This is my youngest daughter's dog. Puppers is half Chihuahua and half toy poodle. We call him a Chi-oodle. His talent is chasing his tail.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Puppers
This is my youngest daughter's dog. Puppers is half Chihuahua and half toy poodle. We call him a Chi-oodle. His talent is chasing his tail.
Monday, July 24, 2006
and the winner is.....
http://161.58.67.252/RITAFinalists.htm#SH
Here's a link to the RWA site where the finalists are listed.
How many of the books have you read?
In the past there's been live internet coverage of the awards ceremony, but I haven't found anything so far this year.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
One of my favorite lilies
My summer garden is just past its prime with the intense heat we've been having, but here is a picture I took this morning. It's one of my favorite hybrid daylilies.
Blog Spam
This morning I had to go through and delete 36 spam posts left in the comments sections here. I don't have the verification feature turned on, because I want to keep this blog as easy and friendly for you as I can. And most of the time it's not a problem. These were all made by the same person, probably electroncially generated, because many of the same posts with poor grammar were repeated over and over, like someone who doesn't speak English very well. "Greets to you" and things like that. And they leave a link to their site.
Do you post in blogs where you have to post the verification (enter some wavy numbers in a box to make sure you're a real person reading and posting) and if so, how inconvenient is that for you?
Do you post in blogs where you have to post the verification (enter some wavy numbers in a box to make sure you're a real person reading and posting) and if so, how inconvenient is that for you?
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Think you'll go see it?
This opens July 21st. I always like M. Night Shyamalan's movies. How about you?
This fantastical new film, adapted from a bedtime tale he used to tell his children, features Bryce Dallas Howard as Story, a water nymph who inhabits the swimming pool of an apartment complex. When the building superintendent, Cleveland Heep (Paul Giamatti), discovers her presence, he learns that everyone in the surrounding apartments has a role to play in her fate -- whether they know it or not.
what to say?
My agent will be accepting my RITA award for me, and I promised to send her a few words for the acceptance speech. Boy, is this tough! I've sat through enough award ceremonies to know it's an extreme kindness to keep it short. So it will be short.
Nothing sounds adequate. Everything sounds corny and repetitive.
Suggestions?
Nothing sounds adequate. Everything sounds corny and repetitive.
Suggestions?
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Heat Wave
It reached 104 degrees here today. Needless to say, I made as few trips out as possible. Thank God for air conditioning!
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Harlequin Movies
Isabel Swift, VP, Author & Asset Development is interested in knowing which Harlequin/Silhouette books you'd like to see made into movies. Readers, here's your chance to voice your ideas and opinions to the Powers That Be!
http://community.eharlequin.com/webx?50@252.vouna10kSlQ.16@.4a83820f
http://community.eharlequin.com/webx?50@252.vouna10kSlQ.16@.4a83820f
Friday, July 14, 2006
The first story I ever wrote was called The Pink Dress. I stapled the pages into a book and drew a cover. I don’t remember how old I was. Many years later, I wrote a short story, submitted it, and received a rejection from Redbook magazine. I was fourteen and I still have the story and the rejection slip, and I still remember the feeling of rejection and disappointment when I received it.
My first novel length manuscript was titled The Rebel. I’m actually too embarrassed to tell you what it was about, but the title would have sold well to Silhouette, don’t you think? In fact it probably has. I was sixteen when I wrote it.
I wrote in notebooks for years when my children were growing up, and started a couple of books that way, but I didn’t get serious until my youngest daughter went to first grade. I was lost without her, but instead of having another baby or embarking on a real career :::LOL::: I decided that was the time to write the book I’d always wanted to write.
All The Tender Tomorrows. Great title, eh? Ambitious undertaking. Great characters. No plot. Passive, passive, passive writing. A totally unsaleable time period. It was typed on an old manual Smith-Corona, with an “A” that struck half a line below all the other letters, and it underwent at least three or four complete rewrites. I didn’t know it was passively written. I didn’t know it was a time period no one would buy. I thought it had a great plot -- I was involved! I sent it to many, many publishers. Most major historical publishers. What they should have said in their rejection letters was: “This doesn’t fit our present needs, and if it ever does, we’ll shoot ourselves.” But they didn’t.
I didn't receive constructive rejections; I got vague, form rejections. But I did learn to persevere. I wrote the whole thing from beginning to end and rewrote it as many times and as many ways as I knew how. And if one of those publishers had told me how to change it to make it better, I’d have done that, too.
I still just might sell that story someday.
My first novel length manuscript was titled The Rebel. I’m actually too embarrassed to tell you what it was about, but the title would have sold well to Silhouette, don’t you think? In fact it probably has. I was sixteen when I wrote it.
I wrote in notebooks for years when my children were growing up, and started a couple of books that way, but I didn’t get serious until my youngest daughter went to first grade. I was lost without her, but instead of having another baby or embarking on a real career :::LOL::: I decided that was the time to write the book I’d always wanted to write.
All The Tender Tomorrows. Great title, eh? Ambitious undertaking. Great characters. No plot. Passive, passive, passive writing. A totally unsaleable time period. It was typed on an old manual Smith-Corona, with an “A” that struck half a line below all the other letters, and it underwent at least three or four complete rewrites. I didn’t know it was passively written. I didn’t know it was a time period no one would buy. I thought it had a great plot -- I was involved! I sent it to many, many publishers. Most major historical publishers. What they should have said in their rejection letters was: “This doesn’t fit our present needs, and if it ever does, we’ll shoot ourselves.” But they didn’t.
I didn't receive constructive rejections; I got vague, form rejections. But I did learn to persevere. I wrote the whole thing from beginning to end and rewrote it as many times and as many ways as I knew how. And if one of those publishers had told me how to change it to make it better, I’d have done that, too.
I still just might sell that story someday.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Mia and her Binky
Mia is my son & daughter-in-law's ShihTzu. She's just a few months old. Here she is with one of her favorite toys - her Binky. Mia's very sweet-natured and calm. She accompanies the family on visits to my house.
UK Release in August
Here is The Mistaken Widow, an August MIlls & Boon release in the United Kingdom. I adore this cover. It is so gorgeous! What I also love is how it mirrors the details of the original theme cover.
Can't wait to have one in my hands.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Cheryl St.John's tips on collecting and displaying your favorite things
There are so many ways to collect today, from flea markets and antique malls to online shopping like ebay. Some people like owning only new things, others want pieces with history. We collect the things that appeal and intrigue and inspire. You can tell a lot about people by the things you see in their homes. Collecting is personal, and it’s about living with the things you love. Collections are as various as people. I’ve even seen a woman who collects lint and turns it into art.
THE RULE OF THREE
If you have three, you have a collection. If you have two, you have two.
Always display things in groups of at least three.
We want our homes to reflect our personalities, and that’s what the things we collect reveal. We don’t want our homes to look cluttered. Even if you have many collections and display a large amount of them, your surroundings don’t have to look disorganized.
Color sets the mood of your room. You can change the appeal and focus of a room without painting or reupholstering by simply switching out your colorful collectables. They have punch and their mobility makes them a decorator’s dream.
SHELVES
Group items according to light or dark.
Use horizontal stacks as well as vertical rows of books.
Create a focal point for each shelf by grouping like objects. The bigger the object, the more impact. Too many small items create clutter.
Display small items in separate display boxes, shadow boxes or frames.
Use containers like baskets or glass bowls to hold things like buttons, marbles, matchbooks.
To arrange shelves, start with the biggest heaviest objects to anchor the space.
Add height and color. Finish with filler, smaller items to bridge gaps. Stacks of bowls or books are one item. Use interesting shapes.
Keep items from the same collection of theme together.
If you display photos in frames, confine them to one shelf to avoid clutter. The observer’s focus needs to fix on one group or shelf at a time, and not be drawn a dozen directions at once.
Turn things the same way and unify them by silhouette, for example teapots with spouts, pitchers and cups with handles
BOOKSHELVES
Remove the paper jackets and group hardbacks according to color and size.
A hodgepodge is confusing to the eye, where blocks of color and size keep the eye focused.
Paperbacks are less attractive and should be kept in another room or discreetly hidden in baskets.
CHINA CABINETS
Cardinal rule: Open shelving and china cabinets are for display, not storage.
Jam-packed cabinets lack a focal point.
You should be calling attention to the most attractive items.
1 adhere to a theme or color palette
2 use balance, but don’t be predictable
3 use a platter, soup tureen, or pitcher as a focal points (your anchors)
4 stacks and rows are more restful to the eye
5 stacking teacups on saucers rather than on each other maintains neat lines
Consider the backgrounds for your displays. If the inside of your china hutch is dark, paint it white or a pale color. If your display items are white, paint your shelves black or red.
Two colors with a strong contrast will make your collection pop.
The same principle applies to shiny verses matte finishes.
CURIO CABINETS
Curio cabinets can become a jumble. Create small bleacher-like steps with several layers for your displays. Make your own with painted or stained wood or fabric-covered cardboard. Choose a color that blends in with the cabinet.
You can use cup hooks on the underside of shelves to hang small treasures.
Small boxes can become shadow boxes. Heart-shaped candy boxes will hold miniatures or use picture frames or flat items like Valentines, stamps, paper fans or handkerchiefs.
There are also memory boxes to hold three dimensional displays.
TABLESCAPES
Think of tables as pedestals. They can be casual or formal, whatever your style.
The same rules apply when displaying objects on a table, dresser or cabinet top. The bigger & heavier the table, the bolder the objects should be.
Have a theme in mind. Use one or two recurring colors.
Have a focal point.
Start with large objects like lamps and statuary and work to smaller. Think of a physical landscape with mountain peaks and smaller hills at the outer edges.
A live or silk plant is always a great addition for color and atmosphere.
Plants add warmth and hominess.
Lighting is as important as the items you’re displaying.
A table lamp with a three way bulb can add the sparkle you want.
A tray can be a tabletop, too, and you would arrange it the same. It’s actually a frame of sorts. The benefit is, it’s portable.
Remember that what you set on a coffee table must be able to withstand admirers and everyday traffic.
Change displays as often as you like, seasonally, or as the whim strikes. You can move the things you love from room to room to create variety. It’s always a good idea to pack away collections you’re not displaying and then bring them out another time. They’ll be new all over again, and you won’t get tired of them. Keep a collection flexible by changing out part and rearranging.
PICTURE FRAMES
Either on the wall, tabletop or shelf, unify by single material, color, shape, texture or size.
MANTLES
Mantels used to be where the family displayed their crests, sabers and hunting trophies and this area often signified the family’s status. Today mantles are less formal, less symmetrical. It’s more about what you like than in adhering to design rules.
The mantle is a good place for more fragile, extraordinary or expensive things, because there’s less traffic. A mirror, clock, painting, flag or quilt is a good anchor. You should have a unifying element. It’s good to remember that a mantle is the bottom part of a picture frame. What flanks the mantle is equally important as what’s on it. Remember to tie in the items on your hearth and the adjoining wall.
MIRRORS & LIGHTING
Use mirrors. Place them flat and set items on top or hang them and reflect your room or your collection. Glass and bottles are best displayed in front of a window or with backlighting. Consider rope lights above or below shelves for effect.
Some collections are kept hidden away: Jewelry, watches, coins. If you want to take your jewelry out of the drawer it can be displayed as curtain tiebacks or in a glass dish.
If you collect something valuable and want to make sure you’re buying the real deal when you’re at a fleamarket, study up. Buying guides, websites and books will help you know your stuff.
Not everything has to be perfect. If you love it, it’s beautiful. Chips and dings can add character. Mismatched teacups or plates are delightful additions to a shelf.
If you love a particular textile or texture, you can purchase imperfect pieces and use them as mats for frames, throw pillows, tiebacks.
FLEAMARKET & GARAGE SALE TIPS
So much stuff can be overwhelming. Make one quick sweep to skim, then start over and spend time looking over the things you collect. Just seeing booths at an antique mall will give you ideas on how to display. Ask questions about the items and always ask for their best price. It’s usually 10% off, so don’t insult them by asking them to take less.
