Sad News

This morning my MIL called to let us know that my husband's cousin was in a motorcycle accident up in New York and passed away. He was only 26.

He was a great guy...always made us laugh, and he was one of my husband's groomsmen in our wedding. Please pray or send good thoughts to my husband's family today.

Thank you.

I Shall Call Him.... Mini Me.

I think I've mentioned I'd interview anyone, right? Well, today's guest is my 13-almost 14-year old son. Yes, I took a big risk doing this interview, but what the heck, right? If it didn't work out, I could always interview the dog. (That's next week).

So without further ado, here is my interview with J, the uncut version:

From 1 to 10, how awesome is your mother? You can go higher than 10 of course.
Is this a trick question? Oh, it isn’t? My bad. Um I would say in between 8 and 9. lol

I often call you J on my blog so that your friends never know I’m your mother. Do you have a different alias you would like to go by? How about “Little One”?
J is okay but my friends all know you. I showed them your website and talked about you.

What is it like being related to a famous author? Yes, I’m talking about me.
I didn’t know I was related to a famous author; I thought it was related to you

When you go to high school, will you do all your homework? Please?
Yes because it really counts in high school.

Is it true that I’m the one who got you into video games?
Yes you got the Sega and I played it and you got me into Final Fantasy 7 (awesome) and the Playstation.

Am I the cool mom?
Better then some of my friends mom so kinda.

I never embarrass you, do I?
Only in public and on your blog

Can you come down here and do the dishes?
No

Oh and feed the dog.
Maybe

Now you can say whatever you want. Please, be nice. Remember I gave birth to you. A long, long time ago…uh, I mean, not that long ago.
Your books are good I guess but I wouldn’t know. I write myself. I’m into fantasy and horror and I love reading. I still think you should expand your writing into more cooler things like kid, fantasy, ghost (I would help if no romance) and any other cool things. Bye.

A Quick Trip to the Store

Me and the grocery store don't get along too well. Oh, sometimes we're okay. I'll walk in, buy groceries, and just leave. But sometimes...

Tonight I needed dinner so I thought I'd just pick up something. Just dinner, mind you. Nothing else. Nothing.

As I'm walking in the sliding doors of Giant, I realize my dress pants have come unbuttoned. Well, not unbuttoned, but the metal clasps had come undone. My pants are still up, but they are loose. Hmm...well, I'm not going to embarrass myself fastening them, so I'll just hope for the best. They are still zipped, right?

I grab a hand basket since I'm just picking up a couple things and away I go. That's when I remembered...I don't cook. Well, not without a recipe. What exactly am I going to just pick up?

That's when I start the roaming. The roaming is never good. Suddenly I'm seeing things I really need (but not really).

As I'm walking past the bakery section, these frosted cookies just wouldn't stop pestering me to buy them. I'm serious! I walked past these suckers twice. They were yellow and had sprinkles. They were happy cookies! Finally, I picked them up. Just to make the voices go away, of course.

Now my basket is getting heavier and that for some reason makes my pants start falling down a little. So there I am...walking through Giant, heavy basket on my left arm, my right hand trying desperately (and surreptitiously) to pull up my pants. My sweater is probably long enough to cover it but still. I get to the frozen food section and decide to pick up some meals for lunch. The only microwave meal I'll trust is Marie Callender and her meals come in these big boxes, which are now on top of my other crap.

This can't be good. And it's not.

Marie just won't stay where I put her. I'm walking kind of bowlegged down the aisles, and BANG, there goes another box. I stop. Pick it up. Pull up my pants. Keep walking. My arm is killing me. BANG. Stop. Pick up meal. Mumble out loud while inner (and just slightly more sane) voice reminds me that I am talking OUT LOUD and to please stop it. Pull up pants. At this point, I should just button them right? This is insane. But no, I can't do it. There are cameras. (Which, if someone was bored enough to watch, would have pretty entertaining tape, I'm sure).

Then I remembered J wanted snacks. I have no room in this basket. Marie is getting pissed again. She's about to jump. What am I going to do? I shuffle over to the snack section, and it's an entire aisle. My God!! What to pick? Pretzels. They work. So now I have a bag of pretzels teetering above Marie, who has just had it with me and the basket. She jumps once again.

Finally, I make it up to the front just to discover there is only one live cashier and the rest are self service registers. WTF? How many people got fired for these gadgets?!? And there are lines at every single one.

But the real problem is that I still have nowhere to put my basket and pants are at the critical level. Although, I did see one woman shopping in a pair of shorts with the word "EAGLES" plastered across her ass, which did make me feel a bit better. But I still wasn't enjoying the image of me looking like a teenage boy with my pants falling down.

Finally, this really nice woman tells me that one of the self service registers is open. After picking up Marie for the final time, I walk over to a smaller version of the self service registers but this one doesn't have the conveyor belt. It just has a place for two bags to fit. I start ringing up my stuff and bagging them. Well, soon the second bag is filled and I need to a new one. "HALT! DON'T TOUCH THAT BAG!" the machines says. Actually, it says something like, "Please do not pick up the bag until everything has settled to the bottom." Umm...WTF?

I soon realize you need to leave the bags where they are since they are being weighed. Of course I realize this when it tells me I made an error and that assistance will be on its way. Oh crap... I'm busted! The grocery cops are coming! I'm so glad they are doing away with cashiers.

Finally, some boy comes over and eyes my stuff before scanning something in. That's it. He doesn't say anything. Maybe he'd heard me talking to myself and didn't care if I stole something. When I go to pay, I use my credit card instead of my bank card, but I don't care. I just grabbed the first card I found in my wallet. I'm lucky I didn't try to scan in my insurance card or something. I even forget to use use my Giant Bonuscard! Who knows what kind of discount I could've gotten! But Marie is yelling at me from my bag, and it's just time to go...

I swear my arm hurt for hours after I got back from the store. The bad part is that all of this could've been avoided if I had just got a cart like a normal person! Oh, and buttoned my pants.

For me its the things in life that should be easy that give me the most problems. Do you need a report created and completed in two hours? No problem! You want me to pick something up from the store? Hmm...I don't know if I can do that. You might need to ask someone else.

But we did eat dinner and that's all that matters... Oh and I got cookies! Cookies make you forget everything.

Something New, Something Old

Yesterday, I saw two movies, one old, one new. In the morning J and I went to see Wall-E. It was really early...like 10:20 in the morning. When we first walked in, we thought we were going to be the only people there, but suddenly the children started arriving. Young children...toddlers. I was worried at first, but they were actually very well behaved, and the film loud enough to drown out any chatter.

