Gunshots, Guest Blogs and Goofy Dogs

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.

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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.

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Blogging at All Day / All Night

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.

Guest Blogging

I'm blogging at All Day, All Night Writing Divas today. Come by and visit -- I'd love the company.

Guest Blogging

Still treading water folks... but there's a distant light at the end of the very long tunnel.

In the meantime, I posted at "All Day, All Night" this morning. Why not stop by and say hi?

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Oh! I'm Blogging ...

... at the Marianne's blog today.

Come by and keep me company -- I'm talking about why I read romance.

The Day After School

The philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next. - Abraham Lincoln

First, before I forget (because I did last month!), it's my day to blog at "All Day, All Night Romance Divas - the Mariannes". I'd love to have some company.

Also, yesterday I was interviewed at The Writer's Life (wearing my review site owner hat) and wouldn't mind input there, too -- I'm always interested in what readers and writers think about reviews.

Now ... moving on.

DD did her shadow day yesterday. She was VERY nervous, but stoic and hopeful. It was a half day at the school yesterday, so she only stayed until 11:30, but when I picked her up she was smiling. She'd had a great time. The kids were nice (mostly - there were a couple of girls who she said were "in a clique" and wouldn't hang out with the rest of them ... to which I answered, that she'd face that kind of thing her whole life), the teachers were nice, and she was amazed that they were learning stuff she'd already learned. The curriculum we use has a reputation of being ahead of most grades, so that doesn't surprise me. She took two assessment tests (math and English) and we're waiting to hear back on those. THEY are what will determine if she'll be going into eighth grade next year or not.

DD started school a year early (she was four when I started her on kindergarten). At three, she slapped a book down in front of me and said, "I CAN'T READ THIS." She was incredibly frustrated about that, so I taught her to read at three y.o., so by four she was bored and wanted to learn.

As a result, she's a year younger than everyone else, and administrators tend to assume she'd not ready for the grade she's in. They're wrong -- she consistently scores at the highest end of the scale on her annual assessment test -- but it means we have to fight for her to be in the correct grade.

She really doesn't want to be held back a year. And I really don't want her to be. I skipped a grade and was seventeen when I graduated high school. Aside from being frustrated that I couldn't get my license when all my friends did, I don't think it scarred me.

I started writing one of my "add in" scenes for the "Kitchen Matches" sequel. So fun! Once that's done, and I finish the final scene, all it'll need is a once over by a couple folks and I'll actually be submitting something again. It's been a long, long time...

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You Eat Like a Typical Woman

You tend to gravitate toward foods that are lighter and healthier. You are an adventurous eater, and you're always interested in learning how to cook new things. Like the majority of women, you tend to snack throughout the day and avoid big meals. You prefer the little of everything approach. You don't want to be weighted down by your food.

Do You Eat Like a Man or a Woman?

It's true...

I Was Featured ... Yesterday

Oy ... I can't believe I got my dates wrong!!

Jennifer Shirk and the Passionate Critters are having 12 Days of eBooks, and my day was yesterday.

Shame on me.

I'd love for you to vist my post right here... and, Jennifer, forgive my tardiness!

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My First Post and A Sum Up

"A man would do nothing, if he waited until he could do it so well that no one would find fault with what he has done." — Cardinal Newman, British Preacher (1801-1890)

First off... I'm blogging for the first time at the Marianne's blog, All Day, All Night. I'd love some company!

Secondly, I'm working on doing some editing (of audio) on the videos I took yesterday at the junior handler meet. We had a lot of fun, and I'll blog more tomorrow. Because I essentially had two days away from the computer, I'm buried in emails and work. Here's a picture of most of the kids (I couldn't fit them all and still get DD in the photo -- they did have a photographer there, and I should have some pix of hers I can nab once they're uploaded onto Shutterfly.



DD ran another dog, a gorgeous, sweet-tempered long-haired Whippet named Gambler as well as running Dakota. And between the dogs she got three firsts, one third and two fourths (there were four different competition classes).

I promise more details tomorrow -- and hopefully a video or two.

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You Are Cheer Bear

You are naturally happy and upbeat... some people think unbelievably so. Your perkiness is 100% real. You are just a jubilant person who loves life. You always have a smile on your face. You choose to be cheerful and look on the sunny side of life. You know just what it takes to cheer someone up, and you're always happy to brighten someone's day.

What Care Bear Are You?

HAHAHAHAHAHA... no.

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Thursday This and That

A snowflake is one of God's most fragile creations, but look what they can do when they stick together! ~Author Unknown

Our "snowstorm" was a bust yesterday -- we had flurries most of the day, but it barely made the road wet. Very disappointing. Poor DH is dying to go snowmobiling, but hates to drive 3 hours north to do it. It's been a very odd winter, exceptionally cold but with very little snow (which is the opposite of what Farmer's Almanac predicted for us).

We had agility last night. Dakota had an absolute blast and was completely exhausted at the end. In the second class, we had a new participant -- a gorgeous Doberman with uncropped ears (how cute are floppy ears on a Dobie?). She was a sweetie, and played with Dakota as we broke down the equipment for the night. Finally my poor pooch was so tired, she just flopped down and wouldn't move. The Dobie would bark at her ("Hey, come on!! Play with me!!"), but I just don't think Dd had another ounce of energy. Wish I could tire her out more often.

