tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10693195445815759482024-03-07T14:48:32.846-08:00The monster under the bed might be real.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.comBlogger531125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-33424227231371826782016-06-27T10:49:00.001-07:002016-06-27T10:49:11.466-07:00Join me and my fellow Lei Crime writers at the Facebook Event today at 5pm CST. There will be fantastic prizes: Kindle, Book sets and all kinds of Wonderful goodies. I'm going, are you?<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/241635219525951/">Facebook Lei Crime Facebook Party</a><br />
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<img alt="" class="spotlight" src="https://scontent-dfw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13138839_1062976700428805_3388458434337148564_n.jpg?oh=c72d6a5b80e866388ab1b9ca9d83de45&oe=58029BAE" /> Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-91685087552279386632016-06-18T08:58:00.001-07:002016-06-18T10:30:37.896-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpw_YNpmAxnPMC2yt0G0p3o-GvzpU1zCnCPq3OoWcQRRdxkqypGDJoOC5jzALNMOSsf343-EpoTXYlLH947sZlr05xu05p7N6x4BbPXFSdkokkh9jVoN6xKnjICNlSKYCxDpKtgAWQxFw/s1600/DragonTouched-Shenold+copy+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpw_YNpmAxnPMC2yt0G0p3o-GvzpU1zCnCPq3OoWcQRRdxkqypGDJoOC5jzALNMOSsf343-EpoTXYlLH947sZlr05xu05p7N6x4BbPXFSdkokkh9jVoN6xKnjICNlSKYCxDpKtgAWQxFw/s320/DragonTouched-Shenold+copy+%25281%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
My new release for Kindle Worlds should go live next week. So excited, can't wait. Also, next week is the Kindle Worlds Facebook party. Come and join us for fun, and free books and prizes.<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/241635219525951/?ref=4&action_history=null&source=4">Facebook Party</a><br />
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<span style="color: white;">The
fate of the world rests with unlikely heroes.<br />
Power comes with a terrible price …</span></div>
<span style="color: white;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="color: white;"><br />
Katsuko’s not exactly normal, but she’s never truly been challenged either. </span>
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</span></div>
<span style="color: white;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="color: white;">All
that’s about to change because somebody knows she’s special.</span>
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<span style="color: white;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: white;">The
murder of Kat’s guardian and the sudden discovery of her powers leaves her
reeling.</span></div>
<span style="color: white;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: white;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="color: white;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="color: white; mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="color: white;">She can control fire, conjure lightning, and
summon a dragon, but will it be enough to help her save her world and herself
from dark magic?</span></span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><br />
(This story takes place before Blood Orchids, on Hilo.)</span><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">My favorite genre’s are mystery and urban fantasy with some romance and
paranormal thrown in. I’m a hybrid I guess. I love to pitch a normal person
into an extra-ordinary circumstances as they find out the monster under the bed
is real.</i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<br /></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I loved the idea of setting some stories in Hawaii, just for fun, like
a mini-vacation. I knew I’d need to do some research, but dragons and Hawaii
seemed such a good fit.</i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I hope the readers will learn to love Kat because of her resilient
spirit, and ability to carry on in spite of all the loss in her life. She
hasn’t built up walls to keep people out.</i></div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-47921521385844950322015-09-15T15:32:00.000-07:002015-09-15T15:32:48.856-07:00New Release, New Contest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo9LO1B1f4W6DydvYcSYIqKCxfreZXnIgoYxb5UXOf-7cuCDcDr9bNQKaNcJOq6FB8ABSMuGZQKLuk6gqZKpBY1PZm46w8UviKUNAvMWKC-ugrOa81z9FQbS4wAj0h2ZNj1hX6M5rRuB4/s1600/DeadFairies_w9126_750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo9LO1B1f4W6DydvYcSYIqKCxfreZXnIgoYxb5UXOf-7cuCDcDr9bNQKaNcJOq6FB8ABSMuGZQKLuk6gqZKpBY1PZm46w8UviKUNAvMWKC-ugrOa81z9FQbS4wAj0h2ZNj1hX6M5rRuB4/s320/DeadFairies_w9126_750.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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A sadistic serial killer is staking fairies with iron and taking their wings. Ande Ryan is on the case as part of the Paranormal Investigation Unit. Being forced to work alongside her werewolf former lover, Cal, has made the case even more problematic. Now, she must deal with her difficult Fae half sister—who she didn’t know existed—as well as the possibility that she might have to keep the dark forces from taking over the world. </div>
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It's preorder time for Dead Fairies. So its time for a contest. Anyone who preorders Dead Fairies in the next ten days will be entered in a contest. Two people will receive swag like bookmarks, post card and a notebook. One person will also receive a signed print copy of Dead Fairies. Please comment on this post and tell me when you order.<br />
Would love reviews on Amazon once you read it.<br />
I will announce the winners , on Facebook, by Sept. 29th and you can private message me you<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">r address at that time.<br /> Unfortunately, the contest is for the USA only at this time.</span><br />
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<a href="http://tinyurl.com/owxzeaf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://tinyurl.com/owxzeaf</a></div>
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Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-11405149117991254052014-10-07T09:29:00.001-07:002014-10-07T09:29:14.263-07:00Pet Peeves-Our Furry FriendsHere's the link for my latest Dogster article.<br />
<br /><br />
"What behaviors does your dog have that drives you crazy?"<br />
<br /><br />
<a href="http://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/dog-behavior-training-tips-drive-crazy-pet-peeves">http://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/dog-behavior-training-tips-drive-crazy-pet-peeves</a>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-19448797139028581422014-08-17T00:00:00.000-07:002014-08-18T07:39:24.350-07:00Why I Write Blog Hop-Why Does Carol Shenold Write
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZTrCwkPnV9lyMBKJ-TnZbQ7cWI5PNKKhabFzql5qjrm_XOU6HoU97i-hXgbpyt2gHXcbYSAjZ29F7NYXzTNIJpoLRBCdt0Jqqo4GYHBw69WBclhk-bjcgQpkls_d66imu67_89DFlaRQ/s1600/Bloody_Murder600x900dpi600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMAGwgePlGiIedWMBI_Eq7dABXyQgHZGLwFO2UtAtW-MLTlJN9g6xi8_hUG3Wa7wjtTkQzYpxwDjwYnfaaRx8qLhYZGGFhK9J-z-8vuy7pgsr2O2IumVIpSBS4m2wRs4eXbgu78HtWkls/s1600/PrivyToMurder+Full+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMAGwgePlGiIedWMBI_Eq7dABXyQgHZGLwFO2UtAtW-MLTlJN9g6xi8_hUG3Wa7wjtTkQzYpxwDjwYnfaaRx8qLhYZGGFhK9J-z-8vuy7pgsr2O2IumVIpSBS4m2wRs4eXbgu78HtWkls/s1600/PrivyToMurder+Full+Cover.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">WHY I WRITE<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">My
best friend, Amy Shojai, tagged me to join her in a “Why I Write” blog hop. Amy
and I have been in a writing group together for twenty years. She not only is
she an animal behaviorist with multiple cat and dog care books, but she’s
written two “Thrillers with bite.” “Lost and Found” and Hide and Seek.” Visit her
at <a href="http://amyshojai.com/"><span style="color: blue;">http://amyshojai.com</span></a> <a href="file:///D:/Carol/Articles/www.amyshojai.com"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Why
I write has always been a difficult question to answer. So, here are several
reasons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">By the time I was in third grade, I
realized I could read every book in the library, even if I couldn’t
understand it. I was so excited. That’s when I fell in love with books and
words. I couldn’t get enough of reading and listening to others read, like
my grandmother.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">In school I was in the library club,
wrote book reviews, and was the kid who enjoyed writing essays. My sister
and I took the bus to the downtown Dallas library every week during the
summer and checked out as many books as possible. I should have known even
then that I would be destined for the writing life.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">I wrote my first book when romances were
the first big thing. I saw writers on television talk about being writers
and for some reason figured out you did not have to live in New York to be
a writer. I was a little slow to pick up on that.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">I wanted to be published, but even more,
I wanted to give other people the same pleasure of getting lost in a book
that I also enjoyed. I’ve learned a lot.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">The writing life is hard, long, and difficult
to break into. If you focus on the on the end product, you might get lost.
