Giving Thanks

Its the end of November already and I'm mentally still in July. Where did the time go? That's a universal question and I've yet to find an answer. As I thought about this, I realized that by making it a policy to celebrate each holiday, I'm marking the passing of the year and having fun. That way 365 days don't slip by unnoticed.
As for giving thanks on this holiday, here are my top three reasons to be thankful.
1. My husband and children. Not to brag or anything, but I have a daughter who is an emergency room psychologist, a son who is a certified diesel mechanic and a son who is currently working on his doctorate in Physics at the CERN Lab in Switzerland. Wow, who knew two country folks could produce such smart, caring individuals. Oh, and don't forget, a great husband who doesn't read romance but he reads mine. Okay, I'm bragging just a little.
2. My parents. Although they are getting up in age, are both doing well and living life to the fullest.
3. My critique partners. I have smart, intelligent and fun people who encourage me every step of the way through my writing career.
What are you most thankful for today?

Tsunami Blue-review

I recently returned from the Emerald City Writer's Conference in Seattle, Washington, my first. If I could, I'd already be signed up for next year.
All of the attendees received a super abundance of books. Free books. All kinds of books. I made the decision to read my way through them and possibly find some new favorite authors. The book on the top of the stack happened to be Tsunami Blue by Gayle Ann Williams. I got lucky. For a debut book, its spellbinding, with an original storyline. Blue, the main character is tough, self sufficient and, at times, very funny. Sexy Gabriel Black turns out to be the good guy, even though Blue isn't sure until the end of the book. Super charged with paranormal activity and just plain bad guys, Blue and Gabriel fight their way to a new world.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense with their hot romance. Good job, Gayle.

Our Stories, Our Way

"If we don't tell our stories, they will be told by people who do not understand them at all." 

Teresa Jordan

We all have stories worth telling and as the old saying goes, if you want it done right, do it yourself.
That is why I started writing. Like most writers, I have stories that are begging to come out and rather than have others think I'm daft because I talk to my characters, I give them life on the page. Once in a while a character I hadn't planned makes an appearance and takes over the story. That's excitement.

NaNoWriMo

Another season of NaNo has arrived and the first four days were great. I love NaNo. Well, I did until today. Today I wrote a big fat zero. Life got in the way. Tomorrow I'll need twice as many words spilling from my brain. Wish me luck.
What do you do to keep yourself on track? Set a timer, close yourself in a room and lock the door? Drink? Let me know your ideas.
Steph