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Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Wistful Wednesday

Sick of Doctors?


If you've been to as many doctors as I have over the past eight years alone, both for myself and for my younger daughter, you might find yourself saying, at some point, "I'm so sick of d
octors!" I know I have. Well, at least I've thought it a time or two - unlike my daughter, who has no issue with vocalizing her every thought. (I keep telling myself this is a good thing!) Let's face it, going to the doctor is a stressful thing, even if it's just for a check-up. There's always an underlying fear that they'll find something wrong with you or even misdiagnose you.
We put a lot of trust in the people who care for our medical health, but how many of us take an active part in our own healthcare? How many of us ask questions and take an active role in
the process? Do you - or do you just leave it to your doctor?

Well, now there is a book out, written by Lorene M. Burkhart, that encourages us to take an active part in our own medical care, to become our own health advocates. The book is called Sick of Doctors? A Prescription for Patient Empowerment. Filled with chapters such as Forget the Old Days, Understand the System, and Manage Adversarial Relationships (I could have used that last one about four years ago!), this book is a manual for self advocacy for the average medical consumer. Everything you need to know - and may be afraid to ask - to become an active participant in your own healthcare is right here for you. I'm sure, with my need to see so many doctors, not just for myself but for my younger daughter, that I will be referencing this book again and again in the future. You might want to, as well.

Here's a little something to whet your appetite:


Speak Up

In a study published in the Journal Annals of Internal Medicine, diabetic patients who were taught to be more proactive with their physicians ended up feeling healthier and actually being healthier. Within a month of learning to become more involved and willing to negotiate with their physicians, the patients showed statistically significant improvements in their blood sugar control without an increase in medication.
Doctors learn bedside manner during their schooling, so why can’t we as their patients take some responsibility for improving the relationships we have with our health care providers. Why don’t we speak up? Stop for a moment and think about the difference in mind set between doctors and patients.
 To the doctor, illness is a disease process that can be measured and understood through laboratory tests and clinical observations. To the patient, illness disrupts our life.
 The doctor’s focus is more on keeping up with the rapid advances in medical science than on trying to understand the patient’s feelings and concerns. Yet patient satisfaction comes primarily from a sense of being heard and understood.
 Many doctors do not see the role of physician as listener, but instead view their function more as a human car mechanic: Find it and fix it. Yet patients often feel devalued when their illness is reduced to mechanical process.
 Doctors feel frustrated, even betrayed, when patients withhold pertinent information. Yet patients who use alternative medicine, for example, may not tell their doctors for fear of ridicule or being labeled as flaky or gullible.
In her book, "Claiming Power in Doctor-Patient Talk" (Oxford University Press, 1998), Dr. Nancy Ainsworth-Vaughn, a professor of sociolinguistics and anthropology at Michigan State Unive
rsity, notes that satisfied patients often assume more control of the conversation by asking questions, changing the topic, and telling stories about their personal lives.
In her seven-year examination of successful patient communication strategies, Dr. Ainsworth-Vaughn observed that people often used verbal strategies, such as rhetorical questions and anecdotes as a non-confrontational yet persuasive way to let the physician know what they were thinking and how they were feeling.
What are you supposed to say to the health professional? What have you told everyone within shouting distance about how you, your child, your spouse, your family member feels? If it’s a first appointment with a new doctor, I suggest two approaches. If the doctor is a specialist for a one-time event – maybe heart surgery – you really shouldn’t care if you feel personally compatible. If you’re allotted 15 minutes, you need to ask how
long, how many and how successful they are. If a doctor is suggesting surgery or a procedure … ask, “Would you recommend and do this to your mother?”
Afraid to speak up? Why? What do you think will happen? The doctor will fire you? I don’t think so. Remember, you are the customer and without you, they don’t have a business.

Join us on the Sick of Doctors? Then Do Something About It! virtual tour. To learn more about the tour, visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/04/26/sick-of-doctors-tour/. You can also learn more about Lorene Burkhart and the book at http://www.burkhartnetwork.com/. If you would like to be a host on this tour, contact nikki @ nikkileigh.com


Sick of Doctors? Then Do Something About It! - In this groundbreaking book, author Lorene Burkh

art challenges each of us to enter the era of empowered patients by letting go of past practices and embracing outcome-based medical services. Being accountable for one's own body and health is a huge step toward improved medical relationships. She rejects the old authoritarian system of "handing it over" to a doctor as one that is no longer appropriate or wise, and that made its exit when the Internet made its entrance. Using a variety of resources as a guide, Burkhart encourages patients to be their own medical advocates with the ultimate reward being their own good health.



Lorene McCormick Burkhart is a genuine entrepreneur. Her business career spans 40 years and features many notable achievements, which in their time broke traditional business boundaries. From becoming a female executive before the phrase “glass ceiling” was coined to founding her company, Burkhart Network in 2007 at the age of 73, Burkhart is a true trail blaz

er. She’s just published her fifth book Sick of Doctors? Then Do Something About It! A Prescription for Patient Empowerment, with two more book titles scheduled to be published in 2010.


Videos for Sick of Doctors? Then Do Something About It!

Attitude Shift - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hMzNqv7zs0

What makes this book different? - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mp5Yt3ZWye8

Patient Empowerment - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXJ9gJKoU3k





Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Tantalizing Tuesday

Changes and Additions!!!!

Happy Tantalizing Tuesday everyone! Over the next couple of weeks, you'll notice some changes going on with our website. While our look will stay the same - why monkey with perfection - there will be some small changes and additions to the site.

There will be some new, non-romance, blogs activated. These non-romance blogs will have a different look and feel to them.

Book Reviews will no longer be for just Saturdays anymore! Heck, they'll be getting their own blog! We're doing this so you can locate the review you want when you want more easily!

That frees up Saturdays for fun stuff! Right now, we're thinking of a rotating schedule kind of like:
Silly Stuff, Sexy Someones, Saving the Environment, and Spirit Awareness.

What about you readers?

What would you like to see on our Saturdays? Any ideas???

Monday, June 28, 2010

Mystic Monday

The Fun of Rereading a Story

As many of you might have noticed, this seems to be the year of re-releases. Everyone's doing it, Robyn Carr, Kat Martin, Jayne Ann Krentz, and a host of others. Plus, more and more audiobooks that were originally released on cassette are being re-issued on CD and MP3 too. Besides giving new readers a chance to enjoy these enjoyable stories, it also gives readers like me a chance to listen to the book the second time around.

I'm currently listening to Scandal by Amanda Quick (JAK). When I first read this book, the name Simon was only mildly humorous whenever I would read the line, "Simon said". However, I found the name taking on a new type of humor due to recent celebrities. In case you haven't figured out where this is going, I'll tell you. I tend to find the name much funnier now, especially when paired with the action "scowled," as in - "Simon scowled."

