Feeling Grateful

We writers often spend our time (okay, way too much time) ruminating on the age-old question, "Do I stink?", often answering in the affirmative, so it's a great relief to our tender psyches when we read something happy about our work.

So-woohoo!--on Sunday morning, sweet Debbie emailed me the following review of Truffles by the Sea written by Cindy of Ck2s Kwips and Kritiques. It's a stunner and almost made me cry, so I thought I'd share it with you: Cindy's Review

Laurel Wreath, who writes for CWO Magazine, also emailed me via my website recently to let me know how much she loved the book, and then she posted the following terrific review on her site and on Amazon. (Sorry I made you so hungry, Laurel--Not :)) Laurel's Review.

Thanks so much to you ladies and to all who've taken the time to both read my newest release, and to also post a review--many did so back in February, and I so appreciate you all!

Interview and Giveaway
I'm spending the rest of the day over at Author Lena Nelson Dooley's blog. If you haven't had a chance to read Truffles by the Sea, come on by Lena's site and enter a comment--you might just win a free copy. Good luck!

Friday Fodder

For those who missed this yesterday, here's a sheet of bubblewrap for you (Teen Daughter got addicted to this last night :).

I've still got a word count to finish today but it's Friday and the girls are out of school early and one of them has an event to get ready for tonight. Plus the sun's out and my garden's begging for some attention. Hm, choices, choices. I think I'll hang out my new garden flag, watch the hummingbirds siphon their red juice (that's a pic of my new lighthouse bird feeder to your left), then sneak in a few hours of work. After that, the weekend's here -- yippee ;-)

Have a beachy one--wherever you are!

p.s. Read any good books lately? I'm looking for some recommendations (because I've already read my own--Lol...)

So-long, Carly

I wasn't completely surprised by Carly's departure, however, weren't y'all shocked by Syesha's placement in the bottom two? Really, she gave an outstanding performance the night before, so I thought she'd escape the low ranking this time. But, eh. What do I know?

When I really think about it, Jason and Brooke, the two being bandied about as probable losers of the night, weren't terrible. Brooke just messed up the intro, and poor Jason chose a song originally sung by a big-voiced female cat (which begs the question: aren't the contestants guided in their song choice?) Anyway, they've both been pretty much consistently good in their performances, and it has obviously paid off for them.

That said, can't wait to see them singing Neil Diamond songs next week (yawn). LOL...

If you're stressed over tonight's results then you must check out the link I found over at author and editor, Karen Ball's site. Make sure to choose manic mode! Go here for way too much fun :)

Live...On Stage!

It was Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber night on American Idol, and may I just wax poetic for a moment? See, my dad brought me up to love musicals. Together we saw live, LA productions of Les Miserables, Chorus Line, Cats, and then with Mom and my hubby, Phantom of the Opera. When I was single and went to England with my pal, Aimee, I insisted that she and I attend a matinee performance (all we could afford) of Lloyd Webber's then-newest creation, Aspects of Love. So it bombed? I saw it live...on a London stage! Hubby even took me to see Beauty and the Beast in LA for my birthday one year. (I couldn't believe all the kiddos in the audience until I remembered, oh yeah, it's from a cartoon. Duh.)

I Must Get to the Thea-ter!

Ahem. Okay, about the top 6 contestants:

Syesha--She sang and danced like she meant it--and loved it too! Extra votes for her tonight.
Jason--I love you, but I saw Cats live, and I think this might be your undoing. Oh, but I'll buy your records, I will, I will (especially that version of Somewhere over the Rainbow of a few weeks back.)
David A--Sounded great, as always. But nothing new to add.
Carly--Powered out a song from Jesus Christ Superstar. (On a side note, hubby says this musical was much better than Godspell, which I wrote about a couple of days ago.) Anyway, she's got these fun Cher-like riffs, and like Syesha, played the stage well.
Brooke--Really messed up by forgetting the lyrics, but oh, she started well with a song from Evita. Kind of worried for her.
David C--Hey, if he can sing Music of the Night (from Phantom) that well, he just may win this thing (although a little more emotion would have been nice.)

So what did you think of the show?

Tuesday Tidbits

Anyone here on myspace? (Other than Vader's Mom and Mrs. Sidney :) I've had one for a couple of years, but rarely use it. I do like getting bulletins from my kids' friends, though, so I thought I'd update it. Not sure I like its looks yet, and lots of the words run together, but I'm working on it. You can check it here, and watch my progress. Advice is welcome :))

If you're in the Wichita area, I'll be talking with Kelly Long live on KREJ at 8:30 your time, April 29. Just giving you a heads up. (And give me grace--it'll be 6:30 my time. Ack.)

I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that I recently went up north to do some research for my next set of books. I'm thrilled to be able to write stories that are set along the rocky and majestic central California coast. Think otters and brimming tidepools and moonstones on the beach...ahh! I'll let you know more as I can.

In the meantime, I'm continuing to love the reader mail I'm getting, and what's especially fun is I'm still hearing from many of you who have recently read my first book, Chocolate Beach. Lots of requests for recipes, so I'm working on a cool .pdf file of brownies, chocolate chili, and other yummy surprises. To receive it, all you need to do is sign up for my mailing list (on sidebar or on my website.) I'll let you know when I'm about to send it out!

Off to do what I love...

the Gospel according to Godspell

One of those mornings. I just realized that Elementary Girl forgot her lunch--grrr. Which means doubling back (15 min. each way
plus time to run into her class), plus a gallon of gas. Grrr..grr. Such is the life of Mom, huh?

Probably wouldn't be so tired if I hadn't stayed up so late watching Godspell. As y'all know, I love watching movies over the weekend. Anyway, my friend gave us a copy to watch, and out of curiosity, I did. Adapted from Broadway, it's a groovy, psychedelic, musical take on the Gospel of Matthew. Sort of. I remember a troupe performing it at my Catholic school when I was in about third grade. To this day I can sing one of its hit songs, Day by Day, and all the echoes, by heart. Think that's because we sang it in church a lot. And I also chimed in when in the movie all the flower children disciples sang the melodious Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord.

And check out this picture of Victor Garber (Titanic, Alias) as Jesus.

Unfortunately, I was So Sad that the resurrection was left out. My hubby was sure that the song Oh Happy Day (we heard this live by Chris Tomlin last year) was in the movie, which it surely could have been since it was released in its modern form (it was originally a hymn) in 1967. As it was, the movie ended with the flower children carrying the crucified Jesus through the crowded streets of Manhattan.