Wall-E is about the last robot on earth, left all alone to continue crushing trash into cubes and using them to build skyscrapers of garbage. He also likes to collect little knickknacks. Things like a Rubik's Cube, bubblewrap, lighters, an old copy of Hello, Dolly! just to start. I come from a long line of clutter collectors so I could totally relate. His only friend is a little cockroach who he has trained to be his pet.

The real action doesn't start until a little later in the movie, but it was still fun to watch his routines and his lifestyle, even if he's wishing to have some companionship. That soon arrives in the form of a robot named Eve. They don't hit it off right away. In fact, she tries to destroy him every chance she gets. But it's funny watching him try to "woe" her.

The last part happens on a ship where humans have been circling the galaxy waiting for earth to be habitable again.

I loved this movie. Pixar really does a great job with all their movies, and this is no exception. I don't think I'd rate it higher than Finding Nemo, but it's definitely up there. I loved Wall-E and Eve. This was their love story.


When we got home, me and J were looking for a movie on HBO On Demand and he wanted to watch Edward Scissorhands. For some reason I've never seen this movie before. It was just one of those things where somehow I missed renting it once it got out of theaters and there never seemed to be a right time to watch it. What a dark movie! But being directed by Tim Burton that just goes without saying.

I have to admit that I didn't "get it". I didn't get what the whole fuss was about. It just drove me crazy that all the misunderstandings were never resolved, and that nobody knew that Edward wasn't doing all the bad things they thought he was doing. I wanted him to be vindicated and he wasn't. I guess the world isn't perfect, and not everyone gets justice. And that Edward was better off in his castle...

Maybe I'll try watching it again. I will say that it's definitely a movie that makes you think, since me and J talked about it for awhile after watching it.

So that's it. My Quickie Reviews for Monday. Now I'm in search of coffee...coffee...

Mr...Mop.

I'm really sleepy right now. Like stupid tired. Which might explain why the commercial I just saw made me giggle hysterically. It was the Swiffer commercial where they say you'll get rid of your mop and in the commercial the woman gets flowers delivered. The delivery guy is like, "They are from Mr...Mop." And then you see her mop in the bushes waiting for her reaction.

Why is the thought of a mop stalker so funny? I have no clue. I'm tired. I was cleaning until 1:30 in the morning and then up around 7:00. I'm just giddy.

I kind of found it on Youtube, but it's not very good quality...

Baby Come back

Okay, going to bed now, before I start writing a book about a mop...

More Pictures!

My mom found an old flash drive at her house, and on it were pictures my dad had backed up for me when I changed computers. They are from 2002.

Since I was bored, I thought I'd post some:

My dad ordered a Survivor bandanna when we first started watching the show. I think it was from the Australia season. (The kangaroo might be a clue).



My son's hamster. When I got my new camera that year, I took a hundred pictures of this hamster like it was America's Next Top Model or something. It was a good hamster. Hampy was his (her?) name.



This was my son's "gun" shop. You can see the guns he made out of Lego's.



Sheena stuck under a coffee table:



This is Corrie, one of my parents dogs. I miss her so much. It hasn't been the same since she left us.



New Year's Eve 2003. My dad wanted to know if you want...

One?



Or two?



I have many more pictures, but I don't want to go overboard. Now it's time to clean! Yay.

Sheena & Me

(This picture was taken months ago. I thought it was funny how close Sheena was to my husband so my son just had to jump into the picture).

I finished reading Marley and me tonight. It was a book I could relate to a lot. Sheena gave us a lot of the same problems Marley gave John Grogan, although Sheena outgrew a lot of her problems, and Marley didn't.

I loved the book, but I was uneasy finishing it. I don't know why. I guess because we're facing the same decision with Sheena that John had to make with Marley. Maybe because I'm still dealing with the death of my father. Maybe I'm numb, I don't know.

The book really was good. There were a lot of laugh out loud moments, and considering I started it last night, it was a quick read.

It almost made me want to write about our story with Sheena. We got her when my son was two and believe me, when you have a two-year-old and a puppy, you have many stories to tell. Add in the fact that you were living in a small apartment with said puppy and toddler, well... Yeah, not good.

There were days I would be chasing after them both, not sure who to go after first. Who would cause the worst trouble?

Now she's 12 and not doing too good. The problems I've written about are still there, and even though she has her good days, the problem isn't going to resolve itself. And risking her life for expensive surgery that might not work anyway, isn't an option for us.

She still eats. She still loves going for rides. She still does all her bodily functions. But she's not the same dog. Not by a long shot.

While I was walking past the doors, I looked out and noticed her out there laying in the grass. The humidity is gone for now and she's enjoying the cooler weather. At first I was worried since she didn't seem to be moving, but when I said her name, she wagged her tail. That's what life is like right now.

I miss my dog already. She's not the same dog I had at the beginning of the year. She has always been there for me-for us-no matter what. Through the good times and the bad. No matter how many times I cursed the inconvenience she caused in our life over the years, there was really no chance we would get rid of her. She picked us.

And in that way I could relate to Marley and Me. Maybe there will be a time when I can read it again without feeling uneasy. I hope so. In the meantime, I'd highly recommend this book to those few people who haven't read it yet. (I'm a bit behind). Even if you don't love dogs I recommend it, since the book is also about a man and his life, and the lessons he learned along the way. It's pretty inspirational.

My Little One

I picked up my son after work yesterday so we could take a trip to Borders. That's our favorite mother/son activity. Unfortunately, as soon as we walked into the store, a horrendous storm rolled through the area. It was lovely. Lights were blinking off, computers were going down. A teenager let out a blood curdling scream after one particularly loud clap of thunder. Good times!

But at least it gave us plenty of time to browse since the computers were down, so no credit cards, and I didn't have cash.

After we left Borders, I drove us to Red, Hot and Blue to get dinner. They have great barbecue and is one of our favorite places to pick up dinner. They also have a drive-thru. Now this is a restaurant that really shouldn't have a drive-thru since they make the food when you pull up, so you end up waiting for awhile. But I was too lazy to walk inside, so whatever. (Not to mention I'd gotten soaked earlier running into Borders).

We pull up and this friendly guy takes our order. Then he says, "Would you like a drink while you wait? No charge."

How nice! "Sure! I'll take a Coke."

J is sitting next to me reading one of his books, and not really paying attention, until the guys says, "How about for the little one?"

