Magick Monday

IF I had my way, this would be the view out my window today, but instead, it's just the snow. :)


I cannot tell you how inspiring this photo is. It's from the blacksterlingfriesians.com website. I know I spend more time there then I should, but if we don't dream it, we can never achieve it, can we. Having Dreams is what keeps the spirit alive and believe me, my spirit is very alive. So, while we are at the dreaming part, here is my house to go with it:





We may get a white Christmas, instead of rain this year. That would be magic.

I hope you are all able to find this kind of magick in your day today.

C~

Magic Monday!

Got some great news yesterday and thought I would save the post for today! My short story Inferno has been accepted by Liquid Silver Books for their fireman anthology. I cannot tell you how happy I am over it. I will post more details on it and Blood's Price when I have it available!

Hope your Monday has equal Magick!

C~

New Beginnings

I just needed to post some inspiration this morning. This story is about as traditional, high fantasy as you can get. So, I will be posting lots of knights, horses and beautiful poetic pictures that pull the romantic strings of my heart. If you do not care for such things, now might be the time to check out, because it's going to get deep in here. :) Promise...




As this year is drawing to it's end, there is a definate feeling of change. Yesterday seemed to be a pivoting point, literally. It started in the morning with a call from a very close friend. It has been a very rough year on her and she was rewarded in a huge way. I am hoping it all follows through and comes full circle for her, but she found one of her stallions daughters. It was a very blissfully emotional day for her. Everyone of his offspring was like one of her own, so when she was able to see one of her students buy her from another, she was in tears.

I believe Blood's Price has found a home and I couldn't be happier with it. It has brought a nice sense of finality, accomplishment and just plain joy to my heart. This was a story that came from the heart and I'm glad it has a home, where I'm sure many more stories will go to as well.

So, off I go to befriend the dragons and charm the Wee Folk.

C~

Happy Thanksgiving

Click here for more Native-American Graphics!



Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
C~

Inferno

Just finished, and happily handed off to my critique partners, a short story called Inferno. I bet you could never guess what it's about either.

As soon as I have a blurb and synopsis written up, I will share those too. I just wanted to post a good photo and there you have it. It's from the Seattle Firefighters calander. An older one, but do things like this ever get old? I thought not.

C~

Sexiest Man of the Year

http://www.people.com/people/package/article/0,,20237714_20241213_1,00.html


Hugh Jackman!
Am I surprised?? NO WAY!! In my opinion, he should have been a long time ago! I've been a fan of his for a long time and really REALLY liked him as Wolverine.

He is one of the inspirations for my next book. I am just now gathering my research together and am very tickled to see he made it to this point. Very VERY cool and a long over due recognition. But then if you read the article, you will see his wife knew that a long time ago. hehe I love romantic stories of people who are in love for so long. It just adds to my inspiration as I am a long runner myself. :)

Happy Wednesday!
C~

Veterans Day

Just a note of thanks to all of our veterans, people in service now and men and women who have served in the past. Thank you! Words cannot express the gratitude to you all and the sacrifice your families endure because of your bravery.
Both of my brothers served in the Marine Corps. They well forever have my admiration and pride in them. I also have friends now, who are in the army and my own father in law is retired from both Army and Air Force.

Having said all of that, sometimes you just have to enjoy what the military provides just because, well, see for yourself!! :)




Need I say more?? I thought not. :)

Happy Tuesday,
C~

Eden at Twilight Release Date!

Title: Eden at Twilight
Theme: Time Travel
Imprint: Faery
Length: Rose
Rating: Sweet and Spicy
Page Count: 276
Author: Colleen Love
Editor: Zanoni Rose,
Print ISBN: 1-60154-502-9
Print ISBN 13: 9781601545022
Digital Release Date: 2009-05-15
Digital Price: 6.00
Print Release Date: 2009-05-15
Print Price: 13.99






Blurb:



EDEN AT TWILIGHT is the story of Lily, a woman who wants love, and Leaf, the man who risks it all to love her.



Lily Moore is an ordinary accountant who works long hard hours, leaving room for little else. After strange occurrences begin haunting her, she’s convinced by a motherly friend to take a vacation in Scotland . While there, she meets the man of her dreams, a handsome stranger with shifting hazel eyes.



Leaf falls for Lily the moment he sees her, love at first sight. Never has a woman taken his heart so quickly. When trouble stirs and threatens her, he stands by her side, traveling through time and dimension to reclaim her from a deadly Drow leader. Lily has no choice but to trust him and hope his strength will pull them through. But is his strength alone enough?







Excerpt:



Lily was glad when the plane ride was over. A feeling of awe surrounded her as the shuttle pulled into the drive of the cottage. It was as if she was entering into the picture on her post card. After paying the driver and stepping from the car, she stood looking around in an enthralled stupor. The scents, sounds, everything was just as her imagination had promised it would be. Shading her eyes against the late afternoon sunshine, she just couldn’t help standing motionless, looking at her dream come true. She finally moved to pick up her luggage without taking her eyes from the grand Cottage before her. It was as if she were afraid it would disappear before she could get inside, if she took her eyes from it. Reaching down, she fumbled for the handle of her suitcase, her fingers meeting the warmth of a large hand. Her attention suddenly snapped from the scenery unfolding before her and back to reality. A reality snagged straight from her dreams. Standing in front of her was a kilt-clad man waiting with her luggage in hand. Her eyes wandered upward and she unconsciously pressed her hand over her heart when her gaze locked into his sharp, hazel green eyes. Yellow flecks, hypnotically kept hers transfixed for a brief moment before she could tear them away. She blinked and her heart stood still, time seemed to have stopped.

“I’m Leaf,” he held out his free hand to her. “I’m the caretaker here at the Country Cottage.”

Lily took his hand in hers and felt it wrapped in calloused warmth, “I’m Lily,” she breathed. Unwarranted chills chased over her skin from his touch. The thick burr of a Scotsman lilted in his voice and a warm smile curled the edges of his lips, making deep dimples at the corners. A rough dark scrub of stubble blended into wild sand colored, wavy hair that stopped just past his shoulders. Releasing her hand, he turned to pick up her bags. The flex of muscle pulled his plain white tee shirt taut, and she felt her breath catch when his kilt rode up the back of thick, stout thighs and white socks peeked out from the tops of his tall work boots. He turned and waited for her with baggage in hand. Picking up her smaller bags, she followed quietly, praying he hadn’t noticed her ogling him as she blinked her eyes and physically tried to will her heart to slow.

The Day After

Ahh the morning after... the kids are in cataloging their new candy stash. They keep track of it all because Mr. C will be in raiding their stash. They have already had to pay, one piece each, for the ride out trick-or-treating. lol And not the mamby-pamby stuff either. We are talking valuable, cold not-so-hard chocolate. :) Daughter dressed as a princess and son as a knight. I found strange humor in the fact that the knight wore his breastplate, wielded with his candy bag, while his Mom held his shield and sword at the gate. hehe Can you just see every knight going off to battle doing that?? hehe

On the serious side, how do we celebrate one of the most important pagan holidays, Samhain? For the most part, we treat the day as special. We talk about relatives, grandparents mostly, that have passed on. It is their day to be remembered. I always keep my grandparents close to me. My Grandfather especially. But it isn't a sad time. I feel them around all the time and I am glad they are all together on the other side. Maybe even celebrating their time in the Summerland.

I hope your holiday was safe and you found some joy in your day, whether you celebrate or not. Are there Halloween traditions in your part of the world? Or a day you celebrate your ancestors that have passed on?

C~

Friday Funny

I snagged this off of a friends blog. It is too funny not to share!



