one pitch appointment, but ended up with three. As I was only prepared with one storyline, I pitched, Tomorrow's Promise, to Kerry, Rose and Adam. They were all so easy to talk to, and they all 3 asked for a submission, and Adam said to send the entire ms. I was, and still am, thrilled.

I arrived home on Sunday tired, happy, determined, and with a cold. I don't have time for a cold! I have to polish Tomorrow's Promise and get it off to the 3 editors. Wish me luck!

Fun In The Sun Cruise

2009-01-20T14:19:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! I'm flying out of John Wayne Airport in Orange County tomorrow morning at 6:45. Winging my way to Ft. Lauderdale, where I'll meet with Rhonda Penders, co-owner of The Wild Rose Press, and fellow authors for a Fun In The Sun Conferene Cruise. We'll set sail on the Navigator of the Seas for a fun-filled (and workshop filled) 3-day, 2-night cruise.

I'll be participating in my first booksigning (Heart of Stone was just released in print on Jan. 3rd.) while aboard ship. That should give me some experience for other signings I have lined up once I return home. I hope to learn a lot, eat a lot, and network with fellow authors...a lot.

One little snag. Sunday morning, I received an email that my flight itinerary had been changed. This is 3 days before I was to leave! They switched my return flight from 3:05 in the afternoon, to 6:15 in the morning. How sweet of them, huh? The fact that they were cutting into my vacation time, as well as the ship won't even be docked at 6:15, didn't really matter to them, I guess. Anyway, I called them and the bottom line is I have to stay an extra night in Florida...with hotel and meal vouchers courtesy of the airlines. I won't get home until the following day, which happens to be the day the family has made plans to celebrate my hubby's birthday.

Oh well, everything will work out. It always does. I'll let you know how the cruise goes, and maybe I'll even see some of you on the ship????

Sandra

Happy New Year!

2009-01-09T10:59:00.000-08:00

I know, the economy is the pits, but 2009 is showing signs of being a great year for me personally. Or should I say, professionally? Heart of Stone is a CAPA Nominee. It has been released in print. I received my copies, and ohhh...how thrilling to actually hold your words in your hands in the form of a paperback book!

Every author has experienced this euphoria. It's something that can't be explained. If you haven't spent a year of your life writing a book and submitting it to publishing houses. If you haven't spent another year editing that same book after contracting with a publishing house, you'll read it, enjoy it, and move on to the next book. That's what I've done my whole life, without ever thinking about what the author poured into the story that I loved.

But, that's okay. We want you to immerse yourselves in the story. After all, the characters and their crises are part of our heart and soul. They have followed us, and sometimes led us, through the pages of the book. And it's so hard to say goodbye to them....so why not write a sequel?

That's what I've done, and Cady's Chance, about Stone's sister, is coming together very nicely. Be sure to watch for it.

Now, personally, the New Year is starting off a little shaky. My sciatic nerve is screaming. I finally went to the Chiropractor yesterday. He "worked me over" and advised me to get up from this computer and walk every 30 minutes or so. Gosh, when I'm deep in writing mode, I forget. That is, until that nerve starts yelling for me to get up. Oh well, it'll improve.

It has to, because I'm going on the Florida RWA Chapter's Conference Cruise on Jan. 22nd. My critique partner and I will be rooming together. We are both looking forward to the adventure and the book signing that will take place onboard. Should be a great experience.

Okay, I'm done rambling. Let me know what you're up to.

Christmas and Books

2008-12-19T08:21:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about my love of books. Since all of us are avid readers and some of us are authors, I'm sure you have your own stories about how you came to love the written word so much.

Well, the Holiday Season is upon us, and I'm reminded of my dear mother. Books! There were always books under the Christmas tree for my sisters and me. Reading was encouraged. Reading was made enjoyable. I not only read all of the Bobbsey Twin series, but I read every biography I could find in the school library about famous people. Black Beauty, Gulliver's Travels, Treasure Island, Bible Stories--the list is endless.

Writing was just the automatic progression for me. Heart of Stone is my first book, and centers around the Brandon Family in Riverbend, Texas. There are four siblings, and Stone Brandon starts the series of books about the loves and betrayals of the Brandons. Cady's Chance will be the 2nd book, about Stone's sister, Cady. I received a wonderful comment in a review of Heart of Stone. The reviewer stated that by the end of the book, she wanted to be adopted by the Brandon family. :-)

Check out an excerpt on my website www.sandrakayauthor.com

Thanks, and Merry Christmas!