What's so funny?

Well, I end up thinking of Simon Cowell whenever I hear the words, "Simon scowled" then I laugh even more when I think about Simon Cowell scowling! A tongue twister if I ever heard one!

Not only that, but every time the character lost her glasses, I kept thinking of Velma from Scooby-Doo - "My glasses, my glasses! I can't see without my glasses."

Has this ever happened to you? Have you found that your appreciation of a character or story changed with time? If so, how? Is it more enjoyable or do you find yourself wondering what you enjoyed about the story the first time you read it?

Friday, June 25, 2010

PHANTASM FRIDAY

Hello, Moonlighters! I hope you had a great week. Sandra Sookoo interviewed me at her site today and one commenter will receive a free copy of Elfin Blood! So, come leave mea comment for a chance to win: http://sandrasookoo.wordpress.com/2010/06/25/elfin-blood-by-gracen-miller/

I announced the winner from last week's contest in the comment section of last week, but just to make sure everyone knows, the winner is MOLLY DANIELS! And BOTH Molly Daniels and Amber Skyze (the only two who participated in last week's contest) will receive something for my 100+ followers celebration. I’ll contact you both by e-mail.

This weeks giveaway is something VERY different from the other two weeks. It is a “Tombstone of the Sarcophagus in the Temples of the Inscriptions at Palenque”. (Picture is below). On the back it states that the real sculpture is carved on a monolith 12.43 feet x 7.21 feet x 9.84 inches in width and it depects the descent of the ruler Hanab Pakal II to the Underworld. The Mayans believed in three world, The Sky (Upper world), the Living World (Intermediate Level) and the World of the Dead (Underworld). It’s an interesting piece of art and I wish I’d bought myself one. *sigh*

Today's topic is the Isla Roatan, Honduras and Belize City, Belize.

We docked at Mahogany Bay in Honduras. Isla Roatan, Honduras is a beautiful island where we went snorkeling over reefs that were so huge your belly would scrub them when you swam over them. There wasn’t much to do on Honduras other than snorkel, hang out at their beach (Magogany Beach) or zip line through the forest. Zip lining through the forest would have been hours of fun for my husband and my dare devil oldest son, but for me and my youngest son it would have been hours of torture. I’m terrified of heights and just riding the Magical Chair across the island to get to the beach and snorkeling area was bad enough. Yes, I’m a weenie! LOL I’ll post pictures of the Island from the Magical Chair ride. And NO I wasn’t taking any of the photos, I was too busy death clenching the handrail of the seat! =)

Coming into Mahogany Bay in Isla Roatan, Honduras.


The scene docked in port at Mahogany Bay in Isla Roatan, Honduras.

My husband and me (at my UNbest) in Honduras before the Magical Chair ride!
A view from the Magical Chair ride!

Another beautiful view from the Magical Chair ride!
Mahogany Beach on Isla Roatan, Honduras

We didn’t do much in Belize, mostly because we were all so terribly tired by day three and the excursions in Belize were very pricy. I would have loved to have gone cave tubing, but that was out of the option with my 8 year old son and he just barely made the height requirement anyway. We did mull over going cave tubing, but ultimately, we elected not to cave tube for fear that the darkness of the caves would terrify our youngest son. He’s terrified of the dark and it was a five hour excursion, so it wasn’t something we could simply walk away from if he did become scared.

Coming into Belize on our 25 minute ferry ride!

So, in a nut shell that was our trip to Isla Roatan, Honduras and Belize City, Belize. Getting bored with our trip yet? Now for the giveaway photo…

Giveaway prize!

DON'T FORGET TO LEAVE ME A COMMENT TO BE ENTERED TO WIN THIS PLAQUE NEXT FRIDAY WHEN I DRAW A WINNER!!

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Twilight Thursday

The Sorceror's Dream


I have always been interested in all things meta-physical, whether it's the probability that ghosts exist or how our dreams effect our waking lives, so when I was presented with the opportunity to read and review this book, I jumped at the chance. I've always considered myself a rather spiritual person, but in a broader sense than what you learn about in Sunday school; I think this has a lot to do with my fascination for my Native American roots, which I am still exploring to this day. So the fact that Dreamshield connects with Running Deer, a North Americ
an Indian "Man of Knowledge," was a major factor in my interes
t in this book.

I have to say that this is the type of book that cannot be rushed. You really owe it to yourself to take your time to lose yourself in it, to become part of the experience. In so saying, I must admit that I am still losing myself in it, but I am truly enjoying the experience. Perhaps I will resurface at a later date with a more in-depth view of the book, but for now I leave you with this: If you are interested in the power of dreams or the realms of magic, if you're curious about what the title of this book really means or just want to read one woman's fascinating story, you might want to give The Sorcerer's Dream a try.



We invite you to join us on the virtual tour for The Sorcerer’s Dream by Alysa Braceau (Dreamshield). The full schedule can be seen at http://bookpromotionservices.com/2010/05/03/sorcerers-dream. You can learn much more about Drea

mshield and her work on her website – www.dreamshield.nl. The book can be ordered on Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Sorcerers-Dream-Dreamshield-Alysa-Braceau/dp/1609101561. SPECIAL OFFER - Every time you post a comment on any tour post - you will be entered into a drawing for a $35 Amazon gift card -- so, share your thoughts with us.

About The Sorcerer’s Dream: An Initiation into the Sorcerer’s World

This is the autobiographical story of a young woman bumping into the enigmatic sorcerer Running Deer and her initiation into the sorcerer’s world and mastering conscious dreaming. It takes the reader throughout the magic realms of the unknown and gives a new approach to the traditional training of women sorcerers.

The riveting autobiographical account The Sorcerer’s Dream written by Dreamshield takes the reader throughout the magic realms of the unknown and mastering conscious dreaming. This book, following the traditions of Carlos Castaneda and others, gives a new approach to the traditional train

ing of women sorcerers.

The author describes her initiation into the surrealistic world of dreaming and magic, following the teachings of ‘Man of Knowledge’ Running Deer. In the heart of Amsterdam, a thrilling stride unfolds in obtaining the knowledge of the Second Reality on the way to the ultimate goal: finding the Totality of the Self!

The combination of unusual instructions and experiences within the sorcerer’s world and the level-headedness of a very Dutch woman offers the reader excitement and contemplation on the way to the source of this reality, finding the ultimate self through the experiences and understanding of Dreamshield herself. Up until the last page the reader remains intrigued whether Dreamshield will reach her goal.

Right by the author’s side or facing her stands the character of Running Deer. Sometimes mysterious, then challenging, strict as a guru, or vulnerable as a visitor in a foreign country. However, the precise description of these distinctive steps on the road to her initiation stand like milestones in the landscape of this unique history.