A cabbie picks up a Nun.

She gets into the cab, and notices that the VERY handsome cab driver won't stop staring at her.

She asks him why he is staring.

He replies, "I have a question to ask you but I don't want to offend you."

She answers, "My son, you cannot offend me. When you're as old as I am and have been a nun as long as I have, you get a chance to see and hear just about everything. I'm sure that there's nothing you could say or ask that I would find offensive."

"Well, I've always had a fantasy to have a nun kiss me."

She responds, "Well, let's see what we can do about that: #1, you have to be single and #2, you must be Catholic."

The cab driver is very excited and says, "Yes, I'm single and Catholic!"

"OK," the nun says. "Pull into the next alley."

The nun fulfills his fantasy, with a kiss that would make a hooker blush.

But when they get back on the road, the cab driver starts crying.

"My dear child," says the nun, "why are you crying?"

"Forgive me but I've sinned. I lied and I must confess, I'm married and I'm Jewish."

The nun says, "That's OK. My name is Kevin and I'm going to a Halloween party."



HAPPY HALLOWEEN !!!

Palaces, Princes and People

For some reason, out of both Princes, I've always watched Harry. The wild child of the palace. Funny how William is the refined, dignified heir to the throne and Harry is ... well, he just isnt. :) And I always find myself cheering for him. It has to be so hard to go through the life both of them have led in the public eye, always being scrutinized for every step they take. I like reading People magazine on line and there was another story of Harry :). I think it is so cool that he has embraced something structured and not getting himself into as much trouble as he did when he was younger. But it is really something that he is taking it as far as he can. I think his mum would be so proud of him, well, both of them.
It's really something that he is going to go into training to fly the Apache and such. While William takes the milder (and no less heroic) rescue missions, I find it fitting to Harry that he is taking the same path, just in a different direction. He is going to kick ass, while William rescues some. :)

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20235926,00.html

What does this have to do with writing? Everything. It shows that despite their priviliged life style, they are just like the rest of us. They get down and rut in the dirt, just like the rest of us do and I think it is impressive. It is also inspiring the humanitarian work both of these men do as well. I find that it is very romance novel inspiring. Can you see it? A prince that has served his time in the military and leads a double life? Of course for my taste I would have to involve a dragon or two, maybe some Hoards... But it's all good! :)

AMENDMENT:
Found this article this afternoon:

http://www.people.com/people/gallery/0,,20235996_20533356,00.html

How sweet is that??

C~

Magick Monday

On a Magick Monday, how can resist posting this lovely photo. It's where my mind and imagination is at the moment. I have had this story spinning in my head for about eight years now. It is crying to get out. The reason I haven't written it yet? I knew I wasn't ready. I just feel there is so much to learn about this industry and writing its self that I have held off. Well, the time is at hand. While I finish up this last project I have been working on, I am going to start developing some of the notes I have taken. This is definately an epic story with lots of fun detail and it has to be just right. Think LOTR meets Lady Hawke. I only hope I can do it justice.

The last couple of weeks have been so busy that I just haven't been around. I'm sorry if anyone is a regular here and expected more. I just didn't have it in me. But, now I'm back and have my feet under me.

Have a Magick Monday!

C~

Monday Magick

Well, I know I said that Brad Pitt was the face behind the story I'm working on, but guess what. I just couldn't get it to work that way. Viggo's face kept appearing. lol So, here is to inspiration and the face that keeps haunting me. :D



It's a terrible thing to have this going through your head all the time, I tell ya. hehe Now, pair this face with that of Evanescence, Amy Lee, and there we have it. :)





Have a Magick Monday!!
C~

N. O. R. Cover Awards

I was browsing through my publisher, Liquid Silver Books, last night. They had a post of the N.O.R. award catagories. I always like to look just to see what's what. I saw there was one cover from LSB up for nomination, so I looked and just about fell out of my chair. Thief of a Goddess Heart cover has been nominated. Simply floored, my name is rarely on anything like this, so I was just pleasantly shocked. April Martinez made it for me. She is a wonderful cover artist and I hope she wins! :D



http://www.nightowlromance.com/nightowlromance/norawards/bebc2008fall.asp

A picture worth a Thousand Words

'Nuff said.

C~

Magick Monday

We are having a bit of an unsual Autumn. Usually right now, it is bucketing down rain and chilly out. Insead, the days have been warm and sunny, the nights very chilly. You can see the stars!! Such magick! I am trying to take advantage of every moment I can.

I hope your Monday has equal Magick.

C~

Saturday's Song

*sigh* My mountains are shrouded in that magic mist this morning.*sigh* It just conjures all kinds of fantasy thoughts.:) Most of all, a brave warrior mounted on his trusty Friesian, clad in leather armor with a beautiful, guilded sword...*sigh*

REALITY CHECK:

Saturday always feels like the 'morning after' for me. Why? Because I have to leave my house for the day on Friday. I babysit my niece and nephew all day long, sometimes upward of twelve hours. I don't mind, honest. It gets me out of the house, away from the computer! Since I homeschool my kids, they have a great day hanging out with their cousins, well, until the older of the two heads off for the school bus.
Another thing I like about babysitting on Friday, is that I get to sit on my arse all day and write. The kids kind of do their own thing and I get a day to my self! Yesterday, I worked on my Pirate book and finished a rather juicy love scene. But it was more then just sex. It was my characters deeper discovery of each other. Uh, no pun intended. hehe
Anyway, the thing is still under wraps, so, no sharing. hehe

Well, I'm just hoping to get house chores done. I don't know what happened to those elves that are supposed to clean while I'm sleeping. Better go find out, because they are really sluffing off! The place is trashed - well as trashed as I will allow it. hehe Thank goodness I have story line plotting to do. Things really get scrubbed down then. It helps me think.
On the good side. I got my final galley edits in to my editor. Have I said how many times I love that woman?? Yeah, I do. She is awesome and I love her to bits and pieces. Thanks, Zanoni! A million thanks.

Well, I'm off (we all knew that, right?) to get busy on my day!

C~

Friday Eve...

Collective sigh. It's Friday Eve at last! *sigh*

It has been one of those weeks. I think that saying that goes: 'Anything worth having, is worth fighting for' applies here.
My edits have taken a rather curious turn. Not bad by any means, but certainly interesting. So, I have been working fast and furious all week to get things straightened out to meet my deadline.

Mr. C couldn't even go to work last night. Stomach issues that kept him teathered to the bathroom. We won't even go there!! But I am curious, what the hell is it about an ill man that makes them horney as hell when they are ill?? I just cannot figure that out. When I'm ill, I am the proper mother bear and will rip your head off if you even step close to me. I don't get it. But when people want to know why I have an 8 foot bull whip, now you know.

I also had my meeting with the Student Learning Plan teacher we use, because I homeschool. I love this lady and she helps us stay on track. She always love what we do and never says we need to do more. lol If anything she questions wheather we do all of the things I list. But, after asking the kids questions, she just shakes her head with a smile, because yes, we do ALL of those things. Last year, my son was obsessed with Atoms. He wanted to learn everything he could. When Barb asked him what he had learned, she just raised her eyebrows and said, "that's a little advanced for his age." Yes, well, he watches adult programs on Science, Discovery and History channels like the rest of us. A couple of weeks ago, it was the cellular differences of twins. We tried to turn it, but be protested. I asked him if he knew what they were talking about and low and behold, he did. Floored, absolutely floored. And then my daughter joined into the discussion, well, how could a mama bear not be proud of her 8 and 10 year olds for that?
Anyway, for some reason, these meetings always stress me out. Don't know why, but they do.