Sandra

Review for Heart of Stone

2008-11-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

Thank you to WRDF, Between The Lines for the following review of Heart of Stone.

WRDF Review of Heart of Stone by Sandra Kay

Title: Heart Of Stone
Author: Sandra Kay
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary Cowboy Yellow Rose
ISBN: 1-60154-429-4

A marriage in name only. A secret past. Can love be found amid the tangle of distrust and betrayal?

Blurb

Alone and pregnant with twins, Amber Wilson has only a fuzzy memory of how she got that way. One thing she knows for sure—no man will ever get near enough to hurt her again. But when she meets Stone Brandon, the attraction is too great to ignore. Stone's ex-fiancée's betrayal has hardened his heart. Though he is drawn to Amber, he knows he can never fall in love again. Still, with her help, the dreams he has for the expansion of his family's ranch can become a reality. A platonic marriage seems like the logical answer for both of them—until he realizes that a marriage in name only with Amber is a hell of his own making.

Review:

For me, Heart of Stone was the perfect read. The author, Sandra Kay, does not waste any time drawing you into the story . From the git-go you know who the main characters are and what is really on their minds despite the fact they are both determined never to trust or love again. I was totally captivated by the entire Brandon family and their sense of "family" and what it really means. Before it was all over I was ready to be adopted by them.

When I finished reading Heart of Stone, I was a little disappointed, I wanted more. I was happy to discover that the Brandon Family will live on in a series of books by Sandra Kay. I will be keeping my eyes open.

Reviewed by FJD
WRDF Review
Permalink: blog.lyndacoker.net/2008/11/15/wrdf-review-of-heart-of-stone-by-sandra-kay.aspx

Wildfires in Southern California

2008-11-16T16:44:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been evacuated from your home? That's exactly what happened to me and my family yesterday.

You may have seen on the news about the wildfires in Southern California. As I live in Anaheim Hills, my family and I were caught in a very scary situation. The fire started in the riverbed, and spread to homes in Corona, about 15 miles east of us. I watched the dense smoke cloud balloon in the distance, hover over the horizon, and sweep toward us with the strong Santa Ana winds pushing it.

The sky glowed an eerie red, reflecting the fire off of the thick smoke cloud. We could actually taste the smoke in our mouths, while everything smelled of brush and homes burning. At first we were advised to stay inside due to the choking smoke. But as the fire approached, more and more people were being told to evacuate.

Bob quickly took pictures of the interior of the house for insurance purposes.(Yes, I know this should have already been done.) We packed a few personal belongings, and began to try to figure out what needed to be taken, if we had to evacuate. Some things we already had organized; bills, receipts, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, wills.

But, what else? My laptop, of course. Where would I be if all my story ideas burned up? Family photos, bibles, an old cook book of my mom's where she had written, like all teenager girls do, Mrs. L.D. Wade before she and my dad married. My chiming tower clock (table size), which was made for me by a good friend's father. Jewelry.

As the day wore on, the fire hopping with flying embers from home to home, I became ridiculous in my choices. Absolutely, I needed those DVDs that I hadn't even opened yet, much less watched. And all my books! As an avid reader, I have quite a collection of books. And like most readers, it's painful for me to watch them being destroyed.

And most ridiculous of all, when the time came for us to leave, I stopped to do a few dishes that were in the kitchen sink. Why? Well, shoot, I didn't want those firemen coming into my house and finding dirty dishes! Was I thinking clearly? I don't think so.

Anyway, we left our home behind, not knowing if we would see it standing again. The smoke was so thick and dark, visibility was limited. Some streets were blocked off. But, finally, we reached our daughter's house in Yorba Linda. Now, if you heard anything about this Triangle Complex fire, you know that Yorba Linda homes were burning. But, she hadn't been ordered to evacuate, so it was safe for the time being.

I called my sister in Cypress, to make sure we could pile in on her, if we had to leave Yorba Linda. She, of course, said her door would be open for us. Is she crazy? We have a dog and 2 cats. My daughter has 2 cats. My sister has 2 dogs. Can you imagine what that would have been like? Oh my!

Fortunately, we were okay, and back in our own home by the next morning. Yes, we were blessed. Our neighborhood and our home were not touched by the flames or by vandals.

