Johanna's Reality

2011-06-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

State of Blah...

Have you ever lost touch with yourself? With your writing? The past few weeks, I've been in what I call a state of disenchantment. I've got some stressors in my personal life, the day job is mentally challenging, I'm doubting my abilities as an editor, and the current manuscript I'm working on has been nothing but a struggle to complete. All this combined put me in a major state of disenchantment. Basically, the ability to care shot out the window.

Now I realize this is not the most productive thinking. Honestly, how can I expect to anywhere with my writing when I don't care anymore? And who would want to read something written by someone who doesn't care? Definitely not me. The question is, how does a person get out of this funk? This is what worked for me.

I picked up the phone and called my BFF, who has been where I am, and flooded her ears with the woes I tend to bottle up. I got it all out in the open and off my chest. She let me cry on her shoulder, told me she loved me, and then kicked me in the butt and told me to get back to work. Talking through my issues with her helped. I wasn't so alone anymore.

After I got the personal stuff out of the way, I revisited the problem manuscript. Why wasn't I in love with these characters? Why weren't they behaving the way I thought they should? First, I figured out that the model I was using for the hero was too sweet. I've used him as inspiration for several of my sweet stories, and he needed to change. So I found a model who could be a bit more edgy, more raunchy if he needed to be, and BAM! My hero clicked. So, on to the heroine. What was her deal? I knew I wanted her to be spunky, a bit of a control freak. Now, my friend has said when she reads my stuff she can hear my voice in the work. My voice was nowhere near this story. So heroine, while somewhat spunky, just didn't cut it. I searched deep within to find out how I would act in the situation she was in. Her problem, it seemed, was she was too perfect. She didn't have a flaw. She wanted to do something and it was done. If I wanted to do the same thing, I would trip over my own feet, knock a lamp off the table... you get the picture.

My point... We all go through slumps. We all have days when writing is the most painful experience in the world. Some have difficulties getting out of the slumps and give up all together. My advice is this: Step away. When your story is fighting you, step away for a few days and work on something else. Allow the story to process in the back of your mind. When you get back to it, you will have fresh eyes and will think more clearly.

I am not alone in my struggles. And neither are you.

2011-06-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

I believe we writers/authors (whatever title you want to give yourself) after we've become published have a responsibility. We need to be mentors to those writers just starting their journeys. We have already gone through the process of writing, rewriting, submitting, rejections, and finally publication. We know what to expect, we experienced the gamut of emotions, we understand...

Never will I understand the attitude of you must struggle through this journey alone. Or if I see you as a threat, never would I try to dissuade you from following your dream. I read a manuscript not long ago that I thought was really good. Yes, there needed to be tweaking, but rarely is a first draft NOT in need of tweaking. Another person read the same manuscript and their comments crushed the writer. They tore the story to shreds saying it wasn't realistic, they didn't follow the same rules the reviewer followed...just brutal. I came to the conclusion that the reviewer felt threatened. For every time they read a story that could possibly give them competition, they bash it.

I feel blessed to have been able to get my story out into the publishing world and have a contract. I don't think I am the best writer in the world. I amuse myself with some of the ideas I've come up with--then again, if I don't like my stories why should I expect anyone else to? But to tear someone down because you are afraid they will outshine you is utterly ridiculous.

If there is one thing I can do as someone who has gone through the process, I would like to be able to mentor my fellow writers. I want them to know they are not alone, they never have to worry about asking for help. For those of us who attend local RWA meetings, never be afraid to lend a helping hand, or a reading eye, to someone who is struggling in the business. If we are not encouraging each other and supporting each other, how do we ever expect to succeed?

2011-06-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Father's Day.

Father's Day is a day to celebrate the fathers in our lives. For me, Father's Day is sometimes hard. My father passed away in 2003, as many of you know. The first Father's Day (2004) was horrible. I absolutely could not see a commercial or display in the stores without completely breaking down. As the years pass it gets a little easier. Last year I was able to walk up to the cards and pick a few out--one for my father-in-law and one for my step-father.

I have noticed that the week/month leading up to Father's Day, my personality changes a bit. I don't want to say I become depressed--it's more like 30-day PMS. (Yeah, the hubby loves this. LOL) Of course, I never identify the moodiness as caused by Father's Day until the day is right on me. This year, I realized I was pretty moody Monday and Tuesday. Tuesday morning, for example, I woke up tired but in a great mood. I kissed hubby goodbye and started getting ready for work. I looked forward to a day in a quiet office--all coworkers were off doing their thing in other locations--and I was happy. Then this commercial about dads came on. It showed a little girl lounging in a hammock with her dad and the announcer said dads were our first buddies. That's when I lost it. Oh yeah, freshly applied mascara streaked the cheeks, my eyes turned blood red (literally), my nose looked like a cherry, and my upper lip swelled. I am not what anyone would call a pretty crier.

