Reading, Writing, & Stuff That Makes Me Crazy

Friday Funny

2012-01-27T05:13:00.004-05:00

That's all for your well-wishes for the fridge. I cleaned it and tinkered with the thermostat a bit and it seems to have helped... for now. It's old, so I know it's only a matter of time

For now, though, I leave you with some funnies:

Sounds like a typical, brilliant decision by your local politician.

Civil War planes? Let me know how that works out.

Must have been a GREAT paint job.

"We had no idea anyone was buried there."

I didn't know we could choose.

Thanks for the depth of insight.

What are the odds of that?

I would have guessed after age 19.

Hope this started your weekend off with a laugh! Have a great one.
=======================

This and That Thurday

2012-01-26T05:23:00.005-05:00

Got "The Happiness Project" at the library yesterday. I need it.

My fridge has been running non-stop since last night. You know how, when you open the freezer and the cooler is running, it will stop when you open? Mine doesn't. For HOURS it has just run, and run, and run. Fridge and Freezer part. I finally pulled it out and unplugged it because the noise was making me crazy.

Do refrigerators reboot? I really, really don't want to buy a new fridge right now. This couldn't have come at a worse time.

Dru Ann asked yesterday if I had a publisher for "Now and Forever" -- Dru, I'm going to self-publish it (I said that in one of my previous posts somewhere). I decided I didn't want to place the sequel to something with a different publisher.

Maria Zannini wisely gave me suggestions regarding the cover art, which I'm taking. There's a particular cover design that I love. "One Love for Liv" *sort of* has it (though I really don't like that cover). So, I think I'll go with that. It's distinctive and pretty. Now, I just need to decide what I want to PUT on the cover.

Dakota and Mom's kitty, Camille, got to meet yesterday. They did really well, all things considered. Dakota was very calm and submissive ... right up until the cat swatted at her. At that point, she decided the cat was playing and started to do play bows and head flips.

Camille was not amused. But she didn't run and hide. She held her ground. She's not in the least bit afraid of the dog. She knows who the house belongs to, and it's not Dakota.

Dakota's tail is a blur in the photo because she's wagging it like crazy.

It's a good thing they seem to tolerate each other, because it means I can still bring the dog for visits now and then.

There's a chance of ice on Friday and a chance of power outages. So, if I'm not here, that's why.

That's it for me. I should probably go plug the fridge back in now. *sigh*

=======================

You Are a Rat Catcher

Not the most glamorous job in the world, but the Middle Ages weren't exactly glamourous!

You have the skills, intelligence, and craftiness to be a successful rat catcher.

You are willing to take risks and go to some pretty sketchy places in the name of your career.

In modern times, you would make a good detective, pilot, or firefighter.

What's Your Medieval Profession?

Awwww... poor rats. I think they're wrong in the overview, too.

===============

How Can It Be Wednesday?

2012-01-25T05:29:00.004-05:00

Hey all! ::waves madly::

It's been a crazy few days, and I apologize for my absence. I took the day off working (mostly) on Sunday to watch football and I paid for it on Monday. Not only was I up until REALLY late (Overtime! And, I'm still sad about those Niners... *sigh*) and insanely tired Monday, but our woodstove had gone out and I had to start it from scratch Monday morning (and Tuesday). This stove burns like a champ when it's going, but getting it started is a major undertaking. I only just managed to get it done before I had to wake the kidlet up for school.

Then, I had to pay penance for taking Sunday off -- my inboxes were crazy full of work. We truly do live in a 24/7 society. Judy and I will occasionally get emails from folks like, "I sent you an email three hours ago -- why haven't you responded?". I'm sorry, but occasionally I do things like sleep. Crazy.

Yesterday, the stove was out again, and was even harder to start because it was warm (for us -- about 35 degrees!) outside -- it's harder to generate a draft when it's warm out. I barely got it done before I had to leave to take the kidlet to school.

Today, the stove was still burning (YAY!) and I decided to take the time to say hello.

Hello. :-D

Haven't done much, writing-wise, though I have been brainstorming a cover for "Now and Forever" with Judy, who will design it for me. I can't decide if I want it to look a little like "Kitchen Matches" since it IS the sequel (despite not being with the same publisher) or if I want to take an entirely different direction...

Otherwise, it's pretty much work, work, work. We had hoped that switching over the LASR website would give us a little more time, but that hasn't happened yet. Someday I might get at least some of my life back...

After some discussion with my mom, after losing her dog, we went to the shelter on Friday and selected an older kitty for her. Having a dog is a LOT of work, much like having a toddler around FOREVER, and she wasn't up for that again. But once you've had pets around, it's difficult to NOT have them. I think we have a pet shaped spot in our hearts that needs to be filled.

She wanted an older, female cat that wouldn't need excessive amounts of grooming and that was sweet, and loved to sit in your lap. She certainly got that! Her new kitty, now named Camille, won't leave her alone!

She choose Camille because she was older (ten years old) and black (shelters have a terrible time finding homes for black cats -- black dogs, too, but that's another story). Meet Camille:

She's the sweetest thing, loving, calm, funny. She's quite well-behaved and Mom really enjoys having her around.

And now I need to get back to work. I tried to visit some of you yesterday and will attempt to catch up today. I really, really need a 48 hour day.

===================

You Are A Nightgown

You are a bit old fashioned and elegant. You aren't very casual.

You are well mannered and modest. You don't make a fool of yourself.

You tend to be a bit reserved, and it's hard for strangers to get to know you.

You are likely to not let anyone outside your bedroom see you in your pajamas.

What Kind of Pajamas Are You?

Yep, that's me, only I hate nightgowns...

================

I'm Alive...

2012-01-20T05:26:00.002-05:00

But have nothing to say today. Sorry. I was just going to skip posting, but then I get emails: "Are you okay?" so I figured I'd put something. :-)

I leave you with this video that impacted me yesterday (the song lyrics, actually). Give it a listen.

For Bonny

2012-01-19T04:59:00.006-05:00

(Private note: Mom, this is going to make you cry ... so stop now if you don't want to.)

Yesterday, my mom had to make the difficult decision to put her 13 y.o. Yorkshire Terrier to sleep. She's been terribly sick and in heart failure over the last few months, but this last week she declined quickly and it was clear it was time.

That never makes it easier.

Mom brought Wee Bonny Blue ("Bonny") home when she was just eight weeks old, though she knew the breeders and was able to go visit her puppy soon after she was born. Even at eight weeks, Bonny pushed my 85 pound Bailey around. She was silly, bossy, sassy, smart and a loving companion.

Except for the four years my mom was away, I spent nearly as much time with Bonny. And I miss her. But she's over the rainbow bridge now, young and healthy and playing with her best friend, Bailey.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Coyote

2012-01-18T05:53:00.005-05:00

Because I don't have enough to worry about, there have been reports of coyote attacks on dogs lately.

One sheltie was taken out of the front yard.

Granite State Dog Recovery reports another dog taken by coyote in Methuen, MA -- not THAT far from here (an hour's drive or so).

The news this morning reports that a nine-year-old girl was attacked by a coyote in her yard.

A few months ago, we had a coyote in our yard, in front and off the side on the edge of the woods. He was about five feet from the road and maybe 50 - 75 feet or so away from me (I was inside looking out the storm door).

He saw me and stopped moving. Just stared. I hadn't realized just how big they are -- he was easily as big as Dakota, if not bigger -- and completely unintimidated.

We hear the howling out back now and then. Not often; we hear foxes more. But as if it's not enough to worry about with the bear and the fisher cat ...

Apparently this is mating season for the coyote, which means they'll be a little more aggressive (especially the males) than usual. We also have snow on the ground, which means food (in the form of chipmunks, squirrels, rabbits, etc) is more scarce. The chippies and squirrels tend to hunker down and not come out once there's snow.

I can't imagine how it would feel to see your dog carried off by a coyote. Those poor people must be devastated.

I swear I feel like I'm in Little House in the Big Woods now and then.

====================

You Are a Hard Worker

You are thoughtful and responsible. It's rare that you find yourself in a bind.

You are naturally low energy. You have to nurture yourself in order to cultivate endurance.

When you get tired, you feel calm. You need to wear yourself out in order to be able to relax.

You are happiest when you reflect on what you have to be thankful for in your life. Happiness is a choice.

The Mountain Test

Mostly right.

Snow, Snow Go Away

2012-01-17T05:19:00.003-05:00

It's snowing again. Not tons, just enough to make it yucky outside. DD is stressed and terrified I'm going to die in a car accident. They haven't delayed school yet, so it looks like we'll be going in. I was really hoping to avoid driving in bad weather since we've been having such a mild winter.

Why couldn't it have snowed over the weekend instead? My poor kidlet got the worrying gene from me, and will spend all day wondering if I died. Last time the weather was bad and I picked her up, she jumped into the car, hugged me and said, "I'm SO glad you didn't die!"

At least it's warmer. Saturday, Sunday and Monday were brutal with overnight temps in the negative numbers.

Funny how our perspective changes. "Yay! It's 20 degrees outside! It's TOASTY."

Have spent some time considering what to do with the "Kitchen Matches" sequel -- and I think I'm going to self-publish it. I just don't feel comfortable having a sequel go to another publishing company. There's a pretty serious learning curve for self-pubbing, but hopefully I'm up to the task.

Anyway -- time to check the website to see if school is delayed...

Have a great day all!

===================

You Are a Yellow M&M

You are a mystery to those around you. You're happy-go-lucky but also quietly enigmatic.

You live in a very individualistic way. You're doing what you love, and that varies from day to day.

You are very self-aware and introspective. You know who you are, and you're good with that.

You have an ironic view of life. You can be both serious and funny at the same time.

What Color M&M Are You?

Yep .... that's about right.

=================

The Dog Dish (and a giveaway) with Leslie Soule and Indy

2012-01-16T01:00:00.000-05:00

Today we're excited -- we have an entirely NEW type of pet here at the dog dish. It's Indy, gopher snake of Leslie D. Soule. She's on tour with Goddess Fish Promotions promoting her fantasy novel, Fallenwood and I invited her here today, because I love snakes! Dakota is intrigued by them, too (she frequently flushes garter snakes in the gardens), so welcomed Indy to the dog dish.

Before we start the interview, though, I should tell you that Leslie will be giving away a $25 Barnes and Noble GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour as well as to the host with the most comments (excluding Leslie's and their own). So leave a comment, and tell your friends to swing by, check out Indy (and the book) and then follow the rest of Leslie's tour (sadly, I believe this is Indy's only stop) by clicking on her tour banner, below. The more times you visit and comment, the more chances to win the GC!

Now ... we give the floor over to Dakota and Indy!

So, your human writes books. Does this mean she is home all day and easy to access? Elaborate if necessary.

Absolutely not – actually, it seems like she’s never around. She does keep me well-fed though, so I suppose I can’t complain.

What are your techniques for distracting your human during crucial writing moments, just because it's fun?

I generally stare at her from inside my tank because I know she’ll look over and think it’s cute and forget what she was going to write. That’s my main technique.

What indignities and neglect have you suffered because of your human's writing career?

Well, I’ve suffered a lot of neglect, really, but being a snake, I wish my human would leave me alone more often, really. All I want is peace and quiet and to go in my cave and curl up and make the world disappear – but my human insists on holding me and showing me her outlandishly decorated room. She teases me. There are so many places to hide, but she won’t let me explore any of them. She takes me out of my cage and just when I begin to get interested in the outside world, back into my tank I go!

Tell me about the animals in your human's fiction. How often do they appear and how big a part do they play?

They seem to play a big part. My human loves animals, like me – I just wish she loved them less, really. Bugging me at all hours of the night, just so she can feel like she’s helping me out or something by acting like a giant heat rock. It’s an addiction, really, with that one. Oh, I’m sorry, what was the question?

On the off-chance your human has yet to incorporate animals into a story, what are your plans for making sure she rectifies this egregious error and demonstration of poor writing skills?

Should she not include animals – which I don’t see happening because of her unhealthy addiction, I intend to bite her. That’ll get her attention.

What movies involving animals does your human enjoy sharing with you? Books with animals?

My human doesn’t share movies or books with me, and if she knows what’s good for her, she’ll keep up the good behavior!

If you could make one change to your human, what would it be?

I would make her susceptible to mind control. That’s all I want. I’m not asking for much.

Are you happy with your human? If you could tell your human one thing, what would it be?

She’s okay, as far as humans go. If I could tell her one thing, it would be: Leave me alone! For the love of all that is good and holy! Don’t you know that I am an animal and not a mood ring? If you warm me up, I will NOT do tricks!

What things does your human do that would mortify her it if known? What does your human do that most annoys?

My human looks at herself entirely too much in the mirror, and she thinks she’s good-looking too, because she does this eyebrow lift thing when she looks at herself. *shakes head* She’s crazy. And…as for most annoying…she put cage clips on my tank, so there’s no way on earth that I can possibly escape and ever see the outside world unless she lets me out for a while.

Has your human named a character for you? Are you pleased? If not, why?

No, it was rather the other way around, really.

And did your human name you for a fictional character? Hate it or love it? If you could rename yourself, what would your name be?

My name was Hank when my human adopted me, and she changed it to the name of that horribly muscular archaeologist Indiana Jones, only she shortened it to Indy, because Indiana Jones doesn’t like snakes and my human has a very sick sense of humor. I am most definitely NOT pleased!

If I could rename myself, it would be something regal-sounding, but something that conveyed my thoughts as well. I would name myself Leavemealoneicus the Third,…Esquire.

Thanks for stopping by today, Indy! I know you don't like dog treats or bones ... can I offer you a cricket?

And now, how about sharing a little about "Fallenwood"? My human LOVES a good fantasy story (she cut her teeth on The Prydain Chronicles and the Dragonriders of Pern, as well as the Narnia books and more).

Fallenwood—a land where magic is the life force, dragons are sages, and wizards good and evil battle for supremacy. When 23-year-old Ash is thrust into the middle of Fallenwood’s power struggles, she is also forced to face her own inner battles. Life on Earth was hard enough on Ash, who is locked in grief for her stepfather. Now, the fate of Fallenwood rests on her shoulders. She must destroy the Great Crystal—the catalyst for all the land’s magic. As the kingdoms prepare for war, Ash must look inside to find the power to save the world, and herself.

Hey! Leslie hails from my hometown ... what else would you like to know about her?

About Leslie: Leslie Soule lives in Sacramento, California. Fallenwood is her first fantasy novel. She has received her B.A. in English from Sacramento State University and is currently working on her Master’s degree in English at National University.

Website: www.lesliesoule.com
"Fallenwood"
A 194 page fantasy novel available now from Decadent Publishing
buy links: http://www.decadentpublishing.com/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=26&products_id=226

A Testimonial: Droll Yankees

2012-01-13T05:32:00.004-05:00

A couple years ago, I bought a rather expensive squirrel resistant bird feeder from a company called Droll Yankees. It's called a Yankee Dipper.

I'd already purchased several of their smaller feeders and loved them. They're well made, sturdy, and they come apart easily for cleaning (honestly, that was my favorite thing). The also came with a lifetime warranty which, having gone through dozens of feeders because the dang red squirrels chewed their way in, was attractive, despite the overall higher cost of their products.

Fast forward to this year. I put out my feeders after a year away (stupid bear) and noticed that three of the perches on the Yankee Dipper had been broken by the dang sqirrels -- the perches are spring loaded so they just wilt when something too heavy is on them. Apparently, after a certain amount of uses, they break. I found two of the perches below the feeder.

Saturday last, I emailed Droll Yankees' customer service with my problem and asked them to replace the perches on their Lifetime Warranty. Monday I had an email from them asking for my mailing address. Yesterday I had a new bird feeder base in my mail.

In less than a week, I had complete satisfaction. Now THAT is some serious customer service, folks, and it makes me thrilled I purchased my feeders from them. In fact, I was happy enough that I've been perusing the site for more feeders (I'm thinking I need an oriole feeder and a hummingbird feeder).

So -- if you love to feed the birds and are looking for an amazingly good product that's truly backed by a company who clearly believes in the product they make, I highly recommend Droll Yankees.

=================

You Are a Chicken

You are a naturally curious and inquisitive being. You are often poking your nose where it doesn't belong!

Collecting nuggets of knowledge is important to you. You enjoy knowing everything you can.

You are very independent and strong willed. You don't like to be bossed around, and you do as you please.

You are quite determined and able to take on challenges. You will "peck away" at a problem until it's gone.

What Animal Are You?

ROFL... the description is actually quite accurate.

The Waiting Game

2012-01-12T06:09:00.005-05:00

It's snowing here. Not a blizzard, but the roads are covered with the white stuff and it's still coming down.

Several hundred school closings and delays have been reported. DD's school is not amongst them. It may be eventually ... or it may not. What to do?

I woke up the kidlet at the usual time and tossed her into the shower just in case we have to go in. I keep refreshing the local news website to see if her school has been added. They said they'd wait until "the last minute" to decide, but for those of us who live where it takes 25 minutes on a GOOD day to get there, so will take an hour in the bad weather -- we can't wait until "the last minute".

I swear, I miss homeschooling all the time. I think going to school has been great for the kidlet, but for me, it's been a trial.

I really, REALLY don't want to drive halfway across town in this mess.

DH will probably stay home today as well.

Snow sucks. I want to live south of the Mason Dixon line please.

====================

You Should Live in a Blue House

You are an intense thinker, but you also have a calm about you.

You spend a lot of time ruminating, trying to figure out this world you live in.

Friends think you're wise, and they come to you first for advice.

You are a realist, and you tell it like it is - even if how it is isn't pretty.

What Color House Should You Live In?

Mostly right.

====================

Wiki, Wiki, Woo, Woo

2012-01-11T05:03:00.002-05:00

And Happy Birthday to me. Today I'm 45 y.o. -- yeppers ... I'm edging closer to fifty than forty. How'd that happen?

There's an old blog challenge somewhere that has you go to Wikipedia and look up your birthday (without the year). List three fun facts, two birthdays, and one death on your blog.

Here's mine:

Fun Facts:

1963 - The Whisky A Go-Go night club in Los Angeles, the first disco in the USA, is opened. (And life as we know it will never be the same)

1964 – Surgeon General of the United States Dr. Luther Terry, M.D., publishes a landmark report saying that smoking may be hazardous to health, sparking nation- and worldwide anti-smoking efforts.

1919 - Romania annexes Transylvania. (Guess they wanted in on the "Dracula" Tourism money?)

Births:

1961 - Jasper Fforde, British author (Now I want to have as many published books as he does - it's only fair!)

1963 - Dean Reynolds, English snooker player (Just cuz "snooker" sounded interesting)

Deaths:

1055 - Constantine IX Monomachos, Byzantine Emperor (Nobody really fun died on my birthday... I suppose that's a good thing)

And some birthday quizzes:

Your Birthday Predicts You're Sensitive

Ever since you were born, you've always been able to cooperate.

You enjoy supporting and being inspired by others. You appreciate the dynamic of a group.

Getting along with others is essential to you. You are both fair and well mannered.

You are very intuitive and easily effected by other people. Sometimes you are too delicate.

What Does Your Birthday Predict About You?

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA... no.

Your Birthday is Tan

You are the blunt type. You give it to people straight, whether they want to hear it or not.

You are a bit self centered at times. You put your own interests first, but you'd argue that everyone does that.

While you love to be flattered, you're pretty good at flattering other people back.

You can make anyone smile or laugh. You have a talent for saying the right thing at the right time.

What Color Is Your Birthday?

That's about half right ... wonder if I can get one that's ALL right?

Your Birthday's Wisdom is Individuality

Life has required you to go your own way and do your own thing.

You've been taught to rely on yourself. You don't feel comfortable relying on others.

