Marissa’s Scheduled Procrastination

Thank You to our troops

2010-11-11T13:36:00.002-05:00

The Soldier
It is the soldier, not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the soldier, not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the soldier, not the campus organizer,
who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.

It is the soldier, not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the soldier,
who salutes the flag,
who serves under the flag,
and whose coffin is draped by the flag,
who allows the protester to burn the flag.

By Father Dennis Edward O'Brien, USMC

The Mason Jar Parable- RT here I come!

2010-04-26T14:18:00.000-05:00

A philosophy professor stood before her class at the end of the year with a table full of somewhat odd items. She began class by filling up a very large, empty mason jar with rocks from a sack on the table. As she topped of the jar, with some rocks spilling over the side, she then asked the students if the jar was full. They all answered that it was.

So the professor then picked up a box of small pebbles and poured them into the jar, shaking it lighty to allow the pebbles to meander into the open spaces between the rocks. She asked again if the jar was full. They again agreed it was, but some, sensing she wasn't quite done, said "Well, not really."

The professor then picked up cannister of sand and poured it into the jar until all the openings between the rocks and pebbles had been filled. "Now you could say it's full," said the professor. "And I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The rocks are the big, important things: your family, your partner, your health, your friends, your children - things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still seem full."

"The pebbles are the other things that matter, such as your job, your home, your car. The sand is everything else. The small stuff."

"Now think of this: If you put the sand into the jar first, there is no room for the pebbles or the rocks. The same goes for your life. If you spend all your time, space and energy on the smaller stuff, you will never have room for the things that should truly matter to you."

"So be attentive to the things that are crucial to your happiness. Play with your children and spend time with them. Don't neglect your health. Take your partner out dining and dancing. Be there for your friends."

"There will always be time to go to work, clean the house, run errands, and fix the disposal. Take care of the rocks first - the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."

The students were speechless and all agreed it was a great year-end life lesson.

But suddenly one student asked about the bottle of beer still the table. "Ah," the professor smiled and poured a bottle of beer into the jar. It went in just fine, being soaked up through the sand, and truly made the jar full."Its here to drive home the point there's always time for a cold beer with friends."
~~

I love this lesson in prioriies parable! And I find it fitting to reflect on as I get readyto head to the Romantic Times Booklovers Convention. I will spend the next few days replenishing the muse and honing my craft and sharing many a laugh and cold beverage with friends.

HUGS!
Mari

No Kiss Blogfest & a 4 Star RT Review

2010-01-02T16:46:00.006-05:00

Hello All, I hope you had the merriest of holidays and find all kinds of prosperity in the new year. We received a fantastic email as a Christmas prezzie. Sapphire Sizzle, the print anthology in which Winning Bess is found, received a 4 Star review from Romantic Times Magazine. Always great to hear when someone enjoys your story! The review and advertisement will be in the Febuary issue.

Looking for a way to celebrate, I noticed some authors on twitter were participating in a "No Kiss Blogfest" posting scenes where that kiss almost happens but...Look here for the info and participants Frankie Writes

So below is a No Kiss scene from Winning Bess, (set up-- the night before Colm had suggested he fight for money to help Bess' dream of leaving Five Point NYC come true, the year is 1847)

“I’ve been thinking about this fighting you mentioned. I do miss sunlight that warms a body and rainfall that refreshes the air.” She hesitated before voicing her objections.

“I know you do.” The muscles in his arm tensed beneath her hand.

“But I don’t want any more bloodshed surrounding my life, Colm. I’ve lost too much to it. I won’t lose…” she bit back you too, “any more. So if you are going to do this fighting I won’t be party to it. You’ve done enough for us already.” Her chin lifted to its stubborn stance and she took a definitive step away from the shelter of his side. Chilled air rushed between them, made her shiver. Made her ache to move right back next to him. She held her ground.

Colm slowed his gait and glanced down at her. “It wasn’t just for your dreams, Bess. I have my own to see to.” The determined fix of his jaw and flare of his nostrils made her heart race.

“Your dreams?” was all she could voice, the blue of his eyes stole her breath.

“My dreams.” He looked ahead again.

The first evidence of green appeared as Washington Square opened before them. It was a small respite in the city but you could already feel new buildings encroaching on it. The Rhinelander’s estate loomed on the other side.

“What are your dreams, Colm?” He never said one word about wanting anything. He never said many words at all.

“I’d rather not speak them aloud.” He stopped and faced her, “But when I achieve them you’ll be the first to know.”

The tone in his voice made all curiosity, all protest lodge in her throat. Unruly black curls swept across his face. Dark blue eyes held her gaze. It was a look that thrilled and terrified her. It made heat flood her insides, made her want to press her lips to his, press her entire body to him.

“Colm…” Her body leaned in. A bell clanged, announcing the approach of the day’s first omnibus. On a quick intake of air she pulled away.

Colm cleared his throat. “We’d better quicken our steps. We don’t want you to be late.” They made their way through the park and around to the servants’ entrance.

Winning Bess
ISBN 9781419918629
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Winning Bess Copyright © 2008 Marissa Alwin

HAPPY NEW YEAR
Remember to fight for your heart's desire.
Mari

Edible Aphrodisiacs

2009-12-18T17:53:00.005-05:00

Rissa and I are in the midst of writing a short story where chocolate has a major role. It was chosen not only because we both love it but because it’s been proven to enhance romance. I have quite a collection of articles about edible aphrodisiacs. Whether they work or not is up to the consumer. But enhancing the libido by the suggestion in your mind couldn’t hurt.

Just added a few new studies to my collection, so as you prepare a holiday meal for that certain someone, keep these in mind.

Of Course chocolate is in there! Women love it for a reason, guys!

"According to Italian researchers, women who eat chocolate regularly have a better sex life than those who deny themselves the treat. Those consuming the sugary snack had the highest levels of desire, arousal and satisfaction from sex."

Chocolate stimulates endorphin production, which gives a feeling of pleasure. The same endorphins produced by kissing. Dark chocolate also contains serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant and it contains theobromine, caffeine and other substances which are stimulants.

The Journal of Sexual Medicine concurs with the Italian study- people who consume at least one cube of dark chocolate a day experience greater desire and enjoy love making more than those who don’t.

Looking for a Mixer for those drinks? Go Pomegranate!

According to UCLA scientists, this blood red juice gets the real blood flowing! It’s rich in antioxidants that increase blood flow much the way Viagra does. No prescription needed!

Need a side dish when someone special is coming for dinner? Asparagus!

According to the co-author of Great Food, Great Sex (awesome book to have btw!) this long juicy green plant can steam things up! Asparagus has a chemical, Protodioscin, which has been shown to boost arousal.

Yes I share these studies with my husband *g* I get more chocolate as surprise gifts. And just seeing one of the foods or drinks included with our meal…*eg*

Now I leave you with my yearly tribute to my favorite chocolate candy… How Do You Eat a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup?

I place it up to my mouth. My lips softly caress the side as they part. I gently nip the edges until all the ridges have been grazed. The sensuous aroma of peanut butter blended with chocolate teases me. My eyes drift closed. My mouth moistens. I open for more. I ache to taste it, to take it inside me and devour it. With a hungry moan I draw it into the warmth of my mouth. I press it to the arched top. My tongue holds it in place as it slowly, forcefully, undulates against the underside. I suck and swallow the decadent union of chocolate and peanut butter until nothing is left except the extreme desire for more.

Impromptu Friday 13 on Mistletoe

2009-12-11T17:34:00.003-05:00

A while back I researched Mistletoe for an article and have recently put my findings to use in a WIP. So here are some things I learned:

1. Mistletoe does not root in soil but grows in the branches of trees. It relies on the support of a host tree to gather nutrients and water. Until the plant has its own leaves and can make food through photosynthesis. It bears its berries during winter solstice.

2. In the first century, the Druids believed that mistletoe could perform miracles, from providing fertility to humans and animals to healing diseases and protecting people from witchcraft. The Druids would cut mistletoe off oak trees in a special ceremony five days after the new moon following the winter solstice. The Druids believed that the mistletoe would become contaminated if it touched the ground, so they used a special white cloth to catch it. The Druids then sacrificed two white bulls while prayers were said, and priests gave out the mistletoe sprigs to the people, who believed they would then be kept safe from evil spirits and storms.

3. No one loves a party like the ancient Romans, and their festival of Saturnalia is one of the most documented celebrations of the Winter Solstice. This week-long bacchanal included exchanging of gifts, lots of food and wine, dancing and music. Slaves got the week off work, courts were closed, and all kinds of debauchery took place. This festival honored Saturn, of course, and he was an agricultural god. To keep him happy, fertility rituals took place under the mistletoe. Today, we don't quite go that far under our mistletoe (at least not usually) but it does explain where the kissing tradition comes from.

4. In Norse mythology, (rambling explanation) Baldr, son of Frigga and a mortal, was killed by an arrow made of mistletoe. Frigga goddess of love had said if anything of the earth or elements killed her son she would destroy all living things. They took an oath not to kill him. Because Mistletoe grows on trees and not in the earth it wasn’t part of the oath. The Norse gods and Baldr played war games because nothing could kill him. Loki made the arrow of mistletoe and tricked Hoder to use it. It killed Baldr. Frigga’s tears turned the berries from red to white. When the god of the underworld heard of Loki’s deceit he returned Baldr’s soul. Frigga took mistletoe into her keeping; making it an instrument of Love. It could no longer kill Baldr. She kissed all who passed beneath it in thanks for Baldr coming back to life. (Starting the symbolism of kissing beneath the mistletoe as a sign of love,)

5. The correct mistletoe etiquette stemming from Victorian times is the woman should be cought unawares under the mistletoe. The man approaches and requests a kiss if granted he removes one berry when he kisses a woman. When all the berries are gone, there's no more kissing permitted underneath that plant.

6. One legend states that a couple who kisses underneath mistletoe will have good luck, but a couple neglecting to perform the ritual will have bad luck. Specifically, it is believed that a couple kissing under the mistletoe ensure themselves of marriage and a long, happy life, while an unmarried woman not kissed under the mistletoe will remain single for another year.
7. Maidens placed a sprig of mistletoe under her pillow to dream of the man she would marry.

8.. Burning a sprig of mistletoe foretold the type of marriage. A steady flame a happy marriage would follow. Flickle sputtering flames indicated an unhappy marriage.

9. Mistletoe is also a symbol of peace. Enemies that meet under it are sworn to lay down their arms embrace and call a truce til the next day. This probably links mistletoe to the Christmas season too.

10. Leaves and young twigs are used by herbalists, and it is popular in Europe, especially in Germany, for treating circulatory and respiratory system problems.

11. The sticky juice of mistletoe berries was used as adhesive to trap small animals or birds. In South Africa it is called "Bird lime" in English and voelent in Afrikaans. A handful of ripe fruits are chewed until sticky, and the mass is then rubbed between the palms of the hands to form long extremely sticky strands which are then coiled around small thin tree branches where birds perch. When a bird lands on this it gets stuck to the branch and is then easy to catch by hand.

12. The herb was used historically in Old Europe for treatment of epilepsy and other convulsive nervous disorders, and was used extensively in the 16th and 17th centuries. Mistletoe is a nervine, and a narcotic, that is, it has a profound effect on the nervous system. Eating the berries can cause convulsions in children. Herbalists use Mistletoe Phoradendron flavescens teas slow the pulse and lower blood pressure, treat arthritic pain and snoring. There are valuable medicinal uses for this herb, but there are many safer, less toxic choices to treat the same conditions available to the home herbalist. It may be best to enjoy mistletoe's tradition of decorating our homes in the winter season, and reflecting on it's legendary promise of the return of new life in the spring.

13. Un-tweaked peek at scene using mistletoe:
Grace fiddled with her dance card and tried to stand nonchalantly beneath the mistletoe, as if she had no clue it was there. She blew away a wisp of unruly hair broken free from her coif and noted one white berry remained…one kiss to be had.

She glanced around the room. Samuel Howards made his way towards her. She should be happy he was perfect husband material. He was a choice that would please her father. Still she could not help but be disappointed. And as he moved closer and smiled, she could not help wish the kiss would be given to…

“You seem to be standing beneath the Mistletoe, Grace.”

She looked up into brown eyes flecked with gold…Daniel. Excitement skittered through her. “Am I?”

It's International Hug Day!!!

2009-12-04T11:23:00.002-05:00

Happy International Hug Day! I blogged my thoughts on it and celebrating it over at The TRSBLUE Blog. Along with a video about the Free Hug campaign in 2006 with a great song by the Sick Puppies. Stop on by and may your day be filled with all the goodness that comes from a well meant hug!

With your permission
HUGS!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T14:59:00.004-05:00

Be thankful that you don’t already have
everything you desire.
If you did, what would there be
to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something,
for it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations,
Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge,
Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes,
They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary,
Because it means you’ve made an effort.

It’s easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those
who are also thankful for the setbacks.

Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles,
and they will become your blessings.

~unknown copied from 321greetings

Happy Thanksgiving to you all.
What-ever the road you have travelled,
where-ever the road may lead you now,
may you have many reasons to be thankful in
expected and unexpected places.

HUGS
Mari

Thank you Veterans-- A Pittance of Time

2009-11-11T09:27:00.004-05:00

A song by Terry Kelly really brings the meaning of this day home. We should all take a minute and remember those in the armed services the world over! Thank You!

There is discipline in A Soldier
you can see it when he walks,
There is honor in A Soldier
you hear it when he talks.
There is courage in A Soldier
you can see it in his eyes,
There is loyalty in A Soldier
that he will not compromise.
There is something in A Soldier
that makes him stand apart,
There is strength in A Soldier
that beats from his heart.
A Soldier isn't a title any man
can be hired to do,
A Soldier is the soul of that man
buried deep inside of you.
A Soldier's job isn't finished after
an 8 hour day or a 40 hour week,
A Soldier is always A Soldier
even while he sleeps.
A Soldier serves his country first
and his life is left behind,
A Soldier has to sacrifice what
comes first in a civilian's mind.
If you are civilian -
I am saying this to you.....
next time you see A Soldier
remember what they do.
A Soldier is the reason our land
is 'Home of the free',
A Soldier is the one that is brave
protecting you and me.
If you are A Soldier -
I am saying this to you.....
Thank God for EVERY SOLDIER
Thank God for what YOU do!

I found this Poem posted by stein_norway:
an ex UN soldier from the middle east. I'd like to salute your Veteran's Day with this poem.
Author Unknown

And The Winner Is...

2009-11-04T15:54:00.002-05:00

The winners have been drawn from the participants of our Hallowe'en Hide and Seek Contest! Thanks so much to all who hunted through the authors websites and sought out our witch! Hope you all had fun! We plan to do it again next year.

Marissa Alwin ~ Judy Cox

Mechele Armstrong ~ Fedora Chen

Phyllis Campbell ~ Sue Ahn

Savannah Chase ~ Armenia Fox

Kris Cook ~ Sherry Strode

Corinne Davies ~ Kimmy Lane

Raina James ~ Jeanette Juan

Melissa Lopez ~ Deidre Durance

Mary Martinez ~ Jody Faltys

Jane Leopold Quinn ~ Ronda Inman

Tonya Ramagos ~ Kristi Henry

Regan Taylor ~ Stacey Smith

To our winner, Judy, congrats and let us know how you enjoy the stories in Sapphire Sizzle!

Seek out what's hiding! You never know what you might win!
Mari

John Wayne-- Alpha Male

2009-10-15T13:29:00.003-05:00

Rissa and I love alpha-heroes, at least our definition of one. An alpha, no matter his past, is a hero first. His sense of honor would permit nothing less. He exudes raw masculinity. He's loyal to a fault, stubborn as hell, and often has a confidence that borders on cocky. He rises to every challenge and never fails to protect. Most importantly, his respect for the heroine - while at times grudgingly given - is steadfast. Men of few words, their strength - their attraction - lies in their actions. When their heart is won, when he finds the woman who stirs the emotions he thought he never would feel, he can't deny them. And he won't let anyone or anything destroy it. When they love they love completely. You know it's a love that will last an eternity, even death won't end it.

John Wayne, from what I know of his life and seen in his movie roles, epitomize the definition. Especially, when he was on screen with Maureen O’Hara and the chemistry they shared exploded. The feisty rebellious woman who gets under the skin of the hard headed stubborn man. With her he shows his soft compassionate side that no one else was allowed to see but knew was there.

Quotes from movies and real life. Can you hear the definition?

“Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway”

“If you've got them by the balls their hearts and minds will follow.”

“Talk low, talk slow and don't say too much.”

“A horse is a horse, it ain´t make a difference what color it is.”

“Healthy, lusty sex is wonderful”

“I stick to simple themes. Love. Hate. No nuances. I stay away from psychoanalyst's couch scenes. Couches are good for one thing.”

About His 3rd Wife Pilar:
I can tell you why I love her. I have a lust for her dignity. I look at her wonderfully classic face, and I see hidden in it a sense of humor that I love. I think of wonderful, exciting, decent things when I look at her . . .

His Father’s Advice:
I`ve always followed my father`s advice: he told me, first to always keep my word and, second, to never insult anybody unintentionally. If I insult you, you can be goddamn sure I intend to. And, third, he told me not to go around looking for trouble.

About Faith:
I`ve always had deep faith that there is a Supreme Being, there has to be. To me that`s just a normal thing to have that kind of faith. The fact that He`s let me stick me around a little longer, or She`s let me stick around a little longer, certainly goes great with me -- and I want to hang around as long as I`m healthy and not in anybody`s way.

What He Wanted On His Tombstone
"Feo, Fuerte y Formal", a Spanish epitaph Wayne described as meaning "ugly, strong and dignified".

Quote Of His They Put On His Tombstone:
“Tomorrow is the most important thing in life. Comes into us at midnight very clean. It's perfect when it arrives and it puts itself in our hands. It hopes we've learned something from yesterday.”

RomantiCon

2009-10-08T12:26:00.004-05:00

This weekend is Ellora's Cave RomantiCon!!! Meet your favorite authors and cover models at their first ever convention in Richfield, Ohio! The convention features a party, breakfasts, workshops, a dinner, a book fair and all sorts of other fun stuff.

Rissa will be there representing all her pseudonyms, including Marissa! I wish I could attend too. but one word...economy. not just income but time. LOL I will be in my other hat. You'll find me in the woods camping with my Brownie troop!

Hopefully there will be a 2nd and many more, so I can attend them! !!! I am in an Exclamation point frame of mind today, aren't I? lol So if you are attending look for Rissa. She'll be wearing a name tag identifing her as Melissa Lopez aka 1/2 Marissa Alwin and 1/2 Melany Logan

Hope everyone attending has a great time. I will be checking in via twitterberry *g*
Mari

Hallowe'en Hide n Seek Contest!!