Vandals....that's another story! What is up with those people?

We were blessed to be able to keep our home and possessions. Many others were not so fortunate. My prayers go out to them.

WooHoo! I'm #1 on the Bestseller List....

2008-10-22T17:46:00.000-07:00

I'm doing the snoopy happy dance and trying to contain my excitement! HEART OF STONE is #1 on the Bestseller List for contemporary westerns at The Wild Rose Press website. It is #2 on the all-genre Bestseller List.

A great, big THANK YOU to the readers, who made this dream come true. It is more than I dared to dream, but the feeling is fantastic. To think that the year I spent plotting, researching, and putting words together has resulted in such a magnificent feeling of accomplishment!

To show my appreciation, I'm having a contest on my website http://wwwsandrakayauthor.com/ beginning the week of Nov. 3rd, 2008. Watch for details.

Promotion

2008-10-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

I wrote Heart of Stone; I sold Heart of Stone; now Heart of Stone has been released. Yikes! I've hit the dreaded area (at least in my mind) of PROMOTION! What to do? How to do it? How to talk about my book without sounding prideful or superior. Well, I've discovered that we can find plenty of help out there, if we just look for it.

Promo Paks, Nearly-Free Marketing for Authors by Janet Elaine Smith: This is a must-read book for authors with an e-publishing house. Ms. Smith tells us how to get our books "in demand instead of on demand." She takes us from Chapter 1: My Dream, To Be On The Shelves; through Reviews, Chats, Press Releases, Radio Interviews, Book Signings, Virtual Book Tours, all the way to Chapter 28: Janet Elaine Smith's Top 10 Marketing Tips. I've read Promo Paks, highlighted points that I think I can make work, and read it again. Anyone, who wants to learn more about promoting themselves and their book should read Promo Paks.

Plug Your Book! Online Book Marketing for Authors, by Steve Weber: Another good tool for learning promotion, although not as easy a read as Promo Paks. Mr. Weber goes through some of the same points as Ms Smith, so I tried to concentrate on the different avenues he suggested. A whole chapter is dedicated to Electric Word of Mouth. According to Mr. Weber, "Amazon has demolished the barriers to book sales." He explains that "Amazon is ground zero for your online campaign." Another chapter is on "Amazon Bestseller Campaigns" and how to make the list. Web sites, blogging, social networking, etc. In my humble opinion Plug Your Book! will help the struggling published author to learn the ins and outs of self-promotion.

The Frugal Book Promoter, by Carolyn Howard-Johnson: This book was a USA Book News: Best Book 2004 Award Winner. Third on my list only because I'm going in order of ease of reading, in my opinion. The Fugal Book Promoter is full of information. I found Chapter 2 to be particularly intriguing--Learn To Play the PR Game. Other chapters caught my attention: Build Your Media Kit Before You Need It. Creative Promotion Items gives suggestions on where to find such items and teaches us to Learn Wholesale Buying. (Remember, though, that the copyright date on The Frugal Book Promoter is 2004, so some things may have changed since then.)

Anyway, I think you get the idea. An E-published author has to take on much more of the responsibility of promoting sales of their book. We can't just take for granted that people will find our written work, and buy it. Let's face it, there are so many for readers to choose from. Something has to draw their attention to what our book offers. Good writing is the first step; promotion is the on-going act of garnering interest in our work.

Okay, now I've read the books....I guess it's time to put what I've learned to work. Wish me luck! Look for Heart of Stone at The Wild Rose Press website: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=983&zenid=30776d7a1c9d95ba9c70aef8c40dc671

And, just one more thing! A big thank you to one of my readers for leaving this comment:
Wow that is a great book. I did not want to stop reading.
Patsy

Thank you so much, Patsy, for reading Heart of Stone and letting me know how much you enjoyed it.

HEART OF STONE Release Date

2008-09-25T15:11:00.000-07:00

Yea! I have a release date. Heart of Stone will be in the bookstore of The Wild Rose Press on...drum roll, please...October 3, 2008 in digital format. Then...another drum roll...to start the new year off with a bang, Heart of Stone will be released in print on January 3, 2009. As every author can attest, the time between signing a contract and the actual release of the book is the longest span of time in his/her life.

But, the exciting times come in increments during that span. Framing you signed contract ;D, seeing your cover for the first time, editing, galleys, and finally the release date.