You are highly motivated and aggressive. You have no problem getting things done and getting what you want.

You feel like you have to look out for yourself, because no one else is.

What's Your Birthday's Wisdom?

HA... that's pretty much right on.

In any case, for my birthday Mother Nature is bringing in a disgusting, nasty wintry mix: snow, sleet, freezing rain .... up to 6" of yuck is expected. Yay.

I think that calls for cake.

==================

An Owie

2012-01-10T05:29:00.003-05:00

The marathon push I did to build the new LASR website over Christmas hurt my shoulder... and it doesn't want to get better. I'm having a hard time working on the computer, so I'm just going to say "Good morning" and then do the work I HAVE to do.

So frustrating. I was determined to catch up on everyone's blogs. Write. And now I'm falling behind even more because if I spend too long on the computer it feels like someone is stabbing a red hot branding iron into the muscle between my spine and right shoulder blade.

Wish I could swing a few massage visits...

Someday, I'll be caught up and healthy folks. And then I can visit you daily again. I MISS you.

===========================

Your Vocabulary Score: A

Congratulations on your multifarious vocabulary!

You must be quite an erudite person.

How's Your Vocabulary?

Thankyouverymuch.

====================

A Vignette

2012-01-09T05:55:00.006-05:00

Friday afternoon.

DH: "I'm STARVING."

Me: "Fix something to eat."

DH: opens pantry, stares, closed pantry...opens fridge, stares, closes fridge...goes to basement, opens freezer, stares, closes freezer...glances at bookshelves, wanders back upstairs "There's nothing to eat in this house."

Me: wonders how DH can look at this:

or this:

and say we have nothing to eat.

How was your weekend?

==================

You Are an Ice Storm

You are much more serious than you look. On the surface, you're quite calm and even a bit enchanting.

However, under the wrong circumstances, you can be a real pain. You're not as good natured as you seem.

You come on slowly and deliberately. You take your time when planning your attack.

You are meticulous and a perfectionist. As they say, the devil is in the details... and you're all about the details!

What Kind of Storm Are You?

Ha! Mostly right ... and my least favorite weather.

==================

Thursday Thaw

2012-01-05T05:20:00.002-05:00

The last two days up here have been BRUTALLY cold. And not only were the temps low, but there were high winds. It was horrible -- couldn't spend more than a minute or two outside.

The worst part was the poor dog. She was SO full of the wiggles. I finally broke down both days, bundled up and went out to throw her Jolly Ball -- her favorite toy EVER (I swear I need to take a video of her reaction when I pick the ball up so we can play... she leaps in the air and spins and it's pretty incredible) for five minutes or so. But even bundled up, I froze my can.

This morning, though, when I took her out to do her thing, it wasn't windy and it wasn't frigid. YAY!!!

In the "Wow! Cool!" news category ... check out some of these headlines I stumbled across on my daily foray into internet news (I like to find out if anything went nuts in the world while I slept):

Now You See It, Now You Don't: Time Cloak Created

Creatures of the 'Lost World': Found at Antarctic Vents

I'm still on the fence with what to do with "Now and Forever". Fact is, the reason it was rejected by Samhain feels very subjective -- it wasn't "the plot was awful and the ending sucked". In fact, she complimented the plot itself highly.

But do I want to publish a sequel with a different publisher? That is the question...

In the meantime, hopes ever high, I'm still working on the NEXT book with the NEXT brother. *G*

Happy Thursday all.

==========================

You Are Active

You are a generous person who always has a million things going on. Yet, you still rarely say no.

You are a doer. Being active makes you feel good, especially when you're spending time with others.

You may have a packed schedule, but you always make sure to make time for your friends.

You don't seek out attention, but you still get lots of it. You are a very popular person.

The Poppy Test

Mostly right. And Blogthings has redone its site, so new quizes aren't featured -- I may not do quizzes daily anymore. *sigh*

Of Note: Freebies, Contests and more!

2012-01-04T05:18:00.005-05:00

Maria Zannini not only released a new eBook about living frugally called Smart Budgets for Busy People, but started a great new Facebook page called "The Frugal Way" about it -- if you're not following, you should. She shares Freebies and deals daily.

Dru Ann has a second blog called Dru's Book Musings where she introduces us to the characters from various cozy mysteries AND nearly every post has a giveaway of the book she's featuring. What a great way to find new stories to add to your TBR list!

I would be remiss if I didn't mention that every tour Goddess Fish Promotions runs has a giveaway assocated. Just yesterday there were seven contests for Amazon GCs, a Visa card GC, eBooks and more!

There are regular blog hops where books, GCs and more are part of the prize -- and there are hundreds of participants! One great place to look for regular "hops" is I Am a Reader, Not a Writer. -- there's one starting on January 13th: Dreaming of Books.

And lastly, of course, Long and Short Reviews is giving away a $50 Amazon GC this month. Think of how many new books you could buy!!!

Anyone else know of places to look for freebies and giveaways? Share them in comments.

==============

You Are Fun Because You Don't Have Hangups

You inspire others with your far out visions and concepts. You get people excited.

You love undertaking new and interesting projects. You have lots of ideas.

You feel like the world doesn't have limits. You certainly don't set limits for yourself.

You live primarily inside your own mind. You happily spend a lot of time thinking.

The Colorful Pattern Test

Blogthings: Waste Time at Work!

Yeah.... that's mostly right!

========================

Recovery Mode and Happy New Year!

2012-01-03T04:57:00.004-05:00

I didn't post yesterday because, and I'll be completely honest here, I simply didn't feel like it.

Way back in the summer, taking the two weeks our LASR site was closed for the holidays to rebuild seemed like a good idea. How hard could it be to rebuild the site in that much time?

Well... as it turns out, it's very hard. It wasn't just a matter of sitting down and doing the site work. There were insane numbers of decisions to make that impacted everything. There were people to be notified, graphics to be chosen and created, and more.

So, what ended up happening was that most of the actual site/blog work didn't happen until a few days before the New Year. What ended up happening was that I spent sixteen hour days in front of the computer. I lived, ate, breathed, and slept the LASR website.

Happy New Year to me.

So yesterday was the first day in a week that I didn't *have* to do anything on the computer. Except blog. And my rebellious soul said: NO.

I think the site turned out well. And more, it will do what we were hoping: still give quality information to readers and writers, still have lots of visitors to create worthwhile ad space while giving Judy and I a little bit of a break. Not a big break; we still have plenty to do. But I no longer have new pages to load on daily basis, we no longer have to have certain content ready at a certain time. Ads start on the first and end the final day of the month -- no more keeping track of beginning and end dates.

I have massive numbers of emails in my boxes at LASR and Goddess Fish Promotions that were virtually ignored for several days that I need to catch up on, but once that is done, I might have a little breathing room.

I can write.
I can clean my poor house.
I can cook and bake and can.
In the summer I'll be able to garden again.
I can walk the dog and not feel guilty for taking time away from my work.
I can spend time with my family.
I can even sit down, now and then, and watch something on TV.

The plan is that Judy and I might actually have a little bit of our lives back.

Guess we'll find out as things shake out over the next few weeks.

My plan? To have a wonderful, less stressful, more productive 2012.

Happy New Year. :-)

===========================

You Are Gnocchi

You are definitely not the quiet type, and you really don't keep a lot to yourself.

You are responsible and trustworthy. You're always happy to be the accountable one.

You are practical and matter-of-fact. You prefer to take the pragmatic approach.

You are lovable, endearing, and affectionate. People gravitate toward your positive spirit.

What Shape Pasta Are You?

Blogthings: A Fine Line Between Insight and Stupidity

About 75% right.

======================

Last Friday of 2011

2011-12-30T05:10:00.004-05:00

How is it possible that it's December 30th?

I'm not even CLOSE to finishing building the new LASR website and blogs. :::panics:::

Was supposed to visit with an old friend today who's here from PA, but she emailed yesterday and told me she and her son have the flu and they're driving home early. It's very sad as she was my first and dearest friend here and I miss having her around. But I understand, and it's probably a blessing. Assuming my family will let me WORK, maybe I'll get the site built in time for the 1/1/12 relaunch.

Aside from the fact that it's FREEZING here, nothing else much is going on. Best part about having an artificial Christmas tree? I can LEAVE IT UP. And I'm actually really enjoying having it.

Happy Friday all. Wish me luck!

=================

You Need Some Black in Your Life

Black will make you feel powerful, in control, and not bound to what other people think of you.

And with a little black, you will project a aura of mystery, rebellion, and dominance.

If you want people to respect you, you've got to get a little black in your life!

For extra punch: Combine black with orange or red

The downside of black: People won't be able to "read" you - and may perceive you as more aggressive than you actually are

The consequences of more black in your life:

You'll become a figure of intrigue and speculation

You'll be better prepared for life's unknown path

You'll rest better and free yourself of expectations

What Color Do You Need?

Okay ... time for some black!

===============

Sacrifice

2011-12-29T05:05:00.004-05:00

Some days I see things that make me feel awed a bit. I didn't have a good day yesterday, due to a great number of things so maybe, emotionally, things hit me differently.

It was FREEZING here in the afternoon (still is) and extremely windy, so I was taking the dog out on a different side of the house, through the back garage door, so that I wouldn't have to stand in the wind and weather while she puttered around looking for the exactly right place to pee.

I looked up and saw this on the squishy, padded weather stripping -- it's where it won't be exposed to the bad weather (except when I open the door) and it was one smart mama who put it there.

Yes, it's a spider egg sac, and yes, I'm leaving it right where it is. I hope it hatches a hundred spideys in the spring so they can help keep the insect population down a bit.

But that wasn't what touched me... it was what was just below the egg sac. It's all very "Charlotte's Web":

Mama stayed there with her egg sac, protecting it until she couldn't anymore. Good mama.

And then that made me think of this article I saw online yesterday:

Idaho Teen With Cancer Trades Her Life for Her New Son

So whenever I think things are hopeless, I can remember the good things people do at the risk of their own lives. People and, apparently, spiders. *G*

The world is an abundantly cruel place and nature especially so, but there is beauty and kindness and love that can be found if we just know where to look.

======================

You Are "Carpe Diem"

You are very open to the world. You try to say yes to as many opportunities as possible.

You are a pleasure seeker. You're a bit of a hedonist, and you enjoy the finer things in life.

You are easily distracted. There's so much going on in the world, and you think focus is overrated.

You are energetic and lively. You stay high-energy throughout the day.

What's Your Motivational Phrase?

This couldn't be more wrong...

==============

A Down Day

2011-12-28T05:52:00.003-05:00

Well... I'm ending my year with a rejection from Samhain on "Now and Forever". They didn't even ask for changes or a resubmission, though it wasn't a form rejection and she explained what she thought would help make the story better in her opinion.

*sigh*

I'm going to set it aside a bit and give some thought as to what to do next.

Today I have a dentist appointment. So, yep, the day just keeps getting better!

DH is finally feeling better, but DD has been sick. She hit the wall yesterday (she tends to have one really bad day and night, and I think she just had it).

It's been an interesting week so far, and we still have the rest with DH and DD off.

Thanks to all for exercise suggestions. Charity, I wish I could do half of what you said, but since my knee problems from last year, I'm extremely limited. I can't do anything weight bearing (so no squats, no significant stair climbing), nothing more than low impact (no jumping, jogging, marching in place) and nothing that twists my knee (which leaves out zumba and most dancing). Mostly ... I walk. And in crappy NE winter weather, that's hard. And DD isn't into doing anything alone. We're looking to eventually buy a treadmill, but finances haven't allowed for it yet.

And so are the days of my life.

=====================

You Are the 7

You value personal growth. If you're not changing, it's likely something is going wrong in your life.

You are a lucky person, but it's partially due to how you've crafted you're life.

You are a great leader, and you lead without your ego. You know where you're going, and others want to follow.

You are comfortable with and really appreciate freedom. You think it's important to be able to do your own thing.

What Slot Machine Symbol Are You?

Mostly right.

==================

Weight...

2011-12-27T06:52:00.003-05:00

I scared myself today -- I stepped on the scale!

DH mentioned last night that DD was looking a little... robust. I didn't disagree, but I felt a bit more robust than usual myself. I sat down with DD (because he can't -- she falls to pieces when he talks to her about anything) and discussed how BOTH of us were going to start a new eating and exercise regimen effective immediately.

First order of business was hitting the scale. She has to do so when she wakes up the a.m.

I hate doing it. I don't want her to feel fat the rest of her life (I did, after my drama teacher saw me eating a candy bar once and strongly suggested I not do that anymore and once, at high school age, my step father said to me -- as I reached for a second helping of potatoes, "More for you, my plump little dove?"), but the truth is, she runs to being heavy, has "heavy" genes on both sides of the family and I don't want her to have to start her life on the heavy side.

It's not the weight, per se, or even how she looks -- it's all about health. Healthy heart, healthy blood, healthy joints. Too much weight or not-so-great food can affect all of those things.

It's my fault. She tends to love, Love, LOVE carbs of all kinds -- bread, pasta, potatoes, sweets -- and loads up on them. She eats good foot, too. Loves fruits and veggies. But it's the unhealthy stuff that's going to get to her.

So after weigh-in today, we both start keeping food diaries to become more aware. After this week of doing so, we'll move on to adjusting what we eat (though I think writing it all down will start with that ... there's something about actually making a notation that says "Three sugar cookies" that is frightening.

Exercise is tougher. I get cold very, very easily (doctor blames it on my extremely low blood pressure) so walking, hiking, etc., in the winter here is tough. But I'm going to have to figure it out, because if I go, she'll go.

I should drop at least 20 pounds, and even then I'll be 25 pounds heavier than I was when I was married, which is frightening. I need to do it for my knee, more than anything. I'd like to keep from having surgery at all costs, and carrying less weight will help.

It's a cliche to try to lose weight at the New Year. But I'm not so much looking at this as a New Year's Resolution. The timing is coincidental. I need this to be a permanent lifestyle change for the both of us.

====================

Your Name is Gray

Your name tells people that you are calm and level headed. Your name makes you seem honest and fair.

You are able to look at things clearly and without emotion. You tend to remain neutral in most disputes.

People see you as reliable and trustworthy. You treat everyone equally, and you don't tend to have any prejudices.

You are naturally calculating and even a bit cunning. You don't like to show your cards too early in the game.

What Color Is Your Name?

Yeah. That's very true.

=============

The Day After Christmas

2011-12-26T06:04:00.005-05:00

How was your Christmas?

I admit, after the early morning when no on was awake, I stayed off the computer. I opened it once so my mom could check birthdays on Facebook, but that was it. And I didn't suffer *much* withdrawal (though I did check my emails a few times using the phone).

We had a quiet Christmas. My mom came over in the morning to open gifts and have a homemade cinnamon roll. Then the next couple hours were spent getting dinner ready.

DH was sick, so we didn't attend the after dinner family gathering. Made it a lot less stressful for me and DH, though DD said it didn't feel like Christmas without going.

She and I hung out all afternoon doing this:

I love puzzles. I remember when DD was little, I hated doing all those little kid, 25-piece puzzles, so when she was about four we started doing smaller, adult puzzles. Yanno, 500 pieces with a very simple picture.

It was a challenge for her at first, but I spent time sharing puzzle hints and tricks and after not too much time (by the time she was six or seven) we had advanced to 1000 piece, more challenging puzzles. I remember, two Christmases ago, one of her aunts gave her a 100 piece puzzle. She said thank you, but gave me this look.

Actually, sometimes I wonder if adults realize that kids grow and change at a rapid pace. Two of DD's gifts yesterday weren't age appropriate. She got this science lab project book with the "equipment" (things like a balloon, packs of salt and pepper, etc) that is clearly meant for a kid around 8 y.o. And she got two pairs of Christmas socks from a cousin that are kids sized 6 - 8. My DD has bigger feet than I do (she wears a woman's 10 currently).

Then, conversely, we got a family gift from those same cousins -- a really neat game from Cranium -- that DD can't really play. It has cards with words on them (events, things, people, etc) and then a set of six dice with letters. The object is to roll the dice and use those letters to give one word clues to the word on the card.

Fun, right? Until you realize some clues are things like: Woodstock. Botox. Poodle Skirts. The Grateful Dead.

DD hasn't a clue what those are (well, she does NOW because I told her ... but even so, were she to play, "Woodstock" wouldn't really be something in her frame of reference).

She didn't get any books, but she did get one Barnes and Noble GC (thanks, Judy!) and a Visa GC (thanks, Mom!). She also got a pair of Croc-like shoes so she can stop stealing MINE (Thanks, Mom!). No electronics -- we really don't do that here. She doesn't have an iPod (she listens to music on her Nook). She doesn't have a gaming system of any kid, handheld or otherwise (unless you count my phone, lol). And yet, she still had a wonderful day -- she drew on her new sketch pad with her new pen set, wearing her new fuzzy socks.

DH and I agreed it would be a very, very, very small Christmas gift-wise. He actually made me another, smaller cutting board (out of scraps from our oak stair treads from when we put in the hardwood stairs). It's gorgeous.

Today, I'm going to hit the after Christmas sales for some Christmas items I ran out of: cards, tissue paper and more. I'll keep an eye out for gifts as well -- it's the best time to buy (if you're ~~a cheapskate~~ frugal like I am).

Hope you had a wonderful day celebrating.

===================

Your Holiday Spirit Comes From Making Treats

You are the type of person who relaxes by doing. And there's nothing more relaxing than a little holiday baking.

You're also quite generous, and you enjoy giving out the delicious creations that come out of your kitchen.

You are affectionate yet mischievous. You have a warm, welcoming spirit - but you also like to spice things up.

Every single one of your friends feels valued. You are true through thick and thin.

Where Does Your Holiday Spirit Come From?

That's about right. My DH doesn't undertand the "you relax by doing" thing about me. He likes to go out into the woods or out on the boat and just sit... for hours. :::shudders::: I'd lose my mind.

===================

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T05:43:00.003-05:00

Wishing all of you a very blessed and Merry Christmas.

====================

Merry Christmas Eve Eve

2011-12-23T06:19:00.004-05:00

It's snowing here. While I suppose it does make it more festive, it does put a bit of a damper on last minute gift-buying plans. Maybe we'll stay home and bake instead.

In any case, my husband is up -- early. Cranky and sick... so I'll sign off and wish you a merry Christmas!

====================

Winter Solstice

2011-12-22T05:25:00.004-05:00

I crave sunlight. Winter, with its cold weather and short days is difficult for me. Someday, I swear I'll go live on the equator where days are longer than they are here, no matter the time of year. I practically live in Canada, and I never realized how much shorter my days are here than for folks down south until I was chatting with my biz partner and friend, Judy, one evening and mentioned I needed to step away to close the blinds and turn on the lights. And she mentioned it was still light where she was -- Georgia. Same time zone, twelve hundred miles farther south.

As the days start getting noticeably shorter in the late fall, I look forward to this day. I know, it probably doesn't make sense to WANT it to be the shortest day of the year, except ... in my odd little brain, what it really means is that we've passed the worst and everything is better from here on out (which is why, conversely, I'm terribly depressed on the summer solstice).

So: HAPPY, HAPPY, JOY, JOY -- we're heading for summer now!

=================

You Are a Pegasus

You are a perfectionist, with an eye for beauty.

You know how to live a good life - and you rarely deviate from your good taste.

While you aren't outgoing, you have excellent social skills.

People admire you and feel very comfortable around you.

What Mythological Creature Are You?

Mostly right.

==================

More Christmas Spirit

2011-12-21T06:05:00.002-05:00

Okay ... I'm still working on the whole Christmas spirit thing. I've managed to get at least *some* of my cards out. Presents are wrapped.

Today, I thought I'd share some parts of my favorite all time Christmas movies.

