The Writing Playground

It's Monday, Alright!

2012-01-30T07:25:00.003-06:00

And I forgot to post my blog last night. Unfortunately, if I type it out this morning, I'll be late for work!!!

You know how those weekends go, right? You've got this place and that place to go, and a list of a bunch of little things to do that add up to a whole bunch, and before you know it the weekend is gone. Sorry, guys!

Make me feel better here. What whittled away at your weekend?

Angel

P.S. Congratulatoins to BW, Sara's winner from Thursday. Email Instigator @ kira@kirasinclair.com and we'll get your prize out to you.

Bucket List Failures

2012-01-27T00:13:00.002-06:00

No, I'm not dead. The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated and my bucket list is still alive and kicking, thank you. Unfortunately, there are a few things on the list that I'm not fully in control of. You think you have time, you pass up on opportunities you should sieze because of money or schedules or whatever. Then, you realize years later that was YOUR CHANCE and you let it go by.

That makes me absolutely crazy. I'm a list maker anyway, so having a bucket list really appealed to me. It gave me a chance to really think about and list all the things I want to do before I die. I get immense pleasure from checking off items. Knowing there are items I can never check off makes my completion-driven heart die a little bit. Swim with dolphins? Check! Take a cruise? Check! See R.E.M. in concert... hmm...

It seems that if you're going to include an item like that on your bucket list, you need to account for the fact that said group is aging like you are. And they may not want to tour with their wheelchairs and oxygen tanks. Not that R.E.M. is that old. But apparently they have a bucket list of their own that includes something other than music and they've decided to break up and focus on, instead.

Crap. Crap. Crap. R.E.M. was my first CD when I as ten. When I finally got a CD player six months later, I nearly exploded finally getting to listen to Out of Time. Since then, I've acquired about five other CDs of theirs. But never managed to see the show. When I was in high school - no money. Then I moved and they never came close enough to make it convenient. Would it really have killed me to drive over to Atlanta? But it was a Wednesday night show, I'd miss work, blah, blah. I always had time to see them later. Until I didn't.

You'd think I would've learned from the Simon & Garfunkel tour. They weren't on my bucket list because they swore they'd never tour again, but then, magically - 5 shows. One in Atlanta. Tickets were upward of $300-$500. I passed it up. Stupid. It was Simon & Garfunkel! They hate each other and will probably never ever do it again. There goes that chance.

I can only hope that in a few years, R.E.M. will get nostalgic or need money and will put together some kind of reunion tour like the Eagles or the Stones. Until then, I'll have this glaring failure on my list. Do you have a bucket list? Are there any items on there that you'll probably never be able to do through no fault of your own?
SP

Guest Blogger - Sara Ramsey

2012-01-26T00:20:00.001-06:00

I met Sara last year when we served on the RWA awards ceremony committee together. And I knew very quickly that I liked this girl! She's smart and dedicated and I can't wait to read her book! Please give Sara a wonderful Playground welcome.

I’m really excited to visit the Playground today – the Instigator has lived up to her name by inviting me and letting me wreak havoc. I’ll try not to break anything!

I love the idea of a Writing Playground, even though I was always way more into books than monkey bars. I grew up on an eighty-acre farm in Iowa that was miles away from the nearest kids, so my play tended to be dress-up and make believe rather than basketball or soccer – it’s no wonder I still love making up stories.

Playground took on another meaning when I was twelve. My father accepted a year-long assignment with an agricultural nonprofit in Ukraine, just after the fall of the Soviety Union, and my mother, younger brother, and I moved there with him. My mom homeschooled us so that we would stay caught up with our classmates, but my dad took it upon himself to teach ‘playground’ – all the slang and bad behavior he thought we would have learned on the playground back home. Let’s just say that, between my father’s playground lessons and the Johanna Lindsey romances I started reading that year, it was pretty much inevitable that I would grow up to be a romance writer!

Nowadays, I still love to dress up, even though it’s more expensive to buy my own shoes rather than tottering around in my mom’s heels. And I still like to exchange dirty stories with my friends, although doing it over drinks is way more fun than passing notes in chemistry class. But I’ve found a couple of other kinds of play that I absolutely love, even though I couldn’t imagine liking them a few years ago.

The first is going to the gym. I’m the antithesis of an athlete, and at 5’ tall, I’m at a serious disadvantage when it comes to running, walking, reaching the machines, doing step-ups – basically, everything. But I started working out with a trainer last year, and it turns out that I love having a couple of hours a week where I think of nothing but breathing (and trying not to pass out). It’s probably the best kind of play I could recommend to other writers, since I think we all need some downtime in order to bring renewed energy back to our work.

The second is interacting with other romance readers and writers, particularly on Twitter. When I first started using Twitter, I thought it was just a stupid marketing tool. But as I’ve gotten to know people through it, it’s fun to connect to other writers when I’m struggling, excited, happy, sad, needing a distraction. Even though I work from home, I can still feel like there’s a water cooler conversation waiting for me to join in. I just have to be careful not to spend all day at the water cooler, since it’s easy to get sucked in!

Regardless of what your passions are, I think it’s really important for writers to play at something every day. If you don’t have some way to relax and blow off steam, how can you find enough quiet within yourself to let your stories and your voice come out?

What do you to do relax and play? I’ll give one lucky commenter a copy of my debut Regency romance, Heiress Without a Cause – it’s all about a proper heiress who indulges her very improper desire to play as an actress, so it seems fitting for the Playground.

Heiress Without a Cause – Muses of Mayfair, Book #1

One title to change his life...

A disgraced son with a dark reputation, William “Ferguson” Avenel is content to live in exile – until his father dies in the scandal of the Season. With rumors of insanity swirling around them, his sisters desperately need a chaperone. Ferguson thinks he’s found the most proper woman in England – and he won’t ruin her, even if he secretly desires the passionate woman trapped beneath a spinster’s cap.

One chance to break the rules...

Lady Madeleine Vaillant can’t face her blighted future without making one glorious memory for herself. In disguise, on a London stage, she finds all the adoration she never felt from the ton. But when she’s nearly recognized, she will do anything to hide her identity – even setting up her actress persona as Ferguson’s mistress. She’ll take the pleasure he offers, but Madeleine won’t lose her heart in the bargain.

One season to fall in love...

Every stolen kiss could lead to discovery, and Ferguson’s old enemies are determined to ruin them both. But as their dangerous passion ignites their hearts and threatens their futures, how can an heiress who dreams of freedom deny the duke who demands her love?

Sara’s website: http://www.sararamsey.com

Sara’s Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Sara_Ramsey

P.S. Instigator's guest blogging at Okay Listen Here today. Stop by for a chance to win a signed backlist book.

Kindness

2012-01-25T00:05:00.002-06:00

"Whoever you are, I have always depended on the kindness of strangers." ~ Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire

I've heard this quoted numerous times, but I've never seen the movie. That's surprising since I grew up watching old movies, and this movie is old. It was made the same year I was born. *g*

But Tennessee Williams isn't the subject today. Kind strangers (and friends) are.

It's been about 3 1/2 weeks since my unfortunate accident, and yes, I'm much better, thank you. I still have some neck and shoulder issues from whiplash and I have to build my energy levels back up. I went back to work a week ago after two weeks in the recliner with my foot propped up, and hoooooooooo boy! By quitting time I was ready to crawl under the desk and cry. But I made it through the week.

My foot is still bothering me, and today I'm seeing an orthopedic specialist about it. It's still a bit swollen. It still hurts when I walk. And I can only wear tennis shoes and Crocs. I'm not a shoe fanatic, but good gracious, I'd like to not have to wear Adidas to work. They've been very nice about it. They were just happy to have me back in one piece. One of the attorneys even gave me a big hug as she proclaimed how glad she was I wasn't hurt any more than I was.

But back to my topic: kindness. I was the beneficiary of much kindness from strangers and also from folks I know.

A very nice couple stopped at the wreck site, called 911 and waited there til the EMTs arrived. The wife scrolled through my cell phone calling names to help me think of someone to call. Let me tell you that when you've t-boned a car doing about 60 miles per hour, your brain is just a smidgeon jarred and names and phone numbers don't come to mind right away. I asked someone to get their names and contact info so I could thank them later, but I never got it. So whoever you are, thank you so much for getting involved when you could just as easily have kept on driving.

Thank you to the First Responders who got a neck collar on me and got me out of the car and onto a backboard along with the help of a couple of firefighters. Thank you to the EMTs and the ambulance driver. And special thanks to the EMT for making the call to bring me to my hometown hospital instead of one an hour away. At the time I couldn't think of a soul who could pick me up from that hospital, though now I could name a dozen. 60 mph t-bone brain, remember.

Thank you to the terrific Trauma staff at Huntsville Hospital. They were lined up and ready when I was rolled in. With precision, they took my vital signs, got an IV going and cut off an almost brand new pink sweater I'd only worn twice before. ~sniff~ They cut off everything else too except my underpants and socks. I was poked and prodded, x-rayed and scanned, then pronouced banged up and bruised and sent home with a prescription for pain pills and the words, "It'll get worse before it gets better." That was an understatement.

Thank you to the Playfriends. Smarty Pants was the first person in the cell phone scroll whose name clicked and Kind Lady called her. She sprung into action and by the time I got to the hospital, Problem Child and Angel were there. They'd also called my son who arrived in time to take me home. He stayed overnight, helped me arrange a rental car the next day and took me to the grocery store since my cupboards were bare.

Lots and lots of phone calls were made that night. Thank you for all of them. The Playfriends also brought food the next day. I missed our New Year's Eve party, so they brought the party -- or part of it -- to me. A fellow Heart of Dixie member who lives in my apartment complex brought me a container of chicken fettucine Alfredo. Yum! Thanks Kellie.

Thank you to my sister for gently breaking the news (though just how gentle can a major car crash be) to my mother. She and my mother and my mother's brother have called frequently to see how I'm doing.

Thank you to my minister (who said my mother called him) for checking on me. And many thanks to his wife for driving me 150 miles roundtrip to get my belongings out of my car.

Thank you to my neighbor for getting my mail every day. It's a small act, but when every part of your body hurts, it's nice not to have to make the trek to the mail boxes daily.

Thanks to Lynn, one of my Red Hat friends, for driving me to the doctor's office on Monday after the wreck.

And thanks to everyone who sent a card, an email or a message on Facebook. I appreciate them all. It means a lot to know so many people care.

If I've left out anyone, please forgive me. 60 mph t-bone brain, remember.

I got a new car last week cause the old one was totaled. It did its job -- front end crumpled, airbag deployed and seat belts locked down. So I bought another one just like it, just newer. I hope I never have to test its airbag. I'm still dealing with paperwork from the insurance company, getting the tag transferred, etc. I think I see an end in sight.

Random Acts of Kindness Week is February 13-19 this year. I hope you'll take time to perform at least one act of kindness, be it random or not. You never know how much it will mean to the recipient.

Tell me about some random act of kindness you've given or received. Or both.

Reality Bites

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-06:00

I really, really hate “reality” TV.

Reality shows dominate the airwaves, but I’m not a fan. I like fiction. I like shows that have been written by people with talent, are acted by people with talent, professionally produced… You know, television. Entertainment. I’ll admit that I watch some weird stuff – I’m a big fan of crime shows – but reality TV scares me and upsets me more than a Criminal Minds marathon ever could. (And Criminal Minds often leaves me sleeping with the lights on.)

So, shows I hate…

Hoarders: Hoarders have a sickness and this show exploits them. Aside from the car-wreck fascination or the feeling of superiority that my house isn’t that bad, I don’t see the value of the show. I have a problem with exploitation for entertainment purposes. I dislike the concept of Storage Wars for this reason as well. These storage sheds are being auctioned because the renters quit making payments. These people have fallen on hard times and now they’re losing the things they wanted to keep. Televising it is exploitation of someone’s misery and that’s wrong.

The Bachelor/Bachelorette and any of the 37 spin-off dating shows they spawned: I don’t believe for a second that the participants are looking for love. They’re looking for fame. But pitting people against each other to win the “love” of another makes me a little ill.

I reserve special hate for pretty much every reality show where people are pitted against each other and the producers encourage bad or extreme behavior for ratings. (Jersey Shore, Survivor, Big Brother, Real Housewives, etc.) I will however, watch competition shows (okay, one -- So You Think You Can Dance) where skill is prized.

Any show where celebrities are doing anything other than their jobs: (Dancing With the Stars, Celebrity Apprentice, etc.) These folks are good at their jobs; they’re not very good at other people’s jobs. It's just painful to watch.

Shows where people are doing their jobs: Shipping Wars, Swamp Loggers, Pawn Stars. Really? Why? As I’ve said before, ninety percent of everyone’s job is really boring. Why is this television? And the ones where they’re doing something dangerous – like Ice Road Truckers – make me want to scream at the TV. If it’s so freaking dangerous, why are you talking to a camera while you do it?

Toddlers and Tiaras/Dance Moms/etc.: These shows are worse than reality shows like Survivor, Big Brother, etc, because the children are being manipulated by their parents and the parents are setting the worst example. And by watching, we’re rewarding and encouraging that behavior.

I know that reality shows are popular – they wouldn’t have so many of them on the air if they weren’t -- but I just don’t get the attraction. So are you a reality TV fan? Which shows? Why?

PC

Let's Hit the Road!

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

This past weekend, my sister and I went on an impromptu road trip.

Now, for those of you who haven't been with us for long, let me explain a few things. First, neither my sister nor I are "impromptu" people. We're planners all the way. Second, we both had kids this weekend. Third, weekends are extremely precious time at the moment, so giving up one day is hard. Fourth… did I mention we don't usually do "spur of the moment"?

Anyway, the call came from my sister mid-Sunday morning. "Want to make a trip to Nashville today? Our blog buddy is coming through and we could meet her." Awesome!!! She seems like a totally cool person, and this might be our only chance. When? "Um, I'll be at your house in 30 minutes or so…" Alrighty then…

Threw the kids together, changed out of my comfortable "Sunday at home" clothes, and we were out the door. And we all had a really good time! The kids enjoyed a trip to the Cool Springs Galleria, because we let them buy stuff. Sis and I had a great time having lunch with our cyber friend and meeting her IRL. And she's just as cool as she is on the web.

So maybe I should do this "seat of your pants" thing more often… aw, who am I kidding? When was the last time you did anything at the spur of the moment? How did it turn out?

Angel

Coming Soon!
Check out hip Regency writer Sara Ramsey when she joins us this Thursday, January 26.

Best of the Bookshelf

2012-01-20T00:13:00.012-06:00

It's that time again! Time for the Playfriends to share what they're reading. This month we've got an interesting mix of fiction, writing craft and essays on life.

Smarty Pants is reading - Highly Charged! by Joanne Rock

I'll admit I'm a fan of the Uniformly Hot Series. Maybe I spend too much time with Instigator and Rhonda Nelson who both write books in this series. But who doesn't like rock-hard military men? Especially one in a wet t-shirt like on this cover? Poor thing. He should take those wet clothes off before he catches a cold.

Anyway - just as he's distracting me, Navy Lieutenant Brad Riddock is also distracting professor Nikki Thornton from her home renovation project. Understandable, right? And how is she supposed to get anything done when someone starts threatening her and Brad offers her some very personal protection? *fans self*

Angel is reading - Writing for Emotional Impact: Advanced Dramatic Techniques to Attract, Engage, and Fascinate the Reader From Beginning to End by Karl Iglesias

This book was recommended as one that deals in-depth with character creation, and boy was she right!!! Iglesias focuses on what the reader sees on the page, how the reader responds psychologically, and how we as the authors can invoke chosen emotions in the reader. It sure wasn’t the way I thought! He offers hundreds of techniques from a screenwriter’s background to pack that emotional punch. I’m enjoying the unique approaches and clear psychological explanations. A must read for any author!

Instigator is reading - Juliet Immortal by Stacey Jay

I picked up this book because I was intrigued by the idea of giving the Romeo and Juliet story we all know a new twist. It was an enjoyable read and I have to admit I’m hoping for a sequel, although I can’t find any evidence that one’s been contracted.

Playground Monitor is reading - The Husband Recipe by our very own Maven Linda Winstead Jones.

Why? Because it’s by LJ. And because it’s her first strictly romance short contemporary book. And because I’ve loved her books since I picked up my first title by her. And because the back blurb sounded like a book I’d love: It Started with a baseball . . . Which shattered Lauren Russel's perfectly ordered life. Lauren's new neighbors were about to see the Southern lifestyle columnist's temper! Then she met Cole Donovan, the sexy single dad. He was not the man from her husband list; he was too tall, too sexy - and definitely had too many kids! But somehow, looking into his blue, blue eyes, she forgot all that . . . Lauren was too elegant, too prim and didn't understand that his three rambunctious kids were the focus of his life. But his tempting neighbor smelled delicious, looked delicious, and cooked like a dream. Cole wasn't looking for a wife, but he couldn't stay away from Lauren. Was it a recipe for disaster - or marriage?

Problem Child is reading - Ha by John Shore

Maybe I shouldn’t tell y’all that, because it’s a collection of essays about a lot of topics, but also about sex, politics and religion, and I’m not supposed to talk about two of those things on the Playground blog. I find Shore to be both genuine and realistic in his beliefs, and he has a great sense of humor and an eye for the absurd – especially the absurdities of sex, politics and religion. While he has very strong beliefs that shape his work, he doesn’t feel the need to convince or defend, but instead places his essays inside that belief structure for examination. He also realizes that not every situation needs to be analyzed – much less inside a religious or moral matrix. The essays range from thought-provoking to simply amusing, and are easy to read and digest.

What are you reading this month?

Out of the Mouths of Babes

2012-01-19T00:41:00.000-06:00

On a recent stop to pick up the girls my mom met me at the door and pulled me inside. This is enough of an anomaly that my first thought was Aw hell, what kind of mischief have my two little hellions found now?

When she started with, "Your daughter said something interesting today," my sense of unease didn't get any better. Anyone who knows me won't be surprised to hear me admit that I have a bit of a swearing habit. I taught my youngest brother the 'F' word when he was four. At the time I thought it was hilarious...until he turned around and pointed out the f-ing lizard to my mother. Whoops.

Having kids has cleaned up the worst of my language, but not everything. We have a rule in my house that if I say the word in front of the girls then they can't get into serious trouble for repeating it. I can tell them they shouldn't. And admonish them for using a word we've agreed they're not old enough for. But I can't ground them or take away privileges. And my mom's aware of my propensity so I figured whatever Baby Girl had said must be really bad.

And then I saw the glint of humor in her eyes as she proceeded to tell me she'd overheard my seven year old using the word fiduciary. Fiduciary. I don't think I learned that word until I started college level accounting classes.

She can't tell me if Baby Girl used it correctly because she hadn't been paying close attention to the conversation between Baby Girl, Sweet Pea and my oldest nephew...but that isn't the kind of word you just stumble into. My mom thought it was hilarious that my seven year old apparently has the vocabulary of a college freshman. I think it's pretty cool.

Have you ever overheard something that made you laugh? Have your kids ever said anything that shocked you?

Instigator

Guest Blogger -- Helen Lacey

2012-01-18T00:05:00.001-06:00

We have a special guest today from the opposite side of the playground... er... world. Helen's first book hit the shelves this month so let's help her celebrate and give her a big welcome!

A Day in the Life of . . . Helen Lacey

I can openly admit I have a wonderful life. I am a full time writer, I have a very nice husband and live in a house just a couple of hundred meters from the Pacific Ocean, at the southern most point of the Great Barrier Reef. There are dolphins and turtles and sometimes even migrating whales almost on my doorstep. There are
Lorikeet parrots on my patio most mornings. Plus I get to seriously indulge my passion for horses. Oh, and dogs. I have three dogs, three birds, eight horses and a house cow named Ginger. Did I say I had a very nice husband too?

But I also have youngest child syndrome, little patience and a short attention span. So sitting at a computer for hours a day can sometimes be a monumental challenge. Even though writing is a pleasure and now something I can do as a career. Of course I’m delighted to be in this position, and try to be grateful for my luck every day. I start out early – around 4.45am. I usually crank up the computer and then the kettle. I get emails done straight away – particularly anything that comes over night from my agent or editor. My husband leaves early so I see him off to work and then attend to my horses and dogs. After that, its full steam ahead …. Right? Well, only in the fantasy world of nothing-interrupts-my-writing-time. You know that place? No telephone calls, no knocks on the front door, no kids to drop off, no errands to run or people to see. Yeah, that place … I’ve heard it exists. Just not in my house.

Ideally I like to write one thousand words a day, seven days a week. Which means I should be able to write a novel every 8.5 weeks. Then again, maybe not. In the middle of those good intentions edits arrive, revisions need to be done, blogs have to be written, contests need to be judged etc. Things get in the way. Sometimes those elusive one thousand words come out at barely a hundred. And sometimes none at all.

I often wonder if really organized people suffer from the same kind of distractions. Or if my lack of attention to things is my way of procrastinating. I know some authors who steadfastly work for four hours, write their projected word count and then down their tools for the day. I mean, it’s not as though I’m avoiding writing the book, right? Maybe that depends on the book. Like right now I’m in the middle of revising book four in my series before I send it to my editor for consideration. I know these characters, I know the town they live in, I know their family and friends. It should be a breeze. I should be able to sit at my desk, look out at the ocean for a moment, call on my muse and write. Or at least revise and polish. But like every job on the planet, some days are diamonds, some days are... well, you get the picture.

Maybe that’s why some of my favourite romances are the ones where the heroine has those really bad days at work. Where she hasn’t always got it all together. Where she daydreams and stares out the window or has a meltdown in the boardroom. This girl knows. She gets how it feels to wake up on the wrong side of the bed, to break a heel, to get someone else’s coffee order, to miss the train home by a second. When she gets her happy ending it feels all the sweeter.

So when the procrastination passes I get back to the book. If I get four hour work in the day I’m happy and I like to write at night when it’s quiet. I also like to hear the faint hum of the television in the background, or music playing. (Maybe they are just more things to distract me?). Everyone has a different process and no one way is the right way. Some writers like complete silence, some have plugs attached to their ears and Coldplay or Adele belting out tunes. If I get my thousand words I’m happy, if not . . . well, Scarlett said it best – tomorrow is another day.

Do you plan? Makes lists? Have a itinerary of your day? Or do you fly by the seat of your pants and wait for things to happen? Leave a comment and go into the draw to win a copy of my January 2012 release from Harlequin Special Edition, Made For Marriage.

MADE FOR MARRIAGE

Equestrian Callie Jones was used to difficult parents at her riding school. But Noah Preston took the cake.
How dare he question her teaching abilities, after his headstrong daughter paid no heed to rules—her teacher's or her father's?
Single dad Noah was ready to apologize for overreacting. But he wasn't sorry for the way the stunning American riding instructor made him feel. And he soon learned that there was more to Callie than her smarts, sass and fire: a shattered heart that threatened to splinter even further. Could he make her see that he — and his family — were for keeps?

Learn more on Helen's website.

What to say...

2012-01-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

I've been invited to speak at a luncheon. I have to write a speech. This is much harder than I thought when I accepted the invitation six months ago. I'm really nervous.