About Alysa Baceau, Dreamshield

Dreamshield (Alysa Braceau) studied social work and is a freelance journalist who writes for newspapers and magazines. She has a Healing Practice and gives workshops about the Art of Mastering Conscious Dreaming and Dream Healing.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Wistful Wednesday

In a Writing Funk

I don't know what my problem is, but I can't seem to find the drive to write. It's not that my Muse has taken a prolonged vacation in the Bahamas without me. I have plenty of ideas to work on, several stories that are in various stages of completion, and new ones coming at me at a normal pace (if there is such a thing as normal in writing!). So inspiration is not the problem. Neither is creativity. Some of the ideas I'm coming up with are very creative, indeed. I have more than enough to work with, to work on.

Still I can't seem to find the will to just sit down and write.

And I don't know why.

I love to write. Writing is one of the most important aspects of my life, after my family, of course. I live to write.

So why can't I?

I am in the midst of some kind of a writing funk where the ideas are there but the drive isn't. Maybe it's because I have a lot going on in my personal life right now and I'm getting too drained emotionally as I worry about my family to be able to sit down and write. Maybe it's because I'm in a knitting flow right now and I'm spending more time doing that (it's a great way to relax when you're stressed and boy, am I stressed right now!) than anything else. I really don't know.

Have you ever found yourself in one of these funks? If so, how did you get yourself out of it? I would really appreciate some advice so I can get back to doing what I love - write.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Tantalizing Tuesday

AUTHOR BRITA ADDAMS

I apologize for posting this so late. It completely slipped my mind with all that’s going on in my house. BUT, without going into my messy life, please welcome author, Brita Addams, into the moonlight today! Brita is the author of Serenity’s Dream, published by Noble Romance Publishing on June 21st. To learn more about Brita, please visit her here.

Now, let’s get to the juicy stuff…

GRACEN: When you stop to consider trends and traditions, June marks a time of beginnings (marriages, commencements). What about you, any weddings, anniversaries or graduations to attend this month?

BRITA: My son in law and best girlfriend celebrate their birthdays this month but nothing else. All have graduated and none married in June, though early in July our son celebrates his 10th anniversary. Of course, my book comes out on June 21st, so that is pretty memorable!


GRACEN: A book release is a very memorable event, Brita. Congratulations! While April 22nd marks Earth Day, June 5th is World Environment Day. What will you do to celebrate our environment?

BRITA: I read a lot of e-books rather than paper! (smile)


GRACEN: Speaking of the environment, do you strive to be more energy efficient or more environmentally conscious?

BRITA: This is tricky, because the country is trending in this direction more all the time. We keep our air conditioner set at a comfortable level and we have energy efficient appliances. We don't litter and we recycle.


GRACEN: What traits make the men in your life good father figures?

BRITA: I'm blessed with a husband, son, son-in-law and future son-in-law who truly love the women in their lives and aren't afraid to show it. They are all caring, strong, intelligent men who aren't afraid to show their softer side when appropriate. In the case of my husband and my son-in-law, they each have a son, one grown and then our grandson. As fathers, they are loving, tactile men who love to talk and laugh with their sons. They've each taken their responsibility as 'shaper of the man' in their sons. A really quick story: When my children were growing up, they had gotten to the point when the two older kids were arguing between themselves and consequently, giving me a rough time. When my husband got home from work, we had a family meeting. Clint is a fairly quiet man so he made short work of the situation. He pointed to my son and older daughter and told them, "Look if you can't act with respect toward your mother, you WILL respect my wife!" That was the end of the arguments and their "lip" toward me. The idea was teaching them how to treat others with respect.

Years later, my daughter married a man who is quite similar to my husband in many ways. My daughter called me laughing one day and told me that her husband had told our grandson the exact same thing. I love it!

Our son is the father of a daughter and he shows her and her mother respect and love. He is the kind of daddy that my husband was to him and his sisters.

Will you do anything special to celebrate these men? We do so every day by telling how much we love them and appreciate them.


GRACEN: While the summer solstice occurs on June 21st, warmer weather usually arrives earlier than that, encouraging people to get out and enjoy the weather. What activities do you usually start in June?

BRITA: The air conditioner usually runs a bit more. We live in southern Louisiana so you don't get a break from the heat and humidity. We are really inside people. This year we will be celebrating on the 21st, as that is my book release day.


GRACEN: While people generally clean in spring, they need to do something with all the stuff the find they do not need. If it isn’t given away or donated, many people have rummage or estate sales. What about you, do you like to hit the rummage sales on a nice warm morning?

BRITA: I used to do garage sales many years ago, but I don't now. We downsized from a 4,600 square foot house to a 1,900 square foot condo two years ago. When we began packing for the move, we donated tons of 'stuff' to a charity that helps former drug addicts. It really helped us manage things. We donated many, many books to the library in our new town, which helped us to feel a part of our new home. I also have a five year rule. If I haven't used it in five years, I don't need it. It works beautifully. Except for keepsakes that is. You never use them but you can't part with them either.


GRACEN: In many areas, private community schools tend to schedule festivals and bazaars as fundraisers throughout the summer. What about your area? What kind of festivals and bazaars can be found and when will they occur?

BRITA: At the end of the summer there is a Frog Festival. We live in "The Frog Capital of the World" and that is celebrated with a festival. But then again so are strawberries, smoked sausage, alligators, rice, music and many other bazaar things. Louisiana finds a reason to celebrate anything. Oops, some crossed the street, let's have a festival!!

Just a minute – We are the Frog Capital of the World because years ago, before the town was built up as it is today, frogs were in abundance. There was a company that exported frogs to restaurants all over the world. Sardi's in New York bought all their frogs from this company and dubbed the frog's legs – The best in the world, from The Frog Capital of the World. It stuck and now when you drive through the town, you see frog murals, yard ornaments, even a large metal frog tipping his hat as you enter the town. Quaint but kind of neat at the same time.


GRACEN: Frog Capital of the World, huh? Interesting... Do you make appearances at them, or do you avoid them?

BRITA: When we lived in the New Orleans area, we used to go to the Jazz and Heritage Festival. Then it got to the point where everyone else in the country had the same idea, and we stopped. Mardi Gras in another thing that we avoid like the plague.


GRACEN: Oooo…my favorite city to visit. I have a summer visit scheduled there in July and I cannot wait!!! So, tell me why or why you do or don’t avoid the bazaars or festivals?

BRITA: With the festivals, there are too many people and the cost is outrageous. It takes the enjoyment from the occasion. With Mardi Gras, once you've seen it, there isn't any reason to see it again. Not too much for getting my hands crushed to retrieve a worthless plastic string of beads. Ok, I'm a party pooper??


GRACEN: The weather in June seems to be a great mix in almost every state, and most people tend to plan vacations in June. What about you, are you a June traveler?

