Monday, July 31, 2006
RWA National--continued
On Wednesday I got up and went to breakfast with members of the Writers Playground and the Wet Noodle Posse and Kelley St. John. Was lots of fun. I had pecan pancakes. Yum. Yum. Yum. My pal and fabulous Harlequin Blaze author Tawny Weber arrived this afternoon & I gave her a small gift in celebration of her first sale--a Johnny Depp doll. Tawny seemed pleased with her gift, but I may be permanently scarred from my roommate's molestation of that doll...Johnny didn't seem to mind, though.
When first seeing my pal Lindsey Brooks I gave her a goodie I got for her back when I met Dr. Travis Stork at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Bachelor & Bachelorette auction. A personalized autographed photo. Lindsey and her reality television craze is what inspired JANE MILLIONAIRE so it's only fitting I had the Bachelor autograph a picture for her. :)
After that I went to The Golden Network's first retreat. There was a panel of agents and an editor. It was interesting and worth going to. After the retreat I hung with pals, then went to the booksigning.
My very first RWA Nationals lit signing. :) It was awesome. Even though Jane's been out for 8 months, I still sold quite a few books. It was loads of fun to finally be on the opposite side of those tables.
After the booksigning some friends of mine went out to karoake. Not me. I sooooo don't sing in public & the public appreciates this. So I went to dinner at this sports bar inside the hotel called Champion's. Good food. Good friends. Great evening.
Sunday, July 30, 2006
RWA National--back home!
I'd planned to blog from the hotel each day. Unfortunately, Internet connections weren't that great at the hotel and I kept getting kicked off before I could get a blog in. Sorry about that, but I intend to make up for it over the next week by recapping my week at Nationals.
Tuesday.
I drove to Atlanta and arrived around 4 PM. Traffic was good & the weather was perfect. After arriving, I checked in to the hotel & immediately ran into my pal Gemma Halliday (who has a fabulous book coming out this week called SPYING IN HIGH HEELS--I've read this book. It's awesome & you should definitely get a copy!!) while registering. A group of close pals were hanging in the Atrium & called to tell me what I was wearing as the were spying on me from the balcony--what are friends for??? ;) After lots of hugs, we all sat around talking for a couple of hours and then it was off to The Knight Agency's 10th Anniversary party. We all met at 6:30 in front of the hotel and took two big tour type buses on a one hour cruise toward our destination. Everyone looked gorgeous in the garden party wear.
The Knight Agency is located in a wonderful area of Georgia that avoided being burned by Sherman. The buildings there are amazing, including the infamous Knight Agency. After exiting the buses we traveled down candlit lit walkways to where a tent was set up with a wide selection of delicacies. Immediately I was offered shrimp & other mouth-watering goodies. Yum!! But the absolute yummiest part of the party was the pecan pralines--let's just say that Janet Campbell & I developed an obsession for that station and devoured our share of the delicious dessert and then some. My big can-I-just-crawl-under-the-table? moment of the evening was when I was at the praline station and took a couple of pralines and then took a spoonful of pecans from the silver bowl also on the table. Apparently, those pecans in the bowl complete with serving spoon in their midst weren't really for consumption and the catering lady manning the station goes, "oh! Those are just for decoration." Ack. But since that was my only big goof for the night I figure I made out pretty good.
Glimpses of THE conference party to be at!
Friends in attendance included Michelle Buonfiglio, Marley Gibson, Diana Peterfruend, Gemma Halliday, Leslie Dicken, and quite a few others. Plus, I met lots of other wonderful people--TKA clients and staff alike. Meeting Pamela for the first time was a blast. Julie & Elaine, too. The entire night started the conference off with a bang! Fun and laughter rained supreme with conversations about furry pocketbooks and taxidermists (amongst other things) that don't bear repeating, but had me laughing so hard tears ran down my cheeks.
Janice & her fabulous agent Pamela!
So, to sum up The Knight Agency party---great food, great company, and a wonderful atmosphere. A total success--but then, how else would one describe anything to do with TKA? They rock!!!! & I'm proud to be a part of such a talented group.
Janice & friends at the party!
Tuesday.
I drove to Atlanta and arrived around 4 PM. Traffic was good & the weather was perfect. After arriving, I checked in to the hotel & immediately ran into my pal Gemma Halliday (who has a fabulous book coming out this week called SPYING IN HIGH HEELS--I've read this book. It's awesome & you should definitely get a copy!!) while registering. A group of close pals were hanging in the Atrium & called to tell me what I was wearing as the were spying on me from the balcony--what are friends for??? ;) After lots of hugs, we all sat around talking for a couple of hours and then it was off to The Knight Agency's 10th Anniversary party. We all met at 6:30 in front of the hotel and took two big tour type buses on a one hour cruise toward our destination. Everyone looked gorgeous in the garden party wear.
