Friday, November 30, 2007

Al...Most...There....

3:00 PM: It's official...the ms is 50,038 words:) I know...barely over the limit, but it's DONE! Okay, not done as in finished and ready for publication. Huh-uh. Far from it. This is probably my worst first draft ever. And I already know what is going to be headed for the delete button.

But I'm happy. I managed to accomplish something which intrigued me last year, and I don't know if I'll be so enthusiastic to try again next year. We'll just have to wait and see.

As AJ says, time for a glass of plonk. Or in this case, a bottle or two of White Russian Kahluas...hell, I may even drink all 4 tonight. I'm celebrating:)

I am less than 3 thousand words away from my goal.

And I am so sick of my characters I could scream.

I never thought I'd ever say that, but it's true! For the past 30 days, I have been immersed in the lives of these fictional people, who meet, connect, lose contact, reconnect, ignite the flames of passion, fight their growing feelings, and a whole lot of other stuff. The book has even tried to come to a natural conclusion 3 times. But the rules say I have to have 50K words, not merely 32K! So I've added some mindless conversations; idiotic descriptions of everything from preparing a meal to whatever room the characters happen to be in. I'm not planning on even touching this wip until at least 3-6 months, so I can let my brain clear before I start deleting huge blocks of text.

And I'm not normally this way.

Take my Arbor U series...I've been with these characters for twenty years, and I'm still not tired of them. Granted, I've not devoted 8 hours every day to their stories; in fact, I'm trying to write Lynne's right now, and the words just aren't coming. My initial goal for this month was to work on both wips, but Head of the Class took over early and pushed Love is Color Blind out of my brain.

This didn't happen when I wrote Wild at Heart in 4 weeks, but then, it's only 40K words. The longest wip to date is an untitled work that would have my BFF horrified if she would ever read it...it kind of parallels some of our histories, some I wrote before it even happened! So you see why I'm reluctant to finish it...and I worked on it steadily last April, and now some of the events are unfolding as I write this! Scary...

So this revelation this month has me wondering, am I simply not a person who can deal with a deadline when it comes to my creativity? Is it a good thing I've gotten a head start, so if I do get a contract for the rest of my books, the next five are practically ready to go? Or am I simply one of those whom 'the muse will not be rushed'?

I feel drained. As soon as I complete these final words later today, I am taking some of my hard-earned cash and treating myself to my favorite adult beverage for the evening. And tomorrow, I'll be off to the Author Showcase to sign and sell copies of my books, meet Tracy in person again, and buy hers. And spend a solitary evening in a motel room and pray the roads are dry on Sunday as I drive home. And beginning Monday, I start baking cookies. The only writing I expect to do the month of December is posting my blog; making comments on others; sending out Christmas cards; and email correspondence.

Of course, if the muse gets a hold of me and demands I write, I cannot be held accountable for retracting the above statement!

Thursday, November 29, 2007

What???

Woo hoo:) Word Count: 3092:) And it's not even dinner time:) Rewarded myself at the halfway mark with Barbara Huffert's book, My Last Dark Day, so blame, er, thank her for inspiring me to get creative! I can relax the rest of the evening; it's Suvivor Night and CSI; unless, of course, I decide to get a jump on tomorrow's final 3000...Barb's book was great! It's a short one; only 52 or so pages, but shows what can happen when you open yourself up to new ideas...kind of left me wanting more...like what happens next? Sequel, Barb??? Does the 'relationship' continue??

I'm flabbergasted. Gobsmacked. Couldn't believe my ears when I heard this.

Did anyone else hear about this week's Time Magazine article? Some earlier episodes of Sesame Street are out on DVD...you know, the ones we (30-40's) grew up with. And apparently, they come with a warning label.

"Contents may not be suitable for today's preschoolers"..

WHAT??? Or more eloquently, WTF??? (I try to run a clean blog, but this is just insane enough to warrent the 'F' word, even in cyberspeak!)

Okay...Cookie monster has spawned childhood obesity because he eats cookies. Hellooooo....that's his whole character! Oscar is too grouchy? Oh my...so we're fat and grumpy...oh wait, isn't he a Disney character? What's next...let's outlaw the 7 dwarves because we might (gasp!) actually display an unacceptable emotion in the mornings? Or if we're over-stressed? Oh yeah...let's all go on Paxil...a friend of mine was on it for PMDD and she said it made her so mellow, she couldn't even enjoy sex...made her absolutely blah. Emotional flatline.

Well, I've got news. I'm going to eagerly invest in these DVDs before they get pulled off shelves for their 'unsuitable' content. I missed the "Song of the South" movie...it was outlawed for portraying a 'negative, stereoptype' of African-Americans. Why haven't Native Americans thrown a fit about Peter Pan? Have you not seen the Indian scene? Smoking the peace pipe, saying "How" and "Heap big pirates" or something like that. It's been a while since I've actually seen it, as our copy is on VHS and buried in storage.

For the record, I am not a white supremest. I respect my fellow Americans, whatever their race. But several years ago, when trying to read "Uncle Remus Stories" to my then 1st grader, I longed for the Song of the South movie I had loved as a child. Yes, I can mimic the dialect of Brer Rabbit, Brer Bear, and Brer Fox...and this is something my children have never heard. It did not make me a racist; I did not grow up making fun of the dialect. It was funny as a child, and my kids just stare blankly when we're having an argument and I'll say, "You can pull out my ears, rip off my tail, but please, please, PLEASE don't throw me in dat briar patch!"

Am I the only one who misses that movie?

I digressed somewhere...oh yeah...blame Disney.

And I also heard that a congressman is trying to get spanking outlawed in one's own home. How the hell are they going to enforce that? And what about the couples who use this as foreplay? Can you just imagine this one...the police show up and catch the couple happily enjoying each other. Oops! "Sorry...put your clothes on; you're under arrest..." Sorry. Maybe that's not a good visual for this early in the morning! But can you see them in front of the judge, displaying their, er, proof? Okay...enough on that.

As I was saying about Sesame Street...I am not overweight; I do consume more cookies than I should, but I also eat healthy. I am not a morning person, and feel that at least once a month, everyone has a right to be a grouch. These so-called 'experts' should shut their sanctimonious mouths and let those with us with common sense raise our children the way we see fit. There is more than enough books on the subject, and yes, some of them contradict each other. Hell, I thought I had this parenting thing down until the baby arrived and he acts nothing like the other two! Eat your words, Mom...what worked for the first one doesn't always work for the rest...now where have I heard that before? Oh yes...my own mom, because my sis and I were worlds apart in temperament!

So enough with our preschooler's DVDs...leave them alone, unless mistakes are made, such as porno making its way onto them...then by all means recall/censor them. What's next, Mr. Rogers being labeled for being 'unsuitable' for being, as the radio personality put it, "fashionably challenged"?

Come ON!

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Common Courtesy...

Word Count: 3034. It's midnight, and I'm exhausted! I will be sooooo glad to finally post this thing on Friday and forget about it for several months! I'm getting heartily sick of my characters' sex lives...the story has tried to end itself 3 times already, and I'm just a tad over 44K. Only 6K left...and two more days. I should be able to do it!

The following has been posted with permission of Zola, one of the ArcaMax chefs whose e-zine I stumbled across last winter. I've tried some of her yummy recipes, as well as Chef James, Wolfgang Puck (although some of his are too spicy or too complicated, but there's one that's a monthly fav!), and the ArcaMax chef himself.

Given the holiday season is upon us, and people are rushing about, let us not forget to be courteous when we're entertaining, shopping, or even eating at our favorite restaurants. And if you're looking for great recipes to spice up your meals, please visit http://www.dinnerwithzola.com/ and sign up for the free ArcaMax e-zine. You won't be disappointed!

A Study in Human Nature...

During this time of gift-giving, generosity and the human spirit, I want to talk about courtesy.

I came by my experience with this phenomenon a few days ago. I was at a very special gathering. I was asked by a special friend to cook a lunch/brunch for 125 people and I had to prepare quickly. I only had a couple of days’ notice. The gathering was going to be in Wisconsin, so the first thing I had to do was drive up from Chicago.

My niece lives at my house in Madison (now that I live most of the time in Chicago). I heard she was planning to have a couple of friends come in for the weekend. When my niece heard I was going to be working hard on this event she volunteered herself, her boyfriend and the other couple as help. I was overjoyed and relieved. There was no doubt I needed help. My back is much better, but my body is not ready to carry the full responsibility for a party that big. On my best days I’d still need help.

We made the best of the evening when we were cooking. It was a party atmosphere. Even another good friend, Troy, joined us and made a major effort to help out. It was the wee hours before we finished up for the night and we had to get up at the crack of dawn in order to have the whole event ready for the guests to arrive.

And arrive they did. All 125 of them.

We set out a brunch with Cheesy Hash browns, baked French Toast, Italian Pot Pie, and a whole host of other side items. (You can find the recipes for the hash browns and the pot pie on my website at http://www.dinnerwithzola.com/).

My “crew” set up the buffet tables and it looked gorgeous; down-right professional. In order to feed that many we had to serve in chafing dishes I had rented from A-Z. You couldn’t tell the buffet was set up by a bunch of young adults with no professional cooking experience. It was a sight to behold. I was very proud of this group of young adults.

They volunteered to serve at the event and to keep things tidy as well as clean up after the guests left. That way I could circulate amongst the group.

I kept a slight eye on the buffet table but gave them little advice along the way. They were doing a perfect job.

It wasn’t until after we had the whole party cleaned up that I heard about some of the comments from guests. I won’t go into specific detail but there were times these young adults were treated like minor slaves. Comments were made to them about all kinds of things. (No one was complaining about the food. Thank goodness. They loved the food.)