Garage sales don’t adhere to that rule. If they want to get rid of their junk, they’ll go lower.
CARE
Learn how to care for things like vintage linens, wood, glass & ceramics, brass, copper & silver, because moth and rust will destroy our earthly treasures.
If you like to collect marbles, shells, twigs etc., find creative uses for them by trimming lampshades, picture frames, by making wreathes or by filling clear glass lamp bases.
Many collectables are useful, for example: pots & planters, dishes, linens & silverware.
Nearly everyone collects something for Christmas, from snowmen, Santas and angels to glass tree toppers and Shiny Brite ornaments, there’s something for everyone at Christmastime. It’s a good idea to store like items or combinations together for easy retrieval and use. It’s fun to display a Christmas themed collection year round, if it suits you.
It’s been said that a collector is a curious, passionate person, and the more passionate one is, the greater is the collection. I remind my husband of this when he calls my collecting obsessive.
THE RULE OF THREE
If you have three, you have a collection. If you have two, you have two.
Always display things in groups of at least three.
We want our homes to reflect our personalities, and that’s what the things we collect reveal. We don’t want our homes to look cluttered. Even if you have many collections and display a large amount of them, your surroundings don’t have to look disorganized.
Color sets the mood of your room. You can change the appeal and focus of a room without painting or reupholstering by simply switching out your colorful collectables. They have punch and their mobility makes them a decorator’s dream.
SHELVES
Group items according to light or dark.
Use horizontal stacks as well as vertical rows of books.
Create a focal point for each shelf by grouping like objects. The bigger the object, the more impact. Too many small items create clutter.
Display small items in separate display boxes, shadow boxes or frames.
Use containers like baskets or glass bowls to hold things like buttons, marbles, matchbooks.
To arrange shelves, start with the biggest heaviest objects to anchor the space.
Add height and color. Finish with filler, smaller items to bridge gaps. Stacks of bowls or books are one item. Use interesting shapes.
Keep items from the same collection of theme together.
If you display photos in frames, confine them to one shelf to avoid clutter. The observer’s focus needs to fix on one group or shelf at a time, and not be drawn a dozen directions at once.
Turn things the same way and unify them by silhouette, for example teapots with spouts, pitchers and cups with handles
BOOKSHELVES
Remove the paper jackets and group hardbacks according to color and size.
A hodgepodge is confusing to the eye, where blocks of color and size keep the eye focused.
Paperbacks are less attractive and should be kept in another room or discreetly hidden in baskets.
CHINA CABINETS
Cardinal rule: Open shelving and china cabinets are for display, not storage.
Jam-packed cabinets lack a focal point.
You should be calling attention to the most attractive items.
1 adhere to a theme or color palette
2 use balance, but don’t be predictable
3 use a platter, soup tureen, or pitcher as a focal points (your anchors)
4 stacks and rows are more restful to the eye
5 stacking teacups on saucers rather than on each other maintains neat lines
Consider the backgrounds for your displays. If the inside of your china hutch is dark, paint it white or a pale color. If your display items are white, paint your shelves black or red.
Two colors with a strong contrast will make your collection pop.
The same principle applies to shiny verses matte finishes.
CURIO CABINETS
Curio cabinets can become a jumble. Create small bleacher-like steps with several layers for your displays. Make your own with painted or stained wood or fabric-covered cardboard. Choose a color that blends in with the cabinet.
You can use cup hooks on the underside of shelves to hang small treasures.
Small boxes can become shadow boxes. Heart-shaped candy boxes will hold miniatures or use picture frames or flat items like Valentines, stamps, paper fans or handkerchiefs.
There are also memory boxes to hold three dimensional displays.
TABLESCAPES
Think of tables as pedestals. They can be casual or formal, whatever your style.
The same rules apply when displaying objects on a table, dresser or cabinet top. The bigger & heavier the table, the bolder the objects should be.
Have a theme in mind. Use one or two recurring colors.
Have a focal point.
Start with large objects like lamps and statuary and work to smaller. Think of a physical landscape with mountain peaks and smaller hills at the outer edges.
A live or silk plant is always a great addition for color and atmosphere.
Plants add warmth and hominess.
Lighting is as important as the items you’re displaying.
A table lamp with a three way bulb can add the sparkle you want.
A tray can be a tabletop, too, and you would arrange it the same. It’s actually a frame of sorts. The benefit is, it’s portable.
Remember that what you set on a coffee table must be able to withstand admirers and everyday traffic.
Change displays as often as you like, seasonally, or as the whim strikes. You can move the things you love from room to room to create variety. It’s always a good idea to pack away collections you’re not displaying and then bring them out another time. They’ll be new all over again, and you won’t get tired of them. Keep a collection flexible by changing out part and rearranging.
PICTURE FRAMES
Either on the wall, tabletop or shelf, unify by single material, color, shape, texture or size.
MANTLES
Mantels used to be where the family displayed their crests, sabers and hunting trophies and this area often signified the family’s status. Today mantles are less formal, less symmetrical. It’s more about what you like than in adhering to design rules.
The mantle is a good place for more fragile, extraordinary or expensive things, because there’s less traffic. A mirror, clock, painting, flag or quilt is a good anchor. You should have a unifying element. It’s good to remember that a mantle is the bottom part of a picture frame. What flanks the mantle is equally important as what’s on it. Remember to tie in the items on your hearth and the adjoining wall.
MIRRORS & LIGHTING
Use mirrors. Place them flat and set items on top or hang them and reflect your room or your collection. Glass and bottles are best displayed in front of a window or with backlighting. Consider rope lights above or below shelves for effect.
Some collections are kept hidden away: Jewelry, watches, coins. If you want to take your jewelry out of the drawer it can be displayed as curtain tiebacks or in a glass dish.
If you collect something valuable and want to make sure you’re buying the real deal when you’re at a fleamarket, study up. Buying guides, websites and books will help you know your stuff.
Not everything has to be perfect. If you love it, it’s beautiful. Chips and dings can add character. Mismatched teacups or plates are delightful additions to a shelf.
If you love a particular textile or texture, you can purchase imperfect pieces and use them as mats for frames, throw pillows, tiebacks.
FLEAMARKET & GARAGE SALE TIPS
So much stuff can be overwhelming. Make one quick sweep to skim, then start over and spend time looking over the things you collect. Just seeing booths at an antique mall will give you ideas on how to display. Ask questions about the items and always ask for their best price. It’s usually 10% off, so don’t insult them by asking them to take less.
Garage sales don’t adhere to that rule. If they want to get rid of their junk, they’ll go lower.
CARE
Learn how to care for things like vintage linens, wood, glass & ceramics, brass, copper & silver, because moth and rust will destroy our earthly treasures.
If you like to collect marbles, shells, twigs etc., find creative uses for them by trimming lampshades, picture frames, by making wreathes or by filling clear glass lamp bases.
Many collectables are useful, for example: pots & planters, dishes, linens & silverware.
Nearly everyone collects something for Christmas, from snowmen, Santas and angels to glass tree toppers and Shiny Brite ornaments, there’s something for everyone at Christmastime. It’s a good idea to store like items or combinations together for easy retrieval and use. It’s fun to display a Christmas themed collection year round, if it suits you.
It’s been said that a collector is a curious, passionate person, and the more passionate one is, the greater is the collection. I remind my husband of this when he calls my collecting obsessive.
New feature!
Please notice the cluster map at the bottom of this page, which WDMCuz was kind and smart enough to figure out how to add for me. Thanks, Cuz! This is so cool! I never imagined there were so many hits - and international visitors - in just one day! It's going to be fun to see where people are visiting from. (Wish they were all posting.)
By clicking on the map you can enlarge it to get a better look.
By clicking on the map you can enlarge it to get a better look.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
By Request
Okay. What I did on the 4th. My hubby and I had an opportunity to go salvage at an abandoned farm. The house was off limits because it will be moved, but the yards and barn and outbuildings were fair game. We removed and took home half barn doors (not the big rolling kind). They are so cool. Not sure what we'll do with them, but the possibilities are endless for nuts such as we. We found all the old woodwork taken from the house during a remodel stored in the rafters in the wash house. And we dug up plants. I even found a patch of foxglove. It's so pretty, and did great in the transplant. We used big galvanized tubs to bring all the plants home, including mature day and tiger lilies. I'm sure our neighbors think we're the Beverly Hillbillies every time they see the old truck pull up full of bricks, wood, fencing, etc.. We just love the cottage garden look.
The rest of the day was spent finding places to store wood and doors and getting the flowers in the ground. We were able to fill out some of our beds. They're almost all filled with perennials now. The ground has been worked and is in excellent condition. So nice to work in. Next Spring will be a snap to just rearrange a few things and add here and there, add a few annuals for summer color.
Boy were we pooped at the end of the day.
The rest of the day was spent finding places to store wood and doors and getting the flowers in the ground. We were able to fill out some of our beds. They're almost all filled with perennials now. The ground has been worked and is in excellent condition. So nice to work in. Next Spring will be a snap to just rearrange a few things and add here and there, add a few annuals for summer color.
Boy were we pooped at the end of the day.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Streeeeeeeeeetching
Stretching keeps us from growing bored with ourselves and prevents from our writing from growing stagnant--both with words on paper and in our attitudes toward those words.
The thing that occurred to me this past week was how easy it is to fall back into what we've always done. It takes a determined effort to change. Have you ever gone to the salon for a makeover - a new do - and you get a cut and style and you feel like a whole new person? How fun and refreshing is that? But then -- you have to wash and fix your own hair the next day - and it ends up looking the same way it always does. Why is that? Because you went right back to fixing it the same way you always did, instead of changing up. You probably needed a new product, a different curling iron - or a changed method.
We do the same thing when we're critiqued by someone and want to employ the technique they suggested or when we hear a fabulous workshop or a market tidbit. We have great intentions, but we don't change tools - we go right back to the way we did it before.
In order to implement recent changes, I made myself simple bulleted lists (I love bulleted lists!) and printed out one to hang over my PC and one for the front page of my project binder. That way each time I sit down to work I look at the list and remind myself of the scope I want to achieve with this project.
As for Independence Day: we declined invitations and hints to invite ... and salvaged an abandoned farm for barn doors and garden plants. Our finds took two pickup loads, and then we spent the rest of the day planting and finding places to store stuff. In the PM some of our kids brought food and grilled for us, then we watched the local fireworks displays. I think our neighbors are in the fireworks business. Everyone up and down our block sets out their lawn chairs to watch. This is the third year they've done it since we've been here, and we haven't been disappointed yet.
The thing that occurred to me this past week was how easy it is to fall back into what we've always done. It takes a determined effort to change. Have you ever gone to the salon for a makeover - a new do - and you get a cut and style and you feel like a whole new person? How fun and refreshing is that? But then -- you have to wash and fix your own hair the next day - and it ends up looking the same way it always does. Why is that? Because you went right back to fixing it the same way you always did, instead of changing up. You probably needed a new product, a different curling iron - or a changed method.
We do the same thing when we're critiqued by someone and want to employ the technique they suggested or when we hear a fabulous workshop or a market tidbit. We have great intentions, but we don't change tools - we go right back to the way we did it before.
In order to implement recent changes, I made myself simple bulleted lists (I love bulleted lists!) and printed out one to hang over my PC and one for the front page of my project binder. That way each time I sit down to work I look at the list and remind myself of the scope I want to achieve with this project.
As for Independence Day: we declined invitations and hints to invite ... and salvaged an abandoned farm for barn doors and garden plants. Our finds took two pickup loads, and then we spent the rest of the day planting and finding places to store stuff. In the PM some of our kids brought food and grilled for us, then we watched the local fireworks displays. I think our neighbors are in the fireworks business. Everyone up and down our block sets out their lawn chairs to watch. This is the third year they've done it since we've been here, and we haven't been disappointed yet.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Who is on your Keeper Shelves?