I am so happy I don't have to go anywhere today.
I hope everyone has a happy and productive Friday Eve!

C~

Why Mr Pitt?

A good question I ask myself!
If I would have been choosing characters that inspire stories based on what moves me, Brad Pitt wouldn't have made my list awhile ago. BUT... Things change. People change and now I see him in a total new light. No, I haven't met him and no, I don't swoon and croon after him. He's a human being for crying out loud! But the fact is, he has done alot of very VERY good things and I think it took being with the right woman that brought it out in him. True, maybe he did good things before Angelina, but, I think it took the two of them as partners to really shine and help people who were, and are, less fortunate then they are.
I think the best fashion statement he makes is when he is in regular clothes, with his children on him. Beautiful! Of course having Angelina Jolie on his arm is the biggest gem of all. They all look extrodinarily happy. You can very plainly see it isn't a publicity smile that's just there for the paporatzi. It is genuine because it is in their eyes.
In my opinion, I think NOW Brad Pitt is very sexy and handsome, simply because of what he has become. That's what living life is. It's all about the journey to the mountain top. Both parents look tired. That's good! They should! It means they are being parents to their children!
So, why am I including his likeness in an erotic romance? Because I believe love and romance and sex are all a very healthy part of who we are as people. I see writing erotic romance the way I see a beatiful rose bush. There are the stalks and vines that are the basic plot of the story. There is the relationship, the 'coloring in', that is the leaves that feed the plot and then the flowers are the lovescenes. They bring the joy and essence to it all and give life to the story.

Anyway, that is my reasons for choosing Mr. Pitt. I think his journey up the path to the mountain top is very inspiring to me today!

Happy Wednesday!
C~

Girl Pirates Rule...

Well, this is my inspiration for the first book of my Girl Pirate trilogy. That's right. Amy Lee from Evanescence. She is the perfect image for my heroine. My brain has wrapped around Mr. Brad Pitt from when he did the movie Troy.




So, if you enjoy seeing what inspires me making it's appearance, then please stay tuned. I've collected lots more and AND I have two other books that I have found equally delicious photos to light up my prose each day!
I will be releasing the title of both book and series when I complete the first installment. I already have everything set up and the first book is nearly complete already, so you won't have long to wait!

Have a Magick Monday!
C~

Courage

Courage is a funny thing and I just had a spot of it. I just took my finished, polished, critiqued, fretted over novel, Blood's Price and submitted it to The Knights Agency. Doh! Good thing I did it before the shadow of doubt crept in, because now I feel exposed and the need to hide. lol *sigh*

Anyway... I've pulled out my half finished Girl Pirate trilogy. I worked all day on that, Friday. It feels great and still a story I feel very strong about. Love it. I can see parts of my self in all three women, so they are very easy to identify with.

Well, back to it!

C~

Just because...

Because pictures speak a thousand words, I have nothing left to say today. :D

Great YouTube!

I love this YouTube of Billy Boyd. I watch it frequently and thought I'd post it just for fun. :)

Tuesday

Wow, I just cannot believe that Labor Day is over and we are on the other side of summer! It's been a lovely weekend of just bumming around the house and playing with kids and critters.

Hope your week plays out just as well.

C~

Magick Monday

The world is silent. Wrapped in a milky mist, ancient tall trees silhouette the horizon, like tall centurions of both leaf and needle. The moist air is pungent with the beginning of autumn. Small chirps and shrill calls echo throughout the forest. As if by some unseen hand, the shroud begins to dissipate. The red apples dotting the trees and rocky monoliths come into view. The shroud tears and blue heavens become visible. The mist swirls with ethereal grace as it reveals more sky. Wild rabbits begin seeking the shelter of the low scrub brush, leaving green trails in the silvery grass. The clouds begin to circle round, gaining ground it had lost and the blue is once again covered in pristine white. Roosters begin to herald the day's beginning. I step inside my little cottage. The warm scent of cinnamon coffee cake radiates from the oven. Eager faces gather around the hearth for hot chocolate and warm cake.

Hope your Monday finds equal Magick.

C~

Making Friends at the Fair!

We went to the Evergreen State Fair on Wednesday. It is a yearly tradition that we all look forward too and we go rain or shine! The kids ride the rides until we cant stand it anymore and then we go look at all of the beautiful animals. I love looking at the chickens and would love to show my Nutsy, but he hates being handled and his spurrs are about three inches long now, so, I just dont think so...



Anyway... I made a new friend. He is a giant Percheron. I watched him for awhile and everyone else was kind of afraid of the big guy and would barely touch him, because of his sheer size, which was very similar to this (No, this isn't him.):



When everyone else had left the area, he looked at me and I asked him how he was doing. I could see the whites around his eyes, marking him unsure. I held my hand out to him and told him it was ok. He sniffed and snuffed at me for a minute while I pet his nose, before closing his eyes. When he opened them again, he had pure friendly trust there. He is a gentle giant. He lowered his head and I scratched his forehead with both hands. He nodded his head up and down and then he began to turn. He rubbed his neck and body along the stall door and that was when I noticed it was open a tiny crack. EEKS! Then he turned his rump to me and I stood on my tip-toes and scratched and scratched for him while he swayed his hips back and forth, further opening the stall door. When it began to open further, I patted his butt and told him to stop. He did and I pulled the door closed. I loved him for a moment longer before we had to go. I found a gentleman who had the horses next door and told him about the stall door. He showed me that the guy had undone the lock and he thanked me and said he would tell the owners. It was funny when he locked the stall again, because my new friend didn't want him relocking the stall and tried to wrestle it out of the man's hands with his lips. I don't know if you know how strong a horses lips are, but you can see my story on Unicorns listed below. They are like elephant trunks. So, the man had to swat his mouth away. We gotta keep the big guy safe!

So, what the heck does this have to do with writing? Everything! It is pure inspiration for a fantasy writer who is married to her knight in shining armor. :)

That was the highlight of my day. That was just pure magick for me. :)
I told my trainer friend about it and she though the same. She said that I had indeed made a new friend. :)

Hope your Saturday brings equal Magick!

C~

Keeping Perspective

I am not the worlds most patient person when it comes to my writing. I want it all done right now. I have found through watching others that I am not alone in this ailment. When I have finished the rough draft and put the period at the end of that last sentence, my brain tells me I am done. Finito, kaput, finished. Well, in reality, that is so far from the truth that it is a slap in the face to all of the other voices crying to get out!
I have two other ms that are about 1/3 written and one of them is the first of a trilogy (my girl pirates and a Merman) that has all of the notes done on it. I have a complete ms of 80k and there is so much story left untold in it, that it is crying out to be a series. Which would be 7-8 books. I have an erotic comedy that has wanted out for nearly a year, I cannot believe it has been that long! And another erotic that has sprouted up because of Eden at Twilight, but is in no way connected.
Blood's Price is nearly finished, I need to go through it again after I am finished this time through, for a final polish.

So, how am I keeping all of this sorted out? I have no idea. My brain has become this quagmire of voices and the only thing that seems to save me from myself is my kids hollering at me too. LOL!! They come first and all of the hubbub quiets down when they need me.

Yesterday, I had to get away and get it all into perspective, I had to just get away from the keyboard and do something else. That also means get out of the house, where I am away from the computer all together. So, I went and did what Colleen does best. I cleaned my trainers barn. She was so surprised and tickled. hehe Horses put out about a hundred pounds of manure a day, she has five of the loveliest beasts on this planet. So, I scooped and then scratched and loved them until they were literally standing asleep. Well, all except one. Her mare, Passion. She wanted me to scratch her endlessly, so I loved on her rather then clean. She is the most gorgeous little five year old. So sleek and shiny and spoiled and loved. She is awesome because my trainer also owned her mom and helped her deliver Passion. Passion was treated as a lap dog and she will still try to sit her 1000 pound butt on your lap. She comes and gives you kisses and then turns for you to scratch her butt. If you aren't paying attention, she will back into you and knock you down! lol She doesn't just limit it to people she knows either. lol

So, now, I have things in perspective and off I go...

