With the holiday season nearing Christmas Day, my levels of stress and frustration are rising by the minute.
I have Christmas cards that still need to be mailed (yes, they're gonna be late). There are those last-minute gifts yet to purchase. Not to mention wrapping said gifts (haven't even started) before midnight on Christmas Eve. Oh, and the grocery shopping for Christmas Day brunch.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy every moment of my holiday tasks. Sometimes, though, the joy falls a little short as the task part feels more like work than play.
Last Saturday, a book signing at Hastings fell right smack in the middle of my time to complete the afore-mentioned "to-do" list. I looked forward to meeting new people, discussing my love of books with other readers, and of course selling every last copy of Moonlight Bleu...I just felt a little pressed for time.
But being in one place, for hours, forced me to sit quietly and relax. My thoughts cleared, and I got the chance to indulge one of my favorite pastimes: people watching.
As I observed others around me hunt for the perfect gift, I noticed the varying holiday emotional reactions. Some individuals seemed a little tired and stressed like myself. Others were bright-eyed and full of energy (I'm sure due to the double shot of caffeine their coffee cup held!), looking for items marked on the list they carried.
And then I saw a man and his teen-aged son, walking the aisles of the store together. Nothing about them shouted "look at me", but I noticed them anyway. The man followed along patiently as his son considered first one gift, and then another, and another. Never once did the father lose his smile, become frustrated, or choose his son's gift himself. He let his son work through his own decision-making process, standing by in case help was needed.
That's when I realized what had caught my attention.
Kindness.
In the middle of all the crazy Christmas expectations we place upon ourselves, it's easy to speak a little sharper than intended or lose patience and show a bite of temper. These things are a normal part of a busy life.
But this father's example of kindness reminded me of a couple of basic tenets: "Treat others as you want to be treated." "Be an example of what you teach."
I love Christmas. It's a joyous holiday that touches people all over the world. But that moment of clarity, that gift of kindness, is something I want to remember and experience all year round.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Dithering
I'm not sure about anyone else, but I've been struggling to accomplish anything let alone everything on my "to do" list. The house is only partially decorated for Christmas, I haven't quite finished the Christmas shopping, I'm behind on my appeals at work, and don't even mention the edit revisions for my current Work In Progress sitting on my desk at home.
Of course my husband's noticed. He hugged me hard yesterday morning and whispered, "I'll do whatever I can to help...as soon as I figure out what the right thing to do is." That's my hubby: delivering sincerity with a good dose of humor. Exactly what I needed. A smile accompanying the realization only I could figure out what was causing my funk.
And I did late yesterday afternoon.
My grandson spent the day with us. Now, he's two and a half. He's never still. Unless, of course, he's sleeping or sitting in front of the t.v. by himself...and even that doesn't happen often. But when he brought me the movie Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer to watch, I didn't think much of it. After I put it on and sat down on the couch to watch it with him, imagine my surprise when he climbed in my lap and got comfortable.
I had tons of things on my list to get done, but none of that mattered. The sweet smell of my grandson's washed hair, the pleasant weight of his little body resting against mine, the quiet time he and I shared, those things are what mattered. We sat together, snuggled under a blanket, and watched the entire movie.
When the movie ended, I felt rejuvenated.
I'd been looking at the big picture and become overwhelmed by the number of "things" that completed the whole image. Having a list of "things" to do was definitely a helpful way to keep organized. Handling each task one item at a time made perfect sense.
It was the way I'd been viewing each of those tasks. Like work. If they weren't completed to perfection, I wasn't doing my job. If I wasn't doing job, how could I ...or anyone else... enjoy Christmas. How silly of me to forget the most important aspect of the holidays: giving and sharing out of love.
No one in my family will care if I don't have out every Christmas decoration we own. My youngest daughters are now teenagers and old enough to help wrap gifts without spilling who got what before the presents are even opened. Work can be managed, and my writing, well, today's blog helped. Putting my behind in the chair and typing the keys allows everything in my head to crystallize into coherent thoughts.
Christmas only comes once a year, but when life's in balance it should resemble everything we do all year round...just be brighter!
Of course my husband's noticed. He hugged me hard yesterday morning and whispered, "I'll do whatever I can to help...as soon as I figure out what the right thing to do is." That's my hubby: delivering sincerity with a good dose of humor. Exactly what I needed. A smile accompanying the realization only I could figure out what was causing my funk.
And I did late yesterday afternoon.
My grandson spent the day with us. Now, he's two and a half. He's never still. Unless, of course, he's sleeping or sitting in front of the t.v. by himself...and even that doesn't happen often. But when he brought me the movie Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer to watch, I didn't think much of it. After I put it on and sat down on the couch to watch it with him, imagine my surprise when he climbed in my lap and got comfortable.
I had tons of things on my list to get done, but none of that mattered. The sweet smell of my grandson's washed hair, the pleasant weight of his little body resting against mine, the quiet time he and I shared, those things are what mattered. We sat together, snuggled under a blanket, and watched the entire movie.
When the movie ended, I felt rejuvenated.
I'd been looking at the big picture and become overwhelmed by the number of "things" that completed the whole image. Having a list of "things" to do was definitely a helpful way to keep organized. Handling each task one item at a time made perfect sense.
It was the way I'd been viewing each of those tasks. Like work. If they weren't completed to perfection, I wasn't doing my job. If I wasn't doing job, how could I ...or anyone else... enjoy Christmas. How silly of me to forget the most important aspect of the holidays: giving and sharing out of love.
No one in my family will care if I don't have out every Christmas decoration we own. My youngest daughters are now teenagers and old enough to help wrap gifts without spilling who got what before the presents are even opened. Work can be managed, and my writing, well, today's blog helped. Putting my behind in the chair and typing the keys allows everything in my head to crystallize into coherent thoughts.
Christmas only comes once a year, but when life's in balance it should resemble everything we do all year round...just be brighter!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Christmas Shopping
First of the month. You know the routine: money comes in, pay the bills, money goes out.
Yep, it's pretty much like clockwork.
December is different. Hubby and I are fortunate enough to work for employers that allow us each to cash out a week's vacation pay. We hold two weeks in reserve with the plan of using that money for Christmas. Some years it covered extra bills. Other years extra bills and Christmas.
This year, it's all Christmas.
