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 by Carol Burnside / Annie Rayburn Yes, yes, I know it’s several months away yet, but if any of you see me posting about possibly doing NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) later this year, remind me that I wrote this post, okay? Point me back here and make me read my own words. I’m serious! I’ve…
 GHOSTS, CURSES, AND CREATURES, OH MY! by Cynthia Luhrs Can you guess the most frequently asked question I hear since publishing my debut book? How did you ever come up with this? Curl up in a chair, get comfy, grab your favorite beverage (icy, cold Pepsi for me) and let’s chat about how the…
I can certainly see how you came to write your book. I’d be watching the cat closely for ever after. 
Your book and the series sound wonderful and I love your cover. Thanks so much for blogging with us. Coincidentally, I was thinking about making Scotland my next vacation destination. Did you go on a tour? I love it when traveling triggers an idea for a book. 
Your trip to Scotland sounds like a great inspiration. 
Waves hello. Hi Mary – It was strange. Lulu has never done that since…cue the spooky music! Thank you Marilyn – Thank you for having me. I did a tour for a few days and then we rented a car and gulp drove on the wrong side of the road and explored. It was a really nice mix. Scotland is a wonderful country not to mention the accents! Maureen – it was a delight. Cheers all! 
What a spooky story! Sounds like nothing gets past Lulu! I really enjoyed reading your book and I’m looking forward to the next one, thank you! I hope to travel to Scotland one day. Were any of the characters in Lost in Shadow inspired by any actual people you met in Scotland? Specifically, did you meet a crazy gorgeous fellow over there that resembles the lead character? If so, then I think we all must go to Scotland immediately
Thank you, I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I wish I’d met a flesh and blood man who was like Colin or Monroe but not Rawlins. Rawlins is inspired by all the bad characters Sean Bean plays. But you should go to Scotland – there are lots of guys who wear modern day kilts 
I’m not generally a fan of scary stories but I have to admit yours is intriguing, especially now that I know the story behind your inspiration! Thank you so much for blogging with us today!
Hey Pam – thanks for having me! Glad I intrigued you and it’s not too scary though there are goblins… 
Reading how Lost in Shadow was inspired gave me goosebumps! Don’t you sometimes wonder if animals do that on purpose, just to freak us humans out?
Hello CJ – grins at giving you goosebumps. Oh, I do wonder and it certainly worked. Glad you enjoyed the post 
Your books sound right up my alley, and I love the way inspiration struck, Cynthia! Scotland (and in my case Ireland) are ripe settings for ghost material… Good luck with your series! 
OMGoodness…scary moment. I have a friend who had his favorite pet cremated and kept the cat’s ashes in an urn on a shelf. After getting another cat, he was freaked out to watch the new cat walk w-a-y around that shelf…with his fur bristled up and hissing in that direction as he slunked by. Great article and thanks so much for joining us today.
Waving at Gemma and Sandy Thank you Gemma! I loved Ireland and England too – plan to have both featured in a later book. Oh Sandy that would have freaked me out! Thank you for having me today. 
I got shivers reading about how Lulu saw a ghost…and I do believe in them, ghosts, that is. I had an odd occurence once myself when my daughter was 2 yrs old. She asked about a lady sitting next to my ailing grandfather (he was in hospice asleep at the time and we were visitng) Long story short, there was no lady sitting next to him…none that I could see anyway. 
I love the sound of this book! I haven’t seen a ghost or spirit, but I would welcome a visit with either one!
Hey Tamara – you gave me goosebumps! Thanks you so much! Hi Mary – Thank you! I joke I’d like a ghost for a boyfriend. He wouldn’t leave his socks on the floor… Big thank you to you all for hosting me and to everyone who stopped by!  As I write this post, it’s a cold, rainy Saturday- atypical for May in Georgia. I did something I haven’t done in over ten years (since I started seriously writing). I stayed in bed this morning with a book. Linda Howard is one of my all time favorite authors. Recently, one of her earlier…
The last book my daughter recommended to me was ‘Mistborn’
I spent a good bit of Saturday curled up with a book myself, Connie. It’s not like we could get out and work in the yard, right? The last book I read in one sitting was “My Cowboy Valentine” by Jane Porter. It was yummy. 
