Karen's Blog

Random Thursday 1-26-2012

2012-01-26T09:58:00.000-06:00

It's been nearly a week since I posted on this blog - my humble apologies. Between revisions and my dad's car being in the shop and my husband's eye surgery and subsequent doctor appointments, I've barely been able to work, never mind post.

The good news is I'm nearly finished with the revisions. Hopefully, please God, fingers crossed. I'm rewriting the ending and then I've got to read it through and pray it makes sense. Once I get it off via email to the editor, I can go back to work on the Nocturne that's due 3-1 (and probably will be late. I hope not, because that causes a boomerang effect on the books following it, but we'll see.)

So it's back to work for me. Hopefully, I'll resume regular posting when life gets back to normal.

Friday, January 20, 2012

2012-01-20T09:35:00.000-06:00

I'm still working on revisions. It's funny how when I (or any writer) writes a story, it's like an intricate web. Each scene and sequel is connected. Every action has a reaction. So when you go in and add stuff, it's like tossing a rock into a calm lake - the ripples go out forever.

So far I've added a couple of characters and some incidents. All of these have far-flung consequences, turning a simple addition into a major rewrite. And, despite having worked EVERY SINGLE DAY on this since the end of December, I'm not yet done. Thank God the editor gave me 4-6 weeks. Because it would appear that I'm going to need every second of that time.

That said, it's Friday - my absolute favorite day of the week. Now that Libby (see previous post) is six months old, it's time to start the leash training part of her training. She'll learn how to heel and the all-important recall. She already knows sit and we've been half-assed working on down, but that needs a lot of work. Also scheduled in the near future - she will be getting spayed. Poor baby.

I started testing out my walking by doing laps around the pool. Yesterday I did 1000 extra steps without any pain. Thanks to one of my favorite bloggers - One Twenty-Five - I've downloaded the free app Lose It for my phone. And found out I can only have 1356 calories a day if I want to lose weight. For two days now I've been dutifully logging food and exercise and - drum roll - I've already dropped a pound. I need to shed the ten (yes TEN) pounds I picked back up after losing them last year. And I will. I'm done procrastinating.

Speaking of which (who knew I was such a procrastinator), I'd better get back to revising.

Thursday, January 19, 2011

2012-01-19T09:25:00.000-06:00

Some of you faithful readers will remember back in September, I got a new Boxer puppy. Her name is Liberty Bell. She just turned six months old.

She went from this

To this

From this

To this

Right now she's all legs and gangly. But she's growing into the beautiful dog she will become.

And we love her.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

2012-01-18T09:25:00.001-06:00

I'm BAAAACCCKKK!

Or at least it's starting to feel that way. Yesterday I went to the gym for the second time this week. In addition to cardio on the exercise bike and elliptical, I did some machines and free weights. Nothing too strenuous as I didn't want to stress my poor, lazy-ass muscles. But still. It felt wonderful. Absolutely wonderful.

Something funny - and nice - my former personal trainer texted me because he hadn't seen me at the gym in forever and was worried all the work I'd put in was going to be for nothing. He offered to write me up some workouts free of charge. I got this text on my way out the door to the gym. I need to thank him, because that is really nice of him.

Bonus points for me - I might have talked my dad, who is 80 and in horrible shape, into getting the free Silver Sneakers gym membership and coming up once a day to walk on the treadmill. Slowly, of course, but some exercise is better than nothing. He doesn't own a pair of sneakers and can't tie laces anymore, but I found him some Dr. Scholls at Famous Footwear with velcro closures, so we're going to try those on this afternoon. That would be great for him - he can get out and also get a little bit of exercise.

The revisions are coming along nicely and I got word yesterday that the title has changed slightly to THE COP'S MISSING CHILD. Still cute and catchy, yes?

Anyway, on The Facebook, several readers expressed interest in doing a Painting With A Twist event with me. So far I've got five people, plus me and my daughter. I need to get more so I can schedule a private showing, so if you think you'd like to do this in Grapevine, Texas on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon in February, shoot me an email at KWhiddon1@aol.com. Put Painting With A Twist in the subject line. Here's me from another time, with my masterpiece .

And the finished product

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

2012-01-17T13:37:00.000-06:00

I'm listening to The Band Perry and writing, loving life. Earlier today, I purchased a Long Term Care policy, ensuring that my daughter will not have to make any difficult decisions when I get old. I saw very clearly the need for this with all I went through with my Dad and his wife.

I got my Rita books today. For those of you who aren't writers, every year Romance Writers of America has a contest for published books, kind of like the Oscars for movies. They're called the Ritas. Everyone who enters has to judge another category. I got my books today and have already started to read them (at lunch.) I always find this exciting as sometimes I discover a new author to love.

A cold front finally blew in and I watched the outside temp drop 20 degrees in the space of a few hours. I'm actually glad - it IS January after all. This 70-80 degree stuff is just WRONG!

I went back to the gym yesterday for the first time in what felt like forever - I think nearly two months since I started physical therapy. I found to my surprise that I didn't want to go, but I forced myself and I'm glad I did. I only did a half hour of cardio (exercise bike and elliptical - my ankle won't allow much more). Easing back into it. Today I'm going to do some weights. I need to get back on the ball.

And with that, I'll bid you adieu for now. Back to revisions.

Monday, January 16, 2012

2012-01-16T08:48:00.000-06:00

Another Monday rolls around and once again, I'm reminded that I have the absolute best job in the world. Every single day, I get to create worlds and people and love. What could be better?

I'm also finally at peace with my ankle. I did a bunch of on-line reading and learned I've been too impatient. Healing this type of problem takes time, even up to six months. And while I don't have unlimited funds and can't do physical therapy for too much longer, the therapist is working with me and gave me exercises to do at home. I go one time this week and then I might just check in periodically. I'm not making any rash decisions about surgery. In fact, I've ordered a couple more braces and am going to try them out as well.

I'm sitting at my desk sipping coffee with cinnamon and feeling quite lucky and happy. Getting ready to face another week of revising The Cop's Missing Baby. This story is going to be so much stronger once I get done!

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

2012-01-11T09:21:00.000-06:00

Hi. Me again. Sorry I've been MIA. I've been sort of busy - planning a wake and a buriel, helping my father with various legal and medical issues. I've taken him to the eye doctor and gotten new glasses ordered, and am waiting on the new Texas insurance card to get him in for a physical. I've also taken my dog to the vet and kept attending physical therapy for my ankle.

I'm a bit frustrated there. I do what I'm supposed to. I diligently do the exercises, wear the brace, and take care not to put too much stress on the ankle. Yet - and this has been since June that I hurt it and October since I started wearing the boot cast - I still have a lot of pain and occasional swelling. At physical therapy, every time they try to advance me to the next set of exercises, the pain stops it cold. My therapist doesn't want me working through the pain - he says that will do too much damage. So I'm supposed to stop when it hurts. End result, while I'm a tiny bit better than I was when I started, not enough to justify the cost (over 1k so far). I see my podiatrist on Jan 24th and will discuss options with him. I'm still not sold on the surgical implant he wants to do in my foot.

My husband is still having eye issues - his glaucoma is bad in one eye and it looks like he's going to have to do the surgery. He had one kind of laser surgery on that eye, tried all kinds of drops and medications, but the pressure is still 40 and there are days when he's in a lot of pain.

In between all this, I've been working on the massive revisions for my next HRS. They are truly awesome and make the story a hundred times stronger, but they are time consuming and incredibly detailed, requiring one hundred percent of my writing time. All writing has virtually stopped on the Nocturne which is due March 1st. Ah well, looks like I'll be writing my arse off on that come February.

Today it's sunny and supposed to be warm before a cold front blows in tomorrow. Quite a far cry from last years snow and ice.

Friday, January 5, 2011

2012-01-06T09:25:00.000-06:00

It's Friday and hopefully today I'll be able to work at my writing job all day for the first time in what feels like forever. I have a blog to write for another web site, I've got five books that I had formatted for Smashwords to put up on that site, and revisions to work on. A full day. I'm on my second cup of coffee and hoping I can get a lot done before I have to go to physical therapy for my ankle later this afternoon.

Wish me luck!

January 4, 2012 Wednesday

2012-01-04T09:10:00.000-06:00

Well, the last time I posted it was 2011. A lot has happened since then, first and foremost, my father's wife passed away on January 2nd. I've been attending to family, trying to do a bit of writing when I can (far too infrequently), and dealing with mini-crisis after mini-crisis.

Hopefully, soon everything will settle down and I'll be back.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

2011-12-29T11:19:00.001-06:00

As another year winds down, I have to once again remind myself of all I'm grateful for. First off, my husband and family. Secondly, our health. While my parents are facing some issues, I'm going to try and be confident that everything will work out in those areas.

2012. Wow. Sounds so strange. Ah well, I'll get used to it, and it will be my first year working full time as a writer.

I got revisions on The Cop's Missing Baby the other day and they are brilliant! I love a good set of revisions, because revising always makes the story better. I'm working on those right now. When I get them done, I'll go back to The Wolf Prince.

I'm still going to physical therapy for my ankle and hoping to avoid surgery, though I'm wondering.... If I do have to do the surgery, I hope it works out for the best.

In case I don't post before New Years, I wish you and yours a Happy, Safe, and Prosperous New Year!

Monday, December 26, 2011

2011-12-26T15:52:00.000-06:00

It's the day after Christmas. It's all over - the shopping, the wrapping, the gift-giving, the cooking, the eating - all of it with family and friends. I supposed I'm a bit melancholy; I usually am the day after the big holiday. But this year, I'm so exhausted I'm not sure there's room for anything else.

I wanted to get back to work on the book today and I've tried - sort of. No real desire or drive and as a result I've barely written 200 words.

What I have done is cook eggs and bacon for lunch (right?), play with my new Kindle Fire, play with my puppy, surf the internet, play a LOT of games of solitaire on the computer, and long for sleep. Tonight I'm warming up leftover ham and that's about it. My husband went to the gym (he's dedicated!) and lazy slug that I am, I declined. Too. Tired. Seriously. I'm worn out.

So by tomorrow, I've got to get back on track. But for the rest of this day-after-Christmas, I'm going to sit around and let myself rest.

Saturday, Christmas Eve, 2011

2011-12-24T08:56:00.000-06:00

To you and yours, I wish delight. Warm fires, soft arms, and stars shining bright. Good health and good food, an epicurian delight. But most of all, I wish you love. Merry Christmas, my friends.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

2011-12-21T13:45:00.000-06:00

This time of the year is usually hectic and crazy and exhausting and exhilarating. But this year, it's just plain busy. My father and his wife and their dog arrived on Saturday and today their moving truck got here (actually their new house about a mile away). Yesterday he had to buy a new refrigerator and washer and dryer. His wife is infirm and I've been taking care of her - she's wheelchair bound and can't stand on her own. Today I'm here with her while Lonnie is at the new house with dad helping direct the movers.

Meanwhile, it's four days until Christmas. Hard to believe - I've been so crazy busy that the holiday has occasionally completely slipped my mind. That never happesn. Ever. Until this year.

So hug your family close and enjoy the holiday. Somehow, in the middle of all this, I will manage to do this too.

If I don't make it back until next week, I know you'll understand. Merry Christmas.

Friday, December 16, 2001

2011-12-16T07:38:00.000-06:00

It's Friday and I've been up since 4-ish am. Left at 5:15 to drive Lonnie to the airport for his flight to Denver. Took out the trash, gave the puppy her B12 shot, and grabbed an Egg McMuffin at McDonald's. Now, fortified with a large coffee and a fresh pot of more downstairs, I'm getting started early. Because today I have to get groceries, go to physical therapy, and meet my daughter for dinner later.

However, the physical therapy yesterday really helped my ankle, I'm done Christmas shopping (yay!) and I only have a few things left to wrap. The house deal I was working on for my father went through and he closes on Monday. He and his wife and their dog are staying with us until they can stay in their new place, so I have to clean my house up. It's been raining and I have three dogs and the backyard is now muddy, so you get the idea.

Off to do my writing so I can get to the rest!

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

2011-12-14T09:14:00.000-06:00

I'm sorry I've been MIA, but these have been incredibly stressful times for me. I've been dealing with negotiations regarding my father's house here and yesterday for the first time after a week of back and forth, Ithought it was over. Done. As in, we'd reached an agreement and could go to closing next week.

But at the last minute, the seller refused to sign the paperwork and asked for an extension until Friday. WTF? Luckily, I didn't read my email last night - I was busy celebrating by lazing in a recliner watching NCIS and NCIA Los Angeles and avoiding computers and email. I got my first solid nights sleep in a week.

I found out this morning when I read my email. So, I'm back to square one. ARRRRRGH!!!

On another topic, my plans for today are to make my writing word count and head out to completely finish up Christmas shopping. I also plan to stop by a liquor store, for obvious reasons . (Ok, just kidding - we always go to the liquor store to get Amaretto at Christmas time.)

And I had my second physical therapy session for my ankle. I'm sore, but it's similar to resistance training - we're training those muscles and tendons and strengthening them so my ankle can support itself. Awesome, right?

