I Wish You A Wonderful 2012

  

Today...I wish you a day of ordinary miracles-

A fresh pot of coffee you didn't have to make yourself.
An unexpected phone call from an old friend.
Green stoplights on your way to work or shop.

I wish you a day of little things to rejoice in...
The fastest line at the grocery store.
A good sing along song on the radio.
Your keys right where you look.

I wish you a day of happiness and perfection-little bite-size pieces of perfection that give you the funny feeling that the Lord is smiling on you, holding you so gently because you are someone special and rare.

I wish You a day of Peace, Happiness and Joy.


Wishing you a very Blessed Holiday Season
and the best in 2012

Friday Firsts with Rebecca J. Clark

Come join me today.  I'm being spotlighted and I'd love to have you join me.

http://rebeccajclark.blogspot.com

Every Friday she spotlights a different author.  It's a great way to learn about your favorite authors and perhaps about some new ones too.

Kacey Mark Interview

I'd like to welcome Kacey Mark to my blog.

Kacey, thank you for graciously agreeing to be my guest today. 

KR:  Tell us about your journey to become a published author.  Have you always wanted to write?

Kacey:  My love for reading came first. During the summer of my sixteenth year, I fell in love with books. I could finish an entire 300 page novel in one day. It wasn’t until the school year started again, and I had this amazing teacher that actually APPROVED of romance novels, that I decided I’d try to write one.

KR:  You have two books in your Dark Muse Series, A Muse Gone Rogue and A Muse Gone Commando.  Tell us a little about them.

Kacey: I figured that as far as Greek mythology goes, every gift comes with a price. When I came upon the Muse I was sold. They offer so much inspiration, but what are they getting in return? In my books I like to make them more dynamic with a goal: To completely fill the empty ache in their soul, which will give them a shot at mortality. Now if we can just keep those pesky humans from becoming addicted to their powers.  

  

KR:  Do you anticipate a third in the series?

Kacey:  Not at present. Late in book two, Lochlan, one of my secondary characters, sat up and shook his fist at me. He demanded his own story for all the crap he went through protecting the heroine, so now he’s leading me off on another adventure.

KR:  What inspired your Dark Muse Series?

Kacey:  I love the thought of powerful men with deep, everlasting secrets. Vampires were pretty much out of the bag, so I turned to Greek mythology and the Muse

KR:  If you had to pick your favorite character from your stories, who would it be and why would you choose that person?

Kacey:  I love Kayla from book two. She’s so spunky and determined and she finds out the hard way that she’s still go a lot to learn. Unfortunately she has both the best and worst teacher at her disposal.

KR:  What are you currently working on?

Kacey:  I have a Merry-Go-Round Ran Down inspired ghost story near completion, and Lochlan beating down my door to write THE FALL GUY. Snippets of both are available on my website. http://www.authorkaceymark.com/Works_in_Progress.html

KR:  Who has had the most influence on you as an author?

Kacey:  My first influence was an amazing teacher by the name of Maryanne Barrett. I’m still trying to hunt her down to thank her. After that, my friends and family. I have a stellar support system that just doesn’t quit!

KR:  What do you do to set the mood for you to write?

Kacey:  I love playing music. In fact, I even set a theme song for every book. 

KR:  What’s the one thing you do to pamper yourself?

Kacey:  I get my nails done once a month. I’m not sure anymore if it’s really for the beautification or my chance for a one hour sit down with my nail tech. She’s such a fire cracker! I love chatting with her. She gives me motivation and drive that carries me clear though to my next appointment.

KR:  It’s the holiday season.  As an author, how do you juggle your schedule to find time to write and still enjoy the season?

Kacey:  Ugh! That’s a tough one. My writing tends to get sacrificed to the holiday gods this time of year, but I don’t mind. Going to family functions introduces me to some great characterization I wouldn’t have otherwise found. Seeing the snow, making cookies, playing with the kids, it all provides great sensory opportunities. I do it all in the name of research so I don’t feel guilty and I’m ready to start fresh in the New Year.

KR:  Do you have a holiday memory that stands out in your mind?

Kacey:  My sisters and I would play Mission Impossible to try and catch Santa in the act. We had walkie-talkies, elaborate rope systems—our baby brother was the mole. But we never caught the guy. He’s good!

KR: How funny.  Sounds like you had some fun.  If you could give an aspiring writer some advice, what would it be?