It's not the public speaking part that bothers me. I know a lot of folks hate it, but it doesn't bother me. Heck, after lecturing freshmen, groups don't scare me. I can honestly assume any crowd will be much friendlier -- or at least less openly hostile. (And since I did yoga in the middle of a restaurant last Saturday because we were locked out of our usual location and I was the program for my chapter meeting, I think it's safe to assume that I don't fear making a fool of myself in public!)

But the speech is killing me. I'm used to having a really specific purpose for talking to a group -- a lecture on Beowulf, a workshop on characterization, a welcome to an event, etc. -- but this event lacks a theme for me to latch on to. I'm just the speaker -- go speak about something. Be interesting, be amusing, be coherent. That's pretty much all I was given to go on. And I have to fill almost thirty minutes. That's a long speech!

I don't even know my audience. It's a community women's organization, so all I know about them is that they are women and they all have access to the military base. They could be military, or military wives, or civilian contractors, or work at one of the restaurants on base. It's a pretty wide net. I can't even guarantee that they read romance -- although they are women, so I'm hoping the demographics work in my favor on that one. Otherwise, I'll have nothing to say.

So I'm working on this speech. I should really be working on my new WIP, but unless I plan to get up in front of eighty people and read from chapter one, I had to write a speech. Oh, and did I mention that I'll be speaking on Valentine's Day? I hope they're not expecting me to wax poetic on the holiday because it's one of my least favorite (beaten only by April Fool's Day. I hate pranks of all kinds.).

But I have the draft of the speech. At 4000+ words, it's almost the equivalent of a chapter, but hopefully more appropriate to the occasion. I'll need to spend some time with it over the next couple of weeks, practicing it and smoothing out the rough places, because I do want the event to go well.

And, yes, I am bringing a friend. Someone I know will laugh at my jokes and hopefully set an example for the others.

But keep your fingers crossed for me. And if you have any brilliant ideas for the speech, please let me know. I just might add them in...

You Should Rest...

2012-01-16T00:00:00.000-06:00

I hate being sick. I mean, who doesn’t, right?

But I think I hate it because I get frustrated easily. Take this past weekend: Over the last week, I’ve felt more and more tired, my throat hurt on and off, and my brain just wasn’t up to speed. I blew it off as some extra things going on at work and popped some Vitamin C. Woke up Friday morning and my immune system had given up the ghost!

Turns out I had sinus and ear infections. I spent most of Friday and Saturday sleeping. That was the best thing for me, BUT I was frustrated.

Like most people, I have a list of things that need to get done (mine’s an actual list, as opposed to a mental one). Its hard for me to ignore it for any reason. (An online instructor recently got on to me for not playing more.) LOL So when I’m walking around on Sunday, moaning and hacking, and the hubby tells me to go back o bed, I say, “But I have so much I need to do.”

Now, I’m not stupid. Logically I know I need to rest. I’m sick. But I still feel the mental pull of that To Do list, of all the things that were supposed to get done this weekend. The result? Frustration.

Am I the only one with this problem? Because I have no idea how to turn it off. I did what I could Sunday morning until I HAD to lay down. Then I got up and wrote this blog – because it was On The List.

Heaven help me!

Angel

Coming Soon!!!

Join us on Wednesday when Harlequin Special Edition author Helen Lacey visits the Playground... all the way from Australia! :)

Free Book Friday - Frosty Funk Edition

2012-01-13T00:13:00.004-06:00

I was perusing my giveaway shelf today and a gem caught my eye. I thought it would make a great giveaway for this month's Free Book Friday.

Why? Well, sadly, the title leapt out at me because this is my least favorite time of year. I pretty much slip into a funk and stay there until May. I don't get any holidays off work until Memorial Day. It's cold. Work usually triples, time disintegrates, and I constantly obsess about losing weight and other resolutions I won't keep. Like flossing.

When I looked at the shelf, I thought it said "Killing Me Slowly." Yeah, that's how it feels. Then, on second glance, I realized it was "Killing Me Softly" and the song implanted in my brain for the duration. And even worse, it was the Fugees cover of it. But here's your chance to pick up this autographed copy to help you out of your own winter funk!

Killing Me Softly

by Maggie Shayne (autographed!)

The Nightcap Strangler, who terrorized the town of Shadow Falls sixteen years ago, has finally been executed. Case closed. Until Bryan Kendall's lover is murdered in the notorious killer's unique style and the rookie cop stands accused. Has someone committed the perfect copycat crime...or was the wrong man put to death?

A continent away, Dawn Jones hears that her first love has been accused of murder and knows that only she can help him. But to do so, she'll have to face the very fears that drove them apart.

Together they'll work to uncover secrets someone's willing to kill to keep, and renew a love as dangerous as it is inevitable. And their best lead is the girl found dead in Bryan's bed, reeking of the whiskey poured down her throat before her killer squeezed it shut.

A killer who thinks that Dawn, too, could use one last drink...

To win, comment today with one of the things you like BEST about this time of year so I can find some positive ways to spin this time of year.

Guest Blogger - Christina Hollis

2012-01-12T00:13:00.000-06:00

Our regular readers might remember Christina visiting with us a couple months ago. Well, we're very excited to have her back with us today to talk about her newest release! Please give her a warm Playground welcome.

FIVE TOP WRITING TIPS TO START THE NEW YEAR...

Thanks, Kira, for inviting me to blog here today.

I hope everyone at the Playground (residents and visitors alike) had a good party season. This time of year can be a bit of a letdown after the excitement of the holidays, unless you got a stack of books for Christmas. On the other hand, it’s a great time to start that new writing project. It doesn’t matter whether you’re doing it solely for you own pleasure or with the aim of getting published, you want to produce the best piece of work you possibly can. Here are five top tips I’ve found most useful in my own writing life...

1. DIVE IN - Read as widely as you can, and write all the time. Take classes, whether ‘real’ or online. Visit your local library to find out about local groups for readers and writers, and check out online sites such as http://romanceuniversity.org. Join groups such as The Romantic Novelists’ Association (http://www.rna-uk.org/) in the UK or Romance Writers of America (http://www.rwa.org/) who provide lots of useful information and contacts. If you intend trying to sell your work, research the market and target your writing carefully before you start.

2. PUT IN THE TIME - which means setting aside some time for yourself every single day. Preferably this should be dedicated writing time, but thinking time can be equally productive as long as you remember to write all your brilliant thoughts down the second you get the chance!

3. READ YOUR FINISHED WORK ALOUD TO YOURSELF - It’s amazing what a different perspective this gives you. It’s best to do this when you’re on your own somewhere, whether in the house or outside in an isolated spot. That way, you can really inject some feeling into your precious words.

4. FIND AN HONEST HELPER - Writing what pleases you should always be top of your agenda but if you intend writing for an audience, constructive criticism is invaluable. Once you are completely happy with your work, hand it over to someone you can trust to tell the truth, whether good or bad. What they didn’t like, and why is as important as what they did like.

5. NEVER SAY ‘I CAN’T BE BOTHERED’ - Fact or factoid? Double check, and always keep your spellchecker switched on. Most importantly, always make notes when you think of them. It’s only too easy to forget to do it later. Like ‘tomorrow’, ‘later’ never comes. Keep a pad and pencil close at hand at all times. Follow up that lead - you never know when you might strike lucky. Polish your manuscript until it shines, and when you send out a query letter make sure you go the extra mile and find out the name of the person best placed to help you. A personally addressed letter or email shows you’ve taken special care. And finally...

NEVER GIVE UP

If you’ve got a good story to tell and you take the time and trouble to hone your craft, you’ll always find an outlet for your talent.

What are your favourite tips for authors? A copy of my latest release for Harlequin Mills and Boon, Weight of the Crown, will be awarded at random for one of the comments.

Don't forget to check out Christina's website at http://www.christinahollis.com or her
Twitter at http://twitter.com/ @christinabooks

Lights, Camera, Netflix!

2012-01-11T00:05:00.002-06:00

PM here, still bruised up and recuperating and starting to drown in the paperwork involved with a major auto accident. I already have a folder filled with letters and copies of forms, a day-by-day listing of the calls I've made and received. And oh yeah, my car's license tag. Once I get confirmation (and $$$$$) from the other driver's insurance company, I'll be buying a new vehicle. I've already been doing my research online about cars and different models and the various features of each. I know what I want; it'll boil down to who makes me the best offer.

But I can't do that all day, and I'm on doctor-ordered bed rest for my poor foot. I have been reading but after a while my eyes cross. So last week I borrowed some DVDs and fired up my DVD player to discover, oh no! It was broken!

More online research and some discussion with Smarty Pants led me to buy a blu ray player. And I decided to go ahead and spring for one with a wireless connection. I got a 30 day free trial of Netflix and joined the streaming video generation. I'm sometimes slow, but I catch up with technology eventually.

And so far I'm loving this! I look through the available programming, click to put it in my Instant Queue and then watch while I'm propped on the sofa with an ice pack on my foot.

And what have I been watching?

First, I watched the movie "Secretariat." This is a wonderful movie about the great race horse of the early 70's who won the Triple Crown. And even though I knew the horse won all three races, I still found myself on the edge of my seat, cheering him on and feeling excited (and vindicated) for his owner. She was the daughter of a horse farm owner who was thrust into a bad position upon her father's death. A coin toss put Secretariat (or Big Red as she called him) in her barn. Everyone told her it couldn't be done, but she refused to give up and her belief paid off. Watch this if you haven't already.

Then I watched a great documentary on the Amish people in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Having visited the Amish settlement in Ethridge, Tennessee last summer, I was able to appreciate this documentary more, though the Lancaster folks look absolutely modern next to the Tennessee group because they are member of different sects. Still, a good show with good insight into these plain folks.

Next up was "Spirit of the Marathon," which follows six runners on their marathon journey. My sister ran her first marathon last February, and I remember the impact it had on her. She basically said what the film poster states: When you cross the finish line it will change your life forever.

After that, my queue had "The Eyes of Tammy Faye." It's a combination documentary and parody about Tammy Faye Bakker whose husband Jim Bakker ran the PTL Ministry in North Carolina. I grew up very close to where they were and followed the rise and fall of Jim and Tammy in the newspapers. I learned a lot about the duo, like the fact they started the 700 Club only to have Pat Robertson overthrow them and take over. Then they started the Trinity Broadcasting Network and had that pulled out from underneath them too. PTL followed those and eventually Jerry Falwell voted them off that island too. I'll go on record to state that I own a t-shirt that was shown on the video.

Still in my queue is "Ancient Aliens" from the History Channel. This show attempts to answer this question: "Is it possible that extraterrestrials with superior knowledge of science and engineering landed on Earth thousands of years ago, sharing their expertise with early civilizations?"

And what is entertaining me now?

Don't recognize him? Try this photo.

If a stranger looked at my instant queue, I'd be rushed to the nearest mental facility for therapy because my genres are all over the place. And right now I am watching a show called "RuPaul's Drag Race." It's a combination of America's Top Model, Celebrity Apprentice, Survivor and American Idol with 12 drag queens competing in different challenges each week to be named America's Next Drag Superstar. I am positively amazed at the effort to which these men go to look like women. And talk about cat fights and dissing! Oooooooh girl!!!! They can fling the insults and barbs. And then they help each other with eye shadow and hair and cry when one of the group gets voted off each week. It's wild and crazy and has fabulous guest judges like Debbie Reynolds, Cloris Leachman, Jackie Collins and Kathy Najimy. Netflix streaming only has seasons 2 and 3 and I'm going through a couple episodes a day.

It's been fun, but once I'm through with it, I'll move onto the possiblity of spacemen building the Pyramids or maybe watch an old episode of Saturday Night Live when Gilda Radner was still on the show. I sure did love her.

So now I'll sashay away to my recliner and heating pad. Got Netflix? What's in your queue?

Reality is boring..

2012-01-10T00:00:00.001-06:00

There are readers out there who take great pleasure in pointing out mistakes to authors. Whether it’s typos or the fact that the author made a New York street one way in the wrong direction, you can be sure that the author has received several emails about it. Of course, these emails accomplish nothing: the book is written, thousands of copies have been printed and bought. No one is going to go change it now.

I do understand the impulse of the reader, though. If it’s something you know or are passionate about (or you live on that street in NYC), it probably does irk you to see it improperly in a book. Personally, I read a book once where the professional ballet dancer heroine kept talking about her “toe shoes” and “dancing on toe.” (They’re pointe shoes, and you dance en pointe. Of course the assumption is that if you’re a female dancer over the age of 13, you’re en pointe anyway – and if it’s a professional company, it would be exceedingly strange for you not to be.) But did I write the author? No. She may have done it out of ignorance – and it’s not like the book’s plot hinged on this fact – or she may have consciously decided to use “toe” instead of “pointe” because not every reader in America knows what pointe shoes are.

And therein lies the rub – was it intentional on the author’s part?

With every book, I’m faced with a choice: how much of this research do I put in the book? And I’m often faced with an even harder choice: do I write it like it is or like people think it is?

And when I say “like people think it is,” that’s a bigger issue than folks might realize. After all, after my first book came out, I got an email from a reader telling me that she enjoyed the book overall, but it was ridiculous that my heroine was wearing shorts on the beach in October. It would be much too cold. It totally pulled her out of the book. Um, The Secret Mistress Arrangement is set in south Alabama – it might be a little chilly in October, but cold? Not really. (Of course, I’ve also learned that not all beaches are warm, either. I have a great picture of me on the beach in Scotland in late June – wearing boots, a wool coat, and a hat.) That wasn’t a mistake on my part as an author – that was an erroneous assumption on the part of the reader.

And those assumptions cause big hassles. Have you ever watched Law and Order and noticed how when the victims take the stand to testify, they always still have very visible bruises from the attack? Now, anyone who has ever had the misfortune to get tangled up in the legal system should know that the chances of getting a trial date before the bruises heal would be close to impossible. But the story would lose its immediacy and pacing if the show had to do a “six months pass” montage to be realistic. I know it drives lawyers crazy, but lawyers are a small percentage of the population and an even smaller percentage of the target audience. So the writers ignore the reality and go with what’s best for the story.

Anthologists interviewing witnesses for the FBI? Lawyers sleeping with their clients? Cops beating confessions out of a killer? These things make for great TV, but they’re not realistic.

We all know that police officers spend more time writing tickets and directing traffic than they spend in high-action shootouts. For every ride the ER doctor takes on the gurney desperately doing CPR, they spend months dealing with ingrown toenails and kids with stomach flu. I’m not saying that this isn’t important stuff – it is, but it’s hardly drama. And we all know that every job has paperwork, and watching someone do paperwork is deathly boring.

Not only would readers doze off if books were overly realistic and true to life, there’d be a whole bunch of people who would be thinking the author made a mistake because that’s not how it is on TV or in other books, movies, etc. (I read an article recently that all those medical shows have had an adverse affect on medical students. They’ve seen a procedure on TV – like “Insert a chest tube!” – and they think that’s what it’s supposed to look like. But it’s not.)

And I’m not saying I’m immune, by the way. I’ve written things without researching it because I *think* I know (or I’ve seen it on TV), only to find out later that I was really wrong.

On TV, one bullet to a car will blow up the gas tank in a fiery ball. (Want to get a science nerd worked up? Ask him about fiery explosions in space.*) The hero can take a bullet to the shoulder and still wrestle a gator to the ground (or make sweet love to the heroine). These things are all very handy for creating entertainment, but they’re not realistic.

So what’s an author to do? I have a scene in a book (I won’t say which one) where the hero and heroine are doing something (I won’t say what), and since I happen to have a good friend who did exactly that for a living, I sent it to him for some fact-checking even though I’d seen and read characters doing this dozens of times in books, TV and movies. I thought he might be able to add a little depth or a fun fact. His response was immediate and succinct: You couldn’t be more wrong if you had them setting fire to hamsters. He then proceeded to enlighten me. My response was also immediate and succinct: No one will believe that (activity) is that freaking boring. I want to kill them and myself just thinking about it.

It just got ugly from there.~grin~

So, y’all are smart people. You read widely, watch TV, and know what “fiction” means. You are probably also an expert in something that you’ve seen totally messed up at some point. Does it bother you? Can you just let it go and enjoy the story for what it is? Should entertainment strive to be factual or is it okay to bend the facts in order to be entertaining? What’s the breaking point for you where you finally roll your eyes and walk away?

*There’s no oxygen in space. No oxygen, no fireball. Yes, my Geek felt the need to explain this to me. He feels very strongly about it.

MOANday: Favorites - Really This Time!

2012-01-09T00:00:00.001-06:00

It’s January, the season of recap shows, so I’ve decided to celebrate the first month of 2012 by revisiting some of the hottest MOANday hotties of 2011. Enjoy!

But what list would be complete without…

Happy New Year!

Angel

Coming Soon!

Join us this Thursday when Harlequin author Christina Hollis joins us on the Playground!

Cover Love

2012-01-06T00:13:00.007-06:00

We interrupt our regularly scheduled Free Book Friday to show you my new cover! I'm in LOVE.

WHAT LIES BENEATH
April 2012, Harlequin Desire #2152

She’s Awake. So Why Can’t She Remember?

They say she’s Cynthia Dempsey, fiancée of media mogul Will Taylor. But try as she might, she can’t recall their high-society life or the man sitting by her hospital bed. Though her body certainly remembers him. Even as she senses the distance between them, the electricity when they touch is undeniable.

Will can hardly believe Cynthia’s transformation. Gone is the ice queen who betrayed him, and in her place is a woman who seems genuine and warm. But can he risk his heart again, not knowing what might happen when her memory returns?

New Start...Or Not

2012-01-05T05:32:00.003-06:00

It's that time of year where everyone seems to be setting goals, making personal commitments and starting new projects - like going to the gym. I'm going to be honest, I hate this time of year. First, I'm not a huge fan of winter. Despite the fact that I spent quite a few of my younger years in Michigan, I do not like the cold. I guess my Florida blood wins out.

I also have to admit that I usually get a severe case of the blahs every winter and that isn't alleviated by the letdown that follows Christmas or the pervasive idea that everyone should suddenly be improving themselves. Maybe it's just my general bad mood, but the abundance of diet commercials, exercise equipment ads and talk of 'a better you' makes me want to scream that there's nothing wrong with me!

What I really want to be doing is holing up beneath a pile of blankets and hibernating until at least March. Not waking up early to brave thirty degree weather to get to the gym for a workout I won't enjoy. Please. That's a recipe for failure if ever I've heard one. So I've decided not to make those kinds of doomed New Year's resolutions. Yes, I'm trying to get into a better health routine, but that's something I've been working on since this summer. And I have a lot of writing goals, but those have been set for months now and are more about time conservation than anything else. Striving to be a better person is something I do all year long...not just a couple months out of the year.

Yes, I understand that changing to a blank calendar seems to offer the perfect opportunity to make other sweeping changes. Those shiny new pages just scream to be filled. But for me this time of year ends up being the worst time to make the kinds of resolutions that are already difficult to keep. So I'm not doing it now...check back with me in July for my New Year's resolutions.

Did you make resolutions this year? Have you already fallen off the wagon?

Instigator

Guest Blogger - Lisa Dale

2012-01-04T00:05:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year to all, and please welcome Lisa Dale to the Playground. While she's a newcomer to the swing set, she's not a newcomer to writing. She has a few under her belt including one just released yesterday. Happy New Year to her!!!

What Do You Collect?

First, thanks to all the Playground writers for having me on today! It’s so nice to be visiting at such a friendly blog of fellow writer-ladies. I’m a lucky girl!
Here’s what I have planned for today. I’m going to tell you a little bit about my new release (so you can decide if it’s the kind of thing you would be into).

Then, if you think my writing sounds interesting, you can enter to win your own copy of my previous release, SLOW DANCING ON PRICE’S PIER, which was a Top Pick at Barnes & Noble was well as BookPage magazine.

Ready? Break!

Let me start by sharing the summary of A PROMISE OF SAFEKEEPING, which just came out!

Nine years ago, Lauren Matthews prosecuted the case of a lifetime. But her error in judgment sent an innocent man to prison. Now Arlen Fieldstone’s finally been released, and Lauren has only one thing on her mind: asking forgiveness. But how can she make up for nine years of his life?

To get to Arlen, Lauren must first get through Arlen’s best friend, Will Farris. Will hasn’t forgotten Lauren from those days, and hasn’t forgiven her for destroying his best friend’s life. He is Arlen’s keeper — protecting him from suspicious neighbors as well as from Lauren.

In the steaming summer streets of Richmond, Virginia, three people’s lives collide. Lauren needs forgiveness. Arlen needs hope. And Will? He needs something too, something that no one can know—especially not Lauren…

The kernel of inspiration that A PROMISE OF SAFEKEEPING was born from stemmed from a fateful trip to a bookstore in New Jersey—one of those second-hand bookstores where a portion of the profits go to charity.

I stumbled across a book about reading body language, and I thought — Wow. What kind of person would you become if you could read body language? If you always could hear the story beneath the story?

In a courtroom, the stakes are high. Lives are on the line. So of course, my body language expert found herself in a courtroom…so blinded by youthful ambition that she ended up prosecuting an innocent man.

Yeah—it’s a little heavy. I like books that tug the heartstrings. Books that make you think, but that also have a happily ever after and a love story at the center.
In the book, Will — who may be my favorite hero ever — collects keys (there’s lots of themes of keeping — people, secrets, etc.). So here’s my question if you’d like to win a copy of SLOW DANCING ON PRICE’S PIER:

What do you collect?

Wishing you all good things,

Lisa Dale
http://www.LisaDaleBooks.com

P.S. Today, Smarty Pants is blogging about resolutions on the Desire blog. You can find it here. After you've told Lisa what you collect, pop over and talk with SP about what you're resolving to do in 2012.

Argh!

2012-01-03T07:58:00.002-06:00

I kinda forgot it was Tuesday. After having DG and AC home for long weekends, they finally went back to work and school, and today just felt like a Monday instead of a Tuesday. So I forgot to blog. And I have no idea what to blog about!

Getting back into the swing of things is going to take time. And a lot more tea...

Am I the only one who has holiday hangover? Unsure of what day it is, what I need to be doing (yet full of the nagging suspicion I need to be doing something really important)?

My hangover cure-- for hangovers of the usual type -- is lots of water and a high-protein snack. I don't think that will help with this though.

What's your holiday hangover cure?

MOANday... with a twist

2012-01-02T00:02:00.004-06:00

I know. You were expecting Angel and her cadre of hot guys. But I've co-opted her Monday to share my moan-day experience.

Last week I was on vacation visiting Asheville, North Carolina. #2 son lives there so I had a wonderful chauffeur and travel companion. The hightlight of my visit was going to see Biltmore House all decorated for Christmas. I also did some shopping and had a spa afternoon with a facial and massage.

Then last Friday I bid a fond farewell to the mountains and headed home. I was about 70 miles from my destination when a car suddenly pulled out in front of me. I hit the brakes but it was too late to avoid a collision. I broadsided the other car and all I remember is the sickening crunch of the two cars colliding and then spinning around and around.

If anyone saw the collision, they did not stop. I sat in my car with my neck and shoulders in pain for at least five minutes or more until a couple in a red pick-up stopped. They called 911 and soon the EMTs had me in a cervical collar and out of my car on a backboard. Then I heard the helicopter come to take someone from the other car to the hospital. After a long ride to the trauma center at our local hospital, I was wheeled into a cubicle and the team went to work.