Is there enough web space for this topic? LOL
These are the authors on my keeper shelves. How many do we share?
LaVyrle Spencer
Lisa Gregory/Candace Camp/Kristin James
Theresa Weir/Anne Frasier
Janet Evanovich
Kristin Hannah
Jude Devereaux
Megan Chance
Catherine Anderson
Laura Kinsale
Linda Howard
Pam Crooks
Susan Fox
Holly Jakobs
Pamela Morsi
Maureen McKade
Jill Marie Landis
Maggie Osborne
Alexis Harrington
Sharon Sala
Laura Lee Ghurke
Eloisa James
Penelope Williamson
Linda Castle
Paula Detmer Riggs
Emile Richards
Cheryl Reavis
Curtis Ann Matlock
Robyn Carr
Jane Goodger
Rachel Nelson
Stephen King
Dean Koontz
Erin St.Claire (old Sandra Brown)
Suzanna Davis
series I collect on shelves:
Montana Mavericks (I have them ALL!)
Logan's Legacy
Ann of Greene Gables
Stephanie Plum (Janet Evanovich)
Sons & Daughters
Delta Jutice
Born in the USA
and there's a Paula Detmer Riggs series I'm going to be looking for--
Maternity Row?
These are the authors on my keeper shelves. How many do we share?
LaVyrle Spencer
Lisa Gregory/Candace Camp/Kristin James
Theresa Weir/Anne Frasier
Janet Evanovich
Kristin Hannah
Jude Devereaux
Megan Chance
Catherine Anderson
Laura Kinsale
Linda Howard
Pam Crooks
Susan Fox
Holly Jakobs
Pamela Morsi
Maureen McKade
Jill Marie Landis
Maggie Osborne
Alexis Harrington
Sharon Sala
Laura Lee Ghurke
Eloisa James
Penelope Williamson
Linda Castle
Paula Detmer Riggs
Emile Richards
Cheryl Reavis
Curtis Ann Matlock
Robyn Carr
Jane Goodger
Rachel Nelson
Stephen King
Dean Koontz
Erin St.Claire (old Sandra Brown)
Suzanna Davis
series I collect on shelves:
Montana Mavericks (I have them ALL!)
Logan's Legacy
Ann of Greene Gables
Stephanie Plum (Janet Evanovich)
Sons & Daughters
Delta Jutice
Born in the USA
and there's a Paula Detmer Riggs series I'm going to be looking for--
Maternity Row?
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Broken Trail
Broken Trail - The Official Website
http://brokentrail.amctv.com/
There's quite a buzz about the new AMC movie, a western which I MISSED! The encore presentation is July 6th, so I won't miss it then. I've already downloaded my gorgeous wallpaper.
http://brokentrail.amctv.com/
There's quite a buzz about the new AMC movie, a western which I MISSED! The encore presentation is July 6th, so I won't miss it then. I've already downloaded my gorgeous wallpaper.
Wallpaper
This is my current wallpaper. I can just sit and gaze at this house with the fence and cozy-looking porch. Isn't it welcoming?
Monday, June 26, 2006
What does your TBR pile look like?
I just read a couple of books. I read Blackberry Winter, a Next by Cheryl Reavis and Blind Curve by Annie Solomon. It's a joke to read only one or two books when I assess the pile beside my bed and another on a shelf in my office--all to be read. Like a drop in the proverbial bucket. Only my bucket is more like an ocean. I have the best intentions. I used to have an entire tall video cabinet full of TBR books as well as boxes stashed in a closet. I have improved greatly over that situation. I always think I'll have more time to read--when summer gets here, when this book is finished....
When I am old, I will read all those books, but I won't wear purple.
When I am old, I will read all those books, but I won't wear purple.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
German Reprint
Here's the German edition of Million-Dollar Makeover. I love foreign sales. My books are printed and released all over the world without any extra work on my part--how cool is that? Sometimes I question the covers. Stock photos? The heroine in this story has a pair of Golden Retrievers. Maybe if you squint and hold the book at a certain angle....
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Tuesday
I haven't posted for a few days. My dad passed away last Wednesday, so things have been a little busy around here. We just celebrated his 84th birthday a week ago, and a few days later he was gone. The hospice caregivers said that often happens after a birthday or Christmas when the person has seen all their family. It's like that releases them to go.
Here's a picture of him as a young man many many years ago, and a picture taken on his birthday. With him is one grandchild and the rest are great-grandchildren. We made a DVD slide show for the funeral service and the music was Glen Miller's In The Mood. Dad played drums in supper club orchestras for years in his younger days.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Winner of ARE YOU AFRAID?
It's Friday! The name drawn from the fishbowl is JENNIFER Y.
Congratulations, Jennifer! Please send me your address at SaintJohn@aol.com and I'll mail the book out to you.
Have a great weekend.
Congratulations, Jennifer! Please send me your address at SaintJohn@aol.com and I'll mail the book out to you.
Have a great weekend.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
another Carol -- welcome!
Carol T visited for the first time. She asked what my family thinks about my collecting. Well, Carol....
My husband has developed an appreciation for some of the things I collect and has a few quirks of his own. He loves old things in the garden; he has an old push mower and a rusty tricycle, birdhouses and wagons, etc..
My children are used to me. They rarely ADD to my collections. A couple of them appreciate heirlooms, and I have pointed all of those out as well as which items are valuable. I have most heirlooms marked with the source, so they will know what came from whom. Also things that were gifts, I've dated and marked where possible.
Daughters #1 and #2 are minimalists. Their homes are decorated beautifully, but with no extras. When they're finished with a look or a color, out go those accessories and they change decor. My son has a few collections, like presidential campaign buttons and coins. He's into aquariums -- has at least have a dozen that are really huge and beautiful. My daughter-in-law likes things plain and simple. Last time I moved, it was in the middle of a deadline, and I didn't have time to paint much or unpack things, and I was getting depressed without color or my things around me. She liked the look--thought it was calming.
Our youngest daughter used to collect quite a bit herself. When she was small she always latched onto everything the older girls were getting rid of. During her last move she thinned out her books and her bunnies and got rid of her wolves.
One of my grandsons, Adam is a postcard collector in a BIG way. It started as a school project in first grade. Just this past school year a friend of mine (writer Barb Andrews/Jennifer Drew) who collects postcards and writes an article for the Antique Trader put a picture of my two grandsons in the magazine along with their school address. The boys got boxes and envelopes of postcards, some vintage and very collectible from collectors all over! It was amazing. Some people are still sending them postcards. Adam keeps his first ones in an album, but actually likes to have the rest all loose in shoeboxes so he can look through and sort. He spends hours pouring over them. He especially likes bridges. I have a picture somewhere.
Our kids really don't like it when we move, so we try not to do that often. LOL We have some good friends who helped us move last time, and not long after, we were having a discussion about our funerals. You know how you get on a weird subject? We are all on the same worship team and flow well together. I told them I wanted a praise service with singing and dancing. My friend Carla said she'd play the keyboard for the service, but she wouldn't help my kids move my stuff again!! Too funny.
Most people who see our home are interested in looking at everything. The women always say, "I wouldn't want to dust it." LOL
My husband has developed an appreciation for some of the things I collect and has a few quirks of his own. He loves old things in the garden; he has an old push mower and a rusty tricycle, birdhouses and wagons, etc..
My children are used to me. They rarely ADD to my collections. A couple of them appreciate heirlooms, and I have pointed all of those out as well as which items are valuable. I have most heirlooms marked with the source, so they will know what came from whom. Also things that were gifts, I've dated and marked where possible.
Daughters #1 and #2 are minimalists. Their homes are decorated beautifully, but with no extras. When they're finished with a look or a color, out go those accessories and they change decor. My son has a few collections, like presidential campaign buttons and coins. He's into aquariums -- has at least have a dozen that are really huge and beautiful. My daughter-in-law likes things plain and simple. Last time I moved, it was in the middle of a deadline, and I didn't have time to paint much or unpack things, and I was getting depressed without color or my things around me. She liked the look--thought it was calming.
Our youngest daughter used to collect quite a bit herself. When she was small she always latched onto everything the older girls were getting rid of. During her last move she thinned out her books and her bunnies and got rid of her wolves.
One of my grandsons, Adam is a postcard collector in a BIG way. It started as a school project in first grade. Just this past school year a friend of mine (writer Barb Andrews/Jennifer Drew) who collects postcards and writes an article for the Antique Trader put a picture of my two grandsons in the magazine along with their school address. The boys got boxes and envelopes of postcards, some vintage and very collectible from collectors all over! It was amazing. Some people are still sending them postcards. Adam keeps his first ones in an album, but actually likes to have the rest all loose in shoeboxes so he can look through and sort. He spends hours pouring over them. He especially likes bridges. I have a picture somewhere.
Our kids really don't like it when we move, so we try not to do that often. LOL We have some good friends who helped us move last time, and not long after, we were having a discussion about our funerals. You know how you get on a weird subject? We are all on the same worship team and flow well together. I told them I wanted a praise service with singing and dancing. My friend Carla said she'd play the keyboard for the service, but she wouldn't help my kids move my stuff again!! Too funny.
Most people who see our home are interested in looking at everything. The women always say, "I wouldn't want to dust it." LOL
Monday, June 12, 2006
Monday, Monday
Anyone remember the Mamas and the Papas? We have a radio station that plays all 50s, 60s and 70s music, and it's my channel of choice.
We had a birthday party for my 84 year-old dad yesterday. He is in a care facility which has a very nice community room we reserved for the day. There is a lovely large park area right out back, so there was plenty of room for the kids to play. My brother's 10 year-old daughter and 6 year-old grandson were there, too, so there were 11 kids. (I can't really count my oldest granddaughter as a "kid" anymore, because she's sixteen, but she's one of "my kids.") I will have pictures to post after I meet #2 daughter at the Kodak machine. She's the one with the great camera.
I cheat every other Sunday, so I ate chips and sandwiches and TWO PIECES of chocolate cake! I ordered the cake from Walmart because it was on the way and convenient to pick up on a Sunday: 1/2 white, 1/2 chocolate with buttercreme icing, and do they ever make a great cake! I usually order from Target or HyVee, but I think I have a new favorite bakery. I have a favorite HyVee where the decorators will put anything I want on a cake and are quite talented, so I've always used that one for showers and special events.
I know some of you don't shop at Walmart on principle, so please don't throw rocks. Cookies maybe?
I had the idea of popping off the worn-off keys from my keyboard and switching them out for the ones off another one, but they didn't snap on the same way. Darn. I switched out my keyboard to the last one I used before I got a new PC, because the letters were finally all gone, but this one doesn't have the light touch I like. My fingernails click on the keys too much. Are we spoiled and picky people, or what? LOL I guess I'm going to break down and go keyboard shopping. I'll ask for the 30,000 mile warranty on letters.
We had a birthday party for my 84 year-old dad yesterday. He is in a care facility which has a very nice community room we reserved for the day. There is a lovely large park area right out back, so there was plenty of room for the kids to play. My brother's 10 year-old daughter and 6 year-old grandson were there, too, so there were 11 kids. (I can't really count my oldest granddaughter as a "kid" anymore, because she's sixteen, but she's one of "my kids.") I will have pictures to post after I meet #2 daughter at the Kodak machine. She's the one with the great camera.
I cheat every other Sunday, so I ate chips and sandwiches and TWO PIECES of chocolate cake! I ordered the cake from Walmart because it was on the way and convenient to pick up on a Sunday: 1/2 white, 1/2 chocolate with buttercreme icing, and do they ever make a great cake! I usually order from Target or HyVee, but I think I have a new favorite bakery. I have a favorite HyVee where the decorators will put anything I want on a cake and are quite talented, so I've always used that one for showers and special events.
I know some of you don't shop at Walmart on principle, so please don't throw rocks. Cookies maybe?