But how much more powerful would it have been if they'd included the whole Gospel? After he rose from the dead, they could've all gathered around and sung Oh Happy Day ("When Jesus Died...He Washed my Sins Away...He Died and Rose Again.") Too bad nobody asked me for my opinion, eh? My friend's daughter is in a stage version, and I'll have to ask if it carries the storyline further...hm.

Ah well. I realize that this is old news for some, but since I'd never seen the movie version, it's fresh in my mind. As is the heavy responsibility that we authors have to get it right when we include the spiritual lives of our characters.

I'm signing off to write, because my mom just called and offered to take Elementary Girl her lunch! (Oh, Happy Day :) Feel free to offer your opinion of this movie or play, if you've seen it. Oh, and this song is stuck in my head. Tell me if you know it (and love it!), too.

Oh, Dear Lord, Three things I pray~

See thee more clearly
Love Thee more dearly
Follow thee more nearly

Day by Day

What was that?

So the other day, my agent calls to give me some good news about a project I'd proposed, and instead of being in my cluttered office with its view of my spring-has-sprung garden, I'm at the mall. Actually, in the dressing room of a store in the mall. And not just any store, but one with laughably loud music blaring at dangerous levels (this is probably a tactic meant to keep older clientele like myself away, but who am I to follow protocol?)

Anyway, you may recall a post I wrote about a previous visit to this same store, where I stood up for helicopter parents everywhere. Unfortunately, I longed for the soft-cottons they sell, so I had dashed in for a quick try-on, with hopes that my eardrums wouldn't burst (nor my morals be offended).

I'd just pulled on a pair of clearance sweats, when I saw my phone light up--you know, because I couldn't actually hear it--and grabbed for it. I couldn't easily leave the dressing room because I wasn't wearing my own clothing, so I just stood there in my barefeet, one finger in my ear as I shouted a few ya-hoos to my agent, Steve. Believe me, it's so loud in that store--even in the dressing rooms--that I could have been talking about a crime I'd committed (if I had a criminal mind, that is) and no one would have heard a thing. I barely heard a thing.

After explaining where I was, including my lament over trying on clothes made for anoxeric teens, Steve told me this was probably the oddest deal discussion he'd ever had. Lol...yeah, well, I like to make an impression.

***

Happy Friday, my friends! What a difference a week makes. Last weekend, we Californians experienced record temps in the 80s and 90s. Already today, not so much.

Ah, well--whether it's sunny or not, have a beachy weekend--wherever you are!

8-1

The Dodgers beat the Pirates 8 to 1 last night. Not that I'm rubbing anyone's nose in it...lol. My poor hubby, a diehard Pittsburgh fan, wanted to leave in the second inning when his beloved team made the first of many errors to come, but God bless him, he stuck it out to the bitter end. Hm. I'm sure there's a life lesson in there somewhere.

All in all though twas a good night hanging out with my brother Danny and his girlfriend (and future bride, I hope. No pressure coming from this end, haha), Darcy, who force-fed me too much cotton candy ;)

Moving on...Hub and I already knew that Kristy Lee was out, but we still stayed up until nearly 1 am watching the AI results show. It's a sickness, really, it is. Mariah's song was somewhat depressing, but sweet Elliott charmed us with his silky vocal cords and kind words about his mother, who passed away just a couple of weeks ago. What a precious soul that man is.

And David Archuleta plunking himself down on the stage, refusing to choose sides, was too cute. Do you think it was scripted? Never know, but he's got such an expressive face that I doubt it--I think we'd all be able to tell with him.

AI seems to be settling in as it should.

p.s. No April's Fool joke this time--I was just offered a new series contract yesterday. Woo-hoo! More on that--and where I was when I received that word--soon.

Dodgers vs. Kristy Lee

I'm late in posting about AI, but I had a dilly of a headache last night, and as Syesha might say, "O, lo!" (Whatever that means ;)

Anybody's world rocked over last night's show? It was kind of flat for me, or maybe that was the burgeoning headache talking. Let's see. David A sounded good, but maybe a bit breathless; Syesha's voice is amazing, but she's always going to have trouble with the judges and comparisons; I thought Kristy Lee sounded good, but probably not enough to keep her another week; Poor Brooke was shaking like a leaf during her performance--it must be exhausting to compete week after week (kind of like authors watching their sales numbers-bu-dum-bump!); Carly looked fabulous, didn't she?; There was some drama in our house during David C's performance so I had to watch it again to see what the judges were talking about; and Jason got a much better critique than I thought he would (phew).

I really, really think that Kristy Lee will go tonight, but I'll be at the Dodger game, so I'll have to find out via cell phone. It's Dodgers vs. the Pitts. Pirates tonight, and seeing as how my hubby's from Pennsylvania, there's going to be a competition of another kind going on. He'll be the one in yellow, and of course, I'll be the one in blue!

Let me know your opinions about the show and who you think'll go!

Top 7 tonight

Thanks everyone for the kind comments yesterday--and for playing :) Using the random number generator--love that tool!--Christine was chosen to win Every Good and Perfect Gift by Sharon Souza. Congrats, Christine! Please email me your snail mail address and I'll get that out to you.

As for today, it's American Idol night again, and word is that Mariah Carey's mentoring the top 7. I suppose they'll be singing one of her songs? Hm. If so, that should be interesting for people like Kristy and Jason. Any guesses on what they'll sing? And now that the writer's strike is over, and sitcoms are back, are you still planning to watch?

Every Good & Perfect Gift

I'm giving away a copy of a beautifully written book by author Sharon K. Souza. I had the chance to read and endorse this book before it was published, and it took my breath away. If I were to give it a rating, I'd say "Five Hankies", because yes, it's a tear jerker.

Here's the back cover blurb. If you'd like a chance to win this book, leave me a comment. I'll randomly pick a winner sometime tomorrow. Best to you!:

True Friendship is Invaluable, but for Gabby Whitaker the Cost could be Too Much.

"I'm not the strong one. I've never been the strong one."

So believes Gabby Whitaker in her friendship with DeeDee McAllister. They've been best friends since sixth grade, when headstrong and courageous DeeDee began mapping out their lives. But after twenty years with her husband, DeeDee changes the plan. Nearing forty, she wants a baby--now! Two years of infertility, prayers, and outrageous behavior finally result in the birth of DeeDee's demand.