The Knight Agency is located in a wonderful area of Georgia that avoided being burned by Sherman. The buildings there are amazing, including the infamous Knight Agency. After exiting the buses we traveled down candlit lit walkways to where a tent was set up with a wide selection of delicacies. Immediately I was offered shrimp & other mouth-watering goodies. Yum!! But the absolute yummiest part of the party was the pecan pralines--let's just say that Janet Campbell & I developed an obsession for that station and devoured our share of the delicious dessert and then some. My big can-I-just-crawl-under-the-table? moment of the evening was when I was at the praline station and took a couple of pralines and then took a spoonful of pecans from the silver bowl also on the table. Apparently, those pecans in the bowl complete with serving spoon in their midst weren't really for consumption and the catering lady manning the station goes, "oh! Those are just for decoration." Ack. But since that was my only big goof for the night I figure I made out pretty good.
Glimpses of THE conference party to be at!
Friends in attendance included Michelle Buonfiglio, Marley Gibson, Diana Peterfruend, Gemma Halliday, Leslie Dicken, and quite a few others. Plus, I met lots of other wonderful people--TKA clients and staff alike. Meeting Pamela for the first time was a blast. Julie & Elaine, too. The entire night started the conference off with a bang! Fun and laughter rained supreme with conversations about furry pocketbooks and taxidermists (amongst other things) that don't bear repeating, but had me laughing so hard tears ran down my cheeks.
Janice & her fabulous agent Pamela!
So, to sum up The Knight Agency party---great food, great company, and a wonderful atmosphere. A total success--but then, how else would one describe anything to do with TKA? They rock!!!! & I'm proud to be a part of such a talented group.
Janice & friends at the party!
Monday, July 24, 2006
Tomorrow!
By this time tomorrow morning I'll be on the road to Atlanta!! I keep reading emails from friends who are attending conference & my excitement grows with each one. :) Although the conference is really a business one, I have to admit that I'm most looking forward to spending time with my writign buddies from the Writers Playground, the Wet Noodle Posse, the Agency Sistahs, From the Heart, the list goes on and on.
I'm rooming with awesome romantic suspense author Kathleen Long (Harlequin Intrigue) & Beth Burgoon (can you say 2006 DOUBLE GOLDEN HEART FINALIST??? :) )) & I know we're going to have a blast. We roomed together last year and things went great.
So many last minute things to do today--like go to work before I'm late! Ack! Plus my oldest two boys have soccer practice in just a few. Time to go!
I'm rooming with awesome romantic suspense author Kathleen Long (Harlequin Intrigue) & Beth Burgoon (can you say 2006 DOUBLE GOLDEN HEART FINALIST??? :) )) & I know we're going to have a blast. We roomed together last year and things went great.
So many last minute things to do today--like go to work before I'm late! Ack! Plus my oldest two boys have soccer practice in just a few. Time to go!
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Just 2 more days!
Until Atlanta for me! I leave out early on Tuesday morning & am meeting a friend at her house as parking at the hotel is $22 a day--ack! So, we're riding over together to cut down on costs. Every penny counts when the orthodontist tells you 3 kids have to have braces. Yep, that happened this past week. I was sick, I tell you. Fortunately, the youngest (yes, he's the one with a mouth already worth over $5K!) doesn't have to have his put on for at least a year, but the other two are within the month. Eek. I need to sell a book---or two or three or four...
Anyway, as I was saying, I leave for RWA Nationals on Tuesday morning. My itinerary is as follows:
Tuesday: Arrive at Maureen's & ride over to the hotel
Meet up with friends & visit
Got to the rocking The Knight Agency party & try not to make a hick of myself. ;)
Wednesday: Eat breakfast with a group of friends that include the awesome Kelley St. John, Kathleen Long, Tawny Weber, Stephanie Rowe, Trish Milburn, & Lindsey Brooks! Wow! With starting the day like that, you know it's gonna be a good one. These ladies ROCK when it comes to writing great books.
That afternoon, I'm attending the Golden Network's first retreat & then it's the booksigning. My first RWA national booksigning that I'm signing--I'm super excited and maybe a bit intimidated, too. I mean, Nora Roberts & Sherrilyn Kenyon & Jennifer Crusie will be there! Wow!!!!
Thursday: workshops in the morning & afternoon!
Thursday evening is the From the Heart Romance Writers party. I'm looking forward to it. I serve as secretary for this chapter & it's close to my heart as it's the first RWA chapter I joined and where I met most of my closest writing buds.
That evening I also have The Golden Network's party. This is a chapter that's for those who've finaled in the Golden Heart. In 2003, I finaled with my very first entry. Blew me away. Of course, I entered the next 2 years and didn't final with books that I thought were much better. Jane Millionaire actually got a wrong category & I entered it in the category it eventually sold in--go figure.