Happy Tuesday!

C~

Girl Power

I have a new person to add to my list of inspirational people. Christina Applegate. The struggle she has just endured and the sacrifice she made to save herself is amazing. The fact that she turned and faced this disease and took the prevenative measures to prevent it is nothing less then heroic. I think that of anyone who has to sacrifice for the greater good.

This disease has touched my family as well. I lost my aunt to it. I hope that if it ever touches me, I have the same amount of courage.

C~

Poetry in motion

A picture truly is worth a thousand words!

C~

SExing today!

I'm looking at the humorous side of living with horses! Come see my post on The Trouble with Unicorns!
http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/blog/

This is Daycon. He is the Unicorn I am discussing.

Happy Hump Day!

C~

Magic Monday

Wow, here we are again! It's another Magic Monday.
It feels a little more magic today. Things are getting back to normal. Mr. C is going back to work after a nice vacation. The heat has died down to a nice tollerable 65 - 70 and raining, and I don't have to go anywhere today.

Went out for a ride last night. It was wonderful! Well, except, it was a little impromptu and I was unprepared. I had on a mini skirt! But can I turn down a chance to ride? Oh, hell no. My theory is, if you don't like it, dont look at it. hehe My skirt still covered my bum and that is good enough.
Riding bareback is such a cool experience. To feel the shift in the body and muscles when they go up and down the hills, to also keep your balance and energy in that circular round is just something short of pure magic for me. Of course it was Tanner, which means we had to work for him before the ride too. He isnt an easy catch, but once he knows his fate is sealed and a lead is around him, he is good and takes on a whole new manner. He is a Tennesee Walker with the smoothest gait, but a fast walker. I can hardly wait to ride him again.
I really miss riding my Scooter, but he just cannot be ridden. His hoof is getting better, but he is still out.
So, I think I will start a story that includes him in it. : ) I love that guy.

This is the kind of thing that keeps me moving and airs out my brain! It's the perfect break from all of the editing I've been working on!

Hope your Monday is just as Magickal! : )

C~

A funny thing...

We live out in a very private area. It is quiet, serene and beautiful. There is no traffic, no noise, no street lights. It is paradise. You can go out on a rare cloud free night and see EVERY star. You can even see the colors surrounding groups of stars. It is amazing. There are also many little and big critters that stir in the night as well.

So, what is so funny about that? Well... My kids have tried, unsuccessfully, to sleep out in the tent... alone, but next to the house. It has become more of a dare for them and every night that they try it, they end up back inside about the same time. It is a daily moving venture and Mr. C and I have started taking bets on how long it will last. The other night the coyotes were singing to the full moon. It was a very short time later that they trooped in with all the bedding, and stuffed animals they had worked all day organizing in the giant tent!

That is where the "funny" comes in. They try so very hard to make it and then get spooked and in they come.
It brings back fun memories of sleeping outside with my brothers and all of our friends. Except we didn't have a tent. Just sleeping bags in the grass, looking up at the stars. It is fun to remember those things. The magic and mystery of the night. The beauty on the other side of day.

How about you? Do you have memories like this? Something magical and mysterious that tickles your memory??

Share it with me. I love hearing others stories!

Guest blogging today!

I'm over at Denyse Bridger's place blogging! Stop by if you get the chance!

http://www.fantasy-pages.blogspot.com/

Thanks,
Have a great Friday!

C~

Eden at Twilight

Blurb:

EDEN AT TWILIGHT is the story of Lily, a woman who wants love, and Leaf, the man who risks it all to love her.

Lily Moore is an ordinary accountant who works long hard hours, leaving room for little else. After strange occurrences begin haunting her, she’s convinced by a motherly friend to take a vacation in Scotland. While there, she meets the man of her dreams, a handsome stranger with shifting hazel eyes.

Leaf falls for Lily the moment he sees her, love at first sight. Never has a woman taken his heart so quickly. When trouble stirs and threatens her, he stands by her side, traveling through time and dimension to reclaim her from a deadly Drow leader. Lily has no choice but to trust him and hope his strength will pull them through. But is his strength alone enough?



Excerpt:

Lily was glad when the plane ride was over with. A feeling of awe surrounded her as the shuttle pulled into the drive of the cottage. It was as if she was entering into the picture on her post card. After paying the driver and stepping from the car, she stood looking around in an enthralled stupor. The scents, sounds, everything was just as her imagination had promised it would be. Shading her eyes against the late afternoon sunshine, she just couldn’t help standing motionless, looking at her dream come true. She finally moved to pick up her luggage without taking her eyes from the grand Cottage before her. It was as if she were afraid it would disappear before she could get inside, if she took her eyes from it. Reaching down, she fumbled for the handle of her suitcase, her fingers meeting the warmth of a large hand. Her attention suddenly snapped from the scenery unfolding before her and back to reality. A reality snagged straight from her dreams. Standing in front of her was a kilt-clad man waiting with her luggage in hand. Her eyes wandered upward and she unconsciously pressed her hand over her heart when her gaze locked into his sharp, hazel green eyes. Yellow flecks, hypnotically kept hers transfixed for a brief moment before she could tear them away. She blinked and her heart stood still, time seemed to have stopped.
“I’m Leaf,” he held out his free hand to her. “I’m the caretaker here at the Country Cottage.”
Lily took his hand in hers and felt it wrapped in calloused warmth, “I’m Lily,” she breathed. Unwarranted chills chased over her skin from his touch. The thick burr of a Scotsman lilted in his voice and a warm smile curled the edges of his lips, making deep dimples at the corners. A rough dark scrub of stubble blended into wild sand colored, wavy hair that stopped just past his shoulders. Releasing her hand, he turned to pick up her bags. The flex of muscle pulled his plain white tee shirt taut, and she felt her breath catch when his kilt rode up the back of thick, stout thighs and white socks peeked out from the tops of his tall work boots. He turned and waited for her with baggage in hand. Picking up her smaller bags, she followed quietly, praying he hadn’t noticed her ogling him as she blinked her eyes and physically tried to will her heart to slow.



I cannot tell you how excited and pleased I am about this. What a great way to start a week!
Have a Magick Monday!

C~

Inevitable Death

Yesterday afternoon, I found my mama guinea pig dead. It's never easy to deal with the death of anything you love. She was a good little mama pig. In this photo, she is the piggy on the right. The white one outside the pen passed away last year. Good old Freddy.
While my two young children are saddened by it, death isn't something we view as the end of all ends. In fact, the way we believe, it is a beginning to something new. An adventure into a new and unknown life. Maybe they will be back to finish something in a different form. Something along the Buddist line. Or maybe they are done here and continue on to the Summerland where she will meet up with Freddy. I don't know, thus the adventure.

I have a Hawaiian Sister-in-law, who told me something so comforting once, I thought I'd share that too. She was taught, every person has a certian amount of time they have to spend in this world. When a child or baby dies, it means they didn't have to endure this life before passing on to something bigger and better.
So, of course my question for her was, If you live to be old here, is that a punishment?
She says no. It means there were lessons to be learned before you can pass on to the next life. There may be things that need to be finished on your journey to the mountaintop. I like that. I like that alot.
I also have a very good friend who lost an infant to a very rare disease. She has been heartbroken ever since, and rightfully so. People had been cruel to her, telling her she had done something bad and brought this onto herself, somehow. I told her this theory, my theory, and she thought long and hard about it. She said it made so much more sense to her and brought her the peace she needed.