After I paid all the bills and balanced the account, hubby and I looked at each other in shock. We've never had THAT much money to just spend if we wanted to. A list was made of the gifts left to purchase, and still we had a large amount leftover.
What an amazing and wonderful predicament to be in. "I have an idea," we both said at the same time. "Let's adopt a family for Christmas." We spoke simultaneously again. I love that we think so much alike. Years of hard work, much patience, and unconditional love create the real deal, folks.
We are blessed to have so much, both in health and wealth. How could we not share what we have with another family in desperate need? First thing tomorrow morning, we're doing some extra shopping. I can't wait to get everything on this family's list...and when it's delivered anonymously, the note will say, "From my family to yours. Santa."
Yep, it's pretty much like clockwork.
December is different. Hubby and I are fortunate enough to work for employers that allow us each to cash out a week's vacation pay. We hold two weeks in reserve with the plan of using that money for Christmas. Some years it covered extra bills. Other years extra bills and Christmas.
This year, it's all Christmas.
After I paid all the bills and balanced the account, hubby and I looked at each other in shock. We've never had THAT much money to just spend if we wanted to. A list was made of the gifts left to purchase, and still we had a large amount leftover.
What an amazing and wonderful predicament to be in. "I have an idea," we both said at the same time. "Let's adopt a family for Christmas." We spoke simultaneously again. I love that we think so much alike. Years of hard work, much patience, and unconditional love create the real deal, folks.
We are blessed to have so much, both in health and wealth. How could we not share what we have with another family in desperate need? First thing tomorrow morning, we're doing some extra shopping. I can't wait to get everything on this family's list...and when it's delivered anonymously, the note will say, "From my family to yours. Santa."
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Holy Snow!!!
Wow, I've been neglecting my blog...will try harder to blog more often.
In my defense, things have been crazy around my place. Between my day job, working on edits for the sequel to Moonlight Bleu, and the insane weather the Pacific Northwest is having, spare time is at a minimum. And that includes the two hours of sleep I'm losing just to dig my car out and get to work on time.
Speaking of weather...holy freakin' snow, Batman.
Don't get me wrong. I LOVE the snow. Eating the first batch of cold, fresh powder in homemade snow cones is a yummy tradition. Playing in tons of the stuff is awesome. Even driving in the snow is no big deal. Did I mention I've got a gas guzzling behemoth of a 4-wheel drive?
It's the ice that comes after the snow that, no pun intended, blows.
Oh, as another aside, let me take this moment to apologize to everyone in the Pacific Northwest. You'll understand why in a moment.
Monday Moonlight Bleu received two fantastic reviews (Paranormal Romance Guild and What Book Is That?). I felt pretty darned good. So good, I told the rest of the week to "Bring it on!" The rest of the week answered "Brought it!" in the form of more rain/sleet/snow mix yesterday. Never challenge the universe. Bad things happen.
So, back to the weather. I stop at the store to pick up some salt to throw on my front steps which, after freezing rain, are slick enough for ice skating. Apparently everybody else in town had the same idea, just sooner than I did.
I finally found two bags at Home Depot. Whoo Hoo. Triumphant. Or so I thought. When I dumped the salt onto my steps, white cheese-puff sized pellets skittered everywhere. Huh. I'd just pretty much guaranteed broken bones for someone...most probably myself.
Then I noticed the shovel leaning against the house. Inspiration struck. You guessed it. I spent the next half hour beating those salt pellets into smashed pulp on my front steps. Several neighbors ran outside at the first few whacks. To be fair, they did sound like gunshots as they echoed down the block. I got the normal she's-at-it-again nods.
That's okay. My front steps were clear this morning. I got to watch my neighbor fall on his behind instead!
In my defense, things have been crazy around my place. Between my day job, working on edits for the sequel to Moonlight Bleu, and the insane weather the Pacific Northwest is having, spare time is at a minimum. And that includes the two hours of sleep I'm losing just to dig my car out and get to work on time.
Speaking of weather...holy freakin' snow, Batman.
Don't get me wrong. I LOVE the snow. Eating the first batch of cold, fresh powder in homemade snow cones is a yummy tradition. Playing in tons of the stuff is awesome. Even driving in the snow is no big deal. Did I mention I've got a gas guzzling behemoth of a 4-wheel drive?
It's the ice that comes after the snow that, no pun intended, blows.
Oh, as another aside, let me take this moment to apologize to everyone in the Pacific Northwest. You'll understand why in a moment.
Monday Moonlight Bleu received two fantastic reviews (Paranormal Romance Guild and What Book Is That?). I felt pretty darned good. So good, I told the rest of the week to "Bring it on!" The rest of the week answered "Brought it!" in the form of more rain/sleet/snow mix yesterday. Never challenge the universe. Bad things happen.
So, back to the weather. I stop at the store to pick up some salt to throw on my front steps which, after freezing rain, are slick enough for ice skating. Apparently everybody else in town had the same idea, just sooner than I did.
I finally found two bags at Home Depot. Whoo Hoo. Triumphant. Or so I thought. When I dumped the salt onto my steps, white cheese-puff sized pellets skittered everywhere. Huh. I'd just pretty much guaranteed broken bones for someone...most probably myself.
Then I noticed the shovel leaning against the house. Inspiration struck. You guessed it. I spent the next half hour beating those salt pellets into smashed pulp on my front steps. Several neighbors ran outside at the first few whacks. To be fair, they did sound like gunshots as they echoed down the block. I got the normal she's-at-it-again nods.
That's okay. My front steps were clear this morning. I got to watch my neighbor fall on his behind instead!
Friday, November 19, 2010
First Gift Blog Hop
The "First Gift" topic required some serious thought.
You'd think the "first" gift would be the most unforgettable, right?
My husband's first gift was. And after sifting through countless memories created by 23 years of marriage (this month, in fact!), four daughters, one grandson, and every life experience in between, I realized why I'd missed the quiet beauty and perfection behind his gesture.
Like a lot of couples, we married young...right out of high school practically. With college on the horizon and a baby on the way (oh, yeah, I'd gotten pregnant right off the bat!), Hamburger Helper was too expensive for our budget. Add to that, the Christmas holiday was fast approaching.
