Enjoying the Unique Flavors of Life

Platte River in Nebraska

2012-03-02T08:47:00.000-06:00

Just thought I'd share one of the beautiful sights of Nebraska.

This month along with great egg-cerpts see some pictures of the places I've visited recently. Just click on the picture tab above and see pictures from my latest trip to Santa Cruz.

RT- get out and explore a new place.

Have a great day,

Tina

My Pictures from Santa Cruz

2012-03-01T09:43:00.000-06:00

Mike and I hit the road and visited this interesting island.

Hit the picture link above to see some of the sights.

Have a great day,

Tina

Egg-cerpt from Jeff Gafford

2012-02-29T01:00:00.000-06:00

Amazon
Froogle
Smashwords.com
Barnes & Noble Nook

In a small townlike Summertown, it’s hard to do anything without just about everyone else knowing about it. Yet despite this fishbowl atmosphere, there is a secret being kept that will destroy lives and ultimately change the town forever.

Blurb:

Summertown is a little hamlet in Northern Arizona that accountant Jimmy Stone, a refugee from the big city of Phoenix, has called home for the last nine years. In that time, the biggest things to happen have been the day his first wife did him the favor of leaving him for another man and the day, two years later, when he married his current wife, Tara. He’s looking forward to giving his only daughter, Jessica the biggest wedding the town has ever seen, while at the same time helping Tara play matchmaker to the deputy marshal and the school principal. But the simple pleasures of living in a small vacation town will soon to be overshadowed by the airing of a shocking secret that has been kept by the family of a man everyone in town knows to avoid. By the end of the story, people will die, relationships will be ruined and the homey veneer of Summertown will be torn away to reveal the ugly prejudice that infests it.

Excerpts:

I started sprinting full-out, but that only lasted about ten paces or so. A bullet hit me in mid-stride that struck with such jarring force that it felt as if my entire body had been hit. I tumbled forward, unable to catch myself as I slammed face-first onto the forest floor. It was strange; I couldn’t feel anything and I found myself thinking about that, almost dispassionately, like an outside observer would. I felt the impact on my face when I fell, but nothing else. I couldn’t move or make a sound, but other than a kind of fuzzy headache that went from the base of my skull to the top of my head, I was thinking very clearly, trying to piece together what had just happened. The gritty pain of broken teeth and a smashed nose faded to nothing, and as I became enveloped in a feeling of disembodiment, I asked myself, Is this what dying is like? Am I already dead? Then I started thinking about my daughter Jessie and how I wanted to make sure she had everything she needed. I wanted to see my yet-to-be-born grandchildren. I wanted to tell my wife I was sorry for being a fool, that I loved her; so many things left unsaid, undone.

How did I get here? I asked whoever was out there. I’m just a small-town accountant. I don’t have an enemy in the world that I know of. This wasn’t my fight. How did I get pulled into this?

Life had been so quiet and simple for so many years in Summertown that it was hard to imagine things could ever go this wrong. As my mind hovered within the limp shell that had been my body, I looked back through recent memories to piece together where the craziness started.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------*******************************************

“I KNEW IT!” She screamed, half in victory, half in bloodlust. She looked ready to kill me, along with whomever the voices in her head were telling her I was fooling around with. This was the perfect ending to a glorious day, and I had had enough.

'You knew what?” I spat. It caught her off guard, but just for a split second. She came back as hard-nosed as ever.

“I knew you had something going on the side,” she said. She was starting to tear up, but she forced herself to continue. She wasn’t going to give me the satisfaction of making her cry. “These past few weeks you’ve been distant, your mind somewhere else every time I tried to talk to you. When I came in from that lingerie shop you asked about Gina,” she said this last like a little girl taunting someone in the playground, “and didn’t say anything about what I bought or if you could see it on me or anything!” I tried to get a word in but she kept going, building up steam all the while.

“And you keep hanging out at the café, flirting with Min right in front of her husband. How sick is that!?” She was expending so much energy spewing her venom that she had to pause to take in a deep breath. I took this opportunity to respond while I could.

“Are you insane, or menopausal or both?” Perhaps not the best way of defusing a volatile situation, but I couldn’t help it, it just came out of my mouth before I could stop myself.

“Don’t you dare try to make this about me, you bastard!”

I was speechless; she had never cursed before, at least not in front of me.

I started out trying to reason with her. “What on earth has you thinking I would ever play around on you?” Then I just had to throw more gas on the fire, “Do you actually think I’d want to take on more crapby hooking up with another lunatic like you? And how on earth can you possibly think that I flirt with Min? If I was looking for something on the side, I wouldn’t be chasing my best friend’s wife, especially when she’s every bit as nuts as the wack-job I’m married to!”

“Oh, you son-of-a—“

“And don’t cuss at me!”

“Don’t try that ‘righteous indignation’ act with me!” she screamed so loud I was sure the neighbors could hear every word. “You were seen in Payson today, with a girl half your age in your arms, and I know who it was, so don’t try to tell me you were with Jessie!” Oh, my Lord. I couldn’t even go out of town without the rumor mill grinding out lies. My anger subsided as I looked at Tara, seeing the look of betrayal on her face. If our roles were reversed, I would feel the same way she did right now.

I sighed, then in a lower voice I replied, “Yes, I was with Pam Chapman, but we weren’t in a lovers’ embrace, no matter what you may have heard.”

“Liar,” she accused again, this time with a little less conviction.

“You’re the liar!” I countered. “You claim I don’t notice you when you know full well I can’t take my eyes off of you! You claim I flirt with other women when you know I can’t keep my hands off of you! What on earth has given you the ridiculous idea that I could ever want anyone but you, when you’re all I ever wanted?” Risking a swift knee to the pills, I walked over and put a hand on each of her shoulders and pulled her towards me. She resisted by placing her hands on my chest and pushing, but she resisted less and less until she wrapped her arms around me and buried her face against me.

When she finally spoke, her voice was so small that I almost didn’t hear. “Did you mean that?”

“Which part? That you’re insane or that I’m hopelessly in love with you?”

She mulled that one over. “The second one.”

“Every word.” That was close. I meant the first part, too.

She looked up at me, challenging. “Prove it.”

Well, a man’s got to do what a man’s got to do. Now, if she could just keep from changing personalities until morning…

------------------------------------------------*******************************

Thanks Jeff, for sharing.

Tina

Egg-cerpt from Kathy Reinhart

2012-02-28T01:39:00.000-06:00

Kathy Reinhart, author of LilyWhite Lies

Blurb:

Meg Embry has finally faced up to the fact that the shinehas worn off her engagement ring, her family members are the equivalent ofcomfortable strangers and her dreams are running faster than she is. Change isimminent, but where does she begin?

With the support of her two closest friends, one who’ll makeher laugh and one who’ll let her cry, Meg faces life head on and learns thatsometimes, love, family and betrayal are bound together by lily white lies.

Excerpt:

I bit down on my lip as the door handle slowly turned. Thedoor opened and a big-bosomed woman in a simple gray dress squealed withdelight. “Connor, my boy. Come here and give me a hug. Why do you wait so longbetween visits?”

Con wrapped his arms around the woman’s waist, giving herwhat she requested. Turning to me, he said, “Meg, this is Ivory…” the affectionin his eyes was apparent as he continued, “She’s been like a second mother tome and the only person—other than my grandmother—who could put up with Jokerfor any length of time.”

Ivory let out a belly laugh. “The ornery one. Yes, well,he’s an acquired taste.” She extended her hand. “Ivory Steck, I’m thehousekeeper here, and you are?”

Taking her hand, I replied, “Meg. Meg Embry.”

“Embry?” Turning her attention to Con, she asked, “Is yourgrandfather expecting you… better yet, is your grandfather expecting her?”

Offering a mischievous smile, Con answered, “I thought we’dsurprise him.”

Ivory shook her head and motioned us in. “Oh, you will. Theman’s over seventy-years-old, you may just be dishing up his last surprise.”

I found her remark disturbing and turned to Con forreassurance. He smiled and shook his head at Ivory.

“Mom used to say there wasn’t enough arsenic in the world tokill him off so I wouldn’t worry about this fazing him.”

Ivory let out another full belly laugh causing her largechest to vibrate, and then led us from the foyer, down a long hall.

The house was enormous with pressed tin ceilings that had tobe at least twelve feet high, an open staircase that was a solid sex feet wideand plank flooring covered with enough lacquer to reflect the light thatstreamed through the floor to ceiling windows. Carved in intricate detail, thewoodwork was commonplace in a house built over a century ago. Antique furniturefilled every corner of every room and framed artwork hung on the walls.

The hallway ended at a set of French doors, the glass panescovered by white lace curtains. Ivory stopped I n front of the doors, turnedtoward us, and said, “Good luck,” as she knocked twice.

I heard, “What is it?” barked out from behind the door.