2009-10-03T09:55:00.005-05:00

Participation is very easy! All you have to do it visit each of the authors’ website listed below. Somewhere on their website or blog, you’ll find the hidden symbol shown above (That one doesn't count! We can't make it that easy! *g*)…

Keep a list of each site and where you found it and in one (1) email send your answers to corinnedavies@rocketmail.com.
Be certain to type: Halloween Trick or Treat in the subject box.

The contest is open NOW through 11:59pm on October 31st. Entries with all the correct answers will be entered into a drawing.
One (1) prize will be awarded per winner.

The names of the winners will be listed on the site of all participating authors. Each winner will be contacted by the individual author of the given prize.

Participating authors & prizes:

Marissa Alwin A print copy of Sapphire Sizzle
Mechele Armstrong A $10 Loose-Id Gift Certificate
Phyllis Campbell A copy of Spanish Eyes
Savannah Chase An author goodie promo bag and a bath set
Kris Cook An autographed copy of STRIP SEARCH by Shayla Black
Corinne Davies Edible Lust Caramel Massage Oil and candle
Raina James A download of Sinful and a $5 Amazon gift card
Melissa Lopez a copy of True Love
Mary Martinez An electronic version of Chick Magnet
Jane Leopold Quinn PDF download of one of her books. Winner's choice
Tonya Ramagos An ebook copy of Convince Me
Regan Taylor A personalized New Years tarot reading

Good Luck!!!

Happy Birthday to Rissa!

2009-09-22T21:00:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to the best half of Marissa Alwin!

"We are born wet, naked, and screaming. If we live right, we will find ourselves that way often!!"

Love you!!
Mari

The Language of the Victorian Fan

2009-09-15T15:33:00.003-05:00

Reading up on a few Victorian Customs led to a small blurb about fans I found really neat. A Century ago, this demur handheld accessory was used for more than to produce a breeze. It was also used to convey messages.

A few of them were:

Carrying it in the left hand: desirous of an acquaintance

Carrying it in the right hand: you are too willing

Carrying it in the right hand in front of the face: follow me

Closing it: I wish to speak to you

Drawing it across the cheek: I love you

Drawing it across the eyes: I am sorry

Drawing it across the forehead: we are being watched

Drawing it through the hand: I hate you

Dropping it: we will be friends

Fan with the left hand in front of the face: leave me

Fanning fast: I am engaged

Fanning slow: I am married

Letting it rest on the left cheek: no

Letting it rest on the right cheek: yes

Open and shut: you are cruel

Open wide: wait for me

Placing it on the right ear: you have changed

Shut: I have changed

Twirling it on the left hand: I love another

With handle to the lips: kiss me

Can You imagine if you weren't paying attention to how you were moving your fan or weren't aware of the fan language? oh the mixed messages you could be sending!

Sapphire Sizzles~

2009-09-13T18:16:00.004-05:00

What do sapphires-gems of loyalty and honesty--have in common with
romance that sizzles? Indulge as a demon, a playboy, a boy toy, a
prizefighter and a warrior-discover passion with one thought in mind.
His woman. Find her. Satisfy her. Love her.

Five very different stories--weaving passion, lust and love
together--Sapphire Sizzle delivers the heat you crave.

Our 1847 Americana Novella Winning Bess was released in a Print Anthology Titled Sapphire Sizzle. Within the covers you'll also find: Micah Blue by Amarinda Jones;Sapphire Tease by Marilu Mann;Lia’s Warrior by Natasha Moore;and Plaything by Rena Marks For more info and to check out the blurbs and excerpts click here

On Patriot's Day- We Remember

2009-09-11T12:28:00.002-05:00

It is from numberless diverse acts of courage and belief that human history is shaped. Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope."--Robert F Kennedy

To all who have lost their lives and the family and friends that have suffered their loss--We Remember.

Catching Memories

2009-09-04T01:10:00.001-05:00

Browsing through a magazine just before heading off to our annual family crabbing trip I read an article that said engaging in new activities together can make you fall deeper in love. This was on my mind as we left the docks and the soft breezes of the chilly early morning slowly warmed with the approach of mid-day.

See how the rest of our crabbing trip turned out and my musing over Tradition vs. New Activities went on The Romance Studio Blog.

The Mating Game- a team sport.

2009-09-02T11:32:00.003-05:00

Since I’ve not been on the dating scene for 20 years (or more if you count the five years my hubby and I dated), I am always on the look out for info on the singles scene to help when writing those scenes in stories. It seems there's a lot of wingman action taking place out there. I think there is even a TV show on a cable network called The Wingman. It seems the Wingman is someone who helps during the courtship pursuit. A recent study out of MIT and Arizona State University has concluded the mating game is a team sport!

It concluded men need help accessing females and women need help avoiding undesirables. When a woman was flirting with a desirable man her friends tended to give her space. But when an undesirable approached, the play called THE BLOCK went into effect. She flashed the "save me" look to her friends and they swooped in surrounding her or pulling her to safety. The opposite was true of men…friends scattered if the woman was a dud and huddled providing support and positive info to conversation when she was a keeper.

Most of the observations also concluded the use of friends as a decoy. Two decoy plays, which were typically used...

THE PICK: when a man wanted a little alone time with new interest, his friend would detain her friend with conversation.

THE ICEBREAKER: to avoid scaring an intended woman off the man would sent a female friend in to soften the situation before approaching.

When asked about cooperating in their friend's pursuit of a mate, even in such a competitive game. People said it gave them self-satisfaction, guaranteed help with their own future pursuits, and helped with friendship maintenance. So even in the dog eat dog world, the highly competitive game of finding a mate is more successful when humans pursue and defend in packs.

Brain Drain

2009-08-25T15:47:00.002-05:00

Get tongue-tied around that hot guy? Have a guy approach you and have him become suddenly clumsy or at a loss for words? That silent type may not be deep andmysterious, it may be because he thinks your HOT! Is that blood flow south adage true?

New research at Radboud University in the Netherlands measured the effect of mixed-sex interactions on cognitive thinking. It found significant impairment in men. People were asked to talk to a stranger before talking a cognitive test. Talking to a woman imparied men's performances more, especially if he had the hots for her. Whether or not he was in a steady relationship. Women had brain drain too but not at the same downward spiral as the men.

Scientists say that the harder the men tried to make a good impression on a woman the dumber they got. Trying to carefully monitor how you are presenting yourself uses alot of mental activity. Thus tires the brain for other thinking tests. And men seem to put more thought towards possible "mating relations" during interactions than women do.

Gopher dancin for Corinne Davies

2009-08-21T12:33:00.005-05:00

Hey Menage fans!! Two hunky gods in your dreams, what more can a woman ask? For them to be real? Or is that more than anyone can believe...

Read the new and first release by our friend, Corinne Davies. It was released today by Siren Publishing. Find the blurb excerpt and how to order here.

Congratulations, Corinne!!!!

Brain Cramp Massage!

2009-08-18T08:57:00.003-05:00

We all get brain cramps! Whether we are writing and stuck on where the characters should go next, or even start off from… Or any decision we need to make all day long. Study results are popping up all over suggesting ways to jumpstart the brain, get the creative juices flowing and light up the proverbial light bulb over our heads! I’ve blogged about this before and somewhere in the archives are other suggestions. However it seems an epidemic of brain cramps is affecting all the MMMM authors and other friends lately, so here are seven new tricks scientifically proven to get results!

Daydream- your brain actually goes into problem solving mode when you do this. Canadian researchers found zoning out activates the area of the brain for complicated reasoning.

Imagine a Box- Close your eyes and visualize an empty box. Brain scans showed this caused changes in the brain areas responsible for creativity and problem-solving> subconsciously we start brainstorming ways it can be filled. Puts you in the perfect frame of mind to come up with the problem’s solution.

Talk to your pet- Hearing the issue out loud helps you come up with creative solutions better than just keeping it in your head. And pets (or stuffed animals if you don’t have a pet- hey we writers are already out there, so why not?) don’t interrupt or make judgments. Their unconditional love automatically reduces stress that inhibits creativity.

Move your hands- Stuck on something? University of Chicago found that moving your hands helps you come up with solutions. Seems the movement simulates the brain’s thinking and problem-solving areas…waving those hands also helps boost memory and learning.

Walk backward- LOL My mom used to always say take a step back and look at it again when I was having a problem! Guess “mom’s always right” is proven true once again! in a study, backward steppers (as opposed to forward or sideways) came up with faster more effective solutions. Why? Our wiring. The unfamiliar situation, like not being able to see where we are going, puts the brain on high alert which ignites the area linked to cognitive thinking and problem-solving.

Switch rooms- The higher your ceiling, the more creative you become, according to a study at the University of Minnesota. When in a room with high ceilings participants approached problems with more abstract and imaginative ways. When under a low ceiling they focused on facts and details not looking at the bigger picture. Researchers think the lower ceiling makes us feel confined stuck in the box, thus more analytical thought. High ceilings we feel less enclosed, freer, so thoughts are more free-flowing. No high ceilings…Go Outside!

Plant something- A study at the University of Wisconsin at Madison showed tending a garden lowers anxiety, reduces stress hormones, and increases creativity and intuition. Gardening puts your mind in a meditative state, which boosts blood flow to the brain and helps you see things you normally wouldn’t. Ten minutes of meditation improved people’s ability to find hidden objects in pictures.

May your thoughts flow!
Mari

A Birthday and a Blog~

2009-08-11T00:16:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday to Paula! Our webmistress extraodinaire and wonderful friend! I have no idea how she does all she does! But thank you!!

Birthdays are good for you. Statistics show that the people who have the most live the longest. I hope you celebrate many many many more!! Love ya, Chicca!

I blogged at TRSBLUE today!

I get a kick out of the titles on the covers of Cosmo and Glamour, one thatcaught my eye awhile back "What Men Really Think During Sex Besides YESSSSSSSS!" Yes, the title had me laughing. The article did too. Yeah, I read it! It seems we ladies shouldn't worry about the stretch marks and how we look nekkie. Menreally mean it when they say "You're being ridiculous. You look gorgeous." Men,it seems, when intoxicated with lust have the ability to airbrush the woman before them. Who knows maybe it's the blood flow south that affects thevision.*g*

Want more about the article and what goes through the male mind? check out theblog!~~

http://trsblue.blogspot.com/search/label/Marissa%20Alwin

Hope everyone's having a great summer and a safe winter depending on where you are!

Mari

Mind's Eye

2009-07-23T09:55:00.002-05:00

Blogged at The Romance Studio today!Do you see what I see...Life experience affects how we "see" what we read. Good authors let us use our perspective to enjoy a story. In The Mind's Eye hope you enjoy lol It's a bit of a soap box blog

*sigh* feel like I've lost my blogging ability
Mari

One Small Step~

2009-07-20T09:07:00.003-05:00

You are the person who has to decide. Whether you'll do it or toss it aside; you are the person who makes up your mind. Whether you'll lead or will linger behind. Whether you'll try for the goal that's afar. Or just be contented to stay where you are.~ Edgar A Guest

40 years ago a man stepped on the moon! Surely there is one small step we can take in our lives toward achieving our goals!

Happy Anniversary Apollo 11!!! And Thank you, Walter Cronkite for broadcasting it and so many newsworthy events to us in such an elegant yet straight forward way! Rest in Peace!

Off to meet my goals one step at a time!
Mari

Tuesday Tidbit- Mosquito Lure

2009-06-16T09:11:00.004-05:00

Love Summer Nights on the deck or on the beach? Wouldn't they be so much more enjoyable if not for...MOSQUITOES!

Just read a tidbit in Woman's World Magazine about a natural lure to distract Mosquitoes this summer.Not sure I should let my husband see this.I'm sure he'll be all to eager to provide the empty materials needed. No need for expensive Tiki torches and Smelly Citronella candles. Just place a few empty beer bottles around the perimeter of your party. It seems they are attracted to the aroma wafting from them and will leave you alone.

Now, I was fine with this idea. Maybe put out a few decorative saucers and get rid of slugs too. But then I got to thinking, if mosquitoes are attracted to beer aroma from the empty bottles, what about your guests drinking beer at the party? Won't they be all the more attracted to them? I read Marigolds and Geraniums in the garden have a repelling aroma and gardening is almost as much fun as producing empty beer bottles...almost.

Anyone out there hear or know of any other natural mosquito lures and repellents?

Happy Summer!
Mari< Now addicted to facebook and Twitter

Thursday Thirteen~songs we enjoy differently away from our teens

2009-04-16T09:06:00.006-05:00

Had a great time with the ladies at the M-spot chat last night putting this list together!

During all the spring breaks with Teens in and out of my house, My sons and I came to the conclusion there are certain songs we can't enjoy around each other the way we do when hanging out with our friends. We came up with some and then I got help from the ladies at the M-spot chat last night to fill out the 13.

1. Something in Your Mouth by Nickelback
2. S.E.X. By Nickelback
3. Figured You Out by Nickelback
4. Crazy Bitch by Buck Cherry
5. Addicted by Saving Abel
6. Pour Some Sugar on Me by Poison
7. Talk Dirty to Me by Poison
8. Paradise by the Dashboard Light by Meatloaf
9. Too Drunk to…by Buck Cherry
10. Mony Mony by Billy Idol
11. The Bad Touch. Bloodhound gang
12. Animal by Nickelback
13. Fat Bottom Girls by Queen

Of course we came up with alot more songs... can you think of any to add?
Mari

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others' comments. It’s easy, and fun! Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

10 Superstitions at Sea

2009-04-15T11:38:00.004-05:00

In Celebration of the start of Deadliest Catch season 5 (WOW! What a season Opener!!) I'm sharing an article by Jessika Toothman... Learn More at HowStuffWorks.com:
Those who sail the world's oceans have traditionally been awash with superstition,so hitting the high seas involves learning a laundry list of potential pitfalls to make sure no omens go unheeded or taboos are committed. And although many superstitions that plagued sailors' thoughts in past eras have fallen away in modern times, some remain alive and well today.

For a look at some of the superstitions of the sea from then and now, check out the following.

10. APPEASING THE GODS: Many cultures throughout history have attributed the powers of the sea to a plethora of authoritative deities and devils. And in an attempt to tame them and ensure a safe voyage, sailors often proffered gifts to these aquatic higher powers.

Animal and human sacrifices alike were one primitive way of appeasing the spirits of the seas. They could take place before launching, upon reaching safe harbor and at other times during a voyage. Cattle were a popular choice, but dogs, foxes, fowl, sheep, horses and a whole ark of other animals have also been among the many animals sacrificed over the millennia to calm the seas.

Libations and offerings of honey, flour, money, cloth, cheese, bread, brandy, fruit, meat, oil, wine and other gifts have all sunk slowly to the depths, having been cast overboard by superstitious sailors hoping for successful and safe travels.

9. A LUCKY LAUNCH: Breaking a bottle of wine against the hull of a new ship might seem like a waste, but this and similar practices have been traditional since time immemorial to issue a ship into its element for the first time.

Flowers and wreaths of leaves were also commonly part of the ceremony, and priests were often called upon to anoint and purify new vessels, blessing and consecrating them in the name of one patron saint or another. Some ships were even baptized.

If anything went wrong during the launching ceremony -- perhaps someone was injured while supports were being removed or maybe the ship wouldn't budge when it was ready to sail -- it was usually perceived as a bad sign. In some cases, if anyone attending the ceremony refused to drink a toast to the launch, even that was considered a bad omen.

8. WALK WITH THE ANIMALS: The presence, or lack thereof, of animals on and around a vessel was another common maritime superstition. A whole host of traditions focused on the actions of hapless animals. Rabbits crossing a fisherman's path could be a sign that no fish would be caught, but if the bunny was simply sitting beside the trail or happened to head towards the shore, that was no big deal.

Cats (with the possible exception of black cats) could be considered unlucky to have aboard a ship, but departing rats were often an even worse sign. Dogs weren't popular on some boats, especially near the nets or tackle, but spiders could herald a safe voyage -- but only if a little rhyme was spoken to them. Albatrosses were a good omen, and many other bird species were either favored or shunned by paranoid sailors. Sometimes even saying the name of an animal was considered bad luck. Four-legged animals were one example, although the list of forbidden words on some ships didn't stop there.

7. DO'S and DON'TS: If you think censoring a few words would be a chore, sailors throughout the ages have placed taboos on lots more commonplace -- and less easy to avoid -- actions. Sneezing probably topped the list, but should someone suffer any inopportune nasal activity, saluting could help avert the negative juju.

Some sailors thought arguing was an unlucky act, while others favored it before a voyage -- and did everything they could to encourage a good quarrel. Boarding or disembarking from a ship with the left foot in the lead was sometimes considered inauspicious, and we won't even try to untangle all the rules concerning a fisherman's catch and the sale thereof.

In certain cases sailors avoided carrying salt in their pockets, but in others they made use of the mineral to bring good luck. Some sailors even considered an overturned salt cellar one of the seemingly endless accidents that foretold a shipwreck.

6. SCHEDULING TO SET SAIL: A number of dates throughout the year have been deemed unlucky times to undertake a voyage, but all Fridays are on the list. Some religious holidays and the days surrounding them were thought of as good days to set sail and work, but others were viewed as awful choices and seamen would simply refuse to sail.

Sunday is usually considered a good day to set off, but the deep-rooted superstition that surrounds a Friday launch is renowned. Even if inconvenient, sailors throughout history and around the world have regularly put off a cruise to set sail on a less ill-fated day. Legend has it that Fridays herald disaster -- it's a day when boats are uncommonly prone to shipwrecks and other calamities if they had an unlucky launch.

5. CHARMED, I'M SURE: Sailors might have feared the wrath of the gods when they set sail, but that didn't mean they intended to brave stormy seas without a couple of charms for good luck. Crosses, rosaries and other holy paraphernalia were common, and charms were often blessed by priests.

Animal charms were also frequently seen. Fox tails, eagle beaks, wren feathers, seal skin and shark teeth were among the many zoological odds and ends that sailors used to boost their luck. Other charms included engraved amulets, coral and seashells.

Perhaps one of the oddest ways to ensure good luck was to carry a caul -- the part of the amniotic sac of a newborn (that in rare instances covers the face after birth like a veil). This tradition was popular for centuries. Cauls could be preserved and were supposed to provide protection from drowning and shipwrecks, making them trendy among sailors.

4. LEAVE THE LADIES ON LAND: Women just can't win. Their presence on a ship -- unless they're made of wood, bare-chested and attached to the prow -- was typically thought to be a dire situation indeed.

But even from land, some women (deemed "witches") were thought to have the power to raise the winds into a tempest using a number of interesting techniques. Tossing a stone over the left shoulder, chucking some sand into the air, swirling water in a hole, getting a piece of cloth wet and whacking it against a stone: these were all allegedly tried-and-true storm-raising methods of which superstitious sailors frequently ran afoul.