So, while we say good-bye to Teddy, we also wish her a good journey.

Blessed Be

C~

Edits on a Magick Monday

Just to keep edits in line today, I've posted my inspiration. So far it is going well! Getting great feedback on the snippets I've posted, and by that I mean they were well liked. I still have work to do on it though. Need to weave in some threads and fill a few holes with dropped threads, but it is a beautiful tapestry, I must say, and it is sailing along nicely.

Have a very Magick Monday!
C~

I changed it back.

While the other blog was cute. It was just too white. I like the background to be black because it shows my inspiration in a better way. I also think it is easier to read.

So, after a couple of days to clear my mind of the writing phase of things. I've started round two of the rough draft. And by that, I mean I am beginning the smoothing out, editing of sentence structure, getting rid of useless and redundant sentences and phrases. I am also filling in parts of the story that I fill need a bit more coloring in. Filling out the characters, and more detail and discription. Because I am a description queen.

That is one of the things I love hearing, especially since I consider myself a new writer still. I love hearing that my books are descriptive enough to embrace the reader. That they are part of the story and are able to be consumed by the characters. It's probably why I like writing novel length books too. I like to dig deep and really turn things inside out.

So, I now have a little list of things I've made to go back and fill in and fix to keep the story consistant and notes of threads I may have started in the beginning and accidently left behind. Time to pick up those stitches! :)

Happy Thursday or Friday Eve!

Magick Monday!

Happy Monday!
It's been a busy weekend! I worked in the garden and got things looking better. Love doing that! Of course I paid a steep price for it! I could barely move without making some kind of sound! Sheesh, sucks to be getting older. But it was so cool to see all the Garder Snakes. They weren't too pleased to see me, but hey, they have a whole forest they can move into. Mr. C. saved one from the lawn mower that was only about six inches long. Cute little wormy sized ones. Of course now, after he has mown the front, and it rained, the Robins are everywhere. Having a great time watching them too! : )

I try to dedicate my Sunday's to updating and finding new means of promotion. I signed up with Manic Readers yesterday. Here is the link if anyone is interested. http://manicreaders.com/ColleenLove/. It was kinda fun. hehe

I also finished Blood's Price. Just typed 'The End' this morning. I think I have decided to make this a trilogy. I have two characters that I simply cannot leave alone. One is Mourning Dove's best friend, Sleeping Fox and their clan Mother, Wind through Willows. I think it will have a nice Maiden, Mother, Crone aspect to it. I like that, very much. So, I have to get that together.

My editor has sent me the next round of edits. She is awesome, knows her beans, I tell ya. She has caught, and questioned, things that will keep the story plausable. Really, the edits aren't bad. I seem to over use commas. Oops. It isn't as bad as I thought it was going to be though. The edits have nothing to do with the pacing, plot or story. It is the punctuation. My editor has been very kind and patient in teaching me. I don't think that can be said a whole lot. So, that is my goal for today. I plan on knocking those edits out and getting them back to her.

Hope everyone has a Magick Monday!

C~

New Messin' with Sasquatch

I love these commercials and this is an unedited "Towel Whip" one. LMAO!!



Happy Saturday!!

C~

To Boldly Go

This picture is from the movie UnBowed. The three men in this picture are Mark Abott, Jay Tavare and Vincent McLean. It looks like a very good love story.

Worked on the last chapter last night. Will have to do it again because it downright sucks. *sigh* I think I need to step away from it for the day. Going out with my MIL, whom I adore. Should be a great day.

Happy Thursday!

C~

Soooo Close!

Today's Inspiration. I think it speaks for it's self. Not a lot of words needed.

I am so close to being finished. I was hoping to complete things yesterday, but fell short. I am on the last chapter and have an Epilogue to do. Then my rough draft is finished. I think this story is teaching me. I now have a clear understanding of what I need to do to make it a whole and beautiful story with no holes. I have to admit, the ending came as a surprise to me. I didn't see where it was going until I was working on it yesterday. Things happened that I had not planned and it is better because of it.

Well, it is never going to get done if I am just sitting here.

Happy Hump day!

C~

Tuesday's Twaddle

Here is today's inspiration!
It's been working, I tell ya. Yesterday I wrote a chapter and a half! I only had to stop because my poor children were hungry. Since they come first, I had to stop. Then clean up after dinner (and I don't have a dishwasher. Well, I do, it me! But having my hands in all those warm soapy bubbles is oddly one of my 'think times'.), and threw the ball to my little doggie for a bit. Then my mom called and I acutally sat down on the couch. After that, it was all over with. I sat there with my kids and watched the Country music competition show. Its getting down to the wire. Only one more show left. I'm not a die hard country fan, but there are some songs I like.
Then off to bed to read a bit from Robert Jordan.

You know, today is going to be a good day, no matter what. You know why? The sun isn't shining!! :D My silver skies are back and the warm air smells dank and heavy of rain. I am hoping... The rain would do the blackberry bushes good. The blossoms have all set and the hard green berries are emerging from the center of white petals. I am hopeful there too. It's been two years since we have had berries even worthy of jam making. They have been bitter and tiny. I am fortunate that I have a giant twelve foot hedge of them. It's the best fence ever.

Happy Tuesday!

C~

Magick Monday

Just in to post a little inspiration for my day. Hope everyone has equal Magick in theirs.
This imagery has helped so much.I cannot believe it. I got a whole chapter written yesterday and the story is now progressing. I'm hoping it is as smooth today. I am just so close to finishing I can taste it. And, I have to add, that none of it is filler BS either. It's the discovery of the evil mastermind behind all of this. He's a sick-o if you ask me. But then again, I'm just the meek and mild writer. I am my Muse's pet and she is kind of a whip cracker, I tell ya. But I love her! hehe

Today, I think we can honestly say that summer has blossomed. The morning is warm golden and still. Some Turkey Vultures have been flying around, circling the neighbors field. Such huge and graceful creatures. I think they are in on something with the ravens and crows. The ravens are following them, probably looking for an easy meal. I've seen the vultures land in the field and the crows with them. They gathered in a circle around them and the vultures just sat there for a very long time. There was no kill or anything, they looked to be just resting. I watched them through the binoculars until my eyes ached. But then, I've seen these ravens and crows hold what looked like court, as well. A large flock of them landed in this same field. I am guessing there had to be at least 14 to 15 on the ground. They gathered in a large circle and one was in the center. They posed with unusual quiet and then one by one, they flew up into the air and pecked the one in the center before taking off, until he was left standing alone. He sat there for a long time, alone. He walked around and finally just left. But, these creatures are amazing and so intelligent. But of course my favorite are the birds of prey. Owls in particular. I love the Falcon that comes and tries to use my bird feeders as a snack bar, and the naughty Stellar Jays that tease him. A true lesson in poise and grace. But also a lesson in the Zen arts. I take Hyde's (from That 70's Show)stance on this one. When Zen Ends, Ass Kickin' Begins.

I think I will end on that one. Have a Magick Monday!!

C~

Sometimes it's more then you think.

Sometimes beauty is more then just in the eye of the beholder. Sometimes it helps pull a frustrated writer's mind out of a quagmire and back onto the path to complete the journey.