Here’s one specific example: One of the young adults went up to a woman who was holding an empty plate. It was obvious she had finished her food. There were stains on the plate and her fork was dirty but she was holding it while talking. The crew-person asked if she would like her plate removed so she could chat. The woman laid into the crew-person railing something about, “How dare you! I’m not done! I’m going back to the buffet”. Of course the crew person backed off politely and went to clean up other plates and glasses left behind. On another occasion one of the crew was chewed out for not serving drinks fast enough. (The drinks were served buffet style so the crew person showed her where to get a drink. The drinks were right next to the buffet. They were difficult to miss.) This was just the beginning. I’ll save your ears some of the rest of the borderline insults. (And for those of you who think alcohol was the catalyst. It wasn’t. No alcohol was served).

The interesting thing is that when most of the guests learned these young folks were not part of a catering company, but friends of the woman who orchestrated the cooking on behalf of the hostess, they turned 180 degrees in their language and attitude. When they found out, they were not only courteous, but full of compliments and thankfulness.

My question, is what’s the difference? The young adults didn’t change clothes; didn’t change faces. They were still the same people. Why is it that when some people think you work for a caterer you are a target for abuse and when you are a “friend of the family” it’s completely different? I don’t think it is different. If I ever had an inkling of starting a catering company, that experience pretty much killed it.

In this time of holiday spirit, parties and generosity I’d love it if you’d help me promote courtesy to those who serve us all. In America we have a lot to learn. I daresay it may be a worldwide phenomenon.

Bless you all as keepers of the faith in the kindness of mankind.


For more information on Zola and to see more of her recipes, visit her Web site at http://www.dinnerwithzola.com/

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Head of the Class

Word Count: 3025:) Computer threw a fit and had to shut it down for a while. After I turned it back on, the kids monopolized it for nearly 2 hours. What can I say...I'm a mom, and due to an unexpected friend wanting to talk, I didn't get much writing accomplished between 9 and noon:) Oh well...it was worth it!

Currently reading: Chariots of the Gods, by Erich Von Daniken. Interesting theory, and really makes me wish I'd followed through on my desire as a 12-year-old to become an archaelogist and discover ancient secrets...Damn Speilburg and that movie, LOL:) Okay...blame my overactive imagination and believing I'd ever end up like Indiana Jones, ha ha...

E-books: Still haven't read Barb Huffert's My Last Dark Day. I'm tired, and since I have a 13-year-old who needs total darkness so she can sleep, it will have to wait another day. Sorry Barb!

Also WON Amarinda Jones' The Goddess and the Ghost, which was released yesterday. Will read it AFTER I read Barb's...

Thought I'd give you a glimpse of the wip I'm nearly finished with. This excerpt is rated R, for some language and euphimisms. This is NOT part of my Arbor U series, although there is a reference later on to some of the characters in book #13...Not in this one, though. Enjoy, and let me know what you think:)




He waited two uncomfortable days before looking up her home number. He called, and requested she meet with him the next day after school. And made sure he picked a room where he could lock the door!
She was punctual, a trait he admired in women. His cock rose and saluted when she entered the room, wearing form-fitting dark jeans and a soft pink shirt which went well with her peaches and cream complexion. Her hair was caught up in the same loose bun, with tendrils falling in front of her ears. Pink and silver earrings fell from her lobes, and there were still no rings on either hand.
“Mr. Tayler?” she hesitated in the doorway. “You wanted to speak to me about Danny?”
He shoved himself off the desk, where he’d been sitting, feeling his erection growing stiffer by the moment. “Call me Kevin,” he said huskily, taking her hand and closing the door. “I’ve been out of my mind, wondering who you were these past few months.” He brought her hand up to his mouth, softly kissing the backside of her hand.
She jerked her hand away. “That was a mistake,” she snapped, putting some space between them. Color flooded her face. “I can’t believe we…that I allowed…you know,” she sputtered.
“Fucked you brainless?” He arched an eyebrow.
Her complexion was darker than her t-shirt. “Could we please talk about my son?” she asked, teeth clenched. Stay cool…count to ten…Her hand felt like it was on fire from where he’d touched his lips to her skin. Images flashed through her brain as she remembered the reckless way they had crashed together in the front seat of his car, and she moved another step farther away from his commanding presence. She cleared her throat nervously. “I mean, that is why you called.”
“I lied.” He closed the door and locked it, noting her sudden panicky expression. “You’ve been haunting me for months, Tammy. I go to sleep at night, and you’re in my dreams. I catch sight of a woman whose hair is cascading down her back and I try to catch sight of her face, hoping it’s you.” His eyes held her blue ones as he slowly moved closer. “Don’t tell me you haven’t thought of me the past months…”
His blatant arrogance and cocky manner struck a chord within her. “Thought of you?” she gasped, curling her lips into what she hoped was a sneer. “Oh, right. Let me see if I have this correctly. We have mind-blowing sex, I run off to collect my kids, and you’re telling me that you, Mr. Obviously Popular, can’t sleep at night because the poor sex-starved widow never bothered to tell you her name? Is your ego that fragile?” She laughed. “Believe me, I’ve lost no sleep over it.” She crossed her arms defiantly over her chest, hoping he wouldn’t notice her knees shaking as he drew nearer.
“Then let me refresh your memory.” His lips closed over hers as his arms pulled her stiffly forward. His tongue prodded between her lips and with a quiet moan, she opened them slightly.
Encouraged, he made small circles on her back as he felt her tongue answer his. But she remained stiff, and when he finally ended the kiss, he saw her eyes had darkened to a midnight blue. He moved his hands to her shoulders and traced her lower lip with his thumb. “You’re telling me you feel nothing? Your body betrays you.”

Monday, November 26, 2007

Kicking into High Gear...

Word Count: Did it!! 3031! Was going to treat myself to Barbara Huffert's e-book...but I need to go to bed. Hubby was rained out, as expected, and so I've been working on this all day, in shifts. Tomorrow should be more of a 'normal' day for me. But just knowing I'm capable of spitting out 3000 words feels great! I'm going to post it on my NaNo site and get some rest:)

I posted my word count on yesterday's blog...2634:) Fell short of the goal of 3000, but decided to check out some intriguing excerpts posted on LoveRomanceCafe, and was soon chatting away with the author and other authors online:) And just when I decided to get cracking on my remaining 400 words, hubby pointed out it was 10:30; daughter was trying to sleep, and if I didn't get offline in the next 10 seconds, he was shutting off the power strip to the computer. So I logged off and went to bed.

Am heading down to the shower as soon as I post. I have to make several calls today, one especially to finally find a temporary family doctor. I have a kid with strep throat, and he needs a follow-up this week, before his swim meet on Saturday. And taking him to Indianapolis to our regular doctor isn't practical this week! Why has it taken me so long? Who knew we'd still be down here? Not that I'm anxious for the MIL to die...but I happen to love my family doctor, and his b-day is on Thursday...he's 20 days older than me, and I always tease him about it!

I'm also determined to accomplish that NaNo goal of 50K word ms by Friday. So in keeping with my determination, I'm cutting the rambling short, and after my shower and calls are made, I'm working steadily on that wip until my fingers bleed, or my 3000+ words for the day are finished!

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Morning Chuckle

Word Count: 2634. Finally...more than 300 words at a time:)

Talked to my mother last night. She's ordered a couple of my books from Borders, and she received a phone call saying that Love is Sober came in, but not Love Finds a Way.

Reason?

"It's too old; it must be out of print."

My mother gently corrected her, saying, "I beg to differ. It came out last week. I know there are other books with that same title, but only one by Molly Daniels! Could you please try again?"

I don't know if she revealed that it was her daughter's book or not, but Mom called me to ask about the publication date! She also told me she was thrilled to read the interview with AJ back on Wed, and wondered, "How do people 'talk' to you on the site?""

"Hit the 'comment' button, Mom. And then get either a Google or Blogger account. It's free, and you can comment on how brilliant your daughter comes across in written form:)"

Switching gears, AJ commented last night she doesn't understand my fascination with Beverly Hills 90210. This show came out in 1989 or early 1990, when I was on my own for the first time, and a) had little time to watch TV, except for Monday Night Football and Twin Peaks; and b) the idiot I was dating was a control freak and if I chose to watch anything he called 'fluff TV', he found ways to make me miss the program. I kid you not; in college, we had to read the book 'Common Ground', all about the Boston bussing issue in the mid-1960's. One of the networks aired the movie, and I wanted to watch it. He sat beside me, making comments, until I stupidly decided to voice one of my problems with the Catholic Church (The birth control issue). He, a devout Catholic, who was a 25-year-old virgin at the time, promptly ripped into me about my 'slutty past behavior' and that I should promptly convert to Catholism in order to save my 'tarnished soul' from eternal damnation!

Needless to say, it wasn't long after that fight that I had the locks changed on my apartment and with the help of his brother, moved everything belonging to him back to the family farm!

And no, I never did see the end of the movie. And, I might add, my TV at the time was a 13" black and white portable, and I had no cable or satelite, and no VCR at the time!

And when I married in May 1991, the show conflicted with my new hubby's favorite show, so like any good newlywed, I let him watch his show. And it wasn't until a couple of months later that I was able to catch an episode here and there, until two years later, the networks switched around the programming and the two shows were no longer in competition!

And now, 14 years later, they are happily showing every Saturday morning on SoapNet; we have 2 TV's and 2 DVR's, so I can tape, watch downstairs, and no one harasses me about 'fluff TV'! Especially since the one show I watch every week is 'Surviver', and I'm only now being able to watch an entire episode, thanks to the time change and K's swimming schedule:)

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Back on Track:)

Word Count: 1525...for the entire week. I guess I've finally broken through the 'dry' part again and hopefully can make my goal next Friday. Will just have to stay on task and get it done...hopefully, I'll have a 'creative' week:) Just did the math...3000 words per day shouldn't be too hard, should it? I believe I did it back in week #1...

At least, I hope so.

I managed to write another 500 words and am at the 31.5 K mark..Wonderful. Did the math...if I write 2600 every day for the next week, I'll accomplish that goal! Will I do it? Stay tuned and check back Nov 30...