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I'm going to start hosting interviews on Wednesdays again -- starting next week. Actually, next week is a guest blog, but after that, it'll be interviews (slightly off the wall because, yanno, that's just how I am). If you or anyone you know would like to participate in them feel free to email me (authormariannearkins AT gmail DOT com) and put "AUTHOR INTERVIEW REQUEST" in the subject. But I warn you -- the questions are atypical and I have a short writing prompt included.

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I posted a pile of new earrings on DistinctivelyDD on Tuesday night. DD is getting so good at what she does -- they're gorgeous. I do have to admit to being amazed at which ones sell and which don't (seeing as they're all priced about the same). I'm clearly in the minority when it comes to what I think is prettiest! We're working on learning how to create chain mail and lampwork beads next. Whee! She's WAY better than I am at this stuff, so I limit myself to making things for gifts for my friends and occasionally helping with design ideas.

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You Are Sweet and Sensible

Your idea of romance is a weekend with no troubles or cares. You don't need much to be happy. You feel like almost any situation can be romantic. It's all about having the right attitude. Your ideal partner is down to earth, practical, and responsible. You want someone that you can rely on. For you, love almost always makes sense. You don't believe that love is irrational.

The Lingerie Test

I almost chose the tassels... just because *G*

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I'm Guest Blogging

I almost forgot: I'm guest blogging today at LASR (we had an author with an emergency who couldn't follow through on her date). If you'd like to go read and comment, you could win a book, an eBook, an Amazon GC and a LASR/WC coffee mug! Plus, you get to make me feel less lonely over there. *G*

Click here to read my guest blog.

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Need a Little Help

He who gives when he is asked has waited too long. ~Sunshine Magazine

Hey all... a new year starts in just a couple of weeks (isn't that amazing?) and I need a new format for my guest blogs. I'm looking for input.

1. Do you even enjoy getting to know other authors?

2. If yes, do you have any questions you'd like me to ask them (and don't worry about being too silly or intrusive -- I've asked about hobbies, food, and even underwear before!). Please, please send me your questions -- you can leave them in comments or email me at authormariannearkins AT gmail DOT com.

3. Would you prefer an actual guest blog from an author instead of an interview (like this one)?

4. Would you prefer having a longer blog on just one topic (i.e. "Where did you get your idea for your book?" or "Tell us about your hobbies") and have the author expand on it?

5. With the exception of Nora Roberts and Jennifer Crusie, are there any authors in particular you'd like to hear from? I'm not shy about emailing anyone and asking for an interview (which is how the LASR site kicked off with an interview from Lori Foster when we started in 2007). They don't even necessarily have to be romance authors.

6. Anything else you'd like to add?

I really am desperate for input, so please, please -- even all you lurkers... yes YOU, you know who you are.... please let me know. THANKS!

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DD went to my SIL's for a little while yesterday to do Christmas stuff: make paper snowflakes (this is a tradition in my in-law's family, and my FIL is truly amazing at it), bake and whatnot.

While she was gone, I pulled out the FOUR boxes of stuff my mom has mailed over the past few weeks and wrapped presents. I'm not really excited about this part of Christmas, but it has to be done (I owe an enormous debt to whomever made gift bags so popular). I left all the gifts for the cat, the dog and my DH for DD to wrap (because SHE enjoys it tremendously) and then popped all her gifts under the tree.

Understand, for the past two weeks we've had two lonely little gifts under the tree and nothing else. When she came home and saw about ten more (and a couple are quite large), her eyes nearly bugged out of her head! It was awesome :-)

Now I just need to wait for the gifts I bought her online to show up. I really love to shop for other people. I remember, many years ago, I was involved in a five-car accident. I was stopped, last in line, at a stoplight and a teenaged girl was too busy ogling a cute guy to brake -- she slammed into me and I hit the car in front and so on.

I was fine with letting our insurance companies hash it out... until the lady in front of me sued me for hitting her. Uh, no. I don't think so. So I had to sue the girl who hit me (GAH, I hate even saying that -- the whole sue-happy legal system makes me crazy).

In any case, at the end of the day, I ended up with a couple thousand dollars ... a fortune to me as I was only 19 y.o. You know what I did with it? I WENT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING. It was the first time in my life that I didn't have to wince at price tags ... I could pretty much buy what I wanted for people, and it was the best time I think I've ever had.

Ah... the good old days when I was young, foolish and had few responsibilities...

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You Are Laundry

You are efficient, speedy, and on top of things. You aren't a very hands on person, and you prefer to delegate as much as possible. You believe the quickest way to get things done is to just do them. You don't procrastinate much. You prevent getting overwhelmed by not taking on more than you can handle. And you're not afraid to do something quickly to get it out of the way. Technology is your friend, and you love gadgets. You'd like a lot more of your life to be automated!

What Household Chore Are You?

Hmmmm 50/50 -- though I'd sure love a robot maid like the one on The Jetsons!