I was praying they didn't cut off my jacket. It's new. I love it. It is worth more than the rest of what I was wearing combined. My prayers were answered but my sweater, camisole, bra and jeans weren't so lucky. I was poked and prodded, asked a ton of questions, had x-rays made of my foot and pelvis and then taken to have a CT scan of my neck.

After the films and scans were read, I was declared free of any breaks and told I could go home. Two of the Playfriends were there at the hospital with me and the others were working in the background to notify my family. My older son came here (he lives two hours away) and brought me home from the hospital. He also stayed the night, took me the next day to get a rental car and helped me navigate Walmart to pick up a couple things.

The Playfriends came over later that afternoon with food and promises to help in any way they can. I have to tell you that it's wonderful to have so many friends who will drop everything and come to the ER at 10 PM (at least I think that's what time it was).

But back to the cut-off clothing. When it was time for me to be released, I reminded Penny-the-nurse that I had nothing to wear home but my coat, my shoes and socks and my underpants. She said she'd get me something and came back in a bit with some gray sweatpants and a t-shirt. When I saw what was written on the back of the shirt, I pointed it out to Angel and Problem Child. Then the nurse saw it and began to apologize.

"Oh no! I love it!" I said, clutching the shirt to me. "It rocks."

"Uh, do you have another one?" asked Problem Child.

And just what does this shirt look like?

Don't you love it? It's my new favorite t-shirt.

I walked away from the accident without any broken bones. My car is totaled and I'm going to have to go car shopping this week or next. But despite no breaks, I have plenty of bruises and strains. I'm feeling like a big truck hit me and then backed up to see what it had hit. Today (and the past couple) have been moan-day for me.

But just so you won't feel cheated, here's a little treat for you.

Seeley Booth does a lot more for a hospital gown than I do. ;-)

Holiday Winners

2012-01-01T12:00:00.004-06:00

The winner from Sarah M. Anderson's guest blog is BW. Please email me your info at author @ andrealaurence dot com.

The winner from the Christmas carol game is pjk! Please email me your info at author @ andrealaurence dot com.

AND - I've just found out that Sarah's grand prize locket winner was from our blog, so congratulations to Laurie G! Please email me your info at author @ andrealaurence dot com.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Happy 2012!

2011-12-30T00:13:00.000-06:00

The Playfriends hope everyone has a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!

Food for thought

2011-12-28T00:02:00.002-06:00

I am taking a "Me Vacation" to both have a good time and to do some soul searching. I find the mountains are a great place to sort things out. After several dry years in the writing department I am quite discouraged. I saw this on someone's Facebook and decided it was good food for thought for the new year.

I'm working on a cranky old laptop that shuts down whenever it takes a notion to, so that's all for my blog today since ole laptop could close at any moment.

Have a Happy New Year's Eve!

I refuse to bow to the pressure... sort of. Maybe. (Or at least I'll try...)

2011-12-27T00:00:00.000-06:00

I think people put too much pressure on themselves, in general. We all try to be perfect moms, perfect wives, perfect businesswomen... We want to have it all, do it all, and we want to do it all well. And though we all know we should give ourselves a little bit of slack, we still tend to feel guilty that we can't. Or don't.

Maybe because I have a strong practical streak -- or more likely a lazy streak -- or the fact that Counselor Shelley is only a phone call away, I tend to approach things with the knowledge that it won't be perfect and that not-perfect is perfectly okay.

Unfortunately, that means I've set the bar lower and feel even worse when I still manage to fall short... Sigh.

I got the Christmas cards done and thought I'd save myself a stamp or two by taking the family cards to the family Christmas party on the 17th and give them out there. Guess what I found when I finally cleaned out the bag I took with me? Yep, the Christmas cards. I handed out presents and totally forgot about the cards. And because I was too lazy to put everything away when I got home that night, I didn't even find the cards until it was too late to mail them in time for Christmas.

I hosted a nice Christmas party -- carefully planning food and drinks -- only to find something I meant to serve in the fridge today. (And I had to put my office off-limits because I didn't get it cleaned before the party.)

I never did get around to making candies with AC -- once it became clear that we wouldn't be leaving goodies out for Santa this year, getting the goodies made kind of fell by the wayside.

There were other small things that didn't get done or didn't happen the way I wanted them to, but we still had a good holiday. I should be pleased and happy with that. But I can't shake the guilt that comes from knowing that even with my expectations kept low, I still failed to meet them. Some days it seems like I just suck at this whole thing.

But today I decided that that's just me. The way I am. Add it to my list of strange hang-ups and neuroses. I suck at some stuff. At least I realize that I excel at others -- or at least land in the top quarter percentile. Hey, I even made gluwine this year -- without a recipe! -- and it turned out more awesome than I hoped.

We don't have to be perfect at everything -- or anything, for that matter. We just have to try. Points are given for effort, and all good intentions count. I got a lot of awesome presents for Christmas this year, but this is the one I gave myself. The gift of acceptance. I do the best I can, with what I've got. I'm not setting the bar lower; I'm being realistic. And the true reality is that we all can't vault over that bar every time.

Now, if you all will just remind me of this around next November, I'd greatly appreciate it. It will make my holidays a lot less stressful... ~grin~

Gifts, Gifts, Everywhere!!!!

2011-12-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

What's the best gift you've ever received?

I recently saw something that asked this question, and it got me to thinking… I could answer this in a lot of ways! I could be funny (my dancing Frosty the Snowman); I could be sentimental (my husband and children); I could be religious (Jesus is the Reason for the Season); I could be sexy (um, I can’t say that out loud); I could be sarcastic (except I don’t really know how to be); I could be picky (Do you mean of all time? That’s a long time to remember! What about just from the past year?). It all depends on how you want to answer the question.

I’m usually a sentimental kind of girl. I tend to go for the Ahhhh moments. My husband and children truly are gifts. I’ve been married for almost half my life, and I’m grateful God gave me such a wonderful husband so young. I’ve always called my children my “Little Miracles”, because I suffered from infertility and had 3 miscarriages while trying to have them. I’m very grateful they are a part of our lives, and healthy, and relatively happy.

I’m not really a sarcastic type of writer, but I am a sexy kind of writer. Unfortunately, I’m not willing to share those details. ;) And we try to keep religion and politics off the blog as much as possible. I do actually have a Frosty the Snowman who dances and sings. We bring him out each Christmas. I’ve also kept my very first Homey Claus gift (my husband’s family’s version of an anonymous amusing gift that makes fun of something about you or that you’ve done in the past year). “Homey Claus” gifted me with my husband’s childhood step stool that says “Step up to be tall, Step down to be small” – the joke is I’m 5 foot tall as an adult and the words still apply to me. We still have that stool and currently use it so I can kiss my son goodnight in his new bunkbed.

But with my horrible memory, I tend to go with something fairly recent. We don’t go over the top with gifts at Christmas, but my hubby is great with the surprises! This is my favorite kind of gift. One year he gave me an iPhone (which I didn’t even know I wanted and now am addicted to!). One year he gave me a wonderful oil heater for my office, which is freezing in the wintertime (but not anymore!). I have many of those great, “Oh Wow” memories thanks to him! And this year the Playfriends surprised me with a combination birthday/Christmas present: my Kindle! I never saw that one coming, but I love, love, love it!

So how about you? How would you answer that question? Did you get an extra special Christmas gift this year?

Angel

Muppet Bells

2011-12-24T00:13:00.002-06:00

I know its Christmas Eve and few if any people will stop by today, but if you do, here's a little holiday treat.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from the Playfriends!

2011-12-23T00:13:00.000-06:00

The Playfriends wish you all a very happy, healthy and safe holiday season!

Odds and Ends

2011-12-22T08:28:00.010-06:00

I don't know about y'all, but I'm so not ready for Christmas. I thought I was close...and if I think about it all logically, I probably am. But logic isn't factoring into my current panic. So I'm going to keep this short and sweet today and just touch on a bunch of stuff that doesn't really deserve a blog of it's own.

How is it that no matter my effort one of my kids still ends up with more presents than the other? I even have a frickin' list and somehow it still happens. What's funny is that it seems to change. Last year it was Baby Girl. This year it's Sweet Pea. Which means one more trip to an overcrowded shopping center.

And along those same lines, we visited Santa's Village last night with the girls. Baby Girl filled out a letter to Santa...which had only 1 item on it that her original list had. Most of the stuff I'd never even heard of. Luckily I need to pick up a few more things for her. Unfortunately, I have a feeling the thing she put as #1 is probably the hot item of the year and completely unavailable. *bangs head on desk*

Yesterday I found out that Bring It On - my Feb release - is being made into an audio book. I have to admit to a certain amount of giddiness at learning this. Someone's going to be reading my words aloud. I'm debating whether or not I'm going to listen to it. I've bought audio books before and part of me wants to hear them say my name as the author.

And the cover for my March release - Take It Down - is finally here. Yay! I have to say I love this cover.

Do you have any odds and ends you want to share? Are you ready for Christmas? Are you one of those people with all the presents wrapped and waiting under the tree?

Instigator

Make a Joyful Noise

2011-12-21T00:05:00.000-06:00

I know, I know. I'm not putting in enough effort with today's blog. It's something I saw on someone else's Facebook post. But I've watched it numerous times. I showed it to my two girlfriends who came over for dinner last Saturday night and we laughed til we cried.

So I'm sharing it with you. For me it brings back memories of not only my childhood Christmas pageants, but those of my children too. I've always said that the folks who do children's pageants and children's sermons are either the bravest people on earth or the dumbest. You never, ever know what kids will say or do. I can still remember the little poem I had to recite as part of a group:

We are little candles, spreading rays of light.
Telling all the world that Christ is born tonight.

I posted half that on Facebook and tagged my sister. Without missing a beat, she provided the other half. Amazing what you'll remember decades later, huh?

My older son was in the children's choir at church and on Christmas Eve they'd sing not only religious songs but secular ones too. To this day, thanks to him, when I sing "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" I change the lyrics to "... then one froggy Christmas Eve, Santa came to say...."

My ex-husband tells about the kid in one of his childhood Christmas pageants who took his shepherd's crook, clasped it in both hands and made machine-gun noises as he pointed it at the manger.

Anyway, I bring you one of the funniest Christmas pageant videos I've seen. And after you finish watching and dry your tears (and maybe your drawers too), tell us about your experience with Christmas pageants.

This little girl certainly gives new meaning to the phrase "Make a joyful noise." And note that the baby Jesus is a real baby who slept through the entire performance. Perhaps they swaddled his/her ears well.

Not quite holiday magic...

2011-12-20T00:00:00.001-06:00

I’m rather sad. The era of Santa has officially passed at Casa PC. AC asked us point-blank, and I wasn’t going to lie. I don’t know who was more disappointed: AC or me and the Geek.

AC is 10, and she’s quite smart, so I know she’s been doubtful for several years. But AC is also a dreamer and an optimist who really wants to believe, so I knew she wouldn’t give up the idea without a fight. I mean, this is a child who grew up knowing that the answer to every question is only a Google search away. If she’d wanted confirmation – but didn’t want to directly ask – she’d have looked it up. She didn’t want to know.

We’ve loved doing Santa over the years – well, the Geek’s a little tired of Santa getting the credit – but we’ve created our own traditions and made some wonderful memories. But while I’ll miss doing Santa, what really makes me sad is that the loss of Santa marks the end of an era. The end of the age of innocence. Children get to believe in magic. They get to wonder at the world, and the world must be good if someone like Santa exists. Now that magic is muted for my child. The world is a little less wonderous and awesome now.

These tween years are awkward. She’s definitely not a child anymore, but she’s not nearly grown up either. And now that Santa is just a myth, she’s now on the adults’ team and she has the responsibility to not ruin the joy for other children. But she’s still a little girl who was sad to have her suspicions confirmed.

So Christmas will be different for us this year. Still joyful and magical, but not as magical as it used to be. My little girl is growing up. I’m glad. But I’m sad too.

But as we move into this new stage, we’ll make new memories and traditions. And hopefully, some new magic.

I hope you all have a joyful and magical holiday.

It's a Date!

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-06:00

December is a very unusual month for our family – not only do we have Christmas and holiday hoopla, but my hubby’s birthday is Christmas Day. I try to make this a totally different celebration for him, because my birthday is important to me. I enjoy being treated especially nice by my family and given the day off from chores and housework. He should be able to feel the same way, and that’s hard to do when you’re running from one house to the other and helping prepare for a crowd to descend around here.

I’ve done this in different ways – picked a random day for us to celebrate, celebrate the day after Christmas when he’s off work, and one year I even threw him a surprise party in October. It was definitely a surprise!

This year, when I asked him what he wanted to do for his birthday, he said (after a bit of thought) that he really wanted for the two of us to go out alone. (Awwwwwww…..)

We don’t get to do this very often because of his crazy work schedule, overworked babysitters, and the biggest issue… What Do We Go Do?

Our town isn’t overflowing with romantic options, so we usually opt for dinner and/or a movie. We both love to go to the movies and getting to go together is a special treat. Luckily, we enjoy a lot of the same types of movies. I can just imagine us as an old retired couple going to the dollar theater every week as our “special” outing.

But sometimes you want to break out of the mould, and birthdays seem to be the perfect time for that. Only I don’t have enough money at Christmas for spas, trips, or BIG dates.

There has to be something in between, right? Any ideas? What’s you and your significant other’s favorite Go To dates? What’s the most fun or most romantic or most simple date you’ve been on? I’d love some ideas!

Angel

Christmas Carols: The Game

2011-12-16T00:13:00.000-06:00

A couple years back, I posted my ten favorite Christmas carols. That kicked off a lively discussion about hippopotami, ruffies and an all-around hatred for Christmas Shoes. This year, I'm going to play a game with you guys. A Christmas Carol lyrics game. And you get to not just guess, but help us try go stump others. We'll play this kinda like our alphabet or wish stomping game... when you guess the answer, you also list a lyric for the next folks to guess.

So... if I post "No crocodiles or rhinoceros-es-es. I only like hippopotamus-es-es. And hippopotamuses like me too!"

You post your answer - "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas"

Then you post the next carol lyric. "He led them down the streets of town right to the traffic cop."

The next person guesses "Frosty the Snowman" and we continue. Got it? Hopefully we can play trivia all day! Okay, here's the first song lyric...

"I did a dance on mommy's plants, climbed a tree and tore my pants, filled that sugar bowl with ants, somebody snitched on me!"

Let the games begin! One lucky player will win a Christmas anthology! (although, admittedly, I probably won't ship it until after Christmas.)
SP

Best of the Bookshelf - December

2011-12-15T00:13:00.000-06:00

This month Smarty Pants is reading The Power & The Glory by our very own Kimberly Lang.

The Marshalls series continues with sexy older brother and political hotshot Brady. The running of his father's campaign was going well until he got handcuffed to Aspyn Breedlove - a hippie activist with a mission. He's got no choice but to diffuse the scandal by bring Aspyn aboard the campaign. Of course, the closer the better when the sparks start to fly between the two of them. A great read, giftwrapped for the holiday!

Playground Monitor is reading Space in His Heart by Roxanne St. Claire.

This book’s prologue is set on July 8, 2011, the actual date of the last Space Shuttle launch. The book then hops back twelve years to the day when PR star Jessica Malone was tasked to improve NASA’s image because nobody cared about space anymore. Her plan? Make NASA sexy by taking hotter-than-the-surface-of-the-sun astronaut Deke Stockard and turning him into the space program’s poster boy. Deke isn’t thrilled at all even if he does find Jessica attractive. He’s focused on the next launch and a safety issue that could spell disaster, but he’s ordered to take part in the campaign.

SPACE IN HIS HEART is only available now as an e-book but will soon become available in book form. As a former Shuttle contract worker and huge fan of the space program, this book gets a definite thumbs up from me. It’s a fast-paced read that leaves you with a big smile on your face at the end.

Angel is reading Heart of a Killer by Jaci Burton

Dante Renaldi comes home for what he thinks will be a family reunion, but finds himself facing the events of the worst night of his life. Now he has to track down a killer while trying to protect his own dark secrets. Detective Anna Pallino was once in love with Dante, until he saved her life then disappeared. Now she’s faced with the deaths of those closest to her. Can she trust him again? Or has he brought the danger home with him? I really love Jaci’s spitfire heroines and the darkness of her suspenses. Those who love those strong heroes and the women who reel them in will really enjoy this story!

Problem Child is reading On the First Night of Christmas by Heidi Rice

I know that Heidi is my shelfmate this month, and I should really expand my horizons, but I’ve been sitting on this for a month while I finished my own book. There is a day – very soon – when I, this book, and a cup of tea are going to share a great afternoon under an afghan on the couch. Since I haven’t read it yet, I can’t offer any insights -- beyond “Heidi has never written a book that wasn’t fab” – so I’ll give you the back blurb instead.

Cassie's tips for the Perfect Christmas Fling!
1. 'Tis the season to be daring: Find the perfect Mr. Right Now (extra points for a bad-boy-turned-billionaire) and be brave about getting him—even if that means jumping straight into sexy Jace Ryan's car!
2. Enjoy the ride: Once you've chosen your man, get swept away by the moment! For once, Cassie's determined to stop worrying about the future, but she must remember one thing…
3. This fling is just for Christmas: Jace Ryan's a seasonal special. Do not start falling for him, Cassie, no matter how perfect the package or how much you've enjoyed unwrapping it.…

And I'm reading Crave by Melissa Darnell

A great start to a new YA series, Crave was an easy, enjoyable read. Set against the backdrop of a normal high school experience, we soon learn that there's more to the inhabitants of this small town and the group of people - the Clann - that run it. Darnell pits two very different worlds against each other with Savannah Colbert and Tristan Coleman caught in the middle. I'm looking forward to the next installment of the series.

Share with us what you're reading this month. Looking forward to any new releases?

D*&%! I Got Autocorrected

2011-12-14T00:05:00.000-06:00

PC Magazine defines autocorrect as "A feature that corrects misspellings and makes other grammatical changes on the fly." Those of you with smartphones know what it is. You type in "wil;" and it will autocorrect to "will."

But sometimes it fails. Like last Saturday night when I posted "And the Heisman doesn't go up anyone from Alabama."

I didn't pay attention to what posted until the next morning when a friend from church commented, "go UP? go up where? Maybe I don't want to know?"

Oh. My. Goodness!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It was supposed to be "go to anyone from Alabama." To. TO. TO

My only other big autocorrect failure was when I got my job and posted something to the effect that the job was good, but God was gooder. Autocorrect doesn't recognize "gooder" and corrected it to the word folder. God is folder. Huh?

At least I haven't had any of the massive fails documented on the hilarious website Damn You Auto Correct.

This website is not safe for work. Not only does it contain words that are often inappropriate, it's so stinking funny you'll end up laughing til you cry. And ya don't want your boss coming around asking why you are cackling like a hen laying an egg.

I just wonder if the person or persons who invented autocorrect are laughing as much. I mean, they've created a monster. According to one online source (and we all know how reliable THOSE are), autocorrect wasn't was developed by Microsoft to be used in word processing programs. And from there it has spread to smartphones.

I just wonder how Microsoft gets around the child labor laws because I'm convinced a fourteen-year-old boy in the throes of puberty came up with the autocorrect replacement vocabulary. I mean, how else would "congrats" become "bong rats?" How does an "destination" become "dusty jockitch?" "I'm selling the fridge to my roommate" became a drug deal when autocorrect substituted "drugs" for "fridge."

I ain't making this stuff up, folks. And I'm keeping it clean. Some of it would make a sailor blush.

And just to prove I am not lying, here's a photo of my own screen. In case my mother is reading, I'm still alive and kicking. No autopsy required.

Have you been autocorrected? What's your best (or worst depending on how you look at it)?

How I spent my Thanksgiving...

2011-12-13T00:00:00.001-06:00

I swam with dolphins!!!!!!!!

It was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. They are such amazing creatures -- smart, playful, and very graceful. (They're also much bigger than I expected!)

Dolphin ride!!

Seconds before I got dunked... I didn't hear the instruction that said "Keep your head up!"

Dolphin kisses!!

We felt like part of the family...

Thanks to the trainers at Dolphin Cove in Key Largo, FL for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And many thanks to Julie and Samantha for letting us play with them. (And to Samantha's 5 mo old baby, Issac, who occasionally swam around to see what we were doing. There's precious little in this world cuter than a baby dolphin wanting to play with you...)

It certainly beat cooking a turkey...

The Best of Intentions...

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000-06:00

I’ve been trying to be ultra-careful with my time right now, because I’m working the day job and doing a hard push on writing and submitting. But recently, I got roped into something extra, and I’m not even sure how it all happened.

My daughter joined the band this year – her first year in middle school. I’m glad, because she’s taken a huge interest in it and the band has given her a nice friend-base to draw from. I’ve attended the Band Parent meetings and tried to stay informed.

Recently it was brought to the parents’ attention that the band was hosting their annual holiday dance and I thought, “Oh, I could coordinate that! But no! Too much time!” So I settled for an offer to decorate the cafeteria that night. The very overwhelmed Band Parent Association President gratefully accepted. Two weeks later I go into the band room to inspect the decorations they already had and was blindsided by the band director’s instructions on what needed to be done for the entire dance. Confused, I tried to pass along the info to the BPA President and… I’m way too nice for my own good.

Now I’m in charge of everything and the volunteers who volunteered to help aren’t, well, doing the volunteer tasks according to my schedule (which is really tight because I was left with only 2 weeks to pull this thing together!).

Needless to say, I’m stressed and irritated with myself for letting this go this far. But I’m justifying it with assurances that I will have done my duty and won’t have to contribute anything big for the major fundraiser next year. Seriously. I won’t.

Ever get dragged into something and not understand how it happened? I’m totally there! Pray for me as I do all the last minute organizing for a night of dancing for an entire middle school – and commiserate with your own “how did I get here from there?” stories!

Angel

Christmas Favorites

2011-12-09T00:13:00.003-06:00

It's that time of year again. Sometime soon, I will gather in a kitchen with my mom and Little Sister and we'll bake up a storm. In the past, I've shared recipes for some of our favorites. Oreo Truffles always go over well. The Kiss Mice are fun for kids to make. This year, I'm sharing another one I love. I sent these to my editor this summer as a thank you for rescuing my book from slush. I can't say I've gotten preferential treatment, but it sure didn't hurt. These cookies rock.

I've struggled to find a good oatmeal cookie recipe. The one in my kitchen bible (AKA the red and white Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook) always came out hard and crumbly. I wanted soft, decadent oatmeal cookies. And I found them. I can't take credit for these... they're Paula Deen... but that means you know they're good.