So, if I can shut my mind down from thinking about the house, I will do exactly that. Wish me luck. Cuz next week, I want to do some baking in my spare time.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

2011-12-08T09:32:00.000-06:00

I've been doing a little internet Christmas shopping, but no baking yet. I always bake at Christmas time - usually cookies, which I don't need, but that really helps me get into the holiday spirit. These days there's so much going on - my mom's cancer, Chemo, and Radiation, my dad's hurried move to Texas and finding him a house, and my injured ankle with physical therapy and potential surgery, not to mention the requisite word count I must make every day on the book - that it's often difficult to get into the mood for a holiday. The other day my husband put the radio on the Christmas station, you know the one, every single city has one radio station that plays non-stop Christmas music from Thanksgiving until Christmas Day. That helped. We were going shopping looking for a new Christmas inflatable. Our old one died. Here's the one we found (we actually got the display model at Wally World because everywhere was sold out).

Kind of corny, yes? But I love it. (I also wanted to get a light up pink flamingo because it was full of the awesome and it would make my daughter have a fit, but I restrained myself.)

So our house is all decorated and there are a few gifts under the tree. This year will be the first Christmas I've spent with my father in close to 30 years. I am looking forward to it. My brother has informed me that he is working on another celebration with my mom and we've already got a get together scheduled this weekend with my husband's family. The Honey-baked Ham is ordered, as is the Tortuga Pineapple Rum cake (so good, we tried this while in the Cayman Islands this past summer - yummm!)

And so far my story people are cooperating. I'm working out regularly. My husband is really loving retirement and we're both healthy, and the puppy appears to finally have her digestive issues under control.

Blessings abound. And holiday magic is sure to follow!

Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

2011-12-07T09:21:00.000-06:00

I have the attention span of a fiour month old puppy. In other words, short. Every day, I sit down to write and I periodically have to break up the words with something else - checking Facebook or playing Solitaire. Or writing this blog. Sigh.

Sometimes I get up and pace - thinking about what comes next, since I'm not much of a plotter. This book (The Wolf Prince) I'm working on now is going to be my longest Nocturne ever and I'm having a bit of a problem figuring out the pacing. I'm used to shorter books, I guess. On the plus side, I'm going into much more characterization. On the down side, I'm not sure if I'm doing too much! So far I have not only the hero and the heroine's point of view, but a secondary set of characters - the heroine's sister and the villain. I haven't done that since I wrote the Fae books for Leisure. It's fun and scary at the same time.

We writers are a neurotic lot. Never sure if the words are right or the story is moving along at the correct pace. I'm no different, but I guess I'll see once I get halfway through. I should hit 40,000 words by the end of December, which is the halfway point.

In the meantime, I'll just keep writing!

Monday, December 5, 2011

2011-12-05T09:03:00.002-06:00

It's chilly here and we're supposed to get a wintry mix today, which thrills me. I love winter, adore snow, and wouldn't mind an inch or two of the white fluffy stuff. Kind of puts one in the mood for Christmas.

Anyway, I promised to show you more decorations. The photo quality is not that good - I was too lazy to get my camera and used my phone and the lighting is really dim due to the weather. But here they are.

This is my new Nativity set. Believe it or not, I got it at Avon. It's excellent quality and exactly what I was looking for.

And below is the final picture of my den. Note the dog toys by the coffee table. Since we have a puppy, there are toys everywhere.

Oh wait, I forgot to show you the tree.

Here you go

Festive, no?

Thursday, December 1, 2011

2011-12-01T08:23:00.000-06:00

Wow, though I knew it was coming, it's so hard to believe it's December already. I promised to put up pics of more of my Christmas decorations, so here they are. These are just in my kitchen. I'll show other rooms later this month.

Cute, huh? I love decking my house up at Christmas. This year, since I have the boot cast on and couldn't climb up on the counters, my wonderful helpful husband put the Santas up for me. That was really appreciated!

Today we don't have anything schedules, so I should be able to write, write, write. New month and all that!

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

2011-11-30T14:07:00.000-06:00

Well, it's the last day of November. According to my mental schedule, I should be at 20,000 words right now in my WIP. I'll end the month at 18,000 which is 2,000 short. Not bad, considering I'm dealing with my mom's illness, trying to find my dad a house so he can move here (and daily phone calls from both of them as well as a realtor), a puppy with severe food intolerance issues, and my husband had eye surgery today. So I'm frazzled and it's nearly two pm and I haven't written a single word. To hit the 18k mark, I only need to write 600 words today. So that's my goal. I can make up the rest next month or one of the months after. I have three more months - December, January, and February to go. Since I have to be at 80,000 (or 85,000) by March 1st, that's how I came up with the 20k per month goal. I still say not bad with all I've been dealing with and including the cleaning, cooking, serving, cleaning up, and then decorating for Christmas that I've done last week.

Onward, I say. Onward.

On the exercise front, I've been nearly two weeks now without exercising. That sucks. I feel sluggish and fat and I've gained a pound or two over the Thanksgiving holidays. So - no matter what - come Monday I am starting back to four days a week minimum at the gym.

That's my tale of woe for today. At least I have a goal to focus on.

Now, I've been promising a sneak peak at some decorations. Here's one picture of my tree and my mantle. I'll post more in another post.

Monday, November 28, 2011

2011-11-28T09:34:00.000-06:00

Sorry I have been MIA lately. As I mentioned, I hosted Thanksgiving here at my house. Last Tuesday I cleaned all day, Wednesday I cooked, and Thursday the family all came and we ate.

My table looked beautiful.

I had purchased these crock pot warmer things, plus had other warmers so all the food was hot. Those things saves my sanity. Since I'd premade everything, I cooked them Thursday morning and put them in the warmers. No stress trying to get everything ready all at once and keep everything warm.

We all had a feast! My youngest brother picked up my Mom and her oxygen tanks. She was thrilled and so moved that she cried when she said grace.

Here is a typical plate.

I didn't put pics up of the family here because they wouldn't like it. But everything was delicious and everyone at their fill. After the cleaning, Lonnie and I drove my mom home.

Friday and Saturday, as is our tradition, we decorated for Christmas. I'll post pics later of that. On Friday we also went and looked at a house for my dad, who is moving here in December.

Then Sunday was our wedding anniversary. We've been married 24 years and together for 29. We went to eat at Texas Land and Cattle (steak, as we were tired of turkey!). I got smoked sirloin with grilled shrimp. (I'd already eaten part of it - sorry!)

And for dessert, we had peach bread pudding. Yumm!

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

2011-11-22T09:47:00.000-06:00

Today is cleaning day. I'm really stressing about not writing, though I'm sure I'll get over it. Maybe I'll just write 500 words to tide me over .

I've made cornbread so it can sit out for me to make the stuffing tomorrow. Next up is ironing the tablecloth and then I start.... shudder.... dusting. And polishing. And cleaning stainless and granite and... yuck. The one thing I miss the most from my having a day job paycheck is having the cleaning service.

Ah well. We can't have everything.

In case I don't pop in tomorrow (that's cooking day!), have a Happy Thanksgiving folks!

Monday, November 21, 2011

2011-11-21T09:13:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving week! One of my favorite times of the year. And since it's at my house this year, I always do the same things in pretty much the same order.

Tuesday I clean. All day. And iron and starch the table cloth and napkins. I pre-do some prep work for the cooking, such as boil the eggs for the deviled eggs.

Wednesday I cook. Again, all day. And though my feet and back will be aching by the end of the day, I love it! I am baking three pies from scratch (except the crust, which I bought frozen and pre-made). Apple, pecan, and pumpkin. I'm also making cornbread and sausage stuffing, my husband's pea salad that no one else likes , sweet potatoe souffle, corn casserole, green bean casserole, and butternut squash. And of course, the turkey is at Red, Hot, and Blue, getting smoked, so all I have to do is warm it up. My daughter, who no longer spends the night on Wednesday, is bringing over mashed potatoes and mac and cheese. My sister in law is bringing a broccoli casserole and fruit salad, cranberry sauce, and pickle/olive tray.

That's right, we are having a HUGE feast. It's funny too, because the rest of the year I try to eat clean, but on this one day (ok, and Christmas), the hell with that!

Saturday, November 19, 2011

2011-11-19T14:06:00.000-06:00

I'm writing today. While I usually try not to work on Saturdays, the upcoming holiday has me feeling the need to get some extra words in. I already knew I'd be taking off Wednesday to cook and Thursday to eat , but I will also need to take off Tuesday to clean my house. And believe me, it needs it.

So I'm writing and it's oddly warm outside and my hubby is doing outside "stuff". Once I hit my word count, I plan to iron the tablecloth - at least I can do the table - though I might do that tomorrow.

I am very happy that my family is all going to be together.

Friday, November 18, 2011

2011-11-18T09:03:00.000-06:00

Once again, sweet Friday rolls around. Today - after I write my words for the day - I'm hitting the grocery store to buy my Thanksgiving meal. That's always a long, convoluted ordeal, but strangely pleasurable too.

And this week, I learned someone got a hold of one of my credit cards and ordered themselves a laptop from Best Buy! On Tuesday, I went into that CC account online to check my balance and saw a pending purchase from Monday for $503.74 at Best Buy. Since I didn't make that purchase - hadn't even been near a Best Buy even online - I immediately called Discover and alerted them. We cancelled my account and they issued me a new card.

Last night, UPS rang my doorbell with - you guessed it - the new laptop. It appears the dumbasses who ordered it didn't have it shipped to them. I called Discover who told me to call Best Buy. Best Buy is sending me a prepaid label to ship it back to them. They did give me a phone number for the person who ordered it. It's in El Paso, TX, but I did a reverse phone lookup and it appears it's not a valid number.

Either way, in the middle of all this with my mom, and my dad moving here, and my foot, and my husband having eye surgery, and my puppy having food intolerance issues, some idiot tries to steal my credit card. I'm pissed. I hope the fraud unit at Discover catches them and they're charged with theft.

Rant over. Now I need more coffee and to get writing.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

2011-11-17T08:08:00.001-06:00

One week from today is Thanksgiving! Tomorrow or Saturday, I'll shop for the groceries. Since my mom still doesn't know whether she'll be well enough to come, I'm just going to go buy stuff and cook anyway. If no one comes, then I guess I'll just have a lot of leftover food, right?

Here are the cute decorations I put on my mantle every year.

I got those several years ago and have used them every year.

On the writing front, I'm back to writing today (couldn't yesterday, had to go to Dallas and my mom's doctor visit at the hospital there).

Also, I'm reading an absolutely fascinating book called Daughter of Smoke and Bone - Amazon named it one of their top books of the year, though I'd purchased it before that. I bought it because of a Romantic Times review. It's amazing - fresh and original and keeps me guessing. Give it a try!

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

2011-11-16T08:25:00.000-06:00

So, in my quest to stop gaining weight (and hopefully begin losing weight), I've been writing down all my calories. It's always surprising how things add up.

In the interest of healty, low-calorie eating, here's what I made for lunch yesterday. With the fat-free dressing (measured out in tablespoons), it was as follows: Lettuce - 0, tomato, carrots, mushrooms - 40, half a can of salmon - 60, sprinkle of feta cheese - 40, dressing - 30. Total calories - 130. Plus, it's packed with protein and Omega 3!

For breakfast, I cut my portion size in half. I cooked a quarter of a cup of oatmeal with one mashed banana and added cinnamon and half a cup of soy milk. Total calories - 215. Very filling.

And I had Greek Oatmeal for a snack. At 120 calories, it has 11 grams of protein.

For my afternoon snack, I'll have protein powder with water after I work out. 140 calories.

So my pre dinner calorie count is at a nice 605.

I'm trying to keep my intake at around 1200-1300 calories. We'll see how that goes.

Tuesday, November 14, 2011

2011-11-15T09:31:00.000-06:00

It was 67 degrees F when I woke up at 6am this morning. Yesterday we got into the mid-eighties. What happened to fall? I want the chill back, the crisp air, the sweaters and jeans and boot wearing weather.

Today the Firefighters came and put up our Christmas lights. We've been using the same people for over ten years. They call us and tell us when they're coming and my husband gets out the lights and has them ready. Thanksgiving is next week and I don't know if my mother is going to be well enough to come. I haven't bought the turkey yet or the other food - kind of difficult to do until you now how many people are eating. If my mom comes, we will have ten. If not, it's all up in the air.

Ah well, we're moving into the holiday season so fast, despite me digging in my heels. And with this boot cast hampering my working out - especially the cardio part - I've had to start watching my calories again. Joy.

But the book is going well and the characters are interesting. I'm still having fun writing it, which is good.

Back to it, I think.

Monday, November 14, 2011

2011-11-13T20:15:00.000-06:00

I've decorated my house for Thanksgiving.

Despite the possibility that my Mother might not be well enough to join us.

Though I'm hoping she will be. My entire family is supposed to come eat. I'm cooking a feast.