Sadly.... I couldn't find a video for my fave all time Christmas movie: the original "Miracle on 34th Street". But imagine it here.

What are some of your favorite Christmas movies?

====================

You Are Content

You seek moderation by compensating for extremes. If you're extreme one way, you're also extreme the other way.

While you can be brutally honest, you're still quite a charmer. You say it all with a smile.

You are magnetic, endearing, and people tend to love you. You are a positive force in this world.

You're a bit of an introvert, but you're never lonely. You know how to entertain yourself.

The Adventure Test

That's probably mostly right ... maybe 75%?

===================

Christmas Spirit

2011-12-20T05:54:00.002-05:00

I've struggled to get into the Christmas spirit this year for a large number of reasons. It's been so bad that when I hear Christmas music on the radio, I've switched the channel.

So yesterday, I purposely turned on an "all Christmas" radio station and listened, hoping to hear some of my favorites. It saddens me when it's pretty much all secular music. Yes "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer" makes me laugh, but I don't even think you have to be Christian to enjoy songs like this:

Or this:

I love this song, too:

Or this one -- and I loved this version when he sang with his wife and daughters:

This one is for my husband who, when he was stationed in San Diego in the navy made this song his mantra at Christmas:

Help me get into the Christmas spirit -- what are some of your favorite songs?

====================

Your Home Means Simplicity

You start every day fresh. You are optimistic about what's to come.

You like your home to be functional but not fussy. More stuff just means more cleaning.

You believe in taking it easy. Whenever possible, you don't set yourself up for failure.

You rather do less and have less because it means you'll be happier. You are a proud minimalist.

What Does Your Home Mean to You?

This is mostly wrong...

====================

Christmas Prep

2011-12-19T05:09:00.003-05:00

Tried three times to get caught up on everyone's blogs this weekend, but Google Reader kept crashing (or actually, the entire screen would go black) after just a few blogs.

I'll keep trying. Maybe I should set up a special email account and follow everyone via email instead.

This weekend was pretty quiet, except DD hadn't finished making gifts for her teachers (something else new we have to remember -- gifts for teachers on holidays). Then, last night she checked the school website portal and found she had Spanish homework. So, there was some drama, but not as much as usual.

I still don't have my Christmas cards out (maybe today?) and I have a couple more things to get for Christmas TODAY (because they're for the kidlet, and she's off school after Tuesday).

We did buy an artificial tree. That's something we've been wanting to do for several years now, but couldn't find one reasonably priced that had the "real" looking spruce needles. Saturday, at a warehouse club store, I actually found one. It was marked down under $100 and pretty darn nice looking.

You see, we have a problem with our trees. The woodstove keeps it SO hot and dry in our house that a real tree dies in a matter of days, no matter what we do. This year, I could sit in the dining room and hear the needles falling off. Worse, the branches all drooped so the lights, tinsel AND ornaments kept sliding off.

So Saturday night, DH and I put the new artificial tree together and then the three of us "undecorated" the old tree and put it outside, then decorated the new one.

It's SUCH a relief to not have to sweep needles every five minutes and the decorations are sliding off.

Yesterday, though, was the true test -- the in-laws stopping by unexpectedly. The front lawn is littered with needles from the old tree, and they commented on it. DH said we'd tossed the old tree, and the in-laws said: "And you went out and got another tree?"

"Yes."

"It looks good."

"It's fake."

"Really?!"

So it passed the test. *G*

Other than that, I've been working on the new LASR website. Haven't figured out WordPress, but might have found someone willing to "consult" for a reasonable fee. For now, we're using the tools we know how to use, but our plan is to have the entire site up on WordPress eventually, since WP is so much more versatile than Blogger and we want the ability for several people to make changes and additions to the site (right now, I'm the only one who can build the site proper -- so panic ensues when I lose power AND I can never take vacation -- haven't had time off in four years).

I can't believe it's only a week until Christmas. Hope you all are more ready for it than I am!!

=====================

You Are a Success

You are ardent and passionate. You have a intensity that burns brightly.

You are career-focused. You get a lot of satisfaction from working hard.

You are both charming and gracious. People find you to be very desirable.

Crafty and creative, you are able to adapt freely to almost any situation.

The Over the Rainbow Test

Um....well.. yeah. Pretty much spot on.

It always freaks me out a little when that happens...

====================

Guest Blog and Giveaway: Tracey Cramer-Kelly and the Making of a Music Video

2011-12-16T01:00:00.000-05:00

Tracey Cramer-Kelly is here on a stop for her tour with Goddess Fish Promotions for the military romance, "True Surrender". She's giving away a FALLEN SOLDIER T-Shirt to someone who comments on her tour stops, so don't forget to let her know you stopped by!

In the meantime, I was fascinated by the fact she made a music video and asked her to share her experience with us.

THE MAKING OF A MUSIC VIDEO

I was an MTV junkie. I especially liked the music videos that told a story. But when I first thought about doing a music video myself, I was curious: how would my passion for singing, writing and the power of the visual come together?

THE MUSIC

Here’s where it all starts, of course. I could have used a stock song, but I’m a singer and I’ve done some recording … and it just so happened that friends from the Mark Cameron Band had recently helped me record what I call the “Surrender Version” of Bette Midler’s classic song, “The Rose.” (It’s got a bluesy feel and a more upbeat rhythm.)

THE ACTORS

To find actors to enact scenes from True Surrender, we posted a project summary and request on craigslist.com. We conducted two auditions. From those, we choose Zac and Jennifer … and luckily they were both available when we wanted to shoot. We gave them a script and a week to prepare…

THE PLANNING

I handled props, clothing, makeup arrangements and timing issues; my co-director took care of shooting scripts, lighting, locations and the camera folks. Thank goodness I didn’t have to do everything myself, because I had no idea how many details needed to be covered!

THE FILMING

We spent one exhausting 12-hour day shooting scenes at a Physical Therapy department, a cemetery and a friend’s condo. For me, it was amazing seeing my words come to life - and without any dialogue! (I am still in awe of the actors.) The following morning we were up early to shoot video of singing (and guitar) along the Rum River near my home, and we wrapped it up later that week when we shot video of my 4-year-old daughter (whose cameo appearance is at the end of the video).

THE AFTERMATH

My co-director had to get all 140 minutes of footage onto disks (called “dailies”) … and then my sleepless nights began. I watched scenes for hours - evaluating the best parts of each, looking for those seconds when the camera caught something special. Once I had my favorite ‘bites,’ it took another two full days to pull it all together.

THE FALLOUT

I could not have had a better experience creating my first music video. I was blessed with a great group of people to work with (I really enjoyed the creative interplay). This was truly a collaborative effort and I was both humbled and exhilarated. I love the video - and I hope you do, too.

When Major Aaron Bricewick is rescued from Afghanistan terrorists, he thinks the worst is over. But his personal journey is just beginning...

The first surprise is the amputation of one of his legs.

The second is the woman he left behind, now a widow with a 4-year-old son - and his new prosthetist (artificial limb maker).

He vows that losing his leg won't derail his career. But maintaining his outward appearance as a got-it-together officer becomes increasingly difficult as he faces one personal demon after another - and sees his career aspirations slipping away. And though he has no intention of expanding his life to include a woman, his heart has other ideas - and he finds himself questioning the very foundation of his personal beliefs.

When violence - and unexpected redemption - touch his life again, Aaron must make a stand. Which will he choose: duty or love?

About Tracey: Tracey’s work fuses writing, music and visual imagery whenever possible, and includes novels, short stories, essays and music videos. True Surrender is her second novel. Her first, Last Chance Rescue, is an Indie Award finalist. Her first full-length music video, The Rose (Surrender Version), includes scenes from True Surrender. Her writing draws from her experience as an Army Reserve paramedic and helicopter pilot. When not managing the family business, Leader Motorcycle Accessories, she enjoys motorcycling and outdoor activities with her husband and two young children.

Web site/blog: http://www.TraceyCramerKelly.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TraceyCramerKelly
Twitter: http://twitter.com/TraceyCramerKel

The Dog Dish with Margo Hoornstra (and Heidi)

2011-12-15T01:00:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure of "meeting" Margo recently, when she toured with Goddess Fish Promotions. As we chatted, she mentioned two things that made me offer to have her here on my blog. 1: She has a dog! So, of course, we needed her here. 2. Her book, "Honorable Intentions" is available FREE today only at her publisher (and mine!), The Wild Rose Press. She also has two other free reads for download there, so get over and check it out! Here's her author page with all her stories so you can get them all.

Now, we'll turn the floor over to Dakota and Margo's rescued German Shepherd, Heidi.

So, your human writes books. Does this mean she is home all day and easy to access? Elaborate if necessary.

She writes books and short stories. And, yes, she’s usually home with me all day, which was really nice when I first got to her house. You see, I’m what they call a "rescue". I won’t go into details of my life before-let’s just say I’ve had some separation issues.

What are your techniques for distracting your human during crucial writing moments, just because it's fun? Whose primary job is it? What do the rest of you do to support the one doing the main distracting?

I have another friend like me around here for a while. Our favorite game is to run around the dining room table begging to go outside. (This game is the most fun when our human is deeply involved typing on her laptop.) Then, and this is the good part, once we get outside we run up on the deck like we want to come back in. As soon as she gets up, we pretend to see something important in the back yard and take off barking. It’s our version of what human’s do when they ring someone’s doorbell and run away before anyone answers the door.

What indignities and neglect have you suffered because of your human's writing career?

Let me first of all admit to having a fear of cats. I know, I know, being a big German Shepherd, that should be the other way around, but I’ve accepted it’s part of who I am. Anyway, once I wandered into the bedroom where The Cat was sleeping and my owner, the writer, became so distracted with her latest project she accidentally shut the two of us in there—alone. I sat very still until I heard her call for me then barked very softly so The Cat wouldn’t notice me until I was let out.

Tell me about the animals in your human's fiction. How often do they appear and how big a part do they play?

She wrote a short story once, and even sold it, about a dog they had before me. As I understand, he refused to chase out the rabbits who invaded their garden in the summer. My owner said he adhered to the philosophy of peaceful coexistence. I think that’s something I should discuss with The Cat.

On the off-chance your human has yet to incorporate animals into a story, what are your plans for making sure she rectifies this egregious error and demonstration of poor writing skills?

Animals as characters is something that is lacking in her recent books. I’ll have to talk to her about that.

What movies involving animals does your human enjoy sharing with you? Books with animals?

Sometimes I get to watch TV shows with dogs who look like me and have important day jobs. The babies around here have barnyard books they sometimes read to me.

If you could make one change to your human, what would it be?

I wish they’d let me sit at the table with them when they eat.

Are you happy with your human? If you could tell your human one thing, what would it be?

Thank you for teaching me to play that game you call fetch. (I wasn’t allowed to play at all where I came from.)

What things does your human do that would mortify her it if known? What does your human do that most annoys?

I have things in my past I’m not proud of either, so I'm going to keep my muzzle shut on this one.

Has your human named a character for you? Are you pleased? If not, why?

She hasn’t yet, but when she does, I think I’d like to be the heroine’s best friend.

And did your human name you for a fictional character? Hate it or love it? If you could rename yourself, what would your name be?

As I mentioned, being a rescue, these humans didn’t name me. I’m okay with Heidi. I’m not sure what I would rename myself, but the husband here sometimes calls me Precious. I think he’s being sarcastic. I’ve heard him call The Cat by some different names too.

Thanks for stopping by, Heidi -- next time we'll have to make time to play!

***

Former cop Samantha Wells is the last person single dad Chase Canfield wants chaperoning his young, impressionable daughter. Not if she's the same beautiful stranger who shamelessly came on to him with all the promise of unfulfilled passion, making her impossible to forget.

Samantha must prove to Chase she's a competent, trustworthy professional. That the sultry seductress he knew was only a pretense, her misguided alter ego acting on a stupid dare.

To save her reputation, she has to make him believe the mind blowing kisses and undeniable connection they shared meant nothing.

The hard part will be convincing herself.

Visit Margo at her website.

Gunshots, Guest Blogs and Goofy Dogs

2011-12-14T05:45:00.003-05:00

So ... I got a text early this morning from my mom: "Police standoff at (her apartment complex name). Tear gas canisters. More shots just heard."

Yeah -- that's enough to stop my heart.

Thing is, she's in a really nice complex off the beaten path. It's not a place you picture police standoffs happening. However, someone robbed a bank at gunpoint in town yesterday evening (my bank, actually, in a strange turn of events, especially since I was there a little earlier in the day) and apparently the cops identified him and went to serve a warrant. It seems he took offense. With his gun.

Thankfully, he's in a completely different building than my mom. But still -- oy vey. There's tear gas and SWAT teams... Even in a little teeny town in a rural state, bad things happen.

In other news ... DD and I are featured today at Maria Zannini's blog during her DIY Christmas series. It's not up as I write this post, but I'm sure it will be soon. We show you how to make a very simple, but pretty, pair of Christmas earrings. And, we're giving that pair of earrings away to someone who comments on the post, so go visit! She has a pile of other folks there, too, and many have giveaways (nevermind the cool recipes and craft ideas). You should check it out.

Dakota nearly stopped my heart yesterday. We were outside with a neighbor and her dog when the FedEx truck lumbered up the street. For some reason, Dakota decided she didn't want that truck on our road and ran in front of it, barking. Thankfully, the driver was paying attention, wasn't going that fast and stopped before he hit her. But, he didn't let me get to her before he started again, and she decided to chase him down the road. She finally came back to my ~~frantic screaming~~ authoritative recall command and was in BIG trouble.

Took about an hour for the adrenaline to recede.

==================

You Speak General American English!

55% General American English

20% Yankee

15% Upper Midwestern

10% Dixie

0% Midwestern

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

Work is Hard. Time for Blogthings!

The 20% Yankee must be from living here the past 13 years ... and I admit to using "y'all" despite being from California, hence the 10% Dixie. I did live in Colorado (the midwest) so something must have rubbed off on me there, too. Sheesh.

=================

Here!

2011-12-13T05:53:00.003-05:00

Sorry about missing yesterday -- woke up late and then realized I hadn't edited any of the reviews for yesterday on LASR/WC -- something I usually do over the weekend, but had been focused on setting up the blogs for our huge Stuff Your Stocking With Books promo that will be going on for two weeks.

I'm not sure today is going to be any better. I'm annoyed with DD's BFF, for starters. The class is going on a field trip to buy things at the dollar store to make gift bags for the homeless shelter here and then were going to stop at McDonald's for lunch. It would have been a fun treat for the kids, and a break for me not having to pack a lunch. But BFF is a vegetarian and pitched a fit (because apparently it would have killed her to pack a lunch and let the other kids eat there), so now they aren't going. Or maybe they are. But maybe not. And DD doesn't know and it created MUCH drama last night that just spiraled into more until we had some lovely shouting matches and DD was so stressed she went to bed at seven.

She's up early today to pack a super special lunch for herself. If they go to McD's she'll just eat her packed lunch. And if they do go, and she eats her packed lunch, I'm sure I'll have more drama today.

She told me last night she didn't WANT to be a teenager. "Mom, I don't want to be angry at you." and she says sometimes she hears things come out of her mouth that she doesn't want to say.

I was so mentally and emotionally wrung out, that I shut off the computer early and crawled into bed with a notepad. I sketched out the bones of a story I want to work on, and then pulled out a really old Nora Roberts comfort read and lulled myself to sleep.

I really, really hope today is less full of drama.

And I'm still struggling with Word Press, but have hopes I may actually figure it out some day.

================

You Are Conservative and Professional

You are efficient and precise. You like to get down to business.

You are tactful and polite. You are well bred enough not to offend anyone.

Focused and super charged, your instincts are a good guide for your next step.

You need to mull things over for a long time. You prefer to take your time when making up your mind.

The Bra Test

That's mostly right.

=====================

Whazzup...

2011-12-09T04:48:00.005-05:00

So WOW! The temperatures here have dropped like a rock. We went from balmy and in the 60s to "HOLY COW it's winter!". Of course, we're getting our chimney cleaned today, so can't have a fire in the stove to keep the house toasty -- and when we heat with oil, we keep the thermostat WAY down. :::shivers:::

Still, I can't complain. It's been very mild (last year was FREEZING) and, really, even though it's cold, it's not as cold as it usually is in December. And, Sarita? In response to your kind offer yesterday, no I don't want any snow. Thank you anyway. *G*

I realized today that we're nearly in double digits for December and I don't even have my cards out. That's on my list of things to do for this weekend. Used to be I had my cards out the day after Thanksgiving and that I started my Christmas shopping the day after Christmas (because WOW the deals!). Now? I'm lucky if I remember it IS time for Christmas and show up on the 25th.

It's amazing how much of DD's homework is done on the computer. Right now, she's using our old desktop, but next year she's required to have a laptop. Add THAT to my school supplies shopping list -- whee!

Last night she was working on a science assignment in Google documents. And once it's done, they simply share it with the teacher so he can grade it. Crazy. And her teachers are all readily available via email and many of them are on the school chat in the evening for questions. I wonder if public school does stuff like that? Is it the wave of the future?

No big plans for the weekend aside from getting my cards out. And mastering Word Press (hahaha).

You?

===================

You Are Meticulous

You are smart, clever, and perceptive. You know how to synthesize and process information.

You notice every detail, and you are good at finding inconsistencies. Nothing slips by you.

You often see things that other people never notice. When you imagine how something should look, you see it clearly in your mind.

You are more of a thinker than a talker. When you speak, you usually have something important to say.

The Diagonal Test

That's mostly right (except that I can't seem to grasp the concept of Word Press). And the funny thing? I didn't *want* to choose that one -- I kept thinking I should like one of the pink ones better, but they annoyed me. The only one I looked at that didn't grate on my nerves was this one. Funny.

And... a nod to my title -- who remembers when this came out?

======================

Behind!

2011-12-08T06:06:00.003-05:00

Crazy weather -- rain all night, HEAVY, and then winds, EVEN HEAVIER. Woke up at 4 a.m. with every intention of getting some work done ... discovered the power was out. Didn't come back on until 5:30 a.m. I'm grateful it wasn't out long, and I'm grateful there was no snow (since they were predicting 2 - 5") but I'm already behind. After putting up LASR/WC pages and feeding the four legged family members, I had to wake DD and the day begins with me accomplishing nothing.

Worse, the wind is still blowing like crazy and who knows if the power will stay on?

Anyway, that's it for my blog post today because I need to make DD's lunch, get dressed and get ready to leave.

:::waves:::

================

You Are Thoughtful and Gentle

You approach the holidays with restraint and wisdom.

For you, the holidays are all about the people you love.

You tend to concentrate on spending time with loved ones and reconnecting.

You never forget what the holidays mean to you, and you succeed in not getting caught up in the chaos.

Of all the types, you're the most likely to enjoy the ritual of wrapping presents.

You're also the most likely to give a small but very meaningful gift.

The Wrapping Paper Test

Um... that's about 75% wrong.

=================

Christmas Music

2011-12-07T05:58:00.003-05:00

Woke up late and I already behind .... so thought I'd share two videos that I've posted on Facebook, but that I find absolutely amazing.

SO clever!

And how can you NOT smile at this one?

Have a great hump day!

===================

You Are Wise

You are too much of a generalist to specialize in anything. The problem is that you're good at everything.

You try to live an enlightened life. You are benevolent, noble, and intuitive.

You are sensitive and intuitive. You understand others and yourself well.

You are honest about your opinions and feelings. You rather be blunt, even if it upsets people.

The Cappuccino Test

This is about 75% right....

