Ciara Knight--Weighted Cover Reveal

 Sometimes you meet someone and you know right away you are going to be friends.  That's how it was with Ciara and I. The lady is terribly talented, extremely smart and she's so sweet and kind. I'm thrilled and blessed to call her my friend!

So when I had a chance to participate in the cover reveal, I jumped on it! 

I can't wait to read this book--the title hooked me in, even before the amazing blurb!

Weighted is a young adult post-apocalyptic with paranormal elements. It is a prequel novelette to The Neumarian Chronicles, and will be released August 2012. Book I, Escapement, will be released in 2013.

Blurb:

The Great War of 2185 is over, but my nightmare has just begun. I am being held captive in the Queen’s ship awaiting interrogation. My only possible ally is the princess, but I’m unsure if she is really my friend or a trap set by the Queen to fool me into sharing the secret of my gift. A gift I keep hidden even from myself.  It swirls inside my body begging for release, but it is the one thing the Queen can never discover. Will I have the strength to keep the secret? I’ll know the answer soon. If the stories are true about the interrogators, I’ll either be dead or a traitor to my people by morning.

Link to add Weighted to Goodreads shelf: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13647847-weighted

So tell me--what's your favorite aspect of the cover? I'll check in at the end of the day and tell you what I love about it.

Her Best Catch-Award Of Merit

Just had to share! Her Best Catch received an Award of Merit from the Virginia Romance Writers Holt Medallion Contest!

The category---Best First Book. Praise to God--and thank you VRW!!

Blog styles

I belong to a group blog and we recently changed our blog template over at The F.A.I.T.H. Blog.

Even though I haven't had this template long, I find that the bright blue and the cartoon aspect isn't really to my liking. I don't feel like it truly represents who I am or what I write.

The thing is if you ask me what type of feel I'm looking for I don't think I could tell you. Crazy thing for a writer, huh?

But if I saw a template that resonated I would know it.

Have you ever had somebody say that to you? I'm not sure what I'm looking for but I'll know it when I see it.

So, what do you think? Do you like this template I have? Are you happy with your blog design? Let me know--meanwhile I'm going to be searching for just the right look.

A-Z Blogging Reflections

This was my first year to participate in the A-Z Challenge. I really enjoyed doing it. Since I did some of my posts in advance it taught me the value of scheduling and I truly believe I was able to focus more on what the challenge was about rather than getting that post up that day. I enjoyed my topic and what people had to say about reasons people fall in love. I feel like I got to "know" some people through their answers. I also found some really cool people who write really great blogs and I'll continue to read them. Thanks to all who put the blog hop on. I'll be ready to do it again next year. :)

Blog Winners!!

Hi all--- Guess I was taking a break after the big blogging month. The A-Z was fun!! Here are the winners for the books from the last week and Monday. Susanne Jaycee Kate O'Mara Jennifer Shirk and Lynn please email me (except Susanne and Jaycee--I have your info) at belindapeterson at tds dot net with your snail mail address and I'll be mailing the books next week. So great meeting you all!!!

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-Z

Why Do People Fall In Love-Z

Zany!

Dictionary.com says: adjective 1.ludicrously or whimsically comical; clownish.

Check It Out!

Well I knew I liked the word the minute I saw the term whimsical in the definition. I think we all know someone who's a little zany. And I'm sure there are some people who are out there looking to fall in love with someone zany.

What do you think?

I can't believe it's the last day of the Challenge!! It's been awesome and I hope to be 'seeing' you after the challenge is done.

And to celebrate the new friends I'm giving away 5 books today. 4 U S residence only and 1 International. So it's a huge GIVE-AWAY DAY! Leave your name and email address to be entered in the drawing for a review/gift copy of Her Best Catch!

Thanks again!!

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-Y

Why Do People Fall In Love-Y

Yummy!!

Dictionary.com says: adjective 1.very pleasing to the senses, especially to the taste; delicious: Check It Out!

Think what you want---ha!! But I know I use this term as slang a lot. And don't you think if you would describe someone as yummy--you might be falling in love?

Check yes or no!

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-X

Why Do People Fall In Love-X

Xanadu!

Dictionary.com says: noun a place of great beauty, luxury, and contentment.
Check It Out!

Yeah--this didn't come to me right away--and it might be stretching it a bit, but hey--if you think somebody is your idea of great beauty, luxury and contentment then go for it.

Agreed?

And because it's a crazy X day it's also going to be a GIVE-AWAY DAY! Leave a comment and your email address to be entered into the drawing for a review/gift copy of Her Best Catch! (US residence only)

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-W

Why do People Fall In Love-W

Wonderful!

Dictionary.com says:adjective 1.excellent; great; marvelous: Check It Out!

This is a 'wonderful' reason to fall in love. When you find someone wonderful you need to keep them.

What's your definition of wonderful?

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-V

Why Do People Fall In Love-V

Vegetarian!