I miss my father--some days are better than others--but I know he watches over me.

Whether they be near or far, on earth or waiting for us in Heaven, you are in our hearts and we love you very much. Today, on this very special Father's Day, I wish all the fathers in our lives a happy Father's Day.

2011-06-14T08:59:00.000-07:00

Pet words and phrases...

In your writing and speech, have you ever noticed phrases or words you use all the time? I went to a retreat in Asheville, NC, this past May with The Wild Rose Press. (Hi ladies!) I discovered my pet word for the weekend was fabulous, oh and fantastic! It felt as though I was using the word(s) in every response, every sentence--sometimes multiple times in the sentence. I caught myself at one point and had to laugh. I mean, if I'm using it in speech, chances are my writing is riddled with words and phrases I use all the time.

In my recent manuscript my pet words/phrases were: amber eyes (my hero's eyes were mention two dozen times); she/he nodded/sighed/shrugged/blushed... not pretty! Yes, I've got to be much more aware when I write. But, hey, that's what editing and critique partners are for. You know, I could make my pet words/phrases into a drinking game. Every time the hero shrugs, take a drink. Say fabulous or fantastic, do a double shot. :)

What about you? What are your pet phrases and words?

2010-10-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

It's crazy how time slips away so quickly.

I have no idea where the past year has gone.

I'm happy to announce that my newest story Made to Order was released on September 8 from The Wild Rose Press. I would like to say I have ten more in the release hopper, but alas, 'tis not the case. I have several almost completed short stories and novellas to submit.

On that topic, I was looking through a few loop posting and saw that one author had 21 releases in 2010 alone. 21!! Holy cow! Here I am so thrilled that I just released story number 7 and she's trippled me in one year. I am amazed and in awe of those who can crank out so many stories in such a short time. Seriously, it took me five months to finish my last story and I have no idea if it will ever be published. Yes, I realized I've got a full time day job that is very demanding on my time, not to mention a full time night job (and, no, I'm not a Las Vegas stripper thank you very much!) that takes up the rest of my time. But if I could for one month give up the day job and not have to worry about silly things like paying the house payment or feeding my husband, I would so do it just to see how many short stories I could get written in that time.

I've got to be honest, I don't know if I'm disciplined enough to be a stay at home writer. I get distracted too easily by movies and playing on the Internet. Still, I would love the opportunity to give it a shot. :)

2009-06-26T07:18:00.001-07:00

Updates:

Well, I heard from the agent, and received a polite rejection. She didn't give negative feedback, just said she didn't connect with my writing. Not happy with the rejection, but at least she didn't tell me to not quit the day job. After I received the rejection I went back and re-read the first three chapters. See, as an editor, I know what I mean when I say I don't connect with someone's writing. I mean the story isn't all that spectacular, but we don't want to thoroughly crush someone's dreams. We aren't Simon Cowell after all.

So after re-reading I could see why she didn't connect with it. Funny how I missed it during edits. I am now in the process of rewriting the story. I only wish I could resub to the same agent so I could redeem myself. Maybe I'll attempt to do so with a different story.

It's coming up on July 4, and The Wild Rose Press is closed for a week...well the bookstore will be open and new releases will be going out, but the editors have been given a week off. I am going to take advantage of the week and see if I can't knock out a few chapters for either the revisions or my young adult romance.

Have a happy Fourth of July!!!

2009-05-13T08:16:00.000-07:00

Migraines, wine and writing...

I've been trying most diligently to finish the next round of edits on my current work in progress. Unfortunately, this week has been slow going due to a lingering migraine. My boss thinks there is a magically cure to migraine, and my thought is short of cutting of my head, or becoming a man, nothing will help. So I chug down Excedrin and keep going.

So what does wine have to do with writing? Well, I find that when I drink a glass of wine while writing, it helps relax my mind enough to let me be free with my writing. I'm not constantly getting caught up on what someone might say about what I am writing. The words flow more freely. I can only imagine how free my words would be after several glasses.

Still no news from the agent, and I'm on week six. I'm a bit panicked--not because I'm worried about being rejected, but because I'm worried they didn't receive the partial. Only two more weeks and then I can send a calm email asking for receipt confirmation...and then it's off to notsopatiently wait for their response.