I had the idea of popping off the worn-off keys from my keyboard and switching them out for the ones off another one, but they didn't snap on the same way. Darn. I switched out my keyboard to the last one I used before I got a new PC, because the letters were finally all gone, but this one doesn't have the light touch I like. My fingernails click on the keys too much. Are we spoiled and picky people, or what? LOL I guess I'm going to break down and go keyboard shopping. I'll ask for the 30,000 mile warranty on letters.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
some of my darlin's
For Mother's Day, the only thing my #2 daughter wanted was for her kids to put on the shirts she bought them and pose for pictures.
This is my favorite.
Friday, June 09, 2006
more of my collections
Hopefully, you'll be able to see some of my roosters and spice tins, etc.. This is one corner of my kitchen.
Free Stuff
http://walmart.triaddigital.com/Free-Samples.aspx
Since you guys like free stuff so much, here's the link to Walmart's samples. Order before they run out.
Since you guys like free stuff so much, here's the link to Walmart's samples. Order before they run out.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Visit the Hussies
http://historicalauthors.home.att.net
This is the hub site where you can find all the Harlequin Historical authors in one place. We call ourselves The Hussies. Some authors have posted pictures of their workspaces, and that's fun to see. There's also a recipe collection, called DEADLINE DELIGHTS, and you can try some of the quick and yummy dishes we cook up when we're in the middle of a plot breakthrough or experiencing deadline dimensia.
This is the hub site where you can find all the Harlequin Historical authors in one place. We call ourselves The Hussies. Some authors have posted pictures of their workspaces, and that's fun to see. There's also a recipe collection, called DEADLINE DELIGHTS, and you can try some of the quick and yummy dishes we cook up when we're in the middle of a plot breakthrough or experiencing deadline dimensia.
Order a free bracelet - $1 will be donated to cancer research
http://www.maketheconnection.org/
https://www.maketheconnection.org/order_beadkit/default.asp
Order a free bracelet kit and $1 is donated to cancer research.
It's easy. Just fill in the form, and they send you your bead kit.
https://www.maketheconnection.org/order_beadkit/default.asp
Order a free bracelet kit and $1 is donated to cancer research.
It's easy. Just fill in the form, and they send you your bead kit.
Visit this website for a free bracelet kit - $1 donated to research
http://www.maketheconnection.org/
https://www.maketheconnection.org/order_beadkit/default.asp
Order a free bracelet kit and $1 is donated to cancer research.
It's easy. Just fill out the form, and they mail the bracelet kit to you.
https://www.maketheconnection.org/order_beadkit/default.asp
Order a free bracelet kit and $1 is donated to cancer research.
It's easy. Just fill out the form, and they mail the bracelet kit to you.
NEW CONTEST! Are You Afraid?
Thought it was time to liven up things with a new contest.
Each comment here between now and next Friday is one entry.
The winner drawn from the fish bowl receives an autographed copy of Carla Cassidy's book: ARE YOU AFRAID?
Cool huh?
Monday, June 05, 2006
more stuff
These are shelves my hubby made me over the stairs headng from my kitchen down to the family room. This was before I added more stuff, but you get the idea.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Guess who's a whole size smaller? Yep!
After an exhausting day of yard work on Saturday, I decided to take a Sunday afternoon trip to the mall. I spent a couple of hours just going through the stores trying on clothes in a smaller size! That made the past few weeks all worthwhile. And then I realized that one size just wasn't good enough -- I chose not to buy anything until I drop one more size. Then I'll knock myself out! So I bought a purse, a charm, a pair of pale yellow and lavender jammies and some fuzzy soft slipper socks to match. I had a J.C. Penny $10 off coupon and some 20% off Younkers coupons. Those get me every time. I always find the best purses at Penny's. Did I mention I live right by a gigantic mall AND a new shopping center?
So anyhoo, the front is finished except for the stairs. (that one itty bitty thing) I transplanted and planted and mulched and mulched and mulched some more. Then it rained last night, so the timing was perfect. Today I fertilized my roses.
My hubby built an arbor/trellis for the cucumbers to grow up and over. It's really cool. We keep saying that we'll be able to sit back and enjoy the fruits of our labors soon. Maybe we keep saying it because we're not convinced. LOL
After an exhausting day of yard work on Saturday, I decided to take a Sunday afternoon trip to the mall. I spent a couple of hours just going through the stores trying on clothes in a smaller size! That made the past few weeks all worthwhile. And then I realized that one size just wasn't good enough -- I chose not to buy anything until I drop one more size. Then I'll knock myself out! So I bought a purse, a charm, a pair of pale yellow and lavender jammies and some fuzzy soft slipper socks to match. I had a J.C. Penny $10 off coupon and some 20% off Younkers coupons. Those get me every time. I always find the best purses at Penny's. Did I mention I live right by a gigantic mall AND a new shopping center?
So anyhoo, the front is finished except for the stairs. (that one itty bitty thing) I transplanted and planted and mulched and mulched and mulched some more. Then it rained last night, so the timing was perfect. Today I fertilized my roses.
My hubby built an arbor/trellis for the cucumbers to grow up and over. It's really cool. We keep saying that we'll be able to sit back and enjoy the fruits of our labors soon. Maybe we keep saying it because we're not convinced. LOL
Friday, June 02, 2006
Summer Freedom
I'm enjoying the freedom from the regular TV shows. What does that tell me? I deliberately didn't choose any summer shows to get involved in, and don't care what they're showing. Lately I've even been missing the news because we're not letting any daylight hours go to waste.
Some friends stopped by last night so the guy could help my hubby figure out supplies he needs to build the front stairs, and she told me my front yard could be a magazine picture! Whoo hoo! We're getting there!
Next year will be even better after all the new perennials are established. I made it a point to plant no annuals except seeds I collected last year. I did a lot of flowering bushes and am doing climbers now. We're going for a cottage garden look with fences and arbors and vignettes. (Some of those fences still need to be built.)
One gardening book I was reading the other day said not to get overwhelmed trying to do everything in one season, because it's impossible, and that is so true. Truly established and beautiful gardens take years to establish. I'm just such an impatient person.
Some friends stopped by last night so the guy could help my hubby figure out supplies he needs to build the front stairs, and she told me my front yard could be a magazine picture! Whoo hoo! We're getting there!
Next year will be even better after all the new perennials are established. I made it a point to plant no annuals except seeds I collected last year. I did a lot of flowering bushes and am doing climbers now. We're going for a cottage garden look with fences and arbors and vignettes. (Some of those fences still need to be built.)
One gardening book I was reading the other day said not to get overwhelmed trying to do everything in one season, because it's impossible, and that is so true. Truly established and beautiful gardens take years to establish. I'm just such an impatient person.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
get your autographed copies now!
Here is your chance to order autographed copies of WED UNDER WESTERN SKIES and MILLION-DOLLAR MAKEOVER! Connie and Tina at Dog-Eared Books are back from the Romantic Times Convention and have a virtual signing ready to go. Many of you wanted to know when my signed books were available, and now's the time.
Complete directions are on the page. If you have questions or a problem, there's an email address and phone number for Tina who will be glad to help you.
Click here: Dog Eared Books Virtual Signing
http://www.dogearedhalf-pricebooks.com/virtualsigning.html
Books are available on a first come-first serve basis.
what do cookies, rhododendrons, the UPS man and Harvey Girls have in common?
Nothing, except that I'm writing about all of them today. But it was a catchy caption, no?
Yikes, I deleted cookies and history last night, so I had so sign in here in order to post. Good thing I keep a journal with all my usernames, screennames, logins and passwords. Learned that the hard way long ago.
Anyhoo, it was a full and busy weekend, and we got much accomplished in our landscaping and gardens. The porch is constructed -- all except for the stairs. LOL That first step is a doozy. The UPS man rang the bell and left a package last night and I don't know how he did it. Well, he climbed, obviously. Must have taken a similar pledge as the pony express: through sleet and snow and bounding up to the doors of homes where the owners seem to have forgotten stairs, and all that.
We had purchased dwarf evergreens, rhododendron bushes and hydrangeas and had been watering them in the pots (not a good thing in the heat), so we got all those planted once I could see where the porch was. Then, like the overachiever that I am, I bought more. More hydrangeas and butterfly bushes. Waited until after 8pm last night for cooler weather and got most of those in. My gardens are like the inside of my home: More is better. If one is good, then three are excellent. Ten are awesome.
We also made another run to the salvage yard for more paving bricks. Good exercise, let me tell you. Most of the vegetables are finally in, except the pumpkins. Last year they were so early that we had too many way before fall, so we're holding off.
I am working on putting a proposal together. I just wrote a Harvey Girl story set in Newton Kansas and I brought in Caleb and Ellie from The Doctor's Wife as secondary characters. This new story is Benjamin's. If you read The Doctor's Wife, you will remember that he is Ellie's younger brother. They shared the same horrible mother and backstory, and I've wanted to explore what effects the past had on him as a young man, and how it will effect his relationships. In deciding who was the perfect woman to match him with (perfect for plotting purposes anyway - heh heh) I made a list of three different possibilities and then listed all the reasons that they would make for great internal conflict. The preacher's daughter won by a landslide. On the outside, she's the perfect woman for him. But digging deeper, she's everything he's not and all he holds in high esteem. Just the woman he'd put on a pedestal and...well, I'm not going to tell you the whole story here, now am I?
Summer is truly here and school is out. This is my first official morning to sit in my jammies and not make the zip-to-school drop off. I'm liking it.
It was a quiet weekend; I'm thinking maybe I need to liven things up with a contest!
Yikes, I deleted cookies and history last night, so I had so sign in here in order to post. Good thing I keep a journal with all my usernames, screennames, logins and passwords. Learned that the hard way long ago.
Anyhoo, it was a full and busy weekend, and we got much accomplished in our landscaping and gardens. The porch is constructed -- all except for the stairs. LOL That first step is a doozy. The UPS man rang the bell and left a package last night and I don't know how he did it. Well, he climbed, obviously. Must have taken a similar pledge as the pony express: through sleet and snow and bounding up to the doors of homes where the owners seem to have forgotten stairs, and all that.
We had purchased dwarf evergreens, rhododendron bushes and hydrangeas and had been watering them in the pots (not a good thing in the heat), so we got all those planted once I could see where the porch was. Then, like the overachiever that I am, I bought more. More hydrangeas and butterfly bushes. Waited until after 8pm last night for cooler weather and got most of those in. My gardens are like the inside of my home: More is better. If one is good, then three are excellent. Ten are awesome.
We also made another run to the salvage yard for more paving bricks. Good exercise, let me tell you. Most of the vegetables are finally in, except the pumpkins. Last year they were so early that we had too many way before fall, so we're holding off.
I am working on putting a proposal together. I just wrote a Harvey Girl story set in Newton Kansas and I brought in Caleb and Ellie from The Doctor's Wife as secondary characters. This new story is Benjamin's. If you read The Doctor's Wife, you will remember that he is Ellie's younger brother. They shared the same horrible mother and backstory, and I've wanted to explore what effects the past had on him as a young man, and how it will effect his relationships. In deciding who was the perfect woman to match him with (perfect for plotting purposes anyway - heh heh) I made a list of three different possibilities and then listed all the reasons that they would make for great internal conflict. The preacher's daughter won by a landslide. On the outside, she's the perfect woman for him. But digging deeper, she's everything he's not and all he holds in high esteem. Just the woman he'd put on a pedestal and...well, I'm not going to tell you the whole story here, now am I?
Summer is truly here and school is out. This is my first official morning to sit in my jammies and not make the zip-to-school drop off. I'm liking it.
It was a quiet weekend; I'm thinking maybe I need to liven things up with a contest!
Saturday, May 27, 2006
It's raining in the Midwest today, and we had a day of lawnscaping planned. I cooked breakfast for the family first thing. My hubby and son are building us a front porch this morning. They don't make houses like they used to, do they? A little concrete stoop just doesn't cut it for those of us who love the vintage look. One person said, "Oh, you're buiding a deck." No, excuse me, this is going to be a porch! Painted and everything. With room for wicker chairs.