BRITA: We are travelers for sure and usually do travel in the summertime. However, we won't be traveling this summer.


GRACEN: If you are a traveler, where will you be going? If not, when do you prefer to travel and why? Where have you gone or will you be going this year?

BRITA: We won't be traveling at all this year but we are expecting family in October for our youngest daughter's wedding.

GRACEN: We’ve had our fun now, so let’s put the focus on your writing…While there are many genres to choose from, what specifically brought you to romance?

BRITA: I had always read mostly history and biographies. I've spent many years working on my own genealogy and that of others. There is a lot romance involved in that work, when you uncover the family stories. I received two of Phillipa Gregory's books, "The Other Boleyn Girl" and "The Queen's Fool," which combined romance with history. Then I read her "Earthly Joys" and "Virgin Earth" and was completely sold on the concept of combining history and romance. I then sought out more historical romance and settled on Regency. I'm still there and I love it.


GRACEN: Why this genre over the others?

BRITA: I really enjoy the Regency era in British history, the social strictures and how it molded those who lived at that time. I've read hundreds of historical romances and can't imagine writing anything else. I love creating characters that know they should worry about what society will think and feel about what they might do. Some of the things that happen in Serenity's Dream could have gotten the participants hung but they flaunt the strictures.

GRACEN: Even though the popularity of the romance genre continues to grow, it’s still not always a highly respected genre. What, in your opinion, is the reason for the continued interest in the genre and for the lack of respect it receives?

BRITA: In one word – sex. There seems to be a perception that writing about sex automatically makes the novel easy to write (WRONG!!!) and makes the novel trashy. There are even blogs that allude to that in their names. I think it also has to do with the fact that most men won't read romances. I think if we researched it, we'd find that it was some man who first called them 'trashy.' A man I used to know quite well said to me recently, "Oh, you write those kind of books."


GRACEN: Those of us that write sex scene know writing sex is NOT easy to write and damn difficult compared to the action sequences. Earlier, we asked about what traits make the men in your life good father figures. Now, we want to know, have any of these men, or their traits, been inspiration for characters in your stories?

BRITA: My goodness, yes.


GRACEN: If so, which men, what characters and/or traits and why?

BRITA: I always give my heroes a little bit of my husband by way of his innate ability to nurture and never be afraid to show who he really is, which is quite sensitive and loving. We all know jackasses and I've extracted some of those traits as well.

I like men who are sensitive and in that way, I find them more masculine. My husband isn't afraid to say he loves me many times during every day and he tells my grown children the same all the time. He's taught all of us never to waste a chance to tell those closest to us how much we appreciate them.

GRACEN: For a writer, inspiration can be found everywhere and in almost anyone, but sometimes specific people, places and events can inspire certain characters, personality traits, events or situations that happen in our stories. In your current story that we’re promoting here today, Serenity's Dream, did any one particular person, place or event inspire you?

BRITA: The story wasn't particularly inspired by any person, place or event. I don't know anyone who owns a sex club or does the things that are involved in the story. However, being a very visual person, I always have a real person in mind to physically model my characters after.




GRACEN: If so who/what was it (were they), how did it/they inspire you and how is this inspiration reflected in your story?


BRITA: In the case of the hero, Lucien Damrill, seems to me very much like Clark Gable. Gable was all man and had that "don't give a damn" attitude, very much like Lucien. By the way, Lucien was named from my family history. His first name was that of my husband's great grandfather and Damrill is in my father's family. John Stanhope Damrill was the first fire chief in Boston. He was my father's great-uncle.

I pictured Serenity as Scarlet O'Hara, in that she started out willful and ended up self-assured and quite loving. She isn't as flighty or flirtatious as Scarlet but I love Vivian Leigh and pictured Serenity quite like her.

Other than that, Serenity's Dream is totally a story created by me with no real inspiration, unlike many of my other stories.


GRACEN: Without giving away anything pertinent to the story, tell us about the hero and heroine (s) of your story.

BRITA: Lucien and Serenity married ten years before our story begins. She left him the day after they were married, having not enjoyed the consummation of their union. She was spoiled and willful and saw it as her right to up and leave. He didn't particularly care and so they lived apart for ten years.

When she returns, he doesn't trust her and she would have never returned if it hadn't been for someone threatening her freedom. She must convince Lucien she's back to be a good wife, but he doesn't believe her and so the story goes…

GRACEN: What do they look like?

BRITA: Lucien is tall, slim, with black hair that is liberally dosed with silver. He's forty years old, masterful, sexy and insatiably sexual, no nonsense. He is the younger son of nobility but a man who has made his own fortune and is proud of it. Serenity is tiny, well-built, very sexual. She's got chestnut hair and icy-blue eyes. She was a young girl when she married Lucien and when she returns, she is an experienced woman, who knows exactly what she wants.


GRACEN: How do they meet (or “did” if this is not the first book with these same characters)?

BRITA: Their meeting occurred before the book begins, as they have already been married and separated for ten years. There is the assumption that it was a marriage as was prescribed by society. She was a young miss and he in need of a wife. No real emotion there.


GRACEN: What are their personalities – Are they comical cut-ups, are they serious or are they a mix of the two?

BRITA: Lucien is a no nonsense guy who is always in control. Serenity is desperate at first for his protection. I can't say they are cut-ups, though they have their moments. Here is a brief snippet of a conversation she is having with Serenity about what she's heard about him:

Lucien laughed from his gut. “I am a machine? What in bloody hell does that mean?”

“Well, they said you, ah, you enjoyed bedding the ladies.”

“Well, I don’t mind saying I do, madam and since my wife has given me precious little of her sexual attention, I dare say there have been other ladies who have not felt so repulsed by my attentions.”


GRACEN: The main characters are usually great, but sometimes, secondary and tertiary characters are known to steal the scenes, even if the author did not intend this to happen. Who are the secondary/tertiary characters in your story and what do they look like?

BRITA: The 'main' secondary character is Prentice Hyde, Marquess of Wycroft. Think Tyrone Power with blond hair.

We also have Lady Amelie Foxworth, a bawdy widow and a brief appearance by the Duke of Thornhill.

GRACEN: What’s unique about them?

BRITA: Prentice is actually quite different from Lucien in that Prentice sees more of the fun in life as where Lucien is usually quite serious. Prentice was a fun character to write because he is so self-assured and knows exactly who he is and makes no apologies for it. In many ways he is patterned after my son. Their personalities are similar. Charming, outgoing and a definite presence.

Lady Foxworth is a great foil for Serenity and the duke makes two brief appearances but will hopefully be memorable.

GRACEN: What is their relationship to the hero/heroine?

BRITA: He is Lucien's best friend, informal partner in the club and the man who helps Lucien solve some of the more major problems in his life.