Finally consented to leave the house yesterday, and got a treat. My commision check was cashed with no problems, and the money went in my pocket to stay. Hubby noticed I was down (a show of tears when asked, "What's wrong?" was a good indicator!) and after we left the bank, he offered to take me to Denny's for a cup of hot chocolate. I asked, "Starbucks?" and he agreed. We drove to the other side of town and spent a wonderful half hour, sipping our lattes' and brainstorming about what to get the kids for Christmas. Then, since Starbucks is postitioned in an awkward spot for making left-hand turns, we turned right and I was surprised when he turned into Kohls. And was surprised once more when he merely circled the parking lot and began to leave. "Aren't we going in?" "If you want to, we can." And he re-entered the parking lot and dropped me off at the door. Bought 3 presents, checked out, and returned home. And I was in a better mood. Shopping therapy, I guess!

Anyway, I mobilized the crew to clear the corner where we put the tree, and I went downstairs to find it. I unearthed storage containers full of wrapping paper (at least 6 or 7!), boxes of red ribbons, tinsel, door hangers, and finally found the ornaments and the tree. I had already set out the stand to be cleaned of dust and cobwebs, and stacked the boxes I wanted beside the stairs. The kids carried them upstairs; hubby began fixing the broken leg of the tree base. Duct tape, a wooden ruler, and lots of praying and it held.

Until we started decorating it.

Imagine the horror on a thirteen-year-old's face who has tested the lights, strung them beautifully over the branches, and then who has painstakingly gone through grandma's antique ornaments to lovingly decorate the tree, only to have it tip over, sending the sound of breaking glass into the ears!

The 3-year-old instantly announced, "I didn't do it!"

Hubby and daughter rightened the tree; she went to the closet and retrieved a wire coat hanger and handed it to hubby, who wired the base to the stand. Fortunately, everyone had on shoes, and only two ornaments were broken. And not the ones with sentimental value! Oldest son was stringing the porch lights, and today we may even decorate the archway inside.

Our neighbor came over with the paper; oldest son's picture was inside! The editor had asked the question, "If you could be any cartoon character, who would it be and why?"

K answered, "Elmer Fudd, because I like him!"

Personally, I like the senior's answer: "Bullwinkle the Moose, because Rudolph is overrated!"

So hopefully, I've snapped out of whatever Scrooge-like attitude I've been harboring the past two days. PMS? Adrenaline withdrawl? Or just early Holiday Panic Attack?

Time for another cup of coffee and my Saturday 90210 reruns:) Today they are showing the episode where Brenda and Donna go to Paris; order something strange off the menu, and it turns out to be brains...only saw half of this episode when it originally aired!

Friday, November 23, 2007

Mixed Feelings...

Currently reading: Total Joy, by Marabel Morgan. Sort of fitting, as I'm feeling stressed and crabby...

Finished The Summons by John Grisham. Loaned by the aunt yesterday, and it was a page turner! Really kept me guessing!

E-books: Bought Access Denied by Jaquie Roth and My Last Dark Day by Barbara Huffert. Hopefully, I'll get to read these sometime this weekend! Loved Access Denied! It was a wonderful break from the erotica, and had a very intriguing storyline! I'll definitely be rereading this one:)

I have decided I'm either kicking into hibernation mode a bit early, or I'm suffering from adrenaline withdrawl. Why?

The temperature only rose as high as 38; I did not want to leave the house.

I knew I should have baked the pies and at least started the appetizers Wednesday night, but was too tired and went to bed early. I did get the house whipped into shape, and hubby worked all day. We ate Long John Silver's for dinner.

Hubby rudely awakened me at the ungodly hour of 6:30 am...what happened to letting sleeping authors lie? Oh wait...I hadn't seen him since Monday...

Hubby and both sons went to Rural King for the Thanksgiving Day Only sale. Nice of them to get out of my hair so I could finish blogging and go shower! And they did bring me some great buys on coffee, paper towels, and toilet paper:)

Finally got semi-motivated around noon to put together the bacon-tomato cup mixture so the flavors could 'marry'. Put on my coat and went to the nursing home to 'rescue' the honorary aunt from a 'boring holiday'. She enjoyed hanging out in the kitchen and watching me make the pies, and as soon as the ham was about to come out of the oven, I finished making the b/t cups; the toddler was up from his nap, so we made cheese shapes with cookie cutters; and we popped the pies in the oven and started on the dressing and noodles. And I'd forgotten the Lil' Smokies, so threw the coctail weenies together and the veggies and rolls.

Sat down to dinner at 4:30, and now I have so many leftovers I can hardly close my fridge! But the good news is, I won't have to cook for a while, and anyone who shows up at my house during the next week will not leave hungry!

The bad news: Hubby had to take oldest son to ER, because his throat was killing him, and no matter what he took, he couldn't stop coughing and sneezing. Verdict? Strep throat which has moved into the lungs, and possibly pneumonia. (groan...) Now to keep an eye on the baby, as they share a room...

Today, we will be decorating the house for Christmas, and all I want to do is fly to some deserted tropical beach and stay there until May. There will have to be the Great Rearrangement of the living room; the baby will probably receive toys that I will be tripping over the next six months; and I am just not ready for snow. As stated, I was on such an adrenaline high when the book came out, and the sales which continue. But right now, I just want to skip it, or at least let someone else handle everything. I still have DVD's I haven't watched from last year...

(sigh...) I'll quit rambling and go drink my coffee. Then I will get dressed, go pick up my commission check and start hauling things from the basement. Thanks to my MIL, I won't have to buy wrapping paper or Christmas cards for probably the next 10 years...if anyone needs some, let me know. I'll gladly let you take as many as you need!

No shopping today. That's another chore I'm dreading! For those venturing out today, may you find what you're looking for in a speedy manner, and don't let the crowds crush you:)

Thursday, November 22, 2007

Thankful For...

1) Most importantly, this roof over our heads. Crowded it may be, but we are not homeless.

2) Hubby's continuing good health. It's been nearly 2 years since he basically died on me 3 times, and God sent him back. I've told him he can't return until the baby is in college...

3) My children. I have a budding astronaut; a future veterinarian/dog trainer and/or author; it's too early to tell what the baby will aspire when he gets older. However, if his favorite toy is any indication, he will either be a farmer or go into road construction like his father!

4) My friends, new and old. I've met some wonderful people during the past year who have encouraged me; who have inspired me; who have challenged me to stretch my creative abilities. And I've been able to prove that distance does not mean the end of the friendship, if one actively works at it. And even after 22 years, that friendships can pick up right where they left off...

5) Our lone family pet, Lucky. She lost 2 siblings this year, and is discovering the ups and downs of being the House Guard. She's endured me forgetting I had put her outside; the baby for overfeeding her; and the joys of finally not having to fight for any tidbits of 'people food' either dropped or offered:)

6) My supportive parents, who lovingly steal the grandchildren several times a year in order to give everyone a chance to recharge the batteries:)

7) The wonderful aids and nurses who take good care of the MIL and other elderly residents I have come to know.

8) My neighbor, who cuts our grass every summer and doesn't mind a 3-year-old redoing his work with his bubble mower:)

9) The freedom to write when the urge strikes...

10) My favorite butcher who provides us with good meat and the hubby who repackages it for me:)

11) Modern cleaning appliances...washer, dryer, various cleaners...I miss my dishwasher:)

12) My toddler's teachers, who have broadened his abilities and brought him out of his shell the past 3 months:) Everyone sees the changes in him!

13) Two TV's...2 DVR's...my eyesight...teenagers who have friends...a toddler whose attention span has lengthened so he can watch at least 3 half-hour programs and let his mom work...

14) Good weather, so hubby can continue to work, even in late November/early December

15) The people at the motel where he stays every week, who let him have the same room every week.

16) The waitresses at the truck stop who feeds him breakfast every morning, and sometimes dinner.

17) For readers, who enjoy my books and keep coming back for more! Without you, my creativity would be selfish.

18) Did I mention my health? And my wonderful doctor, who tolerates my self-diagnosis over the phone and trusts that I know what I'm talking about. And yes, I won't skip my physical or my mammogram this year...I promise...

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

One Last Excerpt...

Wow...a whopping 357 words so far...(sigh...) There's always tomorrow...

Just got word...CP has decided not to publish Wild at Heart. With the way this week was going, I nearly started hyperventalating when I saw the email! But opened it, and "...while the writing was good and the storyline well thought-out, we don't think it is right for us at this time..."

Think I'll try Kelly's new pubbing house, Respelendance Publishing.

Oh, do have better news: I've been accepted as a vendor at the Author's Showcase up in Muncie, In after all! Apparently, my acceptance and instructional email got lost in cyberspace...thank God I persisted and called them! Now to explain to the hubby why I'll be gone next weekend...

In honor of appearing on AJ's blog as she interrogated...I mean, interviewed me, I'm posting one last excerpt of Love Finds a Way. I don't want to give away everything!

So here's the spicier scene I posted waaaayyy back in August on Love Romance Cafe, and several people liked it! Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving to everyone. Don't know if I'll post or not; depends on how much preparations are finished tonight, and if hubby starts complaining about computer usage.


Later, when everyone had gone home, Matt gathered Amy in his arms. "I love you," he muttered.
"And I love you," she replied, kissing him.
Matt released her, locked the door, and shut off the lights. The music was still on, only playing softly. Amy turned down the bed and began to undress.
"No, don't," Matt stopped her.
"Why not? I thought you wanted me to stay," she asked, puzzled.
"I do." He took off his shirt, then joined her beside the bed. He took her face in his hands and gently began to kiss her. His lips traveled from her forehead to her cheeks, then finally recaptured her lips. They clung together, then Matt's lips moved to her ears and down her neck. Slowly, he unbuttoned her shirt and bra, and removed them. He bent down and rediscovered the hills and crevices of her young body. Amy quivered; it had been a while since they had taken time out to pleasure each other.
"Oh Matthew..." Amy sighed, her eyes closed.
He pulled her jeans down until they lay in a heap around her ankles. Rising, he removed his own pants and just gazed at her. Amy opened her eyes to meet his, and saw the love reflected in them. She let her eyes move down his tanned body, marveling at his masculine beauty: Broad shoulders, golden hair covering a strong muscled chest, then tapering off across a flat stomach and narrow hips.
Matt, in turn, was reflecting on the girl's delicate loveliness. His eyes traveled from her shoulder length blonde hair, to her softly curved body, bathed in the moonlight. He lifted his hand and gently traced her jaw, then down to brush against the roundness of her breast. He stepped closer and enfolded her in his arms, his mouth seeking hers. Scooping her up, Matt gently laid her on his bed as they gave themselves up to one another, rediscovering the joys of their passion.
Afterwards, they snuggled together, caressing and enjoying the close comfort of their bodies.