Gabby is present for all of it, noting the increasingly strange behavior of her lifelong friend after the baby's birth. Then comes a diagnosis that threatens to shatter their world. Gabby must find the strength and faith to carry DeeDee and herself through the dark unknown, but is she up for it?


Click here for more info about Sharon's book.

Happy Bird-day ;)

I really had to mess with this picture so I could show you the amazing bird we saw from our car window. Last night, the girls and I returned from our trip up to the central coast, and while we were tooling around we saw this giant egret. At least I think that's what it was. The picture doesn't do its greatness justice, but I was blocking the road, and another car was coming so I took the picture fast. (The birdie had been closer but I think all my oohing and aahing scared it away too :)

Squint into the brightness, and you'll see its beautifully curved neck. I swear the bird must have been more than 3 feet tall. I know, I know--I'm obsessed. But if you've read any of my books, you're probably not surprised. My first heroine, Bri, loved dolphins, and my second, Gaby, chatted almost daily with a sea lion. What can I say? I've always believed that sea-living creatures give me yet another glimpse into God's amazing creativity, so how can I not love them? (Except sharks. Not wild about them, and that'll be one question I'll have when I get to heaven.)

Moving on. My birthday was yesterday, and I rec'd an inbox full of fun email messages including two singing divas, a note from a long-lost friend who now lives in England, and greetings from a former boss. How groovy to be 29, yet again! :)

Have a beachy weekend--wherever you are!

Mikey J

Oh boy, I really didn't expect to have to say goodbye to Michael John just yet. As Amy said in yesterday's comments, Elem. Girl is smart ;), oh but Michael looked so sad...

Anyway.

Did y'all see the second rendition of Shout to the Lord on the show tonight? Anyone know why they sang it again? Was it because the lyrics were changed in the first rendition? Or was it heavily requested? Or?

Just wondering. I'm going to download it once we get home from our brief trip to the central coast. In addition to lolling around with my girls for a couple of days, this has also been a bit of a research trip since I'm working on a series of books set in this area. SUCH FUN!

More on that later...for now, I'd love to get your reaction to anything Idol. Oh, and next week, I'll be giving away a brand new copy of an incredible book by Sharon Souza. See you soon!

Giving back

Just popping it to say hello from the central coast of California! My mom, daughters and I played hooky from reality yesterday and headed north. We managed to watch most of Idol Gives Back last night. Lots of sad stories, huh. I started a long post last night, but never actually posted it. Anyway, I loved, loved, loved the final song, but thought the subsequent scene with Ben Stiller was in bad taste. Any comments on the overall show? I'll have to watch it more closely on the dvr when we return.

Tonight, Elem. Girl thinks Michael J will go home, Teen Girl thinks it'll be Kristy, and I think it'll be ... hm, Carly. What do you think?

We're off to watch the waves (the girls are off school this week)...

Somewhere over that rainbow

My thumbs are tired from all this AI voting!

LOVED Jason tonight! When he said he'd be singing Somewhere Over the Rainbow, I shouted at the plasma--shouted!--Nooooo! But then he sang that fun little arrangement and I got goosebumps. He's so quirky. And unique. My hub didn't get it, but he's a huge fan of Judy G's version, and anyway my enthusisasm trounced his criticism. So I win-ha.

Michael J always looks and sounds good, but his version of some Aerosmith song was awkward for me (especially those high notes). Kristy Lee C. gave a gutsy "do it anyway" performance. She's got spunk. David C--sang well, but the white "straight" jacket he wore threw me. Syesha always kicks it, although why does she keep picking ones from powerhouses? I'm nervous for her. Brooke! Who did your hair, my friend? (No worries, we've all been there.) Thankfully, her voice was better than the 'do! Carly has such a beautiful voice, I just wish her songs weren't always so angry. And David A.--talent, talent, talent--and a bazillion, teen-aged, screaming fans too!

Test your American Idol I.Q.

Found some random tidbits about this year's contestants. Match the trivia with the right person, and let me know how well you do :) Tonight, the Final 8 performs.

Okay, here goes:

A. This person's toughest obstacle in life is overcoming a house fire when they were in high school.

B. This person's spouse isn't going to cut their hair until he/she gets eliminated from American Idol.

C. The person this contestant would most like to meet is Keira Knightley.

D. One of this person's nicknames is "Lettuce Boy."

E. He likes chick-flicks.

F. This contestant's rituals before performing are to warm up, don't talk too much and to suck on a boiled piece of candy.

G. Before performing, this person always prays.

H. The person this contestant would most like to meet is him/herself in 20 years.

Carly Smithson
Syesha Mercado
Michael Johns
Kristy Lee Cook
Jason Castro
David Cook
David Archuleta
Brooke White

Answers here. No peeking ;-]

Monday Randomness

Teen Son just returned from a week with YWAM (Youth with a Mission) San Francisco where he and other teens spent days packing over a ton of pinto beans into 1 lb. sacks, and bringing food, hot drinks and prayer to some of the many homeless in the area. After hearing his stories, it's tough to complain about much of anything...

My girls are off school another week (I know, it's an odd schedule...), which means more mall runs, giggles and all around insanity joy in the house ;)

The hub and I watched Doctor Zhivago the other night. Actually, it took us two nights--Friday and Saturday--to get through the. longest. movie. ever. Okay, so I don't know if that's really true, but it felt like it. While the "classic" film had its moments, I found it depressing and violent. So unlike Alvin and the Chipmunks, another movie we rented this past weekend. You just haven't lived until you've heard A Bad Day sung by the chipmunks. LOL...

I'm working on a little American Idol trivia quiz to post for y'all (is it ya'll or y'all?) tomorrow. I hope you'll stop by and test your Idol I.Q.!!!

Until then, have another latte and a Happy Monday ;-]

Little House by the Sea

Elementary Girl's playing the piano, I'm reading a novel, and hubby's curled up in the recliner with some sort of sports book. It's official. We are Ma and Pa Ingalls (you know, from Little House on the Prairie?).

Teen Son is on a weeklong mission's trip with YWAM, Teen Girl's hangin' with a friend tonight, and hubby and I just looked at each other, realizing that in a few years, this is how it'll be. The older two will be off at college, and we'll be here with the youngest, wondering where all the chaos went.