Kacey:  Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up. If you want to write, WRITE! You don’t have to be published to be a success, and if you have a gift for telling great stories, the world wants to hear them!

KR:  Great advice.  Where can readers get your books?

Kacey:  On Amazon and my publisher’s website.

http://www.amazon.com/Muse-Gone-Rogue-Dark-ebook/dp/B005HXXL5G/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1323375327&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/Muse-Gone-Commando-Dark-ebook/dp/B0065LW7GI/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1323375327&sr=1-2

KR:  Where can readers contact you?

Kacey:  My facebook fan page is the easiest route. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kacey-Mark/218199808200456

You can also catch me on twitter @Kacey_Mark

KR:  Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?

Kacey:  Thank you so much for the opportunity and have a fabulous holiday season!

Thanks Kacey.   I wish you, your family, and readers everywhere a wonderful Merry Christmas.

Something To Make You Smile

A great friend sent this to me, and I laughed and laughed.  Thought it might help brighten your day.

GOTTA PEE  
Two women friends had gone for a girls' night out. Both were very faithful and loving wives, however, they had gotten over-enthusiastic on the Bacardi Breezers.  Incredibly drunk and walking home they needed to Pee, so they stopped in the cemetery.  One of them had nothing to wipe with so she thought she would take off her panties and use them. Her friend however was wearing a rather expensive pair of panties and did not want to ruin them.  She was lucky enough to squat down next to a grave that had a wreath with a ribbon on it, so she proceeded to wipe with that.

After the girls did their business, they proceeded to go home. The next day, the husband of one of the women was concerned that his normally sweet and innocent wife was still in bed hung over, so he phoned the other husband and said: "These girl nights have got to stop! I'm starting to suspect the worst. My wife came home with no panties!!"

That's nothing," said the other husband, "Mine came back with a card stuck to her ass that said.....
'From all of us at the Fire Station. We'll never forget you.'

Aren't friends wonderful?  They share so much with us -- laughter, acceptance, even potty breaks!

Have a Wonderful Week and a fantastic Thanksgiving.  I know I've got so many things to be thankful for this year.

Murder and Lies

Murder and Lies is being released early!

If you pre-order a copy now or buy it before Nov 29, you can get it for 10% off.  Just go to http://www.bookstrand.com/murder-and-lies

I also just found out that Dangerous Deception is now available in paperback through www.Amazon.com

It's also available in most all e-book formats through http://www.Bookstrand.com/Dangerous-Deception

Had to share my news with you all -- Happy Reading!

Interview With Author Cindy Christiansen

I’m interviewing Cindy Christiansen, a good friend and a very gifted author of several wonderful stories.

Cindy, thanks in advance for talking to us today.

Cindy:  I always enjoy chatting with you, Kathy.

KR: I understand you have a new book, Braving the Blaze, coming out in November. Tell us a little about it.

Cindy:  I loved researching and writing this book. It gave my family a chance to get down to the southern end of the state of Utah to the beautiful Tushar Mountains near Beaver. The story involves two volunteer wildfire fighters—Ginger Warby and Dean Harward. Flunking out of culinary school because she’s too afraid to set her culinary dishes aflame, Ginger ends up becoming a volunteer on a wildfire to figure out how her friend could’ve possibly died in the fire.

Dean is in his senior year of veterinary college and works as a wildfire volunteer to earn the high pay to put him through school. Based on his father and older brother’s marriages, he’s certain involvement with woman has a way of destroying a man’s chance of success. He doesn’t want to get involved but ends up with Ginger as his buddy on the fire.

Things definitely heat up when Ginger has a series of accidents. Or is it that someone doesn’t want her sniffing around her friend’s death? Hmmmm.

I do a lot of research online, but there’s nothing like seeing and experiencing a place you’re writing about. I hope the fire really comes to life for my readers. I want them to smell that smoke as they’re reading.

K. R.: I know your book, Caskets and Corruption, had a funny, adorable dog in it. Does this story have one too?

Cindy:  You know me, Kathy. Life isn’t life without a dog. I write dogs into all my stories. Braving the Blaze has a wonderful Yellow Labrador. Dean adopted her. He leaves her with his brother in Beaver, but Dixie runs away to find Dean. I won’t spoil the ending, but I will say Dixie is very brave. She also made the cover of the book.