"Aim," Matt mumbled, stroking a strand of her hair. "Do you think your parents will like me?"
"I hope so," she answered slowly. "Your lifestyle is quite...different from ours, and the attitudes and customs are-"
"What attitudes?" Matt interrupted. "I mean, shit! They either accept me, or they don't!"
"Well," Amy tried to find the right words. "It's like this: Back in Indiana, my family doesn't drink or curse so much, and I know for a fact that they definitely would not approve of us sleeping together."
"I'm not changing my life! If they don't like it, they can stuff it!" Matt returned hotly.
"Ssssh...I'm not asking you to change." Amy tried to be tactful. "All I’m asking is that you not, er, curse so much," she finished lamely.
"Amy..."
"Please?" she pleaded. She rolled over and looked him in the eye. "All I ask is that you clean up your vocabulary for a few hours while we're with my parents."
"You want me to kiss ass," he commented.
"Not quite...I just want you to make a good impression." Tears welled up unexpectedly in her eyes, and she rested her head on Matt's chest. "This is important to me," she whispered.
"Oh, all right, I'll watch what I say next weekend. Can I smoke and drink beer too, or is that also taboo?"
"Stop it!" Amy locked eyes with him.
"What?" Matt asked, acting innocent.
"You know what I mean," she replied fiercely. "I'd rather you not smoke, but a few beers won't hurt. I'm not asking you to bend over backwards; all I want is for you to be civil towards them!"
"I'm always civil," he protested.
"I didn't mean it like that," Amy put her head down again. "I meant that sometimes, well, you have a tendency to act antisocial, as a know-it-all."
"I do what?"
Feeling herself losing ground, Amy groaned. The conversation wasn't going the way she'd hoped.
"I would feel better if you and my parents were to start off on the right foot," she said, choosing her words carefully. "They have the stereotypical California military officer in their minds, and I don't want them judging you in that way."
"Just out of curiosity, what exactly is the 'stereotypical California military officer'?" Matt was amused.
Amy thought for a moment. "Promise you won't get upset? He's the dedicated officer, but loud, rude, disrespectful when off duty. He's lazy; a womanizer; an alcoholic; not someone to bring home."
"So that's what your parents are expecting me to be," said Matt.
"But," Amy continued. "I've told them your good points, so they're not expecting Godzilla. Now, can we drop the subject and get some sleep?"
"No, we can't."
"Why not?"
"Because," he lowered his voice while sliding his hand down to cup her breast. "This military officer has a naked, sexy woman in his bed, and wants to take advantage of the situation!"

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

The Arrogant Fool...

Did anyone else see or hear about this? An Ivy-League man signs up on Match.com. A curious female clicks on his profile and sends an 'interested' post. Guy emails several questions, including his own info. Girl responds 'Not Interested; Do not reply' or something to that effect. Mr. Macho responds withe scathing email to the effect of 'you picked me...what gives you the right to now reject me?'

Heeeellllloooooo....Maybe, just maybe, she saw through your arrogant attitude and decided she needed someone a little more down to earth?

I kid you not. This guy appears on The Early Show and trys to defend himself! First of all, he's not that good looking. Secondly, okay...he's accomplished; got a good job; member of Mensa. But after hearing him answer one of the anchor's questions, I would have rejected him too! He was full of himself and 'oh poor me...I got rejected...what gives you the right to reject me because I've got a job and a good life...'

Plenty. We don't want 'Trophy Men'...we want someone we can relate to. Someone who will hold us when we cry; someone who will listen to us and be proud of us. Not just to hang on your every word and put you on a pedestal. No, we want men who will share every aspect with us, and reciprocate in return.

Heard a song on the radio last week I hadn't heard in quite a while (probably because I don't listen to the country channel! I was listening for the ad for my signing, and never did hear it, although I've been assurred by others they've heard it!). It was Sammy Kershaw's 'She Don't Know that She's Beautiful' and I remember a conversation that took place several years ago.

First of all, I liken myself to the Ugly Duckling. I was not attractive at age 5; was skinny and gawky as a teen. In high school, one of my best friends was a popular basketball player. Our senior year, I happened to be walking down the hall with one of the cheerleaders that I knew. We approached my friend and another guy we knew. The other guy lets out a wolf-whistle; the cheerleader promptly tosses her hair over her shoulder, giggles, and says thanks. Well, the guy who whistled stood up and says, "I wasn't whistling at you! I was whistling at Molly!"

My best friend points his finger at the other girl and says, "Yeah...there are other girls in this school who are beautiful too; don't just assume everyone is whistling at you!" Then, he puts his arm around my shoulder and he and I walked off. Once we got around the corner, his arm dropped, but we continued on. I, while appreciating seeing her being taken down a notch, told him he probably just ruined her day.

"He probably did whistle at her," I said.

I guess my expression was doubtful, because this tall, dark, and handsome guy stopped in the middle of the hallway, put his hands on his hips, and shook his head. "You really don't think you're beautiful, do you?"

Embarrassed, I blushed and tried to laugh it off. But he persisted and finally put his arm around me again.

"You're one of the most beautiful people I know. Now get to class and I'll see you after school."

While I have a mirror, and I appreciate his bolstering my self-confidence in myself, whenever I find myself doubting anything, I remember that conversation.

Beautiful people don't act arrogant; they act modest. They are confident in their abilities and seek to boost others. And Mr. Macho's claim that no one should reject him because he's so successful just goes to show he needs a reality check. Maybe somewhere, there is a woman who will accept him in her life, and then again, maybe he needs to be taken down a notch by a strong woman.


Monday, November 19, 2007

Crash...

No, not the car, LOL:) Physically, I crashed this morning.

With the signing and hubby not coming home until yesterday, I had to cram an entire weekend of chores into 12 hours. Had to take my daughter to the ER at 10 pm Saturday, and didn't get home until midnight, after filling her prescriptions. Fell into bed around 1 am; dog wanted out 30 minutes later. Woke up at 5 when oldest son's alarm screamed heavy metal rock music (didn't I turn it off Saturday morning?? Hmmm...must ask him what I did wrong...) and got up and wrote. Made it to church; came home and showered. Hubby and Life Scout arrived home at 1:30.

Fixed lunch; by the time I started on his laundry, it was nearly 3. Two hours later, it was time to go grocery shopping, which took an hour. After putting everything away, the re-heated dinner from the previous evening was ready to eat. Started on load #4, and the nursing home called. So I went out and delivered the Kleenexes and the birthday gift I'd gotten Mom's roommate (who turned 84 years young yesterday!).

So needless to say, I finally got to bed around 2 am...and apparently shut off the alarm while unconscious, because hubby woke me frantically at 4; he'd overslept. Saw him finally drive away at 5; went back to bed. Oldest son was in the shower...dog licks my neck (she got up on the bed to do this...must have really needed out badly!); I get up and put her outside. At 6:30, I staggered into the pair of sweats I can throw on over my PJ's and let son drive to school. I propped my eyes open and drove home. Drank coffee and watched the news until it was time to waken the other two; daughter dawdled around, taking her meds; we were 10 minutes late getting her to school. Dropped off the baby, and I came home and fell into bed.

I had set the alarm for 11, and when I awoke, I felt refreshed! I'll tackle the chores later. The oldest two don't have school on Wed; we can have a massive clean-up day after I drop off the baby. And if hubby gets rained out, he can help, although I'm sure he'll probably sit in a chair and 'supervise'.

It's nearly 65 degrees outside; the baby is happily riding his trike up and down the sidewalk as I write this, and when he goes down for a nap later, I don't know if I'll join him or actually get some work done. It all depends on what the body needs. And after this weekend, I need sleep.

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Still Flying High...

7:45 am-Total word count for Fri, Sat: 1370. Not bad; not great. Keep checking back as I'll post the total for today.

Earlier this month, I grumbled about how anything I earn always ends up going fot other people. So yesterday, I took some of my well-earned money and bought another author's book and one of the blueberry-scented candles I've been drooling over! And then once I had placed my slow-cooked pork chops in the refrigerator, eaten the well-deserved pizza, posted my success online, and gotten the baby settled for the evening, I slipped into my comfortable clothes and started pecking away at the wip.

And then my daughter told me her ear was hurting badly.

I gave her some Tylenol; an hour later, she was still on the verge of tears, so took her to the ER. Thankfully, the baby was asleep and my 'other daughter', the one who shows up frequently on weekends and sometimes after school, agreed to baby-sit.

Verdict? Yes...Ear infection. And as an added bonus, I was able to see the finale of The Next Iron Chef:) And successfully picked the winner! So the last of my cash earnings went for antibiotics and Vicodin. Monday, I will make a trip to the bank and cash the checks...and return to the downtown area and buy some gifts for myself and for others:)

Hubby and oldest son are due home this afternoon. Then I will transform from Molly the author to Molly the Laundry goddess and spend the rest of the day washing that man's clothing so I can pack him back to work at 4 am tomorrow! And according to him, he may get rained out on Wednesday, so he'll be able to spend 5 whole days at home.

Hmmm...check out http://www.amarindajones.blogspot.com/. AJ's not waiting around for me to send hubby to fix her driveway; she's having it chip-n-sealed ("natural rock stuff") tomorrow! Pop over to http://www.annycook.blogspot.com/ and read her words on being thankful. And as always, check out the weekly quote on http://www.kkirch.blogspot.com/.