Hubby's boss had given every employee a Christmas tree (his brother owned a Christmas tree farm), and the smell of fresh pine filled our small apartment. I made popcorn garlands for decoration because, well, that's all we could afford.
A week before Christmas, I came home to find our Christmas tree decked out in beautiful Hallmark ornaments. I squealed in delight, and my husband smiled shyly. "I did extra work on a remodeling job, and they gave me this box filled with ornaments. I'm sorry none of the dates are right."
He was right. Not one ornament had a relevant date. Didn't matter. They were perfect. The thoughtfulness behind his gesture humbled me. The love they represented filled my soul.
We started a tradition that first Christmas together, one we've followed every year since: hanging those mismatched ornaments on the Christmas tree next to others we've collected over the years. They all have special meaning, but some of them-a select few-I cherish with all my heart.
You'd think the "first" gift would be the most unforgettable, right?
My husband's first gift was. And after sifting through countless memories created by 23 years of marriage (this month, in fact!), four daughters, one grandson, and every life experience in between, I realized why I'd missed the quiet beauty and perfection behind his gesture.
Like a lot of couples, we married young...right out of high school practically. With college on the horizon and a baby on the way (oh, yeah, I'd gotten pregnant right off the bat!), Hamburger Helper was too expensive for our budget. Add to that, the Christmas holiday was fast approaching.
Hubby's boss had given every employee a Christmas tree (his brother owned a Christmas tree farm), and the smell of fresh pine filled our small apartment. I made popcorn garlands for decoration because, well, that's all we could afford.
A week before Christmas, I came home to find our Christmas tree decked out in beautiful Hallmark ornaments. I squealed in delight, and my husband smiled shyly. "I did extra work on a remodeling job, and they gave me this box filled with ornaments. I'm sorry none of the dates are right."
He was right. Not one ornament had a relevant date. Didn't matter. They were perfect. The thoughtfulness behind his gesture humbled me. The love they represented filled my soul.
We started a tradition that first Christmas together, one we've followed every year since: hanging those mismatched ornaments on the Christmas tree next to others we've collected over the years. They all have special meaning, but some of them-a select few-I cherish with all my heart.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Exercise
So, I try to do some kind of arm/upper body exercise every other day. Have to keep up strength and flexibility for my day job (official court reporter) and nighttime hours spent at the keyboard (writing while I live in my head).
This morning I tied my resistance band around a doorknob and started working through my list of exercises. Now, this isn't new behavior on my part. Everybody that works in my building has seen me using my band. People are used to avoiding me as they trek through the hallway between offices.
Imagine my surprise when someone on the other side of the door tried to come into the hallway. Momentum pulled me forward, nearly yanking me off my feet. I scored a ten on The Three Stooges' sling shot move. The door opener (new guy) realized what was happening and kept the door from smacking me. Good thing, too. I came within an inch of receiving a broken nose thanks to an almost door-meet-face introduction.
Objective for Friday morning's exercises: find a less used doorway!
This morning I tied my resistance band around a doorknob and started working through my list of exercises. Now, this isn't new behavior on my part. Everybody that works in my building has seen me using my band. People are used to avoiding me as they trek through the hallway between offices.
Imagine my surprise when someone on the other side of the door tried to come into the hallway. Momentum pulled me forward, nearly yanking me off my feet. I scored a ten on The Three Stooges' sling shot move. The door opener (new guy) realized what was happening and kept the door from smacking me. Good thing, too. I came within an inch of receiving a broken nose thanks to an almost door-meet-face introduction.
Objective for Friday morning's exercises: find a less used doorway!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Rewrites
Ugh...is there a more daunting word than rewrite for authors?
Book two in the Tueri Psychics series is done...but not really. First round of edits for this book is really a rewrite. I had hoped this wouldn't be the case. So much for hope.
Time to put my poster board together, create a new inciting incident, and carry the threads of changed material through the story. Believe me when I say there are enough changes that I'm taking this working project one chapter at a time. Otherwise, I might crumble under the weight of the full picture.
I can do this.
Got my candle, my keyboard, and a truckload of chocolate.
Ready. Set. Go......
Book two in the Tueri Psychics series is done...but not really. First round of edits for this book is really a rewrite. I had hoped this wouldn't be the case. So much for hope.
Time to put my poster board together, create a new inciting incident, and carry the threads of changed material through the story. Believe me when I say there are enough changes that I'm taking this working project one chapter at a time. Otherwise, I might crumble under the weight of the full picture.
I can do this.
Got my candle, my keyboard, and a truckload of chocolate.
Ready. Set. Go......
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Inspiration
Wow, it's been a while since I posted. Things have been a little crazy the last three weeks. Unexpected surgery that required some recovery time. Everything's fine. Nuf said.
I did, however, have plenty of time to read...and think...and plot.
During my forced recuperation, I discovered Rachel Caine's Weather Warden series (first six books anyway-ordering the rest!). I LOVE these characters and plotlines. There's nothing like a fantabulously, well-written story to inspire the hell out of me.When I get sucked into a world and devour page after page, I know I'm reading the work of a master story teller. When a character makes me smile, laugh out loud, or cry, I realize how much of themselves an author has poured into their book. Each emotion, action, and reaction the characters experience are an unguarded peek into the author's psyche. That extention of self, for me, is humbling.
I remind myself of these very things every time I sit before my keyboard and breathe life into my characters. I want to evoke those kinds of responses from the people who read my work. Giving someone a reason to smile lightens the heart. Making someone laugh is a wonderous gift. Sharing another's tears brings each of us, as individual beings, closer to being whole.
And though I'm compelled to write, I will always strive to improve my skills. The characters that speak to me deserve no less. The people that read those characters' stories deserve more.
I did, however, have plenty of time to read...and think...and plot.
During my forced recuperation, I discovered Rachel Caine's Weather Warden series (first six books anyway-ordering the rest!). I LOVE these characters and plotlines. There's nothing like a fantabulously, well-written story to inspire the hell out of me.When I get sucked into a world and devour page after page, I know I'm reading the work of a master story teller. When a character makes me smile, laugh out loud, or cry, I realize how much of themselves an author has poured into their book. Each emotion, action, and reaction the characters experience are an unguarded peek into the author's psyche. That extention of self, for me, is humbling.