And either way, I'm enjoying the decorations. They look pretty and bring me happiness.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

2011-11-12T08:03:00.000-06:00

It's Saturday, around eight a.m. I got up at six with the dogs, like I always do, but instead of going back to bed after I let them out and fed them, I showered and ate breakfast like I do during the week. My husband left to winterize the camper down at our lake lot and I have the entire house to myself (and dogs) for the rest of the day. My daughter is meeting me for lunch and I need to buy groceries, but other than that... just me.

I love early morning Saturdays. Yes, I love sleep, but there's something about the entire day stretching out in front of you that brings me joy. Especially when there's nothing I absolutely HAVE to do, unlike a work day when I must make a daily word count. Of course, I'm going to write, but because I want to.

One thing I am liking about this new longer word count for the Harlequin Nocturnes (80,000-85,000 words) is the way I can really develop the characters. Go into backstory much more deeply. Plus there is room for a subplot or two, which I haven't got to do since I wrote the larger books for Dorchester. It will be interesting to flex my writing muscles a little bit.

Speaking of muscles, this walking cast and limited cardio is messing with my weight. I've gained 2 lbs in 2 weeks which isn't good, especially around the holidays. So I'm guessing - no, I KNOW - the only alternative is to cut calories. Back to writing everything down again. I may even resubscribe to my BodyBugg. Still thinking about that one. Sigh.

Well, with this beautiful Saturday stretching tantalizingly before me, I'm going to sign off for now.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

2011-11-10T13:14:00.000-06:00

Music is as integral to my life as books. I have a huge CD collection and an even larger I-Tunes collection. I tend to make playlists for each book I write, playing the same songs or artists over and over while I write. I'm working on a Nocturne called The Wolf Prince, companion to a book I've already turned in called The Wolf Princess which is scheduled to come out in 2012.

I'm listening to the music of my adolescence. Journey, Bob Seger, James Taylor, Bob Dylan. I'd forgotten how much I loved this music. While the rest of my life is in sheer and utter turmoil and it's very difficult to find the words to put on the page, this music helps take me away. A thought struck me as I typed that - occasionally I get a letter from a reader saying one of my books did that for her.

Something else to be grateful for.

Random picture of the day - my puppy Liberty Belle, who is nearly 4 months old, asleep on my recliner.

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

2011-11-09T08:39:00.000-06:00

So I went to see the podiatrist yesterday after wearing my walking boot cast for three weeks. Here is what it looks like. (Bear in mind it's over six years old and kind of beat up, though it still works. A new one costs $150, so I'll be using this for awhile.)

End result of the MRI, I'm going to have to have surgery. Day surgery, but unless I want to wear some sort of metal brace the rest of my life, I have to do it. Since I miss walking.... yeah, I'm gonna do it.

I've been talking about the tree in my front yard and I finally uploaded pictures.

Here's the view from my writing office window.

And here is the tree from the street in front of my house

And lastly, just because I like it, here's the cute Fall wreath I put on my front door

Monday, November 7, 2011

2011-11-07T11:05:00.000-06:00

Today is going to be a random thought Monday.

On Facebook, someone is doing a "thirty days of thankfullness" thing, where every day they post one thing they are thankful for. I'm guessing they'll do this right up to and through Thanksgiving. Not a single day goes by that I don't reflect on how thankful I am for my life. For love, for family, for health, for pets, for material things, for blessings, for music, for that first steaming cup of coffee in the morning, a particular sunrise, the talented sound of a mockingbird. From this amazing chance I have been given to be a full time writer, to the publisher that publishes me, to the readers who buy my stories. I am well aware of how fortunate I am and believe me, I don't take this for granted.

Food. I love to cook, adore it in fact, and if I had time and the inclination, I'd take a gourmet cooking class or two. Thus Thanksgiving is one of my absolute favorite holidays - because it's unfettered cooking from scratch - no being lazy on this feast day!

My mom is home now and slowly recuperating. She will need all her strength for the battle ahead - chemo and radiation. I ordered her some Pure Protein Powder and two books on how to eat with cancer. I pray she will read them and somehow overcome the seven and a half decades of unhealthy eating.

Lastly, to the Creator, the ONE, I Am who answers prayers. Thank you.

Friday, November 4, 2011

2011-11-04T09:12:00.000-05:00

I'm starting a new book - yay! Titled The Wolf Prince, this will be a Harlequin Nocturne and will be out in March 2013. Don't worry - I have two more Pack books coming in 2012, one in January and one in October.

Also, I'm still wearing the boot cast which severely impedes my exercising. I can't walk or do elliptical or even exercise bikes - I tried the recumbant and my ankle ached that entire night. I see the doctor on Tuesday, so I'm going to ask him what I can do. I did work out my upper body - back and arms and chest, and got in some ab work, but I need to keep my legs and glutes toned as well. I'm thinking I need to severely cut my calories too, because less exercise usually means a weight gain for me.

From weight gain, I'll transition to what has been obsessing me lately. Thanksgiving. It's 3 weeks from yesterday and I've already started planning the menu. I've also realized that apparently I don't take a lot of holiday FOOD pictures, so I'll need to remedy that this year. This pic is from last Thanksgiving, which was at my mom's house. Yum.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

2011-11-02T09:12:00.000-05:00

Ok, so it's not as spectacular as what I used to see when I lived in the Catskill Mountains in New York.

But for The DFW area of Texas, it's not bad.

Fall makes me happy!

Tuesday, November 1st, 2011

2011-11-01T09:11:00.000-05:00

Ahhh, we are finally in November! The beginning of my favorite time of the year. The leaves are finally changing and will begin falling. Often in the early morning, there is a hint of a bite to the air. I sleep better when it's cool, coffee tastes better, and I can make soups and stews in the crockpot to my heart's content.

My mother finally got to go home from the hospital. Because it was so late in the day and the hospital is an hour away from me with no traffic, my youngest brother kindly volunteered to go get her. He delivered her safely to the house and she is still on oxygen, but finally home. Also, I finished my book, did some last minute tweaks to the ending, and emailed it off to my lovely editor Keyren Gerlach.

Finally, last night was Halloween! We love Halloween here. We decorate and often dress up (though we just wore Halloween t-shirts this year). We sat outside in plastic chairs before moving in around 7:30. I bought way too much candy and saw some adorable costumes. I gave out candy until 8:30 or 9:00 and still have far too many bags left. I'm going to see if there is somewhere I can donate those, since I sure as heck don't need to be eating them!

Thursday October 27, 2011

2011-10-27T09:35:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been MIA but two weeks of hospital visits plus trying to finish a book before deadline, plus being diagnosed with Posterior Tibial Tendonitis and having to wear a heavy walking boot/cast, plus the new puppy has mean a complete shortage of time. Once my mom gets out of the hospital and I turn the book in, I can return and dazzle you with my mediocre wit, but for now I can barely breathe.

Good news though - the tree in front of the house is actually finally changing colors. When I get time, I'll take a new picture and post it.

Take care and I'll talk to you later.

Monday, October 24, 2011

2011-10-24T09:21:00.000-05:00

With all the hospital/mom issues, plus having a book due November 1st (nearly there!), I'm sorry I haven't been here much. Things will soon improve (hopefully).

Meanwhile, weather-wise, we've been having a bit of a fall. The tomato plants that wilted in the heat are full of tomatoes which are growing larger by the day. If they ripen before we have a freeze, I'll actually get some tomatoes this year!

My mum is flowering too.

It's really nice to have this bit of nature. This is my favorite time of the year, not counting the occasional random 90 degree day here and there (we're supposed to have one today or tomorrow). This morning I woke to a wet fog and at 9:30 am it still lingers. Later I will have to make a trip to visit my mother - she's having another surgery this morning, but for now I'm allowing myself to wallow in the chilly, damp air.

Friday, October 21, 2011

2011-10-21T09:21:00.000-05:00

Every now and then, you meet someone who is such an extraordinary person that they leave you in awe.
My mother's surgeon, Dr. D. Rohan Jeyarajah Director of Surgical Oncology, Methodist Dallas Medical Center is such a person.

First off, the man is a whirlwind. He seriously vibrates with energy and passion. After seeing him for the the past three days, he reminds me of a rock star. He breezes into the room surrounded by his entourage - he always has an entourage consisting of another doctor, a resident, a medical student, and last night an oncology nurse. He is warm and personable rather than arrogant. One gets a sense that he actually cares. Last night after he visited with my mother and gave us all the results of the pathology report, he glanced at me and then hurried over and took my hand and asked me if I was all right. I almost cried, but managed to tell him yes, thank you.

He is the doctor who repaired the tear and he is the doctor who will perform the Whipple Surgery once the radiation shrinks the tumor. He says that God will guide his hand. I like that. I have never met a doctor like him before. I would trust him with my life and I am trusting him with my mother's.

Here's a link to an article from D Magazine where they asked him about one of his toughest cases.
http://www.dmagazine.com/Home/D_Magazine/2010/November/Dallas_Doctors_Toughest_Cases.aspx?page=2

Thursday October 20, 2011

2011-10-20T09:59:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been MIA. I was supposed to go to St. Petersburg, Florida for a writer's conference, but on Monday my mother went in for a routine procedure (an ERP where they put a scope down her throat and look at the pancreas and also take a biopsy). Something went wrong and a tear occurred in her bowels. She was transported by ambulance to another hospital and had emergency surgery to repair the tear. The surgeon - an amazing doctor - had hoped to remove the tumor while he was repairing the tear, but it had grown and was attached to a blood vessel. He said normally he would have constructed another blood vessel and tied that one off and removed it anyway, but the tear was too bad and life-threatening. She had a second surgery on Tuesday to insert a drain that goes into her intestine and her liver. She is totally jaundiced as the tumor is blocking her liver duct and part of her stomach/intestine.

Yesterday, my mom was moved out of the ICU and into a regular room. Her jaundice is fading thanks to the drain. She is on a feeding tube and the plan is, once she's recovered from this surgery she will start radiation and chemo. Once the tumor shrinks enough, the surgeon plans to go back in and remove it.

So, I have been at the hospital every single day, often for all day. Monday I got home after midnight and Tuesday night I didn't get home until 9 pm. Last night was better - six pm and I made my husband take me out to Chili's. Obviously, I haven't been writing. I'm exhausted and foggy and working on half a brain.
On top of that, I think I've sprained my ankle.

Anyway, just wanted to let you know why I vanished off the face of the earth. If you are a praying person, your prayers would be greatly appreciated.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

2011-10-13T09:34:00.000-05:00

I'm nearly finished writing the first draft of my new Harlequin Romantic Suspense "The Cop's Missing Baby." I should hit 50,000 words today and I have to end up somewhere between 55,000 and 60,000. I'm on the next to last chapter, alternating between writing the black moment and some of the resolution. I often do this when I'm writing, switch scenes, switch point of view characters, just to keep things interesting. And sometimes random scenes occur to me and I've got to get them down before they vanish.

Often it takes a moment of great personal crisis to make us appreciate our life. Of late, I've been happy and content and full of thankfulness, but now I've actually fully realized how much take for granted. You see, on Tuesday afternoon, my mother was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer.

Our entire family is reeling. She is having more tests done on Friday and we will know more then. Until then - and even after then - please include her in your prayers.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

2011-10-11T10:50:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I took a break and went to the State Fair of Texas. Hubby and I haven't been in YEARS and my daughter had the day off from work (plus teachers get free tickets), so we went.

It was crowded, but there were ample lots for parking. Like all fairs everywhere, there was food. I ate weird food that I would never in a million years eat anywhere else.

Chicken on a stick and sausage on a stick. I had chicken, my husband had sausage.

My daughter had a frito pie.

We saw a HUGE turkey in a cage.

Lots of treats (I meant to go back and buy a loaf of that awesome blueberry bread!) We ate some more. (Giant Corny dogs!)

YUM!

Flying flags (Did you know that Texas is the only state in the US that is legally allowed to fly the state flag at the same height as the American flag?

I got to sit in an awesome Camaro convertible. I'd so buy this car in a heartbeat if I had a massive garage and could afford to own like six different cars! Love the orange color.

There were sculptures and exhibits and it was a huge fair.

Here's Big Tex!
(The light was bad from the front, so I took one from the back too. A kid came up to me and wanted to know why I was taking a picture of Big Tex's butt!)

We didn't ride any rides because of the long lines and the fact that I have a puppy at home who can't be left alone too long. (With the drive and just walking around we were gone 5 hours!) Here's our huge ferris wheel.

Though we all really wanted to ride the swings!

We also saw a trick dogs show. It was called Jump and it had dogs catching frisbees and dock diving dogs. This is their set up (the dog pictures didn't turn out too well, sadly).

All in all, it was a fun day. We will have to try and go more often - maybe once every few years instead of letting fifteen or so go by.

Thursday, October 6, 2011

2011-10-06T10:27:00.000-05:00

As I put up on Facebook yesterday and on my website, I have the cover art for my January Harlequin Nocturne THE WOLF WHISPERER. It's awesome, even though the guy bears no resemblance to my hero whatsoever ! He's certainly hot though.

See for yourself!

Ain't he purty?