Connie,
Can’t remember when I read a book in a single sitting but I remember a lot of books I wanted to read in one sitting. But life gets in the way. I read a lot of lengthy books so I read wherever I can, waiting in line at the post office, while I’m watching TV, at night before I go to bed. Right now I have two books I’m dying to read – one by Nora and one by Amsnda Quick, two of my favorites. But I’m in two book clubs so I have to do my “homework” and read those first even though those picks were great, War Brides and Noah’s Wife. Enjoyed your post. Too many favorite books to mention. 
Reading a book in one sitting? I haven’t done that since before my babies were born. 
Mary- Isn’t Sanderson the author that completed the Wheel of Time series? If he is, his writing seems anything but light reading to me.
Pam- I’ve heard just good things about Jane Porter’s writing. I’ll have to give her a try. I know Sia’s a big fan.
Susan- I especially love Linda’s earlier books. My all time favorite is Cry No More. I cried from the start of that book to the end. And I’m not a crying person.
Marilyn- Reading a book while watching TV-that’s intersting. Do you read during commericals?
Sia- I can’t tell you when I last read a book for longer than thirty minutes. Like Marilyn, I have too many obligations. But things fell in place and I took the opportunity to read. It couldn’t have happened without a great book. 
No need to feel guilt, Connie. If a writer can’t lay in bed and indulge in a book, who can? I remember when Linda Howard came to speak to us at M&M a number of years ago. I hadn’t heard of her before, but I’m glad I did then. I’ve listened to a number of her audiobooks. She’s a fabulous writer. Each of her books is so different from the other, yet you know you’ll always get a great, emotional story. I haven’t listened to Son of the Morning. I’ll have to look for it.
You’ll enjoy it, Linsey. Also look for Cry No More. That’s an emotional read.
I have listened to Cry No More. It’s amazing. 
Sometimes, we just need to ‘recharge’, Connie. You shouldn’t feel the least bit guilty over a few hours of bed reading. In my world, that’s a necessary (if rare) indulgence and well worth every minute.
Connie, as you know, Son Of The Morning is one of my all time favorite books. It’s a top five for sure. I haven’t read it in a while and should. I can’t remember the last book I read in one sitting, but hopefully I’ll find one soon…I miss a good read.
Carol- Thank you, Carol. I definitely needed it.
Tamara- I know it’s your all time favorite. I re-read just for you. I hope you find the time to read a good book in one sitting. You deserve it!
Yes, I read books during TV Commercials or else I tune out the show if I don’t like it. 
Connie, Good for you! I do that sometimes, and I manage to feel very little guilt. I’m rereading Harry Potter books. Just what I needed!
Hi Connie, A good story, IMO, can become great with the right characters. Change even one character to a ho-hum person and the story becomes less interesting. 
I love to re-read Kathleen Woodiwiss. She was my favorite historical author.  By Pam Asberry Things happen when you least expect them. Things that can change your whole life. ― Lesley Kagen, Whistling In the Dark I don’t know how it’s gone for you, but 2013 has been a challenging year for me so far. Among other things, I’ve had kid concerns, a mandatory bathroom remodel, a…
I’m impressed. I had 7 years of piano lessons & never really did learn to play. Congrats for crossing 2 things off your list.
Congratulations on your new baby and performing in the spring concert. That’s wonderful and I love your new attitude.
Thank you, Mary! Next on the list is “crochet a granny square afghan” an “make divinity.” There’s really no excuse not to get started on those!
Congratulations on all your achievements, Marilyn! I need to visit your new website. I can’t wait to get an autographed copy of “Under the Moon Gate.” Which reminds me: I need to get back to work on my writing, too!
Very awe-inspiring blog, Pam. Congratulations on the baby grand. You deserve it! 
Your post reminds me of the poem “Warning” by Jenny Joseph. “And make up for the sobriety of my youth.” Time really does make us wise and give us baby grands.
Thanks, Connie. I don’t know you well but I’m sure your mom would want you to take whatever steps are necessary to make your dreams come true. I’ll be looking forward to those blog posts. You have my full support!
I just googled the poem and read it again, Pete. It’s one of my favorites. Words to live by, for sure! 
That’s amazing, Pam! Congratulations! I know that we all experience dark hours where nothing seems like it will ever be right again. That every step we are able to take forward, we seem to slip back two or three, thus moving backwards instead of toward our destination. Sometimes, life just gives us what we want in a more challenging manner. Love the piano!
Thank you, Bryonna. Here’s hoping for a little more forward momentum for all of us throughout the rest of 2013!