In the mood for some good news? Bronwyn's cat is proving that love is a healer on http://www.bronwyngreenblog.blogspot.com/. Stop by and send Small some well-wishes:)
Enjoy:)

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Santa Stroll

Word Count: 265, bringing the total to a whopping 542. Boy, do I have some catching up to do!

Sold 3 more:) That brings this week's total sales up to 9...compared to the fact it took me 6 months to sell that many of the 1st one, I'm doing fantastic:)

And the best part of today? My best friend from HS, whom I've not seen in 22 years, showed up and surprised the hell out of me! Just goes to show, true friends can pick up right where they left off...we talked non-stop for about an hour, and I probably missed out on some sales, but I didn't care. I got my friend back!

So today was a success in more ways than one. My kids were able to spend some quality time with their grandparents; I connected with a long-lost friend; 5 more copies of my books are in someone else's possession. And hubby told me he's coming home tomorrow and to order pizza tonight to celebrate. I am high on Life at the moment:)

Now if I can get that word count up...

Today is the official kick-off of the downtown Christmas shopping experience in our town. Ridiculous...we've not even celebrated Thanksgiving! But, the weater cooperated; a nice crowd was on hand last night for the lighting of the tree and the parade, and I even managed to sell 2 books.

So what will today bring? The weather promises to be in the 50's and sunny; I've told many people I come into contact with to come down and see me; I hope they do, if only to wander through Emily's shop and buy some wonderful smelling candles and some Christmas ornaments. And swipe some of the Reecee Cups the author has on her table...and take a drink of some hot cider and help themselves to a cookie or two.

I'm off to watch my Saturday morning old episodes of 90210 and then throw dinner in the slow cooker, get dressed, and head out the door. I'll post my success later tonight:)

Those zany authors have done it again...Emmeline has entered Mystic Valley, so stop by http://www.annycook.blogspot.com/ and what's going on:)

Friday, November 16, 2007

Several Things and another Excerpt...

Word Count: 277. But I have an excuse...I've had a busy day. And I'm actually ahead in the the actual WIP...it's actually above 29K, so one day off isn't going to hurt me...just deflate me slightly, since I wasn't counting those extra words in my goal...but we'll see if I make up for lost time on the weekend...

Am headed to bed. It's been a long day, and I have another one ahead of me tomorrow.

This week has been such a rush:) My complimentary copy of LFAW arrives Mon; the shipment of 20 arrives on Tues; my mom tells me she's proud of me on Wed; and late last night I learned I am, indeed, on amazon.com and other bookstore sites:) Also, I've already sold 3 copies of my book, which I have to spend today in a totally different way than I envisioned!

I have to put my $30 in my gas tank. AAARRRGGGHHH!

Why? First of all, my gas gage is broken, and while hubby filled it to the brim last Sun, I had to drive 2 hours north on Monday and back again. I've also run my children to and from school, swim practice; I've been out to the nursing home; I had a meeting at school. Normally, I go through close to half a tank during the week. But with that extra trip...who knows where the gas gage is?

Secondly, the oldest has a scout camp-out tonight, again 2 hours away. And since I have to be downtown for the first night of the Stroll, it's either clone myself and be in 2 places at once; sign a few copies and park my daughter in my place; or call my dad and offer to meet him halfway. Guess which option I chose?

Yup...I have to pull my daughter out of school at 2:30; go pick up my Life Scout and transport him an hour north to Terre Haute so his grandfather can transport him the rest of the way. Thank god we're on the same time now, or this would be royally confusing! And as the hubby has to work on Sat, Sunday is going to be a nightmare; he'll have to skip church and go get the child; I'll be doing Laundry Goddess duties and frantically typing my fingers off to catch up on my word count...sounds fun, doesn't it? Okay...where's that scientist who's doing the cloning...I need 3 more of me this weekend...one to attend to hubby's needs; another to clean the house, do the laundry, and cook the food; and yet still another to go pick up the scout so hubby can spend time with the family! Okay...reevaluated...I only need 2. The first and second clones are really doing the same job...

In case you've not guessed, hubby is less than thrilled when he found out his wife was going to be downtown, selling her books, when he arrives home on Sat. I told him dinner would be in the slow cooker, and his response? "Maybe I should just stay up here, then..." (Fine by me...you can do your own laundry! But of course, can't tell him that!)

In honor of finding out LFAW is on the world wide web, in more than one website, here's another excerpt. Enjoy:)

While she was happy to see him, her manner was cool toward him, and finally he asked her what was wrong.
“What’s wrong?” she demanded, snapping her head to face him as he drove to his house. “We were going to spend more time together, but we’re together one night, and then you get drunk on our second date, don’t even sleep with me, and now, after a week, you tell me you’re leaving tomorrow? And you ask me what’s wrong?”
Matt looked sheepish as he pulled in his driveway and stopped the truck. “You know how it is, babe. Aaron and I get together, and start drinking, and...”
“You turn into an asshole,” she interrupted hotly.
“Damn it, don’t start,” he said irritably. “I’m with you now, aren’t I?” He opened his door and got out. Amy followed, slamming the door behind her.
“What am I to you, anyway?” she asked. “Just someone to sleep with occasionally when you can’t get laid, or do I actually mean something to you?”
“Good Lord, Amy!” He stopped halfway to the front door and spun around. “Is that what you think?”
“What am I supposed to think?” she shouted, tears starting to roll down her cheeks. “Last year, I never dreamed I’d even see you again, then I thought I’d surprise you when I got that free ticket. You called me your girlfriend, so I assumed...”
“That’s right,” he walked over and took her hands. “I love you. I broke up with Jeri as soon as I got back, because I couldn’t get you out of my head.”
“Wait a minute,” she stepped back. “You...I thought you had already broken up with her.”
Matt shook his head. “We’d had a huge fight, and then I met you. I thought Jeri and I would maybe get back together, but after being with you...hell, I couldn’t get you off my mind, and I missed you, so I quit seeing her.” Gently, he pulled her inside the house. “Do you want to go upstairs, or something to drink?”
Amy shook her head, slowly digesting everything. She circled the room slowly as Matt went to get a beer for himself. “So...what you said in California was true; you wanted to keep seeing me, and the fact you’ve not seen me for a week was due to...?” She raised an eyebrow at him.
Matt sat down in a chair and looked at the floor. “My friends kept me busy,” he admitted. “I...I slept all day, and I knew you needed your sleep, so...” he gestured with his hands.
“And with your friends all partied out, you just happened to remember my number?” Amy laughed shortly. “Yeah, I can tell you really care about me.” She sat down in a corner of the couch. “Thanks, Matt.”
“It’s not like that,” he protested. “It’s just, you’re not like anyone I’ve ever been with. You...do something to me, something I can’t explain.” He ran his hands through his blonde hair.
Amy looked at him, saying nothing. Matt continued to drink his beer, then he crushed the empty can and looked up at her.
“All right,” he said finally. “I love you. And you scare me. I don’t want a repeat of my friends trying to take you away from me.”
“What do you mean, I scare you?” she said softly.
Matt cocked his head and leaned forward. “Remember I once told you I thought you looked like the serious type, the kind that doesn’t party very much?” Amy nodded. “Well, I always thought I liked the party girls best, the ones that let loose and have a good time. You’ve shown me that’s not the type of girl I want at all. And if I’ve had that all wrong, then what else have I screwed up?”
Amy laughed and went over to him. “Maybe you’re just going through a change,” she said softly, perching on the arm of the chair. “I never dreamed I’d fall in love with someone I’d only see twice a year.” She gasped as Matt hooked an arm around her waist, pulling her onto his lap. “Sometimes you just have to trust your feelings.”
“Now that we’ve got that settled,” he said gruffly. “Am I forgiven?” He kissed her after she nodded, then eased her off his lap and led her upstairs.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Warm Fuzzies:)

10:40 pm: WC-1848...made it:) I'm at 25,067 words! And found out my book is available on amazon, B&N, and Borders! Woo hoo:)

Word Count: 1677, and I've reached my halfway goal...or maybe not. Just did the math, and I need 104 more words to meet that 25K mark...be back before midnight...I need a short break...

Got a wonderful email from my mom this morning, and thought I'd share it. Sue Grafton (Alphabet Mysteries) sent out an encouraging mass email to those of us participating in NaNo, and my mom loves her books, so I forwarded it to her. This is what mom responded, and the 'review' my first book received:)

That is so neat. She took time to encourage and share some of her own struggles. Wow!
I look forward to her next book. I actually bought S again. I realized I had read it but enjoyed it again!
Love, Mom

PS I am very proud of you

(tongue in cheek here:)
Thank you:) I hope that still holds after you read LFAW, hahahahahaha....of course, I felt this way when I apprehensively gave you LIS to read, and I've not been disowned yet:)

Love,M


Honey, I loved LOVE IS SOBER. I admit I don’t like some of the language, but the writing is excellent. You are really gifted, and I am VERY proud of you. I ordered some copies of both books at Borders today so you or I can give them as Christmas gifts.
Love from a proud mom.


Wasn't that sweet? Here I've been shaking in my boots, for fear of a public "I can't believe you could write such smut"..."You've disgraced us AGAIN..." kind of thing...I guess it shows my insecurity here...but my mommy loves me:)

On a different note, did anyone catch Oprah's show last Friday? She had the Osmonds on, and I missed it! I saw Entertainment Tonight's clip and thought I'd missed it on Thurs, and then my mom called me Friday and told me to turn on the TV. I did...and got to watch the last 15 minutes! And an hour later went to the neighbor's to let her know the book was out, and she was watching it on the Evansville channel! Guess what...got to see the same 15 minutes I'd already seen, lol:) Guess I'll have to start haunting the reruns next summer...