K. R.:  What was your inspiration for this story?

Cindy:  Several years ago, Utah had one of the worst fires ever recorded. People were trapped and killed, I-15 was closed to traffic and the air was heavy with smoke across the entire state for months.

I was working on another book at the time, so I collected all the news articles I could about the devastation. I knew I had to write a story about it one day. My brother-in-laws, a niece and nephew had all worked as volunteer wildfire fighters, so I drilled them for all the information I could get.

I’m very proud of this book.

K. R.:  Are you writing any other stories?  Anything you can tell us about them?

Cindy:  I’m excited to say, I’ve just finished my sixth book—Not Quite Zen! Who knew? It amazes me that story ideas just keep coming. I love writing and since my health is poor, I enjoy living through my characters. Although I have to admit, a lot of what my characters experience, I’ve dealt with in my own life.

I had a serious brush with fire, much similar to the fire Ginger experienced in her youth which made her pyrophobic. It helps to draw on my own emotions.

I haven’t contracted Not Quite Zen yet, but the setting is a senior living center. Baby boomers make up today’s biggest demographic group, so I thought it’d be fun to write a book about seniors. And yes, Kathy, this book has SEVEN dogs!

K. R. : Tell us about your normal day. Do you write every day?  Do you listen to music?

Cindy:  Someone asked me just last night, how many hours I write a day. I answered by saying I don’t put myself through that kind of stress. I love to write. If I’m well enough and my family responsibilities are taken care of, then you’ll most certainly find me clickety-clacketing (as my husband calls it).

When the kids are noisy or watching TV, I put on music to drown out the confusion. However if it’s too quiet, I turn on the TV sometimes while I’m writing.  It’s a balancing act.

K. R.:  Have you always wanted to be an author?

Cindy:  I never dreamed I’d be an author. A secretary, an attorney, a computer programmer, an artist—yes. I loved both writing and art through school. Every report I turned in always had a drawing on the cover. I was editor, artist and contributor to my high school literary magazine. I began writing my first full-length novel in college and also got my first rejection. But, I never once thought of becoming a writer for a living. I earned my Bachelors Degree in computers and became a Programmer/Analyst.

But when my health went downhill, writing saved my life. I struggle with every single stinking word, but I love the creativity. I love living life through my healthy characters.

K. R.:  Who do you feel has been most instrumental in helping you become a writer and why?

Cindy:  Definitely, Laura Hillenbrand. She has Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction like I do. I have a multitude of other health issues, but I could relate with her. She spent years struggling to write Seabiscuit and getting it published, and I figured if she could do it, so could I.

Although I’d already been writing, I’d never had that drive to attempt becoming published until I heard of her. Unless you’ve experienced constant sickness and pain, you can’t even comprehend what it takes to keep going every day. She’s truly an inspiration.

K. R.:  If you had to pick your favorite hero from your stories, which one would you pick?  Tell us about him and why you would choose him.

Cindy:  I love all my heroes because they’re REAL men—someone you could actually met and fall in love with. They’re not make-believe. Despite their flaws, they’re hardworking and caring.

If I had to choose but one, I would choose Ryan from Love on Laird Avenue. The guy is smart, talented, and good-looking but has Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). He doesn’t know he has ADD so he has low self-esteem. But you couldn’t meet a more wonderful guy.

My first editor doubted that in today’s society someone wouldn’t know about ADD and already gotten help. Not all parts of the country are the same, and not all people are willing to accept and deal with mental illness. Believe me, there’s a lot of people out there running around who need mental help. “)

K. R.:  If you were to give new writers one piece of advice, what would it be?

Cindy:  Never give up your dreams, no matter your age or disabilities. If you love writing, then write. The rest will follow.

K. R.:  What is your number one pet peeve about writers/books today?

Cindy:  As a society, we are inundated with information. Therefore, as with most industries, it seems the oddity or unusual draws the most attention. It doesn’t mean that that particular writer or that particular book is the best, just the most different.

If readers like a clean romance, with humor, suspense and dogs, then they’ll enjoy my books. I’m not seeking to be the next Stephenie Meyer. I love writing, and I hope my readers will enjoy my stories.

K. R.:  Where can readers find out about you and your stories?  How can they contact you?

Cindy: My website is the best place to find out the latest information. It’s www.dragonflyromance.com. I have buy links to my publisher, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, etc. on there. You’ll also find writing articles, contests and even games based on my books. My books are available in both ebook and paperback.