Lady Foxworth had a business relationship with Lucien before Serenity returned. The duke is a member of the club with unusual sexual needs.


GRACEN: Have any of these characters gone on to become scene-stealers? If so, who and how did they do it?

BRITA: Prentice definitely has scene-stealer potential. He truly fills a room when he enters. It was because of that that he did get his own book, Lord Decadent's Obsession. That is the second book in The Sapphire Club series. That book will be out on July 19th.

The Duke of Thornhill, who doesn't have a given name in Serenity Dream, becomes Phillip Allard in Chocolate, Tea and The Duchess. That book is under contract and will be out later this year. It is a ménage story and was great fun to write.



BLURB:

In 1814 London, Serenity, the long-estranged wife of Lucien Damrill, suddenly reappears after she hears of the sex club he owns. Rumors of his insatiable sexual appetites warm her body and her mind. She says craves his spankings, and the ecstasy of his lovemaking. But is this the real reason she's back or is it a well-thought out ruse?

Lucien Damrill, though mistrustful, is willing to take her at her word and institutes a spanking regimen that Serenity simply adores. Lucien’s sexual abilities are beyond her wildest dreams and soon they fall into a frenzied, erotic life with “The Sapphire Club” as their backdrop.

Bliss doesn’t last nearly long enough however. When someone from her past suddenly appears, her deceit is uncovered and soon her husband’s skepticism is accompanied by all-out apathy. Can they overcome the obstacles and create the life of which Serenity dreams?


EXCERPT:
Serenity’s Dream
Brita Addams


A somewhat disheveled Lucien Damrill entered the sanctified environs of his library, a well-outfitted cave for the bear he was becoming. It being Thursday, he’d just finished his usual session with Lady Amelie Foxworth, an insatiable beast of a woman, who could be thrashed bloody, fucked insensible and still beg for more. A more jaded woman he’d never met and he’d seen it all. He was tired, aroused and feeling rather beastly himself.

With a compelling need for the burn of his favorite libation, he walked directly to the rosewood sideboard and poured himself a generous measure of his finest French brandy. He turned to make his way to his desk when he was stopped in his tracks.

Before him, on a red and gold striped Hepplewhite chair sat someone whom he thought, nay, prayed never to see again. “How in bloody hell did you get in here?”

“Why, dear, is that any way to speak to your dearly beloved wife?”

Lucien cringed at the thought, feeling his aroused cock wither. “It is simply by an aberration that state exists between us. You are no more my wife than this glass is,” he spat out, holding up his cut-glass snifter with the figure of a nude woman as the stem.

“It may surprise you to learn I have returned and wish to make up for all of the years I have neglected you.”

Lucien affected a laugh, remembering how his beloved wife, the former Serenity Malin, had met him at the altar, stiffly consummated their union and promptly hied herself off to the country, where she’d resided uninterrupted for the last ten years.

“Serenity, dear, I have not felt neglected in the least. You really shouldn’t have troubled yourself with thoughts of my welfare, for I have given yours less thought than I would give a stranger. But wait, we are strangers, are we not?”

Serenity maintained a haughty mien. Lucien saw how her bottom lip quivered ever so slightly. Knowing his wife wasn’t given to dramatic displays, he knew he’d struck a chord.

He would also have been blind had he not noticed that in ten years his wife had matured into a rather lovely woman. Her chestnut hair was stylishly coiffed, with curls framing her heart-shaped face and tendrils flowing from the loose knot at the back of her head. Her breasts were nearly overflowing her bodice, making Lucien imagine releasing them from their bonds and burying his face between them. He quickly dismissed his licentious thoughts, remembering who this woman was and why he held not a single pleasant thought concerning her.

“I am serious, Lucien, I wish to be a real wife to you. That’s why I have come back.” He felt her icy blue eyes follow him as he paced the room.

“It would have nothing to do with the fact I am now wealthy and you wish to relieve me of some of my wealth?”

“How can you say such things? You have always provided for my needs and I could ask for no more.”

“Then why are you really here?”

“I have heard things about you and they intrigue me.”

Lucien laughed again. “It seemed nothing about me ever intrigued you before. Why now?”

“Oh, but you are wrong, my dear. You have always fascinated me, but just recently I learned about the club and what you do here.”

“The club? You have come back because of the club? Serenity, I have owned The Sapphire Club for five years and you have just heard of it? I must see to it my man of business does a better job of spreading the word.” He was more suspect than ever since the club wasn’t news, unless of course, one had been living under a rock for five years.

“I was attending a house party in Yorkshire and overheard some gentlemen talking. They said some very provocative things, and I was fascinated to say the least.”

“Provocative, you say. Such as?”

“Well, it would seem they were under the impression you ‘blister arses and fuck ‘em insensible.’ That’s an exact quote.”

Lucien chuckled at hearing his once prim and proper wife cursing like a gob in a sleazy tavern. “Yes, that’s what I do, among other things and I have a very satisfying life doing so. I fail to see how that would be impetus for you to return to hearth and home.”

“Well, when I learned of such things, I found I was curious. If you would perform such services for others, would you offer the same to me?”

If incredulity had a face, it would have been that of Lucien Damrill, for he was undoubtedly the very definition at that moment. “You wish to have your lily-white derriere paddled? My dear, pardon my foray down the path of skepticism, but as I recall, you had no interest in getting naked with me for any reason, a slight omission on your part when you accepted my marriage proposal, as I recall.”

“I will admit I was willful.” That earned her a loud snort. “I was wrong and I am willing to admit it. Many years have passed between then and now. I have changed. Then to hear you were so, ah, adventuresome, I simply couldn’t believe what I had heard.”

Feeling his deuced body betraying him as he spoke, he continued to pace, albeit somewhat less comfortably. “I have created a place where people can come to fulfill their sexual fantasies. As you can see, I have done well, by myself, I will add. Why would I want to have you around my neck, when I worked so hard to forget I even had a wife?”

“I wish to be treated like one of your clients, Lucien. I wish to submit to you completely. I yearn for your discipline and I wish to your satisfy your sexual needs. I am desirous of being all you would wish in a wife. I have much to make up for.”

“What has brought about this change of heart? You must admit it is suspect.”

“I have been lonely all of these years. When I heard you owned a club where people could go to see their sexual fantasies become reality, I realized I have needs and wish to have them fulfilled. Who better to do that than my own husband?”

“You have sexual needs, Serenity? I find that extremely difficult to believe. You had no use for my cock in the time, albeit one night, we lived together in the holy state of matrimony. I have suspected you found your own fulfillment elsewhere in the time we have been apart.”

“Have you, Lucien?”

“I’m a man, what would you think?” He waved his arm and sloshed some of his precious brandy onto the red, cream and blue Aubusson carpet.

“I have never begrudged you. I know I’ve not been a true wife to you, but I wish to change, if you will let me.”