Satan helped fuel the seamen's mistrust of the fairer sex, of course, and his affinity toward women was another reason they weren't wanted on ships even in fair weather

3. DEALING WITH THE DEAD: The job of a sailor is filled with dangers even now, but back in the day, things were much more uncertain. No GPS navigation, no storm-tracking radar systems, no life jackets; about the only guarantee was that things wouldn't be dull. Due to this state of affairs, there were often dead bodies that had to be dealt with -- especially since drowning men were rarely aided -- and this was a part of the job that was universally abhorred.

Dead bodies meant all sorts of unlucky things. A storm could be brewing or there could be a haunting in the works. Touching the deceased's possessions might cause them to seek out the survivor for vengeance or mean they would be destined to perish in the same way. Drowned sailors were often rumored to cause trouble for their former shipmates, and woe to anyone who heard from or saw them again.

2. YES, WE HAVE NO BANANAS: Bananas are reviled by sailors, although the exact origin of this particular superstition isn't quite clear. There are several possibilities: methane gas from rotting bananas can be toxic, poisonous spiders and other bugs can be hitching a ride, or the peels can cause careless crew members to slip and fall. Whatever the exact reason, many ships still prohibit bringing bananas onboard today.

Whether bananas themselves are responsible for tragedy on the high seas is not really the question -- they are still considered very bad luck, especially around Hawaii. Banana bread and other foods are often off-limits too -- and you might even have your sunscreen taken away from you, depending on the skipper.

Some boats go so far as to ban the use of Banana Boat brand suntan lotion or other banana-named items on their vessels.

1. STORMY SKIES: The churning waters, lashing winds and blinding rain of a bad gale can be a sailor's worst nightmare, so many superstitions center around stormy skies. Witches and corpses aside, whistling is also not allowed on many boats -- it might have the power to call up a storm. Sailors have also blamed storms on angry gods, meddlesome spirits and a whole host of other supernatural troublemakers.

To help ward off the various dangers of the seas, sailors have developed a number of superstitious systems. Hitting swords together in the shape of a cross can do the trick against waterspouts, as can a black-handled knife and the Gospel of St. John, or clanging drums and gongs.

A ring around the moon is often thought to portend approaching rains, while a rising moon during a storm means the skies will soon clear. If a partial moon is tipped downward, rain is also on the way, with the reverse suggesting fair weather ahead. But whichever way you flip it, the superstitious nature of sailors is unparalleled.

Good Luck to the Men Crabbing the Bering Sea!
Mari

The escape of romance books

2009-04-13T18:04:00.002-05:00

Happy Easter or Passover or whatever traditions/ religions you follow. Here's to the second chances and new beginnings this time of year brings.

Got home this morning just in time to blog over at TRSBLUE on a great article in the NYTIMES on April 7th... Recession Fuels Readers Escapist Urges

My Mother-in-law showed it to me during our annual family gathering in Cape May NJ. Basically, Romance sales (paperback and ebooks) are up during this economical slump. And like Gone with the Wind being popular during the Great Depression I think its because people need a place to escape their world and experience a Happily Ever After or the promise of one. Not to mention romance readers are the best and would rather cut back in other places than give up their books.

Here's to conquering all and dreamy sighs
Mari

Worthy of a fight

2009-04-02T18:24:00.003-05:00

Whew! Been absent for awhile again! It’s been a stressful time for both Rissa and myself. But hopefully things have moved past the worst for both of us.

Many of you may not know but my third child has severe Cerebral Palsy. He is currently in our town’s special needs program. It’s a great program for kids with Down’s Syndrome, some degrees of Autism, even mild CP. But they do not have the facilities nor the staff trained for meeting a severely handicapped child’s needs. We have been fighting for years to have him moved to a specialized school. Because of his age, this September he was promoted to the area Junior High. They were even less equipped to help him than the elementary school but the powers that be insisted we keep him in their system. We did but also started working with an advocate. We couldn’t just sit back and watch as he wasted his time there.

We didn’t know if going to a school with better physical therapy facilities, adapted augmentative communication devices and posturing and mobility equipment would help. Or if he was taught by people trained in Cerebral Palsy therapies would help him learn to use them or make any difference to his development. But how could we let him continue to be denied the chance?

His IEP review was the beginning of March. So during January and February, we began our usual meetings with his speech, physical and occupational therapists, His doctors, his special needs teacher, child psychologists and social worker. Along with that, we spent time researching specialized schools and we talked to our special needs advocate. She helped us word our request to remove him from local school system in a way that would be received in a favorable light. Then we waited.

I am tired, drained from all the time and stress this has put us through. But I wouldn’t have stopped this fight no matter how insane and frustrated it made me. I’m his mother. And as his parents we are the only ones that can fight for him. All you can do is hope and pray each action you take is what’s best for him. Hoping he will get at least one break in his favor in this life. On March 17th, two weeks after all the reports and letters were filed and his IEP Review submitted, the luck of the Irish smiled on us and we received a call from his case worker… Timmy will be attending an out of District school specializing in Cerebral Palsy in September. So *caddyshack gopher dance* for us.

To continue the positive notes… We are getting ready to attend RT. I have a Kindle!!!! It was a B-day Present from daddy. Hubby took me to see the Chieftains in Concert!!! And the kidlets got me the Scarecrow from the Barbie Pink label Wizard of Oz collection, now I have the whole set… I pleasantly suffered through the “if I only had a brain” jokes. Did I ever mention I am and have raised sarcastic people? LOL
Oh and we have joined the ranks of Twitter, anyone out there on it come Follow us and we will follow you *g*

May all your battles be worth the fight and end in happy victories,
Mari

A month later...

2009-02-16T10:59:00.002-05:00

*sigh* Wow, it’s been a month since I blogged *hangs head in shame* It’s not that I haven’t wanted to…It’s just the absence of topics. It seems like articles have become void of interest or repetitive as of late. There isn’t any Marissa news to report. And I must have the winter blahs because creativity feels at an all time low. I wish there was a suitcase heading to the Australian Writer’s Conference that I could stow away in!

Okay, I can’t say I haven’t blogged in a month, I did blog on TRSBlue…The romance studio’s erotic adult blog… on February 6th . I sang the praises of and vindicated my addiction to chocolate!! Chocolate- elixir of the gods.

I hope everyone had a great Valentine’s Day, full of love from family and friends. If you read the TRSBlue blog. Yes, Hubby showered me with chocolate *g* but he also did something even more romantic… He went to my dad’s (where we lived while the house was being renovated) and brought home all my books that have been stored there for the past year! Over 400!! I have been having a love fest of sorts reuniting with all of them!!

Thanks for stopping by~
Mari

Guest Blogging

2009-01-14T14:44:00.004-05:00

I remember babysitting as a teenager and watching shows like Monty Pythons flying Circus and Benny Hill late at night. My friends and I would quote the movies, Holy Grail, The Life Of Brian, ETC all the time. Luckily my sons have the same sense of humor and I discovered thanks to YouTube, that they and their friends quote the movies and famous skits, too. So as a gift, We went to the last showing of Spamalot on Sunday.

OMG it was so funny. There few moments during the show that we weren't laughing. Eric Idle was there and gave a great talk at the end. The show is going on world tour. If it comes to your neck of the woods, please go and see it. It is well worth the price of admission.

I posted a blog on The Romance Studio blog today. Stop on by and take a look. Its about body language.

Thanks for stopping by
Mari

Isn't it pretty?

2009-01-06T21:50:00.004-05:00

I posted an excerpt from WINNING BESS today over on TRSBLUE loop.

I know I say I only write for the fun of telling a story and I do. Its something I enjoy. You can tell by each new gray hair, bitten fingernail, and frustrated sigh that I am truly doing something I love. LOl Serioulsy there are moments when my laughter and giddiness is not because I am on the brink of a breakdown,causing me to threaten two imaginary characters to cooperate...Two characters that might be tossed into the fire they are now laying next to... *smiles sweetly* But it really is nice to receive some acknowledgement for it. I am truly honored.

May the heart you put into your stories be recognized by those who read it.
Mari

From My Clan to Yours

2008-12-26T12:33:00.002-05:00

Wow I was finally able to get them all in the same place, at the same time, at a moment we didn't have to rush somewhere else! Don't you just love the hustle and bustle of this time of year? *sigh*

As Donald E. Westlake said...As we struggle with shopping lists and invitations, compounded by December's bad weather, it is good to be reminded that there are people in our lives who are worth this aggravation, and people to whom we are worth the same.

Every piece of the universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matters somehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you…Thank you for being someone that makes my life a better place!

Happy Holidays to everyone. May these days and the upcoming year be full of Love Friendship and special little moments that make you say WOW!
Mari

Oh one PS... *g* just had to share one wow moment I had this morning! Thank you Mechele for the email! *gopher dancin' and totally flattered beyond the ability to speak*... The Romance Studio has announced the CAPA nominations...And *drumroll*

Under Erotic historical romance category: Winning Bess by Marissa Alwin (Ellora's Cave)

A shout out to my friends who write Melany Logen too...Under Erotic fantasy romance category: Law's Deliverance by Melany Logen (Loose Id)

Congratualtions to all the Nominees, And thank you TRS!!!

White Christmas

2008-12-22T17:25:00.004-05:00

For the past few weeks we here in my corner of the world were wondering if there just might be truth to the global warming rumor. But with a rumble of thunder that reverberated through our valley at 9:45 am on Dec 19th the first snowflakes started to fall and winter arrived. All day we played Christmas music and baked cookies as it fell. I love it while it’s snowing. There’s a quiet peaceful feeling, everything feels new. Anticipation builds and the holiday spirit arrives. Yup I am finally in the holiday mood. I have the 12 inches of snow and family to thank.

The first weekend in December, my oldest came home to shop. He wanted to get it done before exams and before the stores were out of everything. The sudden interest in shopping for others? I knew it was because this is the first year he’s had a girlfriend for the holidays. Yes, He is still dating our friend’s daughter. He asked me to go with him. He said he had no idea how to shop, especially for girls.

So I went with him. And as we moved through the stores I saw my laid back...go with the flow son... break a sweat. In the end I was proud of him. He really gave his choices thought. He didn’t go for the labels or the higher price tag jewelry. Or grab the first thing that he passed and get it over with. He looked around carefully, and really took what would appeal to her into account. I was so proud of him, so touched that he had really gotten to know her. He also took his time shopping for everyone else in the family, too. I like the influence she has on him. *g*

Then one of my father’s neighbors asked my daughter if she was excited about Christmas. Her eyes beamed and she nodded her head. She asked what she liked most about it. I waited for the word presents to come from her mouth, but it didn’t.

“I get to bake cookies with mommy and all my cousins are coming! We go to Papa’s to watch movies and play games all week!”

My heart grew bigger than the Grinch’s. We must be doing something right if family and traditions are the first things that come to mind when she thinks of Christmas. Oh gifts are up there, too, don’t get me wrong. She has a list a mile long. But her favorite things to do right now are bake cookies for gifts and draw pictures to give away.

My father-in-law does have quite the holiday movie collection and following dinner on Christmas Eve the DVD's are loaded. Holiday Inn, the movie that introduced us to the song, White Christmas, is his favorite and the first one we watch. For the next week we visit and eat ALOT, while we play games and watch the movies.

We sat around last night, playing Mad Gab, and talking about the upcoming movies. We made a list of our favorites:

Favorite Christmas movies

Holiday Inn

White Christmas

It’s a Wonderful Life

Miracle on 34th Street

Christmas Story

Griswald Christmas Vacation

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Scrooged

Christmas Carol (All versions, but the original with Alastair Sim still wins)

The Santa Clause 1-3

Home Alone 1&3

Babes In Toyland~ Laurel & Hardy

The Polar Express 3D

Die Hard

The Bishop’s Wife

The Nightmare Before Christmas

Christmas in Connecticut (original)

Elf

So My family is all home and we are preparing for the holidays. It’s going to be a White Christmas. And in 3 days the annual Gianinio Invasion begins. Three generations, all sitting together laughing and being a family.

May you find traditions that warm your heart,
Mari

Happy Thanksgiving!! Go On Indulge!!

2008-11-27T00:20:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone here in the states and I hope everyone, everywhere, has alot to be thankful for!!

One more reason to be thankful for our meal...There are health benefits to the foods on your thanksgiving table!You can assuage any guilt for indulging on turkey day or you can allow yourself a more pleasurable time digging into leftovers and the rest of the upcoming holiday feasts. *g*

Lets start with the usual guest of honor….

Tom Turkey

He is naturally low in fat without the skin, oh but you can cook it with the skin to keep the moisture in the fat doesn’t get into the meat! Don’t eat the skin when its done and it contains only 1 gram of fat per ounce of flesh. A 5-ounce serving provides almost half of the recommended daily allowance of folic acid, and is a good source of vitamins B, B1,B6, zinc and potassium. These nutrients have been found to keep blood cholesterol down, protect against birth defects, cancer and heart disease, aid in nerve function and growth, boost the immune system, regulate blood pressure, and assist in healing processes.

Stuffing- well as long as its whole grain and sage stuffing! In Studies, This lovely herb has been improving memory in college students for up to 6 hours. Apparently sage helps the brain keep making chemicals that usually drop with age. And adding it to holiday recipes helps the liver digest fatty acids!

Cranberry Sauce- all I have to say is eat it! and lots…the tannins is cranberries prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls, stopping infection, and sticking to the gums, preventing periodontal disease and from sticking to the stomach lining preventing ulcers. They are also following up on studies that suggest they may stop the growth of some tumor cells…take a look at the info on the cranberry institute site: http://www.cranberryinstitute.org/healthresearch.htm

And if you don’t know to eat your veggies tsk tsk.

But of course the most common turkey day veggie is the

sweet potato: doused in antioxidants!!!! Besides that some recent animal studies showed that the carotenoids in sweet potatoes helped stabilize blood sugar levels and lowered insulin resistance.

Thirsty?
RED WINE! Most know its good for the heart but a resent study shows its good for eye health reducing risk of cataracts glaucoma and macular degeneration. Okay that’s an occasional glass or no more than 4 oz LOL but grape juice has the same results.

Coffee: as my friends over at web MD say:

Want a drug that could lower your risk of diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and colon cancer? That could lift your mood and treat headaches? That could lower your risk of cavities?

If it sounds too good to be true, think again.

Coffee, the much maligned but undoubtedly beloved beverage, just made headlines for possibly cutting the risk of the latest disease epidemic, type 2 diabetes. And the real news seems to be that the more you drink, the better.

Want a boost of energy without the caffiene jitters though?

Hot Cocoa! Its packed with theobromine and it doesn’t cause jitters. Plus it has a hormone that speeds oxygen to the brain making it easer to process your thoughts faster! And it fights tooth decay!

While on the chocolate lets skip over to deserts:

Dark Chocolate has flavonols that prevent heart attacks and strokes by increasing blood flow to the heart, decreasing bad cholesterol and like aspirin reduces platelet stickiness!

Baked goods: The smell of vanilla reduces stress! And over at Duke university they found that the fat in backed goods increases moodboosting endorphins and serotonin in the brain. Not all that healthy but after a stressful day of shopping or visiting with relatives, a little indulgence can be just what you need to take the edge off.

And gingersnaps are a great cookie to indulge on! Ginger is a potent pain reliever and decreased the swelling in arthritis patients. Not to mention aids the digestion.

What about Pies?

Pumpkin! Just one slice of pumpkin pie has nearly 300% (not a typo) of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A good for eye health and proven to keep skin youthful by speeding cell turnover. And pumpkin is loaded with vitamin E fatty acids, and enzymes that promote collogen growth, this is the dessert that can help keep the skin firm and supple!!!

Apple Pie: Yummy and even better if you spinkle Cinnamon on it! in fact you should sprinkle cinnamon on everything. It stabilizes glucose levels. Just a ½ a teaspoon of this spice a day lowers blood sugar 30% which might help prevent diabetes from developing in the first place! And it also increases the amount of nitric oxide enough to lower blood pressure.

And if like me, you love this time of year cause you can nibble on candycanes *g* they can make you smarter!!! peppermint increases beta waves associated with increased alertness. People performing mental tasks while inhaling the peppermint scent complete them faster and had more correct answers than others! Also if you are still afraid of over indulging at the table despite these nutritional benefites try a candycane before you eat. peppermint is an appetite suppressent.

So dig in and enjoy! You have a bit more to be thankful for when gathered around the table!

((((((Big hugs out to everyone)))))) I hope you find yourselves surrounded by the ones you are thankful for and take advantage of the opportunity to tell them so! Thank you for stopping by,
Mari

PS> Real fact from my Snapple green tea: Borborygmi is the noise that your stomach makes when you are hungry.

Technology isn't enough

2008-11-13T18:55:00.000-05:00

I need to ask a favor of you. My friend Barbara was diagnosed with breast cancer this October. Tomorrow she is having a double mastectomy. Please send prayers, healing white light, positive thoughts, whatever you prefer. Send them so her surgeon and caregivers will be at their best. So that her husband, three young children and all of us who care for her will know comfort and strength. So that she will know she is not alone and she will find the courage and strength to go through what ever the future holds for her.

After she was diagnosed she didn't hide away and sink into denial. That isn't her. She is a very proactive person. If she weren't she might not even know she had cancer yet. She sat down and wrote a letter to our local paper about her experience. she wanted people to know. She asked me to post it on my blogs and I am.

To the Editor:
As breast cancer awareness month is coming to an end I wanted to share a story. We all know someone that has been touched by breast cancer. As my surgeon told me, Technology failed me for my cancer. Technology is great but there are times where you need to be an advocate for yourself and go with your gut. On 10/14/08 I was diagnosed with intraductal and invasive breast cancer.

In the end of July, beginning of August, my right breast looked different. I felt something but it wasn't a marble/pea type feeling. I just knew it was something that wasn't there before (from self-exams). I went and had a mammogram which said "density" so I went to the Gyn and said there is something wrong I don't want to wait the recommended the year. So She sent me for an ultrasound which didn't even find the area of concern. We could feel it but not find it. Next was a breast specialist that stated it is probably fibrosis we could wait and do another ultrasound in 3-6 months.

I said I wanted a breast MRI which I did get. I got the call that I had some brightening and needed to return for another ultrasound. I returned for another ultrasound and still no definite diagnosis. Again it was probably fibrosis but the radiologist stated let's make sure and do random biopsies.

Well I had 6 core biopsies taken from my right breast. It was just a sampling of the area, because by this time, approx 8 weeks later, this area went from the size of about 1 inch to almost half my breast. Four days after my biopsies the radiologist called me and said 5 of the biopsies were positive for intraductal and invasive carcinoma which means it started in my milk ducts and then had spread outside into my breast tissue.

I am having a double mastectomy in November. Thank God I did not wait a year for another mammogram. Because my breast cancer was not picked up with mammo or ultrasound even though there was palpable change and visual change. I am choosing to have a double mastectomy.I know similar problems have happened with other women, we need our technology but we also need to follow self breast exams, gut feelings and be an advocate for yourself... be informed.