At that point, my almost 14 year old son, who is entering high school in August looks up. I say, "Sure, he'll take a Sprite."

When the man walks away my lips are quivering. I so want to laugh, but I can't. The man comes back and hands me the Coke and then he gives me the Sprite... The drink is in this little plastic cup with a cover. There are jungle animals in primary colors frolicking along the sides, happy as can be. It's exactly what J would've loved...at five.

I thank the guy and he walks away again. I look at my son and then at the cup. I still can't laugh since my window and the drive-thru window are open, so instead I say:

"I like your cup..."

"Shut up."

"Little One."

"Tell him I'm in high school!"

"Did you find all the pictures yet?" (Oh, there was a game on it too where you have to find hidden objects. Hee.).

"Yes, I already found them. I even found the monkey's butt crack."

Confused, I try to see the cup, but he won't let me. "I don't think that was part of the game."

We sit for awhile waiting. Trying to stay positive, I say, "Well, at least you can't spill it."

Still resentful, he says, "Well, yeah, because it's like a sippy cup..."

My poor boy. Still getting sippy cups at age 13.

So the entire night that's what I called him. My little one. I also told him I would blog about it, so here it is.

Today's Interview with with Ashlyn Chase! Beep, beep!

Today I have an interview with writer, Ashlyn Chase. She is...wait for it...a writer. Not only is she a writer, she's a writer who likes to mix humor with her romance. Please give her a nice Melly Spot's welcome!

So without further ado, here is my interview with Ashlyn Chase, the uncut version:

On a scale of 1-10, how awesome do you think I am? Be honest. You can go higher than 10 if you like. (No excuses about how you don’t know me and stuff like that).

I think you’re as awesome as Neil Patrick Harris thinks he is.

On your website, I read you’re a nurse. Have you ever met any really cute doctors like my McDreamy?

Hollywood either has no concept of what real nerdy doctors look like or they don’t care. I’m betting they just want ratings so find people who spend as much time on their appearance as doctors spend with their books.

I see you have a degree that involves psychology. Can you tell me what’s wrong with me? Ha! No, seriously. Can you? I have issues. Ask anyone.

We all have issues. Beware of the person who thinks their “sh*t don’t stink.” The fact that you know you’re screwed up means you’re fine.

Okay, here is the hard-hitting question. You ready? Do you prefer boxers or briefs on your men?

Commando.

You book Being Randy is about a coyote shape-shifter. Is there a shape-shifting Road Runner, too? Ha! No, but seriously, where did you get the idea for this book?

No roadrunner this time. How did I get my idea for him? Well, I’ve been told I don’t think like other people so it might be hard to explain. I look at something and see the obvious humor in the situation. In the case of shape-shifters, when they become human, they’re naked! Can you imagine if he got stuck in his naked man form and couldn’t shift back? Now put him in the desert where there isn’t a store or tree to hide behind for miles. That’s when you’ll see me rubbing my hands with glee, ready to attack the keyboard.

Can you shape-shift me into a hamster? Just in case Marilu doesn’t?

Yes I can, but do you really want me to? Think about it. Here I am with my wand in my hand and you want me to turn you into a hamster? How about Angelina Jolie?


I really like your cover on Demolishing Mr. Perfect. When you demolish him, can I have a piece?

I get his ass—and his back—and biceps—and thighs—and what’s between them, of course. I guess you can have his big toe.

There seems to be a naked man on your cover for Vampire Vintage. Is he the vampire? Do you have the uncensored version of that cover where he turns around?

I honestly don’t know who that guy is. My vamp was lean, dark and a classy dresser even if he never parted with the color black, and he didn’t sleep in a coffin. Sometimes I wish I could just take the picture out of my head and hand it to the cover artist.

Okay, this is your turn to add whatever you want. Promote, etc… I’ll be over here trying to summon a naked vampire of my own.

Promo huh? Do I have to? Well—I guess I could mention that there’s some cool new stuff on my website.

But right now all I can think about is my upcoming week in San Francisco! I’m leaving Saturday and I’ll be spending four of the days at the RWA conference. (Romance Writers of America) Because I’m the president of the New England Chapter, I kinda have to go. But I’ll be spending some quality vacation time with my hubby there too! I want to see the redwoods, Yosemite, Haight-Ashbury, Pacific Heights, Fisherman’s Warf, Golden Gate Park and maybe Alcatraz. Those are the places I’ve been told to see. I’ll have to stay out of Napa Valley, though. I might park myself under a wine barrel spigot and never make it home.

Ashlyn's links:

Website: http://www.ashlynchase.com/index.html
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/ashlynchase
News blog: http://ashlynchase.blogspot.com/

Party Shuffle

I was playing with iTunes tonight and noticed a playlist feature called "Party Shuffle" and I had to check it out.

Here's my shuffle:

My Love, Justin Timberlake. Okay, so far so good. I can jam to that. Well, when I say jam, I mean doing the head bob made famous by Saturday Night Live and Night at the Roxbury. "What is love...baby don't hurt me...no more."

Don't Bring me Down, Electric Light Orchestra. Umm...okay. That's cool. Nice 80's flashback.

Everybody (Backstreet's Back), Backstreet Boys. Wait, who put that on my iTunes??? It couldn't have been me! Someone's hacked into my iTunes! Moving on...

Track 14. Wait, what? How can you know if it's a party tune when it has no title? Great shuffle there, iTunes!

Cleaning this Gun (Come on in Boy), Rodney Atkins. First of all, what's with that long ass title? And who exactly is partying to this song? Ahh...yes, party down to a father threatening his daughter's boyfriend with a gun. Whooo-hooo!

Brooklyn Roads, Neil Diamond. Oh yeah, the party's started now!!! When I think party, I think Neil Diamond!

My Humps, Black Eyed Peas. Okay, yes, that does work. I'm head bobbing again.

Comfort Me, Tim McGraw. Seriously? Good song, but there's not a lot of dancing going on here.

Getcha Some, Toby Keith. LOL Okay, this title just cracks me up. Welcome to my redneck party!

Need I Say More, George Strait. No, you don't, but I do see people leaving for the door right now. Come back! It has to get better!

You Ain't Much Fun, Toby Keith. Ain't much fun = Party. Yeah, I see it.

D'Yer, Mak'er, Led Zeppelin. Dude...pass the joi-uh, never mind. What kind of party is this again?

Take Me With U, Prince. Woo! Prince! Of course those people who were enjoying Toby are confused.