Friday: workshops in the morning & afternoon!
This evening is my publisher party. Last year was the first one I'd attended & unfortunately the From The Heart party was at the same time. Amazingly the parties were across the hall from each other & I zipped back and forth, but I know it took away from the experience of both. I'm really looking forward to the party this year because my pal Gemma Halliday sold to Dorchester last fall (her book Spying in High Heels is out next month, be sure to check it out. It's awesome!). I actually almost ran my car off the rode when she called to tell me she'd sold! A strong gust of wind caught my car right as I squealed & ack! I also have a get together with friends after the party. It's gonna be fun!!
Saturday: I'm giving a workshop with Jo-Ann Powers & Brianna Yamashita. Not sure how many will be in attendance as I'm usually brain dead by Saturday & often miss workshops this day...bad Janice. ;) I'm having a girl's in dinner with pals that evening & then it's the Rita/GH awards ceremony. Can't wait for my pal Tawny Weber to WIN the GH for her category. She's that awesome! & my pals Anna Sugden & Beth Burgoon are going to be duking it out for Long Contemp. I'll be the one in the crowd screaming LOUDLY. :)
I just realized that I'm missing half a dozen things from this list. I don't have any of my Wet Noodle Posse stuff listed & I'm definitely attending a couple of things with my GH sisters! But the above gives you the general picture that it's going to be a fun-filled, but PACKED week. The week always flies by.
Anyway, as I was saying, I leave for RWA Nationals on Tuesday morning. My itinerary is as follows:
Tuesday: Arrive at Maureen's & ride over to the hotel
Meet up with friends & visit
Got to the rocking The Knight Agency party & try not to make a hick of myself. ;)
Wednesday: Eat breakfast with a group of friends that include the awesome Kelley St. John, Kathleen Long, Tawny Weber, Stephanie Rowe, Trish Milburn, & Lindsey Brooks! Wow! With starting the day like that, you know it's gonna be a good one. These ladies ROCK when it comes to writing great books.
That afternoon, I'm attending the Golden Network's first retreat & then it's the booksigning. My first RWA national booksigning that I'm signing--I'm super excited and maybe a bit intimidated, too. I mean, Nora Roberts & Sherrilyn Kenyon & Jennifer Crusie will be there! Wow!!!!
Thursday: workshops in the morning & afternoon!
Thursday evening is the From the Heart Romance Writers party. I'm looking forward to it. I serve as secretary for this chapter & it's close to my heart as it's the first RWA chapter I joined and where I met most of my closest writing buds.
That evening I also have The Golden Network's party. This is a chapter that's for those who've finaled in the Golden Heart. In 2003, I finaled with my very first entry. Blew me away. Of course, I entered the next 2 years and didn't final with books that I thought were much better. Jane Millionaire actually got a wrong category & I entered it in the category it eventually sold in--go figure.
Friday: workshops in the morning & afternoon!
This evening is my publisher party. Last year was the first one I'd attended & unfortunately the From The Heart party was at the same time. Amazingly the parties were across the hall from each other & I zipped back and forth, but I know it took away from the experience of both. I'm really looking forward to the party this year because my pal Gemma Halliday sold to Dorchester last fall (her book Spying in High Heels is out next month, be sure to check it out. It's awesome!). I actually almost ran my car off the rode when she called to tell me she'd sold! A strong gust of wind caught my car right as I squealed & ack! I also have a get together with friends after the party. It's gonna be fun!!
Saturday: I'm giving a workshop with Jo-Ann Powers & Brianna Yamashita. Not sure how many will be in attendance as I'm usually brain dead by Saturday & often miss workshops this day...bad Janice. ;) I'm having a girl's in dinner with pals that evening & then it's the Rita/GH awards ceremony. Can't wait for my pal Tawny Weber to WIN the GH for her category. She's that awesome! & my pals Anna Sugden & Beth Burgoon are going to be duking it out for Long Contemp. I'll be the one in the crowd screaming LOUDLY. :)
I just realized that I'm missing half a dozen things from this list. I don't have any of my Wet Noodle Posse stuff listed & I'm definitely attending a couple of things with my GH sisters! But the above gives you the general picture that it's going to be a fun-filled, but PACKED week. The week always flies by.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Painting & Procrastination
So, I've finally started getting ready for RWA Nationals. It's sad to say that until today I'd done NOTHING to prepare--which is totally unlike me. Generally, I'd have planned stuff out weeks ahead of time. I'm not a color coder, but I do like to have a schedule made out & have a pretty good general idea of when & where I'm supposed to be, etc. Plus, I usually shop for clothes & a gown & such. This year--naughta. But I'm changing that today--better late than never, right??? ;) So, I've gotten 4 give-away baskets put together for the From The Heart Romance Writers dinner. I've put together the things that I'm driving to conference for friends, as well, so that everything is together & I've STARTED thinking about what I'm going to wear. I'm not panicked about gowns as I've a friend who has a closet full and if I can't come up with one of my own I can call her and bum. ;)
As I've mentioned before, I'm really excited at the prospect of meeting my agent in person. Hopefully, things are going to start happening sale wise in the near future so it's going to be nice to put a face to the voice.