2009-04-17T07:38:00.000-07:00

This morning I was going through my normal routine--getting dressed, makeup, hair, quick protein shake, scoop cat box, walk around car to climb in and...AAAHHHH!!! There staring me down was this gigantic brown UGLY!!! spider. I swear it was weilding a sword and shield and was taunting me. "You wanna fight, spider slayer, let's go!" I mean seriously!

So I scream like a scared little girl, run back around the car and grab my weapon...a broom. I tiptoe (yes, literally) back to the other side and take one step toward the spider. It of course takes off in the opposite direction so I'm chasing after it like a mad woman and it disappears. Now this spider is (no exageration!) 2 inches long and wide, so it should be easy to spot in a fairly uncluttered garage. It ran under my car so I took the opportunity to jump in the car and back out thinking I'll see it in the middle of the garage and I can get it with the broom or run it over. IT"S NOT THERE! The freaking thing totally disappeared. So now I'm worrying it's either going to tangle with my cat Susie who has no fear of attacking any kind of bug--poisonous or not--or it's hiding in my car somewhere ready to pounce on me the moment I get behind the wheel. Yes, I'm thoroughly traumatized!

So what is the point of this story? No point. Not really. I'm still wigged out over the thought how huge that thing was, and how my bug man can't get to the house soon enough to spray. **shivers**

So, on the writing front...my short story was rejected by the magazine I subbed to, and another short was rejected by Harlequin. Both rejections I was totally fine with, and the story sent to Harlequin is now in the capable hands of The Wild Rose Press, for hopeful publication. I still have the partial with the agent, which is good, and I'm praying very hard and faithfully that they want to see the full manuscript. On the agent's website it says most queries are rejected at the query letter stage and those people don't get to submit partials. So I'm past the first road block. Of course I really want them to read the full manuscript before they reject me. Really. Read the full thing before you slice my dreams off at the throat leaving my life blood to drip all over the shiny tile floor in your plush corner cubicle...only then will I allow you to hang my severed head on a spike in your Hall of Rejects.

And on that happy note! LOL I hope you all have a wonderful Friday, and a great weekend. Enjoy the sun (or snow depending on where you may be) and play hard!

2009-04-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

Ok, so my intent to post a minimum of once a month flopped terribly in March. And now on to April...

There has been a lot happening for my writing recently, and I'm so happy about it. I got the very rough first draft written for another short story, subbed a story to Harlquin, a short story to a magazine, and another full to an agent. Well, I'm still waiting for a response from Harlequin and the magazine, but the agent requested a partial of the manuscript. I was beyond thrilled to get her email. Of course we all believe out writing is the best out there...I mean come on, we're authors, and in order to survive the business you have to believe your work is great--at least in public. When you're alone talking with crit partners you can let your guard down and say it's garbage. :) However, I honestly feel really good about the story I subbed to the agent. Hopefully she'll enjoy it as well as my crit partners did, and she'll request the full. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

In the meantime, I'm working on the second draft for my short story, because I've promised it to my editor, and I am really behind. And then I'll pretty up the full.

Hopefully I'll get back on schedule to blogging, and will eventually update the layout.

Happy writing!

2009-02-18T09:33:00.000-08:00

My Newest Release!

Today Kiss Me By Moonlight was released by The Wild Rose Press. I'm so excited. Story number 6! You can find the story at http://www.thewildrosepress.com/

Blurb

Lindsey Carter thought she’d found her Prince Charming in Brandon Thompson. When he pulls a vanishing act after their first date, her prince becomes a frog. However, Fate steps in. At a weekend conference, she gets a second chance to find out if Brandon’s a shining knight or a real croaker. Will playing hard to get earn her a victory in love, or will she be left seeing green?

Excerpt

They’d shared only one date, one dinner, and one kiss. One knock-your-socks-off kiss she couldn’t forget.

Lindsey pushed the button for diet soda, bent over and retrieved the cold can. So far, so good. She turned on her heel and strode back toward her friends. Brandon, she tried not to notice, was now standing, his back facing her pathway. She had a glorious view of his jean-clad tight rear. Longing coursed through her veins, but she ignored it and sneaked a peak at the back of his head.

Still turned away. Her heart dipped in disappointment. He hadn’t even noticed her.
Steeling her determination, Lindsey pressed on. She blew on the top of the can, puffing away dust and focusing on something other than the gorgeous specimen now standing just to her right. Her hand dropped to her side, just as he took a half step back.