I have been stuck for the last several, and very frustrating, weeks! Mind you, it isn't writers block, I know what I want down on the page. Just a stopping up of the inspiration, if you will. I knew I needed something visual. There are so many beautiful faces out there to select from. But none that fit what I had in my head. That was until I was browsing a friends site and she had this posted. I stopped so fast, I may have left two little furrows on her page, sorry 'bout that! :D
That's right, Jay Tavare's image grabbed my attention only the way a pair of brown eyes can. But then the next step is to see WHO he is. I have to pause, because 'beautiful' is all that comes to mind.

He is everything I have been writing in Blood's Price and I am just stunned. He has even portrayed a character named Spirit Walker. I am sure it is a common name, but I have reasons why my character is named that and it is going to stay that way now.
The very first thing that appealed to me was that he is part of the Adopt An Elder program. This foundation helps the elderly tribes people. On his website, there are many pictures of him just 'being' with them. There is such joy radiating from everyone there, it is very touching. I believe in my heart that there is not enough being done to help our elderly and veterans. But I'm not getting into that today, but so much knowledge is being lost.

ALSO, he rescues dogs and wolves. Any of you out there that knows me, doesn't even have to second guess why this appeals to me on a huge level. I just cannot add anymore to that.
Here is Mr. Tavare's website, for anyone interested. It's a lovely place to visit! www.jaytavare.com.

So, with my inspiration renewed, I am off to resume my journey with this story. And quite possibly go looking for a certain number of films that may just put me in a coma. Because a girl can only handle a certain amount of eye candy before she drops, right? Hasn't happened to me yet, but I'm willing to try. :D

Happy Saturday!

C~

Don't be a Writing Diva

My friend Denyse Bridger posted this to her group. I loved it so much, I decided to post it here.



Don’t be a Writing Diva
June 20, 2008
by Mary E. Demuth
Nobody likes dealing with a high-maintenance author, especially agents and editors. Here are 18 tips that will endear you to those who can help you publish or perish.
I’ve seen authors in financial crises who berate their agents because they need their advance checks—now! When that doesn’t work, they’ll call the publisher directly, ranting. I’ve also known novelists who take it upon themselves to detail every failure of a publishing entity and e-mail it to an entire company. These are examples of High-Maintenance Authors, or HMAs, and the last thing any author wants is to place himself in this category.

HMAs can ruin their chances of further publication through bridge burning, preening and defending every intricacy of their prose. Here are 18 practical tips that both established and newbie writers can implement to become the kind of author that agents and editors love.

1. HONE YOUR VOICE. The more confident you are of your own voice, the better you’ll be able to discern when an editor’s squelching that voice.

2. MEET DEADLINES EARLY. Send in your manuscript early—and shock and please your editors.

3. WRITE THANK YOU NOTES. You’ll endear yourself to your agent, editors and friends in the business if you pen thank you notes. Make your thanks specific and genuine.

4. JOIN A CRITIQUE GROUP. Find a group that understands you and is ruthless in editing your pieces.

5. PUT DOWN THE PHONE. Don’t call editors unless they’ve given you the go ahead. A quick heads-up in an e-mail is easier to respond to and less intrusive.

6. RELAX ABOUT FINANCES. Hounding your editor or agent for payment comes across as desperate and unprofessional. Of course, if things are wrongly delayed, you should ask. But don’t pester.

7. HEED YOUR EDITORS. Particularly when you’re new at this writing gig, you’ll have to bend a lot to editorial direction. Chalk it up to learning the ropes. Later when you’re more confident in your writing, you can decide which editorial hills to die on.

8. DON’T HIT SEND. Before e-mailing a grievance, let it sit and percolate. Remember that e-mails can take on a terrible life of their own.

9. SEND COMPLIMENTARY E-MAILS AT WILL. On an up note, e-mails that praise something specific in a publishing house or magazine make the rounds too.

10. DO YOUR HOMEWORK. Instead of pestering an editor about his publication needs, research it. Study the magazine or publishing house you’re querying. Be informed. Simply knowing the writers’ guidelines will endear you to an editor.

11. BECOME A LIFELONG LEARNER OF THE CRAFT. Go to conferences. Read great books. Read outside your genre. Go to lectures. Take a class. Try new things. Grow, grow, grow.

12. NETWORK WIDELY. An author with a large network of professional relationships will positively build his career. Remember, though, if you’re seen as an HMA right out of the gate, it’s hard to change first impressions. Though the publishing machine may seem behemoth, it’s really a small industry.

13. HOLD YOUR TONGUE. If you didn’t like the way a particular editor treated you, go through the proper channels with her. Don’t spread your angst around the industry. If you spew, other editors will think, Hmmm, if he slanders that editor, will he slander me too?

14. BE PROFESSIONAL. When you’re in industry settings, dress the part. If your publishing house asks you to put up a website to promote your book, make it look professional. And hire a photographer to take your picture.

15. DON’T KISS UP. People know when you’re being nice for the sake of getting something in return. If you want to scratch an editor’s back, go ahead, but not with the motivation of getting something in return.

16. BE PATIENT. Editors and agents are terribly busy and often won’t get back to you on your timetable. Accept that. This goes for editorial direction too. If you receive edits that initially make you angry or defensive, wait and write back when your emotions are in check.

17. START SMALL. Everyone has to begin somewhere. If you’re new to publishing, revel in not having pressing deadlines. Use this time to become a better writer.

18. ABOVE ALL, BE HUMBLE. Here’s an irony: Usually those bursting with themselves are new authors thinking they’re God’s gift to the literary world. Established authors have learned that success in publishing is hard to measure, that talent takes guts and work and sweat, and that when they heed editorial feedback, they’ll grow.

Here is the link to the article if you would like to see the source:
http://writersdigest.com/article/dont-be-a-writing-diva/

Have a great Friday!

C~

One of those days

I believe the approaching full moon has been playing it's tricks on me. I don't even have to look at the calander to know when it is approaching. *sigh* I become this insomniac that can't concentrate on anything. When I do sleep it's always an unfit and unrestful state that I wish would just leave me alone. What's worse, I can't even sit still long enough to get anything done. *deep breath* So, I've made a cake, cleaned house, and played with the puppy. I've also done something I've been dreading. My daughter has to have 4 or 5 teeth pulled before she has her braces put on. I don't know why I am taking this so personal. Well, yes I do. I had to have it done, too. I just see it from a mother's point of view now and I am feeling more emotional about it then my daughter. She is trumpted up and says let's get on with it. So, I made the appointment today. Her teeth need to be fixed so she can show the world the beautiful smile that reflects the beauty of her spirit.

Anyway, that is how my day has started. I'm trying to work at making it a more positive one. : P

Happy Tuesday!

C~

Funny

I have the flu and am caring for my ill family as well, so I don't have anything really coherent to say! Enjoy a funny on me!!



Little April was not the best student in Sunday school. Usually she slept through the class.
One day the teacher tried to catch little April out to see if she was paying attention in class. She called on her while she was napping.

'Tell me, April, who created the universe?'

When April didn't stir, little Johnny, a boy seated in the chair behind her, took a pen and jabbed her in the rear.
GOD ALMIGHTY!' shouted April and the teacher said, 'Very good,' and April fell back asleep.

A while later the teacher asked April, 'Who is our Lord and Saviour,'
But April didn't even stir from her slumber.
Once again, Johnny came to the rescue and stuck her again.

'JESUS CHRIST!' shouted April and the teacher said, 'Very good,' And April fell back asleep.

Then the teacher asked April a third question. 'What did Eve say to Adam after she had their twenty-third child?'

And again, Johnny jabbed her with the pen. This time April jumped up and shouted, 'IF YOU STICK THAT F###ING THING IN ME ONE MORE TIME, I'LL BREAK IT IN HALF AND STICK IT UP YOUR A*SE!'

The Teacher fainted.