Somebody pass me the Kleenex!

Have a beachy weekend :-] I hope it's a warm and wonderful one for you, wherever you are!

UPDATED Friday morning: Yeah, I was waxing poetic last night, but I'm back. The truth is, most nights (especially weekends), the house is overrun with teens and hubby and I eat dinner in the bedroom. How absurd is that?!

Ramiele and Jesus

See you on the tour, Ramiele.

Loved Jesus week by the way :) Seriously, I'm sitting here re-watching Tuesday night's show and both David A. and Jason sang songs that referenced Jesus in a big way. Then on Wednesday night's show, guest band The Clarks (I think that's their name) Country-Rocked This Little Light of Mine (who even knew that was possible???) and then Dolly Parton knocked out Jesus and Gravity (with a full-on Gospel choir in the background). Whew and Halleulia--love this show :)

Hair and outfits and velvet voices!

First off, I had a gazillion hits yesterday, but only about 9 comments, which makes me wonder if some of you thought I was serious about the Amish-Lit thing, haha! It was April Fool's, you know, so before you go off and try to reserve your copy, well, don't! (Now watch, someone else'll propose it and make a zillion bucks!)

On to AI. I'm so glad David Cook got a haircut--he's got a nice face under there! Although at times his facial expressions reminded me of Jason's...heehee. As for Jason, I believe Simon was wrong. Started a bit slow, but he really got into the song mid-way, and even belted the ending, so go-Jason! Anybody else cringe when Syesha chose a Whitney song? I know Dolly wrote it, but the judges are usually hard on those who try to take on Whitney, as both Randy & Simon were this time around. Despite that, Syesha is immensely talented.

When Kristy Lee Cook was singing, I learned over to my hubby and said, "Paula's going to tell her she looks fabulous," and I was right. Ha! One of the first things Paula said was, "Kristy you look stunning!" And Carly sounded better than Simon said she did, but I can't exactly disagree with what he said about her clothes (only on how he said it). As for David "We Love You!!!!" A., he's still a cutie with a smokey man voice in a teenaged body. Whatever happens, he'll have a long career.

Oh, and Michael Johns! Not always my favorite, but he smashed it this time. Smashed. It. G'day! Mate!

The hub and I think Ramiele will be voted off. And you?

Celebrate with me!

I'm so pleased to tell you all that I've just been signed to write a trilogy! Ya-hoo! It's the coolest story ever about a young Amish girl, Trixie, who decides to follow her passion and open a chocolate store only to be banned from her old order church for daring to use an electric mixer in her work, rather than beat the cocoa by hand.

Further conflict arises when Amish women facing PMS sneak into her store, and are later caught with suspicious smudges on their usually impeccable garb.

Will Trixie be able to make a living off her forbidden fudge? Or will she be forced to pack up her troublesome treats and move to Belgium?

More about my new Amish-Lit series here.

Books & Chocolate, what else is there...?

Here's a pic from my recent signing at the Ventura Barnes and Noble. That's me with Lena Moran, the store's community relations director extraordinaire. I have to say, B&N has treated this somewhat-newbie author super well. You might remember my previous post about discovering a display table of Godivas and my books at the entrance to the store. It's as if the heavens had opened right then and there...! (And you can't see this in the picture, but there were truffles just off to the side of me.)

On another note, I received a copy of the audio version of Chocolate Beach and haven't actually listened to much of it. Mostly, because it's so surreal that I feel as if I need to properly prepare for the experience with brownie batter and a pair of headphones to slap on at a moment's notice.

My hub, however, laughed all the way through the first cassette. (Stellar writing and all, lol...) And, yes, I said cassette. (Thankfully it's not in 8-track.) Many people, such as my son, still have cassette decks in their cars. Teen Son is actually thrilled that CB has been recorded. "Now I won't have to read it!" he recently told a friend.

No respect, I tell you. Haha.

p.s. I've been told the cd version will be released later this year, so I'll actually be able to listen to it while I'm driving (hopefully not off the road ;))

Live it up!

Off on a school field trip this morning, so I leave you with this easy bo-beasy quiz. April 1st is just around the bend!

Have a beachy weekend!

Your April Fool's Day Prank Should Be

Loosening the salt shaker

What April Fool's Prank Should You Play?

Adios, Chikezie

...or 'jacuzzi' to Simon ;)

p.s. We love you.

***

Ack! I've been tagged by Dionna--and I'm late in responding. Better late than never, am I right?

Here's what she told me to do: tag 5 people and you can't tag the person that tagged you. Leave them a comment on their blog letting them know you are tagging them and why. Also, direct them to your blog for instructions. Also notify the tagger when you post your list so that they can enjoy reading the responses. Basically when you get tagged, you post ten fun facts about yourself!

Here goes. Not sure how fun these are, though, lol...

1. I once chose to write an 18-page term paper on the life of the sea anemone.

(Are you sure you'd like to keep reading?)

2. I used to be a phantom-shopper for Taco Bell (You quiero...)

3. My cousin co-wrote the hit, "We Belong", which was recorded by Pat Benatar and is currently the song on the Sheraton commercials. (Go Cuz Dan!)

4. I became a swimmer in high school basically because I was too uncoordinated to be on the dive team.

5. I ran 3 miles of the LA Marathon while pregnant (which is also the reason I didn't finish the whole thing ;)

6. Elementary Girl (who's sitting next to me at the moment) says to say that I embarrass her. A lot!

7. My husband's my dream guy.

8. My favorite color is blue. Like the sea. Get it?

9. I made a cameo in my last book.

10. My kids drive me to my knees in prayer every day--LOL--I mean that in a good way! (Praying for them :)

God Bless the U.S.A.

I agree with Simon (gasp!) that Kristy Lee Cook's rendition of I'm Proud to be an American probably just saved her this week. Actually, just choosing such a patriotic song--and knocking it out--probably saved her. You go girl! And then there was David Cook singing Billy Jean. Haha...that was sa-weet. My kids don't know the Michael Jackson version, and if he'd sung it anything like the original, he'd have been sunk (think synthesizers and hiccupy vocals...is hiccupy a word? Lol...) Impressed me, all I'm sayin.

For the first time since I've watched this show, there's not a clear winner at this point (of course, I'm usually wrong, but it least there's usually a clear one to me ;) All of them can sing, and perform, and at least 1/2 dozen have a fighting chance of winning the title.