How wonderful, Pam. I know it’s difficult to put yourself first. Congratulations on achieving your dream. Wishing you many more inspiring moments with your new baby.
Thank you, Sia. I have been floating on a cloud the past couple of weeks! 
Kudos to you, Pam, for getting that grand piano and playing in an amazing ensemble (sounds like it was well worth the effort of juggling your schedule to do it). Wow, that’s really impressive and what’s so great is how happy it makes you. I’m a big believer in doing things that make you happy because your peace of mind and happiness flows over to those around you. I’m smiling just because of your story and your new baby is a beauty!
Hey Pam!!!! Congratulations all around! Yep, life has a way of trying to trip you up…noted in your challenges of late…but humans have a way of overcoming if we just keep our focus on the goal and keep moving forward. And you did it!!! I’m so proud of you…and your piano is absolutely beautiful.
Pam, I’m SOOOOO thrilled for you. What a wonderful achievment. I bet you played beautifully!! I have a lot to be thankful for even though we’ve had a tough year (and this new year is proving tougher) My dear husband is still very optimistic and in great spirits. He’s had some setbacks, but he’s feeling well. My daughter came through her two operation with flying colors as well. She’s doing great. I’m so happy for you Pam. Hopefully you’ll get more chances to do what you love! Have a great evening,
Oh yes, Dianna, it was worth every bit of effort: rearranging my teaching schedule, driving eighty miles round trip every Monday evening (and four days in a row this past weekend), and hours and hours of practice. Because there is nothing like making music with others. We played classical repertoire but I felt like a rock star!
Thank you, Sandy! I think so too!
I understand, Tamara! Serious illness eclipses absolutely everything else. I think about you and your family often and join you in prayer that the desire of your heart will come to pass. Love and hugs! 
I still say, in my completely humble and unbiased opinion, that you played the best!
Thank you, little brother!
Oh wow, Pam. I’m so thrilled for you. Your baby grand is just gorgeous. And I love the photo of the ensemble. Is there a recording? Any chance you could put out a snippet of it? Or maybe there’s something on youtube? I would love to hear it.
We did make a video of a couple of the pieces, Linsey; as soon as it is edited I will post a link to it on YouTube.
Congrats all around, Pam. I’m looking forward to the video. Embracing the unexpected can be very rewarding, can’t it?
The audio isn’t as good as we had hoped, Carol, but I will probably post it anyway. All in all, I have to say i’s been a very good year! 
Awesome! I wish I could have made it to your concert!!!! I am here for granny square crocheting…!
Assuming I get to stay with the group, Jen, we will be doing another concert in November. As for granny square crocheting, when do I come over?  Travel Blog Welcome Welcome! We invite you to travel with us. Whether to exotic locations or our own backyards come on a journey and visit our next destination. Where was this picture taken? Make a guess in the comment section below for a chance to win a $5 gift card to Amazon…
Looks like the rock arch in Michigan — Mackinac Island.
I have no idea, but that is one of the most beautiful pictures I’ve ever seen. I might guess Hawaii but I’ve been there and haven’t seen anything like that. If it’s Michigan, I’ve been missing out by not going there! Can’t wait to find out.
I had no idea, but then I Googled. I know who got it right.
Mary, you’re usually the one who gets it right.
It is beautiful. I have Hawaii on the brain, so that’s what I’ll guess. 
Bermuda? At pink sand beach?
Natural Bridge in Utah? 
As a former Hoosier, I sometimes would make it up north, so my guess is Arch Rock Mackinac Island. That water looks like it could be in the Caribbean but the vegetation likes colder winters!
I’ve no idea, but it’s gorgeous!
That’s the arch at Mackinac Island, MI and it’s a gorgeous picture!!! I would love to see it in person one day
I’ve been to Mackinac Island, MI, and I think I saw this – or something very similar. Mackinac Island is a fabulous place to visit. They allow no motorized vehicles on the island. 
I love this! Have never been to Michigan…
Great guesses everyone |
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by Carol Burnside
I have done NaNoWriMo the past three years and “won” two of the three. It is a great sense of accomplishment.
I have never done it, and I never will. I have written 3 books in less than a month. I know I can do it. I have carpal and there’s no way I can do it to myself ever again. I have nothing to prove to anyone but me!
I’ve done NaNo five times, won three. I didn’t finish the last two times, and barely even started the last one. I’ve come to the conclusion I can’t do NaNoWriMo while in school. I guess that means it will be at least two more years (I’ll graduate in 2015) before I try again!