His fingers bumped into her pinkie, briefly curling around the digit in the gentlest of caresses. The shock of the connection seared up her arm like a bolt of lightning. Lindsey fought not to react, to keep walking at a normal pace, despite every nerve ending begging to stay, to pull closer to Brandon. Her gaze shot up to gauge his reaction, but all she saw was his profile—firm jaw, straight nose and high cheekbones.

Had he tried to grab her attention? Lindsey bit back a snort of disbelief. He probably didn’t realize she was behind him. Nope, the touch was definitely unintentional.

Finally back with Tara and Shelly, she released a pent-up breath and her shoulders sagged. “I did it. I walked past him, and didn’t jump him. I did good.”

2009-01-16T08:52:00.000-08:00

Blasts from the Past...

Over the past two weeks I've reconnected with people from my youth. One of whom I haven't spoken to in probably 15 years. One of those friends was in Las Vegas this week, and we hooked up last night. We went out to eat and hung out for a bit. It was a great reconnection. Of course my poor hubby had to sit between two girls chatting for several hours, but he was a good sport about it.

Sadly, I don't have much writing news. I've got a few goals for the new year pertaining to writing. I have one short I need to finish writing for TWRP's Sweetheart line, and I really want to finish the first draft of full length (100,000 word) novel by the end of the year. I figure first draft is a doable goal. My friend and crit partner pointed me to a magazine that publishes romance stories of 3000 - 5000 words. I have a completed story that needs tweaked, but I'm going to submit the story to them in hopes they like the story. They pay a flat fee and I'd get copies of the magazine. Anyway to get my name out there is good, so why not? I'm praying hard, and keeping my fingers crossed that they like the story.

I'll keep you all posted.

Happy New Year!!

2008-10-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

Shameless Promotions!!!

I am happy to announce that my newest short story Fearless Heart will be released for sale on October 22, 2008. I got the inspiration for this story after falling off a horse and earning my first concussion. And since I did it, why could Miranda do it too? Of course the man who picked me off the ground was a cowboy, he wasn't my cowboy, so I had to give her one of those too.

I also received my very first review on this story (stumbled across it actually). The review had an incredibly low score because the reviewer thought the story wasn't long enough to develop plot or characters, but she enjoyed the first part of the story. Well, if your biggest complaint is the story isn't long enough, I'm happy to hear that complaint.

I have to thank my crit partners Stacy, Jane, Marie and Natasha for helping me get this story ready for submittal. And I also have to thank my fabulous editor Stacy Holmes for her patience and hard work in making this story shine. I love you guys so very much, and am proud to call you my friends!

2008-09-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

Terror of terrors...

I am supposed to enter a synopsis in a contest, with a deadline of October 1. Ugh! The problem isn't that the synopsis isn't written yet. No, the problem is sheer terror.

What if they totally hate the synopsis? What if they tell me my writing is pure filth? What if I don't win the contest, does that mean I'll never get published?

Now I take a deep breath...in...out...nice and slow. Ahhh, feel bettter? Nope. :)

Seriously, I know the contest is good experience, and I need to get my name out there. Synopsises are necessary to getting published, and writing them is not my strong point. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the comments made by the judges are constructive, to help me strengthen the synopsis.

I'll keep you all posted!

2008-09-19T19:26:00.000-07:00

Ready for the weekend...

This week the day job has dragged on, and on, and on...you get the picture. The workload has been light, which I'm not complaining about, but I've had to get creative in finding stuff to keep busy. I attempted to hang pictures in my boss's office only to pull a ligament in my right hand while fighting with a ladder.

Today I thought I could treat myself to a relaxing pedicure and manicure, and my cell phone kept ringing. First it was a manager, then it was a coworker, and then the boss called. So much for a Friday afternoon of relaxation.

Tomorrow I am going to the local RWA chapter meeting for the first time in about 2 years. I'm excited. I can see just from the website how they are working on changing. I think it will be really nice to have a group to participate in here in town. And surprisingly, Las Vegas's RWA chapter isn't as big as I thought it would be. I mean, with 2million people there has to be more than a handful of writers, right?

Have a wonderful weekend. Play hard, sleep long, and enjoy the time away from the day job. I know I will.

2008-08-29T08:17:00.000-07:00

The Bell Has Sounded...

And millions of children/youth/adults are groaning. Yes, it is that time of year again. School started this week . And I am one of the many students who
walked back into the classroom this semester...Ok, so it was a cyber
classroom, but darn it I am going back to school. This semester I feel a bit like I'm cheating. My classes are Microsoft Office for Offices and Word Processing 1. Can you get any easier than that? Honestly, if I don't ace these classes, I should lose both my day job and my editing job. (But I won't tell my boss if you don't!)