Focus on the journey, enjoy the writing and editing, send off the manuscript
and write the next one. To make a living as a writer, be willing to write
fiction, non-fiction, teach and spread your wings in multiple directions.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5u_laruyHJpQOp_awFNkZEyrhhH54nwbwwqOCwDpDuSwdGl3DMMs2gAYuY7B9vC85YztVMPZCvlpp0n6dxct9iS9KwhsPQTNMcxQvUtqfSk8vhL7wT0w_zMGvQYRADq3YeLITFFvkmg4/s1600/FairyDust_w7532_750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5u_laruyHJpQOp_awFNkZEyrhhH54nwbwwqOCwDpDuSwdGl3DMMs2gAYuY7B9vC85YztVMPZCvlpp0n6dxct9iS9KwhsPQTNMcxQvUtqfSk8vhL7wT0w_zMGvQYRADq3YeLITFFvkmg4/s1600/FairyDust_w7532_750.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<ol start="5" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">Back to why I write. I love books and
stories. My grandmother was a wonderful story teller. She told me and my
sister scary tales at bedtime, to my mother’s lasting horror.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For me, the creation of worlds allows me
to get lost in other lives and reading allows me to enjoy worlds created
by others. I love Post apocalyptic and paranormal tales. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">I’m finally retired from 50 years of
nursing. As much as I love writing fiction, nonfiction pays more quickly.
I’ve been writing non-fiction, medical-technical and pet related. So, even
though I can now write full-time, I have to divide writing time between
paying gigs and fiction. But, I’m doing what I always wanted to do,
full-time, and love it.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">The most difficult part of the writing
life for me, is the fact that writing time takes away from reading time
and I love reading. Never have enough time for reading, never have too
many books. Never have enough time for all the art I want to create.</span></li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS5ni2oF2uAWoZG1JuV4y9r_gtdiIEixbNqbv5R-zEUR_hJ7I4aw3Oc85ximfrJK4fmXy_2wEsGsnGORUIbuk_ELdZr0i9H6YOlPEPFB98joJfP6FloQG5UWK5azaCNPAmMpXGAgDEVY/s1600/slide-001a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS5ni2oF2uAWoZG1JuV4y9r_gtdiIEixbNqbv5R-zEUR_hJ7I4aw3Oc85ximfrJK4fmXy_2wEsGsnGORUIbuk_ELdZr0i9H6YOlPEPFB98joJfP6FloQG5UWK5azaCNPAmMpXGAgDEVY/s1600/slide-001a.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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</ol>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">Now it’s time for me to tag a
couple of other writers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">Rinda Elliot has written the Beri
O’Dell series,”Dweller on the Threshhold” and “Blood of an Ancient.” She also
loves making wine and gardening. Go visit her at <a href="https://relliott4.wordpress.com/"><span style="color: blue;">https://relliott4.wordpress.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New";"><o:p> </o:p></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS5ni2oF2uAWoZG1JuV4y9r_gtdiIEixbNqbv5R-zEUR_hJ7I4aw3Oc85ximfrJK4fmXy_2wEsGsnGORUIbuk_ELdZr0i9H6YOlPEPFB98joJfP6FloQG5UWK5azaCNPAmMpXGAgDEVY/s1600/slide-001a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">Tabitha Shay is a romance writer
who writes witchy titles such as “Witch’s Brew” Witch’s Heart” Witch’s Moon” Now
she’s added angels to the mix and you can meet the Angels from Deadwood. You
can visit her fun website at <a href="http://www.tabithashay.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.tabithashay.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">Be sure to come visit me at <a href="http://www.carolshenold.net/"><span style="color: blue;">www.carolshenold.net</span></a> or <a href="http://carol-carolsinkspot.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: blue;">http://carol-carolsinkspot.blogspot.com</span></a>.