======================

Warm Weather and Word Press

2011-12-06T06:00:00.005-05:00

Woke up this morning to Gmail forcing me onto their "new look". I understand why they're doing it -- but I hate icons. I can read, thankyouverymuch, and don't need a little trash can for "delete". Drives me NUTS.

/rant

It's going to be almost 60 here today. In the northeast (hello -- Canada is our neighbor). In December. Yesterday on Facebook I saw Liz Fichera had posted a picture of snow. In the desert in Arizona. Can you say "weird weather trends"?

Not that I'm complaining. I love mild weather and have often told my DH that if he dies before me, I'll bury him on my way out of town as I move south. My DD is also terrified of my driving her to school in the snow or sleet. She says she worries every day that I'm going to get in a car accident and die. Poor kidlet.

Otherwise, nothing much going on here. Still trying to figure out WordPress. It's still kicking my butt. I looked into having someone build the site for us -- but holy COW it doesn't come cheap. And since I'm not stupid, and a gazillion people use Word Press I must be able to figure it out on my own. I'm determined. And I'm crazy... because, I have three weeks.

So are the days of my life. Buried in work so far I can't breathe. But enjoying the weather.

=======================

You Are Calm and Content

You are calm and relaxed. You seek out serenity and tranquility.

You are agreeable... to a point. You know when it's time to do your own thing.

Building real and deep relationships matters to you. You are a person of substance looking for others of substance.

You are accommodating and peace-seeking. You do your best to make others happy.

The Snowman Test

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA... no. Some of the answer fits me, but calm and content? Not so much.

======================

Of Pies and Men

2011-12-05T04:59:00.005-05:00

I had a remarkably quiet, relatively drama free weekend. I could use more like that. Did a little Christmas shopping with my mom and DD. Cleaned some house. Did some work. But about midday yesterday I realized that I hadn't felt stressed out in a significant way all weekend. That's seriously unusual and I'm very grateful.

On Saturday, DH went to a friend's house to do some auto repair stuff (he was welding a part for another friend). Turns out that the friend had baked bread and a pie! My DH was suitably impressed to the point he took pictures of it and showed me.

Last night, not to be outdone, my DH decided he had to bake a pie as well. He kept asking me questions and I finally told him it was HIS pie and handed him my 1952 Better Crocker cookbook where everything is from scratch, got him the pastry cutter and pastry mat and let him work.

He was so intent and determined to make it the best pie in the world (he's still convinced that he succeeded -- it's amazing how much a little sweat and blood contributes to the flavor of your food). Honestly, he really did do a great job, and I told him he could bake ALL pies from now on.

Here's the crust... pretty good, huh?

He made pumpkin pie, btw. The recipe in Betty Crocker was for two crusts, so we ended up with two pies. A little heavy on the cloves, but otherwise very tasty.

Still no word from Samhain. *sigh*

How was your weekend?

===========================

You Are the Recipe Creation

You try to keep things open. You dislike committing to people.

You are self-contained and self-sufficient. You know how to take care of yourself.

You are a risk taker. You love to roll the dice on everything.

You have high morals and live life right. You have great confidence in yourself and others.

What Part of Baking Are You?

About 50/50...

========================

Books for Christmas!

2011-12-02T05:42:00.005-05:00

One of the advantages to running a reviews site and an author promotions site is that I'm exposed to about a zillion books and authors I would never have seen otherwise. It's making my Christmas shopping just a little easier, especially since I really like to support authors as much as possible.

For instance, I have a friend, my best friend who I met in Junior High (32 years ago ... holy cow) and she's horribly hard to buy for. She's a voracious reader -- especially horror novels and thrillers, so it makes it hard to actually buy her books because I don't know what she already has. BUT, she's completely unaware of the entire Indie/Small Press thing (except for my book, of course). So this year? We toured a self-published thriller / suspense author (Gordon Kessler) and his books are excellently written and are right up her alley. I would never have known he existed if we hadn't run his tours. And, no, she doesn't read my blog.

I've found books for DD via some YA authors and blogs. Books for friends. It's been great. And the best part? Because I actually interact with most of these authors, I can get my friends and family autographed copies. :-)

BTW, folks... never be too shy to email an author and find out if there is a way to get autographed copies. One of my reviewers, who's been around since the site started, needed an extra special four year anniversary gift from us. So we contacted one of her fave authors, Carrie Vaughn. This reviewer is a HUGE fan of her Kitty books.

We never had any experience working with this author. She didn't know us from Adam (or maybe that should be Eve). Even so, we were told exactly how to go about getting personalized, autographed books -- an entire set! -- for our reviewer.

By and large (with only some exceptions) authors, all authors -- even the really big name ones -- are very cool.

So, are books on your Christmas shopping list? Any suggestions?

=========================

You Should Hail a Cab in NYC

Your life feels empty without lots of people in it. You make new friends everywhere you go.

You live in the fast lane. You love action, risk, and competition.

Deep down you are a wild child. You definitely have a manic side.

You are very animated and energetic. People find you dazzling and charming.

What City Should You Hail a Cab In?

HAHAHAHA... not so much. Maybe, maybe 25% right.

==================

Things...

2011-12-01T05:13:00.003-05:00

Truthfully, today I'm blank. Life is uneventful, I'm swamped and the weather is warm for December (in the 40s).

I did see "The Three Musketeers" over the weekend at the cheap movies with my friend, Michele, who was up visiting. It was pretty dang good.

Anyone else see it?

======================

You Are Insomnia

You have a restlessness about you that's hard to shake. You have difficulty calming down.

You want to rise to the top. You are extremely ambitious and driven.

You can't stand by and be complacent. You try to take action whenever possible, and when you can't act, you worry.

In general, you consider sleeping to be a waste of time. You'll sleep when you're dead.

What Sleep Disorder Are You?

ROFL... um... Yeah.

=========================

Cat Agility

2011-11-30T05:23:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Brandy, Angelina and Tori wondered why I didn't just have the lump on Dakota's head removed.

Here's the plain truth: It would require surgery ... to the tune of about $800. If it the vet had come back and told me it was cancer for certain, we'd have tightened our belts and done it, because she's family. But since the vet is nearly 100% certain it's NOT cancer, we're playing the odds.

Pets aren't cheap folks. Even healthy pets aren't cheap (right, Brandy?) but when they start getting sick, it's no fun at all. It's why we don't have three dogs and seven cats. Because to be a responsible pet owner means being able to take care of your critters, no matter what.

Speaking of cats... check this out:

=====================

You Are a Bridge to Happiness

You enjoy a good challenge or competition. You're bored when things are too easy.

You are focused and committed. You never lose site of your goals.

You like to surround yourself with beautiful objects. Aesthetics are important to you.

You are passionate and romantic. When you meet the right person, you just know.

The Bridge Test

Maybe 75% right.

======================

Monday in Review

2011-11-29T05:35:00.004-05:00

Was crazy busy yesterday, and I don't think today looks any better... why did I ever think I'd have more time with DD in school?

I checked my calendar, and this Saturday will have been twelve weeks since I submitted "Now and Forever" (my "Kitchen Matches" sequel) to Samhain Publishing. *sigh* I'm not sure what I'll do at the end of the time. Oh.. well, shoot -- I just checked their submissions page and it says this: Please allow up to 12-16 weeks for a personal reply.

Guess I'll add another four weeks to the calendar. :-P

It's absolutely amazing how much turkey meat was left on the legs, wings and bodies of the three turkeys I deboned on Sunday. I ended up with about eight cups of cooked turkey bits from my stock pots!

I got two more turkeys yesterday. I just couldn't resist. I have one in brine for roasting today (but need to find a solid five hours at some point today ... not sure that's possible, and am checking into whether a turkey can be "over brined" if I leave it until tomorrow). Not that I'm going to have any more time tomorrow. Oy vey.

I took Dakota to the vet yesterday to have that yucky red growth on her head checked. At first look, the vet said, "It's either (insert unpronounceable name of really bad cancer here) or else it's (insert unpronounceable name of totally benign tumor here)." and she took samples by sucking goo from the center to look at under a microscope.

After about five minutes that felt like a hour, I found out that she didn't think it was the cancer. But, the cells are "definitely growing" and apparently this unpronounceable tumor will be getting larger before it goes away. And if it grows to more than twice the current size, or if it takes longer than a couple of months to go away, we should have it looked at again.

Fun times. But at least, for now, Dakota's okay.

How was your Monday?

========================

You Are a Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate

You like throwing random things together and seeing what works. You love to mix things up.

You have an open mind and an open heart. You are all about possibilities.

You have an incredible work ethic and are very tenacious. You like to productive.

You dare to be different, and almost all the risks you take come out in your favor.

What Starbucks Hot Chocolate Are You?

About 75% right.

==========================

It's Starting to Look A Lot Like Christmas

2011-11-28T05:42:00.004-05:00

At least it is at our house...

We got our tree on Friday and, after some issues with lights not working (again) and buying a new set (again) after DH spent a good two hours trying to figure out why the original set would work, we decorated the tree on Saturday evening.

DD asked if I thought the tree would be prettier if it had a "theme" or if it was all the same color ornaments, etc. One of her friends has a tree that is decorated in some theme every year -- usually the same color balls and ribbon.

I said (very adamantly) "NO".

Our tree is covered in memories. I have an ornament on there I made when I was a toddler. I have an ornament that I got from a friend for DD when she was still in utero (technically her first Christmas, lol). Ornaments from family. Handmade ornaments. Every one of them comes with a memory, and nothing can replace that.

We did have a brief blip in all the good cheer when DD unpacked the stockings and found Breeann's. There were tears and sad times. We put her stocking with her box of ashes, sniffed awhile and then moved on.

This helped:

When do you decorate for Christmas?

I have to take Dakota in to the vet today. On Friday, we found a suspicious lump on her head that wasn't there before. It looks like a pink wart... sort of. But the fact that it appeared so quickly and isn't going away (even after four days) means it could be something more serious. We're very "lump" conscious here because Bailey was lumpy (and we had to biopsy every one). We don't even think about it, just whenever we're petting the animals, we automatically register any lumps or bumps. This thing is right on top of her head, so there's no way we would have missed it before.

We're hoping it isn't anything serious (:::cancer:::) but prefer to be safe. Because I needed another vet bill. *sigh*

I found fresh turkeys on sale at the local store yesterday: $0.39/lb! I bought three, then spent the afternoon deboning them and running them through my grinder for ground turkey. DH didn't get a deer this year, so our freezer is going to be very empty. He strongly suggested getting a couple more turkeys today since the price is good AND it's from a very good company who uses no antibiotics or growth hormones.

I have two huge stock pots of turkey broth done as well (plus all the meat from the legs, wings and bodies that I couldn't get off when it was raw) and am thinking about trying my hand at pressure cooking turkey vegetable soup. We'll see if I have the time or inclination any time soon...

What did you do this weekend?

=======================

You Are Successful

Mellow and wise, you like to be with others but also to be alone. You seek a balance.

You are hard working and enterprising. You find staying busy satisfying.

You have high standards, and you are fair to everyone. Manners are important to you, even if that's old fashioned.

A bit demanding, you expect proper behavior from others. Your standards are tough but fair.

The Wild Eye Makeup Test

That's pretty much spot on...

===================

Black Friday

2011-11-25T06:11:00.004-05:00

Dinner was good (I ate myself silly, of course), had a nice day -- very quiet, and little dull, but still nice.

Got home from the in-laws and found the newspaper in the paper box. Had forgotten that our "Sunday" subscription includes the Thanksgiving paper with Black Friday ads. Looked at some of them (there were about four inches of ads!!) and decided that, despite the great deals and coupons, there was NO WAY I was shopping today.

I used to do Black Friday. I'd go to the craft stores, and maybe WalMart and Staples. I avoided the mall, but the satellite places weren't too bad. A few years ago, I stopped going when parking was obscene and it appeared people were ready to kill or die to save a few bucks. Despite being a super frugal person, the stress simply wasn't worth saving a buck or two.

What about you? Any of you shopping Black Friday?

Hope everyone had a great day!

====================

You Are a Special Dark Chocolate Bar

You are a deep and complex person. You don't let anyone get too close to you.

You stay a mystery, and you're good at keeping secrets... especially your own.

You prefer to stay on the outside a bit and observe. You find people fascinating.

You seek to understand and appreciate the world. There is more to you than anyone will ever know.

What Miniature Chocolate Bar Are You?

Not only is that spot on, but dark is the best kind of chocolate. If I were queen, I'd outlaw anything below 70%, lol...

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T06:13:00.000-05:00

The Day Before Thanksgiving...

2011-11-23T05:59:00.003-05:00

It's sleeting. I'm on the fence as to whether that's better or worse than snow. The good news is it's supposed to change to rain the moment the sun comes up. But DH may stay home -- it's a long drive in and when the roads are iffy, it takes twice as long. This will put a huge wrench in my plans for the day.

*sigh*

Today, I'll take the girls (DD's BFF slept over last night) to my Mom's house to swim (her apt has an indoor, heated pool). Then I'll brine the turkey, make potato salad and do some other Thanksgiving Day prep.

I miss the days when I was little and the entire family would come over for Thanksgiving. It would be complete chaos, people everywhere, guys outside tossing a football around, girls inside chattering and working on dinner, kids playing tag.

My DH's family doesn't get together for a meal. Everyone eats on their own, because, "We don't want to impose." DD has never known the tradition of a kid's table. She's missed out on the joy of chaos. The first year we lived here, I invited everyone for Thanksgiving dinner. One family showed and that was all. I thought it was fun, but after that year, it was always, "We don't want to impose." or "It's too much for one person."

I wouldn't have invited you if I didn't want you to come.

*sigh*

So tomorrow, DH, DD, Mom and I will sit down to a huge meal all by ourselves. There's a gathering at the in-laws after ... to sit and talk for hours on end (oh joy) but that's it.

It just seems odd.

What about you? How do you celebrate Thanksgiving?

===================

Your Color is Orange

You are a harmonious person with good communication skills. You draw people together.

You have a strong sense of purpose, and you're a natural leader. You want to make the world a better place.

You are honest and open. You feel like you can express your feelings and opinions without fear.

You are organized and find it easy to concentrate. You are very productive.

What's Your Feng Shui Color?

Mostly right...

================

The Tuesday Post Without A Title

2011-11-22T05:20:00.004-05:00

Quiet, though busy day yesterday. Boiled a turkey for Dakota's meal -- and hopefully my next turkey will thaw by Thanksgiving! Did some last minute grocery shopping (bought two more turkeys ... yes, I really did) and felt like I was running around getting nothing done all day long.

DD has a Grandparents Day celebration at her school today. My mom will be going and taking here there. I'm so excited to have one less trip today! DD is off tomorrow through next Monday, so life will be out of routine again.

My friend, Michele, will be coming up with her family for the weekend following Thanksgiving, so I'll get to see her again! I'd thought the last time would be the last until spring, so this was a nice surprise.

Still no word from Samhain about my "Kitchen Matches" sequel ... I'm really starting to get both antsy and a bit nervous. *sigh*

Lexie is settling in very well. She's finally starting to spend a bit more time upstairs and is, as I write, laying sprawled in front of the wood stove. She's still being really good about not climbing on the counters and is seldom on the furniture (which I consider negotiable ... I'd rather she slept on the couch than on the dining table). She and Dakota are still working things out, but she's pretty much stopped smacking the poor dog in the nose whenever Dakota sniffs her.

Today will be spent finishing making Dakota's food (yes, it's a two day ordeal) and digging out my Christmas cards (yes, I do buy them the week after Christmas for the next year and then have to find them!). I like to get them mailed out right after Thanksgiving when possible.

I still refuse to start celebrating Christmas until after Thanksgiving. One holiday at a time works for me. I remember when I was little watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade so I could see Santa for the FIRST TIME EVER. He never showed up in shopping malls or anywhere else until after Thanksgiving. Now? Meh...

It's too bad.

Have a great day!

==========================

You Learn by Teaching Yourself

There's very little you can't teach yourself. You are a huge self-learner.

You don't have one learning style that works for you. You try everything that works.

You experiment with learning and figure out what works best for you in each context.

Your most important attribute is perseverance. Even when it feels like something is impossible to understand, you don't give up.

How Do You Learn?

Mostly right!

=====================

Weekend in Review...

2011-11-21T05:26:00.004-05:00

Looong weekend here at the casa.

DD had a slumber party / birthday party Friday night into Saturday. It was for her BFF but things didn't go so well. Ah, the drama of childhood friendships...

You see, BFF had invited lots of people and there were 5 or 6 for the slumber party, one of whom was BFF's cousin. Well, BFF and cousin have known each other a long time (yanno, like their whole lives) and so ended up spending a lot of time talking and leaving DD alone with people she barely knew.

THEN the next day, when everyone showed up for the party, only one boy showed (several had RSVP'd) and he felt awkward, so BFF spent a lot of time trying to make him feel better. And the weather was deemed "too cold" to play outside, so many of the planned activities were canceled. Boredom ensued. As did much fussing and crying by BFF.

Drama, drama, drama.

Saturday night, DD sat with me for a bit talking and then said: when you spend a lot of time with someone, do they stop liking you?

And I responded: There's a saying "familiarity breeds contempt" which basically means that when you've been around someone for a long time, eventually you take them for granted. You figure they've been around for this long, they'll always be around, and lots of time you stop making the effort to keep the relationship strong.

It's true. And it's sad. Because you never know when that person won't be around anymore...

She'll recover and go on to have more heartache ... but it's hard to watch your kidlets get hurt.

Saturday afternoon, DH decided he HAD to take down pretty much the biggest tree at SIL's house. He did this on his own, because the time he decided to go was the time I had to stay to wait for DD to get home. No, I wasn't happy about it, but he's bigger than me, so I couldn't make him stay.

Sunday morning, DD and I got to spend helping DH haul all that wood out of the yard. Not only was the tree HUGE but it was way the heck back -- 200 yards maybe. So we'd pick up a piece, walk 200 yards, drop it, walk back and get another piece. Repeat 800 million times.

Then we got to load the truck, drive to our house, unload the truck and stack the wood.

Lather, rinse, repeat.

We started around 8:30 a.m. and finished around 1 p.m. at which time I decided that I needed to rake the leaves out of my flower gardens out front. The little garden that bisects my yard and my neighbor's is about two feet wide by 60 feet long. I didn't think there would be THAT many leaves. Boy was I wrong.

I raked his side first and got a pile about four feet around and two feet high. Had to rake that to the end of the sixty feet and into the woods. Then I did my side, which was wider and had about three times as many leaves. Un-freaking-believable.

Worse, we HAVE a leaf blower but it needs a new carbeurator. Had needed one for two years. DH won't buy a new blower because the part is only about $20 -- but I don't care how much it costs. It doesn't do me ANY good broken. If he doesn't fix it by spring, I'm going out and getting a new one myself. Because raking THAT many leaves that far is absurd.

I have blisters on my hands, and blisters on my feet. I couldn't sleep last night because everything on my body hurt and there was no such thing as a comfortable position.

And now that I've moaned and groaned, I feel like I wimp.

Today, I'm cooking a turkey for Dakota's food (yanno, I only make her food once every three weeks, and this is the second year in a row it's fallen the week of Thanksgiving. I need to work on that) and preparing to have DD and DH home again most of the week.

November is officially my least favorite month.

How was your weekend?

==========================

You Are a Siamese Cat

You are a very communicative creature. You're eager to express yourself - and do so often.

You are very dependent and love attention. You will complain if you are not getting enough affection.

Even though you are very loving, you can seem aloof, unpredictable, and stubborn in relationships.

A relationship with you takes a lot of patience.

What Breed of Cat Are You?

50/50 ...

==================

Warning: Sleep Deprived Rambling

2011-11-18T05:23:00.004-05:00

Spent the night coughing, so if my post sounds a little like I've lost a few brain cells, that's why.