Lovely Rita, The Beatles. Hey, I have more beer! Please, stay!

Stay Gone, Jimmy Wayne. Shut up, Jimmy! I said I wanted them to STAY.

Feelin' The Same Way, Norah Jones. I love Norah, but I have this thing about keeping my guests awake.

Sam, Olivia Newton John. Okay, seriously, who hacked into my iTunes account???

Live for the Moment, Bad Company. Bang your head! Woot!

Typical Male, Tina Turner. From Bad Company to Tina Turner...quite a transition there.

Every Woman in the World, Air Supply. From the typical male to every woman in the world. What is this shuffle trying to tell me?

Six Foot Town, Big & Rich. What's that sound? Oh, that's all my guests leaving my party.

It Did, Brad Paisley - yeah, suddenly I'm very depressed. Sitting here alone, empty bottles, just me and Brad....

Track 08 - Oh c'mon!

Fire (Live)- Bruce Springsteen. Sorry, Bruce, I've let you down. It's not my fault. It's iTune's. They didn't give me a good party shuffle.

Gasoline Alley, Rod Stewart. Seriously? SERIOUSLY? You're not even trying now!

Watermelon Crawl, Tracy Byrd, Doing the watermelon crawl down gasoline alley. Fun!

Morningside, Neil Diamond...Okay, obviously that's my cue that the party shuffle feature is NOT working. This song starts out like this:

Morningside
The old man died
And no one cried
They simply turned away
And when he died
He left a table made of nails and pride
And with his hands he carved these words inside
for my children

Oh yeah, party time!!! Whoo! The old man died and no one cried!!

I guess the party's over! I need to go carve a chair with my tears...

What I've been doing....

Since I haven't been posting in awhile, I thought I'd do a quick, Quickie Review of what I've been doing...

Grey's Anatomy-I finally finished watching Season Three on Friday, which brings to an end my Grey's marathon. Now I'm ready for the DVD of Season Four, and then after that, Season Five. More McDreamy!

How I Met Your Mother-I'd never watched this show before, but two of my coworkers really liked it, so I asked if they could loan me Season One and Two. This weekend I finished Season One and I'm now working on Season Two. It's a funny show! I especially enjoy Barney aka Dougie Houser, although I'm pretty sure he has a real name. Suit up!

Books by Helen Brooks-I found a new author named Helen Brooks. She's a British writer, and seems to mostly write for Harlequin Presents. I like her books because she reminds me of Betty Neels. Well, without the frumpy nurses. She mostly writes from the female POV, but she does it so well I don't really miss the male POV. The love scenes are minimal, but again, I don't miss those either. She's able to get the point across without them. I finished three of her books Friday and Saturday and now I'm going to keep looking for more.

LaVyrle Spencer re-reads-LaVyrle was my first romance writer, and still the one who has a special place in my heart. I reread one of her books last week and I'm reading The Hellion right now. I don't think I'll ever get over her retirement back in the 90's. Sigh.

Tribute, Nora Roberts-in the midst of all these other *cough*important activities*cough*, I've also been reading Tribute. I'm not sure why it's taking me so long to read it. I guess it's just not holding my attention as much as I want it to. But I will finish it soon.

Writing-as I was driving home Friday, I was talking out loud, working all the kinks out in my book. I really need to figure out exactly where I'm going with the plot, and make sure I have all the characters in order. It's taking me way too long to write, but I am writing now!! I think all the reading has inspired me.

Swingtown-it's funny because I originally started watching this so me and Suz could make fun of it, but I think I'm actually becoming addicted to this show and the plot. Although I'm still disappointed by the lack of swinging and the kids need to go. I'm really not interested in their plotline at all. But come Thursday night, I'll still be sitting here watching it. It's just too irresistible.

Project Runway-actually any show on Bravo. I'm a bit of an addict when it comes to that channel.

In the life that doesn't involve books, television or the computer (I do have one), I'm still working (eeh) and going to my mom's house. My husband is starting on her house this week so she can put it on the market.

So that's my life...Quickie Review style. I'm still looking for people to interview if you're interested. Oh, and if I owe you an interview, I'm finishing those up today!

Now I need to get back to that life I pretend I have...

Interview with Liza James/Donna Marie Rogers. Oh, and donuts! Mmmm....

Today on Melly's Spot, I have writer Liza James, who also goes by the name of Donna Marie Rogers. This was a fun interview, even if it made me hungry. Check out the recipes on her website and you'll feel the same way!!!

So without further ado, here is my interview with Liza James/Donna Marie Rogers, the uncut version:

On a scale of 1-10, how awesome do you think I am? Be honest. You can go higher than 10 if you like. (No excuses about how you don’t know me and stuff like that).

This is easy. You are so awesome it’s off the charts, I can’t even give you a rating.

I was reading the blurb for your book called Game On and as a wife of a sports fan, I wondered if the premise was based on real life?


Maybe a little...LOL My husband isn’t much of a TV watcher, but if the Chicago Bears are playing, forget it. I can skip naked around the room, and he’ll just tell me to move out of the way.

I was looking at your pictures on your website and noticed you met one of my favorite writers Susan Elizabeth Phillips. You wouldn’t mind if I cut you out and added my picture instead, would you?

Of course not. Feel free to do so with any of the pictures on my website.

Okay, here is the hard-hitting question. You ready? What is your favorite breakfast food? Right now it’s Honey-Nut Cheerios since I need to lower my cholesterol (aging sucks ). But my dream breakfast is eggs sunnyside up, fried potatoes, ham steak, toast, and plenty of coffee (preferably Dunkin’ Donuts).

You have a feature on your Donna Marie Rogers website called Sara’s Bakery. Are those your recipes? And are they easy to make? I’m not a very good baker. (As most people know).

Most are recipes I’ve been making for years and probably got out of a cookbook originally. Coconut custard pie takes a little time and multi-tasking abilities (which isn’t my forte, so I’ve never made it a second time...LOL), but the zucchini breads are easy (and VERY yummy!), as are chocolate chip cookies. The egg yolk kolacky are de-lish, but they’re also very rich. You can practically hear your arteries clogging as you eat them...LOL The chocolate chunk muffins and donuts I don’t make, but they’re in the book (THERE’S ONLY BEEN YOU) so I decided to search for and include yummy recipes for both.


I see from the cover of your upcoming release, Golden Opportunity that you wrote about a cowboy. As most people know by now, we love cowboys on Melly’s Spot. Can you tell me about this one? And can I have him?