“So what you are telling me is you wish to be a wife to me in exchange for having your fantasies become realities?”

“Yes, dear. I believe you would find I am willing to do anything you ask. I have thought long and hard about this and I find the more I think of it the more I wish I’d never left you.”

“This would have nothing to do with wanting children would it, because I have no interest in such things.”

“No, Lucien, I am past my childbearing years; I was thirty on my last birthday. I gave up that dream about the same time I walked away from you and our marriage. I wish to come back and be a part of the life you have established for yourself.”

Lucien’s head was pounding from the long hours he’d put in at the club and most particularly from the conversation he was having with his wife. Traitorously, his cock had heard every word, too, damn it.

It was most unexpected she should suddenly appear, here, at The Sapphire Club. Somehow he’d never imagined that would happen.

“Yes, I would imagine my wealth would appeal to you. The country estate wasn’t enough to entice you to remain there?”

“Lucien, don’t be cruel. I understand you don’t trust me, but I swear to you, I am telling you the truth. I only wish to be your wife in every sense and I ask you allow me to demonstrate my sincerity.”

“Fine, if that’s what you wish, bend over the sofa and show me how sincere you really are.”


BUY LINK: https://www.nobleromance.com/ItemDisplay.aspx?i=141

Monday, June 21, 2010

Mystic Monday

Abridged Vs. Unabridged

I may have written about this topic before, but I can't remember, so I'll write about it again.

I guess the reason I wish to discuss it is because of a recent listening experience. Now, I've listened to many abridged versions of stories, but I prefer the unabridged version because, no matter how good the story is and how engrossed in it I become, I always feel jolted in places and I know it's because something has been removed.

My husband borrowed some audiobooks from the library and I was curious about one of them. Well, once I started, I had to continue because I wanted to know how it ended, but I still had moments when I felt jolted out of the story, as if something was missing. I'll probably listen to the book again, in full, at a later date.

What's your preference when it comes to audiobooks - abridged, unabridged or does it even matter?

Friday, June 18, 2010

PHANTASM FRIDAY


Hello, Moonlighters! I hope you had a great week. I'll announce the winner from last week's contest in a few moments. This week, I'll be giving away another Mahogany book mark and a Mayan calendar. (Pictures below.) Don’t forget to check back next week, to see what I’m giving away. Next week is something different than these past two weeks!

Today's topic is the Grand Cayman Islands. Our stop was the capital, George Town, and it's a beautiful city, very clean and the bluest waters I've ever seen. We went snorkeling here, saw some beautiful coral reefs and fish as big as my 8 year old son. No kidding!!

Our guide said that the Grand Cayman's once were a haven for pirates. I thought this interesting because to look at the city now, I’d have never thought it once harbored pirates. She also told us that the Caymans were known for three things (the three B's) and I asked you that question last week. So, here are the answers:

1. Banking ~ Some of you got this one. From my understanding, this is a popular banking institution for money laundering.

2. Black Coral ~ I don't remember if anyone mentioned this one or not.

3. Booze ~ I do remember someone mentioning Rum. And the Caymans make some fabulous Rum and a Rum Cake that is to die for!

I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! Don’t forget to leave me a comment for a chance to win this week’s Caribbean giveaway!

Now, to this week’s winner. I entered everyone’s name into Random.org and allowed it to draw a winner. And the winner is…..AMBER SKYZE!


George Town, Grand Cayman - coming in on the ferry from the ship.


Amazing Blue waters of Grand Cayman!


Gifts winner will receive next week.

SINCE WE HAVE REACHED 100 FOLLOWERS (WOOHOO!!!!), IN CELEBRATION, I'LL BE GIVING AWAY A SECRET SECOND GIFT TO ONE PERSON THAT POSTS A COMMENT. (This gift will be totally unrelated to the Caribbean Giveaway, so the item will not come from the Caribbean.)

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Twilight Thursday

Welcome Author
Julie Kimbrell

Julie Kimbrell
!!!

Julie comes to us from Wild Horse Press. The book she's here to promote today, Mr. Irresistible - her most recent release, adds just enough realism to help the reader relate to the character but balances it out with enough lightness and humor to offer a brief escape from everyday life problems. From the very beginning, even though we don't get a clear picture of what Kate looks like, we get in her mind through her thoughts and actions regarding her sister, Karly, and her friend, Jess. This realism is what caught my attention and held it.

There are all sorts of interesting holidays throughout the year, and June is no exception. Let's see how Julie answered our questions Juniper June questions:

ME: When you stop to consider trends and traditions, June marks a time of beginnings (marriages, commencements). What about you, any weddings, anniversaries or graduations to attend this month?

JULIE: No, just summertime!

ME: While April 22nd marks Earth Day, June 5th is World Environment Day. What will you do to celebrate our environment?

JULIE: I recycle daily.

ME: Speaking of the environment, do you strive to be more energy efficient or more environmentally conscious? How do you accomplish this goal?

JULIE: I try to use suggestions made in articles about being eco friendly such as light bulbs, paper/plastic, recycling, etc.

ME: What traits make the men in your life good father figures? Will you do anything special to celebrate these men? If so, what will it be?

JULIE: Both my father and husband are very loyal. Family is extremely important to them and I cherish that trait in them. I will be cooking a special meal for my father and husband on Father’s Day.

ME: While the summer solstice occurs on June 21st, warmer weather usually arrives earlier than that, encouraging people to get out and enjoy the weather. What activities do you usually start in June?

JULIE: Since I work full-time, our babysitter takes the children to the neighborhood pool, city parks, the zoo and we love to go camping on the weekends.

ME: While people generally clean in spring, they need to do something with all the stuff they find they do not need. If it isn’t given away or donated, many people have rummage or estate sales. What about you, do you like to hit the rummage sales on a nice warm morning? Do you go alone or with someone else? Is it a family tradition?

JULIE: I love yard sales. I usually host one each year as well as visit them. My kids love to go with me as well as my BFF.

ME: In many areas, private community schools tend to schedule festivals and bazaars as fundraisers throughout the summer. What about your area? What kind of festivals and bazaars can be found and when will they occur? Do you make appearances at them, or do you avoid them? If so, why?

JULIE: We have a festival called Toad Suck Daze, in May. It has wonderful food and a great family atmosphere. Toad Suck Daze is a festival that Conway, Arkansas hosts.

ME: Do they really suck on toads?

JULIE: No, I don't think anyone sucks on toads. Barf! But, they do have toad races. The kids in town catch toads and race them. There is a Toad Suck Daze Pageant, lots of craft booths and gourmet foods such as Chicken on a stick, Sausage on a stick, and the usual carnival foods. There are tons of rides for the kids and usually a couple concerts.