Oatmeal Cookies
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
2 1/2 cups quick-cooking oatmeal
1 cup raisins or dried cranberries
1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts (Optional - I left them out and it was fine, just added more raisins)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Brown Butter Icing, recipe follows

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Grease 1 or more cookie sheets. Using an electric mixer, cream together butter, shortening, and sugar in a bowl until fluffy. Add eggs and beat until mixture is light in color. Add buttermilk. Sift together flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice; stir into creamed mixture. Fold in oatmeal, raisins, walnuts, and vanilla, blending well. Drop by rounded teaspoons onto cookie sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Drizzle with Brown Butter Icing.
Brown Butter Icing
1/2 cup butter
3 cups sifted powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 to 4 tablespoons water

In a small saucepan heat the butter over medium heat until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Remove saucepan from heat; stir in 3 cups sifted powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Stir in enough water (3 to 4 tablespoons) to make an icing of drizzling consistency. Drizzle on warm cookies.

If you're thinking for even a moment that you might skip the brown butter icing - don't! It MAKES the cookie. Seriously. Got any Christmas favorites to share? I love picking up new recipes. If you don't have your recipes handy - what's your favorite Christmas treat?

SP

Holiday Travel

2011-12-08T08:49:00.003-06:00

No, I'm not talking about preparing for the stressful trip where you have to pack the car full of kids, luggage and presents and head to whatever uncomfortable fold-out couch you're going to be occupying for a long weekend.

I saw an article recently about hotels that decorate for the holiday season* All the photographs looked so spectacular. They had me smiling and getting into the spirit of the season when nothing else has manged to do that so far this year.

I wanted to drop everything and schedule a cross country trip to visit them all. To immerse myself if beautiful decorations and twinkling lights. Unfortunately, that just isn't an option for me at the moment. However, I've bookmarked the article so that I can go back and visit when I need a quick shot of joy to counteract any mall trips marred by bah-humbug encounters.

We're lucky in that the Opryland Hotel in Nashville is fairly close by. When the girls were little we'd go every year. For the last couple we just couldn't seem to find an empty weekend so that we could make the trip up. I think I'm going to insist we make time this year...right after I figure out when we're going to cut down our Christmas Tree.

Have you ever visited someplace that filled you with Christmas spirit? Have you always wanted to visit but haven't had the chance? How do you combat the grinch mentality that can creep in this time of year?

Instsigator

*Click here t0 read article.

Have You Ever Been Flashed?

2011-12-07T00:05:00.000-06:00

Not that sort of flashed, silly. I'm talking about a flash mob. Wikipedia defines a flash mob as "a group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual and sometimes seemingly pointless act for a brief time, then disperse, often for the purposes of entertainment, satire, artistic expression. Flash mobs are organized via telecommunications, social media, or viral emails.

The term, coined in 2003, is generally not applied to events and performances organized for the purposes of politics (such as protests), commercial advertisement, publicity stunts that involve public relation firms, or paid professionals."

Maybe you've seen videos of them online. Or maybe you've seen one up close and personal. I think it would be awesome to be sitting somewhere and suddenly have folks singing and/or dancing.

Travellers at the Denver airport were treated to this one two days before Thanksgiving. What a treat for the tired and weary.

This one was November of last year in a mall food court. I wouldn't call it pointless, though.

And in December 2009, a flash mob in a Portland mall took a decidedly different twist. Watch and see what happened.

Admit it. You sang along, didn't you? I did.

Have you ever seen a flash mob? Or been part of one?

Guest Blogger Sarah M. Anderson

2011-12-06T00:13:00.005-06:00

When I sold to Desire, one of the first authors to welcome me was fellow newbie, Sarah. Since then, we've bonded over the process of getting our first book out into the world. Today, I'm psyched to have her here because its her LAUNCH DAY! Give her a warm welcome as she stops by on her blog tour.

If I were going to have a nickname on this blog, it would most likely be the Weirdo. I’m just a little odd—always have been, always will be. I was the kid who took the book outside during recess—and read it while I walked back into the building. I had a huge vocabulary—but I mispronounced all the words because I never heard words like ‘macabre’ said out loud. I just read them on paper.

That was bad enough, but what made it worse was a personal fashion sense that walked the line between ‘clueless’ and ‘God-awful.’ Some less-than-charitable classmates even called me ‘butch.’ I had a mullet. Yes. You read that correctly—a mullet, but not one of the trendy-at-the-times ones
with mall bangs and curls everywhere. Just a mullet with flat hair that stuck up funny. I was tall—one of the tallest girls in school, but I am not naturally graceful (read: I suck at sports). I didn’t wear skirts or dresses. Ever. Well, that’s not true—I wore one once for a presentation, and I swear, that’s the only thing people remembered. “Sarah wore a skirt today!” It was such a big deal that when I wore a skirt to my five-year reunion, people remembered. “Whoa—are you wearing a skirt?’

I was that kind of weirdo. Not organized enough to be Goth, not geeky enough to be a nerd, not coordinated enough to play sports. Just a girl with her nose in a book. I mean, come on—what kind of high-school freshman reads the unabridged (but translated) version of Les Miserables just to one-up her French teacher? Me, that’s who. (And you better believe I did that!)

And now look where it’s gotten me—I’M PUBLISHED! My very first book comes out today! A lifetime of being the odd duck has paid off—now I’m the PUBLISHED odd duck! It’s wonderful to have all the other misfits I hung out with tell me that they always knew I had a book in me. But I’m not going to lie—what’s even more gratifying is when some of those formerly
less-than-charitable classmates (you know, the ones who called me ‘bookworm’ and ‘butch’) tell me how cool it is that I’m a real-life author. That’s right—for the first time ever, I’m cool. How cool is that?

I’m giving away a signed copy of A Man of His Word (OUT TODAY!) to someone who answers the question: what’s the longest book you actually read? (Les Mis is actually only in my top 15!) I’m also giving away this custom-made Locket of Love on January 1, so be sure to comment early and often!

This post is brought to you as part of the A Man of His Word Blog Tour. U.S. residents only. For a complete tour schedule and rules, visit www.sarahmanderson.com. Comments on this blog will be entered to win a signed copy of A Man of His Word. All blog comments are added to the Jewelry Grand Prize list. Jewelry Grand Prize announced on January 1st, 2012 to one randomly drawn name on the list. Next tour stop is the Romance Novel News on December 8th.

A Man of His Word

Attorney Rosebud Donnelly has a case to win. And she never lets anyone see her sweat. But her first meeting with Dan Armstrong doesn’t go according to script. No one warned her that the COO of the company she’s fighting would be so…manly. From his storm-colored eyes to his well-worn boots, Dan is an honest-to-goodness cowboy. But is he honest? Her yearning for the Texas tycoon goes against reason, against family loyalty, against everything she thought she believed in. And yet, in Dan’s strong arms, Rosebud feels she might be ready to risk everything for one more kiss….

A Man of His Word is available! Visit your favorite bookseller, at Amazon, or for the Nook.

Award-winning author Sarah M. Anderson may live east of the Mississippi River, but her heart
lies out west on the Great Plains. With a lifelong love of horses and two history teachers for parents, it wasn’t long before her characters found themselves out in South Dakota among the Lakota Sioux. She loves to put people from two different worlds into new situations and to see how their backgrounds and cultures take them someplace they never thought they’d go.

When not helping out at school or walking her rescue dog, Sarah spends her days having conversations with imaginary cowboys and American Indians, all of which is surprisingly well-tolerated by her wonderful husband and son.

In case you missed it in the contest legaleeze, there's a book up for grabs and a grand prize of a really cool piece of jewelry from the blog tour. Be sure to comment. Thanks for stopping by, Sarah!

MOANday: Jason Momoa

2011-12-05T05:52:00.006-06:00

I don't know about you, but I could use a little refilling of the well after a long, focused month of NaNoWriMo! And what better way to rejuvenate those writerly senses than to revisit MoanDay!

The hubby recently rented Conan the Barbarian, and while the story isn't really my cup of tea, the hottie on the screen surely was. Meet actor/director Jason Momoa. I think his picture says it all! He's starred in a variety of roles from Baywatch to Stargate Atlantis. And I can certainly see why! :)

Happy Moan Day, everyone!!!

Angel

Coming Soon!

Join us tomorrow for a visit from author Sarah Anderson!

Free Book Friday - Christmas Edition

2011-12-02T00:13:00.005-06:00

I'm doing Free Book Friday a little early this month. Technically it's the Friday of the first full week of the month, but if you think I'm setting foot in a post office that late in December, you are sadly mistaken. And since the winner would probably want to read their Christmas book at Christmas time, I need to get it out ASAP.

This month we have a special treat. It's autographed by two of the authors in the anthology - Vicki Lewis Thompson and Rhonda Nelson!

Merry Christmas, Baby!
with stories by Vicki Lewis Thompson, Rhonda Nelson and Jennifer LaBrecque

Who will you find under your Christmas tree?

A cowboy?
Ranch hand Tucker Rankin isn't crazy about the holidays…until a wintry night before Christmas, when Lacey Evans shows him how much fun it is to be nestled all snug in her bed….

A wealthy New Yorker?
Stockbroker Jared Martin needs to get away, and Alaska's the perfect place to unwind. Especially once actress Theodora "Teddy" Monroe gets him to loosen his tie—and take it all off!

Or maybe even a man in uniform?

Soldier Silas Davenport is on Christmas leave. But when he arrives at his parents' home, no one is there…except for the irresistible Delphie Moreau. And she's one gift he won't be exchanging!

To win, comment with the phrase "I want a ____________" under by tree and pick your favorite - a soldier, a cop, a detective, a millionaire, a vampire... your choice!

I Need An App for That

2011-12-01T00:44:00.001-06:00

So, yeah, I finally broke down and got an iPhone. I didn't get the latest and greatest because I just couldn't see the point in spending an extra $100 when it wasn't the 5 and didn't have the upgrades I wanted. But my Blackberry was driving me crazy and based on it's actions about to die. Zilla wanted his for his birthday and we decided it made sense to just upgrade both phones at the same time. I mean mine's for Christmas anyway so I'd have been doing it a few weeks later anyway.

And I LOVE it. I thought I understood the iPhone obsession, but I really didn't until I got one in my hands. It's the apps. There are just so dang many. For everything. I even found one for Black Friday that was a lifesaver because it had all the ad scans and the ability to make a list of things you wanted. Much more convenient than carrying around the paper ads.

But there are sooo many of them! I've been visiting the app store on a daily basis but I get overwhelmed with options. So I thought I'd ask y'all - what are your favorite apps? What could you not live without? Favorite paid? Favorite free? What apps am I missing?

Insti

P.S. Playground Monitor's winner from yesterday is Kelley Gregory! Email PM to arrange to get your prize.

~Sigh~

2011-11-30T00:09:00.001-06:00

In less than twenty-four hours, National Novel Writing Month will come to a close, and for the first time in four years, I didn't hit the 50K mark. I blogged a couple weeks ago about my struggles. I've been doing just what I said I would -- reading books in various short contemporary lines to get back into the feel of a short contemporary romance.

Back when I used to read four to six of them a month, I could feel how the story should go. I knew to drop backstory in a little at a time, to use all five senses, to show and not tell. Or maybe I was fooling myself into believing I was doing all that. At any rate, I was putting words on paper.

If I was a Tweeter or a Twitterer or whatever a person who uses Twitter is called, I could come up with a lot of hashtags for how I'm feeling now:

#nanofail
#nanononono
#nanoloser
#can'twrite
#thevoicesinmyheadquittalking
#18Kandnotcounting

You get the picture. And that brings me to something I realized a few days ago.

I wasn't sure who my characters were. I mean, WHO they were, as in I needed pictures of them so I could look at a photo and remember to describe the hero's blue eyes and the heroine's brown hair. I learned a few years ago that I'm a visual learner, and pictures help me cement things in my mind.

In the past, I've done a story board -- or at least had some things printed out and taped around my office for reference. Hugh Jackman was the hero of my 2008 NaNo book. Lucky Vanous was last year's hero. And who is the hero of Seduction with Style?

I swear I had him picked out to be Max Brown before the People magazine thing. The outdoorsy clothes and hat, the whiskers, the too-long hair -- they all fit with a guy who 's been doing his own thing in the great outdoors for the past seven years and whose mother thinks he needs an makeover so he'll fit into the corporate image of his father's empire. But he was really the only character I had a clear picture of. So I went on a hunt and I think maybe this is the rest of the cast.

I originally had this woman (found on the Max Talent site) as my heroine, Victoria Sharpe. She's an image consultant and I felt this woman had the right look for that.

But then I came across this photo of Ashley Judd and thought maybe she's Victoria.

Max's mother, Julia, plays a part in getting him and Victoria together. And I needed to know who she was too. She's in her late 60's or early 70's, stylish and proper but with some mischief in her too. For a while I was picturing English actress Helen Mirren.

And then it hit me! Who better than another actress who actually portrayed a TV character named Julia -- the late Dixie Carter.

Another character who has a small but relevant part is Victoria's business partner, Sophia. She's fun and quirky. I was getting nowhere finding her until I stumbled across this photo. It's self-explanatory.

She's fun and quirky, right?

I still have to cast Victoria's brother, Nick. It's important to get him right because I think he could be the hero in another book. He's in his early to mid thirties and he's an attorney. He was an associate in a firm until, with the help of information obtained by a private investigator, he won a high-profile divorce case for his client. It was the case no one thought he could win. Now he's the golden boy. And the female PI is going to be his heroine but let's not get ahead of ourselves.

Who is Nick?

Help me out here. My knowledge of today's actors and actresses is very limited. All my heroes would be Hugh Jackman if I was left to my own devices. Help me find Nick. And if you have suggestions for the others, tell me those too. Oh, and Max has a younger sister, Kate. She has an MBA from an Ivy League school and would love to work in the family business, but Father is old fashioned and thinks she doesn't belong there. She's sharp as a tack, adores her older brother and is frustrated as all heck that her father is such an old fuddy-duddy. She has a cute scene with Max where Victoria thinks she's his woman du jour. Any idea who she might be?

Because this is all about looks, I'll pick one commenter at random to receive a nifty make-up collection in a zipper bag.

Happy Release Day to Me!

2011-11-29T00:00:00.002-06:00

SQUEE!!!

The Power and the Glory is out now!

You know, my birthday was Sunday, so you could run out and pick up a copy as a little b-day gift to me. Just saying...

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book. And I was tickled when RT Bookreviews gave it 4 stars and said, "With its fresh twist on a familiar theme and a hero and heroine who balance each other perfectly, this second installment of the Marshall family saga is a pleasure to read."

Squee with me!!

And pop over to the RomCon blog for a chance to win a copy!

Black Friday Skeptics

2011-11-28T07:18:00.002-06:00

Forgive me while I rant for a moment. You see, I confess, I'm a Black Friday shopper. I've gone on and off for quite a few years since the kids were little, if the hubby could be home to watch them that day.

I know, you're probably expecting me to fuss about some crazy person I saw fighting over something, but frankly, I don't see a lot of that while I'm out. Its all orderly lines and yes, lots of complaining, but as long as no one is throwing fists, I'm okay with that. I know the rowdy stuff happens, but maybe since I never go out to try to get that computer I have to have, I don't get to witness it.

Actually, I'm more than a little irritated by some people's attitude toward Black Friday. Now, as I said, I go with a list, but I never go for something I HAVE to have. So maybe I'm not the usual BF shopper. For example, this year I wanted a basketball goal for Little Man. Would have loved to have it for $69 -- the main reason I braved Walmart at the starting gate for the first time. But if I didn't get it, that's fine too. I'll pay the higher price with a wince and move on. Really glad I no longer needed the trampoline I was interested in, because those went really fast. But I finished all my Christmas shopping, and when I figured it up, I saved over $600 on that day alone.

Back to my rant -- I come home from BF shopping at 5am (Sis and I started at 10pm Thanksgiving night). I sleepily log into Facebook while I wind down and what do I see but a ton of posts on how crazy it is to shop on Black Friday, and a slew of people who would rather poke their eyes out than go out that day (wow, not many people value their eyesight, I guess). It reminded me of an article that I read recently on NaNoWriMo. There were comments aplenty about how stupid NaNo was, how people who participated only produced crappy writing, and how these "literary" authors wouldn't be caught dead participating. You know, that's all fine and dandy, but do you really find it necessary to call me "stupid" in a public arena? If the method doesn't work for you (or you have absolutely no desire to deal with hundreds of people in a store at one time and hour and a half checkout lines), not a problem. But don't denigrate me because I want to.

I also heard several "scientific" types touting how much of a myth Black Friday is. "Oh, you can get good deals like that year round." Maybe so -- but I shop for this stuff all year long, and I can't save $600 on a single shopping trip for Christmas presents any other time of the year. I get most of my Christmas finished up on that day, so I save TIME and MONEY. And I rarely see DVDs on sale for $1.97, at least, current DVDs. If you don't shop for this stuff all the time, you have no idea how often it goes on sale or whether you can get to the actual store while its on sale. Huff...

Okay, down off my soapbox for today. :) I'm sure y'all have plenty to say about Black Friday -- and I promise not to judge, now that I've gotten that off my chest.

Angel

Still Thankful

2011-11-25T00:13:00.005-06:00

Thanksgiving has come and gone. The nasty economy probably kept folks up all night shopping for all the black Friday deals that have crept back so far, people are shopping in their turkey coma. But I'm still thankful.

My family isn't the kind that sits around the table and tells everything they're thankful for at dinner. That's a little too touchy feely for my crowd. But I still think about it, or blog about it as the case might be. And this year, I am obviously unbelievably thankful for the turn my writing career has taken.

It has been less than six months since I got the call that I'd sold my first book WHAT LIES BENEATH. The rest has been a blur of revisions, contracts, line edits, proofreading and art fact sheets. I met my editor, made friends with the other writers in Desire and walked in the footsteps of my characters in New York. I signed with a great agent at Bookends. I sold my second book, a July release which just got titled as MORE THAN HE EXPECTED even though we're still working on revisions and waiting on contracts. I'm spending the rest of my holiday weekend eating leftover pumpkin pie and finishing up that book for my deadline. Then, hopefully, I'll spend the rest of December working on the single title for my agent to shop and putting together a proposal for my next Desire contract. By spring and my first release, I'll be in full promo-mode. I can't wait.

Wow. Its just crazy. I mean, this time last year, I was hopeful that a couple projects I had out might go somewhere. The holidays were kind of depressing me. Normally I love it, but I was feeling dumpy. I wouldn't have put up a Christmas tree if DB hadn't flipped out when I made the suggestion. This year, I'm crazy busy between my two jobs and yet I can't wait to decorate. I even think (since its oddly warm today) that I might decorate some outside. I haven't really done that since my new house (uh, 4.5 years ago). No way am I stringing up lights on a 2 story house. And yet I want to, though probably as a revisions avoidance tactic.

So this year, even with Thanksgiving come and gone, I have to say that I am still extremely thankful. Thankful to find an editor that 'gets' me and is actually like a twin separated at birth. (We had a discussion about Ninja Turtles once and I knew it was meant to be.) I'm thankful for an agent who thinks I have great potential and was willing to sign me without knowing if aliens landed in chapter fourteen. I'm thankful to have sold to a line that has room to grow new authors and has a community of writers that are welcoming and friendly to the newbies.

Finally, I'm thankful for the friends that kept me writing when I felt like giving up. I would never have gotten this far without them.

SP

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T05:50:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving Glitters

We hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving
filled with family, friends, food...and football!

Comments by ZingerBug.com

We'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of our readers. We're so lucky to have such wonderful people in our lives.

PT

2011-11-23T00:18:00.001-06:00

I've been having knee problems for a while now and finally went to the doctor back around the first of September. After x-rays and a lot of poking and bending and questions, he determined I have inflammation under the kneecaps and possibly a torn meniscus in the right knee.

The doc put me in a knee brace for six weeks. Within hours it had rubbed a raw spot on my leg, and when I wore the protective sleeve under it the next day, I got an very red and very itchy welt from whatever keeps the sleeve from sliding down. So I improvised with the cut-off top of a sock until the doctor's office gave me some cotton material they put under casts. I also left with a prescription for an anti-inflammatory medication and orders to take it easy on the knee.

When I went back for my check-up, the pain had improved a LOT but he was still concerned, so he ordered physical therapy -- twice a week for four weeks. At that point he will re-evaluate and possibly do an MRI. He is hoping I can avoid surgery with the therapy (and I an hoping for this in a very big way).

Physical therapy is also called PT, and I've come to believe those initials also stand for Pain and Torture. Heaven bless her, my assistant therapist is as sweet a woman as they come. We talk about all sorts of things while she's ripping my hamstrings and quadriceps from my body. She tells me I'm doing a good job, but darnit, I swear there's a little gleam in her eye when she sees the tears in mine or watches me breathe through a series of 60 leg lifts.

What sort of person becomes involved with pain and torture... er... physical therapy? The curriculum is tough. My main therapist has DPT after her name -- Doctorate in Physical Therapy. After she got her B.S. in Kinesiology, she did three more years of study in physical therapy plus an internship. She's a smart cookie.

But geez it hurts. And I have exercises to do at home too. If it means I can avoid surgery, I'll do my Lamaze breathing and tuck a tissue in the pocket of my yoga pants and gut it out.

Keep your fingers crossed. And if you see me, ask, "Have you done your ~~pain and torture~~ physical therapy today?

Have YOU had to do PT for anything? Tell me about your tor... er... treatment.

Turkey and cake

2011-11-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

About this time every year, I start getting calls from Counselor Shelley with vague-y, "So how was your day? Anything special happen?" comments sprinkled throughout.

This is because even though I've known Shelley for twenty-something years, the girl still can't remember my birthday. Oh, she knows that I'm a month older and that my birthday falls right around Thanksgiving (think of turkeys, think of Kimberly), but never gets the date right.

I've learned to play dumb and string her along until she just has to outright say it. ~grin~

I've told her that she will never earn her BFF merit badge if she doesn't even know when my birthday is. It's not like I've changed it recently or something.

It doesn't hurt my feelings; she has problems remembering everyone's birthdays. (And she's trying hard to forget her own.) Plus, you're looking at the girl who can't remember her anniversary. (Thankfully, it's the same day as Lynn Raye Harris' birthday, so I can get hints!)

I do quite like having my birthday close to Thanksgiving. There's usually a family gathering for Thanksgiving, so it turns into a birthday party, too. It also helps me launch the holiday season, as each year, I give myself permission to eat anything I want between my birthday and New Year's Day, diet be damned.

Do you share a birthday with something or someone, or do you get the event all to yourself? (DG and AC share a birthday with each other, so that's fun. DG likes having princess birthday cakes...)

And have a happy Thanksgiving, y'all!

Coffee Shop Craze!

2011-11-21T00:00:00.001-06:00

The holidays are approaching and most of us are busy thinking of the many, many things we have to do – groceries for the big meals coming up, shopping for presents, preparing for parties, decorating the house, the list goes on and on. And this is all on top of the normal routine and responsibilities.

There are all kinds of ways to make the holidays easier, but one thing I try to do is get a little time away from it all to relax, breathe, treat myself, and indulge in some uninterrupted writing.

My favorite place to do that? A coffee shop.

Starbucks in the first place that comes to mind for most people, but I must admit it isn’t my go-to place. The music is too loud. I can’t think in there, whether I’m trying to write or simply figure out the next item on my shopping list. And there’s just something about the atmosphere (Yep, I’m one of those touchy-feely kind of people!). The high noise level and kind of hectic pace creates a pressure inside me, instead of letting me relax.