You can contact me through my website or directly at: cindy@dragonflyromance.com with any questions or comments you might have. I love to talk with readers about my books.

K. R.:  Any last thing you’d like to share with us?

Cindy:  I love dogs. The last dog I adopted is a Schnauzer. We rescued him from an abusive environment at the age of nine months. He’s now five years old and still struggles from being abused. He also suffers with seizures mostly likely caused by the abuse.

I’m donating a portion from the sale of my books to help abused and homeless dogs. Please join me in helping these wonderful companions and also donate what time you can at shelters.

Thanks so much, Kathy.  This was fun.

K. R.:  Thank you, Cindy, for sharing so much with us. 

Cindy is a remarkable woman, and if you haven’t read Cindy’s books, you’re missing out on some great adventures. 

Have a good day.

Thought for the Day

The indispensable first step to getting the things you want out of life is this ---- decide what you want!
          Ben Stein, Actor and Author

Isn't this just so true? How many times do we wish we had something, but then when we get it, we really don't want it?  I know I've heard, the grass is always greener on the other side, but then when you get to the other side, you want to go back.  We humans are like that, aren't we?  It's hard to decide just what we want.  So I challenge you, decide what you want in life!

Take that first step and make a decision.  It's the hardest part.

Then, and only then, can you start making a plan and taking small steps to accomplish what you want.  Be the person you want to be.  Decide what you want.  Do it today -- I challenge you.

   

Heart of the West Annual Conference

The leaves are changing to the bright, bold beautiful colors of fall in our Utah Mountain.  That means it's conference time.  I just got back from attending our annual RWA Conference in beautiful Park City at the Grand Summit Hotel in the Canyons Resort.  It was a superb conference where I got to meet with other writers, good friends, publishers, editors, speakers, and attend wonderful workshops.  There was so much information provided that it's hard to take it all in, but everyone who attended definitely got their money's worth.  If you didn't attend this year and love writing, learning and networking, put it on your schedule to attend next year.

I had a wonderful surprise the first morning.  We had a brunch with other published writers and to my great surprise, one of our guest speakers was author, Anne Stuart.  I just started reading one of her books and it was great to meet her and talk to her and gain from her wealth of experience.  I also had the opportunity to meet Lisa Mangum, Editor, Shadow Mountain Publishing.  What an interesting young woman who also has several books published and available at Deseret Books.

One of the great perks of this conference is getting loads of free books, many by new authors, some by long-time published authors.  I love reading these books and finding new favorite writers.  

It was two days full to the brim with information, great food, wonderful networking and time spent with good friends and fellow authors.  If you are a writer, or want to be one, definitely plan to attend the Utah RWA Conference next year.

My Newest Book, Dangerous Deception

I just found my book, Dangerous Deception, on sale at Amazon.com -- if you haven't gotten your copy, now is the time to download it. If you don't have an Amazon Kindle e-reader, it's still available in most all electronic formats at http://bookstrand.com/dangerous-deception

I had my first book signing and my friend, Marie Higgins, just sent me a picture of us sitting together at Barnes and Noble in Layton.  I signed my book, Never Too Late, My Love.  It turned out great and I want to thank all my friends and family for coming out and supporting me. 

Marie has a new book out titled, Hearts Through Time.  It's available at Amazon, Deseret Book and probably your local book store.  If you've not read her work, you're missing out.  She's an awesome writer.  I bought her book and can't wait to read it.  You should too.

Here's a thought for the day:

Success is not the key to happiness.
Happiness is the key to success.
If you love what you are doing
You will be successful.
                ----Albert Schweitzer

Have a great day -- read good books -- fall in love over and over again.

I Have News

I just got word from Bookstrand Publishing that they want my next story, Murder and Lies.  It's scheduled to be released in electronic formats in January 2012 and in print format in May 2012.  I'm excited.  It is always so nice to know that someone likes your story and wants to publish it.  Watch for it.  It's another mystery and I think you'll like it.

I also received an e-mail from a reader of my story, Never Too Late, My Love. She says: "This was a awesome book.  I couldn't put it down....It was great."  Thank you so much Joslyn for letting me know you enjoyed my story.  That's why I write.  I love creating stories and especially love it when I hear from a reader who enjoys reading them.

Here's a thought for the day:
Remember yesterday
Dream about tomorrow
But live for today!

Have a wonderful day -- dream lots of good dreams. 