My guess is that Ramiele or Chikezie will probably go tomorrow. I so wish the Chick-ster would've belted out a motown-ish tune because he has the pipes, but sigh, he went for the Luther V style again.

What's your guess for the vote off?

Spring Readin'

Thanks to all the SAHMs who've participated in my survey. GREAT responses! There's still time to give me your 2cents, so if you're interested, see yesterday's post here.

Also, thanks to those of you who commented on DWTS yesterday. I didn't watch it (sorry Dad) because I was being mom, being cook, working on a proposal, and judging a writing contest. Today I'm beyond tired, and I think the past couple of months of travel (3 trips!), interviews re: the new book, writing, and Easter-ing, finally hit me, and all I want to do is crawl underneath the comforter and stay there. Or at least lay on the beach and read :)

Speaking of reading, I've noticed several Spring Reading lists going up in blogdom, so here's my unofficial wish list for the next few months. I'm probably forgetting something really good, so feel free to make suggestions. Okay, here goes:

Symphony of Secrets, by Sharon Hinck
When the Nile Runs Red, by Diann Mills
The Time Traveler's Wife, by Audrey Niffenegger
Blue Heart Blessed, By Susan Meissner
Sweet Caroline, by Rachel Hauck
Persuasion, by Jane Austen
Taming Rafe, by Susan May Warren
Skid, by Rene Gutteridge

Dancing with ? & a SAHM survey

Last night over the Easter ham my daddy-o gave me the 'what-for' for never commenting on his beloved Dancing with the Stars. "You're always talking about American Idol!" he accused. Well, that's true. See, I've watched Dancing occasionally, usually toward the end. (Although when Apollo Anton Ohno was on, I managed to catch it more often ;) But I hardly remember when it's on, or who the current season dancers are (although one of the professionals just bought a relative's condo, so I guess there's a pseudo-connection now...)

Anyway, to you Dancing with the Stars fans, feel free to pop in here after the show and give your take on the current season. My father would appreciate it :))

***

If you're a SAHM--a stay at home mom--I'd love to send you a short survey. If you work a job from home so that you can stay with the kiddos during the day, I'd love to survey you as well. I'm working on a project for you gals, so if you wouldn't mind answering a few questions, please drop me an email through my website. (This is an anti-spam measure). Gracias!

He has risen indeed

Karen Ball, an editor with B&H and one of my teachers up at Mt. Hermon, gave each of her students a gift last week. I kept mine on my nightstand during the conference, and when I got home, placed it next to an extravagant burst of flowers that my husband had bought for me.

Feel free to take the sentiment for yourself by replacing my name with your own. In case you can't see the text in the picture, here's what it says:

Julie
Trust Me.
I have everything under control.
Jesus

Have a holy Good Friday, and a blessed (and beachy :) Easter, my friends!

A PUBLISHER BY ANY OTHER NAME…

….wouldn’t smell as sweet as The Wild Rose Press

(Welcome guest blogger and author, Georgiana Daniels! -- Julie C)

Julie kindly invited me to blog about my experience with a POD (print-on-demand) publisher, sometimes referred to as a small press or e-pub. The simple reason I took my book to a small press is because more than once I was told that editors were no longer actively seeking lit. The rumor circulated on various loops and forums, then I heard it from a reputable CBA agent, then straight from an editor’s mouth—the door was closing to new lit writers. It seemed my baby, Table for One, was doomed.

Enter, The Wild Rose Press. POD publishers have a unique business model that allows them to take chances on good stories that don’t fit the market trends. When someone purchases an e-book they have the option of downloading a PDF file or getting the HTML. On Amazon it downloads onto the kindle.

The co-owner of TWRP, Rhonda Penders, said it best in January’s Romance Writers Report:

“Frankly, we pay very little attention to what the ‘market’ says is selling. We focus on good stories and good writing, and we go from there. A good romance is a good romance and that’s enough for us.”

The Wild Rose Press involves their authors in every step of the process. Who wrote my back cover copy? Me. Who had a lot of input on cover art? Me. Who had a plethora of newbie questions? You guessed it, me!

At TWRP, they work hard to develop a sense of community, and they are committed to growing the “roses.” Because of the smaller size, the owners and editors make themselves readily available, and even offer a little hand-holding for us first timers. Another unique angle is the e-book availability six months before the paperback, which I’m finding is a big plus for a new author.

I’m incredibly thankful that I found a publisher who believes in my book, Table for One. I’ll leave you with a few words that have become precious to my heart. Are you ready? On the count of three. One, two, three…

Viva inspirational chick lit!

Georgiana Daniels is an active member of ACFW and RWA. After graduating with a degree in public relations, she spent several years in the business world, but now has the privilege of staying home and working on the stories she loves. In the 2007 Genesis contest her entry placed 2nd in the chick lit category. Her first book, Table for One, is available now.

American Idol, Top 10

So long, Amanda. Her hoarse voice and rocker persona weren't my favorite, but I never really thought she wouldn't make it to the top 10. She seemed to have enough of a fan base to pull her along. I was wrong about that. Against the odds, Kristy made it, and we have our tour. Last year, I took Elementary Girl, Teen Girl, and Teen Girl's Friend to the AI tour in Anaheim, and we're still talking about it. Now we know who we'll be shelling out the big bucks for this summer. The rest of the season...is gravy.

Here comes the sun

Got home late last evening in time to watch American Idol on the dvr. Phew. So many things to tell you about the week up in the redwoods: How funny Jerry Jenkins can be; how creatively-charged the atmosphere was; how tired of salad one can get...;) I'm going to have to sift my thoughts a bit and do some kind of fun round up, but in the interim...what did you think of the show last night?

Brooke's my girl. Had a hard night but she's still talented and genuine so I gave her extra votes. I didn't think David Cook was as bad as Simon said (although I didn't dig the voice box thing). David A's still cute as a button, and obviously overwhelmed by the chickies in the front rows. Let's see...Jason was okay, but I like him so he got extra votes too. (No matter the performance, I admit we've got our favorites ...)

I say they move on from the Beatles (please), and level the playing field already. What say you?