What I really love is any place that feels casual (and I’m not above one of those girly café places either). Music is fine, but at a background rather than screaming level, friendly employees, and I must admit, I’m a sucker for a delicious-looking (and tasting) bakery section. Panera (the pictures below were taken there), Barnes and Nobles (which oddly enough is a Starbucks but without the Starbucks atmosphere), and a few local eateries that don’t mind people hanging out. If I can’t get to one of those, I’ll settle for Atlanta Bread Company or Books-A-Million (our local one can’t seem to regulate the temp in their building).

This time away is about pampering myself, and that usually means a hot drink (cocoa is preferable, but occasionally flavored coffees) and a sugary indulgence. I love to sip, nibble, breathe, and think. Soak it all in, regain some sense of equilibrium, and prepare myself to jump back in the race once more – no matter what time of the year it is!

So, if you had an hour to just relax at a coffee shop, what would you order?

Angel

PS. SP is blogging on the Desire blog again. Join her to share your favorite Thanksgiving recipes.

WINNERS!!!

2011-11-19T07:37:00.003-06:00

We've got a couple of honorary Birthday Girls from yesterday!!!! These ladies won "gifties":

Quality Time giftie: Addison

A True Surprise Present giftie: the Brunette Librarian

Congratulations!!! Please send Angel your snail mail address at readdaniwade @ gmail .com (no spaces) to claim your prize!

Thanks for all the birthday love!

We're Six!

2011-11-18T00:13:00.005-06:00

Things are hustling and bustling for the Playfriends with lots of changes, both professionally and personally. Today we celebrate our 6th birthday. We’re big kids now, with lots of exciting “firsts” to discover and even bigger Playground equipment to climb! *squeee*

When we first started the Playground, eons ago, we were focused on helping other writers on their writing journeys. Now, as more of the Playfriends join the published ranks, we find ourselves also meeting our readers and providing a place for them to get to know us. As those goals collide, we’ve decided to make some exciting changes around here! Our main website has been converted to pages right here on the blog. Any of our past articles or interviews can be found by clicking the link on the appropriate page – they aren’t going away, we just won’t be adding to those sections any longer. If we interview wonderful authors, it will be here on the blog as guest authors, so be sure to keep an eye on upcoming Playground visitors!

Many of us have individual websites now (links are in the sidebar), but the blog is our special place to speak our piece -- in more than 140 characters -- so we hope you’ll continue to visit with us on the swing set every day. Our newsletter is still active, so feel free to sign up from the link in the sidebar, but it will be coming out quarterly now and focused on special events, guest bloggers, and releases. And don’t forget our Facebook page, where a lot of those special announcements and guest bloggers show up right in your news feed! So “LIKE” us as the Writing Playground.

We hope you enjoy our streamlined site and new “look”. These past six years have meant the world to us as we’ve gotten to know you, our readers, and celebrated life’s ups or commiserated life’s downs. We want to celebrate once again by giving away 2 “presents” today! Two of our commenters will be given one of the following gifties – so be sure to comment! Tell us your favorite way (presents, activities, whatever) to celebrate your BIRTHDAY!!!!

Giftie 1: Quality Time, includes a thermal mug, English breakfast tea, bath goodies, and of course, books!
Giftie 2: A True Surprise Present, includes mystery goodies (because some people like a good surprise) and of course, books!

Happy birthday to us, Happy birthday to us, Happy birthday dear Playfriends, Happy birthday to us!!!!!

Arizona

2011-11-17T00:00:00.001-06:00

I just got back from my first trip to the desert. It's someplace I've always wanted to visit, but never had the chance. It's silly to say that it always seemed so far away, but it's the truth. Well, actually it's more like the closer places on my must see list always took precedence. So I was really excited about the chance to visit.

And I wasn't disappointed. Despite the fact that everything seems to be in varying shades of brown and dark green, it's beautiful in a stark kinda way. Possibly because it was different than anything I've experienced before. Dried up washes just waiting for rain, huge cactus that are probably older than the trees standing in my front yard and spiked plants that look like they belong on another planet.

Not to mention the mountains. We have a few of those in Alabama and Tennessee. They're nothing compared to the mountains that surround Tucson. Every direction you look there's another sharp peak. Here our mountains are covered with trees and somehow seem green and alive. There the brush can't disguise the hard rocks and shear edges.

Despite one day of rain, most of the time the sky is such a bright blue that it's almost painful to look at. And the clouds were perfect and fluffy. Arizona definitely lived up to my expectations. I can't wait to visit again!

Is there any place you've always wanted to visit? When you finally got there did it live up to your expectations or leave you disappointed?

Instigator

#nanofail?

2011-11-16T00:02:00.004-06:00

Sixteen days ago I began my 4th NaNoWriMo adventure. I had an idea. I spent countless hours thinking about the characters and the story. My awesome friend Kristi Gold and I brainstormed one night until about 2:00 a.m. I had copious notes about goal, motivation and conflict. As I headed into November 1st, I felt very good about this book, which I have been calling Seduction with Style.

However (isn't there always a however?), as I've struggled through the past two weeks, I came to realize something was very wrong with the 18K words I'd written. I finally pinpointed the problem. The words are a mere recounting of the characters' actions. There’s no emotion, no sizzle, no passion, no tingle, no secksi. Just oodles of blaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.

And why? I believe I've figured that out too. I haven’t read enough romance in the past two years to stay in touch. I used to read 4 to 6 books a month. In the past year, I've only read 9 romances. NINE! It's not from lack of desire to read them; it's been from inability to focus and concentrate. But that's been getting better lately. Last Saturday I picked up a category romance that I had begun a few months ago and started reading it again. As I read I would see things and think, "I didn't do that in my book and it's a basic element." Things that used to come naturally when I wrote are just not there. I even took a couple pages of notes to remind myself what was missing (like the fact my hero has shockingly blue eyes). The novel-writing part of my brain just isn't firing on all cylinders.

So I’m taking a short break from writing. Last Sunday I bought two category romances and an anthology and have begun reading them with hopes of refilling the well and jumping back into NaNo this weekend. If I catch up and hit 50K by November 30, that’s great. If not, that’s great too. Okay, maybe not. I’ll be upset and feel like I failed. But I will have given it my best shot and that’s all anyone can do. It’s just very difficult to write about happily ever after when your own had a stop date (and FYI, my divorce papers were signed a year ago tomorrow, but who’s keeping track???).

It’s been a difficult time (and do not dare say to me, "You need to just get over it" because until you've walked in these shoes, you have no clue about the devastation to your self-esteem and trust). But I’ve also learned a lot about myself over the past two years. I’m in a better place, I have a strength I never knew I possessed, I am blessed beyond measure with great friends and a supportive family. Yes, I whine from time to time. If you have been divorced, you understand. If not, I hope you never have to go through it. But every time I think I have the crappiest life on earth, I see something that makes me realize I don’t.

Once I hit the publish button for this, I'm going to pile up on the sofa with one of my new books and immerse myself in it.

Writers, do you think it's important to read to keep your writing at its best? And readers, does reading enhance your life?

Guest Blogger Emily Rodmell

2011-11-15T00:00:00.008-06:00

Today, the Playground welcomes Love Inspired editor Emily Rodmell. I met her on Twitter and found out she's my editor's cube-neighbor. She's here to share some info for both readers and writers, so let's give her a warm, Playground welcome. - SP

Good morning, everyone. I’m Emily Rodmell, and I work as the associate editor for three Harlequin lines: Love Inspired, Love Inspired Suspense and Love Inspired Historical. I would like to thank Andrea for inviting me here today to share with you a little bit about these books and a great opportunity we have for historical romance writers.

All three of the LI lines are what you would call “inspirational” romance. That means that they are targeted toward women of faith. You’ll find a great romance with compelling characters in all the Love Inspired lines, but what you won’t find are things like sex, cursing or drinking. Our stories are what you would call “clean”, and the characters are people of faith. But that doesn’t mean boring by any stretch of the imagination. Our suspense books contain edge-of-your-seat suspense, real danger, murder and mayhem. Our characters in any line can be flawed. Perfection is not a requirement. And we work really hard to ensure each book has a compelling plot and intriguing romantic conflict. I’ve found in my years working for the Love Inspired lines that many regular romance readers tend to think that they wouldn’t enjoy an inspirational novel, but I’ve also found that when challenged to read a great one, nearly everyone finds themselves surprised by how much they like the stories. We’re proud of the books we put out, and if a cover or plot line ever interests you, I encourage you to give one a try. You might find yourself surprised at how much you enjoy the book.

I’d also like to take a moment to talk to the writers among you about writing for Love Inspired Historical. While each of the three lines are always open to great stories, well told, Love Inspired Historical is particularly looking for exciting new voices these days. LIH recently expanded from 2 books a month to 4 books a month, and that means we need double the amount of writers than we did last year. So if you have a love for historical romance and a great story, we’re interested in seeing it. LIH is looking for historical romance manuscripts of 70-75,000 words. They can be set in any setting or time period up to World War II. I especially like to see unique settings that aren’t the norm, but we also buy a lot of Western romance. Our readers can’t get enough of them. We don’t require books to be “preachy”. In fact, we’d prefer that they aren’t. Our books simply are books that women of faith can relate to. Ones that offer a romantic fantasy that upholds the values that Christian women live by. We’re actively looking for new writers, so send your stories my way at : 233 Broadway, Ste. 1001 New York, NY 10279

Thanks again for having me. I’d be happy to answer any questions that you have, and I hope that you’ll all give inspirational a shot one day both as readers and writers. Our writing guidelines can be found here: http://www.harlequin.com/articlepage.html?articleId=1186&chapter=0 And our books can be found here (including free samples): http://www.tryloveinspired.com/loveinspired/

Thanks for joining us today, Emily! For anyone out there thinking about reading or writing a inspirational romance, here's your chance to ask all the questions you may have.

Yikes! Where's My Brain?

2011-11-14T08:10:00.002-06:00

Do you ever have those days when you feel brain dead? Boy, I am SO there! I can’t begin to count all the things I’ve forgotten this week alone – because I’ve forgotten them again! My thoughts are just slogging through some kind of resistance that feels like thick mud.

I thought it was just all the pressure – I work, I have kids, I’m doing NaNo, plus arguing with the phone company every couple of days because they’ve messed up our phone – that’ll take a lot out of ya. And writing so fast! I don’t see how authors who write books in less than two months do it! That is really not something I’m capable of and still able to have a life – and a brain. I can fast draft for a bit, but I can’t maintain the pace.

Last night, I took a nice hot bath, shut down the computer, and piled up in the bed with my Kindle to read. I needed that break. But this morning, I still don’t want to get back into the swing of things. Sometimes I wonder if I should just power through, but then when I finally DO rest, it can be difficult to pry me out of bed (or off the couch) for days. Ugh!

But today, its back to the grindstone. Gotta make up for the words I didn’t write yesterday! And I might just reward myself with more of the book I was reading. What are you rewarding yourself with today?

Angel

Coming Soon!

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!!! The Playground is celebrating its 6th birthday this Friday! Drop by for the cyber-party and comment to win one of two “birthday presents”. See you then!

Guest Blogger: Tomorrow we welcome Editor Emily Rodwell, who works with Harlequin Love Inspired!

Free Book Friday - Historical Edition

2011-11-11T00:13:00.006-06:00

Today is 11-11-11. That's weird! I bet there's a lot of people getting married today so their husbands can remember their anniversary. Personally, I'm holding out for October 11, 2012 and 1:14 PM... 10-11-12, 13:14. :)

Okay, now lets focus on something that's not weird - historicals. Historicals are the meaty backbone of romance and today I'm giving away a great one.

Wicked Becomes You by Meredith Duran

She's been burned not once but twice by London's so-called gentlemen...

Gwen Maudsley is pretty enough to be popular, and plenty wealthy, too. But what she's best known and loved for is being so very, very nice. When a cad jilts her at the altar--again--the scandal has her outraged friends calling for blood. Only Gwen has a different plan. If "nice "no longer works for her, then it's time to learn to be "naughty." Happily, she knows the perfect tutor--Alexander Ramsey, her late brother's best friend and a notorious rogue.

So why won't a confirmed scoundrel let her be as bad as she wants to be?Unbeknownst to Gwen, Alex's aloof demeanor veils his deepest unspoken desire. He has no wish to see her change, nor to tempt himself with her presence when his own secrets make any future between them impossible. But on a wild romp from Paris to the Riviera, their friendship gives way to something hotter, darker, and altogether more dangerous. With Alex's past and Gwen's newly unleashed wildness on a collision course, Gwen must convince Alex that his wickedest intentions are exactly what she needs.

Today, share what your favorite historical book or author is. And to win, comment with the phrase, "Wicked Becomes Me!"

Cover Joy

2011-11-10T00:53:00.000-06:00

I have to admit that aside from getting a box of shiny new books, getting a first glimpse of the cover is one of the best things about this business. Somehow seeing it in bold color instead of just black and white makes it real.

And then there's the fast moving timeline. By the time I get a cover I've written the book, revised it, gone through line edits and AAs and probably read the thing anywhere from 5 to 25 times. But at the cover stage the heavy lifting is done and all that's left is the anticipation. About six weeks after I get the cover that box of author copies arrives on my doorstep. And a couple months after that it's on the shelves.

So I wanted to share my new cover with you guys today. It's for my Feb 2012 Blaze - Bring It On, the first book in my new Island Nights trilogy. I love the purple-blue background, the intensity in the way he's looking at her and the models abs. :-) Although, my favorite thing is the awesome cover quote from Vicki Lewis Thompson.

I've also seen an advance preview of my March cover and I have to say it's gorgeous! I can't wait to share it with y'all.

So my question today is, how important is the cover for you as a reader? And if you have an ereader do you find the cover has more or less impact on your book choices?

Instigator

P.S. Here's the back cover copy...
Breeze in to Escape, where every sense is seduced and every desire is fulfilled....

This adults-only Caribbean island resort may cater to your every need, but it’s also a business. And what could be better advertising than tantalizing photos of a real couple on their honeymoon?

Unless, of course, the couple is faking it....

Graphic designer Lena Fuller fled the chaos of her ruined wedding with her best friend, filmmaker Colt Douglas. But she wasn’t expecting the “honeymoon” her ex arranged would be a weeklong photo shoot. As the sets become more intimate, Lena and Colt find that their libidos are slipping deliciously out of control. Sure, they can fake it...but when the week is over, will they be able to forget it?

Things That You Think Work But They Don't Really

2011-11-09T00:05:00.000-06:00

You've read about placebos, haven't you? The sugar pills they give to certain segments of a drug study to see if the real deal really works or if just thinking you get the real deal helps you? They work on the principle that sometimes just thinking something will make you feel better actually will. This involves something called confabulation, which is a fancy word for making up a believable excuse to explain something we don't understand. I guess mothers have been doing it for eons -- blaming everything on teething. Junior cried all night? He's teething. Sally cried at her birthday party? She's teething. Tommy flunked out of college? He's... uh, no.

And here are some examples of things you think work but they don't really.

The Elevator "Close Doors" Button

Color me stunned to learn it's really a dummy button. Well, it CAN be used, but only by the right person who has a key. Maybe it's to give passengers the illusion of control? The article said they could put up a sign explaining it doesn't do anything, but that would cost money and there'd still be folks who push it, convinced the sign is part of a government conspiracy to take away elevator door rights.

High-Def TV

In order to really get a high definition picture, you not only have to have a high-def television, you have to watch a high-def channel and have high-def service and everything hooked up correctly. But according to a Dutch study, when folks were shown identical video clips on different TVs but were told one was high-def and the other was a standard TV), the viewers overwhelmingly said the "high-def" picture was better.

Walk Signal Buttons

In many cities, crosswalks have buttons to allow pedestrians to make the WALK signal come on. But in New York City, officials admitted several years ago they'd deactivated the buttons and put all traffic lights on an automated system. The WALK signals in the Big Apple are like the CLOSE DOOR buttons on elevators.

Leg and Fanny Toning Shoes

I'm sure you've seen the shoes with curved soles that claim to tone up your legs and fanny. Well... the Federal Trade Commission just ordered a major shoe manufacturer to pay twenty-five milllion dollars in refunds to customers for whom the claim didn't work. Despite this FTC ruling, many of the shoe's purchasers sing their praises. Confabulation perhaps?

Office Thermostats

In my office, we have a definite heating and cooling problem. Areas of the building (which has a reception area, two conference rooms, a break room, three storage rooms, a file room and offices for the three attorneys, two paralegals and me) get too hot in the afternoon and we have to adjust the thermostat.

But can you imagine the results if a company in a fifty-story office building let employees adjust the thermostat on a whim? That would be a utility bill catastrophe. "Just lock up the thermostat," you say. But then the employees would complain.

So what do they do? They go to the fake elevator button people and order a fake thermostat. The buttons work, the digital numbers go up and down but it's not connected to the heating and air conditioning system. Yet the employees are happy because they think they're making the office hotter or colder.

More confabulation.

I guess I'll stop pushing the close-the-elevator-door button now. I have a high-def TV AND high-def cables so I'm really seeing high-def broadcasts. I don't have to cross too many streets in my daily life. I never thought those shoes worked anyway. And as I said, the thermostat in my office really does work.

Are you surprised to learn these things? Or did you already know and I was the only one who was taken aback about the close-the-elevator-door button?

Guest blogger editor Tanya Saari

2011-11-08T00:00:00.001-06:00

You all know that I'm a big fan of the fabulous Julie Cohen. Well, Tanya bought Julie Cohen's first book, so you know she's one smart cookie! And the advice she offers today is awesome (and exactly what I needed to hear...)

Stuck In The Middle With You

Or, Help! I Don't Know What To Do Next!

Hi, everyone! Thanks so much to The Writing Playground for having me here today. For those who don't know me, my name is Tanya Saari and I'm a freelance fiction editor. I thought I'd talk a bit today about what to do when your novel's wheels of progress grind to a halt.

There are any number of reasons why you're stuck. You know your story better than anyone else, so with a little thinking and detective work, you should be able to figure out what the problem is. Today, I'm going to talk about three major areas where you might have problems, and offer a few suggestions for solutions.

Problem One – Plot

So things are moving along fine and dandy in your story when you hit a brick wall. You have no idea what's supposed to happen to your characters next. For the plotter, this shouldn't be as large of a problem. I'd presume you've planned most (if not all) of your story beforehand, and at this point you should be able to look at your outline (or whatever notes you have) and see that Jim and Sue are currently at point X and need to get to point Y. Here you would ask yourself: what needs to happen to either Jim or Sue (or both) to get them to that next point? (As a friend of mine would say, Throw in penguins! With machine guns! but I am loath to recommend that as a legitimate solution.) And that action to move Jim and Sue forward should ideally be in line with your story arc and character growth. Essentially, you know your destination – you just need to get your characters there.

For the pantster, or the person who doesn't plot things out beforehand, this problem is a little bit trickier. You don't have your series of dots to connect – heck, you might not even know exactly how the story's going to turn out at all! – so your best friend in this situation is the question WHY? Ask yourself: Jim and Sue got to point B. Why are they there? Why did Jim and Sue make the decisions they did to this point? Why are they behaving the way they are? Why do they need to keep moving on? Brainstorming here can help. If you know the resolution of your story, you will have a basic idea of what your characters need to do to reach that conclusion. It's a matter of working backwards to reach your goal. If you don't know what's going to happen at the end, brainstorming can also help by giving you ideas for new directions, new paths to take. You never know when one idea can spark a whole new plot point!

Problem Two -- Characterization

Another reason why your story might be stalled could be due to characterization. Are your hero and heroine behaving the way you'd imagined? Are they fleshed out deeply enough, well-layered in motivation and personality? Is the problem of moving from point W to point X because Sue simply wouldn't do something like that? Perhaps you need to tweak Sue's character (which would mean going back through your manuscript to make all of her character modifications through the earlier pages as well – don't forget!) or you need to figure out a different way for Sue to get to point X, a way that remains true to who she is. Readers will have trouble believing the actions of a heroine (or hero, too!) if she behaves in a way that conflicts with the way you originally outlined her. Don't try to force your characters to do or say things that wouldn't match with who they are. If you need to rethink your characterization to make your book even stronger, then I say go for it! (I know, this could mean having to do a lot more work, but the end result is better, isn't that the most important thing?)

Another question to ask yourself is: are the characters' growth arcs solid? Jim and Sue have to change in some way by the end of the novel, right? Otherwise, what's the point? So if you think characterization is what's causing problems for you, investigate their character arcs. Have Jim and Sue learned their lessons (so to speak!) already? Or are they still too unchanged for where they should be at this point? Their behaviour should reflect where they are in their growth. Perhaps you need to tweak either the story arc or their growth arc – or maybe even both – to tighten up the story and get it back on track.

Problem Three – Conflict

Have Jim and Sue resolved all of their differences halfway through the book? That's certainly one way to stall your writing. Remember that for every action there should be a reaction. It doesn't matter so much what kind of reaction this is, as long as it keeps your story moving and is related in some way to your plot and your character arc. It doesn't even have to be a large, dramatic reaction (in fact, most of them probably shouldn't. Readers will start raising disbelieving eyebrows as your characters face one life-threatening problem after another.) You can imagine this to be somewhat like a chess game. Jim makes a move. Sue reacts to that move and makes one of her own. External forces, secondary characters and villains can make their own moves, as well, and the characters should react appropriately to those moves.

And finally, when all else fails, I strongly believe in the value of a great critique partner, or at least a fresh pair of eyes to give you a read-through. Other people will think about things differently than you do, and may just have vital suggestions that will help with your story.

Well, gang, I hope that this post helps in some way. Thanks again to the Playfriends for having me here! And as a special bonus, just for being here and reading today, I'm offering an exclusive discount coupon! Just quote the code TWP1111 in your query email and you'll receive 15% off any of my services! (Code is valid until December 15, 2011. One code per person, please.)

Cheers, and good luck with your manuscripts!

Tanya

Tanya Saari has been working in the publishing industry since 1998, when she started as a Proofreader with Harlequin Enterprises. From there, she became an Editorial Assistant, in turns working with the Temptation, Duets, SuperRomance and Blaze series. She also maintained a presence in the eHarlequin community (under the name Tanya Starratt) first as a contributor, then later as a host. In 2005 she left Harlequin to pursue other avenues, but has continued to edit in a freelance capacity.

Tanya has a post-graduate diploma in Book and Magazine Publishing from Centennial College in Toronto, Ontario, and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario.

Rates and services for Tanya Saari, Fiction Editor are available on Tanya's blog: http://editortanya.blogspot.com

Contact Tanya with any queries at tanyasaari@gmail.com

Most Wonderful Time of the Year?

2011-11-07T00:00:00.003-06:00

FALL!!!

I know the song says Christmas is the happiest season of all, but for me, the favorite part of the year is fall. The kids return to school – hallelujah! The cooler temperatures sweep in, and the countdown to the holidays begins.

Whenever my children start back to school, it feels like the beginning of a new year. Yes, I know that technically the calendar doesn’t change for a few more months, but I just find myself renewing my commitments, creating new schedules, and of course, buying lovely office supplies. (Hint: I’m an office supply addict!) I purchase a new daily calendar book, so I can fill in not just the coming months, but commitments that run through the next year. I usually spend some of my precious alone time before the kids get out of school taking a good long look at my writing and professional goals, evaluating what’s working and what isn’t.