I'm proud of Heart of Stone. My hero/heroine, Stone and Amber, tackle trials and issues that will resonate with modern readers. Although, Heart of Stone, is a contemporary romance, Stone is still the quintesential alpha male cowboy. Amber is small but feisty, overcoming a devastating experience to find love on the Brandon Ranch in Texsas.

Blurb:

A marriage in name only. A secret past. Can love be found amid the tangle of distrust and betrayal?

Alone and pregnant with twins, Amber Wilson has only a fuzzy memory of how she got that way. One thing she knows for sure—no man will ever get near enough to hurt her again. But when she meets Stone Brandon, the attraction is too great to ignore.

Stone’s ex-fiancée’s betrayal has hardened his heart. Though he is drawn to Amber, he knows he will never fall in love again. Still, with her help, the dreams he has for the expansion of his family’s ranch can become a reality. A platonic marriage seems like the logical answer for both of them—until he realizes that a marriage in name only with Amber is a hell of his own making.

First Place winner in the Fort Bend Writers Guild contest

Be sure to check out my website www.sandrakayauthor.com for more info.

Blonde vs Brownette

2008-07-16T13:17:00.000-07:00

BLONDE JOKE OF THE DAY--

A girl was visiting her blonde friend, who had acquired two new dogs, and asked her what their names were. The blonde responded by saying that one was named Rolex and one was named Timex. Her friend said, 'Whoever heard of someone naming dogs like that?'
'HELLLOOOOOOO......,' answered the blond. 'They're watch dogs!'

I always wanted to be blonde! I mean, this brown hair just didn't add up to my two sister's glorious blonde locks. Okay, that was a little of the romance author in me breaking out, but you know what I mean.

I can still hear the comments from well-meaning people: "What beautiful blondes. And where did you get this one?" Pointing to me. I stare at the ground, trying to cover my face with my stringy brown hair. My mind swirling with thoughts of putting green food coloring in their shampoo.

Ah, but what goes around--comes around. My hair is still brown! No dye, no bleaching to retain that beautiful blonde color. No, just "no trouble" brown. Well, with maybe a couple of grey strands shining in my part, but, heck, I earned those putting up with my sisters!

All kidding aside, we were so close as children that we were called "The Three Musketeers." I love them and their blonde tresses, but...

Hmmm, I wonder how that green food coloring would work?

Riddle of the Day

2008-05-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

In marble walls as white as milk,
Lined with a cushion soft as silk,
Within a fountain crystal clear,
A golden apple doth appear,
No doors there are to this stronghold,
But thieves break in and steal the gold.

What is the answer to the above riddle? I'm having trouble figuring it out in the same way that life sometimes throws me unfathomable riddles. What's going on? Why? How? And, what the heck am I going to do about it?

A good friend passed away yesterday without warning. A sudden heart attack. Why did she have to leave us so soon? She touched so many hearts, and she will be missed terribly. How could this have happened? We know that she has gone home to be with Jesus Christ, so our tears are for our own loss, and for her dear husband and children, who must feel so lost without her.

What can I do about it? As women, what do we do when someone has suffered a loss? We cook! Okay, I have to admit here, that cooking is not my forte. Still, I offered. Our apricot tree is being very fruitful this year, so I'm making a chicken and apricot dish. It's easy, good, and most people like it.

Life's riddles still remain, though. We're only kidding ourselves, if we think we can provide answers.

What

Israel

2008-03-31T14:35:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I posted, but for very good reasons. First, Bob and I went to Israel for 10 days. And second, we both came down with bronchitis. Bob on the plane trip home, and me the day I got home.

Wow! This had to be the trip of a lifetime. Israel has something for everyone, regardless of their interests. History of the bible; ongoing archeology digs; ancient history. Since all of these things are of interest to me, I was thrilled to be there.

We went with our church, so our focus was primarily on sites relating to the bible. We couldn't go into Jesus's birthplace, Bethlehem, as it is considered unsafe because of the Palestinian presence. But we did go to Shepherd's Field, which overlooks Bethlehem. A beautiful, large field where Arab women herd sheep up to the tourist stop, and charge a shekel (Israeli money. 3.5 shekels represent $1.00 US) to have their picture taken. It was interesting and fun; especially when two shepherdesses got into an argument over which one of them got there first. (:

We walked on the Avenue of Palms, where Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. We sailed on the Sea of Galilee, the lowest fresh water sea in the world, and ate St. Peter's fish for lunch. (This is where a seagull dropped a bomb on my head, and then proceded to splatter Bob on his chest. Ugh!!) We visited Carpernaum , where Jesus performed so many miracles. We visited The Garden of Gethsemene, where He prayed to be spared the agony of crusifixion. We saw where it is believed He was crucified and entombed and rose, due to the skull configuration of the rock, as stated in the bible.