Dangerous Deception

My newest story, Dangerous Deception is on sale.  If you haven't gotten your copy, now is the time to go to Bookstrand Publishing and buy it. 

My stories, Never Too Late, My Love and Can You Trust A Cowboy? are also offered at a sale price for a short time.  Now is the time to get your copy if you haven't yet.

Go to:  http://www.bookstrand.com/k-r-bailey

While you're looking for great reading, my friend Terri J. Lynn's book, Out of the Past, is available at Bookstrand Publishing also.  Check it out!

Great Reading - great romance!

Open Your Heart and Love Again!

My Newest Story

I just got home from a fun weekend with my husband, son and his family.  We spend a long weekend fishing and enjoying the outdoors, stayed in a quaint little cabin at Fish Lake Lodge, and caught so many fish my arms were tired from reeling them in.  I knew that my newest book, Dangerous Deception, was to be published in August.  I've completed the first round of edits and have been waiting for the next set.  Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised to find the e-mail with the cover.  I had to show it off.  Dangerous Deception is a romantic suspense which takes place in the beautiful northern Utah mountains.

If you love sleek Morgan horses, rodeos and ranches, handsome cowboys and murder and suspense sprinkled throughout the story, I think you'll enjoy my newest book.

Here's the cover.  What do you think?

Where Did My Day Go?

It's been over a month since I last blogged, and I don't have any idea where my time has gone.  Oh, I can think of a few things we did -- a small vacation to Yellowstone with some great friends which wa super relaxing; a concert to see The Oak Ridge Boys and they were fantastic; and, of course, visits with family and a couple dinners out, but it doesn't cover the entire month.  Do you ever wonder where your days go?

A friend of mine - a great author, Cindy Christiansen - interviewed me for her blog and one of her questions was what I had learned in the writing process.  Isn't it sad that the first thing that came to mind is I let too many mundane things take over my hours and days?  That got me thinking, and once again I made a new resolution to take more advantage of my time and write.  I have alot of stories running around in my head -- I'm a writer, a published author, and I think all of us have stories that are begging to come out.  So I've made a few goals:

1.  Write something every day.  Now, I have to admit it may not be a new story, and it might be some e-mails staying in touch with my friends, developing marketing items, even blogging.  But I need to write.  Once I start writing, I want to continue and that's how I'll figure out how to finish my current story and get started on another one.

2.  Write down what I need to accomplish.  I'm a note maker.  It really helps me when I get to cross an item off my list.  So, I have a notebook by my chair in our family room, by my bed in the bedroom, and of course by my computer. Each day I'll work to cross off things from my list.

3.  Quit chastising myself when I don't get some writing done.  Yes, I tend to get disappointed in myself very easiily and the sad part is, that doesn't seem to help.  So, I refused to let myself get depressed and, instead, will keep striving to get my writing accomplished.

4.  Reward myself when I complete another goal - okay, I'll probably reward myself more than I should, but I think it is very important to pat yourself on the back when you accomplish someting you've been working on.

5.  Read.  Okay, I love to read, so this won't be a hard goal to achieve.  But I have met so many wonderful authors and have so many books on my to be read list, that I think it is very important for me to read, keeping up with what is new on the market.

6.  Write up reviews and send to my author friends.  I know I love to hear that people like my stories. I spend so much time creating characters, putting them through so many challenges, taking them on a journey to love and happiness, that it is so fulfilling when someone says to me, "I loved your story," or "I couldn't put your book down."  I want to do that for others.

I hope you are better at using your time than I am, but even if you're not, be happy, do what you love, and it will workout.  If you have other things to add to my list that seem to work for you, I'd love to hear from you.

Have a great day!

Bargain eBooks

If you love your electronic reader or just like reading electronic books, here's a great web spot you need to visit.  Bargain eBooks.  It spotlights ebooks that are priced under $5.00.  It has all genres, both fiction and non-fiction, novels, novellas, short stories and poetry.  There's alot of info out there.  If you love to read, check it out at:  http://bargainebooks.blogspot.com/

Friends

Good friends are like stars ...  You don't always see them, but you know they are always there.

I really liked this thought and wanted to share it.  I've been lucky to have really wonderful friends.  Friends who I know are there for me through everything life has thrown at me.  I have a husband who is my best friend and soul mate.  I have a sister who has always been my confident, supporter and listener.  I have so many great friends.  I hope each of you do too.  And if you do, be sure to be a great friend back.  Nurture your friendships.  They can hold a special place in your heart.