I remind myself of these very things every time I sit before my keyboard and breathe life into my characters. I want to evoke those kinds of responses from the people who read my work. Giving someone a reason to smile lightens the heart. Making someone laugh is a wonderous gift. Sharing another's tears brings each of us, as individual beings, closer to being whole.
And though I'm compelled to write, I will always strive to improve my skills. The characters that speak to me deserve no less. The people that read those characters' stories deserve more.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
New Kind of Halloween
My husband and I have been married 23 years. With four daughters, holidays have always been a special kind of busy. Dresses, costumes, pictures, and parties have marked the celebrational journey. Halloween, of course, is one of my favorite holidays. Now that our girls are older, things have changed a bit.
My oldest (22 1/2) has a two year-old son. He is the most amazing little guy. I picked him up very early this morning. Stopped at the grocery store on the way home to get some laundry detergent. My grandson insists on riding in the huge, blue race car shopping cart. No problem.
As I'm trying to push this thing through the aisles withouth running into someone, my cell phone rings. Daughter number two (almost 21) calls. "Hey, mom. Did you get the picture of us in costume last night that I attached to my text?" I had. Somehow, my daughter had convinced her boyfriend to dress up like an airline pilot. She was a stewardess. They looked great.
"Cool. So, we were thinking about stopping by...what are you making for brunch?" I decided on something quick and easy. She loved the idea. "We'll be over in an hour." Ladies, food will always bring your grown children home. Especially if they never learned to cook. I turn the race cart around and grab extra eggs, cheese, linguica, and bagels...then headed home.
My two younger daughters both received texts while I was cooking. Daughter number three (15 1/2)reminded me she had plans to go to a friend's house and hand out candy. Daughter number four (14) had plans to go trick-or-treating with two friends, assuring me this IS their last year.
We made ten dozen Halloween cookies, caramel apples, roasted pumpkin seeds, and I made chili for dinner. Then my grandson left to go trick-or-treating, and all my daughters went about their own business. That left hubby and I home, alone. How utterly strange to have the house to ourselves...on Halloween. I think it's a first.
Hubby just called for me to join him on the couch. Movie's cued up. Grabbed my favorite blanket for snuggling. Not a bad way to spend Halloween...just different. I kind of like it, though. Started out just the two of us. Glad we both like each other enough to look forward to it again just being the two us...eventually!
My oldest (22 1/2) has a two year-old son. He is the most amazing little guy. I picked him up very early this morning. Stopped at the grocery store on the way home to get some laundry detergent. My grandson insists on riding in the huge, blue race car shopping cart. No problem.
As I'm trying to push this thing through the aisles withouth running into someone, my cell phone rings. Daughter number two (almost 21) calls. "Hey, mom. Did you get the picture of us in costume last night that I attached to my text?" I had. Somehow, my daughter had convinced her boyfriend to dress up like an airline pilot. She was a stewardess. They looked great.
"Cool. So, we were thinking about stopping by...what are you making for brunch?" I decided on something quick and easy. She loved the idea. "We'll be over in an hour." Ladies, food will always bring your grown children home. Especially if they never learned to cook. I turn the race cart around and grab extra eggs, cheese, linguica, and bagels...then headed home.
My two younger daughters both received texts while I was cooking. Daughter number three (15 1/2)reminded me she had plans to go to a friend's house and hand out candy. Daughter number four (14) had plans to go trick-or-treating with two friends, assuring me this IS their last year.
We made ten dozen Halloween cookies, caramel apples, roasted pumpkin seeds, and I made chili for dinner. Then my grandson left to go trick-or-treating, and all my daughters went about their own business. That left hubby and I home, alone. How utterly strange to have the house to ourselves...on Halloween. I think it's a first.
Hubby just called for me to join him on the couch. Movie's cued up. Grabbed my favorite blanket for snuggling. Not a bad way to spend Halloween...just different. I kind of like it, though. Started out just the two of us. Glad we both like each other enough to look forward to it again just being the two us...eventually!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Car Shopping...Grrrrrr
So, my third daughter is 15 1/2. She's ready to get her driving permit. You'd think since I've been through this twice already I'd be ready for the whole study the driver's handbook, practice driving, and shopping for a car routine. You'd think. Personally, I'm having a harder time not an easier one. Not sure why.
But in the spirit of teaching our children to fly...er, drive, I'm a team player.
Which is why hubby and I were at a local car lot looking at cars this afternoon. Now, I won't mention the lot by name (just think King Arthur and a certain magical sword!), but it was the first time we'd ever visited this particular business. An ad ran in Saturday's paper and enticed us, I must admit.
We stopped by the lot last night on the way home from hubby's birthday dinner. It was dark, cold, and late. Hubby looked at the car, spoke to the "Sales Manager." He tried to immediately interest my hubby in a different car. Hubby told him he was inerested in this specific car. Then spoke to a different salesman, made an offer, and shook hands on the price. We made plans to come down today to drive the car. If it drove as well as it looked, we'd buy it.
Imagine our surprise when we showed up, after calling our salesman "Ted" to meet us at the lot (on his day off I might add!), and the car was gone. No, it hadn't been sold. The car had been sent to auction!!! WTH?
"Ted" apologized profusely. Apparently there was a miscommunication about which car we were interested in. It was sent to auction by mistake. Huh. We began to wonder. The "helpful" sales manager tried to deflect our interest in the original car by suggesting a couple of others. One was an absolute no. Older with more miles...right, like I'd want that car for my daughter. I'm trying to help her get through high school and college without having a car payment or huge mechanic bills.
The other car was a decent deal. It had possibilities. Unfortunately, the sales manager wouldn't meet our counter offer (a difference of only 50-100 bucks). That was surprising considering the error they'd already made in dealing with us.
It also was telling in regard to the dealership and its "customer relations" practices. After we turned down their offer, the sales manager rudely yelled, "That's what you wanted." My husband responded, "No, what I wanted was the car you sent to auction." The owner stepped toward us and said, "That car's not coming back from auction. It's already been sold to the guy running the auction. I'll bring it back if it doesn't sell, but it's going to sell."
No frickin' kidding it's gonna sell. It was a great deal.
Interesting that a guy running an auction bought the car less than 72 hours after the ad came out. Then considering the "Sales Manager" was immediately trying to pitch us another car the night before made us wonder. We figured the owner ran the ad to get people in, knowing it was already sold. Shady and unethical business practices. Unbelievably crappy customer relations.