Hopefully this information can help someone that might be having similar problems/questions.
Thank you,
Barbara Corbett

Remembering Veteran's Day

2008-11-11T17:32:00.002-05:00

This shows up rather small the quote is...
The Mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and every patriot grave, To every living heart should swell into the mighty chord of remembrance, gratitude, and rededication on the solemn occasion~ Abraham Lincoln

Thank you
Mari

A funny, a Review, and a public service

2008-11-04T17:59:00.003-05:00

What Are they?... BooBees *g*

Another exhale and a Squee!! Winning Bess received Five Angels from Fallen Angel Reviews and is a Recommended Read!!!!!

Winning Bess is a gritty slice of American history. This erotic romance isn’t set in some neat and tidy Regency ballroom but in an 1847 New York City slum. The writing is wonderfully descriptive. I was so sucked into the story I lifted my feet off the floor as I read so the rats couldn't touch them. I have never done that before. The dialogue is curt and harsh, the sex scenes hot and the romance surprisingly sweet. Winning Bess is a winning read.~ Kimber
*Gopher dancing*

And yes, My Soapbox Public Service…Its election day here in the states, and they say the whole world is watching. I’m Proud to say I voted, and so did my son, Jim. Today was his first time. He was very excited about this right of passage.

And while I was excited about the presidential election, and enjoyed debating issues with my kids.( Mainly that when I studied Yellow Journalism in school it was considered a bad thing *blink*) I tried to emphasize to them that they shouldn’t let the presidential campaign over-shadow the other elections taking place. There are others whose platforms we should look closer at besides the presidential nominees.

I feel my vote is better served by whom I vote for to fill seats in the Senate and Congress, along with those running in the local races. These are the people that vote for the issues close to home. Those representing us at the national house level are the ones that higgle and haggle over the proposed budgets and bills put before them and ultimately vote to pass or reject them. Don’t think party members all think the same, know what they stand for.

No Matter your philosophy on political science or how you feel the country should be run I hope fellow Americans all took pride in your Civic duty and educated yourself then got out there to vote. And the Polls are still open if you haven’t!!

May you take pride in what your ancestors struggled hard to achieve, no matter where you hail from!
Mari

a conference, a pumpkin, and an Army of Darkness

2008-10-27T20:25:00.003-05:00

I had a great time at the conference, but right now I have conference brain and need a few days to sort it all before I can share some of it.

JR Ward and Eloisa James assured me I am not insane because I cry when writing certain scenes and that my heart races when writing others. If you aren't affected when you write then you need to go back and find out why the characters emotions aren't touching you, there is something wrong. Emotion is the most important thing you can give your writing.

I did learn that Maggie Shayne can walk in 6 inch heals (Jessican Simpson line at Macy's. She tried to hate them, really, she did) and believes Joss Whedon is a god. Awesome presentation!,

And Virginia Kantra prefers to be barefoot with power-red toenails (All southern ladies wouldn't be caught dead without painted toenails, according to her daughter) and can really nail the male POV.

There's also all the stuff I learned about inside the FBI from agent Pamelia Stratton. I think her Vest weighed more than she did *blink* All in all a good time catching up with some same time next year friends too. *Blink* so much for not sharing LOL I did get more out of it, honest.

Spent Sunday with the kids, pumpkin picking and carving (thats them in the picture. Can you guess which one I made?) and then put Beanie to bed and cuddled up with the hubby in the couch and watched Army of Darkness, one of my all time cukt ckassic favorites... Thus the video below...

That time of year

2008-10-22T19:26:00.002-05:00

Heading out to the New Jersey Romance Writers Association’s Put Your Heart In a Book Conference on Friday. I was just scanning over the workshops. For a person that hates to make decisions this is boggling my mind. Thankfully they do make CD’s of them and if I am truly torn I can order the one I don’t go to. Anyway I will let you know how it went next week. I am looking forward to catching up with my same time next year friends. From my experience NJRW does a great job and I come away with lots of thoughts for fodder.

Rissa sent me mail *g* so Agnes has some work to do when I get back. She is at a loss for words right now… well actually she’s just trying to catch her breath WOW *Fans self*

Have a great weekend! And may sorting through decisions bring you enlightenment *g*
Mari
PS if you'd like to see some photos of NJ Lighthouses stop by my Thursday Thirteen

A Review and a Beer

2008-10-20T17:11:00.003-05:00

What a way to start a Monday!! *Big Grin* Four of Five star review for Winning Bess from JERR.

The most difficult thing about being an author for me is the idea someone can tell you they don’t like your work. Some of you might not know this but I am slightly on the insecure side, and lacking in ego. *g* I really do put a piece of myself in everything I write. So, I find myself holding and releasing a lot of breaths.

First ones are when I send scenes to Rissa and I wait to see if she liked it. When I get back an “it’s awesome” or “oooo you made him growl”, I exhale.

Then I hold it again when we send it off to our Critique partner, (((Mechele))), whose opinion I greatly admire. Her suggestions have never been off the mark and she usually catches my grammar mistakes * mantra, "Commas are our friends."* She returns it and I exhale again.

Then I hold it again when we submit to our editor. And well, he makes me hold it a really long time. But I can exhale when the offer for a contract comes through, and when he pays me a compliment on the character and the insight I had on something during edits.

The last really long breath I hold is when it’s released. I’m waiting for that first review and to hear from people who read it. *g*

I am very happy with Winning Bess’ review…

“This 19th Century historical hit the spot with action, romance and plenty of hot loving. Colm is a little rough but has a lot of love. He’d do anything for Bess and his generous personality serves to leave the plot infused with bighearted kindness. He’s also a tad possessive, which made him seem very realistic, too. Bess is a hardworking and loving woman who is put in a difficult situation. She works to keep her father healthy and her openhearted personality made me care about what happened to her. The relationship that develops between Bess and Colm was believable and very natural. The progression of the connection made sense, even as their relationship develops a chemistry that is more sexual. The sex scenes are hot yet still realistic, as they explore each other tenderly yet passionately. The plot builds upon itself, with no great shocks, but sexual plot lines subtly change the story, allowing for a build up of intensity in the storyline. Several secondary characters make a wayward impact on the plot, causing a little uncertainty for our Irish lovers. Overall, Winning Bess hit the spot for me. I recommend it.”~ Francesca Hayne

So I exhaled (until the next review comes in. *g*)

And then I read…
Strengthen Your Bones With A Glass Of Beer *blink* *big grin*

This report came from Montifiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine In NYC. They reviewed 13 studies comparing alcohol consumption and bone strength and found that consuming one full serving a day pumps up bone density!! (Hmm maybe that’s why some Irishmen are thick sculled? ) and reduces the risk of hip fractures by 20%! They say it’s because a Moderate *pout* amount of alcohol regulates calcium and raises estrogen levels which are needed to strengthen bones!

And another study said alcohol improves blood flow, nourishing delicate cells in the inner ear. Drinkers of at least one beer a week are less likely to suffer age related hearing loss. I knew the hubby’s “I didn’t hear you.” was selective!!!

In case you're wondering 12oz of beer, 5oz of wine, 1.5 oz of the harder spirits equal one full serving. Separately, not all together. dagnabbit!

I tell ya I am grinning! A great review and another reason to love beer, who couldn’t ask for a better way to start me week!
Slainte, May each time you hold your breath bring you a happy reason to exhale.
Mari

The Impotence of Proofreading By Taylor Mali

2008-10-16T12:06:00.003-05:00

OMG I haven't laughed so hard in a long time! I just watched this on a group I belong to on Multiply called Writer's Block. I know many of you out there who have ever typed a single paper, let alone a novel, can relate to this and so can those who have to critique and edit them. From moms and teachers to publishers and editors

ROFL
Mari

Come Chat

2008-10-14T20:45:00.002-05:00

I can't believe tomorrow's the third Wednesday in October already! That means its time for the monthly M-spot chat. Stop on by tomorrow at 9 pm EST and chat with us. Melissa Lopez, Mechele Armstrong, and Me... which means Melany Logen and Marissa Alwin will also be there! There's no telling what topics we may discuss *blink* but it is always fun.

here's the link:

http://www.melissa-lopez.com/chat.html

HUGS

Mo/Mari

I sent Rissa mail!!

2008-10-08T18:36:00.004-05:00

*Flopping into the Lazy Boy at my dad's house and sighing* Its been a long day! My poor daddy had a triple hernia repaired today. I drove him to the hospital and waited while he had the surgery and made his way through a long recovery time... question of the day... "did you pee yet?" He did fine and is snoozing in his own bed, finally while I keep watch.

How does this lead to Rissa getting mail? Well, we had to sign in at 6:30 AM. I Don't Do Mornings! Many who know me know the only way I see the sunrise is if I am still awake from the night before. So instead of going to bed I finally sat my procrastinating backside down and 1.8k later the scene was finished and it was almost time to pick up my dad.

So I sent Agnes and Song of his Soul (working title) on their way to Rissa. Those wondering who Agnes is...She is the oldest sister of Sibil our Heroine in Heart on His Sleeve. I think I mentioned it before but when I write Agnes I get a bit teary-eyed. Does any one else have a character that they write or have read where the emotion hits you? Anyway HOHS is reaching its climax and hopefully soon you'll get to meet her and her hero Gryffen... that picture of Rufus Sewell is our inspiration for him. Now thats the look of an alpha male if I ever saw one!

Song Of His Soul

21,151 / 25,000
(84.6%)

Hugs
Mari

Word of the Week

2008-10-03T11:11:00.002-05:00

Entry for October 03, 2008
In the world that knows me as Reenie, my friend, Neil, posts a word of the week. For fun, and much to his delight, I and other friends decided to write the word in a passage. And since I have writing to do, a pile of articles I want to read to see if they are blog worthy, and 20, 7 year olds coming this weekend for a birthday party. I am putting my passage here and going back to being a chicken with my head cut off...albeit a lonely one that misses everyone. *g*

The word this week is... Assuage

Main Entry: as·suage
Pronunciation: \É-ËˆswÄj also -ËˆswÄzh or -ËˆswÃ¤zh\
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): as·suaged; as·suag·ing
Etymology: Middle English aswagen, from Anglo-French asuager, from
Vulgar Latin *assuaviare, from Latin ad- + suavis sweet" more at sweet
Date: 14th century
1 : to lessen the intensity of (something that pains or
distresses) : ease
2 : pacify, quiet Edward Gibbon>
3 : to put an end to by satisfying : appease, quench

My mind came up with--

Her breaths became ragged…audible. Her hands clutched and her
fingernails dug into his shoulders. He knew she was on the edge, that she wanted him to appease the arousal he had built. But her need gave him the strength to deny her. For so long she had denied him, drove his frustration to new heights. Now it was her turn, he planned to drive her to the edge over and over until she begged for him to ASSUAGE her need.

Oh and he would. He would give them both the satisfaction they sought--She moaned, raked her nails over his back. A smile toyed with his lips as she tried to pull him closer--just not yet.

copyright of maureen gianinio (however you do it) cause it just may show up in some way, shape, or form in some WIP that might reach publication.

Funny what a single word can make your mind come up with. ( yes, it seems that's the one place my mind always goes *g*). If you want to give it a try, go for it. See where the word takes you... just let me know so I can read it.

Okay, enough of the blahs and procrastination... back to work I go!

HUGS, thanks for stopping by,

Mari

Ticks, Quirks and Threes about Mari

2008-09-24T15:52:00.003-05:00

We had a fun weekend with a girl scout campfire gathering Friday night, a hike in the cooling last days of summer at Ringwood State Park, Saturday and a Rock the Beach party for adults at our lake on Saturday night. Thus the reason for the above song! It was among the songs played this weekend and it fit what we were doin after our hike. I love it and Brads Voice!! Oh the scenarios it puts into my mind…

Lol Now for the Meme's...I might prove very boring after this. Awhile ago I was tagged by Mechele Armstrong with a Quirks Meme and Melany Logen with a Three’s about me. I put them aside because of Winning Bess Promotions. So today I am putting them up together. And on My Maureen blog, I posted a Husband Meme that Amy Ruttan did on Six Degrees Of Sexy last week.

I’m not tagging anyone because I am a slightly insecure person and it will be reinforced if they don’t do it *g* But feel free to do it and pass it on! Let me know if you do, so I can read it.
Celebrate the quirks and everyday things in your life they add up to a very exciting you!
Mari

QUIRKS
1) I collect quotes that resonate with me, be it from a famous person, a t-shirt or bumper sticker.
2) I have hundreds of projects started… knitting, photo albums, needlepoint, crossword puzzles… someday I might get around to finishing some.
3) I hate to throw things away… like the clutter fairy says whatever you throw out today you will need tomorrow.
4) Like quotes I like to collect useless bits of information… why I love the real facts found inside lids on Snapple bottles…todays…Storm clouds hold about 6 trillion raindrops…many of which will be falling on us over the next 4 days. There be a Nor’easter coming in.
5) My favorite drink (besides beer) is Dr Pepper and Captain Morgan… who said I wasn’t into threesomes *g*
6) I make mosaics out of M&M;s and Skittles before I eat them. it really really adds up the procrastination minutes!

THREES ABOUT ME:
Three jobs I have had in my life:
1) Bank Teller
2) Speech Language Pathologist
3) Author

Three shows that I watch:
1) Dancing with the Stars
2) Deadliest Catch
3) Sarah Connor Chronicles

Three people who e-mail me regularly:
1) Melissa Lopez
2) Paula the IWM
3) Mechele Armstrong

Three of my favorite foods:
1) Mac and Cheese (all time comfort food)
2) Ice Cream
3) Reese’s Peanut butter Cups

Three places I'd rather be right now:
1) Cape May. NJ
2) Florida (well after hurricane season)
3) Australia

Three things I am looking forward to this year:
1) completing more than one book!
2) getting bookcases constructed so my books get out of boxes
3) a Trip to Disney World

Three places I have been:
1) Ireland
2) Most of the East Coast USA
3) New Orleans, St Louis, Pittsburg, and Baltimore on Writing conferences

3 things I would do if I won 100 million dollars in the lotto:
1) Pay off all my debt
2) make sure my children have enough to achieve their dreams but not so they still don’t have to work for them
3) Travel

3 things that make me happy --stealing Corrine’s
1) My children's humor
2) Visiting with family
3) Completing a story

3 things that annoy me:
1) When XM reception goes in and out during a favorite song
2) When people drive down the shoulder during traffic jams.
3) Kiss Butt phonies

3 favorite movies:
1) Princess Bride
2) The Frighteners
3) Wizard of Oz and ET are tied

3 places I want to go before I split the planet:
1) Back to Ireland
2) Italy
3) Australia

3 things I want to do before I split the planet:
1) See my children achieve goals of their own
2) See all the seven wonders
3) Have time to celebrate life with my husband

3 things I'm thankful for.
1) My home
2) My life
3) All inventions that have made my life easier

3 People I'm Thankful for:
1) My Family
2) My Friends
3) My Readers

Two Reasons to Celebrate!!

2008-09-22T12:07:00.002-05:00

First and most important to me... Its Rissa's Birthday!
Happy Birthday!

From the day we first met we've been laughing and trading stories,
sharing our families, our friends, and our imaginary friends *g* We
share our joys and problems, whether large or small. We are the
audience for each other's soapbox rants, shoulders for absorbing tears
and have an endless supply of confetti to toss and cheers to yell.

Thank you so much for all your patience and for being the other half of Marissa Alwin!

Love you!
Mari

And the other Reason... Kim has won the Winning Bess Giveaway! Congratulations Kim
We hope you enjoy their story!
Mari

Does everybody know what day it is?~Contest

2008-09-19T13:54:00.003-05:00

Yup It's September 19th!

And what does that mean?
Yup! Winning Bess is RELEASED

Man, I love that word *g*

You'll find it HERE

And if you can answer this one simple question you can be in the running to receive a free download...

What are the Hero and Heroine's names in Winning Bess? (first names will do)

Email your answers to... Marissa_Alwin@yahoo.com The drawing will be Monday the 22nd in honor of Melissa's Birthday!!! Happy Birthday Rissa!

Hope you love reading the story as much as we did writing it.
Mari

Instead of a Drum Roll...

2008-09-17T14:02:00.002-05:00

Announcing the approaching release of Winning Bess how about some step dancing...

Feel like talking (our topics go off on several tangents) and being in good company (Melissa Lopez Mechele Armstrong and Meself *g*)? Join us tonight at the M-spot chat room. Chat opens at 9EST. One attendee will win a download of Winning Bess.

And in the words of Joan Rivers,
Can we talk?
See you there
Mari

Winning Bess- Story Video

2008-09-10T10:39:00.003-05:00

Isn't it great? I love it. In 50 seconds it captures the mood of the story and the time period. Bess and Colm share a wonderful heart-warming story. I hope you all will enjoy it!

*Dreamy sigh* and many thanks to the creative mind of our International Woman of Mystery and Foxling creations! Awesome job, Paula!

May you all find ways to win your desire,
Mari

A cover and a common thread

2008-09-03T22:11:00.010-05:00

What do a Chosen One, a Thief, 1840’s Irish Immigrants, a Guardian, and a Boy Toy have in common?

Sapphires.
And Erotic Romance!

When Ellora’s Cave sent out the call for quickies and novellas based on Gems to be released during their birthstone month throughout 2008, the following authors were inspired by the deep cobalt blue of the sapphire.

Take a look at the blurbs from the September Gem Novellas. Isn’t it fascinating how one gem can invoke such a variety of stories?

Amarinda Jones created the story of Micah Blue (Released Sept 3)

A demon has been waiting one hundred and twenty years for the next chosen one who commands the power of the sapphire. He will stop at nothing to make that woman his own. He needs her power to survive.

Ever since a fortune teller gave Micah Blue a lump of blue rock the drought in her sex life came to a screaming halt. Dark, erotic dreams of a stranger haunt her nights and a tattooed builder drives her wild with lust during the day. Both men are wicked. One wants to enslave her and one just wants to love her.

Ned Langford, builder and part-time garbage collector isn’t about to the let the love of his life be taken from him. He will do whatever it costs to thwart a demon and keep Micah at his side.

Marilu Mann was inspired to write Sapphire Tease (release date Sept 10th)

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

Marissa Alwin crafted the tale of Winning Bess. (Release date Sept. 19th)

Bess McGinty and her father wouldn't have been able to escape the devastation in Ireland without Colm Devany. Now they share a cramped shack with Colm and his cousins in New York City’s Five Points neighborhood. But Bess' feelings for Colm go well beyond gratitude. If only her da would give them his blessing.

Three things aid Colm's survival- a small bit of savings, his ready fists and his desperate love for Bess. When he discovers that his desire for her is mutual, he is determined to find a way to win Bess and get them out of New York forever. To do this Colm sets his eye on another prize-an exquisite sapphire that goes to the winner of the fiercest prizefight in Five Points.