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

2011-10-05T09:44:00.000-05:00

This morning I am sitting in front of my computer, half-finished mug of coffee in hand, all the email checked and the blogs read and the work-in-process opened in front of me. I've played cards on the computer, typed a few paragraphs, checked emails, and then here I am. At my blog. Avoiding writing.

I could blame this on lack of sleep. Hot flashes, insomnia, and a sore ankle kept me up most of last night. The new puppy slept through the night, so there was that at least. My body is stiff and sore and feeling every bit of my 50 years. I got up at 5:30 am instead of 6, let the dogs out and fed them, and began my day. So I should be ahead, well on my way to getting my 1500 words. Instead, I'm avoiding them.

Oh, I'll get them. I always do. Every single day for the past month except one, the day after we got home with our new Boxer puppy. I go to the gym every day too, and sometimes I have to write afterwards if I haven't made my word goal, but I make it. I should (fingers crossed) finish this book before I go to Florida for the Novelists, Inc. Conference. It's due November 1st, which is a Tuesday, and I will definitely be on time.

Writers write. Eventually. It's not the writing that's hard (ok, sometimes it is), but the actual GETTING there. I have to get into the story, which usually happens right about lunch time. Since my husband is a stickler for routine - he must eat at noon sharp - I have to abandon the book and fix lunch and eat - but then it takes me forever to get back into it after my lunch.

I guess I'd better stop avoiding and get back to writing. I wonder what avoidance tactics other writers use - and I know they do - we all do.

Happy Wednesday!

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

2011-10-04T09:55:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I start my writing day in a kind of a panic. As in - I can't do this, where do I go next, what was I thinking. Then I remind myself that this is just a book. Just a book. And I CAN do this. I've done it over thirty times already. And I actually like what I've written and am going to finish early enough that I can go to that writer's conference later this month and still have time after I get back to edit the thing before I send it off to my editor.

And then I'll begin again.

That's how it goes. Book after book after book. At least with the vanishing of the dreaded day job, I'm no longer burned out and rushed. I enjoy writing again.

I've just finished reading on my Kindle a wonderful book by Barbara Samuels called THE CARE AND THE FEEDING OF THE GIRL'S IN THE BASEMENT. Read it! If you're a writer, it will inspire you and calm you and move you and heck - you'll just enjoy the nice read. It's only $4.99 too!

Not only have I always adored Barbara's warm and vibrant voice, but she and I belong to the same writer's organizations and occasionally attend the same conferences. I haven't actually met her (except for one time standing in line to register at the Romance Writer's of America's National Conference), but I might someday and hopefully I won't have a huge, fan-girl moment like I did when I met Iris Johansen. Just sayin'. Cuz she's gonna be in Florida at a conference at teh same time as I will. She's one of my auto-buy writers.

Anyway, I tried to post yesterday but apparently blogger was having issues. It wouldn't let me upload my photos and to be honest, I'm afraid to try today. So I'll leave you with the book recommendation. Time to write!

Thursday, September

2011-09-29T13:38:00.000-05:00

As September (and hopefully the unbearable heat) winds down, I find myself settling into this new writer's life and loving it. Sure, sometimes I feel a bit isolated and occasionally I long to go shopping, but days like today make me truly appreciate it.

I've been writing while listening to Lady Antebellum's new album. Romantic, sweeping music. Great for writing romantic fiction. My puppy is currently sleeping near my desk. The words have actually been flowing. I don't know if they're good or not - I refuse to edit until I'm done with the book. I'm happy. Seriously contented.

Today is supposed to be the last truly hot day for awhile. After today's high near or at 100 degrees, it's supposed to be in the 80's. I'm hoping soon we'll have this (taken last year).

Meanwhile, I'll keep working on my book. When I start missing being around people (and need to exercise), I'll stop and head out to the gym. And I'll be dreaming of fall.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

2011-09-28T14:05:00.001-05:00

I did a short guest blog over at Eharlequin today. If you get a chance, go check it out.

Here's the link

http://community.eharlequin.com/most-recent-blogpost/206974

Monday, September 26, 2011

2011-09-26T08:53:00.000-05:00

As mentioned, I went to see Maroon 5 and Train on Friday night. The weather was perfect and the show almost sold out. I love both bands, so I was very excited.

We got there in plenty of time for the 7:30 show. Enough time to buy an expensive ($12 each!) beer and a couple of over-priced t-shirts ($35 each!) and find our seats. The opening act was Matt Nathanson. He was pretty good, nothing spectacular, though the three teenage girls behind us were surely among his biggest fans.

Train came on next. They put on a hell of a show. I realized I am truly in love with Pat Monahan. Yumm.

It was interesting to me because he changed clothes several times during their set. He also came down into the audience for Marry Me, one of my all time sappy song favorites.

He sang some of the old hits too, like Meet Virginia. Train put on a very good show and made me glad I got a Train T-shirt.

After Train finished, they did the requisite encore and played two more songs. Then we waited for the set to be changed out for Maroon 5.

Maroon 5 also did not disappoint. Their show was very high energy, with Adam Levine jumping around and the band going right from one song to another.

It should be noted that Adam did not change clothes at all during their set. He also seemed a bit weary. He mentioned that this show was their next to last show on the tour (the last was done near Houston on Saturday night) and then they'd get to go home. He said it had been a looooonnnng tour. Still, he did not skimp on the performance. Maroon 5 was great, but the one thing I noticed was they did not make an emotional connection with the audience like Train did. They even speeded up their slower songs and it was all bam, bam, bam. Thank you ma'am.

For me, this settled my burning question of who was hotter - Pat or Adam. I'd definitely say Pat, though a lot of my friends disagree with me. Adam seemed smaller than I expected, though he had some nice ink on his arms. Still, Maroon 5 didn't disappoint.

The entire concert was fun and I enjoyed the show.

Friday, September 23, 2011

2011-09-23T08:29:00.000-05:00

It's the first day of autumn and I woke up to 55 wonderful degrees! Yay! My little puppy was shivering as she went outside to do her business, but I was thrilled.

I'm also thrilled to announce I'm featured today on Vanessa Kelly's blog. Check it out at
http://vanessakellyauthor.wordpress.com/2011/09/23/guest-feature-karen-whiddon-giveaway/

Thursday, September 22, 2011

2011-09-22T10:18:00.001-05:00

Well we (the hubby, the dogs, the new puppy, and I) are settling into this new routine. I'm big on routines and schedules. Without them, I tend to fall into a disorganized mess and get nothing done. As I've mentioned before, I still get up early and have to be at my desk by a certain time. I read my blog roll, check my email, and have to start working on my book at a certain time. Which is, er, now.

The hubster is just as bad about schedules as I am. Which is probably a good thing, as we don't have to fight about that. He has to eat lunch at noon, and watch the noon news, and then TMZ. Libby (the new puppy) has to eat three times a day, so she eats her mid-day meal at noon also. I'm learning when she has to go out, when to get her exercise (she runs crazy, full out, all around the back yard or the kitchen). And - drum roll please - last night she slept through the entire night without having to go out!!! I woke up at 1:00 am and checked on her and she was still asleep. Same thing at 2 am and at 4 am. Finally, I just gave up worrying about it and went to sleep. When we got up at 6, she sure had to go potty!

I had to go to the doctor yesterday (finally) about my ankle. It's been bothering me since June (yes, June. I procrastinate, thinking it will eventually go away). It had gotten to be excruiatingly painful to even go up and down the stairs, never mind do weighted squats or jog on the treadmill. Well, those things are now out for awhile. The doctor took x-rays, no bone damage or breaks, but my deltoid ligament is strained and maybe torn. I have to wear an ankle brace and take prednisone for 10 days. If the pain isn't better by then, I have to go see a podiatrist and get an MRI. Dr. Webb just said I have to let it heal. He still wants me to work out - he went on and on how great weight lifting is for you, which I know - but nothing that involves putting stress on my ankle. He said to do low, low, impact cardio if I must, but he would prefer me to just lift. I think I can walk still though, because I like to burn calories.

Anyway, today is the last official day of summer; tomorrow the first day of autumn. The weather people say today is supposed to be gorgeous - high around low 80's. I'm ready. Definitely ready. And, this weekend, I'm going to see this guy - Pat Monahan of Train. Yes, I have tickets to see Train and Maroon Five! Can't wait!

Well, since it's now 10:15 and I've only written a few words, I need to get back to it.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

2011-09-20T09:01:00.000-05:00

It's Tuesday and the morning air (at 1:00 am, 4:00 am, and 6:00 am) has a delightful nip to it. This gives me hope that autumn will soon make an appearance. Besides that though, I am exhausted. A new baby puppy is a LOT of work. Because it's been five years since my last dog was a pup, I'd sort of forgotten this part of it. Or rather, I'd remembered but in a fuzzy, hazy, yeah it was bad, sort of way.

She is cute and I love her. She's a bundle of energy, teeth and barks and does everything full out, including when she crashes. My other boxer loves her (at least when she's not nipping at him) and my Mini Schnauzer despises her with that elder dog passion.

Between her and working out at the gym every day, I'm sore and tired. Plus writing and cooking. But I have to say, I'm a much happier person with this sort of life than I was when I had to go to the day job every day and squeeze in my regular life around that. Sure, I don't have as much money (as much - heh! Try no money!), but I think happiness is more important. I've discovered to my surprise that I don't miss the shopping as much as I thought I would - I may feel differently in October which was my traditional buy an new pair of expensive boots month - but so far it's not too bad.

I've also gotten addicted to coffee. As in, I get a headache if I don't get in my two or three cups.

Ah well, these are my musings for the day. Got to get to work now.

Friday, September 16, 2011

2011-09-16T09:41:00.001-05:00

Yay, it's Friday! When I worked the day job, I always loved this day. It meant lunch out and dinner out and the end of a long week of helping customers and selling insurance and keeping the office running.
Now... not so much.

While it's still the end of the week, and I figured my deadlines so I don't have to write on weekends unless I'm running behind (always possible), we aren't eating out so much anymore.

I was thinking what else has changed since I became a stay at home writer.

I sleep an hour later. I used to get up at five, be at the computer by seven, and at the day job by ten. Now, I get up at six and am at my computer by eight. In between, I wrangle puppies and husband and shower and eat breakfast.

I don't flatiron or even blow dry (most days) my hair. Nor do I put on makeup until mid-day, when I know I'm going to go somewhere like the store or the gym.

I love my around-the-house clothes. For me, these consist of concert T-shirts (Keith Urban, anyone) and terry cloth shorts or running shorts, and flip-flops. When it gets cooler (please hurry, God), I'll switch to yoga pants and slip on sneakers.

I really, really, really enjoy having the time to get into my writing and not be watching the clock and worrying about finishing up so I can go to the day job. Now, I can write my scene and remember what I put in the previous one. I'm loving this!

My dogs enjoy having me around. And, this new puppy is the first puppy I've ever been able to stay home with. She has a playpen cage thing in my office with lots of toys, I can take her out every couple of hours, and she gets pretty constant human interaction. It's fun, if exhausting.

My husband is learning to be less intrusive when I'm writing. He's gotten way better and doesn't interrupt me as much as he was in the beginning, when I was considering purchasing noise-blocking headphones or going to the local Starbucks to write.

I love my new office (that used to be my daughter's room when she was younger and lived at home). With the front facing window, I can see the outside world, but it's not too much of a distraction. It also faces east, so I don't get the blinding afternoon sun.

So, all in all, I'm loving life. My next Harlequin Romantic Suspense is due November 1st and is going well. It's cooler here and I'm eagerly awaiting fall. Life is good.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

2011-09-14T09:14:00.001-05:00

The new puppy!

As promised, today's blog is all about my new puppy. Since she turned 8 weeks old on 9-11, we decided to name her Liberty Belle and call her Libby for short. She's a purebred Boxer from Denton's Kennel in Pryor, Oklahoma. The above picture was taken on their farm when we went to pick her up.

She's a very good-natured puppy and gives kisses with abandon. She plays hard, in the way of all puppies, and then crashes. Today is her third day with us (not counting Sunday which was spent in the car driving 5 hours each way).

She is so tiny compared to my full-grown Boxer - 7 pounds to his 70. She's a brindle and he's a fawn, which will be a nice contrast when she gets older.

She's already tried to play with him. He seems willing, until her sharp little teeth nip him.

Due to lack of sleep on my part (taking care of a baby puppy is EXHAUSTING), this post will be short. One more picture, and you also can check out my photos on Facebook.

Monday, September 12, 2011

2011-09-12T09:27:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, because I was on the road for close to eleven hours picking up my new puppy, I didn't do my traditional 9-11 post, which usually is a picture of our flag with the words "Never Forget" under it.
Now, I'm glad I didn't. Because really, who could ever forget the day our world changed?

I was listening to a radio show this morning (Kidd Kraddock) and he said he'll never forget the moment the second plane hit. Like most of us, when the first plane hit you had to believe it was some kind of freak accident or something. But the instant you saw the second plane hit, you realized we were under attack. Our country was under attack.

I'll never forget the confusion and panic and terror and sorrow of that day. Neither I suspect, will anyone else.