On the painting front, I'm posting a picture of my not quite finished yet but almost dining room. :)
As I've mentioned before, I'm really excited at the prospect of meeting my agent in person. Hopefully, things are going to start happening sale wise in the near future so it's going to be nice to put a face to the voice.
On the painting front, I'm posting a picture of my not quite finished yet but almost dining room. :)
Sunday, July 16, 2006
RWA Nationals is drawing Near!
So difficult to believe that I'll be packing next weekend to leave for Atlanta & the Romance Writers of America conference. Every year there is so much anticipation for this event. For many writers it serves as a mile stone. A marking point from year to year to stop and take measure of where you were the year before and where you are now. For me, this year's conference is very special. It's the first time I'll be signing books at the Literacy signing on Wednesday. Not familiar with the Literacy signing? It's a huge booksigning (I'm not sure how many authors will be there, over a hundred I imagine) of romance authors that include greats like Jennifer Crusie, Nora Roberts, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Christine Feehan, Lori Foster, the list goes on and on...This year my name is on that list. Okay, so realistically, I'll be excited if I sell 15 books when there are such greats on offer, but I'm there. It's a heady feeling. Surreal and a bit staggering when I think how long I dreamed of that moment.
There's an awesome blog started that gives lots of information on RWA national this year and has links to sites that are going to be blogging about the conference. If interested, check it out. http://www.bloggingnational.blogspot.com/
Signing off to go die...okay, so hopefully not really, but I am TIRED. Sanding & scrubbing baseboards is SOOOOO not my thing. I keep thinking "I took off work for this????" ;) Still, what little I've gotten done looks good. & hubby & my boys are home from their Buffalo River canoe trip. They did 25 miles on the river this weekend & apparently had a blast. :)
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Painting & Vacationing
Well, I've finished the stairwell & the upstairs foyer--did I say that already? Not sure. Last night & today I've worked on my dining room. I'm painting it khaki with white trim. The walls are done. Just have to sand the trim work & then paint & viola! I'll have the dining room almost done. :) That should take me...okay, I'm not going to think about that since I still have several more rooms to go. ;)
After painting last night I sat up reading a good book till the sun came up. Wasn't great, but good enough that I wanted to finish it. :)
Hubby & two oldest boys are off canoeing the Buffalo River this weekend. Their canoeing in the day & camping at night. Before long the youngest two kids are going to be old enough & I'll get to go on these trips again. :) I still go on some, but not as many as I'd like. We're taking the oldest two white water rafting on the Ocoee River next month. I'm looking forward to that. I love white water rafting.
Since I know I have a lot of patients that read my blog, I wanted to let ya know that I'm taking quite a bit of vacation time over the next few weeks, but will be back to regular schedule on August 21st. Between now & then I'm working the next three Mondays and that's it. I hope to spend time with my kids, get my house remodeling finished, catch up on my scrap-booking, finish three book proposals, write a novella, get the kids' school shopping done and them back in school, and buy new furniture for my living room. No biggie. Jeeze, I bet I get that all done the first week and then I'll be bored the rest of the time---YEAH RIGHT. And of course I'll be in Atlanta the last week of July. I'm really looking forward to that since I'll be seeing friends I only see once or a few times a year. Plus, I have a booksigning & I'll get to meet my agent in person for the first time. That should be cool.
Not sure if you can make out what the plague says or not but I got this in the mail & was thrilled. It's the award for JANE MILLIONAIRE winning the 2006 Golden Quill for Best First Book. :) I also got a pin to wear on my name badge. Very, very cool!
After painting last night I sat up reading a good book till the sun came up. Wasn't great, but good enough that I wanted to finish it. :)
Hubby & two oldest boys are off canoeing the Buffalo River this weekend. Their canoeing in the day & camping at night. Before long the youngest two kids are going to be old enough & I'll get to go on these trips again. :) I still go on some, but not as many as I'd like. We're taking the oldest two white water rafting on the Ocoee River next month. I'm looking forward to that. I love white water rafting.