I should probably add I didn’t use NaNo to write anything I was going to try to have published. I used it as my opportunity to stretch and have fun. I think it’s because I removed that pressure of publishing that I had so much fun with it.
Puh-lease, Carol. You know me. I’m a sucker for NaNo every year. Maybe because I “won” the first year I tried–which sent me on the path toward learning to become a “real” writer. That was over ten years ago, and I’ve never been able to get to that 50,000 words again–well, not in the November NaNo time sense. Still…every year, I think it’s gonna kick-start me in the right direction again, but…uh…yeah…history doesn’t repeat itself in this case. I’ll be there in November to remind you about this post.
You go, Pam! I think it’s fabulous for those who can write that fast.
I hear ya, D’Ann. I’ve written several books and sold some, so I know I can write one. Doing it lightning quick isn’t something that I have to do. Sorry to hear about the carpal.
Yes, Lynn, that would be doubly difficult, trying to juggle school and NaNo and life! Kudos to you for furthering your education and good luck in your endeavors.
LOL, Randy! Yes, we fall for it every time, don’t we? Not this year. I’m counting on you to help me resist.
I think I signed up one year but couldn’t figure out how to upload the document so just gave up. It sounds like a good idea for those who want to do it, but other things get in the way. I’ll be the one to remind you to just say no.
Hi Carol,
I’ve done it…and succeeded, but like D’Ann, I no longer have anything to prove. However, I must admit that the competitor in me pushes us up productivity during NaNo month. I no longer officially compete, but yet, sigh, I participate.
I think it’s a good way for some folks to get the words down…and I found it most productive when I started out with an already outlined story that I had well thought out before the gun fired at the starting gate of the month.
Will I ever “officially” participate again? Hummm, that’s a definite possibility, but not this year. I have a few more irons to get out of my fire to free up more writing time.
Congrats on your writing progress and publications.
I’ve dabbled at NaNo a few times. I usually start out going great guns and peter out sometime in the second week. Life intrudes upon my writing regularly all year round, not just November, LOL.
But you’re so right about how tempting it is, Carol. Even if I decide I’m not doing it this year, something makes me cave at the last minute and sign up.
You got me to thinking though. I wonder how many people who succeed at NaNo have their Thanksgiving dinners cooked by someone else that year? They should take a poll.
Carol,
A man started NaNo. He didn’t think about all the work that goes into Thanksgiving. Like you, we have a house full or are traveling. There’s a lot to do for the holiday – so I’ve never tried NaNo. I wish they’d do it another month.
Author Kelly Stone had a similiar challenge in January thru FB. Now that makes more sense – New Year, new start.
Good luck to those who “go for it”.
Thanks, Marilyn. I’ll need the reminder, I’m sure.
Now that would make an interesting poll, Linsey.
Sia, you’re more realistic than me if you’ve never tried NaNo. Perhaps I’ll look for Kelly’s challenge next year.
I’ve done NaNo twice. Never came close to winning, but it forces me to put my butt in the chair and write. Will I do it this year? Maybe. Probably.
Good point, Connie. I try to keep a positive slant on the whole thing, but usually end up feeling like I’ve failed even though I make progress on my WIP. I could do without that negative energy associated with my writing.
It sounds like Marilyn and I are in the same boat. Entered it 3 times. It was the 2nd one before I realized we were to write on the site or upload it. Couldn’t figure out how so, no more Wri Mo for me.
Write on the site, Maxine? I’ve never seen that. As for uploading, what I’ve experienced has been more of a copy/paste action into a box much like this comment box. And that’s just so their computer can count the words and verify. You don’t actually upload a file, I don’t think…unless things have changed drastically. I’m sorry you didn’t have a good experience.
I’m with you, Carol. It isn’t for me. As sure as I planned to do something like that then my world turns into a mess and I then feel guilty when I can’t finish.
I set goals but try not to make the so tight.
I did it twice and won’t do it this year. Although I have to say that thanks to NANOWRIMO I got in the habit of writing regularly. But it’s too much pressure in the month right before Christmas. I’m with you…No, No, No!
Hey Carol,
I do it, but it’s “informal.” I tend to write fast so I do join in the discussions, tweets, etc. but don’t post my wordcount every day or do the whole tracking thing. I keep track of wordcount for me, and I try to just write more in November b/c I know other writers are doing it then too.
So I guess you could say I do NaNoWriMo but on my own terms
Elaine