The good news is that coughing is the final phaze of a cold for me, so after today, I should be pretty well done. Yay.

I went to DD's school last night for a meeting about entering high school -- how did my kidlet become an almost highschooler so quickly?? They talked about expectations (they do four years of the core subjects instead of fewer like most schools... for instance, when I was in high school we were only required to take two years of math). She'll have four years of Spanish when she's done (which is wonderful). They have a work experience program set up to help the kids earn money for tuition (it's with a nearby credit union and their pay is automatically set up to deduct 30% for a tuition account). It sounds wonderful. I admit, I've been looking at another private high school that's about ten minutes from my house (they're high school ONLY so I couldn't put her there for this year). It's slightly less expensive and SO much closer. But DD melts down if I so much as talk about it.

I bought three turkeys yesterday. Then I discovered I already had five in my freezer (yes, I have a huge chest freezer). When I posted about having eight turkeys in my freezer on Facebook I was surprised at the responses. Folks seemed surprised that I had bought three turkeys in the first place, never mind the other five. I can't be the only person in the world who stocks up on things when they're on sale, can I? I've also bought a TON of gravy and canned vegetables. There are times of the year when different things go on sale -- so why not buy a TON if you have the room to store them? I'm giving serious thought to buying more turkeys, actually, because I can use them for Dakota's food and I can donate some to the local food pantry. A fifteen pound turkey is only $5 right now ... it's crazy to not buy as many as I can keep.

Still waiting to hear from Samhain ... two more weeks will be twelve weeks. See what happens when you don't have a contract in two years? Would have been nice to have my old editor back (though, to be honest, my actual editor left Samhain and I'd been reassigned to someone who never contracted anything I sent, so maybe this is a blessing in disguise -- perhaps my submission will be sent to someone who has a better appreciation for what I write, as my last editor was looking for erotic romance, primarily M/M).

No big plans for the weekend. I imagine we might take down one more tree at my SIL's house, but otherwise, it should be fairly quiet (:::fingers crossed:::). Anyone have any news? Plans? Silly jokes?

=====================

You Are Ready to Take on the World

You are clear-minded and bright. You think through things well.

Your personality is extra spicy and larger than life. You love to have fun, and you are passionate about everything you do.

You are inspired and energized by so many things. You've got a natural high going on.

You tend to have a fast paced, busy lifestyle. Not a lot of people can keep up with you.

The Crayon Test

About 75% right.

=================

Back Among the Living

2011-11-17T05:44:00.004-05:00

Here, sort of. Feeling MUCH better today. Got knocked on my rear Tuesday afternoon. Was tired, dizzy, congested. Unfortunately, the worst hit when I was picking up the kidlet from school and I swear I wasn't sure we'd make it home safely -- I was unfocused, blurry-eyed. I truly shouldn't have been driving.

I came home and did a couple things that I *had* to do and went to bed. At 5:30.

Felt more human yesterday, but still massively congested and coughing. Thankfully not as tired.

Today, the congestion is down a bit. Still coughing a little, but definitely on the mend. Yay.

Being sick makes me cranky.

So far, DD has managed to stay healthy. Hopefully it'll stay that way.

Really not much else happening here at the casa. Who has news? My life is dull... let me live vicariously!

========================

Your Sunglasses Say You're a Realist

You are down to earth, stable, and practical.

You see the world as it is. You accept facts easily.

You need to be shaded from overly dramatic and problem prone people.

You feel sunniest when things are calm and peaceful

The Sunglasses Test

That's mostly right.

========================

Sick Day

2011-11-16T05:20:00.004-05:00

Thief!

2011-11-15T05:37:00.004-05:00

I've decided the best part about having a son as opposed to a daughter is that a son won't TAKE YOUR CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES.

Got up this morning, showered, dressed and went to grab a scrunchie for my hair off my scruchie holder which, up until recently, was jam packed with the things. This morning? Here's what I found:

I'm willing to be if she actually owned green clothes, those last two would be gone as well.

A few days ago, I went to put on my sneakers to take the dog for a walk... and they were missing. When DD got home from school, I saw them on her feet.

"Why didn't you wear YOUR sneakers?"

"Because they were upstairs and yours were right there by the door."

Of course .... makes perfect sense now.

A boy wouldn't do these things. Right? Or, at the very least, he'd be stealing from my husband and it wouldn't be my problem.

I think I'll commission my mom to make me some scrunchies. And then, some day I should probably invest in my own sewing machine ...

=================

You Are Goal Oriented

You've figured out systems that work for you in life, and you rely on those systems for stability.

You don't dislike alone time... in fact, you savor it. You grow and learn the most when you're by yourself.

Focused and super charged, your instincts are a good guide for your next step.

Sometimes you wish you could express yourself better, but you don't feel like you know how to do it.

The View Test

ROFL... this is just about spot on.

===========

The First Time

2011-11-14T05:26:00.009-05:00

So, my friend and fellow author, Charity Tahmaseb, was part of an anthology released recently. It's a YA about firsts (all kinds of first including, if I'm not mistaken, your first zombie *G*).

You never forget your first...

In THE FIRST TIME, 25 young adult authors contribute 25 stories all about firsts: first loves, first kisses, first zombie slayings, and more. Featuring New York Times bestselling authors Carrie Ryan and Jessica Verday, plus a host of others. From humor to horror, and everything in between, these stories will make you laugh, cry, cheer, (and maybe even scream) as you experience something brand new from the authors that you love.

I have a copy on my Nook, but haven't had a chance to start reading. Still, it got me to thinking about some firsts of my own.

My first "ma'am": Seriously, don't we remember this? For years I was "miss" and then WHAM! suddenly I've aged, and out comes the "ma'am". I was bartending in a family style restaurant (ala Applebees of Chilis) called "Wood'ys Grill and Bar" (yes, that's where they put the apostrophe ... dare to be different). We had a game room with four or five pinball machines and video games and the kids tended to come to the bar for change. One night, a couple teenaged boys came over with their dollars and ... they MA'AM'd me! They did... right there in public. "Excuse me, ma'am, can we get quarters?" I was traumatized for life.

My first car accident: I made the mistake of driving through "the cruise" one Friday night en route to a friend's house. I can't imagine what I was thinking, but it was the quickest way... or maybe "shortest" way is more accurate since the roads were clogged with kids driving around staring at each other. So there I was in the only new vehicle I've ever owned (it was about 6 months old at this time), with my friend Mary (who was drinking a cherry Slurpee -- yes, this figures in), minding my own business in the left turn lane waiting for the light to change. I looked in my rear view mirror and saw this car coming at me and knew she wasn't going to stop. I couldn't go anywhere or do anything but brace myself.

BAM! She hits me. And I hit the car in front of me, and so on and so on. It ended up being a five car accident, during which my bright, shiny new truck was totaled. Mary ended up with cherry Slurpee drenching the front of her (and freaked everyone out because they thought it was blood). The stupid girls left two perfect head prints in the shattered glass of their windshield ("Of course we were wearing our seat belts, officer.") and then said that *I* had hit the car in front of me, bounced back and hit them.

*sigh*

It went to litigation since everyone sued whoever hit them and I wasn't going to take the blame for a sixteen y.o. who was too busy looking at some cute guy to pay attention to traffic.

Since my truck was new, the insurance company pretty much only paid off the loan, and I had nothing for a new car. I ended up with a friend's '77 Toyota Celica (which is the whole reason I met my DH ... another story) and a bad back.

My first job: My senior year in high school I participated in "work experience" since I had all my credits (but Mom wouldn't let me graduate early, which in retrospect was probably good since I was only 16). Senior year was crazy easy for me. I had Yearbook, Drama III, Jazz Choir, and work experience. Tough times.

It was cool, though, because basically the school found jobs for you. You still had to interview, but I got the first one I applied for (and YAY never had to work fast food!). I was a cashier at a restaurant and that's where I learned how to make change in my head, carry four plates of food without dropping them and to ALWAYS ALWAYS pass on the right. To this day, I struggle passing anyone on the left, even if I'm just in a store or on the street.

I loved that job.

I'm still waiting for my first zombie slaying.

What are some firsts you remember?

======================

You Are Ma'at

You believe in doing what's right. You have the inner strength to stick to your guns.

You have a quiet spirituality and balance to you. You don't preach; you lead by example.

You are peaceful and serene. You try to make life go as smoothly as possible.

You have a reassuring nature. Your friends find you to be both soothing and comforting.

What Egyptian Goddess Are You?

I'm thinking this is about half right.

=====================

Happy Veteran's Day!

2011-11-11T05:51:00.003-05:00

For my father, my husband, my brother who served and for my nephew, a new Airborne soldier who's following in the family tradition.

On a side note: Applebees is letting Veteran's eat free today. And I imagine there are other specials in your local area (I know there's a car wash here that is giving free washes to veteran's).

Take a little time to remember them today and appreciate what they've fought to give you.

====================

Booking Through Thursday: eRevolution

2011-11-10T04:45:00.006-05:00

E-readers like the Kindle and iPad are sweeping the nation … do you have one? Do you like it? Do you find it changes your reading/buying habits? If you don’t have one, do you plan to?

I have a Nook "classic" (read: old, outdated Nook -- but then, what electronic device isn't outdated five minutes after you buy it?). I also have the Nook and Kindle apps downloaded on my Droid.

When I first got the Nook, I did it because of the sheer number of books released in eFormat that I was reading and reviewing for LASR. It hurts my eyes to read on the computer and, besides, my preferred reading spot is in bed, and the laptop is a bit clunky for that.

When I bought the Nook I thought I'd still read print books whenever they were available. I loved print. I couldn't imagine switching over to eBooks as a preference.

But I did.

The Nook was actually easier on my eyes than print. Lighter. I read faster on it. I loved the instant gratification of finishing a book and opening (or buying!) a new one without getting out of bed. I love being able to borrow from my library (as a side note -- the books there almost always have waiting lists, so I'm clearly not the only one using an eReader).

When I don't know what I feel like reading, but know I'm going somewhere I'll want to read, it's so simple to tuck the Nook into my bag and go, and have hundreds of books at my fingertips.

I prefer the eInk eReaders and have no interest in a tablet. The backlight hurts my eyes. It's why I read on my Nook more than my Droid -- though the Droid has come in handy for reading now and then. Should I replace my current Nook, I'd get the Nook black and white. I played with one at Barnes and Noble and love how small and light it is -- even smaller and lighter than my current Nook. And since I have WiFi capability from my Droid, it doesn't matter that it's not got a 3G hookup.

So ... do I have one? Yes. Do I like it? YES. Did it change my buying habits? Absolutely -- I now have complete access to pretty much every book in the world and am not restricted to print only.

I still buy the occasional print book. But I'd say that 95% of the books I read now are in eFormat.

What about you?

=====================

You Are The Warrior

At your best, you are brave, intense, and fearless. You have guts.

You have no problem standing up for what's right and asserting yourself. You'll fight for what you believe in.

You face the abyss head on, an you challenge your friends to do the same.

You have the guts to be who you are. You believe that you are important and special.

What's Your Personality Archetype?

And because this quiz gave me an earworm ... I'll share it with you (and dear dog the 80s were really strange ... this video is just ... nuts -- and yet, I think I have this song on 45):

Happy Thursday!

=====================

Missing: One Happy Place

2011-11-09T05:18:00.002-05:00

Not a lot to say today.

DH starts his next batch of vacation today, and he's sick. This doesn't make him a pleased person. He can't hunt when he's sick, which is the entire reason for his time off.

We got the results of Lexie's fecal exam, and it looks like she has worms. Remember our flea problem? I'm still fairly certain they came in on her. And, for cats, fleas mean worms. Despite using Frontline on her when we first had our problem just over a month ago (and reapplying when the next month started), she had flea dirt at her appointment on Monday. *sigh*

My contact at the shelter doesn't seem to think they can do anything.

So, not in my happy place right now.

In other news ... it's been nine weeks since I submitted my story to Samhain. Three more weeks equals the twelve they ask us to wait. *sigh*

====================

Your Persona is Elegant

You are wise and thoughtful. You are very philosophical about life.

You love to have fun, possibly more than most people. You have your own kind of fun though.

You are the master of new ideas, techniques, and ways of looking at things.

Your thoughts may seem scattered to you, but they seem strong and passionate to those around you.

The Elegant Chandelier Test

Oh yeah, that's me: elegant. From head to toe. :-P

Vet Visit

2011-11-08T05:03:00.002-05:00

We have good news/bad news on the kitty after our vet appointment yesterday.

The good news? He thinks she probably has a food allergy of some sort, and recommended some limited ingredient / hypo-allergenic food. He gave me a list of brands, and two of them are actually something I'd feed my pets, so I'll try that.

The bad news? Her back teeth are nearly rotted out. I knew she had bad breath, and had mentioned it. It's clear just why now. I'm so angry ... the shelter had to have known. It's not something anyone would miss and they'd only had her since July. This problem has taken WAY longer than a couple of months to develop. The cost to have them pulled is in the many hundreds of dollars and after the many hundreds of dollars I spent on Breeann, more vet bills just aren't in our budget right now. I know the owner of the shelter personally, and I mentioned it to her via email. I doubt anything will be done, and I can't take her back (though the thought did cross my mind).

But I've learned my lesson about adopting. Next time, I'm treating it like buying a used car -- I want a full vet checkup with MY vet before I sign anything.

Hope your Monday was better than mine!

=====================

You Are Lottery Tickets

You charge full speed ahead. You have a lot to get done and not a lot of time to do it.

You are a master at efficiency, and if you were to gamble, you'd like to get it done as quickly as possible.

Your friends, family, and job rely on you. You like being needed, and you would never want to let anyone down.

You take shortcuts to have time for what matters in your life. You only have so many hours in the day.

What Kind of Gambling Are You?

Mostly right ....

===============

Busy Weekend

2011-11-07T05:19:00.003-05:00

Spent the day at the agility fun match yesterday. DD did great! I was very proud. She and Dakota got best overall time, first place in the advanced dog category and their team (of a mix of advanced, intermediate and beginner dogs) also placed first!

Here's a video of one of her runs, the first (and not the best one, but still good -- I haven't uploaded the others yet):

I was exhausted. So was DD and the dog. In fact, we fed the dog lunch when we got home (around 2 pm) and then I forgot to feed her dinner -- because I didn't eat -- and she never woke up to ask for it! LOL...

The cat goes in for her first check up with my vet today. She's still having vomiting problems. If I feed her more than a few pieces of food for a meal, she gobbles it down and then throws it right back up. So I have to try to remember to feed her 10 - 15 pieces every hour or two. I know she probably isn't getting enough to eat, because there are times I'm just not around (like yesterday), but I'm not sure what else to do. Will talk to the vet today. Maybe soft food is the answer...

Just once, I'd like to have a low maintenance pet.

Otherwise, she's settling in pretty well. She decided to use DH's hockey equipment as a litter box (I'll admit... I can understand the confusion because it really stinks) and she's starting to climb on the counters (a big no-no), but DH has been remarkably patient.

And, yes, she still loves him best. :-P

Today is supposed to be gorgeous, weatherwise, so I might finally go out and cut down my perennials, and pull down my tomato cages for the winter. We'll see...

Have a happy Monday!

=====================

You Are a Blackberry Smoothie

You are mentally alert and curious. Your mind is always at work, even when you're resting.

You produce valuable and original works. You are quite the creator.

You are insightful and astute. You are quite savvy when it comes to most things.

You are probably an expert in at least one field. You love gaining deep knowledge.

What Berry Smoothie Are You?

The First Rule of Blogthings Is: You Don't Talk About Blogthings

LOL... mostly right.

The Fates Are Conspiring ...

2011-11-04T05:56:00.002-04:00

Welcome to my pity party.

It's November 4th and my NaNoWriMo total is a big, fat goose egg.

There are a million reasons why. The "day job" is killing me. DH is home. Yadda yadda.

Really, aside from that I don't have a lot else to say. I'm surviving on coffee and very little sleep and still don't have enough hours in the day to do the things I'm being paid to do. I haven't done anything around my house but the dishes in a week. The cat is vomiting again -- we're going to the vet on Monday. Maybe my house is toxic. I have the agility fun match on Sunday ... I considered skipping, but my daughter and the instructor nearly cried.

Today, I'm taking a notepad with me when I pick up the kidlet. I have about ten minutes while I wait in line that I can at least jot something down. I'm not the kind of writer who can write in ten minute bursts, though. I need to reread what I have done, get absorbed in the story again, before I really get words down.

And that's my life.

Wishing you all a great weekend with electricity and beautiful weather (wishing it for me and mine as well *G*).

===========================

You Are a Blue Flower

You know a lot, and you're always learning more. You believe in being self-sufficient.

You are a rule breaker but not a rule maker. You generally despise all rules.

You are very fantasy prone. If you don't like how the world is, you imagine how it could be.

You are an open, flexible person who is able to see the world through many perspectives.

What Primary Color Flower Are You?

Blogthings: 100's of Fun, Free Quizzes and 3 Stupid Ones

75% right.

===================

Post "Snowtober" storm Report

2011-11-03T04:59:00.005-04:00

Okay ... I'm finally officially back online, though much of my town is not. The library only got power late yesterday afternoon, and the place I do agility was still closed last night. Our local Super WalMart lost power for three days and had to toss all their frozen and perishable foods, though they probably could have just put them all outside in the two feet of snow, lol...

The local school district was closed Monday and Tuesday, but opened yesterday. Manchester was closed until today, and the Nashua schools are still closed.

DD's school opened on Tuesday, thankfully (would really stink to already have three snow days to make up in June ... I swear, kids are going to be going to school all summer at this rate). Sadly, her school was vandalized -- someone spray painted graffiti on the two little school buses they have and on the doors and windows of the building. It's already been cleaned off, but made me very sad.

Some pictures:

My driveway immediately following the storm (yes, there's a car under there somewhere):

And the back deck -- we got about two feet of nasty, heavy, wet snow:

Some random pictures of tree damage (we had a small tree on one of the power lines up the road a mile or so, which is what killed our power).

One house on the way to school had a tree drop on it (Mom, you'll know it -- the blue house with the gingerbread bright yellow shutters) and now has a tarp over the roof, and one street about a block from DD's school was closed because a huge oak was down. No matter where I drive, branches still litter the sides of the road, trees are broken and there are leaves and debris everywhere.

I'm pretty sure this storm caused worse damage than the ice storm in 2008 and the wind storm last year.

We had our generator, thankfully, but I admit to getting nervous when the few gas stations with power in the area started running out of gas. In the past couple of days, too, generators are being stolen in huge numbers, even when they're chained up. I'm always saddened when hard times bring out the worse in people instead of the best. I did see one picture in Amherst where a woman (on Sunday) who had power was inviting folks to her house to watch the NE Patriots game. Just stuck a sign out that said "I have power and the Pats ... fans welcome".

In any case, this doesn't bode well for the rest of the winter, but I'm betting there's a run on generators this coming week. *G*

Tomorrow I'll talk NaNo.

=====================

Interview with Gordon Kessler

2011-11-02T04:00:00.000-04:00

Folks, I asked Gordon to my blog because I love his work. He was here earlier in the year talking about his thriller, "Brainstorm" and today he's sharing a bit about his horror/thriller, "Jezebel". Since it has dogs as central characters, it was a no-brainer to have him on the blog.

His post is also part of a Goddess Fish Promotions tour, so everyone who comments is eligible to win a $50 Amazon GC.

AND!!! All his eBooks are only $0.99 right now from Amazon, iBook, B&N, Kindle and Smashwords.com. I highly recommend you give his work a try if you're at all fond of the thriller genre. You won't be disappointed. I'm buying his books for one of my friends who's terribly hard to Christmas shop for. I know she's going to love them.