Ivory appeared unaffected by his rudeness. “Your grandson ishere to visit. Shall I send him in?”

“Grandson? It’s been so damn long since I’ve seen the boy; Ialmost forgot I had one. Yeah, get him on in here.”

Ivory opened the door, offering a sympathetic smile.

Con patted her arm and whispered, “Don’t worry Ivory. I’llget her out before he hurts her.”

I felt my breath catch in my throat. What had I gotten myselfin to? I looked up in time to catch Con wink at Ivory and let out the breathI’d been holding.

About the author:

Kathy Reinhart, restauranteur turned authorof 3 novels, including the award-winning ‘Lily White Lies’ lives insouthern Pennsylvania where aside from writing, she enjoys interacting withother authors on her blog ‘Ink Drop Interviews’, cooking, horses, travel, butmost of all, spending time with her granddaughters, Joonie & the LittleOne.

Visit Kathy at

Blog: www.inkdropinterviews.com

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Lily-White-Lies-Kathy-Reinhart/dp/0971327882/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1328492163&sr=8-1

Website: www.kathyreinhart.com (Under ‘heavy’ construction)

Egg-cerpt Exchange with Lizzie Starr

2012-02-27T01:30:00.000-06:00

Keltic Flight

Double Keltic Triad: Book Three

To the Faerie Gentry of the Otherworld, the fairy wee folk are but a myth and legend. Until the fairy Korin falls in love with a hal-Gentry maid. Foced to bargain with an evil king to woo her, he risks discovery, and his life, to fulfill the conditions. Book Three of the Double Keltic Triad

Korin Goodfellow loves the Gentry maid, Nanceen. In order to woo her, Korin bargains with his evil king, who sets seemingly impossible tasks. The first? She must believe in him.

But the folk of Faerie, the Gentry, don't believe in the odd assortment of beings who make up the wee folk. And definitely not in fairies.

Nanceen doesn't know what she believes. Until Korin calls to her, then makes his way into her world, becoming a wingless man she can see, touch, believe in.

But will the rat king's conditions drive a wedge between them, or force Korin to confrontation, to battle, into risking his life for love?

Excerpt:

Korin lay back. The leaf dipped with his movement as he reached to one side and snatched at the length of a nearby blade of grass. He tugged until a bit broke off, stuck the end in his mouth, and chewed thoughtfully. Floating high above him, clouds filled the clear sky. Their flat, gray color matched his mood. He sighed and turned to his side, propped his head on one hand and stretched his wings.

As much as he hated to admit it, the first of his king’s conditions would perhaps be the hardest to meet. It was the only clear requirement listed on the parchment. She must believe in him.

Korin tossed the shredded stem away. There had been a time long ago, even to the fairy, when both humans and the gentry readily believed in the smallest of the sidhe. Even after the human’s religious beliefs forced the gentry underground, then to the Otherworld, the diminutive fairy were honored, or at least remembered, with sweet honey cakes and fresh milk. Korin smacked his lips. It had been a long time since he’d tasted the creamy white ambrosia of milk.

Until humans began to blame the wee folk for their troubles. When aided by the priests, their beliefs in fairies disappeared. But how had the breach with the gentry occurred? Even the legends skirted the issue. There was no history to help him, and Korin was unsure how to proceed. Without Nanceen’s belief in him, fulfilling any of the other conditions would be useless.

Useless. That’s what he was. The niggling doubt became a surety. Somehow, the Fir Dhaerrig had manipulated him. But at what cost?

Korin flopped to his back, wincing as he folded an edge of one wing under him. He adjusted his position and covered his eyes with one forearm. There had to be a way to make Nanceen--no, he could not make her do anything. He would find a way to convince her of his reality. And the existence of his people. One word flashed through his mind. Over and over until the rapid flashes burned behind his closed eyelids. How?

A shadow covered him, cooling his skin. Cautious, he lifted his arm from his eyes and opened them. A face loomed over him. Startled, he scrambled to a sitting position and scooted back until he pressed against the plant stem.

“Hi, bu’fly man.”

The child’s whisper sent waves of relief over him. Occasionally there were children who saw fairies, until adults taught the belief out of them. Sadness followed the relief. If children could only retain their beliefs, perhaps the breach between races would be healed. And he wouldn’t be fighting to claim love from one of the gentry.

A chubby finger moved closer and he held still. Gently, the child touched the tip of one wing and giggled. “Pretty.”

“I thank you, child. How are you called?” At the confusion in her dark brown eyes, Korin asked, “What is your name?”

The rosebud mouth formed a silent ‘oh’. “I’m not supposed to talk to strangers.” She giggled again. The clear sound filled Korin with a strange hope. “Who’re you?”

“I am Korin, young mistress.” He rose, bowed deeply, then spread his wings to their fullest.

“Bu’fly man. Kor’n.”

Korin winced at the childish lisping of his name, but cast a brilliant smile to the engaging girl. “Kor-in, young mistress. Are you able to say Kor-in?”

“Kor’n.” Dark brows drew together as she concentrated in forming her mouth around the syllables of his name. “Kor-in.”

A deep chuckle rose from Korin. “You may call me bu’fly man if you wish.”

art nouveau male fairy brooch by Sliver b3

Visit *lizzie's blog at starrwords

Find out more about Keltic Flight and the tales of the Double Keltic Triad:

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Smashwords

Thank you, Lizzie for stopping,

Tina

Egg-cerpt with Sherry Gloag

2012-02-26T01:00:00.000-06:00

His Chosen Bride

Blurb:

Prince Henri Gasquetis happy to let his father, the king, choose his bride for him until he meetsMonica Latimer.

MonicaLatimer is not prepared to risk letting any man close enough to learn about herGift. A gift that normally has men running for the hills when they find outabout it.

Excerpt:

She lost track of time until the flames caught her attention once more.They flickered from orange to gold, to silver, to white.

A flurry of snowflakes masked the flames and for a second Monica watchedthe most beautiful, pristine snow-scene she’d ever seen. Her lips curved inlonging. How she’d love to get a toboggan and slide down that slope. She knewwhere it was, and had done just that many times in her childhood, first withher parents and then, in clandestine manner, with her brother. Sneaking an oldtin tray from the back of her mother’s walk-in pantry, she’d then grabbedBilly’s hand and they’d rushed out the back gate, heading for the lakesidetrack that led up into the hills.

Darkness, dense and thick with grief dropped over the scene. Startledand disconcerted by the strength of emotion emanating from the vision Monicashifted to her knees, ready to stand, when a voice, a deep male voice, sharpwith fear called out her name.
“Monica!”

She knew she’d never heard the voice before, and yet—it was as familiarto her as the image she saw in her mirror each morning.

“Help me, Monica.”

Desperate for more clues, she searched the darkness within the flamesuntil it sputtered and faded. With a curse she jumped up and ran for the phone.With her outstretched hand hovering over it she halted and let her hand drop toher side once more. What could she say? What would the police or rescue teamthink of her if she called them and told them she’d seen a vision of a man indistress?

They’d laugh in her face and classify her as a lunatic. Well, maybe not.It wouldn’t be the first time she’d contacted them with positive informationbut something—an instinctive gut reaction told her what she’d seen this timehadn’t happened yet.

http://www.astraeapress.com/#ecwid:category=1651593&mode=product&product=9472803

http://www.amazon.com/His-Chosen-Bride-ebook/dp/B0079A7V9W/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_6/190-6871302-0103505

http://www.amazon.co.uk/His-Chosen-Bride-ebook/dp/B0079A7V9W

Egg-cerpt Exchange by Penelope Rivers

2012-02-25T02:00:00.000-06:00

In high school, Farrell was cruel toward Toyo Hayashi, the transfer student. Ten years later Farrell is in an abusive relationship with a man named Allen that cheats and lies, and he works a dead-end job with a terrible boss. All that is about to change, however, when he gets hired on at a new wing of his company. Unfortunately, the last thing that he expects is that his new boss is none other than Toyo Hayashi, the boy that he used to bully. Farrell is determined to prove that he's changed, but will Toyo give him the chance?

http://peneloperiversreleases.weebly.com/
http://www.amirapress.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=66

This Day in History

2012-02-25T01:30:00.000-06:00

1890 - Reporter Nelly Bly circled the globe alone in 72 days.

Read about the woman at
http://www.answers.com/topic/nellie-bly

Another amazing women - Wow, we rock.

Egg-cerpt Exchange with Susan Wingate

2012-02-24T01:00:00.000-06:00

Susan Wingate’s DROWNING

Nabs #1 Amazon Bestseller spot AND wins first place!

In the category of drama in the 2011 Forward National Literature Award.

Earlier this year, DROWNING, had won an award as a finalist in the 2011 International Book Awards.