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Judy and I Guest Blogged...

... here: http://www.cathystang.blogspot.com/

If you're interested in finding out how we started LASR and how two such different people manage to work together.

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What, When, Where, Why, How with Carol McPhee

Welcome to my latest victim... er... guest -- Carol McPhee!

What is your favorite song?

My favourite song would have to be anything sung by Kenny Rogers. I used this to my advantage when I wrote A Spirited Liaison. The novel tells the story of a romance novelist who marches to the beat of her own drummer. In her search to learn about her mother's past, Erin Parker researches the family history and learns of the existance of a privateer ancestor named Captain Ben Murphy... a Kenny Rogers lookalike. His interfering presence plays havoc with Erin's life through his encouragement of a romance with CEO Lance Dalton, who is on her don't want to know list.

When did you have your first story or book published?

Something About That Lady was my first book published, through Wings ePress in 2004. A couple of years later, I retrieved the rights and it was released through Champagne Books in 2008. By having it contracted again I was able to correct something that bothered me and eliminate the overabundance of adjectives.

My first story written was None So Blind, which became the fifth of my novels to be published. Rescued and repelled by a less than heaven "scent" hero, blind Kate McTavish rallies and responds to her tragic situation with strength and courage she didn’t know she possessed.

Where do you do your best writing?

I do my best writing wherever I am at 4a.m. That can be in my computer room at home, in a motel, or in a tent.

Why did the chicken cross the road?

The chicken crossed the road to meet the hot chick he saw strutting on the other side. Her eye contact with him suggested curiosity about his nature and offered an alure he couldn't refuse. LOL.

How many days a week do you work?

I work everyday on something involved with my writing whether it is answering e-mails, promoting my work, or critiquing writers who in turn critique my work-in-progress. Above all, I write something fresh each day, no matter how short, to keep me in tune with my characters.

My latest work, A Structured Affair, is set for a February 2009 release from Champagne Books. Due to a badgering stream of biased newspaper articles, Stephen Morgan is convicted by the court of public opinion for his wife’s murder. Psychologist Dr. Catherine Malloy intends to do all she can to save his young daughter from another parental loss. In so doing, she discovers her attraction to the father is the real challenge she must overcome.

Carol lives in Nova Scotia, Canada with Karl, her husband of over forty-five years. With their four children grown and flown, there is time to enjoy researching locations that will give authenticity to her stories. As soon as she finishes one story, another is burning in the back of her mind, its characters prodding her to let them out.

Please visit Carol’s website

What, When, Where, Why, How with Michelle Houston

Today we welcome author Michelle Houston to the fun! Reading her interview made me want to watch "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" all over again.

Now, on to the fun:

What do you want to be when you grow up?

I guess a better question is what didn't I want to be when I grew up. I wanted to be a doctor, a police officer, a firefighter, an astronaut, a lawyer, an artist, an architect, a landscape designer, a scientist; the list goes on and on. I finally decided on teacher around the fourth grade, and I have been working towards that ever since.

Now I am a non-traditional college student, and I am working my rear off to earn my degree in Biology education, with certification to also teacher Earth Science, Physics and Chemistry. A glutten for punishment, I know.

Oddly enough, growing up, the idea of being a writer never really crossed my mind. I always read books, and thought of the authors like some people see rock stars and actors. The authors had just short of demi-deity status to me. Sure, I scribbled in notebooks, like a lot of youngsters. I wrote poetry, essays and short stories. I ever had a few earn awards in school - but I never planned on publishing. That just kind of happened.

Where would you find a purple people eater?

I'm not sure where its lair is, but if you could find out when and where the Loch Ness monster hosts its monthly poker party, I am sure the Purple People Eater would be there. My guess, he'll be sitting between the Green Giant and the Easter Bunny. He'll probably be hitting on the Tooth Fairy while knocking back a grape soda too.

When is the best time to read one of your books?

Late at night, when the kids are all in bed, and you can snuggle up with a lover. Just make sure you have lots of whipped cream (or whatever strikes you fancy) and a pair of handcuffs handy.

Why do you love Monty Python (because you must, yes)?

Well, I haven't seen many of their works, but I have seen Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Scenes like this one just made the movie:

“King Arthur: I am your king.
Woman: Well I didn't vote for you.
King Arthur: You don't vote for kings.
Woman: Well how'd you become king then?
[Angelic music plays... ]
King Arthur: The Lady of the Lake, her arm clad in the purest shimmering samite held aloft Excalibur from the bosom of the water, signifying by divine providence that I, Arthur, was to carry Excalibur. THAT is why I am your king.
Dennis: [interrupting] Listen, strange women lyin' in ponds distributin' swords is no basis for a system of government. Supreme executive power derives from a mandate from the masses, not from some farcical aquatic ceremony.”

Quote from the Internet Movie Database. (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0071853/quotes)

This is another good one, from the same webpage.