Since I know I have a lot of patients that read my blog, I wanted to let ya know that I'm taking quite a bit of vacation time over the next few weeks, but will be back to regular schedule on August 21st. Between now & then I'm working the next three Mondays and that's it. I hope to spend time with my kids, get my house remodeling finished, catch up on my scrap-booking, finish three book proposals, write a novella, get the kids' school shopping done and them back in school, and buy new furniture for my living room. No biggie. Jeeze, I bet I get that all done the first week and then I'll be bored the rest of the time---YEAH RIGHT. And of course I'll be in Atlanta the last week of July. I'm really looking forward to that since I'll be seeing friends I only see once or a few times a year. Plus, I have a booksigning & I'll get to meet my agent in person for the first time. That should be cool.
Not sure if you can make out what the plague says or not but I got this in the mail & was thrilled. It's the award for JANE MILLIONAIRE winning the 2006 Golden Quill for Best First Book. :) I also got a pin to wear on my name badge. Very, very cool!
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
So bad!
It's been wayyyy too long since I last posted. Lots going on, though. Things like celebrating my 16th wedding anniversary last Friday. Hard to believe that 16 years have come and gone since David & I married. Wow. & what did we do to celebrate? Why, we went to watch Pirates of the Carribean, of course. Who doesn't enjoy some Johnny Depp to set the mood????
Okay, so that explains one day, right? So what else has had me so busy? Other than working on a new story proposal, that is. I decided to remodel my house. Insane I know, but I'm not much of a house cleaner--big surprise, I know--and it was/is sorely needed. So, I've took doors off hinges and stripped paint and painted and scrubbed and...okay, you get the idea. Why I decided to do all the rooms at once is beyond me though.
I live in a house that's literally a hundred years old. It has lots of character and charm--that's a nice way of saying it has a lot of old stuff. ;) Anyway, when I was stripping paint from the baseboards at my staircase I was pleasantly surprised to find some gorgeous wood beneath. Now I just have to finish stripping it off. I didn't take any pics before I got started, but here's one that shows what I was uncovering. Nice.
I'll post more pictures as I get things done.
Okay, so that explains one day, right? So what else has had me so busy? Other than working on a new story proposal, that is. I decided to remodel my house. Insane I know, but I'm not much of a house cleaner--big surprise, I know--and it was/is sorely needed. So, I've took doors off hinges and stripped paint and painted and scrubbed and...okay, you get the idea. Why I decided to do all the rooms at once is beyond me though.
I live in a house that's literally a hundred years old. It has lots of character and charm--that's a nice way of saying it has a lot of old stuff. ;) Anyway, when I was stripping paint from the baseboards at my staircase I was pleasantly surprised to find some gorgeous wood beneath. Now I just have to finish stripping it off. I didn't take any pics before I got started, but here's one that shows what I was uncovering. Nice.
I'll post more pictures as I get things done.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Happy Fourth of July!!!
Hope you have lots of fireworks & happy times!!! I'm off to my in-laws for swimming, food, fireworks, & fun! :)
Be safe & don't forget the wonderful thing this day honors--our country's independance! What a wonderful blessing freedom is.
A special thank you to our armed services!!
Be safe & don't forget the wonderful thing this day honors--our country's independance! What a wonderful blessing freedom is.
A special thank you to our armed services!!
Saturday, July 01, 2006
Failure to Launch
Watched this last night. Of course, I found Matthew to be absolutely adorable. What can I say? The man has charm & I'm a bit biased. Just a weeeeeee bit.
I laughed out loud several times during the movie & so did hubby. I also drooled over the chest scenes--Matthew's NOT Terry Bradshaw's, which in my humble opinion could have been left out completely. I mean, who wants to see Terry Bradshaw in the buff? Not me, but I suppose there are those who do. Personally, I think they could have left out the butt shot & the movie would have been just fine & I would have one less EWWW moment in my life.
Anyway, it was a cute movie & a fun role for Matthew to star in. I like him better in this role than Sahara, but am glad that Sahara was the movie out when I named my laptop though as I would hate to think of my computer as "Failure to Launch".
I laughed out loud several times during the movie & so did hubby. I also drooled over the chest scenes--Matthew's NOT Terry Bradshaw's, which in my humble opinion could have been left out completely. I mean, who wants to see Terry Bradshaw in the buff? Not me, but I suppose there are those who do. Personally, I think they could have left out the butt shot & the movie would have been just fine & I would have one less EWWW moment in my life.
Anyway, it was a cute movie & a fun role for Matthew to star in. I like him better in this role than Sahara, but am glad that Sahara was the movie out when I named my laptop though as I would hate to think of my computer as "Failure to Launch".