My newest book - Dangerous Deception

Watch for my next story, Dangerous Deception.
I just signed a contract with Siren-Bookstrand Publishing and this book is scheduled to be released in August in electronic format.  It should be available in print prior to Christmas. 

Here's a brief blurb:

After her father's freak riding accident, Saxon Hunter gives up her dreams of being on the rodeo circuit to rush home only to find her happy ranch life replaced by odd accidents and murder.  Deception is everywhere.  In her quest to unravel the mysterious clues, she's plunged into the dangerous world of murder and drugs.

Morgan Michaels, a DEA agent, goes undercover to expose a drug ring.  When he meets Saxon, he isn't prepared for the srong attraction he feels.  Things get complicated because evidence indicates Saxon and her family are involved in the case he's trying to solve.

When Saxon learns that Morgan has deceived her, she's devastated; but as things heat up, she finds he's her only chance for survival.  The question is can they make their way through all the lies to regain trust and find love?

A Tribute To Mothers

Mother's Day is Sunday, and I hope you all take time to honor your mothers.  They are special people, and even though my Mom has been gone for nearly nine years, I still have a special place in my heart for my mom.  As I sit here thinking about Mother's Day, several things come to mind I'd like to share with you.

1.  My Mom was my special support during my life.  She was always there for me as my best friend, my helper, and my champion.  I always knew she'd be there if I needed to talk, and I have missed having her in my life these past years.

2.  She provided love and nurturing in my life.  I never had to wonder if someone loved me because my Mom was always there.  I think back and realize how much she gave up for herself to give to me and my siblings.  I never took the time to thank her like I should have so I can just hope that she knew it even if we didn't say the words.  Don't take that chance.  If your Mom is still alive, take time to tell her how much you love and appreciate all she has done for you.

3.  She was a great example of what a wonderful woman should be.  She stood strong for what she believed.  She actively taught me what she always felt was important in this life, things that I'll never forget, and I am so appreciative of the time she took.

4.  She loved my father and showed our family what it was like to be a loving wife in a loving family.  I feel so lucky to have been part of that union because in today's world, so many don't have the luxury of having parents who still love and enjoy each other's company.

For everyone who is a mother, I honor you and wish you a very Happy Mother's Day.  For those lovely women who don't have children, take time to show your love and support to others, be an example of what a woman should be.

My God bless you mothers this mother's day.

Cindy Christiansen's New Book

Cindy A Christiansen has a new book due out this summer.  Its title is Caskets and Corruption, and it's a great story.  It's one I know you'll enjoy.

Ms. Christiansen writes a fast-paced story where two very different characters are thrown together with a funny, hairless dog, and must find a way to survive. She takes them on a wild ride, throwing them into situations that take them deeper and deeper into trouble, and you wonder how they can ever get out.  Add in some humor, suspense, and tenderness, and you’ve got a great story I’d recommend to everyone.

If you've never read her books, you're really missing out.  Visit her web site at:  http://www.dragonflyromance.com/

Happy reading! 

Never Too Late, My Love

My book, Never Too Late, My Love, is available in print!  It's my first in a print edition.

You can order your copy through Amazon.com or Barnes and Nobles.

Here's an excerpt:

Elisa lay next to Henry listening to his soft snoring, still in wonder at what they had done. Their joining had been perfect, but she felt sad. She knew it was wrong. They were so wrong for each other, and it broke her heart. She knew it was time to leave before they got so involved they couldn’t break it off. She didn’t belong here, and he had made his life in this desert community.

She leaned up on her arm and gazed at his strong face and committed the sight to memory. She knew she couldn’t stay. She wanted his love but knew he could never give her his heart totally. She craved his warmth and realized she would never be completely happy if he wouldn’t give her his total love.

She kissed her fingers and gently placed them on his mouth, being careful not to wake him. Her eyes caressed his body, and she smiled at the sweet memory of their lovemaking. He had been kind and gentle, taking care to please her before himself. She sighed as she pushed those thoughts from her mind. She couldn’t stay. It wasn’t right. He didn’t want to be in love.

Life with Henry would be hard, and Elisa wasn’t sure she could live in this desert town, and even if she could, she wasn’t sure how long she could take the roller-coaster ride their life together would be. One moment he was kind and gentle. The next moment, he withdrew and became cold and unfeeling. She wanted the loving, gentle person but didn’t know if she could accept the other side of Henry.