“Bridgekeeper: Stop. Who would cross the Bridge of Death must answer me these questions three, ere the other side he see.
Sir Lancelot: Ask me the questions, bridgekeeper. I am not afraid.
Bridgekeeper: What... is your name?
Sir Lancelot: My name is Sir Lancelot of Camelot.
Bridgekeeper: What... is your quest?
Sir Lancelot: To seek the Holy Grail.
Bridgekeeper: What... is your favourite colour?
Sir Lancelot: Blue.
Bridgekeeper: Go on. Off you go.
Sir Lancelot: Oh, thank you. Thank you very much.
Sir Robin: That's easy.
Bridgekeeper: Stop. Who would cross the Bridge of Death must answer me these questions three, ere the other side he see.
Sir Robin: Ask me the questions, bridgekeeper. I'm not afraid.
Bridgekeeper: What... is your name?
Sir Robin: Sir Robin of Camelot.
Bridgekeeper: What... is your quest?
Sir Robin: To seek the Holy Grail.
Bridgekeeper: What... is the capital of Assyria?
[pause]
Sir Robin: I don't know that.
[he is thrown over the edge into the volcano]
Sir Robin: Auuuuuuuugh.
Bridgekeeper: Stop. What... is your name?
Galahad: Sir Galahad of Camelot.
Bridgekeeper: What... is your quest?
Galahad: I seek the Grail.
Bridgekeeper: What... is your favourite colour?
Galahad: Blue. No, yel...
[he is also thrown over the edge]
Galahad: auuuuuuuugh.
Bridgekeeper: Hee hee heh. Stop. What... is your name?
King Arthur: It is 'Arthur', King of the Britons.
Bridgekeeper: What... is your quest?
King Arthur: To seek the Holy Grail.
Bridgekeeper: What... is the air-speed velocity of an unladen swallow?
King Arthur: What do you mean? An African or European swallow?
Bridgekeeper: Huh? I... I don't know that.
[he is thrown over]
Bridgekeeper: Auuuuuuuugh.
Sir Bedevere: How do know so much about swallows?
King Arthur: Well, you have to know these things when you're a king, you know.”

How do you win at solitaire?

Win? You're supposed to actually win that game?

Wow … news to me.

Seriously though, I win more often when I play on the computer. Something about playing by turning all the cards by hand jinxes me. I have about a 20% win rate on the computer though. Not the best in the world, but I don't play that often. Generally just on road trips when it gets too dark to read a book.

Freecell is a better game for me.

Thanks for the questions. : ) It's always fun to do a silly interview.

And here's one more line from Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

“Narrator: A year passed: winter changed into spring, spring changed into summer, summer changed back into winter, and winter gave spring and summer a miss and went straight on into autumn... until one day...”

Born to ride on the back of dragons, to journey among the stars in a ship traveling faster than light, or to dance the night away in the arms of a mysterious vampire, Michelle Houston willingly shares the worlds in her mind in an effort to bring them to life.

Writing everything from short and sweet stories, to hot and spicy tales of kink, from contemporary tales of romance to erotic romances featuring Greek Gods, vampires and were-creatures, she has crossed sexualities and has gone wherever her mental muse has guided her. A journey she has never regretted.

With stories either out, or coming out soon, from Renaissance E Books, Phaze, Whiskey Creek Press Torrid, Cleis Press, Alyson Books, and Pretty Things Press, to name a few, she has many more stories just waiting for their chance to be told.

Beyond that, she has a love of the natural world around us (except for insects, spiders, snakes, scorpions, and she reserves the right to add more at any time) and hopes to share the enjoyment of the Earth with her students once she finally earns her degree in secondary Biology/Earth Science Education. Currently she's attending college full time, and is expecting to graduate in December of 2010.

She's married to a wonderful man who supports all her writing endeavors (even when her characters scare him just a wee bit), and is the reason she is even published at all. Her daughter is too young to know just what mommy writes, but she knows she wants to write too when she grows up, and already has a good start on it.

In other words, she is an ordinary woman, with an imagination that is only held in bounds by how fast she can type.

Her website is: www.michellehouston.com
Her blog: http://eroticpen.blogspot.com
Her news groups: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/michellehouston/
Her writing group: www.isleofphoenix.com

What, When, Where, Why, How with J.K. Coi

J.K. Coi is next in line for my particular brand of torture. Let's see what she did with my completely random set of questions...

What animal do you think makes the best pet?

Now, when you say “best” do you really mean “easiest”? Because that’s kind of the defining factor for me. It’s why I have fish. Then again, if by “best” you mean “most fun”, well then that’s what I have a hunky husband for. *grin*

When is the best time to exercise?

Um, this is a trick question, right? When you say “exercise”...

Seriously, though. I’m a runner. And I always run alone. I like the mindlessness of it. I can set myself on a path and just keep going without having to think about anything (which is even easier on the treadmill). And I usually run in the mornings when it’s still dark outside because then I really feel like it’s just me and the empty world. It’s the only time of the day when I have that kind of peace. I strap on the mp3 player and the tunes drown out everything except for my muse. I do some of my best brainstorming and plotting when I’m running.

Where is your favorite place to eat out for dinner?