What people have said about Wingate’s writing & “Drowning”–

“Simply put, Susan Wingate is a master of the written word.” -Joshua Graham, bestselling, award-winning author of “Darkroom” and “Beyond Justice”
“A vivid voice” -Jennifer (St. Martin’s Press)

“…a character of memorable proportions emerges, and we have a new heroine to cheer on and to embrace.” -Phyllis Schieber

“At turns lyrical and touching, you’ll find this an exercise in emotion and intimacy. Highly recommended.” - Michael Angel (author of bestselling fantasy novel, “The Detective & The Unicorn”)

“a powerful novel that is designed to show the conflicts as well as the complex inner workings of human nature.” - author, Veronica Esagui

“A sensitive tale of love struggling to unwind Taut narrative Crisp dialogue” -Michelle James (author)

“A very insightful and moving book it’s a page-turner.” -Michael Conrad

“A staff pick and a favorite.” -Roberts Press

Available in paperback at: Roberts Press, 324 pages, ISBN: 9780615448121
Available on in eBook format AND paperback through:
Amazon.com,
Barnes&Noble.com, &
Smashwords.com
Susan Wingate is the Author/Instructor of the very popular writing workshop, “Muscle-up the Gut of Your Story: How to Write the Novel”
This award-winning novel is written in picaresque of or relating to a type of fiction in which the hero, a rogue, goes through a series of episodic adventures. [The picaresque] originated in Spain in the 16th century. “Even with her mother’s death days away, even as her marriage is falling apart, Euly Winger leaves home, returning to the place she grew up in order to uncover a dark secret about her family’s past.” A suspenseful and inspirational read, DROWNING, is a story of love and redemption, loss and forgiveness. Categorized as mainstream contemporary women’s fiction.

DROWNING
by Susan Wingate

Prologue – Child’s Play

I took my last breath on a blistering hot day but it felt cool. The second my brother pushed me in, when my feet left the deck, I reacted – my body curving and twisting into correct formation and diving with my fingertips first into the sweet welcome contrast of the pool’s frigid water. Young bodies are like that – supple and quick to respond.

He didn’t get away with it. He didn’t win. See, I decided to play a trick on him for pushing me.

Each millimeter, every dry molecule of my skin became drenched as I dove beneath the surface, deep, deeper to the bottom. I stayed down longer than necessary and the funny thing was? It made me happy down there.

A beating drum pounded my chest with music

from the party above and voices sounding like Charlie Brown’s cartoon mother saying wah wah wah, swallowed up their words and muffled through a filter of water.

After deciding my time spent below had been long enough, I pushed off the scratchy surface of the pool but there were so many people floating, dog- paddling, coursing the length of the pool, re- surfacing, it reminded me of a fantastical dance, maybe one performed only in heaven, hanging over my head. But, I knew I could hold my breath a long time. We had breath-holding-contests in the shallow end of our pool, at home, all the time.

To read more of Susan’s “Drowning,” go to her website at: www.susanwingate.com.

“Drowning” and all of Susan’s books are available at the following online bookstores:

At Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Susan-Wingate/e/B003CMMERK/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1329863256&sr=8-1

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/susan-wingate

http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/authorsusanwingate

Egg-cerpt Exchange with Zrinka Jelic

2012-02-23T01:45:00.000-06:00

Thankyou for having me here today as your Egg-cerpt exchanger. My debut novel“Bonded by Crimson” has been released on January 28^th, and it isavailable in all formats at Black OpalBooks, Amazon,Smashwords, Barnes& Noble

AUTHOR’S BIO - ZrinkaJelic lives in Ontario, Canada, with her husband and two children. A member ofthe Romance Writers of America and its chapter Fantasy Futuristic&Paranormal, as well as Savvy Authors, she writes contemporaryfiction—which leans toward the paranormal—and adds a pinch of history. Hercharacters come from all walks of life, and although she prefers red, romancecomes in many colors. Given Jelic’s love for her native Croatia and theAdriatic Sea, her characters usually find themselves dealing with a fair amountof sunshine, but that’s about the only break they get. “Alas,” Jelic says, witha grin. “Some rain must fall in everyone’s life.”

BLURB

Love isn’t in the cards for her…

Afterher short failed marriage, Kate tries to rebuild her life and takes a positionas a nanny to three small boys. She quickly grows to love them, but theirfather, terrifies her, while igniting a passion she didn’t know she possessed.Disturbed by his distant manner with his sons, Kate struggles to make him moreinvolved in the boys’ daily lives. Her efforts are mysteriously supported by anentity that cannot really exist. Or can she? And if she does exist, is shereally trying to help Kate, or just take over her body?

But when he deals the hand, all betsare off…

Sixyears after his beloved wife passed away, Matthias is still trying to becomethe father she wanted him to be. Not an easy task for a three-centuries-oldimmortal. His search for the ultimate nanny ends when Kate Rokov stumbles tohis home and into his arms. The immediate attraction he feels for her seemslike a betrayal of his dead wife, a love he’s harboured for over three hundredyears. But when Kate is stalked by a deadly stranger, life he clung to in thepast begins to crumble and break down. Can Matthias learn to trust and to loveagain in time to save his family from disaster, or will his stubborn pridedestroy everything worth living for?

EXCERPT

Heclaimed to be immortal, but that was ridiculous...wasn’t it?

Kate’s heart hammered. Theexperience seemed so real. A low moan escaped her and she bit her lip. Soonwarmth surged through her, causing her body to go limp. Her legs gave wayunderneath her, but Matthias—or whoever this man claimed to be now—wrapped hisarm around her waist. His sweet, musky scent clung to her. Ecstasy filled herand she felt as if she hovered in the air. If he intended to kill her likethis, she could imagine no better way to die. A voice echoed through her mind,speaking of undying love in centuries old Croatian.

“Wake up,” he whispered closeto her ear, his strong arms still locked around her.

“I don’t want to.” Her headwobbled, exuberant with sheer happiness, a kind she had never experiencedbefore.

“You must.” He stroked herhair with tender fingers. “Wake up now.”

“No. I want to stay like this.Forever.” She focused on his handsome face staring at her through her haze.

His smooth cheek brushedagainst hers. “Me too, but you must wake.”

The fog lifted and his image appeared,clearly now. She blinked once. Twice. What had happened? She pushed away fromhim and flattened her back against the wall.

“You, you—”

“You,” he said, pointing ather, “asked for proof.”

Places to find Zrinka

Contact me @: www.bondedbycrimson.blogspot.com

http://zrinkajelicromanceauthor.wordpress.com/

First Egg-cerpt from Shannon Donnelly

2012-02-22T01:00:00.000-06:00

PATHS OF DESIRE

ISBN: 978-0-9831423-9-3

http://shannondonnelly.com/2012/01/20/paths-of-desire-a-regency-historical-romance/

OnAmazon Kindle

OnBN Nook

AtSmashwords

With toomany secrets in her past, and too little future as an actress, Theodosia Newellwants one thing more than all else—security. She’s seen her mother abandoned,her younger brother die, and she’s vowed never to be poor. But then her path crossesthat of a man who tempts her to abandon caution and all thought for the futurefor a passionate affair. Can she find the courage to break from her deepestfears? And will her love prove enough to save them both?

Bornwith a soul for adventure, David Llewellyn cannot resist a challenge—and hisenthusiasm for life is as magnetic as his personality. But two women share hislife, and only one can be his. Will his stubborn refusal to make a choicebetween them lead him to lose everything? Or will he find, in the journey tothe lost city he dreams of discovering, a path to a deeper love than he thoughtpossible?

For tenyears, the affair between David and Thea goes from passion to love. Lives arechanged. Secrets come out. Marriagesend. And new ones begin. Through it all, the desire of two strong-willed peoplelead them to clash, and to eventually find their own path--to each other and tofacing the need and love they share. From London to Italy to Syria, the Paths of Desire lead them on ajourney they must make together.

EXCERPT

Leaningforward, he cupped her face and kissed her, hard and deep. She held still underhis touch, but her lips parted, her tongue met his. Her hand stole up to clutchat his coat collar. He moved his hand from her face to her breast. Kissed heruntil he had no breath. He pulled away while he still could and leaned hisforehead against hers, breath mingling in matching ragged gasps.

“I don’tknow what you do to me—I’ve not looked at any woman in months. Not had one forlonger. I’d convinced myself I’d had no need for this.”

“I’m notdoing anything!”

“Youare—just by existing. I’d forgotten the joy of bringing a woman pleasure. I’dforgotten too much.”

She turnedaway and pulled her cloak tight. “I’m not looking for pleasure—I’m looking fora husband.” He gave a laugh, and she turned to him. “You wouldn’t laugh at alady who said as much—and you wouldn’t handle a lady as you have me!”

“No—thankmerciful heaven for that. But I want more than to touch you.”

“Goaway—and stay away! You...you’re a distraction! An arrogant, conceiteddistraction. And—”

He caughther wrist. “Don’t lie to me. Don’t lie to yourself. This doesn’t end herebetween us.”