“Fairy Dust”, “Privy to Murder” and “Bloody Murder” are all available at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.Amazon.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-44847407057786628802014-08-06T11:19:00.000-07:002014-08-06T11:19:41.992-07:00New Discovery<span style="font-size: large;">I've discovered Elizabeth Von Armin and "Elizabeth and her German Garden." Beautiful writing, and can so identify with this Edwardian writer, her views on nature, gardens, babies, books, neighbors and visitors. Solitude is to be prized when you can find it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't make the mistake of thinking the real life Elizabeth was a shrinking violet. Born in Australia, raised in England, married a duke, lived in Germany, had a divorce, an affair with HG Wells among others, died in the US in 1941. Acerbic sense of humor and definitely a feminist. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So enjoying a book I would never have picked up if my Grand daughter had not invited me to join her book club. Many thanks to Nikala. </span>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-91823526006771809792014-01-29T13:46:00.000-08:002014-01-29T13:46:32.507-08:00Wednesday Writing- Tips, tricks, news.<span style="font-size: large;">My new article "Infection Prevention in a Rescue Population" will be on </span><a href="http://www.catster.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">www.catster.com</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> next week. I'm excited. Can't wait to see it. Go visit the site if you enjoy great articles and tips about cat care, cute pictures and all that fun cat stuff.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">How do you revamp your writing career? For me it has so far consisted of writing fiction more and bringing back the nonfiction writing. I'm working on freelance articles for Catster and Dogster as well as applying to write for <a href="http://www.about.com/">www.about.com</a> on a regular basis. Next trick, getting into a good routine that gives me time to write fiction, nonfiction and up my marketing, including this blog.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm sure there are more things I need to be doing but this is where I began. Sure am enjoying working from home. Less make-up, jewelry and dress clothes involved, comfortable shoes. More time for writing and art. Now I just have to figure out why blogger won't let me add pictures to my blog right now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you done anything new lately?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Would love to hear from you here, or on Twitter @realmonsters or visit my website at <a href="http://www.carolshenold.net/">www.carolshenold.net</a>. I'm also on facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/carolshenold">www.facebook.com/carolshenold</a> </span>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-18561223711936577572014-01-27T10:14:00.000-08:002014-01-27T10:16:58.801-08:00Cats and More-Changes<span style="font-size: large;">I am so totally enjoying being retired, (except for the fixed income, but that's another post altogether.) I now have time to write, paint, play music and read. I'm spending more time on Zentangle projects and taking up nonfiction again as well as fiction. I'm even going to write about pets again, fun writing in addition to the medical technical writing and my urban fantasy addiction.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I really went crazy and submitted to About.com but not sure I will hear back. Catster also has an article they are considering. So, activity going on here. Dead Fairies on the downhill stretch for the first draft, finally. I've begun the latest CME course for nurses. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not sure how I had time to work before because I'm pretty busy with writing, occasional lunches or plays with the girls, Zentangle with friends on Monday afternoons and Lori's needs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have a goal of being a more regular blogger now, so stay-tuned for more Privy to Murder and Dead Fairies news in the future, plus Infection Control at home tips and pet news. Jasper and Poppy both want to be in the spotlight. </span>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-45276597248771196902014-01-12T09:50:00.000-08:002014-01-12T09:50:56.607-08:00Today-SundayGood news on the writing front. Have a freelance contract with Catster for a new article.<br />
Starting the new CME course on environmental hygiene in healthcare-so exciting.<br />
Trying to finish Dead Fairies.<br />
Want to begin the new pastel painting I sketched out, an Indian shawl dancer.<br />
Word for today, the week, Notice, be present. Enjoy every moment of retirement.<br />
<br />Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-72552328481135776442013-07-03T04:59:00.002-07:002013-07-03T04:59:57.664-07:00Fairy Dust Launch Day<span style="font-size: large;">Official Wild Rose Press Launch day for Fairy Dust</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokXqYwW30JhkYytPqXWEigg7g2DrH3Rlik5yZlpYQo9xn1mh8OlAX9S4xN17qiAiihidGcgy_Q52kZk-d-riNwwsX45hs7xPOT1N1LxPrYt02eafKJ5F3kddUdPWBfilcCCrjK0_UXGE/s1600/FairyDust_w7532_Final%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokXqYwW30JhkYytPqXWEigg7g2DrH3Rlik5yZlpYQo9xn1mh8OlAX9S4xN17qiAiihidGcgy_Q52kZk-d-riNwwsX45hs7xPOT1N1LxPrYt02eafKJ5F3kddUdPWBfilcCCrjK0_UXGE/s320/FairyDust_w7532_Final%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Comment on this blog, tell me your favorite book, the one that influenced you the most. Enter to win a print or electronic version of Privy to Murder to Bloody Murder. Contest on until July 10. United States only. Be sure to leave your email so I can let you know if you win.</div>
Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-65233478215345956542013-06-26T08:14:00.000-07:002013-06-26T08:14:05.204-07:00Fairy Dust Interview<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9idxC1Z240FXEy6oBNFKwO3nNED2dOpKLIGK4aTDN0tNsLungAlH547oVerHFEGyET6lyreYImegdseFbZnesMGPQpOmnwUjmSuJYvCkH1CTCzWos0hgrqT1aaMi60Ifb4zP-BE4NGT4/s1600/Carol_0434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9idxC1Z240FXEy6oBNFKwO3nNED2dOpKLIGK4aTDN0tNsLungAlH547oVerHFEGyET6lyreYImegdseFbZnesMGPQpOmnwUjmSuJYvCkH1CTCzWos0hgrqT1aaMi60Ifb4zP-BE4NGT4/s1600/Carol_0434.JPG" xya="true" /></a></div>
Join me for a fun interview at: http://twrpblackrose.blogspot.com/
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Find out all about me and Fairy Dust.<br />
Also, Post a comment on my blog, right here, for a chance to win a copy of Privy to Murder or Bloody Murder.<br />
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Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-59959101796828903492013-06-21T10:16:00.000-07:002013-06-21T10:35:23.826-07:00Zen Your Art<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS5ni2oF2uAWoZG1JuV4y9r_gtdiIEixbNqbv5R-zEUR_hJ7I4aw3Oc85ximfrJK4fmXy_2wEsGsnGORUIbuk_ELdZr0i9H6YOlPEPFB98joJfP6FloQG5UWK5azaCNPAmMpXGAgDEVY/s1600/slide-001a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS5ni2oF2uAWoZG1JuV4y9r_gtdiIEixbNqbv5R-zEUR_hJ7I4aw3Oc85ximfrJK4fmXy_2wEsGsnGORUIbuk_ELdZr0i9H6YOlPEPFB98joJfP6FloQG5UWK5azaCNPAmMpXGAgDEVY/s1600/slide-001a.jpg" /></a></div>