Consequently, we're still looking for a car. That's okay. We're patient.
As for the "King Arthur's magic sword" dealership, we'll never go back.
Business transactions require trust.
Never trust a liar.
But in the spirit of teaching our children to fly...er, drive, I'm a team player.
Which is why hubby and I were at a local car lot looking at cars this afternoon. Now, I won't mention the lot by name (just think King Arthur and a certain magical sword!), but it was the first time we'd ever visited this particular business. An ad ran in Saturday's paper and enticed us, I must admit.
We stopped by the lot last night on the way home from hubby's birthday dinner. It was dark, cold, and late. Hubby looked at the car, spoke to the "Sales Manager." He tried to immediately interest my hubby in a different car. Hubby told him he was inerested in this specific car. Then spoke to a different salesman, made an offer, and shook hands on the price. We made plans to come down today to drive the car. If it drove as well as it looked, we'd buy it.
Imagine our surprise when we showed up, after calling our salesman "Ted" to meet us at the lot (on his day off I might add!), and the car was gone. No, it hadn't been sold. The car had been sent to auction!!! WTH?
"Ted" apologized profusely. Apparently there was a miscommunication about which car we were interested in. It was sent to auction by mistake. Huh. We began to wonder. The "helpful" sales manager tried to deflect our interest in the original car by suggesting a couple of others. One was an absolute no. Older with more miles...right, like I'd want that car for my daughter. I'm trying to help her get through high school and college without having a car payment or huge mechanic bills.
The other car was a decent deal. It had possibilities. Unfortunately, the sales manager wouldn't meet our counter offer (a difference of only 50-100 bucks). That was surprising considering the error they'd already made in dealing with us.
It also was telling in regard to the dealership and its "customer relations" practices. After we turned down their offer, the sales manager rudely yelled, "That's what you wanted." My husband responded, "No, what I wanted was the car you sent to auction." The owner stepped toward us and said, "That car's not coming back from auction. It's already been sold to the guy running the auction. I'll bring it back if it doesn't sell, but it's going to sell."
No frickin' kidding it's gonna sell. It was a great deal.
Interesting that a guy running an auction bought the car less than 72 hours after the ad came out. Then considering the "Sales Manager" was immediately trying to pitch us another car the night before made us wonder. We figured the owner ran the ad to get people in, knowing it was already sold. Shady and unethical business practices. Unbelievably crappy customer relations.
Consequently, we're still looking for a car. That's okay. We're patient.
As for the "King Arthur's magic sword" dealership, we'll never go back.
Business transactions require trust.
Never trust a liar.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Teenage Girls
Wow. Had one of those mornings with my youngest daugher. She's 14 and in eighth grade. Need I say more?
I'm lucky. Let me say that right up front. She's a good kid. Intelligent, happy, nurturing. And independent, strong willed, and stubborn. All traits she gets from me...I didn't mention humility for a reason!
Anyway, she decided she wanted to wear a pair of skorts that she had no business wearing in public. The tye-dye tights under the skorts, in her mind, excused the fact that if she sneezed, the back of the shorts wouldn't cover near enough of her hiney.
We've all been there, my female counterparts.
That cool outfit only WE could pull off. You know the one I'm talking about...it's sorta sexy, a bit edgy, and guaranteed to generate attention.
Oh, yeah. I busted her.
She tried to play it cool. Changed into another skirt without an argument. That was my first clue she had other plans. Did I mention my daughter is also a purse hound? Nice, big, suitcase-sized handbags. I asked her to bring me her purse.
After a couple of minutes, during which she pulled the short skort out of it I'm sure, she brought me her purse. Nothing unacceptable. Then she announced she needed to use the bathroom before she left for school. I told her, "Okay. Just bring me your purse again when you're finished."
I heard the steam hiss between her teeth. She turned into her bedroom instead of the bathroom. I followed, trying not to smile. Since her every effort to sneak the offensive garment out of the house had failed, her frustration at hating the skirt she had to wear morphed into a pitch of whining only dolphins would understand.
Needless to say, she left wearing a pair of long jean shorts over her tights. Still cute...just without the sexy. I won this round. Go me. Unfortunately, it won't be the last one. My only consolation: I survived my teenage years intact. So will she!
I'm lucky. Let me say that right up front. She's a good kid. Intelligent, happy, nurturing. And independent, strong willed, and stubborn. All traits she gets from me...I didn't mention humility for a reason!
Anyway, she decided she wanted to wear a pair of skorts that she had no business wearing in public. The tye-dye tights under the skorts, in her mind, excused the fact that if she sneezed, the back of the shorts wouldn't cover near enough of her hiney.
We've all been there, my female counterparts.
That cool outfit only WE could pull off. You know the one I'm talking about...it's sorta sexy, a bit edgy, and guaranteed to generate attention.
Oh, yeah. I busted her.
She tried to play it cool. Changed into another skirt without an argument. That was my first clue she had other plans. Did I mention my daughter is also a purse hound? Nice, big, suitcase-sized handbags. I asked her to bring me her purse.
After a couple of minutes, during which she pulled the short skort out of it I'm sure, she brought me her purse. Nothing unacceptable. Then she announced she needed to use the bathroom before she left for school. I told her, "Okay. Just bring me your purse again when you're finished."
I heard the steam hiss between her teeth. She turned into her bedroom instead of the bathroom. I followed, trying not to smile. Since her every effort to sneak the offensive garment out of the house had failed, her frustration at hating the skirt she had to wear morphed into a pitch of whining only dolphins would understand.
Needless to say, she left wearing a pair of long jean shorts over her tights. Still cute...just without the sexy. I won this round. Go me. Unfortunately, it won't be the last one. My only consolation: I survived my teenage years intact. So will she!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Reading
So, tonight is my first reading at a book signing. Am I nervous? You bet. Knowing it's my story doesn't really help. I mean, all those people staring at me, waiting to hear the words I wrote...yeah, that's gonna be nerve racking.
I just have to remember to read slowly, enunciate my words, and keep the story in mind. I did write it after all, right? I know where the inflection goes. Where the emotion reaches a pitch. When the snark announces its arrival.