Anyway, does anyone remember snippets of songs from childhood, and when you get older, you think, "Did that song really exist, or am I delusional?" Well, I've had 3 songs I only remember parts of, and so far, I've found 2 of them. One was "Crazy Horses" by the Osmond Brothers...the only thing I remember was the chorus...and according to what I heard in the background as Mom was talking was that song! So yes, Molly...that song exists...go buy the Osmund Brother's Greatest Hits (if such an album/CD/DVD exists...)
(Sidebar...Mom said she remembers me wearing my purple socks every week when the Donny and Marie show was on...and I wanted so badly to be a professional ice-skater so I could perform at the beginning of the show! And later, when I discovered I'd never be a skater, that's when my 'rock star' ambition began, HA HA:)

The other song was "Cherokee Nation", and I found it on a 1971 'Rock On' CD (I also bought 1973 and 1976)...I was 5 years old when that song came out! And my parents also said I loved "Me and You and a Dog Named Blue"...but of course, since the parents owned the record...

Now, the only one I'm still having doubts about is "Hanky Panky" by (I think!) Neil Diamond? "My baby loves the hanky panky..."(repeats several times) and he's questioning the guys in the control booth about the lyrics or how it sounds? Does any of this sound familiar? I know the song exists, because I've heard an earlier group sing it. But I'd like to know if this version exists... And also, just thought of this. Anyone remember "The Electric Company", and no, not the PBS children's show. This one was similar to a record called "Jaws", where a reporter is 'interviewing' the shark, with snippets of songs as the shark's answers...and yes, I have this record, so please don't try to have me committed!

Okay...enough. I need to run to school; my oldest just called; he wants a decongestant to dry up his nose. And daughter called, wanting to come home...she's only been at school for an hour. Told her to tough it out until lunch and then I'd gladly come get her.

And then need to pay bills; do 2 loads of laundry; call parents to see if they can take Boy Scout to camp while I'm working the book signing tomorrow night; call dr and schedule mammogram; and oh yeah...start writing this morning?? Yes, I'm procrastinating again...bad Molly...

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Song Lyrics that Make You Go Hmmmm...

Word Count: 1698. And getting into a gray area...an interesting subplot has developed....

Currently reading: Dorothey Allison's Psychic Story. Interesting, with parallels to the show Medium, which is based on the real-life story of a psychic.

E-Book: Am downloading Anny Cook's Chrysanthemum today. Check this site tomorrow or later tonight, when I post my opinion of it:) Wow. Anny, I'm sorry I put this one so far down on the list! I loved it:) Gave me some ideas too, ha ha:) Can't wait to read Honey's story!

Also bought Anya Bast's Tempted by Two...this one was at the top several years ago when making out my wish list. Hope it still intrigues me as much now as it did back in '05 or '06! (Finished this one...found myself skipping over several details. Enjoyed the bedroom scenes....will I read this one again? Maybe in a year or two. Or if I'm really bored. Just not in the same league as others I've read.)

Blame Kelly for this one, LOL:)

Some song lyrics make no sense.

Chumbawumba's 'Tub-Thumping':
I get knocked down, but I get up again; ain't never gonna keep me down (repeat several times)
Pissing the night away (repeat 4 times)

HUH???

Kid Rock's 'So Hot':
You've got a body like a devil and you smell like sex;
(can't remember the words...brain fart!) and I'm still obsessed....

Because you're so hot; I wanna get you alone;
So hot; I wanna get you stoned;
So hot; I wanna be your friend;
I wanna f*** you like I'm never gonna see you again...

Okay...he can only have sex if they're both stoned??? And I really wish I could remember the lyrics to the verses...interesting description! If I hear the song again, I'll pay more attention...

And this one really has had me scratching my head...

Fifty-Eleven's 'Paralyzer'...
This club will be closed in three weeks; that'll be cool with me...

I'm the paralyzer; because you're standing still;
Your eyes are showing what your body can do;
Gonna move right through me on my way to you...
(Again...don't kill me...I knew these lyrics last night!! Arrgghhh...why did they have to suddenly leave my brain?? When I remember, I'll post them!!)

I guess blame my current CD on the stereo...it's hard to regurgitate hard rock lyrics when soft rock ballads are filling my ears!

What prompted this? Go to http://www.kkirch.blogspot.com/ and scroll down and read her post yesterday. She's editing TV shows; now she's got me re-writing song lyrics! And AJ told me not to give up my day job...




Tuesday, November 13, 2007

It Came:)

Word Count: 1765. Better than I expected for today:) Time to stop; help my cranky (hormonal??) daughter with the dishes and watch Law and Order SVU for the first time in over a year!

I received a present in the mail.

"But wait...there was no mail delivery yesterday," I hear you protest. "How could you get something in the mail?"

I'm not sure. Maybe FedEx was working? Anyway, I was walking out the door to run some errands yesterday, and noticed a small package lying on my porch. Inside was the first official copy of my 2nd book, Love Finds a Way.

I was so excited, I carried that book everywhere. My neighbors weren't home; I showed it off to lady behind the counter at Walgreens, when I went to have my black ink cartrige filled. I showed it off to everyone at the nursing home, during the 90 minutes I was visiting with the MIL. And last night when we drove to Martinsville so K could surprise his old scout troop by showing up for elections, I showed it to all adults who happened to walk in the door:)

The response? Very favorable. I had two offers to buy that book; I promised when the other copies arrived, I would hand-deliver theirs. Other people merely said 'congratulations'; my MIL apologized because she doesn't read romances anymore. I cheerfully told her it was okay, and that I was probably better off, since she'd probably disown me for the language and some of the graphic content! She simply pooh-poohed it, and promptly began telling the aids when I was leaving that 'my daughter's book is finally out. She's having a signing on Saturday...'

So here's a few excerpts from Love is Sober, which foreshadows Love Finds a Way. Enjoy:)

“Don’t I need a helmet?” she asked anxiously.
“It’s only a short ride, sweetie. I won’t let anything happen,” he said, strapping his own helmet back on. “Just hold on tight, either to me, or you can hold onto the handles behind your butt.”
Elicia tried both, then compromised with one hand behind her and the other clutching Brent’s waist. She felt a thrill when he took off, then quickly learned to keep her head behind his back when the wind hit her in the face. Brent drove out through the center of town and around some of the neighborhoods and through the park, coming to a stop beside the river.
“Well? What did you think?” he asked, pausing to light a cigarette.
“I loved it!” Elicia hugged him. “I could ride all day!”
“Do you know how to tell a happy biker?” he grinned. Elicia shook her head. “By the bugs in his teeth!” He chuckled when Elicia clapped her hand over her mouth. “Don’t worry, darlin’. You’re fine.”
“Don’t scare me like that,” she admonished him.
“Couldn’t resist.” He crushed out the cigarette. “Okay, let’s go.”
They rode around for a while, and when they returned to the dorm, Elicia recognized a girl from down the hall talking to another biker.
“I know her...her name’s Caitlyn. She lives two doors down from me.”
“Yeah, and the guy’s a Townie from Brookview. He’s in my psychology class.” Brent shook his head. “I’m not that impressed with his girlfriend.”
“Why?” Elicia asked in surprise.
“She thinks she owns him. Hey Todd!”
The tall dark-haired boy looked up and climbed off his bike. “Hey man, how’s it going?”
“Fine. I didn’t know you rode.”
“Yeah. Every spring I’m out on it.” The boys started talking motorcycles, and Elicia and Caitlyn stared at them.
“Have you been for a ride yet?” Elicia asked.
“Not yet. I think he was about to ask me if I wanted a ride, though,” Caitlyn laughed, tossing her light brown hair over her shoulders. “Aren’t you just down the hall from me?”
“Yes.” The two girls got acquainted, and when the boys remembered they were there, offered the girls rides to McDonald’s. Over French Fries and Cokes, they talked some more.
“I’m going to have to find a girl for one of my friends here in about another week,” Todd mentioned. “My best friend’s coming home on leave. What’s your roommate like, Caty?”
“Kind of quiet. I don’t know if she’s really blind date material.” Caty smiled. “Any of your roomies like to party, Elicia?”
“Stephanie does. She’s kind of seeing someone, though.”
“That’s okay; Matt’s the kind of guy women flip over. I have yet to see him leave an airport without one or two women on his arm. It’s uncanny.” Todd shook his head.
“So why do you need to find him someone, if he’s perfectly capable of picking up his own?” Elicia asked.
“Because this time he’s driving home, and from his phone call, he’s mad at his girlfriend.” Todd leaned back in his chair. “So he’s not looking for anything long-term. Just someone to party with for two weeks.”
“I see.” Elicia and Caitlyn both contemplated the problem, not seeing any solutions.
“I don’t know anybody who’d be willing to meet the guy, knowing it wouldn’t develop into anything,” Elicia confided to Caitlyn while they were washing their hands.
“I know. The guy will just have to find his own date.” Caitlyn opened the door and they returned to the parking lot.




Over the next several days, when the weather cooperated, Brent, Elicia, Todd, and Caitlyn went for numerous motorcycle rides. The day Todd’s friend, Matt Slagal, arrived, Todd hosted a party for him, and Elicia decided she really didn’t care for Matt. She liked the party, however, but was careful not to drink too much. Brent, too, clearly didn’t care for Todd’s friend.
“You can tell he thinks he’s God’s gift to women,” Elicia sniffed. “Lord help the girl who falls for him!”
“Caty’s not buying it, either,” Brent said. “If she can lure Todd away from that manipulative bitch, then she’s got my full support.”



. “Remember me telling you about Todd trying to find a girl for his friend?”
“Yeah...who did they sucker into spending time with him?”
“You’ll never guess...Caty’s roommate, Amy what’s-her-name.”
“Really?” Janna opened her eyes in surprise. “She doesn’t strike me as the type!”
“From what I’ve heard, they actually hit it off, but he pulled some sort of stunt...I think he tried to treat her like shit, and she royally put him in his place. Got him to apologize, straighten up, the whole nine yards.”
“Damn...girl’s got more guts than I thought.”
“I know. He went back to California the other day, and I guess Todd’s already said Matt can’t stop talking about her.” Elicia closed her eyes and let her mind wander.
“Do you think it will last?” Janna asked sleepily.
“Are you kidding? ‘Out of sight, out of mind’, that’s what I’ve always heard,” Elicia yawned and rolled over onto her back. “Besides, he’s a womanizer, and guys like that don’t waste their time with someone they can’t dominate.”