Here's an example of a Zentangle. This is my zen meditation thing. Love pen and ink drawing with art pens, also pretty with colors added. If you too want to zentangle, go to <a href="http://www.zentangle.com/">www.zentangle.com</a> to learn how. You will love it. It is addicting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPsULiIB2UPmFbnmV0F4zgTcAuYBFF62oqZW-L8tExlejpRl21zM7YJODQqhoW0dAUOjmdsAR226YxAVQ3MwdRrSs3penOcLos7-vNBlDMS2seWqEMORfHZcUy_aNae2o114Hsb9ktyw/s1600/tangles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPsULiIB2UPmFbnmV0F4zgTcAuYBFF62oqZW-L8tExlejpRl21zM7YJODQqhoW0dAUOjmdsAR226YxAVQ3MwdRrSs3penOcLos7-vNBlDMS2seWqEMORfHZcUy_aNae2o114Hsb9ktyw/s320/tangles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Below are some Zentangle inspired Art. Just for fun.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJ3SRyzO3XZ6I0PBk4pLNZl8w9VGIvAIqD_HIlaE0KQELqKChBHnAT7KDyJvCtlYccnhHO19fccRnN5DaBwv4g52pEFA3OUL9Fd-yzsiRiC5AwOOdN8SP_5EwWofl4Qy8YOHXNEC9mko/s1600/tangled+toes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJ3SRyzO3XZ6I0PBk4pLNZl8w9VGIvAIqD_HIlaE0KQELqKChBHnAT7KDyJvCtlYccnhHO19fccRnN5DaBwv4g52pEFA3OUL9Fd-yzsiRiC5AwOOdN8SP_5EwWofl4Qy8YOHXNEC9mko/s320/tangled+toes.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdSDNgHbqFDOAQC8iq7Qm1AhLF3whXnFK6WD9eyIMqcIjcx0fg6ulmHMg7_dPZbM_fpdQIfZdKc3t4Lma07FQHKq_FmAowdvA9y5O9dZWJ_p6yu5tvFWX0zUFksV_d9pvyDEKkLwIIs4/s1600/Tanged+Cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdSDNgHbqFDOAQC8iq7Qm1AhLF3whXnFK6WD9eyIMqcIjcx0fg6ulmHMg7_dPZbM_fpdQIfZdKc3t4Lma07FQHKq_FmAowdvA9y5O9dZWJ_p6yu5tvFWX0zUFksV_d9pvyDEKkLwIIs4/s320/Tanged+Cat.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nfdL94j0Pp8gCqhQ2HIfCYTSlObGjnmd4sF93NLZfjT-3Ay1t4mukj3WWDd_00hf3xCakDGhxrOjoTxTc6jolK6kBCJD-vxpjRqy0BskaTncbqELiKj8z9SYg0j1WDsJW37t-Xxp4dE/s1600/Tangled+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nfdL94j0Pp8gCqhQ2HIfCYTSlObGjnmd4sF93NLZfjT-3Ay1t4mukj3WWDd_00hf3xCakDGhxrOjoTxTc6jolK6kBCJD-vxpjRqy0BskaTncbqELiKj8z9SYg0j1WDsJW37t-Xxp4dE/s320/Tangled+art.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Next, journal tangle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6vNO7n0zKaB45gMguDxwwRXPzQFXe9oZV47Wi8EPVYFSYWkn09l0GrQLGf2Miia37W-Q5HF4LFvEYvdwfS21rXOU5WtVw01-6vsyL59mkMLQrfuomLZ5QbhYUHt7ECJ-_P5z8D1-xFU/s1600/journal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6vNO7n0zKaB45gMguDxwwRXPzQFXe9oZV47Wi8EPVYFSYWkn09l0GrQLGf2Miia37W-Q5HF4LFvEYvdwfS21rXOU5WtVw01-6vsyL59mkMLQrfuomLZ5QbhYUHt7ECJ-_P5z8D1-xFU/s320/journal.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Took a zentangle class, some art from class below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiKmliBVvnQTzJb5WXhj20K3jMTtXfuhO91QFmsFoMiyWaiHfycwM31pcNzKOnMbDHWCEAFxxb0EBTf8qnhcA2Nl-8-R70whQ_HJ8N7l6ogrO3DfcEgF5qceKZpIYNH59LGtUXFUlYaao/s1600/more+tangles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiKmliBVvnQTzJb5WXhj20K3jMTtXfuhO91QFmsFoMiyWaiHfycwM31pcNzKOnMbDHWCEAFxxb0EBTf8qnhcA2Nl-8-R70whQ_HJ8N7l6ogrO3DfcEgF5qceKZpIYNH59LGtUXFUlYaao/s320/more+tangles.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Finally, some pastel penquins for a cool moment on a hot day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlFnpvCmYYpLEDaLNljmREKPpPuJcglfGj971DkAC-coQoZ3BL78jopm35oo4laZiDmW4bafoybtkHvHluzmnpYF4RMX0q3FktyVOcI7hyGGo7tQxv2RnflWWUpzA9uG8XoCGxhPXHmU/s1600/penquins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlFnpvCmYYpLEDaLNljmREKPpPuJcglfGj971DkAC-coQoZ3BL78jopm35oo4laZiDmW4bafoybtkHvHluzmnpYF4RMX0q3FktyVOcI7hyGGo7tQxv2RnflWWUpzA9uG8XoCGxhPXHmU/s320/penquins.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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This is what I do for relaxation, stress relief and fun, when I'm not vicariously fighting demons and wicked fairies with my heroines.</div>
Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-75822739776909237912013-06-19T11:29:00.001-07:002013-06-19T11:29:33.672-07:00Fairy Dust-Release Date July 3. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5u_laruyHJpQOp_awFNkZEyrhhH54nwbwwqOCwDpDuSwdGl3DMMs2gAYuY7B9vC85YztVMPZCvlpp0n6dxct9iS9KwhsPQTNMcxQvUtqfSk8vhL7wT0w_zMGvQYRADq3YeLITFFvkmg4/s1600/FairyDust_w7532_750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5u_laruyHJpQOp_awFNkZEyrhhH54nwbwwqOCwDpDuSwdGl3DMMs2gAYuY7B9vC85YztVMPZCvlpp0n6dxct9iS9KwhsPQTNMcxQvUtqfSk8vhL7wT0w_zMGvQYRADq3YeLITFFvkmg4/s320/FairyDust_w7532_750.jpg" width="213" wya="true" /></a></div>
Can a half-fairy and a were wolf find true love and save the world the same day?<br />
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Fairy Dust by Carol Shenold<br />
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Half fae/half witch, Ande Ryan’s deepest desires are simple: a stress-free, fun evening with a nice guy, to earn the respect of her peers in the Paranormal Investigation Unit, and at long last, learn to use her Goddess given fae magic.<br />
Instead, she fights a demon, gets mugged by a pixie, meets her soul mate and oh yeah, has to try and defeat a wizard with the help of a six-foot elf and a wolf—Cal Masterson.<br />
Cal had no idea that his first encounter with Ande Ryan would include a fight with a demon or an intense attraction to the red-haired fairy who displays as much courage and determination as any wolf in his pack. Will Cal overcome his need to protect her as they both fight the odds and allow her fulfill her destiny?<br />
Purchase from AMAZONhttp://tinyurl.com/crq2vf6<br />
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Excerpt<br />
The thing coming at me barreled out of the trees, leaping from shadow to shadow<br />
Its rotten-meat smell drove me back. It didn’t hesitate before it threw itself at the circle shield. Sparks flew off, crackling in the air and weakening the shield. It kept coming, like the crazy it was, slamming itself into the arc, weakening it more and more until one of the impacts threw me back, into my own energy and through it. <br />
Okay, out of protection here. I threw myself over to land on my knees and came up in a crouch.<br />
The ghoul looked around as if it couldn’t figure out where I went. When it saw me, it let out a snarl and flew toward me. I sent a stream of earth fire at his sorry ass but missed because I levitated at the precise moment I let the stream of fire loose. Ahhhhh.<br />
It always happens at the wrong time. If I ever get control of the flying thing, it will be so great. <br />
Now the darkling was truly confused, and I sent another tiny but forceful fire stream toward him. This time I didn’t miss, and he burst into flame, at least his arm did.<br />
He screamed with frustration because he couldn’t see where I was, flailed around a bit, and ran back into the trees.<br />