Natasha Moore’s imagination produced Lia’s Warrior (release date Sept 24th)

As Guardian of the Sapphire Moon, a crystal globe with a sacred sapphire embedded in the center, Lia must witness couples mating after they receive the Moon’s blessing. But she can never enjoy the pleasures of the flesh herself.

Weary warrior Roark has come back home to try to forget the horrors he’s lived through. He always believed Lia was his true mate and his body heats with desire for her. Then he’s told it’s forbidden to mate with the Guardian.

But a Warrior doesn’t take no for an answer.

And Rena Marks ingenuity brought us Play Thing (release date Sept. )

When Jessica's friend Nina shares the story of her friend, Silver Scott, giving her a magical pendant that controls a boy toy for one month during his birthday, Jessie wants the same. But voodoo creeps her out, for you can't trust it.

But then she meets Levi Garrett, the resident boy toy. Mr. Alpha Male to a fault, Jessie would love to tell him where to go after telling him exactly how to please her.

Unfortunately, things go awry and Jessie finds herself a Play Thing instead of having a boy toy.

So there you have it… A dark urban fantasy, a contemporary, an Americana, a futuristic, and a paranormal. They were all hatched with the single inspiration of the sapphire. There is quite the variety behind the steamy cover which they also share. We hope you take the time and enjoy them all! You can find them at Ellora's Cave.

May you find several ways to enjoy the variety of life.
Mari

Winning Bess- At Your Side

2008-08-28T21:12:00.008-05:00

Our upcoming release (SEPTEMBER 19th), Winning Bess, is an Americana set in the late 1840's. During this period thousands of Irish immigrants traveled away from the potato famine and English tyranny. They hoped to find a better life in America. What they found upon arriving in Five Points NY wasn't much better than what they left behind. But they forged through it and found a way to make their dreams come true. Bess and Colm's story focuses on just such a journey.

I have different ways to get my mind ready to write. I look at pictures, read books about history and lore, and/or listen to music to name a few.

To get in an Irish frame of mind while writing Bess I listened to a lot of Chieftains, Corrs and Celtic Woman CD's

Here are a few Corrs' Videos that inspired Bess' mood...
Joy Of Life

Rebel Heart

Lough Erin Shore

Although, At Your Side is not traditional Irish music, it has Irish roots. And to me the lyrics truly relate to Colm and Bess and the journey they're on...

At Your Side.

May you find inspiration all around you. May it bring you the determination to make your dreams come true, despite the odds you face.
Slainte
Mari

Not an Aye or a Nay to be heard.

2008-08-20T20:15:00.001-05:00

If you have ever listened to an Irishman speak, while being lulled by the lilt of his voice and the colorful use of words, you might have noticed that is rare, if ever, the word yes or no is uttered. You see, they come from an ancestry where their language had no specific words for yes and no. It explains the less than succinct reply you get to an inquiry about something or the round about way of accepting a drink. It may make you feel like you are twisting their arm.

“Can I get you another drink?”
“Ah, I’d better not…”
“You sure?”
“Well, maybe a small one.”

“Did you have a good time?”
“Indeed I did.”

This is something to keep in mind when writing a character of Irish ancestry, even contemporary but especially historical. To make the Characters fit into a period we tend to throw in Aye, yea, or Nay in dialogue. But it would be more accurate to replace all yes and no’s not with Aye and Nay but with a short positive or negative phrase.

*g* And it might come to explain why those of us of Irish decent have a hard time giving a definitive yes or no answer to anything.

Here’s to having a positive lack of anything negative in your lives!
Mari

Batting your lashes

2008-08-13T18:01:00.004-05:00

Do the eyes have power when attracting a man? It seems a woman's age old ploy of batting those lashes holds validity.

A longer lash makes the eyes seem larger, makes the lashes travel in a larger arc when she blinks. Since the eye is drawn to noticible movement, fluttering the lashes helps the prospective male take notice and keep eye contact with her.

Large eyes and contrast between eyelashes and the skin color are very feminine characteristics. The darker her lashes, the larger her eyes and greater the contrast appears to the man. Darker lashes also make the whites brighter (a sign of health and youth)

When eyes appear larger she seems more youthful, which makes her easier to approach. It may even elicit a protective response from the man.

So guys if a long dark lashed woman is batting her lashes your way, catching your attention. She just may be interested. Then again she might just have some of that mascara in her eye. Don't let doubts take hold. Go ahead approach her but before you make any moves check out her pupils. If your not in a dimly lit room and they are dialated... well then, she just might be attracted to you.

And when writing remember the tactic and mention the draw of that dark crescent of lashes caressing her cheek or fluttering open framing large feminine eyes has on your hero.

Here's looking at you,
Mari

Way Back At RT

2008-08-06T20:21:00.005-05:00

Long time no blog! *sigh* No one particular reason why. Just a lot of little ones, the good and the bad, that just seemed to add up. Those are on my personal blog,Maureen Gianinio , if your curious. The last time I blogged was right before Rissa and I headed off to the Romantic Times convention, so I will pick up there.

I had a great time meeting up with online and same time next year friends. LOL the hotel was interesting…it was under renovations. The hallway on my floor was missing a ceiling… just a nice view of insulation and wires. The stairwell acted like a secret passage to those of us that grew tired of waiting for the often too congested elevators. And we often exited into areas where sheets of plastic, keeping spackle dust from flying, were hanging. I often felt like I was walking into a scene of a horror/suspense film. *g* Seriously, though, I had a great time hanging out with people that have become more like family to me.

The lectures were phenomenal and funny. JR Ward, Mary Janice Davidson, LA Banks were among several that related their genre and experience in publishing in very humorous ways.

The only discussion that disappointed me was the Multicultural one. Not because of the panelists. I thought they were awesome and had some great tips. It was just disheartening that to so many attending…multicultural is not Multi. So if you weren’t part of a certain race you shouldn’t try to understand their culture or write it. Some of them scared me.

Editor panels were very enlightening! One of my favorite speakers at the convention was Kensington editor, Kate Duffy! I tell you if you ever have the opportunity to hear her talk, go! She would definitely make a great self-esteem coach if she ever decided to give up editing! Some favorite words of wisdom I took with me were… (paraphrased correctly, I hope)…

~Do Not Listen when someone tells you “Oh that genres dead, no one will sign it. They are looking for…” Never try to make yourself fit in a box…then it won’t stand out, it won’t be your best. Write what your muse tells you. If it’s a great story, publishers will sign it! Also she is on a personal mission to prove that historicals live!~ She is my newest hero!

The dinners and parties were social and I had fun gathering at the lobby bar after, where the celebrating and the talking continued. And I must say I truly appreciated the way Ellora’s Cave treated their authors at the Hollywood ball and the author breakfast.

Here are a few pictures, If you want to see more I put them up on my yahoo blog. Okay I Promise I will be blogging and visiting friends’ blogs more now.
With life’s ups and downs who needs roller coasters!
HUGS
Mari

Mechele Armstrong and Mari before the Vampire Ball

Ellora's Cavemen are always a highlight to the conventions

Mary Janice Davidson, a friend from Christine Feehans yahooloop and a favorite author, hanging out enjoying a glass of Zombie Zin and some real life chatting.

Friend and fellow EC Author Stephanie Burke dancing with her hubby at he EC Hollywood Ball

Fabio and McBeam at the Support our Soldiers function

Mari with friends Bee, Christine Feehan, and Kelley Graznow

Okay it might look like only 4 people sitting here but its actually 6 *g*
New friend and EC author Sam Cheever, Melissa Lopez, Mechele Armstrong, Maureen Gianinio...Mel and Mechele equals Melany Logen. Mel(Rissa) and Maureen(Mari) equals Marissa Alwin. we all enjoyed the conference and I am excited about Orlando 2009

Hiya, folks. News & more.

2008-08-02T11:16:00.005-05:00

Exciting news! Marissa has contracted an Americana titled Winning Bess to Ellora's Cave!

Some updates on a few of Marissa's projects in the works.

Song of His Soul

Wild Spirit:

Lukewarm Psychic:

Valiant:

Jaxus
Valiant:

Unfortunately, I'm sure you've notice Mari and I've been too busy to keep up with Marissa blog. Maybe once life settles down...

But until then please check out my journal at:
http://melissalopez.livejournal.com/
I keep it updated regularly and I always include any Marissa news. Once Marissa has more news to share I'll be sure to note it here.

Until later~
Rissa aka Mel

Forces of Attraction- scent of desire

2008-04-02T18:52:00.003-05:00

We all give our heroes and heroines attributes that make them attractive to each other. One of them being the way they smell. I always love a scene where the heroine rests her head at the crook of the hero’s neck and breaths him in. But little did I know how key that scent truly was to their attraction.

We all have lists of who we think will be our ideal partner. Appearances, likes and dislikes, hobbies, careers Etc. And yes they are factors in initial attraction too. But a lot of the time when we meet them or date them, they are lacking “Something” and the people we do end up with possess only a few of the traits we wanted. Some researchers believe the missing factor that explains our choices is the subconscious analysis of their scent. The so-called “Chemistry” or “Electricity” we feel actually exists.

Though we are usually only partially aware of how people’s scent affects us, research suggests that we come equipped to choose romantic partners and the choice has biological implications. Scent based cues triggered in our brains help us focus on optimal partners…the ones likely to stay faithful and create healthy children with us. And when we tend to ignore what our noses tell us, or alter our chemistry, then the relationships might have a precarious future…including sexual discontent, infertility, and in extreme cases unhealthy children.

In a Study conducted at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland…When asked to sniff various t-shirts that had been worn by 44 men for two straight nights, only using scent-free soaps. Women specified which shirts had scents they found attractive. It was found that women preferred shirts worn by men immunologically (MHC factor) dissimilar to them…Long explaination short…the scents attracted them to men whose genes would contribute to offspring that were more disease resistant. The women also said the smell of their favorite shirts reminded them of their husbands or boyfriends indicating that the scent selection occurs outside the study too.

MHC profiles are as distinct as fingerprints. It is difficult to predict who is MCH compatible with whom. There are thousands of possible gene combinations. It varies across the human race, not particular to skin color, ethnicity, one that attracts one woman may completely repel another.

Some think that wearing perfumes and using scented soaps and deodorants inhibit us finding a “true” match. But another study showed compatible MHC men and women were attracted to similar fragrances. So if you choose your perfume by what you like and not what’s the “In Thing” then it might improve your chances of finding your mate.

And if you think this is tied to heterosexuals … nope it seems gaydar is real. Gay men strongly preferred shirts with the odor of other gay men… the same for lesbians. Straight women rated the odor of straight men higher than gay men.

Yes Scent does play a key factor in finding a “soulmate” but after we meet several that are appealing, that’s when the personality and the appearance come into play and we narrow it down to the one we can love. Factors of attraction just opens the door

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

2008-03-17T15:02:00.004-05:00

But more importantly (at least to me) HAPPY BIRTHDAY (((((((Mari))))))))))))

Several years ago I accidentally stumbled into the Dark-Hunter chat room where I met my dear friend ((((((((((Mari))))))))) Talk about luck! ;)

I'm going to borrow from Emily Dickinson.
"My friends are my estate." I believe this wholeheartedly. I count you among my friends and I'm blessed to know you. I hope your day is as wonderful as you are. :)

Happy birthday (((((((((((((((((((Mari)))))))))))))))))
Love, Mels

Gra, Sonas, Slainte

2008-03-17T14:49:00.004-05:00

*raises me pint* Love, Happiness and good health to ye! Happy Saint Patrick’s Day and May the luck of the Irish be with you.

Not that the Irish are luckier than most, now. Tis just that even though it’s a country with lots of rain and at times lots of hardships, you will find among the people an optimistic attitude. Their focus is more on the rainbows that come after the storm than the storm itself! And the more you count your blessings the more you find you have.

Do good luck symbols and charms work? Who is to say? Is it the object itself or the power they hold over a person’s mind… to get a person to focus on the luck, the dream, the wish…they believe the charm will bring them? In doing so, perhaps they themselves meet that goal. By having a physical representation of your dreams, of the hope of obtaining it...(even if it’s a routine, a favorite toy, coin or rock… or something more traditional like those below)... it makes your dream even more tangible, you feel some control of its outcome.

Some age old symbols...

ACORN: Carrying a dried Acorn is believed to give the gift of youth to the wearer. It can also be used for wealth and attraction of the opposite sex. (Well for whatever its worth...you can remember that the mighty oak was once a nut like you *g*)

Bells: In Ireland a common wedding gift is a bell. Its supposed to ward off evil influence on the marriage. And becomes the make up bell. Wanting a fight to end one of them rings it, reminding them of their love and their vows… *g* any fight can be resolved by the mutual satisfaction of ringing each others bell *wiggles brows*

Cats: Their excellent eyesight is believed to protect against approaching evil spirits. And studies have shown that cat owners do live longer healthier lives. Tortoise shell cats: Fur a mix of red, black, chocolate and cinnamon. Cats of this coloration are believed to bring good luck in the folklore of many cultures; in the United States these are sometimes referred to as money cats.

four-leaf clover: an uncommon variation of the common three-leaf clover. According to superstition, such leaves bring good luck to their finders, especially if found accidentally. According to legend, each leaflet represents something: the first is for hope, the second is for faith, the third is for love, and the fourth is for happiness.If a lady hangs a 4 leaf clover on her door, the next man to come in is her husband. (*blink* I can so see this one backfiring!!)

BTW the color green and being around greenery lowers levels of stress hormone Cortisol filling you with optimism and can-do confidence… *sigh* if only I could keep my house plants alive!!!

Gem stones: just a few lol could fill pages on them: Green Aventurine: known as the gambler’s stone. Citrine: known as the merchant’s stone, leave it in your cash box to boost earnings. Lapis for confidence. Rose quartz for love. Amethyst for protection. Blue chalcedony for creativity.

Horseshoe: In Ireland they hang them points up to catch luck. In other countries they hang them downwards so luck can our out on you.

KEYS. Three keys worn together symbolize the unlocking of the doors to health, wealth and love.

OM: In Hindu mythology, Om or AUM is believed to be the first sound to pervade through the Universe at the beginning of time. Almost all Mantras are also initiated by reciting the word 'Om'. Worshippers of this sacred symbol are blessed with luck, material comforts and spiritual powers.

Rabbits Foot: The belief originates in the system of African-American folk magic known as hoodoo. A number of strictures attached to the charm that are now observed mostly in the breach: First, not any old foot from a rabbit will do: it is the left hind foot of a rabbit that is useful as a charm. A left hind foot of a rabbit shot in a cemetery will do: the phase of the moon is also important. Some authorities say that the rabbit must be taken in the full moon, while others hold instead that the rabbit must be taken in the new moon. Some sources say instead that the rabbit must be taken on a Friday, or a rainy Friday, or Friday the 13th. Some sources say that the rabbit should be shot with a silver bullet, while others say that the foot must be cut off while the rabbit is still alive. (*blink* this never was my favorite charm… LOL It wasn’t very lucky for the rabbit was it?)

Wishbone: since the 4th century various countries have held the turkey or chicken wishbone contest. Pulling the dry bone until it snapped “lucky Break” believeing the winner’s wish or dream would come true.

Wishbox: Chinese custom of writing your wish down and placing it inside a decorated box. A prayer is said to amplify your wish. Then the box is sealed.

Do you have anything you consider a lucky charm? Me? I have a favorite piece of a aventurine I keep nearby when I write and I wear my grandmother’s ring, turning it whenever I feel the need for confidence.

Lucky charms or not… May your wishes come true except one, so you have blessings to count and still have something to strive for!!!

HUGS,
Mari, Who is now off to blow out the candles on her birthday cake…hmm do I get a wish for each candle? If so, It might take awhile *g*

Do You Read Banned Books?

2008-03-04T15:50:00.008-05:00

As a writer, I get apprehensive when we submit something, hoping the editor will be in the right frame of mind and like it. Hoping the publishing house will have a spot for it. Then, if published, will the readers and critics alike, enjoy it. I can’t imagine what it would be like to have my book challenged or banned from shelves because someone didn’t like the content.

Last week, I helped out at my daughter’s elementary school book fair. While we were between classes the secretary came over and said… “I don’t know what you want to do but I just received a call from a parent asking that you take down a certain book because it promotes atheism.”

I was flabbergasted. I thought the day of book banning had ended. We decided not to remove the books. It is a public school and you can’t discriminate because of religion. Besides the fact, we were all proponents of the constitution and the right to free speech.

I am all for and, in fact, believe parents should censor what their children see on TV, the computer, video games, and yes… what they read. Making sure it is age or maturity appropriate. I watch shows with my kids, read the books they read, even play their video games and listen to their music. I want to know where questions and ideas are formed. It’s a way to have open dialogue and find ways to relate to them.

But never would I dream of thinking something should be censored from society as a whole. If you don’t want your child reading something then you tell them no. That is fine, I respect your decision. But don’t tell me or anyone else what we should be allowed to read. By censoring you are just as guilty of forcing your beliefs on others as you accused the author.

I looked online and found some interesting titles that were at one time banned or challenged… some even today are removed from required reading in schools…
Ulysses- James Joyce
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn- Mark Twain
Madam Bovary- Gustave Flaubert
The Scarlet Letter- Nathaniel Hawthorne
Uncle Tom’s Cabin- Harriet Beecher Stowe
Of Mice and Men-John Steinbeck
Brave New World- Aldous Huxley
Lady Chatterly’s Lover- DH Lawrence
Moll Flanders- Daniel Defoe
Candide-Voltaire
Some of Shakespeare's plays- Hamlet, Midsummer’s Night Dream, Othello…
Alice in Wonderland
Captain Underpants
Black Beauty
To Kill a Mockingbird
The Color Purple
A Wrinkle in Time
*blink* I didn’t realize it was such a long list and there are still a lot more! My mouth is hanging open reading the lists!

I haven’t read the book in question yet, but now I am curious and will LOL. I know that the written word can have power. But thinking a work of fiction, if read, can destroy your family's belief system, especially if you discuss it with your child… *blink*

Besides, what an adult or child gather from something can be totally different. ie how a child sees Pepe Lepew… compared to how adults take his humor… there are different perceptions.

I have read banned books, have you?
Mari

Responsible Romantic Heroes Use Condoms

2008-02-25T17:23:00.007-05:00

We have the priveledge of helping fellow EC author Shelley Munroe announce the upcoming release of Fancy Free! I've seen this topic alot on blogs I've visited LOL Just goes to show you never know where a What If idea will come from!
**********

Some readers prefer heroes to use condoms while others say the dose of reality kills all the spontaneity and romance. It’s a debate that repeats all over romance land—to use condoms or not to use condoms—since, after all, it is only fiction…

New Zealand erotic romance author, Shelley Munro took this a step further in her upcoming release Fancy Free, the story of an accountant who inherits a condom company. When Ms. Munro caught an Air New Zealand flight from San Francisco, she came across an advertising article about a new condom on the market. The ideas flowed and by the time she landed in Auckland, she’d outlined her plot for Fancy Free.