Then there’s the weather! I love the outdoors, but I hate the heat. I pretty much only do yard work during the spring and fall. The fall is my favorite because it combines lovely breezes, amazing colors, and an indulgence in my organizing gene. I get to trim limbs, dig out weeds, and prune overgrown plants. Lots of fun, and good exercise too. All without sweating like a pig. Not to mention the annual trip to the local Pumpkin Patch!

I usually start my holiday shopping around September. I don’t like waiting until the end of November because I’m a bargain shopper. I want to get things my family and friends will enjoy, but at a good price. This year, our Toys R Us moved a store and had all their merchandise up to 50 percent off. Yahoo!!! I also hit a Books-a-Million that was closing to get some things. But I do try to hit a few stores the day after Thanksgiving, especially for stocking stuffers.

I have to be careful, or all my books would be set in the fall. :) So what’s your favorite time of the year and why?

Angel

Coming Soon!

Tomorrow join us as we welcome Tanya Saari, and learn more about the freelance editing world!

10 Pairs of Shoes You Need. Really.

2011-11-04T00:13:00.002-05:00

The Playfriends love shoes. We all are drawn by different styles, but the shoe adoration is universal. Just in case you need an excuse to buy more shoes, I ran across an article from Glamour Magazine that lists the 10 pairs of shoes every woman needs! Take note!

1. Nude, Peep-toe Pumps. They're supposed to go with everything and make your legs look longer. I have to admit I just added a pair of these to my collection a few weeks ago. Nude/camel/beige is not my go-to neutral, but I like them.

2. Black City Boots. I've never heard them called this, but basically the black leather boots that go from mid-calf to over the knee depending on your preference. They say if you go with a low to medium heel, they're comfortable, wear anytime shoes. My black boots just go above the ankle. I tend not to buy many much higher because of my large calves (and they're hot!).

3. Ballet Flats. Casual, comfy and cute. I'm a recent convert. I bought a pair of black suede and a pewter leather the other day. I had a hard time finding ones that fit, but I do like them. A nice alternative to the heels.

4. Wooden Platform Sandals. Recommended as the sassy in between of too casual sneakers and too fancy heels - daytime with attitude. I do not have a pair of these. Unfortunately when you get to feet as big as mine, wooden platforms and wedges get darn heavy.

5. Canvas Sneakers. They're talking Keds and Converse here for the comfy, chic ensemble. I don't have many of these anymore, but the Converse I do have are sparkly as the Playfriends can attest.

6. Black Pumps. The basic of basics for daytime, nightime, anytime. I actually don't have plain black, patent leather pumps. Shoes are always so done up anymore that they're hard to find. My closest pair is actually black glitter, but they work.

7. Metallic Sandals. Perfect summer shine to glam up a frumpy bridesmaid dress or go out on the town. Just make sure your pedi is up to date! I have lots of sandals but none are metallic. And lots of strappy dress shoes that are sparkly or metallic, but I can never tell if they're considered sandals or not.

8. Suede Booties. Perfect for fall with jeans or a sassy dress with tights or leggings. My booties are gray leather, but I'm going to take credit for this.

9. Flat, Leather Sandals. Designed for those lazy days. I'll admit I fail in this category. I have no flat sandals, they all have a bit of a heel. If I'm that lazy, I'm wearing flip flops (which, sadly, did not make the list.) Flat sandals make me feel oddly barefoot, short and like a Roman Solider marching to battle.

10. Gorgeous, Work of Art Shoes. These, I have! A totally frivolous, sparkly, make you smile pair of shoes. I think every girl needs these. They make you feel pretty.

Looks like I've got some gaps to fill, although DB would adamantly disagree. How did you do on the list? Do you have the basics covered? Anything they missed? I'm still lobbying for some nice Teva or Yellowbox flip flops. Are you currently lusting for a pair of shoes you can't have?

SP

Guest Blogger - Lynn Raye Harris

2011-11-03T00:31:00.000-05:00

Lynn has been a friend to the Playground almost from the very beginning. And we're always excited to welcome her back! I have to admit that I've heard a lot about this book over the last few months and I can't wait to get my hands on a copy! Not to mention that I have serious cover envy. So clear off a swing and give Lynn a warm Playground welcome.

THE MAN WITH THE MONEY - Book 5 in the Notorious Wolfes Series

I love this book trailer! It’s my first book trailer ever, and my first continuity (a set of stories with an overarching theme). Harlequin did a fabulous job making this trailer. It’s moody, sexy, and intriguing! Who are these Wolfe brothers (and one sister, ahem) and what happened to make their lives fall apart?

To find out, you’ll need to read the series! There are eight books, and mine is number five (each book stands alone, but if you want to know about the central conflicts of the Wolfe family, you’ll have to read them all).

THE MAN WITH THE MONEY is available in stores right now, and it still doesn’t get old to see my book on the shelves. I love the cover of this one, and the fancy cameo around the couple. It really stands out!

Jack Wolfe is a loner who gets his thrills from high-stakes finance – whether it’s cards or the markets, Jack is a whiz. He needs no one and nothing, but when a card game goes wrong, he finds himself on the run across France with the lovely croupier who’s been dealing the cards.

Cara Taylor is tough, smart, and determined. She’s been working hard to funnel money home to her family in New Orleans, who are still suffering the effects of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation on their lives, and she has absolutely no time for a gorgeous, useless gambler like Jack Wolfe.

But of course Jack is much more than a gambler, and Cara can’t help but be pulled in by his dark, delicious charm. I have to admit that Daniel Craig’s Bond was my inspiration for Jack – not the physical Jack, but the broody, moody, dangerous man who is utterly addictive.

*shiver*

I hope you enjoy reading about Jack and Cara! Today, if you leave a comment, you’ll be entered to win a signed copy of THE MAN WITH THE MONEY.

RT Book Reviews awarded this story 4 Stars and said it has, "intense emotional turmoil, a tortured hero and toe-curling intimate encounters." Rawr!

Back cover:

Jack…Red-Hot. Renegade. Restless.
Notorious gambler Jack no longer gets a buzz from the risks he takes at the card table. In fact it bores him. Until one night he wins more than he ever bargained for…
His prize is stunning Cara Taylor – she might be down on her luck but she certainly doesn’t need rescuing by a card-shark like Jack! Now she’s stuck with him she doesn’t know whether to love him or loathe him.

For more information, including a red-hot excerpt, visit my site at http://www.lynnrayeharris.com/books/the-man-with-the-money/

Lynn Raye Harris is a USA Today bestselling author who writes powerful, sexy romance for Harlequin Presents. You can learn more about Lynn and her books at http://www.lynnrayeharris.com/. You can also follow Lynn on Twitter @LynnRayeHarris or visit her author page on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/AuthorLynnRayeHarris

Guest Blogger - Diane Kelly

2011-11-02T00:05:00.002-05:00

I met Diane when I attended a great workshop she presented about writers and taxes. Then the next year I watched her win the Golden Heart Award for the book that's coming out NOW! She's blogged with us before about selling a single title without an agent, and her tax articles have appeared on the Playground website. So please make room round the fire pit so Diane can squeeze in, warm up and tell us her news.

My Debut!

Thanks to Marilyn Puett for inviting me to guest blog today!

My debut novel, Death, Taxes, and a French Manicure, has just been released. It’s such an exciting time!

When I first began writing seriously over a decade ago, one of the first pieces of advice I heard was to “write what you know.” But as a CPA/tax attorney, what I knew were the rules for itemizing deductions, who qualifies as a dependent, and a half dozen methods for computing depreciation. Not exactly fodder for an interesting novel, huh?

But I knew some other things, too. I knew about criminals. Not your standard burglar or purse-snatching thug, but savvy and sophisticated criminals who knew how to pull off a financial crime.

One of my first jobs after law school was working as an assistant attorney general at the State of Texas Attorney General’s office. Many of the cases I worked on involved white-collar crimes. Ironically, it later came to light that the state AG was falsifying documents in order to fraudulently divert tobacco company settlement funds to his cronies’ law firms. He later pled guilty to criminal charges and spent some time in the slammer. Sheesh!

My innocence tarnished, I took a job with a large accounting firm, proud that such a prestigious outfit would hire little ol’ me. After my experience at the AG’s office, I was glad to now be among nerds who were surely too straight-laced to engage in criminal activity. Then, lo and behold, one of the partners was indicted for tax shelter fraud.

Was there no one I could trust?

Worried I’d find myself in jail as an unwitting accomplice to my next employer’s criminal deeds, I decided self-employment would be a good idea. I also realized my experiences with white-collar crime made excellent fodder for mystery novels. My fingers hit the keyboard and thus began my “Death and Taxes” series, which stars a female criminal investigator for the IRS.

Ever worked with a criminal? Maybe been the victim of a financial crime?

We’d love to hear about it! Post a comment to be entered in a drawing to win an autographed copy of Death, Taxes, and a French Manicure, book #1 in the Death and Taxes series. The winner will be announced at 9:00 pm central time.

For more information about my series, please visit me at www.dianekelly.com.

Thanks for stopping by the Writing Playground!

P.S. Catslady is Addison Fox's winner from Monday. Please email Angel at readdaniwade@gmail.com to arrange for your prize.

#firstworldproblems

2011-11-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

That hashtag above is my Geek's equivalent to a sarcastic "how horrible for you." Just goes to show you how much of a Geek he is, using Twitter lingo in casual conversation...

I was complaining that the downside to a mini versus an iPad was that an iPad turned on instantly, whereas a mini took a while to warm up, find the internet, etc, and how much of a pain that was. DG's response was "#firstworldproblems"

Yes, I know there are children starving in Africa, and it does rather seem like a small problem in comparison, but we were talking about technology, not feeding the world.

Other #firstworldproblems I have...

My phone has eaten one of my ringtones. I did an update for the software and it reset half of my phone back to the defaults. Then, when I went to reset everything, I realized it didn't give me one of my ringtones back. I can see it, but I can't use it. It's annoying, and iTunes won't let me repurchase because, according to them, I already own it. I need ringtones... it's how I know if it's worth it for me to dig through my purse to answer the phone or not.

My DVR keeps losing our Favorites setting, which means I have to sort through thirty-five shopping channels and fifty sports channels to find a rerun of Bones.

I can't get my Bluetooth to recognize my accent, so I can't voice dial by number in my car.

I need to replace my yoga mat, yet all of the ones I can find are very slippery and I can't get traction on them in my down dog.

My email client, Outlook, is messing up, taking twenty seconds to open an email and twenty more seconds to decide that I can respond.

Wow. I'm pretty darn shallow. Any and all of these things have caused rants this week, yet the world still continues to turn, and the sun still continues to rise every morning.

First World Problems, indeed. I have food and shelter and I'm not living in the middle of a war zone or natural disaster. For that, I am truly thankful. Even if it does make me feel shallow at times. (I do want my ringtone back, darn it.)

So what are your #firstworldproblems rants of the week?

Guest Blogger: Addison Fox

2011-10-31T00:00:00.003-05:00

Have y'all recovered from your sugar comas yet? :) Happy Halloween Daze! Today, we're gonna jump right into winter with my fellow Ruby Slippered Sister, Addison Fox. She's gracious enough to give us some insight into her writing process, and give away a copy of her new book, Baby, It's Cold Outside. So scoot over and make room on the teeter totter for Addison (we'll share our leftover M&Ms, I promise!).

Process... A Peek Inside The Writers Toolbox

First of all, my thanks to the Writing Playground for having me back to play. I love visiting these gals and am so excited to come back and play! And an extra-special thank you to Angel for inviting me back!

So I had someone ask me a question recently that’s had me thinking. I sort of just answered it off the cuff, but the more I’ve thought about it the more I keep thinking about it, if you know what I mean.

My new contemporary series is about to launch with BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE and up to now, all of my published work has been paranormal. The question posed to me was how different I found it writing contemporary versus paranormal. And my answer…

I didn’t find it different at all.

Literally – not one bit.

And what I’ve found, as I’ve thought about the question over the past week, is that how I write and what I write are inextricably linked. For me, the “how” is character driven. I’ve yet to write a story where the characters didn’t come to me first. Even in cases where I had a sense of the plot more firmly in my mind, it always comes down to characters. And the “what” is the story I’m going to wrap around them.

For me, the process of getting them from the “how” to the “what” simply doesn’t change. The process of telling “their” story (because we all know those characters become very real people in our minds) is my writer’s journey – not the world I’ve set them in.

After thinking about this for a while, I also began to understand why I write romance (seriously, I’m sure my friend had absolutely no idea she’d send me down this path of self-discovery!). While I’m an avid reader across genres, I’ve never thought about writing anything but romance. And I think it’s because for me, the fun in telling the love story is the joy in figuring out what makes these two people tick.

All of this self-discovery has only reinforced something I’ve believed for a long time now – that a writer’s process is sacrosanct. There is no class that will teach you about your process because it’s as personal and distinct as your fingerprint. In fact, if there’s one single thing I would like every writer starting out to believe – “live it, breathe it, be it” sort of belief – is that your process is not only special, but it’s the thing that makes you unique. None of this is to say that there isn’t always room to improve craft, technique, etc, but it also means that how you get the words on the page is your special gift and it’s not to be trifled with!

OK – Stepping off soapbox now!

So….now that I’ve rambled about process, I’d love to hear from you. As writers, what have you discovered on your writers journey that helps you understand your process? As readers, are you drawn to the characters or the plot first? One lucky poster will get a copy of my new release BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE – choice of format is up to you.

Happy Writing!
Addison

Check in later this week to find out Addison's winner!

Kate Walkers' winner from last week was Chey! Please contact Kate with your contact information. Also, don't forget to click on the link in the sidebar to enter the September-October Playgroud Contest! Today's the last day!

Angel

Irrational Fears

2011-10-28T00:13:00.001-05:00

The other day, I was listening to the radio and Rick Dees (apparently we're almost completely syndicated on this station now) announced that a recent survey said the majority of men polled would rather swim with sharks than propose to their girlfriend. As an unmarried woman, I just have to say, "really?" Is it the actual proposing or the life altering circus that follows? The next 50 years of your life with one woman or the fear of rejection? I posted this on FB and my 50 yr old single uncle posted that he read a survey that said most women would rather read, take a bath, watch a movie or even watch the superbowl than have sex. Maybe that has something to do with it. :)

With Halloween just around the corner, it got me thinking about fears. Mainly irrational ones. I guess we all have them. PC even posted a while back about things that creep her out but other people don't understand. I have plenty of those, in addition to the standard phobias and fears. Mine are usually irrational. Some fears are self-preserving, like fears of fire and snakes. Mine aren't. Not really. I know several people around here have issues with stormdrains like I do. Apparently reading "It" at the tender age of ten was a bad idea. Which of course leads me into my clown phobia. No clowns. Ever. I don't curl into a ball and cry or anything, but I'm going to avoid them and stay well out of the range of their razor sharp teeth. What? They don't have razor sharp teeth? I'll take your word for that.

I have other silly fears. Watching the migrating birds in the spring, a chill ran down my spine. I really dislike birds. And not in a Hitchcock kind of way. I don't think they're going to swarm me. And I don't cower in fear from a cardinal in my crepe myrtle, but I think the idea of the bird is the problem. There's just something about their talons and their beaks and beady ideas that bother me.

The beak thing also translates over to my irrational fear of squid and other cephalopods. Big, squishy bodies, pretty harmless, right? Sure, except for their giant, crushing parrot beaks. And their teeth-lined suction cups. You didn't know they were lined with teeth, did you? Teeth is probably the wrong word since its really more like a hard cartilage ring, but if a larger squid grabs hard onto you, it can break the skin. It helps them lock onto prey. Sperm whales that eat giant squid are often found with hundred of circle scars around their face.

I have taken it on as my mission to inform people about the little-known creep factor of squid. Spreading the fear through knowledge, that's me.

Got this quote from Convergence, a science magazine from UC Santa Barbara. “Squid can be aggressive, whimsical, suddenly mean, and they are always hungry,” said Herb Waite, co-author and Professor of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) at UC Santa Barbara. “You wouldn’t want to be diving next to one. They’re very aggressive feeders… a dozen of them could eat you, or really hurt you a lot.”

HOLY CRAP! Maybe my fears are no longer irrational. At least in the water. On land, its sort of a "Land Shark" thing. Whatever, I'm not getting my scuba certification any time soon. Eat calamari, keep them in their place on the foodchain.

Do you have any irrational (or perfectly rational if you have the right information) fears? Share the information and spread the fear through knowledge. :)
SP

PS. I'm blogging on eHarlequin today about Halloween candy so come on over and weigh in on your favorites!

Dead People

2011-10-27T00:35:00.000-05:00

I hesitated about what to title this blog. Up on that cold white line those two words could sound pretty disrespectful. But in the end there really wasn't anything else I could call this blog so just bear with me.

It's been awhile since I blogged about my girls' exploits. Possibly because life has been pretty normal - and by normal I mean hectic. But Baby Girl did something the other day that made me spew water across my steering wheel while simultaneously questioning my skills as a parent. And so I thought I probably needed to share the experience.

The other day we were driving through town on our way to yet another appointment on our never ending schedule when from the back seat I hear, "dead people!" in this bright little voice. I have to say it shocked me. Especially since the car had been relatively quiet and it came out of nowhere. I could not figure out what the heck she was talking about. I looked around for a hearse, but there wasn't one. And then I saw the small cemetery we'd just passed. Not one of the big ones, but the kind that's probably no longer used - a little shaded and dark with crumbling headstones. And realized she was talking about the graves.

I have no idea where it came from, but have since discovered she does it every time we pass a cemetery. What gets me is that she says it with such...enthusiasm. It made me wonder if she realized what those headstones really meant. The only funeral she's ever attended was my uncle's and she was 9 months old at the time. I started to admonish her for being disrespectful, but then I remembered holding my breath every time we drove by a cemetery when I was a child. And when we went past a monument store and she did it again I realized she really didn't understand.

And I suppose that's not a bad thing. It means she hasn't been touched by loss yet. And while I know it's inevitable at some point in her life, I sorta hope both of my girls can put off that life lesson as long as possible. And until then I guess I'll be hearing, "dead people!" from the back seat every time we pass a headstone.

Instigator

Guest Blogger - Kate Walker

2011-10-26T00:05:00.001-05:00

What do you plan to read – and where?

It’s almost November 1st. I’ve just been planning ahead, realising that the AMBA (Association of Mills & Boon Authors) lunch I’ve been looking ahead to is actually next week. On Tuesday – just as this blog is launched - I’ll be heading for London, meeting up with so many fellow authors and friends, and the event I’ve been thinking of as ‘late in the year’ is actually just a few days away. And after that . . . I just turned over another page on my office diary to see that then we start off a whole new month. . And as I did so, a nursery rhyme from long ago came into my head. It’s the one that begins:

January brings the snow,
Makes our feet and fingers glow.
And then goes through all the rest of the months,

The lines for November go:
Dull November brings the blast,
Then the leaves go whirling past.

They couldn’t really be more appropriate to the sort of day we have outside. It might not be November quite yet, but the wind has been howling round the house, whirling the leaves wildly and throwing heavy cold rain at the window panes. After a short but beautiful and amazingly warm ‘Indian summer in October, winter has definitely come a lot closer as soon as November appears on the calendar. But once I’d done my daily walk - getting drenched and feeling frozen as I did so – had my shower and I started to feel virtuous as a result, the idea of staying in and keeping warm really appealed. And then my DH lit a real fire in the grate so that the cats and I could get really cozy and curl up beside it and it seemed just the perfect place to sit and read to my heart’s content.

OK, I can’t quite do that just yet. I’m on a very tight deadline ( I call them dreadlines) and I need to deal with the black sheep prince who is my current hero before I can look forward to tackling the huge TBR pile I have waiting for me. And then the fire is going to be so welcome.

But then I had an email from my sister who lives in Australia where of course everything is ‘upside down’ and so she’s heading into summer. So she’s talking about taking her TBR books out into the garden (also with her cats!) and soon, hopefully, on to the beach. (The cats will stay at home then.) And that made me remember how much I loved sitting outside under a tree . . . or on a beach, enjoying the sunshine . . . and reading. I’ve been trying to decide which is my absolute favourite place to be when I have a pile of books I just want to dive into. In the end, I couldn’t choose. OK, I admit that right now the fireside wins but that’s because the weather is so dreadful and cold – and WET.

But it made me wonder – do you have a favourite place to curl up with your latest books you buy and lose yourself in a story? By the fire? On a beach? In the woods? By the pool? And what books are at the top of your TBR pile right now? I have The Night that Changed Everything by Anne McAllister, The Kanellis Scandal by Michelle Reid, a fascinating novel about a heart transplant patient – Second Hand Heart by Catherine Ryan Hyde. Oh yes and the other three books in the Powerful and The Pure mini series.

The Powerful and the Pure is a special mini series where Presents Authors took the themes of classics of romantic fiction - Jane Eyre, Emma, Pride and Prejudice and Wuthering Heights. I was thrilled to be asked to take part in it, especially when I learned that the book they wanted me to work on was my own favourite - Wuthering Heights. I've had an amazing time looking back at this great book and honouring it by using it as the inspiration for my own Presents version of this amazing story in The Return of The Stranger. I've had to make changes of course - Wuthering Heights isn't really a love story. It's a story about passion and possession and power - so while all those other books had happy endings already set, I had to create one for my characters. I also had to take wild, willful Cathy and dark, dangerous Heathcliff and give them the happy ever after ending that Emily Bronte's story never had.

The Return of The Stranger which is my own contribution to this mini series is out in Presents Extra this month – and I’ve been getting so many emails from readers saying how much they’ve enjoyed it – and some really great reviews (one reviewer said : Ms. Walker does a splendid job weaving a modern-day tale of Heathcliff and Lady Catherine in The Return of the Stranger. Rich with intrigue, scandal, revenge and forbidden, unleashed desire her take on the classic Wuthering Heights reminds us why some love stories are truly timeless. And Ms. Walker’s current story based loosely on that epic tale lives up to the bar set by Bronte.)

You don’t have to have liked or even read the original Wuthering Heights to enjoy The Return of The Stranger – it’s a stand-alone romance that can be read as a classic Harlequin Presents as well as a story inspired by that great classic novel. And I want to read the other three books to see how my fellow authors have dealt with the stories they were working on. So three more books (by Sharon Kendrick, Kate Hewitt and Cathy Williams) on my TBR pile.

But first I have to finish dealing with this black sheep prince and send him to my editor – and then I’m really going to read . . .and read . . .

So what about you – where do you prefer to read, indoors or out? And what’s on your
TBR pile that you’re looking forward to getting your hands on? Tell me what you plan to read and where and I’ll get Charlie the Maine Coon to pick a winner of a book from my backlist – that’s if I can get him away from the fire! And that way you’ll have even more titles on your TBR pile!

PS I know I’ll be in London but I’ll hope to be able to visit as often as possible and chat with your all – always providing the wifi in the hotel works!
Happy Reading!