Yesterday we selected and loaded old paving bricks from a salvage yard and those are going to make the walkways. So many plans, so few hands....
What's everyone doing on this holiday weekend?
Carol, profuse apologies. I found the book I hadn't mailed to you when I cleaned my office! It's on the way!
Yesterday we selected and loaded old paving bricks from a salvage yard and those are going to make the walkways. So many plans, so few hands....
What's everyone doing on this holiday weekend?
Carol, profuse apologies. I found the book I hadn't mailed to you when I cleaned my office! It's on the way!
Friday, May 26, 2006
travel weekend
This weekend many people will be on the roads. What do you find the most irritating thing that other drivers do? Talk on phones? Follow too closely? For me it's a toss up between leaving on their turn signal for miles or not knowing it's their turn at a 4-way stop. Hell-o? Pass the driver's test, did you? GO ALREADY!
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
WINNER OF ONCE A THIEF!
Drew from the fishbowl this AM and the winner of Michelle Hauf's ONCE A THIEF is Lucky Lou! Lou, please send me your address and I'll get this book right out to you! Congratulations!
collections
This is a portion of my teacup collection. I've added different ones since I took this photo.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
the real thing
I decided that before I straighten up my office today, I'd share what it looks like while I have a book in progress. The pictures above my PC are my characters, of which I've shown you a couple, and to the left is a street map of Newton, Kansas. I have notes to myself thumbtacked everywhere on the bulletin boards behind my monitor -- as well as pictures the boy makes for me :-) -- my work-in-progress notebook is lying open and probably my datebook, too.
The rest of the pics are of what's to my left side (the other computer) and behind me a rocking chair and my curio. I wasn't brave enough to show you the double closet with floor-to-ceiling shelves stacked with books, binders, envelopes, tote bags and disk storage.
Today is cleaning day. LOL
The rest of the pics are of what's to my left side (the other computer) and behind me a rocking chair and my curio. I wasn't brave enough to show you the double closet with floor-to-ceiling shelves stacked with books, binders, envelopes, tote bags and disk storage.
Today is cleaning day. LOL
Sunday, May 21, 2006
a weak moment and a new definition
I had my mind all set that I wouldn't be doing any clothing shopping because once I drop another size I'll have to buy all new clothes, anyway (awww, what a shame!) but then I saw these denim stretch capris with a wide cuff and bead and applique embellishments on one hip & the opposite thigh, so I had to have them. Hey, they're stretchy, so even after I shrink more they'll still fit. And I was able to buy a junior size, which I normally can't. Well, then I had read that no wardrobe is complete this season without a sparkly pair of flippies, so I bought a pair to go with the capris.
And on that note: remember when we called flippies "thongs" and they were gross and ugly and cost about 99 cents? Fifteen and TWENTY DOLLARS for those babies now! I'm going to tell all my girls that I've worn "thongs" since I was a kid. LOL
And on that note: remember when we called flippies "thongs" and they were gross and ugly and cost about 99 cents? Fifteen and TWENTY DOLLARS for those babies now! I'm going to tell all my girls that I've worn "thongs" since I was a kid. LOL
Friday, May 19, 2006
spa day
I just came from treating myself to a couple hours of pampering -- foot spa, that is. I went for a pedicure and to have my nails done. The color is Berry Much Love; it's adorable. I do short nails and my usual color is Crawford's Wine, an awesome red. Took it with me, but a graduate and her mom were getting pedicures beside me, and that's the color the grad picked. I loved it and had to try it for myself. It's a delightful spring shade of bright reddish pink. All my sandals will look terrif. And I got a new silver beaded bracelet yesterday with touches of pink crystal beads. I'm good to go this week. Even typing is more fun now. Oh-- and 10 pounds lighter coming up on 2 weeks here. Monday I can have a piece of fruit! Whoo hoo!
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
New Contest: Once A Thief - autographed!
I'm giving away an autographed copy of Michelle Hauf's Bombshell ONCE A THIEF.
As usual I'll draw a name from the fishbowl. Each time you post a comment here you're entered.
Rachel Blu had left her life as thief behind her. But when a priceless jewel is stolen, and Rachel is partially to blame, she must race to regain the precious item before she loses her newfound career and the love she's just rediscovered.
As usual I'll draw a name from the fishbowl. Each time you post a comment here you're entered.
Rachel Blu had left her life as thief behind her. But when a priceless jewel is stolen, and Rachel is partially to blame, she must race to regain the precious item before she loses her newfound career and the love she's just rediscovered.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
It's shocking, but I haven't been shopping (except groceries and that doesn't count) in a couple of weeks and I didn't go to a single garage sale last week. I was getting the book ready to mail. Mailed it this morning. Whew! I'm really pleased with how the story turned out. Maybe I'll share an exclusive excerpt here....
I've done great with Southbeach -- made it over a week now and have lost 8 pounds. Can't wait to get past phase one and have an apple and a slice of bread and some popcorn! It's going to be worth it. That's what I tell myself every afternoon when I want a Milky Way or Hershey Nuggets.
Had a nice Mother's Day. My hubby grilled for our lunch. We met my oldest daughter and son-in-law in another little town where my dad is in a nursing home so we could combine visits -- as well as exchange truckloads of things we had for each other. I got the old iron bedframe I bought when we were in my daughter's town, and I'm going use the top and bottom as trellises.
Once my garden areas take off and are blooming well, I will take pictures for you! We've been working in the yard nearly every evening and on Saturdays.
I've done great with Southbeach -- made it over a week now and have lost 8 pounds. Can't wait to get past phase one and have an apple and a slice of bread and some popcorn! It's going to be worth it. That's what I tell myself every afternoon when I want a Milky Way or Hershey Nuggets.
Had a nice Mother's Day. My hubby grilled for our lunch. We met my oldest daughter and son-in-law in another little town where my dad is in a nursing home so we could combine visits -- as well as exchange truckloads of things we had for each other. I got the old iron bedframe I bought when we were in my daughter's town, and I'm going use the top and bottom as trellises.
Once my garden areas take off and are blooming well, I will take pictures for you! We've been working in the yard nearly every evening and on Saturdays.
Monday, May 15, 2006
WINNER of Hell on Heels!
Okay, I drew from the fishbowl this morning, and the winner of Carla Cassidy's book Hell on Heels is CAROL!
Carol, please send your address to me at: SaintJohn@aol.com
and I'll mail your autographed book out today!
Congratulations!
Carol, please send your address to me at: SaintJohn@aol.com
and I'll mail your autographed book out today!
Congratulations!
TP dilemma
Don't you often think about goofy things throughout a day? This is my forum for presenting these odd little thoughts and learning what others think about the day to day puzzles. Take toilet paper for example. Can you even IMAGINE the amount of toilet paper our country flushes in a day? I can't. Does every home go through as much as mine does? I used to think it was because I had a big family. I figured it made a difference that I had three daughters. A few years ago I thought it was because we had four bathrooms. But right now my household consists of four people, two adult females, one adult male and a six-year-old boy and three bathrooms. I still can't keep enough toilet paper on hand.
I've been on a toilet paper mission for months. Which brand lasts longer? Have I tried this one? I've gone through the cheap brands which are certainly most appealing. Soft'n Gentle: A bazillion rolls for half the price. Problem? That brand is so linty. Sounds totally silly, I know, but it creates white dust around the area. Am I the only one who notices these things? I'm really not that neurotic. Northern, Charmin -- this week I bought a package of six Northern Mega Rolls claining eqilvalence to 24 rolls. I figured they cost $1.25 per roll, and that's from Wal-mart. Outrageous! But they're gonna last as long as 24 rolls? They're so big they barely turn on the holder. You could use these things for your workout weights. Do they last longer? No. I put one in the downstairs bath off the family room and just inside the back patio doors, and it was empty the following day. One day! That means a roll a day in three bathrooms and I only got six rolls. Woops.
I haven't actually figured out if there's an average amount we go through. I'm not into numbers. I'm really not into toilet paper either, I'd just like to have an unending supply that appeared in the cupboard so I didn't have to constantly buy more. Is there a guy like the Swan man or pizza delivery who'd buzz a case over whenever I called? Hmm. A case. Maybe I need to send hubby to Sam's with his truck.
So, what I really want to know is what brand of toilet tissue do you buy and why? And have you found any that go further? And am I the only person who gets frustrated when they open the cupboard and the TP is gone? AGAIN.
I've been on a toilet paper mission for months. Which brand lasts longer? Have I tried this one? I've gone through the cheap brands which are certainly most appealing. Soft'n Gentle: A bazillion rolls for half the price. Problem? That brand is so linty. Sounds totally silly, I know, but it creates white dust around the area. Am I the only one who notices these things? I'm really not that neurotic. Northern, Charmin -- this week I bought a package of six Northern Mega Rolls claining eqilvalence to 24 rolls. I figured they cost $1.25 per roll, and that's from Wal-mart. Outrageous! But they're gonna last as long as 24 rolls? They're so big they barely turn on the holder. You could use these things for your workout weights. Do they last longer? No. I put one in the downstairs bath off the family room and just inside the back patio doors, and it was empty the following day. One day! That means a roll a day in three bathrooms and I only got six rolls. Woops.
I haven't actually figured out if there's an average amount we go through. I'm not into numbers. I'm really not into toilet paper either, I'd just like to have an unending supply that appeared in the cupboard so I didn't have to constantly buy more. Is there a guy like the Swan man or pizza delivery who'd buzz a case over whenever I called? Hmm. A case. Maybe I need to send hubby to Sam's with his truck.
So, what I really want to know is what brand of toilet tissue do you buy and why? And have you found any that go further? And am I the only person who gets frustrated when they open the cupboard and the TP is gone? AGAIN.
Friday, May 12, 2006
FINISHED!
I just wrote the ending of The Lawman's Bride! Whew! What a fun couple Clay and Sophie are. They had me puzzled over how I was going to resolve everything though. They had some big problems. It's frustrating when I get stuck for a resolution, but when it does, I figure if I didn't know the ending, then the reader won't guess either. LOL
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Tips to Prevent Summer Pests
TO KEEP PESKY FLIES AWAY:
To prevent flies, keep kitchen garbage tightly closed.
Sprinkle dry soap powder or flakes into garbage cans after they have been washed and allowed to dry.
In a small glass or jar, pour about one inch of real cider or red wine. Make a cover with saran wrap and a rubber band. Punch about six holes with a bamboo skewer or other sharp object. Flies will crawl in but cannot crawl out.
Scratch the skin of an orange or grapefruit and leave it out; the citrus acts as a repellent.
Hang muslin bags of cloves to repel flies.
Mint planted around the home or grown in pots indoors repels flies.
Basil plants help to repel flies.
Water potted plants from the bottom to produce a stronger scent.
Dried ground leaves of basil left in small bowls or hung in muslin bags are also effective.
DISCOURAGE MOSQUITOES:
For prevention, encourage natural predators such as dragonflies or praying mantises.
Eliminate pools of stagnant water.
Avoid wearing perfume, bright colors, flowery prints, and bright jewelry as these items attract mosquitoes.
Burn citronella candles to repel insects.
Plant tansy or basil around the patio and house to repel mosquitoes.
All well and good, now can anyone tell me how to discourage RABBITS from eating my garden and flowers??
To prevent flies, keep kitchen garbage tightly closed.
Sprinkle dry soap powder or flakes into garbage cans after they have been washed and allowed to dry.
In a small glass or jar, pour about one inch of real cider or red wine. Make a cover with saran wrap and a rubber band. Punch about six holes with a bamboo skewer or other sharp object. Flies will crawl in but cannot crawl out.
Scratch the skin of an orange or grapefruit and leave it out; the citrus acts as a repellent.
Hang muslin bags of cloves to repel flies.
Mint planted around the home or grown in pots indoors repels flies.
Basil plants help to repel flies.