Monday, November 12, 2007

BICHOK Works:) Seriously...

Update: Posting this 11/13...Word Count: 1686. WC yesterday was only 465, and have only been steadily writing for 45 minutes! See, I can do it when I've got a 'clear brain'...taking a break to get dressed now...

I was seriously behind in my word count last week.

Why?

Procrastination set in, due to being a 'ho-hum', dry area of my manuscript! I blogged. Checked sites repeatedly. Emailed. Finally, around 10 pm, I was still emailing a friend, and everytime I'd reply, my wc would be 300 words more...I kept track!

Saturday, I knew I was going to be pressed for time, as my oldest son and I had to make a trip to Evansville, and would probably be gone for 5 hours. And even though I had dinner in the slow cooker, I was only able to crank out 356 words. So at 10 pm, I finally had had enough of nothing coming to me and went to bed.

Sunday morning, I knew I was going to have to get my fingers in gear and double the wc in order to keep up. So I did not post; I did not check e-mail; I got up, drank my morning coffee and planted my butt in the chair and proceeded to write. Hubby took the kids to CCD; I skipped my shower, having had one the day before. When I finally had to stop and get dressed, my wc was over 1700. I happily stepped away from the computer and went to church.

Started Laundry Goddess duties, and promptly had a fight with my dryer. For some reason, it refused to completely dry anything heavier than a T-shirt, and I ended up spending much more time than usual drying hubby's flannel shirts, heavy work jeans, and even his fleece pullovers. Add to the fact my son kept tossing his things down the chute...I ended up doing 5 loads yesterday, and taking 8 hours to do it! And then discovered I'd completely forgotten my daughter's basket...oops! Thank god I'd done laundry on Thursday, and the kid has plenty of clothes...

Sat down at the computer at 9:30 to get the second half of my wc written. My daughter was downstairs, and when I discovered I wasted 20 minutes watching 'Hannah Montana', and she was in fact downstairs watching the same program, I turned off the set and in 30 minute increments (between dryer buzzes!), I 'got in the groove' and cranked out another 1700 words! Went to bed at nearly 1 am; hubby woke me up at 3:30; I did something rather strange...I had a choice between getting intimate and possibly staying awake, or choosing to roll over and sleep. I chose sleep...(Hey, he's the one who gave me the choice! "Want me to leave you alone?" Vigorous nodding of the head..."(sigh...) Okay...")

I had read a blog entry earlier in the week that mentioned 'emptying your sink' before sitting down to write. This is a Flylady-ism. In order to start your cleaning, you're supposed to empty your sink of any dishes before diving into the cleaning routine. As someone who does not feel guilty leaving dishes in the sink, I ignore this one; however, I cannot start my day unless my bed is made. So I guess this is my 'sink'.

As previously stated, I start my electronic day with a cup of coffee, checking my online bank account, and posting my entry, or even reading fellow author's blogs for my morning chuckle. Normally, this does not put a damper on my creativity; I can take the kids to school, come home, read, blog, and read and answer email before opening up my document and start writing away.

But when I'm in a 'dry' area, I have to start with a blank mind. I discovered this while writing "Wild at Heart"...if I blooged or corresponded first, the wc lagged. And I wasn't on a self-imposed deadline, so it really didn't matter. But now, I'm working against the calendar, and trying to attain 25,000 words before Nov 15th, which is rapidly approaching. It is already the 12th, and I'm at just over 18,000. So for the next couple of weeks, I'm changing my routine. (Starting tomorrow, obviously, lol...procrastination strikes again!)

Instead of posting early in the morning, I may get it posted sometime before noon. Same goes for reading the various blogs I enjoy every day. So no, I'm not disappearing; I'm knuckling under to my deadline in order to prove to myself I can do it.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Another Excerpt

Updated Word count: 1739:) I did it! It's nearly 12:30; I'm going downstairs to check on the status of my last load before the damn alarm wakes me up at 3:30...hubby leaves at 4:30. Which means...I'm going to be semi-sleep deprived again...and W does NOT have school, as it is the observance of Veteren's Day. Maybe he and I can take an early nap? Busy day planned for tomorrow...read all about it when I post it tomorrow:)

Word count: 1756 this morning, to make up for yesterday...was only at 356 when I gave up and went to bed. It's 10 pm; am still doing laundry and trying to get as close to that 1600 word count as I can before I go to bed.

Not much to say today. Stayed up too late last night, getting my word count in and procrastinating by emailing another author friend when I should have bee working:) Needless to say, I barely accomplished my goal...1628. I should be closer to the 20,000 goal, and I'm just barely at 17,000. Maybe I'll get with the program later today.

Was contemplating posting this earlier, but was sidetracked by picking up BSA popcorn; watching my Beverly Hills 90210 reruns (the one with Color Me Badd was on today!!), and showering, since I have to drive to Evansville in less than an hour for a college scholorship/grant info meeting with my sophomore.

Hubby's coming home tonight; he's bringing me several flats of non-perishible items from my favorite generic store up north that isn't down here. I'm providing him with BBQ ribs and homemade bread (okay, the dough is frozen, but it's sooooo good!) for dinner. Speaking of which, I need to get busy and fire up the slow-cooker!

So I may get my word count goal tonight; I may have to do some serious catching up next week. We'll just have to see how things work out.

Here's another excerpt from Love Finds a Way...Enjoy:)

Amy climbed into the truck and they took off for his home in Brookview. After telephoning her whereabouts to her roommate Caty, she turned back to Matt and blushed, conscious of her scruffy attire: Sweaty t-shirt, shorts, and wind-blown hair.

"If I'd known you were coming back tonight, I'd have never gone on that run," she flushed. "Look at me. I'm almost scared to talk to you!"

"You're still beautiful," he said, handing her a glass of 7-Up. "Why are you scared?"

"I don't know."

Matt sat down beside her on the beige loveseat. He took a swallow of his drink and put it down. Amy had put hers on the coffee table, and when she straightened up, Matt took her in his arms, and they clung together. Matt's lips moved from her cheek to her ear. Amy shivered with anticipation, and began kissing his neck. Suddenly, she realized the front door was open.

"Matt..."

"Mmmmm..."

"Not here."

"How come?"

"For one thing, the door's wide open, and secondly, what if your mom were to come home and catch us in a compromising position?"

Matt pulled away, shut the door, and lay down on the floor. "Could you give me one of your famous backrubs?"

"Sure." Amy smiled, flexed her fingers, and knelt beside him. Quickly and expertly, she massaged, rubbed, and pounded on his back. Matt rolled over and pulled her down to him.

“God, but I’ve missed you,” he muttered, running his hands up her back, pulling her T-shirt out of her shorts. “I couldn’t stop thinking about you after you’d left.”

“Anything in particular?” she teased, breathless from his long kisses.

“Just this...” He pulled her shirt up and slid his lips to her breast, impatiently shoving her bra cup aside.

“Matt...on the floor?” she asked weakly, embarrassed by the fact she’d not had a shower. What had possessed her to jog on the night he came home? She pushed him away when his hands slid to her shorts. “Stop...I’m all sweaty...”

“That’s okay, sweetheart. We’ll both be sweaty in a moment...” He jumped up, grabbed her hand, and pulled her up the stairs to his room.

Later, they lay with their arms around each other. Matt kissed her, then went downstairs for their now warm drinks. “I put some more ice in them,” he explained, handing her the glass, then slid in beside her again. “Now this is the life; my woman keeping the bed warm.” He smiled saucily at her.

“How long are you on leave?” she inquired, pulling the covers around her.

“Two weeks. Just like last time.”

“I hope we can spend more time together this time,” she said shyly, lowering her eyes.
“I plan on it, dear. I certainly plan on it.” Matt took a big swallow of his drink.

Friday, November 9, 2007

TGIF

Word Count: 1628. Not been a good writing day; too many distractions. Hopefully I'll do better tomorrow...

Did you notice I added my covers? Thank my teenage daughter...she showed me how to download them so I could add them to the site! Now if someone could just how me how to turn them into the links...

A miracle has happened. My daughter was actually early to school this morning:)

This could be attributed to two things: 1) she's had too many tardies and has an all day Intensive Study Time, which is similar to an all day detention...five more tardies and she gets an In-School Suspension; or 2) today's the day the candy fundraiser comes home, and my coin can will be raided daily until her box is empty or the fundraiser ends, or there are no more coins to scrape together the dollar needed to pay for the Krunch Bars! (Note to self: Do NOT dip into coin collection for chocolate fix...It'll take a long time to get back every state quarter collected over the past 7 years!)

I'm also thrilled this morning because for the first time in a year, I was able to watch an entire Surviver episode! Imagine that...the past year, my state had f***ed with our clocks, and my county has been an hour behind 'normal' time. My favorite show, which would normally be shown at 8:00 has been on at the ungodly early hour of 7 pm. And given this is when I'm normally picking up K from swim practice, I've had to have it taped, and then finish fixing dinner upon arriving, so I've only been able to catch maybe the Immunity Challenge (or see the outcome!) or definitely Tribal Council. And this was the season I eagerly aniticipated, because it is set in China. Well, due to the time change, and the fact K's swim practice has been moved to 3:30-5:30, I'm suddenly at a loss at how to spend my newfound free hours! Dinner last night was ready at 6:30; the kitchen was cleaned; my daughter and I sat cross-stitching happily while watching the program! And since the chores were finished, the baby ready for bed, and my word count goal accomplished, we taped CSI and Without A Trace and were all in bed by 10pm (we taped both, because K went to bed at 9:30, taking his little brother with him!)

I seriously need to get out to the nursing home today. I've not been out since Monday night, and with this new swim practice schedule, I've been busy writing during his practice, and by the time the chores are finished, it's too late to go visit. I'm just going to have to suck it up and take the toddler with me after I drop K off. S is even joining the YMCA after-school program starting next week, so that will give her something more productive to do than be on the phone or internet with her friends or nagging at me to let her use the computer!