Monday, June 26, 2006
Novella
One of my pals read my novella & loved it. As this was my first novella I wasn't sure how it would go, but I loved writing it & had lots of fun. My pal said my hero was yummy & I have to agree. I think I fell a little bit in love with him. Which is a good thing because if I can't fall for my heroes how can I expect anyone else to, right? Anyway this guy is fab and totally in tune with a woman's needs and is a total man's man, too. Honestly, I think I like him better than any hero I've ever written..and that's saying a lot as I usually fall for them all...take Jude for example. (That book is still out with the publishers. I'm hoping it's a good sign that it's been there for a few months. Keep your fingers crossed!) And of course Rob was scrumptious. And Noah--Noah is from a book my editor rejected because it wasn't a big enough plot, but I adore that story. Anyway, you get the drift--my novella hero is HOT STUFF.
I used Goran Visnjic as my hero in my novella. Not his ER look, but his Spartacus look. He was on the cover of TV Week & I LOVE that picture and from the moment I saw it I knew that man was going to be between my covers...I mean that I was going to write a story with him as my hero. ;)
I couldn't find the photo online & my scanner doesn't work, but here's the closest to the photo that I can find. :) Enjoy. & shhhhhhh, no one tell Matthew that I once again wrote a story without him as the hero...I'm saving him until I write my breakout novel that hits the Times list. ;)
I used Goran Visnjic as my hero in my novella. Not his ER look, but his Spartacus look. He was on the cover of TV Week & I LOVE that picture and from the moment I saw it I knew that man was going to be between my covers...I mean that I was going to write a story with him as my hero. ;)
I couldn't find the photo online & my scanner doesn't work, but here's the closest to the photo that I can find. :) Enjoy. & shhhhhhh, no one tell Matthew that I once again wrote a story without him as the hero...I'm saving him until I write my breakout novel that hits the Times list. ;)
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Bell Buckle Cafe
The 2 youngest kids & I went with my Mom & Dad & Grandparents to Bell Buckle today. It's a small historic town mostly filled with antique shops. There's a restaurant there called the Bell Buckle Cafe that's infamous for their yummy food. It was fabulous!
Here's a few of the rest of that strip...which is pretty much the entire town. :)
And what small town Tennessee restaurant is complete without a Moon Pie display????
Here's my favorite gift shop there, just because I love the name. :)
If you're ever in Middle Tennessee, be sure to stop in at the Bell Buckle Cafe for some down home cooking & to check out all the antique shops. :)
Monday, June 19, 2006
Taps
First off, I have no eartly idea if this is true or not, but it fascinated me & I wanted to share it. If any of Iyou know if it's true or not, please share that info with me. :)
If any of you have ever been to a military funeral in which taps were played; this brings out a new meaning of it.
Here is something Every American should know. Until I read this, I didn't know, but I checked it out and it's true:
We in the United States have all heard the haunting song, "Taps". It's the song that gives us that lump in our throats and usually tears in our eyes.
But, do you know the story behind the song? If not, I think you will be interested to find out about its humble beginnings.
Reportedly, it all began in 1862 during the Civil War, when Union Army Captain Robert Ellicombe was with his men near Harrison 's Landing in Virginia . The Confederate Army was on the other side of the narrow strip of land.
During the night, Captain Ellicombe heard the moans of a soldier who lay severely wounded on the field. Not knowing if it was a Union or Confederate soldier, the Captain decided to risk his life and bring the stricken man back for medical attention. Crawling on his stomach through the gunfire, the Captain reached the stricken soldier and began pulling him toward his encampment.
When the Captain finally reached his own lines, he discovered it was actually a Confederate soldier, but the soldier was dead.
The Captain lit a lantern and suddenly caught his breath and went numb with shock. In the dim light, he saw the face of the soldier. It was his own son. The boy had been studying music in the South when the war broke out. Without telling his father, the boy enlisted in the Confederate Army.
The following morning, heartbroken, the father asked permission of his superiors to give his son a full military burial, despite his enemy status. His request was only partially granted.
The Captain had asked if he could have a group of Army band members play a funeral dirge for his son at the funeral.
The request was turned down since the soldier was a Confederate.
But, out of respect for the father, they did say they could give him only one musician.
The Captain chose a bugler. He asked the bugler to play a series of musical notes he had found on a piece of paper in the pocket of the dead youth's uniform.
This wish was granted.
The haunting melody, we now know as "Taps" ... used at military funerals was born.
The words are :
Day is done..
Gone the sun.
From the lakes.
From the hills.
From the sky.
All is well.
Safely rest.
God is nigh.
Fading light.
Dims the sight.
And a star.
Gems the sky.
Gleaming bright.
From afar.
Drawing nigh.
Falls the night.
Thanks and praise.
For ourdays.
Neath the sun.
Neath the stars.
Neath the sky.
As we go.
This we know.
God is nigh.