Dictionary.com says:noun
1.a person who does not eat or does not believe in eating meat, fish, fowl, or, in some cases, any food derived from animals, as eggs or cheese, but subsists on vegetables, fruits, nuts, grain, etc. Check It Out!

So trust me. If someone is a vegetarian this is a reason they will fall in love! I truly believe if you are a vegetarian it would be a hard life trying to live with someone who ate meat, cheese and fun foods like that.

What do you think? Are you a vegetarian? Do you know someone who is?

Why Do People Fall in Love-U

Why Do People Fall In Love U=Understanding Ah--U was a difficult letter for this topic. I thought of unusual, also, but decided to go with understanding. There are just some people who seem more understanding than others. Not that they always take your side or agree with you, but that they are willing to listen and let you talk through something and can at least get what you are trying to say. I also think it's a demeanor of sorts. Maybe more laid-back? What do you think? Am I on the right track or should I have went with unusual?

A-Z Challenge Why Do People Fall In Love-T

Why do people fall in love-T= Tell me! Okay, so all month love you've been dealing with my crazy and sometimes not so crazy versions of why people fall in love. Today it's your turn. I want to know why you think people fall in love. One word---a whole paragraph---or more--let me know.

Week 3 Winners

Week 3 winners!! Letter Q day winner is Ciara! Letter R day winner is Jnana! email me your snail mail address to belindapeterson (at) tds (dot) net.

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-S

Why Do People Fall In Love-S

Sensational!

Dictionary.com says:adjective
1.producing or designed to produce a startling effect, strong reaction, intense interest, etc., especially by exaggerated, superficial, or lurid elements: Check It Out!

Okay--I do admit the definition threw me off a little. Exaggerated? Okay. I guess sensational is a little over the top. But I love sensational people. What makes someone sensational in my book? People who are willing to do whatever it takes to get things done. People who go out of their way to help people. Do you know people like that?

What do you think is sensational?

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Why Do People Fall In Love-R

Ready!

Dictionary.com says:adjective
1. completely prepared or in fit condition for immediate action or use: Check It Out!

Wow! So are we ever really ready? Sometimes I think we are. We're just in that spot or have done enough that we know we are ready to get married. How about you? If you're married did you know you were ready? Or if you're not married, do you think you'll know?

And I know we just gave a book away yesterday, but since we're talking marriage here today I think it's fair we do a GIVE-AWAY DAY! Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the drawing for a review/gift copy of Her Best Catch. (US residence only) We are going to have one more International Give-Away Day---keep checking back!

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Why Do People Fall In Love-Q

Quaint!

Dictionary.com says:adjective, -having an old-fashioned attractiveness or charm; oddly picturesqueCheck It Out!

Love a definition when the word charm is used! I think people can find people to be quaint. A little old-fashionedness might be nice in today's crazy, fast-paced world! I can kind of picture the girl next door for this type of falling in love.

What about you? What do you think of when you think quaint?

And because it's a Q kind of day it's going to be a GIVE-AWAY DAY! Leave a comment and your email address to be in the drawing for a review/gift copy of Her Best Catch. (US residence only)

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-P

Why Do People Fall In Love-P

Pretty!

Dictionary.com says this:adjective --pleasing or attractive to the eye, as by delicacy or gracefulness Check It Out!

We all love pretty things. They catch our eye. They make us smile. Same goes with pretty people. But the inside needs to be just as pretty as the outside. Don't you agree?
I love how the definition uses the word gracefulness. That's just an all around-feel-good word if I've ever heard one.

What comes to mind when you think pretty?

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Why Do People Fall In Love-O

Off!

Dictionary.com says: adjective 33. slightly abnormal or not quite sane: He is a little off, but he's really harmless.Check It Out!

If you are a little off it might be that you fall in love with someone because they are a little off as well. Notice I said a little. I know there are plenty of days I feel off--and I hope my hubby is off as well so he doesn't notice.

Every had an 'off' day?

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-N

Why Do People Fall In Love-N

Nice!

Dictionary.com says:djective, nic·er, nic·est. pleasing; agreeable; delightful Check It Out!


Don't we all love nice people? We all know them. Those who go out of their way to be helpful. Those who do things for you just because. I like the words the dictionary uses. Pleasing--agreeable--isn't that something to look forward to!

And what about delightful? Don't those words bring a smile to your face?

What's something nice someone has done for you lately? or what nice thing have you done for somebody?

A-Z Week 2 Winners!

Hi--we have 4 winners from last week.

H Day--winner is Donna


J Day--Winner is Sharkbytes


K Day--Winner is Susanne (yes, you already won once but there are no rules to how many times you can win--you can give this one to a friend!!)

Non-Challenge Day--Jaycee

Winners, please send your email address to belindapeterson (at) tds (dot) net.

Thanks for commenting---looking forward to week 3 of the challenge!!

Who's Stopping By on a Non-Challenge Day?

Hi---Just checking to see who's visiting on a non-challenge day. Everyone is probably blog-breaking, but if you happen to be here--leave a comment because it's a

GIVE-AWAY DAY!