It’s not every day a girl inherits a condom company, and to say accountant, Alice Beasley is astonished and out of her depth is putting it mildly. For an almost virgin, she needs a quick education in all things condom because her inheritance is in danger. Someone is intent on sabotage and playing nasty, trying to destroy her new company.

Alice is suddenly getting down and dirty with charismatic James, the factory manager, all in the name of business, testing new condom designs. The sex is hot. Mind-blowing. It’s a dark thrill and an erotic journey. Yeah, it’s a hard job but a girl’s got to do what a girl’s gotta do.

The testing turns personal. Alice wants James. She craves his talented touch and sultry kisses, she desires passion and physical pleasure on a permanent basis but first she must convince bad boy James to give up his fancy free ways.

Note: condoms were tested and a few harmed during the writing of this story.

Fancy Free releases on 7 March 2008 from Ellora’s Cave www.ellorascave.com and is Ms. Munro’s eighteenth release from the pioneer erotic romance publisher.

Here is a little info about Aunt Alicia and some of the condom research she gathered...
Alicia started her company, Fancy Free on a whim—a business to occupy her time and keep her old school friends busy. Many of Sloan’s residents considered Fancy Free a strange business, and some were plain shocked, but Alicia didn’t believe in following conventions. Condoms were something she knew about. She’d researched them enough, heck, she’d even used a few in her time. Condoms were her passion, and so condoms were what her company produced. On her death, she left her precious company to her god-daughter Alice Beasley.

A snippet from Alicia’s collection of condom notes:

During Roman times, a magic condom became popular. This condom supposedly protected the users from pregnancy and from evil spirits. To make a magic condom the woman collected a large handful of fur from a she-mule’s mane. During the foreplay stage, the man and woman wove a condom from the fur, which was then used during lovemaking.

Alicia’s note – sounds uncomfortable and itchy but the foreplay might be interesting. Did it leak? Source: Humble Little Condom by Aine Collier

Get your copy of FANCY FREE, an erotic romance about condoms by Shelley Munro, from Ellora’s Cave on March 7, 2008.
To read an excerpt visit http://www.shelleymunro.com/coming-soon

May research lead you to the ultimate release
Mari

Rissa's Dad

2008-02-21T13:49:00.002-05:00

Right now I'm in a different place,
And though we seem apart,
I'm closer than I ever was ...
I'm there inside your heart.
I'm with you when you greet each day.
And while the sun shines bright,
I'm there to share the sunsets, too ...
I'm with you every night.
I'm with you when the times are good,
To share a laugh or two,
And if a tear should start to fall ...
I'll still be there for you.
And when that day arrives
That we no longer are apart,
I'll smile and hold you close to me ...
Forever in my heart.

Rissa's dad passed away Febuary 15th. Please keep her and her family in your thoughts. She has a tribute to her father on her livejournal blog. and a sweet list of things she'll miss about him on her other alter ego Melany Logen's Blog
(((MELS))) I know this is a difficult time for you.

clutter is normal!

2008-02-20T17:41:00.002-05:00

I have a confession. I am not only a procrastinator I have clutter all over my house! yes even now that its bigger each room seems to have piles begetting piles. Children's school work and art projects, books to read for fun, books and notes on research for books. magazines....catalogues. No matter how I try, once a pile is cleared up it seems to magically reappear someplace else!

I just read a short psychology article. In it they say disorganized clutter means you are ruled by the creative right brain.! See I knew there was an explanation! Its just my natural inclination! *blink*

Busy under the wire for a submission dealine! *fingers crossed* but we are chatting tonight at 9:00 at the M-spot. click here come on in and say hello.

HUGS May your clutter be filled with creativity.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T23:17:00.002-05:00

On this day that reminds us to appreciate those we love... cause lets face they are the ones we often start to take for granted... Its not the extravagant gift, that the commercials emphasize, we really seek. Its the gentle touch, the kiss from lips that mean it, that we all want to receive. Here are a few of my favorite quotes about kisses and what they can mean...

Any man who can drive safely while kissing a pretty girl is simply not giving the kiss the attention it deserves. ~Albert Einstein

A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous. ~Ingrid Bergman

A kiss can be a comma, a question mark or an exclamation point. That's basic spelling that every woman ought to know. ~Mistinguett (Jeanne Bourgeois),

Kissing is a means of getting two people so close together that they can't see anything wrong with each other. ~Rene Yasenek

Soul meets soul on lovers' lips. ~Percy Bysshe Shelley

A kiss that speaks volumes is seldom a first edition. ~Clare Whiting

I am in favor of preserving the French habit of kissing ladies' hands - after all, one must start somewhere. ~Sacha Guitry

In trying to get our own way, we should remember that kisses are sweeter than whine. ~Author Unknown

Stolen kisses require an accomplice. ~Just One Fool Thing After Another: A Cowfolks' Guide to Romance

If you are ever in doubt as to whether to kiss a pretty girl, always give her the benefit of the doubt. ~Thomas Carlyle

A kiss is just a pleasant reminder that two heads are better than one. ~Author Unknown

Happiness is like a kiss - it feels best when you give it to someone else. ~Author Unknown

May I print a kiss on your lips?" I said,
And she nodded her full permission:
So we went to press and I rather guess
We printed a full edition.
~Joseph Lilientha

Kissing is like drinking salted water. You drink, and your thirst increases. ~Chinese Proverb

Her kisses left something to be desired... the rest of her. ~Author Unknown

A kiss is the upper persuasion for a lower invasion. ~Author Unknown

Kisses kept are wasted;
Love is to be tasted.
There are some you love, I know;
Be not loathe to tell them so.
Lips go dry and eyes grow wet
Waiting to be warmly met.
Keep them not in waiting yet;
Kisses kept are wasted.
~Edmund Vance Cooke

Kisses are like tears, the only real ones are the ones you can't hold back. ~Author Unknown

Ancient lovers believed a kiss would literally unite their souls, because the spirit was said to be carried in one's breath. ~Eve Glicksman

The sound of a kiss is not so loud as that of a cannon, but its echo lasts a great deal longer. ~Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr.,

May all the kisses you receive be purchased with love,
Mari

Sixteen Random Things about Mari

2008-02-07T19:46:00.000-05:00

A tag by Ann Aguirre has instigated Mechele Armstrong to tag me! Moi? sweet timid moi!

The mission: list sixteen random personal facts or habits, and then pick twelve of my friends to tag.
Well I am not sure if I can scrounge up 16 LOL my life isn't that interesting. But I will give it a go and I will try not to repeat the 8 facts about me in the May 15, 2007 blog entry. Also I don't know that many people here in blogdom, I am hoping to meet more but for now I will only tag 2. Here it goes:

1. My real name is Maureen and I am a Jersey girl.

2. I am a procrastinator

3. I tend to ramble on in a nonlinear fashion but eventually I get to the point. even when writing... Thank God for Cut and Delete and Move options or tweaking would be hell!

4. I have a gem and shell collection. My favorites being a sand dollar I found camping in Florida and A polished sphere of aventurine, which is supposed to enhance creativity. I keep it nearby!

5. When I can get away my favorite place to go is Cape May NJ. Sink my toes in the sand, inhale the ocean air and hoist a pint at the Ugly Mug!

6. I have 342 books in my TBR pile! There are just so many books and so little time!

7. I am addicted to reality shows like Project Runway and Top Chef. I watch Wife Swap and Super Nanny on occassion just to remind myself how lucky I am.

8. I play Colorstorm on webkinz to help my daughter earn webkinz dollars. It is addicting! I am determined to beat level 9! I think my electronic suduko is getting jealous.

9. I have a letter in varsity football from high school! I was the statistician!

10. The football coach chaperoned our senior class trip to Quebec. He slept on a cot in front of the elevator to keep the guys from sneaking down to the girls floor of the hotel. He knew my friends and I were Ranger hockey fans. So when Dave and Don Maloney and Ed Hospador got off the elevator and almost tripped over him... you guessed it I found myself sitting on a cot at 2am talking to members of my favorite team *swoon*

11. My first step into the yahoo group world was Christine Feehan's discussion loop. where I met a wonderful group of women just as insane as I am. I also met my evil twin from Australia, Mo, and she has me addicted to Tim Tams! I look forward to care packages from down under!

12. My favorite flower is the gerber daisy.

13. Umm my birthday is March 17th, making me a pisces.

14. We have two cats, Kiri (Mist in japanese) and Rainbow. They are like ying and yang. Kiri is all over and into everything and Rainbow is a docile purring machine.

15. I like to learn things. Favorite subjects being different places, mythology and history. Still trying to figure the Mayans out but I have created a premise based on their mythology *g*

16. Umm Marissa is just about to wrap up a WIP called Colm's Win! It's an Historical set in NY's five points in 1847.

Colm wants out of the city, but most of all he wants a future with Bess. The only things standing in his way are her father and a prize fight. He is sure of his fists and winning the prize, but he isn't sure he can win Bess' heart.

Though Bess has feelings for Colm, it is hard for her to go against her father's wishes, when he is all the family she has left. And when those she loves are threatened, she is willing to sacrifce her heart's desire to make sure they stay safe.

*g* as you can see the blurb is a work in progress too

Okay since Mechele tagged just about everyone I know in the blogging world... I am going to tag two. Nina Nash, see what you get for visiting here! *g* And Mary Stella.

HUGS, may all your random little things add up to a wonderfully fulfilling life!
Mari

What one person can do...

2008-01-31T13:33:00.000-05:00

Well, we’ve reached the last day of January in the New Year and as we look back at it and how well we have or have not kept or resolutions so far, I want to tell you about a friend of mine and what one person can do to touch the lives of many people.

Yeppers, I am happy to say Kelley Graznow is a friend of mine! I met her on Christine Feehan’s Yahoo Discussion loop way back when I truly was timid and shy. She is one of the first friends I made. I give her credit as being one of the ones who lured me to the dark side. *g* Along with several other ladies from all over the planet, we have shared many laughs, tears and cyber hugs. I am still amazed how we all bonded and have become an internet family.

So I already knew Kelley is a wonderful person with a generous heart and it didn’t surprise me when she started writing to soldiers and sending packages. But what it has grown into *blink*

You see, Kelly works at customer service, first for America West now US Airways. At her job she sees a lot of our troops saying goodbye to family and friends as they ship off overseas, especially after 9-11. It was a sad atmosphere in the Port Columbus Airport and she wanted to do something. Find someway to make these men and women feel appreciated and not so alone when far from home.

A friend told her how to get in touch with someone who had names and addresses of some soldiers, for security you can’t just mail to “Any Soldier” you needed names. Well she started with a few, and they wrote back, some giving her names of other soldiers that could use some TLC. She added them to her list and started sending them packages. Her understanding husband helping and not killing her when she maxed out the credit card to do it. And her list kept growing…She recruited friends and students in her son’s schools. She sends us addresses when a birthday or holiday is coming up and we send cards and packages too. Authors like Lori Foster, Christine Feehan, and Marjorie Lui lend a hand, spreading the word and donating some funds and books.

On December 16th she was interviewed by the Columbus Dispatch and on New Years Eve She was honored by the NHL Columbus Blue Jackets as one of 7 2007 Community Teammate Award recipients… She isn’t doing this for public praise and isn't fond of being in front of crowds, (*g* I think she is very deserving of the award and Congratulations to her !!!! You should read some of the Kudos she received on Lori Foster's Dec. 19 my space blog! )But she does it for the soldiers, each one she writes to becomes like family to her. She said if this fifteen minutes of fame helps get the word out, helps people want to support our soldiers then she will. She went to the game and she and her family had a great time. (Oh I wonder how red her face was!)

I love the article! Give it a read Woman, her army ship joy to troops
Get to know a little about what she does and how she’s affecting the lives of young men and women she never even met. Then decide if you would like to help out and get involved. It doesn’t take much to send an extra card in the mail or pick up some items for a package, or send a small amount of money so she can continue to send more but it means so much to the soldiers at the receiving end.

Contact her below and may your heart feel the joy touching the life of a stranger can bring,
Hugs
Mari

SOS
attn Kelley Granzow
PO BOX 624
Brice, OH 43109

email: kelleygranzow@yahoo.com

A Smut Meme by Isabella Snow

2008-01-21T20:46:00.000-05:00

I've been Tagged by Corrine Davies to respond to a Smut Meme. You're welcome to post it on your blogs, the rules are as follows: You must call it the Smut Meme (obvious reasons, I'd hope), you must link to me in the title, and you must tag 2 people, and link to them as well. Oh, and you must post this little blurb at the beginning, like I've just done. Got it? Ok then.

The idea is to pick one or the other, even if you prefer neither. I'll go first. If you want to play along you can answer the questions in the comments. Okay does it mean i am super-smutty if i have a hard time narrowing down to one choice or as My hubby says: "It means you are just alot of fun"?*blink*

1. Chocolate or Whipped Cream: *Sigh* See this is what I mean! Okay I'll go with Chocolate since I would chose Cool Whip over whipped cream because it doesn't melt as fast.

2. Leather or PVC: I love the way Leather Breaths!

3. Outdoor Sex or Indoor Sex: *whimper* SEX *g*

4. In the Jacuzzi or In Bed? Okay Come on! Variety is the spice of life!

5. Bad Sex or No Sex: No Sex. I have limits i do need to get some pleasure out of it!

6. Dominate or Be Dominated: Be Dominated or at least let him think he is dominating me *g*

7. Thigh highs or Bodystocking: THigh Highs, drive him crazy knowing under that peasant skirt is...

8. Fast or Slow: Okay I'll put slow.. no wait... there is something to be said about a hot furious quickie *wails* I don't know!

9. Rough or Gentle: DO I really have to limit myself?

10. Bite or Suck: Bite. then Suck

11. Role play or Reality: Reality

12. Dirty Talking or Dirty Talking To: prefer being driven to a nonverbal audible sounds frenzy

13. Edible panties or No Panties: No panties, haven't found edibles that taste good, but i have found a candy bra that seems yummy.

14. Spanking paddle or Bare-handed: Bare-handed

15. Landing Strip or Kojak: Landing Strip, no pre-puberty look for me.

16. Multiple Sessions or One Good Fuck: See here again it would depend on my mood and the situation.

17. Moaning or Screaming: Moaning...loud *g* I agree with Corrine.

18. Older Men or Young Men: My three year older Hubby.

19. Threeway or No Way: No Way I am too selfish to share.

20. Swing or No Swinging: No Swinging umm thats trading partners not the swing hanging from the ceiling right? *g*

And I tag: My Cowriter Rissa Melissa Lopez & Jenna Leigh If you don't know the answers, make them up!

may you always leave yourself open to choices and find ways to have fun with your romance!
Hugs
Mari/Mo

Coming soon!

2008-01-16T18:57:00.000-05:00

My how time flies, its been almost a year since Heart On His Sleeve was released as an Ellora's Cave Valentine Vixen Quickie. I am so excited to announce that it will be released in print, in an anthology titled Candy Cravings, this Febuary!

Update on Colm's Win, Bess is willing to sacrifice everything to give Colm a fair chance at a victory but still struggles with giving him the prize he truly wants.
Update on progress, *sigh* the meter site isn't cooperating so no pretty graph.
We are up to 13,385 words into the 20,000 total target.

We are chatting tonight at the M'spot!, click here! We being the Mmmm Authors, Mechele Armstrong, Melany Logen, Melissa Lopez, and Marissa Alwin. click the link and come on in!

ABS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-09T17:46:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone *sigh* don't you just love a great set of Abs? *dreamy sigh*

I hope your new years are off to fabulous starts. One of my new years resolutions is to blog here every week, even if its just a quick hello.
Today I have happy news to share! Melissa Lopez, The Rissa Half of this co-writting team, has had her first release with Samhain Publishing!
Boomerang Love
Take a look, read the excerpt, then tell me you aren't enticed to read more and make a purchase!

Congratulations Melissa!
*Caddyshack gopher dance*
Mari

Absent minded professor syndrome

2007-12-10T21:48:00.000-05:00

When you can’t remember the little things like where you put the keys or that you are out of milk or you drive past that turn home you’ve been making for the past 8 years there is no need to worry. It actually means your brain is working better. *blink* Researchers at Stanford University say that forgetting unimportant details makes room in your brain for more important ones. So when brainstorming on a WIP or planning out a scene in your head it’s normal to forget to cook dinner. *g* As long as you remember those important plot details or what makes your characters tick!! LOL

I hope my family buys this research as the holidays approach. I have a list of need to do’s. Twice I went out to do something on it and… came home not doing it. *sigh* will the kids at school mind if they just get mini candycanes from my daughter and no card attached? I came home with other things just not the one I went to get!

Oh and before I go, just one more thing, we have working titles for our WIPs

One is Colm’s Win, an 1840’s historical, is back in Rissa’s hands. Bess is the Heroine, A woman that knows her own mind and what she wants. And that’s to keep those she loves safe, even if she drives them insane in the process.

8,843 / 20,000
(44.2%)

The second is Song of His Soul. The heroine, Agnes, is the sister of Sibil, the heroine in Heart on His Sleeve. Agnes has defined her life by how well she can carry out her responsibilities. Doing them well is the only thing that gives her any value. It’s what her parents have instilled in her and her first husband has made her believe she’s failed miserably. What she truly desires is for someone to love her, just for her. But that’s not possible, is it?

I’ll give you a word count when I finished adding to it *g*

HUGS, May you find a hero who will value you enough to win your heart.
Mari

Giving thanks

2007-11-25T23:13:00.000-05:00

"Make it a habit to tell people thank you.
To express your appreciation, sincerely and without the expectation of anything in return.
Truly appreciate those around you, and you'll soon find many others around you.
Truly appreciate life, and you'll find that you have more of it."
Ralph Marston

I just wanted to take a minute during this thanksgiving weekend to give a shout out to everyone. Thank you for being a part of my life, be it a major role or a brief connection, I am thankful our lives have touched.

Some have heard me relate this before, especially when i sent one of these quartz crystals their way. As you know one of my favorite places to go is Cape May. one of the things it is famous for are Cape May Diamonds. The Kechemeche Indians were the first to find the fascinating and beautiful stones. They believe that these curious stones possess supernatural power bringing success and good fortune.

Earlier settlers stopped at the beaches because they believed diamonds glistened on the shore. These crystals turned out to be white quartz. Naturally you find these rocks in a cloudy murky white state, but Cape May has the right elements, outside forces, to work on these rocks. The break of the waves, the temperature of the water, the salt and grit of sand that effects them and they are transformed.

Just reminds me that we don't reach the shore alone, we are touched by so many. Look around you when you are celebrating this weekend and during the upcoming holidays and remember to thank those that have had on influence on your life. Thank them for helping you become a gem!