This week has been a bit off for me. I missed work Monday and most of Wednesday due to nasty migraines (regular and sinus migraines), and it hasn't been pretty. My boss kicked me out of the office Wednesday, so I went home and even took work with me. I sat on my overstuffed comfy couch, turned on the television, had my work on my lap...and I woke up three hours later with the Cartoon Network on. I haven't watch CN for a very very long time, and I have no recollection of how the TV stopped on that particular channel. I think the cat stole the remote while I was sleeping.

How's the writing going for you all? I'm making some progress. I finished two synopsiseseseses (sure that's how you spell it! Don't argue with me, I'll send Her Evilness after you!) for two stories. I, of course, thought they were sheer genius, but then the other princesses did crits and reminded me that I'm delusional, and I need to rewrite/revise both synopsises (yeah, you can spell it like that too in Johannaland) before I even think of submitting them to a publisher.

Have a wonderful weekend!

2008-08-21T08:51:00.001-07:00

Busy, Busy, Busy...

I'm very happy to say I've been remissing in posting because I have been busy with writing projects...and work...and life. My hubby and I celebrated our 10th anniversary in January, and I wanted to post then, but time just got away from me. I can't believe we are almost at the end of August already. Classes start Monday for me, as I am still plugging away at duel degrees. I know I've got a ton of classes left before I actually achieve those degrees, but at least I'm working on them. :) If I had listened to my parents in 1995 and stayed in school I would already have graduated and would probably be working on my Masters now. Ah well, you live and learn, right?

So, in my writing life, I've just finished edits on two short stories for The Wild Rose Press. Fearless Heart (Yellow Rose) will release on October 22, and Kiss Me By Moonlight has yet to be given a release date, but should be released by the end of the year. In addition to those two stories, my story Seeing Double: Book 5 of the Celtic Broach Legacy will be included in an anthology, which is 12 stories by 12 different authors. This will be my first time in print, and I've got to tell you, I'm pretty stoked. As soon as I get that cover I'll post it.

In the mean time, here are my two newest covers and a little about the stories.

FEARLESS HEART

BLURB:
Miranda Hansen has been in love with Luke Dannon since the first time she visited the Lazy D Ranch. For the past fifteen years, she kept coming back, trying to find the courage to confess her feelings and prove she’s not the typical tourists he distrusts. This time, she’s not backing down. She’s going to prove to Luke she belongs on the Lazy D with him. Will her fearless heart prevail or will Luke’s pride destroy all she’s ever dreamed about?

EXCERPT:
Miranda eyed the animal, her eyes level with the top of his back. “Don’t you have one a little shorter?” It was the same scene played out every year. She had been riding horses her entire life, but each time she pretended to be a helpless female Luke puffed up and preened like a peacock, and if it gave her a few extra minutes with Luke, she was happy to play along.

He gave a baritone chuckle. “Don’t worry darlin’. Junior’s almost as gentle as I am.” He winked a vivid blue eye and patted the saddle. “Put one foot in this stirrup, and I’ll help you up.”

The thought of how he was going to help her—one hand over hers and the other planted firmly on her backside—sent shivers down her spine. But still, she did as instructed, and in a moment she was settled bareback on Junior.

Luke, with effortless grace, swung himself up on his black stallion. He sat tall and proud, yet relaxed in the saddle.

If he didn’t acknowledge his affections this afternoon, this would be the last summer she’d visit the ranch. She’d start a new job, a new life. Miranda came to the ranch, to him, straight from graduating top of her class in veterinary with a prosperous job offer—the dream job for any vet. But before she accepted the offer she needed once more chance to convince Luke they belonged together. When it came to loving him she was fearless, and to get through his thick head, she was going to have to take drastic measures—including give up her dream job to be with him.

KISS ME BY MOONLIGHT

BLURB:
Lindsey Carter thought she’d found her Prince Charming in Brandon Thompson. When he pulls a vanishing act after their first date, her prince becomes a frog. However, Fate steps in. At a weekend conference, she gets a second chance to find out if Brandon’s a shining knight or a real croaker. Will playing hard to get earn her a victory in love, or will she be left seeing green?

EXCERPT:
It’d only been one date, one dinner, and one kiss. One knock-your-socks-off kiss she couldn’t forget.

Lindsey pushed the button for diet soda, bent over and retrieved the can. So far, so good. She turned on her heel and strode purposefully back toward her friends. Brandon, she tried not to notice, was now standing, his back facing her pathway. She had a glorious view of his jean-clad tight rear.