On the drive North yesterday, we passed a police barricade in Grapevine. There were decorated military and police there, as they dedicated a new memorial to 9-11. I only caught a glimpse as we drove past, but it looked beautiful.

So today, the day after, ten years later, instead of saying "Never Forget", I'll ask you instead to always remember. And be grateful for the joyous life you have, with people you love.

Soon, once I recover from eleven hours on the road and interrupted sleep, I'll post pictures of my new and as yet unnamed puppy.

Bless you.

Friday, September 9, 2011

2011-09-09T08:39:00.000-05:00

I posted over at EHarlequin today! http://community.eharlequin.com/content/winging-it

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

2011-09-06T14:45:00.002-05:00

Wow, taking three days off from writing doesn't make it easy to get back into. I've been working all day and have yet to make my word count for the day. Plus, today is the 29th anniversary of my husband's and my first date. But I will continue to slog away at the word count so I can walk the dogs and then be rewarded with some sort of celebratory dinner.

Technically, or at least as far as I'm concerned, summer is over. We had Labor Day and for once, the weather here in Texas is cooperating. It got to 58 degrees last night and the high today is supposed to be mid-eighties. It's supposed to be like that all week. Yay, cuz I love me some fall weather!

This weekend is not only the Sunday I get to bring my new Boxer puppy home, but the tenth anniversary of September 11th. Like everyone else, I'll never forget where I was that day when the first plane crashed into the World Trade Center. We were at work and our employee Marilyn came in and told us she'd heard on the radio about some plane crashing into some big skyscraper. We turned on the break room TV and bewildered, watched as the second plane hit.

That day was full of tears, shock, and terror. All the skyscrapers in Dallas were evacuated. Our phones at work went eerily silent. I called my Dad, who was at the hardware store where he worked and had no idea. By then, the Pentagon had been attacked. He freaked out and had to go so he could call his wife. I called my mother, but got her answering machine. I called my daughter, who was attending college at Texas A&M in College Station.

And when we got home, we sat glued to the television, trying to make sense of a world that had suddenly, irrevocably, changed for the worse. We didn't understand, how could we guess at a hate so deep, that vicious, that it could do something like this. All the people lost, the pain , the bravery, our country in mourning. Even remembering now, ten years later, makes me cry.

Every September 11th since then, I've posted a simple photo of an American flag, with the words "NEVER FORGET". As if we ever could.

Saturday, September 2, 2011

2011-09-03T12:02:00.001-05:00

It's a Saturday, a day I don't usually blog, but I have some wonderful news to share. On Thursday, I accepted a new, six book contract from Harlequin Books! This is for three more Romantic Suspense and three more Nocturnes. I am thrilled beyond words as I love writing for Harlequin and this contract will keep me employed through 2013!

I called or emailed my family. My dad, who lives in Boulder, Colorado, sent me flowers.

Last night, my hubby took me out to Red Lobster for a feast. We always go to Red Lobster to celebrate a new book contract. The timing was perfect because it's Crab Fest there right now.

I started off with a giant, top-shelf, margarita.

Then we munched on those delicious cheddar bisquits while we waited for our appetizer.

Our appetizer was oysters on the halfshell. I was so excited to get them that we'd eaten them all before I remembered to take a picture. Sorry about that.

Then came our salads. Good thing I was hungry!

And finally, the entreee. I had the Seafood Bake. One pound of crab legs, baked scallips, and shrimp. You can't really see the scallops or shrimp because they're under the crab. As is the potatoes and corn on the cob.

By the time I finished this meal, I was nearly comatose from food and drink, but we still ordered dessert. Hey, it was a celebration, after all. We got apple crumble with ice cream, which we shared. I totally forgot to take any picture of that, so you'll just have to imagine it.

What a great way to celebrate a new contract!

Thursday, September 1, 2011

2011-09-01T11:01:00.001-05:00

A new puppy is coming! We've put a deposit down with a breeder on a female Boxer puppy. Since she was born July 17th, she won't be ready to come home for a few weeks, so we have time to get ready for her arrival. We'll be driving up to Oklahoma to pick her up!

The below pictures are her at 4 weeks old. We picked her out of the litter due to her coloring. (4 girls and 3 boys, I believe)

Isn't she adorable? The breeder has been calling her Cricket. It's a cute name and we like it a lot, but we're thinking of naming her Liberty, Libby for short. We won't know for sure until we actually meet her and learn her personality.

Yesterday, the breeder sent new pictures. Here she is at 6 weeks old - even cuter!

We can't wait to welcome her into our home and our family.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

2011-08-30T11:11:00.000-05:00

Though the day dawned sort of overcast, it's supposed to be another hot day here in North Texas. 103 today, 102 tomorrow, then a magical cool-front is supposed to sweep into the area and cool us down to the mid-nineties. Ok, that's not cool, but I'll take it.

When I've attended that one class of photography school, the teacher/owner was a transplant from Virginia. She commented on our beautiful skies here (note to self, when searching about something beautiful in this mostly flat, mostly tree-less area, use skies!) This got me to thinking of some sky shots I've taken over time. Most are from our lake lot and others (like the one taken on the cruise) are not. Some were actually taken with my IPhone camera, some with my Canon Elph, and others with my new Nikon D3100.

Anyway, in no particular order, here they are.

These were a particularly spectacular sunset out at the lake.

Now these below were taken with my cell phone camera (thus the lack of true clarity), but the clouds and the colors are still amazing.

Now these (taken with my digital Elph, I think) were a lovely spring sky at the lake.

And this is dusk at the lake, one of my favorite shots because of the deep blue colors.

Storm clouds gathering in the East, again at the lake.

And another shot near dusk.

And this - another sunset/dusk picture. Look at those colors!

Aren't they amazing! You could almost taste them!

Peaceful and tranquil, a crane stands in the water near sunset

More sunset skies.

Can you spot a theme here? Lake=sunset=sky? Cuz I'm asleep at sunrise, that's why!

And I'll end with these. I know I posted them before, but this is sunset somewhere out in the Gulf of Mexico, on our way back to Galveston from Cozumel. Gorgeous, truly gorgeous.

Monday, August 29, 2011

2011-08-29T09:08:00.000-05:00

Now that I've finished posting about my vacation, it's back to real life. Two weeks ago today, we lost our little Daisy Mae. She is sorely missed still.

I started a photography class last week. I bought it on Groupon and it's four weeks long, one hour per week. We're learning about aperture and shutter speed and depth of field. All stuff that I've longed to understand. We even had an assignment, which I've completed exactly half off. I go back for my second class later this week, so I've got to finish by then.

In writing news, I'm working on the next Harlequin Romantic Suspense. Since it's not actually contracted yet and I don't have an actual deadline, I'm simply trying to do a certain number of words a day.

One of my other goals since quitting the day job was to learn Adobe Photoshop, which I got for Christmas. I practiced with it all weekend and actually made a new book cover for Lone Star Magic. I bought the image (it's Jimmy Thomas) for $10 and then added text. I really like it. See what you think.

I changed it out at Barnes and Noble and Amazon, though Amazon takes longer for some reason. I'm hoping this will increase sales on this book, which has historically been my slowest earner.

Next up in the self-improvement thread, I'm going to learn to use Dragon Speaking Naturally, another program that's been sitting in a drawer. I just got my rights back to five more books, those very early Kensington Precious Gems. They're so old that I no longer have the file on diskette or computer, and my choice is to pay for a scan or try to type them in myself. Since I'm guessing they might need some editing as my writing skills have grown in the 13 years since the first one came out, I'd like to put them into the computer myself and edit them before putting them on sale. At least I can now make my own covers, for a fraction of the cost!

Friday, August 26, 2011

2011-08-26T13:22:00.000-05:00

Cozumel.

On Friday, August 12th we arrive at Cozumel, Mexico.

Cozumel is a very popular cruise ship destination. We parked next to another Carnival Ship, the Valor, and a Royal Caribbean Ship. At another dock nearby was a Norwegian Cruise Line ship.

It was hot here, in the mid-nineties, and sunny. Our excursion this day was to crew an America's Cup Yacht racing boat. We met our guide and were separated into two teams. Half of us went on the American Sailboat, the other half on the Canadian. Each person was given a job - I was bartender, which suited me perfectly. Lonnie was timekeeper.

We raced the Canadian ship doing exactly what they do in the America's Cup race. We lost :(
But still, what fun.

Our crew

On this trip, I of course put on SPF 50 and wore a cap, but completely forgot my ears. Since my hair was in a ponytail, the tips of my ears got BURNT. They were bright red.

After the excursion, we wandered around the little shopping area at the port. Having shopped a lot elsewhere, we were basically shopped out. Since Margaritaville wasn't in the port, but somewhere in town, we elected to go to a place called... arrrgh, the name escapes me. But we had our requisite margaritas.

But the margaritas were good, if expensive. Then we headed back to the ship, where this cute towel animal awaited us.

The cruise ship actually gave classes in how to make these towel creatures, but since I saw no use for such a skill, I didn't attend.

Wednesday, August 24

2011-08-24T09:13:00.002-05:00

The next morning, we woke up in The Cayman Islands. This was a tendered location - in other words, the ships had to stop out in the water and a boat ferried passengers into the port. We learned that the officials of Grand Cayman do this so they can collect taxes from the cruise ships. Here I am on the port, showing you how far out our ship (and the Royal Caribbean ship on the right) had to park.

Unfortunately, we left in a rush and I managed to forget my camera. So I had to use my cell phone camera for this port. We also forgot hats and had to buy two caps (the sun was pretty hot).

I had booked a tour excursion through a place called Portpromotions.com for this stop because American Express had offered a deal if you paid for the cruise with their card, you got a free shore excursion. This turned out to be a good thing. While the rest of our fellow passengers were climbing on buses to tour the island, we got a private tour guide in his taxi.

The first place we went was the turtle farm. The Cayman's used to be called the Tortugas because of the giant turtles here. The locals used to hunt the turtles and they were (and still are) their primary source of meat, though it is now illegal for them to hunt them. All the food turtles are raised on the turtle farm, where they butcher 1500 pounds of meat a day. The locals buy their turtle meat at the grocery store. The turtles are fed pellets made by Purina (why am I not surprised). I took several pictures of the giant turtles (they are very friendly) with my cell phone camera.

The turtles really were quite fascinating. We even visited the hatchery, where we saw a teeny baby turtle that had just made its way to the surface. Turtles bury their eggs 3 to 4 feet down and the newly hatched turtles have to make their way through all that sand to get to the surface. This helps their circulatory system.

After the turtle farm, our guide took us to the Rum Cake factory. The Tortuga Rum Cake is known throughout the world. They offered free samples, which we tasted and then of course, had to purchase a cake. We got pineapple and have been rationing out tiny slivers each night after dinner. (Both to make it last and because we're trying to lose the cruise weight).

After the rum cake place, we visited Hell. That's right, they have a place called hell. There are lava rock fields there.

And of course their are gift shops. My husband bought a t-shirt that said "I've been to Hell and back." Another popular item is a postcard. You can send you friends a postcard that is postmarked in Hell.

After this our guide offered to take us to the beach. We declined and opted instead for a mini-tour of the island. We saw the Governor's Mansion. The Cayman's are British Owned and the Governor is appointed and, according to our guide, makes $70,000 A MONTH! (I want that job!)

Then it was back to our ship. Our next stop would be Cozumel, Mexico.

And of coursein our room, another cool towel animal awaited us.

Monday, August 22, 2011

2011-08-22T08:59:00.000-05:00

Jamaica.

On Wednesday, August 10th, we docked in Jamaica. The weather was sunny and warm and the water an impossible shade of turquoise blue.

There was a small reggae band playing and Lonnie joined them for a picture (and a tip).

After some shopping (I needed a swimsuit cover up), we went down the pier to go on our excursion - a huge catamaran that would take us out in Montego Bay for snorkeling and rum punch.

They hoisted the sail and we sailed away. Ahh.

Lonnie swam in the Caribbean.

We saw parasailes.

And we went to Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, where we had margaritas and I bought a T-shirt.

Once we were back on board, we set sail again. The crew danced to the Black-Eyed Peas and Beyonce.

They offered us more rum punch or 'Wata', the local bottled water.

And we slowly made our way back to our waiting cruise ship.

Clouds had rolled in, but it didn't rain. Instead, we had some lovely respite from the sun.

Finally, back in our cabin, the room steward had this amazing towel animal waiting for us.

As we left Jamaica and headed toward the Cayman Islands, I knew that Jamaica was one place where I definitely want to return.

Thursday, August 18, 2011

2011-08-18T12:33:00.001-05:00

Now for the cruise. We drove down to Galveston and to my husband's sisters house. She very kindly let us park our car at her house and she delivered us to the pier.

Here are our first glimpses of our ship, the Carnival Conquest, docked at the Galvestion Pier.

And once on board, here is the main pool area with the 72 foot TV screen.

This main pool area had two hot tubs and was for everyone to use (in other words, kids were allowed in this pool and in these hot tubs.

