The Great Christmas Tree Tour 2007

Ginger cleared off her credenza and got a little fiber optic tree. Her grandbaby made the stocking, and the two floppy reindeers are her most precious possessions from when her kids were little.

Thanks, Ginger!

From *lizzie Starr: Myths and Other Tales

Quotes given for books in the Tales of the Double Keltic Triad series:

“You will believe in Faeries!” Judy Buranich
“...faeries can be sexy.” Belinda Palmer
“...myth, merriment and mayhem all wrapped up in one.” The Romance Studio
“...an epic fantasy with a lot of romance.” Marlene Breakfield
“...a magical, dream-like flavor...” Gina Duvall
Do you know where the Anasazi really went when they disappeared from the American southwest?

Do you think there was really a library at Alexandria that held every book and scroll written?

Might you believe that Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream really happened?

I do!

When I first wrote By Keltic Design I had no idea that I was starting a six book series! It’s rather amazing to think that so much began with a single Celtic tattoo. And now, I’m working on the first book of a possible new series featuring the children of those in the first books.

In these books, and others, I’ve used Myth and Other Tales quite frequently. The main tale that carries through the entire series is Shakespeare’s play. My characters descended from Oberon, Titania, Puck, and even Bottom.

When the library at Alexandria was destroyed, the Fae library was lost, deep within the sands of the Sahara Desert. Now found, the Faerie librarians have discovered a wealth of information and history.And the Anasazi? They passed into a parallel world where they thrive, although they are bound by their own history and traditions.

I’ve always loved mythology, fairy tales and Shakespeare. So it must be a natural progression for me to use some of the basics in my own writing, making a change here, adding a different character there.

Have I been successful in creating these Keltic worlds, and the worlds of my other stories? I think so. Now, it’s up to you as readers to decide.

One more quote and recipe for you. This one is from the first of the Double Keltic Triad books—By Keltic Design. Oh, and this isn’t people food. It’s a doggy treat!
Suddenly, a huge black bundle of fur leapt on Derrik’s lap and his face was covered with warm, wet slurps... “Noid! Down ye beastie.”

The dog sat obediently, but the large head remained only a few inches from Derrik’s nose.

Noid’s Nanna Nummies

2 ¼ cup whole wheat flour
½ cup powdered milk
1 egg
1/3 cup mashed ripe banana
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 beef or chicken bouillon cube
½ cup hot water
1 Tablespoon brown sugar

Mix all ingredients until well blended. Knead for two minutes on a floured surface.

Roll to ¼ inch thick. Use a cookie cutter—a bone shape is nice—and cut out cookies.

Place on ungreased cookie sheets and bake at 300 degrees for 30 minutes.

Where can you order *lizzie's books you ask?
CLICK RIGHT HERE!

*~*romance with a sparkling twist!*~*
www.lizziestarr.com
www.myspace.com/lizziestarrsparkles

My Elf Dance

Want to see me dancing with my friends!??
CLICK HERE!

I laughed so hard making this tonight, I nearly woke the household.

Christmas Tree Ideas and Tips

I actually like artificial fruit ornaments. Some are frosted and quite elaborate and others are simple. This gold theme gives the tree an elegant look.

The Great Christmas Tree Tour 2007: Nathan

My fans come in all shapes and sizes, praise God, and here's a Christmas tree sent by Nathan. I appreciate this tree, Nathan. I can tell you worked very hard on it. It has a beautiful angel at the top also a very special person - Jesus! Because that's what Christmas is all about, isn't it?

Thank you, Nathan!

Great Christmas Tree Tour 2007: Carla

Thank you, Carla, for sending us a picture of your gorgeous tree! We'd all love to stop over and sit by your fireplace for an evening. Can you make us hot chocolate?

Guest Blogger: *lizzie Starr

((Quote for Dancing the Stars))
...*lizzie starr is not of this planet. Only a native with knowledge of such far-away galaxies could so vividly bring to life the breathtaking worlds...Endearing characters and an emotionally moving storyline submerge the reader in a superbly written page-turner... ~ Cass Andre, author

That quote gives me chills every time I read it. This is highest praise. And shows that I can build believable worlds. Although this tale takes place in a galaxy that can be reached by going between the stars of Orion's belt, readers feel at home there, because in many ways, it's still familiar.
Successful world building, for me anyway, often stems from the traditions of the world we know. Some of these traditions are ancient, almost forgotten and recorded only in history. Some are so familiar we hardly acknowledge the tradition behind them. Combining the celebrations and traditions from many sources creates new festivities and important times for the characters and you, the readers to experience.