Come on Along and Do the Egg-cerpt Exchange

2012-02-21T01:00:00.000-06:00

Two authors agree to exchange information about their books. Each post the information on their blogsite with picture of the book, blurb, excerpt, links to other author's site and buy links to the book.

Arrange the dates ahead of time and exchange information via email.

I then put it on my blogspot site which is then feed into Facebook and Google +. In exchange you do the same for me by putting my information on your blog sites. It’s a great way to promote your book.

The one thing to remember is these are general access sites so the excerpts have to be less graphic.

Contact me today to reserve your date -- tina9561(at)yahoo.com

( I only post one book a day and I have a list on my blogsite of the authors participating with a link to their site.)

Check out my awesome guest on the right hand side of my blog.

Tina
http://www.tinagayle.net/

MMI - Never Give Up

2012-02-20T09:45:00.001-06:00

"When you feel like giving up, remember why you held on for so long in the first place."

~ Unknown

Also want to thank everyone who has bought my latest release -- I'm one step closer to sharing my story with the world.

Have a great day,

Tina

Love Winners

2012-02-18T14:43:00.002-06:00

I am happy to announce the winners of my latest release "The Unwilling Widow."

Winners are
bobbiec18
cherylstj
debby236us
menina.iscrazy
and RhondaD -- you commented on the post below but you didn't leave an email address. (Contact me.)

Thank you all for entering. I hope you enjoy my book.

Have a great weekend,

Tina

Release Date and an Interview With LASR

2012-02-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

To celebrate my released of "The Unwilling Widow," I'm doing a review today with LASR. Stop by and give it a gander. http://longandshortarchives.blogspot.com/

Available to day for 3.99.

Smashword-
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/133564?ref=tinagayle

Amazon -
http://www.amazon.com/Unwilling-Widow-Executives-Wives-ebook/dp/B007AARGPA/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1329493692&sr=1-1

Hope you enjoy,

Tina

One Day Away from the Release of "The Unwilling Widow"

2012-02-16T11:12:00.000-06:00

Okay, guys, you know how excited I am about the release of this book.

For weeks now, I've been giving away copies of my books, telling you about the book, just post the first chapter on my website, and been wiggling in my chair with excitement.

Feb. 17 is the day.

I, of course, have to have a contest to win copies of the book. Starting today, people who leave a comment here or join my yahoo group are enter into the contest.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TinaGayle/ (people who join my yahoo group are entered into all my future drawings.)

I will be giving away five copies. The winner will be announced Feb. 18.

Executives' Wives' Club series

Four women...
One fatal car wreck...
Everyone's lives changed...

Blurb for The Unwilling Widow

Jennifer Larson, having lost her husband, friends and the perfect life she’d had plan, now faces the biggest challenge of her life, moving into an unplanned future. While the rest of the Executive Wife Club is still wallowing in the past, Jen is tempted into the future by a sexy chiropractor, Hagan Chaney.

But does he really love her or is he only after her money?

Remember to stop by and read the first chapter on my website or just click the "My books" tab above.

Tina

www.tinagayle.net

More Flowers

2012-02-15T11:25:00.000-06:00

Check out my picture page above.

These are the pictures my husband took on our trip to San Diego.

Makes you forget about the snow.

Tina

Happy Valentines' Day

2012-02-14T12:26:00.000-06:00

Hope you have a great day with flowers and chocolate.

Tina

Blogging at Coffee Time Romance - Today

2012-02-13T09:00:00.000-06:00

Come join me at http://coffeetimeromance.com/CoffeeThoughts/

Talking about my new release "The Unwilling Widow."

Fun times.

Tina

Winners of "Baby Decision"

2012-02-09T11:56:00.002-06:00

I'm happy to announce the winners of my book "Baby Decision."

Romanceenthusiast
IrishPrincess123184
Mmccortney
Ringpop2010
tess.banberg

Thanks everyone for joining my yahoo group and being a part of my celebration for the release of my new book "The Unwilling Widow".

You can now read the first chapter on my website.

Check it out. www.tinagayle.net

Tina

Last Day

2012-02-08T19:07:00.001-06:00

Last day to sign up for my yahoo group and be part of the drawing for a copy of my book "Baby Decision."

Winners will be announced tomorrow.

Go sign up now
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TinaGayle/

Best of luck,

Tina

Do You Have a Dirty Mouth?

2012-02-07T11:52:00.002-06:00

Hey, a girl has to do what a girl has to do?

The bone was in the mud.

Have a great day,

Tina

MMI - Old Colonial Saying

2012-02-06T07:30:00.000-06:00

"I'll be with you in the squeezing of a lemon."

Come Join the Fun

2012-02-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

http://goddessfishparty.blogspot.com/

Come Celebrate the release of The Unwilling Widow.

Yes, it's not out until Feb. 17, but I am so excited I'm starting to party early.

Read short excerpts and learn about the characters.

I'll even reveal the name of the rest of the books in the series.

Tina

Time to Play Some Football

2012-02-05T07:30:00.000-06:00

Looking forward to the game.

RT - Plan a Weekend Away

2012-02-03T05:30:00.000-06:00

Sometimes it helps to get away and reconnect.

Last weekend, my husband and I took a trip down to San Diego. It gave us a chance to step out of the house, away from the TV, and the household chores. Instead, we had an opportunity to focus on the sights around us. We talked about the buildings, museums, and strolled through Balboa park.

A nice weekend and fun with a love one,

Where can you escape with your lover?

Tina

PS. check out some of the pictures on my picture page.

Win a Copy of my book "Baby Decision"

2012-02-02T05:00:00.000-06:00

Only a few weeks now and my new book "The Unwilling Widow" will be released.

February 17, oh, so close and I'm so excited.

In celebration I'm giving a way five copies from members of my yahoo group. This contest runs from Feb. 2 to Feb. 8. Then I start my next one for the release of "The Unwilling Widow."

Join today at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TinaGayle/

The great thing about joining is you are already entered in all my future contest.

I love my newsletter group.

Tina

And the Winner is

2012-02-01T03:00:00.000-06:00

The Bakin__Goddesses... I'll be sending her a copy of my book Pregnancy Plan.

Congrats, and thanks to everyone who entered.

Tune in tomorrow for my next give-away.

Readers Rally

2012-01-31T01:30:00.000-06:00

I'm keeping this post at the top of my blog, but I still have my daily articles underneath.

I'm giving away a copy of my ebook "Pregnancy Plan"

Just post a comment and you'll be entered to win. Make sure to leave your email address.

Click on book link above and read the first chapter of any of my books.

Have fun with the blog hop. Post winner - Feb. 1,2012

Also don't forget to enter for 1 Grand Prize, winner will be chosen from the commenter’s on the Romance At Random website: http://www.romanceatrandom.com/reader-rally-begins-now-thru-1312012-giveaway-grand-prize/
Good luck,

Tina

Monday Morning Funny

2012-01-30T07:30:00.000-06:00

Most people are only alive because it is illegal to shoot them.
Tina

The Weekend Frustration

2012-01-29T08:00:00.000-06:00

Kids, husband, are they getting to you?

Why not head for the golf course, then you can really have a frustrating time chasing down a little ball.

Tina

RT - Enjoy the Weekend

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

Share the excitement with someone you love.
A kiss,
A hug,
A bounce of joy,

All make the ones we love smile.

Release Date Set for Feb. 17, 2012

2012-01-24T16:24:00.000-06:00

The Executive Wives' Club Series

Four women...
One fatal car wreck...
Everyone's lives changed...

Blurb for "The Unwilling Widow":
Jennifer Larson, having lost her husband, friends and the perfect life she’d had plan, now faces the biggest challenge of her life, moving into an unplanned future. While the rest of the Executive Wife Club is still wallowing in the past, Jen is tempted into the future by a sexy chiropractor, Hagan Chaney.

But does he really love her or is he only after her money like everyone else?

Excerpt:
Friday night sitting at a booth in a nice, romantic restaurant, Jen silently wished she could enjoy the subdued atmosphere, and order a rib eye steak. Instead, her hands shook and her stomach churned with doubt. The survival skills, she’d learned after becoming a real estate agent demanded a calm composed front, but she couldn’t pull it off.

Hell, who was she fooling?

After ten years without a date, what made her believe she could do this again? She stared at the menu. Could she even swallow a bite of beef? And if not, what should she order?

She lifted her gaze to the drop-dead gorgeous man on the other side of the table. Hagan Cheney, a Greek god incarnated, had strawberry blonde hair glowing like gold around his head. Wide shoulders and strong arms encased in a hunter-green cashmere sweater. Apollo, himself, wouldn’t look any better.

Why in heavens name did he ask her on a date?

And why did she care?

She had no plans other than a casual dinner for two.

He glanced up and a pretty-boy grin crossed his lips. The twinkle in his hazel eyes softened the square line of his jaw. “So have you decided what you want?”