Italy? Just kidding, I’ve never been to Italy. Yet. But as soon as it’s my turn to pick the summer vacation destination (for some reason hubby and kiddo have outvoted me the last two years)...then there’ll be no more swimming in ice-cold lakes, hiking in poison ivy, or hiding in tents from bears. We’re going to Italy.

Until then, I’d probably have to say my mother-in-law’s house for dinner. It costs me nothing to go. I don’t have to cook, and my husband always likes the food.

Why did you choose to write in the genre you do?

It was more along the lines of the genre choosing me. I like to read horror and paranormals and edgy contemporary romances best, which is maybe why my “voice” lends itself to the darker, angsty stuff. So I go with it. Although I’d like to try my hand at a few other things and I’ve got some ideas that I’m working with right now. One of them is going to be a cool futuristic romance about a bounty hunter and a botanist. Can you guess which will be the bounty hunter?

How do YOU spell relief?

B-A-B-Y-S-I-T-T-E-R
Between my husband’s busy job as a teacher, the coaching he does for the school teams and our son’s soccer and lacrosse teams, and my own crazy schedule, we get pretty busy and it would be too easy to get lost in the daily stuff and put our relationship on the backburner. But we told ourselves a long time ago that we wouldn’t let ourselves do that. So my husband and I try to keep our bi-weekly date night. And I love it. It’s become very important to me, even if we’re only going to dinner. It also means that I have a very close (and expensive) relationship with my son’s babysitter, but it’s totally worth it.

J.K. Coi lives in Ontario with her husband and son. She graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in history and in law, and has worked for many years in the legal field, where her current focus is in litigation.Writing has always been an important part of her life, and when she leaves the office, she leaves all of that behind to immerse herself in a world of fantasy—of demons and magic, fascinating warriors, and the women strong enough to love them.

When she isn’t spinning exciting tales of love and adventure, you’ll find J.K. Coi cheering on her son at the soccer field, or watching her husband play hockey. She also likes to paint and create beautiful treasures with stained glass.

Visit her website for more information about upcoming books, chats, interviews, reviews and all things Immortal: www.jkcoi.com. You can also find her on Myspace (www.myspace.com/jkcoi) and on her blog (www.jkcoi.blogspot.com).

What, When, Where, Why, How with Margay Roberge

Welcome to "What, When, Where, Why and How"! Today, we are being entertained and edified by Margay Roberge

What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?

I'm not much of a breakfast person. I hate to say it, but I often skip breakfast because I don't like to eat when I first get up and by the time I decide to eat, it's usually lunchtime! When I do manage to eat breakfast, I like a good omelet with lots of melted cheese. I have a weakness for sharp cheddar cheese and there's nothing like the taste of it in an omelet.

When do you do most of your writing?

I do a lot of my writing in the morning/early afternoon. Mornings are actually my best time to write because my daughters are at school and I'm pretty energized from a full night's sleep. I think I'm also a lot more creative in the morning, probably because of the full night's sleep. But once the girls come home, there's a lot of activity inside the house and I have to share the computer, so I don't get as much done. I still try, though.

Where were you born and, if you no longer live there, would you like to move back?

I was born in Massachusetts, where I currently reside. I've lived in a few other states - New Hampshire, Virginia and Florida - but I always come back. I think it might have been Stephen King who wrote something to the effect that a true New Englander always returns home to their roots. It's so true in my case. All of the other states I've lived in had their merits, but they just weren't home to me. Most of my family still lives in Massachusetts and I like to stay close to them. The other places are nice to visit, but Massachusetts is my home.

Why did you decide to write for publication?

For years, people have been telling me that I should and I finally believe them! Actually, I've been having a love affair with the written word for many years and I thought it was time to get it out in the open. I just always, sometimes more strongly than others, felt the need and desire to see my work in print and to hopefully bring others the same pleasure I've derived over my many years of enjoying the written word. And there's nothing like the sense of accomplishment you feel when you hold your book in your hands for the first time and actually see the results of your hard work. You literally hold your dream in your hands, just as you literally hold your future in your hands the first time you hold your baby. It really has been a dream of mine to become a published author.

How good are you at Scrabble?

I'm a pretty good speller, so I guess I can hold my own. Let's just say that people don't usually want to play against me. I don't know why. It's not like I'm a walking dictionary or anything. Although, certain members of my family would probably disagree with that. I like Scrabble; it's the one game where I feel I have the advantage!

Descended from the same bloodline that spawned the likes of James Russell, Amy and Robert Lowell, Margay Leah Justice was fated to be a writer herself from a young age. But even before she knew that there was a name for what she was doing, she knew one thing: She had a deep and unconditional love for the written word. A love that would challenge her in times of need, abandon her in times of distress, and rediscover her in times of hope. Through her writing, Margay has learned to cope with every curve ball life has thrown her, including the challenges of single parenting, the harsh realities of living in a shelter, coping with the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, and the roller coaster ride of dealing with a child who suffers from bipolar disorder and Asperger's Syndrome. But along the way she has rediscovered the amazing power of words.

Margay currently lives in Massachusetts with her two daughters, two cats, and a myriad of characters who vie for her attention and demand that their own stories be told. Visit Margay at her website.

For another "What, When, Where, Why, How" segment today, check out Judy Thomas' blog.