Moving slowly, Elisa got out of the bed and picked up her clothing. She paused at the door and looked at the sleeping form covered with light from the bright stars. She blew a quiet kiss and tiptoed back to her room where she dressed hurriedly, put her things into her suitcase, and made her escape. Once she got into her little car, she took one long, last look at the old ranch house that had become so dear to her. Before she drove out of the driveway and down the deserted lane, she once again pondered the enigma of the sleeping man, the man she had just lain with and made love to. What had caused him to run away and resist letting someone into his heart and his life? Why would he fight letting someone love him the way she was willing to love him?

Elisa shook her head, took one last glance at the old farmhouse, the dilapidated barn, the mountains, and the large fields, then drove her car down the lane.

The sky was full of stars, and a bright moon shone in the dark night. It was easy to find her way, and she didn’t turn on her headlights until she was well away from the house. She couldn’t take the chance of waking Henry. If he came after her, she would never be able to leave him.

Just as she stopped at the stop sign before turning onto the long road toward Wendover, she felt the presence of something and turned to look around. A prickle of unease filled her, but there was nothing, only the sensation of being watched.

She pulled the car onto the highway and drove away from Henry. Once she left the community for the deserted road, the feeling of being watched filled her again. She looked around once again. This time, two golden eyes shone eerily in the blackness of the night. The wolf spirit.

“Oh, go away,” Elisa cried out. “Why are you here? What do you want? Stay away from me.”

She kept driving, but the sensation that someone or something was out there stayed with her. She kept looking around. She knew the two golden orbs that reflected around her were just her imagination. There was no such thing as a wolf spirit, and she refused to allow it to change her mind about leaving.

At the next stop sign before pulling onto the main road to Wendover, the eyes were there in front of her, shining stronger and brighter than ever. She sat staring back at those eyes, trying to understand. Didn’t Chief Mountain Eagle tell her if she listened, the wolf spirit would tell her things? She couldn’t hear anything. She didn’t believe in spirits anyway. It was absurd, and she needed to get away. She was tired of the ghost lore. The desert was getting to her. Everywhere was quiet peacefulness, and yet her heart was crying with the knowledge she would never see Henry again.

“Oh, God, help me.” She put her head into her hands once again and let the tears flow. Her soul craved what it couldn’t have. Her body still burned for the touch of Henry. Her mouth was still swollen from his kisses, and her breasts still tingled from his touch. But it would never work. He was too old and stubborn and set in his ways. She didn’t need to feel the unease of wondering what had upset him and made him pull away from her. She couldn’t continue to live like this anymore. He had said the same thing. He wasn’t ready for love. He didn’t want a woman in his life. He liked being an old bachelor, alone on his farm. There was no choice. She had to leave. She couldn’t put either of them through it again. They had slipped and let their bodies love, but she knew it couldn’t happen again. It wasn’t right. They were two opposites.

Elisa pulled the Mustang onto the highway and headed away from Ibapah, away from the wolf spirit that haunted her, away from the gentle people she was learning to love, away from the man who had captured her heart, and toward her home, her life alone.

Success Tips

I'm a Utah Jazz Fan.  Have been since the days of John Stockton and Karl Malone. Can't quit watching now even with all the changes happening.  Anyway, last night as I sat watching the Jazz game -- and they won, yeah! I started thinking about what an NBA player needs to do to succeed and I got to thinking so many of the steps are what any of us need to succeed.  Let me share some of the things I came up with.  Perhaps they can help you or perhaps it will bring other things to mind. 

1.  Enjoy what you do.  This is a must.  Can you imagine an NBA athlete playing ball every single day, week after week, being away from home and family if he didn't enjoy the game?  Well, I think that applies to being a writer or doing anything else you want to to do.  My sister is a quilter and she lives and breathes it and it's a good thing because I think it would drive her nuts if she didn't -- and because she loves it so she is definitely succeeding.  I enjoy writing my stories.  It's fun to create new characters, put challenges before them, and somtimes I'm even surprised at the outcome.  But, bottom line, I enjoy it.

2.  Practice, practice, practice.  An NBA athlete must practice constantly, and as a writer, I feel I have to practice writing.  The only way to improve your craft is to practice it, strive to improve.  Spend time going over and over what you do, working hard to be the best.