THE RETURN OF THE STRANGER

Blurb:

Standing high on the windswept moors, the lone figure of Heath Montanha vows vengeance on the woman who destroyed the last fragments of his heart...Lady Katherine Charlton has never forgotten the stablehand with dangerous fists and a troubled heart from her childhood. Now the rebel is back, his powerful anger concealed under a polished and commanding veneer. When ten years of scandal and secrets are unleashed, with a passionate, furious kiss, Heath's deepest, darkest wish crystallises...Revenge - and Kat - will be his!

BUY LINKS:
Amazon UK
Mills & Boon
Ebook at Harlequin
Amazon
Mills & Boon Australia

Readers can find me on the web:

Website
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Author Page created by Romance Book Paradise Promotions

Know When to Say When

2011-10-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

It’s not just an excellent slogan for responsible drinking – it also applies to writing.

I actually find that it comes up a lot. It’s not uncommon for a writer to have so much research material (okay, so writers who aren’t me) that fascinates them so much that they want to include all of it in the book. You have to decide how much research is enough to weave in to give good support without becoming a textbook for whatever.

Some writers have such extensive background stories for their characters that it’s hard for them not to dump it all in so that the reader can really understand the hero and heroine.

Do readers really need the detailed description of the hero’s house, all the way down to the number of pictures on the walls? Do they need to know exactly what the heroine is wearing? Do you need to know the history of that secondary character?

The answer is “it depends.” And the writer has to decide when to say when on all those details. It’s tough, but it’s a decision I make on every page, every day. I can make those decisions.

But I did the hardest thing of all recently. I realized it was time to say “when” on the WIP.

This is not an easy decision. I have a contract and a deadline and an editor who’s waiting on a book about X, Y, and Z. That’s the book we talked about and, trust me, it sounded GREAT in theory. In practice, the book sucked. It dragged its clunky, boring characters through page after page of nothing. The Playfriends tried to help, but I could see the pity in their eyes. They knew I was slogging, and they had no brilliant ideas to get me out of the muck any more than I did. The book had no spark, no plot, and no joy.

But the clock was ticking; hello looming deadline. Even as I kept my countdown (if I do ten pages a day, I’m still fine. I only have to do fifteen pages a day to get it done in time. ) I knew it was a losing battle. I just wouldn’t admit it. And when you know you’re rapidly approaching the point to where you’ll have to do twenty pages a day to finish and you’re currently averaging three… Yeah, that’s not good.

So I asked myself – what could I do instead? Like a gift from the muse, an idea sparked. It sounded good. Then there was another one. And another one. Scenes came to mind. Dialogue started to speak to me. I could see my hero and heroine interacting and (maybe more importantly) actually attracting each other. Hello sexual tension! I knew this was the book I really wanted to write.

But there’s always a danger when you’re writing anything – especially when it gets hard. The new idea is always brighter and shinier and seems like much more fun. It’s not always a good idea to let the new idea drag you away from the current idea or else you’ll have a hard drive full of Chapter Ones, but no The Ends.

But I had to know when to say when. And it was time to call that book the turkey it was and send it to hard drive limbo. And you know what? I’ve written more in the last few days than I have in months. I’m still behind, but I’m catching up. And since the words are actually coming now, I have a shot at actually finishing in the same decade as my deadline.

Know when to say when.

It’s responsible writing as well.

The Long Road Home

2011-10-24T00:00:00.001-05:00

All relationships have their ups and downs. There are moments you feel incredibly close to someone, and others when you wish they’d just go away and leave you alone. Other things in our lives offer bumpy roads too. Those jobs that we love, until we have a frantic deadline and then we don’t love them so much. The house that’s ideal, except while going through a tough renovation. The baby we tried so hard to conceive, only to endure 2 months of colic.

Just like all things in our lives, authors’ connections to our writing also waxes and wanes. Sometimes because we don’t know where we’re going. Sometimes because we neglect it. Sometimes because circumstances in our lives push it to the side until they are resolved. That’s what happened to me.

I had to step away from my writing for a while – not without guilt, not without grief – but eventually, as always happens, life settled down. My creativity returned. First in drips and drops, then a trickle, then a stream. But that stream has to be nurtured.

So I worked through The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron, read other creativity recovery books, became involved in an accountability group, and above all, wrote. Edited. Wrote some more. And slowly found my way back to my writing.

I learned one very important thing on this journey: nurturing my creativity means I must honor it. I honor it by making my writing a priority in my daily life, by listening when my characters speak, and by behaving as if the seven years I’ve invested into this dream have a purpose.

To that end, in addition to my writing, I started working on my author website. To my surprise, I actually enjoyed it! It reminded me of my scrapbooking endeavors. I had a lot of fun, and it was rewarding to celebrate all I’ve accomplished over those seven years and the purpose I had for doing so. Acknowledging the successes I’ve had, no matter that they aren’t recognized by others.

So in a way, my author website isn’t about “making a web presence” or “preparing to be a published author” or “establishing a brand”. It’s a way for me to celebrate my own journey, to remind myself that there is beauty and happiness in the act of creation.

So celebrate with me! Tell me the most important dream you’ve pursued in your lifetime to date. And where do you want it to go from here?

Check out my new website, under my brand spanking new pseudonym: http://www.daniwade.com/

Angel writing as Dani Wade

Coming Soon!

Join us on Wednesday when we welcome Harlequin Presents author Kate Walker, who will be celebrating her newest release!

Competitive Streak

2011-10-21T00:13:00.004-05:00

You all will probably not be surprised to hear I have a massively competitive streak. I didn't always. As a kid, I was never the one that tried to out run another kid or outdo them in some other way. In fact, I was kind of the opposite. I was naturally good at several things, sports obviously not being one of them, and it actually made me uncomfortable. As a kid, I didn't like being smarter than other kids. I got put into an advanced program in second grade and cried every week until they let me quit. I didn't gloat about my grades or test scores. If someone else's parent compared their kid to me in a chastising way (Why can't you be more like SP?) I would feel awful for both of us. I just was who I was. No sense is making someone feel bad for being who they were. I didn't play a lot of games as a kid. For one thing, I was an only child and rarely around kids outside of school. And for another, I almost always won unless Cyndi Trujillo would steal money from the Monopoly bank while I was in the bathroom. So the fun factor was lacking.

Then in high school, I found myself surrounded by people who were pretty much on the same intellectual level. Not maturity level, but they were pretty bright. I think it was around that time that I started to enjoy competition. I had a couple friends that I would battle for the best grades or fastest test times. It was just a healthy motivator. By college, add some tequila, and this bookworm was coming out of her shell. I wasn't exactly in the frat crowd, I lived in an honor dorm after all, so our wild late nights usually involved playing board game or cards in lobby of our dorm. Myself and several friends worked at the front desk and it was easy to hang out and work at the same time. That's when the competitiveness started getting ugly. The taunting, the name calling, the harassment to get the other people to miss their question... fun times.

I'd like to think that I'm not as bad as I used to be, although I'm still very competitive. My college roommate, Dr. Brilliant, and I won the Scattegories and Outburst tournaments on our Alaskan cruise. (Nerd alert!) I just love to play games, especially trivia ones. I like to watch Jeopardy! (their exclamation point, not mine) I guess that makes me weird, but I just love knowing the answer or if I don't, learning something new for next time. I get this giddy euphoria when I announce to the room that "Bridget Jones' Diary" was the first officially designated chick lit book and watch the others look at me like I'm some kind of human encyclopedia. I'd like my blue pie piece, please.

But it's not all about winning. No, really, although PC will insist that I'm a poor sport and only like games I can win. I disagree. I like the challenge of playing with people that can beat me. Those years as a kid were not fun. If I lose, I lose, and I'll respect you more for beating me, even if I taunt the crap out of you and not so subtly accuse you of cheating. (I'll admit I am a stickler for rules.)

Why do I mention all this? Because the Playfriends are going on a retreat this weekend! On the agenda - massages, margaritas, karaoke and game night! I'm packing Totally 80s Trivial Pursuit, Outburst, Cranium and anything else I can think of. It should be fun, although the tequila will undoubtedly make me loud and irritating like it did in college, so be prepared.

Do you like games? What are some of your favorites? I think mine has to be Taboo but my recent introduction to Cranium has moved it quickly near the top. Its trivia, charades and Pictionary all rolled into one. Are you a sore loser?

Rocket City Rednecks

2011-10-20T00:06:00.000-05:00

I've recently discovered a new TV show - Rocket City Rednecks. I started watching it because I heard the guys on a local radio station. They're from Huntsville - the Rocket City and birthplace of the space industry for those unfamiliar with our area - and so I thought I'd support some locals and check it out. And I was hooked! Anytime you can combine rocket scientists (with PhDs), thick southern accents, explosives, guns and drinking beer I'm in.

On the radio these guys sounded like the biggest hicks - and I can say that since my own personal scientist sounds pretty similar. They definitely play into the stereotype of a redneck. There's plenty of mention of kegs, camo, hunting and trailers. Although that's were the expected ends. It's clear after the first five minutes that these guys are some of the smartest scientific minds we've got.

What I really love about the show is that the tasks they tackle have real world applications. The first episode I saw they built a rocket and launched it with moonshine. Sure that plays into their image, but it also has far reaching potential - like the ability to power our next generation rockets and space shuttles using a renewable resource like corn. Or building an iron man suit that could protect our troops while in combat zones. Or freezing watermelons because they closely resemble the structure of a comet and figuring out what could actually be used to destroy/deflect one if it was heading for a direct collision with the Earth. They might look like they're just goofing off in the garage on a weekend, but the stuff they come up with has potential.

The five guys on the show are either family or lifelong friends. They share a male bond that's interesting to watch in a research sorta way. And there's just something about a cute, smart guy who respects his daddy the way that Travis does. Seriously, if that isn't hero material, I don't know what is.

So, if you haven't watched Rocket City Rednecks yet I suggest you try it. I don't think you'll be disappointed. It airs on National Geographic at 9 Est/8 Ctl on Wed nights. I can't wait to see what they do next!

Are you a science geek? Have you seen the show? Do you watch something similar like Mythbusters?

Instigator

Breast Cancer Awareness Guest Blogger

2011-10-19T00:03:00.003-05:00

For the past couple of years I've invited a guest blogger to talk about her breast cancer experience as a way to promote breast cancer awareness to our readers. Here are the links to 2010, 2009 and 2008. Being aware is just the first step. Self-examination and mammograms are others.

Today's guest blogger is the sister of a church friend, and after I posted on Facebook for a volunteer, Joe volunteered his sister. Isn't that just like an older brother? ~grin~ But she graciously agreed and now I'll turn the the floor over to her.

September and October are a time of reflection for me. While my friends are wearing pink and talking about breast cancer walks, I quietly remember my mother. A quiet spirit, calm and gentle. Determined. People tell me I look like her. I don't really remember. It’s been so long since we lost her. Diagnosed at 22 with breast cancer, her life was turned upside down. She beat the odds that time and was able to raise my older brother and me. My entire life was spent in her remission. I was only 13 when the cancer came back with a vengeance, and she died a year later. I tell myself that cancer treatments have come a long way since 1984. I tell myself that doctors know so much more now. I tell myself that women (and men) are better about listening to their bodies and taking preventative steps to protect themselves.

I have always been extra careful with my health, and have done everything "right". For years I have paid out of pocket for mammograms when insurance wouldn't pay the bill because of my young age. Last year I celebrated the BIG 4-0 and believed that 40 really was Fabulous. My mother died when she was 36, and I am grateful for the extra years. Extra time to hold my children and love my husband.

Insurance finally paid for my mammogram. It was a day of celebration for me to finally have a free squeeze. I didn’t mind the test so much, but having to pay for it always insulted me. Haven't I paid enough already in my life to cancer? I knew something was wrong when the technician grew quiet and took extra images. She lied and said the image had messed up, but I could see it in her eyes. I tried to joke and laugh because I know it’s never easy to look a young mother in the face, knowing the challenge that was most likely ahead. A week later I saw that image with my surgeon and immediately knew it was inflammatory invasive breast cancer. There was no lump. No warning. No signs. The most aggressive breast cancer there is was growing and spreading quickly through my body. We found my cancer early because I was diligent about my health care and educated on my choices. I was never really scared. Not because I am super woman, but because I know God walked before me in every tough decision. 2 Chronicles 20:17 "The battle is not for you to fight. Take your position and stand still and see the victory of the Lord on your behalf."

It's been one of the toughest and also sweetest years of my life. My husband and I made some bold choices and are still struggling with the aftermath from surgeries, infections, and chemotherapy. I will never be the same, but I will give thanks in all things. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 "Be joyous always. Pray continually. And give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God for your life in Christ Jesus."

I have no regrets and I am still in the battle.

My whole life I have called myself a cancer survivor because my mom died from cancer, and I survived! It made me tough and my faith has made me fearless. I know I can face any challenge with God's help. Now as a cancer patient, my doctor isn't quite ready to call me a survivor, but I'm almost there. Until that day comes, I will wear my pink, grow my hair and encourage others to seek preventative care. A mammogram saved my life! Have you been squeezed lately? Have your friends? Are you spiritually prepared to face LIFE? Are you prepared to give an answer to the questions others ask?

Colossians 2:2 "I want you woven into a tapestry of love, in touch with everything there is to know of God. Then you will have minds confident and at rest, focused on Christ, God's great mystery. All the richest treasures of wisdom and knowledge are embedded in that mystery and nowhere else.”

And we've been shown the mystery! I'm telling you this because I don't want anyone leading you off on some wild-goose chase, after other so-called mysteries, or "the Secret."

I thank God for the rough road. It has made me who I am today and I know with God's help, cancer isn't an ugly word. Cancer is just another bump in the road and I plan on enjoying the rest of the ride. I won't survive. I will THRIVE! Every day in October, I have challenged myself to post a list of thankfulness on my Facebook page. Looking for the good things that have blessed me during my battle with cancer. Thankful for all the obvious things, but also thankful for the nurses in radiology who blew out 8 different veins in my arm. They cried with me. It reminded me that Jesus faced much worse all alone, because of my sin. If he could suffer so much for me, then I could handle needles and tests. It's been a really long year, confident and at rest.

So in October, what are YOU grateful for? How have you encouraged others in breast health and preventative care? How are you celebrating life this month?

Jeri Parker Mercier is happily married to her knight in shining armor and together they are raising their three boys, ages 14 and 10-year-old twins. "Cancer doesn't care that I used to teach preschool or sing in churches," she says. "Cancer doesn't care that I graduated from Samford University with honors. Cancer only cares to seek and destroy. All that really matters in this life is Jesus and family. And my dog, Sam, is my best cancer buddy. He sat with me all winter long while the rest of the world kept spinning around me."

A Parenting Moment...

2011-10-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

When AC was approaching the age where she was figuring out that boys and girls are different, I bought her a book. It’s a great book – it covers puberty, the basics of sex, etc, in an age-appropriate way. I explained to her what it was, encouraged her to read it and come to me with questions about anything and everything. Very cool, very straightforward.

I was a "good parent." Hell, I write romance novels for a living; I don’t see sex as dirty or shameful or something that we don’t talk about. I had the only seven-year-old who could use “mistress” properly in a sentence. I had to define “sexy” when she was six. (Thank you, Victoria’s Secret catalogue.) AC had probably overheard far more than she let on just because the Playfriends tend to talk about things like sexual tension. I was ready to be there for my child as she entered puberty and the wild waters of boys and hormones.

I pictured it as a scene straight from a Lifetime movie--- AC would come to me, and we’d have this long, lovely, mother-daughter bonding moment while sitting on her bed with her stuffed animals. We’d talk about love, and finding the right man, and how beautiful it can be. Cue the music, the hugging…

That’s not how it works at all, ya know?

No, children are far more likely to ask “but what do you do with your legs?” while you’re at the dinner table so that you can spit pasta across the table. Kids are much more likely to casually ask from the back seat “Mom, what’s oral sex?” while you’re trying to merge across six lanes of traffic at 60mph. They’re going to ask “What’s a hooker?” in front of the priest.

No Lifetime movie moments for me. Just sputtering and the occasional Heimlich maneuver. But, by dog, I still tried. I still held out hope that AC would give me the opportunity to prove that I can be Cool Mom.

And then it looked like my chance had come. We’re setting the table for dinner, and AC asked “What’s a homosexual?” Imagine my big smile because I’ve got this. Not only can I answer this in a cool-mom, straightforward manner, but depending on where she heard it, it might be a teachable moment that can springboard us to larger issues about bigotry and acceptance, the power of love and the rights of all people. It doesn’t matter; I’m ready. (As long as she doesn’t ask where their legs go.) Here’s my chance to reset the clock and live down that oral sex lane-swerving curse-fest. It’s my moment, people. Cue my music.

I start my warm-up. “Well, some boys want to date girls and some boys want to date boys. And some girls want to date girls…”

AC interrupts. “Oh, so they’re gay people.”

Me: “Yes. Homosexual people are gay people.”

AC: “So lesbians are gay girls.”

Me: “Uh-huh.” I take a deep breath, ready for the next question. Where will we go from here?

AC: “I need Dad to help me with my math after dinner.”

I felt slightly deflated, but not defeated. “Gay people are just people. There’s nothing wrong with being gay.”

AC nodded. “I know. Can I have a Sprite?”

And the moment had passed. I did make a point of telling her that “gay” had other definitions, but she already knew that, too. I even tried to explain the hetero/homo prefix thing, but I was grasping at that point and had already lost my audience.

Don’t get me wrong: I’m glad AC hadn’t heard something horrible that I had to sort out. I’m glad that the biggest issue she has with other people’s sexuality is vocabulary. But it was my moment, and it was snatched away, dammit, before I had a chance to shine.

Le Sigh.

(Hey, the next time some mini-van swerves across three lanes of traffic, be kind. Dog only knows what question just came from the backseat…)

Getting Away From It All

2011-10-17T00:00:00.000-05:00

The Playfriends are prepping for a trek to the mountains of Tennessee for our local chapter’s Annual Retreat. I’ve always loved a good retreat, from the time I attended my first for my youth group at age 12. These times of getting away from the daily grind and just relaxing are even more precious to me now.

For our chapter retreat, we don’t do a lot of writing (although my sister and I plan to do some writing sprints while we’re gone). We talk a lot of writing – plotting, industry, process, etc. and I’ve learned some of my most important lessons during these impromptu discussions. But we also talk a lot about life – family, jobs, and the struggle to make our work a priority in the midst of the chaos. Those chats are even more precious to me!

That is an annual retreat that I indulge in once a year. Sometimes I have to scrimp and save to be able to afford, but I just can’t not go. I think after all my hard work all year, I deserve it. And so does my creativity. Its really hard to sustain a consistent writing pace in the chaos that is my life. But it isn’t the only type of retreat. There are authors who get away in little groups of 3 or 4 to brainstorm story ideas. Some chapters have actual WRITING retreats where the goals is to get a lot of pages done while you are gone. And then there is the solo retreat.

I haven’t been away by myself for a weekend since my son was little. My husband gave me a weekend at a bed and breakfast, alone, for Mother’s Day that year. This year, I’m taking a little bit of time and money and running away from home for a few days. Oddly enough, the hubby is supportive. LOL I think he hopes I’ll come back more sane and rested… and did I mention sane? Wishful thinking.

But I plan to sleep, write, swim, write, eat, write, nap, write, and maybe do a little sightseeing to refill the well. I can’t wait! I’m more excited about this than I have been about anything in a long time. Pathetic, huh? But to me it sounds like heaven.

Have you ever retreated with a group or by yourself? If you could get away BY YOURSELF for a few days, where would you go? What would you do?

Angel

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

2011-10-14T00:13:00.005-05:00

Yes, I've been watching too much Guy Fieri on Food Network. Today is a mish-mash blog focused primarily on all the contests we've had lately and have been neglectful in announcing winners.

So... first, the winner of Free Book Friday is.... Diane Rains! Email me at smartypants @ writingplayground (dot) com with your snail mail info to claim your prize.

Next, the winner of Maven Linda Winstead Jones's Fairy Tale giveaway is... Laurie G! Email me at smartypants @ writingplayground (dot) com with your snail mail info to claim your prize.

The winner of Paula Graves's blog giveaway is... Chey! Email Instigator at instigator @ writingplayground (dot) com with your snail mail info to claim your prize.

And finally (NEW ADDITION) the winners of Christina Hollis's giveaway are Petite and Desere. Email Instigator at instigator @ writingplayground (dot) com with your snail mail info to claim your prize.

There are still more prizes to be won. You have until the end of the month to enter to win the Everything You Desire Contest! Enter here to win some great books and things every woman wants - things that smell good, things that feel good and things that taste good! The winner will receive:

Four Autographed Harlequin Desire Titles and an Autographed Showcase 2-in-1

Dante's Honor Bound Husband by Day LeClaire

The Proposal by Brenda Jackson

King's Million Dollar Secret by Maureen Child

Acquired: The CEO's Small Town Bride by Catherine Mann

The Littlest Marine & The Oldest Living Married Virgin by Maureen Child

Black Fleece Throw Blanket
Love Candle
Yardley English Lavender Soap
Bath Scrub
Lindor Truffles

I'm also running a second contest. Join my mailing list by clicking here and you'll be entered to win a second, super sekrit prize! Right now I have 15 people (and most are ineligible, like Angel), so I'm feeling a little sad. Good news for you, though, if you join, your odds of winning are GREAT! :)

Guest Blog - Christina Hollis

2011-10-13T00:27:00.001-05:00

I'm very excited to welcome Christina Hollis to the blog today. Her first book was published with Mills and Boon Modern in 2007 and she's had many more since then. And while she's a new friend to the Playground, I hope she'll be back often!

WORK, REST AND PLAY...

I love the autumn. It’s a time for long walks through the woods that surround our home, which is a perfect place to find inspiration. There are deserted, secret spots were I can go to work out some tricky plot developments, but there are also areas loved by dog walkers, cyclists and tourists, which are great for people watching. We’ve recently had the mildest October day for years and as the weeds kept growing and I’ve been so busy working, my poor garden has been sadly neglected. It’s going to take a lot of hard work over the next few months to get it back into shape for spring. My weekends are pretty full already, transporting my son to his dance lessons, food shopping and at the moment, writing entries for my blog tour. While the weather is still fine, I try and work outside for an hour or so every day but it isn’t always possible. During the working week I have to juggle things very carefully. After the morning school run I settle down to work. My target is to write a minimum of two thousand words for my latest work in progress, which I do first thing, while I’m fresh. Then I read over what I’ve done and edit it. Only when this is all finished can I go out into my own “Writing Playground” - my garden. Sometimes there isn’t time to do much before I have to go and meet the school coach, but even a few minutes in a garden recharges my batteries. Everyone needs their own private space, and writers are lucky. Even if we can’t get away physically, we can always escape into our work.

In my latest release, Weight of the Crown, I got a lot of pleasure from inventing my own little kingdom of Rosara. Actually, it isn’t mine - I handed it over to the care of Lysander Kahani, a man who has been forced to give up the life he loved to take command of his country. While his brother was King and his nephew next in line to the throne, Lysander had all the privileges of position and money with none of the responsibilities. With his brother’s death, everything changed. Lysander is now regent of Rosara, until his little nephew is old enough to be crowned. As regent he has to shoulder all the burden alone - until he insists that the best English nanny is employed to care for the little king-in-waiting. Alyssa has suffered a tragedy and a broken heart in quick succession. She doesn’t have any sympathy for Lysander’s loss of private life - but then he makes her a royal offer she can’t refuse!