What, When, Where, Why, How with Renee Wildes

Welcome to the inaugural week of my new, fun game of silly questions and interesting answers. Today, I get to torture Renee Wildes!

What was the last movie you watched?

I took my kids to see the movie BOLT.

Which surprised me in the fact that it reflected a premise I use all the time -
What happens when a character finds out the truth they've been told their entire life turns out to be a lie? What do they do when they find out the "real" truth? How do they initially handle it? How do they come to accept it and how do they use it to go forward with the rest of their life?

In my current release HEDDA'S SWORD, my heroine Maleta spent her life chasing down the Black Wolf, the man she holds responsible for stealing her home and killing her family, only to find out the entire attack was orchestrated by the Queen herself because Maleta's father was fomenting rebellion against Queen Sunniva's corrupt regime. Maleta's fight for personal vengeance becomes a full-scale rebellion to free a country.

When did you start writing?

In real life since I was six. Since nobody (besides my mom and grandma) wants to read horse stories penned by a six-year-old, officially I'd have to say since 2002. That's when I joined RWA and started entering unpubbed chapter contests and going to conferences. I switched from short contemporary to my true love, fantasy, in 2005, joined a couple critique groups and sold my first fantasy romance to Samhain at the 2007 NJ RWA PYHIAB Conference. My current title is HEDDA'S SWORD, and it was released 1/6/09. It's Book 2 in my Guardians of Light series.

Where were you when you got your first kiss?

I was a late bloomer - I was the horse-crazy tomboy who had no time for boys. Seriously. I went to parochial boarding school for high school and I got in trouble with the dean by forgetting a formal banquet and going riding in the mountains - leaving my date, corsage in hand, standing in the lobby looking like a fool. I wasn't trying to be mean - it honestly just was that low on my radar when I was 15 and I forgot it was that night. (My sister still tells me I probably scarred that boy for life.)

So my first kiss was when I was 18. He was 36. I went through a LATE rebellious stage of "sex drugs and rock and roll" - I was a roadie for a hard-rock band for 10 years in what my mom and I refer to as my Bad Decade. My first real boyfriend was twice my age, but there's something to be said for older men! We were taking a bike ride on a trail through a wooded park, and stopped to rest on a big rock by a creek. It was fall, so it was a bit chilly once you stopped moving. So I shivered, he moved closer to put an arm around me...and kissed me. Warmed me up in a hurry!

Why is the sky blue?

The Blue Fairy won the coin toss. (Payback for losing to the Pink Fairy in Sleeping Beauty!) If you notice, the Pink Fairy tries to sneak in at sunrise and sunset, but the Blue Fairy puts her foot down and ultimately wins.

How can you solve a Rubik's cube?

Never figured it out. A friend of mine in one of my local writers groups says to just switch the stickers around *LOL*.

I'm not one for logic or mind puzzles. I SUCK at crossword puzzles, too. I'm more of a word search kinda gal. I'm better at Scrabble, Boggle or Best Sellers. Best Sellers is a great game for writers meetings. You pick a genre card and two letter cards, and you have X # of minutes to write a story in your selected genre using as many words starting with your two letters as you can cough up. It's great fun - except for the poor person who invariably picks X or Q!

I’m a study in contrasts. I’m a Navy brat and a cop’s kid. I’m the lone vet tech in a family of nurses. Growing up all my friends were boys and Arabian horses, but I’d stand a date up to go horseback riding in the mountains. My ideal weekend is caving, the muddier the better, or rappelling, but it takes me twenty minutes to lean back over that cliff – every single time. Steve Irwin was my hero, but I’m deathly afraid of snakes and spiders.

When I’m not writing, I’m running between my day job as an insurance customer service phone rep, figure skating lessons, flag football & karate lessons. I drive a minivan. I am not a soccer mom. I HATE to shop, unless it’s horse stuff. I own 2 pairs of shoes, 3 skirts and 1 dress. I live in jeans in the summer and sweats in the winter.I have pierced ears but never wear earrings. I love the Dark Ages, Medieval Renaissance fairs, and scrapbooking. My favorite flowers are lilies.

When I get time to read, I love fantasy, action, and dark paranormal. My favorite book is The Ladies of Mandrigyn by Barbara Hambly. I want to be Mercedes Lackey when I grow up. I love reading Suzanne Brockmann, Lori Foster, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Christine Feehan & Angela Knight. In non-fiction I love history from Ancient Egypt & Greece through the Dark Ages, also New Age/Magical Arts. I’m a writing book junkie. I could start my own reference librarian/research business.

I will have to die in my current house because all my friends refuse to haul my book collection another foot. Not even one little box.

my website http://www.reneewildes.com/ Where Believing Is Seeing
my personal blog http://www.reneewildes1.wordpress.com/
my new character blog http://www.guardiansoflight.wordpress.com/

Welcome Guest Blogger: Margay Roberge

What a Character
by Margay Roberge

Have you ever had a character invade your mind? When you thought you were done with him, has he ever come back to haunt you, or to prove otherwise? It happened to me. When I began to write Nora’s Soul, the character of Dante was just a satellite character in my mind, a device to move the story forward. But he had other ideas and he just wouldn’t be silenced. He invaded my mind, took over my thoughts, and even tried to –

Dante: Stop, woman! You like to think you’re my creator, but we both know the truth of that, don’t we?