Leave a comment along with your email address and you'll be entered into the drawing for a review/gift copy of Her Best Catch! (US residence only)

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-M

Why Do People Fall In Love-M

Mesmerized!

Dictionary.com says: verb (used with object), -ized, -iz·ing.
1.to hypnotize.
2.to spellbind; fascinate.
3.to compel by fascination. Check It Out!


Okay--we'll hope the mesmerizing aspect actually is a real thing--otherwise being mesmerized by someone might not be the best reason to fall in love--agreed?

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-L

Why Do People Fall In Love-L

Like!

How about that? We start off liking someone in a lot of relationships. Sometimes that like turns into love? Agree?

Dictionary.com says this:verb (used with object) to take pleasure in; find agreeable or congenial Check It Out!

I had to find the verb form. Because we are talking falling in love--actions--because loving is an action!

Just do it! Love!!

Oh--and it's Friday the 13th---Go out and LOVE IT!

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-K

Why Do People Fall In Love-K

Kiss!

Dictionary.com says:verb (used with object)
1.to touch or press with the lips slightly pursed, and then often to part them and to emit a smacking sound, in an expression of affection, love, greeting, reverence, etc.: He kissed his son on the cheek. Check It Out!

Was this the easiest post of this month's theme? I think so! I mean thinking of love naturally leads to thinking of kissing. Don't you love to kiss someone who is a great kisser? Usually the person you're in love with is a great kisser--or at least you think they are because you love them. See, what a great circle of kissing love!!

And just because it's a fun kissing kind of post, and my heroine Allison is blown away by Ashton's kiss, it's another GIVE-AWAY DAY! Yes, 2 days in a row!

Leave a comment and your email address and you'll be entered in the drawing for a review/gift copy of my book Her Best Catch.

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-J

Why Do People Fall In Love-J

Jewelry!
Dictionary.com says:noun
1. articles of gold, silver, precious stones, etc., for personal adornment. Check It Out!

Let's face it-some people fall in love with somebody because they give them nice jewelry. Or the fact that the person gives them nice jewelry leads to love. This post doesn't mean it's necessarily a superficial kind of love. But if a gal is on the fence regarding love a nice piece of jewelry could help tip the favor the guys way!

Agree?

Just to dispel the notion of superficial love, we'll give away a gift/review copy of my romance Her Best Catch. Leave a comment along with your email address in the comment section and you will be entered in the drawing!! Yes, it's another GIVE-AWAY DAY!!!

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-I

Why do People Fall In Love-I

Interesting.

Dictionary.com says: adjective
1.engaging or exciting and holding the attention or curiosity: an interesting book. Check It Out!

Yes, some people fall in love because they think the other person is interesting. And don't we want to hang out with interesting people? What's interesting is the different things people find interesting. What I think is interesting in a person may not be interesting to you.

So, what do you find interesting about a person? The things they do? The way they act? A combination of many things?

Let me know!

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-H

Why Do People Fall In Love-H

Happy!

Dictionary.com says: adjective, -pi·er, -pi·est.

1. delighted, pleased, or glad, as over a particular thing: to be happy to see a person.
2. characterized by or indicative of pleasure, contentment, or joy: a happy mood; a happy frame of mind.
3. favored by fortune; fortunate or lucky: a happy, fruitful land.
4. apt or felicitous, as actions, utterances, or ideas.
5. obsessed by or quick to use the item indicated (usually used in combination): a trigger-happy gangster. Everybody is gadget-happy these day Check It Out!



I had to list all the definitions for this one today. Quite the definitions! There are all different kinds of happy, aren't there? Some good, some maybe not so good.

But face it. We all, most of the time, like to be around happy people. They just have a great smile--a great disposition! What a great attribute to look for when you are looking to fall in love!


So, do you like happy people?

And because it's a Monday--well, it's going to be a GIVE-AWAY DAY! Leave a comment in the comment section, with your email address, and you'll be entered in the drawing for a review/gift copy of Her Best Catch! (US residence only)

Week 1 A-Z Challenge Blog Winners

Sunday--non A-Z day, but I'm announcing the previous week's winners for a review/gift copy of Her Best Catch.

Sunday's winner is Susanne!!

Tuesday's winner is Alex J Cavanaugh


Friday's winner is Shannon!!

Congrats to all!! Please email me at belindapeterson (at) tds (dot) net with your snail mail address and I'll get the books out to you!!

Happy Easter to all!! He is risen! :)

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-G

Why Do People Fall In Love-G


Goodhearted!

Dictionary.com says:adjective/kind or generous; considerate; benevolent. Check It Out!

Goodhearted. Doesn't the word just make you feel warm and fuzzy all over? Aren't goodhearted people great! They just know what to do and when to do it. No one needs to tell them you need a helping hand or a shoulder to cry on. They just seem to know what you need when you need it. And they're the perfect type of person to fall in love with!

Who do you know that is really goodhearted?