This area was the adult only pool area. There were also two hot tubs here. There were plenty of shaded areas, so I was able to spend a lot of time lounging by the pool and reading. I actually read 4 complete books while on this cruise, which I really enjoyed.

Lastly, below is a picture of our cabin. We were at the very front of the ship and had a window.

The first two days of this cruise were at sea, so we got plenty of time to explore the ship. For breakfast, there were two options - a breakfast buffet, or a sit down breakfast in the aft dining room, called the Monet Dining room. We did the buffet once, but the rest of the time we did the sit down dining. It was much more enjoyable.

For lunch, there was a buffet, a pizza place, a hamburger/hot dog grill, and an Asian place similer to a Mongolian Grill. Lemonaide, Iced Tea, Water, and Coffee were free. You had to pay for soda or alcohol.

At dinner, you had the choice of the buffet (naturally) or an assigned seat, assigned dining time. We were assigned the Renoir Dining Room, 8:15 pm. This was late for us, but we managed to go four out of seven nights.

During these two sea days we went to the shows, played bingo once, and mostly just lounged around the pool and read. Oh, and ate. Did we ever eat. I gained six pounds this trip, though I've lost two of those already.

Next up, Jamaica. I'll post more about that on my next blog.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

2011-08-16T09:44:00.002-05:00

I'm sorry I've been gone so long, but we went on a cruise, which was marvelous and wonderful and magical. I promise I will share pictures and stories over the coming days and weeks, but today I want to share two very important things.

Anyone who truly knows me, knows my dogs are my fur children. Until yesterday, I had three - Daisy Mae and Mitchell Thomas, two Miniature Schnauzers aged 12 and 10 (today is Mitchell's 10th birthday!), and a Boxer named Mac Macadoo, who is 5. We came back from vacation to not only a mountain of dirty laundry, but a very sick Daisy Mae. I looked at my beautiful little girl and saw death. My daughter had been caring for the three dogs while I was gone (without cell phone service) and reported that Daisy wouldn't eat anything, not her kibble or the boiled chicken she made. My daughter had tried everything, but without success. Daisy's spark had left her and my heart broke.

As soon as the vet's office opened, I called and took her in. They put her on IV fluids and ran bloodwork. Dr. Peek called me when he got the results. Daisy's organs were failing her. Her liver, her pancreas, and her kidneys. We had no choice but to put her to sleep. The other alternative was too grim - an excruitatingly painful death over the next few days. So we gave her the last gift we could and spared her from that.

My daughter left work and met us at the vet's. We all petted Daisy and loved on her and she licked each of our noses. And now she is gone and there is an empty place in our home.

Daisy on her daddy's recliner

Daisy with her broken leg (it healed very nicely)

Daisy catching some rays

Daisy being an elf at Christmas time

Daisy posing for the camera

And Daisy about to give one of her famous nose kisses

RIP, Sweet Girl. Daisy Mae, Munchie, Mucheta, Crazy Daisy. You will be missed.

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

2011-08-03T09:04:00.001-05:00

Yesterday for the second time in as many days, we broke an all time heat record. High temp was 110. 2nd day in a row. (heat index 115). Yesterday was the 32nd consecutive day of 100 plus heat. At nine pm last night, it was still 100 outside. We're having record heat usage as well and the energy provider is hinting at rolling blackouts if this continues. I'm so glad I put solar screens on my house this year - it has REALLY helped. The AC isn't running all the time and the house is much cooler.

That said, this heat is unbearable. We are actually on track to beat the old record set in 1980, the year my daughter was born. I went through that particular awful summer with a newborn (she was born in March) and remember it well. And rain? Fuggitaboutit. Our lakes are drying up and lawns are turning brown since we are beginning to see watering restrictions as well.

I keep telling myself I just have to get through August and September. And maybe get out of town. Soon.

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

2011-08-02T10:25:00.000-05:00

Cooling thoughts. (To think we were actually LONGING for summer!)

Monday, August 1, 2011

2011-08-01T10:15:00.000-05:00

August. Wow. As we move into what is always the hottest month here in Texas, and I look at the weather Forecast, (108, 110, 110, 110, 109, 109, 108) for this coming week, I'm filled with dread. Those are actual temperatures folks, not heat indexes. We are under some kind of severe heat alert here, because with the heat indexes of 115, it's well... severe.

And there is a roofing crew on top of my two story house right now, tearing off my old roof.

Note of things to be thankful for - that I'm not a roofer. Or that I don't work in any kind of outside job.

What's really weird is this past winter, we had the coldest winter here in 15 years. Now they're saying we're having the hottest summer in 10 years. What gives? Global warming? Either way, I'm ready to move North. Far North. Like Alaska. If I could get my husband to go with me, that is. Ain't happening. Sigh.

So I'll lurk in the house except for when I go to the gym. Drink iced tea and iced coffee and eat cool, crisp salads for lunch. And long for fall. Or what passes for fall here. Which won't be until early October.

Arrrrgh.

Sunny

108 83 Sunny

Sunny

107 83

Friday, July 29, 2011

2011-07-29T10:39:00.000-05:00

Well, it's Friday and also the last weekend of July. The unrelenting heat has me down and the ozone alerts are messing with my asthma in a bad way. Two more months. Two more months of heat - here in Texas, the temps don't really start dropping off until October, unfortunately. August is much like July and often hotter, 100 plus days, blistering sun. In September, the temps actually drop into the 90's, and then usually late September/early October, we start to see 80's and even - gasp! - 70's, if we're lucky.

Have I mentioned I hate Texas summers?

I turned in my chapter, after doing a round of edits from both my friend and critique partner Anna Adams and my agent, Lucienne Diver. I'm happy with it and planning to start on the second chapter (may as well get a head start on the book, right?). On a plus note, I'm going to see the movie Cowboys and Aliens this weekend and grab some dinner at PF Chang's.

I have been making some awesome salads for lunch though. I plan to repeat that again today.

Speaking of food, due to the bad cough/my laziness/the heat/writing, I've been skipping out on the gym this week. I only went once, on Monday. Which has caused the end result of me gaining 2 pounds, which I will have to sweat off starting next week.

For now, I plan to enjoy the AC and get started writing chapter 2.

Wednesday, July 27,2011

2011-07-27T09:02:00.000-05:00

I finished up the line edits for my January Nocturne The Wolf Whisperer. It was so amazing to be able to work on them UNINTERRUPTED (for the most part) and not try to juggle them with the day job. Even though I had to add several things and do a completely new ending, the job went smoothly and I finished up in a day and a half.

Then, because I no longer have the office copier, I had to go to Office Depot and make copies. While there, I bought a small copier/scanner/printer (Canon) and my husband installed it in my office. No more having to run to Office Depot! I sent the line edits winging their way to NYC via USPS Priority Mail.

Then I started on the first chapter of my next HRS. The Powers That Be at Harlequin are working on my next contract, but my editor has indicated to my agent that it will be 6 books. Yay! I'll be gainfully employed again.

Meanwhile, our super heat streak continues. I think we're at 25 straight days of plus one hundred. So staying in the house and writing sounds wonderful. Add in the summer cold/allergies that is haunting me, and I'm *very* grateful for air conditioning.

Monday, July 25, 2011

2011-07-25T08:20:00.000-05:00

We survived the garage sale. After spending all day Wednesday and all day Thursday setting it up, the garage sale was over in 4 hours on Friday. As soon as I opened the garage at 8am, truckloads of Mexicans pulled up and pretty much bought everything. And there was a lot of junk - er, stuff. They had teams of people - I've never seen anything like it. Four or five people per vehicle and they fanned out, snatching up stuff they wanted. They were competing with each other and at one point very early on, we had fifteen to twenty people in our garage.

By noon, we were done. We ate lunch and then hauled what was left (one truck load) to Goodwill and got a tax donation slip. We made $336., which is not bad. We could have made more if we'd priced stuff higher and been willing to sit in the blistering heat for two days, but I didn't want to do that. So I said one dollar to most everything. And it's all gone and the garage is back to normal.

Thankfully, my daughter came over and helped on Thursday and honest to God we couldn't have done it without her help. So Friday night we took her to dinner - her choice - at Spring Creek Barbeque. It was very good.

Now line edits have arrived on my January book and negotiations are underway about my next contract with Harlequin. So it's back to writing work for me, and I'm glad. Especially since the forecasted high today is supposed to be 106. Yikes!

Thursday, July 21, 2011

2011-07-21T07:45:00.000-05:00

Lonnie and I spent all day Wednesday carrying stuff into the garage to get ready for the garage sale. The garage is a MESS. There is so much JUNK!

It's embarassing, really. Yet there is so much stuff I actually think we might make some money.

I advertised on Craigslist, in the local newspaper, and on tagsellit.com. We stopped by Home Depot and picked up signs.

Today, I will be organizing everything by table, emptying the boxes. The sale starts Friday and goes thru Saturday. I'm already ready for it to be OVER. Have I mentioned it's super hot here?

I wonder how long it will take to get all this stuff in some sembalnce of order?

Wednesday July 20, 2011

2011-07-20T09:42:00.000-05:00

I always watch the weather on the nightly news. Despite the weatherman being wrong as much as he (or she) is right, these days I've become competitive about the weather. As in, if I'm going to be stuck in this awful heat, might as well go for a record. Each night when the weatherperson announces yet another triple digit day, I nod. Satisfied, I can then brush my teeth and go to bed.

That doesn't mean I like this heat. Oh no, on the contrary. Especially since my darling husband wants to have a garage sale in the middle of it. (I know, right?) It's too hot to swim and because I have asthma, the ozone air thingee has me coughing a lot and doing my rescue inhaler as well as my daily Advair. I still cough though. It's a mirace I made it through watching the new (and last) Harry Potter movie yesterday without coughing, but I did. This cough does make working out interesting, to say the least.

I'll leave you with a scene from this past winter. I feel cooler just looking at it.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

2011-07-19T09:55:00.000-05:00

The heat blast - er, wave - continues. However, in happier news, today is my beloved Boxer dog Mac Macadoo's fifth birthday. I fell in love with his puppy picture on a Boxer Breeder's website.

Mac then.

Mac now

Mac then

Mac now

Mac then (when his dad thought it was cute teaching him to sit in the recliner with him)

Mac Now

Mac still thinks he should be able to fit into the same small size dog bed

Mac then

Mac now

He loves to play

Mac with his lake toy

And with his most favorite toy of all - his frisbee!

Happy 5th Birthday, Mac Macadoo!

July 16, 2011

2011-07-16T12:18:00.000-05:00

It hit 107 yesterday. Tied for a record. It's so hot that even my native-Texan, heat-loving husband hates it.

That said, since I'm pretty much stuck inside except for going to the gym, I've been working. A little. I found an old story that I'd started awhile back. It's around 50 pages. I like it a lot and I'm going back through it and revising. If it works out, I'm going to make it into three chapters and do a synopsis and send it along to my dear agent to see what she thinks. If not, at least I'll have been writing and getting reaquainted with those skills after so long a time off. (Nearly 3 months!!!)

Anyway, even though I posted an entire photo album up on my Facebook page, I promised to post a few more Biloxi pics, so here they are.

Us at the Half Shell Oyster Bar

Fried Green Tomatoes and Crab Cakes at The Half Shell Oyster Bar (can you tell I loved this place?

Outside the Hard Rock Hotel. Love their sign!

And inside next to a suit that Freddy Mercury of Queen wore to one of his shows. Queen was one of the bands I loved as a teenager.

That's it for pics today. I've got some writing to do while hiding from this awful heat. Talk to you on the other side of this weekend!

Thursday, July 14, 2011

2011-07-14T15:24:00.000-05:00

Sorry for my absence, but I've been out of town. In Biloxi, MS to be specific. It was lovely there - 95 or 96 compared to 105 here. And even with the higher humidity, the sea breeze made it feel much cooler than this hellhole that is DFW in the summer. Did you know that so far we are 2nd in the records of having the most consecutive days where the temp was over 100? The first was the summer of 1980, the year my daughter was born and it was MISERABLE. They even made t-shirts that said "I survived the summer of 1980" From Wikipedia - In Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, high temperatures exceeded 100 °F (38 °C) a total of 69 times, including a record 42 consecutive days from June 23 to August 3. Dallas/Fort Worth reached an all-time high when the temperature hit 113 °F (45 °C) for three consecutive days on June 26-28. In all, the Dallas/Fort Worth area saw 29 days in which the previous record high temperature was either broken or tied. Seymour, Texas, would hit 119 °F (48 °C), a record for Texas at the time and still the second-highest temperature ever recorded in the state. Ironically, Seymour also holds the record for the coldest temperature ever recorded in Texas (-12).

So it was nice to escape to the gulf coast. We had some lovely raw oysters that were so good we went back a second day.

I've got a ton more pictures to post, but here are some random ones.

Our hotel

And here's me on the awesome boardwalk from our hotel to the beach.

Oh, and the beach itself

And finally, the shrimp boats all docked behind the Hard Rock Hotel.