This time of year is filled with traditions...sometimes overwhelming, isn't it? As many attempt to be more understanding of others, our traditions get mushed together. For example, some families may have a Christmas tree decorated in Kwanzaa colors.

In Dancing the Stars Irisa accompanies Niallan to the End of Year celebration on his planet. This holiday takes place in the winter, and includes being with family and the giving of gifts. Then there is the public celebration which includes parades, singing, the tossing out of small gifts. There's also a private ceremony at this time which marks lovers as belonging to one another.
Where did all this come from? Well, Christmas of course. And Mardi Gras. And another ancient parade ceremony where groups come from different directions to meet at a central location—sorry, I can't remember where I found that one. And, of course, my imagination.

Some authors create their worlds in extreme detail, outlining the physical environment and how characters react in any given situation. Often they do this before they even start writing. Not me. I start with my ideas and just let them go. It is so important, in fact of ultimate importance, to keep your world, characters and their actions believable. It's okay to have a reader think, 'how could that be' or 'hmmm, interesting'. But not have them throw the book across the room with a loud 'no way'!

With our world's knowledge of “what a fantasy or science fiction world should be” an author has to be careful of overstepping the established boundaries. We have to make certain there's an excellent reason why an Elven-like creature doesn't act like Tolkien's Elves, or why suddenly a space ship can travel faster than Andromeda can with slip stream drive.

But, you know, the world is changing so fast...who knows, the author may have the right of it after all!

Food and family play an important role in Dancing the Stars. Irisa is a clumsy cook who works diligently to make Niallan's favorite dessert. Here's a short quote and the recipe.

His dark eyes were wide and sparkling with delight... he took a huge spoonful of the sweet dessert. Irisa watched the movements of his mouth while he savored the bite. Leaning back with his eyes closed, his face was a study in pure bliss.

Cheesecake Insatiable

Crust:
5 oz. graham cracker crumbs
3 Tablespoons sugar
5 Tablespoons melted butter

Filling:
16 oz softened cream cheese
½ cup sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla
pinch salt
2 large eggs
3 Tablespoons Chambord liqueur

Topping:
8 oz sour cream
1 Tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla
1 Tablespoon Chambord liqueur
1 cup fresh raspberries or other fresh fruits

Preheat oven to 350

Mix crust ingredients and press firmly into the bottom of a 9 inch springform pan.

Mix cream cheese, sugar vanilla and salt at medium speed until smooth. Add eggs and mix until well blended. Using a fork, gently fold Chambord into the batter. Pour into crust.

Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until golden brown. Loosen cake from rim of pan. Let cool completely and remove rim.

Mix topping ingredients and spread over cheesecake. Refrigerate four hours or until firm. Top with fresh fruit just before serving.

Note: Irisa also decorated her special dessert with spun sugar designs.

Christmas Tree Ideas & Tips

Anything goes with your Christmas tree, but it's good to have a theme or cholor scheme in mind when you start. This tree is done in red with glass and crystal. Crystal really adds sparkle.

The Great Christmas Tree Tour 2007: Sherri

Sherri said her tree wasn't photogenic (thanks to her two year old) but she shared her Christmas cactus, which has been blooming for weeks!

This is beautiful, Sherri. Thanks.

Welcome Guest Blogger: *lizzie Starr

I'm delighted to introduce you a close friend of mine. Her stories are literally light years away from mine, in that she's usually in another time and place. She has a gift for endearing characters, gripping story lines, and unique world building. Add to that the fact that she's a fun person who can really cook, and I knew you'd love her! Meet, my critique partner, *lizzie Starr:



Cheryl’s review of Birds Do It:
“A sexy hero, a believable heroine, and *lizzie starr’s clever brand of humor make her an author to watch out for. With a premise so delightful I wish I had thought of it, Birds Do It will keep you turning pages with a smile.”

When Cheryl asked me to be a guest blogger I was thrilled...then dismayed. What was I going to chat about? Sure, as a lunch lady by profession I could talk about cooking and recipes—a favorite here. But what about as a writer?

Although I do write some contemporary romance (like the book Cheryl reviewed!) most of the tales flowing from my pen are fantasy and futuristic. Those are my worlds. So, why not talk a little bit about world building?