A-Z Challenge

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-F

Why Do People Fall In Love-F

Fairy-Tale romance:

Dictionary.com says: 1.a story, usually for children, about elves, hobgoblins, dragons, fairies, or other magical creatures.

2.an incredible or misleading statement, account, or belief: His story of being a millionaire is just a fairy tale. Check It Out!


Well, we've all had this fantasy--or we've known someone who's had this fantasy. The fairy-tale romance. Does it exist? I think it can--it all depends on your state of mind. I love the idea--I don't think the way it's portrayed on-screen is very realistic, but I'd like to think I've found my very own fairy-tale romance with my hubby. How about you?


This is us on vacay about 5 years ago.















In honor of fairy-tale romance day it's GIVE-AWAY DAY! You know the rules. Leave a comment and email address to be entered in the drawing to win a review/gift copy of Her Best Catch!!

Open to all!





A-Z Challenge

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-E

Why Do People Fall In Love-E

Everything.

Dictionary.com says: every thing or particular of an aggregate or total; all. Check It Out!

Isn't it wonderful when you meet someone who has everything you're looking for? Ha! I know it doesn't happen often, if ever, but sometimes, especially when you meet someone very special, for a while it does seem like they are everything you are looking for. But then, I think it's a bit of pressure on that person to live up to it all, don't you?

Have you ever thought you found someone who had it all? Were you right? Or, what did you find out later!!

A-Z Challenge

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-D

Why Do People Fall in Love-D


Drop-dead GORGEOUS!

Dictionary.com inspiring awe, astonishment, or envy Check It Out!

Okay, you may think this post a little superficial but when dictionary.com had it listed, well really, could I pass it up? No. But really, who doesn't notice someone who's drop-dead gorgeous? I know I do. Doesn't mean people that aren't, (like me!) aren't lovable, but there's something about seeing a handsome/pretty face. And sure, there's more to a person than looks, but here at the A-Z Challenge we're looking at 26 different aspects to falling in love.

So, go with me today!! :)

A-Z Challenge

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-C

Why Do People Fall In Love-C

C is for character.

Dictionary.com says this about character:
The aggregate of features and traits that form the individual nature of some person or thing. CHECK IT OUT HERE

Notice the definition doesn't say anything about being good.
Good character. Don't we all look for that in a person? Someone we know we can trust, believe and depend on. Someone who will help us out when we're in a pinch. Someone who we know will have their shoulder available when we need to shed some tears.

What is a sign of good character you look for in somebody?


GIVE-AWAY DAY! Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the drawing to win a review/gift copy of Her Best Catch! (US residence only)




A-Z Challenge

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-B

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-B

B is for Beauty

I'm not just talking about physically beautiful people. Although we all know them. We all see people who are pleasing to the eye. When they walk by you think about how beautiful they are.
But true beauty comes from within. According to dictionary.com here is the definition of beauty:

The quality present in a thing or person that gives intense pleasure or deep satisfaction to the mind, whether arising from sensory manifestations (as shape, color, sound, etc.), a meaningful design or pattern, or something else (as a personality in which high spiritual qualities are manifest). CHECK IT OUT HERE

I love how they worded it--intense pleasure or deep satisfaction. Because don't we all love those feelings? They just make us feel good.

So what do you find truly beautiful in a person?


A-Z Challenge

A-Z WC-Why Do People Fall In Love-A

Whoo-Hoo! The Writing Challenge has begun! Thanks to all who have worked putting this together.
My A-Z theme is Why People Fall In Love--after all, I love love and I love a happy ending. :)

Also--I'm giving away copies of my book Her Best Catch--all month long! At the end of the post I'll say whether it's a give-away day or not. If it is, leave a comment and you are entered in the drawing!

Why People Fall In Love-A
A-Attraction
quality; magnetic charm; fascination; allurement; enticement: the subtle attraction of her strange personality. CHECK IT OUT


Let's face it. We've all probably felt it before. That initial attraction to someone. We are all attracted to different types of people. Personally, I have always gone for the boy-next-door look as opposed to the Alpha male look. I have a preference for no facial hair. I never really dated blondes.
But there are plenty of women who love a blonde haired-facial haired-Alpha kind of guy. That's what makes the world go round!

So, what about you? What kinds of things instantly catch your attention? Anything you purposely steer away from?


GIVE-AWAY DAY #1--Leave a comment and your email address to be entered in the drawing to win a copy of Her Best Catch. (US residence only--will be having a few international give-away days--check back throughout the month!)



A-Z Challenge

One Week!

Whoo-Hoo!! One week from yesterday the A-Z Writing Challenge will begin.

Are you participating? If so, do you have a theme?

Lucky 7

Thanks, Ciara Knight for tagging me. :)

The Rules:

1. Go to page 77 of your current MS.
2. Go to line 7.
3. Copy down the next 7 lines/sentences, and post them as they’re written. No cheating.
4. Tag 7 other victims …er, authors.