I'll post more tomorrow - I'm still recovering from the trip (hotels - especially ones with casinos and cigarette smoke - tend to make me a touch ill). But I had a great time and I'm glad to be home, if I could just get rid of the awful heat! Give me ocean heat and humidity over this furnace any time!

July 8, 2011

2011-07-08T14:03:00.000-05:00

Scenes of summer. A Mockingbird made a nest in one of my baby trees down at the lake.

My Boxer Dog Mac, going all shark-mouth on his lake toy.

Oh, and I promised to show you my new office. I haven't organized it yet or cleaned it, so I'll have to post more pictures after I do that. But for now...

Once I get it better organized, I'll repost.

July 7, 2011

2011-07-07T09:21:00.003-05:00

This morning, as I'm looking at another 100 plus degree day looming, I saw a lovely winter scene on my good friend Anna's blog (annaadams.net) She's like me about the summer heat, maybe worse. I can take it to a point - and that point is sitting in the shade under my covered patio with the two ceiling fans on high and misters on and being able to jump into the pool when I can't take it any more. And yes, when it's this hot, the pool water temp is around 90, which is sort of like bathwater. But it's still cooler than the outside, so I love it. Though I confess, these days are often so damn hot that I can't even venture outside to swim. It's air conditioning all the way, baby!

And I do plan to write more today. It may not be on a contracted book, or even a book that anyone will ever read, but I'm going to do it just for me.

Wednesday, July6, 2011

2011-07-06T09:10:00.002-05:00

Lazy? Or....?

Taking a step back from myself to ponder. I haven't written anything more than a couple of synopsis's since I turned in a book on May 1st. It's now been two months of not writing. I haven't done this since... ever, I think. Since first getting published in 1997, I've written a minimum of two books a year while working a full-time day job. Some years more than two books. People that know me personally have heard me say many times that I wanted time off. That I was burned out. That I wanted to take a break and just read and do other things.

So I have. Even though I've been incredibly busy since May 1st, what with closing the office and all, and have some major travel lined up for this month and next, I've enjoyed the break. Sort of. I must confess, I've felt the occasional twinge to write and have actually kept my Alphasmart by the recliner so I could type whatever when the mood hit me. And I did.

But now I'm feeling serious withdrawal. And guilt. Such as - why didn't I take advantage of this time without a contract to do a serious proposal for my agent to shop with another publisher? I want to make a go of this writing full time gig, don't I? Then why have I been so lazy? Or was this - gasp - something I needed? Time off. Time to refill the creative well.

Maybe I'm just trying to excuse my uncharacteristic laziness, but I honestly think I needed this break. But it's time to call an end to it. Time to put my butt in the chair, my fingers on the keyboard, and get back into writing. I've brought the Alphasmart here into my new office - which I LOVE by the way - I'll post a picture soon - and plan to upload all the files and see what kind of stuff I've randomly written. See if anything germinates from a seed into a story. And in the meantime, avoid the blistering heat outside.

Wish me luck!

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

2011-07-05T15:27:00.003-05:00

Saturday night, my daughter and I did Painting with a Twist again in Grapevine, TX. That's me in the front row, second from the right. My daughter is directly behind me, slightly left. Painting with a Twist, for those of you who don't know, is a unique concept. Attendees view the proposed pictures online and select the class that's painting the one you like. You register online and when you arrive on your scheduled day, a station is set up with the canvas, paint and brushes all ready for each attendee. The instructor takes you step by step through the process to create the painting. Each person can add their own individual flair, as you can see. The kicker is - every time the teacher rings a bell, you have to take a drink of whatever alcoholic beverage you brought with you. Most people bring a bottle of wine (and a designated driver). Last Saturday night, people brought wine and beer and coolers and I think I even spotted someone making screwdrivers with OJ and vodka! It's fun and relaxing and a nice way to spend a few hours. I thoroughly enjoyed myself (and was glad my daughter drove!)

Today we visited my mom for several hours. I brought her a computer leftover from our business (and a flatscreen monitor). We hooked it up for her and in return, she fed us spaghetti and salad for lunch. Very fun and relaxing.

Now I'm home and I've talked my husband into postponing the garage sale. Quite simply, there is way too much stuff and not enough time to get it ready for this Friday. Especially since I have a hair appt on Thursday, plus the dogs have to go to the groomers, plus he has a dentist appt on Thursday - it goes on and on. We go to Biloxi this weekend also and it would be a mad rush to wrap up the garage sale and get ready to go. The only downside is that we have to live with all the junk for a few more weeks. But we will survive. And who knows, maybe the heat wave will break by then! One can only hope, right?

July 4, 2011

2011-07-04T12:41:00.002-05:00

Happy 4th of July! Despite the heat, this has been a great long weekend. We've swam, played frisbee, watched movies, grilled, made homemade banana ice cream, cut up watermelon, drank beer, wine, and margaritas and bloody marys (not all at the same time). Today, on this holiday celebrating our Independence Day, we pledge to do more of the same. A break, if you will, from sorting through seemingly endless boxes of junk we brought home from the now defunct office. That will resume again tomorrow as we get ready to have the ginormous garage sale next weekend.

Stay safe, celebrate, and have fun!

June 30, 2011

2011-06-30T09:26:00.002-05:00

It's hotter than hell here in Texas. Forecasted high today is 103-104 with a heat index of around 110. I cannot bear it. (Yes, I'm overly dramatic. Sue me!) I lurk in the air conditioned house, or drive in my air conditioned car to the air conditioned gym or store. I haven't been swimming since Saturday because it's been crazy busy. Still.
However, today is the last day of June. The last day of our lease on the office. 2000 square feet of empty space. In a few minutes, we'll be going there to clean, clean, clean. We have a $1,200 deposit riding on this. After this, we're done with that phase of our lives. Next, we have to get ready for a HUGE garage sale. (If it was up to me, I'd have already hauled all that junk to the Goodwill and been done with it.) In the middle of all this, I expect line edits for my January book to arrive in July, we have the mini-vacation to Biloxi, MS, and of course the garage sale.
And I hope to be back under contract soon. Writing sounds really good right now. Especially if I can pretend to be someplace else, like Vancouver Island or Nova Scotia. Why Canada? Because it's COOLER than here, that's why.
TTYL!

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

2011-06-29T09:57:00.003-05:00

Whew! The merging of lines at Harlequin has nothing to do with either of the ones that I write for. One of my fellow authors heard it directly from big boss lady there.

Sigh of relief.
Tomorrow is the last day of our lease on the insurance agency office. We spent hours there yesterday, hauling off the last six or seven huge bags of trash and bringing home three truck loads of junk for a big garage sale. Once again, my house looks like I'm a hoarder. Sigh.
At least I can go into the holiday weekend without the office. But we still have the storage warehouse unit - we need to downsize that, move all that stuff to a smaller one. And there's the ginormous garage sale we must have soon - very soon.

And of course we have to cope with 100 plus degree heat. So far I haven't noticed any difference as in an abundence of time since we closed the office. I'm guessing and hoping that will come once all that is settled and out house has regained some semblance of normalcy. Then I can go back to contract and write, write, write.

And maybe catch some rays (with SPF 55 on, of course) and swim!

Monday, June 27, 2011

2011-06-27T09:39:00.003-05:00

It's Monday, starting off a week of promised triple digit heat. Almost every writer I know is traveling to NYC for the annual Romance Writers of American annual conference. I'd planned to go. Swore, after missing 2009 and 2010, that I wouldn't miss this one. I have buddies I only get to see once a year. My agent will be there, my editor, the senior editors for both of the lines I write for. My publisher, Harlequin Enterprises, has leaked info saying there will be major news and word has it that there will be consolidation of many lines. Hmmmm. Interesting to me, since I currently write for two of them.

I'm so bummed that I couldn't go. BUT - I used the money I'd saved for the conference to book a cruise for Lonnie and I. We're going to Jamaica, Grand Caymen, and Cozumel, baby! So I can use that to console myself.

Still... The day job is over and now I'm wondering if I'll still have two lines to write for. Of course my awesome agent will do her best to make sure I'm taken care of, but I really need to start working on that single title. Like now. This is the last week of cleaning out the office - we sold two more desks last night. There is only one left and the copier. We have a few boxes to haul out of there, clean the place up, and we're done. The electricity will be shut off on Friday.
Then it's over.

I told my husband that I'm going back to work. So I am. And keeping my fingers crossed that whatever is going down in NYC this week won't mess with my income. Gulp.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

2011-06-22T09:20:00.001-05:00

I'm blogging today over at Harlequin Romance Authors. Check it out here - http://tinyurl.com/3kzvg63

And yes, in case I forgot to mention this, I had a Harlequin Romantic Suspense book out this month. It'll only be on the shelves for a few more days, so please check it out soon!

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

2011-06-21T10:30:00.003-05:00

It's Tuesday, Summer Solstice (the first day of summer), and I have put the e-book edition of my previously print published Fae paranormal romance SOUL MAGIC on sale for 99 cents for a limited time.

At Amazon

http://tinyurl.com/3udfc2j

At Barnes and Noble

http://tinyurl.com/3oyn6eq

Please stop in and pick up a copy for your Kindle or Nook and help celebrate the beginning of summer!

Sunday, June 19, 2011

2011-06-19T18:50:00.002-05:00

It isn't even officially summer for two more days. This is ridiculous.

Friday, June 17, 2011

2011-06-17T12:35:00.003-05:00

More in the ongoing saga of shutting down an office that's been in the same location for 13 years...

This morning we got up and, having found a location that destroys computer hard-drives and then safely recycles computers and monitors, we hurried off to beat the heat. We went to both the storage unit and the office and loaded up 700 pounds of computers and monitors and hauled them to the facility in Euless.

At least yesterday we got a bit of a break. Sort of. We spent the day transferring items from our old desks at home to our new ones. I trashed three large trash bags of files. This took all day and I still had one more stack to do when I sat down this afternoon. We also had to meet someone at the office who wanted to buy all the chairs and some other assorted stuff. That was last night. So far we've sold the conference table and chairs, the receptionist desk and credenza and hutch, the break room kitchen table and chairs, and the double door fridge.

I have personal training today (what was I thinking, scheduling this?) with a new trainer because my old trainer quit. I really will miss him, but he got a good opportunity at another gym and I wish him the best of luck.

The heat wave still continues. I just want a break.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

2011-06-16T10:19:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, in 103 degree heat, my husband and I loaded and transported 2,590 pounds of paper (files in boxes) to the commercial shredder. They weigh it, that's how I know this. It took three trips and we started a little after 9am and didn't finish until around 3pm, though we did take a short break for lunch. We also transported another 1,100 pounds of files from the old office to the storage place. We have to keep at least three years worth of files - the new agent took the current year and the immediate prior year, so we have 2008 to 2009 still in storage as well as 2007 to 2008. I am still sore today. And tired. Did I mention tired?
On the plus side, we were able to jump in the pool afterward and cool off. We drank fresh lemonaide and swam. Then we dried off and went out to eat (and share a pitcher of beer). After that, we ran BACK to the office because someone came and bought the conference room table.

This morning someone else called and we're meeting them in an hour to see about some of the other desks and the photocopier and fax machines, etc. I really want everything gone. I just slashed the prices so it will go. Craigslist works wonders, I tell you.
Meanwhile, I'm catching up on email and thinking about taking some Advil. And drinking coffee by the bucket.
On writing news - I've put my ebook (previously published in print by Dorchester) on sale for 99 cents at both Barnes and Noble and Amazon. Check it out - http://tinyurl.com/3udfc2j

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

2011-06-15T08:55:00.002-05:00

It's Wednesday and the moving thing STILL isn't over. In a few minutes (at 9am), we're leaving for the office. Today's task - take a bunch of old files from the storage rental thing (yes, we have one of those PACKED with boxes of files - five years worth. This will involve hefting huge, heavy boxed onto a cart, wheeling said card to the truck, and packing them in. Once we've filled up the truck space, we have to drive to the bulk shredding place. This will involve numerous trips and several hundreds of dollars.

And heat. Did I mention it got to 101 yesterday? We'll be doing this in the heat. So I think I can safely skip going to the gym today. And a jump in the pool will feel fantastic after. That reminds me - I need to go pack an ice chest with bottled water.

Around here, I think one more day (tomorrow) will enable me to finish transferring everything from my old desk and office to this new one (Not including the crazy closet!) Lonnie still has to transfer his stuff from the upstairs desk to the downstairs one. Then we somehow have to get those two desk out of that room so we can put our exercise equipment back in there.

It never ends. Maybe July will be better. It's got to be.

Monday, June 13, 2011

2011-06-13T20:37:00.005-05:00

It's Monday night, a little after 8:30 pm, and I'm exhausted. We're still moving stuff, shuffling stuff, and I wonder when I became a junk collector. There's stuff everywhere, stacks of it, closets full of it, and I want to just throw it all away. Everything. But of course, I won't. Because a lot of it is books, and my stuffed dog collection. And we're going to have a ginormous garage sale once the office is closed.

I've even lost two pounds! Lots of exercise moving stuff, plus I've been cooking really healthy food. Lonnie's lost weight as well!