I too have felt the chills while listening to "Taps" but I have never seen all the words to the song until now. I didn't even know there was more than one verse. I also never knew the story behind the song and I didn't know if you had either so I thought I'd pass it along.
I now have an even deeper respect for the song than I did before.
Remember Those Lost and Harmed While Serving Their Country.
If any of you have ever been to a military funeral in which taps were played; this brings out a new meaning of it.
Here is something Every American should know. Until I read this, I didn't know, but I checked it out and it's true:
We in the United States have all heard the haunting song, "Taps". It's the song that gives us that lump in our throats and usually tears in our eyes.
But, do you know the story behind the song? If not, I think you will be interested to find out about its humble beginnings.
Reportedly, it all began in 1862 during the Civil War, when Union Army Captain Robert Ellicombe was with his men near Harrison 's Landing in Virginia . The Confederate Army was on the other side of the narrow strip of land.
During the night, Captain Ellicombe heard the moans of a soldier who lay severely wounded on the field. Not knowing if it was a Union or Confederate soldier, the Captain decided to risk his life and bring the stricken man back for medical attention. Crawling on his stomach through the gunfire, the Captain reached the stricken soldier and began pulling him toward his encampment.
When the Captain finally reached his own lines, he discovered it was actually a Confederate soldier, but the soldier was dead.
The Captain lit a lantern and suddenly caught his breath and went numb with shock. In the dim light, he saw the face of the soldier. It was his own son. The boy had been studying music in the South when the war broke out. Without telling his father, the boy enlisted in the Confederate Army.
The following morning, heartbroken, the father asked permission of his superiors to give his son a full military burial, despite his enemy status. His request was only partially granted.
The Captain had asked if he could have a group of Army band members play a funeral dirge for his son at the funeral.
The request was turned down since the soldier was a Confederate.
But, out of respect for the father, they did say they could give him only one musician.
The Captain chose a bugler. He asked the bugler to play a series of musical notes he had found on a piece of paper in the pocket of the dead youth's uniform.
This wish was granted.
The haunting melody, we now know as "Taps" ... used at military funerals was born.
The words are :
Day is done..
Gone the sun.
From the lakes.
From the hills.
From the sky.
All is well.
Safely rest.
God is nigh.
Fading light.
Dims the sight.
And a star.
Gems the sky.
Gleaming bright.
From afar.
Drawing nigh.
Falls the night.
Thanks and praise.
For ourdays.
Neath the sun.
Neath the stars.
Neath the sky.
As we go.
This we know.
God is nigh.
I too have felt the chills while listening to "Taps" but I have never seen all the words to the song until now. I didn't even know there was more than one verse. I also never knew the story behind the song and I didn't know if you had either so I thought I'd pass it along.
I now have an even deeper respect for the song than I did before.
Remember Those Lost and Harmed While Serving Their Country.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Happy Father's day!
I wasn't sure if I'd make it online today or not, but here I am. :)
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!! to all the fatherss out there that are more than biological contributers, but are truly dads. :)
In the spirit of the day, I'm going to post a pic of Jude Law rather than my darling Matthew as Jude has a reputation of being a great dad. :)
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Without A Paddle
My oldest two, hubby & I just watched this movie tonight & I laughed my butt off. Too funny. Actually, I really enjoyed the friendship that the creators set up. Made me smile with memories of childhood friendships and where we are now.
Hubby & the two oldest leave for a week of camping tomorrow--which adds to the humor of watching Without A Paddle. Hopefully, their week will go a bit smoother. :)
The younger two & I are roughing it at home with the air conditioning, take-out, & remote control....what? you're not feeling my pain? Okay, so mostly I'll be at work, the kids will be with Grandma, & our evenings will be spent at the ballpark, Boy Scouts, Gymnastics, Cheerleading, and so forth. Yeah, NOW you feel my pain. ;)
Have a great rest of the weekend & Happy Father's Day to my Dad & all the other dads out there!!!!
Hubby & the two oldest leave for a week of camping tomorrow--which adds to the humor of watching Without A Paddle. Hopefully, their week will go a bit smoother. :)
The younger two & I are roughing it at home with the air conditioning, take-out, & remote control....what? you're not feeling my pain? Okay, so mostly I'll be at work, the kids will be with Grandma, & our evenings will be spent at the ballpark, Boy Scouts, Gymnastics, Cheerleading, and so forth. Yeah, NOW you feel my pain. ;)
Have a great rest of the weekend & Happy Father's Day to my Dad & all the other dads out there!!!!
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Bonnaroo!