Her heart dipped in disappointment. He hadn’t even noticed her.

Steeling her determination, Lindsey pressed on.

She blew on the top of the can, puffing away dust and trying to give her mind something to think of other than the gorgeous specimen now standing just to her right. Her hand dropped to her side, just as he took a half step back.

His fingers bumped into her pinkie, briefly curling around the digit in the gentlest of caresses. The shock of the connection coursed up her arm like a bolt of lightning. Lindsey fought not to react, to keep walking at a normal pace without breaking into a frenzied run.

Finally back with her friends, she released a pent up breath, her shoulders sagging in relief. “I did it. I walked past him, and didn’t jump him. I did good.”

2008-01-04T12:38:00.000-08:00

Another year has come and gone. I look back on 2007 and know that I accomplished a lot as far as my life goals are concerned. I continued with school, published two more short stories, and started working as an editor.

I have a handsome husband who loves me, and whom I love with my entire being, a beautiful home and a loving and supportive family (immediate and extended). All in all I am a lucky woman.

Here's hoping and praying 2008 is just as wonderful and blessed as 2007.

2007-10-08T10:14:00.000-07:00

WOOHOO!! I received my cover for my newest romance The Christmas Angel! The Christmas Angel will be available this holiday season! I'm so excited!!

2007-10-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

I hear women my age talking about the two or three degrees they've gotten, the promotions they want and corporate ladder they want to climb. They have so many goals for where they want to be career-wise in the next five years. Quite honestly, I don't have those desires. I could care less about climbing the corporate ladder or becoming management or Vice President.

My only career goal is to have one full-length novel published by Harlequin. If my boss doesn't give me a promotion or a raise, I'm no worse off. More money would be nice so I'm not killing myself working overtime, but will I lose my house over it? No.

My best friend growing up is one of those career oriented women. She got a Bachelor's degree in Accounting and because she wanted to make more money went on to get her CPA. She has two kids, but she would rather be in the office than raising those two kids. She is wants to become the general manager of the accounting office she works for, not because it will make her happy, but because it brings in the most money.

I'm sorry, but I would much rather be happy, and relatively stress free, as a secretary and writing in my (not so) spare time, than killing myself for a job I get no satisfaction in.

I think I'm broken.

2007-08-16T09:48:00.000-07:00

Today marks the 4th anniversary of my dad's, Rev. David B. Goodrich, passing. My dad died 8 days after my 27th birthday.

My dad was my hero. He's the man I judge all other men by. I know he wasn't perfect, no one is, but to me he was. My dad always encouraged me to try. If there was something I wanted to do, he would tell me to go for it, because if I didn't I'd always be left wondering what could have been. Because of him, I have followed my dream of writing. My first short story, "It's In His Kiss" was submitted on Dad's anniversary last year, and was contracted within a week. I just knew my dad was jumping up and down with joy right along with me.

Every time I feel like I can't go on, will never achieve anything, I think of my dad. And I remember the unending love and support he gave. Even if he isn't here with me now, I know he is still watching over me.

Happy Homecoming Anniversary, Dad. I love you!

2007-08-12T09:57:00.001-07:00

This morning I was cooking breakfast for myself and hubby, and as I was waiting for the sausage patties to brown, I sat down to my kitchen table to squeeze in a few moments of writing. Then hubby decided he wanted to air out the kitchen and opened the window...HOWEVER, he forgot to turn off the security alarm.

Let me just say, I have never ever seen my cat move that fast! The alarm squealed (loud enough to wake the neighbors) and Susie flew off the chair, tore around the corner and then up the stairs. I don't think she touched one step! Yes, I know, poor kitty, but watching her was the funniest thing. LOL okay, I guess you had to be there.

So what's new with me? Well, I have started blogging with four fantastic, talented writers (Stacy Dawn, Browyn Storm, Marie Peck and Jane Keegan). We call ourselves Princesses of the Pen. A little egotistical? Maybe. But when you get into the blog you'll find it appropriate.

Writing has been up and down for me of late. I finished a short story called 'Fearless Heart' that will be submitted to The Wild Rose Press Yellow Rose line. Even after four contracts, I'm still knee-knocking nervous to submit stories. I am also working on another short story, untitled so far.

Ugh, I've rambled enough. I've got to get cracking on editing. Have a great week everyone. And I hope you join us at Princesses of the Pen at http://princessesofthepen.blogspot.com .

2007-07-31T17:41:00.001-07:00

If you've been wondering why it's been a little slow on the blog lately, it's because I've been working and writing. Here's the proof LOL.