And hubby called this morning to say he was working tomorrow, and wouldn't be home until sometime Saturday night. So guess what I'll be doing all day Sunday after church? Laundry goddess strikes again! At least this means hubby's paycheck will be a little more padded, and I can pay our gas bill in full...and make a dent in one of the larger medical bills! And even treat myself to another e-book...Hmmm...who's next on the list? Anny Cook's Chrysanthemum...and maybe Jaqueline Roth's Access Denied...see, I'm catching up! Only 21 books on the list now...only started with 30 or so, and Kelly, AJ, and Anny keep tantalizing me with their interviews...of course, that's how the list got started, so I really can't complain! And with Kelly's interview this morning, I just may have to add Sandra Cox's Boji Stones to the darn thing...it keeps growing...

Have a good weekend:)

Thursday, November 8, 2007

Love Finds a Way

Word Count: 1697. Got so engrossed, I lost track of time and was late to school to pick up my son and take him to swim practice. Guess what? I arrived; he'd gotten on the bus. Wasted trip...

E-books currently reading:
Dominant Boys of Summer, by Katherine Kingston (Finished this one last night...showed me I could never be that submissive in any relationship! I'm just not in to S&M personally...)

Off the Deep End, by Anna J Evans (Finished this one the afternoon...interesting concept...girl meets sexy man from different dimension and agrees to live in his world, all because she falls in love with his cock...will it last, though???)

Maid For Death, by some Jones girl...I think her first name is Amarinda or something, LOL:) (Finished this one early this morning...let's just say I had to take a cold shower afterwards! At least this one had a potential for a HEA...didn't leave me scratching my head and going, 'huh???'!! I'd read more by this lady...she's good!)

Enjoy this excerpt...it went LIVE yesterday on the authorhouse website http://www.authorhouse.com/ and will be available in full distribution by the end of the month, or the next 30 days. Kudos to Anthony, my author rep, for this; I wasn't expecting it for another 2 weeks. Now if a couple copies arrive by the 16th, I'll be extremely happy...

In this scene, it's day 3 of Amy's surprise trip to see Matt. She wants to see if their relationship is based on love, not sex, so she's refused to sleep with him. Matt, however, is frustrated that his charm isn't working, and is convinced she's about to cheat on him, proving his belief that women are always looking for 'something better'. I've already been asked why does she not pack up and leave at this point...she's determined to win him over! Don't give up yet; keep reading:)

Amy was lounging in a chair when she heard voices coming up the walk. One sounded like Matt. The bushes around the outside of the fence hid her from view.

"Thanks for a wonderful afternoon," he was saying.

"Sure," replied a female voice. "You know my number, so any time your girlfriend..."

"Yeah."

"See ya!"

Amy started to fume. How dare he stand her up for a roll in the hay with another girl? She started to rise when she heard Jason's voice.

"Hey Slagal! Where the hell have you been? Amy's been looking for you!"

"Shit! I was supposed to meet her. Uh, tell her I came back without you knowing and fell asleep."

"Dammit, I'm not going to lie to her!"

"Aw, come on, man! She'll kill me....Look, I honestly forgot! Please?" Their voices faded, and Amy knew they were heading for the barracks. She didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Angry as she was, she supposed he had certain needs. "But not when he's supposed to be with me!"

Fifteen minutes later, she let herself into Jason's room. Jason was watching TV.

"Amy," he began. "Matt just called. He's..."

"Don't lie to me, Jas," she interrupted fiercely. "I know exactly where he's been. I heard the whole conversation!" She whirled around and stalked out. She returned to her small apartment and found Matt sprawled on the bed.

"Matthew," she stated flatly.

He yawned and rolled over. "Oh hi, honey. Look, I forgot all about..."

"Spare me, please," she interrupted sarcastically. "I know where you've been. I heard every word between you and that girl! I hope you took precautions!"

"No, no! I fell asleep waiting for you," he protested.

"Oh, please! Shall I repeat? 'Oh thanks for a wonderful afternoon'...'Sure, anytime. You've got my number'...And on top of that, you have Jason lie to me!"
"But Amy..."

"Okay, so I suppose things are different out here, but dammit, you just had to stand me up? Are your morals that loose?"

Matt was stunned. She was really mad! At the same time, he felt another tug at his groin as he watched her pace back and forth in her short white robe. He tried again.

"I didn't mean to stand you up, I forgot," he explained.

Her anger cooling, Amy replied, "You honestly forgot."

"Yes," he answered, attempting to win her over.

"I don't know." She gathered up her clothes and went into the bathroom. "Just don't talk to me right now."

While Amy showered and changed, Jason arrived. "I see you're still alive," he commented. "Well?"

"She's mad."

"I don't blame her."

"Well, you know how women are."

"I don't know. I think this one's different."

"Bullshit! Women are all the same. Show 'em a good time, and they mess with your head.” Matt took a beer and went out on the patio. "She won't sleep with me, you know why?" He sat down, drank half his beer, and leaned forward. "She's waiting to see everyone in uniform tonight, so she can take her pick."

Jason shook his head. "You've got her wrong, man. She's not like Jeri, who hit on me five minutes after you introduced us."

"Give her time, she'll make her move. Midwesterners are subtle; they sneak up on you when you least expect it."

Meanwhile, Amy was shaking. "We're right back where we started," she told herself. "Maybe it did slip his mind. I've only got three more days with him, so I'll let it pass."

Feeling somewhat better, she pulled on white cropped pants and a blue camp shirt. White flat shoes, watch, and white earrings followed. a touch of White Shoulders perfume, a quick brush though her short blonde curls, and Amy was ready. She checked herself in the mirror and muttered. "Knock him dead, Aim."
Noiselessly, she crept from the bathroom and spotted Jason and Matt on the patio. Taking a deep breath, she opened the sliding glass door and stepped out into the hot sunshine.

"Wow! Amy, dump this guy and let me escort you tonight," Jason exclaimed, getting to his feet and going over to her.

"Jas, would you..." she inclined her head towards the apartment.

"Oh sure. Just break my heart. Need a beer, Slagal?"

"No."

Jason went inside, and after a moment, Amy stood behind Matt, put her arms around his neck, and kissed his cheek. "I'm sorry I yelled at you," she said softly.
"No, you were right. I should have remembered. Tell you what, I mentioned to my C.O. the fact that I had a special visitor, and he gave me the whole day off tomorrow. We'll spend the day at the pool, okay?"

Amy kissed him again, and moved to sit in the chair Jason had vacated.

"Still want to go to the dinner tonight with me?" Matt asked, draining his beer can.

"No, I always dress up for the heck of it...You bet I do! Are Geoff and Kelly going to be there?"

"Yeah. We'd better get going. I gotta change."

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Recycling

Word count: 1624, and well into ch 3:)

Whoo hoo! As AJ says, Let the pidgeons loose! Why am I so happy? Go to http://www.authorhouse.com/ and type in Molly Daniels in the 'search' area...I am LIVE!

Happy dance! Got an email yesterday, saying in 2 WEEKS, my book Love Finds A Way will be going LIVE, meaning it will be on the web and people can actually order it...I've already heard from 2 people who can't make it to the signing, saying they plan to order it:) Great! It's not out yet, and already I've made two 'sales'!!

And Anthony, my author rep, is working frantically to put a rush order so I'll have a few copies on the 17th...Keep praying he's able to work his magic!

What happened to it?

What ever happened to those refill containers of laundry detergent, fabric softner, and other items? They supposedly cut down on the amount of trash we throw away.

I can't even find the generic Tide I used to use...and maybe this is just me complaining about inflation, but I refuse to pay $7 for what I used to pay $4 for. So I've switched detergents, and I buy the large size so I can refill my smaller bottle. I typically buy laundry detergent about every 2 weeks or so.

Fabric softner, I can still find in the cardboard containers. But the numbers are dwindling. I wouldn't even use it, except hubby swears by it, and claims he can tell when I don't use it. And since the 'invention' of the Downey ball I've had for 10 years, I don't mind using it now (I used quotes because he remembers something like it growing up. Maybe it had already been invented long before 1996...don't know!).

Saw the dryer balls at Walmart several months before, and in an impulsive moment, since we'd already blown the budget by letting the kids get a new DVD, I decided I wanted to try them and put them in the cart. And I like them! Sure, sometimes they get tangled up in pant legs, shirt arms, or even pockets, and been known to go bouncing across the basement floor (W loves this when it happens!). But if you'll recall what happened in August, when a stray Snuggle dryer sheet caused me to go sliding unceremoniously down the back steps, I don't have to worry about hubby finding the sheets inside his clothes anymore, or any more early morning antics in front of the dog! And that's one more expense saved...

I really miss my SA8 detergent from Amway/Quixtar. I could make a $13 box last six months! While hubby was half-heartedly working the business, I was enjoying my monthly deliveries. I literally did not have to go to Walmart anymore, unless it was for toys, DVDs, CDs, etc. But we got out of it due to his heart problems. That and the fact I talked about the products to everyone I met, and signed up more people than he did...that man really can't stand to be one-upped, and I wasn't even trying! But I've bitched about his attitude before.

Anyway, have you read the latest installment of the blog saga? Kelly had Emmeline time-travel; now Anny's brought back Zoltan! Can't wait to see what AJ has up her sleeve tomorrow...check out today's on http://www.annycook.blogspot.com/ and then pop over to AJ's on http://www.amarindajones.blogspot.com/ to read her interview with Brynn Paulin, concerning the release of her new book today. Don't know what Kelly has this morning; AJ says it has something to do with knitting http://www.kkirch.blogspot.com/ and for a really sweet, tantalizing sex scent, check out what Dakota wrote yesterday http://www.vampsmut.blogspot.com/ Whew! Thank god I can keep these web addy's in my head...is there a way to drop and drag the addys after posting the teaser, ha ha?? I'm trying to do better about 'flogging the blogs'...