Margay: But I did create you.

Dante: Tell them how I came to you in a dream.

Margay: All right, so you came to me in a dream -

Dante: I love invading dreams. I don’t get to do it very often.

Margay: Can I tell the story?

Dante: Oh, yes. Please do.

Margay: Thank you. As I was about to say, it was one of the more vivid dreams I’d ever had, a fully realized scene of the two of us on the dance floor, dancing the night away.

Dante: I love dancing.

Margay: Dante, please.

Dante: Oh, sorry. Go on.

Margay: But you were something of a devil and that is how I first thought of you. But as the story came to develop, I realized that you were more of an angel, just a…misguided one. You’d lost your way somehow. You’ve been rather stingy on the details.

Dante: If I told you everything up front, what fun would that be?

Margay: Yes, I must admit it’s been more fun pulling the details out of you with a pair of tweezers. I just wish I didn’t have to go through Nora to get them.

Dante: Ah, yes, Nora. Sweet girl.

Margay: We’ve talked about this, Dante. You can’t have her. She’s not meant for you.

Dante: Can’t I have anyone? What kind of power do I have if I can’t take whomever I want?

Margay: Don’t forget free will. It’s all about free will. You see, they have to choose you. If they don’t choose you, you can’t have them.

Dante: I never did like free will. It’s always messing things up.

Margay: Dante, come on now. Maybe we should just talk about the book.

Dante: Yes, do that. Talk about the book.

Margay: At its core, Nora’s Soul is a story about one woman’s journey to rediscover her faith – in herself, in her beliefs, but along the way, she is challenged by two angels, one light and one dark. The light angel, Peter, wants to help her reconnect, but the dark angel, Dante, wants something entirely different. He wants her soul.

Dante: Nice summary.

Margay: Thanks.

Dante: I just hope you got the story right.

Margay: Well, I guess you’ll just have to wait until the release date to find out.

Dante: So you’re not even going to give me a little hint about how it turns out?

Margay: Nope. But if you go to my website http://margayleahjustice.com, you can read an excerpt.

Dante: And you thought I was the devil.

Margay: If you’re done, I’d like to regain some control over this article.

Dante: Oh. Sorry.

Margay: Right.

Well, there you have it. Character. You just never know when a character is going to invade your thoughts – or take them over completely and try to run your life. But what are we without the characters that populate our books, our movies, our lives?

If you would like a chance to get to know Dante better, read about the havoc he wreaks in Nora’s Soul, available now from Amazon.com. He is quite a character. Hope you enjoy him as much as I do.

Nora’s Soul, by Margay Leah Justice, http://margayleahjustice.com.

Welcome Guest Blogger: Liana Laverentz

Create a Collage for 2009
By Liana Laverentz


I was flipping through some Oprah magazines last night, looking for pictures and quotes I want to use to make a collage of all the goodness I want to bring into my life in 2009. Oprah puts out a very positive magazine, so I like getting ideas from that one. I made a poster-size collage six years ago, as a creativity exercise with some writer friends, and didn’t think much of it, other than it was a fun thing to do. But I liked it enough that I framed it and put it up in my bedroom.

Then the oddest thing happened. Within a few years, everything that I had put into that collage, which was about the things that fed my soul, showed up in my life. I kid you not. Without even thinking of it, just having it on the wall, my subconscious mind went about creating the circumstances that would be needed to bring the things in that poster into my life.

You can call it weird, but I know it happened. One day I looked up at this poster I hadn’t paid much attention to over the past couple of years, had barely looked at—you know how we tend to not see what is in front of us every day--and realized everything in it was now in my life. I was stunned. I’d read about this kind of thing happening, the power of intention and all that, but…

So last night I started on a new collage, one for 2009, which I will do sometime over the holiday season.

You might want to try one, too. All you have to do is go through magazines and clip or rip out pages that have something on them that appeals to you for some reason. A picture, a quote, a splash of color, even. Some of the stuff I ripped out last night makes no sense. But I’m sure it will when the time comes to put the collage together.

It’s a wonderful way to relax and have some “me” time in the midst of a very busy season. A great way to get rid of all those old magazines you have lying around and don’t know what to do with, too. If you don’t have time to do a full poster-size one, do a smaller one. There are no rules to this sort of thing.

You’ll be amazed at how creative it makes you feel.

And, in a couple of years, you’ll be even more amazed by what happens.

Take care, God Bless, and let me know how it turns out for you.

Liana Laverentz
Thin Ice (NJRW Golden Leaf and EPPIE Award Winner)
Jake's Return (NJRW Golden Leaf Award Winner)
Ashton's Secret (available June 26)
www.lianalaverentz.com
www.polkadotbanner.com
http://lianalaverentz.blogspot.com/
www.myspace.com/authorlianalaverentz

Welcome Guest Blogger: D. Renee Bagby

Reporter - RPR
Serenity - SER
Melchior - MCR
Adrienne - ADR
Malik - MLK
Sekhmet - SKH


RPR: Well, here we are again with another character interview. This time they are from D. Renee Bagby's novel Serenity, published with Samhain Publishing, Ltd. Out now in ebook and due out in print January 27, 2009. Welcome, Queen Serenity and King Melchior.