“Damn it.” I needed down before the hell dog came back so I could get rid of it.<br />
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What if some kid came along. Not one child but several, in a group, with a leader came skipping toward the bridge. Damn, I shouldn’t have had that thought out-loud.<br />
“Go back,” I yelled as loud as I could. “Hurry. Run.” The kids were chattering at the top of their lungs. The leader tried to push them faster, wanting out of the park before the sun set altogether I guessed. They didn’t hear a word I said.<br />
Shadows crept toward them, and one shadow moved away from the others. It was back and heading straight toward the kids.<br />
“Up here, idiot. Leave the kids alone. I’m your prey. Come on, use that one cell you have for a brain.”<br />
“Oomph.” I dropped like a dead fairy, directly in front of the thing. I was toast.<br />
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Purchase from AMAZON<br />
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http://tinyurl.com/crq2vf6<br />
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Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-91892727873368318172013-05-17T07:55:00.001-07:002013-05-17T07:56:07.566-07:00Wicked Woman and New York City<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SMW9ICr6we2Glhs47n9tEEJpr97D7WzLLnK6KFRwhPF17YtHVdl75S8LOJpaf0I-eGXoHa7pYV4I81Tq-vD6GgCHk1F6l4QnUnWsWGu32Rw39gtq5UotfmX-JTkclqlSuRAy-K8_Leo/s1600/kitten+ears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" pua="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SMW9ICr6we2Glhs47n9tEEJpr97D7WzLLnK6KFRwhPF17YtHVdl75S8LOJpaf0I-eGXoHa7pYV4I81Tq-vD6GgCHk1F6l4QnUnWsWGu32Rw39gtq5UotfmX-JTkclqlSuRAy-K8_Leo/s1600/kitten+ears.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">shall be</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">horrible</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">when I am an</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">old woman who sits</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">and whispers wickedly,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">stories into children's ears.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">They must lean closer and closer</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">to hear me murmur tales so evil.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Careful kiddies. Too close and I will bite.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Okay, that's my fun for today. I love to write poetry, even when it's mostly bad. I wrote this one several years ago and had fun with it. But, as a kid I loved to be scared, loved spooky stories.</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Not as fond of being scared now. I'll be speaking at Thrillerfest in NYC, on a panel about suspense. Now that I find scary. Why couldn't I be speaking in OKC, among friends? Oh, yeah, I wasn't asked. </span><span style="font-size: large;"></span> <span style="font-size: large;">This old lady, a bit nervous about the whole big apple thing, but it will be so much fun. Amy is coming to outshine my sparkles. Can't wait. So, if anyone will be in NYC, July 12, come listen to the Suspense panel.</span>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-34701492615572678802013-04-29T09:35:00.000-07:002013-04-29T09:35:31.714-07:00Tangled Writing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS5ni2oF2uAWoZG1JuV4y9r_gtdiIEixbNqbv5R-zEUR_hJ7I4aw3Oc85ximfrJK4fmXy_2wEsGsnGORUIbuk_ELdZr0i9H6YOlPEPFB98joJfP6FloQG5UWK5azaCNPAmMpXGAgDEVY/s1600/slide-001a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" lua="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS5ni2oF2uAWoZG1JuV4y9r_gtdiIEixbNqbv5R-zEUR_hJ7I4aw3Oc85ximfrJK4fmXy_2wEsGsnGORUIbuk_ELdZr0i9H6YOlPEPFB98joJfP6FloQG5UWK5azaCNPAmMpXGAgDEVY/s1600/slide-001a.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
I took a Zentangle class this weekend, and once again heard something that applies to art and to writing. Are you surprised? </div>
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Zentangle is an art you create one stroke at a time.</div>
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Writing happens one word at a time.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Zentangle is more about the process than the finished project.</div>
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Writing is more about the process than the finished project.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Create small, portable projects, one small one, (write one page or one scene) at a time.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Creating is like eating an elephant. (One bite at a time.)</div>
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<br /></div>
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Everyone would take the same designs, (same story idea) and end up with something completely different than any one elses.</div>
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If you have never seen Zentangles and want to learn more, visit <a href="http://www.zentangle.com/">www.zentangle.com</a>.</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
And-keep on writing - one stroke/word at a time.</div>
Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-39946510506545153792013-02-08T08:18:00.001-08:002013-02-08T08:21:14.902-08:00New Cover From Wild Rose-Fairy Dust<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5u_laruyHJpQOp_awFNkZEyrhhH54nwbwwqOCwDpDuSwdGl3DMMs2gAYuY7B9vC85YztVMPZCvlpp0n6dxct9iS9KwhsPQTNMcxQvUtqfSk8vhL7wT0w_zMGvQYRADq3YeLITFFvkmg4/s1600/FairyDust_w7532_750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" jea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5u_laruyHJpQOp_awFNkZEyrhhH54nwbwwqOCwDpDuSwdGl3DMMs2gAYuY7B9vC85YztVMPZCvlpp0n6dxct9iS9KwhsPQTNMcxQvUtqfSk8vhL7wT0w_zMGvQYRADq3YeLITFFvkmg4/s320/FairyDust_w7532_750.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the new cover for the Wild Rose Press release. Love it. So pretty and fairy-ish</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Don't have the pulication date yet but hopefully soon. Show some love and write a review or two when it comes out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the mean-time, an excerpt:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hovered three feet from the ceiling in the Herb and Fairy Gardens Shop, praying no customers came in while I calmed down my fairy dust emissions and my temper.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">“Bouddicca Andraste Ryan, get your fairy ass off the ceiling and come help me. I’m dying here,” Sierya, a six-foot elf with white hair, and half owner of the shop, yelled at me.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I went up higher. She had no patience with my iffy hold on magick, especially since we had an order from a coven for twelve flower wreaths, for a moon dance. They were due to pick up the wreaths by four, and it was already after two. It’s not my fault I’m only half Fae and not in total control.