Having a believable world is essential to every story. Cheryl gives us excellent glimpses into historical worlds—like the Harvey Houses. Her contemporary works give the reader glimpses of a world they’re already knowledgeable about. We’ve lived our own lives in these times and with these histories. As long as a storyteller doesn’t completely rearrange facts or recognizable places or landmarks, we’re comfortable, happy and enjoy the read.

But what about places we haven’t been or read about in a travel article or history book? What about places that come totally from an author’s mind?

Actually, readers, as well as movie goers and couch potatoes, are well versed in fantasy and science fiction/futuristic worlds. In looking at the worlds of Star Trek or The Lord Of The Rings, we see familiar locations. Forests, a view of stars from space, vast cities and civilizations which could be made up of humans--if we take away pointed ears or oddly colored skin. We’re comfortable in these settings. In fact, these world views have become a part of our history, of what we know.

So what does an author do? Haven’t all these worlds been done before? Is there really anything new? Scientists now are playing with all kinds of quantum stuff (which I find totally fascinating but don’t understand one iota! Although I’ve come close—thanks to Trek watching.) and have come close to proving theories of parallel worlds and time travel. Pure fantasy? Perhaps. The made up technologies of Star Trek are not so made up any more.

In order to stand out, to make their world different, writers have to go beyond the physical world itself and build upon myths, history and traditions. I’ll talk about those over the next couple of days.

Of course, I can’t leave ya’ll without a recipe! And a quote from my fantasy romance Double Moon Destiny.

“Here is food, but I fear it is cold. We may have taken longer to return than expected.”

Kierigh laughed. “She hoped we would be long. See, the meal is meant to be eaten cold.” He lifted a loaf... “Grandmother is ever hopeful.”

Where can you order *lizzie's books you ask?
CLICK RIGHT HERE!

Grandmother’s Campfire Sandwich

1 large, thick and round unsweetened scone
2 cups cooked, shelled seafood of choice (shrimp, clams, muscles, oysters, crab)
½ cup tomato cocktail sauce
1 cup cooked vegetables (corn and peas are good)
salt and other seasonings to your personal choice

Mash together half of the seafood, the cocktail sauce and seasonings. Fold in the remaining seafood and the vegetables.

Cut scone in half horizontally. Spread filling evenly on bottom half then press on the scone top. Wrap in foil and place at the edge of the campfire or on a grill until heated. (Although, as Kierigh and Jermanaha discovered, it is also good cold!)

Learn more about *lizzie and her books here:
www.lizziestarr.com
www.myspace.com/lizziestarrsparkles

And come back tomorrow for more about *lizzie AND another recipe!

Time to Vote for Favorite Western Romance of 2007!

Remember those nominations I told you about?


It's time to vote for the Best Western Romance of 2007 from the list of books awarded 5 spurs.
The Preacher's daughter is one of the contenders, as well as A Western Winter Wonderland.
What a choice, and each visitor can only vote ONCE!

The voting will run until January 11, 2008 to give fans plenty of time to vote.

The author whose book is voted Best Western Romance of 2007 will receive the following:
-A logo to place on your website designating your book as the 2007 Best Western Romance by Love Western Romances.com.
-Free space on the Love Western Romances home page for a banner or book cover for one of your western historical romances as long as the book has been published in the last year.
-A 2008 Studs ‘N Spurs calendar filled with inspiration!
-A Love Western Romances Mug, pin, magnet and T-shirt (size large)

The second and third runners-up will receive a Love Western Romances mug, pin and magnet.

Voters will be entered into a contest for a basket of “goodies” and a Barnes and Noble gift card.

So, CLICK HERE TO vote today!
http://www.lovewesternromances.com/index.html

The Great Christmas Tree Tour 2007: WDMCuz

Here is our first tree! This is WDMCuz's tree. The she made the ornaments - they are beads over glass balls in intricate patterns and in different sizes. Cuz had knee surgery recently, and the down time really added to her tree.

It's a beauty, isn't it?

The Great Christmas Tree Tour!

Someone sent me a picture that sparked a new idea! Yeah, I know, I'm full of 'em. Scary, huh?

This will only be fun if as many people as possible participate, so are you up to it?