ME: The weather in June seems to be a great mix in almost every state, and most people tend to plan vacations in June. What about you, are you a June traveler? If so, where will you be going? If not, when do you prefer to travel and why? Where have you gone or will you be going this year?

JULIE: Actually, I’m not going on vacation until July and we are camping all week in our new camper.

ME: We’ve had our fun now, so let’s put the focus on your writing. While there are many genres to choose from, what specifically brought you to romance? Why this genre over the others?

JULIE: I love a happy ending. Romance is a beautiful thing. This genre, for me, is light-hearted, not too serious and just fun.

ME: Even though the popularity of the romance genre continues to grow, it’s still not always a highly respected genre. What, in your opinion, is the reason for the continued interest in the genre and for the lack of respect it receives?

JULIE: I believe its popularity generates from the get-away we experience while reading them. The lack of respect I’d say probably comes from the massive amount of Romance Novels available. They are one of the oldest if not the oldest genre around.

ME: Earlier, we asked about what traits make the men in your life good father figures. Now, we want to know, have any of these men, or their traits, been inspiration for characters in your stories? If so, which men, what characters and/or traits and why?

JULIE: My husband is a very humble person. I like using that in my characters. My father is very out spoken, therefore I like to use that as well. They both say the most hilarious things, which I must use and laugh about every single time I read them.

ME: For a writer, inspiration can be found everywhere and in almost anyone, but sometimes specific people, places and events can inspire certain characters, personality traits, events or situations that happen in our stories. In your current story that we’re promoting here today, Mr. Irresistible, did any one particular person, place or event inspire you? If so who/what was it (were they), how did it/they inspire you and how is this inspiration reflected in your story?

JULIE: Actually, I love the opening scene of this novel. Everyone can identify with a trip to Walmart. After going one morning for my usual Saturday grocery trip, I heard someone paged overhead and thought how funny it would be to start a book that way.

ME: Without giving away anything pertinent to the story, tell us about the hero and heroine (s) of your story. What do they look like? How do they meet (or “did” if this is not the first book with these same characters)? What are their personalities – Are they comical cut-ups, are they serious or are they a mix of the two? Please give us a little bit of dialogue from the story that can illustrate this. (Not much, but just a few lines and from a different section than the main excerpt – Thanks!)

JULIE: Well, the heroine is Kate Simon. She's a dental hygienist and pretty boring. The hero, Gage Morgan, is managing a bar for a friend in hopes of owning it one day. Their paths cross one evening while Kate's chatting with a friend at the bar. Gage finds himself intrigued by her, instantly. Kate tries to ignore her feelings. She ends up working for Gage as a waitress part-time.

ME: The main characters are usually great, but sometimes, secondary and tertiary characters are known to steal the scenes, even if the author did not intend this to happen. Who are the secondary/tertiary characters in your story and what do they look like? What’s unique about them? What is their relationship to the hero/heroine? Have any of these characters gone on to become scene-stealers? If so, who and how did they do it? Is there the possibility for them to get their own story? (Again, please give us a small bit of dialogue to illustrate this – thanks!)

JULIE: I didn't put a whole lot of emphasis on the secondary characters in this book. Kate's sister is pregnant and very important to her. She and Gage spend a lot of time with them, which I think has a positive influence. Kate's family encourages her to follow her heart.

Mr. IrresistibleBLURB: Kate Simon's life it going just fine. She works. She checks on her pregnant sister. She goes to bed. After being persuaded by a friend to go out for a drink, Kate meet's the manager of Loco's, a bar she once worked at on weekends. His name is Gage and he's very easy on the eyes. Kate ignores her hormones, but she and Gage end up with a business relationship. Will the two mix business with pleasure?

EXCERPT: “I’m sorry I kissed you Kate,” he finally blurted out. “It was wrong.”
That’s not what she wanted to hear. She’d more hoped for, “Kate, I want to ravish your body!”
He was sorry about the kiss? Those words really hurt. Kate didn’t know what to say and decided honesty her best route.
“Why are you sorry? Am I a bad kisser?” She asked, trying to understand and not sound upset.
He looked surprised. “Of course not. You’re an amazing kisser. It’s just that you work for me, not to mention the fact that we just met.”
Relieved, she said, “I understand. I’m just joking.” Kate forced a laugh. “I agree with you. Let’s just forget about it and move on.” Maybe he’d believe she really thought that. Her acting skills were hideous so that definitely was a pipe dream. She sensed something weighed heavily on his mind.
“I don’t know if I can do that.” He was being honest too, which made her feel a little better.
“Okay, then what do you recommend, boss?” Kate added playfully.
“I was thinking if I fired you, I wouldn’t have to worry about it.”
Her mouth dropped open. “You’d fire me?”
“What I want to do and what I’m gonna do are two different things.”
“You want to fire me?”
“I didn’t say that,” he said.
“Well what are you saying Gage. I mean, we’re adults. We can keep our lips to ourselves. I didn’t know kissing me was such a bad thing. The way you’re acting, it’s death penalty worthy.”
He gave her that breathtaking smile then cracked up. “Stop it. Kissing you wasn’t a bad thing. It just wasn’t a good thing either. I can’t let it happen again.”
“Why don’t you not fire me, and we could kiss, just one more time, to get it out of our systems.” Kate needed to make that clear. “Afterwards, we can just forget it ever happened.”
“Okay. I’ll go for that.”
Kate felt sure he liked that idea because he instantly pulled her across the couch.

To learn more about Julie and her books, visit her website:
www.juliekimbrell.com

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Wistful Wednesday

Summer Fun

For me, Summer is punctuated by several birthdays - a couple in June, one in July, one or two in August - so my family tends to mark the summer with food, ending with cake. For us, it isn't summer if someone isn't blowing out the candles! Besides celebrating birthdays, I like to take long walks with my daughter, catch up on my reading and writing, and hopefully get to the beach or my brother-in-law's lake house at least once before Fall.

What kind of things do you like to do in the Summer? Anyone planning a roadtrip or travel overseas? I would love to hear what you've got planned for the long hot days ahead.

And as always, stay safe, whatever you do!

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Tantalizing Tuesday

PITCHING IN THE BIG LEAGUES
By Carol Storm
Thank you so much to Gracen and the crew for having me!

Few things are more intimidating for a beginning romance author than “pitching” a story idea in-person to an editor. This weekend I had the privilege of actually doing it, and I’d like to share a couple of thoughts.
1.) It’s NOT final exam time! You should know your story by heart and be able to describe the basic conflict, setting, and characters in a minute or less. But don’t worry – editors are not going to nitpick unless you’ve been totally incoherent. I was amazed when I finished my pitch in one minute, the editor said, “that sounds fun” and asked for a synopsis and a partial! This was one minute in, and I still had nine minutes to go. A very valuable lesson! Therefore . . .