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I was named for a great warrior queen and a goddess. I felt like neither as I grabbed for my flying waist-length hair with both hands, avoiding the ceiling fan.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">“You hold your skinny little horses there. I’m doing the best I can. What did youexpect? Tell me a team of Darklings from the Under is on it’s way to snatch the Titania amulet from me—and expect me to hold my temper? Not going to happen. It’s the only thing my father left me, my one tie to the Fae World. And it’s the focus that lets me use earth magick so well.”</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Sierya’s laugh, a short bark, held no humor. “He didn’t leave it to you, he left it because he was in a hurry to avoid responsibility.”</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I plummeted to the ground. “Ow. You don’t have to get nasty about it or diss my father.”</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">She turned on her heel, talking over her shoulder. “It was the best way I knew to get you down before you were caught. We have work to do.”</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Elves can be so pissy. I stomped after her, making certain the front door wards were in place as I passed by. They would let people in but any magical creatures would have to leave their powers behind.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-52017185503021905772012-12-12T09:44:00.000-08:002012-12-12T09:44:02.303-08:00Welcome to the NEXT BIG THING blog hop.<br />
<br />
<br />
What is a blog hop? Basically, it’s a way that readers can discover new authors, because with bookstores closing and publishers not promoting new authors as much, we need to find a way to introduce readers to authors they may not see in their local bookstore. So I get to give a shout-out to the wonderful author who invited me to this “dance” and then invite terrific authors at the end of the blog.<br />
<br />
Debut thriller author Amy Shojai invited me to join the “hop.” Years ago we met at a critique group in Texas and we’ve been critique partners, and friends ever since. Her thriller suspense novel, Lost and Found, is suspenseful read with a child and animal in danger. See the links at the end for other authors you really MUST check out. Check out Amy Shojai's website here, and you can buy Lost and Found.<br />
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QUESTIONS ANSWERED!<br />
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In this particular hop, I and my fellow authors, in their respective blogs, have answered 10 questions where you get to learn about our current work in progress as well as some insights into our process, from characters and inspirations to plotting and cover decisions. I hope you enjoy it!<br />
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Please feel free to comment and share your thoughts and questions. Here is my Next Big Thing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7S8x5yVD9kasXdljtCaJaT7Ofhp9erL6E7GYV3ruvBjgCnoR-eLBIt_PICVH0acaJu9pqbVLEIKzfzyscxy701BnzYQOvrt4C1PneE5psawX-pNRUJI_onoZVKllefKFmfI5bfKcJd0/s1600/51E3xEBmx0L__BO2%252C204%252C203%252C200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click%252CTopRight%252C35%252C-76_AA278_PIkin4%252CBottomRight%252C-68%252C22_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img bea="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7S8x5yVD9kasXdljtCaJaT7Ofhp9erL6E7GYV3ruvBjgCnoR-eLBIt_PICVH0acaJu9pqbVLEIKzfzyscxy701BnzYQOvrt4C1PneE5psawX-pNRUJI_onoZVKllefKFmfI5bfKcJd0/s1600/51E3xEBmx0L__BO2%252C204%252C203%252C200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click%252CTopRight%252C35%252C-76_AA278_PIkin4%252CBottomRight%252C-68%252C22_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
1: What is the working title of your book?<br />
<br />
Bloody Murder is my most recent book, a cozy paranormal mystery, part of the Tali Cates series. The next in the series, Murder Most Fowl, is in the beginning stages.<br />
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2: Where did the idea come from for the book?<br />
<br />
I lived and worked in and around small towns in North Texas for twenty years. The town of Love, Texas incorporates events, locations and people from all over the area, as well as putting ordinary small town people in extraordinary circumstances. Add humor and unexpected magic and you have Love, Texas.<br />
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3: What genre does your book come under?<br />
<br />
Cozy Paranormal Thriller<br />
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4: Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?<br />
<br />
If I were every lucky enough, I’d love to see Sandra Bullock as Tali, Meryl Streep as Mumsie (really dreaming now.) <br />
<br />
5: What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?<br />
<br />
Tali Cates must stop the murders at the county fair Queen contest before she becomes the next victim, oh, and is her new guy really a vampire?<br />
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6: Is your book self-published, published by an independent publisher, or represented by an agency?<br />
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Privy to Murder is published by AWOC publishing, Deadly Niche<br />
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7: How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?<br />
<br />
It took a couple of years due to working full time as well as writing and life events.<br />
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8: What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?<br />
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Maybe a little like the Sookie Stackhouse books due to the small town venue, humor and paranormal elements.<br />
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9: Who or what inspired you to write this book?<br />
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I love cozy mysteries and paranormal, so I finally just wrote the kinds of books that I wanted to read.<br />
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10: What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?<br />
<br />
A good picture of small town politics when it involves kid competitions. Stage moms can be deadly.<br />
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Below you will find authors (in no particular order) who will be joining me by blog, next Wednesday. Do be sure to bookmark and add them to your calendars for updates on WIPs and New Releases! Happy Writing and Reading!<br />
<br />Janet K. Brown, Writing God's Message of Hope, DIVINE DINING - published by Pen-L Publishing December, 2012, VICTORIA AND THE GHOST - published by 4RV Publishing in 2012<br />
<br />
Website: <a href="http://www.janetkbrown.com/">http://www.janetkbrown.com</a>, Group blog: <a href="http://www.bookstowriteby.blogspot.com/">http://www.bookstowriteby.blogspot.com</a><br />
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<br />