Here's mine!


wasn’t proper at all. I’m Lovey.”
She doesn’t offer a hand or a hug, but her voice is warm. “I’m Ann. Or Angelina. Take your pick.”
“You look like an Angelina in my opinion. You also look like your mother. How is Trixie?”
It quickly comes to my attention there is far more separating us than a door frame. A chasm of emotions and years of untold details will be hard to



Tagging others!

Missy Tippens
Christy Lashea

Not A List Person-But Need A List

I'm so not a list person. Really, I'm not. I'd rather have all these things rambling around in my brain, then issue apologies, I guess, when I forget something.
Really?
I want to be like this?
No. I don't. But why don't I learn? Why don't I make a list and cross things off?

I think lists are intimidating to me. It's the only thing I can figure out. Maybe without the list I can pretend there isn't all that much going on, or all that much to do. Lately, with a barrage of things going on, and a forecast of many things due I've decided I need to change my idea about lists.

Or something needs to give.

Because I don't like feeling overwhelmed. Maybe when everything is running around in my head, and I force it on the list, then a different kind of overwhelmed feeling happens.



Not sure. I have a list I made last night sitting to my right. It doesn't look too long and scary, but maybe that's because I forgot to put stuff on it. Not sure.
I'll keep you posted.

Above is a picture of one of two bulletin boards I stare at while I'm at my desk. This is how my brain feels right now. Hmmmm....

How do you organize your to-do-life?

Already Thursday--A Just Rambling Post

Ha--I bet you're wondering how to take that title. Like the week is flying by? Like she's not glad it's Thursday?

Yes! I'm terribly glad it's Thursday. And Friday is jeans day at the day job, so that's always one less thing to worry about--you know, what you're going to wear. Don't take it wrong, I don't STRESS about what I wear to work. I think the biggest thing is trying to remember what I just wore so I don't wear the same thing 2 days in a row--ha--an especially crazy scenario when I do all the laundry. Hmmm...when Did I wear that last?
Anyway, enough of that! I'm looking forward to the weekend. I'm looking forward to not driving Saturday---staying at home for a day of working on the novel.

How about you? Any interesting plans this weekend?

Monday's On F.A.I.T.H.

Happy Monday!! On Monday's I post on the F.A.I.T.H. Blog.

Check it out!

We're talking The Bachelor, (very brief, I promise!!) and The A-Z Challenge.

Check out The New Look

I still have some 'issues' to fix, but overall, I like the NEW look!
Do you?

Unwritten-Encourage The Journey

No matter what we are doing in life there are struggles. Mondays will be our day to talk about what was left unwritten last week---and then offer encouragement for the following week.
And if everything from your previous week was written—let’s celebrate!

Well last week flew by! And Saturday I flew to Seattle to hang with my nephews and niece so my brother and his wife can have a grand time in NYC. So I hope to write LOTS of words on my current wip. I read an interview with Diana Gabaldon last week. She says she has more than one writing project going on at all times. When she gets stuck on one, she just goes to another project. And this keeps going. I'm not sure I can work on more than one book at a time. What about you?
How were you encouraged last week?

PS--If you're interested in a short Bachelor recap from last Monday night episode and a short post on song themes while writing your current manuscript check out my Monday post HERE.

Unwritten-Encourage The Journey

No matter what we are doing in life there are struggles. Mondays will be our day to talk about what was left unwritten last week---and then offer encouragement for the following week.
And if everything from your previous week was written—let’s celebrate!

Whoo--It's January!
It's 2012!
It's cold in Georgia today!
After a few days of almost 70 degrees, I don't think we are getting out of the 30's today. I'm glad I'm staying in.

Seeing how this is the first post of 2012, Encouraging The Journey could be quite long. Lots of things to accomplish! But I'm still focusing on a weekly time basis here.
This week I have blog posts to write, and I need to work on my current novel, Rich In Love---I took a holiday break and hope it doesn't take me too long to get back into the 'mood' of the novel.
How about you? Did you take a break over the holiday? Did you work right through it? I know people on both ends of the spectrum and in between. I'd love to hear where you fell.

Unwritten-Encourage The Journey

No matter what we are doing in life there are struggles. Mondays will be our day to talk about what was left unwritten last week---and then offer encouragement for the following week.
And if everything from your previous week was written—let’s celebrate!

Well. It's almost here. Christmas day. I don't know about you guys, but I spent my week getting ready for Christmas. I'm not a big shopping fan, so I went a little later at night. We really haven't run into any terrible crowds. I got some giveaway books mailed out. That's about it for my week. Oh, but I did bake some oatmeal raisin cookies..from scratch. I've never done that before. So I liked my week. How about you?
This week will be doing a little more to prepare for Christmas, but hope to get some writing done as well!!

Unwritten-Encourage The Journey

No matter what we are doing in life there are struggles. Mondays will be our day to talk about what was left unwritten last week---and then offer encouragement for the following week.
And if everything from your previous week was written—let’s celebrate!