Water potted plants from the bottom to produce a stronger scent.
Dried ground leaves of basil left in small bowls or hung in muslin bags are also effective.
DISCOURAGE MOSQUITOES:
For prevention, encourage natural predators such as dragonflies or praying mantises.
Eliminate pools of stagnant water.
Avoid wearing perfume, bright colors, flowery prints, and bright jewelry as these items attract mosquitoes.
Burn citronella candles to repel insects.
Plant tansy or basil around the patio and house to repel mosquitoes.
All well and good, now can anyone tell me how to discourage RABBITS from eating my garden and flowers??
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Determined in Nebraska
I was so inspired by seeing my :::skinny::: friend Carla Cassidy that I've vowed to drop a few pounds. She said she modified the Southbeach Diet and after the first two weeks, the weight dropped off. I already had the book. Never had the motivation before.
I've gone two days without chocolate. Now, some may think that's no big deal, but for me it's like a junkie saying they went two days without their drug of choice. Afternoons are the worst. I always have a pick-me-up while I'm working - M&Ms, Hershey Nuggets, a Russell Stover egg/heart/whatever.
Phase one is rough-no juice or fruit. Oranges and apples have never looked so good. But after two weeks you body has changed and you start adding back things. This is, however, a smart eating style.
Anyone ever tried Southbeach?
What's the strangest diet you ever tried? I did the cabbage soup diet once. How ridiculous was that?
I've gone two days without chocolate. Now, some may think that's no big deal, but for me it's like a junkie saying they went two days without their drug of choice. Afternoons are the worst. I always have a pick-me-up while I'm working - M&Ms, Hershey Nuggets, a Russell Stover egg/heart/whatever.
Phase one is rough-no juice or fruit. Oranges and apples have never looked so good. But after two weeks you body has changed and you start adding back things. This is, however, a smart eating style.
Anyone ever tried Southbeach?
What's the strangest diet you ever tried? I did the cabbage soup diet once. How ridiculous was that?
I'm giving away an autographed book!
I'm going to give away a signed copy of Carla Cassidy's Bombshell HELL ON HEELS.
All you have to do to enter is comment on any subject here. Each post is an entry.
I'll get a couple new subjects started.
Monday, May 08, 2006
Kansas City, there I went!
The signing in Independence was the bomb! If you're near or passing through Kansas City, Dog-eared Books is a fabulous store. It's on South Noland Drive. They display laminated autographed bookcovers. Tina owns the store and Connie works there and runs Once Upon A Romance website and coordinates reviews.
These ladies did the prep work and the place was full of people for four hours! It's a lovely big store with plants galore and even two friendly resident cats. I sold tons of books, new and backlist, and fans came with their past books to be signed. Naturally I love the ones who say, "I've read ALL your books."
Long time friend Carla Cassidy was there, and she did very well, too -- oh, that Woman of Wonder. She has published 75 books to date! Holy cow. She's a fun and funny lady. I'm giving away signed Carla Cassidy books this month, get ready!
They took pictures, so as soon as they send me a couple I'll share them here.
Second cousins I hadn't seen since I was a kid stopped by. And -- get this -- Connie and Tina bought extra CASES of WED UNDER WESTERN SKIES for me to sign while I was there, and they're going to experiment with an internet booksigning and sell them from their website. Gotta love these gals. If you're going to RT in Daytona, look for them!
These ladies did the prep work and the place was full of people for four hours! It's a lovely big store with plants galore and even two friendly resident cats. I sold tons of books, new and backlist, and fans came with their past books to be signed. Naturally I love the ones who say, "I've read ALL your books."
Long time friend Carla Cassidy was there, and she did very well, too -- oh, that Woman of Wonder. She has published 75 books to date! Holy cow. She's a fun and funny lady. I'm giving away signed Carla Cassidy books this month, get ready!
They took pictures, so as soon as they send me a couple I'll share them here.
Second cousins I hadn't seen since I was a kid stopped by. And -- get this -- Connie and Tina bought extra CASES of WED UNDER WESTERN SKIES for me to sign while I was there, and they're going to experiment with an internet booksigning and sell them from their website. Gotta love these gals. If you're going to RT in Daytona, look for them!
Saturday, May 06, 2006
I'm here!
I'm here! I had a kindergartener home yesterday and a signing in Kansas City (Independence MO) today, but will post all about it tomorrow.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Where have all the petunias gone?
Gardening would be so much more rewarding if bunnies ate DANDILIONS!
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Mom-isms
Ever find yourself saying something to your kids or your husband or someone else and you can hear your mother in your words? I've done it. Here are some of mine:
* If wishes were horses, all men would go riding
* Not everything in life is fun, you might as well get used to working at it
And here are my life philosophies that I expect my kids to be saying to their children:
* What's the worst thing that could happen?
* If it's worth doing, it's worth doing right
* What goes around, comes around
* If he doesn't treat his mother or waitresses well, he won't treat you well
What mom-isms do you find yourself using?
* If wishes were horses, all men would go riding
* Not everything in life is fun, you might as well get used to working at it
And here are my life philosophies that I expect my kids to be saying to their children:
* What's the worst thing that could happen?
* If it's worth doing, it's worth doing right
* What goes around, comes around
* If he doesn't treat his mother or waitresses well, he won't treat you well
What mom-isms do you find yourself using?
Monday, May 01, 2006
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Sales on Saturday
No one complained, at least not to me, so I guess I can tell you about Saturday.
It rained. But it didn't matter a whit. We had so much fun. We've been eating so well, making wise food choices, but it was a fun day, so we splurged and each got a chocolate frosted doughnut and a coffee on the morning ride.
My daughter Jennifer knew an elderly lady in her small town who was selling her things and her MOTHER'S things, so that was our first stop. We did not pass GO; we did however collect $200. From the ATM. I bought six gorgeous cup and saucer sets for my collection. My favorite buy of the day. Also vintage linens, aprons, tablecloths--the floral kind--I make them into cottage-style chair cushions and throw pillows--all in mint condition. 25 cents each! Holy cow, I've paid far more at flea markets. Also got a couple of enamel pans.
Another thing I love are those oval or circular pics of girls in glass that gang from a brass chain. Bought one. The next are hard to explain if you've never seen them: they were often advertising pictures. They are framed with glass and that's it, no frame. The glass is beveled. Got one of a girl and two of scenery.
But a bid in on an antique stove. Hope to hear that it's mine.
Later in the day I got a chenille bedspread for two dollars. The lady had wanted four. When we got in the car, hubby told me that I needed for repent for stealing it from her. It would have easily sold for $45-60 at a flea market.
We bought an antique bed frame, the kind with skinny spindles that each have a flower design on the spindle. This one was painted white. We're going to use the headboard and footboard in our garden as trellises. The lady GAVE it to us for $20 because some of the slats were missing! Like I care! I will definitely take photos later in the season with flowers growing on it.
Wasn't any good jewelry. No dolls. That's okay, you get what you find.
It rained. But it didn't matter a whit. We had so much fun. We've been eating so well, making wise food choices, but it was a fun day, so we splurged and each got a chocolate frosted doughnut and a coffee on the morning ride.
My daughter Jennifer knew an elderly lady in her small town who was selling her things and her MOTHER'S things, so that was our first stop. We did not pass GO; we did however collect $200. From the ATM. I bought six gorgeous cup and saucer sets for my collection. My favorite buy of the day. Also vintage linens, aprons, tablecloths--the floral kind--I make them into cottage-style chair cushions and throw pillows--all in mint condition. 25 cents each! Holy cow, I've paid far more at flea markets. Also got a couple of enamel pans.
Another thing I love are those oval or circular pics of girls in glass that gang from a brass chain. Bought one. The next are hard to explain if you've never seen them: they were often advertising pictures. They are framed with glass and that's it, no frame. The glass is beveled. Got one of a girl and two of scenery.
But a bid in on an antique stove. Hope to hear that it's mine.
Later in the day I got a chenille bedspread for two dollars. The lady had wanted four. When we got in the car, hubby told me that I needed for repent for stealing it from her. It would have easily sold for $45-60 at a flea market.
We bought an antique bed frame, the kind with skinny spindles that each have a flower design on the spindle. This one was painted white. We're going to use the headboard and footboard in our garden as trellises. The lady GAVE it to us for $20 because some of the slats were missing! Like I care! I will definitely take photos later in the season with flowers growing on it.
Wasn't any good jewelry. No dolls. That's okay, you get what you find.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Dangerous Friday
It was raining. But there were a couple of garage sales on the way home from school drop off this am, so...the first thing I bought was a doll. She's an 18 inch Madame Alexander in her original dress, no shoes. I checked ebay - $12.99 for her shoes!! The doll is worth about $50. I paid $1.45. The lady who sold it to me said their whole neighborhood is having a sale next weekend. Way cool cause it's the RICH neighborhood. LOL I can't wait. Rich people either think their stuff is gold or they practically give it away. Mostly the latter. :-)
Came home and cleaned and arranged the storage rooms downstairs so I could put away Bunny World. Oh. I never mentioned I also collect bunnies for Easter. I have a village and about a billion bunnies. Vacuumed up the paper grass and dusted. Then. Hubby was home and asked, "Want to hit a few garage sales after lunch?"
Duh.
Bought an Easter tree for tiny eggs and bunnies to hang on. Bought two 35th anniversary Barbies, a blonde and a brunette for $5 each! You know, replicas of the original Barbie with the black & white striped bathing suit and a pony tail? I LOVE them! I've long regretted still not having my own. They have joined the other dolls in my office curio. I should take a picture.
Moving right along...we hit a sale where they had closed a day care and were selling everything. I called my daughter who is OPENing a daycare on Monday and we bought all their mats, chairs, tables and an excersaucer -- the best kind ever with the bouncy legs, and just altogether cleaned up on her behalf. Now we have to take a two hour drive tomorrow morning to deliver the goods. LOL But that's okay because a little town called Battle Creek right near her is having their city-wide garage sales. Wow, did we plan that right or what?
What else...oh when I find interesting sterling silver necklaces cheap enough I buy them to use for charms for my bracelets. I got a cross. Threw away the chain. Bought a pretty pink heart necklace...hubby bought a flashy zircon ring. We laughed because it's just fun and funky but 24k gold. He'll wear it.
Oh--there was a guy selling stacks of leather boxed cleaning kits, the kind you get when you buy a leather sofa. Recognized them because we got one years ago with a leather sectional. Anyway I always loved that cleaner and conditioner for purses, so I bought a kit.
Man, I LOVE garage sales, it's the thrill of the hunt. You never know what you'll find at the next one.
Off to take care of things since I'll be gone all day tomorrow. The plan is to get up at 5 and hit the road at 6 so we can be there when the sales start. Whoo hoo! Rain or shine--actually rain is okay because people sell their stuff cheaper. We got GREAT deals today.
Okay, I promise not to talk about garage sales any more. I'll even THINK about a 12 step program if you complain enough.
Came home and cleaned and arranged the storage rooms downstairs so I could put away Bunny World. Oh. I never mentioned I also collect bunnies for Easter. I have a village and about a billion bunnies. Vacuumed up the paper grass and dusted. Then. Hubby was home and asked, "Want to hit a few garage sales after lunch?"
Duh.
Bought an Easter tree for tiny eggs and bunnies to hang on. Bought two 35th anniversary Barbies, a blonde and a brunette for $5 each! You know, replicas of the original Barbie with the black & white striped bathing suit and a pony tail? I LOVE them! I've long regretted still not having my own. They have joined the other dolls in my office curio. I should take a picture.
Moving right along...we hit a sale where they had closed a day care and were selling everything. I called my daughter who is OPENing a daycare on Monday and we bought all their mats, chairs, tables and an excersaucer -- the best kind ever with the bouncy legs, and just altogether cleaned up on her behalf. Now we have to take a two hour drive tomorrow morning to deliver the goods. LOL But that's okay because a little town called Battle Creek right near her is having their city-wide garage sales. Wow, did we plan that right or what?