***

On another note, tomorrow Georgiana Daniels will stop by to tell us about e-publishing, a concept that's pretty new (at least to me). Hope to see you then! Now I'm off to unpack the Italian truffles my web designer gave me up at Mt. Hermon...so yum!!! (I'll have to wax about that in the wrap up post somehow too :)

The jacarandas are in bloom...

I began writing a blog post last night, but ended up deep in conversation with a gal who is first timer at Mt. Hermon. After attending this particular writers conference for so many years, I've learned that sometimes things get so overwhelming or the body becomes just so plain old exhausted, that ditching class and taking a nap is a must. Kind of like that in real life too, don't you think? (Don't tell my kids about the ditching class part, though!) That's part of the advice I gave to my friend last night, and it's the same advice I gave myself this afternoon. I. was. tired. And headachy. My brain was pretty full too. So I flopped on my unmade bed and took a snooze.

It's evening here in Northern California and I'm back in the warmth of the "central lounge", the chattering of computers and writers all around me. Through one window, a jacaranda tree bursts with pink blooms, and suddenly this beach chick has the urge to write a story set in the redwood-dotted mountains. (The pic above is a similar-type tree)

So I'm waxing poetic. Isn't that what getting away does to us? Provides us with fertile ground to think up new things (or in my case, to let those voices in my head, the ones jostling to have their stories told, have their day). Tiring as it is to get little sleep, and have myriad conversations, and cram the brain with more info, I'm thankful for the fresh stirrings of creativity.

Tonight bestselling author Debbie Macomber will give her second keynote of the week. Last night I laughed so hard, the tears squirting from my eyes did a number on my contacts. Had no idea she'd be that entertaining, and yet she's sold something like a gazillion books, so why was I surprised?

Have I mentioned all the books for sale here? (Hon--don't read this part) Tons of authors, tons of their books, and me with a half-empty car to fill. It's almost too much to bear...:)

Have a beachy weekend, wherever you are...And Happy Palm Sunday tomorrow!

More name dropping ...

I'm sitting next to Angela Hunt at the moment. Gorgeous red hair (I'm partial to it seeing as my husband's hair was red--it's more of a 'blondish now, right hon? ;)--and two of my kids have it. It's cool outside and there's a fire in the fireplace, editors and writers chattering, and a whole lotta keyboard clicking going on in the Central Lounge. Deb Raney just left, and Brandilyn Collins is sitting at a table with my pal, Becky Miller. I'd link all of these names if I had the time, but I've got a meeting soon and I should be working on that. But it's so warm and cozy in here...know what I mean?

The pacific ocean is a pretty close drive from here, and this morning our conference director, Dave Talbot mentioned that someone had volunteered to drive a group out to see it. Lots of people from all over the world here--even met a gal from England last night--and it would be a shame to come this far and not dunk your toes in the ocean, freezing as it may be at the moment.

Okay, onward ho. Leave me a comment and tell me what's going on in your neck of the woods. (Sorry for the cliche...)

Made it to Mt. Hermon

It's late now, but my mother (& traveling buddy) and I spent the day driving northward through rolling hills and drive-thru Starbucks :)), making it to the conference just in time for dinner. Mt. Hermon is a sprawling Christian retreat center in the Santa Cruz mountains. It's close to the sea, yet nestled in the forest--can't beat that. You don't have to be a writer to love it here--just breathing.

So anyway, weary from the drive, we pulled into a parking place and immediately spotted Randy Ingermanson and John Olson two authors & scientists who've been friends for years--even wrote a book together (Oxygen). They're a staple here at the conference--and a lot of fun (just ask my agent, Steve Laube, who was scammed way back when...)

Only half the crowd's here tonight, and yet it's already lively with "heys" and "how ya doin's" flying quicker than bats. I really should be in my room studying my syllabus, and prepping for my first appt. tomorrow morning...yet hanging in the lounge and people watching is so much more fun...oh hey, there's author Jim Bell...

David H...and getting out of Dodge

American Idol
You know, I thought it was a possibility that David H would go, but I really thought it would be Kristy. Elementary Girl cried for the third straight week (Thankfully, she doesn't know about the controversy surrounding him.) Anyway, I'd forgotten about The Tears. The name Will Makar (season 5) still coaxes a sniffle from now-Teen Daughter. Okay, so maybe that's an exaggeration, but back then that elimination brought out buckets full of watery tears, and I'll never forget it (We'll never let her forget it, either. Lol)

Question of the day: What did you think about Kristy's rendition of Eight Days a Week? I thought it was too fast, but kind of funky. I didn't hate it, yet knew everybody else would. I'm weird that way. So do you agree with the judges--or with me?

***

I'm headed up to Mt. Hermon tomorrow for a nearly week-long writer's conference. Redwoods, lush sage hills, crazy writers makin' up stories in the Central Lounge after midnight...ahh, can't wait. Many moons ago, Mt. Hermon didn't even have cell phone access. Now, they've got wi-fi, which means I can post all the dirt amiable stories about some of your favorite authors ;), right from the conference grounds.

Onward ho!

Say it with Chocolate

Chocolate Beach is now available in audio! How fun is that? It's just now making its way into some libraries, although it may have to be requested. If you're so inclined to ask for it, then blessings on you and your children and your children's children :)) It's also available through this link. I'm new to this part of the writing adventure, so it may be somewhere else as well. Anyway, it's a great way for commuters and those who are vision-impaired to spend some quality time with novels.

***

American Idol

Chikezie! Did y'all see him jumping and gyrating last night on that new and oh-so modern stage? Paula said she 'knew' they'd start to see the real performer in him, but I have to say, he surprised me. A very, very fun performance on a rather lackluster night. As Jana and I've been discussing, we thought the Fab Four theme would have brought down the house but with few exceptions, it didn't. Even David A. forgot the words (although how can we not still love him?)

That said, who can be fabulous all the time? (I could add so many zingers here but I won't...) Sometimes, you just have a bad night--I wish they wouldn't have chosen Beatles songs to stumble on--but that's life. Let's hope that the best all-around singers make it through to the next round.

p.s. I've had Let It Be in my head since last night...!

American Uni, er, Idol

The winner of Only Uni is Ivangirl! Congrats! And thanks, Camy, for a super fun post :)

***

It's AI tonight--can't wait to see the fancy new set in all its glory. Anyone know what the theme is? Or what the new bye-bye song will be (I still like Bad Day from a couple of years back...) I've been busy prepping for a writer's conference and haven't checked yet. Hm. Anyway, let's meet back here tomorrow with guesses on who's going home. Sound good?