Heat simmered low in her belly. Oh, yeah, answering that question the wrong way could get her into a world of trouble.

Find out more on Tina's Book Page

Visit Tina atwww.tinagayle.net
www.tinagayle.blogspot.com

MMI - Success is Simple

2012-01-23T10:03:00.000-06:00

If you want to be successful, it's just this simple. Know what you are doing. Love what you are doing. And believe in what you are doing. Will Rogers Read more: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/w/will_rogers_3.html#ixzz1jdbNtdmc

Romance isn't....

2012-01-20T01:30:00.000-06:00

A competition. You don't earn points

A business. There is no bottom line that you have to shot for.

It's not a science, or logical. You can't get it perfectly.

So let up and just do it. Right or wrong be creative, have fun, and don't take yourself to seriously.

Tina

MY - Callie

2012-01-19T10:34:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I don't think she knows she's a dog.

Tina

Thoughts about Chiropractic Care

2012-01-17T12:31:00.000-06:00

In my new book "The Unwilling Widow" coming out Feb. 17. The hero is a chiropractor so I thought I would share some thought on the subject by B.J. Palmer,

Now comes a man. Any one man is a small thing.
This man gives an adjustment. The adjustment is a small thing.
The adjustment replaces the subluxation. That is a small thing.
The adjusted subluxation releases pressure upon nerves. That is a small thing.

The released pressure restores health to a man. That is a big thing to that man.
Multiply that well man by a thousand, and you step up the physical and mental welfare of a city.
Multiply that well man by a million, and you increase the efficiency of a State.
Multiply that well man by one hundred thrity million, and you have produced a healthy, wealthy, and better race for posterity.

So the adjustment of subluxation, to release pressure upon nerves, to restore mental inpluse flow, to restore health, is big enough to rebuild the thoughts and actions of the world.

B.J.Palmer was a philosopher, scientist, artist, builder, author, and American broadcasting pioneer.
Founder of the Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa.

http://www.palmer.edu/

Tina

MMI - Do Something

2012-01-16T01:30:00.000-06:00

Chaotic action is preferable to orderly inaction.

Will Rogers

Read more: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/w/will_rogers.html#ixzz1iysnvUmz

RT - Give the Gift of Time

2012-01-13T01:00:00.000-06:00

Do some of her/his chores like washing the dishes, paying the bills, cutting the lawn.

This will give your lover some time to do something else that they might enjoy like reading, watching their favorite show, spending time playing a video game.

If you can't or won't try this alone, you can always just offer some help and double-up to get a chore done.

Have fun,

Tina

Buttons at the Top of My Blog

2012-01-12T14:18:00.000-06:00

I don't know if you've noticed but I've add some buttons to the top of my blog.

The book page takes you to all my books and you can see excerpts, reviews, and even read the first chapter of my books. Check it out.

The link page takes you to all sorts of interesting places.

Bio is all about me.

My favorite is my picture page which this week shows off the cookies I made with my son.

Clink on any of them and explore my site.

Tina

Cookie Fun

2012-01-11T02:30:00.000-06:00

click on the picture link above and check out all the cookies my son and I made.

He did it all free hand.

I did the easy part of decorating.

Tina

Win a Copy of "Mating Rituals"

2012-01-10T01:30:00.000-06:00

To celebrate the release of my new book "The Unwilling Widow" on Feb. 17, 2012.

I'm running a contest for everyone who is a member of my yahoo group.

If you join before Jan. 18 you be entered to win a copy of my book "Mating Rituals".

Five winners will be selected and I'll be sending out a copy of my ebook to the winners on Jan. 19.

Also you will be entered to win any future contest I have.

Blurb for "Mating Rituals"

With rock-hard fortitude, Marohka Taunton battles to maintain her position as top mineralogist and refuses to see why she should marry even if the law requires she take a mate. Fighting her attraction for Stihl Fermesium, she struggles to save her father's company.

Stihl, determined to win her as his mate, is faced with the commission deal of a lifetime and needs the money to save his family land. He wrestles with her emotional resistance and discovers someone other than Marohka is unhappy about their union. In fact, they want to separate them in the most basic of ways, death.

Or visit my website and read the first scene.

Good luck,

Tina

Example of an Excerpt Exchange

2012-01-09T09:44:00.000-06:00

Texas Passion
by: Anita Philmar

Blurb -
After a long cattle drive to Abilene, Trent McCall just wants to unwind. But in his absence, his father's been making wedding plans...for Trent. The last thing he needs is a spoiled and pampered socialite for a wife. What he needs is a hard drink and a willing woman. An uncomplicated woman who understands a man’s need for release after a hard ride. Good thing he’s got one waiting for him.

Four years back East haven’t changed Catherine Turnberry’s mind. Her heart is set on neighboring rancher, Trent McCall. When an end-of-the-trail party threatens to put him in the arms of another woman, Catherine grabs the bull by the horns. Taking the place of the whore hired to pleasure Trent, she intends to give him a welcome he'll never forget and show him what Texas passion is all about.

Excerpt:
“Well, now, did you think I’d ever arrive?” He shut the door and tossed his hat onto the table by the door. Dark curly hair circled his head, and his dark brown eyes met hers.

“I had no doubt you’d get here eventually.” Her hands shaking, Catherine laid her book on the rocker and tried for a more seductive tone. “But I’d like to know what delayed you.”

One corner of his mouth turned up in a crooked grin, he stepped forward, and then paused. “Wait a second, don’t I know you?”

Catherine nodded and toyed with the knot holding her robe together. Should she shed her robe and try to seduce him first? Or just tell him her name?

He tilted his head slightly, and a frown formed on his lips. The subdued lighting of the lantern didn’t mask the lines marring his brow.

Apprehension slithered over her skin, and a lump the size of Texas grew in her throat. “I…uh…”

“Catherine?”

More of an accusation than a question, her name echoed in her head. “Yes, I…” She edged closer.

He shuffled backward until his back hit the door. “What the hell are you doing here?” His gaze dropped to swell of her breasts, and the cattywhumped expression on his face registered. Clarity filled her head. The man might deny it, but the heat in his eyes proved he found her appealing. Energy pulsed through her, and she untied the knot at her waist. “I decided, since we’re practically engaged, I didn’t want you sleeping with another woman.”

“Whoa, don’t even think about removing that robe.” He held out his hands to stop her, but his tongue slid over his parched lips and the blaze in his eyes sparked higher. Catherine’s confidence grew, and the doubt that had plagued her for the last few hours faded. He might resist, but she’d show him this was what they both wanted.

Read 1st Scene
Blurb, Excerpt, and Reviews

Purchase at The Wild Rose Press

Want to feel more?
Read Anita Philmar.

Visit Anita atwww.anitaphilmar.com
www.anitaphilmar.blogspot.com

MMI - More Will

2012-01-09T03:00:00.000-06:00

Being a hero is about the shortest-lived profession on earth.
Will Rogers

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/w/will_rogers.html

Have a great day,

Tina

How Egg-cerpt Exchange Works

2012-01-09T01:00:00.000-06:00

Arrange the dates ahead of time and exchange information via email.

The one thing to remember is these are general access sites so the excerpts have to be less graphic.

Contact me today to reserve your date -- tina9561(at)yahoo.com

( I only post one book a day and I have a list on my blogsite of the authors participating with a link to their site.)

Tina
http://www.tinagayle.net/

RT - Wash Her Hair

2012-01-06T01:30:00.000-06:00

Washing a woman's hair can be a sensual experience.

Check out the following website and see it you can add a little romance to your relationship.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2075191_wash-girls-hair-sensuously.html

Looking Forward

2012-01-05T09:11:00.000-06:00

Looking forward to the digging up my plants, Callie sniffs everything and has the nose of a blood hound.

I'm eyeing my back yard with the hopes of getting in some new plants here soon.

Oh, the wonderful thing about So. Cal. is you have greenery all year round.

Hope everyone enjoyed the rose bowl parade,

Tina

Cleaning Tip

2012-01-04T09:57:00.000-06:00

With the kids going back in school, I've started the massive clean-up from the holidays.

One tip, I just recently started using on my stove top is oven cleaner. With a self-cleaning oven, I didn't think I'd ever use the can I bought for the grill.

Found out it's not supposes to be used for outdoor grills so while looking for another use for the spray, I started using it on the grills of my stove top. It gets off the stubborn black goo.

Have a great year

Tina

Enter to Win

2012-01-03T01:00:00.000-06:00

Win a copy of my book "Youthful Temptations" (edit)

On Goodread I started a new group called Q&A with Tina Gayle. Please join and sign up to win a copy of my book "Youthful Temptations.

http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/60644.Q_A_with_Tina_Gayle
If you are not a member of Goodread you can send me an email at tina9561(at)yahoo.com with contest in the subject line. contest ends Jan. 8

Tina

MMI - Two Ways to Learn

2012-01-02T03:30:00.000-06:00

A man only learns in two ways, one by reading, and the other by association with smarter people.
Will Rogers

Read more: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/w/will_rogers.html#ixzz1gusGUymm

Welcome 2012

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

Here's to a year of wonders, hope, and the greatest of joys.