She made the universe brighter

2007-11-19T21:50:00.000-05:00

There are a few people who have influenced me during my younger years. One of them was Mrs Maxon, My third grade teacher. I remember clearly everyday after recess we would come back to class and rest our heads on our desks while she read us a chapter from a book. She introduced us to Charlotte’s Web; Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great; The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe; A Mouse Named Ralph; and A Wrinkle In Time. By doing so she awoke an avid reader in me. Once she read a book I wanted to read more by the author. And through these authors an imagination was fed and creativity inspired.

As you can see from the titles she introduced me to one of my favorite Authors, Madeleine L’Engle. Her ability to create worlds and make you feel a part of them as you read was astounding. There was always a character you could relate to and you felt there was someone out there that understood you. I remember burning through the pages of her books, First, the Murray Family and then the Austins.

Yesterday I was perusing the web, looking for a Christmas gift for my friend Mechele, who is also a fan of Madeleine L’Engle, when I came across her website and was saddened to read she had passed away this September.

In her Newberry acceptance speech she said… “A book, too, can be a star, “explosive material, capable of stirring up fresh life endlessly,” a living fire to lighten the darkness, leading out into the expanding universe.”

Although her life star has gone out its light will shine for generations as children continue to have their imaginations fed by her words. And She may never know how many stars she helped ignite by sharing her gifts and inspiring some not only to pick up a book and read but to pick up the pen and write. Rest in Peace Madeleine L’Engle. The universe is brighter and larger because you lent it your light!

And Thank you Mrs Maxon for introducing me to more than the cookie cutter textbook knowledge and let my imagination grow!

HUGS
Mari

Hi from busy bees

2007-11-15T18:06:00.000-05:00

Just a quick hello. Rissa and I are in the midst of tackling two stories. And at the moment I really do feel like I have a split personality. Both heroines have such different personalities and ways of facing troubles.

Bess is a vivacious little thing who when isnt pleased is found with her hands on her hips and her toe tapping. She is also often found with her chin up in the air, stubborn to the core. She is determined to give her man Colm a very hard time.

Then there is Agnes, very withdrawn and internalizing the emotions caused by all the horrid things going on in her life. You'll find her focusing on some distant spot instead of looking you in the eye, a stoic expression on her face and her fingers nervously twisting her ring. Will Gryffen be able to work his way passed the walls she has put up and let her experience the pleasure life with him can offer? We'll see.

It takes me a bit to step out of one pair of shoes and into the other. After writing a scene for Agnes, my husband kept asking me what was wrong, I seemed sad. I thought for a moment then laughed I had to assure him there was nothing wrong. It was Agnes.

I hope you all get the chance to meet both these ladies and travel with them on their journey toward a happily ever after.

Hugs and wishes for everyone to find the someone special to be thankful for.
Mari

In the same boat

2007-10-17T19:16:00.000-05:00

I attended a workshop at NJRW about conquering your writing demons. RaeAnne Thayer presented it, the handout she gave us had quotes from accomplished authors admitting they had their own fears when it came to writing. Now I have read a lot of quotes from writer's offering inspiration and and how to advice...and they do just that. However, reading the quotes, where fears similar to mine have been faced by authors who have accomplished literary success hit home with me. That we share the same fears, are in the same boat as it were, inspired me even more. So I thought I would share some from the flyer and that I have discovered elsewhere...

"Writing itself is an act of faith, and nothing else"-- E. B. White

"A person who publishes a book willfully appears before the populace with his pants down."--Edna St. Vincent Milay

I'm scared all the time, which is always good. You have to be scared or you're not working hard enough.--Sue Grafton

"If we had to say what writing is, we would have to define it as an act of courage."--Cynthia Ozick

It is worth mentioning, for future reference, that the creative power which bubbles so pleasantly in beginning a new book quiets down after a time, and one goes on more steadily. Doubts creep in. Then one becomes resigned. Determination not to give in, and the sense of an impending shape keep one at it more than anything.--Virginia Woolf

Rejection slips, or form letters, however tactfully phrased, are lacerations of the soul, if not quite inventions of the devil - but there is no way around them.
- Isaac Asimov

The reason 99% of all stories written are not bought by editors is very simple. Editors never buy manuscripts that are left on the closet shelf at home.
- John Campbell

The book is done, the writer wants to cry out ‘bring it back, let me rewrite it, or better, let me burn it. Don’t let it out in the cold world in this unfriendly condition.’ I never lost the weight of clumsiness, ignorance or aching inability
-John Steinbeck

All my life I’ve been frightened at the moment I sit down to write.
-Gabriel Garcia Marquez

'A book is so much a part of oneself that in delivering it to the public one feels as if one were pushing one’s own child out into the traffic.’
Quentin Bell

"The scariest moment is always just before you start. After that, things can only get better."
(Stephen King)

When asked about the most frightening thing he had ever encountered, novelist Ernest Hemingway said, "A blank sheet of paper."
The work never matches the dream of perfection the artist has to start with.
William Faulkner

I am irritated by my own writing. I am like a violinist whose ear is true, but whose fingers refuse to reproduce precisely the sound he hears within.
Gustave Flaubert

I was working on the proof of one of my poems all the morning, and took out a comma. In the afternoon I put it back again.
Oscar Wilde

"Every writer's nightmare...Is the idea worth writing about? Will the readers hate it? Am I wasting my time? And there are no answers--until the book is published, then you bite your nails, hold your breath, and pray like mad.-- Sydney Sheldon

((HUGS))may you find the courage to push past your fears and doubts and pursue whatever dreams you hold in your hearts!

Mari

I really needed that!

2007-10-08T23:42:00.001-05:00

I just noticed its been a little over 2 months since we updated, and I’m sorry about that. Life has been a Bitch there is just now milder way to put it. First I want to send big hugs out to my co writer, Melissa, Her dad is very ill and I ask you keep them all in your prayers.

As for me…It is amazing how your emotions can make you feel so drained. My mom passed away on August 27th. Two weeks before my mom passed away my third son, who has severe Cerebral Palsy, had tendon surgery on his left leg, which was a success but as usual he had a hard time recovering from the anesthesia so I was with him at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital for a week. While my mom, the person I would be leaning on through it was ill and then passed away. And on the same night she left us a family neighbor, who was like a second father, passed away too.

It was Ironic because while I was growing up every Labor Day weekend our block would close down and we would have a block party. All the neighbors would get together and barbeque in the street. My mom and Tony were the organizers of this annual event. There were a group of neighbors that we called the Curbsiders, because as dawn started to break they would be found sitting on the curb still celebrating. (no keg was ever returned to the store with any contents remaining.) Four of them have now passed and on Labor Day weekend, my mom and Tony joined them in the same section of the cemetery. And all the neighbors and the children that grew up on our street were gathered around. They managed to bring us all together one more time. And you know for sure somewhere in heaven they were all sitting on a curb.

But I did feel like I was caught in a riptide and couldn’t reach shore before something else pulled me under. And I had to go through the motions of getting my kids back into the going to school and extra curricular activities routine that takes place as the summer ends. By the end of it I was physically and emotionally exhausted and sitting down at the computer and writing was the last thing I wanted to do. No scratch that I wanted to, I just couldn’t seem to.

This past weekend I attended the NJRW conference. I was scared because I was going alone. Yes, I am a shy person although many of you roll your eyes at that idea, but I knew it would be a way to help me get my feet back on shore. And it has.

The NJRW do a phenomenal job with this event and the presenters were awesome. I attended an awesome chat with Sherri, a workshop on taking control of your writing demons, (did you know procrastination is a writing demon!?!?!? Gasp!) and how to develop a truly unique Author Brand (Marissa seems to be on the right track there) and Show me don’t tell me, (all about staying out of the characters minds… no deep introspection, avoid excess words and portray emotion through actions. Yes I seriously needed this one!!) I also was able to meet our EC editor Nick Conrad, and let him know we are still here. Also get a few teasers in about the title of his presentation being dangling the carrot.

But as inspiring as all that was, that isn’t what put solid ground beneath me again. It was the women who attend. It was my fourth year attending and I ran into a few women that I have begun to call my same time next year friends. Stacey from NY pulled me in and introduced me to some fantastic women. Liz Maverick and Marianne Mancusi were a riot and I love their energetic approach to things. They have a cooperative venture coming out with Dorchester called the shomi line. Sherri Kenyon will always amaze me with her generous and compassionate nature, she is such an inspiring woman and her hugs are truly the best. She is co-writing a story with Dianna Love-Snell who I was also thrilled to meet. Dinner conversation with some of these ladies is always interesting. I always love hearing about Sherri’s family, she could definitely go into stand up comedy if this writing thing doesn’t pan out *blink* *g*

This year topics ranged from our children and fights with the board of Ed. Rawists who eat only raw food including chicken, to vegans and vegetarians, Graveyards we enjoy, hot spots in Boston and NYC, how to dig up a body, what the most painful wound is, ComicCon… Dinner lasted 3 hours with lots of laughter.

One highlight was a friend Beth Ciotta won a Golden Leaf Award for her book All About Evie! An awesome book and an awesome lady I was so thrilled for her!!

One devastating moment was at the end of the book signing as I helped pack up pins and tattoos I realized I lost my camera. Thankfully the next morning Sherri called me and she had found it in one of the boxes. And I will soon have it back along with photos dating back to Christmas, a special Christmas since it was my mom’s last with us. You’re my hero Sherri!!!

All in all it was a great weekend that started with my planning to hide in a corner and gather as much inspiration as I could to a lunch time speech by Sherri that had us all declaring over our pasta “I am the Best writer in the world and I deserve my dream!” to an after conference dance and Karaoke that had Marianne and another new friend Leanna teaching some of us Goth dances!

Hugs to you all and here’s to getting back to writing and living HEA.
Mari

Can creativity be enhanced?

2007-07-29T20:46:00.000-05:00

66,000, that’s how many thought the average person has in a day. There are some days you may believe that and some… well…

We all have trouble with ideas, now and then, or with what to do with them once we have them…Getting the creativity to flow. If you’ve never had any creative blocks, please let me know your secret! Some of us become so desperate we will try anything. There is a whole section of the market filled with books on how to overcome writer’s block!
I have collected some techniques that might help, might not. But when you get one of those moments when you sit in front of the computer and that great idea you had earlier in the bathroom just won’t reach your fingers, you might be tempted to give some of these a try. *g* I have.
As for that scene you lose by the time you can finally jot it down, Chew spearmint gum. Chewing increases blood flow to the brain and the spearmint flavor stimulates memory centers. Chewing also reduces muscle tension, relaxing you without decreasing alertness.
And you know I had to get chocolate in here. Eating dark chocolate increases the production of chemicals that influence the right side of the brain. The creativity centers!
Did you know, lower down from the mouth, the sacral chakra is also connected to creativity? It’s suggested to stimulate this chakra you should rotate your hips and lower back. It lets your creativity flow. A good exercise to do this is to pull out the hoola hoops. *blink* I am so trying not to visualize some of us using hoola hoops! But it might be fun to release that inner child if nothing else it will be a good laugh!
In fact playtime is another way to enhance creativity. The Queen of Hearts advised Alice to believe one impossible thing every day before breakfast. It’s good advice. Exercising your brain to the “what if” in life and beyond keeps the ideas flowing
Playing and imagining can wake up the right side of your brain, the side responsible for imagination. Playing an unstructured game like we did as children has been seen to stimulate the growth of nerve cells.
Some ideas for games:
~ Try to recreate your favorite restaurant dish,
~People watch, create a life for someone walking by. Make up the conversation they are having.
~Have a pet? Make up what they are thinking.
~Don’t tie yourself to the computer and insist your mind work. Get out in the world; stimulate yourself with life, books, movies. Break your routine occasionally. Surprise yourself and try something new, go someplace different. The crazier and more fun the better, let yourself be a kid again. When we believed in somewhere over the rainbow. Open your mind to new possibilities!

Okay now when you are back in front of the computer chewing your gum or unraveling a piece of Dove dark, check if your atmosphere is imagination friendly.
I looked into feng shui *nods*
The right atmosphere could improve your productivity and career prospects as well as enhance your success, creativity and wealth.(Honey, we are renovating again!*g*) ~Energy enters from the front door, so you should set up your home office in the front of the house to take advantage of the energy flow.
~Once energy enters the house, it always flows upwards. This means it’s preferable to be on the entry level or higher instead of in the basement.
~If your home office is in your bedroom, hide the office area with a screen at night so that you don’t mix energies when you move from work to sleep. ((hmm as romance writer’s wouldn’t it be beneficial to mix those energies *blink*))
~If your home office doesn’t have a window, brighten up the room with yellow paint, bright lights and pictures of the outdoors.
~If your home office is in the basement, paint the walls and ceilings bright white. Create as much light as possible with bright lighting. Install a fan to get the energy flowing.

Yellow and white huh? “What about other colors?” I ask as I gaze at my blue walls and the orange Gerber daisies in the vase and the violet t-shirt I am wearing… Hey it couldn’t hurt!
Orange instills vitality, movement and joy. It is the color of active creative expression. When we don't express our creativity we become frustrated and depressed. Orange can lift us out of depression and help release our frustrations and fears.
Aquamarine is the color of being in the creative flow, freely expressing yourself. Blue has a calming and cooling effect on our psyche. It is recommended in therapy rooms to aid recovery, and in offices where it can enhance learning, creativity and clear thinking.
Violet is the color of kings and priests and holds much power. Purple is the ray of creativity and has the ability to instill works of art with the power to heal and transform. Wagner used this color in his home decor, especially when he was composing music. Leonardo da Vinci supported using the power of the violet ray in meditation to link with the heavenly world.

Amen to that!

Feel free to pass on any possible creativity boosters and block busters my way,
Happy writing!
May you find inspiration in surprising places and remember that approaching writing and life as fun is the best way to create!
Mari

2007-07-23T23:03:00.000-05:00

Babies are for bouncing,

and for jouncing on your knee,

For charming you, disarming you,

and giggling with glee.

Babies are for kissing

and missing when you're gone,

For walking with & talking with,

and putting booties on.

Babies are a pleasure

a treasure from above,

They're to adore, but even more,

Babies are for love.

Congratulations to Rissa and her family!
Her first Grandchild has arrived!
Yes Rissa, you are onehot young Grandma!!
(I'll let her catch up on some sleep before I let the teasing start *g*)
Enjoy your grandson and tell him welcome to the world!
HUGS
Mari

Chocolate Kisses

2007-06-19T22:50:00.000-05:00

Just read a small article that states a study found that savoring chocolate caused a more intense buzz than kissing. Now I am a very, very big fan of chocolate and have no argument with its ability to elicit a seratonin high. My argument was with how they decided this.

They monitored people eating chocolate and people kissing. Okay now I am thinking that this could have influenced the results. Unless you are an extreme extrovert I would think knowing you are being monitored would inhibit your response to a passionate kiss thus decreasing the enjoyment that would trigger the serotonin release. Eating chocolate, who cares who sees you do that. You still relax and enjoy.

I don’t know about you but I think I will continue to keep chocolate and passionate kisses the same desire level, if not ranking kisses a tad higher. Especially if you’re not in the need for instant gratification chocolate can give and know that kiss can lead to oh so much more!

Besides if they keep publishing stuff like this our men will stop buying us chocolate as little romantic gestures. What man wants to give his woman something that can satisfy her more than he can? *blink*

May your kisses leave you with that melt in your mouth oh so good feeling,
Hugs,
Mari

Getting to know you

2007-06-06T23:34:00.000-05:00

4,653 / 30,000
(15.5%)

Tiago and Haley

Okay we have a new one in the works *g* our hero and heroine, Tiago and Haley have been keeping us busy. Working on developing a character with depth can be difficult at times, especially when you have a deadline. We have a profile sheet I like to fill out. Since we each write one characters POV and need to understand the character the other created, it’s great to have to refer too.

But knowing it’s a profile it feels a little too much like work. Something we procrastinators love to avoid. So I had fun today with Haley. We procrastinated together. How many of you have ever received the Getting to Know You questionnaires from friends? I am lucky to have a wonderful procrastination enabler who sends them to a bunch of us regularly. Today I pulled one out of the old email and let Haley fill it out. It really did give me some new insight. Next time you are stuck try one of these questionnaires or pull out a magazine quiz. See how they would answer.

I’ll put some of the questions and answers below to give you a little peak at her.

What’s Your Middle Name?
Mayauel, it’s the name of an ancient goddess of my mother’s people,she supposedly brought Love to mankind.

What’s one odd/interesting fact about you?
You will rarely find me without my camera and taking pictures.

Would you keep a secret from me if you thought it was in my best interest?
I am in your head there is no way I can keep a secret from you. But if I could…well, yes, I hate seeing people get upset.

Tattoos and/or Piercings:
My ears and my bellybutton are pierced.

What is your big weakness?
Seeing someone angry or upset

If you could change anything about you, would you?
Yes, What ever it was that made my father think I was a burden, Would someone please tell me what it was?

What do you wear to sleep?
Hello Kitty night shirt

Trousers or skirts?
Trousers, never know where you have to move to get a picture

If you only had one day to live, what would you do?
Tell my father exactly what I think if him,
Jump Tiago. LOL I would probably chicken out of both

May your search for insight lead you to passion that burns hotter than a comet.
Mari

A day to Remember

2007-05-27T21:52:00.000-05:00

Freedom Is Not Free

I watched the flag pass by one day,

It fluttered in the breeze.

A young Service man saluted it,

And then he stood at ease.

I looked at him in uniform

So young, so tall, so proud,

With hair cut square and eyes alert

He'd stand out in any crowd.

I thought how many men like him

Had fallen through the years.

How many died on foreign soil

How many mothers' tears?

How many pilots' planes shot down?

How many died at sea

How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?

No, freedom isn't free.

I heard the sound of Taps one night,

When everything was still,

I listened to the bugler play

And felt a sudden chill.

I wondered just how many times

That Taps had meant "Amen,"

When a flag had draped a coffin.

Of a brother or a friend.

I thought of all the children,

Of the mothers and the wives,

Of fathers, sons and husbands

With interrupted lives.

I thought about a graveyard

At the bottom of the sea

Of unmarked graves in Arlington.

No, freedom isn't free.

Cmdr. Strong may be contacted by email at:"kellystrong @ aol.com"Website with info: www.iwvpa.net/strongk

To all those who have served and who are serving

To those who have lost family members through the service

Thank you, We remember your sacrifice.

HUGS

Reading a Romance, Enjoying the chase

2007-05-23T21:47:00.000-05:00

As many have heard me confess one of my procrastination past-times is reading magazines to find what-ifs and research on character and plot development. Last week I came across two studies that caught my eye...

One study made me smile, glad I am in the writing profession, and that romance is the genre through which my creativity flows. Yay for falling in love and happy ever-afters. The study found that reading a romance novel triggers the same positive physical responses falling in love does, including lowering the levels of Cortisol, the body’s stress hormone.