Okay, I'm feeling a little better. I can do this. I'll just suck on a cough drop and have a bottle of water nearby. Oh, and my honey will be there for moral support. And some of my best friends. Why was I nervous again? This will be a breeze!
I just have to remember to read slowly, enunciate my words, and keep the story in mind. I did write it after all, right? I know where the inflection goes. Where the emotion reaches a pitch. When the snark announces its arrival.
Okay, I'm feeling a little better. I can do this. I'll just suck on a cough drop and have a bottle of water nearby. Oh, and my honey will be there for moral support. And some of my best friends. Why was I nervous again? This will be a breeze!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Promotion
Holy Wow, what a crazy ride promoting a book can be!
Let me start at the beginning. I was on Amazon's site, ordering a friend's book. Decided to see if Moonlight Bleu was listed. Now keep in mind, the official release for Bleu was scheduled for Labor Day Weekend...no fixed date yet. Anyway, I searched the title and, surprise, my book popped up. I thought, "Cool. It must be listed as a reserve." I went through the purchase process, assuming I'd get a "book will be released on" message. Imagine my surprise when the I got the, "Congratulations on your purchase. Your book will arrive on Friday, Aug. 27th." Yikes! I'd just accidentally ordered the first copy of my own book. No problem. That was actually pretty cool.
(The book arrived on time, by the way!)
Well, my co-workers threw a potluck/book signing party during our lunch hour Wednesday, Sept 1st. Had a blast. One of my friends grabbed the announcement and gave it to our courthouse beat newspaper reporter. I got a call, and a fantastic picture and article made its way into the newspaper Labor Day, Sept. 6. Stay with me, things will pick up...I promise.
I next received an email from the owner of Whitstran Brewery. She had read the newspaper article and asked if I was interested in doing a reading and signing at their pub. Was I ever! How cool is that? Plans are set in motion. I had my first book store signing at The Bookworm on Sept. 18th. Had a blast. Before I can plan a date to appear at the pub, I was contacted by the Historic Downtown Prosser Association. They wondered if I'd be interested in doing a reading and book signing during the social hour at the Princess Theater Oct. 16th. Um, yeah!
Things are really moving now. Oct. 2nd I attended a book fair at the Emerald City Conference in Seattle for a book signing. Met some phenomenal people, and learned tons of helpful information. Oct. 9th I did a book signing at Borders (amazing!) with friend and fantabulous author Marilee Brothers.
During this 30-day period I'd also guest blogged on four different sites.
But again, I stray.
The Historic Downtown Prosser Association published their press release for the reading on Friday, Oct. 8. I received a phone call Saturday evening, Oct. 9 letting me know KVEW TV had read the press release and wanted to do an interview...holy yikes!!! See what I mean about crazy movement? I spoke to Crystal from KVEW Oct. 11th. I was in the studio at 5:45 a.m. Oct. 13th. The interview went off without a hitch.
What an incredible ride...and it's not over yet.
To think this all started with a quiet get-together with my friends! =D
Let me start at the beginning. I was on Amazon's site, ordering a friend's book. Decided to see if Moonlight Bleu was listed. Now keep in mind, the official release for Bleu was scheduled for Labor Day Weekend...no fixed date yet. Anyway, I searched the title and, surprise, my book popped up. I thought, "Cool. It must be listed as a reserve." I went through the purchase process, assuming I'd get a "book will be released on" message. Imagine my surprise when the I got the, "Congratulations on your purchase. Your book will arrive on Friday, Aug. 27th." Yikes! I'd just accidentally ordered the first copy of my own book. No problem. That was actually pretty cool.
(The book arrived on time, by the way!)
Well, my co-workers threw a potluck/book signing party during our lunch hour Wednesday, Sept 1st. Had a blast. One of my friends grabbed the announcement and gave it to our courthouse beat newspaper reporter. I got a call, and a fantastic picture and article made its way into the newspaper Labor Day, Sept. 6. Stay with me, things will pick up...I promise.
I next received an email from the owner of Whitstran Brewery. She had read the newspaper article and asked if I was interested in doing a reading and signing at their pub. Was I ever! How cool is that? Plans are set in motion. I had my first book store signing at The Bookworm on Sept. 18th. Had a blast. Before I can plan a date to appear at the pub, I was contacted by the Historic Downtown Prosser Association. They wondered if I'd be interested in doing a reading and book signing during the social hour at the Princess Theater Oct. 16th. Um, yeah!
Things are really moving now. Oct. 2nd I attended a book fair at the Emerald City Conference in Seattle for a book signing. Met some phenomenal people, and learned tons of helpful information. Oct. 9th I did a book signing at Borders (amazing!) with friend and fantabulous author Marilee Brothers.
During this 30-day period I'd also guest blogged on four different sites.
But again, I stray.
The Historic Downtown Prosser Association published their press release for the reading on Friday, Oct. 8. I received a phone call Saturday evening, Oct. 9 letting me know KVEW TV had read the press release and wanted to do an interview...holy yikes!!! See what I mean about crazy movement? I spoke to Crystal from KVEW Oct. 11th. I was in the studio at 5:45 a.m. Oct. 13th. The interview went off without a hitch.
What an incredible ride...and it's not over yet.
To think this all started with a quiet get-together with my friends! =D
Monday, October 11, 2010
No Good Deed
No good deed goes unpunished.
Truer words were never spoken.
So, a month ago this little kitten ran under my car at the library. My two teenage daughters were with me, so as you guessed, the kitten came home with us. "Mom, we'll find her a home. One of our friends will take her." After dozens of phone calls and texts...you see this coming, right?...no takers. We now have a new kitten.
I take her to the vet. She's got a respiratory infection, eye infection, and ear mites. But she's so sweet. So we give her the medicine twice a day. Brush her since we can't bathe her. A few weeks go by. She's feeling much better. In fact, I'm beginning to think she's got ADHD. My husband keeps reminding me this is normal. Roo is just a kitten. We named her Roo because she has long legs and jumps like a kangaroo. It's the funniest thing to watch.
Anyway, a couple of days ago I realized I had bites on my legs and feet...right where Roo likes to snuggle. Oh yeah, it's fleas. Unbelievable. Not really, but still. So we're doing the flea dip, collar, check her for fleas twice a day thing. My husband hasn't been bitten once. Just me. Gotta love it. I save the little thing, and get turned into a blood buffet for my efforts.