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Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-80741348086191912612012-10-31T09:10:00.002-07:002012-10-31T09:10:40.328-07:00Bloody Murder-Just in time.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7S8x5yVD9kasXdljtCaJaT7Ofhp9erL6E7GYV3ruvBjgCnoR-eLBIt_PICVH0acaJu9pqbVLEIKzfzyscxy701BnzYQOvrt4C1PneE5psawX-pNRUJI_onoZVKllefKFmfI5bfKcJd0/s1600/51E3xEBmx0L__BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA278_PIkin4,BottomRight,-68,22_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7S8x5yVD9kasXdljtCaJaT7Ofhp9erL6E7GYV3ruvBjgCnoR-eLBIt_PICVH0acaJu9pqbVLEIKzfzyscxy701BnzYQOvrt4C1PneE5psawX-pNRUJI_onoZVKllefKFmfI5bfKcJd0/s1600/51E3xEBmx0L__BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA278_PIkin4,BottomRight,-68,22_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
Bloody Murder is now live! For a good Halloween read or anytime mystery read, add Tali to your faves. <br />
Love the new cover, especially the reds as I'm a red person. My model is a sweetheart and fits the bill perfectly. <br />
Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-40847498670775983052012-10-20T07:51:00.001-07:002012-10-20T07:51:37.853-07:00FOR SUSAN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvYi_rTKBIAGnWOQiPVHLc2qvWsq2DaQMaRtFdABRbsTZznVnoeo2aIBmV9ZO6lFToPKdzfGtO0M7yQdX71xvrEd329wBE-GNCEN16VJCFkgGskZckXKTkW8mEQJUhn0QP-0gBhTTuJ-E/s1600/Chrysanthemum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvYi_rTKBIAGnWOQiPVHLc2qvWsq2DaQMaRtFdABRbsTZznVnoeo2aIBmV9ZO6lFToPKdzfGtO0M7yQdX71xvrEd329wBE-GNCEN16VJCFkgGskZckXKTkW8mEQJUhn0QP-0gBhTTuJ-E/s320/Chrysanthemum.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">My sister died the first of this month. This is for her.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">What can I say about Suzie?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had angels, three. I’m sure she is with
them now, helping them organize white robes and halos in labelled boxes as only
she could. She promised to stay with the angels to bring all of her loved ones
up, one at a time to join her. Of course, being Susan, she planned to snatch us
one by one.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Susan was a fierce protector of her loved
ones and of her students. She had courage beyond the normal. Who else would
have travelled half-way across the world, alone; to snatch the man she loved
from Iran and bring him back with her?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br />
When Susan was first diagnosed with cancer, she took the news calmly. But she
was determined to fight the disease and win. Susan won for a while. For many
years she managed her illness and lived five years in spite of the diseases
attempts to win. She did so with elegance and grace, as she did everything.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br />
The Susan I grew up with was snarky, smart and funny. She loved cats and Yul
Brynner (a fact only appreciated by those of us old enough to fall in love with
the bald king in The King and I. Don’t tell anyone, we thought he was better
than Elvis.) She was a perfectionist, devastated by any grade under an A. She
spent hours on her eyelashes, expecting perfection from them also, and she got
it. Nothing and no one defied Susan if she wanted something. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Susan’s Soraya is a combination of the
best of Mike and Susan and the two of them took care of her, with the help of
Mollie the Cat, brought her home for as long as possible devoted their lives to
her.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I’m going to miss my sister, the person
who knew me when I was young, my biggest fan, who loved my books, hung my
paintings in her house. She knew all my secrets and took them with her. Whether
our conversations took place minutes apart, days or months, it was as if we had
just paused for a minute.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I will so miss that person who knew me
best, shared a sense of humour, love of cats, books, and family. My best
friend, little sister Suzie, will be waiting for me to join her and finish that
last conversation. <br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-80616404818353269932012-09-30T10:19:00.000-07:002012-09-30T10:19:25.899-07:00Writing, Life and the rest.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I went to a party last night. We watched a singer, very Sinatra, Andy Williams-ish. Enjoyed the party, wine, friends, music, watching people from work all spiffed-up. Had a great time, but missed having a partner to dance with. Love music, love dancing, no partner does complicate things. Still, eight years later, miss having someone to always watch my back, take over in the emergency, share the fun. Kids are great but not quite the same. They have their own families and lives.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Life has been creeping in more and distracting me from writing. It does get frustrating. Writing is supposed to be my escape, but life events seem to end up with my staring into space and getting no words on the page. I know it's my job to get through it and back to the writing job, but harder than usual this time. Mind over matter, compartmentalizing, not working so well. My mind just goes back to my sister, Karl, other worries.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Maybe I just need to go with it, get past this time and then back into the routine. Traveling works as a life interruption to. I'll be happier when we get back to a routine again and I can put my world back in order. That's my whine for today and yes, I want cheese with that, chocolate and all that good stuff.</span><br />
<br />Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-12137057064883793762012-09-22T06:55:00.000-07:002012-09-22T06:55:40.482-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzEIKkX4nAngXf9U7bnXCxsvhyphenhyphenbp2zxFK19zQaJGqhM8vfARMzFdbR9ctikHmk5T71nYqZ3WjyXQrlODmsHBacJyY56eN0srrlHnydqi-3YW1zT7KeAhLn9z5LyzkOzpyizLihLjQd0fg/s1600/hummer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzEIKkX4nAngXf9U7bnXCxsvhyphenhyphenbp2zxFK19zQaJGqhM8vfARMzFdbR9ctikHmk5T71nYqZ3WjyXQrlODmsHBacJyY56eN0srrlHnydqi-3YW1zT7KeAhLn9z5LyzkOzpyizLihLjQd0fg/s1600/hummer.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's been a stress full week. I'll address that in another post. Today I want to share some ways to stay sane that work for me and tell a funny story-at least to me.<br />
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First, sanity aids.<br />
<br />
1. Watch birds.<br />2. Watch the sunrise<br />3. Watch the sun set<br />4. Watch the above happen over water.<br />5. Sit next to the ocean and listen to the
waves.<br />6. Listen to favorite music (Vivaldi-Irish jigs.)<br />7. Watch the light change on
mountains.<br />8. Listen to and watch small children play and laugh-or kittens and puppies.<br />9. Write-lists, poetry, anything you want.<br />10. Love someone<br />11. Be loved<br />12.