Camy Hits the Beach

That title sounds like a movie from the 60s, doesn't it? Haha. Camy Tang's guest blogging today, and after reading about her adventures on the sand, you can enter to win a copy of her newest release, Only Uni, by leaving a comment.

Here's Camy:

This was an easy-peasy guest blog to write because Julie likes two of my favorite things—chocolate and the beach!

Growing up in Hawaii, we went to the beach fairly often. As a child, I burned within seconds of stepping onto the sand, so I had to endure that nasty coconut oil sunscreen (anyone remember that?) that smelled “okay” but felt like Mom was slathering snot on my body.

My mom is from Oahu’s North Shore, so we most often went to beaches in Haleiwa. When I was a child, they weren’t as crowded or as dirty as they are now, and even then, my parents preferred the quieter beaches further north up the coastline, near Waimea.

Those beaches usually only had a few local Hawaiian families rather than droves of tourists, and there was clean, bright sand to play in. My dad would go out snorkeling and leave my brother and me playing in the shallows. We both had had swimming lessons since we were two years old, and in those days, no one thought about the safety of leaving two kids playing on a beach, surrounded by a few other families, even though those people were strangers. We never got kidnapped, anyway.

The difference I noticed between Hawaii beaches and California beaches is the temperature. While Hawaii beaches are like sand-colored omelet pans sitting over a high heat burner, California beaches were more like sand-colored omelet pans sitting over a medium heat burner. Much easier on the feet, anyway, and even downright cold in winter.

Chocolate kisses in your pocket melt within 50 yards of a Hawaii beach (as I know from—ahem—personal experience) but you can actually eat a chocolate bar on a California beach without needing to drink it out of a cup. Before reading Julie’s book, I had never even put chocolate and the beach together because of my previous experience with Hawaii beaches (versus the lovely stretches near where she lives in southern California).

But why not? Two of my favorite things! Maybe next time I go back to Hawaii, I’ll eat a rapidly melting Fudgesicle on the beach in honor of Julie.

Camy Tang is the loud Asian chick who writes loud Asian chick lit. She used to be a biologist, but now she is a staff worker for her church youth group and leads a worship team for Sunday service. She also runs the Story Sensei fiction critique service. On her blog, she gives away Christian novels every Monday and Thursday, and she ponders frivolous things like dumb dogs (namely, hers), coffee-geek husbands (no resemblance to her own...), the writing journey, Asiana, and anything else that comes to mind. Visit her website at http://www.camytang.com/ for a huge website contest going on right now, giving away five boxes of books and 25 copies of her latest release, ONLY UNI.

Peace

For the first time in more than 20 years, we forgot to change our clocks. Woke up thinking we had an extra hour, but no. Yet it's okay because today's the day of rest, and so we curled up on the couch with a cup of coffee and just enjoyed the sunshine spilling through the windows.

My hubby took this pic of me watching the sunset last night from a nearby beach. After signing books at 9 bookstores in the past 10 days, it felt good to do, well, nothing. And so, it looks like I'll be continuing in that vein today.

May it be the same for you! I hope you have a beachy weekend--wherever you are.

And the winners are...

We have our winners for the 1/2 lb. box of truffles along with a copy of my newest book. They are: Jo (Ladijo), Tara and Jana.

Congrats, ladies!

Muchas Gracias!

A HUGE THANK YOU to all of you who've stopped in for a visit these past three days! So far I've counted 106--that's 106!--entries for the truffles & book contest. What you people will do for your chocolate, LOL! It's going to take me a little bit more time than usual to fairly and randomly pick the winners--I need to go through them all and make sure I've got everyone accounted for--so please check back around Sunday.

If you'll be in the Ventura area tomorrow, March 8, I'll be signing books at the Ventura Barnes & Noble at 2 pm. Otherwise, I'll see you back here in a day or two.

Btw, because of your support, Truffles by the Sea made it to the #1 most talked about book on Technorati today. I'd like to take this moment to thank all the little people...haha, just kidding. I'm very, very, VERY honored for all the support. Thanks again.

The Top 12...and local concert news

Final day for the big CFBA truffles & book giveaway! You have until 9 pm tonight pst to comment on Wednesday's post (If scrolling's not your thing, just click here to enter to win.) Nearly 100 comments so far--can you believe it???

***

AMERICAN IDOL

Well. I wasn't surprised that Luke went. Cute, but just not as strong as the rest. And Kady? We all liked her, but looked like it was all too much of a struggle. Can't say I'm sad about Danny, although I thought he was a shoo-in considering he was on vote for the worst. But Asia'h? What's up with that? Not my favorite voice, but we liked her (Elementary Girl cried). Thing is, Asia'h has sparkle and life about her. Her vocals were almost always strong and on pitch, so I just think she would've made the final weeks a ton of fun. Ah well. God must have something better for her, right?

I know this is mighty early, but who do you think will be in the top 2???

Btw, did y'all see Amy's post from yesterday? She sat in on a dress rehearsal for AI! Fun :-]

***

AND FOR LOCALS

Jaci Velasquez and Salvador in concert! Saturday, March 29, 7 pm
Oxnard Performing Arts Center Click Here for more info, for tiks, and to listen to the artists, who are beautifully gifted, by the way.

Iron in the Pantry

First up, if you're looking for the CFBA truffles & book giveaway, scroll on down to yesterday's post or click here to enter a comment to win. 63 entries and counting--woohoo!

***

Elementary Girl found my iron in our food pantry yesterday. All I can say is that there were 198 hits on my blog by 10:30 pm--I'm not kidding--and all that partying got me flustered! If this keeps up, who knows what she'll find in there today. Maybe a pair of my flip-flops, ha.

On to American Idol! Is Brooke White the cutest or what? I just love her! All the gals did well last night, but the judges? Now they're another story... Anyway, I'm thinking that Kady will go home along with...hm. Well, I think it should be Amanda, but I'm afraid it might be Kristy. What say you?

Top 12 tonight!!!

Cel-e-brate good times...c'mon...

I ate a ton of chocolate last week. There, I got that off my chest, haha. So now it's time to share--woohoo! Today, tomorrow and Friday I'll be cyber beach hopping all over the place with the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance, and to celebrate I'm giving away a copy of Truffles by the Sea AND and a 1/2 lb. box of yummy truffles to three commenters.