Yeah, I don’t think there are many women who can resist a sexy cowboy, me included. . And since writing a couple menage stories as Liza James, I’ve learned to share, so sure, he’s all yours. But I’ll need him back if I decide to write a sequel (my editor isn’t entirely sure the brother is redeemable, but I think he is, so we’ll see ).

James McMillan is a hardworking, no nonsense sort. He was engaged to the granddaughter of a longtime family friend, but found his brother in bed with said fiance, so needless to say, he doesn’t trust easy. When Angela Roberts shows up on his doorstep with the deed to his brother’s half of the ranch, James is angry—mainly because he’s instantly attracted to her. James doesn’t trust anyone who’s had dealings with his brother.

The anthology you wrote with Stacey Joy Netzel, Welcome to Redemption, looks really good. I also see it got 4 ½ stars from RT. Congratulations! Is it okay if I hate you a little for that? ;o)

Okay, but just a little...LOL Thanks, Melly. Yeah, we we’re completely surprised to receive such a glowing review from RT. Here’s what the reviewer said: ..."Four related tales told by two very talented authors make this anthology a keeper. With their easy, breezy style and skilled characterizations, Rogers and Netzel have created a town that readers won't want to leave..." We’ve been blessed with great reviews and plan to write the sequel later this year.

I see you live in a renovated old schoolhouse. Are there any ghosts?

I wish! I’m a Halloween nut, so I was hoping for a little ghostly action, but so far (15 years) nada. I’ve had a few odd occurrences over the years, but I’m pretty sure it’s just my own family members haunting me.

Okay, this is your turn to add whatever you want. Promote, etc… I’m going to drool over these recipes some more. Mmm…donut.

Thank you, Melly (Psst...If you get a sudden urge to bake, try the chocolate-chocolate chip zucchini bread, it’s simply delicious, moist chocolate cake. I add extra chocolate chips to mine)!

I write erotic romance as Liza James and have five short stories available. LYING EYES with Red Rose Publishing, and ONLY MAN FOR THE JOB, BRANDED, MISCHIEF IN THE DARK, and GAME ON with the Wild Rose Press. Please visit me at: www.lizajamesauthor.com

And I write contemporary romance as Donna Marie Rogers: www.donnamarierogers.com Melly kindly already mentioned WELCOME TO REDEMPTION, which I co-wrote with my critique partner/good friend, Stacey Joy Netzel, but I have two more Donna Marie Rogers titles coming out this year...

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY, a contemporary western novella which takes place in Golden, Colorado, releases August 6th in e-format from the Wild Rose Press. Here’s a blurb and a short excerpt:

James McMillan is a third generation owner of the most prosperous horse ranch in Golden, Colorado. When a gorgeous little filly shows up at his door waving what she claims to be the deed to half his ranch, James is doubtful. But according to his lawyer the document is authentic—his brother, Reese, sold her his half of the Double M during a poker game in Atlantic City. So not only must James find a way to get back those shares, he needs to fight his growing attraction for his luscious new business partner, who turns out to be a lot more than just a pretty face.

Having been on her own since she was a teenager, Angela Roberts has never wanted nothing more than the security of a real home. Her dreams come true when the chance to own half of a Colorado horse ranch falls into her lap. If Reese McMillan is too blind to appreciate what he has, that's his loss. Only she hadn't counted on the hostile reception she receives from his brother. Surly as a bear, James McMillan is also much to handsome for her peace of mind. Refusing to be intimidated, Angela sets out to win him over by proving she has what it takes to help him run the ranch—and ends up losing her heart to both.
* * *

“What the hell do you mean it’s legal and binding? It’s written on a hotel letterhead, for chrissakes.”

“I’m sorry, James,” his lawyer said with an audible sigh. “It would be legal if it were written on toilet paper. It’s spelled out to the letter, both parties signed it, as well as two witnesses and a notary republic. I’m afraid Miss Angela Roberts owns forty-nine percent of the Double M Ranch.”

James blew out a hard breath. “Thanks, Cal.” He tossed the receiver in its cradle and leaned back in his leather armchair. Bitterness ate at his soul until he thought he might choke on it. Reese’s resentment of James had been going on for so long he could barely remember how the hell it got started. Over something minor, no doubt. And each year the rift between them had grown wider.

Until Reese had stepped over the line and lost James’ respect for good.

He shot to his feet and paced the floor for a few seconds, then headed to the sideboard to pour himself a bourbon. The welcoming burn blazed a path straight to his gut. He downed a second and was about to pour a third when someone knocked on the study door. Shit, the last thing he wanted to do was sit through one of Meara’s lectures. He set his glass down with a thunk, stalked over and yanked open the door.

Only it was Angela standing there in the dim light of the hallway, gazing up at him with those big blue eyes. She wore an oversized New York Giants T-shirt that hung down to just below her knees, and she’d pulled her thick auburn hair up into a ponytail. She looked vulnerable and uncertain and more beautiful than any woman had a right to.

And the bourbon was suddenly warming more than just his stomach.

THERE’S ONLY BEEN YOU, a contemporary romance which takes place in my hometown of Green Bay, Wisconsin (and the first book in my Jamison trilogy), releases in e-format October 10th from the Wild Rose Press, and in print April 2009. Here’s a blurb and a short excerpt:

Sara Jamison has no clue where Mike Andrews' been all these years, but she knows where she's been - busy raising their son. Two weeks after he accused her of cheating and disappeared from her life, Sara discovered she was something she never expected to be—an unwed pregnant teenager. But with the love and support of her annoyingly alpha-male family, she's managed to make a good life for herself and her young son. She even owns her own business, Sara's Bakery, which she's built into a thriving success. Sure, she works too hard and her social life is nonexistent, but for the most part, she's content.

Until the day Detective Mike Andrews walks into her bakery and back into her life...
* * *

Sara glanced over her shoulder when the screen door opened. Mike. The pan she'd been drying fell from her hands and clattered to the floor.

"We need to talk."

"Where's Garrett?" she asked, attempting to peer around his broad shoulders. She tried not to make eye contact with him. As long as she didn't look him directly in the eye, she'd be able to maintain her composure.

"You've always put him on a goddamn pedestal."

She bent over to pick up the pan. "Don't you dare say anything unkind about him."

"He's a pain in the ass."

Sara shot him a look. "He's not the only one."

A slow smile curved his lips. "Now there's the Sara I know and love."