Pray <br />
<br />
Jaws and Soraya<br />
<br />
My sister Susie had a cat named Jaws. I've written about Jaws the terror, who would come into the bathroom and flush the toilet while you were in a hot shower, causing a burst of ice cold water to shock you into consciousness. I really think that cat enjoyed the screams. She also loved to raid the refrigerator and abscond with any baked goods left around.<br />
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When Jaws behaviour became suddenly worse, Susie didn't think too much of it, a little hissing and loud meoooowers, were not end of the world, or missing the cat box. However, after Jaws decided the trick of the day was to pee on her feet, several times, Susie decided she had to do something. It was time for a trip to the vet.<br />
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After the marathon event that revolved around shoving Jaws into the cat carrier, they were off to the vet, Susie thankful that travel did not involve public transportation due to the tortured cat screams coming from transport. It sounded more like a wounded lion than a small cat.<br />
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Once Susie and Jaws made it back to the exam room, not without stirring up every other animal in the waiting room, the exam began. <br />
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After a few moments of examining an extremely docile black cat, the vet looked up.<br />
<br />
"Is there any chance you could be pregnant?"<br />
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A shocked Susan snapped back, "Of course not. And if I were, I certainly would not come to a vet for the diagnosis." She grabbed the carrier, shoved Jaws in and bolted out of the office.<br />
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On the way home curiosity overcame anger and Susie stopped by a drug store to make a small purchase.<br />
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At home later, the pregnancy test was positive. After a visit to her OB/Gyn, she found out she was four months pregnant. Jaws and the vet turned out to be great diagnosticians. Five months later Soraya was born, every bit as strong a personality as her mother and Jaws the cat. <br />
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Jaws is gone but never forgotten, his skill as a diagnostician will always be remembered, as will his toilet flushing skill.<br />
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Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-28698290642705416502012-09-11T14:16:00.000-07:002012-09-11T14:16:59.029-07:00Winds of Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Cf2a-vSX1bq5S6LAsozr7q6MS0WD8TJjpFBiCdPzPeqmNjx5KA58XzQD3Yv1a9t60vq-U2s1ykf4WyU2RL01qAF3Xa_zFStGv4wScPmBbT_JDst0YZ8PlE_wQbSkj6LGF3gP6u2622I/s1600/Colorado+plus+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Cf2a-vSX1bq5S6LAsozr7q6MS0WD8TJjpFBiCdPzPeqmNjx5KA58XzQD3Yv1a9t60vq-U2s1ykf4WyU2RL01qAF3Xa_zFStGv4wScPmBbT_JDst0YZ8PlE_wQbSkj6LGF3gP6u2622I/s320/Colorado+plus+055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This was my beautiful, peacful place to journal, watch birds and enjoy the morning on days off. Now, thanks to Oklahoma wind, the chimenea is broken into several pieces, the tent is ripped and the blue umbrella is broken. Very sad. I refust to post a pic of the destruction. Could sit and watch hummers, pretend I was in Colorado. <br />
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Yes, I'm whining even though I know the losss is nothing compared to wild fires burning houses, tornadoes wiping out towns, but it was my little spot and I will miss it.<br />
<br />
But, I will pick up the mess, go on, find another way to keep my peaceful safe spot intact. Like life, you pick up and go on, even when things conspire to make you sad. Your book doesn't sell,whatever plans you had fell through, sickness interferes with the way you want life to be. <br />
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Life just is, in spite of what we plan. We write in spite of life, and sometimes in order to live because if we didn't write, what would keep us sane? We have control of the words we put on paper even if we can't control a lot of other things about the writing, publishing game and about the world around us. <br />
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So, I'm reminding myself to keep on keeping on, write no matter what and live life the best I can, no matter what big or little obstacles life puts in my way. I can move, go around, over or through obstacles and end up where I want to be, even if it is only sitting at a table, drinking coffee, watching birds and journaling.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-52999974827400796192012-06-27T20:00:00.000-07:002012-06-27T20:00:01.127-07:00Mountain Men in the Wild<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I just read a book that impacted me in more than one way. Keep in mind that I'm a fiction addict and rarely read non-fiction not related to my day job (i.e. Medical.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">However, once I began Wild-Lost and Found on the Pacific Crest Trail, I couldn't stop reading. I felt everything she felt, met and liked other hikers, was ready to knock-out a couple of hunters. I will never look at hiking, back-packing and food in the same way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the same time I admired the writing and was wrapped up in making it to the end of the trail, engrossed in nature along the way, I marveled at the structure as Cheryl wove in all the things that brought her to the trail. If you ever want to write a memoir, read this one as she takes one pivotal event in her life and links everything to it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I not only learned about nature and the PCT as well as dealing with loss, anger and grief, but learned more about writing a riveting memoir than I ever have. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you haven't read this, go to </span> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Found-Pacific-Crest-Trail-ebook/dp/B005IQZB14/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1340832886&sr=1-1&keywords=wild">http://www.amazon.com/Found-Pacific-Crest-Trail-ebook/dp/B005IQZB14/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1340832886&sr=1-1&keywords=wild</a> Beleive me, you'll be glad you did.<br />Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-49365891959936255912012-06-25T10:49:00.000-07:002012-06-25T11:14:29.668-07:00Penquins in the snow-a lazy weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was lazy this weekend. I did laundry, played with a two-year-old, we looked at a Cherry Ames Cruise Nurse book together. I painted a new pastel picture, (see above.) Visited with friends, had Sushi with my daughter's friend and sent her off to Paris with a book about writing in Paris. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I painted penquins in a snow storm. But did I write? No. Did I plot? No. Did I get a rejection? Yes. Now I have to incorporate urban fantasy revisions, but I didn't do that either. I guess my brain thinks it needs a break, or I prefer to think, the writing cells are regenerating so that I'm ready to write.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I used a new painting technique for snow with pastel, called dusting. Doing new things will sometimes trigger plot ideas or story direction. Suggestions from an editor gave me ideas about revising another Urban Fantasy to make it better, build a more complete world. So, even when I'm not writing, the cells are working on material to tie in later when I'm putting words on paper (or on the computer.) Nothing you do is really wasted, from watching birds to seeing a child pretend to read a book that is too old for her. That child may read later because she was shown a respect for reading at two. </span>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1069319544581575948.post-5157973741476325562012-05-12T06:54:00.000-07:002012-05-12T06:54:27.670-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today I’m
writing in Lisa’s garden. At least that was the plan until it started pouring
rain this morning. So, I will take pictures of the garden in the rain and post
those with this in a while, might be tonight. Don’t want to ask them to hook up
two devices.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After I saw
Lisa’s garden the first time, I knew I wanted to spend a day there with the
herbs and flowers, and walk in fireplace. There is even a labyrinth for
meditation. It is just lovely and peaceful in the middle of the city. Also cozy
I might add. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In addition,
Lisa does music and music vibration therapy (Link) I’m also trying that today
and will fill you in. Just listening to her harp is enough to relax me, but
pain relief too, I can dig it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Away from
home and distractions, company of Lisa’s little black poodle, beautiful morning
so far. I plan to finish some plotting for two WIP since I’m away from major
distractions. Promise to post pics.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today’s
writing advice, give yourself a mini holiday from distractions at home. Even a
coffee shop will do, put in ear phones, but pay attention to the volume first
so you don’t blast your ear drums like I did and enjoy a day away from
responsibilities. Let someone wait on you for a change. Enjoy.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.sanctuaryplace.org/">http://www.sanctuaryplace.org</a>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034634967626900273noreply@blogger.com0