Gordon, welcome back! Tell us a bit about yourself for those who might have missed you last time.

A former US Marine recon scout, parachutist and Super Squad team leader, I teach novel writing and am president of the Kansas Writers Association. I try to stay connected to writers and the writing industry by doing speaking engagements at writers conferences and for writers organizations, and do my own "The Storyteller" seminar in Wichita, Lincoln (Nebraska), Kansas City, and other Midwestern cities based on my Novel Writing Made Simple book.

What is the most interesting fact about you?

Maybe that I like to pull things from my real life and use them in my thriller novels. I've been privileged to go many places and do many exciting things in my life.

What got you into blogging?

I've found it a great way to get in touch with readers and to promote my writing, especially my thriller novels Jezebel, Dead Reckoning and Brainstorm as well as my book on the novel writing craft, Novel Writing Made Simple.

What is your favorite genre of books?

Thrillers, because there's usually a good mix of drama, romance, suspense and intense action. Where else can you have it all?

Name an achievement that you are most proud about? Why?

I was a founder of the Kansas Writers Association, a group of about 150 writers, back about 15 years ago. It's still a thriving organization and I'm privileged to come back and be their president this year after being away for some time.

What is your favorite hobby?

Writing is top on my list. I have a "real" job that keeps me extremely busy, so writing is my "getaway" when I'm home. Second on my list is teaching new or struggling writers how to write better. When I find the time and the place, I also enjoy snow skiing, sailing and SCUBA diving.

What way is the industry going? EBooks or Books? Which one do you like? Why do you think the industry is going this way?

EBooks are definitely the future. Still, there's something to be said about the inviting feel, look and even the smell of a paperback or hardcover. However, I travel a lot, and being able to carry thousands of books on my tablet makes it very convenient. Also, with the new eBook readers and applications for PCs, they're made it as easy or easier to read from the screen than from a paper book inside a dim airplane.

The industry is quickly going to the eBook—but don't get me wrong, there will always be a place for paper. Still, I know that not only brick and mortar chain bookstores, but also the independent mom and pop stores, and even libraries are having to diversify to stay viable. I say, patronize your neighborhood library and local indie bookstore often. But when you have to go with convenient....

Bloggers, how about giving me your comments on the Halloween season; what makes a good scare for you?

Here’s how to find out more about my novels:

The book videos on YouTube:

Jezebel -- http://youtu.be/_zHD9pmHOzk

Brainstorm -- http://youtu.be/6eDjWJFbRdI
.
Thanks again for hosting me on your wonderful blog!

Sleep lightly tonight…

A madman has come to town seeking a diabolical revenge and large dogs begin attacking their masters for no apparent reason and with heinous results.

Animal Control Director Tony Parker must find out why and stop the murderous attacks. Meanwhile, Jezebel, a huge black Great Dane has killed her master and is loose, terrorizing the city and stalking Parker and his family. Parker and Sarah Hill, his beautiful and seductive young assistant, attempt to unravel the mystery and stop the terrible carnage while dealing with their own demons and lusty desires.

The attacks must be stopped. Jezebel must be found-and soon, you see--there is one other complication. Parker seems to have come down with an annoying little virus. No, it's not one of those irritating summer colds. It's certain death.

She's a murderess, huge and black as a hell-bound night.

Beware. Jezebel is on the loose!

Read an exciting excerpt:

In the grayish soup, a dark vision appeared. Floating down the middle of the street, it slowly formed into a recognizable shape.

An animal. A large black animal. A huge Great Dane. It walked with confidence. Long, thin legs. Mouth closed, head and eyes fixed straight ahead. Occasionally, its feet splashed one of the pools. Light from the streetlights caused a sparkle from underneath its neck with every step of its left forefoot. A large diamond, set on a gold tag, captured the light and shot it out like a laser. The dog maintained its pace for what seemed like minutes.

Finally, it stopped. With its body still pointing down the street, it slowly turned its head to the right and looked up a sidewalk leading to the front door of a house. It stared, still emotionless, at the door. At Tony Parker’s door.

Visit Gordon online:

http://www.ReadersMatrix.com
http://www.Twitter.com/GordonKessler
http://www.Facebook.com/GordonKessler1
http://www.LinkedIn.com/in/GordonKessler
=====================

Covered in a blanket of snow

2011-10-28T04:42:00.003-04:00

So ... it snowed. Not tons and tons, but enough to stick. We have a good 2" on our deck and grass. The roads right now aren't snow covered, but are a solid sheet of ice (at least my street is).

We have the wood stove going, which is nice, but that's the earliest we've ever started to burn (which means we'll run out of wood earlier than usual), so I'm concerned a bit.

Days like this, I want to live in the Bahamas.

Today marks the first day of my DH's two week vacation. I asked what was on the agenda today. Cutting down trees. And, we'll be working in snow, now which thrills me to NO end.

DD is thrilled she'll be in school. Wish I had an excuse!

More snow is expected on Saturday, though. Looks like it just might be a tougher winter than usual -- which apparently the wildlife knew since there are NO acorns to be found anywhere. Whereas last year? The ground was littered with them.

I'm dreading the fact I have to drive DD to and from school everyday. Used to be if the weather was icky, I just stayed home until it wasn't. I'm not a confident driver in the snow (comes from two times sliding off the road in Colorado and Wyoming) which makes me a nervous wreck. Maybe it'll only snow on Saturdays?

The countdown to spring begins now.

Hope your weekend plans are warmer and less labor intensive than mine!

======================

You Are Hot Coffee

You are quick and elusive. You have keen senses, and you can concentrate intensely.

You are charming, outgoing, and friendly. You make a good first impression.

You are open-minded and flexible. You don't see things as set in stone, and you like to leave yourself open.

You are energetic and fired up. You are always ready to take on the world.

The Hot Beverage Test

About half right.

=========================

The "S" Word

2011-10-27T04:42:00.002-04:00

Sorry about missing yesterday... but I was totally blank. I'm not much better today, really, since I finally managed to drag myself out of bed at 4 a.m. (I've had my alarm set for 4 a.m. the past couple of weeks, but haven't actually managed to get my lazy self up until nearly five).

I need to get up earlier now because it's the start of hunting season, and DH has taken off the next two weeks starting with Friday. He's very, very good at filling my day with jobs, so if I'm going to do NaNoWriMo (and that still feels like a pipe dream to me, but I'm going to try) and get the rest of my usual work done, I need to give myself some extra time in the a.m.

We went to dog agility for the first time in a really long time last night. While I really do love going, it's gotten to be SO difficult with DD's school stuff. We had a great time, though, and Dakota was thrilled to see all her friends.

The weatherman said the "S" word. Yes, it's true, we might see some snow tonight and then again this weekend. Already! It usually doesn't snow until Thanksgiving or so. Granted, the ground isn't frozen, so it's not going to stick, but even so .... we're going from late summer weather to winter practically overnight. I swear it's getting to be two seasons anymore: summer, winter. Who needs spring and fall?

I need to dig out my flannel sheets. :::shivers:::

==================

You Are Oxygen

You are highly observant. No detail slips past you.

You follow the rules - even if you don't particularly like them.

Beyond being a good leader, you are good at inspiring others. You push everyone you know to be a little better.

You are polite and courteous. You always mind your manners.

What Periodic Element Are You?

That's pretty much right.

Fore! Timber! Fun Words to Yell!

2011-10-25T05:29:00.005-04:00

Yesterday Dru Ann asked if anyone yelled "timber!" when the tree fell. Yep, I did. *G*

She also asked why they yell timber, and though I wasn't able to find out the exact origins (I did find a site which asked "Why don't they yell 'hey move!' instead of 'timber'?", lol) basically it's a way to say "look out there's a tree falling!" a lot quicker.

I also stumbled across the origins of "Fore!" in golf, which is essentially the same thing, but at least the explanation was more interesting.

Speaking of interesting, the other day Tori mentioned something about the RMS Olympic (sister ship to the Titanic and the only one of the three ships in its class that didn't sink) and I did some looking up and found that one woman was on ALL THREE sisters ships (Olympic, Titanic and Britannic) when they either crashed into something or sank.

Her name was Violet Jessup, and I find her story very interesting.

Yes, I do tend to gather trivia. Why do you ask?

Yesterday was pretty uneventful. DD did get her first EVER school pictures. She hates them (of course ... didn't we all?) but, though I don't love how her bangs look, otherwise the pix are fine. I'm sorting through them and deciding who gets which sizes now.

I also have my first ever parent/teacher conference this week, though I'm not sure what they'll talk about. They keep everything on the computer in a "portal" I can login to. I can see DD's scores for everything: homework, quizzes, tests and overall grade. I can see her deportment scores (they give +1 or -1 depending on various behavior). There probably aren't going to be any surprises.

She had me help with Algebra last night and it took me a few minutes to figure out what I was supposed to do. She said, "Mom, I thought you loved algebra!" to which I replied, "I did ... thirty years ago."

I had to help her make a scatter plot. Fun times were had by all.

How was your day?

======================

You Are Passionate

You are magnetic and passionate. You are good at rallying people around a cause.

A true charmer, you subtly influence people into seeing things your way.

You are intense and over the top. You are more likely to overdo things than to underdo them.

You are definitely a whirlwind of excitement. When you're around, nothing is boring... that's for sure.

The Italian Food Test

Don't know if this is me or not ... this is one of those answers you need to ask people who know you about. Does this fit?

================

Weekend in Review

2011-10-24T05:27:00.003-04:00

Crazy weekend here ... still waiting for a video to upload to YouTube while I type (apparently my phone takes really big videos which is YAY for the resolution, but UGH on the amount of time it takes to upload), so I'll share this with you first. My friend, Maria Zannini released a new book! It's the second in her Second Chances Series, Chain of Souls. Check it out:

Banished from Heaven for refusing to harvest an unwilling soul, Liam Chase drinks to forget night after night until the Angel of Death pays him a visit.

For the price of a few humans souls, Ziva promises to get him reinstated into Heaven. Liam doesn’t doubt her influence, but milking humans of their light is an unspeakable crime, punishable by eternal oblivion.

He’d rather rot on Earth than commit such a monstrous sin. But the Angel of Death didn’t get where she was by taking no for an answer. Ziva is a huntress of extraordinary skill and cruelty. If he refuses, his loved ones will be her next targets. And Ziva never misses.

Ziva has already set her sights on Shannon, the soul he once refused to harvest, and his beloved servant, Evie. He’ll do anything to keep them safe, even if it means his death.

But something goes wrong just as he concedes, and the chain of souls picks a new mistress before he has a chance to deliver.

Brought for trial before the most feared angel in Heaven and Hell, Liam discovers he has failed to protect his loved ones and now they too could share his fate.

Sounds good!! If you think so, too, know this: It's only $2.99 (the cost of that Starbucks you were going to get this morning ... but this lasts for more than a few minutes) and you can get it here: Amazon, B&N and Smashwords.

:::checks back at YouTube::: "About 4 minutes left"

*sigh*

So, DH decided that we should spend Friday, Saturday and part of Sunday taking down trees, stacking the branches and dragging logs in from the woods to load on the truck, bring home and stack in our yard for next year's burn.

It's not that I mind working. It's not that I don't LOVE free wood (we use about three cords a year, and it runs about $250/cord right now, so YAY for free wood). It's not that I don't love a warm house in the middle of winter.

What I mind is spending ALL FREAKING WEEKEND doing it. Because, hello, already have a full plate of chores and work that doesn't do itself while I'm off doing something else. I didn't get the LASR/WC website built for this week until last night. I have twenty-six active virtual tours on Goddess Fish that I'm filling, organizing and promoting. We won't talk about the 50+ reviews I edit weekly or the house that I cleaned. And DD wanted to practice basketball, so I needed to fit that in somewhere, too (amazingly, it didn't hurt my knee AT ALL).

It all got done (barely), but it wasn't fun. Nevermind trying to plot something for NaNoWriMo in a week.

:::checks back at YouTube::: -- Upload Progress 100%!

Okay, so I took one video of DH felling a tree. He did this when SIL wasn't there (she was driving the wood to our house with SIL#2 and stacking it) because she tends to flip out and stress beyond belief every time he takes anything down. It's not like he's dropped one on her house (he did hit the edge of her shed once, but that was actually her fault... long story). I videoed it because I knew she'd want to watch. It's pretty amazing actually, and DH is a lot braver that I would be. The times he gestures to me in the video, he's asking if the tree looks like it's falling the right way (it was). I was worried a minute because the wind picked up just a smidge, but it was blowing the right way.

That's a big tree. We had to clear and pile all the branches in the canopy, plus find all the bits of wood he cut ( we don't waste any -- even the smaller branches are cut up to burn) and haul it out the woods. SIL will have some very happy birds and chipmunks this winter living her her brush piles.

There are three more trees she wants taken down. That's on the agenda for next week.

*sigh*

What did you do this weekend? Anything fun? Let me live vicariously!

====================

You Should Get Your PhD in Business Administration

You love to work on a team, and you do your best to bring out everyone's strengths.

You only work when it is very meaningful and profitable. You don't want to waste your time in a job.

You have what it takes to be a top business owner or consultant. You have a head for money.

Your work doesn't have to have a higher meaning. Making money is its own reward.

What Should You Get a PhD In?

Mostly right.

=================

Thing I've Learned About Girls From Sleepovers

2011-10-21T04:50:00.002-04:00

DD had a friend sleepover last night (they had a field trip yesterday and have a harvest festival today). I like her friend (how can I not like her... she LOVES Dakota). But I'm exhausted this morning and a bit wiser on how girls works when they run in packs (even small packs of two):

1. Girls are just as rowdy as boys.

We had plenty of activity last night. Running, playing, tug-o-war, wrestling. The dog was in heaven. I was not.

2. There's lots of giggling.

As in nearly non-stop giggling. At one point, her friend was rolling on the floor laughing at something I saw no humor in.

3. There's lots of whispering.

If they aren't giggling, they're talking.

4. There's no "off" switch.

They never, ever want to go to bed.

On a side note, why is it when we're babies / toddlers / kids we never want to nap and "bedtime" is a curse words, but when we're older we'd give anything for a little afternoon siesta?

Already sleep-deprived, I'm barely able to keep my eyes open this morning. I have a feeling today is going to be a very, very long day, especially since I suspect there is more tree dragging in my future.

Have a great weekend all!

====================

You Are a Deer

You are trusting of yourself and others. You give people the benefit of the doubt.

You are grateful for this life you've been given. You feel blessed for what you have.

You see the world through the eyes of a child. You are rarely cynical or jaded.

You are unselfconscious and totally natural in your behavior. You are free-spirited.

What Forest Animal Are You?

HAHAHAHAHA... no. That's about 95% wrong.

*snort*

===================

Ads We'll Never See Again!

2011-10-20T05:04:00.007-04:00

Because I'm trying to get used to getting up before the crack of dawn again, and because last night both DD and DH wouldn't let me get to sleep (why doesn't a closed door and no light on mean "I'm in bed, leave me alone"?... They apparently think it means, "Please, come in, sit on the bed and let's have a conversation.") so I didn't even close my eyes until after eleven, meaning my alarm at 4 a.m. came WAY too early and now I can barely keep my eyes open, let alone think coherently, I give you "ADS WE'LL NEVER SEE AGAIN:

=================

You Are Driven

Of all the types, you are the most energetic and vibrant. You just go for it.

You know how to get results. You have momentum and ambition in your side.

Gutsy and brave, you've never let your fears stop you from doing anything. You are in control.

You are very involved in the world. You say yes to every opportunity and invitation.

What's Your Power?

Hmmm... yeah, pretty much.

===================

2011-10-19T05:29:00.003-04:00

I pointed out to my DH yesterday what a good kitty Lexie is. "She doesn't get on the counters at all, or on the table. She doesn't open the cupboards or knock over the trash." He said, "I found her on the back of the couch!" (Because, you see, the animals aren't allowed on the furniture... *sigh*). I told him at least it was something that was meant to be sat on (and reminded him that she wasn't clawing it, just sleeping on it).

That's what comes from marrying someone who never had pets growing up (not even a fish -- which I think is just wrong on so many levels).

Lexie, OTOH, seems unfazed. She has also decided that her water dish simply won't do, and prefers Dakota's:

Tried to visit a few places yesterday, but had some trouble commenting. Don't know if it was Blogger or me. :-(

DD had a rough day at school yesterday. Her BFF was out sick and DD said no one would talk to her. In fact, it was as if she had the plague. She drew me a picture of history class (where there are no assigned seats) and she sat in the front corner, and everyone else left a buffer of empty desks between her ... the rest of the class all sat in the farthest away corner. She cried all the way home. Real tears because they were quiet and very, very sloppy.

Her friend will probably be out again today. DD is dreading it, but we talked about how to engage people in conversation and how to behave in various situations. Whether it helps or not, I have no idea. But the simple fact is: she won't always have a friend around so she needs to learn how to deal.

I was perpetually the "new kid" in school as my folks moved so frequently (and often in the middle of a school year), so I had to learn how to make new friends constantly. It's not fun, it's not comfortable, but it's a good skill to have.

As a side note, I talked to her friend's mom the other day (her friend was also homeschooled until this year) and she said, "I thought I'd have so much time once the kids were in school, but I swear I have LESS."

It was good to know I'm not the only one who feels that way...

Have a happy hump day!

=================

You Are a Turkey Sandwich

Conservative and a bit shy, you tend to stick with what you know and trust.

You are very introverted, and you prefer to blend in whenever possible.

Though you may be hard to know well, anyone who does know you considers you a true friend.

Your best friend: The Ham Sandwich

Your mortal enemy: The Tuna Fish Sandwich

What Kind of Sandwich Are You?

Mostly right ... yes really. Okay -- who's a ham sandwich?

=========================

NaNo Noodling

2011-10-18T05:51:00.003-04:00

So, a couple of days ago, a message from my writing friend Charity Tahmaseb pops up on my Facebook wall. It says:

Dude, I'm thinking about doing NaNo (no, really, I am). What say you?

After I picked myself up off the floor (I'll explain in a moment why I fell out of my chair), I gave it some thought and basically said: if you are, I have to.

You see, NaNoWriMo tends to make Charity cranky (and WOW, I found a link to her old blog!). So to have HER initiate a post about actually DOING NaNo was a bit shocking.

I can't let her sail her maiden voyage alone (and, yeah, I know about ten million other people will be doing NaNoWriMo, but .... still...) so I'll give it a go. My plan is to write Geoff's book. I didn't like the way it was going before (it was too easy, and had little conflict, though the heroine and her family rocked, so they may need a story of their own eventually), so have completely reimagined it. I do need to sit down and plot it out a bit more, but I have the basic stuff in my head.

I have two weeks.

Oy.

====================

You Are the Central Time Zone

For you, each day is new and glorious. You wake up refreshed and happy, even when things aren't going your way.

Following the rules feels natural to you. You can't imagine living outside the law.

You love to create and preserve sacred memories. You are a very nostalgic person.

You are down to earth and old fashioned. You think that most trends are overrated.

What US Time Zone Are You?

About 75% right...

==================

Tree Dragging and Other Fun Weekend Games

2011-10-17T04:52:00.003-04:00

So ... we finished splitting and stacking the wood for burning this year. Of course, the spot out back where we pile the green wood to season was empty, so DH had the urge to fill it. He took down three trees this weekend. He has his eye on two more in our backyard, and my SIL has three or four she wants taken down at her house.

I try to remind him that, although HE may have time off on the weekends, I don't. So, my days were filled with humping wood and branches, my evenings and morning with computer work.