Another study revealed that the libido can be jump-started by playing a competitive game. One that gets you moving, like tag *g* raises your testosterone level… In case you didn’t know that’s the hormone that boosts your sex drive. Participating in a competitive event can raise it 49% in women and just anticipating the competition raises it 24%. Men’s levels rise too, when he plays sports. But unlike women, whose levels stay peaked win or lose, if his team loses his level plunges. LOL, so Ladies I guess it’s in our own best interest to let him win.

Or as I learned during my eye-rolling through the Bachelor…Let him catch you but make him work at it. It’s not the woman that gives him no contest--I’m all yours--that gets the final rose. It is the one that lets him know she is interested but leads him on a chase -- makes him convince her-- compete for her heart, who receives it.

May you enjoy the conquest, whether by reading the heated chase of hero and heroine in a romance novel or in pursuit of your own true HEA.
HUGS
Mari

We were Tagged

2007-05-15T16:58:00.000-05:00

Our good Friend and awesome writer Mechele Armstrong was nice enough to tag us.
Yes, US, Marissa Alwin is a combined alter-ego LOL. She doesn't think so highly of herself that she goes around speaking in queen's english. *g*

Since we have been away for a bit a little intro might be a good place to get back into the swing of things. So I am going to do my eight then let Rissa do eight.

THE RULES:(For those of you who follow those kinda things!)Here are the rules according to whomever likes to makeup rules (not me):
1. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
2. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.
3. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names. (All's fair in Lurv and bloggin')
4. Don't forget to leave them a comment telling them they're tagged, and to read your blog.

Eight Random Things about Mari:

1. My first name is Maureen and I am a procrastination addict!

2. Growing up as an only child I now find myself a mother of 4 -- 3 boys and 1 girl. 16,13,10 and 5 respectively.

3. I have a graduate degree in speech-language pathology

4. I make mosaics of m&m's and skittles before I eat them

5. My blood consists of Diet Dr Pepper and Reese's Peanut Butter cups, although the new snapple green tea and 3 musketeer bars are beginning to delute them.

6. I have travelled to Ireland 3 times and Kissed the Blarney Stone on each visit. Yes, There are some that say I am full of it. *g*

7. Growing up between the ages of 6 and 12 I broke each arm twice and my leg once. this year while living at my parents I slipped on wet tile and broke my elbow.

8. We just moved home after a year and a bit living with my parents while made a major renovation to our house! I am searching for my sanity but how can you find what you never had? It is really great to be back in my own space though!

Rissa here:

1. I want to see Ireland with Mari!
2. I'm a Gene Simmons fangirl.
3. I'm not a winter person.
4. I have four children.
5. At the moment baseball is my favorite sport.
6. My fried chicken is almost as good as my grandma's. was
7. I cannot sing, and I can tell when someone else can't either.
8. I want to see a play on Broadway. Hopefully in October!

As to who to tag? SO many wonderful friends all worth getting to know! Who can choose? Anyone passing by that wants to share 8 random things about themselves please do. if we know you or if we don't, we always enjoy getting to know you. Leave them here or leave the link to your site so we can visit. (((HUGS)))

Reviews

2007-02-21T23:21:00.000-05:00

our first review with RRT Recommendation Ratings:
Sleeper - I should have washed my hair!
Foreplay - Interesting but not enough
Missionary - Gets the job done
Multiple O's - Oh baby I'd go back for more
La Petite Mort - Can I have three please?

We received: *drum roll*

HEART ON HIS SLEEVE - Marissa Alwin
Valentine Vixens
ISBN: 1-4199-0952-8
February 2007
Erotic Historical Romance
Rated: E-rotic
RRTE Rating: La Petite Mort

1439 - England

Waryn Landelle, Duke of Lysky, has vowed never to marry again after the betrayal of his first wife. However his Aunt Alice has other plans. By decree of her father, Sibil Carlise is destined for the abbey but she is determined to have one taste of passion before joining the cloister -- and the passion she wants to taste is the Duke’s. Truly romantic and brimming with scorching sensuality, HEART ON HIS SLEEVE is a sure winner this Valentine’s Day. Don’t miss this wonderfully entertaining story.

*g* yes i was hyperventalating over what our first review might say. Now I can exhale. And to the wonderful readers that sent emails telling us you enjoyed the story, you have no idea how wonderful it is to hear that! Thank you so much! I don't know about Rissa but I am printing them out and saving them!

I hope that you enjoy all future stories from us just as much!
Mari

Our winner is…

2007-02-15T10:46:00.000-05:00

Cathie!

You’ve been e-mailed. So please check your mail.

Thank you, to everyone who entered!

*Tosses colored confetti* Heart on His Sleeve is officially released! Such a wonderful feeling!

Until later~
Rissa

Valentine’s Day contest!

2007-02-01T13:24:00.000-05:00

In honor of Heart on His Sleeve’s release on Valentine’s Day Mari and I are holding a contest!

Answer the following questions:
What’s our writing tag?
What’s our hero’s name in HoHS?
What’s the title of our chat group?
What’s the title of our blog?
What’s the meaning of our last name Alwin?
Since HoHS was inspired by the holiday….tell us what’s your favorite Valentine’s Day memory? (There’s no right or wrong answer to this last question. We just want to get to know you a little better. ) All other answers are located on our site. http://marissaalwin.com/

Send answers to: marissa_alwin @ yahoo .com (no spaces)

Contest will run through midnight February 14th. Winner will be drawn on the morning of February 15th.

Winner will win choice of any 2 Valentine’s Vixen Quickies from Ellora’s cave. Winner’s choice of format.

Best of luck!
Rissa & Mari

In need of a chat fix?

2007-01-30T14:18:00.000-05:00

We'll be chatting at Love Romances Cafe tomorrow Jan. 31st, from 1 - 2. I believe this is Eastern time. We'll be chatting about the up-coming Valentine Vixens from Ellora's Cave! Yep, Heart on His Sleeve will be part of the series! HoHS releases on Valentine's Day! What a fantastic day for a release!

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LoveRomancesCafe/

Until later~
Rissa

10 things I do when I'm procrastinating

2007-01-22T15:55:00.000-05:00

1. I watch the COLTS play football! Yeah, I should’ve been writing last night. *WOOT*
2. I sort socks. The blasted things seem to multiply and I can think freely while in the laundry room. Lol..it’s the only room no one will follow me into. *Blink* I can’t figure out why?
3. I rearrange my to-be-read piles. *Whisper* I have thousands yet to be read. They annoy the dh, but I can’t help myself from buying another. My plan is to read them in my retirement.
4. I develop new ideas. *grin* You all should see my idea file...add them to our Mari file and peoples I’ll be writing until I’m too old to retire and simply read for pleasure once more.
5. I read each and normally respond to every one of my friends e-mails as they arrive. Lol..don’t want to fall behind.
6. I spend every moment with my children they want with me, because they're all growing so fast. If I’m working and get interrupted I stop and pay attention to their needs. And they can be so funny!
7. I watch PRISON BREAK, 24, COLD CASE, THE CLOSER, CRIMINAL MINDS, & WITHOUT A TRACE whenever new episodes are on.
8. I go see movies with the children, or the dh whenever asked.
9. *Blush* This one I’d better not type.
10. *Grin* I fill out a list on procrastinating.

This topic was happily stolen from Melany Logen. What do you do when you procrastinate?

Until later~
Rissa

His Heart on His Sleeve update

2007-01-09T18:05:00.000-05:00

Our Valentine Vixen Quickie with Ellora's Cave has a release date! It was chosen to be released on Valentine's Day itself! *tossing Confetti with Rissa* as I grab a paper bag to breath into!

where did the saying To wear one's heart on his sleeve come from?

During the medieval era of chivalry, the names of English maidens and available men were put into boxes and drawn out in pairs. Each couple exchanged gifts and the girl became the man's sweetheart for a year. He wore her name on his sleeve and was bound by duty to attend and protect her. This is the accepted origin of the phrase, "to wear one's heart on one's sleeve".

How does this tradition play into Sibil and Waryn's story? Wait for its release and find out *g*

may you find a little vixen inside of you!
Mari

resolve to kiss more!

2007-01-04T00:31:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I hope you all had someone special to kiss at midnight, to welcome in the new year! I recently added to my growing file of facts showing how beneficial kissing can be. Making this passtime all the more worthwhile!...

Kisses cheer you up. They use the same muscles as a smile. The contact of lips to another’s actually signals the brain to release Oxytocin that fun hormone that causes that feel good all over feeling. Not to mention you are close enough to discover if your pheromones are in sync…Whether that kiss could lead to something more. If so, then a chemical is released that prompts us to want more. Bet you don’t want to stop at just one.

If that info's not enough to make you want to kiss more then here’s what other studies showed…

~Okay, allergy sufferers are you up for a challenge? The results from a study in The Journal of Psychosomatic Research showed kissing for a half-hour may give relief from allergies. The lip-locking sessions appear to lower levels of IgE, an antibody that’s responsible for sneezing and stuffiness.

~It reduces stress… your breathing becomes deeper, your eyes drift closed, it’s the perfect way to shut out the world.

~Helps you lose weight…10 calories for every 10 minutes of kissing. Anyone up to the challenge? *g*

~ Slows the aging of the face, by working out the neck and cheek and jaw muscles.

~Increases fitness levels… adrenaline enters the blood stream, hearts pumping, pulse racing… hmmm if your partner is good enough at it, it can be a regular cardiovascular work out!

~ Helps prevent tooth decay… saliva produced during kissing helps bring plaque levels down to normal… although not sure how many kisses you’ll get after a burger topped with onions unless you brush first or at least pop a breath mint in your mouth.

~One study by German psychologists and physicians determined a kiss in the morning was good for your career…recipients missed less days due to illness, had fewer auto accidents, earned 20-30 percent more and lived five years longer.

In any case, go up to those you care about and plant a kiss on them. Give them that feel good all over feeling that comes from knowing someone cares! Plus you can practice up for Valentine's Day or better yet International Kissing Day on July 6th!!!

May your days be filled with all different kinds of kisses, with many different intentions. From a greeting a friend, affection to family, to an invitation for passion.
Mari

A Million Candles

2006-12-26T14:29:00.000-05:00

I once read somewhere that it only takes the light of a single candle to banish the darkness. For what ever reason you light candles this winter and holiday season, may the light of a million candles fill your heart and bless you with the light and warmth of hope, joy, and love.

Happy Holidays!

Scientific Support for HEA's?

2006-12-18T16:33:00.000-05:00

Browsing the magazine section at the local Barnes & Noble recently, the magazine Psychology Today caught my eye. Hmmm Might be a few articles in it that will help me discover ways to add depth to characters or make their growth more believable. So I bought it, along with my other favorite research magazines Cosmo and Glamour *g* and took them home to read at my leisure.

There are several interesting articles in it, Reinvent Yourself: You Can Change Your Personality, Get Over It: How to Let Go of a Grudge, and The Caveman Diet And Other Natural Cures. However what caught my eye was a very short article called Muse Clues.
It was about the findings to a recent Arizona State University study on what inspired people to be creative.

Was it money? No. Higher status? No. Fame? No. It seems that throughout history all species become more creative when trying to attract a Mate. And Humans are no different. Men all became more creative when faced with obtaining a hot date. Why else do you think the early civilizations all had their muses as beautiful women?

And what about women? Well they too became more creative when a mate was the inspiration. But not the hot date. Women became more creative when the prize would be a man suitable for a long-term relationship. Someone that would invest in raising a family, being a partner in life.

It also turned out that the prospect need not be the goal. Just the thought of the ideal hot date or long term relationship inspired the creativity in the perspective sexes. So wouldn’t it seem Romance with Happily-ever-afters would be more inspirational to women, where they can read about the pursuit and achievement of a long term relationship. Yes? In the very least, its nice for those of us in the business of writing Romance to know that relationships and the pursuit of them continue to be what inspires both writers and readers alike.

May your muse inspire you to pursue many creative endeavors *g*
Mari

Lukewarm Psychic

2006-12-12T22:17:00.000-05:00

18,107 / 60,000
(30.2%)

Yes, the graph moved! The last update on this work in progress had us at 12.6%. Matteo and Frankie begrudgingly took a back seat to the completion of Heart on His Sleeve. But we are back hard at work on it again.

I must confess Matteo had to be coaxed to share more of his story. At first he was angry by all the disruptions that kept him from seeing his lust fulfilled. Right about now, he is trying to convince himself he is thankful for them.

But he knows one smile flashed at him from her decadent mouth will have his blood heating from more than annoyance again. Dios, help him, he is becoming as crazy as she is.

May your disruptions lead to heated conclusions,
Mari

Lookie who made it!

2006-11-26T10:55:00.000-05:00

http://www.ellorascave.com/viewbyauthor.asp

Yep. Yep. Marissa is listed as a EC stable author!

Isn’t that cool? Makes Heart on His Sleeve’s contract all that more real!

Until later~
Rissa

Aussie Mo?

2006-11-25T09:56:00.000-05:00

Hiya Mo,

Can you please contact me at marissa (at) marissaalwin .com - no spaces?

I have some research questions, I'd love your help with. ;)

Thanks so much!
Rissa

Heart on his Sleeve…

2006-11-09T20:28:00.000-05:00

has been contracted to Ellora’s Cave!

We’re thrilled! *Tosses confetti*

HohS is a medieval. I’d always wanted to write a medieval. Anyone remember all those by Julie Garwood? How about Honor’s Slender? Judith McNaught, before she went contemporary, too? I loved her Kingdom of Dreams?

Mercy, what wonderful books and when I approached Mari with the idea and she said yes. I nearly cried, because this is a genre that has always meant so much to me.

*Tosses more confetti*

((((((((((((((((((((Mari))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))) Thank you so much for writing such a good story with me! Waryn and Sibil will always be very special and not just because they’re our first of many!

Until later~
Rissa

The Big Easy...

2006-10-18T13:01:00.000-05:00

New Orleans!

Mari and I are about to have another adventure! We’re heading to New Orleans! So exciting!

Now, when we get back Mari and I aren’t even going to have time to catch our breath before we’ve got to scramble to get work done! Hopefully, we’ll have good news to share soon!

Until later~
Rissa

We’re back!

2006-10-12T15:24:00.000-05:00

And let me tell you what an incredible time we had! The NJ conference rocked! I highly recommend any author who hasn’t attended one to make plans for one in their future. I/we got so much out of the workshops!

I’m particularly stoked by the “power of positive thought” we came away with!

And New York City! OMG…Mari is such a great host! I loved every moment of the adventure! And can’t wait until next year!

If there was only time to give in-depth details on everything, but there’s not! We have a week and we’re back on a jet plane to for New Orleans to attend Sherrilyn Kenyon’s KCON.

Our plate is covered with VALIANT and LUKEWARM PSYCHE. They’re in Mari’s court, I can’t wait to see her additions!

Until later~
Rissa

off to NJRW

2006-10-06T10:02:00.000-05:00

Hey All!! Just a quick note before we dash out the door. Melissa flew in from Indiana yesterday and survived being taken to see Open Season for my daughter’s Fifth birthday ( HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEANIE) and a night in the cave like dwelling also known as my parent’s basement, where the Hubby and I have been living in since our house renovations started.

We are off to the New Jersey Romance Writer’s -Put Your Heart in a Book Convention. Hopefully, to refill the well and whet the appetite for all kinds of Happy Ever After’s to write and to meet other people that are as insane as we are. Other People who actually enjoy torturing themselves this way! *g*

Mechele Armstrong will be joining us too! *gopher dance and cookie crumb filled hugs*

So combined with the three of us, there will be five published and aspiring authors. Melissa Lopez, Mechele Armstrong, Melany Logen,Marissa Alwin,Maureen Gianinio.

Also Melany Logen’s first Novel will be released through Ellora’s Cave on Oct 25th! Titled Torc’s Savlation, Which take it from this critique partner, is an amazing Futuristic Paranormal! The sequel is just as thrilling!

Yes, The Mmmmm writer’s will be descending on the convention and then a Sunday in NYC! Pray for us and all innocent bystanders *g*

Everyone have a great weekend, will catch you up on things soon
Mo

Overused or unnecessary words…

2006-10-02T15:36:00.000-05:00

I don't have a very good grasp of grammar. My critique partners know this as well if not better than I do. I prefer Grammar B. Thank you, Robin Schone!

So, I truly believe there are no rules- only guidelines. Please your muse and see where it takes you, but don't ignore good advice or tools before you've considered it carefully. "Nora does it" won't fly.

"Crutch words." The ones you reuse over and over again. The trouble is, they're not the same ones every time. A brain seems to get to running in a furrow, where you might use a phrase like "a bit" several times on the same page.

Passive tense…it only matters when it sticks out, or your writing feels flat. It's
always a good idea to search for passives, but a section with no passives
at all would read “a bit” odd and forced.

Sometimes passive is the right choice, esp. when you want something to read dead and flat. Not everything requires animation.

Here are some words to be on the look out for:
Too
That
It
Yours
Very
Quite
Just
Could, would
Something
Like,
Realize
When
Ever
Even
Up
Down
Really
Was
Wasn't
But
As – I sometimes replace it with a choice of "because" or "when"…

I watch for “ing" because that helps me look out for passive writing. "ing" words can slow the pace

I search for "feel" and "felt" as well. It's easy to get carried away with all those "she could feel."

Basically, when I put a vague word like “it”, I try to replace it with something more precise.

I’ve heard speech tags and thought tag can distance the reader, especially in deep third. My speech tags, when I need them, are limited to "said," "murmured," "whispered" or "growled," but I keep them to an absolute minimum. I think that's largely a style choice, not something everyone has to do.

Check out the link below (Michele Albert's Cheat Sheets) and look for
the lists of words under "Editing". While all those words are needed
from time to time, they can also become crutches.
http://www.inkalicious.com/cheatsheets.php

Now remember while editing, be careful that you don't blindly follow the “guidelines ". Sometimes the best scenes/sentences/phrases break all the rules. And sometimes following the rules makes your writing stilted.

Repeat after me…there are no rules- only guidelines. Good luck finding your voice!

Until later~
Rissa

Quotes

2006-09-18T18:13:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite procrastination passtimes is reading quotes and collecting ones that strike a cord with me. someone on the Cerriwden Authors Blog asked How do you write? well my other half and probably better half is a panster. Her characters get their fingers on the keyboard and away they go! Me? Well I used to think I was a panster too, but now am realizing i need some direction. at least three scenes in advance. My characters like to know where they are going and at least a few turns in advance so that quick right turn isnt missed. I started reading the book The Writer's Book of Matches by the staff of Fresh Boiled Peanuts ( www.freshboiledpeanuts.com) and came across a new favorite quote and way to describe my plotting panster ways...

"Writing is like driving a car at night. You can see only as far as your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way."~E.L. Doctorow

Speaking of Cerridwen press blog.. we posted there today, if you have time stop over and leave a comment! Stop by anytime, the writers there have some great things to say! the link is on the side>>>

May you always find the right turns and if you miss one may the detour by an exciting one!
Mari