July has been a great month for me with TWO releases!

Dreaming of You

Ali has finally met a man who can send shivers down her spine and curl her toes, all with a single smile. Too bad he’s only in her dreams…or is he?

Seeing Double - The Legacy Of The Celtic

Brooch (5)

Jamie Holland escaped the cold of Florida for some much needed rest and relaxation. With the help of a beautiful brooch, she meets sexy Dan English. Will their encounter lead to the perfect romance…or just a summer fling?

Both NOW AVAILABLE from The Wild Rose Press and Fictionwise

2007-02-18T08:51:00.000-08:00

Check out the Diva Bookshelf!

First I have to say...WOOHOO!!!! I DID IT! lol I actually figured out how to get the Diva Bookshelf thing to paste in my links. Whew!

Now availabe on the Diva Bookshelf is my very first short story "It's In His Kiss".

Blurb
Is it possible to fall in love with someone without ever having seen their face? Emma Long didn’t think so, until she met Tyler Maxwell in an online cooking chat room.

Tyler knows in his heart Emma is the woman for him – he’s already in love with her and he could care less what she looks like – but she isn’t so convinced. Tyler proposes a meeting in Las Vegas, without exchanging pictures before hand. Emma is worried they won’t meet but Tyler believes their souls will lead them to each other. “And how do we know it’s real?” Emma asks. Tyler responds, “It’s in the kiss.”

Excerpt
“I’m really tired of this, Emma.”

Was he breaking up with her already? “Of what, our conversation?”

He breathed deep into the mouthpiece and she could have sworn she felt his breath ruffle her hair.

“Of not knowing you. I want to see the smile I hear on the phone every night. You’ve become my best friend but I don’t even know what you look like.”

For the first few weeks in the cooking chat room, he had only been a screen name. As they started emailing more, and finally talking on the phone, he’d become so much more. Yet they both balked at exchanging pictures.

She chewed on her lower lip. She, too, wanted to see Tyler, finally give him the hugs she had been sending via email; have dinner with him and talk face to face. “We could exchange pictures.”

“Still not enough.”

Of course it wasn’t enough, but with two thousand miles separating them what did he expect? “What do you suggest?”

There was a slight pause before he said, “I’m coming to Las Vegas next week.”

Emma’s heart skipped a beat and she gripped the phone tighter. He would be right here in her hometown.

“Emma?”

“Um, yeah.” She plucked at the fringe on a decorative pillow.

“So?"

Happy reading!

2007-02-18T08:29:00.000-08:00

My cat stole my cereal!!

No seriously! I was sitting at my writing desk enjoying a nice bowl of strawberry frosted mini wheats, and my cat begged me to pick her up. Normally all she does is get on the lap and then jump off - she isn't much of a people cat. Well this morning, Miss Susie Q (Susie for short) got on my lap and promptly jumped on my desk and stuck her furry face in my bowl, proceeding to drink the milk from the bowl.

Okay, eeww!

My cat is the finickiest cat I've ever seen. She refuses to eat people food (for the most part) and will only eat Kit n Kaboodle hard food, and for moist food she won't eat anything other than Meow Mix shrimp and white fish. About a year ago she would only eat starkist tuna in water. I kidd you not!!

She has graduated onto granola, and she loves to lick the salt of my crackers. Takes away the appetite very quickly.

2006-12-18T09:11:00.000-08:00

Wow! I can't believe over a month has gone by since I've posted. In the past month, my short story was in the top ten list for best sellers, I was chosen to participate in a twelve book series with eleven awesome WRP authors, and we had an addition to our family. Yep, my sister-in-law gave birth to a beautiful little boy, David Broderick on December 6. This morning I saw the picture of my new nephew, and like his sisters he is a beautiful baby. :)

We had our company Christmas party Saturday night, after which I was incredibly ill all night and all day yesterday. I am home from work today recuperating from twenty four hours of worshiping the porcelain throne. My mother-in-law made me home made chicken noodle soup to help me get well. Thanks mom!

For 2007 I have set a lofty writing goal. And that goal is to write ten stories, and at least one of those must be a full-length novel. I am truly hoping I'll have more than one full-length though, as one of them is halfway complete. The Christmas story I wrote will be extended and may reach full-length status by the time I'm finished with it, and I have a reality show type story I am working on.

Have a wonderful Christmas and New Years, and hopefully I'll post again before the end of the year.