I know I'll look back on this and laugh, but right now I itch too much to see the humor.
Anyone got any calamine lotion?
Truer words were never spoken.
So, a month ago this little kitten ran under my car at the library. My two teenage daughters were with me, so as you guessed, the kitten came home with us. "Mom, we'll find her a home. One of our friends will take her." After dozens of phone calls and texts...you see this coming, right?...no takers. We now have a new kitten.
I take her to the vet. She's got a respiratory infection, eye infection, and ear mites. But she's so sweet. So we give her the medicine twice a day. Brush her since we can't bathe her. A few weeks go by. She's feeling much better. In fact, I'm beginning to think she's got ADHD. My husband keeps reminding me this is normal. Roo is just a kitten. We named her Roo because she has long legs and jumps like a kangaroo. It's the funniest thing to watch.
Anyway, a couple of days ago I realized I had bites on my legs and feet...right where Roo likes to snuggle. Oh yeah, it's fleas. Unbelievable. Not really, but still. So we're doing the flea dip, collar, check her for fleas twice a day thing. My husband hasn't been bitten once. Just me. Gotta love it. I save the little thing, and get turned into a blood buffet for my efforts.
I know I'll look back on this and laugh, but right now I itch too much to see the humor.
Anyone got any calamine lotion?
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
How Sweet
So, last night I'm in the grocery store, pushing my cart toward the exit. In walks this little old lady. When I say little, I mean tiny. Five feet tall...when wearing heels...and less than a hundred pounds. Itty bitty. Anyway, I notice her because I see this large curler peeking out from under her scarf.
You know the curler I'm talking about. Those older sticky ones that your grandmother used to put in her hair at night so her bangs would be curled the next morning. Of course I immediately thought of my own Nana. I couldn't help but smile. Memories of watching my Nana brush her hair and show me how to pin the curler so it wouldn't fall out in her sleep played in my head.
Nostalgia is a strong catalyst. I could even smell the flowery scent of my Nana's lotion.
Until the little old lady in the grocery store walked past me. I'm not sure if she washed her hair in a tub full of alcohol or drank the bath liquor, but holy WOW! I got a buzz from the fumes wafting off her. Thankfully, she kept moving and I could finally breathe again. I turned, not sure if I'd imagined the whole thing.
Than, as she made her way through the produce section, I watched other people smile when they spotted her...then cover their mouth as they choked on the alcohol fumes. Yep. Little old lady was plastered. And walking just fine. Which brought a scary realization: she drove to the store. Didn't see that one coming!
You know the curler I'm talking about. Those older sticky ones that your grandmother used to put in her hair at night so her bangs would be curled the next morning. Of course I immediately thought of my own Nana. I couldn't help but smile. Memories of watching my Nana brush her hair and show me how to pin the curler so it wouldn't fall out in her sleep played in my head.
Nostalgia is a strong catalyst. I could even smell the flowery scent of my Nana's lotion.
Until the little old lady in the grocery store walked past me. I'm not sure if she washed her hair in a tub full of alcohol or drank the bath liquor, but holy WOW! I got a buzz from the fumes wafting off her. Thankfully, she kept moving and I could finally breathe again. I turned, not sure if I'd imagined the whole thing.
Than, as she made her way through the produce section, I watched other people smile when they spotted her...then cover their mouth as they choked on the alcohol fumes. Yep. Little old lady was plastered. And walking just fine. Which brought a scary realization: she drove to the store. Didn't see that one coming!
Monday, October 4, 2010
Author Gazing
This last Saturday I was part of a book fair for authors signing at the Emerald City Writers Conference in Seattle, Washington.
Since this would be my first major book signing, I wasn't sure what to expect.
I got there early. Those of you that know me, quit laughing! Though I left home later than I meant to, I made up the time...er, driving.
Anyway, I'd been told by author Richelle Mead some time back to always have a box of my own books on hand, just in case of an order snafew at such events. Glad I listened to that advice. The bookstore hosting the book fair had not ordered any of my books.
Problem averted. I had a box with me.
So I set up my books, pictures, and promo items. Then the other authors started to arrive. Now don't get me wrong, I had gotten the list of author attendees ahead of time, but seeing them on paper is NOTHING like meeting them in person.
Sorena Robard sat next to me...and she is the kindest, funniest person. I had so much fun talking to her. She gave me a couple of pointers I'll remember for the future, and I learned other valuable networking tips from just listening to her interact with others.
Alyssa Day sat directly across from me...unbelievable, right? I can top that. Yasmine Galenorn was at the next table on my right. How freaking cool is that? Oh, and behind me, Elizabeth Boyle. Her laugh is so infectious, everyone else couldn't help but join in.
Brenda Novak, Cherry Adair...the list is incredible. I'll post it below just so you get the idea.
As for me, well, I had a great time. I met fantabulous authors, made some very cool connections, and learned some valuable writing advice. All in all, the weekend was a success!
Cherry Adair
Allie Adams
Ann Aguirre
Elizabeth Amber
Viv Arend
DaniJo Avia
Mimi Barbour
Hanna Rhys Barnes
Lynette Baughman
Jenna Bayley-Burke
Teresa Bodwell
Marie-Claude Bourque
Elizabeth Boyle
MG Braden
Asa Marie Bradley
Meljean Brook
Susan Colleen Browne
Mary Buckham
Marcella Burnard
Katherine Chloe Cahoon
Tera Childs
Rebecca Clark
Jennifer Conner
Cait Connelly
Eileen Cook
Megan Crane/Caitlin Crews
Lauren Dane
Lacy Danes
Jami Davenport
Heather Davis
Alyssa Day
Bonnie Edwards
Kimberly Fisk
Eilis Flynn
Amanda Forester
Susanna Fraser
Yasmine Galenorn
Jan Hambright
Jackie Ivie
Paty Jager
Christy Karras
Kris Kennedy
Anthea Lawson
Linda Hope Lee
Rose Lerner
Jeannie Lin
Katie MacAlister
Margaret Mallory
Josie Malone
Delilah Marvelle
Crista McHugh
Alexis Morgan
Elisabeth Naughton
Laura Navarre
Dawn Nelson
Brenda Novak
Terry Odell
Liza Palmer
Renee Rearden
Serena Robar
Sheila Roberts
Gina Robinson
Jacquie Rogers
Gerri Russell
Laurie Ryan
Deborah Schneider
Amber Scott
Jessa Slade
Shelli Stevens
Marie Tuhart
Myne Whitman
Gayle Ann Williams
Since this would be my first major book signing, I wasn't sure what to expect.