Tina

RT - Start the New Year off right

2011-12-30T13:43:00.000-06:00

Carry her over the threshold, after you return from your new year's eve party.

Show her you still love her and would marry her all over again.

Tina

Help Out Authors

2011-12-29T14:06:00.002-06:00

Click the "Like" button on their book pages on Amazon.

The button is right under the title and above the cost of the book.

Start reading Mating Rituals on your Kindle in under a minute. Don't have a Kindle? Get your Kindle here.

Try it free

Read books on your computer or other mobile devices with ourFREE Kindle Reading Apps.

Share your own customer images

Mating Rituals [Kindle Edition]

Tina Gayle (Author)

Be the first to review this item | Liked(1)

Digital List Price:	$2.99 What's this?
Kindle Price:	$2.99 includes free wireless delivery via *Amazon Whispernet*

Length: 239 pages (estimated)
Don't have a Kindle? Get your Kindle here.

Here are my books links.

Mating Rituals
http://www.amazon.com/Mating-Rituals-ebook/dp/B005Q0CGCO/ref=ntt_at_ep_edition_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2

Pregnancy Plan
http://www.amazon.com/Pregnancy-Plan-ebook/dp/B0067O1FBG/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2

Baby Decision
http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Decision-ebook/dp/B005ZVLA62/ref=ntt_at_ep_edition_1_3?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2

Youthful Temptation
http://www.amazon.com/Youthful-Temptations-ebook/dp/B005P03B4W/ref=ntt_at_ep_edition_1_4?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2

Thanks,

Tina

Frugal Ways to Celebrate the New Year

2011-12-28T01:30:00.000-06:00

Here are a few suggestions:

- Go out to eat for lunch on the 31st or the 1st.
- Stay up late watching old movies with friends or a loved one.
- Buy your favorite bottle of wine and toast each other before going to bed.
- Play games with your kids, friends or loved ones until midnight.
- have a fix and eat party - start the evening with everyone fixing their favorite treat and end the evening with everyone eating.

- want to be alone?
       - take a long hot bath with candles and scented bath soap.
       - reread one of your favorite books or maybe try a new one.
       - write - you don't have to be an author to want to capture what happened in the past year.
       - enjoy the quiet and stare at the beautiful sights right outside your window.

Whatever you decide to do - make it fun and something that you will remember. After all, this is the last day of year.

Tina

The New Year

2011-12-27T12:52:00.000-06:00

Keeping an eye out for the new year.

2011 held a number of new challenges. With 2010 ending with the death of my father, I struggled at the beginning of the year to come to term with the lost of not only him, but adjusting to a new house, a new location and the lack of kids at home.

Both boys are now in college and loving it. With the boys gone, Mike and I have taken up the habit of playing golf more and taking long hikes. We have also discovered a few new places like the trip we took up to Big Bear and to some new wineries.

I'm looking forward to a new year and the fun of writing my new series.

Wishing you the best,

Tina

MMI - Christmas Cheer

2011-12-26T03:00:00.000-06:00

Hope you got everything you wanted this holiday season.
And may your days be merry and bright and all your days joyful.

Have a great New Year,

Tina

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T12:19:00.000-06:00

Hope you have a wonderful day and a happy new year,

Tina

RT - Know a few of her Favorite Things

2011-12-23T02:30:00.000-06:00

Find out and remember a few things that she/he likes.

Favorite color
Football team
Restaurant
Flower
Author

These answer can help you find him/her the perfect gift for any time of the year.

Have a wonderful holiday season,

Tina

History of Mistletoe

2011-12-22T08:14:00.000-06:00

While out surfing the net I found this information about mistletoe on
http://www.merry-christmas.com/stories/mistletoe.htm

Thought it was interesting enough to share.

Mistletoe was often hung over the entrances to homes of the pagans in Scandinavian countries to keep out evil spirits. An old Scandinavian myth tells of the seemingly invulnerable god, Balder, who was struck down by a dart made from mistletoe. The tears of this mother, Frigga, became the white berries of the mistletoe, and it was decreed that the plant must never again be used as a weapon.

Frigga, who was the goddess of love, henceforth gave a kiss to anyone who passed under the mistletoe. It may be that our present custom of kissing under the mistletoe derives from this old legend.

Legend holds that the Druids, who were members of a pagan religious order in ancient Gaul, Briton and Ireland, held the mistletoe in such reverence that if enemies met under it in the forest, a truce was declared for the day. It was their belief that only happiness would enter a home when mistletoe hung over the door.

When the Yule season approached, the mistletoe was cut down from the sacred oaks by the Prince of the Druids who used a golden sickle. The mistletoe was distributed to the people who believed it possessed powers of the protection against sickness and evil. Later among Christians it came to symbolize the healing powers of Christ.

Hope you enjoy the holiday season and a cyber kiss of luck to all,

Tina

De-Stressing the Holidays

2011-12-21T07:02:00.000-06:00

Remember to take some time for yourself with a long hot bath or to dig into a good book.

Get others involved - let the children be in charge of decorating the tree or let your husband hang the lights. Getting help from others will make the task more enjoyable and will create memories for years to come.

Plan ahead - this way you don't overburden yourself. Can you really make twelve dozen cookies in one day?

Tina

Other Stuff - Kitchen Fun

2011-12-20T11:38:00.001-06:00

It's that time of year when we are spending lots of time in the kitchen.

Personally, I don't mind as long as I have people talking to me.

Luckily, my family likes to gather at the bar or help me fix the different treats which makes the chore a share experience that we all can enjoy.

Hope you are fun with family and friends.

Here's to a great new year,

Tina

Come Read My Article on Whipped Cream Blogspot

2011-12-19T15:39:00.001-06:00

Come check out my post on
http://wcguest.blogspot.com/2011/12/stuff-your-stocking-blogfest-tina-gayle.html?spref=bl">
Whipped Cream Guests: Stuff Your Stocking Blogfest: Tina Gayle:
and leave a comment for a chance to win.

Food, Food, and More Food The holiday is the season of cookies, cakes, candies, and special treats. I've tried in the past to avoid them...
Tina

MMI - Will Roger's Quote

2011-12-19T02:00:00.000-06:00

http://www.cmgww.com/historic/rogers/index.html

Saw a movie about Will Roger this weekend so thought I'd share one of his quotes and his website.

"Everyone is ignorant, only in different subjects."

"Nothing you can't spell will ever work."

"People are getting smarter nowadays; they are letting lawyers, instead of their conscience, be their guide."

"No man is great if he thinks he is."

"I guess truth can hurt you worse in an election than about anything that can happen to you."

Have a great week,

Tina

RT - Try a New Type of Food

2011-12-16T13:20:00.000-06:00

If you enjoy eating out, why not try a new place?

Greek, mexican, irish, seafood... find a new restuarant and give it a go.

Who knows, it might become your favorite place to eat.

Mainly, just have fun.

Tina

The Beauty of a Rose

2011-12-15T01:45:00.000-06:00

One of the really nice things about living in So. Cal.is that flowers bloom all year round.

Tina

WW - Golfing Adventure

2011-12-14T11:48:00.002-06:00

With the morning's cooler, we decided to head out to the golf course in the afternoon. There are a lot more shadows and we didn't get in the whole 18, but we did get outside and had fun.

Hope you are having fun wherever you are,

Tina

New Recipe for Egg Nog

2011-12-13T03:00:00.000-06:00

Found this new recipe. Plan on trying it out today. Will let you know how it went.

FESTIVE CREME EGGNOGG
1 c. milk
1 (7 oz.) jar Kraft Marshmallow Creme
6 eggs
1/4 c. rum
1 tsp. vanilla
1 (8 oz.) container (3 cups)
Cool Whip non-dairy
whipped topping, thawed
Ground nutmeg
Gradually add milk to marshmallow creme, mixing with electric mixer or wire whisk until well blended. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in rum and vanilla; fold in whipped topping. Chill. Mix well. Top with additional whipped topping and sprinkle with nutmeg, if desired. Approximately 10 (1/2 cup) servings. Preparation time: 15 minutes plus chilling. Variation: Substitute 1 teaspoon rum extract for rum.

Enjoy,

Tina

Monday Morning Inspiration - Courage

2011-12-12T09:12:00.000-06:00

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.

Mark Twain

Here's to exploring new possibilites,

Tina

Fun Christmas Facts

2011-12-09T07:53:00.000-06:00

Christmas wasn't a holiday in early America—in fact Congress was in session on December 25, 1789, the country's first Christmas under the new constitution.