Well last week was certainly interesting. And encouraging! I was encouraged greatly by my editor who bought a 3 book series from me! The Richness of Faith series will be out in 2013 and 2014. So yes, I was encouraged last week! Now this week I need to be encouraged to write. :) How about you? What encouraged you last week? Were you an encouragement to anyone?

Thank God It's Friday--Literally!-

T.G.I.F. We've all seen it and heard it a million times. We'll devote Friday's to telling the world what we're thanking God for!


Today I'm extremely thankful for computers, the internet and email. They have sped up the process of so many things. There are a couple of bank accounts I handle at my job that I do by hand--writing the checks and such--it's fine because we don't do a lot with those accounts, but I can't imagine running a full business on a ledger.

How about you? What are you thankful for today?

Winner-5 Word Challenge=$5 Amazon Card-Winner

Congratulations go out to JoAnn Durgin who won the $5 gift card last week for her participation in the 5 Word Challenge!

Don't you love winning stuff?

Unwritten-Encourage The Journey

No matter what we are doing in life there are struggles. Mondays will be our day to talk about what was left unwritten last week---and then offer encouragement for the following week.
And if everything from your previous week was written—let’s celebrate!

Well, last week was a busy week! I did manage to get some writing done, more critiquing done, more reviewing done and we had the absolutely most fun with Ciara Knight and her Did I Notice Your Book blog hop!

So, I'm thrilled with last week. How about you?

Sunday Psalm

Psalm 45:1
My heart is overflowing with a good theme;
I recite my composition concerning the King;
My tongue is the pen of a ready writer.

Thank God It's Friday--Literally!-Sharpies!

T.G.I.F. We've all seen it and heard it a million times. We'll devote Friday's to telling the world what we're thanking God for!


Thanksgiving isn't the only time of the year to be thankful, right? 'They' say thankful people are happier people. Hmmm. Sounds good, doesn't it?

There was a guy on a radio station here the Friday after Thanksgiving asking people what they were thankful for. He said the 'big ticket items, family, health, jobs, and such' were a given, so he wanted the 'other' things people were thankful for. There were a lot of great calls--people being thankful for everything from Chick-Fil-A honey-bbq sauce to WI-FI. Fun stuff.

So, in the same vein, I'm going with it. :)

I'm thankful for different colored Sharpies. All the colors make put me in a great mood and I feel pretty motivated to work when I get to jot notes with the Sharpies. (No comments on what that REALLY says about me.)

How about you? What non-big-ticket item are you thankful for?

Did I Notice Your Book

With all the new tools out there to monitor book sales and blurbs mentioned about their books, I’m going to highlight a new book each week. I’ll post it in the morning. If by the end of the day that author finds her book on this post I want her or him to tell us how they discovered it; word of mouth through the close network of writers, a Yahoo group mention, or through some new-fangled Google tool.

Now, how will I choose this book each week? It will be a book that caught my attention. As a reader, I will keep an eye out for something that either provoked me to read the blurb, look at the author’s blog, or purchase said book.

Before I reveal my choice I want to clarify that this author has no idea that I’ve chosen his/her book.

The book I've chosen is: The Perfect Rose by Felecia Rogers




Abandoned by his wife and left to raise a child alone, Caleb Reed falls short of the ideal work-from-home dad. He needs a woman to help him, in every sense of the word. At the suggestion of a friend, Caleb agrees to hire Ariel Lauren on a trial basis.

As an orphan, Ariel has more issues than just how to make it on her own. Yes, she needs the money that Caleb offers her, but more than anything she finds she desires his love. One calamity after another befalls her and jeopardizes her new job and her chance at having a family. But through it all, Caleb is by her side, his gruff exterior threatening to melt in the face of their shared attraction. Will they decide to continue life alone or will the magic of Valentine's Day bring them together?


I chose this book first because I loved the cover. I'm a sucker for romance--love--and all that inspires those special feelings. I love faces on covers and I love roses! So, this cover drew me in right away.

Then I read the blurb. Valentine's Day? I'm there. The author hooked me with the story line as well.


Click here to purchase The Perfect Rose.

Felecia Rogers on Goodreads

Felecia Rogers' website

What do you think? Does this cover draw you in? Would you read this book?


Also, check out Ciara Knight's Blog for a list of all who are participating--and see who did indeed NOTICE THEIR BOOK!

The 5 Word Challenge=$5 Amazon Card

Anyone up for a challenge today? We're keeping it short and simple. Just a little exercise in learning to be concise. I know at times I need it!

So, in the comment section post a 5 word sentence to describe your favorite aspect of decorating for Christmas.


Pre-lit tree means less work. :)


Certain ornaments bring fond memories.


Now it's your turn!
(To be entered into the drawing you need to post your
comment by midnight EST today, November 30th.)


Oh, and make sure you tune in tomorrow--special post!! Fun post!! You'll love it!!