I got there early. Those of you that know me, quit laughing! Though I left home later than I meant to, I made up the time...er, driving.
Anyway, I'd been told by author Richelle Mead some time back to always have a box of my own books on hand, just in case of an order snafew at such events. Glad I listened to that advice. The bookstore hosting the book fair had not ordered any of my books.
Problem averted. I had a box with me.
So I set up my books, pictures, and promo items. Then the other authors started to arrive. Now don't get me wrong, I had gotten the list of author attendees ahead of time, but seeing them on paper is NOTHING like meeting them in person.
Sorena Robard sat next to me...and she is the kindest, funniest person. I had so much fun talking to her. She gave me a couple of pointers I'll remember for the future, and I learned other valuable networking tips from just listening to her interact with others.
Alyssa Day sat directly across from me...unbelievable, right? I can top that. Yasmine Galenorn was at the next table on my right. How freaking cool is that? Oh, and behind me, Elizabeth Boyle. Her laugh is so infectious, everyone else couldn't help but join in.
Brenda Novak, Cherry Adair...the list is incredible. I'll post it below just so you get the idea.
As for me, well, I had a great time. I met fantabulous authors, made some very cool connections, and learned some valuable writing advice. All in all, the weekend was a success!
Cherry Adair
Allie Adams
Ann Aguirre
Elizabeth Amber
Viv Arend
DaniJo Avia
Mimi Barbour
Hanna Rhys Barnes
Lynette Baughman
Jenna Bayley-Burke
Teresa Bodwell
Marie-Claude Bourque
Elizabeth Boyle
MG Braden
Asa Marie Bradley
Meljean Brook
Susan Colleen Browne
Mary Buckham
Marcella Burnard
Katherine Chloe Cahoon
Tera Childs
Rebecca Clark
Jennifer Conner
Cait Connelly
Eileen Cook
Megan Crane/Caitlin Crews
Lauren Dane
Lacy Danes
Jami Davenport
Heather Davis
Alyssa Day
Bonnie Edwards
Kimberly Fisk
Eilis Flynn
Amanda Forester
Susanna Fraser
Yasmine Galenorn
Jan Hambright
Jackie Ivie
Paty Jager
Christy Karras
Kris Kennedy
Anthea Lawson
Linda Hope Lee
Rose Lerner
Jeannie Lin
Katie MacAlister
Margaret Mallory
Josie Malone
Delilah Marvelle
Crista McHugh
Alexis Morgan
Elisabeth Naughton
Laura Navarre
Dawn Nelson
Brenda Novak
Terry Odell
Liza Palmer
Renee Rearden
Serena Robar
Sheila Roberts
Gina Robinson
Jacquie Rogers
Gerri Russell
Laurie Ryan
Deborah Schneider
Amber Scott
Jessa Slade
Shelli Stevens
Marie Tuhart
Myne Whitman
Gayle Ann Williams
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Dreams
So, this morning I wake up from a dream...kind of a nightmare really. You know, that dream that has you jumping out of bed before your eyes are even open, ripping the covers off the mattress, looking for creepy, crawly, critters?
Yep, it was one of those.
The Dream:
I'm on a friend's front porch, which is weird because their house was on the edge of a really high cliff (which it isn't in reality) with a beautiful view. I'm swinging on a playground swing on the porch, when all of a sudden I notice a large spider climbing up the side of the house.
That kind of freaks me out. Then my husband warns me there's a huge, bright spider spinning a web directly behind me. Now I'm really freaked out. I don't know if it's gonna bite me or I'm gonna get stuck in this web.
Remember, I did mention this a dream.
So, I check dream interpretation dictionaries. Guess what? Spiders are good things! A spider is symbolic of feminine power. Right on. They're also a sign of creativity due to their intricate webs they weave.
Seeing a spider climb a wall means one will achieve one's goals in the near future. See a spider spinning a web means one will be rewarded for one's hard work.
Whoo hooo...
Hold on. There's negative too. Spiders represent a sticky or entangled situation. Someone or something is sucking the life right out of you.
Hmmm, could be either direction I suppose. Book just came out. Working hard to promote and am getting great feedback. That's positive. Day job is very busy and I'm fighting for writing time. That's a frustrating situation.
Then again, it could just be the fact my kitten has become my 4:00 a.m. alarm clock, batting at my hair and tickling my face with her whiskers!
I'll "stick" with the positive spider outlook...great things are on the horizon. Oh, and my kitten might end up sleeping in the garage! =D
Yep, it was one of those.
The Dream:
I'm on a friend's front porch, which is weird because their house was on the edge of a really high cliff (which it isn't in reality) with a beautiful view. I'm swinging on a playground swing on the porch, when all of a sudden I notice a large spider climbing up the side of the house.
That kind of freaks me out. Then my husband warns me there's a huge, bright spider spinning a web directly behind me. Now I'm really freaked out. I don't know if it's gonna bite me or I'm gonna get stuck in this web.
Remember, I did mention this a dream.
So, I check dream interpretation dictionaries. Guess what? Spiders are good things! A spider is symbolic of feminine power. Right on. They're also a sign of creativity due to their intricate webs they weave.
Seeing a spider climb a wall means one will achieve one's goals in the near future. See a spider spinning a web means one will be rewarded for one's hard work.
Whoo hooo...
Hold on. There's negative too. Spiders represent a sticky or entangled situation. Someone or something is sucking the life right out of you.
Hmmm, could be either direction I suppose. Book just came out. Working hard to promote and am getting great feedback. That's positive. Day job is very busy and I'm fighting for writing time. That's a frustrating situation.
Then again, it could just be the fact my kitten has become my 4:00 a.m. alarm clock, batting at my hair and tickling my face with her whiskers!
I'll "stick" with the positive spider outlook...great things are on the horizon. Oh, and my kitten might end up sleeping in the garage! =D
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