Still, it was a gorgeous weekend. I did fit a little time off in -- went to the dog park both Saturday and Sunday. One of my favorite pastimes is watching dogs interact with one another. It's incredible how the bad energy from one dog affects an entire group.

We were there alone with Dakota at first, then a lady came with two big dogs: a red boxer mix and what looked like a boxer/mastiff or boxer/pit bull in tan. The second, tan dog was a foster-to-potential-adopt they'd only had for a week, so they weren't sure how he'd behave, though they'd had no trouble with his interaction with other dogs up to this time.

The first dog was clearly alpha. He wasn't mean, just dominant. He made sure Dakota understood (she did!) then went around on his merry way. The second, tan dog was still young (just under a year) and only wanted to play, play, play. He had a great energy and he and Dakota had a blast.

Then came a lady with a black lab mix who was VERY submissive, but also nervous. Still, all four were getting along fine once the lab realized no one was going to eat her.

Then came trouble. An English Sheepdog who was still young (just a year) and felt as though he should be alpha dog. He came in excited, barking and basically telling everyone how it was. The first thing he did was find the little, nervous lab and start barking at it non-stop, constantly in its face. The lab tried to go away, tried hiding under the table, behind people's legs, whatever, but the dog wouldn't leave it alone. When it started showing teeth, though, it was time to intercede (and yeah, I kinda get involved in other people's dogs).

The first red boxer, though, had had enough. And when the sheepdog decided to assert himself to the tan dog (in the red dog's "pack") the real fun began. No real fight, but some very aggressive posturing. Over and over. The owners of the boxer put him on-leash (as they should have), but it took having the sheepdog leave before things settled.

I suspect this happens in groups of people, too, only we don't have the uninhibited responses that dogs do. We understand we can't just get in a person's face and say "I don't like you." and follow them around, shoving them until they understand their place.

I prefer dogs.

And now, I'm out of time already. Hope you all had great weekends! Tomorrow, a NaNoWriMo discussion.

=================

You Are Reflective

You are very analytical, and you rarely panic. You know that nothing is as big of a crisis as it first seems.

You like all of your stuff to be in its place. It drives you crazy to be disorganized.

Sometimes your strong sense of responsibility leads to frustration. You take too much on.

You are very introverted, and you prefer to blend in whenever possible.

The Card Test

HAHAHAHA... yeah, mostly. Not a big "blender" but othewise, right on.

Ramble, Ramble, Ramble....

2011-10-14T05:40:00.004-04:00

I'm empty today, so I'm going to ramble a bit.

I do think I may have found one thing that will make life easier for me on the LASR site (it has to do with review request receipt, posting, tracking and issuance -- something that takes at least a couple hours a day). We're also planning a complete restructuring of the LASR site effective January 1, 2012 assuming I can find the time to actually do it.

DD was assigned a science project: freeze cold water, lukewarm water and hot water and find which freezes first. We started the project last afternoon and then promptly forgot to check hourly, so I Googled it this morning. Here's what I found out from Scientific American:

It all depends on how fast the cooling occurs, and it turns out that hot water will not freeze before cold water but will freeze before lukewarm water.

I'd wondered why they added "lukewarm" water to the test. Now I know. And, huh. Who knew?

DH and I had a lunch date planned for today (we've been having "date days" on Fridays -- his day off -- since DD has started school) but work decided they had to have a meeting at 11:30 today and he has to dial in. So, no date for us.

I found a Where's George bill a few days ago. I never remember to actually log my own cash in (yes, I have an account), but when I find them, I always put them in for tracking.

This one said: This bill has travelled 116 Miles in 2 Yrs, 188 Days, 10 Hrs, 6 Mins at an average of 0.13 Miles per day. It is now 116 Miles from its starting location.

The initial entry read this: My name is Isabella and I am four. My daddy is going to use this bill to buy gas on his way to work tomorrow.

It's interesting to see what happens to them.

That's about it for me. No big plans for the weekend... I'll probably spend most of it taking down my veggie garden and stacking wood. Ah, preparation for winter. Fun times.

Have a great weekend!

====================

You Eat Like a Conservative

You may or may not be a political conservative, but studies show you sure eat like one.

You gravitate toward comfort foods and classics. And you don't waste your time with fancy food trends.

You prefer to eat what's tried and true. You get annoyed with people who have hangups about what's healthy.

Pass the mac and cheese, meatloaf, fried chicken, and apple pie. Your tastes are all-American as they come!

Do You Eat Like a Liberal or a Conservative?

Yep ... no Thai food for me thankyouverymuch...

==================

Leaves

2011-10-13T05:26:00.004-04:00

Thanks all for your ideas and words of encouragement yesterday. Not sure where the answer is, but I'm going to work at figuring it out. Soon.

Maria Zannini asked a couple days ago: Are you planning on migrating this blog to WordPress or is this for a new blog?

Neither, actually. Well, sort of. I want to try my hand at building a website with it. It'll include blog posts, I imagine, but it'll have static pages, too. It's one of the things I'm toying with to see if life will be made easier by using it. Of course, first life will be harder because of the learning curve, but hopefully (if Word Press -- which my phone autocorrected to read Weird Pods -- works the way I hope it will) in the long run it will ease my work load.

Lexie is getting braver. She's actually making it all the way up to the second floor now. She's still concerned about the dog and still runs for the basement if there's a noise she doesn't like, but she's coming out of her shell a bit more.

Took some pictures yesterday of the leaves FINALLY changing out here. Because it hasn't been cold, they aren't changing like usual. Sadly, I think it's going to be a toss up whether they finish changing or just fall off.

Dakota wants to know why we're just standing still and NOT WALKING:

Have a good day all.

==========================

You Are Apple Upside Down Cake

You are a dynamic and interesting person. You are constantly changing, growing, and improving.

You've had some ups and downs over the years, but you've learned to hang in there. You are one tough cookie.

You are content with your life. You work hard, and you make sure to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

You are bold and even brazen. You approach life with complete fearlessness.

What Apple Treat Are You?

Hmmmm.... maybe 50/50

=============================

Decisions, Decisions

2011-10-12T05:04:00.002-04:00

I've been feeling as if I'm at a crossroads lately, with decisions to make, an much emotional upheaval, but I simply don't know which road to take (or if the road I should take is even on the map).

Simply put, I can't do everything I have on my plate anymore. So something has to give. Not sure what, yet. I'm poking at things and making lists and trying to decide what things I must do, what things I want to do, and what things are not required or desired.

It's a long list with a lot of considerations and I'm not sure how it's going to shake out. I simply know that I'm tired of working 24/7, tired of feeling guilty if I take off time for myself, and then there's the fact that I'm just plain tired.

And so are the days of my lives.

How do you make big decisions?

===========================

You Are Firefox

Many people have tried to tame you, but so far no one has succeeded. You can't be broken.

You believe in originality and tolerance. You think the world needs more diversity, not less.

You're the perfect combination of uniqueness and quality. You're able to relate to all sorts of people.

You have no desire to lead or follow. Anyone is welcome to join you on your journey for a while.

What Web Browser Are You?

Makes me sound pretty wild and crazy .... ::Rawr::

Blogging at All Day / All Night

2011-10-11T06:57:00.001-04:00

I'm at All Day All Night Writing Divas today talking about three things that will make me buy a new-to-me author's book.

Come by and keep me company.

The Weekend in Review

2011-10-10T06:13:00.004-04:00

We had an absolutely gorgeous weekend -- sunny, warm, beautiful. Hard to believe it's October in New Hampshire! We're having a late 'leaf peeping' season, though, because it hasn't been cold enough to turn the leaves until this past week. The color is starting, finally, and it's breathtaking. I'm consistently surprised at the vivid reds and florescent oranges that the maple leaves turn.

I didn't pull up my garden yet. Friday was busy with errands. Saturday, my friend from Massachusetts, Michele, came up to spend the day (YAY! Sadly, the last time I'll see her until late spring) and Sunday was filled with wood-stacking fun.

Unfortunately, by late last night, one of my wood piles fell over. Wood stacking: so much fun, you'll want to do it TWICE!

Today, I promised DD some fun, so we'll be seeing a movie (complete with popcorn) and a few other things. She also needs (wants) a few more school supplies (including a three hole punch she can keep in her binder).

My plans this week include trying to conquer Word Press (it can't be that hard, even if my brain doesn't want to wrap itself around the instructions) and cutting down my dead perennials so they can sleep the winter away. If I'm feeling really ambitious, I may put in some bulbs or a mum. I have some frog's tongue seedum that I hate and want to dig up, too.

Next year, I WILL find the time to enjoy my garden.

Anyone do anything fun this weekend?

======================

You Are Handy

You are a generalist who does everything well. You find every subject and skill to be interesting.

You are practical and productive. You continually figure out a way to get things done.

You take on huge projects and see them through. You lead the way when it comes to success.

You like to have a little excitement in your life, but you don't go overboard. You stay grounded.

The Wood Test

Pretty much right.

==========================

Dog Dish with David M. Brown

2011-10-07T05:10:00.005-04:00

Please welcome to the dog dish today, epic fantasy author, David M. Brown visiting on her tour with Goddess Fish Promotions. He and his wife, Donna, are owned by several cats who have deigned to join Dakota at the water bowl and chat.

David is the author of "Fezariu's Epiphany", a fantasy novel that I have and am thoroughly enjoying. The world-building is wonderful and the storyline interesting and unique. If you're a fan of fantasy, you should give it a try! Even better, the eBook is only $0.99 at Smashwords, so what do you have to lose?

But now, please give a warm welcome to the Cats Brown, visiting from over the pond:

So, your human writes books. Does this mean she is home all day and easy to access? Elaborate if necessary.

Charlie: He’s out all day on weekdays. Does some sort of office job, so he claims anyway, but in the evenings he’s busy writing.

Razz: He feeds us first thing then again when he gets back. He never pops home to feed us though, which I think is selfish. I know it takes him an hour to get to work, but still!

What are your techniques for distracting your human during crucial writing moments, just because it's fun? Whose primary job is it? What do the rest of you do to support the one doing the main distracting?

Bilbo: That’s usually down to me and Charlie. It is amusing when he’s typing away on that laptop contraption and I just jump onto his knee. How he reacts depends how involved he is in his work.

Charlie: That’s right. You don’t want to jump on him when he’s in serious writing mode. You may as well try tickling an angry bull behind the ears. It would be a lot less painful!

What indignities and neglect have you suffered because of your human's writing career?

Charlie: I have to say the food bowl is not full every second of the day and it’s just not acceptable.

Frodo: I am free to sing very loudly though when he’s writing.

Buggles: And I can climb on the curtains without being told off.

Bilbo: His lap is seldom free though, which will not do at all. It’s one of the comfiest beds in the house. He actually has a use on those occasions.

Tell me about the animals in your human's fiction. How often do they appear and how big a part do they play?

Charlie: Kain can tell you about his books. We’re too busy napping to bother reading them. I bet they’re rubbish.

Kain: He has talking animals in his history as well as anthropomorphic races such as valkayans and tolderes. Let’s not forget the elamorgias. They’re a race of feline headed men and though he won’t admit, I reckon we’re the inspiration for those guys.

On the off-chance your human has yet to incorporate animals into a story, what are your plans for making sure she rectifies this egregious error and demonstration of poor writing skills?

Charlie: He’s always had animals in mind for his books and, don’t you worry, we always keep a close eye on him. I’ve even organized the six of us to take shifts and spy on him from a distance. He thinks we’re clueless but we’re actually pretty smart and organized. I haven’t given up hope on him writing a biography about my life. It’s quite extraordinary.

What movies involving animals does your human enjoy sharing with you? Books with animals?

Buggles: He wouldn’t let us watch that Cats Vs Dogs film, would he? I cried for days.

Bilbo: He loves Watership Down. That’s the one with lots of rabbits and one cat, albeit a stupid one.

Charlie: Agreed. If I’d been that farm cat those rabbits wouldn’t have dared to cross me.

Kain (looks at Charlie): You do realize it’s not real, that film?

If you could make one change to your human, what would it be?

Frodo: I’d just like the food bowl to always be full.

Bilbo: I’d like him never to pick up that laptop again.

Kain: I’d like him to leave the front door open. It would save me having to jump on the door handle every time I want to come in.

Charlie: I’d just like him to be a mindless slave to us, giving into us at all times and making our lives easy while his is difficult. Hang on! He’s does all those things already!

Are you happy with your human? If you could tell your human one thing, what would it be?

Charlie: I’d say stop complaining and get that food in those bowls a lot faster than you are doing.

Razz: I don’t ask for much but I would like cat litter that is constantly clean, bowls that are always full, water that is fresh and a thousand or so different beds to nap in. As I say, I don’t ask for much.

What things do your human do that would mortify him if known? What does your human do that most annoys?

Frodo: When he’s asleep he does some bizarre things, such as mumbling random thoughts and for some reason he turns over in the night and elbows his wife, Donna. It’s a pain for her but imagine how we feel when we’re trying to get some quality sleep.

Charlie: His most annoying trait is how he guards the kitchen like it’s a gold mine. You can’t even breathe near it without him rushing over and ushering you out of the way. If any of us make it onto the kitchen side it’s like Armageddon.

Has your human named a character for you? Are you pleased? If not, why?

Buggles: He hasn’t named one after any of us yet. He insists Bilbo and Frodo have been used already though I can’t imagine where. My name is the same as a music group who sang a catchy tune so that’s no good. Kain and Razz may have a chance but I don’t think a fantasy character called Charlie would work.

Charlie: Charlie is a name for all occasions. He’ll realize that soon enough. Watch this space.

And did your human name you for a fictional character? Hate it or love it? If you could rename yourself, what would your name be?

Charlie: I have the dubious honour of being the only one of our group named by the owners. We’re all rescue cats, you see, but when they adopted me my previous name was John which they didn’t favour. Charlie certainly suits though I’m nothing like Charlie Brown from the Peanuts comics.

Buggles: Our owners like the Beatles, we should have been Paul, John, George and Ringo.

Kain: There are six of us, Buggles.

Razz: We should probably end the interview there. It’s been great fun, thank you.

Frodo & Bilbo: Thanks a lot.

Charie: Keep an eye out for that Charlie biography. It will happen. I promise you.

Suffering a betrayal as a young boy, Fezariu turns his back on his family. Convinced their way of life will help him leave his past behind, he joins the Merelax Mercenaries. In a quest to prove himself and survive his dangerous assignments in the Colonies, he's forced to forge new alliances but works hard to distance himself emotionally. Despite his determined focus to move on his thoughts are drawn back to Clarendon where the White Oak, an infamous brothel, holds the secret to his past and the childhood friend he abandoned still remains.

Author Bio: David M. Brown was born in Barnsley in 1982 and first conceived the idea of Elenchera in college. His love of history and English led him to read these subjects at Huddersfield University. David is inspired by medieval history, Norse mythology and Japanese role-playing video games and anime films. He lives in Huddersfield with his wife Donna and their six rescue cats.

The Elencheran Chronicles: http://elenchera.com
The World According to Dave: http://blog.elenchera.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/elenchera http://www.facebook.com/fezariu
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/elenchera
Book Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPgcNNLMBvY

Things I Want to Learn

2011-10-06T05:46:00.002-04:00

How to create a website using Word Press.

I got "Head First Word Press" at my DH's recommendation (he loves the Head First series and pretty much anything by O'Reilly press) but it's like reading Hebrew or Russian. I didn't get past the first chapter about downloading a zip file, FTP protocols and how to upload to your host.

Just writing that last makes my head hurt.

How to create a custom fan page with a vanity URL and make sure the landing page is pretty and not just the wall.

I'm sure there are tutorials out there, but I spent all my "learning" time yesterday beating my head against the Word Press wall. Maybe I'll try the Facebook thing today. It can't be any more frustrating.

How to self-publish a book.

Just because I'd like to know how. I was considering this just for fun with a series I have planned by not written (the first story is done). It's one of those things on my "learning" bucket list. Again, I'm sure there are tutorials out there, it's just finding the time.

Those are the big three for me now. I could add:

How to add a CNAME for my blogger blog at my webhost.

Yeah ... spent a good hour trying to figure this out yesterday. Sometimes I feel like I have the IQ of a gnat.

What are some things you want to learn?

==================

Ideas Light Up Your Life

Others wish they had the guts to be as original as you are. Your confidence in yourself is unmatched.

You think it's interesting to imagine how the world could be. You are a daydreamer.

You tend fly solo. You have a few good deep friendships, and that's all you need.

You are a friendly and honest person. You're willing to give anyone a shot, no matter who they are.

What Lights Up Your Life?

That's mostly right. Not sure how original I am, but otherwise pretty spot on.

===================

Invasion of the Germs

2011-10-05T05:43:00.003-04:00

DH is getting sick. He came home last night all stuffed up and miserable. I don't know if he'll stay home today or not, but I'm betting he might. I hope he keeps his germs to himself.

The weather site says we might actually be getting our first frost here this week. It's late, but I'm not complaining. At first I was dying for a freeze so Dakota would be less itchy, but her allergies have cleared up (both goldenrod and ragweed are pretty much past, and those are my two suspects for her allergies) so, I'd really just love no frost every please. Yeah, I know, I'm practically in Canada, but I can dream.

On the other hand, they predict temps in the 80s for the weekend. :::scratches head:::

Weird New England weather.

It's been a month since I submitted "Now and Forever" to Samhain Publishing. They said twelve weeks ... so I'm not surprised I haven't heard. Just antsy.

It's only three weeks until NaNoWriMo. I keep waffling on whether I should even try to participate. I love NaNoWriMo, but my life is already insane. *sigh* At least DH isn't off the entire month like usual to mess with my routine. He's only taking off two weeks.

Can you believe there are stations out here (well, in Boston) already starting to play CHRISTMAS MUSIC? I miss the days when Christmas didn't start until after Thanksgiving. Anymore, I'm sick of the holiday by the time it comes, and that makes me a little sad.

Have a great day!

==================

You Are Openly Ambitious and Secretly Brainy

You are driven and determined. You'll figure out a way to realize your dreams.

You are energetic to the point of being impatient. You can't wait for life to happen.

You are a dynamic and interesting person. You are constantly changing, growing, and improving.

You are a total brainiac who enjoys learning new things. You think studying is just plain fun.

The Lip Gloss Test

That's pretty much right...

================

Lexie Update

2011-10-04T06:04:00.004-04:00

Sarita and Brandy asked about Lexie. She's doing okay, though is still "basement cat" about 90% of the time.

She still loves my husband best of all which both amuses and annoys him. I'm next in line and then DD (which upsets DD terribly -- Lexie was supposed to be "her" cat. But who tells a cat what to do?). Dakota doesn't rank.

She's still jumpy when she's upstairs ... any noise or quick moment will send her running for the basement. But she does come up on her own more than she used to, even if she doesn't stay. She has yet to make it to the second floor.

Dakota is still doing everything right in order to make friends. She's calm, steady, she doesn't make any quick moves or get too close. Lexie still doesn't like her, but she sometimes tolerates having her on the same floor of the house.

She's a sweet, loving kitty. She loves to crawl up on your shoulder and rub her head on your face (hard!) and purrs up a storm. She just isn't very confident. But I imagine that will happen. She's still pretty young (we're guessing she's five) so we have plenty of time for her to settle in. Mostly we just make sure she has what she needs and let her do her thing on her own schedule.

I had a bad moment yesterday missing my Breeann something awful -- I'd just read Angelina Rain's blog where she lost her own sweet furbaby, and my heart just broke all over again. DD even mentioned how much she missed Breeann yesterday, out of the blue.

In other news, en route to the library yesterday we saw this:

That's a dump truck, upended. Don't worry, the driver was fine. But nothing like a little excitement in a podunk town.

DD still loves school. I think I could probably just put that up daily.