Christmas was declared a federal holiday in the United States on June 26, 1870.

The first eggnog made in the United States was consumed in Captain John Smith's 1607 Jamestown settlement.

Check out more fun facts on http://www.history.com/minisite.do?content_type=Minisite_Generic&content_type_id=57112&display_order=7&mini_id=1290

Have a great holiday season,

Tina

Chocolate Gooey Butter Cookies

2011-12-07T14:58:00.000-06:00

Got this recipe from one of my myspace friends.

Thanks Cindy for the great recipe.

Prep Time:
15 min
Inactive Prep Time:
2 hr 0 min
Cook Time:
12 min
Level:
Easy
Serves:
2 dozen cookies

1 (8-ounce) brick cream cheese, room temperature
1 stick butter, at room temperature
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (18-ounce) box moist chocolate cake mix
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large bowl with an electric mixer, cream the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in the egg. Then beat in the vanilla extract. Beat in the cake mix. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up so that you can roll the batter into balls. Roll the chilled batter into tablespoon sized balls and then roll them in confectioner's sugar. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake 12 minutes. The cookies will remain soft and "gooey." Cool completely and sprinkle with more confectioners' sugar, if desired.

Have a wonderful day,

Tina

The What and How of Murder Mysteries

2011-12-06T03:30:00.000-06:00

Tom Mach wrote two successful historical novels, Sissy! and All Parts Together, both of which have won rave reviews and were listed among the 150 best Kansas books in 2011.Sissy! won the J. Donald Coffin Memorial Book Award while All Parts Together was a viable entrant for the 2007 Pulitzer Prize Award. He also wrote a collection of short stories entitled Stories To Enjoy which received positive reviews. Tom’s other novels include: An Innocent Murdered, Advent, and Homer the Roamer.

His poetry collection, The Uni Verse, won the Nelson Poetry Book Award. In addition to several awards for his poetry, Writer’s Digest awarded him ninth place in a field of 3,000 entrants. His website is: www.TomMach.com He also has a popular blog for writers of both prose and verse at http://tommach.tumblr.com

Now let's read about the what and how of Murder Mysteries

I’ve never thought about the question as to what attracted me to murder mysteries and especially in writing one called An Innocent Murdered. But now, after giving it some thought, I do have an answer.

My professional background is a combination of writing (having been a magazine editor and an ad copywriting instructor) and a market research analyst (where I have to dig deep to get answers as to why consumers behave as they do.) Then, of course, is the fact that I enjoy reading certain mysteries. Ever since Wilkie Collins wrote the first detective novel called The Woman in White, mysteries have been popular with people.

Authors such as Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie, and Ellery Queen may have influenced me, but not as much as TV detectives such as Columbo and Monk because they are such unique characters. I loved writing a short story called “The Crossword Puzzle Murders”--one of a series of my shorter works in Stories to Enjoy where a female detective uncovers the identity of a mass murderer only minutes before she finds herself a possible victim.

I deliberately made it tough for readers to find out the identity of the murderer of a priest in An Innocent Murdered, by tossing in some red herrings while making it seem as if the case against prime suspect is open and shut.

As to how I do my research, I have to start with a murder victim and a strong motive as to why anyone would kill him. But in An Innocent Murdered, I wanted the reader to also know more about the victim before he is murdered. I wanted readers to have invested a personal interest in him.

Otherwise, there is no emotional attachment to the victim and the victim is a mere object in the story itself In addition, I have also to research methods for this murder, Should it be a stabbing, shooting, hanging, or poisoning? I wanted to show how this person was murdered at the beginning. Many other authors start with a dead body and eventually uncover evidence to show how he was murdered.

I had to plant my clues carefully so they wouldn’t be immediately obvious to the reader and so the reader might say at the end of the story--“Aha, so that’s why he/she committed the murder.”

Finally, I had to research police procedural techniques, including interviewing methods and the process for uncovering evidence. A lot of work goes into researching a murder mystery, but the time invested in doing so is well worth it.

Book Blurb:

Father O'Fallon has been murdered, and police officer Jacinta Perez is arrested and charged. Detective Matt Gunnison, however, is not convinced and with the help of Susan, an ex-nun, he discovers a fascinating link between the priest's death and the death of a child 25 years ago.

Will Matt be able to solve both murders?
See video: http://t.co/H1siZOg

Excerpt:

“No, I understand. Do you think Matt and I can have access to the former rectory? We’d like to look around.”

“Well, I guess not, but why in the world would you want to look around over there?”

Matt showed him his badge. “It’s part of an investigation we’re doing on the murder of that child.”

“By all means, check it out.” He opened a desk drawer and took out a key attached to a plastic tag. “Here, take this.”

Matt pocketed the key and was about to leave when the man stopped him.

“That place is haunted, you know,” the old man said.

“Haunted?”

Thank you, Tom, for stopping by. Your book sounds amazing.

Don't forget everyone to leave a comment for a $50 amazon gift certificate. Tom will choice the best comment at the end of his tour and the winner will be notified.

Best of luck,

Tina

CRANBERRY ALMOND BISCOTTI

2011-12-05T07:23:00.000-06:00

INGREDIENTS:

2 1/4 cups flour
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
2 eggs
2 egg whites
1 tablespoon almond or vanilla extract
1 6-ounce package Ocean Spray® Craisins® Sweetened Dried Cranberries, any flavor
3/4 cup sliced almonds

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 325ºF.

Combine dry ingredients in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk together eggs, egg whites and almond or vanilla extract in a separate mixing bowl. Add to dry ingredients, mixing just until moist, using an electric mixer on medium speed. Add sweetened dried cranberries and almonds; mix thoroughly.

On a floured surface, divide batter in half and pat each half into a log approximately 14-inches long and 1 1/2-inches wide. Place on a cookie sheet and bake for 30 minutes.

Reduce oven temperature to 300ºF. Cut biscotti into 1/2-inch slices. Stand upright on cookie sheet and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Let cool and store in a loosely covered container. Makes about 2 1/2 dozen.

PER SERVING (1 cookie): Cal 100 (5%DV), Fat Cal. 15, Total Fat 2grams(2.5%DV), Chol. 14mg(5%DV), Sodium 38mg(2%DV), Pot. 35mg(1%DV), Carb. 19grams(6%DV), Fiber <1gram(3%DV), Protein 2grams(4%DV), Vit. A 21IU(0%DV), Vit. C <1mg(0%DV), Calcium 18mg(2%DV), Iron <1mg(3%DV), Dietary Exchange: Fruit 1, Fat 0.5

http://www.oceanspray.com/recipes/Cranberry_Almond_Biscotti.aspx?id=266&nid=9

Have an awesome day,

Tina

2011-12-05T01:44:00.000-06:00

MMI - Face that which you fear with the belief there is nothing to fear.

Today, write fearlessly.

Thanks Cheryl for the inspiration and stop by Cheryl's blog for pictures of everyone's christmas trees.

http://cherylstjohn.blogspot.com/

Check Out My Visitor on 12/6

2011-12-04T08:57:00.000-06:00

Tom is giving away a $50 Amazon gift card to the commenter that he feels leaves the best comment. At the end of his tour blog, the winner will be notify.

Follow his tour
http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2011/10/virtual-book-tour-innocent-murdered.html.

Recipe Hop - Strawberry Ham Sauce

2011-12-03T04:30:00.000-06:00

2 (10oz) pkg. frozen strawberries (thawed) have used fresh too but add a little water

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup ginger ale or 7-up

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/4 cup corn syrup

Combine everything in a pot and cook until thick and clear. Takes about 10 to 20 minutes.

This recipe is part of the Holiday Blog Hop

From the Heart...Cheryl St.John: Cheryl, I love your Christmas tree tour! Here is ...

2011-12-02T10:48:00.000-06:00

From the Heart...Cheryl St.John: Cheryl, I love your Christmas tree tour!
Here is ...: Cheryl, I love your Christmas tree tour! Here is the picture I took of what we did this year. After moving more times th...

Stop by and visit with me today.
Tina

RT - A Rub

2011-12-02T04:30:00.000-06:00

A back rub is never a bad idea.

It shows you care and helps work out some of the knots from a hard week at work.

http://youtu.be/4zEfAjOaT4Q

A video to help, but I'll warn you it's not a fun video. Very clinical.

Tina

MY - President Hoover's Front Yard

2011-12-01T05:30:00.000-06:00

This is his boyhood home.

A very interesting man, we visited his library a few years back and now, I'm hoping to visit Stanford to learn even more about the amazing man.

If you're ever in Iowa, stop by and visit. You'll find a president that really cared about people.

Tina

WW - A Few Blooms

2011-11-30T05:30:00.000-06:00

I am very lucky to still have some plants in my yard that are still blooming.

One of the great things about living in So. California is plants flower all year round.

Tina

Proactiv - Warning

2011-11-29T05:30:00.000-06:00

They may have a good face care product. I won't argue about it one way or the other.