"Don't you dare throw that word around. If you loved me we wouldn't be in this situation." A surge of emotion tightened her chest, and she silently cursed herself for letting him get to her.

Hands on his hips, Mike sighed. "Look, I know you have every reason to believe that, but it's just not true. I've loved you since the first moment I laid eyes on you."

She paused. God, how she wanted to believe him. But if he'd truly loved her as he claimed, he'd never have been able to stay away for so long. She swallowed past the lump in her throat and reached into the drainer for something else to dry.

"All right, I'm done playing. Come on, we're going for a ride." Mike reached out and grasped her elbow.

"I'm not going anywhere with you," she said, yanking her arm free. "If you want to talk, we'll talk, but we're doing it right here." She tossed the dishtowel on the counter and crossed her arms over her chest.

"You either follow me to my truck or I'll throw you over my shoulder and carry you there. But one way or another, we're taking a ride."

She gasped. "If you touch me I'll scream bloody murder."

"Then I guess I'll have to gag you as well."

He took a step toward her. She took a step back.

"You stay the hell away from me." She took another step back and bumped into the table.

"Not a chance. I made that mistake once, I won't make it again."

MEANT TO BE, the second book in the Jamison trilogy, is Garrett’s story and will release sometime next year (Please check out the blurb and excerpt on my website: www.donnamarierogers.com/mtb.html)

Thanks for having me, Melly, it’s been a blast!

New Interview Tomorrow!

glitter-graphics.com

I know I've been MIA lately. I was out of town this past weekend, and too exhausted to think of new blog posts.

But I still have a new interview tomorrow. Her name is Donna Marie Rogers/Liza James, and is really cool. Did I mention she writes about cowboys?? Yes, they are back. I have missed them on Melly's Spot.

So please stay tuned and be patient with me when I disappear. :o)

Just stuff...

The above is a picture of me and my brother. I'm the one without a beard.

It's been a little over a month since my father's death, and I'm still hanging in there. I still think of him on a constant basis, of course. He's never far from my mind.

They tell you that one of the things that helps is to write down your feelings. So the other day I wrote out everything that happened that awful Sunday. It was just one stream of consciousness post--no editing at all. I didn't post it. I probably won't post it. But just getting it out of my system helped with the shock and trauma that were still haunting me all the time.

Now I'm mostly focused on the future and being there for my mom and getting through every day-every holiday, every moment, without my father.

I'm also at the end of a Grey's Anatomy marathon. For those that have known me for awhile, know I can get pretty obsessive with that. I'm in the middle of season three and hoping I can finish before I go the booksigning this weekend.

What booksigning? you might ask. Well, Nora Robert's of course. The big July signing at her husband's bookstore, TTP, is this weekend, and I never miss that. In the past I'd be leaving today, but this year I wanted to save my leave for my trip to Maine in September, so I'm going up there Friday after work.

It will be cool to hang out with my friends again. I do miss them. I'm also looking forward to reading Tribute, since it's set in my neck of woods, and, well, because, I just enjoy reading Nora's books. Duh!

So that's about it. We're all hanging in there. My husband, my son, me-even my dog is hanging in there. She's having a good week. I'm glad. I was really worried last week that the end was near, but she pulled through. She's a very strong dog, with such a happy spirit.

Now I should get ready for work. Ugh. I envy my son. I wish I could still get a summer vacation!! Dammit.

Being a grownup sucks...

My interview with Marilu Mann or the one where I shapeshift into a hamster

Today, I have a very unique interview. Marilu Mann isn't just one writer, but a writing team composed of two authors: Stephanie Arwen Lynch and Cai Smith. Marilu Mann are from Louisiana, and are bringing a bit of the South to Melly's Spot! And alligators. *shiver*

So without further ado, here is my interview with Marilu Mann, the uncut version:

On a scale of 1-10, how awesome do you think I am? Be honest. You can go higher than 10 if you like. (No excuses about how you don’t know me and stuff like that).

a. We’re from the south, cheré. Therefore you are off the scale and utterly awesome… until you talk bad about someone in our family. Then we have to take you out on the back porch and “talk” with you real close and personal. If you get my drift!

I understand you are a writing team. As you might be able to tell, I can be a bit self centered. *cough* Is it easy to share the writing credit?

a. In this instance, yes. When we’re writing together we’re staying true to OUR voice as Marilu Mann. Neither of us overpowers or overshadows the other in the writing. If we disagree about something – a plot point or the way a certain character will react to something, we talk it out. We’ve known one another for more than thirty years so we know how to finish one another sentences as well as how to discuss things in a reasonable fashion.

Oooo, you write about shape shifters! Exactly what shape does your shape shifter shift into to? (Did I just write a tongue twister?)

a. In Changing Times, Tony, the hero, shifts into a Panther. Most of our other shifters are Wolves, however…we DO have plans to write a few other Panther stories And then there are the bears. Big, burly, rough and tumble bears. Don’t you just love them?

Time for the hard hitting question. Prepare yourself… What is your favorite book?

a. Wow…hard question…There are so many current authors I love, but I guess to go back to a childhood favorite (and one from which we use quotes to describe some of our shifters,) I’d have to say, The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exúpery.

b. Arwen here. My favorite book is _The Velveteen Rabbit_. I love the story of being loved into reality.

I was looking (read: drooling) at your cover for Changing Times. At exactly what time of day does he walk around? I might have to set my alarm.

a. Tony (and in fact, the other shifter as well) is not tied to the phases of the moon to shift – he can change shape at any time, day or night, cheré! ;) And please refrain from licking your monitor. All though he is very delicious! Wait until you see Changing Hearts. I had to get a cool drink!

Can you name a character after me? Can I shift into something cool?

a. Hmmm…let’s see…Melly…Melanie…it’s possible Would a cougar suit?
b. I’m thinking Melanie would make a perfect best friend for Tony’s little sister, Melana. The whole similar name thing could be a running joke.

I see you feature Louisiana and the bayou a lot in your website and blog. Is it dangerous in the bayou? Would I get eaten by a crocodile if I went down there? (Keep in mind I am blond).

a. No crocs, honey, but them ‘gators might like to chomp on you a bit.
b. Now Cai! We never feed the interviewers to Gaston. It gives him indigestion.

Okay, this is your turn to add whatever you want. Promote, etc… I’ll be over here thinking of what I can shift into. Hamster?