That Was Then, This Is Now--Nessie The Cat

I haven't always read the same type of book-watched the same type of movies--listened to the same type of music. Back in the day, in the 70's I only read historical romance novels. That's it. Until a friend of mine introduced me to Dean Koontz, John Saul and other thriller writers. After working my way through thrillers then I started reading women's fiction--then I started writing. Now I write contemporary christian romance novels. The Rolling Stones and Aerosmith lived in my 8-track player--now David Crowder tops my list of favorite music.But things from my past have shaped who I am today. So we are going to look at 2 somethings. Books-movies-music. The first will be the Here and Now. The second--we'll see what Father Time brings forth and from what era he brings it forth from.

Here we go!

Okay--we're not going back so many years today. We're only going back three.





Meet Nessie. My cat. My crazy, I-wanna-grab-your-ankle-but-sleep-right-next-to-you-every-night cat. We brought her home 3 years ago, January.
























This is her 3 years ago. She was so little and skinny under all that fur. Now, as you can see, she's not lacking for food-or fur!! We love her!









Nessie joined our already crazy family---our 14 year old cat, Jasper, our blue and gold Macaw, Chiquita, our lilac-head parrot, Lila and we now have a crazy, just not quite this side of normal dog, Hutch. Yeah, they out number us 5 to 2. But we control the food! :0

Do you have any pets?

Unwritten-Encourage The Journey

No matter what we are doing in life there are struggles. Mondays will be our day to talk about what was left unwritten last week---and then offer encouragement for the following week.
And if everything from your previous week was written—let’s celebrate!

Hope everyone had an enjoyable Thanksgiving week. That in itself should be an encouragement! But really, shouldn't we have the Thanksgiving/Christmas mindset all year? We have so much to be thankful for on a daily basis--and the spirit of Jesus being born lives in our hearts every day!
This week I'm going to work on a proposal, a one page synopsis, and two blurbs! I need prayer! :)
How about you? What are you working on?

Sunday Psalm

Psalm 61:1

Hear my cry, O God;
Attend to my prayer.
From the end of the earth I shall cry to You.
When my heart is overwhelmed;
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.


I love knowing God is so much bigger than my situations. :)

Thank God It's Friday--Literally!-

T.G.I.F. We've all seen it and heard it a million times. We'll devote Friday's to telling the world what we're thanking God for!

I remember Alex commenting last week he was thankful he had a 3 day work week. Well, I'm at the day job today. But I'm thankful for the job. And I'm thankful I get to see the family tomorrow--it's our Thanksgiving dinner with the family we didn't see yesterday.
Here's a glimpse of some of them!

Thanksgiving

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

We have been blessed so much by our Lord---let's make sure we are a blessing to someone else.

Winner-5 Word Challenge=$5 Amazon Card

Congratulations--- Arlee!!

Last week we played the 5 Word=$5 Amazon card. Arlee played and won. Check back next week to play another round--see if you can win!

(Winners picked randomly.)

Unwritten-Encourage The Journey

No matter what we are doing in life there are struggles. Mondays will be our day to talk about what was left unwritten last week---and then offer encouragement for the following week.
And if everything from your previous week was written—let’s celebrate!

Confession time! I left a whole lot 'unwritten' last week. Only added a small word count to my manuscript, but I did critique chapters for a writing friend. And I saw the midnight showing of Breaking Dawn--which led to no morning writing time Friday morn.

So, how about you? Are you in the 'written' category for last week, or are you like me, in the 'unwritten?'

Sunday Psalm

Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?

Thank God It's Friday--Literally!-

T.G.I.F. We've all seen it and heard it a million times. We'll devote Friday's to telling the world what we're thanking God for!

First off I'm thanking Him for my grandchildren! What cute fun!



There are so many things to be thankful for on a daily basis. What are you thankful for today?

Let's Give Them Somebody To Talk About-Christy Lashea

We all know people who have worked hard writing, who have finished manuscripts, who have taken classes, joined groups and have diligently pursued this publishing avenue. And we all know they are about 2 seconds away from getting that first contract otherwise known as 'The Call.'

Today our Somebody is---------------------------



Christy Lashea!

I met Christy at a GRW meeting. I firmly believe the meeting was orchestrated by God. I wasn't sitting where I usually sit, in the front of the room and I heard someone ask her what genre she wrote. She said inspirational and they led her over to me and introduced her. We've been fast friends ever since. This girl has a ton of talent and I can't wait for everyone to read the words she pens. I asked Christy a few questions.


Lindi: What genre(s) do you write?
Christy: Most of my manuscripts have been contemporary romance. However, my current work in progress is a historical romance set in 1903. I enjoy reading historical romance because I love that escape to a different place and time. I’m discovering a new voice for my characters as well as new adventures in this piece I’m writing. The story takes place in my hometown. I don’t need to travel too far for research, and I’m discovering the town’s history has magical qualities… or, the kind I’m making up .