Funny Scuba Cat

I don't know how many of you have seen this commercial on the Discovery Channel, but it has struck such a funny chord with our family, that I have to post the YouTube of it AND the clip that explains how the cat and dog love to go swimming and scuba diving. I just think it's so funny!!

So, here it is:



AND here is the clip with the owner explaining how the cat loves water. Brilliant, I love it!!



Happy Sunday!

C~

The Emerald Morning

Finally, FINALLY my rain came back.
I don't write very well when it's sunny out. My inspiration to type at the computer seems to go out the window and my garden calls me out. But I will admit, even though I'm not sitting and pecking away at the keyboard, I am out digging and turning my story plot lines while I am relocating weeds to my compost pile and destroying slug habitats. They also get relocated to the compost pile where they can eat whatever they want.
I know this is the verge of the Fourth of July holiday. I am expecting to get that phone call, any minute now, from my FIL asking why I did this to the weather. hehe He teases about witchly prowess being able to do such things. lol As if. I just enjoy celebrating when it does happen.
So, this morning, my world is awash in Emerald. The leaves of all shapes and sizes are glistening and clean of dust. The blackberry blossoms are crisp white contrast, and the air is clear with no pollen. I have the windows open to let the cool air pass through the house. The rain has paused and the Robins are warbling their joy. Little Hummingbirds, who live in my snowball tree, are buzzing up to the feeders, and my old Mama Kitty is venturing off the porch to be sure her world is as she left it. The chickens are scratching for bugs that have wandered into their pen. My rooster, Nutsy, hasn't even crowed at the rain this morning. I believe he is welcoming it today. Usually he won't stop crowing at the wet, because he gets tired of it. He absolutely detests the snow and won't come out of the coop. He's no dummy, the heat lamp is right over the perch and he stays with the hens. Often behind them when there is danger. lol My brave Nutsy.
I'm hoping the wild rabbit comes out to visit today, and I'm hoping to see the young buck that comes close as well. He is very unafraid and used to all of us. So he watches us and we watch him. A very compatible relationship, I think.

So, today I am going to get a few things the Muse is urging on Blood's Price and this afternoon I plan to work on some of my edits for Eden at Twilight. I say 'some' and know that it means all. I get a little obsessed and can't stand to see a job unfinished.

I hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth!! Enjoy celebrating life, if you aren't from the US!!

C~

Wandering Musings

Well, so much for keeping up with blogging. Good thing I don't write books and stories the same way. Actually, I've been so busy writing and working with my editor on starting edits, I have completely lost track of time! I was out browsing blogs from fellow authors the other day, and found one that had a really nice blog template. So, I found a good one for myself. I think if I give my blog a fresh look, maybe it will help my brain get into it more. Who knows though. Things have just been so busy, I just plain forget!! SO, here is another attempt at using my blog for something more then just a dump for my own promo.

This brings up a very real question for me. Promo. I am very new to this whole publishing business. My first book was accepted by Liquid Silver Books before I even knew much about ebooks at all. So, I've been learing with a little help from my friends, who have been so gracious in helping me learn some of the ins and outs. Here is what I've found to be the most important things, when it comes to getting your name out there:

1. Write prolifically. Get as much out there as you can.
2. Get your book in for reviews!
3. Participate in interviews and other's blogs.
Ok, this is where I start getting hung up. I don't like talking about myself, nor do I know how to blog very well. So, this is where fail at self promotion. I have no ego, no self confidence when it comes to this. So, this is a thing I have to struggle with to learn. I always seem to say the wrong thing at the worst times. My biggest question is: How the hell do I know if my writing is hot, or even good, for that matter. I've had some very good reviews, don't get me wrong. I've even had a reviewer request a second book for Thief of a Goddess Heart. Can't go wrong with that!

I guess I'm my own worst critic and I'm learning. I still have so much to learn that I don't know if I'll ever see the top. But then, I know that where I am at now is a good place. I know that there are those out there that would love to be in my shoes. Sorry, I love being in my shoes too much to give that up. : ) I guess half of the joy of getting to the mountain top, is the journey and I'm going to enjoy getting there. Even if it kills me.

I think I'm going to set a couple of goals for myself here, to see if it will help my promo efforts. I'm going to sign up with a couple of forums I've been looking at. Maybe that will help me. It's time to put my face up to the sun and sprout some roots to grow a little. I constantly have to remind myself to stick with my chosen path and remember to be true to thine self.

Happy Wednesday!!

SOLD!!

I couldn't be happier. I sold my novel, Eden At Twilight to The Wild Rose Press. I just signed the contract this afternoon and put it in the mail. I'm pretty happy about that! :D

Here is the blurb and an unedited excerpt:

Blurb:

EDEN AT TWILIGHT is the story of Lily, a woman who wants love, and Leaf, the man who risks it all to love her.

Lily Moore is an ordinary accountant who works long hard hours, leaving room for little else. After strange occurrences begin haunting her, she’s convinced by a motherly friend to take a vacation in Scotland. While there, she meets the man of her dreams, a handsome stranger with shifting hazel eyes.

Leaf falls for Lily the moment he sees her, love at first sight. Never has a woman taken his heart so quickly. When trouble stirs and threatens her, he stands by her side, traveling through time and dimension to reclaim her from a deadly Drow leader. Lily has no choice but to trust him and hope his strength will pull them through. But is his strength alone enough?



Excerpt:

Lily was glad when the plane ride was over with, as the shuttle pulled into the drive of the cottage. The feeling of awe surrounded her, as if she was entering into the picture on her post card. After paying the driver and stepping from the car, she stood looking around in an enthralled stupor. The scents, sounds, everything was just as her imagination had promised it would be. Shading her eyes against the late afternoon sunshine, she just couldn’t help standing motionless, looking at her dream come true. She finally moved to pick up her luggage without taking her eyes from the grand Cottage before her. It was as if she were afraid it would disappear before she could get inside, if she took her eyes from it. Reaching down, she fumbled for the handle of her suitcase, her fingers meeting the warmth of a large hand. Her attention suddenly snapped from the scenery unfolding before her and back to reality. A reality snagged straight from her dreams. Standing in front of her was a kilt-clad man waiting with her luggage in hand. Her eyes wandered upward and she unconsciously pressed her hand over her heart when her gaze locked into his sharp, hazel green eyes. Yellow flecks, hypnotically kept hers transfixed for a brief moment before she could tear them away. She blinked and her heart stood still, time seemed to have stopped.
“I’m Leaf,” he held out his free hand to her. “I’m the caretaker here at the Country Cottage.”
Lily took his hand in hers and felt it wrapped in calloused warmth, “I’m Lily,” she breathed. Unwarranted chills chased over her skin from his touch. The thick burr of a Scotsman lilted in his voice and a warm smile curled the edges of his lips, making deep dimples at the corners. A rough dark scrub of stubble blended into wild sand colored, wavy hair that stopped just past his shoulders. Releasing her hand, he turned to pick up her bags. The flex of muscle pulled his plain white tee shirt taut, and she felt her breath catch when his kilt rode up the back of thick, stout thighs and white socks peeked out from the tops of his tall work boots. He turned and waited for her with baggage in hand. Picking up her smaller bags, she followed quietly, praying he hadn’t noticed her ogling him as she blinked her eyes and physically tried to will her heart to slow.

Exciting New Things!

New Series in Cactus Rose Opens Today

"Earth Songs"

The stories can be set anywhere in the United States among any Native
American tribe, but must take place between the years 1870 and 1890.

Each story must involve a Native American hero, heroine, or both.
Historical accuracy is essential.