3.  Do it every day!  Before every game, I hear about NBA players working out, playing scrimmage, dribbling the ball.  It's on going day after day.  It must work for them.  We need to take that to heart and do the same. You've heard the old saying, if you don't use it, you lose it.  Well, I believe that is so true.  If you don't continue to push yourself, working at it regularly, day after day, you lose your touch.  I'm a piano player or at least I used to be pretty good, but it's sad I don't play much any more and because of that, I've definitely lost my touch.  Oh, I can still read the music and figure out where the keys are, but the flow, the ease of playing has gone.  I think your writing is the same.  You have to keep writing, keep producing, use new words, keep your mind thinking of new stories, settings, etc, because if you don't, you'll start to lose your touch.  Don't let that happen to you.

4.  Keep learning.  NBA players are constantly learning new plays from their coaches.  They are constantly challenged by other players and other teams. Writers need to keep learning their craft.  Take classes.  On-line courses are easy and inexpensive.  Strive to keep learning ways to fine-tune your writing, tighten up those sentences, try new words, learn and research constantly.  Don't become stagnant or the world will leave you in the dust.

5.  Talk to writers.  Join writer's groups.  Share your talents.  Let them share with you.  Be a mentor to someone who is just starting.  NBA players are great at mentoring and sharing.  Just in the last few weeks, I listened to C. J. Miles one of our Utah Jazz talk about how much he appreciated Deron Williams for working with him and showing him in practice.  I know, myself, that since joining our Utah RWA Chapter, I have learned so much from the experience of other writers.  I challenge you to do the same.  Not only will this help you continue to learn and grow, but it will enforce the things you know by teaching others, talking about what you've learned.

6.  Celebrate your successes!  Ever watch a ball team after they win?  Oh, yeah, they definitely celebrate their success.  It could be a high five, a hug, carrying their leader on their shoulders or pouring their drinking barrell over the coach's head, but they celebrate.  We have to do the same thing.  Whether it be the completion of your first novel, a request from an editor for your manuscript, or a book that finally is published, celebrate.  Let the world know how you've succeeded.  Let others be a part of your happiness.  I can't tell you how fun it is to hear all the words of congratulations I get from my critique partners and my RWA Chapter.  It definitely boosts your confidence and gives you the energy to take the next step on your journey to success.

You create your own destiny. Take charge.  Take the first step.  Keep working.  There is nothing so sweet as succeeding.

I'd love feedback if anyone can think of other things to add to what I've written.

Have a great day!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

Today is traditionally a day for lovers, and I wish you much love.  Spend it being happy even if you don't have a special love.  Give love to those around you -- especially to yourself.  Do something you love -- eat some chocolate, watch your favorite movie, or read a great book.  If you have a special someone, cherish them, laugh together, and love together. Remember:

If you love something, let it go free
If it comes back to you, it's yours ---
If it doesn't, it wasn't supposed to be.
      ---anonymous

Watch For My New Novel - Feb 4, 2011

My novel, Never Too Late, My Love, is being released in electronic format February 4, 2011 through Bookstrand Publishing.  Check it out!
http://www.bookstrand.com/

I Got A Sony E-Reader

I can't believe how fast the days go by.  Already it's the middle of January and time to start looking forward to a new year.  I hope everyone had a lovely Chrstmas Season and that the New Year is starting out wonderfully for each of you and that it will be one of your best yet. 

I got a wonderfuly surprise from my husband for Christmas -- a Sony E-Reader, and I'm thoroughly enjoying it.  I wasn't sure how I'd like to read from an electronic gadget.  I've always been a book lover and have a hard time getting rid of my favorite stories.  But my reader is awesome.  I went out and purchased an e-book by RaeAnnThayne, a wonderful author and friend of mine.  Next I went to the website of Ginger Simpson and purchased her book, Sarah's Journey, one that had been on my to be read list for longer than I want to admit.  Next I talked to the local library and they have talked to me about how to download books.  I'm really excited about my e-reader.

Several friends of mine have e-readers like the Kindle and Nook.  I haven't found anyone who doesn't enjoy being able to download new books in seconds, take several on vacations without filling up their suitcase with lots of bulk, and being able to enlarge the print for those of us who have a hard time as we get more mature -- don't want to admit I'm getting old!

If you haven't looked into the e-readers, do it.  I think you'll be pleasantly surprised!