2006-11-12T09:06:00.000-08:00

I am finally truly official! My first short story was released for publication on Friday, November 10, 2006. The first time I saw my cover posted on the website www.thewildrosepress.com I got teary. I've dreamed of getting published my entire life, and it's such an awesome feeling to have that dream become a reality. Hopefully I will have many more successes with this publisher.

2006-10-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

New picture

I finally have a picture for my author page at Wild Rose Press. It was taken over two years ago but it was just given to me a few weeks ago.
What do you think?

2006-10-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go?

It seems like just yesterday I was doing my first blog and announcing I'd be making a post every week. Well I realized my last post was in September. Hmm...I'm just a tad bit behind.

I've been making much writing progress - I have two shorts and two full-length novels in the works right now, with each hero/heroine vying for my attention. They get pretty pushy, especially when they start invading my dreams. I can't complain though, because without those dreams I wouldn't have some of the stories I wrote.

I was able to finish and submit my Christmas story (The Christmas Angel) to The Wild Rose Press, and the wonderful editor of the Faery Rose line requested the manuscript. Now I'm patiently...okay, impatiently awaiting a response on whether or not they are going to contract it. Patience is not a strong point for me and I'm afraid it never will be. However, with the help of a wonderful crit partner constantly whapping me in the head with a very large, very sparkly blue fish, I am resisting the urge to email my editor every five seconds for an update.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

2006-09-22T13:05:00.001-07:00

I have two deadlines I'm trying to meet with my writing right now. The first is November 1 when my Christmas story submission is due, if I want to be published with the other Christmas stories this year. And the other is December 31 for the Great American Romance contest. Neither deadline is impossible to meet BUT...I've been having difficulties this week with productivity. I did get my chapters outlined for the Christmas story and I wrote a few paragraphs for the GAR submission. But I've been so enthralled with season premieres and Dancing with the Stars that I haven't done much writing. When I'm home I can actually record my shows and watch them when I'm not supposed to be writing. Unfortunately I was working in Reno this week and don't think I set the DVR to record the shows.

I need to lock myself in my home office, turn on my writing music and just write. If I actually concentrate (and with no interruptions) I can write a chapter in just a few hours. But if there is visual stimulation anywhere (TV, beautiful scenery, anything visual) I keep losing focus. GRR.

Anyhoo...I'm off to catch a plane home and will hopefully get something on paper/screen on the flight. Hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

2006-09-22T13:05:00.000-07:00

2006-09-19T07:25:00.000-07:00

I am happy to say I received a copy of the cover for my story yesterday afternoon. I didn't know they would be doing it so soon, and it was a wonderful way to start end the day. And LOOK! I was actually able to figure out how to get the cover inmy blog. Go me, go me...ahem, excuse the sudden loss of composer.

You know what I'm figuring out about blogging? I can ramble away and express the bizarre goings on in my mind and in blog world it's considered normal. Watch out world, the weirdness of me is being unleashed. :)

2006-09-17T19:10:00.000-07:00

Okay it's Sunday September 17 and I have just returned from Tampa, Florida. Why would a Vegas girl be in Tampa, you ask? For my mother's wedding. GASP! I know, weird huh? Actually it was a beautiful wedding and the bride and groom are very happy. There was a bit of stress flying, but isn't that the case in every wedding? I was a bit worried that I would be an emotional mess, but I kept my composer and didn't shed a tear until after the ceremony and the hubby came up to hug me. Drat the hubby for always being the one to trigger the tears. :)

Speaking of Mom's wedding...I actually got a story idea from the whole wedding thing. What do you guys think? The hero (Jeff for now) finds out that his mother has met a man through an online dating service. He has never met this man, and he is dead set against liking him. He flies home to Austin, TX, to meet his future step-father and, in addition to the step-father, he meets his soon to be step-sister. Well, neither child is happy about the upcoming nuptuals and in their fight to keep the marriage from happening they fall in love.

Yes, there are definite bugs to work out but for now I have just a basic idea.

Wow! I actually did my second post. And this time wasn't as nerve wracking as the first. Look forward to chatting with you soon.

2006-09-12T17:21:00.000-07:00

Wow. My first blog. I'm slowly coming out of my techno shell. I figured I should at least start blogging since I have yet to build a website, and I thought maybe it would be an easier way to keep everyone updated on the goings on in my typically boring life. :)

A bit of excitement for me...I received my very first contract for publication of my story It's In His Kiss. I received the offer on September 8, just one month after my thirty birthday. Happy Birthday to me! My story is going to start the editing phase in the next few weeks and I'm looking forward to that adventure, and sharing the process with you all.

I'll try to post at least on a weekly basis in between working, working, writing, oh and did I mention working? LOL