Cactus Rose is looking for believable stories with fully developed
characters and happily ever after endings.

Stories must be 40K or less. This brand new series is now open for
submissions. Please send query and synopsis in your email to
queryus@thewildrose press.comThis e-mail address is being protected
from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it and indicate
that it is for the Earth Songs Series in your email.


I just cannot tell you how exciting it was for me to open my mail this morning and have this note in from my publisher, The Wild Rose Press. Sadly, Blood's Price is erotic, so it won't be going to this line, but I have another story brewing. One that will fit the bill perfectly! EEEE! I'm just so excited to do this one!

Off I go to finish Blood's Price, so I can get at this next one!

C~

Updates!

I've spent the morning updating my website and MySpace! Come look at the changes I've made! I've posted a photo of me and my favorite horse, Scooter on my Bio page at www.freewebs.com/colleenlove !

Have a great Holiday!

C~

Eden at Twilight inspiration

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When I was writing Eden at Twilight, I used alot of music as my influence. Ok, when I write anything, music is always a heavy influence to get the mood right and everything. Well, I found this YouTube while I was writing Eden at Twilight, and it was so... well, so right on, I couldn't get it out of my mind. The music just haunts me and I love it so much I have to keep it. So, I'm putting it here as my keeper, so I don't have to go seaching for it every time I'd like to see it. I haven't had the pleasure of seeing this film yet, but obviously, I'm a huge Viggo fan, and Gweneth is just stunning. : )

Happy Thursday!

Inspiration

I found this image while doing a bit of research on this latest project I'm working on titled Blood's Price.
I wish I knew who the artist was, so I could thank the person! He is the exact image my imagination conjured of my latest warrior, Spirit Walker. Just look at the beautiful glower.

Well, happy Wednesday.

Blessed Be...
C~

Fun Blog!

Today Denyse Bridger has Lainey Bancroft guest blogging. She has the best topic up about falling in love with the characters you write. Guilty as charged. If you have a moment, sneak over and have a peek!

http://fantasy-pages.blogspot.com/

Have a great Friday Eve!!

C~

Shake the Blanket

Awrighty,
Yesterday, I dug into edits. After reading the first page, I realized this is going to take more time then I want to put into it at the moment. See, I have a trilogy nearly finished, a Merman story half written and serious notes on a fantasy with some chapters written. I want to finish those and do a complete rewrite of Gatekeepers. That way I don't have angry character voices in my head yelling because I put one that needs so much work ahead of them! lol... I laugh, but I know I will be kept awake if I do that.

I've already been going over the girl pirate fantasy I started writing the beginning last summer, before the distraction of Eden at Twilight. I am going to finish this project next. I believe each of the 3 books will stay novella in size. I say that and then they blossom into novels. Eh, thats ok. I love to be descriptive and consume my readers as much as possible. After all, what fun is reading if you can't escape into their world?? huh HUH?? I know I hate dry, mundane reading. I need good descriptive action. I don't believe in those lulls in the story. Boring!!

Well, since I dont post any details about my projects (its bad luck), I'm going to get busy!

Happy Sunday Everyone!

CL~

Edits

Buried at PhotoCasket.com

I have this posted over on MySpace, but it is such an inspiration and I'm a visual person. This picture is an exact likeness of one of the scenes in the novel I'm about to dive into and re-edit. It's simply gorgeous in my opinion.

This story is importaint to me, why? Because it is my first and I am an over obsessive driven individual. But more then that I've been told by my editors that the story is very good. The writing just needs some work. So, I've set it aside, written two more books to gain knowledge and practice and now, I'm diving back into it.
I love this story, and I think it has so many redeeming qualities that I'm rolling up my sleeves and going to go for it. Only now, I'm armed with some editing skills and understand some of what is broken and needs fixing in the writing. I also understand this baby is going to need some hard work.
One of the first things I'm doing is changing the title. I need to preverbially shake the blanket and start new.

So, that is what I will be working on today, and for the next several weeks!

Happy Saturday!

CL~

Finished!

This is a lovely picture I found, it represents the character in my novel, Leaf, pretty well!

Done, finished, kaput. I've officially finished my newest novel, titled Eden at Twilight, and it's in the capable hands of my Crit partner. Rough it up, Christine, give it what for. See? I guess I am a sadist. hehe I'm just happy to have it off my plate and finished. It's nice to have another pair of capable eyes go over it.
I am my own worst critic, I think when I switch gears from writer to reader/critic I'm pretty picky, but, its so nice to have those extra eyes!

Thank you Christine!

Now to start the synopsis and such, which I will post when I'm finished. I don't mind writing them! Actually I like the challenge of finding those high points and fitting them into a thimble. It's a great challenge! : )

Happy Friday!

CL~

Springtime Beauty in Old Man Winter's Grip

We have received this year's first snow! All of the Daffodils, Crocus, Snow Drops, Tulips and Prim Roses have been blooming, and are now buried. It was even mid to upper 50's in our area for a few days and now we have snow... So much for an early gardening start. Glad I hadn't yet!!
I received the gift of seeing a Hummingbird on my birthday on the 7Th! I also found a tiny little nest lined with rabbit fur that the wind had blown to the ground, so I rescued that. It looks like such a cozy little nest, too bad it didn't stay attached to the tree for some tiny little ones.
So, I've now filled the feeder and put it out, knowing where one had come searching, others will follow. I'm very glad I did because yesterday, a very tired and hungry little Rufus female came and actually sat and drank, and drank and drank. I have never ever seen a little hummingbird sit with its beak in the nectar cup for so long. Needless to say I was so glad I put it out for the poor little things.
Just now, I took my little dog out and scared one off. I know it will be back, but still feel bad I scared it.
So, I guess I'm the ruby gem in all of this vast white. It will be a lovely distraction to watch my little visitors come!

Well, my Scones are ready, I'm off to enjoy those as I watch the snow falling. I think that is the magic of Winter's Spell, it makes food taste so much better!! :D

Happy Sunday!
CL

Puppy Love

Here is a picture of the newest addition to our family. His name is Buddy and is just as sweet as he looks!!

Colleen

Perfect NW Day!

Well, it is definatly spring time here in the Pacific Northwest. I know this because it has moved from cold rain to warmer rain. :D

Its been a fun Easter morning. We are pagan, so my kids enjoy celebrating the beginning of spring time and Ostara with those fertile little bunnies and chicks! Actually, we don't have rabbits as pets, they are wild ones that visit our yard. My big 'ol mama kitty brought me a baby one, carried proper like a baby kitten, last spring. Luckily it was old enough to be out of the den. We had the pleasure of petting it before letting it go again.

I've been itching to get out in my garden to scratch around a bit, but better sense tells me to wait. Around here, we cannot start gardening until at least Mothers Day. Matter of a fact, I like to think of that as my gift, help in the garden. We are all gardeners in our family, so this is a fun activity for all of us. This year I'm hoping to expand and grow in size a little.

I got the things in the mail Mr. C ordered from Amazon for my birthday yesterday! The Gilded Tarot (I get a new deck for my birthday every year. It's my traditon. :D)
Tarot for the Greenwitch and Grimoire of a Greenwitch. I adore Ann Maura's writing and just feel so at home with her ways and the path she has created. It suits me and I find it inspiring. So, I'm looking forward to digging into that later on today. Well, maybe, if its in the cards, so to speak... lol.

Well, until then, I get to live in my stories. I have edits underway with Eden at Twilight, and have edits to do to another completed novel Gatekeepers of the Mists. Both are Urban Fantasy and I'm looking forward to completing them to get them off my plate, so to speak, and begin some new projects.

Well, happy Ostara everyone!

Colleen