Well, there are an extra 80,000+ people in the town where I live. That's over triple the population for the entire county. Why would that many people travel from all over to visit a small middle Tennessee town? For the 5th year of a Woodstock like concert that lasts for several days called Bonnaroo. I've never been although I love some of the bands that are there. In the past, some of my 80's favorites like Joan Jett & the Blackhearts and Rick Springfield have been there. Lots & lots of other big name bands old & new. This year, the name that caught my eye that I'd like to see was Nickel Creek. I saw them play at an Amy Grant Christmas concert and their pure love of what they were doing hooked me. When I hear a song by them, I remember the joy and enthusiasm with which they played. It was magic just to watch them. Someday when they're playing at a smaller event I'm going to go watch them again. I hope they never lose that special high just from doing what they love because it's amazing just to watch them. My hubby & I both were impressed by the way they put themselves into the music they played. If you ever get a chance to go see them, definitely do.I often think about watching them play when I hit a particular high with my writing. Not that I dance around and sing (well, okay, sometimes I do, but we should so not talk about that!), but that I literally feel like I'm floating when I get a scene just right or when I've finished a book that I love. Every person should have something in their life that brings them such pleasure. :)
Speaking of pleasure, I've started a new book. :)
Off to watch my daughter's softball game. :) Go A Winning Attitude. Isn't that just the coolest name for a team?
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Ack! A whole week...
Wow. I've been negligent on posting lately. Baseball is winding down..okay, my youngest lost tonight & was put out of the tournament, so it is over. Softball, we still have a few games, were tied for first, but lost to that team & as of the moment are in 2nd. Hopefully, we'll end the season without slipping into third. Either way my daughter has had a great first year of playing & I'm very proud of her. Of all my kids, for doing their best.
I turned in a completed super sexy novella to my agent on Monday, plus another proposal. Hoping to hear good things on that soon. :) I'd never written a futuristic before & discovered world building was fun. Okay, so the sexy hero was what I found so fun, but y'all already knew that, right? ;) I've started another Blaze proposal & hope to finish that up soon & get it to her as well.
Have gotten some fun emails where JANE MILLIONAIRE won Best First Book in the 2006 Golden Quill. Yes, I am still dancing on the ceiling over that. :)
Oh! I am still exercising at least 5 days a week & guess what???? When I got on the scales last week & this week, I'd lost weight both times!!! I started exercising at the end of February & my weight had stayed the same for so long that I was ready to pull my hair out (however my cholesterol did drop over 70 points). Finally, the weight is starting to decrease. So, for those of you who are like me & it takes over 3 months of faithful exercise (hey, I spent an hour & twenty minutes in the gym this morning on my day off) before the weight goes down, don't give up hope. It will eventually happen. :)
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
His Royal Love Child by Lucy Monroe
His Royal Love Child by Lucy Monroe is in Bookstores Now
The Scorsolini Princes: proud rulers and passionate lovers, they need convenient wives! Danette Michaels knew the rules when she became Principe Marcello Scorsolini’s secret mistress. There would be no marriage, no future, no public acknowledgement. All she’'d have was his hard Sicilian body and his undivided passion. At the time, it was enough.
But Danette can’t be a dirty little secret any longer. She wants all or nothing – and that means their affair is over.
Until a pregnancy test changes everything…
For those of you who don't recall, Lucy very generously donated copies of Ready and Willing to the Lymphomia Society Auction. I really appreciate Lucy's generosity & hope you'll check out this awesome book.
Oh, & I just have to say that I had one of those giddy moments inWal-mart tonight. I was standing in the book section & saw Learning Curves by Terry McLaughlin, The Heart's Homecoming by Merrillee Wren, Rhonda Nelson's latest (an Out of Uniform Blaze!), Rita Herron's latest, & several others by authors I personally knew. My 8 yr old daughter just stared at her silly mom cause I really did giggle. How cool that I work in a profession that allows me to meet & know these wonderful ladies & writers??!!!
For those of you who don't recall, Lucy very generously donated copies of Ready and Willing to the Lymphomia Society Auction. I really appreciate Lucy's generosity & hope you'll check out this awesome book.
Oh, & I just have to say that I had one of those giddy moments inWal-mart tonight. I was standing in the book section & saw Learning Curves by Terry McLaughlin, The Heart's Homecoming by Merrillee Wren, Rhonda Nelson's latest (an Out of Uniform Blaze!), Rita Herron's latest, & several others by authors I personally knew. My 8 yr old daughter just stared at her silly mom cause I really did giggle. How cool that I work in a profession that allows me to meet & know these wonderful ladies & writers??!!!
Sunday, June 04, 2006
2006 Golden Quill Awards! Jane Millionaire wins Best First Book!!
OMG! I'm happy dancing in Tennessee!! I just got notified that JANE MILLIONAIRE won the Best First Book category of the 2006 Golden Quill Awards! I can't believe it!!! I ended up entering Jane in four published contests, finaled in two, and unbelievably WON one! OMG!!!!This calls for a Matthew celebration!!!
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