Let's share Christmas trees! They don't photograph that well, I know, because I've done it a gazillion times, but we'll do the best we can and point out our favorite ornaments and memories, okay! Are you in? I love Christmas trees with a passion, I'm sure I've mentioned that before, and enjoy seeing other people's designs and decorations. If you have a Christmas tree story, tell it here, okay?

So, get that tree up and get out that camera! The BlogWorld is waiting!!!



Found this one to get us started. CLICK TO ENLARGE

This is a tree decorated with birds and beads.
Directions on how to can be found by clicking here.

The Cowboy's Christmas Proposal by Judy Christenberry

One snowy Christmas, wedding bells ring!
Penny Bradford has inherited her family ranch, but she has no idea how to run it! So she hires rugged rancher Jake Larson to train her up and show her the ropes. Jake thinks it will be easy—he'll run the ranch and hold Penny's hand until she realizes she isn't cut out for ranching. Trouble is, Jake realizes he doesn't want to let Penny's hand go!As the snow falls thick and fast, Christmas begins to work its magic on the boss and her rancher…

Help youself to a cup of coffee

A group of alumni, all highly established in their respective careers, got together for a visit with their old university professor.

The conversation soon turned to complaints about the endless stress of work and life in general.

Offering his guests coffee, the professor went into the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an eclectic assortment of cups: porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal - some plain, some expensive, some quite exquisite.

Quietly he told them to help themselves to some fresh coffee.

When each of his former students had a cup of coffee in hand, the old professor quietly cleared his throat and began to patiently address the small gathering.

"You may have noticed that all of the nicer looking cups were
taken up first, leaving behind the plainer and cheaper ones. While it is only natural for you to want only the best for yourselves, this is actually the source of much of your stress-related problems."

He continued: "Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to
the coffee. In fact, the cup merely disguises or dresses up what we drink. What each of you really wanted was coffee, not a cup, but you instinctively went for the best cups. Then you began eyeing each other's cups.

"Now consider this: Life is coffee. Jobs, money, and position in
society are merely cups. They are just tools to shape and contain life, and the type of cup we have does not truly define nor change the quality of the life we live.

Often, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee that God has provided us. God brews the coffee, but He does not supply the cups. Enjoy your coffee!"


The happiest people don't have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have...

Oh, yeah.....

You might want to look at the recipe blog today.....

For Debbie Macomber fans: Christmas Wishes

Christmas Letters
Katherine O'Connor (known as K.O.) adores her five-year-old twin nieces—and strongly objects to her sister's plans to dispense with Christmas. Zelda is following the theories of child psychologist Wynn Jeffries, author of The Free Child (and, as it happens, K.O.'s neighbor). K.O. is particularly horrified by his edict to "bury Santa under the sleigh," and she's out to prove that Wynn and his ideas are full of…snow. He's not going to ruin her nieces' Christmas! Too bad the guy's so darned attractive…

Rainy Day Kisses
Seventeen years ago Susannah Simmons was a career girl who knew nothing about babies. But after babysitting her infant niece, Michelle, Susannah learned that one determined—and screaming—baby can make the corporate world look like child's play. Thank goodness for her charming neighbor Nate Townsend. Now he's her charming husband, and Susannah's a mother as well as an aunt. And every Christmas Eve, Michelle tells her cousins how their mom met their dad—a story in which she plays a starring role!

Don't You Love School Pictures!

Here they are - the '07 lineup of lil' darlin's in the order God sent them to us



ERIN












RYAN










ZACH











ADAM










JADEN











ALEXIS










ERIC










ELIJAH










JARED




I love school pictures. They're imperfect; they're natural, and so often personality shines through.

Apples to Apples

Some of you asked about the game we played on Thanksgiving - it’s called Apples to Apples. We laughed so hard, I thought I’d burst my zipper. Oh, wait, that was the turkey and pie. Well, anyway the game’s a lot of fun. Everyone gets seven red cards that contain mostly nouns, and everyone takes turns being the judge. When you’re the judge, you draw a green card that is a descriptive word like cranky or fantastic. Everyone anonymously plays a card on it, and the judge then picks the one they think fits best. The one who wins eight cards first wins. Once you figure out how it works, you can sort of match the card you play to the person judging - unless you have only unhelpful words in your hand.

Always fun to try a new family game.

Pumpkin Banana Mousse Tart

Brenda/Mickey sent a mouth-watering recipe:
Pumpkin Banana Mousse Tart

Thanks, Brenda! Flowers to you!