Just leave a comment, and a way to contact you if you win.

AND if that's not enough choc-o-late for ya, Vader's Mom is still giving away truffles! I'm guest blogging over there today, so pop on by. See you there...but leave me a comment before you go!

p.s. American Idol readers...I'm thinkin' Luke and Danny will go. Or maybe Chikezie and one of them. What say you???

Yahweh Sisterhood of the Traveling Rat

In the front row, we are Cathy Hake, Katie Cushman, Moi, and Lauraine Snelling. Behind us are Gail, Frances and Cindy. The gals had met for dinner with the rest of their Bible study group, then headed over to visit us at the Berean store in Temecula.

That's their mascot, Mz. Rat, in front of me. It was after 9 pm, and all I can say is I was too tired to run. LOL Kidding, kidding...these sweet gals and their "friend" made for a fun way to end the night (and gave us story fodder too! :)

Truffles Week!

All week long, Vader's Mom is giving away a box of truffles a day! How fun is that? The timing's perfect too because the Christmas cookies are long gone, as are the heart-boxes from Valentine's Day. Am I right? Be sure to pop on over there and enter a comment to win those truffles. And I'll be guest posting there sometime this week, too.

And Wednesday through Friday of this week, I'll be cyber beach hopping all over the place with the CFBA. (I'll post a link for you on Wednesday.) I too will be giving away yummy chocolates along with a copies of Truffles by the Sea so please stop in.

Share the love ;*) by sending your own blog readers over here on those days (and if one of them wins, maybe they'll share their truffles with you. Could happen :)

I'm back!

Katie Cushman took this pic of me and that cutie-pie pink board over at Downtown Disney. We'd taken the Amtrak down to OC to start off our tour of bookstores but first made this stopover at the Mouse's mall :)

Anyway, I'm pooped!!! Eight bookstores (one impromptu) in three days plus an extra day of travel. Fun, fun, fun, though. THANKS to all you bloggers and ACFW folks who stopped by--you made my day(s)!

More on the tour later, but for now, I'm goin' for another latte.

Cheers :)

The whistle stop tour starts Thursday and I'm throwing shoes and bookmarks and other must haves into a suitcase faster than a pelican dives for minnows. Might be the last post for a few days, unless I can wrestle someone's computer from them. If you're not local enough to pop in, please stop by my blog next week for my tour with the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance. I'll be giving away truffles! And books!

Okay, back to this week. A bit of a repeat, but here's the schedule. If you need addresses, please stop my website's events page for the complete listing.

Thursday, February 28, 1 PM, Berean, San Diego
Thursday, February 28, 7 PM, Berean, Temecula
Friday, February 29, 10 AM, Bible House, Orange
Friday February 29, 2 PM, Christian Book and Gift, Buena Park
Friday, February 29, 7 PM, Living Water, Covina
Saturday, March 1, 10:30 AM, Selah Christian Store, Redlands
Saturday, March 1, 1 PM, Long’s Christian Bookstore, Rancho Cucamonga

p.s. I'll be posting over Vader's Mom next week too.
p.p.s. American Idol--Tonight! :)

Tag lady

Becky just tagged me! Oh, I oughta...haha, just kidding.

Okay, here are the rules:

1. Pick up the nearest book (of at least 123 pages).
2. Open the book to page 123.
3. Find the fifth sentence.
4. Post the next three sentences.
5. Tag five people.

Well. It would not be lying to say that Truffles by the Sea was the closest book--a bit self-serving--but not lying ;) So we'll skip on by to the next book, which happens to be: Valley of Betrayal, by Tricia Goyer. Here's the except:

To give in and run away would be the same as letting the enemy win.

As she strode along behind Benita, Sophie wondered if the matadors felt the same empowerment when they faced death in the arena. Did their face-off with their own weak humanity make them understand the joy of truly living?

That, my friends, is powerful stuff! Okay, my turn. I tag: Vader's Mom, Chaos-Jamie, Holy Mama, Anne Dayton and May Vanderbilt (who share a blog and will now get two posts out of this).

All wrapped up

Now that we have two teens in the fam, the TP's been having its way with our house more often. Yep, we were TP'd this weekend. If you look to the right of the pic you can see a nearly empty roll slipped onto the end of my beloved beach sign. Oh, the horrors.

It's taken my Pennsylvania-born hubby years to understand that this is actually a compliment; yes, teens in CA use toilet paper to deface the homes of people they like (kind of like my friends and I did to Archie C. when we were, say, 13+ years old...) Apparently, it's not thought of with the same *fondness* in other areas of the country. How about where you live? Share your TP stories here :)

p.s. Thank the good Lord it didn't rain until after the kids--yes, the kids!--cleaned it all up...;0

It's Friday--you gotta love that. So there's a bit of rain in California? Hopefully it'll wash away the yuck and give our plants what they need for a spectacular spring.

Still working away on deadlines ... Joanna, who got cut on last night's AI show said something like: "I want to touch people with music the way music's always touched me." I love that because I feel the same way about writing. I've always unashamedly said that I want to entertain people, but really, I want to do both: entertain and touch the heart.

Have a beachy weekend!

Adios!

America said goodbye to Amy, Joanna, Colton and Garrett tonight. So I guessed right on 2 of them. And Simon continued his booger ways by kicking them when they were down. Not exactly the American way, but then again, he's not American...did I just say that?

I suppose being mean just because one can doesn't sit well with ol' idealistic me. Maybe some of these will never hit superstar status, but they worked hard to get a spot in the top 24, so that's saying something. And if they continue to work hard at their art, maybe they'll actually get a living out of it. All I'm sayin'.

Phwee! Feeling a bit feisty tonight, lol... So. What did you think of tonight's send-off?

The Girls were in the House

Super-short post today as I work on deadlines and prep for the tour next week, but wanted to peek in and give you my one-line perspective of last night's Idol show:

Simon is mean.

Seriously, the gals were not as bad as he so often said. In fact, he was downright wrong about a couple: Alexandrea and Carly. My favorite of the night was a toss up, but I think I'd have to say: Ramiele. Jump on in here, though, and let me know who you liked.

I think that two of each category are voted off tonight (could be wrong). So here are my guesses for tonight's send off: Boys--Danny & Colton, Girls--Amy & Kady

What say you?