Changing Times –Available NOW – http://www.ellorascave.com/productpage.asp?ISBN=9781419915796
New Orleans sizzles when Dr. Carly Chambers finds herself in the hands, or paws, of sexy shifter and antique dealer Tony Pantera. Though the memory of his murdered human lover haunts him, Tony can't deny the sensual scent of this doctor his friends kidnapped. Carly is now in danger because of his enemies.

The Turn Skins are power-hungry shifters who want to expose themselves to the world and take over through fear. Tony and his friends stand in their way. Carly proves to be a tool for Turn Skins when they learn that Tony can't resist the attractive doctor. And Carly is happy to stroke this shifter's fur. Their erotic encounters hurtle them into the path of danger and death.

Can Tony protect his human lover from the Turn Skins who don't care if she's hurt as long as they get their way?

Reviews for Changing Times
• "Fast-paced" "Can't wait to read more" Read the full review on the PW Blog "Beyond Her Book" w/ Barbara Vey
• 4 out of 5 at TRRC. "Sensual and excellent" "Perfect length" Read the full review at The Romance Readers Connection
• "Sizzles" "Realistic" "Well rounded" Read the whole review at RRTErotic Reviews

Sapphire Tease – Coming SOON!
Ever have your clothes removed by a sexy man as punishment? What if you were trying to steal from him and he is determined to teach you a heated intimate lesson you will never forget? Cath Monroe learns just how much she can take from the man she mistakenly marks as an easy target. Kentaro Ramon introduces the lovely thief to more than his mastery of weapons in this arousing tale of a very erotic game of cat-and-mouse.
Read an excerpt from Sapphire Tease.

Changing Hearts – Coming SOON!
It just got hotter on the bayou. Louisiana has never been this steamy. When injured shapeshifter Malcolm Slade, an alpha running for his life, meets Cajun faith-healer Joie Landry, hearts are going to be changed. Human to his wolf, she prefers dealing with the animal because animals love you unconditionally. Malcolm believes love is for weaklings and he can't afford to be weak. Hunted by his own Pack, having to face his own demons, he doesn't have time to cater to the sensitive feelings of a human female. Still...there's something about this female that turns him inside out. Can Joie tame this predator in bed and out?

Marilu Mann links:
Website:http://www.greatmta.com/
Blog: http://marilumann.blogspot.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/marilumann

A Little Cocker

List time!!

The last ten songs I bought from iTunes for my iPod: (From latest to oldest)

1. With a Little Help from My Friends, Joe Cocker. Umm...yeah, after I saw the YouTube video, I just had to do it. I'm weak. Oh baby, hoggify!

2. You Are So Beautiful, Joe Cocker. Well, I'd already bought one Cocker song, so why not go for two Cocker's? Yes, I just like typing Cocker. "You are so beautiful to me. Can't you see? You're everything I hoped for. You're everything I need. You are so beautiful...to me." Is that in your head now?

3. Guess My Eyes Were Bigger Than My Heart, Conway Twitty. Do I really need to explain this one? It's Twitty! Did I mention he was my friend on Myspace? And don't let Suz tell you that Elvis is better than Twitty. My dead singer could kick her dead singer's butt!! Just watch out when he activates the PERM OF DEATH!!!

4. U Can't Touch This, MC Hammer. Yes, I said that out loud. What can I say? I needed a pick-me-up. And I miss parachute pants. "I told you, homeboy. You can't touch this!"

5. I Saw God Today, George Strait. Hey, it's George! 'Nuff said.

6. What I'd Say, Earl Thomas Conley. It's just a pretty country song. I think from the 90's? If you haven't heard any of his songs, you should listen. He's good.

7. I Loved Her First, Heartland. It's a father/daughter song. It makes me cry. Moving on...

8. I Still Miss You, Keith Anderson. I've always loved Keith Anderson, and this song is awesome! Go Keith!

9. You Can't Always Get What You Want, The Rolling Stones. My first Swingtown influenced purchase, and I'm sure it won't be the last. Plus, it's soooo true.

10. Fantastic Voyage, Lakeside. Yeah, this is my latest dance song. Even now while I'm typing this blog, I'm jamming. "Come along on our fantastic voyage..." Join me in the land of funk! You know you want to!

Well, that's it. That's my last 10 songs. Something for everyone! Including a little Cocker. (Yes, I had to type it one more time).

Stand Guard

Since I didn't have pictures for Friday, I figured I'd do a Picture of the Day for Monday.

One of my father's coworkers was the photographer at his memorial, and when I was at my mom's yesterday, I got the pictures. It seemed kind of weird to have a photographer at a funeral, but when he asked if it would be OK, nobody had any objections. I mean, if the guy wanted to take pictures...why not? I decided I wanted to share this one picture I really liked. Here is my son standing near the collage my dad's coworkers made. J is wearing my dad's Beatles tie. Isn't he handsome?



My mom thought it looked like he was guarding the picture. Maybe he was. He is my dad's only grandson. He's the keeper of his legacy now.

Oh, and the reason his tie is undone is because when my dad's boss was talking at the memorial, he mentioned how my father always wore a tie but it was never actually tied. So in tribute to his memory, he asked all the men to undo their ties. So they did.

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July weekend!

I don't get it

We're watching Independence Day. I'm sure you've heard of it. Aliens come to Earth and try to kill us for a reason that really doesn't matter. They succeed for awhile until, with a great deal of wave flagging, we kick their asses. Oops, I hope I didn't spoil it for anyone!

But here's what I don't get about this movie. Why do they continue to make fun of the drunk dad's alien abduction story? Do they not see the big ass space ships in the sky? Are they not at Area 51? You'd think the poor dude would finally get some respect, right? But no, he doesn't get any respect until he sacrifices himself to kill the so called aliens that everyone made fun of him for. Nice.

I do like Will Smith in this movie. Oh, and the dude from Taxi. Judd Hirsh. He was great!

OK, back to watching it. I hope everyone is having a nice 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July!

glitter-graphics.com

Oh, and I just had to share this video with you. Yes, I admit I stole it from Smart Bitches but I just had to pass it on. I've laughed so hard my stomach hurts, and I've watched it so many times my husband is wondering why I keep listening to the same song over and over.



Happy Fourth!!!

My Interview with Jami Davenport! She has scary horses!

more cat pictures

Okay, so horses are only scary to me. I'm sure hers are very nice. They aren't ferocious beasts ready to bite the first blonde they see. Right?