Jerusalem is a beautiful city. All buildings are required by law to be of Jerusalem stone, and, so, all are the same color. The ancient wall is still standing in places, and we saw the new wall built by the Israelis for protection in modern times. Our hotel was just a mile from the unfortunate shooting at the Jewish seminary, where eight young boys were slain.

Whole cities are being uncovered by archeologists, and we were actually allowed to walk among some of the ruins. We saw Roman baths, saunas, mosaic tile floors that look like carpeting, ancient public bathrooms (who knew they had them?), a 4000 year old mud-brick gate, the ruins of Masada (a city built by Herod on top of a mountain), and Herod's mansion.

I climbed straight up a mountain to see a beautiful waterfall. Well, it seemed like it was straight up! We went to the Dead Sea, the lowest site in the world. The water has such a high salt content that you cannot sink in it. You just float. The mud is supposed to have healing qualities.

The flight! What can I say about the 17 hour trip to get to Israel and the 20 hour return trip? In one word--cramped. Or two words--bad food. Or another two words--worth it. Security is tight at Tel Aviv Airport. Bob and I had to open both of our suitcases. The bottle of Pepto Bismo (Since I got sick in New Zealand on a prior trip, I go prepared.) looked suspicious on the x-ray. Not sure why I had to open the other one. It's okay, though. I'd rather be a little inconvenienced than sorry.

The bronchitis? Well, some people on our tour were sick when we left home. That "bug" went through our tour bus like wildfire. We were dropping like flies. Our good friends missed two days of the tour because they were back at the hotel sick. So, Bob and I were blessed that we didn't catch it until the tour was over.

Well, I need to get back down to the business of writing. But, if you have a chance to go to Israel, don't be afraid. We never felt unsafe.

A New WIP

2008-02-11T14:03:00.000-08:00

This is a very exciting part of the bookwriting process. An idea for a new "work in progress." A new working title.

Here's mine:

"Stepping Forward" is about an alpha male, a young marine who comes home from a 2nd tour in Iraq an amputee. His leg has been removed below the knee by a roadside bomb. Of course he is bitter and disallusioned. To him, his future looks bleak. All of his hopes and dreams seem to have shattered along with his leg.

The heroine is a physical therapist, who shows him how to step forward, not only physically, but emotionally as well. It's not an easy journey, nor a fast one. Together they manage the pitfalls along the way.

Interestingly, last night I watched Extreme Makeover, Home Edition. The person getting a new home was a marine with an amputated leg. I had the idea for my book before watching this program, but was struck by the depth of emotion I received from seeing this man deal with his disability and his four children. It was inspiring, and shows me, as a writer, that I can tap into my muse at unexpected times.

This brave man gave me new insight into my character. He showed me that an "alpha" male can cry and still be an "alpha" male. He showed me a vulnerability that, when coupled with inner strength and spirituality, is extremely attractive.

I'm looking forward to following my characters through "Stepping Forward."

Internet Overload

2008-01-16T11:34:00.000-08:00

Yeah for Yahoo! groups! Doesn't everyone use them? How did we get along without them? Friends, family, social groups, business groups, online classes, promotion, blogs, announcements--it's so easy. Just sit at your computer and.....

Wait a minute!! Hours have passed. My back is screaming. My legs are stiff. My eyes are burning. My head feels as tight as a drum. And, who is beating on it?

How many of you have ever had this experience? Yes I have my groups set for daily digest delivery to my inbox. But still, when I open my email and see from 64 to 104 messages, I feel panic. I have to wade through them. I have to figure out which ones are priority, which ones can wait until later, which ones require an answer, which ones need to be saved for future reference, or which ones can be deleted immediately.

And, then there are the social networks; MySpace, Facebook, Bebo, Shoutlife, etc. More emails telling us we have a new friend, bulletins, announcements, invitations to events. Fun, yes. Time consuming, absolutely. But, can I make myself ignore them? Of course not! These people are my "friends," my writing associates, and hopefully my readers.