Speaking of which, I need to roust her out of bed and get the day moving.

Have a great one!

===================

You Are A Nightgown

What Kind of Pajamas Are You?

Yep. Mostly. I have been known to make a fool of myself...

====================

Rainy Days

2011-10-03T05:28:00.003-04:00

Had a rainy weekend. DD was distraught at not going to the fair. We have one more fair in the state this year and I told her I'd look into going. It's the Sandwich Fair (anyone know anything about that one?). Of course, my friend Michele is in town on Saturday so that day would be out ... but maybe Sunday or Monday (yay for Columbus Day!).

I posted at Healthful & Homemade last night -- the first time in months (shame on me).

Otherwise, it was just a quiet weekend for us. DD is thrilled to be going back to school today ("Yay! Tomorrow's Monday!").

Hope you all had a great, peaceful weekend.

======================

You Are Strong yet Colorful

You sometimes seem like you're all business, but you have a playful side to you as well.

You tend to formulate ideas and make decisions alone. Once you're done, you're ready to talk to others.

You are a quiet and peaceful person. You have deep inner strength.

You are an island. You don't need anyone else to make you happy, and you are very self sufficient.

The Autumn Test

That's mostly true...

==================

Of Commas, Fleas and Fairs

2011-09-30T05:35:00.004-04:00

Did you know there were grammar rule changes by Chicago Manual of Style this year? One change made? The possessive apostrophe for words ending in "S". It used to be correct to write:

Those are Jesus' sandals.

Now we are supposed to write:

Those are Jesus's sandals.

Secondly, I saw this on Facebook and conpletely agree. Another change in the works? Making the serial comma (the comma that comes before the "and" in a series of items) obsolete. This picture illustrates the need for that comma to STAY quite nicely:

*sigh*

There are more, but those were the ones that made me saddest.

Yeah, I'm a grammar geek.

Took Dakota to the vet yesterday. Brandy asked: Could the reddish/brown spots on Dakota's skin be blood from where she was bitten? Or like a strange bruise for the same reason?

Brandy! :::ding ding ding::: You're a winner! Yep, the vet said they were bruises from flea bites, which just break my heart. I feel like I've let her be horribly tortured over the last week while I tried to cure them naturally.

Yesterday, I bought some Capstar Tablets. Yes, they're a pesticide and I don't love feeding her what is essentially poison, but it seems as though there was no other certain and complete way to rid her of fleas. I also got Frontline for the cat. AND the vet recommended strongly that my house be cleaned top to bottom (didn't I just do this for cockroaches? I hate pests.) starting with laundering anything that can be and then mopping, scrubbing, etc. everything that can't for flea eggs.

I did all our bedding yesterday -- that took FOREVER. Today I tackle all our rugs and the cloth whoosies I put under our lamps and knick knacks. Plus I'll probably sweep, mop and dust.

It's actually really quite wonderful that we have so much hardwood -- fewer places for flea eggs to hide.

On Monday, I'm going to flea power all our carpets. It has to stay down (and rubbed in vigorously) for at least an hour, so I'll probably apply it and then leave for a bit so the dog doesn't get into it. Then I have to vacuum it back up (and they recommended I put a flea collar in my vacuum canister).

I swear, I think fleas might be worse than cockroaches.

So, those are my big plans for the weekend, especially since it looks like the Deerfield fair might be out -- the weather just keeps getting worse for the weekend. Next year? I think I'm going to try the Hopkinton State Fair.

Anything exciting in the works for you this weekend?

==================

You Are a Straight A Student

You are highly observant and mindful. You take in a lot of information, and you're very perceptive.

You are smart, clever, and perceptive. You know how to synthesize and process information.

You have excellent people skills. You can talk to anyone.

You are high achieving without being too competitive about it. You simply like to succeed.

The Classroom Test

Yeah... pretty much right. Though I wasn't straight A's (much to my dismay) I did graduate in the top ten of my class. I liked school :-)

======================

YAWN

2011-09-29T06:06:00.004-04:00

I'm tired. Yesterday was crazy busy ... and then I opted to go to agility for both classes. OY. Got home at almost 9 pm -- don't think we'll be doing that again any time soon.

Then Dakota was up sick all night. About every 90 mins she needed to go out. It's not her fault, but the last time (at about 3:30 a.m.) I very nearly cried.

She's feeling better now, probably because she's empty, and is sleeping. Wish I had that option.

She's going to the vet today to have her weird spots looked at. DD is sure they're cancer and that the dog is going to die. *sigh*

On another topic, DD has another field trip today and it's also the opening day of our local fair. I've often said that God has a warped sense of humor... because despite the fact we've had weeks of the most beautiful, sunny, warm GORGEOUS weather, today it's pouring rain. POURING.

DD's field trip? They built cardboard boats in science class and today they take them out to sail them and see if they planned right and they'll float (with two passengers on board).

And, I swear there is never good weather for the fair. It rained pretty much all four days LAST year, and it looks like at least three of the four days this year are going to be wet.

So ... see? Warped sense of humor.

In any case, I'm just hoping to get through the day in one piece and not drive off the road or walk into walls because I'm asleep on my feet. I'm also thankful I'm not the one floating a cardboard boat in the rain...

Wishing you all a wonderful day.

======================

You Are Open-hearted

You are dignified, spiritual, and wise. You are also a seeker of knowledge and often buried in books.

You are knowledgeable and well-read. If no one can teach you, you'll teach yourself.

You are open minded and a visionary. You understand the world and just may change it.

You are the master of new ideas, techniques, and ways of looking at things.

The Windowsill Flower Test

Who knew?

=====================

This and That

2011-09-28T06:19:00.002-04:00

A quick post... because life is still getting away from me.

DD has her first ever school pictures today. :-)

Used a flea comb on Dakota yesterday. Discovered they work quite well, and that she has more than one flea. I still wouldn't say it's a massive infestation, but I did find 10 or so. Still working on containing it on my own, but she's developed odd brown spots on her skin that look like either dirt or freckles (not flea dirt... that's entirely different) and I'm concerned about those, so a trip to the vet may be in order. *sigh*

The weather has been gorgeous -- no frost yet, which is odd, but I'll take it. I'm still pulling the occasional tomoato from my garden, though they tend to be split on the top (that always happens near the end of the season ... wonder why?). I still have a few green beans, too, but that's it.

Lexie is still settling. I suspect this will be a very long process. She's fine with just me and the DH, but DD stresses her a bit (DD wants to hold her and play with her and whatnot ... I pretty much let her be) and she still thinks the dog is a threat.

She does like to play with the laser light though. :-)

Otherwise it's all the same here. Busy as heck to the point I can barely breathe, but I'm managing. If only I could discover how to survive on no sleep, life would be better.

Ah well....

Have a great hump day!!

====================

You Struggle With Impatience

You never feel like there is enough time in the day. You are overloaded and overburdened.

You tend to take on more than you can accomplish, and you drop the ball when you're not looking.

Life is short, but you're making it shorter by not giving yourself the rest you need.

If you only slowed down and took your time, you'd actually get more done.

What Do You Struggle With?

Uh.. yeah.

===============

Cats, Flea, and Loving School

2011-09-26T05:45:00.003-04:00

Not that I don't enjoy having an affectionate cat for a change, but it sure makes using the computer a challenge. She loves to sit in my lap and roll all over the keyboard. *sigh*

She still loves DH the most. Cats crack me up... it's like they find the person who hates cats and they target them. The other night I was working and she was settled in my lap, but then DH got up and was in her line of sight. She immediately jumped down and ran over to rub on his legs. If anyone can win him over, I think she might be able to.

My dog has flea. Yes, you read that right... one flea. At least at a time. I search her entire body for fleas, and every time I look I find ONE. I kill it. Then several hours later, I'll look again and find ONE. No matter how hard or how long I search, I never find more than one. It's the weirdest thing. She's had two flea baths (she may not speak to me if I give her another one today) but she can't tolerate the chemical flea drops. They burn her skin.

So I'll keep searching, picking, using the flea comb and bathing her. She'll get uninfested, even if it has to be one flea at a time. I wonder if it's a zombie flea and just keeps coming back... undead...

The cat has a flea collar on... but I haven't seen any fleas on her, though she has scratched one ear enough it has a scab. No ear mites I can see either. But I wanted to take her to the vet soon anyway, just for a once over, so we'll see what they say.

The joys of pet ownership.

The weekend was pretty quiet. I'd planned a big day of housecleaning yesterday, but DH got called into work at 1 a.m. Sunday morning, got home at 9 a.m. and I made him take a nap... which turned into nearly all day. He got up around 2 p.m. poor dude. But it really limited what I could do. I did manage laundry (that's in the basement) and I swept, mopped and scrubbed toilets (the glamorous life). It's something.

The excitement never ends.

Last night DD said to me enthusiastically: "Yay! Tomorrow's Monday. I get to go to school." Then quieter, but no less joyfully: "I love school."

I wonder when that will wear off?

I tried bloghopping a bit yesterday, but Google Reader kept locking up my computer. Maybe there's a better way to keep track of blogs I follow? Anyone?

Wishing you all a wonderful week!

====================

You Are Charming and Impassioned

You encourage others to take a leap and to take action. You know it's hard to make that first step sometimes.

You are easily distracted. You prefer to multitask, and you're always adding a new task to your list.

You have a positive attitude. You try to keep a sunny disposition, even when life is getting you down.

The potential for great leadership is there, as long as you don't abuse it. You have a lot more power over people than you might think.

The Autumn Leaves Color Test

About 75%...

=================

Lexie Come Out of Her Shell

2011-09-23T05:59:00.002-04:00

Lexie is really coming out of her shell ... I think yesterday was a turning point for her. This morning she was yowling at the basement door ('LET ME OUT!!!') and despite the fact the dog was RIGHT THERE when I opened it, she came almost all the way up. As as soon as I backed the dog up about a foot and made her sit, Lexie came out, yowling the entire time.

She's very vocal. This is actually neat, because Breeann was very vocal, too, and we're used to having conversations with our cat.

Dakota is just so good. She wanted to see the cat, but moved very slow and would follow her around about two feet back. The cat kept a very close eye, but didn't run back downstairs. I'm so thrilled.

My DH might not be, as Lexie is very much a cat. Breeann really wasn't -- she didn't get on the counters (or on the living room furniture, which is FORBIDDEN...:::dum dum dum dum:::), didn't open the cupboards, etc. Except for her attitude, she was far more doggish.

Lexie isn't. She's already getting up on the counters and the furniture. Guess we'll find out if you can train a cat.

DD had a great time on her field trip yesterday. She yammered on and on about it when I picked her up AND wants to go back sometime on our own. Here's where she went -- the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center.

She's having SO much fun with school, that when I asked her if she still wanted me to pull her out for the day next Thursday to go to the Deerfield Fair, she said NO. She'd rather go over the weekend!

Gotta love it.

Me, I'm still trying to get my life into a reasonable amount of order. Maybe by the end of the school year... *sigh*.

Have a great weekend everyone!

======================

Your Height Says You're Daring

You are a true adventurer, and you live for the thrill.

You have a lot of charisma, and you're good at convincing people to join you in your schemes.

You are open to the world, and you make connections easily. You have lots of friends.

You are likely to have many life paths to choose from. There are many possibilities open to you.

You are about as tall as the average British man.

What Does Your Height Say About You?

About 50/50 ... I did convice Judy to go along with my crazy scheme about starting a reviews site ... :-)

======================

Lexie, Geese and NaNoWriMo

2011-09-22T05:45:00.006-04:00

Look who ventured upstairs to keep me company this morning.

She's on my lap now, and making it tough to type. The last few days she hadn't come upstairs at all, and any time I went downstairs, she'd yell at me: "MEOW! I'M LONELY!"

So last night after the dog went to bed, I dragged Lexie upstairs. She immediately ran back down, but eventually slithered up again, looked for the dog and made herself comfortable. I've tried explaining that my dog is the most harmless thing in the world, but she's not buying it yet.

Still, this morning when I opened the basement door (no, she's not allowed to roam at night -- neither was Breeann) she popped right out. Of course, the dog was up so she ran back down, but she hovered halfway down the stairs (way to tease the dog!) and waited. Once Dakota left, she came back up.

Silly girl.

And fall is definitely here. We're getting flocks of geese coming through as the venture south. I was at the library yesterday morning around 9 a.m. and there were a couple dozen on the lawn below, grazing (and finding the occasional apple -- it's an old apple orchard):

I know they're hard to see, but my camera on the phone doesn't zoom. I've cropped it here:

DD goes on her first field trip today. I admit to being a little nervous ... it's something I did hundreds of times as a kid and never thought about whether my mom worried about my safety (on the road ... not so much at the place). Still, this is good for me, too. Gotta let go of your kidlets at some point, right?

Charity Tahmaseb commented yesterday about my issues with waiting on my Samhain submission: You could, of course, take your mind off things by writing something new. I believe NaNo is coming up, no?

Yes, yes it is!! And yes, I'd love to try NaNo again. I really, really love NaNoWriMo ... I have a month to plan. Maybe I'll even (*GASP*) write an outline! I'd still love to give Geoff (from "One Love for Liv") his HEA. And it would be wildly appropriate to finish his story during NaNo, since that's when I originally wrote Liv.

I'll have to give it some serious thought. And for those of you who've read Liv: What kind of heroine do you think would be perfect for Geoff?

===================

You Are Confident

You know what you want, and you're not quick to change your mind. You have strong opinions that are set in stone.

You love being the center of attention and having your moment. You don't shy away from the spotlight.

You are focused and committed. You never lose site of your goals.

You enjoy challenges... in fact, you seek them out. You like to put yourself to the test and see what you're made of.

The Toast Test

About 90% right!

======================

Wednesday Warbling

2011-09-21T05:56:00.006-04:00

Missed yesterday. Sorry. I won't go on about craziness, just know it exists in my world.

DD is loving school. She loves everything: the kids, the teachers, the classes, lunch, having a locker .... yesterday she was SO happy (having had an especially good day) that she would NOT be quiet. She talked a mile a minute about anything that crossed her mind, and even if she had nothing to say she hummed or spouted nonsense words or just giggled maniacally. It about drove me crazy. But it's hard to get angry when someone is just so darn happy.

They're having a field trip on Thursday and she wanted me to drive (mostly so she could ride with her new best friend). It's ALL DAY and my schedule is already nuts, but I told her if they couldn't find enough people I would. Thankfully, they found enough people.

I know, I know ... I should participate, but Oy.

She's doing pretty well, grade-wise, too. All 90s except English where she first forgot to do the homework on time( so 10% off) and then did it sloppy and partly wrong. She got a 57%. AND she had to redo it correctly.

I check on her homework assignments, and I nag a bit, but she's old enough that she knows what to do and is competitive enough she won't want to fail. Hopefully.

I tried taking pix of the stairs last night, but they didn't come out. Will take more today in natural light. They look nice enough, but I just know come winter with me running up and down in my socks that I'm going to slip. And fall. I'm not the most graceful person when it comes to stairs and fall down (and up) most sets of stairs I use at least once.

I did take pictures of the magnets my mom cross-stitched and that I'll be putting up on DistinctivelyDD soon. Aren't they adorable?

I also located a crafters store where you can rent space for your stuff. It's not in a great spot and I don't know how much traffic it gets, but I'm going to look into it and see what I think.

Yanno... in my spare time.

On a side note -- going through the slush pile again at Samhain Publishing kinda sucks. The wait is 3 - 4 MONTHS... *sigh*. I'm antsy. And I can't help but think about submitting it somewhere else at the same time. I'd love for the sequel to be at the same publisher, but there's no guarantee they'll take it and if I wait to submit elsewhere, it's just going to make the time before it sees the light of day that much longer.

Decisions, decisions...

================

Your Next Car Should Be an Audi

You are pretty conventional when it comes down to it. You have mainstream tastes and interests.

You value quality and craftsmanship. You rather have a few nice things than many low quality possessions.

You are very focused and responsible. You take your duties seriously, no matter what they are.

You are patient and trusting. You know that the best things in life don't come overnight.

What Should Your Next Car Be?

About 80% right, but I don't like Audis.

===============

Busy Weekend and a sick day?

2011-09-19T05:43:00.004-04:00

DD fought with a cold all weekend (it's just allergies, Mom!) and I'm waiting to see how she's feeling this morning. Typically she'll have one really bad day -- all stuffed up and feeling miserable. I'm hoping that was yesterday. I gave her night time cold meds last night at 7:30 so she could sleep (yes, she wanted to go to bed that early), heard her snuffling around 1 a.m. and gave her one more dose. Hopefully a good night's sleep helped kick the bug.

I don't want her to miss school (not to mention I have NO idea how to handle a sick day for her) but I don't want to send her sick (because THAT is why she's sick ... someone else sent their sick kidlet to school... last week she told me about the girl she was partnered with being sick and DD hoped she wouldn't catch it). Yet another thing that was easier when I was homeschooling...

Maria Zannini asked me "what about the time you used to spend teaching DD?" ... the fact is, there wasn't much. She was on a DVD curriculum where there was an actual classroom and teachers TAUGHT. She'd sit down, watch the class, do the work, etc. My job was to correct papers, make sure she stayed on schedule and answer questions or help when she was confused (much of which, except the correcting papers part, I'm still doing).

Here's the thing -- I KNOW this is a wonderful place for DD to be. She's thriving (aside from the germs!) and completely enjoying school. She's happy and challenged and I wouldn't change that. But homeschooling, as it turns out, was much easier on me. Who'da thunk it?

I spent this weekend being Suzy Homemaker. Our grocery store is selling local apples (from the farm where we would have picked anyway) for only $0.69/lb -- they're smaller ones, but otherwise perfect (and I was making sauce, so didn't care about the size). I bought about 15 - 20 of apples and spent much of Saturday cutting and coring apples. I ended up with eight quarts (seemed like an awful lot of work for only eight quarts ... but there you go) of unsweetened applesauce.

Sunday I baked bread. Lots of bread. It was a challenge since my house was opened up to air out the smell of polyurethane (from the hardwood stairs DH put in all weekend ... another story) and it was VERY cool inside. I had the oven on "warm" and used that to raise the bread, but I think it didn't raise as much as it should have as most of my loaves were a bit doughy and heavy. Will try again when I have more flour (I ran out .... went through about 20 cups) and it's warmer in the house.

DH spent the weekend tearing out the carpet from our stairs, pulling off the treads and then putting down hardwood treads. Thankfully, we have a second way upstairs (through the garage ... so while it's good we could get upstairs, it was a massive ordeal). Yesterday was spent covering them in the poly ... and we still can't use them this morning. We're supposed to wait 72 hours ... but I don't know if I can hold out that long -- never mind how confused the dog is about it all. Yesterday I had to lug two baskets of clothes from the basement where the laundry room is, out the door to the garage, hold them OVER MY HEAD to get behind the car and the truck and past the mower through the door (which barely opens wide enough because the generator and snow blower are in the way) and up those stairs to the bedrooms.

I am glad for the stairs -- our carpet was old and worn (clear through in one spot), but next time DH has to do something like that, I'm getting a motel room for a week.

It also meant that I got none of the deep-cleaning done that I'd planned for upstairs and will need to squeeze it in this week instead.

Next weekend, I'm going to try mega-cooking again to save me having to cook from scratch during the week, and see if that helps me with time.

How was your weekend?

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You Are a Green Apple

You're a pretty traditional person. You believe that if something has lasted, then it's probably good.

You think that living the good life is pretty simple. If you behave responsibly and ethically, good things will come to you.

You are a loner and prefer to keep to yourself. You love solitude.

You are super productive. People are amazed by how much you are able to get done.

What Color Apple Are You?

Um.. yeah, that's pretty much right on!

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