*cough*

Anyway, today I'm interviewing Jami Davenport. I believe she's my first writer from Washington State. I love Washington! A lot of her books are set in the San Juan Islands, which looks really beautiful in the pictures. One day I hope to go there! Oh and did I mention she has horses? ;o)

So without further ado, my interview with Jami Davenport, the uncut version:

On a scale of 1-10, how awesome do you think I am? Be honest. You can go higher than 10 if you like. (No excuses about how you don’t know me and stuff like that).

Oh, but I feel like I know you. In fact, I’m sure we’ve met before. Was it in England in 1612 or in Massachusetts in 1791? Regardless, I’d give you a 15 in this life. Now the other lives, hmmm, well, let’s just leave it at that.

I see that you’re from Washington State. Have you been to Seattle Grace? Have you met McDreamy?

Sorry, I avoid Seattle and I-5 at all costs.

I was looking at your pictures of the San Juan Island’s. Can I come live with you?

Sure, there’s plenty of room in the barn, and it has running water.

I also see that you like horses. Ever since a horse bit me at a County fair, I’ve been scared of them. Do they all bite?

Only if you bite first.

Can you name a character after me? As long as it’s not a horse!

Done. You’ll just have to read all my books for the next ten years to find yourself.

Time for the hard hitting question. Prepare yourself… What’s your favorite movie?

I knew this was coming. I hate to admit this, but I rarely watch movies. That would involve sitting in one place for two hours. I can’t sit in one place for five minutes. But if I were to watch a movie, it would have to be action adventure and pure entertainment with a good ending. None of the deep stuff for me. I like pure junk. If the critics panned it, I’ll probably love it.

From your blog, I see you once experienced a volcano eruption. My only experience with one was watching Dante’s Peake. Was Pierce Brosnan there?

If he was, I couldn’t see him through the ash. My luck that I’d miss him. He could’ve been standing five feet away, and I wouldn’t have seen him.

I was reading the blurb for Who’s Been Sleeping in My Bed? Who was in the bed? Was it a bear?

The best kind, a big Teddy Bear with 6-pack abs and a killer smile.

I also noticed that the heroine helps the hero organize his office. Did you have to research that? I suck at organization.

Again, I hate to admit to this, and you can hate me now or later, but I’m very organized.

Your upcoming book is called The Dance. Is it about Garth Brooks!?

Nope, no, Garth. The Dance was the first book I ever finished. The original ending ended like that Garth Brooks song. No HEA. Romance fans don’t like that, so I had to write a different ending.

Okay, this is your turn to add whatever you want. Promote, etc… I’ll be over here packing just in case you say it’s okay to live with you. Just keep away the horses!

My mare will be wounded that you won’t be charmed by her. In fact, she’ll try extra hard to charm you now that she knows you don’t like horses.

Seriously, Who’s Been Sleeping in My Bed? is the first book in a series written about a Seattle family with 3 sons and a daughter. Who’s is available now (as of June 12) from Siren Publishing.

I’m in the final editing stages of The Gift Horse (a book that should be near and dear to your heart) about the oldest brother who is given a show horse for this birthday. He likes horses as much as you do, Melanie, so you can imagine how thrilled he is by this unwelcome gift.

Who’s Been Sleeping in My Bed?, my first release, and The Dance, my second, are set in Washington State’s San Juan Islands. The Gift Horse is set in the Seattle area (you know, that place I avoid), and the remaining two will probably be back in the San Juans, because it’s such a great setting for books.

The Dance will be available on July 10, also from Siren Publishing.

Jami's links:

http://jamidavenport.home.att.net/
http://jamidavenport.blogspot.com/
http://equestrianink.blogspot.com/

The Darkness Arrives!

My friend and critique partner, Shiela Stewart, has a new vampire series coming out today. The first book is called: Seducing the Darkness. I LOVE this series! As soon as I read STD (heh) I told her she HAD to submit it. And if you know me, I'm not a big fan of the paranormal.

Here is the official press release:

Seducing the Darkness

If you’re afraid of the dark…you’re screwed!

The long awaited release of Paranormal Romance Author Shiela Stewarts first book in her Darkness series is now available for purchase.

Seducing the Darkness begins a tale of vampires desperate to stop a ritual to blot out the sun and raise the greatest evil ever created.

Miss Stewart’s world of vampires is like no other and her explanation of vampirism is not what you’ll expect. And the love she weaves amongst her characters will surely melt your heart and leave you panting for more.

Cast out by her kind, Trinity Ford has learned to live on her own…not an easy thing to do when you’re a vampire.

Trinity was once a fragile girl. Being taken by a powerful vampire prince changed her. Discovering him in the arms of another woman changed destiny. Alone, she’s learned fast how to be tough, how to survive, and how to protect the people in her city from the evil that lurks in the dark. She was managing just fine, until Basil walked back into her life.

Basil Hawthorn has been the reigning prince of vampires since banishing his father to the Realm of Dark Mystics decades earlier. When a prophetic dream makes him realize Trinity’s life is at risk, he decides the only way to save her is to push her away. Doing so is not easy. Trinity is the only woman he has ever loved, ever will love, and he can’t seem to let her go.

When rumors arise of a plan to raise the King and blot out the sun, both Trinity and Basil know they must do everything to stop it. Even if it means working together. Despite the betrayal and the threat, they find themselves drawn to each other. Love has no boundaries, especially in the face of danger. But will they be able to stop the ritual before it’s too late?

Or will the darkness capture them both?

To purchase the book go to:
www.lindenbayromance.com
www.allromanceebooks.com
And check out Shiela Stewart’s website where the darkness begins. www.shielabooks.ca

So I was trying to think of a way to express my love for this book, but the only way I could think to do it right, was to cut and paste the email I sent to her as soon as I read it. (Late at night after I stayed up to finish reading). I took out some of it, but you get the jist:

Seriously wow. This book is hot, girl. I hope to God this gets published and people realize how truly good it is. This is your passion. This is the one that will take you over the top.

....You HAVE to write a sequel. Seriously. I will not rest until you do. LOL I'll bug the shit out of you. I can't believe you don't have one already. Usually you do. LOL Slacker!!! ;o)

....Chat tomorrow! It's 12:16 and I really need to go to bed. LOLOL Hopefully my son's school will be delayed because it'll be hard waking up at 7:30 to take him to the bus stop.

BTW, she already has a sequel...and a few more after that I'm sure.

If you do anything this summer, make sure you read this book!

Oh, and just so you know, Shiela really thought I was going to roast her in this post. Probably because I kind of told her I would. *grin* But that's my job. To keep people guessing. Maybe next time, Shiela!