What else...oh when I find interesting sterling silver necklaces cheap enough I buy them to use for charms for my bracelets. I got a cross. Threw away the chain. Bought a pretty pink heart necklace...hubby bought a flashy zircon ring. We laughed because it's just fun and funky but 24k gold. He'll wear it.
Oh--there was a guy selling stacks of leather boxed cleaning kits, the kind you get when you buy a leather sofa. Recognized them because we got one years ago with a leather sectional. Anyway I always loved that cleaner and conditioner for purses, so I bought a kit.
Man, I LOVE garage sales, it's the thrill of the hunt. You never know what you'll find at the next one.
Off to take care of things since I'll be gone all day tomorrow. The plan is to get up at 5 and hit the road at 6 so we can be there when the sales start. Whoo hoo! Rain or shine--actually rain is okay because people sell their stuff cheaper. We got GREAT deals today.
Okay, I promise not to talk about garage sales any more. I'll even THINK about a 12 step program if you complain enough.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
inquiring minds want to know
okay, so what DID I buy?
I started out making an exchange at Walmart and bought Vital radiance face primer and line-softening makeup, not that I have any lines or anything, it's simply preventative. (Should that have been preservative?) When I was there the other day I got a sample from a sample lady, tried it and liked it, so like the sucker I am, I went back to buy the stuff.
Then I took my coupons to Bed Bath & Beyond and bought the dryer balls that I'd seen in their ad. Someone had already told me about them. I've used them for 2 days now and they're great for jeans, towels, sweatshirt, stuff like that, but for anything that needs the static removed you still need a dryer sheet. Also got a Pasta Express that was in the flyer, too. You put your spaghetti in this long container, pour boiling water in, wrap it with an insulated thingie, and then drain it through the colander lid. Looked great--will let you know how it works.
DSW (my FAVORITE shoe store) was right across the lot, but I did not go look at shoes. Good girl. I did however look in a few clothing stores and bought a stack of T-shirts, several dressy shirts for under jackets or alone and...okay a ring. It was on sale, so how could I not. I came home and told my husband, "Look what you bought for me" and he said "Am I giving it to you today?" I hadn't bought a ring for a really long time. I don't have enough fingers is my only problem. I wear four rings on my thumb at all times--one of them was my great-great grandmother's wedding ring. Her name was Pready St.John. It's fat gold. The others are gold, white gold and copper, so they go with everything. I'm a mix and match kind of gal--now that silver is so popular I have silver jewelry, but not many silver rings. Have I ever mentioned I love gemstones? So besides the thumb, I wear three rings on my left hand and two on my right. I adore bracelets, too. Silver, gold, beads, charms, doesn't matter.
And watches. I have half a drawer full of watches. Minus the one that got flushed in a rest area somewhere in Iowa. (I'm sure I told that story in a past blog, right?)
This morning the garage sales tackled me on my way home after dropping my kindergarten grandson off at school. Last night the hubby asked, "Are you staying home tomorrow?" I intended to. LOL Who knew there'd be four sales right on the way home?
I bought Garfield books for the six-year old. He loves Garfield. Got a couple of old glass mixing bowls for 50 cents each that would have sold for $20 each at a flea market. Whoo hoo! I love to bake and cook using vintage bowls. I have a couple.
Oh! And one old gent had a shoebox of vintage spice tins! 5 cents each. Yes, I bought them all. Cleaned them up and set them across the back of my stove. All the shelves and spice racks were already full. You'd pay anywhere from a couple dollars to 10 or 12 at antique stores.
So those were my bargains. Now it's raining and I'm home--but I have to leave for another kindergarten Spring program at a different school.
I started out making an exchange at Walmart and bought Vital radiance face primer and line-softening makeup, not that I have any lines or anything, it's simply preventative. (Should that have been preservative?) When I was there the other day I got a sample from a sample lady, tried it and liked it, so like the sucker I am, I went back to buy the stuff.
Then I took my coupons to Bed Bath & Beyond and bought the dryer balls that I'd seen in their ad. Someone had already told me about them. I've used them for 2 days now and they're great for jeans, towels, sweatshirt, stuff like that, but for anything that needs the static removed you still need a dryer sheet. Also got a Pasta Express that was in the flyer, too. You put your spaghetti in this long container, pour boiling water in, wrap it with an insulated thingie, and then drain it through the colander lid. Looked great--will let you know how it works.
DSW (my FAVORITE shoe store) was right across the lot, but I did not go look at shoes. Good girl. I did however look in a few clothing stores and bought a stack of T-shirts, several dressy shirts for under jackets or alone and...okay a ring. It was on sale, so how could I not. I came home and told my husband, "Look what you bought for me" and he said "Am I giving it to you today?" I hadn't bought a ring for a really long time. I don't have enough fingers is my only problem. I wear four rings on my thumb at all times--one of them was my great-great grandmother's wedding ring. Her name was Pready St.John. It's fat gold. The others are gold, white gold and copper, so they go with everything. I'm a mix and match kind of gal--now that silver is so popular I have silver jewelry, but not many silver rings. Have I ever mentioned I love gemstones? So besides the thumb, I wear three rings on my left hand and two on my right. I adore bracelets, too. Silver, gold, beads, charms, doesn't matter.
And watches. I have half a drawer full of watches. Minus the one that got flushed in a rest area somewhere in Iowa. (I'm sure I told that story in a past blog, right?)
This morning the garage sales tackled me on my way home after dropping my kindergarten grandson off at school. Last night the hubby asked, "Are you staying home tomorrow?" I intended to. LOL Who knew there'd be four sales right on the way home?
I bought Garfield books for the six-year old. He loves Garfield. Got a couple of old glass mixing bowls for 50 cents each that would have sold for $20 each at a flea market. Whoo hoo! I love to bake and cook using vintage bowls. I have a couple.
Oh! And one old gent had a shoebox of vintage spice tins! 5 cents each. Yes, I bought them all. Cleaned them up and set them across the back of my stove. All the shelves and spice racks were already full. You'd pay anywhere from a couple dollars to 10 or 12 at antique stores.
So those were my bargains. Now it's raining and I'm home--but I have to leave for another kindergarten Spring program at a different school.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Wednesday, a day of recuperation
I have decided to take a day off before I need a day in rehab. I will come back to the work-in-progress with a fresh eye. It rained yesterday, but the sun is out bright and shiny today! Gorgeous Spring!
The Powers That Be selected a title for THE LAWLESS MISS HOLLIS (too many S's they said), so the book that will be released February '07 is titled THE LAWMAN'S BRIDE.
:::sigh::: I always defer to those who know what sells books, so I'm not gnashing my teeth or wailing or anything. I'm simply making room in my bank account for that big check!
So, you can probably guess where I'm going..........
SHOPPING THERAPY!
The Powers That Be selected a title for THE LAWLESS MISS HOLLIS (too many S's they said), so the book that will be released February '07 is titled THE LAWMAN'S BRIDE.
:::sigh::: I always defer to those who know what sells books, so I'm not gnashing my teeth or wailing or anything. I'm simply making room in my bank account for that big check!
So, you can probably guess where I'm going..........
SHOPPING THERAPY!
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Where have all the vowels gone?
Well, I'm once again going to be shopping for a new keyboard. I wear out keyboards. Usually at an average of two per computer. First the vowels go. There are no letters left on the tops of those keys. I know what they are when I'm typing, but I can't look down and tell you what those letters are. And then the entire left side is wiped free of letters--except Q.
Q X and Z are all bright and black and stand out from the rest of the worn off keys. Interesting how I must tap harder with my left hand. It doesn't make a difference if I keep my nails really short, either.
And this time--there are actually deep grooves in the most used keys. How is that for weird? This is a first. Wonder if they sell an industrial strength keyboard. Thank God I'm not wearing out the keys on my Alphasmart!!
Q X and Z are all bright and black and stand out from the rest of the worn off keys. Interesting how I must tap harder with my left hand. It doesn't make a difference if I keep my nails really short, either.
And this time--there are actually deep grooves in the most used keys. How is that for weird? This is a first. Wonder if they sell an industrial strength keyboard. Thank God I'm not wearing out the keys on my Alphasmart!!
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Winner of The Betrothal....
is Meljprincess!
Please send me your address and I'll get your book in the mail.
Congrats!
Please send me your address and I'll get your book in the mail.
Congrats!
Friday, April 21, 2006
Friday Too Soon
Here did the week go? I've been in the zone ending up THE LAWLESS MISS HOLLIS which is due next week. I've never written a book in quite this way before, which is surprising, but it's working. I've always been a very linear writer--beginning to end, very little editing or changing. This time I've gone back and added, rearranged and cut, changed gears and headed back in the right direction. The story differs from the synopsis as always, but in kind of a weird way. Goes to show a writers style is always evolving and nothing ever works the same way twice. As soon as I get under 100 pages I feel the relief, and this was no different. Whew!
Thursday, April 20, 2006
........simply irresistible.........
There are things I simply can't resist. There are things I love, but can say no to. Like my children. Like Skittles. Like purses that are way too expensive. But these other things....oh my. I know I'm not alone. Some of you probably even share these obsessions or have bigger ones of your own.
I love chocolate. I guess I've mentioned that. Can't say no. Can't say one. Can't even say one a day. Can't say maybe not. Can't stop. Can't get enough.
Jewelry counters lure me in with all the bling and glimmer. Rings, bracelets, earrings...gemstones, fake gems, gold, white gold, silver, I love it all. I wear it all. I love jewelry. (Pet peeve: People who pronounce it Julery.) Bobbles, charms, the danglier the better. I have a sterling charm bracelet with charms I've collected since junior high. (No, jewelry was not made of stone back then.) It's so heavy and jangly I sound like a tabourine wearing it. I've since started on a second I like to call the charm annex. I've also started charm bracelets for my daughters and oldest granddaughter. (Woops, I don't actually have children that old. My bad.)
Goodwills and garage sales send out some sort of sonar beam that draws my car into the parking lot like a magnet. There might be something there I can't live without, and how will I ever know if I don't stop??
I can't pass up a teacup and saucer or a teapot if it has roses on it.
The book and magazine section of the store has a flashing neon sign RIGHT HERE, CHERYL.
Pens. I love pens.
Shoes. I adore shoes.
Sales. I can save money!!!
What about you? What can't you resist?
I love chocolate. I guess I've mentioned that. Can't say no. Can't say one. Can't even say one a day. Can't say maybe not. Can't stop. Can't get enough.
Jewelry counters lure me in with all the bling and glimmer. Rings, bracelets, earrings...gemstones, fake gems, gold, white gold, silver, I love it all. I wear it all. I love jewelry. (Pet peeve: People who pronounce it Julery.) Bobbles, charms, the danglier the better. I have a sterling charm bracelet with charms I've collected since junior high. (No, jewelry was not made of stone back then.) It's so heavy and jangly I sound like a tabourine wearing it. I've since started on a second I like to call the charm annex. I've also started charm bracelets for my daughters and oldest granddaughter. (Woops, I don't actually have children that old. My bad.)
Goodwills and garage sales send out some sort of sonar beam that draws my car into the parking lot like a magnet. There might be something there I can't live without, and how will I ever know if I don't stop??
I can't pass up a teacup and saucer or a teapot if it has roses on it.
The book and magazine section of the store has a flashing neon sign RIGHT HERE, CHERYL.
Pens. I love pens.
Shoes. I adore shoes.
Sales. I can save money!!!
What about you? What can't you resist?
FOREIGN COVERS
Here are two different NICK ALL NIGHT covers, Italy and Germany. It's always fun to compare and contrast.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
time for another give away!
I just love this cover. Doesn't it remind you of Spring with those gorgeous colors??
I'm going to give one of you--my blogger buddies--a copy of The Betrothal. Terri Brisbin's story is nominated for a Rio award and Joanne Rock's is a RITA finalist. Joanne has autographed this copy! I'll draw a name on Friday.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Holiday Fun
So how was your Easter? For the first time ever I didn't cook and our family went out for dinner after church. Boy, was that a lot less work! Of course we had our traditional egg hunt, even though the day was overcast and chilly.