I'm currently taking an online class with OCC/RWA. The format is great, user friendly, and a wonderful way to learn. But, where are the emails? Why can't I find them? What assignments do I have to do? Oh....they're lost in the sea of other group messages coming in.

And, of course, there's the all time favorite jokes that come in from friends and family. I'll have to confess I look for these emails first. After all, a good laugh in the morning can help you get through the rest of the day. Keep them coming! (:

You see, I ask for what I get. I encourage emails. I love the excitement generated by contact with others outside of my writing area here at home. Because we all know that writing is such a solitary endeavor that we can become lost in our character's stories for hours.

But, still--HELP! How do you other authors handle this? How do you manage to keep up your online responsibilities and get your writing done at the same time? Yes, I've set my goals for 2008, but how do I keep on track with all of these emails to get through?

Okay, I need a time manager. My husband, Bob. As a salesman, he's great at keeping on track and reaching his goals. I'll ask him for help--just as soon as I finish going through all of these emails.

Jersey Boys

2008-01-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder how your favorite group, author, actor got started? What drove them to pursue a career in the often frustrating, but frequently satisfying, field of arts and entertainment? I know my reasons, but what I want to talk about is...JERSEY BOYS.

Four boys from "Jersey," who met on a street corner and harmonized. Four boys, who suffered through hard times for their craft. Four boys, who stuck it out and gave us hits such as: Big Girls Don't Cry, Walk Like A Man, Dawn, My Eyes Adored You.

If you were a teenager during the time of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, this is a "must see" show. Remember Frankie trilling "Sherry, Sherry, ba-a-by?" Remember the choreography and precision? My lips formed the words. My feet danced along, although I sat demurely in my seat. Well, maybe not so demurely. I applauded 'til my palms stung. I cheered 'til my husband poked me in the ribs and said he couldn't hear the music.

Even if you didn't live through the release of their many hits, you can appreciate the play. Maybe it'll strike a note with you on where you are in your career. Spring, summer, fall or winter.

In spring we have an idea for a story. It's a baby, needing to be nurtured and cherished. We are in the throes of putting our flowery words on paper. We love each and every syllable.

In summer, we finish our book--if we are among the few who actually finish a book. We adore this treasure we've created out of our imagination. We submit it to agents and editors. It's going to sell immediaely, because was gthere ever before a book this good?

Ah, fall! We fall into depression as deep as the file of rejection letters. But, we pick ourselves up and pound out another story.

Winter, a time for celebration. We've sold a book. Maybe not that first pearl we wrote, but we are finally validated for our hard work. It's almost an indiscribable feeling. You want to jump up and down. Shout for joy. Call someone!

All seasons of a writing career have ups and downs just like The Jersey Boys. We can maybe learn from their mistakes and revel in their victories. After all, haven't we all been there in different ways?

Anyway--enough philosophizing. Go see Jersey Boys and enjoy a night out with your husband, significant other, or good friend. The next day--back to the job of writing and that next gem.

All about "Me"

2008-01-09T14:44:00.000-08:00

Hi friends,

I'm fairly new to blogging, but to get started, here's my "me" story, so called because it's all about me. I'll keep it brief to ward off the yawns of ennui.

I am an author of Contemporary Western Romances. My first book, Heart of Stone, will be released in 2008 through The Wild Rose Press. Heart of Stone confronts the issue of the date-rape drug, an ensuing pregnancy, and the romance of Amber and Stone. This is the very first book I ever wrote, and I'm proud to say it won first place in the Fort Bend Writer's Guild contest. I am currently working on a sequel to Heart of Stone, called Cady's Chance, which I hope to sell to The Wild Rose Press.

I began writing after suffering 3 brain aneurysms. Having trouble finding the correct words in my surgically-scarred brain, I got out the dictionary and thesaurus, and began. My first endeavor, co-written with a friend, was bad--very, very bad. But we laughed hysterically while writing it.

I took classes, joined the Orange County Chapter of Romance Writers of America, learned the art of plotting, dialog and characterization, and wrote Heart of Stone.

I am a wife, mother, grandmother, and owner of three pets--2 cats and a "yappy" Pomeranian. I'm thrilled to be starting a new career at this stage of my life. A career full of ups and downs, rejection and acceptance, thrills and chills, but most of all, excitement and fun. I would advise everyone to follow your dreams and never give up.