And tomorrow is my workout at the gym. I'm looking forward to that, especially since I've been so busy that I haven't been to the gym in a week.

Our internet has been out all day - the old wireless router got messed up and we finally broke down at 7pm and went to Best Buy and bought another one. Now we're up and running and maybe in a week or two, I will have my home office all set up. Because I'm a full time writer now. (Or will be, once I get all this stuff moved and cleaned out)

Thought honestly, right now all I want is to go to sleep!

Friday, June 10, 2011

2011-06-10T09:23:00.005-05:00

It's Friday, it's summer, and it's the end of the first week since closing the day job office. I spent yesterday moving furniture and exercising equipment, getting ready to bring home my desk and hutch and hubbie's desk and credenza. We had to clean out two entire rooms - the formal living and the exercise room. Stuff is stacked everywhere. It's messy and disorganized and cramped.

None of us like it one bit - especially the dogs.

Every morning after I burn through my email, I have a blog roll I check. Vets, nurses, Dr Grumpy, a cop, and a couple of other writers. Today, on one of my favorite author's blog, was an entry that made me feel great.

Because I enjoy time alone. Because I want to dress weird and hibernate and avoid other people. I talk to myself, can get lost in music, and love hanging out in nature. I too hate talking on the phone. But then, I'm a writer, aren't I?

Read her blog here. http://www.barbarasamuel.com/blog/ And if you've never read one of her books, try it. She writes the richest description - of food, of nature, of people. It's lush and delicious and when I read her books, it always feels like a celebration of being alive.

Speaking of celebrating life... Being a writer, since I completed my last book in the contract and turned it in on May 1st, and having written nothing except two proposals (synopsis's) since then, I must say that I'm enjoying the time off. From everything. Sure, I'm still packing and moving furniture and dealing with tying up odds and ends from the former insurance office. But I've been cooking - used the wok last night and tried a new recipe - chicken and apples and onion and garlic - that was wonderful. I've made fresh juice - carrot and apple - yumm!. I bought wheat flour and am going back to baking bread again. These are all things I never had time for between working full time, writing two to three books a year, and working out. Now I do. And I'm thrilled, happier than I've been in a long time.

I feel more alive. Which is absolutely amazing and wonderful. I'm thinking this new delight and joy I'm taking in life might - just might - show through in my writing too. Taking this hiatus has actually made ideas start bubbling in my subconscious. That hasn't happened in a long while.

Yes, I won't be making as much money. No more coach purses or designer shoes. But then, I won't need them so much, will I? Because (chortle!) I'll be wearing shorts and tank tops and hippie dresses and walking around listening to the character's voices in my head!

Thursday, June 9, 2011

2011-06-09T09:31:00.004-05:00

Another busy day here at the home front. The painter is here, finishing up the house. The lawn guy is here, mowing and weedeating. We got up at 5:30am today - no reason, but we were both awake and decided to. Force of habit, you know?

I put this picture of Daytona Beach here, because I've been thinking of where to go for a vacation. Yes, we're taking a mini-vacation and going to Beau Rivage Casino is Biloxi next month. The nice folks at MGM sent us a free trip (using those Players Club cards in Vegas really does pay off!)

And, while I am looking forward to that trip, I also have been leaning toward an all-inclusive somewhere like Jamaica. Not sure why, since I can't lay out in the sun without wearing SPF 50 at least, but is sounds relaxing. I've also been looking into other things - a cruise, a trip to the Maine Coast, a trip to New Brunswick, Canada (I love that area), Nashville, Memphis, or the California coast. I've also been looking at going back to Vancouver Island, which is where we went in 2004 and had the most wonderful time.

Planning - and pricing - is an eye-opener, let me tell you. At first, we were thinking of England and Scotland, or Ireland, or Italy. But pricing those sort of week long jaunts had me rethinking fast. We're retired now, so I have to be mindful of spending. (By retired, I mean no day job. I'm still writing, of course).

I did write some yesterday. Just piddling around with various books ideas. I'm see-sawing between starting work on the Harlequin Romantic Suspense that I proposed or starting something for a different market, something completey different. I don't know what I'll do. I actually have a folder on my computer called Various Beginnings. In that folder are odd assorted books I've tried to write and never finished over the years. It's been fun reading some of that early stuff (and painful, LOL!).

Ah well. I'm gonna get started again today. After I do the Craigslist thing.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

2011-06-08T14:25:00.004-05:00

Remember I told you that my house is being painted? Well here's a picture at twilight, where the soft yellow is only sort of glowing. I did buy new light fixtures - a nice burnished sort of antique rusty bronze. Now they are piled on the dining room table waiting for my poor, beleaguered husband to put them up.

He has finally finished the statements for May and paid the last of the General Agents. I've been super busy managing posts in Craigslist as I mentioned. We sold the breakroom table yesterday and today someone came and bought five chairs, plus two large locking file cabinets, plus the reception desk and matching hutch/credenza, which he is picking up tomorrow.

I've had a weird/busy day too. I had a doctor's appt this morning, then got to the office after (about 9:30am) and worked there packing and cleaning out until 11:30. I came home, made lunch for both of us, and then jumped on my computer to catch up on emails. More people called or emailed about the furniture, the painter had an issue with the color of the downspouts - he left just now to go try to mix the paint again because the color he'd chosen, I nixed.

It's 2:30 and now hubby has a doctor's appt (it's hell getting old!) and I should go to the gym, but I have weights here and a yoga mat and machines and it's 99 degrees outside and MISERABLE, so I'm probably gonna toddle off to the exercise room after I do Craigslist (I haven't had a chance to even touch it today). Yes, I actually feel a bit stressed. It's really weird how busy I've been since we closed the office, a mere week ago today. I know things will settle down eventually, but until we sell all the furniture, move all the other stuff home, and have a HUGE garage sale, I won't have a chance to develop a new routine and see what this new life is going to be like.

Worse, I haven't written a single thing since I turned in the two synopsis's. And I'm starting to ache from not writing. Which is also weird, because I actually have been enjoying the break. Still am, but starting to feel a nudge to get back to it. I like that.

We swam last night after supper. It's so hot here and the pool was close to 90 degrees (88). Beautiful for swimming at dusk. Then we came in and watched The Voice and went to bed.

I'm sort of ready for this office stuff to be over. I know Lonnie is. He keeps saying so.

Better go do Craigslist and then get in my exercise.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

2011-06-07T10:50:00.002-05:00

Remember the tomato plants? Well finally they're yielding tomatoes! None are ripe yet, but they're getting bigger and growing and I'm pleased!

Also, we've had a painter here all week painting the outside of my house. The color came out more yellow-tinged than I expected, but I'm gradually growing to like it. Yesterday Lonnie and I went to Lowe's and bought new outside light fixtures. I'm excited to get those up.

No word on either the Delivery and Acceptance of the book I turned in May 1st, though my agent has checked on it. And no word of course on the synopsis's or the new contract. I've been so busy with the dadburn office and life that I haven't done any writing, and I need to get back to it before I forget how! Just kidding, but still.

We've gotten a good response on the Craigslist ads for the fridge and furniture. Hoping we can clear some of that stuff out of there quickly. Saturday is the day the guy we hired to help move the stuff that's coming home is doing that. So I've got more reshuffling to do at the house.

Personal training tonight, a doctor's appt in the morning. I made a tuna casserole last night, an old favorite from when my daughter was younger. Lonnie and I both enjoyed it, which is good since we're having it again tonight.

Gotta run. Probably better go by the office and pack some more stuff. Sigh.

Monday June 6, 2011

2011-06-06T10:02:00.005-05:00

It is hot here in Texas. Seriously hot. The temp hovered near 99 all weekend. The weather skipped right over the 80's and all of a sudden we're having July and August temps in June. WTF?

I'm not a big fan of heat. Yes, I grew up in the mountains (Catskills and Rocky) and while it does get hot there, in Colorado the nights and mornings are cool (and awesome) and in upstate NY, it doesn't stay hot long. And I remember lots of rain in the summers too, like a sunshower every day.
Here, not so much. Just hot. And more heat. And hot.
Down where our lake is (Halfway between here and Houston), it's only rained 1.89 inches since January. The lake is down - way down. In our little cove, there is only 16 inches of water. Not enough to pull our boat up to our dock. Sitting outside, even under the covered patio with ceiling fans whirring, was still uncomfortable, so we left early on Sunday and came home. At least I have a pool at home!
The pool water is 87, which is warm, but still feels good when it's 99 outside.
I've got to go back to the office this week and start packing stuff up. I'm also going to put some of the furniture on Craig's List and try to sell it that way. I also need to continue throwing out trash and packing up stuff to come home. I'll probably do that all week.
Looks like a vacation from writing this week!

Friday, June 3, 2011

2011-06-03T10:59:00.004-05:00

Friday's were always my favorite day of the week when I worked the day job. Lonnie and I always ate lunch together at the office, usually some fast food like Subway or something. That alone made the day different.

So it's Friday and the first one since we sold the insurance agency. Lonnie is there right now with the guy that bought our phone system - they are taking it down and unhooking it or something.

We are going to the lake - first time EVER that we get to leave here mid-day rather than like 4pm. The house painter is working on our house and will be here all through the weekend.

And it's eleven and I haven't even packed yet. Yikes. I have checked my email, requested web site updates, talked via email to my agent several times, visited some online forums that I'm a member of (and posted), and read my regular morning blogroll. The last thing on my to-do list before I pack is this blog.

Yesterday I finished the two synopsis's (finally!) and sent them to my agent. My editor is currently reading the book I turned in on May 1st and hopefully will soon give approval for the Delivery and Acceptance check to be cut. Once she does this, my agent will present the two synopsis's so I can go back under contract. Being without a contract is like being unemployed. Ok, it is being unemployed. OMG, I'm unemployed!!!

Just kidding, I'm not really freaking out. I'm actually kind of calm today. I love the lake and am glad to be getting to go there. I guess I'd better go pack.

Thursday June 2, 2011

2011-06-02T09:15:00.000-05:00

Ok, yesterday was day two of no office and I can see where it's going to be weird. It was totally different when it was just me and the hubby went to work - we got up at five, did our normal routine and then he went to work and I stayed home and wrote. Not often, but occasionally.

When he doesn't go to work, it's weird. Like both yesterday and this morning, we "slept in" until 6. We still stuck to the normal stuff we did before, with the end result that I felt like I was running an hour behind. Then, when I came in my office to get on my computer, he came too and got on his. And kept talking to me. Both yesterday and today.

Eventually, he stopped and left to go to the office. Yesterday I worked on my synopsis most of the day and we had lunch together downstairs. I went back to work, he occasionally got on his computer and did stuff. I can see that I *must* have a separate office (much like I did at the day job). Despite me buying him a new laptop, he continues to use the desktop. When I told him this morning that he had to have his own office, he asked why, genuinely perplexed. I tried to explain that when I'm writing full time, I MUST have my own office where I can close the door if I have to. Especially when I get close to a deadline due date.

He just left again to go to the insurance office. He has to do payables for last month, plus he said he plans to stop at a used office furniture store and see if they want to buy our stuff. I am hoping to finish the second synopsis today, then I can really dig into the task at hand of moving office stuff home, trashing the millions of excess crap, selling the furniture, etc. Because until that is done. we can't be done.

On the plus side, I did book us a mini-vacation in July. My daughter will stay with the dogs. I might book another mini-vacation in August. Baby steps, you know. Baby steps.

For now, back to work!

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

2011-06-01T14:22:00.001-05:00

It's release day for my June Romantic Suspence - THE CEO'S SECRET BABY. Unfortunately, I can't get this blogging software to allow me to upload photos anymore, so that's why there haven't been any lately.

I'm still working on fixing that. Side note - I FIXED IT! And, as you can see, I went back and added the cover!

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

2011-05-31T15:11:00.000-05:00

Well, it's nearly the end of an era. The new owner of our insurance agency came by on Sunday and picked up the files. Today the phones flipped over to his agency. I did have to call one customer back on my cell phone because she was upset that she hadn't gotten to talk to me. Sigh.

With no phones or internet, I started packing stuff and throwing out stuff. Lonnie and I went out to the local barbeque place and ate. Then I came home and let the dogs out. We brought home a long table and the fax and Lonnie is bringing home his work computer so he can work out of the house until everything is settled with the new owner. Then we have to sell all the furniture and move everything out of the office space. Crayzee!

On the holiday, we had a busy weekend. My nephew graduated high school. We went to that and then a cookout and celebration at his parents (my brother and his wife's) house. After we got home, we sat out by the pool and swam. Sunday we met the new owner, helped him load the file cabinets. One of our tenants, a young massage therapist, also had a friend come and get her stuff. We cooked bratwurst and swam.

Monday we cooked ribs and yes - swam. My daughter came over. Fun day. The dogs were exhausted from all the frisbee playing and swimming.

Today was a wash - though I have personal training at 5 pm tonight. Still haven't been able to touch the synopsis's - maybe tomorrow. I really want those done and sent to my agent.

Wish me luck.