SER: Hello.

MCR: *nods*

RPR: Also here is Sekhmet, the overseer who will make sure we don't have any spoilers in the interview.

SKH: *waves to the audience* Just pretend I'm not here.

RPR: That didn't work last time, I don't think it'll work this time. And we have special guests Adrienne and Malik from the last interview.

ADR: Hello again, everybody.

RPR: They expressed an interest in meeting Queen Serenity and King Melchior so Sekhmet has graciously allowed them to be here today. And last but not least, we have a very special suprise guest. Chigaru, Serenity's head guard.

CHG: *whispers* Thank you for allowing me to be here as well.

RPR: Not to slight the royals but I have to start with you, Chigaru. According to the book, you don't talk much. Why would you want to be here at this interview?

CHG: I am merely observing. I wish to have experience when my time comes.

RPR: Oh yes, you have a book scheduled as well.

CHG: Yes.

RPR: Is there anything you care to tell us about it?

CHG: No.

RPR: *looks a little flustered* Um... okay. *clears her throat* Moving on then. Queen Serenity and King Melchior, you've both been given an opportunity to read Renee's novelization of your lives. How do you think it compared to the actual events?

SER: I chanced to read Adrienne and Malik's interview. My answer is much the same as theirs. It was eerily true to life and some parts were very hard to read.

MCR: I am sorry, Serenity.

SER: *smiles at Melchior and pats his hand*

RPR: *looks at her notes* About that. I actually have a reader question if you care to hear it.

MCR: Please.

RPR: One reader asks and I quote, "Where do you get off treating Serenity the way you did?"

MCR: I believe Renee presented the explanation for my actions within the chapters of her novel. There is more to the explanation. However... *glances at Sekhmet and then Chigaru* I am not at liberty to divulge it.

RPR: Oh ho, does that look mean it has something to do with Chigaru's story then?

CHG: Yes. It is the entire plot.

RPR: Wow, I didn't think King Melchior's behavior would need a whole other book to explain it.

SKH: Renee likes to make things convoluted. You should see her current WIP. The twist at the end is enough to make your short and curlies knot up.

RPR: Can't wait. *flips through her notes* Well, from the last interview, I already know there are certain things I can't ask about. But I do have two other questions before I turn the interview over and let you all converse amongst yourselves. First, can I visit your palace? Gezane sounds like a great place and I'd love to see it up close. *looks at Adrienne and Malik* I'd love to visit Bron as well.

SER: I am always happy to have guests.

MCR: It is Sekhmet who brought us here so it is ultimately up to her.

SKH: Short controlled visit.

MLK: We do not need to go through Sekhmet, so anytime you wish, you need only tell me.

RPR: Thanks so much. My second question - are you happy?

SER: *gives Melchior a loving look* Very.

MCR: My life has become much easier and more fulfilling since admitting my feelings to myself and my kingdom.

RPR: *sighs wistfully* It's hard to believe, looking at you now, that you two had such a rough start.

SKH: Wait until Chigaru's book comes out. The start wasn't the only thing that was rough.

RPR: Are you saying we'll see more of Queen Serenity and King Melchior's relationship in Chigaru's book?

SKH: Of course. He lives in the palace and is the head of her personal guards. Serenity and Melchior's continued relationship will be on full display.

RPR: Now that sounds intriguing. I take it there's trouble in paradise.

SKH: You'll just have to wait and see.

RPR: The suspense is already getting to me. Well, that's all the time I have. I'm leaving to let the royals get better acquainted. Thank you all for coming to this interview.

SER: I'm pleased you wished to speak with us.

MCR: I am sorry we couldn't impart more.

RPR: Hopefully next time we can get Renee or--

SKH: *fades from view*

RPR: Darn it! She did it again. I will get an actual interview out of her eventually. *huffs*

ADR: *chuckling* Maybe you should leave well enough alone.

CHG: *stands, bows to everyone, and leaves the room*

RPR: Don't forget, you owe me an interview after your book releases, Chigaru!

CHG: *stops and nods back at her and then continues on his way*

RPR: Was that a yes?

SER: Yes.

RPR: Well, you four enjoy the time together Sekhmet has allowed you. I guess when I do Chigaru's interview, I'll be seeing Queen Serenity and King Melchior again. I look forward to that. Goodnight and thank you.

D. Reneé Bagby
Building New Realms of Passion...
ADRIENNE -- Fantasy Romance (MC/IR)
SERENITY -- Fantasy Romance (MC/IR)
http://dreneebagby.com

Zenobia Renquist
Discover Different and Unique Romance
A VALENTINE'S GIFT FOR TORI -- Contemp IR Romance
ACKNOWLEDGING MEIRION -- Sci-Fi Romance (MC/IR)
http://zenobiarenquist.com