Here are seven of my nine little darlings. Aren't they the cutest kids you ever saw? My daughter LeighAnn and I just discovered the self-serve photo machines at Wal-mart. Duh. Why have a regular camera when these are so easy?
Friday, April 14, 2006
:::celebrating:::
happy birthday to me! happy birthday to me!
happy birthday, happy birthday, happy birthday to me!
Didn't know I could sing so well, did you?
My hubby is taking me to dinner and a movie this evening. He had a load of DIRT delivered to our driveway this afternoon. Not quite the delivery I was expecting. !! He's in the garden mode already.
Did I ever mention I rec'd a bottle of champaign from my publisher to celebrate my RITA nomination??
Monday, April 10, 2006
Flat Eric
This is Flat Eric, and his travel journal was my writing project yesterday. If you've never heard of the Flat Stanley Project, Flat Stanley is a children's book.
http://flatstanley.enoreo.on.ca/ <---------- the offical website
In the book, Flat Stanley, by Jeff Brown, Stanley is squashed flat by a falling bulletin board. One of the many advantages is that Flat Stanley can now visit his friends by traveling in an envelope. The Flat Stanley Project is a group of teachers who want to provide students with another reason to write. Students' written work goes to other places by mail.
Students make paper Flat Stanleys and begin a journal with him for a few days. Then Flat Stanley and the journal are sent to someone who completes the journal. Flat Stanley and the journal are then returned to the original sender. Students can plot his travels on maps and share the contents of the journal.
Have you ever done a Flat Person? I've had Flat Adam and Flat Eric both visit me. We had a great time together!
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Sometimes I'm so deep into a book that when I have to take my head out for real life, the difference is startling. For example, I've been writing a book where the horses are trudging through crunchy snow, their breath visible in the frigid air when I have to take care of reality. Like go pick up someone from school. I go out and am surprised to find it's eighty degrees and the sunshine is beating down.
Last night the irony of the world I write about struck me when I ran out for supper. It's deadline month, so everything is quick. This time it was Sonic. My daughter asked me to grab her prescriptions on my way. I took her debit card and got into my car in the garage. I drove a few blocks past a lovely recreational area, drove through Walgreens window, where I didn't even have to sign because her signature's on file, then moved to the connecting parking lot and ordered supper where I used my debit card and again didn't have to sign. Then I drove home -- into the garage, stepped into the house -- without ever leaving my car or being out in the weather!
Only minutes before I'd been in 1880's Kansas with the dry prairie wind blowing and people boarding the Santa Fe passenger cars for trips that would take days.
Back to the topic of deadline:
I've always cooked for a crowd. I have four children. As they grew up and moved out it never got easier to cook less and think smaller. But now I make it work to my advantage. I still cook a large meal, and then I place meal-size portions in divided containers and stack them in the freezer. These are our deadline frozen dinners and they're healthy and homecooked! Hey, I should write Heloise, eh?
Last night the irony of the world I write about struck me when I ran out for supper. It's deadline month, so everything is quick. This time it was Sonic. My daughter asked me to grab her prescriptions on my way. I took her debit card and got into my car in the garage. I drove a few blocks past a lovely recreational area, drove through Walgreens window, where I didn't even have to sign because her signature's on file, then moved to the connecting parking lot and ordered supper where I used my debit card and again didn't have to sign. Then I drove home -- into the garage, stepped into the house -- without ever leaving my car or being out in the weather!
Only minutes before I'd been in 1880's Kansas with the dry prairie wind blowing and people boarding the Santa Fe passenger cars for trips that would take days.
Back to the topic of deadline:
I've always cooked for a crowd. I have four children. As they grew up and moved out it never got easier to cook less and think smaller. But now I make it work to my advantage. I still cook a large meal, and then I place meal-size portions in divided containers and stack them in the freezer. These are our deadline frozen dinners and they're healthy and homecooked! Hey, I should write Heloise, eh?
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Taylor Hicks
Here's a vintage pic and he has a beard! oh my!
Hear Taylor sing at his fan site:
http://www.taylorhicksfansite.com/
Okay, so I probably would buy one of his recordings.
Who will be the next American Idol?
Okay, so I'm hooked. I rarely miss a show. Always tape it for my daughter and often watch the tape so I don't have to take time for commercials. I'm thinking about TVR through my cable company, so I can automatically record programs I watch weekly.
One of my favorites this year is Taylor Hicks, though I can't see him as the American Idol. Even though I love him, I would most likely buy a recording by Elliot or Mandisa. But haven't his looks improved? I wish he'd let loose and play his harmonica.
Thank you America for voting off Lisa. Did you know she was on Star Search three years ago? Give it up, sweetie. Hated to see Kevin go, but it was time. I was amazed he made it so far. He was this year's gimmick contestant. My friend took a trip and met him at the Early Show taping in Times Square last week and said he's a sweetheart in person.
For me the right three were in the bottom three last week. Ace is sticking around because he has the tween vote. Bucky was pretty sad until he did his thing in a cowboy hat last week. Keep that up Bucky, and you can stay a while longer.
Kathryn isn't a favorite. She's only there 'cause she jiggles. C'mon, I'm tellin' it like it is. I do like Paris, but there's something too cute about her, you know? Her hair is different every week, have you noticed? She has style. Mandisa please don't ever torture America with a pair of jeans again. If they could just film her from the shoulders up, you know? She looks beautiful in a classy dress and her voice is incredible.
Elliot has it all going in the voice department. He shouldn't try to dance ever again however.
In the past I voted for Clay and for Fantasia.
Everyone knows Clay should have won.
Whatever happened to Fantasia anyway?
Kelly Clarkson didn't appeal to me, but my opinion has changed because of the great work she's done on her CDs.
I buy recordings--I have Clay and Reuben and one AI from each season.
Who would you vote for?
One of my favorites this year is Taylor Hicks, though I can't see him as the American Idol. Even though I love him, I would most likely buy a recording by Elliot or Mandisa. But haven't his looks improved? I wish he'd let loose and play his harmonica.
Thank you America for voting off Lisa. Did you know she was on Star Search three years ago? Give it up, sweetie. Hated to see Kevin go, but it was time. I was amazed he made it so far. He was this year's gimmick contestant. My friend took a trip and met him at the Early Show taping in Times Square last week and said he's a sweetheart in person.
For me the right three were in the bottom three last week. Ace is sticking around because he has the tween vote. Bucky was pretty sad until he did his thing in a cowboy hat last week. Keep that up Bucky, and you can stay a while longer.
Kathryn isn't a favorite. She's only there 'cause she jiggles. C'mon, I'm tellin' it like it is. I do like Paris, but there's something too cute about her, you know? Her hair is different every week, have you noticed? She has style. Mandisa please don't ever torture America with a pair of jeans again. If they could just film her from the shoulders up, you know? She looks beautiful in a classy dress and her voice is incredible.
Elliot has it all going in the voice department. He shouldn't try to dance ever again however.
In the past I voted for Clay and for Fantasia.
Everyone knows Clay should have won.
Whatever happened to Fantasia anyway?
Kelly Clarkson didn't appeal to me, but my opinion has changed because of the great work she's done on her CDs.
I buy recordings--I have Clay and Reuben and one AI from each season.
Who would you vote for?
Monday, April 03, 2006
What do you watch?
Every new television season I watch all the news shows to see what I like and then dismiss 90% of them. I am not a Lost fan. Could it move any more SLOWLY? They "lost" me toward the end of the first season after a few miles of film depicting the various expressions of the characters. Shock. Surprise. Anger. Jealousy. Could we move it along, people?
I'm also not a Desperate Housewives fan. I tried because everyone was talking about it and I didn't want to be square. I don't find the characters' behavior amusing. Not even intelligent or motivated. Count me not desperate enough to watch. I catch an episode every now and then because it comes on before my favorite show....
So what can I NOT live without watching? Gray's Anatomy. I laugh. The tempo moves so quickly that you can't take your eyes away or you'll miss a look or a remark. I can't wait to know whether or not Dr. McDreamy ditches that wife. I have to know when George forgives Meredith. PLEASE, George, please forgive Meredith! I'm not quite sure what's up with this new doctor interest of his, but I have to watch to find out. I care! I even bought the first season on DVD the day it came out and watched it. I had missed a show! LOL
I used to be a die-hard ER fan. I can catch you up on all the original characters and those for years. The last couple of seasons I've lost interest about half way through. If the writers would just ask ME I could tell them which characters to hook up and who to ditch. I could tell them they can't take a favorite character like John Carter and fix him up with a new person we don't care about from another country and expect us to CARE. So their baby dies--so what? We had no emotional investment. Give him someone interesting and deserving! They let so many wonderful opportunities for emotion slip away:
Examples:
Mark Greene died and Elizabeth just moved away. What??
Carrie Weaver had a miscarriage and it was never mentioned again.
Carrie's love interest died. They just moved her on?
A helicopter fell on top of the Doctor We Love To Hate and we didn't get to see any reactions?? What?
Dr. Kovich boinks every female doctor and intern and patient's mother and -- WAIT! The writers have actually paired him up with Abby again! Someone we care about. One point for them.
However: in order to really give this guy conflict, what they've needed to do all along was pair him with a wonderful woman and put this woman and children in danger. Remember his backstory in Croatia? Couldn't save wife and children--feels helpless. If I was writing his story I'd be setting him up. Well, they sort of did it with Sam and her kid. Nobody cared. Now...with Abby...you know she's pregnant, right?
I fear something bad. Anyone heard that she wants off the show or something? She just may be about to die. I hope not.
Oh no. Back to John Carter in Bolivia or wherever. Guess I'll read email tonight.
Next post: American Idol
I'm also not a Desperate Housewives fan. I tried because everyone was talking about it and I didn't want to be square. I don't find the characters' behavior amusing. Not even intelligent or motivated. Count me not desperate enough to watch. I catch an episode every now and then because it comes on before my favorite show....
So what can I NOT live without watching? Gray's Anatomy. I laugh. The tempo moves so quickly that you can't take your eyes away or you'll miss a look or a remark. I can't wait to know whether or not Dr. McDreamy ditches that wife. I have to know when George forgives Meredith. PLEASE, George, please forgive Meredith! I'm not quite sure what's up with this new doctor interest of his, but I have to watch to find out. I care! I even bought the first season on DVD the day it came out and watched it. I had missed a show! LOL
I used to be a die-hard ER fan. I can catch you up on all the original characters and those for years. The last couple of seasons I've lost interest about half way through. If the writers would just ask ME I could tell them which characters to hook up and who to ditch. I could tell them they can't take a favorite character like John Carter and fix him up with a new person we don't care about from another country and expect us to CARE. So their baby dies--so what? We had no emotional investment. Give him someone interesting and deserving! They let so many wonderful opportunities for emotion slip away:
Examples:
Mark Greene died and Elizabeth just moved away. What??
Carrie Weaver had a miscarriage and it was never mentioned again.
Carrie's love interest died. They just moved her on?
A helicopter fell on top of the Doctor We Love To Hate and we didn't get to see any reactions?? What?
Dr. Kovich boinks every female doctor and intern and patient's mother and -- WAIT! The writers have actually paired him up with Abby again! Someone we care about. One point for them.
However: in order to really give this guy conflict, what they've needed to do all along was pair him with a wonderful woman and put this woman and children in danger. Remember his backstory in Croatia? Couldn't save wife and children--feels helpless. If I was writing his story I'd be setting him up. Well, they sort of did it with Sam and her kid. Nobody cared. Now...with Abby...you know she's pregnant, right?
I fear something bad. Anyone heard that she wants off the show or something? She just may be about to die. I hope not.
Oh no. Back to John Carter in Bolivia or wherever. Guess I'll read email tonight.
Next post: American Idol
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