Lindi: How long have you been writing?
Christy: When I was about 10, I became obsessed (well, that may be too dramatic) with Gone With the Wind. I loved the movie. I began collecting the large picture books that depicted the casting search for the actors. Scarlett, in my mind, is Vivien Leigh. I can’t imagine Scarlett having been played by any other actress. I feel the same about Rhett. Rhett is Clark Gable. With all of that being said, I wanted to create that kind of book. In my 10 year old mind, I thought if I sat down at my sweet Granny’s brown electric typewriter, that I could create some of the dream and magic that Margaret Mitchell did. What happened was I copied the first page of GWTW onto the typed pages. There was no original writing done back then.
In middle school (I loathed 7th grade) I began a murder mystery about 5 or 6 friends that had to solve the murder of one of their friends. (I was reading a lot of Christopher Pike novels back then, too). That was my first attempt at a contemporary story. I didn’t write anymore until my late twenties, when I discovered I loved reading so much (Thank you Nora Roberts, Luanne Rice, and Nicholas Sparks) that I wanted to write my own stories. Plus, I had scenes in my head that had to be told.


Lindi: Do you have an agent?
Christy: Not yet. I’m actively seeking 


Lindi: Do you enter contests-if no, why not? If yes, what is the most helpful aspect of entering contests?
Christy: Yes, I do enter contests. I’ve always been choosy about what contests to enter. I consider the status of the contest among writer communities. I also pay close attention to who the final round editor or agent will be. I’ve been impressed this last year how more CBA editors are the final round judges. Now, we not only can attempt to get our work in front of Harlequin editors, specifically Love Inspired, but also large houses like Thomas Nelson and Bethany House. Very exciting!
The feedback I’ve received from contests has always been very useful.
I will say, it’s a hard pill to swallow if the feedback isn’t positive. Usually, I will put the comments away for a few weeks, then come back later and realize the judge was spot on. You have to have a thick skin to be in this business. Entering contests is one way to get tough.


Lindi: Do you attend writer’s conferences? If no, why not? If yes, why would you suggest conferences for authors who are seeking publication?
Christy: Yes, I attend conferences. I love going! I love writing and I love to talk about the craft with others and help motivate others to keep writing and keep working hard toward their dreams!
I don’t get to attend conferences as much as I would like. The 9-5 job that is a “must” to pay the bills and support my writing “habit” is an important thing that doesn’t allow me to be away a lot. Also, my children are still young and I find it’s harder to travel and leave them behind. My husband and our parents are very supportive, but I find that I have a better time if I am closer to home and choose local conferences to attend.
I always encourage new writers to attend any conferences they can. There are many one-day workshops out there. The wonderful thing about conferences – not only the workshops and teaching – but also the opportunity to sit down across from an editor or agent and pitch your novel! Meeting them in a conference setting is going to show them you’re serious about publication. It puts a face with that cover letter. It’s beyond a blind/boring query letter. If you’re serious about writing, do what you can to attend a conference.



Lindi: What is your favorite aspect of creating a novel. Character development or learning the story?
Christy: Hmmm…. Very good question. I love both aspects very much. I love to brainstorm and plan a story. The hard part is actually writing the scenes!! My stories usually begin with a character and an issue or situation. I find I have to be more structured that when I first started writing. I only write in snippets of time and I need a map to remember where I need to go. Initially, I would start with an idea and see where it took me, but then I found in the end I was all over the place. I believe my books are more character driven and I enjoy creating deeply wounded characters so they can have a happily ever after.


Lindi: Tell us something fun about you!
Christy: I love listening to music way too loud in the car. I jam out when I’m by myself. I love to sing and dance, although I don’t feel I do either very well. I sing to my children quite often and make up silly songs about them. I can’t stand to be tickled, although I love to laugh. I’m finding the best days of my life are right now. I know who I am, where I’m going and where I want to go. I’m not inundated with what someone thinks about me. I’m more confident than I’ve ever been. All of this is attributed to finally giving God the glory in all that I do. I became free when I realized His love for me. I hope one day the stories I write will serve and glorify Him, and will encourage others.

Christy: Lindi, Thanks so much for having me here today!! I love the themes you have going during the week. So fun!


Thank you for being here! Feel free to ask Christy a question or two. She'll be checking in.

The 5 Word Challenge=$5 Amazon Card

Anyone up for a challenge today? We're keeping it short and simple. Just a little exercise in learning to be concise. I know at times I need it!

So, in the comment section post a 5 word sentence to describe your favorite kind of day.

I'll go first:

Cloudy, cool and soft breezes.
Or maybe---Pizza and cookies for lunch.

Wanna try?

If you post a 5 word answer in the comment section your name will be in the drawing for a $5 amazon card.
Rules-
1. You must post a 5 word answer
2. You must post your email address--in that undetectable format ex: belindapeterson at tds dot net--you know how it goes.
3. You must post your answer before 8:00 A.M. EST--Thursday, Nov 17th.

Winner will be announced next Wednesday. If you are that winner a $5 amazon card will be sent to you email.

Have fun!!