2.) Be ready for a real conversation! It’s not likely the editor will spend ten minutes asking follow ups on your one minute summary. Therefore YOU should be ready to ask the editor intelligent, meaningful questions. “What are you looking for?” is the basic idea. No matter how good your story is today, you might be able to write a better one next year – try to find out what THIS editor likes, needs, is eager to see!
3.) Remember that YOU have written a great story!

~~~~~
Carol Storm is the author of HIALEAH HEAT, an erotic thriller set in Miami, and HUNTED WITNESS, a romantic suspense set in the Florida Keys. Both are available at Phaze books, www.phaze.com.
Visit Carol at her blog, THE STORM REPORT, www.carol63storm.blogspot.com or on Facebook!

Monday, June 14, 2010

Mystic Monday

Well Damn!


When it rains, it pours!

Will Koch,Holiday WorldIf any of you follow my status reports on Facebook (if you don't you're not missing much except for some game play, although I can say some profound things - from time-to-time.), you'll know that I am deeply saddened by the loss of amusement park owner, Will Koch. I didn't really know him, but he wasn't the kind of guy to hide himself from people who loved his park and the rides in it as much as he did.

It hurts even more because my husband and I just saw him little over a week ago during the annual park event, Holiwood Nights. It's so hard to wrap my head around this tragedy because he seemed so lively as he jammed with the band playing for us while ate dinner that Saturday night.

I know it's been a week because I've been dealing with vertigo for almost an entire week since our return home last week Sunday. We left the Thursday before that and the event started that Friday evening. We have a ticket to return when they get the new timberliner trains functioning on The Voyage. I was looking forward to seeing him again and that smile he always seemed to have for everyone! May you have all the airtime you can handle on this new roller coaster you are riding Will!

He's not the only person I know who passed away this past weekend either. My sister-in-law lost her father to pneumonia, he was suffering from ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease).



Let's take a moment of silence to remember all of those people who have touched our lives whether they were family, friends, teachers, authors or actors. Remembering them will keep their light shining for just a little longer.
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Well, that takes all the fun out of my post now, doesn't it? This was supposed to be the one where I tell all of you whether you care or not, the answers to my questions from the Creative Blogger Award I was nominated for over a month ago.

Since it's been a couple of weeks, I'll recap the statements:
"So, here's my list of 7 statements. 1 could be true or 6 of them could be. That's for you to decide hehehe!

1. I met my husband in a "chatroom" over the intranet.
2. Exchanged emails with an NBA General Manager.
3. Went to school with the kids of a Big Ten football referee.
4. Met a professional athlete.
5. Was born at a professional football stadium.
6. Knew an actor before he became an actor.
7. Was told by an author that I had the grasp of narrative hook when I was 13.

Okay, there's my list. Not so easy, is it? Or maybe it is. HAHAHAHAHA! Have fun! Can't wait to see what answers are chosen! Oh, and just a fact, I was born in Green Bay, WI....Anyone who really knows me can honestly say that each of these answers has 50/50 shot of being true...lol!"

If you want to come up with your own answers now, don't scroll down any farther. I'll give you sometime before I post the answers.



********
********

Okay, time's up!

1. I met my husband in a "chatroom" over the intranet.
- True! I think some of you might have figured I meant Internet, but it wasn't the Internet. At the time my husband and I met, the Internet was in it's infancy. We met on what was known as Holomuck, a moo (don't ask me to explain that one, it's a complicated explanation). You could only get to it using a dumb terminal that was only connected to the one server at the school - thus it was an intranet.

2. Exchanged emails with an NBA General Manager.
- True! I had a couple of emails saved that I sent to Larry Harris when he was the General Manager of the Milwaukee Bucks. I have them saved on my computer.

3. Went to school with the kids of a Big Ten football referee.
- True! I had originally mistakenly said NFL ref, when I meant to say Big Ten ref. His name is Dennis Lipski. I attended grade school with both his son and his daughter. Plus, the house they lived in on 96th was on land once owned by mother's side of the family.

4. Met a professional athlete.
- True! Believe it or not, I've met a few pro basketball players in my day, but I doubt they would have remembered it. I went to some before game signings and such. I met Mo Williams (Currently with Cleveland Cavs) when he was a rookie and got his signature. He sat next to Joe Smith (Currently with Atlanta Hawks). At that time, I had been used to seeing Joe with a shaved head, but he let it grow in and it was different. I couldn't resist commenting on it - he said everyone was! Then, during the first Squad 6 auditions, I "met" Charlie Bell for the first time. Then, during the 2009-2010 season when Andrew Bogut was sidelined the first time (he wasn't out that long), I got to shake his hand after a game. Okay, that doesn't really count, but I wasn't using it as proof anyway.

5. Was born at a professional football stadium.
- False! I got many of you with that one, I think! I would love to be able to claim this one as true, I was merely born in a hospital in the area.

6. Knew an actor before he became an actor.
- True! I went to high school with a man named Andy Pond. He is a paid actor who currently resides in Chicago. He used to live in Florida and performed at Laughing Gas Comedy Improv Theatre Company in Miami. I have heard some interesting stories from him, that's for sure. You can find him on their Hall of Fame list. Sorry, but you'll have to scroll down to find him. Because he's a friend, and oozed potential and talent 20+ years ago, I thought I'd give you this review written by Leah A. Zeldes on his recent performance in Heaven Can Wait (closed May 30th):
"The cast ranges from excellent to eh. Andrew J. Pond (recently seen in Out of Order (our review ★★★★) at Arlington Heights’ Metropolis Performing Arts Centre) plays Levene in keenly expressive comic style, smooth, natural and so far outshining the other actors that it makes you wonder what he’s doing in this show."

7. Was told by an author that I had the grasp of narrative hook when I was 13.
- True! Late author Ellen Hunnicutt (aka E.M. Hunnicutt, author of Suite for Calliope) taught a writing enrichment class to my 7th grade class (I think it was 7th grade). I had written a short story for a class project. She commented in front of the entire class that I had "narrative hook". I remembered that comment for a long time, I just never understood what she really meant. Then, in college, I was lucky enough to take her creative writing course. She was tough on me, and rightly so, but I still didn't get it - I appreciated it, but I didn't see that her words helped mold me into the writer I am today. My biggest regret is that I didn't keep in contact with her after I finished her class. I missed out on a big opportunity because she passed away in 2003 at the age of 72. I remember being told that she was in a car accident. It hurt, but not for the closeness, but for the lack of it. I had wanted to reconnect with her, tell her how I could appreciate her words now, but I can only hope she knows now.

Someone put a really cool slideshow of quotes on writing from different authors. Some people didn't appreciate this, but I do! Ellen has a quote mentioned on slide 17.

On that note, I'll leave you to enjoy your day, just as I plan to!