Thank you, Kira and company, for inviting me into the Writing Playground. I’ve really enjoyed my visit, and now I’d like to ask everyone a question.

Where do you find your inspiration? I’m giving away signed books from my backlist for the most evocative comments!

Christina Hollis writes Modern Romance (which appear as Presents/Presents Extra in the US) for Harlequin Mills and Boon. Her most recent titles are The Count's Challenge for Harlequin Presents Extra(USA) and Weight of the Crown for Harlequin Mills and Boon Limited (UK)

You can catch up with her latest news at:
Website: http://www.christinahollis.com/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/christinabooks
Facebook: http://bit.ly/9rv4df
Blog: http://www.christinahollis.blogspot.com/
Tumblr: http://christinahollis.tumblr.com/

Best of the Bookshelf - October edition

2011-10-12T00:04:00.004-05:00

Here's what we're reading this month.

Smarty Pants is reading WEREWOLF IN THE NORTH WOODS by Vicki Lewis Thompson

There’s nothing I like better than a fun, paranormal romance. Give me a little magic, some sizzling passion, and some laugh out loud moments and you’ve got me hooked. Once again, Vicki Lewis Thompson doesn’t disappoint in her second Wild About You novel. In Werew olf in the North Woods, Abby Maddox goes to Oregon to convince her aging grandfather to move closer to her after he starts claiming to have seen Big Foot. Anthropologist (and werewolf) Roark Wallace steps in to diffuse the situation and discredit the old man before every kook in the country comes to Portland looking for Big Foot and finds the local wolf pack instead. Of course, his job would be easier if he didn’t have to choose between pack loyalty and the sexy redhead distracting him.

Problem Child is reading GARTERS by Pamela Morsi

This is an older book (1992), and a friend’s mom loaned it to me when it was brand-new. The story stuck with me, though, and I went searching for my own copy a couple of months ago. It’s a sweet story (but still sexy), and a real change from historicals filled with Dukes and Ladies and Lairds. Instead i t’s set in the hills of Tennessee, with a barely-literate hillbilly heroine and a fish-raising, non-dashing hero. But it’s a fun story, very real-feeling, and a quick read.

Instigator is reading HALFWAY TO THE GRAVE by Jeaniene Frost

I admit I'm a little behind, but I recently discovered Jeaniene Frost's Night Huntress series. The first book, Halfway to the Grave, was on sale on Barnes and Noble and so I thought I'd give it a try. And so far I've devoured three books within a week. A half-vampire kick-ass heroine. A master vampire hero who chains the heroine and threatens to kill her the first time they meet. Yeah, these characters grab you and just won't let go. What I've really enjoyed about the series so far is that while both of the characters quickly admit that they love each other, that doesn't prevent them from having issues they must learn how to deal with together. This series offers a real opportunity to see a relationship as it grows and changes
through more than just that initial meeting and euphoria stage. Set against the backdrop of danger, power and a cleverly built paranormal world, I promise you won't be disappointed if you pick up this series.

Angel is reading MIDNIGHT SINS by Lora Leigh

I’m trying to catch up on reading for next year’s luncheon speaker, Lora Leigh. The concept really intrigued me. This is the start of a new series featuring 3 cousins who have been ostracized by the entire town, including their own family. The hero, Rafer Callahan, lives with the grief that he couldn’t a woman killed during a summer of brutal murders, and the knowledge that many believe he and his cousins committed the murders themselves. Cambria Flannigan lost her sister to the murderer, and now she’s being targeted. She turns to Rafer for protection and the love she’s denied herself all these years. But her connection to the outcasts will test her loyalty and just may cost her her life.

And alas, life took a crazy turn and I'm still reading the book I posted last month: THE LOST RECIPE FOR HAPPINESS by Barbara O'Neal.

Elena Alvarez always wanted the chance to run her own top-notch restaurant kitchen. And on the day she's fired from one chef's job, she's offered the chance to be executive chef by Julian Listwood who is trying to get his teenage daughter away from Hollywood and hoping to turn his Aspen restaurant into a success like his others. She moves to Aspen with her sister and her dog, calls two old friends to join her kitchen staff and starts anew -- again. Still haunted by an accident that killed everyone but her, she hopes that maybe this new start will reveal the lost recipe for happiness. Elena does share some of her favorite recipes and the one for Mayan Hot Chocolate has me longing for cold weather so I can try it out!

What are YOU reading?

Le Bon Temps Roulez!

2011-10-11T00:00:00.003-05:00

I spent the weekend in one of my favorite cities: New Orleans. NOLA was a huge part of my youth – Counselor Shelley lived right outside the city and we’d go dancing there on the weekends (or go to the parades during Mardi Gras). Some very good times were had. (Yeah, I thought I was immortal. I know now that I was just darn lucky!)

But NOLA is the setting for my next two books, and not only was my last trip to NOLA over eight years ago, let’s just say that many of my memories of NOLA are a bit, um, fuzzy. At least as those memories pertain to locations and things I’ll need to actually know. Since it was Fall Break weekend, Darling Geek, Amazing Child and I headed for the Big Easy.

To do research. (Oh, I love my job!)

Now, I’ve set books in places that I haven’t personally visited, and I did all the research online or by calling people I know who live there. It’s a valid way to research. But NOLA is a special place. The city itself has character. It infuses everything and affects everything. The city is as much a character in the stories set there as the protagonists are. You can’t just plonk any ol’ story in New Orleans and expect it to fly. So I needed to go there and experience it all again.

Of course, this was a very different type of trip than the ones of my youth. I mean, I had a 10-year-old in tow. That very much affects where I could go and what I could do. I was back in my hotel room every night by 9pm and asleep shortly thereafter. (My inner 21-year-old is horrified. The party was just getting started at 9pm!) There was no bar-hopping down Bourbon St. or dancing with frat rats to questionable cover bands. You know, that was probably a good thing; Bourbon St. is for tourists, and the locals go elsewhere for a good time.

But I did take AC down Bourbon St… But just a couple of blocks, and it was four o’clock in the afternoon, so it was relatively tame. That’s responsible parenting, right? DG put her on top of a paperbox and took her picture under a Bourbon St. street sign. Yeah, we expect CPS to be by any time now…

So what did I do? I explored the other streets of the French Quarter, visiting art galleries and stores that don’t sell t-shirts or Mardi Gras masks. We walked through the Garden District, picking out the type of house my heroine’s family lived in, and got a feel for what the neighborhood felt like. I rode the streetcar to the Warehouse District to see how long it would take for my hero to travel between his house and his studio. I walked the path to my heroine’s apartment three different ways and talked to a few of the people who live in that neighborhood to see what is was really like. I took a carriage ride through the French Quarter and learned some off-beat history from someone who knows the city and it’s secrets well.

And then I had beignets at Café du Monde. (Okay, so I did that twice. They’re really good.) For fun (but I don’t think it will show up in a book), we toured the Voodoo Museum. That was AC’s choice of activity. (It was actually very interesting, but it really, really, needs a good dusting.)

I was actually worried that a post-Katrina New Orleans would be different, and not the city I remember and love. (And no, I didn’t personally tour any of the devastated areas. To me, that type of voyeuristic tourism borders on skeevy. People lost lives and property and I should not be gawking at their loss and misfortune. That is the research I’ll do online. I did talk to a couple of locals about it, but I didn't go see it.) But New Orleans is still New Orleans and it still calls me to come sit on the steps across from Jackson Square with a drink in my hand and listen to the clop-clop of the mules, the horns from the boats on the Mississippi River, and the musicians who play with varying degrees of talent, but massive amounts of enthusiasm.

I love New Orleans. It speaks to me. What cities speak to you?

(And in true Problem Child style, I injured myself. I almost made it, but then slipped off the curb as I was getting into the car (literally two seconds from being in the clear), and sprained my ankle. Sigh.)

To Bathe or Not To Bathe

2011-10-09T22:50:00.004-05:00

And no, I’m not talking about optional hygiene. :) Although that's a view my pre-teen often takes.

We’ve talked before on WP about baths. Some of us are big proponents of them, both for relaxing and for writing.

I shower every day, but I take a bath a couple of times a week, usually at the end of a hard day or when I want some down time where everyone leaves me alone. Often I take a book with me, reading away an hour while my body lets all the tension melt away. Sometimes I take my journal or my alphasmart so I can write or jot down notes when scenes start to play in my head. And on rare occasions I take nothing with me, simply closing the door and sinking deep into the heat, letting my brain go blessedly numb.

As I lay in chin-deep warm water last night, I thought about something I heard from a non-bath proponent. She said taking a bath seemed like laying in your own dirt. Well, I guess it could be seen that way, although I don’t. I’ve usually had a shower earlier that morning – I take most of my baths at night. Baths aren’t usually for “bathing” for me, but instead for relaxing, brainstorming, reading, or clearing my mind. I’ve never gotten out of the tub and left a film of dirt in the bottom.

I’ve often wondered if “showerers” do the same thing. Obviously you can’t read in the shower, although I’ve heard of having televisions installed in showers. And I have taken a quick shower at night if I needed that proximity to water but just didn’t want to mess with a long soak.

But my favorite form of a bath isn’t really a bath at all – it’s a hot tub. We used to have one until we moved. The Playfriends sometimes take trips to the mountains and the house we stay in has a hot tub. Lots of brainstorming going on there!

It was on another mountain trip that I found my ideal bath tub – the one that I’ll buy if I ever become a millionaire. It’s a stand alone whirlpool that maintains temperature and has a fireplace as a focal point. Here’s a picture:

Heavenly, isn’t it?

So, to bathe or not to bathe… What's your most memorable bath?

Angel

P.S. I’m blogging today at The Mutual Admiration Society about motivation through action – like baths that prompt brainstorming. :)

Free Book Friday - Halloween Edition

2011-10-07T00:13:00.002-05:00

Fall has arrived. I'm so damn excited, I can barely contain myself, and if you know me at all, that must mean I really like fall. It's like my reward for putting up with summer. Or a bribe to get me through the winter. Honestly, I'm not used to seasons. I grew up in Arizona and Nevada where its really just hot or cold. Dry or wet. No shades of gray. Fall is just a slightly less warm and more wet transition on the way to our winter, which while not super cold, was freezing to us. When summer hits 120, 55 is a parka weather. I grew up with no changing leaves. No pumpkin patches to visit, just a patch in the parking lot with them lined up to buy. No college football madness. At best, we had great weather for Halloween, guaranteed.

Which brings me to Free Book Friday! Since its October, I thought I'd offer up a great paranormal to get everyone in the spirit of things. This one is autographed, folks!

Dead Girls Are Easy by Terri Garey

(Book 1 in the Nicki Styx Series)

There's something about almost dying that makes a girl rethink her priorities. Take Nicki Styx--she was strictly goth and vintage, until a brush with the afterlife leaves her with the ability to see dead people.

Before you can say boo, Atlanta's ghosts are knocking at Nicki's door. Now her days consist of reluctantly cleaning up messes left by the dearly departed, leading ghouls to the Light . . . and one-on-one anatomy lessons with Dr. Joe Bascombe, the dreamy surgeon who saved her life. All this catering to the deceased is a real drag, especially for a girl who'd rather be playing hanky-panky with her hunky new boyfriend . . . who's beginning to think she's totally nuts.

But things get even more complicated when a friend foolishly sells her soul to the devil, and Nicki's new gift lands her in some deep voodoo.

As it turns out for Nicki Styx, death was just the beginning.

To win, comment with the phrase "I'm in some deep voodoo!" and tell me your favorite thing about the fall.

Guest Blogger - Paula Graves

2011-10-06T00:07:00.002-05:00

I'm very excited to welcome Paula Graves to the Playground today! She's been an honorary Playfriend for a very long time and it's always a pleasure when she visits. Please give her a warm Playground welcome.

Ever heard of Medical Student Syndrome? It's another name for the hypochondriasis common among medical students studying diseases: they become convinced they're experiencing symptoms of the diseases. I have a similar experience, in a way, when I'm researching books. I usually end up identifying with the psychological or emotional experiences my characters have, to varying degrees, even if I haven't experienced those actual feelings in my own life.

I think it boils down to the fact that some emotions are universal, even if we haven't experienced them in the exact same way as our characters have.

For instance, when I was writing CHICKASAW COUNTY CAPTIVE (Harlequin Intrigue Feb. 2010), even though my mother is the best woman in the world and our relationship is rock solid, I was still able to experience my heroine's horror during flashbacks of her mother's mental breakdown that led to the murder of her children. I think it's probably the intensity of my love and respect for my mother that allowed me to delve deep into the emotions such a betrayal of nature might evoke. Imagining my own mother turning on me that way was intensely horrific and helped me understand, to some small extent, what a shattering and life-changing experience my heroine had faced as a child.

I don't have children of my own, but I do have nieces who live with me, and in writing ONE TOUGH MARINE (Harlequin Intrigue, August 2010), in which the heroine's son is threatened with kidnapping if she doesn't find the secret files her late husband was hiding, I drew on my feelings of love and protectiveness toward my girls to understand and convey the desperate lengths to which my heroine would go to keep her child safe. There are few things I would die for, but I'd die to protect those kids. I used that emotion in writing the book.

My latest book, MAJOR NANNY (Harlequin Intrigue, October 2011) features a heroine whose young son has Asperger's syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder. I don't know anyone with Asperger's, but as I was researching the disease, I realized that both my brother and I showed strong symptoms of the syndrome, especially when we were children. I don't think we actually have it—we're able to read other people's social cues much better than an Aspie would, but we did share enough of the socialization problems as children that I was able to draw on my own experiences to write the character of Zachary.

I think research can take a writer only so far. At some point, she has to immerse herself in the characters and situations and find the truth through her own experiences. If you're a writer, how do you plumb those depths of emotions and experiences within yourself to bleed onto the page? And if you're a reader, do you find yourself identifying with characters more if their experiences resonate with your own experiences in some way? Or can it become too painful if you identify with them too much?

One commenter today will win either a signed copy of one of Paula's backlist or a $10 Amazon gift card, winner's choice! And don't miss Major Nanny, Paula's latest release, available now.

P.S. Vicki Batman is PM's winner from yesterday. Email her with your snail mail info to claim your prize.

I finally got there

2011-10-05T00:05:00.002-05:00

At 10:06 a.m. this past Monday I finally got there -- the last page of the Internet. It was a long journey that began some time back in the 90's when I discovered the 'net.

I love the Internet. Yeah, it can be a huge time suck, but it's also entertained me, informed me and helped me earn some money.

Now that I've reached the last page, I took time for a little retrospective look down memory lane at some of the sites I've bookmarked as favorites.

Google -- Need I say more?

eBay -- I'm a buyer and seller.

etsy -- A world of wonderful handmade items.

Internet Movie Data Base -- How can one live without this site?

US Newspaper List -- Another great resource site.

Free Rice -- Improve your vocabulary and help others. What could be better?

Facebook -- I plead the 5th. Actually, I've reconnected with childhood friends and a best friend from high school, among others.

Snow Days -- Winter fun.

Snopes -- Great place to debunk urban myths and those annoying emails about getting money from Microsoft for forwarding emails.

All Recipes -- When you're looking for a new recipe.

Max Talent -- Terrific place to find photos to use as visuals for hero and heroine of your book.

Squirt's Place -- My favorite hunk site. NOT SAFE FOR WORK though.

Vista Print -- I just love all the great things you can order for just the cost of shipping.

Grammy Tales -- THE most adorable child in the world.

Go ahead. Click on this link and visit the last page. And then come back and tell me YOUR favorite sites. One randomly selected commenter will get one of my handmade beaded bookmarks.

Happiness

2011-10-04T00:00:00.001-05:00

Y'all may know some of this already -- because I've posted on Facebook and elsewhere about it -- but it doesn't seem real until I post it here. ~grin~

Sometimes, life is good *and* fun at the same time, and the good

and fun stuff happen about the same time...

Good Thing;

I WON THE MAGGIE!!!

Well, What Happens In Vegas... won the Maggie in Series Contemporary. I wasn't able to go to the ceremony, so I haven't actually seen it yet (so it doesn't seem quite real yet). But SQUEEE nonetheless.

Fun Thing: I went and got some new head shots made, and the photographer had some fun with me. I think this photo is what some people think romance writers *should* look like. (amazing what Photoshop can do, huh?)

(I do not have that much hair or that much cleavage, alas...)

Good Thing: The final Marshall book has a title : Redemption of a Hollywood Starlet. I'm kind of sad to know that it's done and dusted. I've loved writing the Marshall books, and now it's over. ~frown~ I'll have to find new hunks to crush on.

Fun Thing: Finding new hunks to crush on. ~grin~

Good Thing: The Power and the Glory is #9 on the Mills and Boon top 10 this week (along with Lynn Raye Harris's Captive But Forbidden*). It will be available in the US next month!

Fun thing: Planning a trip to New Orleans to research the new book. I haven't been down there since before Katrina, so I'm excited to go visit an old friend (because that's what New Orleans is like -- an old friend who shows you a great time and feeds you fabulous food every time you come to town). Note to self: pack stretchy pants...

Good thing: Fall is finally here. I'm loving the cooler temps and I even broke out the frog feet this morning to keep my toes warm. My frog feet slippers are also a fun thing. They make me smile.

Do you have good things or fun things happening? What's making you happy these days?

*Edited to change Lynn's title to the actual title. Sorry, Lynn.

Life as a Circus

2011-10-03T06:50:00.002-05:00

No one told me, when I chose to become a mother, than one of the life skills I would desperately need would be juggling.

Huh? How does life become a circus act? And I’m just the sideline performer. :)

I thought I juggled a lot in college: a full-time student (minimum 5 classes) and 3 part-time jobs. But now I juggle 2 kids, 2 schools, 2 jobs, 1 husband, writing, and a house that never stays clean. Some days one thing will need the most attention (like kids), then other days I can compensate and go a different direction (like writing).

But the hardest part of juggling is the balance. Its actually easy for me to go gung ho in one direction. That focus is the part I enjoy. What’s hard for me is balancing that with something else that can’t be forgotten entirely, like my writing. I try to spend SOME time each day with it, even if its only 15 minutes of plotting. And that is much more difficult than an entire day immersed in my characters and plot.

Guess I’m an all or nothing kind of girl. Unfortunately, life doesn’t work that way! But I get by with the help of my friends... the Playfriends, my sister, accountability partners, and even sometimes the dear Hubby. :)

So tell me, what’s your hardest juggling act?

Angel

Our very own Andrea Laurence is guest blogging today on eHarlequin! Check it out here.

Guest Blogger Linda Winstead Jones

2011-09-30T00:13:00.004-05:00

Today we welcome guest blogger and Maven, Linda Winstead Jones!

Some days, I feel a little like a dinosaur. My first books were written on a typewriter, and while I was eventually dragged to a computer (Kicking and screaming, btw. I thought my typewriter was more than sufficient) several of my first books never existed as a computer file. Not in my house, anyway. But I have evolved. I recently jumped into the self-publishing pool with two of my fairy tale romances from a few years back. Into the Woods and DeButy and the Beast were always two of my favorites, and I’m thrilled to make them available again.

A funny thing happened while I was getting these books ready for release. One of the most frequent questions an author hears is “Where do you get your ideas?” My instinctive response is “How do you stop them from coming?” It’s difficult to look at a book you’re still close to and identify the roots. But looking back several years, reading through the new files, I could see very clearly where the ideas for these books came from.

DeButy and the Beast is one of those rare books that started with the title. At a meeting of our writer’s group, we had a speaker who was a police officer. He was introduced; his last name was DeButy and immediately the title popped into my head. DeButy and the Beast. The story grew from there, the characters taking shape long after the title had grabbed me. Going back and reading the book now, I can see where some of my research came into play. I have a book (or two or four) about the Victorian era, and they are alternately horrifying and hilarious. Oh, the things we believed, the “facts” that were presented to us as truth. My favorite research book is “The Physician and Sexuality in Victorian America.” A few quotes, chosen at random: “Beware!! science pronounces that the woman who studies is lost.” And “Like novels and letter-writing, dancing was another source of impurity.” Then there’s “Overindulgence in romantic stories produced a flow of blood to certain body organs causing ‘excessive excitement’ and finally disease.” Is it any wonder my hero is a Victorian era physician with a few ridiculous ideas that need to be shaken?

Into the Woods came together very differently. I don’t remember where the title came from, if it was mine or if my editor suggested it. It was one of several fairy tale romances I wrote, and I can’t even remember how I decided to write a romance based on Hansel and Gretel. What was most important here, when we talk about what brings a story together, was the climactic scene near the end -- which I won’t spoil by giving details here. You’ll recognize it if you read the book. I had read a fantasy that I absolutely loved, but the ending sucked. In fact, the ending sent me into a

downward spiral of depression, it was so wrong. It was years after I wrote Into the Woods that I could see how I had taken that scene and rewritten it, giving it my own romance-friendly ending. Reading through the book again, I could also see the influence of some research books about old beauty remedies and aphrodisiacs. After all, the heroine is a witch, the witch from the fairy tale Hansel and Gretel. What better way to use her gifts than the creation of beauty creams and love potions?

I still have all these books. I actually have a pretty decent research library. Maybe I should head back to my office and browse a bit. You never know when, or how, inspiration will strike.

One commenter will receive an original paperback copy of one of these books!

I want! I want!

2011-09-29T00:52:00.000-05:00

I've been fighting with my Crackberry for the last several weeks. Okay, months. It died on me last week. I lost all my contacts, emails, music, pictures...everything. No warning. No blips. One moment it was working and the next I had a white screen of death (apparently Crackberry can't even get the death screen color right). I was not a happy camper! It took me four hours to revive the thing and get most of the info restored...and another hour to figure out how to fix my number pad when it stopped working thirty minutes later.

So why haven't I thrown the thing across the room by now?

I'm waiting for the iPhone 5! Rather impatiently. I could have upgraded months ago, but I refuse to do it until the 5 surfaces because I just know the minute I cave and get the 4 the new one will be announced. Because that's how my technology mojo works.

I've spent countless (and pointless) hours scouring the internet for any news, rumors or educated guesses on the release. I watch with envy as most of my friends use nifty apps I can't access. I scream at my phone every day when the screen landscapes and refuses to move back. Part of me knows the iPhone isn't smart phone Mecca and that it too will probably have quirks that annoy the snot out of me. But I don't care! "I want it, want it, want it," she says in a whiny toddler voice. And considering the number of articles, blog posts and speculation I'm not the only one.

But all my impatient waiting has finally paid off. Word of invites to an Apple iPhone event on Oct. 4th hit the web yesterday. Finally!!!! I'm seriously hoping this means it'll be in stores sometime next month.

Any electronic gadgets you'd really like to own? Anything on your personal wish list? Or are you a technophobe?

Instigator

P.S. I'm also looking for an HP Touchpad 32 GB so if anyone happens to have an extra just lying around... Apparently, they're as rare as unicorns. Who knew.