But they are a pain to work with.

Once you sign up for their product, they keep sending them even if you have told them not too.

If you send the product back it takes four to six weeks to get your money back.

And if you have signed up with a debit card, you get charged automatically with no way of fighting the charge.

Would I recommend signing up with them, no.

If you like their product find another way to buy it, they aren't worth the hassel you have to go through to deal with them to get your money back.

This is my opinion, your experience maybe different and I hope it is for your sake. This is just a heads up to be forewarned.

Tina

MMI - Connections

2011-11-28T05:30:00.000-06:00

Getting together with old friends can brighten any day.

Check out Barb's latest releases at

http://www.barbaragoodwin.com/Barbara_Goodwins_Romance_%26_Young_Adult_Novels_%28also_writing_as_Emily_Sinclare%29/Barbara_Goodwin_Novels.html

Tina

RT - Remember

2011-11-25T05:30:00.000-06:00

If you remember the important things great, but remembering the little things is even better.

Like your first date,

How opening day of baseball is special to him.

She loves having Black Friday to shop.

What flower she likes,

His favorite ball cap.

We all like to know we are cared about, so give some one a hug today, and happy shopping,

Tina

MY - Some of the plants that leave during the Winter

2011-11-24T05:30:00.000-06:00

Gone until next year,

Luckily living in So. Cal. there are still a number of plants in bloom.

Hope you are having a great Turkey Day,

Tina

WW - Feel the Need to Run?

2011-11-23T05:30:00.000-06:00

Watching a horse run with such grace makes one want to feel the same joy.

A quick walk or jog can help spark a change of attitude that can turn a bad day into a manageable day.

Get out and breath in some fresh air.

Life is good,

Tina

Why Is It Never That Easy

2011-11-22T04:30:00.000-06:00

Okay, I just wanted to move the pictures on my cell phone to my computer.

Should be easy right?

The people at the computer store said all I need was a Usb device cable, which would let me transfer the pictures no problem.

Wrong.

When I go in to do it. The instructions,which I had to find on the internet(not in manual) said I first have to save the pictures to a memory card. Do I have a memory card ---No.

So now it is back to the store to figure out if this is really worth it.

Will keep you updated -- but oh how I wish this was easier.

Tina.

MMI - What to Wear

2011-11-21T04:30:00.000-06:00

Of all the things you wear,
your expression is the most important.

Have a great week and smiles to you,

Tina

How is the NFL like a Bad Parent?

2011-11-20T04:30:00.000-06:00

It doesn't seem to punish all its children in the same way.

Just look at the fines it hands out. Some players are constantly getting fined while others can do no wrong.

RT - Egg

2011-11-18T08:30:00.000-06:00

The incredible edible egg

http://www.incredibleegg.org/recipes-and-more/recipes

Looking for something new to fix for breakfast give this site a gander.

I also wanted to share - how a playful adventure can go wrong.

I'm always saying "try to do little things that show your lover that you care."

Right?

Right.

So to show my lover that I was thinking about him, I wrote a message on an egg. He eats eggs every morning.

Did he see the message and get a warm cushy feeling?

No, half asleep he totally missed it.

Was I upset?

No, it was more fun giving him a hard time about missing it.

I mean I wrote with a black permanent marker.

Oh well, will have to try something else,

Tina

MY - Watching the Waves

2011-11-17T07:30:00.000-06:00

How long can you sit and watch the waves?

For me, not long, I enjoy walking the beach.

But I get bored quickly if I'm just sitting in the sun.

I do however enjoy the fresh air, clears out the cobwebs and gets the brain thinking again.

Tina

Take a Break

2011-11-16T05:30:00.000-06:00

Do ever wish you could take a break and fly to the beach for the day?

Tina

Having Fun at College

2011-11-15T12:56:00.001-06:00

And they say the fruit doesn't fall to far from the tree.

Hey, us fruit have to stick together.

Tina

Balance

2011-11-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

The theory of Feng shui is to arrange your surrounding to attract positive energy.

Which when you think about it is never a bad thing.

But what about other things?

Balance is important in all things. Like after I have spent a day working, I need to balance out my evenings with noise, (because I work in silence) I enjoy then listening to music, watching tv, and talking to my husband.

Do I have the secrets to a balance life, probably not, but I like to think, I work at it.

What more can anyone ask for?

Tina

MMI - The Future

2011-11-14T05:00:00.000-06:00

The Future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. -- Eleanor Roosevelt

Mine is to write books.

What is yours?

Have a great week,

Tina

RT - Add Candlelight

2011-11-11T05:00:00.000-06:00

Turn off the light tonight and eat by candlelight.

So its a TV dinner, doesn't matter. It's the thought that counts.

Could even add some soft music.

Tina

The Play Starts - "You Can't Take it with You."

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

All Campus Theatre Presents "You Can't Take it with You"

Nov. 10, 11, 12, 13.

At the 2nd Presbyterian church on 2829 Kingston Pike.

in Knoxville, TN

Only wish I could be there to see it.

Tina

WW - One Woman's Desire for a Celebration

2011-11-09T05:30:00.000-06:00

Turkey Day was not official celebrated until November 26, 1789 by presidential proclamation.

Sarah Josepha Hale, editor of the famous "Godey's Lady's Book, started a campaign in the 1830's to make it an annual national day of Thanksgiving. It was not until 1863 that she succeeded when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November to be Thanksgiving Day.

Check out http://www.womenwriters.net/domesticgoddess/hale1.html

to learn more about the lady.

Thank you, Sarah, for fighting for a cause that reminds us to celebrate the wonderful gifts in our lives.

Tina

Cooking Tip

2011-11-08T05:30:00.000-06:00

Want to skim away fat quickly?

Dip a lettuce leaf in the soup and it will disappear quickly.

Hope this helps,

Tina

MMI - Intentions

2011-11-07T10:22:00.001-06:00

The smallest good deed is better than the grandest intention.

Have a great week,

Tina

RT - Weird and Wacky

2011-11-04T04:30:00.000-05:00

Meet your lover at the door with ballons.

Tina

Interview with a Reviewer

2011-11-03T02:30:00.000-05:00

I want to thank Tina for having me on her blog today. It’s really an honor. Most people don’t want a reviewer on their blog much less having them talk about reviews.

Okay, right to it…a little background on myself. I live in East Texas, raised in Dallas, married with one son in 1st grade and work an EDJ. I review for CBLS Reviews, The Romance Studio and The Forbidden Bookshelf. I also have a review blog that I update semi-regularly. Why the information about me? To let you know, that I’m a real person, with a real life and real everyday issues. I’m not a god, a fairy, or an ogre. I bleed just like you do. Why the dramatics about me? I have some things that I want to talk to you about reviewing and what goes through my mind when I’m reading a book for review.

1. I get to pick the books that I review. Bet you didn’t know that? Well, I do and I choose books/authors/publishers that I normally don’t read or know much about. I pick books that are way out of my comfort zone. When I decided to review, I decided that I wouldn’t read books or authors that I was comfortable with. In the year that I began reviewing, I have found authors, genres and publishers that I seek out on a regular basis. I have been given books to review from authors for my blog and again, I follow the same guidelines if I was reviewing it for one of the sites that I review for.

2. When I review a book, I look for the following: plot (does it hold my interest), characters (do I even like them), flow (am I having to start and stop all the time) and lastly, did the characters connect emotionally and was it believable?

3. When writing a review, I don’t give out spoilers, the ending, the conflict, nor do I give out plot points. I will however, talk about what I did like about the book and what I didn’t. I hate when book review blogs from individuals give you a dissertation on the book. I mean, why buy the book in the first place? The blog already told you everything that you needed to now and more. This is becoming more and more commonplace with so many people reviewing books on their blogs and it really pisses me off. I have books on my Nook that I bought that sadly, I’ll probably never read because of it. Grrr…

4. Also, if you get a bad review, just remember, its only ONE reviewer’s opinion. Some people are going to love your stuff and some won’t love it. Reviewing is subjective and therefore, should be taken with a grain of salt. That said if the review is snarky and/or down right rude and mean, please, please let the review coordinator/owner know. That should not be tolerated at all. That does happen and it puts all reviewers in a bad light.

5. Lastly, why do I review? I review because I love to read. Period. Some reviewers crave the power they have over an author but for me that’s the wrong reason to review. I review for the simple pleasure of reading and then telling people why I liked it.

If you’re an author, tell me some of your experiences good or bad with reviewers. No names, please. If you’re a reader, what do you look for in a review? I’ve listed below links to where I review to check me out. I look forward to hearing from you.

http://harliebooks.blogspot.com - personal review blog
www.theromancestudio.com - Marika is my review name
www.theforbiddenbookshelf.com - Kate is my review name

And you thought reviewers were stuffy and not human?

Thanks Marika for sharing with us.

Tina